SUPER SIX WORLD BOXING CLASSIC SEMIFINALISTS CARL FROCH & GLEN JOHNSON

World Boxing Council (WBC) Super Middleweight Champion Carl “The Cobra” Froch, Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson and promoter Lou DiBella held an international media conference call on Wednesday to discuss their upcoming Semifinal bout in the Super Six World Boxing Classic on Saturday, June 4, LIVE on SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from Adrian Phillips Ballroom at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J.

Froch (27-1, 20 KOs) will defend his World Boxing Council (WBC) title against Johnson (51-14-2, 35 KOs), a former world champion. The Froch-Johnson winner will advance to the tournament Final to face World Boxing Association (WBA) champion Andre Ward, who secured a Final berth with a dominating victory over Arthur Abraham on May 14 in the other Semifinal bout.

The tournament champion earns the inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic Cup and global recognition as the world’s No. 1 168-pound fighter. EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.

CARL FROCH:

“I’m in great shape and have been in New York for the better part of two weeks which should give me plenty of time to get acclimated to this fight. It’s quite hot and humid but it’s the same in England. I should be getting the time difference out of my system here over the next few days and just look forward to the fight next week. I can’t wait to put on a great show in the Super Six Semifinals.

“As far as I’m concerned I’m an unbeaten fighter coming into this fight. I still consider myself unbeaten. That loss (against Mikkel Kessler) was maybe a little injection or a kick in the ass, whatever you want to call it, to get me back to where I was when I became champion against Jean Pascal when he was firing on all cylinders because he didn’t look like he was the other night. He let that fight slip away from him (against Bernard Hopkins) and didn’t seem to be in condition. Since that fight (against Pascal) I’ve only fought against top opposition: Jermain Taylor, Andre Dirrell, Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham and now Glen Johnson.

“I come into this fight very, very confident and very strong. I’m in my prime. I’m 33 years old and fitter than I’ve ever been. I’m quite meticulous and a perfectionist about my workouts and training regime. I’m hitting times on my runs that I was hitting when I was 26, 27 years old. I’m doing the same amount of push-ups and sit-ups and pull-ups all in the time frame. I’m just feeling really, really fit and like I did when I fought Arthur Abraham. Never mind 12 rounds I can go 25 rounds right now. That’s how great I feel. I’m looking forward to this fight and I’m looking forward to putting a show on.”

You’ve had three fights and Green slipped in with one against a substitute fighter in the Super Six. Do you think that will make a difference in this fight?

“I’ve had three fights but I made easy work of two of them. I made easy work of Andre Dirrell. I’ve done more damage shaving myself than what Andre Dirrell did. And against Arthur Abraham I made easy work of that. I mean the only fight that was hard work was the Mikkel Kessler fight and that was my own fault. I stood in front of him for four or five rounds and made a fight of it which I shouldn’t have done and there’s reasons why I did that. I don’t think we should worry about how we got to this stage of the Super Six but the fact is we are here and in the Semifinals and I’m sure it means just as much to Glen as it means to me and it’s just as important to him. So we’ll forget about the past and worry about the here and now.

“I don’t want to talk too much tactics but the plan is always to hit and not get hit. The one thing about Glen Johnson is I don’t think I’ll have to go looking for him. I don’t think he’s going to be on his back foot looking to jab and pick me off. He doesn’t have the speed or the skill to match me. So he’s going to come straight ahead.”

What do you think about Andre Ward?

“He’s got some skills. He’s an Olympic gold medalist but having that doesn’t win world titles all the time and we’ve seen that recently. These top amateurs don’t always make top pros. He’s obviously won some great fights and he beat Mikkel Kessler which is a fighter I was close to so he’s got that. But other than that if you look at his record I haven’t been too impressed with him as far as who he’s fought or how he’s won. Ward’s definitely a threat and someone I have to take seriously but I know I can beat Ward. One thing he’s lacking is punching power and that’s a big factor in the professional ring.”

Will you be boxing Johnson or will you be looking to use your power punches?

“I’ll do a little bit of both. I’ll box around him and jab, chop, jab, chop with a lot of combinations. I don’t think it would be wise for him to sit in front of me for too long. If he walks into me he’s going to be taking on some shots. We’ll see how much the referee thinks he can take. It’s going to be brutal if he keeps walking forward and taking shots. He’s only had one fight at super middleweight and that was against Allan Green who is not a super middleweight, he’s too tall and too big. I watched that fight and Allan Green was dead from round two and three and he managed to take Glen to eight rounds. I’m going to be fresh and fit and strong and powerful with fast combinations from round one to round 12. I really wish this fight was 15 rounds.

“I think I’ll get my vengeance against Glen Johnson. He’s a great fighter and a war horse and I won’t disrespect him. He really knows what he’s doing but I would have rather fought Mikkel Kessler just purely for the revenge. I’m a warrior myself. It’s a big thing for me to have lost that fight against Mikkel Kessler because I’m serious about this business and that blemish on my record, I’d love to get that corrected before I retire. Someday after I hang them up I want to be able to say I lost that decision to Kessler but I won it back. I’ve avenged that defeat. I think if he fights (Lucian) Bute in Montreal he’ll lose but if he gets it in Denmark I think he’ll win so let’s hope he gets that fight in Denmark.

“The final person to hold the Super Six Cup will have withstood the test of time. This tournament has given boxing fans and the press a lot to talk about and has given us a lot of fights that might not have happened. So it’s been a great thing. There’s been some negative things but all that negativity is totally unnecessary. It’s been a fantastic tournament with some top-level fights and fights that would not have happened. Big accolades have to go to Ken Hershman and all of the promoters and Lou DiBella who has had three fighters in this tournament.”

GLEN JOHNSON:

How you fought any one in your career style-wise like Carl Froch?

