NO HOLDS BARRED: Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo on the Fight of the Year: Vazquez-Marquez 3

NO HOLDS BARRED: Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo on the Fight of the Year: Vazquez-Marquez 3

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-03-03T14_20_53-08_00

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman speaks with our colleagues Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo of The Boxing Standard (http://boxingstandard.com/).

Our lengthy discussion focuses mainly on this past Saturday's thrilling rubber match between super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez and former world champion Rafael Marquez, won by Vazquez by split decision. We analyze this fight, what it means for boxing, how the American boxing media once again largely blew this story, and more.

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

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

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

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

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

Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition, we begin by reviewing the third, classic battle between WBC super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez (43-4, 31 KOs) and former world champion Rafael Marquez (37-5, 33 KOs), which took place Saturday, March 1, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. After splitting the first two fights, Vazquez won the rubber match by split decision in an early Fight of the Year front runner. Next, we preview another fight which will also take place at the Home Depot Center. On May 3, Oscar De La Hoya (38-5, 30 KOs), in what he says will be the first of the final three fights in his career, will take on Steve Forbes (33-5, 9 KOs) at a catch-weight of 150 pounds. Both De La Hoya and Forbes were on a national media tour last week, and we caught up with them when they were in New York. It is free to listen to SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/, and listen, learn, and enjoy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks, Eddie Goldman

No Holds Barred blog
http://nhbnews.blogspot.com/

No Holds Barred podcast
http://nhbnews.podomatic.com/

The Boxing Standard
http://boxingstandard.com/

No Holds Barred on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/nhbnews



Enjoy!

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz

CHICAGO, IL,- World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz will host his only media workout on Thursday, March 6th at JABB Boxing Gym (410 N. Oakley, Chicago, IL 60612) beginning at 12 NOON CST.

Diaz is currently training for his battle with Ramon Montano set for Saturday, March 15th at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., which will be broadcast live as part of UNFINISHED BUSINESS, headlined by the highly anticipated rematch of JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ and MANNY PACQUIAO for the WBC and vacant Ring Magazine Super Featherweight World Championship.


Promoted by Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with Romanza Boxing Productions and MP Promotions, UNFINISHED BUSINESS will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay Per View, beginning at 9pm ET, 6pm PT.

Chicago native Diaz brings a record of 33-1-1 (17KO’s) into the bout with Las Vegas resident Montano, 14-3. In his last bout, Diaz defended his title in an epic battle against boxing legend Erik Morales on August 4, 2007 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, before 10,000 Chicago fight fans.

Vinny Paz vs. Micky Ward “Rumble at the River,” March 14 at Twin River Event Center

RI PROVIDENCE– Two popular blasts from the past, Vinny Paz and “Irish” Micky Ward, will be in opposite corners on March 14 as honorary captains of Team Italy and Team Ireland, respectively, for the Italian-Irish themed “Rumble at the River” pro boxing show at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. “Rumble at the River,” part of “The Budweiser Night at the Fights” series at Twin River, is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in association with Twin River, Budweiser and Tournament of Contenders.

World super middleweight challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr. (28-5, 13 KOs), star of The Contender I television reality series, headlines “Rumble at the River” against Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield (17-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event. Paz is a former 5-time world champion who won 50 pro fights, while Ward participated in three “Fights of the Year,” highlighted by his famed trilogy fighting Arturo Gatti. “Vinny Paz and Micky Ward are two of boxing’s all-time great warriors,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield said of the two charter members of CES’ Ring of Honor. “They have both kept their fires burning in boxing, Vinny as a television analyst and Micky as a trainer.

Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt Jimmy Burchfield and Peter Manfredo, Jr.
(photo courtesy of Emily Harney)


Many young fighters, especially in New England, are involved in the sport because they watched these two fighters in action. We’re thrilled that they are involved in ‘Rumble at the River’ as team captains. I’m very happy to call Vinny and Micky my personal friends. They know what boxing has done for them and they give a lot back to the boxing community. They’ll be available to pose for pictures and sign autographs. Our unbeaten heavyweight contender, “Baby” Joe Mesi, will also be there for fans to meet.”

Mesi ESPN Friday Night Fights In-Studio Guest Undefeated heavyweight contender “Baby” Joe Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs), who is slated to headline the April 4 ESPN2Friday Night Fights show at Twin River, will make his third appearance as ESPN2 FNF “In Studio” guest on this Friday (Feb. 29) night. Mesi will review the Joe Louis documentary, Klitschko-Ibragimov heavyweight unification fight, Pavlik-Taylor II and preview Vasquez-Marquez III.

