The Golden Boy is coming home to HBO. For the first time in seven years, Oscar De La Hoya will fight live on HBO against former champ Steve Forbes

Olympic Gold Medalist and Six-Division World Champion OSCAR DE LA HOYA and Former World Champion, STEVE FORBES, "HOMECOMING," set for Saturday, May 3 at The Home Depot Center in Los Angeles and televised live on HBO. The bout also marks De La Hoya's return to HBO's Championship Boxing since his last appearance in 2000.

Steve Forbes


"Homecoming" is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with AEG and The Home Depot Center, and sponsored by Cazadores Tequila, Tecate Beer, Rockstar Energy Drink, Southwest Airlines and Affliction Clothing. The event will be televised live by HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10pm ET / 7pm PT.

Oscar Returns

Oscar De La Hoya is one of the most successful prize fighters in boxing history, if the size of his prizes is the measuring stick.



As his May 3 return to boxing approaches after a self-imposed 20-month exile from the ring, De La Hoya is preparing for his 28th world title fight and to face his 22nd world champion. In those fights he has won some form of a world title in six different weight classes ranging from 130 pounds to 160 pounds, a spread of the scales even someone like the legendary Henry Armstrong would have been proud to call his own.

A superstar whose popularity transcends boxing, Oscar is considered to be one of the best fighters in the world at any weight - "Pound-for-Pound."

He is also the biggest non-heavyweight attraction and moneymaker at the gate. Oscar has defeated 17 current or former world champions, one twice.

Oscar fought WBC-IBF middleweight world champion Bernard Hopkins in a title unification bout on September 18, and after a close battle, Hopkins stopped De La Hoya in the ninth round. Oscar lost no prestige in defeat though, gaining the respect of Hopkins and the boxing community for his continued willingness to fight the best.

"Boxing is in my blood. This is the sport I love and will continue being in as long as my body and mind allow me to."



Oscar De La Hoya won the WBO middleweight world title in his last fight on June 5 with a 12-round unanimous decision against defending champion Felix Sturm of Germany.

At the post-fight press conference, Oscar said, "What can I say? It was a tough fight. I underestimated Sturm, but we trained hard and I did my job, I have now captured six titles, and now I look forward to fighting Hopkins. I am really looking forward to that. I have no excuses. Sturm came to fight and he prepared himself very well. He was a very game fighter. I had to fight hard to win this fight, like a warrior. He took me off my game plan because he is a good fighter, but we changed things up and I pulled it out."

Oscar's previous fight was a controversial decision loss against Shane Mosley - the vast majority of people who watched the fight, some 75% according to various internet polls, thought Oscar deserved to win.



Regarding that fight, Oscar said, "When I fought Mosley the first time around, I felt like I lost, that he got me that night. With this fight, I just don't feel that way. I don't want to blame anyone or point fingers, but that will be a mystery to me for the rest of my life. I put it in its proper place. I'm moving forward. After talking with my family and my wife, I feel wonderful. I feel like the champ. My body and my mind feel great. I feel fresh. I feel at ease."

"I will continue on in the sport, the sport that made me who I am today. Boxing is in my blood. This is the sport I love and will continue being in as long as my body and mind allow me to."

Oscar has been successful at the highest levels of competition, and has beaten current or former world champions Felix Sturm, Fernando Vargas, Pernell Whitaker, Arturo Gatti, Ike Quartey, Julio Cesar Chavez twice, Hector Camacho , Miguel Angel Gonzalez, James Leija, Genaro Hernandez, Rafael Ruelas, John John Molina, Jorge Paez, Javier Francisco, Castillejo, Yory Boy Campas, Jimmi Bredahl and Troy Dorsey.
In December, 2001, Oscar formed his own boxing promotion company, Golden Boy Promotions...

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

“VAZQUEZ-MARQUEZ: THE TRILOGY” ON SHOWTIME; Two-Hour Documentary Will Honor The Fighters For Their Unforgettable Trilogy May 3 at 10:45 p.m.

NEW YORK– The best boxing on television continues this Saturday on SHOWTIME. The premium network will honor Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez for their unforgettable trilogy with the premiere of a two-hour documentary entitled Vazquez-Marquez: The Trilogy airing on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 3 at 10:45 p.m. ET/PT. The Trilogy will re-air on SHO TOO on Tuesday, May 6 at 10 p.m. ET/ PT.

