CLOUD SURVIVES BIG BEAR...‏

Undefeated IBF light heavyweight champion Tavoris "Thunder" Cloud (24-0, 19 KOs) took his last run this morning in Big Bear Lake, Calif., prior to departing for Brooklyn, N.Y., to make his fifth title defense on March 9 at Barclays Center against future Hall of Famer Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins (52-6-2, 32 KOs). (HBO, 9:30 p.m. ET/PT)

Cloud is shown here in front of the beautiful Bear Mountain Ski Resort.

Cloud, from Tallahassee, Fla., and his new trainer Abel Sanchez faced a number of challenges at their high-altitude training camp perched in the mountains east of Los Angeles.  They braved a bitterly cold January followed by heavy snowfall that Cloud noted "was beautiful."  

February brought on what Cloud said "was not a good time to be a black man in Big Bear," when an intense California-wide manhunt lead police to Cloud's scenic mountain oasis in search of former Los Angeles Police Department cop Christoper Dorner--a fugitive with a $1 million bounty on his head after being suspected of going on a killing spree--whose truck was found in the snow-covered woods near Big Bear Lake.

Police got into a gunfight with the outlaw on Glass Road in the Big Bear area before subsequently burning a cabin where he had holed up on Feb. 12.

Photo credit: Abel Sanchez

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Hopkins, Cloud, and King‏ Teleconference

BERNARD HOPKINS

He opened up by saying, “I’m excited. It’s my first time fighting at the Barclay Center, and I believe it’s HBO’s first time broadcasting, so thank you everybody.”

When Hopkins was asked him what drives him, he responded, “I’m not satisfied, even though I know I’ve done a lot to be grateful for – and I am! Trust me, I am, God knows I am. But I’m the kind of person that when I’m not satisfied I keep driving. I should be the one to dictate when I go, because if I listened to most people I wouldn’t have made history in a lot of things.

“So I’m not satisfied and I know there are a lot of other things to accomplish. Maybe not in the ring, because it must stop soon, everybody has to recognize that. There are young fighters under the Golden Boy banner that need our help – mine, Oscar’s, Richard’s – so a lot of things keep me going.”

Hopkins took the fight when his name was mentioned among fighters he wanted to call out. Things progressed from there, and now the fight is on. With regard to his age, he reminded us that he has been hearing ‘old’ since he beat Trinidad, and he was 35 at the time.

What makes Bernard think that he will pull off the upset yet again? “I’m the better fighter and the better conditioned fighter. I believe when I go in that ring and Cloud is thinking something else he’s going to be very, very surprised. It’s natural. He’s fighting someone almost double his age, so that is the reality. But when he steps in there, that’s when I know that he’s gonna have to adjust mentally as well as physically, and that’s when the fight really begins. I can say one thing that I’ve never said in my whole career when I step in the ring – I’m 100% healthy. You’ll see a healthy Bernard Hopkins. It’s gonna be a masterful performance!”

“I know I’m not fighting his promoter, but I’m glad to be able to reunite and be able to get rid of the last guy that he has. I’m not being smart or vindictive, I’m just saying, what other horse does King have to ride on?” Hopkins continued. “He does have a thoroughbred (in Cloud). But let’s see how the cowboy rides the bull.”

Bernard made it clear that he will not feel guilty to be the one to put King out of business. “Who ever thought that it would be Bernard Hopkins – not the mob, not his street people, not the fighters who’ve threatened him over the years, not the promoters – who ever thought that it would me that would shut him down? It’s an honor for me to put the last nail in his coffin.”

Nathan Cleverly is looking to fight Hopkins in a unification fight for the light heavyweight championship, and Bernard is all for that.

“To me, I think every division should have one king,” Hopkins said. “If you’re a champion and you have a title in the light heavyweight division, why wouldn’t you want to be the undisputed champion? I don’t want to walk around and three other people wear the title of a light heavyweight champion. To me it’s an embarrassment. If I’m in a room and two other guys are in the room, and we’re all light heavyweights, then you have three champions in one room. To me, I think every division should have one king. I’m glad that Nathan Cleverly is thinking on the same lines as I’m thinking and that’s the way it should be.
“I’m from the old school but living in a new world. I understand that. I respect the guy that wants to do what needs to be done in boxing in all of the divisions.” I’m very aware of him (Cleverly) but right now it’s Tavoris Cloud and that’s what’s on my mind right now.

“After the fight they have another press conference and his name might come up or his name might not come up. But I’m sure it will come up on our end. At the end of the day he can be next because I’m all about unifying the championship.

“He makes more money with me than he makes with Cloud and anybody that fights in the light heavyweight division makes more money with me, fighting a Hall of Famer. Cleverly understands that, and that’s good.”

TAVORIS CLOUD

Cloud opened up by saying that he’s had a great training camp. They are heading to New York next week, and they are just ready to fight.

It was mentioned that Hopkins looked worse in his last fight than he had in 10 years, and did he think he was ripe for the picking?

“He could be, but he is the most dangerous fighter in the world. We’ll see when he gets hit a couple of times. I’ve done everything I could possibly do to get a knockout victory. Nobody can guarantee a knockout, but I will guarantee a victory. He’s not gonna beat me; he believes all the stuff in his own head. I’ll let him be until March 9.”

Cloud was asked if he had to train any differently for this fight than his other fights. “Well, I’m at the top of the mountain. I’m doing road work at 7000 feet, so that’s one thing. I feel by doing that it took me to another level physically. I know I’m a better conditioned fighter since I’ve been with Abel Sanchez up in Big Bear.

