B-BOY LEGEND "FROSTY FREEZE" ORIGINAL MEMBER OF ROCK STEADY CREW PASSED AWAY. FROSTY WAS A DEAR COMRADE OF MINE, AND HE'LL BE VERY MISSED IN MY HOOD AND IN THE WORLD OF REAL HIP HOP... FROST WE LOVE YOU MY BROTHER.
Hip-Hop is mourning the passing of another legend today, as news spreads of the passing of pioneer B-Boy Frosty Freeze, who died yesterday (April 3) at the age of 44. The former Rock Steady Crew vice-president, born Wayne Frost, died in Manhattan following a prolonged illness, though details of his medical battle remained unclear. “Frosty, within Hip-Hop, Frosty represents one of the last representations of what original B-Boy style was when the dance first started,” RSC’s leader Crazy Legs told AllHipHop.com. Though funeral arrangements have yet to be confirmed, Crazy Legs expects the services to be held as early as Tuesday. Frosty Freeze’s life will be celebrated at the Rock Steady Crew’s 31st Anniversary, set to take place in New York July 24-27. “Those who know me well know that when it’s time to do something, I’m gonna pick the biggest spotlight to shine on Frosty.”
For the full story log on: http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2008/04/04/19591380.aspx
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Holly Holm vs. Mary Jo Sanders; Fresquez Productions revised bouts sheet; “Finally” June 13 PPV show; Eileen Olszewski vs Carina Moreno
Holm-Sanders headlines “Finally” PPV in greatest female boxing show ever
June 13 at Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE – The two best female boxers in the world, Holly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm and Mary Jo Sanders, headline the June 13th “Finally” pay-per-view event (10 PM/ET-8 PM/MT) – the greatest collection of women fighters on one show in history – live from Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Fresquez Productions, Inc.-promoted “Finally,” produced and distributed by Integrated Sports, will be available for live viewing on cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, TVN and DirecTV for a suggested retail price of only $24.95.
Albuquerque favorite Holm (21-1-2, 6 KOs), recognized as the No. 1 welterweight in the world, takes on the world’s No. 1 middleweight, Detroit icon Sanders (25-0, 8 KOs), in the 10 round main event for the vacant International Female Boxers Association (IFBA) junior middleweight title.
“Holly and Mary Jo are fighting for the right to be called the top pound-for-pound female fighter in the world today,” promoter Lenny Fresquez said. “This show is the all-time best ever for female boxing with five No. 1 fighters, based on independent rating groups, starting with Holly and Mary Jo, along with the No. 1 featherweight (Jeannine Garside), junior lightweight (Chevelle Hallback, and strawweight (Careno Moreno). Add a pair of No. 2 rated fighters (flyweight Eileen Olszewski) and (junior flyweight Hollie Dunaway), plus a No. 3 (junior flyweight Wendy Rodriguez);
‘Finally’ is featuring eight fighters - all rated among the world’s top 3 - in four world title fights shown worldwide on pay-per-view.”
The most punishing, action-packed fight could turn out to be the 10-round co-feature for the IFBA lightweight title between WIBA & IBA junior lightweight title-holder Chevelle “Fists of Steel” Hallback (26-5-2, 11 KOs), fighting out of Tampa (FL), and WIBA featherweight champion Jeannine “G9” Garside (7-0-1, 3 KOs), of Ontario (Canada).
IBA junior featherweight champion Wendy Rodriguez (18-4, 3 KOs), of Los Angeles, faces WIBF-GBU/WIBC minimumweight title-holder Hollie “Hot Stuff” Dunaway (21-6, 10 KOs), from (Van Buren) Arkansas, in a 10-round strawweight title fight.
WBC 2007 Fighter of the Year, WBC mininumweight champ Carina “La Reina” Moreno (17-1, 5 KOs), of Watsonville (CA), squares-off against newly crowned WIBA flyweight title-holder Eileen “The Hawaiian Mongoose” Olszewski (5-0), fighting out of New York City by way of Honolulu, in a 10-round title fight for the IFBA junior flyweight crown. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Eileen “The Hawaiian Mongoose” Olszewski
Tickets, priced at $50.00, $100.00, $150.00, $200.00, $350.00 and $500.00, go on sale March 18 at the Isleta Casino and Resort box office, www.tickets.com or at Fresquez Productions, Inc. (508.884.7484). For more information go to www.fresquezproductions.com or www.holmvssanders.com. Doors open at 5:30 PM/MT, first bout 7:00 PM/MT, first televised bout 8:00 PM/MT.