For exclusive behind-the-scenes video, fight highlights, photo galleries and more, fans and media should visit the dedicated Vazquez-Marquez page at SHO.com. (http://www.sho.com/site/sports/VazquezVSMarquezTrilogy.do)

Rafael Marquez, during filming of The Trilogy, watched his epic battle with Israel Vazquez for the first time since the fight. Marquez and Vazquez break down the 12-round contest from the opening bell through the thrilling 12th round in Vazquez-Marquez: The Trilogy, which premiere's Saturday, May 3 at 10:40 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME



Vazquez-Marquez: The Trilogy takes viewers inside this incredible rivalry; a rivalry rooted in Mexican pride, fueled by warrior-like determination and cultivated by mutual respect for one another - a true rarity in sport. The in-depth documentary breaks down each of the three fights with opinions and analysis from the fighters, their managers and trainers, reporters and industry experts.

“The three fights between Vazquez and Marquez had all the elements you look for in any great sporting event – close competition, tremendous skill and athleticism and a touch of controversy,” said Ken Hershman, senior vice president and general manager SHOWTIME Sports & Event Programming. “We felt that these three fights deserved more than just a typical replay. Creating The Trilogy allowed us to explore all of the elements of these unforgettable performances in a fresh and interesting way, allowing fight fans to re-live this piece of boxing history in a brand new way.”

“We couldn’t have picked two more professional fighters, athletes or gentleman to be featured on our network. I want to thank them both for everything they have done for us as fans, and for putting on multiple performances that demonstrate boxing's relevance in the crowded sports television landscape. Vazquez and Marquez helped us remain true to our promise to subscribers: to deliver the most compelling, meaningful and thrilling match ups on the first Saturday of every month.”

IRATE JOAN GUZMAN INSISTS HE WAS GOOD TO GO, READY TO FIGHT

SAN DIEGO, Calif.– World Boxing Organization (WBO) Junior Lightweight Champion Joan Guzman doesn’t believe Scotland-native Alex Arthur, the interim champion, has the heart or desire to fight him for the full version of the title.



“I don’t understand what the hold up is,” said Guzman, who is promoted by San Diego-based Sycuan Ringside Promotions. “Forget everything you’ve heard or read from Arthur and his promoter about me having visa problems. It’s all a smoke screen.

“The truth is, I received my visa on April 24 and was ready to travel to Scotland the next day. I was packed and ready to go. I was excited.



“I could have easily fought him on the original date (May 3). I don’t know why the fight needed a new date other than the fact that Arthur is flat-out scared of me. He was looking for an excuse to postpone this fight because he knew he was going to get destroyed and embarrassed in front of his hometown fans.

“This only makes me angrier. I want to get my fists on him now more than ever before. This guy is in for a real beating. He’s going to get scotch-taped like you wouldn’t believe.”

Guzman was scheduled to defend his WBO 130 pound title this Saturday, May 3, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He received his visa a little later than expected, but he feels he got it in plenty of time for the fight to happen.



“The visa issue wasn’t even a big deal,” Guzman said. “All the paperwork was in order. I’m convinced Arthur is afraid of me. If he really wanted the fight he would tell his promoter to get us a new, immediate date. It has been nearly a week and we haven’t heard a thing.”

ABOUT SYCUAN RINGSIDE PROMOTIONS:

Sycuan Ringside Promotions of San Diego is considered to be the fastest-growing and most dynamic promotional entity in the sport. Sycuan Ringside Promotions made its promotional debut during 2004, but already has or had six current or former world champions and has promoted and presented world title bouts across the country on premium cable networks.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions has many notable boxers in its stable, including World Boxing Council super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez, World Boxing Association super bantamweight champion Celestino Caballero, former WBC welterweight champion Carlos Baldomir, former International Boxing Federation lightweight champion Julio Diaz, lightweight sensation Jorge Paez Jr., undefeated cruiserweight prospect Shawn Hawk and once-beaten, super middleweight prospect Henry Buchanan.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions is led by Glenn Quiroga, president; Willie Tucker, executive vice president; and Scott Woodworth, vice president.

©®™ 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

2004 U.S. OLYMPIAN ANDRE DIRRELL TO TAKE ON ONCE-BEATEN ANTHONY HANSHAW ON SHOBOX

NEW YORK– In a match-up of top super middleweight prospects, undefeated 2004 Olympic bronze medalist Andre Dirrell (14-0, 9 KOs) will take on once-beaten Anthony Hanshaw (21-1-1, 14 KOs) in a 10-round showdown Friday, May 2, live on SHOWTIME (ShoBox: The New Generation, 11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

Andre Dirrell


In the co-feature, the promising and once-beaten Antonio DeMarco (18-1-1, 13 KOs) will take on undefeated Juan Castaneda (12-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.