“It was a decision on my part to switch trainers and find somebody that I could grow even more with, and someone who was a little more open-minded. Abel Sanchez was the guy I decided to go with. The switch was made a little bit before Christmas. The decision came after years going back and forth. Al (Bonanni) is still a good trainer.”

Cloud also switched from manager Jerry Attardi (who is also Bonanni’s uncle) to James Prince.

Tavoris revealed his plan for the fight. “I’m just gonna fight my fight. I’m gonna make him adjust to what I’m doing. I’m gonna set the pace and not let him set the pace, and then win the fight round by round. I’m not gonna crowd my mind with what he’s gonna do. I’m gonna make him do what I want him to do.

“I learned from my last fight that I wasn’t as well prepared as I am now. When I beat Bernard Hopkins I’m calling out all of the fighters in my division. I’ll fight whoever’s next, but I’ll leave that to my manager.”

When asked if he felt Hopkins was no longer able to fight at the top level, he replied, “I don’t think any fighter can stay young forever, no matter how hard they try. It’s evident that he’s slowed down the last couple of years; yes he’s definitely slowed down.

DON KING

Interestingly, King made no attempt to answer back or engage in any of the negativity that was enlisted by Hopkins. Instead, he killed him with kindness.

“I love Bernard,” King said. “He’s done a good job of promoting, and he’s not a nemesis to me, he’s a wonderful fighter, a great fighter. Bernard has raised himself above the fray. At 48 years old he demands respect with his physique, being in such good physical condition, and with his 27 years of experience in this sport, and that is a crowning achievement in itself. I look at this fight with joy and appreciation.

The world is going to see a physically fit 48-year-old man in Hopkins. With Tavoris, who throws punches in bunches, I think this is going to be great for both of them. These guys are going back to the beginning and doing things with good old hard work – no enhancements. It’s dedication, perseverance and commitment. The winner of this fight will be the public.

“Tavoris is fighting a giant that night,” King continued. “And that’s what’s gonna make Cloud so good. He’s come from the streets to the suites. Bernard is gonna try to physiologically try to outsmart Tavoris. When he fights this giant and he takes this giant out, it will give him more prominence, and more stature and esteem, because Bernard is nothing to sneeze at. Everybody knows that, otherwise we wouldn’t be fighting at the Barclay Center.

“This ranks up there as one of the best fights I’ve promoted. People will see just what Tavoris Cloud is; a tough individual dedicated and committed to excellence. Hopkins will

stand in front of him bringing an illustrious career. When Bernard falls he won’t fall with disgrace. He did his job; he came, he saw, he conquered, and now he is being conquered.”

ABEL SANCHEZ

Sanchez said that when he first came on board what he saw was a fighter who just got complacent. He has a lot of talent but he got complacent, looking for one shot, looking to knock everybody’s head off. Inactivity could cause that as well, Sanchez said.

“We tried to go back to just moving his hands a bit more, just be a little bit more active and lighter on his feet. We tried to get him to enjoy what he’s doing. He seemed to be doing it as a job instead of something he enjoyed to do. It’s only been about six weeks now and we’re accomplishing that.”

Abel was asked what problems Cloud presented for Hopkins. “I think styles make fights. Bernard will present some problems because he is Bernard and he is a cagey veteran. But at 48 years old he’s talking about trying to set some records. That’s gonna motivate him to be well prepared and come to fight. We’re looking for the toughest Bernard Hopkins on March 9. Hopefully he does, and if so it will be a great fight for the fans, as Don keeps repeating.

“I tell my fighters to be the best they can be and have everybody else adjust to them. Tavoris is gonna come and take it to Bernard, he’s gonna be in great shape, he’s be busy, and if Bernard can handle the heat then it’ll go 12. If not, then it’s gonna be a short night for him.”

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Hopkins-Cloud conference call quotes

BERNARD HOPKINS, Three-Time And Two-Division World Champion & Oldest Fighter In History To Win A World Championship

“Age is not an enemy to me. The clock is not something to try to stop. The man upstairs can’t even do that. You can get the daylight to be earlier or the darkness to be later, but the clock has to move forward.

“People will always tell me, ‘You can’t do this. You can’t do that.’ When I hear that, it gives me motivation. I know there are some things in life that are out of reach. Some people are not capable of doing certain things. I have been doing this half of my life. I know what I am capable of.

“Some people are trying to write my destiny, but when you see a guy that has a track record that has proven to be more right than wrong over 28 years, Cloud has to say that he has a challenge. In reality, he is going to have to train harder than he ever has before.

“[To Cloud] If you ain’t ready now, seven or eight weeks out, then you’re in trouble.

“I’m letting you all know that the smart money goes on me. The other money goes somewhere else. If you want to bet against me, that’s your prerogative.

“[To Cloud] You’re 20 years younger than me, but you are looking at the number, not looking at the man.

“If you’ve never thrown punch and you’re making a judgment about me, then you’re a fool. You are making a decision based on what you think, not what you know.

“I am not underestimating Cloud. He isn’t beating a Yusuf Mack here. He is trying to beat a legacy. He is trying to beat a legend.

“Don and I are alumni of the sport. He helped build my career. At the end of the day, everyone he threw in front of me helped secure my legacy in the middleweight division. I am at least 15-0 against him. He really helped me without even knowing it.

“I understand that I have a blessing to not only make history once but two, three and four times. I understand you will miss me when I’m not here.

“Who is going to run from a 48 year old man? Cloud isn’t going to run. He’s going to fight. I’m going to be the professor and teach him his ABC’s.