“Not really. He’s a tall guy that really kind of fights short sometimes. But in his last fight he actually fought tall and used his reach and boxed the way he’s supposed to box and the way he’s built to box. I’ve boxed tall guys before but never guys who have scrunched down and tried to be a short guy. But we are prepared for either style that he shows and we’re looking forward to an exciting fight.

“My advantage is being Glen Johnson. I think I know boxing inside and out. I’m going to go in there confident and use my skills to my potential and you’ll see me come out victorious. Carl Froch is a great fighter and I have no disrespect toward him. This is a business and I’m going in there to win the fight. All the talk and all the other stuff goes out the window. This is for all the marbles so we’re going in there to win the fight.

“I wish I would have listened to my manager a long time ago and gone down there (to super middleweight) sooner. But I think things happen for a reason. I’m just really, really excited for this opportunity.”

Why did you resist your manager?

“The main reason is that I didn’t think I would be able to maintain that weight. I always felt like super middleweight wasn’t who I was and I didn’t want to put the strain on to make that weight.

“I’m not concerning myself too much with what Carl Froch’s plan is or what he’s going to do to be honest with you. I’m more concerned with what I’m going to do. I’m focused on my game plan and what I have to do. I have a winning formula and I don’t think Carl Froch is the one who can tell me different.”

Are you approaching this fight like a last-chance fight?

“I definitely feel a little bit of urgency for this fight. I mean, I’m not getting any younger. I’m not going to take any fight for granted. I know I have a lot of skills and talent left in me and I’m looking forward to showing that to the people. I’m here to show the people what I can still do and want to walk away from this tournament being the champion. I know there are people still skeptical about what I can do at my age but I actually get excited when people mention my age and focus on my age because that means they are not focused on my skills and what I bring to the table.”

Did Hopkins’ win over the weekend give you some inspiration?

“(Laughing) Bernard fought a wonderful fight and congratulations to him for the win. I knew he was definitely going to win the fight but I didn’t know if he was going to get a decision. Kudos to him. He’s definitely an inspiration to us old guys.”

Do you think you’ll get a rematch with him?

“I don’t know. I want it. I don’t know if Bernard wants it though. I just have to take it one fight at a time and not be the problem and we’ll see what happens.”

LOU DiBELLA:

“I think we have a terrific fight ahead of us. Carl Froch is a tremendously exciting champion and has only been in good fights and the same could be said of Glen Johnson.

“I think Carl Froch is one of the most under appreciated champions in the world. He’s a tremendous talent and has great flair in the ring and a lot of pizzazz outside of it. I’m just a big fan of Carl Froch.

“As many have said before if you don’t like Glen Johnson then you don’t like boxing. I think he’s one of the most widely respected fighters in the game. There’s not another fighter in the game who doesn’t respect Glen Johnson. He’s a road warrior who’s once again on the road in New Jersey. You never know what an old mad can do which is what Bernard Hopkins just showed.”

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Andre Ward vs. Arthur Abraham: The Super Six Semifinals featuring Ward vs. Abraham fight will air LIVE Saturday May 14th on SHOWTIME® @10 p.m

The Super Six Middleweight Tournament continues this weekend with a featured matchup between 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist Andre Ward and the German, hard-punching Arthur Abraham.

Ward (23-0, 13 KO) defeated Mikkel Kessler and Allan Green to earn a spot in the semifinals of the Showtime tournament. Abraham (32-2, 26 KO) rebounded from his two-fight losing streak to Carl Froch and Andre Dirrell to earn a win against an overmatched opponent earlier this year. His knockout win over Jermain Taylor in 2009 is his lone tournament victory.

The winner of this fight will face the winner of June's bout between Carl Froch and Glen Johnson.
EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Ward vs. Abraham Presser Ward’s Trainer To Abraham: “Your promoters have lost confidence in you.” Abraham To Ward’s Camp: “Talk Doesn’t Matter – I’m

The final press conference for the kickoff of the Semifinals of the Super Six World Boxing Classic turned tense on Wednesday at Arnie Morton’s The Steakhouse in Burbank, Calif., just three days before tournament favorite Andre Ward defends his WBA super middleweight title against former world champion Arthur Abraham, LIVE on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.

In a detailed and lengthy speech, Ward’s trainer, Virgil Hunter, told Abraham that his trainer and promoters are displaying a lack of confidence in him to win on Saturday by demanding neutral judges and officials for the Semifinal showdown. Abraham’s promoter responded that they were trying to protect their fighter and claimed that the referee in the Ward-Mikkel Kessler Group Stage 1 bout did not fairly officiate the match.

The Ward-Abraham winner advances to the tournament Final against the winner of the Carl Froch-Glen Johnson Semifinals showdown. The tournament champion earns the inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic Cup and global recognition as the world’s No. 1 168-pound fighter.

The 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist, Ward (23-0, 13 KOs), of Oakland, Calif., has emerged as the tournament favorite after impressive triumphs in Group Stage bouts over Kessler and Allan Green, as well as Sakio Bika.

Abraham (32-2, 26 KOs) entered the Super Six as a favorite alongside Kessler. But after emerging from Group Stage 1 as the points leader with a knockout over Jermain Taylor, he is now trying to bounce back from consecutive tournament losses to Andre Dirrell and Froch in Group Stages 2 and 3, respectively.

ANDRE WARD:

“I’m born and raised here in America and I don’t talk that much. I think everyone in this room understands that. There’s not much else to say. I’ve prepared the way I’m supposed to prepare, the way a champion is supposed to prepare.

“I respect Arthur Abraham, it’s going to be a tough fight. I want to be a great fighter, but I’m not there yet. These are the kind of fights that you have to take and you have to win to be a great fighter.

“I won’t hear the crowd, I won’t hear anybody on Saturday night. I’m locked in. I’m here to defend my belt and to keep my belt right here in America.”