IWBF lightweight champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt (18-4-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Cranston (RI) puts her belt on the line against veteran contender Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (23-20-3, 9 KOs), the GBU junior welterweight title-holder from New York City, in the 10-round co-feature. Clampitt is a 3-time world champion, while 20 of Larcuente’s last 21 bouts, dating back nearly five years, have been against world champions.

Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (L) and Mellissa, trainer

Stoughton (MA) cruiserweight Chris McInerney (9-1-1, 6 KOs) meets former New England title-holder Tim “The Hammer” Flamos (19-4-1, 7 KOs), of Brockton, in a six-round rematch of a bout McInerney won by sixth round TKO last December. Undefeated Russian middleweight Andre Nevsky (3-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), faces Eric Pinarreta (2-1, 2 KOs), of New Bedford (MA), in a four-round match. USBA No. 4 super middleweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina (20-1-1, 15 KOs), of Providence; light heavyweight “Irish” Joey McCreedy (6-1, 4 KOs), of Lowell (MA); unbeaten Lynn (MA) flyweight Isander Beauchamp (3-0) and Providence junior welterweight Diego Pereira making his pro debut are also on the undercard against opponents to be determined. All fights and fighters are subject to change. Manfredo, Spina, Flamos and Pinarreta are on Paz’ Team Italy; Benfield, Clampitt, McInerney and McCreedy are captained by Ward on Team Ireland. Tickets for “Rumble at the River” are priced at $35.00 (ADA stage seating only), $40.00, $50.00, (Bronze), $75.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and may be purchased by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at http://www.cesboxing.com/ or http://www.twinriver.com/, at the Twin River Event Center (100 Twin River Road, Lincoln, RI), or any TicketMaster location. Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Events Center (877.82.RIVER/ http://www.twinriver.com/) for more information. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET. (Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Rumble at the River.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

Bob Arum’s Top Rank and Chicago’s 8 Count Prods presents; MARCH BADNESS, March 14th headlined by Javier Jauregui and Miguel Angel Huerta

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel Angel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Tickets for MARCH BADNESS are available in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions offices at 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie, just minutes from the Eisenhower and Stevenson Expressways. Doors for this event will open at 5:30pm with the first bell at 6:30pm.

Guadalajara, Mexico’s Jauregui, 52-14-2 (36KO’s) is coming off an eight round knockout of undefeated prospect Adrian Mora this past September 18th in Friant, California. Jauregui’s illustrious 20 year professional career includes wins over Leavander Johnson (TKO-11) for the IBF title in 2003, Jose Luis Castillo (TKO-10 twice) and Alex Trujillo (UD-12).

Huerta, of Mexico City, 26-8-1 (18KO’s), will be making his third Chicago appearance in the last two years, most recently knocking out former world title challenger Daniel Alicea in the third round on December 14, 2007 at Cicero Stadium. He is currently ranked #5 in the world by the World Boxing Council.

The co-main event of MARCH BADNESS features the return to Chicago of Oxnard, California’s undefeated lightweight prospect Brandon “BAM BAM” Rios, 15-0 (10KO’s) squaring off against Kansas City veteran Alvin Brown, who brings a record of 26-10 (12KO’s) into battle.

Rios’ last bout in Chicago was an outstanding eight round decision over Humberto Tapia on December 22, 2006 at Cicero Stadium. He is trained by the highly regarded father and son team of Eduardo and Robert Garcia.

The outstanding undercard at MARCH BADNESS features Chicago based fan favorites including undefeated middleweight prospect Victor ‘THE UKRAINIAN TIGER” Polyakov, 7-0 (6KO’s), sensational Puerto Rican lightweight newcomer Gadiel Andaluz, 1-0 (1KO), lightweight veteran Leo Martinez, 12-9 (5KO’s) and 19 year old super bantamweight prospect Eric “EL LOCO” Estrada, 3-0 (1KO) in separate bouts. More information on these bouts will be announced shortly.
Polyakov and Andaluz’s most recent knockouts are featured on Youtube.com

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit http://www.8countproductions.com/ and http://www.jabbboxinggym.com/

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit
http://www.toprank.com/

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions

McCloskey determined not to bow to Cesar March 29th

Derry’s own John Duddy may be just one fight away from his dream of a world title bout against middleweight Kingpin Kelly Pavlik but he’s not the only Derryman eyeing World honours this year. Duddy’s former amateur team mate Paul McCloskey is creating a real stir of his own following an impressive 12 months that has seen him emerge from Duddy’s shadow to become a star in his own right.