“I have never been the favorite in anything in my life. No matter what I’ve done. I would rather be the underdog than the favorite.

“After I beat Cloud, Don King will have to pawn his jacket [to make money], and that jacket is just as old as me.

“[To Cloud] Don King is going to make sure you do your business. His empire is on your shoulders. You’re the last horse. There’s no one left in the stable.

“[To Don King] Enjoy your day because after March 9, there will be a big celebration of your long lasting promotional legacy as I send you into retirement.”

TAVORIS CLOUD, Undefeated IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion

“I want to thank Bernard Hopkins for calling me out for this fight. It’s weird when a champion gets called out, but like he [Hopkins] says, he’s different.

“I am willing to accept the challenge. I don’t duck. I don’t run.

“On March 9, I’ll be in great shape. I’ll be here to put on the fight on my life.

“People ask me if I’m worried about Bernard’s experience, his tricks and this and that. He might have more tricks than me, but I’m going to throw punches. You have to throw punches to win fights. I’m definitely going to win the fight by throwing punches.

“Training camp is going well. I’m going to be in the best shape of my life. I’m going to bring my A plus game.

“Hopkins doesn’t faze me. He’s up there banging on the podium and yelling. It just goes in one ear and out the other.

“My opinion is that he’s talking to convince himself and motivate himself. It isn’t directed at me.

“I’m game for his experience. I’m not inexperienced myself. If he’s going to be dirty with me, I can be dirty right back.

“I think Don won the war of words against Bernard. Don got into Bernard’s head. Don got Bernard thinking about what he was saying, not the other way around.”

DON KING, Renowned Boxing Promoter & President, Don King Productions

“Hello Brooklyn! Bernard is in foreign territory. I’m at home here in Brooklyn. He doesn’t know the half of what it’s going to mean fighting here. Brooklynites know what time it is. It’s time to put you [Hopkins] out to rest and reside.

“I’m delighted to be here at the new Barclays Center. It’s spiritually redeeming. It’s alive. It’s a family affair here. I’m looking forward to a sold-out crowd at Barclays Center on March 9. We’re looking to make history here in Brooklyn. History in this new beautiful building,

“Bernard Hopkins is one of the greatest fighters of our time. He has shown the tenacity and perseverance. It’s evident that he is different.

“When the hands of time are moving, the old moves on and the young moves forward. Bernard is stubborn. He is resistant. Something has got to give and give it will on March 9.

“When you see the new face of glory, the excitement of what youth can do, you believe in God and that is deeply imbedded in the heart and mind of Tavoris Cloud.

“I’m happy to be here at Barclays Center. I am delighted to be associated with Golden Boy. I want friend and foe alike to be a part of this history making night when we let Bernard Hopkins take this weight off of his shoulders.

“There was a lot of thunder and weather that happened here in New York when Hurricane Sandy came through and devastated so many homes. With his [Tavoris] name being Cloud, we are going to work toward helping those affected by Sandy.”

NAAZIM RICHARDSON, Hopkins’ Trainer

“Anybody that knows anything about boxing on this level knows Bernard Hopkins. You may not be familiar with Tavoris Cloud, but I’m familiar with him. He’s an exciting fighter. He’s focused and very dangerous. I know what this kid is capable of doing. He’s going to be up for fighting a legend.

“I was on tour with Bernard and Don King and you are getting a small preview of what they can say. I was with Don in Puerto Rico and he was Puerto Rican then and he’s a Brooklynite now. That is the magic of Don King. He’s one of the icons of our sport and you’ve got to respect that.

“You want to see this fight because our history has shown, the more dangerous the opponent, the higher his game rises and Tavoris Cloud is a dangerous opponent.

“When you come to Brooklyn to see this fight, be prepared to see a fight of the year candidate. You want to be able to say you saw it live. You want to be able to say you saw it here at the Barclays Center.”

DAVID ITSKOWITCH, Chief Operating Officer, Golden Boy Promotions

“I would have let Bernard and Don keep talking, but we would have been here for days.

“If you weren’t able to be here on October 20, Barclays Center is an unbelievable venue. It’s state of the art. There is a great staff here with great customer service.

“Bernard Hopkins thrives off of people doubting him.

“For those of you who didn’t see Bernard’s record breaking fight with Pascal, before the seventh round, Bernard decided to drop to the canvas and do push ups. It was amazing.

“It is always an honor to introduce a future first ballot Hall of Famer and legend in the sport…Bernard Hopkins.”

JAMES PRINCE, Cloud’s Manager

“We are very excited about this opportunity. Out of all of the fights that are coming here [to Barclays Center] this year, this is the one you want to see.

“What can you say about Bernard Hopkins? He holds his own very well, and Cloud is going to hold his own on March 9. It’s going to be a war.”

SEAN SAADEH, Vice President of Programming, Barclays Center

“On behalf of Bruce Ratner and Brett Yormark, we’re thrilled to host our third night of championship boxing.

“We’re delighted to have a true champion here and the oldest fighter in history to win a title fighting at the newest venue.

“We’re pleased that Bernard wants to get in the ring once again and that it’s going to be here. Tavoris is a great champion and Brooklyn is going to love his style.

“There is so much potential for boxing here in Brooklyn and we want this arena to be a fighter’s ultimate goal.

“We look forward to welcoming boxing back to Barclays Center on March 9.”

KERY DAVIS, Senior Vice President of Programming, HBO Sports

“There is some world class trash talking between Don King and Bernard Hopkins on this stage.