The SHOWTIME event will be promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC and originate from the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif.

Dirrell, who won the bronze medal at the Athens Olympic Games, will continue his recent step-up in opposition. The hard-hitting southpaw is coming off of a third-round TKO over Shannon Miller on Feb. 1, 2008.

According to Dirrell’s trainer and grandfather, Leon Lawson, the former Olympian and 24-year-old Flint, Mich., native is ready for the next step.

“Andre has looked good with everyone he steps in the ring with,” said Lawson, who also trains Andre’s brother and fellow undefeated super middleweight prospect, Anthony. “He has been sparring with the best, and I know he can fight with the best.”

In June 2007, Dirrell faced his toughest opponent to date when he scored a 10-round unanimous decision over fellow prospect Curtis Stevens on national television. The fans and many at ringside voiced their displeasure at the lack of action throughout the contest.

“A lot of the fans know that wasn’t me, but people are going to criticize,” Dirrell said. “I can understand how everybody felt about the fight, but that wasn’t me that night. They will see a lot better performance from me this time.”

Dirrell has studied Hanshaw’s fights on tape in preparation for their upcoming bout.

“I am just going to keep Hanshaw on the outside and put my punches together,” Dirrell said. “I will come away with a good outcome and a really good, crowd-pleasing performance. Just look out for a new Andre.”

Currently training at the Police Athletic League Gym in Winter Haven, Fla., Dirrell praised his upcoming opponent.

“Hanshaw is a good fighter. I have known him since the amateurs, and remember that he won five or six Ohio State Fair championships. Nobody else had done that. He is going to be my toughest opponent yet. There is no doubt about it.”

Hanshaw, a once-beaten legitimate prospect of Warren, Ohio, has an impressive training regimen of his own. He has been training in Houston, Texas, with 2003 World Boxing Hall of Fame Trainer of the Year Ronnie Shields.

Despite the fact that his upcoming opponent won a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics, Hanshaw said that his resume is more impressive.

“Dirrell is up and coming, but he is going to be a little bit too small,” Hanshaw said. “I am going to be too strong for him, especially with me coming back down from light heavyweight to my natural weight.

“Dirrell is a runner, but I’m going to be right on him. He still fights like an amateur. After I slow him down with the body shots, I’ll knock him out in the sixth or seventh round.”

Under the tutelage of Shields, the 30-year-old Hanshaw is in good company. The former three-time light welterweight Golden Glove Champion has trained Mike Tyson, Vernon Forrest, Pernell Whitaker and Evander Holyfield.

“Shields and I have been working on what we are going to do, and I’m going to be right there in Dirrell’s face,” Hanshaw said. “It is going to be a hell of a fight. I am going to take him out of there.

“Being trained by a guy like Ronnie gives me extra motivation. Knowing that he was worked with some of the best fighters in history makes me push it even harder. He is a hell of a trainer.”

A good judge of talent, Shields knows that Hanshaw has the skills to move to the next level.

“Hanshaw has a lot of potential, he always has,” said the renowned trainer. “The thing is you have to bring it out of him. That’s what we are trying to do now.

“Of course I’m confident that he has the abilities to beat Dirrell. Andre moves a lot and is a sneaky counter puncher, but I think Hanshaw is the bigger stronger guy and he should be able to impose his will. Dirrell wants to move, but Hanshaw will make him exchange punches.”

The sole blemish on Hanshaw’s record is a decision loss to future Boxing Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr., on July 14, 2007. Hanshaw was impressive in the bout, which was fought at 175 pounds.

Shields knows that this is an important fight for Hanshaw, especially coming off of the loss to Jones, Jr.

“Dirrell is a good fighter and this is a big step up,” Shields said. “Outside of Roy Jones, this is the biggest fight of his career. Hanshaw is focused and ready to prove that he has what it takes to become a champion.”