“My first goal is to win and I know winning in this sport takes care of a lot of problems.

“Sugar Ray Leonard came from a totally different time. Fighting on the network that he fought on, having Howard Cosell, it was just a totally different ballgame. Oscar De La Hoya had the Hispanic community and different things like that, so you have to look at those situations because I’m in a different time. It might be a little bit harder to get the exposure and the just due.”

“At the end of the day, the way my father raised me was to put my nose down to the grindstone and keep working and allow God to open those doors in due season. So I’ve never begged for it and I’ve never demanded it. I just have to understand that I have to keep working and it will come. ”

“I appreciate everyone who attends the fights, but it comes down to going home and kissing my wife and kids, keeping my title and moving on with my career. But with that being said, I think I take the risks I’m supposed to take. I think I do what I’m supposed to, but if you get enough people saying one thing, people start to believe it. I think my fight with Kessler was a very entertaining fight but it’s not me taking punishment so people think it’s not entertaining. From a little boy, I was never taught to get the best bout trophy, I was always taught to get the best fighter of the night. That’s the way it is because whoever I am when my career is said and done, nobody’s going home with me.”

“My coach has always taught me from day one, he’s always wanted me to be a master and masters are able to fight into their late 30s and early 40s like Bernard Hopkins and Glen Johnson. I’m just going to continue to naturally evolve and I hope everyone enjoys my fights. But, ultimately, it’s about winning in this sport. “

ARTHUR ABRAHAM:

“I don’t have to speak much. We just want to perform in the ring and we don’t have to do much talking. We’re here to win in the ring.

“Of course my trainer and my promoter respect me. There’s no question of that. In Europe, we don’t talk very much. I’m here to win.

“I have a lot of respect for Andre Ward. He’s a technically sound boxer. But that talk doesn’t matter when we get in the ring on Saturday. I’m here to win and I’m here to destroy him.

“I’m very happy to be part of this tournament. This tournament started well for me and it will end well.

“I had to make some adjustments to my style for moving from middleweight to super middleweight and then we had to make some more after the losses. We have made the necessary adjustments.”

VIRGIL HUNTER, Ward’s Trainer:

“I’ve been appalled as some of the things that have happened to this point. If Andre wasn’t perceived as a threat, I don’t believe we would have ever heard complaints about the referees like we have. Andre Ward still to this point has not gotten the recognition that he deserves.

“Arthur, this is to you: By complaining about the officials, your promoters are saying they have lost confidence in you. Don’t let anyone speak to you about the officials. Your promoters have lost confidence in you. It’s as simple as that.”


JAMES PRINCE, Ward’s Manager:

“We have respect for Arthur Abraham and his accomplishments in boxing, but come Saturday it’s going to get real hot in the ring. You were a great fighter at 160 pounds but I feel like your advisors have tricked you into placing you into a different weight division where you don’t belong. I want to extend my warmest hospitality and welcome you to the States, but that’s where it ends.”

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.

Photos: Tom Casino / SHOWTIME

EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Andre Ward will defend his WBA Super Middleweight title against former world champion Arthur Abraham on May 14, LIVE on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m.

Oakland’s Andre Ward will defend his WBA Super Middleweight title against former world champion Arthur Abraham and Cristobal Arreola looks to catapult toward another World Championship opportunity against Nagy Aguilera on May 14, LIVE on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif.

EL Boxing Empress
See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

SUPER SIX FIGHTERS SEE BRIGHT FUTURE IN FRIDAY’S SHOBOX CARD ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, April 30, 2010, Live at 11 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIM

So what do several of the world’s best super middleweights think of the up-and-coming crop of fighters in boxing’s best and deepest division?

“The future of the super middleweight division is very bright, especially here in the U.S.,” said Andre Dirrell, who trails Arthur Abraham in the Super Six World Boxing Classic™ standings with two points. “European fighters have controlled the division recently, but all that has changed with what has happened in the Super Six.

“There are a lot of young, talented American fighters coming up the ranks who can make some noise in the division.”

Those talented 168-pound fighters will be on display come Friday night as unbeaten Marcus “Too Much” Johnson (18-0, 14 KOs) battles Derek “The Black Lion” Edwards (25-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round main event live on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME ® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

The exciting tripleheader being billed “The Next Generation of Super Middleweights” will take place at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago with Don “Da Bomb” George (19-0-1, 17 KOs) facing Osumanu Adama (14-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round co-feature tilt and Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (14-0, 10 KOs) tangling with Kevin Engel (17-2, 14 KOs) in an eight-round affair to open the telecast.

Back in November of 2009, Johnson made his SHOWTIME ShoBox: The New Generation debut on the Allan Green-Tarvis Simms undercard in Newkirk, Okla., remaining undefeated with a unanimous decision over Victor Villereal.

Fast forward six months and now Green finds himself as one of the elite fighters in the SHOWTIME Super Six World Boxing Classic and will meet Andre Ward June 19 in a Group Stage 2 matchup.

Green said he went back to watch Johnson on tape and was impressed with what he saw. “I think he’s a good fighter,” said Green. “The Super Six is all about proclaiming who is the best super middleweight on the planet and it looks like these guys are getting a chance to make a name for themselves on SHOWTIME.”

Johnson is a former U.S. National Amateur champion who lost to Ward by decision in the finals of the 2004 Olympic Trials. He was also a gold medalist at the 2003 U.S. Under 19 National Championships at 178 pounds and won the National Silver Gold Gloves title at 165 pounds in 2001.

“Marcus is definitely a fighter to look out for in the future,” Ward said. “Anyone with that type of amateur background is on the right track toward a professional world title. I look forward to great things from him in the future."

Both Johnson and Edwards are impressed with what they’ve seen from the American fighters, Ward and Dirrell, in the Super Six Tournament.