Paul McCloskey
.

McCloskey will look to cement his growing reputation and advance his own title aspirations when he tackles former World Champion, Cesar Bazan of Mexico on the next Hunky Dorys Fight Night, which takes place at the Letterkenny Leisure Complex on Saturday, March 29th. It will be McCloskey’s toughest test to date against the hard punching former champion who has swapped leather with the likes of Miguel Cotto, Jose Luis Castillo and Stevie Johnson

Promoter Brian Peters is already eyeing up a world title challenge for McCloskey so it’s vital that the unbeaten southpaw does not slip up against the power punching Mexican warrior.

Peters said, “I’ve already had preliminary talks with Paulie Malignaggi’s promoter Lou DiBella about Paul challenging him for the world title. Malignaggi is the IBF champ while Paul is now the IBF International champion so he’s certainly going in the right direction for that fight. If Paul can keep impressing in the ring I’m sure it’s a fight we’ll be able to make at some point.

“Malignaggi is based out of New York with Italian heritage and obviously John Duddy has really built up a huge Irish following out there so I think a fight between Paul and Malignaggi would be a natural fight for New York.”

Trainer John Breen believes his charge is ready to take on Europe and the World. “I’ve been saying for years that Paul is our next world champion but nobody believed me. But when Barney Eastwood said the same thing recently that made people sit up and take notice. Trust me Paul is the real deal. Don’t get me wrong both John Duddy and Andy Lee are very good fighters but I believe Paul is a little bit special and he’ll prove that by wining a world title.”

First up though could be an assault on Europe Breen and McCloskey were ringside in London last month to watch European champ Colin Lynes defend his European title against Juho Tolppola and McCloskey didn’t see anything to worry him.

“I thought he boxed well on the night and he impressed me to a degree,” said McCloskey “but I thought he should have stopped Tolppola if I’m honest. I fell I’m ready for a European title fight right now, all I need is the opportunity. Don’t get me wrong, I respect Lynes in the same way that I respect any guy that I get in the ring with. The day you lose respect for your opponent is the day you lose yourself but I’m very confident that I can beat him and hopefully that’s a fight I can get at some point this year.”

McCloskey’s last win in Limerick earlier this month extended his perfect professional record to 15 and 0 following another clinical display against Mexican danger man Manuel Garnica. McCloskey dominated the 10 rounder from start to finish and hardly took a punch in anger all night despite facing a man who had wins over former world champs Carlos Maussa and Gabriel Ruelas.

Despite the plaudits he received after the fight McCloskey wasn’t completely happy with his own performance. “To be honest I felt a little sluggish in there and combined with the fact that I hurt my left hand early in the fight it meant I wasn’t entirely happy. Obviously it was good to get such a clear-cut win over a dangerous opponent like that but I suppose you’re always your own worst critic.

“I probably put on a little too much weight between the weigh in and the fight but you learn from all these little things. My hand isn’t 100% yet but it’s almost there and I’ve been doing a lot of conditioning work. I feel in great shape and I should be ready to start using the hand again next week.”

McCloskey admits he will need to be in the shape of his life for Bazan who has twice as many KO’s as McCloskey has had fights! “All the talk of titles is great but you can only take it one fight at a time and this guy is as tough as they come. He’s given the likes of Cotto, Castillo and Johnson all they can handle and he’s been in 5 world title fights so you have to give him all the respect in the world.
“You can’t afford to take your eye off the ball for a second with guys of this calibre because they’ll punish you. All it takes is one punch in this game for your career to be turned upside down but these are the kind of nights any fighter wants to be involved in.

“I have to hand it to Brian for giving me this opportunity. It will be great to headline my own show and so close to home as well. The way my career has stepped up a gear in the last 12 months has been amazing and I delighted to have the chance now to push on. To be honest I felt I was ready for this level of opposition a year ago but the pieces are falling into place now and hopefully this is just the start of anther big year for me.”

Promoter Brian Peters is delighted to be bringing big time pro boxing to Donegal. "It's a county with a great boxing heritage and I'm delighted to be showcasing Paul so close to his home town. The Letterkenny Leisure Complex is a fantastic new facility, it's state of the art and it should prove to be an excellent venue."