Play-by-play announcer Nick Charles and expert analyst/boxing historian Steve Farhood will call the action from ringside. The executive producer of ShoBox is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

For information on Showtime Sports, including exclusive video, photos and news links on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and EliteXC mixed martial arts telecasts, please go www.SHO.com/sports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young, talented fighters matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise crowd-pleasing and competitive fights while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. To date, 24 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox have advanced to garner world titles includes Scott Harrison, Juan Diaz, Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton, Joan Guzman, Juan Urango, David Diaz, Robert Guerrero, Kelly Pavlik, Paulie Malignaggi and Paul Williams.

©®™ 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

A Message From the Desk of; Keisher "Fire" McLeod- Wells, Support Team Free Form

Hello to all my supporters and fans,

This letter is to inform you that my team (Team Free Form) and I are putting together a fundraiser in June. This is to help us attend and compete in this year's upcoming nationals.

Keisher "Fire" McLeod- Wells


Unfortunately, women are not treated as an equal when it comes up to expenses for competitions and awards the way men are. We have to solely provide for ourselves when the men are 100% taken care of for the same competition events. So Team Free Form is holding it's 1st annual fundraiser to help with the cost of travel, food, lodging, etc. Part of the fundraiser will include a 50/50 raffle. For those who are not familiar with what a 50/50 raffle is, it go like this; all proceeds earned from the raffles sold, we'll give 1/2 of the profit to the winner. The more tickets you buy, the higher your odds will be in winning. Most 50/50 raffles do not offer a 2nd or 3rd place winner. But we are!, they will include great prizes as well. 20% of all proceeds will at the same time also goes to The Give A Kid A Dream (GAK) Charity. This is a program funded by Gleason's to provide free training to under-privilege kids. You can purchase these tickets when you see me with cash or send a money order or check by mail payable to: Gleason's Gym c/o Fire Wells 77 Front St.Bklyn, NY 11201

Please make all personal checks payable to Gleason's Gym (Not in my name please). Then I can either mail you the raffle tickets or hold them for you when we do the drawing at the event. Also keep in mind that you do not have to be present at the event to accept award. Just make sure I have your phone number and mailing address. We will also post a video on youtube of the fair drawing.

Thanks in advance for your support!

Sincerely, Keisher "Fire" McLeod- Wells Team Free Form

Here is an article posted on WBAN on Team Free Form and the Golden Gloves

Last Thursday and Friday at the 81st New York Golden Gloves, Team Free form walked away with 3 impressive performances and three Golden Gloves titles. The team was also awarded three Golden Gloves in 2005 and 2006.



This year they produced two new Champions in 138 lb., Rena Anawke and 145 lb. Dariana Casado.

Rena Anawke (Team Free Form)


This year's Golden Gloves tournament marks the team's 10th year anniversary and in the process they have produced 7 Female Golden Gloves Champions and between those Champs have amassed 15 New York Golden Gloves Championships.

Of course the Team has won their share of National Championships but it's the New York Golden Gloves that they are most fond of. Head Coach Lee Shabaka states: "The New York Golden Gloves is our baby.

Lee Shabaka


We have toured the country and have fought in many tournaments but it's the New York Golden Gloves and that trip to Madison Square Garden that we are most passionate about. Though I've trained many women to participant in this tournament I will never get use to the grandeur and excitement that this event presents. It's always a great and gratifying thing to take your fighters to the Garden."

Cara Castronuova (Team Free Form) and MC Goddess


Team Co-Captain and 4-time Golden Gloves Champion Fire Mcleod Wells says: "I'm so impressed by our team's accomplishments this year. We excelled as a team and as individuals. I'm also grateful of the expansion of the team in the past few years. With the addition of the new girls the team has produced more great talent and a diversity in styles which in turn will help in my own development.

Vanessa Grecco (Team Free Form)


Overall it's been a good year for Team Free form, the team is being pitched for a possible reality show, the History Channel just finished filming a documentary including the team in it and the team just produced two new Golden Gloves Champions to add to their list of accomplished fighters. It's all been worth it says Lee Shabaka, we started out with a three girl team back in 98, we now have 25 active members with about 15 of those being competitors. And we're only going to get better as the team matures and the sport of Women's Boxing grows. It all starts here at the amateur level and we plan to do our part in helping to bring Women's Boxing to the forefront."

©®™ 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

BJ Flores was in Ft. Hood, Texas, this past weekend taking part in a celebration for his longtime trainer Kenny Adams

PHOENIX, AZ— World ranked and undefeated cruiserweight BJ Flores was in Ft. Hood, Texas, this past weekend taking part in a celebration for his longtime trainer Kenny Adams.