“As a Bronx native, I have always had a love-hate relationship with the borough of Brooklyn, but as a New Yorker I love the excitement that Barclays Center has brought to the New York landscape. It is a pleasure to have Barclays Center as an option for boxing events.

“This will be the twentieth time that Bernard Hopkins will be on HBO as he sets out again to make history against Light Heavyweight World Champion Tavoris Cloud.

“Bernard is one of the highest rated fighters we have on our network. When he beat Jean Pascal to become the oldest fighter in history to win a world title in 2011, it was the highest rated fight of that year.

“Tavoris is a worthy, exciting, relentless, young light heavyweight champion. It’s going to be a great night.”

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

TAVORIS CLOUD VS. JEAN PASCAL IBF LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY, AUG. 11, LIVE ON SHOWTIME® KICKOFF PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

TAVORIS CLOUD VS. JEAN PASCAL

IBF LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

SATURDAY, AUG. 11, LIVE ON SHOWTIME^®

Cloud: “Pascal’s style and my style are perfect for each other;
It will be a hell of a fight”

Pascal: “This fight will not go the distance”

In front of a packed room of television cameras, radio microphones and sports writers at Restaurant 9-4-10 within Montreal’s Bell Centre, undefeated International Boxing Federation (IBF) light heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud (24-0, 19 KOs), of Tallahassee, Fla., and popular hometown favorite and former World Boxing Council (WBC) light heavyweight titleholder Jean Pascal (26-2-1, 16 KOs) held a press conference Wednesday to formally announce their upcoming world title showdown on Saturday, Aug. 11, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live on SHOWTIME® from Bell Centre.

There was a respectful but intense atmosphere to announce what could potentially be the division's best matchup in years between two young fighters in their prime. Hall of Fame promoter Don King, who promotes Cloud, waved Canadian flags while sporting his signature U.S. jean jacket throughout the press conference.

The co-feature will match Canadian knockout artist Adonis “Superman” Stevenson, (18-1, 15 KOs) of Montreal , against an opponent to be announced in a super middleweight bout.

At the press conference, SHOWTIME Sports® announced that future Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins would be joining the Aug. 11 telecast as a special guest analyst. With his success in the light heavyweight division coupled with his firsthand experience traveling to Canada to take on Pascal and his legions of fans, Hopkins will offer a unique perspective and commentary to the viewers at home.

Here’s what the participants had to say Wednesday:

Tavoris Cloud:
“When I think about this fight, wow. Pascal’s style and my style are perfect for each other. It will be a hell of a fight. Nevertheless, I’m coming away with my title still intact

“I’m just glad to be here. Montreal is a beautiful place. I’m putting in a lot of hard work for this fight and on Aug. 11, I look forward to putting on a great show for you guys.

“Pascal could think he is the gatekeeper to bigger and better things for me, but I just come in and fight my fight.”

Jean Pascal:
“I have two words to say finally: I’m back. It’s been a long, long time but this show is going to be a great night for Quebec. I’d like to thank Yvon Michel, Greg Leon, Don King and Team Cloud for giving me a shot because I know I am a good boxer. He’s the champion and I really respect Cloud because he’s like me. He’s a good guy, a family man and he wants to fight the best.

“The reason why I took this fight is simple. It’s because of you guys, the fans. You want to see the best versus the best. I am the former world champion. He is the current world champion but unfortunately for him on Aug. 11, he is going to leave as the former world champion and I am going to be a two-time world champion.

“This man right here (Cloud) is dangerous. He is hungry but, with all due respect, I don’t think you are going to make your name on me. I know this is a big opportunity for you because I ‘m the door to success and big money.

“You’re a warrior like me and this fight will not go to the distance. I’m not saying that I’m going to knock him out. That’s not what I’m saying right now. I’m just saying it won’t go the distance which is why you have to tune in Aug. 11. I love challenges. I told Yvon, no tune up fights. Let’s face the guy at the top. That’s how I’ll get back on top. I hope Cloud comes in the best shape because I don’t want any excuses. And I won’t have any excuses either.”

Adonis Stevenson:
“I would like to thank SHOWTIME and Group Yvon Michel. I don’t have my opponent yet but he’s coming soon hopefully. Now the IBF champion is Carl Froch. It isn’t Lucian Bute anymore but I will be focused. Obviously, Aug. 11 is very important to me. I’d like to be the No. 1 (mandatory challenger for the IBF title) but no one wants to fight me. It’s always some reason. No money, no this, no that. I know that’s [untrue] but now I’ll just stay focused on the fight ahead of me.

“Emmanuel Steward is my trainer now. He is training Wladmir Klitschko and next week I will go to Klitschko’s camp and start my training there.”

Don King, Cloud’s Promoter:
“Bonjour to all the beautiful people of Montreal because this is like home to me. We had Sugar Ray Leonard here who changed the globe and took on Roberto Duran right here in Montreal. How did we get to Montreal? Because it’s one of the fairest cities in the world. We were looking for a neutral site and we picked Montreal. Sugar Ray Leonard came in and Roberto Duran beat him – because we got our fair shake in Montreal.

“Pascal has an opportunity now to take over for Bute (as Canada’s most popular fighter). Can he do it? He seems to think so but thunder is in the air. There will be lightning bolts striking so I don’t know. I think it’s going to be a devastating storm that night on Aug. 11.