The undercard for Letterkenny features former World title challenger and British champion, Neil Sinclair, rising welterweight Stephen Haughian and Cuban heavyweight sensation Mike “The Rebel” Perez.

Tyrone professional Damian Taggart also features alongside top amateur Luke Wilton from Belfast who will be making his pro debut. Tickets for the Hunky Dorys Fight Night priced from 60 go on sale 9am (Friday, February 22nd) from Ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets.

Cory Spinks/Verno Phillips and Devon Alexander/Miguel Callist

ST. LOUIS— Spinks will defend his International Boxing Federation junior middleweight championship against former three-time world champion Verno Phillips while Alexander, the World Boxing Council Continental Americas champion, will take on World Boxing Association FEDELATIN champion Miguel Callist.

All boxers were on hand today to discuss the event. Civility ruled the day until Spinks, who had just praised his opponent, asked for “a moment of silence for Verno Phillips’s career because I’m going to put it to rest in St. Louis on March 27.”



An incensed Phillips grabbed a microphone and challenged Spinks. “Nobody’s taken my heart away in my career and Cory Spinks isn’t going to do that. You don’t punch. Don’t run and hide. Come to fight.”

The 21-year-old emerging 140-pounder Alexander spoke confidently. “I’m on the rise. I’m a man on a mission to become undisputed champion of the world.”



Miguel Callist is happy to have an opportunity to display his skills. “I know this is going to be a tough fight but I’m one of the best kept secrets in boxing. I’m glad that Devon Alexander has accepted this challenge. So many people don’t want to fight and I’m glad Devon does.”

Cory Spinks: “I know Verno is a veteran that knows his way around the ring. But I want a moment of silence for Verno Phillips’s career because I’m going to put it to rest in St. Louis on March 27.”

Verno Phillips: “I’m glad to have the opportunity to fight for the IBF 154-pound championship. I will be a red lion on March 27 and very raw.”


Directly to Cory Spinks: “Nobody’s taken my heart away in my career and Cory Spinks isn’t going to do that. You don’t punch. Don’t run and hide. Come to fight.”

Devon Alexander: “I’m on the rise. I’m a man on a mission to become undisputed champion of the world. I train every day for that. I want to unify at 140 pounds before moving up to 147.

“Thanks to my trainer Kevin Cunnigham, the best trainer in the world, Don King and everyone at Scottrade Center.”

Miguel Callist: “I know this is going to be a tough fight but I’m one of the best kept secrets in boxing. I’m glad that Devon Alexander has accepted this challenge. So many people don’t want to fight and I’m glad Devon does.

“I grew up watching Roberto Duran in Panama and now I’m here in St. Louis to make my mark on March 27. I will do my best and I will win.”

Kevin Cunningham (trainer and manager of both Cory Spinks and Devon Alexander): “We’ve got Cory Spinks. He’s the present. We’ve got Devon Alexander. He’s the future. Both are in tough fights.



“Miguel Callist is no joke. He’s a continental champion. Devon’s going to have to be ready. Somebody is going to leave that fight with two championship belts.

“Verno Phillips is a very respected three-time world champion. He’s for real. Cory’s going to have his work cut out for him.

“It’s going to be a great night of boxing on March 27 with two guys from St. Louis risking their titles.”

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Matthew Macklin set to do battle with former World Champion Yori Boy Campas in Dublin

Put the house on it – the next Ladbrokes.com Fight Night looks set to be a sure fire candidate for the 2008 “Fight of the Year” with Irish middleweight champ Matthew Macklin set to do battle with former World Champion Yori Boy Campas at the National Stadium, Dublin on March 22nd.

In 2006 both men were involved in two of the best, if not the best fights of that year – and on the same night. The 29th of September, 2006 is a date neither Macklin or Campas (or indeed any boxing fan) will forget in a hurry.

In Manchester Macklin lost a brave bid for the British light middleweight title against Jamie Moore after 10 torrid rounds of phone booth warfare while just a few hours later on the other side of the Atlantic Campas gave John Duddy the fright of his life losing on a close decision after 12 back and forth rounds of action.

For Macklin this fight represents a major step up in class having moved up a weight in 2007 and successfully recovered from the Moore loss with 3 straight stoppage victories. Campas has shared the ring with some of the modern greats including Oscar De La Hoya and Felix “Tito” Trinidad.