© 2007, 2008 Keisha Morrisey all rights reserved
June 13 at Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE – The two best female boxers in the world, Holly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm and Mary Jo Sanders, headline the June 13th “Finally” pay-per-view event (10 PM/ET-8 PM/MT) – the greatest collection of women fighters on one show in history – live from Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Fresquez Productions, Inc.-promoted “Finally,” produced and distributed by Integrated Sports, will be available for live viewing on cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, TVN and DirecTV for a suggested retail price of only $24.95.
Albuquerque favorite Holm (21-1-2, 6 KOs), recognized as the No. 1 welterweight in the world, takes on the world’s No. 1 middleweight, Detroit icon Sanders (25-0, 8 KOs), in the 10 round main event for the vacant International Female Boxers Association (IFBA) junior middleweight title.
“Holly and Mary Jo are fighting for the right to be called the top pound-for-pound female fighter in the world today,” promoter Lenny Fresquez said. “This show is the all-time best ever for female boxing with five No. 1 fighters, based on independent rating groups, starting with Holly and Mary Jo, along with the No. 1 featherweight (Jeannine Garside), junior lightweight (Chevelle Hallback, and strawweight (Careno Moreno). Add a pair of No. 2 rated fighters (flyweight Eileen Olszewski) and (junior flyweight Hollie Dunaway), plus a No. 3 (junior flyweight Wendy Rodriguez);
‘Finally’ is featuring eight fighters - all rated among the world’s top 3 - in four world title fights shown worldwide on pay-per-view.”
The most punishing, action-packed fight could turn out to be the 10-round co-feature for the IFBA lightweight title between WIBA & IBA junior lightweight title-holder Chevelle “Fists of Steel” Hallback (26-5-2, 11 KOs), fighting out of Tampa (FL), and WIBA featherweight champion Jeannine “G9” Garside (7-0-1, 3 KOs), of Ontario (Canada).
IBA junior featherweight champion Wendy Rodriguez (18-4, 3 KOs), of Los Angeles, faces WIBF-GBU/WIBC minimumweight title-holder Hollie “Hot Stuff” Dunaway (21-6, 10 KOs), from (Van Buren) Arkansas, in a 10-round strawweight title fight.
WBC 2007 Fighter of the Year, WBC mininumweight champ Carina “La Reina” Moreno (17-1, 5 KOs), of Watsonville (CA), squares-off against newly crowned WIBA flyweight title-holder Eileen “The Hawaiian Mongoose” Olszewski (5-0), fighting out of New York City by way of Honolulu, in a 10-round title fight for the IFBA junior flyweight crown. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Eileen “The Hawaiian Mongoose” Olszewski
Tickets, priced at $50.00, $100.00, $150.00, $200.00, $350.00 and $500.00, go on sale March 18 at the Isleta Casino and Resort box office, www.tickets.com or at Fresquez Productions, Inc. (508.884.7484). For more information go to www.fresquezproductions.com or www.holmvssanders.com. Doors open at 5:30 PM/MT, first bout 7:00 PM/MT, first televised bout 8:00 PM/MT.
© 2007, 2008 Keisha Morrisey all rights reserved
Floyd KO's "Big Show"; "Money" Talks at WrestleMania XXIV, Triple Threat Match: Randy Orton def. John Cena and Triple H (Orton retains WWE Title)
Floyd KO's "Big Show"; "Money" Talks at WrestleMania XXIV,
By: Louie Dee
ORLANDO, Fla. – At WrestleMania XXIV, Floyd Mayweather put his “money” where his mouth was, running his professional record to 40-0 with a shocking knockout of the 7-foot, 441-pound Big Show.
While he may not have come through on his promise to break the mammoth’s jaw, he did, in fact, shock the Citrus Bowl-record crowd of 74,635 WWE fans and millions more watching around the world on pay-per-view by felling Big Show like a giant redwood. The victory, however, didn’t come without a bit of chicanery.