“The Bell Centre is going to be the hour, the hour of the talk around the world. Not only is it going to be seen on SHOWTIME, it’s going to be seen around the world. It’s going to be a super extravaganza. It’s going to be a provocateur to titillate your taste buds. I know Pascal. I know how he has tried so desperately to be approved and respected by his fellow countrymen. So he is going to be giving everything he can and then some. And I know “Thunder” Cloud, he didn’t come up here to leave that (IBF Light Heavyweight) belt. Pascal is going to have to take it. And to take it, that means he is going to have to go up against the thunder the lighting and the rain.”

Yvon Michel:
“This fight is going to be not only the most important boxing event this year but I also believe that Aug. 11 will be the biggest sporting event of the year in Quebec.

“Each time we have a big event in Montreal, each time Jean Pascal is fighting, we have celebrities come out. For this fight will have the celebrity of celebrities, Don King, to co-promote the event. He is the only boxing promoter to be named one of the 40 most influential people in sports over the last 50 years by Sports Illustrated. And he is our prestigious guest here today.

“Tavoris Cloud and Jean Pascal have amazing power. Adonis Stevenson is the purest puncher I’ve ever seen. To have three guys with steel hands competing on Aug. 11, I think we’ll see two fantastic fights.”

Al Bonanni, Cloud’s Trainer:
“These are the two best light heavyweights in the world. SHOWTIME took the fight, not because they love us, but because these are the two best light heavyweights in the world. Unfortunately for Pascal, I have the best light heavyweight in the world.

“We’re training very, very hard. We started in Miami, Fla., five weeks ago and now we’re at Don King’s Gym in Ohio, across the river from here. So we can see Canada from where we’re training. Cloud could fight tomorrow. He’s 12 pounds off weight and ready to go. I thank you for the hospitality. I thank you for the money we’re going to make. And it’s going to be a great feeling to go back home with the belt again.”

Marc Ramsay, Pascal’s Trainer:
“I just really want to thank SHOWTIME, Don King and Group Yvon Michel for making this fight happen, to give us the opportunity to go straight back to the top. And that’s exactly what we’re going to do. We’re going straight to the top.”


♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Longtime Philadelphia Boxing personality Rob Murray, Sr. succumbed to cancer

The boxing community was saddened on Sunday when longtime Philadelphia personality Rob Murray, Sr. succumbed to cancer.

Murray was a well known fight figure for three-plus decades as he managed, trained, promoted and did almost everything around Philadelphia boxing.

Murray was the original manager of future Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins and also managed future world champion Steve Little. Murray trained Bennie Briscoe for a short period. Murray managed world title challengers Will Taylor and most recently guided the career of World Heavyweight title challenger “Fast” Eddie Chambers and his brother Steve Upsher Chambers.

For the better part of the past decade Murray was the Director of Boxing at The Legendary Blue Horizon. As many of you know, Rob or “Big Rob” was one of Philadelphia’s outstanding boxing personalities. He was known for his WURD Radio Shows- This Week in Boxing and This Week in Sports.

Rob was married to Denise Blocker Murray and the proud father of two sons, Robert, Jr. and Raheem.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

BERNARD HOPKINS & SETH MITCHELL LOOK TO THE FUTURE AFTER SATURDAY NIGHT BOUTS IN ATLANTIC CITY‏

Though they left Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City Saturday night with different results, both future Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins and heavyweight contender Seth Mitchell made statements that their careers are going strong and continuing after delivering compelling performances to a packed house in New Jersey and to homes across the country on HBO World Championship Boxing®.

In the main event, "The Executioner" may have come up on the short end of a 12-round majority decision to Chad Dawson, but without question, Hopkins' performance in the closely-contested bout showed that even at 47, there is plenty of fight left in the fighting pride of Philadelphia.

Dawson praised Hopkins at the post-fight press conference for his skill and guile in the ring and exclaimed, "He can still beat anyone else in our division."

While the longtime middleweight king made history for becoming the oldest man to ever a win a major boxing title when he defeated Jean Pascal in 2011, now Hopkins has his sights on besting his own record by winning yet another title later in 2012.

"I fought hard Saturday night and feel the fight was closer than two of the scores reflected," said Hopkins. "Regardless of the result, I will continue my career and challenge any champion in my division. I might be older, but I don't feel a decline in my skills or abilities in the ring. I love to fight and am still competing at a level where boxing cannot deny me the opportunity to succeed."

Kicking off the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast in style was unbeaten Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell, who may have singlehandedly renewed boxing fans' faith in the heavyweight division with his thrilling third round technical knockout win over of Chazz Witherspoon.

Showing off a warrior's heart and huge chin in the first round when he survived Witherspoon's initial attack despite being momentarily dazed, the 29-year old Mitchell kept his composure and rallied in the second round with a punishing body attack. That tactic eventually opened Witherspoon up for a massive left hook to the jaw in the third round that sent him to the canvas. Mitchell then finished the job with a series of powerful shots that forced referee Randy Neumann to stop the bout at the 2:31 mark, giving Mitchell the official title of NABO heavyweight champion and the unofficial crown of America's next great heavyweight. Expect the soft-spoken but heavy-handed Mitchell to wear both titles proudly on his quest to win the heavyweight world championship.

"Every experience I have in the ring allows me to improve my learning curve in the sport as I continue to climb the heavyweight division," said Mitchell. "I know I have the heart, which the fans saw Saturday night. I am very proud of my victory over Chazz and look forward to my next challenge. There is only one dream for me and that is to be the bona fide heavyweight champion of the world."