Said Flores, “It was terrific, we had a nice party for Kenny at the Officer Headquarters on the army base. Many officers from the military and a lot of his former fighters were there including former bantamweight world champion Eddie Cook as well as former amateur standouts (1988 US Gold Medalist) Andrew Maynard, Brian Lonon, Loren Ross and Ronnie Hughes.

Everyone had a turn to speak and reminisce a little about how much Kenny meant to each one of us and how important his teachings were in making us successful as fighters and as men.”

Continued Flores, “Kenny was my first coach when I was very young, my Dad competed on the Ft. Hood army team starting in 1983 and my brother Jeremy and I started going to the gym. Kenny let me ride on the team bus to other army bases for team meets.

My Dad was my amateur coach (record of 110-9), but when I turned pro Kenny became my head trainer and he’s been with me for my most recent success including my win over Darnell Wilson. Dad and he work great together, for the Wilson fight Dad came to Vegas for two weeks to work with me also. They make a fantastic team.”

On Saturday morning, prior to the celebration, BJ spoke to and gave a boxing demonstration for the teenagers in a youth boxing program at Ronnie Hughes' gym in Killeen, Texas.

“It’s always nice to give back and they also had a lot of questions about professional boxing. Some of them had seen my fight against Wilson on ESPN and they wanted to know more about my career. My focus to them was to get a solid amateur background and be disciplined in your training. Those were the keys to my success.”

In closing, Flores currently 21-0-1 with thirteen knockouts said, “It was a terrific trip, a pleasure to honor Kenny and visit with many of the guys and also great to spend time with the kids at Ronnie’s gym. Kenny’s trained 14 world champions; I’m looking to be his 15th.”

Flores is currently world ranked #2 by the IBF, #7 by the WBO and # 9 by the WBO.

Bernie Bahrmasel; Double B. Publicity, Inc.

©®™ 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

Election 2008, Social Justice-Myth & Reality‏

The presidential nomination process of 2008 is generating unprecedented interest and participation among all segments of the American citizenry, especially young and new voters. In many states around the country, voter participation in the nomination and party primary process has surged fifty percent in general, and, in some instances, increased more than one hundred percent.



Both political parties recorded a groundswell in all states, but the Democratic Party is experiencing the lion’s share of new constituents. Philadelphia, last of the large delegate states, and according to some political analysts, “a must win state for the Clinton campaign,” 200,000 new voters have been recorded. Anecdotal information suggests that Senator Obama will win a majority of the Democratic Party newcomers.

The increase in voter participation is a healthy development to help mitigate abounding political apathy and a constricted electorate. Not since the high point in the civil rights movement has youth involvement in the political and electoral process been so energetic. Without question the historic nature of this season’s presidential campaign is the likely impetus for the election’s popularity in the Democratic Party.

Senator Hillary Clinton, potentially the first woman Democratic Party nominee, and Senator Barack Obama, potentially the first Black American Democratic Party nominee, are the only nominees left in the race. The eventual nominee will market a watershed in American presidential politics irrespective of the ultimate standard bearer. Hence, the final outcome of the party nomination process will amount to a social justice outcome, the popular politically correct refrain, as the issue of gender or race will prevail at the end of the day.

The social justice political concept has evolved into an umbrella phrase under which the breath of civil rights issues as well as issues of race, class, gender, and the special interests and peculiar needs of the Black and minority community issues are framed. Many in the civil rights Black leadership orthodoxy assert social justice as the over arching goal of the present day civil rights movement. In New York City, urban centers, and inner cities in particular, police brutality, racial profiling, the need for improved employment opportunities, quality education, adequate health care, etc., are positioned as issues requiring social justice.

Social justice has become a ubiquitous euphemism and a smokescreen that obfuscates a direct and coherent solution to problems and issues. It also perpetuates the theory of race and multi-racialism. What is social justice? What does it look like? How can it be achieved? Is social justice a political phantom? Is the goal of social justice a lofty objective that skims the political surface while the public is manipulated by political wedge issues, emotional hot buttons and code words?

The presidential nomination campaign between Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama for their party’s nod is an interesting case study of social justice and the so-called race question. This writer suspects that the issues associated with this case study will persist in the general election process. Accordingly, the general election will embody either the issue of gender or race as the social justice rhetorical imperative. Interestingly enough, the patent southern strategy of the Grand Old Party (GOP) will likely be applied in either case with a stereotypical gender or race pejorative subtext.