Mayweather’s initial strategy of “you can’t hurt me if you can’t catch me” worked for a while, but just like the proverbial tortoise and the hare, The World’s Largest Athlete won that race in the end. After finally catching The Greatest Fighter in the World, Big Show clobbered his much smaller challenger, seemingly toying with the welterweight champion. The 7-footer brutalized Mayweather with chops, body shots and stomps to the arm. The WBC welterweight champion tried to fight back with a sleeper, but when Big Show dropped him once again, Mayweather’s entourage decided enough was enough.
One of Floyd’s handlers pulled him from the ring, and the group attempted to escape. But like a Velociraptor chasing down guests at Jurassic Park, Big Show hunted down “Money” and dragged him back the ring – manhandling several of Mayweather's corner men in the process.
That wasn’t the last Big Show would see of the entourage, however, as one took advantage of the “Anything Goes” stipulation by introducing a chair into the proceedings. The 7-footer thwarted his efforts thanks to a thunderous chokeslam, but when “Money” tried to capitalize by using the chair himself, Big Show wrapped his massive hands around Mayweather’s 24-inch neck.
Unfortunately, that left his nether regions unprotected. One swift kick to the little “Big Show” stopped The Largest Athlete in the World in his tracks, and that was all the opening “Money” needed. Wielding the chair like a mighty club, Mayweather cracked the Goliath once, twice, three times in the head. With Big Show reeling, the welterweight champion dropped his right glove and snatched a chain with brass knuckles on it from around one of his fallen comrade’s necks. Sliding them on his already lethal right fist, “Money” wound up and slugged Big Show straight in the jaw.
The WWE Superstar dropped like an imploded building, and our fans in the Citrus Bowl sat in hushed silence as referee Scott Armstrong made the count. When it reached 10, the Citrus Bowl erupted in boos as Mayweather celebrated career knockout No. 26.
While it’s bad enough that Big Show failed on his promise to end Mayweather’s career, what could be worse is the backlash he might receive from his own peers. Normally one of the most feared men in the WWE locker room, how will Big Show be received now that he’s lost to a man who is literally half his size?
Floyd Mayweather showed the world at WrestleMania why he is a six-time champion in five different boxing weight classes. In doing so, he proved the old adage that it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog – especially when that dog has his whole pound helping him out.
See Exclusive live video footage from Wrestlemania's XXIV, New York City Press Confrence, at the Hardrock Cafe, featuring Floyd Mayweather and Big Show and more at Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience videos http: www.youtube.com/ElEmpress1
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
By: Louie Dee
ORLANDO, Fla. – At WrestleMania XXIV, Floyd Mayweather put his “money” where his mouth was, running his professional record to 40-0 with a shocking knockout of the 7-foot, 441-pound Big Show.
While he may not have come through on his promise to break the mammoth’s jaw, he did, in fact, shock the Citrus Bowl-record crowd of 74,635 WWE fans and millions more watching around the world on pay-per-view by felling Big Show like a giant redwood. The victory, however, didn’t come without a bit of chicanery.
Mayweather’s initial strategy of “you can’t hurt me if you can’t catch me” worked for a while, but just like the proverbial tortoise and the hare, The World’s Largest Athlete won that race in the end. After finally catching The Greatest Fighter in the World, Big Show clobbered his much smaller challenger, seemingly toying with the welterweight champion. The 7-footer brutalized Mayweather with chops, body shots and stomps to the arm. The WBC welterweight champion tried to fight back with a sleeper, but when Big Show dropped him once again, Mayweather’s entourage decided enough was enough.
One of Floyd’s handlers pulled him from the ring, and the group attempted to escape. But like a Velociraptor chasing down guests at Jurassic Park, Big Show hunted down “Money” and dragged him back the ring – manhandling several of Mayweather's corner men in the process.
That wasn’t the last Big Show would see of the entourage, however, as one took advantage of the “Anything Goes” stipulation by introducing a chair into the proceedings. The 7-footer thwarted his efforts thanks to a thunderous chokeslam, but when “Money” tried to capitalize by using the chair himself, Big Show wrapped his massive hands around Mayweather’s 24-inch neck.