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Bernard Hopkins & Chad Dawson's promoter Gary Shaw go at it at the Rematch Presser

Bernard Hopkins and Chad Dawson's promoter Gary Shaw exchange words at the Hopkins vs. Dawson Rematch press conference. The fight takes place Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. It will be broadcast live on HBO World Championship Boxing.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Chad Dawson & Bernard Hopkins Rematch Point of View

Former champion Chad Dawson and Light Heavyweight Champion Bernard Hopkins express their point of view on how the rematch fight will go. The fight takes place Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, NJ. It will broadcast live on HBO World Championship Boxing.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

"Hopkins vs. Dawson: Once And For All" Saturday, April 28 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey

"Hopkins vs. Dawson: Once And For All", a 12 round bout for Hopkins' WBC and Ring Magazine light heavyweight world championships, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Caesars Atlantic City. The bout will take place at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:15 p.m. ET / 7:15 p.m. PT.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Nick Casal's journey continues Oct 15‏

Buffalo welterweight Nick “Hands of Gold” Casal continues his journey back to boxing prominence October 15 against undefeated prospect Michael “Slick” Anderson on the non-televised portion of the Bernard Hopkins vs. Chad Dawson pay-per-view event at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Casal (21-4-1, 16 KOs) was a highly-decorated amateur who captured gold medals at the 2002 U.S. National Junior Championships and the Sweden Box-Cup for Under-19 boxers. In 2003, Nick reached the quarterfinals of the National Golden Gloves Tournament, defeating Anthony Dirrell in the process, before losing to current world champion, Andre Berto. Casal also won a bronze medal at the 2004 U.S. Championships but he had to drop out of the competition with a hand injury.

In 2004, Casal turned pro and he was unbeaten in his first 17 pro bouts, including a pair of draws. Nick extended current WBC Silver champion Antonio “Tony” DeMarco, the former WBC Interim light titlist, the full 10 rounds in 2002, albeit in a losing effort (94-96, 93-93, 97-93) that demonstrated his vast potential. Casal has won his last three fights, including a third-round technical knockout of Martin Tucker this past April in his Boxing 360 debut.

Casal, however, damaged his hand and he has been out of action since. His fight against Andersson was supposed to be September 30 on ShoBox, before being switched to Oct. 15. “Fighting on ShoBox would have given me more exposure but the Hopkins-Dawson show is much bigger with a larger audience,” said Casal who is training in Las Vegas. “I hurt my hand a little bit in my last fight but it’s now 100-percent.”

The 30-year-old Anderson (11-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Newark, hasn’t fought anybody near Casal’s level of competition. If Anderson believes he’s going to use Casal as a stepping-stone, according to Nick, he’s got another thing coming. “I’m going to use him as a stepping-stone,”Casal insisted. “He has no experience and I’m coming for a win. I don’t know anything about him but, after the first round, I’ll know what to do.

“In another year, I hope to be fighting for a world title. I beat both Dirrells (Andre and Anthony), Berto and Vanes Martirosyan in the amateurs. I fought at 156 as an amateur and moved down to fight at 140 as a pro. Some of them went up in weight and won world titles. I just need a couple of more fights to be ready for a world title shot. I turned pro when I was 18 – maybe a little early – but I’m only 25 with a lot of fights left in me. I had a lot of growing up to do and now’s the time to make something happen.”

Casal’s promoter, Boxing 360 founder and CEO Mario Yagobi, believes his upcoming fight is a tremendous opportunity for Nick. “Nick has to step-up and, if he passes this test, it’s on to bigger and better things for him. This is a great opportunity. I think he’s up to it. In the past he has won better challenges in bigger fights. I believe he has the talent and heart to take him to the top. He made the commitment to train in Las Vegas, away from his home in Buffalo, in order to get better sparring. He’s working hard and I know he’ll be ready October 15^th.”

Casal’s talented Boxing 360 stable-mate, undefeated middleweight prospect DonYil Livingston (5-0-1, 3 KOs), will also be in action on the Oct. 15^thHopkins-Dawson undercard against unbeaten Kurtiss Colvin (6-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round bout.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Kendall Holt Preparing To Face Undefeated Danny Garcia On October 15 Bernard Hopkins vs. Chad Dawson Televised Undercard

Former world champion Kendall “Rated R” Holt is on a mission to recapture a world title belt, but first he must score a win over unbeaten prospect Danny “Swift” Garcia when they meet Oct. 15 on the “Believe It Or Not: Hopkins vs. Dawson” pay-per-view undercard at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles for the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight title, as well as for the WBC #1 and IBF #2 ratings positions.

A single parent raising his son, the 30-year-old Holt (27-4, 15 KOs) is managed by New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, and now trained by Buddy McGirt. Kendall captured the WBO Junior Welterweight World Title in 2008, sensationally stopping Ricardo Torres in the opening round. The Paterson, New Jersey boxer successfully defended his crown against Demetrius Hopkins and now, once again, Holt positioned himself for another world title shot.

“Nothing has ever been given to Kendall,” Holt’s promoter Gary Shaw said. “He’s worked very hard for everything he’s accomplished in the ring, never losing sight of another world title shot, and he’s worked his way back up the ratings. We’re confident that his experience, skills and determination will drive him to another impressive victory against Garcia.”

Holt, presently rated WBO #3, WBC #4 and IBF #6 at 140 lbs. continued. “This fight is extremely important for me. I need to show the public that I’m a force to be reckoned with and that I can and will be world champion again.

“I’ve been working hard my whole career. My first chance wasn’t easy. I had to fight my way to become the mandatory challenger to force Torres to fight me, so, this is just like another day at the office for me.”