Incredibly his fight with Macklin will be his 103rd outing as a professional with the Mexican warrior having turned pro at the age of 15. In his 20 year pro career he’s compiled an amazing record of 91 wins (73 of them by KO) and just 11 defeats and picked up the World light middleweight title along the way.

Now 36 Campas is determined to prove that he still belongs at the highest level but Macklin who will have new trainer and former two weight world champ Buddy McGirt in his corner in Dublin believes that an impressive win will bring his title ambitions into sharper focus.

“It’s a real step up in class for me and just what I need,” said the Birmingham based Irishman. “Campas is a very seasoned pro, you only need to look at the names on his record to see that.”

It will be the Arizona based Mexican’s second successive trip to Europe and having been beaten by former European champion and world rated Amin Asikainen in Helsinki he’ll be hoping for better luck in Dublin. Macklin has already studied that bout and believes that the seventh round defeat for Campas was not a true reflection of the fight.

“I thought the stoppage was very premature. Campas was still on his feet and firing back and he looked disgusted that it had been stopped. Up until then the last guy to legitimately stop him was Oscar De La Hoya and there was certainly no disgrace in that.

“I won’t really be looking to stop him because when you look for the stoppage it never comes. You have to be patient and anyway I want to get back to boxing a bit more as that side of things was neglected a bit when I was with Billy Graham. People forget that I was a very good amateur boxer and I need to get back to using those boxing skills.

“To be honest it will be difficult to do that with this fight because with the style Campas fights there’s nearly always fireworks and if it does become that kind of fight I won’t be found wanting.”

Macklin flies out to McGirt’s gym in Vero Beach, Florida this weekend to begin a month long training camp in the Sunshine State. “Part of the reasoning behind linking up with Buddy was to get me boxing more again,” explained Macklin.

“Obviously Buddy was a tremendous fighter himself and I’ve been really impressed with him as a trainer. You only have to look at how he turned Arturo Gatti from a brawler to a boxer to see the kind of influence he can have on a fighter so I’ll be hoping for a similar transformation.”

McGirt says he’s excited about working with Macklin. “I’m really looking forward to working with Matthew. I’m currently working with Paul Smith who I took on after working with him on the Contender T.V. series. He trained and sparred with Matthew when they were both in Billy Graham’s gym and Paul highly recommended Matthew to me so I’m excited about it.

“I know all about Campas, he’s a tough, tough veteran who’s been in with everybody and he is still a dangerous guy so it’s a good challenge for Matthew.”

Campas says he won’t be drawn into any trash talking or bold predictions ahead of the fight but promised, “I can only tell the people that they will see a real fight, I can guarantee that.”

His manager Joe Diaz added, “Yori is an incredible guy. He turned pro when he was just 15 and 20 years later he’s still competing at the highest level. He’s ageless and if people think he’s slipping because he got stopped by Asikainen they’re very much mistaken. The fight’s available to watch on YouTube for all to see and anyone can see that It should never have been stopped.

“Yori Boy wasn’t hurt, what happened was that the sponsors logo on the ring came loose and Yori’s feet got caught up in it. He got tagged with a few shots as he was trying to untangle himself and then the referee jumped in and stopped it. It was a crazy decision.

“I don’t make any excuses but in this case people can make their own minds up. After the fight Yori Boy didn’t even have a bruise but the other guy had 28 stitches over his eye and a broken hand. Anyway that’s behind us now. You have to move on and we plan on doing that in Dublin.”

The undercard for the Ladbrokes.com Fight Night is headed by an eagerly anticipated Irish Light Welterweight title rematch between Cavan’s Andrew Murray and Belfast’s James Gorman. The two first met last December at the Kings Hall in Belfast with Murray winning on a technical decision after an accidental clash of heads in the fourth round left Murray unable to continue.

Under Boxing Union of Ireland rules the fight went to the referee’s scorecard and Murray kept his unbeaten record intact courtesy of the early lead he had taken. However even the new champion admitted that the outcome was unsatisfactory and both men are keen to do it all over again and settle affairs more conclusively.

The card will also feature Cuban heavyweight sensation Mike “The Rebel” Perez. Despite only having arrived in his adopted hometown of Cork in mid January the 22-year-old former world Amateur Champion has already racked up two quick fire wins in the pro ranks.

Perez’s manager Gary Hyde believes that with his amateur pedigree the power punching Cuban will bring the world heavyweight title back to Cork.

Another unbeaten heavyweight on the card is unbeaten Belfast banger Martin Rogan. The former Irish Amateur Champion is closing in on a shot at the Irish Professional heavyweight title and will have his first scheduled 8 round contest on next months card.