Unfortunately, that left his nether regions unprotected. One swift kick to the little “Big Show” stopped The Largest Athlete in the World in his tracks, and that was all the opening “Money” needed. Wielding the chair like a mighty club, Mayweather cracked the Goliath once, twice, three times in the head. With Big Show reeling, the welterweight champion dropped his right glove and snatched a chain with brass knuckles on it from around one of his fallen comrade’s necks. Sliding them on his already lethal right fist, “Money” wound up and slugged Big Show straight in the jaw.
The WWE Superstar dropped like an imploded building, and our fans in the Citrus Bowl sat in hushed silence as referee Scott Armstrong made the count. When it reached 10, the Citrus Bowl erupted in boos as Mayweather celebrated career knockout No. 26.
While it’s bad enough that Big Show failed on his promise to end Mayweather’s career, what could be worse is the backlash he might receive from his own peers. Normally one of the most feared men in the WWE locker room, how will Big Show be received now that he’s lost to a man who is literally half his size?
Floyd Mayweather showed the world at WrestleMania why he is a six-time champion in five different boxing weight classes. In doing so, he proved the old adage that it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog – especially when that dog has his whole pound helping him out.
See Exclusive live video footage from Wrestlemania's XXIV, New York City Press Confrence, at the Hardrock Cafe, featuring Floyd Mayweather and Big Show and more at Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience videos http: www.youtube.com/ElEmpress1
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
Giovanni Lorenzo - Stop Ducking Me!!
TOTOWA, NJ– First it was WBC Middleweight Champion Kelly Pavlik. Now it is IBF Middleweight Champion Arthur Abraham. One by one the world’s middleweight champions are avoiding undefeated IBF/WBC mandatory middleweight challenger Giovanni Lorenzo.
Former "The Contenders" series star, Jerson Ravelo and Giovanni Lorenzo
Only weeks after Pavlik selected Gary Lockett as his next opponent rather than risk his crown against Lorenzo, Sauerland Promotions (Abraham’s promoter) has begun discussions with Warriors Boxing about defending the IBF crown against Edison Miranda in June. Not so fast says Lorenzo.
“The IBF has sent a letter to Abraham’s promoter and to my promoter (Main Events) that negotiations must begin immediately for his mandatory defense against me,” said Lorenzo. “I’ve been waiting a long time for this title opportunity and I’m not going to let politics in boxing screw me out of chance. I thank the IBF very much for supporting me.”
Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KO’s) has stopped his last eight opponents. The 27-year-old Washington Heights, NY resident by way of Jerringa San Cristobal, Dominican Republic has knocked out 15 opponents within the first three rounds. In his last bout on Dec 17, 2007, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Lorenzo blasted Ulises Duarte in one round (KO 1).
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications and Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
Former "The Contenders" series star, Jerson Ravelo and Giovanni Lorenzo
Only weeks after Pavlik selected Gary Lockett as his next opponent rather than risk his crown against Lorenzo, Sauerland Promotions (Abraham’s promoter) has begun discussions with Warriors Boxing about defending the IBF crown against Edison Miranda in June. Not so fast says Lorenzo.
“The IBF has sent a letter to Abraham’s promoter and to my promoter (Main Events) that negotiations must begin immediately for his mandatory defense against me,” said Lorenzo. “I’ve been waiting a long time for this title opportunity and I’m not going to let politics in boxing screw me out of chance. I thank the IBF very much for supporting me.”
Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KO’s) has stopped his last eight opponents. The 27-year-old Washington Heights, NY resident by way of Jerringa San Cristobal, Dominican Republic has knocked out 15 opponents within the first three rounds. In his last bout on Dec 17, 2007, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Lorenzo blasted Ulises Duarte in one round (KO 1).
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications and Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
WORLD 122-POUND CHAMPION ISRAEL VAZQUEZ VICTORY CELEBRATION LUNCHEON
Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Frank Espinoza’s High-Flying Boxing Club honored one of the greatest, most talented pound-for-pound and exciting fighters in the world, Israel Vazquez, at a victory celebration luncheon Wednesday for his legendary, instant-classic victories over arch rival Rafael Marquez.
Photos: Joe Miranda/For Sycuan Ringside Promotions
Manager Frank Espinoza (left) and WBC 122-pound champion Israel Vazquez pose during Wednesday's victory celebration luncheon in Lynwood, Calif.
Vazquez, who is promoted by Sycuan and managed by Espinoza, successfully defended his world 122-crown by rallying dramatically to outpoint Marquez on Saturday, March 1, 2008, in the rubber match of an epic, memorable series.