Garcia, 23, has a perfect 21-0 (14 KOs) record against lesser quality opponents than Holt has faced. Fighting out of Philadelphia, he is a world-class fighter who is rated WBC #8, IBF #10 and WBO #13.

“I see me being victorious,” Holt predicted. “Garcia’s a good, young fighter but my experience and skill level are much better than his. It’s not so much what he’s done, but what Golden Boy has done for him. They’ve picked the right opponents for him and his matchmaking has been great to get him to the top of the mountain. It’s my turn to push him off the cliff because he’s not ready for this level. He may have been a good amateur and he’s a good pro prospect, but this is an entirely different level. They picked the wrong guy this time. They shouldn’t have picked me because I have too much experience and better skills.”

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT! BERNARD "THE EXECUTIONER" HOPKINS TO FACE FORMER WORLD CHAMPION "BAD" CHAD DAWSON ON OCTOBER 15‏

BELIEVE IT OR NOT! BERNARD "THE EXECUTIONER" HOPKINS TO FACE FORMER WORLD CHAMPION "BAD" CHAD DAWSON ON OCTOBER 15‏

believeitornot, THE OLDEST CHAMPION IN BOXING HISTORY BERNARD "THE EXECUTIONER" HOPKINS TO FACE

FORMER WORLD CHAMPION "BAD" CHAD DAWSON ON OCTOBER 15 IN "believeitornot: HOPKINS VS. DAWSON"

THE WBC AND RING MAGAZINE LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FIGHT WILL TAKE PLACE AT STAPLES CENTER IN LOS ANGELES AND WILL BE PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW®
STACKED PAY-PER-VIEW TELEVISED FIGHT CARD TO INCLUDE

ANTONIO DEMARCO VS. JORGE LINARES LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD TITLE FIGHT AND KENDALL HOLT VS. DANNY GARCIA JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT ELIMINATION BOUT

It is hard to believe what WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Champion Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins has achieved during his 23-year long professional career. He was the middleweight champion for ten years, notched a record 20 successful title defenses of that crown and at 46-years-old, has become the oldest fighter in boxing history to win a world title. It's also hard to believe that a young lion like former World Champion "Bad" Chad Dawson, who has wanted a shot at Hopkins for years, will finally get his opportunity to stop Hopkins from continuing his record-breaking journey. "believeitornot : Hopkins vs. Dawson" takes place on Saturday, October 15 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Calif. and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 p.m. PT.

In addition to this championship main event showdown, the televised pay-per-view undercard will also feature Antonio DeMarco vs. Jorge Linares in a 12-round fight for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Title and Kendall Holt vs. Danny Garcia in 12-round bout for the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight Title which will also be an eliminator for the number one rating by the WBC and the number two rating by the IBF

"believeitornot": Hopkins vs. Dawson" is a 12-round bout for Hopkins' WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Championship Titles. The event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, AT&T and Ripley's Believe It or Not, a new sponsor to the fight game who forged a relationship with Hopkins earlier this year when they made a wax figure of the future Hall of Famer, which will be unveiled during fight week in Los Angeles and displayed at a Ripley's Odditorium in the future. DeMarco vs. Linares is presented in association with Teiken Promotions.

"Chad Dawson has earned the right to challenge me for my titles and I know he's been looking for this fight for a long time," said Hopkins, who will be defending the WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight Championships he captured from Jean Pascal on May 21. "But you've got to be careful what you wish for because, believe it or not, I will be prepared once again to beat father time and show the world what I can do. Jean Pascal underestimated me and Chad Dawson better not do the same. He is going to walk away empty-handed on October 15 and I will make history once again."

"Bernard has had a great career, but his believe it or not run as boxing's oldest champion is over now," said former World Champion Chad Dawson. "A strange series of events led to him getting my title, but this was all a temporary side story. I am the true light heavyweight champion of the world and on October 15, I will put the world back where it should be and reclaim my belt."

"The story of Bernard Hopkins is perhaps the most amazing story in boxing and he keeps adding chapters with each great performance," said Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. "He is coming off of a historic victory over Jean Pascal and while most fighters would have rested or come back in an easy fight, Bernard insisted on facing a dangerous challenger in Chad Dawson and I have no doubt that he will amaze the sports world once again and remain the oldest world champion in history. On top of an incredible main event, fight fans will see two explosive matches in the opening fights as Jorge Linares takes on Antonio DeMarco and undefeated star Danny Garcia faces Kendall Holt. This lineup is a night of boxing you will not want to miss as the card is stacked with talent from top to bottom."

Said Gary Shaw, President and CEO of Gary Shaw Productions: "As a boxing fan, I almost hate to see Bernard's run at the top of the division come to an end, but sadly, that's what is about to happen. Chad Dawson is the rightful champion in this division and, like all good fairy tales, Bernard's is about to conclude. On the undercard we have two sensational match-ups for our fighters and I look forward to watching Kendall Holt and Antonio DeMarco emerge victorious."

"Not only does he refuse to rest on his laurels, but at age 46 Bernard Hopkins is taking on one of the best light heavyweights in the world in Chad Dawson," said Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View. "We look forward to this matchup and the next chapter in Hopkins' history on October 15."