Irish professional’s Aidan Mooney and Leon Senior will also be in action.

Tickets for the Ladrokes.com Fight Night priced from €60 go on sale from 9am tomorrow morning (Friday, February 15th) from Ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets.

Bobby Gunn to Headline at the Fort McDowell Casino March 22nd!

Former IBA cruiserweight champion Bobby Gunn 18-3 (15 KO’s) will be returning to the ring on March 22nd to headline a card at the Fort McDowell Casino in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Gunn, who turned pro in 1989, is happy to return to the state where he had many of his early career bouts.

“I am thrilled to be fighting again in Arizona. This wouldn’t be possible without my attorney George Kokkalenios and friend Kyle White who helped with the negotiations to make this fight happen. I also appreciate Dave Feldman, and Lenny Hayko of Felko Promotions for giving me the opportunity to headline their card”, said the heavy handed Gunn.

The former WBO world title challenger is also relieved to be making his return to the ring after a seven month layoff. “I am excited about my return, as well as fighting in front of many of my friends and family from Arizona. To prepare for this fight, I have been working with my old trainer Chuck McGregor. Chuck is one of the best trainers I’ve ever had. My goal for this year is to establish myself in the light heavyweight division, because I will be much stronger then I was as a cruiserweight”, said Gunn who will fight at 180 lbs on the 22nd. For tickets, call 610-291-0806

Bas Rutten, 'Never Back Down'

Below is a link to a series of "E-card" vignettes featuring Bas Rutten and the stars of the feature film 'Never Back Down,' releasing in theaters on March 14. http://www.neverbackdownthemovie.com/ecard/ And some stills from the filming of the vignettes here: http://flickr.com/photos/11137752@N03/sets/72157603871317944/ There is also a photo gallery of Sean Faris, who was in attendance at the EliteXC event in Florida this past weekend, with Bas Rutten, Kimbo Slice and others. http://www.flickr.com/photos/11137752@N03/sets/72157603932675362/ ---"It is easier to do a job right than to explain why you didn't." - Martin Van Buren

GADIEL ANDALUZ SCHEDULED TO RETURN ON MARCH 14TH IN CHICAGO‏

Puerto Rican newcomer Gadiel Andaluz will return to the Cicero Stadium squared circle on Friday, March 14th at MARCH BADNESS, another evening of world class professional boxing presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING.

Andaluz thrilled the packed Cicero Stadium crowd making his pro debut on January 25th with a devastating third round knockout of Marsay Buggs, a video of which can be viewed on Youtube.com

The hard punching Andaluz is scheduled to battle fellow Chicagoan Nick Arellano, 1-2 in a four round lightweight bout. Arellano is coming off a four round decision victory over Greg Dziubek on February 1st in Chicago.

Said Pesoli, “Gadiel looked terrific in his pro debut and our fans really

enjoyed seeing his performance. He’s been working diligently at JABB since he arrived back in Chicago six months ago and we’re very happy to have him back on MARCH BADNESS.”

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

Tickets for MARCH BADNESS are available in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions offices at 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie, just minutes from the Eisenhower and Stevenson Expressways. Doors for this event will open at 5:30pm with the first bell at 6:30pm.

The full MARCH BADNESS card is as follows;

Javier Jauregui vs. Miguel Huerta, twelve rounds, lightweights

Brandon Rios vs. Alvin Brown, eight rounds, lightweights

Victor Polyakov vs. Derrick Findley, eight rounds, middleweights

Leo Martinez vs. Jose Navarette, six rounds, lightweights

Gadiel Andaluz vs. Nick Arellano, four rounds, lightweights

Eric Estrada vs. TBA, super bantamweights

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit www.8countproductions.com and www.jabbboxinggym.com

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit

www.toprank.com


CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998


Bernie Bahrmasel

Publicist/8 Count Productions
www.8countproductions.com

Manfredo-Benfield Headline “Rumble at the River”March 14 at Twin River Event Center

PROVIDENCE, RI – World super middleweight challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr. returns to the ring March 14, headlining “Rumble at the River,” against Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield, in an Italian-Irish themed pro boxing show at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. “Rumble at the River,” part of “The Budweiser Night at the Fights” series at Twin River, is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in association with Twin River, Budweiser and Tournament of Contenders.