Vazquez would reign supreme in the exhilarating trilogy, taking two out of three. Each slugfest would top the previous one in energy, excitement and goosebumps, making it one of the most critically acclaimed trilogies of all time.
Sycuan Ringside Promotions will present a similar tribute ceremony for Vazquez next Wednesday night, April 9, at the U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego.
SCOTT WOODWORTH: “What separates the three incredibly tremendous battles between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez and all the rest is this: All the other trilogies had one, maybe two great fights, but that was it.
Vazquez gets his hands raised by Woodworth (left) and Espinoza with a smiling Tucker at their side.
“The fights that Vazquez and Marquez gave us produced three spectacular fights, with each one being better than the last. I have been involved in boxing a very long time and this is the best trilogy that the sport has ever seen.
“Every night since the third fight ended I go to bed watching a different round. One night it might be round four; another night, he could be round 12 where Israel displayed his true warrior spirit.
“I’ve watched that last fight over 20 times. It was the greatest win that I have ever witnessed. I am so thankful to Israel and his family, who sacrifice so much of their time.
“We can’t honor Israel enough for his performance March 1, or in any of his fights with Marquez. The dedication he put into his training in the months before were on display and undeniable in the third fight. Israel Vazquez is truly a once in a generation type fighter.
“He became a superstar with those fights and we at Sycuan are thrilled to have the privilege to promote him.
“Boxing is a sport not always known for its trust, but Israel’s manager, Frank Espinoza, has been as trust-worthy and as great a friend and business partner as you can have.
“Both Frank and I knew that Marquez was going to be a tough fight. We also knew that sometimes great risk actually does equal great rewards, and in this case it absolutely has. Israel and Frank deserves all the accolades. We, at Sycuan, are just delighted to be part of it.’’
WILLIE TUCKER JR.: “Israel gave such a spectacular performance in such a spectacular fight; we have nothing but admiration and love for him and his wife. The finish of the fight was so exciting, so dramatic, it brought tears to my eyes. It was such a historic moment.
“In 1998, before we knew we wanted to be boxing promoters, we saw Israel fight. To think we are now and have been his promoter makes us so proud.
“It’s an honor to have Israel and Frank and their families as part of the Sycuan family.’’
FRANK ESPINOZA: “I want to thank Scott and Willie and all those at Sycuan for making this victory celebration possible.
“On March 1, 2008, Israel won the last fight of an historic trilogy. He put on an unforgettable performance that will surely land him in the Hall of Fame.
“His display of bravery and relentless passion to win made him countless fans around the one and made him one of boxing’s pound-for-pound greatest.
“On that incredible Saturday night, Israel carved his way into the history books and, in winning, made Team Vazquez and Sycuan Ringside Promotions a part of history.
Vazquez, who's exciting, memorable, epic trilogy with Rafael Marquez struck all the right chords, strikes one of his own as Sycuan's Willie Tucker Jr. (left), Espinoza and Sycuan's Scott Woodworth look on.
“Twenty years from now when they are replayed for future generations, fans will know that Israel Vazquez, Rafael Marquez and their promoters made three spectacular fights a reality.
“They’ll realize just how special a fighter Israel Vazquez was and why he’ll always be known as “El Magnifico.’
“We’re here to pay tribute to a warrior who refuses to take no for an answer, a fighter who truly is an inspiration to those who ever thought about giving up in a tough situation, a fighter who went from a longshot contender to a future legend of the sport.’’
ISRAEL VAZQUEZ: “I’m very touched to be here celebrating the historical trilogy. I feel honored to have been a part of it. It’s just now hitting me I was such a huge part of history. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Rafael Marquez and his team.
Vazquez poses with the mariachi band that performed before, during and after the ceremony..
“The legacy I hope to leave behind is one that will let the fight fans always remember me as a champion. I didn’t back down because I am a true warrior for all time.
“It was both the hard work that we put into our training that made the fights. I am thankful for my family, manager and Sycuan for believing in me.
“When I was knocked down in the fourth round in our last fight, I felt angered because I didn’t see that coming. I was in my own backyard and in front of my hometown fans and so I channeled that anger to take me through to the rest of the fight.’’