“Andre Ward is one of the smartest people in the ring,” said Johnson. “He taught me a lot. I have so much respect for Andre. He made me change my style. I’ve been really impressed with both Andre Ward and Andre Dirrell. I think Ward is going to win the tournament hands down.”

Said Edwards: “Andre Ward has been the most impressive. I had the opportunity to be in Andre Ward’s camp but it didn’t work out because we might meet each other [in the ring] some day.”

Presented by DiBella Entertainment, Warriors Boxing and Chicago’s 8 Count Productions, advance tickets for “The Next Generation of Super Middleweights” starting at $31 can be purchased through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), by phone (800) 745-3000 and the 8 Count Productions Office, (312-226-5800). Doors will open at 7 p.m. with the first bell at 7:30 p.m.

Nick Charles will call the action from ringside with Steve Farhood and Antonio Tarver serving as expert analysts. The executive producer of ShoBox is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports Programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. The growing list of fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Leonard Dorin, Scott Harrison, Juan Diaz, Jeff Lacy, Ricky Hatton, Joan Guzman, Juan Urango, David Diaz, Robert Guerrero, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Malignaggi, Kendall Holt, Timothy Bradley, Bernard Dunne, Yonnhy Perez, Yuri Foreman and Andre Ward.

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©®™2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 All rights reserved

No Holds Barred: World Boxing Classic Preview with Froch, Kessler, Abraham, Dirrell, Hershman, Farhood, DiBella, Goossen‏

No Holds Barred: World Boxing Classic Preview with Carl Froch, Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham, Andre Dirrell, Ken Hershman, Steve Farhood, Lou DiBella, Dan Goossen

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2009-07-15T23_46_24-07_00

On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman previews one of the most innovative and welcome developments in boxing, the Super Six World Boxing Classic, a round-robin, six-fighter tournament in the super middleweight division featuring the best fighters in the world at that weight.

Competing in this tournament are the unbeaten WBC super middleweight champion Carl Froch (25-0, 20 KOs) of England, the WBA super middleweight champion Mikkel Kessler (41-1, 31 KOs) of Denmark, the former undisputed middleweight world champion Jermain Taylor (28-3-1, 17 KOs) of Little Rock, Ark., the now-former and still-unbeaten IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (30-0, 24 KOs) of Germany, the 2004 Olympic gold medalist and unbeaten WBC number one contender Andre Ward (19-0, 12 KOs) of Oakland, Calif., and the 2004 Olympic bronze medalist and unbeaten WBC number two contender Andre Dirrell (18-0, 13 KOs) of Flint, Mich.

The winner of this tournament is certain to be regarded as the true super middleweight champion of the world.

The opening round will have three fights, beginning this fall, on dates and at locations to be announced. Carl Froch will face Andre Dirrell, Mikkel Kessler will face Andre Ward, and Arthur Abraham will face Jermain Taylor.

At the kickoff news conference at Madison Square Garden in New York this Monday for this history-making event, we had a chance to speak with fighters Carl Froch, Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham, and Andre Dirrell about this tournament and their fights. We also spoke with promoters Lou DiBella and Dan Goossen, with boxing writer and television analyst Steve Farhood, and with Ken Hershman, senior vice president and general manager of Showtime Sports, which is the key force behind this tournament and will televise it in the U.S.

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 visit the official boxing forum for No Holds Barred, the MySpace Boxing Forum, at http://groups.myspace.com/boxing.

No Holds Barred is free to listen to and is sponsored by:

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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
http://eddiegoldman.comSee you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

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Undercard Feb 27‏

Giovanni Lorenzo of Dominican Republic and New York City (26-1, 18 KO’s) will take on Dionisio Miranda of Barranquilla, Columbia ( 19-3-2, 17 KO’s) in a 12 round IBF Middleweight eliminator bout Friday, February 27th at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The winner of this battle will move into the #1 position and become the mandatory IBF Middleweight challenger to Champion Arthur Abraham. The fight will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

In the main event, IBF Cruiserweight Champion Tomasz “Goral” Adamek (36-1, 24 KO’s) of Jersey City and Golwice, Poland, will make the first defense of his world title against Detroit’s undefeated Johnathon Banks (20-0, 14 KO’s).

Six undefeated fighters will appear on this exciting card. Local talent will also be featured prominently for this event. Newark resident, Jerson Ravelo will appear in an 8 round Super Middleweight fight. Joining him will be Paterson favorites, Welterweight, Henry Crawford (20-0-1, 9 KO’s) and Junior Welterweight, Jeremy Bryan (8-0,4 KO’s). Two Polish fighters, Patrick Majewski of Atlantic City (8-0, 4KO’s) and Chucky Tschorniawsky of Philadelphia, PA (25-9-1, 14KO’s) will also be on the card.


Tickets are priced at $38, $53, $78, $103, and $253, and can be purchased at the arena box office or by calling Ticketmaster at 201-507-8900. The first bout for this inaugural event of the Main Events “Brick City Boxing Series” will be at 8:30pm. Doors open at 8:00pm.

This fight is promoted by Main Events and Ziggy Promotions, in association with K2 Promotions.

See you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

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Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com

©®™2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, Khris Kirkpatrick Morrisey for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

“King Arthur” suggests Marquez look for new job Abraham-Marquez world title fight on PPV live Nov. 8 from Germany

HOBOKEN, N.J.– In response to Raul “El Diamente” Marquez’ recent claims to shock the boxing world November 8 when he fights unbeaten IBF middleweight champion “King” Arthur Abraham at Jako Arena in Bamberg, Germany, unbeaten International Boxing Federation middleweight champion “King” Arthur Abraham suggests that the challenger start looking for a new job.