Photo of Jaime Clampitt, promoter Jimmy Burchfield and Peter Manfredo, Jr.
(By Emily Harney)



Manfredo (28-5, 13 KOs), star of The Contender I television reality series, fights Benfield (17-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event. Coming off of a 10-round loss by decision to former world champion Jeff Lacy on the Mayweather-Hatton pay-per-view card, Peter hopes to rebound against Benfield, who dropped a 12-round decision in his last action to DeAndrey Abron for the NABO belt that Manfredo once held. IWBF lightweight champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt (18-4-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Cranston (RI) defends her crown against battle-tested Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (23-20-3, 9 KOs), the GBU junior welterweight title-holder from New York City, in the 10-round co-feature. Clampitt is a 3-time world champion, while 20 of Larcuente’s last 21 bouts, dating back nearly five years, have been against world champions. “St. Joseph’s (March 19) is a very important Italian holiday as St. Patrick’s Day (Mar. 17) is for the Irish,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield said. “We decided to promote an Italian-Irish themed show on the preceding weekend of the two holidays. We’re happy and excited about this concept and plan to make it an annual event at Twin River. Even though we have a lot of Italian and Irish fighters on this card, some matched against each other, we’ll also have a few other ethnic groups represented and it’ll all add up to a great night of boxing.” In the chief supporting bout on the undercard, Stoughton (MA) cruiserweight Chris McInerney (9-1-1, 6 KOs) faces former New England title-holder Tim “The Hammer” Flamos (19-4-1, 7 KOs), of Brockton, in a six-round bout of a rematch McInerney won by sixth round TKO last December. Unbeaten Russian middleweight Andre Nevsky (3-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), meets his toughest test to date in a four-round bout versus Eric Pinarreta (2-1, 2 KOs), of New Bedford (MA). USBA No. 4 super middleweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina (20-1-1, 15 KOs), of Providence; light heavyweight “Irish” Joey McCreedy (6-1, 4 KOs), of Lowell (MA); unbeaten Lynn (MA) flyweight Isander Beauchamp (3-0) and Providence junior welterweight Diego Pereira making his pro debut are also on the card against opponents to be determined. All fights and fighters are subject to change. Manfredo, Spina, Flamos and Pinarreta are on Team Italy; Benfield, Clampitt, McInerney and McCreedy comprise Team Ireland. Tickets for “Rumble at the River” are priced at $35.00 (ADA stage seating only), $40.00, $50.00, (Bronze), $75.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and may be purchased by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at http://www.cesboxing.com/ or http://www.twinriver.com/, at the Twin River Event Center (100 Twin River Road, Lincoln, RI), or any TicketMaster location. Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Events Center (877.82.RIVER/ http://www.twinriver.com/) for more information. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET. (Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Rumble at the River.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)


PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Peter Manfredo Jr.: “I would like to apologize to all my fans for my performance against Jeff Lacy. I’m very focused for this fight. I had a bad 2007 but everything happens for a reason. I have the desire to fight again. I’m doing this for me, my family, my friends and my hometown. Shane better bring his A game. I would also like to wish Matt Godfrey best of luck in Germany. (Godfrey fights Rudy Kraj in a WBC cruiserweight title elimination bout on March 8.) I feel it’s his time.” Shane Benfield: (by phone) “I’m ‘The Hitman’ and Peter should know that. I will make sure everyone in Providence knows they call me ‘The Hitman.’ Vinny Paz is a good friend of mine and I will make him proud. I’m excited to fight and I’m coming to fight. Peter is a big star from The Contender and I can’t wait to beat him.” Jaime Clampitt: “I’m so excited to finally fight here at Twin River. I was supposed to fight here a few times but the fights fell through. I’m finally getting my chance and I will make the best of it. Jimmy Burchfield is like a father to me and he has stuck behind me through everything and I want to thank him for that. My opponent (Belinda) is very tough and very slick, but I look forward to breaking her down and getting a huge win on my record.” Joey Spina: “I try to knock everyone out and the 14th will be no different. I’ve been sparring a lot and looking good. I can’t wait to get back in the ring.” Chris McInerney: “It was a good fight last time. He wants a rematch, so I will give it to him. I’m happy and excited to be fighting for CES and this is a great card to be on. I hope to see everyone at the fights.” Joey McCreedy: “This is a great card with Peter and Jaime on top. I’m honored to be on it. I’m coming off a great win where I showed heart and determination. I will do the same thing on this card. I’ve been training hard and it will show.” Andre Nevsky: “I’m very excited. I’m going to have a big knockout.” Eric Pinarreta: “I want to thank Team Nevsky for taking the fight. He’s a good fighter but I’m going to beat him. I will see everyone at The River.” Isander Beauchamp: “I’m very happy to be fighting for CES and I can’t wait to knock someone out. Please come to see me on the 14th. You won’t be disappointed.” Diego Pereira: “This is my pro debut and it’s going to be huge. I’m for real and I’m here to stay.”