© 2007, 2008 "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey all rights reserved
Photos: Joe Miranda/For Sycuan Ringside Promotions
Manager Frank Espinoza (left) and WBC 122-pound champion Israel Vazquez pose during Wednesday's victory celebration luncheon in Lynwood, Calif.
Vazquez, who is promoted by Sycuan and managed by Espinoza, successfully defended his world 122-crown by rallying dramatically to outpoint Marquez on Saturday, March 1, 2008, in the rubber match of an epic, memorable series.
Vazquez would reign supreme in the exhilarating trilogy, taking two out of three. Each slugfest would top the previous one in energy, excitement and goosebumps, making it one of the most critically acclaimed trilogies of all time.
Sycuan Ringside Promotions will present a similar tribute ceremony for Vazquez next Wednesday night, April 9, at the U.S. Grant Hotel in San Diego.
SCOTT WOODWORTH: “What separates the three incredibly tremendous battles between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez and all the rest is this: All the other trilogies had one, maybe two great fights, but that was it.
Vazquez gets his hands raised by Woodworth (left) and Espinoza with a smiling Tucker at their side.
“The fights that Vazquez and Marquez gave us produced three spectacular fights, with each one being better than the last. I have been involved in boxing a very long time and this is the best trilogy that the sport has ever seen.
“Every night since the third fight ended I go to bed watching a different round. One night it might be round four; another night, he could be round 12 where Israel displayed his true warrior spirit.
“I’ve watched that last fight over 20 times. It was the greatest win that I have ever witnessed. I am so thankful to Israel and his family, who sacrifice so much of their time.
“We can’t honor Israel enough for his performance March 1, or in any of his fights with Marquez. The dedication he put into his training in the months before were on display and undeniable in the third fight. Israel Vazquez is truly a once in a generation type fighter.
“He became a superstar with those fights and we at Sycuan are thrilled to have the privilege to promote him.
“Boxing is a sport not always known for its trust, but Israel’s manager, Frank Espinoza, has been as trust-worthy and as great a friend and business partner as you can have.
“Both Frank and I knew that Marquez was going to be a tough fight. We also knew that sometimes great risk actually does equal great rewards, and in this case it absolutely has. Israel and Frank deserves all the accolades. We, at Sycuan, are just delighted to be part of it.’’
WILLIE TUCKER JR.: “Israel gave such a spectacular performance in such a spectacular fight; we have nothing but admiration and love for him and his wife. The finish of the fight was so exciting, so dramatic, it brought tears to my eyes. It was such a historic moment.
“In 1998, before we knew we wanted to be boxing promoters, we saw Israel fight. To think we are now and have been his promoter makes us so proud.
“It’s an honor to have Israel and Frank and their families as part of the Sycuan family.’’
FRANK ESPINOZA: “I want to thank Scott and Willie and all those at Sycuan for making this victory celebration possible.
“On March 1, 2008, Israel won the last fight of an historic trilogy. He put on an unforgettable performance that will surely land him in the Hall of Fame.
“His display of bravery and relentless passion to win made him countless fans around the one and made him one of boxing’s pound-for-pound greatest.
“On that incredible Saturday night, Israel carved his way into the history books and, in winning, made Team Vazquez and Sycuan Ringside Promotions a part of history.
Vazquez, who's exciting, memorable, epic trilogy with Rafael Marquez struck all the right chords, strikes one of his own as Sycuan's Willie Tucker Jr. (left), Espinoza and Sycuan's Scott Woodworth look on.
“Twenty years from now when they are replayed for future generations, fans will know that Israel Vazquez, Rafael Marquez and their promoters made three spectacular fights a reality.
“They’ll realize just how special a fighter Israel Vazquez was and why he’ll always be known as “El Magnifico.’
“We’re here to pay tribute to a warrior who refuses to take no for an answer, a fighter who truly is an inspiration to those who ever thought about giving up in a tough situation, a fighter who went from a longshot contender to a future legend of the sport.’’
ISRAEL VAZQUEZ: “I’m very touched to be here celebrating the historical trilogy. I feel honored to have been a part of it. It’s just now hitting me I was such a huge part of history. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Rafael Marquez and his team.
Vazquez poses with the mariachi band that performed before, during and after the ceremony..