Abraham-Marquez is promoted by Wilfried Sauerland, presented by Sauerland Event and its Managing Director, Christian Meyer, in association with Seminole Warriors Boxing. The broadcast is being distributed in the United States and Canada by Integrated Sports for live viewing in English and Spanish at 3 PM/ET – 12 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, TVN, DISH Network, Viewer’s Choice Canada, and Bell ExpressVue, for a suggested retail price of only $24.95. iN Demand will show a replay the following day (Sunday, Nov. 9) at 2 PM/ET. Al Bernstein and Nick Charles will call the action.

Abraham believes there is no reason for Marquez to be worried about the IBF middleweight champion´s weight. The two fighters will clash in Bamberg on November 8, five weeks later than originally planned after Abraham was flattened by the flu on the day of the fight.

Earlier this week, Marquez said in a statement: “Maybe he was sick but, if he really was, it was because of what he had to do to make weight. If he really was sick it would have taken him two weeks to get back to where he was. Four weeks isn’t going to help him if he’s having trouble making 160 pounds.”

“I want to thank Marquez for his medical diagnosis,” Abraham sarcastically said. “Maybe he can work as a doctor once I have defeated him. I know for a fact that he will not be the new IBF middleweight champion, so it might be wise to think of an alternative career. I know he has worked as a TV commentator, but if he likes to share his thoughts on weight problems, he should try and land a job with Weight Watchers!”

Abraham vows to be in top shape come Nov. 8. “I was unfortunate to get sick but there is nothing you can do about it,” he added. “It just happens. I have fully recovered and quickly returned to practice. Everything has been going fine and I will be in great form next week.”

Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs), rated No. 2 by The Ring and ESPN, captured the IBF middleweight title nearly three years ago by way of a fifth-round knockout of Kingsley Ikeke (23-1). Seven successful title defenses have followed against Miranda, Shannon Taylor, Kofi Jantuah, Sebastian Demers, Khoren Gevor, Wayne Elcock and Elvin Ayala.

“King Arthur” also stressed that he is not looking past Marquez to Kelley Pavlik, Felix Sturm or anybody else. “From day one it has been my goal to become super-champion and unify the titles,” King Arthur said. “But I am well aware that I will only get the chance if I beat Marquez on November 8. That is why my full focus is on him.

The 37-year-old Marquez (41-3-1, 29 KOs), rated No. 2 (No. 1 unrated) by the IBF as well as No. 8 by The Ring and No. 9 by ESPN, earned his title shot against Abraham by defeating previously unbeaten No. 1 contender Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0) in their June 21st IBF title eliminator. Marquez, fighting out of Houston, was a 1992 U.S. Olympian who was the IBF junior middleweight title-holder in 1997.

The 10-round co-feature on the PPV show from Germany finds former NABO champion and “The Next Great Champ” reality television winner, Otis “Triple OG” Griffin (19-3-2, 7 KOs), of Sacramento, fighting Yugoslavian-born Enad Licina (14-1, 8 KOs), now living in Germany, for the vacant IBF Intercontinental cruiserweight belt.

For more information about the Abraham-Marguez PPV go to www.integratedsportsnet.com or www.warriorsboxing.com

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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Arthur Abraham – Edison Miranda II Giovanni Lorenzo vs. Raul Marquez June 21, 2008 ● LIVE ON SHOWTIME ● Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

HOLLYWOOD, Fla.– With three well-timed power punches, “King” Arthur Abraham blasted his was to a definitive fourth-round TKO over nemesis Edison Miranda in a thrilling rematch Saturday on SHOWTIME. In a terrific co-feature, an IBF middleweight eliminator, veteran Raul Marquez won a close unanimous 12-round decision over Dominican upstart Giovanni Lorenzo. All three judges scored the bout 114-113.

The two-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast was presented by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.




PHOTOS: TOM CASINO/ SHOWTIME

Slightly behind after three rounds, undefeated IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (white trunks) roared back to floor Edison Miranda three times before winning by convincing, impressive fourth-round TKO in their highly anticipated rematch Saturday on SHOWTIME.



In one of the most anticipated rematches since Marquez-Vazquez II, Abraham and Miranda had unfinished business. In their first fight, in September 2006 in Germany, Abraham won a controversial, and some say confusing, unanimous decision after suffering a broken jaw in the fifth round. Miranda had five points deducted in that fight (for a head butt and repeated low blows).

On Saturday, they met at a catchweight of 166 pounds with Abraham’s IBF middleweight title belt sitting safely in his dressing room. But Abraham left no doubt with a powerful display that Miranda could not withstand.

Despite winning two of the first three rounds on the scorecards, Miranda went down three times in the fourth round. The first came after a straight right hand landed squarely on Miranda’s chin. Abraham sent Miranda reeling just moments after he got up with a vicious left hook. A final, flush left hook sent Miranda down for the third time in the round and referee Tellis Assmenios waved it off at 1:13.

“Abraham showed us that he is a force to be reckoned with,” said SHOWTIME analyst AL Bernstein. “For one thing, he is very difficult to hit and hurt. More importantly, he has serious power.”

“Boom, Boom, Boom,” said Abraham as he watched the replay of his knockdown punches with SHOWTIME reporter Jim Gray immediately after the fight. “In this fight, I was more cautious. The last time, I didn't pay as much attention to that. Tonight, I tired him out then knocked him down.”

The undefeated middleweight champion, Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) is an Armenian native now living and training in Germany. After the fight, he told the SHOWTIME audience that he enjoyed fighting in America and for the enthusiastic crowd at Hard Rock Live. And that he wanted the opportunity to fight Oscar De La Hoya and Kelly Pavlik next.

Miranda, of Yonkers, NY, by way of Colombia, drops to 30-3, (26 KOs) and has said he plans to campaign at 168 regardless of the outcome of this fight.