The issue of race has recently emerged as a tactical initiative in the Democratic nomination process with its’ traditional manifestation as an odious political machination. Personal invectives and invidious attacks against the character and judgment of Senator Obama, and longstanding racial prejudice and stereotypes are being superimposed in the public discourse. To his credit, Senator Barack Obama has managed to skillfully navigate the tidal wave of race-based political rhetoric and diversions.

In response to the escalating controversy surrounding the highly charged sermons and comments made by Senator Obama’s pastor, the renowned Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the Senator was compelled to answer a broad range of hyperbolic questions and inferences. Senator Obama stepped to the occasion and delivered what is viewed in many quarters as a brilliant and definitive presentation relative to that challenge that all Americans face in our collective obligation to move America beyond the false divisions associated with racial prejudice and multi-racialism.

The Senator’s presentation and accompanying admonition to Americans is compelling and persuasive and this writer is obliged to abide by this nobleman’s injunction.

We “uni-racialists” hold that multi-racialism is an imposed social construct that facilitates economic, political, and social exploitation of Black Americans in particular, under the auspices of racial superiority. The theory of race distinction was accommodated by the age of enlightenment, which provided the cover narrative for a world wide slavery system, based on racial inferiority.

Unfortunately, the pervasively well documented idea of racial inferiority has crystallized in the human nature consciousness and there is now a visceral and emotional component resulting from five hundred years of the popular history. But, to quote a world respected prophetic preacher, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “no lie lasts forever.”

Senator Obama may be on to something as he raises the point that we need to turn the page on race and political business as usual. In addition to the inspired Senator’s instruction, perhaps we should observe the emerging unity between religion and science on the issue of race.

The latest scientific data confirms that all human beings living the planet earth today as we speak can be traced to a single mother of us all that lived millennia ago in east Africa, in the vicinity of Ethiopian and Uganda. Whether this very distinguished mother responded to name Eve or some other name the similarity of these scientific findings with the Genesis Biblical proposition, of one human family is noteworthy. To again quote the great Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “truth crushed to the earth will rise some day.”

Obviously, it remains to be seen how the Democratic Party nomination and eventual general election will proceed and end. Nevertheless, history has already been made on multi levels by this presidential campaign and it’s a certain bet that more surprises are in store moving forward. However, it may be safe to forecast that the issue of race is currently on the public discussion table and will likely remain there far beyond the November general election.

My suspicion is that the idea of multi-racialism and race-based electoral politics will ultimately move beyond the vague notions of the social justice political umbrella and take its rightful place in the human mind as the phantom that it is. Now that the racism gene is out of the jar, some are suggesting that race will be a dominant feature, despite Senator Obama’s attempts to elevate the political discourse. Should this be the case, the election will prove among other things that we have not yet crossed the Rubicon.



Gary James is a freelance writer and political analyst. His second book will be released this summer and his third book will be released in the spring of 2009. For more information contact visit www.garyjames.info.

©®™ 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

JOEL JULIO TO HEADLINE APRIL 30 WEDNESDAY EDITION OF ESPN2 “FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS”; Columbian bomber to battle veteran Ishe Smith on way to title shot

TOTOWA, NJ– World ranked jr. middleweight contender Joel Julio returns to the ring on April 30, 2008, when he challenges veteran Ishe Smith in a 10 round bout from the River Rock Casino Resorts in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. The bout will be broadcast live on a special Wednesday edition of ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights,” beginning at 9:00 pm ET.

“I am very excited to fight again on ESPN,” said Julio. “It is very important to me to look good against Ishe because I want to fight for a world title next. Ishe is a good fighter who will bring out the best in me.”

"Sometimes life and circumstances bring the best out of us all!" said Smith.

Julio (31-1, 29 KO’s) is ranked #4 by the IBF and #6 by the WBA and WBC. The 23-year-old Monteria, Colombia native has stopped 21 opponents within the first three rounds. He has won his last four bouts, three by knockout. In 2005 Julio was named “Prospect of the Year” by several media outlets, including ESPN.com. In his last bout on May 16, 2007, Julio blasted Mauro Lucero in one round (KO 1).

Smith (19-2, 9 KO’s) has won four of his last five bouts. The 29-year-old Las Vegas, NV native captured the vacant WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Championship on January 15, 2004, when he decisioned Randall Bailey (W 12). That same year Smith participated in “The Contender” series and lost a split decision to eventual champion Sergio Mora on September 12, 2004 (L 5). In his last bout on February 8, 2008, Smith crushed Carlos De La Cruz in two rounds (TKO 2).