“The legacy I hope to leave behind is one that will let the fight fans always remember me as a champion. I didn’t back down because I am a true warrior for all time.
“It was both the hard work that we put into our training that made the fights. I am thankful for my family, manager and Sycuan for believing in me.
“When I was knocked down in the fourth round in our last fight, I felt angered because I didn’t see that coming. I was in my own backyard and in front of my hometown fans and so I channeled that anger to take me through to the rest of the fight.’’
© 2007, 2008 "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey all rights reserved
John 'The Qietman' Ruiz fighting his way back into another title shot; 2-time world heavyweight champion player again
LAS VEGAS– Fresh off of his dominating performance against four-time world title challenger Jameel “Big Time” McCline, two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (43-7-1, 29 KOs) has fought himself back into position for another world title shot.
A rejuvenated Ruiz won a lop-sided 12-round decision on March 8 in a near shutout performance (119-109, 118-110, 117-111) against McCline, who is his previous fight had three times floored Samuel Peter, the new WBC heavyweight champion after stopping Oleg Maskaev on the same card in Cancun. (Judge Julie Lederman, who scored 119-109 in favor of Ruiz, also had McCline losing 112-113 to Peter.)
The new Ruiz is similar to the vintage edition of the Puerto Rican/American who first won the world title in 2001 with a 12-round decision against legendary Evander Holyfield.
“I’m excited and looking forward to my next fight,” Ruiz said. “All of my hard training paid off. (Ruiz weighed-in against McCline at his lightest in five years, 233 lbs.) I’m much more confident fighting this time around. I’m more aggressive than I’ve been in years, throwing more punches and combinations. Everybody’s talking about Sam Peter being the best heavyweight since Lennox Lewis. McCline almost finished off Peter and look what I did to McCline. I’m back at the top of my game and I can beat anybody out there. I’m still in the game; I will be a title holder again and try to unify the titles.
“I’m encouraged by a lot of positive feedback I’ve gotten since the McCline fight. I’m motivated more today than I ever was in the past. I changed my whole crew, especially bringing in Manny Siaca, Sr. as head trainer, which has helped me achieve the position I’m in, back on the right track. I’ve been learning some new things with Manny. I feel like I’m almost starting over again. I’m so excited. Manny has trained 28 world champs and I’m going to be his 29th. What I’ve been through makes me want it more today. Working with Manny has been a great opportunity for me to learn and put it into my game. I’m mentally focused and I’ve been doing everything possible to be my best.”
Ruiz, who has fought in 10 world championship fights, has beaten three world heavyweight champions -- Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – as well as top contenders Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo, Kirk Johnson and McCline during his 15-year pro career.
Ruiz-McCline was a WBC Qualifier with the winner promised the No. 3 spot in the next ratings. Ruiz is ranked No. 2 in the WBA and cracked the WBO ratings at No. 11.
“My fight against McCline showed I’m ready for anybody in the division,” Ruiz added. “If any of the true world champions want to show what they’re worth, let them prove it by fighting me, somebody who has never ducked an opponent and with more world title fight experience than anybody. I’m ready for any of the title-holders – (Wladimir) Klitschko, Peter, or the (Ruslan) Chagaev-(Nikolay) Valuev winner. I’m back in the gym already getting prepared for my next fight. I’m back!”
A rejuvenated Ruiz won a lop-sided 12-round decision on March 8 in a near shutout performance (119-109, 118-110, 117-111) against McCline, who is his previous fight had three times floored Samuel Peter, the new WBC heavyweight champion after stopping Oleg Maskaev on the same card in Cancun. (Judge Julie Lederman, who scored 119-109 in favor of Ruiz, also had McCline losing 112-113 to Peter.)
The new Ruiz is similar to the vintage edition of the Puerto Rican/American who first won the world title in 2001 with a 12-round decision against legendary Evander Holyfield.
“I’m excited and looking forward to my next fight,” Ruiz said. “All of my hard training paid off. (Ruiz weighed-in against McCline at his lightest in five years, 233 lbs.) I’m much more confident fighting this time around. I’m more aggressive than I’ve been in years, throwing more punches and combinations. Everybody’s talking about Sam Peter being the best heavyweight since Lennox Lewis. McCline almost finished off Peter and look what I did to McCline. I’m back at the top of my game and I can beat anybody out there. I’m still in the game; I will be a title holder again and try to unify the titles.