“He came very well prepared,” said Miranda. “I have no quarrels tonight. He felt very strong. I don't know what happened. I was 100 percent coming into this fight. The last fight, I was 50 percent. I don't know. He was too strong today. He's a great champion.”


In a thrilling IBF middleweight elimination bout, veteran Raul Marquez (right) dealt previously unbeaten Giovanni Lorenzo his initial defeat with a close, unanimous 12-round decision in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature.



The Lorenzo-Marquez fight was a bruising, physical and entertaining affair. Marquez, at 36-years-old, clearly showed that he has the heart, will and skill to fight Abraham for the IBF title.

Despite a slow start, Marquez dominated Lorenzo in the middle rounds. He found a rhythm in the fourth round and fought a tough and intelligent fight. Marquez sustained two deep cuts over his right eye in the 10th as Lorenzo pressed him in the last three rounds. But it wasn’t enough to overcome the game and gritty veteran.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING’s Steve Albert and Al Bernstein called the action from ringside with Jim Gray serving as a roving reporter. The executive producer of the SHOWTIME telecast was David Dinkins Jr., the producer was Chuck McKean with Bob Dunphy directing.

REPLAYS

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will re-air on SHO Sports Presents on Tuesday, June 24, at 10 p.m. ET/PT (SHO2). SHO Sports Presents, a daily weekday series, replays heart-pounding boxing and EliteXC fight telecasts from SHOWTIME Sports’ arsenal every Monday through Friday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2.

For more information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photo galleries and complete telecast information, please visit http://www.SHO.com/Sports.

About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine

Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES ARTHUR ABRAHAM & EDISON MIRANDA

In an eagerly anticipated rematch, undefeated middleweight champion Abraham (left) will face Miranda in Saturday's main event at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino at Hollywood, Fla. The 12-rounder will be fought at a catch weight of 166 pounds.

Photos: TOM CASINO/SHOWTIME

In one of the most eagerly awaited rematches in years – and the most anticipated since Vazquez-Marquez II -- undefeated middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (26-0, 21 KOs) and explosive, hard-hitting Edison Miranda (30-2, 26 KOs) will clash in the main event live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, June 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Abraham, an Armenian based in Germany, outlasted Miranda, a Colombian who lives in Puerto Rico, in their amazing first fight, winning a hotly disputed decision on September 23, 2006, in a slugfest in Germany that was rife with drama, incredible two-way exchanges, a broken jaw, multiple head butts, low blows and controversy. Saturday’s 12-rounder will be contested at a catch weight of 166 pounds.

SHOWTIME will re-air Abraham-Miranda I tonight/Thursday, June 19, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2 and this Saturday, June 21, at 6 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®.

In the SHOWTIME co-feature, undefeated middleweight Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KOs) of New York, by way of Dominican Republic, will face Raul Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) of Houston, Texas, by way of Mexico, in an IBF world title elimination bout.

The doubleheader will originate from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., and is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The four talented, world-class fighters who will compete this Saturday on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT) pose after Thursday's press conference at Hollywood, Fla. Left to-right: Arthur Abraham, Giovanni Lorenzo, Raul Marquez and Edison Miranda.


ARTHUR ABRAHAM

Abraham poses with his IBF 160-pound belt.


“I’m very happy to be in America and to fight in America. I’m only in the beginning of my American career. I want to develop myself in America and fight here more.

“We (my team) don’t have a big mouth. but we have strong fists and I will show him Saturday. I am absolutely convinced I will win. I’m sure I will win. I never fight without my confidence and I am absolutely convinced I will win this fight.

(When asked what he would say to Miranda if they were face to face) “My eyes say more than his words. I wouldn’t need to say anything. I’m not interested in talking to him or hearing what he has to say.

“This will be a very interesting fight for the fans. People will see me, the man who beats Miranda and will beat Kelly Pavlik down the road. I will beat Oscar De La Hoya. I want to fight him. I don’t want to do it for money. I will do it for free. His name means more to me then the money. His name is bigger than the money.’’

EDISON MIRANDA

Miranda takes his turn at the dais while Abraham and his promoter, Wilfred Sauerland (left), look on.

“I want to ask Abraham a question: Do you remember me? (looking at Abraham) Do you want me to do the same?

“I know it was a controversial fight. They took it from me and disrespected me in Germany. (But) Not just me, but the sport of boxing.

“To have Abraham here in America; well, God is helping me. Taking this fight is the most important thing for my career. I know Abraham will come to fight. (looking at him) Are you (Abraham) going to come to fight? I hope you come to fight.

“The only stupid king I know is King Arthur. Are you ready king? I am ready.

Referring to Abraham when he said he had nothing to say to Miranda) “Of course he doesn’t have anything to say. I destroyed his mouth.

“I feel in perfect condition. No problems in my camp. What has surprised me about him is that he is an idiot. Didn’t you see how nervous he (Abraham) was up there? He was talking like a little girl. He knows I destroyed him. His trainers lied to him. His trainers don’t care about him otherwise they wouldn’t have brought him here. I care more about him then his trainers do.’’

RAUL MARQUEZ

“This is an important fight; a do or die fight for me. He (Lorenzo) is young and undefeated but I’m older, wiser than him. I’m hungry for this. I know if I don’t win here my career is over. My father and I have been working hard for this. It will be a great fight. We’re both warriors.''

Lorenzo (left) and Marquez square off in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature.

GIOVANNI LORENZO

“It is my turn now. I will show you Saturday what I can do. My dream was to fight Raul Marquez. I’ve got him and Saturday I will show you what I can do.’’



PROMOTER WILFRED SAUERLAND
“Arthur always wanted his rematch with Miranda. He wanted to go to America. He has defended his title several times and competition is getting thin. He wanted to come fight Miranda. I could have talked him out of it but I wanted to see a rematch. As a true boxing fan I want to see this.’’