For more info, Main Events: Donald Tremblay

©®™ 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

Scypion comes on strong with TKO on Hard Rock boxing card; Son of former ‘Fighter of the Year’ in the 80’s wins, Joe Greene: Still Undefeated

By Sharon Robb South Florida Sun-Sentinel



HOLLYWOOD - With former WIBF featherweight champion Deirdre Gogarty working his corner as head trainer, undefeated 28-year-old junior middleweight Wilford Scypion Jr. made his Florida debut with a fourth-round TKO Wednesday night at the Seminole Hard Rock Live Arena.

On a night where co-main event fighters Joe Greene of New York remained undefeated with a ninth-round TKO over Joshua Okine of Ghana, and former world champion Juan Urango of Colombia knocked out Carlos Vilches in the fourth round in an IBF title eliminator fight, it was the confident, power-punching Scypion (6-0, 6 KOs) who looked most impressive.

Joe Greene


Scypion overwhelmed William Ganes of Florence, S.C., from the opening bell, with Gogarty shouting encouragement from the corner.
Just as impressive was hometown favorite David Estrada of Hollywood (22-4, 13 KOs), who knocked out Colombian Alex Quiroz Pacheco at 2:45 of the second round. It was Estrada's first fight in seven months since his loss to Andre Berto.

"I'm back," Estrada said.

Scypion Jr., the son of former world title challenger Wilford Scypion Sr. and grandson of the late Texas Zydeco musician L.C. Donatto, is the first pro Gogarty has worked with after training several amateurs.

©®™ 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

Seven Added to Complete IFL Mohegan Sun Card May 16‏

NEW YORK– Seven mixed martial arts professionals have been added to the nine-bout card as the International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., on Friday, May 16. HDNet will again have live television coverage of the event. The added fighters include two – Danillo Villefort (Pompano Beach, Fla.) and Josh Souder (Mason, Ohio) who competed at IFL Draft events last September. Also added is Jim Miller (Sparta, N.J.), who is coming off an impressive victory in his IFL debut at the Izod Center in E. Rutherford, N.J. earlier this month. Also newly named to the card are Lamont Lister (Philadelphia), Joey Guel (Olympia, Wash.), Fabricio Camoes (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Nick Calandrino (Emerson, N.J.). The bouts involving the added athletes include: • Lister vs. Aaron Stark (Portland, Ore.), 205 lbs.• Calandrino vs. John Howard (Boston), 170 lbs.• Souder vs. Zac George (Norman, Okla.), 155 lbs.• Guel vs. Matt Horwich (Portland, Ore.), 185 lbs.• Camoes vs. Miller, 155 lbs.• Villefort vs. Mike Massenzio (Paterson, N.J.), 185 lbs. As previously announced, three IFL Champions will put their respective titles on the line to headline the card, as Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf, Iowa) takes on Dan Miller (Sparta, N.J.) at middleweight, Roy Nelson (Las Vegas) battles Branden Lee Hinkle (Weirton, W. Va.) at heavyweight, and Ryan Schultz (North Platte, Neb.) defends against Deividas Taurosevicius (Lithuania) at lightweight. The preliminary bouts feature athletes from four noted MMA camps, including Team Quest, Team Bombsquad, World Class Fight Center and Team Prodigy. Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.com, the Mohegan Sun Arena Box Office, and by telephone at 860-886-0070. IFL Mohegan SunFriday, May 16, 2008 (order TBD) Preliminary Bouts205 lbs.: Aaron Stark (Portland, Ore.) (Team Quest) (2-2 IFL, 5-4 overall MMA) vs. Lamont Lister (Philadelphia) (Team Bombsquad) (0-0, 5-3)170 lbs.: John Howard (Boston) (0-0 IFL, 8-3 overall MMA) vs. Nick Calandrino (Emerson, N.J.) (Team Bombsquad) (0-0, 5-0)155 lbs.: Zac George (Norman, Okla.) (Team Quest) (1-1, 12-2) vs. Josh Souder (Mason, Ohio) (Team Prodigy) (0-0, 10-6)185 lbs.: Matt Horwich (Portland, Ore.) (Team Quest) (6-4, 21-10-1) vs. Joey Guel (Oregon) (0-0, 12-5)155 lbs.: Fabricio Camoes (Brazil) (World Class Fight Center) (0-0, 8-4) vs. Jim Miller (Sparta, N.J.) (Team Bombsquad/AMA Fight Club) (1-0, 11-1)185 lbs.: Danillo Villefort (Pompano Beach, Fla.) (World Class Fight Center) (0-0, 6-2) vs. Mike Massenzio (Paterson, N.J.) (Team Bombsquad) (0-0, 10-1) Championship Bouts185 lbs.: *Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf, Iowa) (Miletich Fighting Systems) (6-4, 12-5) vs. Dan Miller (AMA Fight Club) (Sparta, N.J.) (1-0, 7-1)265 lbs.: *Roy Nelson (Las Vegas) (Lion’s Den) (5-1, 12-2) vs. Branden Lee Hinkle (Weirton, W. Va.) (0-0, 13-9)155 lbs.: *Ryan Schultz (North Platte, Neb.) (Team Quest) (6-2, 19-9-1) vs. Deividas Taurosevicius (Lithuania) (Renzo Gracie) (3-0, 9-2) *Current Titleholder 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.