“I’m encouraged by a lot of positive feedback I’ve gotten since the McCline fight. I’m motivated more today than I ever was in the past. I changed my whole crew, especially bringing in Manny Siaca, Sr. as head trainer, which has helped me achieve the position I’m in, back on the right track. I’ve been learning some new things with Manny. I feel like I’m almost starting over again. I’m so excited. Manny has trained 28 world champs and I’m going to be his 29th. What I’ve been through makes me want it more today. Working with Manny has been a great opportunity for me to learn and put it into my game. I’m mentally focused and I’ve been doing everything possible to be my best.”
Ruiz, who has fought in 10 world championship fights, has beaten three world heavyweight champions -- Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – as well as top contenders Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo, Kirk Johnson and McCline during his 15-year pro career.
Ruiz-McCline was a WBC Qualifier with the winner promised the No. 3 spot in the next ratings. Ruiz is ranked No. 2 in the WBA and cracked the WBO ratings at No. 11.
“My fight against McCline showed I’m ready for anybody in the division,” Ruiz added. “If any of the true world champions want to show what they’re worth, let them prove it by fighting me, somebody who has never ducked an opponent and with more world title fight experience than anybody. I’m ready for any of the title-holders – (Wladimir) Klitschko, Peter, or the (Ruslan) Chagaev-(Nikolay) Valuev winner. I’m back in the gym already getting prepared for my next fight. I’m back!”
“REAR NAKED CHOKE” TO PRODUCE LIVE PRE-FIGHT INTERNET RADIO SHOW BEFORE IFL EVENT ON APRIL 4 Two-Hour Ringside Broadcast Highlights
NEW YORK– “The Rear Naked Choke, Featuring Joe & Ted,” an Internet radio program which focuses on the International Fight League (IFL) in delivering a unique perspective and insight into the entertaining culture of the burgeoning world of mixed martial arts (MMA), will broadcast a live two-hour program from ringside at the IFL event at the Izod Center in E. Rutherford, N.J., on April 4, beginning at 5 p.m. Listeners can tune in at www.joeted.com. The program, which will feature a variety of IFL athletes and coaches and other MMA personalities, concludes a week of IFL-themed programs. Hosts Joe Rizzo and Ted Takvorian will also air special Rear Naked Choke episodes on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The Rear Naked Choke broadcasts weekly on Mondays at 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT). Focusing on the IFL, Joe & Ted provide the inside scoop for the fans and the pros. The RNC offers fighters, coaches and legends of the sport a break from the rigors of training and a place to kick back for a few laughs, riff about what makes them interesting, and maybe even talk some trash. All shows stream live, feature an interactive chat room, and are available for listening or downloading any time through www.joeted.com. Dozens of IFL coaches and athletes and other MMA personalities have appeared on past programs, including Bas Rutten, Renzo Gracie, Pat Miletich, Randy Couture and Ken Shamrock. The RNC also features special event coverage with shows on location, including the ringside live stream leading up to the opening bell. For more info on how to listen live and participate in the chat, go to http://www.talkshoe.com/blog/index.php/help/. About the IFL International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv. ---
"You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid. You think something wonderful is going to happen."- Joe DiMaggio
Catch the IFL on FSN Sundays at 5 p.m. and LIVE on HDNet on April 4 and May 16
CALVIN BROCK TO DELAY RING RETURN UNTIL RETINA HEALS
TOTOWA, NJ – In December 2007 heavyweight contender Calvin Brock underwent surgery to repair retinal damage in his right eye. In response to questions from the media and fans about his return to the ring, Brock has released this statement:
“I have been asked by members of the media and by boxing fans when I will return to the ring,” said Brock. “Recently I underwent surgery to fix damage in the retina of my right eye and I am waiting for the damage to heal. I plan to return to the ring once my eye is 100%. Until then I will rest and do what is necessary to help my eye repair.”
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications and Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
“I have been asked by members of the media and by boxing fans when I will return to the ring,” said Brock. “Recently I underwent surgery to fix damage in the retina of my right eye and I am waiting for the damage to heal. I plan to return to the ring once my eye is 100%. Until then I will rest and do what is necessary to help my eye repair.”
© 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications and Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved
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