ULLI WAGNER (Abraham’s trainer)
“This is a big success for boxing. We will see a great fight on Saturday.

JOSE BONILLA (Miranda’s Trainer)
“I just know one king. The only king I know is God.’’

About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine

Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

ARTHUR ABRAHAM & EDISON MIRANDA CAMP NOTES

Their first fight played out like a Hollywood script: rife with drama, incredible two-way exchanges, a broken jaw, multiple head butts, low blows and controversy.

On Saturday, June 21, undefeated middleweight champion Arthur Abraham, and the explosive, hard-hitting Edison Miranda will co-star in the emotionally charged sequel, live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). Abraham won the first fight on a hotly disputed unanimous decision in a scintillating affair on September 23, 2006. The 12-round rematch will be contested at a catch weight of 166 pounds.

Arthur Abraham does some light glove work in one of his final workouts before his rematch with Edison Miranda this Saturday on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast



Abraham and Miranda took time from their workouts Tuesday to offer some insights on how training camp has been, what they thought of their first fight and their views on the rematch.

ARTHUR ABRAHAM

“It is an advantage for me that I already know Miranda. I know how I will fight against him and that is why I know how to prepare. It gives me even more security.

“The fight weight is definitely good for me. I feel even stronger. Making weight can be a real torture but I do not have to do it this time.

“I know that I have to be more active from the first bell on. It is also important to stay concentrated. Miranda is a guy who makes you pay for mistakes. But I will not give him a chance to do so. I will win.

“In the first meeting the broken jaw kept me from showing my true potential. I will make up for that on June 21.”

EDISON MIRANDA

“Abraham is making the biggest mistake of his life. The last time, I broke his jaw when I was weak and struggling to make 160 pounds. At super middleweight I'm so strong it's scary. I'd be surprised if he makes it five rounds.

“The last fight was the worst night of my career because I had the title stolen from me. Now we're on a level playing field and the only thing determining the outcome of this fight will be my fists. And I will get my redemption on Saturday.

“He's a good fighter and I respect him as a fighter. But I will not hesitate to destroy him when we're in the ring. This is a man's business and I don't know if he belongs here anymore.

“Abraham made me wait almost two years for my rematch and on Saturday I will make him pay for every minute I waited.

“I've had my best camp ever. I'm on weight and I'm just climbing the walls waiting for the first bell to ring. After I send Arthur Abraham back home I want to settle another score with Kelly Pavlik. Joe Calzaghe won't fight him, but I will, and it won't be the same story the second time around.”

About Showtime Networks Inc.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL®, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine

Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

SHOWTIME Will Re-air Their Memorable First Fight For The First Time On U.S., Television June 16, 19 on SHO2 and June 21 on SHOWTIME

NEW YORK– Their first fight played out like a Hollywood script: rife with drama, incredible two-way exchanges, a broken jaw, multiple head butts, low blows and controversy.

On Saturday, June 21, undefeated middleweight champion Arthur Abraham, and the explosive, hard-hitting Edison Miranda will co-star in the emotionally charged sequel, live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). Abraham won the first fight on a hotly disputed unanimous decision in a scintillating affair on September 23, 2006. The 12-round rematch will be contested at a catch weight of 166 pounds.

In the SHOWTIME co-feature, undefeated middleweight Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KOs) of New York, by way of Dominican Republic, will face Raul Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) of Houston, Texas, by way of Mexico, in an IBF World Championship eliminator. The two-fight telecast will originate from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., and is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Setting the stage for the most anticipated rematch since Marquez-Vazquez II, SHOWTIME will re-air Abraham-Miranda I for the first time on U.S. television this Monday, June 16, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME 2™, again on Thursday, June 19, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2 and on Saturday, June 21, at 6 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®.

Miranda (30-2, 26 KOs), long known as one of the most feared punchers in boxing, delivered considerable punishment in the first fight. Miranda broke Abraham’s jaw with vicious shots to the head early in the bout and blood flowed steadily from Abraham’s mouth until the final bell.

Miranda, fighting on Abraham’s home turf in Germany, lost five points for low blows and head-butts. Abraham, (26-0, 21 KOs) the current IBF middleweight champion, survived the brutal injury to win a decision by five, six and seven points respectively on the judges scorecards to retain his title.

“In all my life as a boxing fan, and as a producer for more than 20 years, I have never seen anything like it,” said David Dinkins Jr., executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports telecasts, of Abraham’s broken jaw. “For a guy to fight through that kind of injury—and win—is truly remarkable. There’s some unfinished business here. I am really looking forward to seeing them go at it again.”

Fans should look for the same kind of thrilling action on June 21.

“Miranda doesn’t have to fear me in the ring, but he sure better respect my skills,” Abraham said. “I’m going to fight my fight and if he wishes to stand in the ring with me, he better respect my talents.”

“I’m training twice a day,” continued Abraham. “My sparring partners have been excellent. This is the right rematch at the right time.”

Miranda has since moved up to super middleweight where he is much more comfortable and looked dominant in his last two fights.

“The adjustment from middleweight to super middleweight hasn’t been tough at all,” Miranda said. “I feel great at this weight. My punching power didn’t decrease as many thought it would. I fight with a lot more energy at this weight.”

The undefeated Abraham has dominated the middleweight division since he won the vacant IBF belt with a fifth round knockout over Kingsley Ikeke on Dec. 10, 2005. He has made seven successful defenses, four coming by way of knockout.

Nicknamed “King Arthur,” Abraham has brutal power having knocked out more than 80 percent of his opponents.

One of boxing’s most devastating punchers, Miranda is no stranger to world title belts and eliminators. Miranda’s only other loss came against current WBC and WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik in a WBC eliminator on May 18, 2007.