"April prepares her green traffic light and the world thinks Go."- Christopher Morley, 'John Mistletoe'
Jerry Milani
Manager of Public Relations
International Fight League
Catch the IFL on FSN Saturdays at midnight and LIVE on HDNet on May 16

NO HOLDS BARRED: Mo Lawal, Ron Scott Stevens

NO HOLDS BARRED: Mo Lawal, Ron Scott Stevens

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman speaks with freestyle wrestler Mo Lawal and Ron Scott Stevens, the chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission.

This past Saturday, April 26, Mo Lawal (http://www.myspace.com/molawal) won his third U.S. Nationals title at 84 kg/185 lbs. With this victory, he advances directly into the finals of the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, which take place June 13-15 in Las Vegas, Nev. The winners at the Olympic Team Trials will represent the U.S. at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China, in August.

We spoke at length with Mo Lawal about his victory at the Nationals and his plans for the future.

Since 1997, the sport of mixed martial arts has been banned in the State of New York. Now there are plans to repeal the regressive legislation outlawing it and place it under the sanctioning of the New York State Athletic Commission.

To get his view on this matter, we spoke with Ron Scott Stevens, the chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.

The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.

The NO HOLDS BARRED theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).

Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we review the latest show of the popular local boxing series, Punchin' at the Paradise, which was held Friday, April 25, at the Utopia Paradise Theater in the Bronx, NY. We spoke with two of the victorious undercard fighters, heavyweight Joe Hanks (2-0. 1 KO) and middleweight Bryant Pappas (6-0, 6 KOs), about their fights, and promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing about his promotion and this show. It is free to listen to SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/, and listen, learn, and enjoy.

Make sure to check out my regular articles on the ADCC News at http://www.adcombat.com and on FightBeat.com at http://fightbeat.com.

NO HOLDS BARRED is free to listen to and is sponsored by:

YAMMA Pit Fighting (http://yammapitfighting.com). The producers of the original UFC and Live Nation (http://livenation.com/), worldwide leaders in live entertainment, present YAMMA Pit Fighting mixed martial arts. On the streets, it's against the law. In the pit, it IS the law.

IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/), the world's first professional mixed martial arts league. Make sure to check out their regular TV shows on FSN (Fox Sports Net) (http://msn.foxsports.com/story/1636002) in the U.S., and to check your local listings for dates and times. Check out the IFL web site (http://ifl.tv/), for a listing of IFL live events and their TV schedule, at http://ifl.tv/TV-Schedule.html.

Gladiator Challenge (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/), shaking up the mixed martial arts world since 1999, and now with 30 shows per year. For more news and info, check out their web site, GladiatorChallenge.com (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/).

BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com), your premier source for all Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear, videos, books, and much more.

Gladiator Magazine (http://gladmag.com/), for in-depth coverage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, and MMA, as well as lifestyle articles on surfing, cars, movies, and more. Gladiator Magazine is available at any major bookstore and online at BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com) or Jiu Jitsu Pro Gear (http://jiujitsuprogear.com/).

FightBeat.com (http://fightbeat.com/), for news, results, interviews, and free exclusive videos from the worlds of boxing and mixed martial arts.

Thanks, Eddie Goldman

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http://nhbnews.podomatic.com/

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Enjoy!