A future Hall of Famer, Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins (52-5-2, 32 KO's) has shocked the world by accomplishing more after 40 years old than most athletes do in their entire careers. A proud native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Hopkins rebounded from a seemingly dead end struggle with life in the streets and a stint in prison to become an inspirational figure who has proven that hard work and determination will allow you to overcome any odds. After coming up the hard way in the ring, Hopkins won the IBF Middleweight World Title against Segundo Mercado in April of 1995 and he wouldn't surrender the belt for 10 years, defending the title a record 20 times against the likes of John David Jackson, Glen Johnson, Simon Brown, Antwun Echols, Keith Holmes, Felix Trinidad, William Joppy, Oscar de la Hoya and Howard Eastman. Following the controversial loss of his title to Jermain Taylor in 2005, Hopkins reinvented himself as a light heavyweight at the age of 41, shocking Antonio Tarver with a unanimous decision victory in 2006, but he wasn't done yet as he went on to defeat Winky Wright, Kelly Pavlik and avenge a previous loss to Roy Jones Jr., with the only blemishes on his record being a narrow split decision loss to Joe Calzaghe and a controversial draw with Jean Pascal. Even after all of those accomplishments, the best was yet to come, as the 46-year-old Hopkins decisioned Pascal in their rematch in May of this year, earning him the WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Titles and true boxing immortality.

At just 29 years old, New Haven, Connecticut's "Bad" Chad Dawson (30-1, 17 KO's) has been considered one of the top fighters in the sport for years and despite his impressive 7-1 record in world title fights, he knows that everything is riding on his October 15 showdown with "The Executioner." The son of a former boxer, Dawson was a stellar amateur, posting a 67-13 record that included an under-19 National Championship. He turned professional in 2001 and fluctuated from middleweight to light heavyweight in his early years, winning a WBC Youth title at 160 pounds in 2003 that he defended three times. In 2005, he defeated Ian Gardner for the vacant NABO middleweight title, but in 2006 he decided that light heavyweight would be his home, and he quickly made his mark with a 12 round win over Eric Harding that earned him the NABF light heavyweight crown. In his next fight, on February 3, 2007, Dawson won his first world championship, decisioning 31-0 Tomasz Adamek. Over his next six fights, Dawson established himself as one of boxing's best as he scored two wins each over Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson and while he lost his belt to Jean Pascal via decision in August of 2010, a clear-cut win over Adrian Diaconu in May put him right back in line for another world title and the biggest fight of his life.

Hard-hitting Mexican standout Antonio DeMarco (25-2-1, 18 KO's) has been a favorite among fight fans ever since his exciting win over Nick Casal in 2007 and he continues to impress with his power and tenacious style. The former WBC Interim Lightweight World Champion and 25-year-old Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico native has notched knockout wins over Kid Diamond, Jose Alfaro and Daniel Attah. After suffering his only defeat in the last five years, a 2010 loss to the late Edwin Valero, DeMarco has learned his lesson and is well-prepared to regain his title and re-cement his place among the lightweight elite.

"I've been waiting for the opportunity to get the WBC title back for over a year and I'm very excited that it's finally here," said DeMarco. "Linares is a great fighter and a two-time champion, but that's what I want. I don't want an easy fight to win the title, I want to beat the best to know that I'm the best, and that's what I'm going to prove in October."

Nicknamed "El Nino de Oro" ("The Golden Boy"), Venezuela's Jorge Linares (31-1, 20 KO's) is one of the most accomplished 25-year-old fighters you will ever find, already having compiled two world championships in two weight divisions. In 2007, Linares won the WBC Featherweight World Title with a tenth round technical knockout over Mexican great Oscar "Chololo" Larios, then a little over a year later, he added the WBA Super Featherweight World Title with a fifth round stoppage of Whyber Garcia. After losing his belt in 2009, the exciting sharpshooter began his assault on the lightweight division, defeating top contender Rocky Juarez and former World Champion Jesus "El Matador" Chavez along the way. Now, he has moved his training camp to Hollywood to train with the legendary Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Club and will be more than ready for his shot at a third divisional championship against DeMarco.

"I am looking forward to the opportunity to fight DeMarco for the WBC World Championship," said Linares. "I am preparing for this fight with my new trainer, Freddie Roach and his team. It has been great camp and I will be 100% prepared to win the fight on October 15."

A talented boxer who enters the ring with a compelling mix of speed and power, Kendall "Rated R" Holt (27-4, 15 KO's) is believed by many to just be hitting his prime at the age of 30. A former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, the Paterson, New Jersey native owns wins over David Diaz, Isaac Hlatshwayo and Ricardo Torres, and his highlight reel of knockout victories is one of the best in the sport. Fresh off of knockout wins over Lenin Arroyo and Julio Diaz, Holt is looking forward to his showdown with Garcia as he looks to climb back into the world title picture.

"I've watched Garcia on the way up and he's a talented kid, but I'm a man in this game and I'm ready to show it on October 15," said Holt. "This is Jersey vs. Philly and I know he'll be coming hard, but I'll be coming harder. He may be younger, but I'm hungrier."

Twenty-three year-old Danny "Swift" Garcia (21-0, 14 KO's) eagerly took up the challenge to earn his place among the revered Philadelphia warriors of the past when he turned professional in 2007, and he hasn't disappointed yet. He has sailed to a perfect professional record while putting himself in position to move into title contention. A winner of four of his past five fights by knockout, Garcia has already defeated top competition like Ashley Theophane, Mike Arnaoutis and former World Champion Nate "Galaxxy Warrior" Campbell, and nothing would make him happier than adding Holt to his list of vanquished foes.

"I have been waiting since I was 10-years-old to fight on HBO Pay-Per-View, now I have my shot and I'm excited," said Garcia. "This is my time to shine and I'm not going to let anyone take this opportunity away from me."

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, 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 & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.