After the loss to Pavlik, Mirada moved up to super middleweight. On Oct. 30, 2007, he defeated Henry Porras with a fifth-round TKO and in his last fight he demolished David Banks on Jan. 11, 2008 with a brutal third-round knockout.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING announcers Steve Albert and Al Bernstein will call the action from ringside with Jim Gray reporting from ringside. The telecast will be produced by Chuck McKean with Bob Dunphy directing. Dinkins is the executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports.

For information on SHOWTIME Sports Programming, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please go the new SHOWTIME Sports website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

About Showtime Networks Inc.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL®, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine

Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

GIOVANNI LORENZO - RAUL MARQUEZ, IBF Middleweight Mandatory Eliminator Hard Rock Live in Hollywood FL, SHOWTIME TO BROADCAST LIVE

GIOVANNI LORENZO


MIDDLEWEIGHT MELEE: The Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL will serve as the site for a Showtime World Championship Boxing middleweight doubleheader. The 12 round non-title main event bout will feature a rematch between Edison Miranda (30-2, 26 KO’s) and undefeated IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (26-0, 21 KO’s). In the co-feature undefeated IBF #4 ranked contender Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KO’s) challenges IBF #13 ranked contender and former world champion Raul Marquez (40-3-1, 29 KO’s) in a 12 round IBF Mandatory Eliminator bout. IBF champion Abraham is mandated to fight the winner of Lorenzo-Marquez in his next bout. SHOWTIME’s June 21broadcast will begin at 9pm ET / PT. Tickets, priced at $202, $152, $102, and $52 are now on sale and may be purchased at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or TicketMaster.com.

GIOVANNI LORENZO: TIME TO STEP UP - Undefeated middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo has been waiting for this opportunity. He has hungered for the chance to showcase his talents and prove to the world that he is ready to battle for a world title. The only person standing in his way is Raul Marquez:

On Marquez’s abilities: “Marquez has many strengths, as do most former world champions. He is durable, he’s been active, and he can punch. He has been in with the best in the world. Also, he is a southpaw and I have never faced a southpaw before. He works every minute of every round and bangs to the body hard. He's tenacious, focused, but also very relaxed. He is a tough out for anyone. That is why so many fighters have avoided him. But so far no one has been able to defeat me. He has been defeated and he knows how to lose. That will be the big difference in the fight.”

On Marquez’s age and stamina: “Marquez has been the distance [10 rounds or more] numerous times and the most I have gone is 8 rounds, so I don’t expect any advantages if the fight going longer. I have been preparing for the old Marquez and I expect a hard physical fight from start to finish. I know that although he has been stopped he has never been counted out, so I want to be the first man to ever do that. If I can, it will be a huge accomplishment.”

On Pavlik-Lockett: “I think Pavlik could get beat. He is an overrated fighter
who wants to fight bums who nobody gives a damn about. But if HBO
wants to keep paying him the amount of money he is asking to fight these
bums, then they deserve the poor ratings that they have been getting.
Pavlik is never going to fight me. His management already confirmed this
. . . which is why we are moving on and planning to face Abraham in our
next fight.”

RAUL MARQUEZ: FINAL SHOT? Former world champion Raul Marquez recognizes that this IBF eliminator bout on June 21 against Lorenzo may be his final opportunity to earn a world title shot. Since losing to Jermain Taylor in June 2004, the 16-year veteran and 1992 Silver Medalist has rattled off a 5-0-1 record. With the help of his trainer/father, Arturo Marquez, Raul plans to knock off Lorenzo and then challenge IBF champion Arthur Abraham . . . or any other world middleweight champion willing to fight him.

On Lorenzo’s opposition: “Lorenzo’s young and hungry and this is a big opportunity for him. But the guy’s never been tested. The biggest name on his resume is Archak [Ter-Meliksetian]. He’s been fighting nothing but journeymen.”

On Lorenzo’s skills: “He’s powerful and strong. When you knock out 18 guys you have some power no matter who the opponent is. But I don’t think he is a full-blown middleweight and a lot of the guys he’s fought were welterweights and jr. middleweights. He hasn’t been in with a true middleweight. I’ve watched tape of him and I think he’s an average guy, an average fighter. Nothing impressive. I don’t compare him with the talent of guys like Jermain Taylor and Fernando Vargas when I fought them. They had better resumes.”

Marquez is training for the bout in Houston, and other than suffering through the heat and the humidity he is enjoying training like never before: “Since I lost to Taylor I’ve had six fights. The training is hard and you really have to want it. It’s hard at any age, but it gets even harder at 36. But I’m different now. I’m older, wiser, and more mature. I love boxing more now than ever. I appreciate it more. I train happy.”

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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

LORENZO-MARQUEZ TO BATTLE IN IBF VOLUNTARY ELIMINATOR ON JUNE 21; Showdown to serve as co-feature bout to Abraham-Miranda rematch

TOTOWA, NJ– Undefeated IBF #4 ranked middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo has accepted an offer to challenge former world champion and current IBF #12 ranked contender Raul Marquez in a 12 round IBF Voluntary Eliminator on June 21, 2008, it was announced by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. The bout will serve as the co-feature to the rematch between IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham and Edison Miranda. Both bouts will be broadcast live on Showtime beginning at 9pm ET / PT.

Giovanni Lorenzo


The winner of the Lorenzo-Marquez bout will be the mandatory contender for the IBF Middleweight Title and will fight for the title in his next bout.

“I am very excited about this opportunity to showcase my skills on Showtime,” said Lorenzo. “The exposure that both Abraham and I will get from June 21 will make our upcoming championship showdown that much more appealing to fight fans worldwide. It is an honor to fight Raul Marquez. He is a skilled and durable fighter who has had a great career. However, I’ve waited a long time for this opportunity and I intend to capitalize on it.”

Contenders star, Jerson Ravelo and Giovanni Lorenzo


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).

The site will be announced shortly.

©®™ 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