CONTACT:Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

Undefeated middleweight prospect Victor “THE UKRAINIAN TIGER” Polyakov will face Derrick “SUPERMAN” Findley at Cicero Stadium on Friday, March 14th

Undefeated middleweight prospect Victor “THE UKRAINIAN TIGER” Polyakov will face Derrick “SUPERMAN” Findley at Cicero Stadium on Friday, March 14th as part of MARCH BADNESS, an outstanding evening of world class professional boxing presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING.

Tickets for MARCH BADNESS are available in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions offices at 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie, just minutes from the Eisenhower and Stevenson Expressways. Doors for this event will open at 5:30pm with the first bell at 6:30pm.

A member of the 2004 Ukrainian Olympic team, the 26 year old Polyakov,
7-0 with six knockouts, has thrilled Chicago crowds with his stunning power since turning professional in November 2006.

Said Pesoli, starting his second decade of promoting with the MARCH BADNESS event, “This is a very good test for Victor, it’s his first eight rounder and in Findley he’s facing a real tough kid with a lot more pro experience. We’re expecting Victor to have a huge 2008 and this fight is hopefully the first step in that direction.”

Said the Chicago based Polyakov, “I’ve got the Kryptonite ready for Superman. He’s a very solid fighter and I’ve been working hard in preparation for my fight with him. The Chicago fight fans have been terrific to me and I’m looking forward to putting on a great performance.”

In his last bout, which can be viewed on Youtube.com, Polyakov scored a devastating first round knockout of Brad Hill on December 14, 2007.

A resident of Gary, Indiana, the 23 year old Findley, 10-2 (6KO’s), has won four in a row since battling 2004 US Olympian Gold Medal winner Andre Ward in November 2006, dropping a six round decision.

This is Findley’s second appearance at Cicero Stadium, his first being a six round war with Jorge Gonzalez on February 17, 2006 which was broadcast on SOLO BOXEO. He is promoted by Octavius James’ Merrillville, Indiana based One In A Million Incorporated. .

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

The full MARCH BADNESS card is as follows;

Javier Jauregui vs. Miguel Huerta, twelve rounds, lightweights
Brandon Rios vs. Alvin Brown, eight rounds, lightweights
Victor Polyakov vs. Derrick Findley, eight rounds, middleweights
Leo Martinez vs. Jose Navarette, six rounds, lightweights
Gadiel Andaluz vs. Nick Arellano, four rounds, lightweights
Eric Estrada vs. TBA, four rounds, super bantamweights
Javier Estrada vs. TBA, four rounds lightweights

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

The open to the public weigh-in for MARCH BADNESS will take place on Thursday, March 13th at 7pm at EL Jimador Restaurant, 1600 N. Mannheim Rd in Stone Park, just north of Lake St.

8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit www.8countproductions.com and www.jabbboxinggym.com

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit
www.toprank.com

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
www.8countproductions.com boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

WBC INSTALLS GIOVANNI LORENZO AS #1 CONTENDER; Undefeated challenger presses for June battle against WBC champ Kelly Pavlik

TOTOWA, NJ– The WBC has released its February ratings and undefeated middleweight contender Giovanni Lorenzo has been installed as the #1 mandatory challenger to WBC champion Kelly Pavlik, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. Although honored by the ranking Lorenzo makes it clear that he wants to fight Pavlik “today” and not wait for the mandatory term to expire.

“Everyone knows that a fight between me and Kelly will be an all action, knockdown fight,” said Lorenzo. “Someone's 0 will have to go and most definitely it will be by brutal knockout. I was the first one to congratulate Kelly back stage after he won the title in Sept, and I will be the first one to take it from him on June 7th . . . if he can get his promoter to agree to the fight.”
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).


For more info: MAIN EVENTS, Donald Tremblay

DAVID DIAZ OPEN WORKOUT; THURSDAY, MARCH 6TH—12NOON @JABB BOXING GYM

CHICAGO, IL, World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz will host his only open workout on Thursday, March 6th at JABB Boxing Gym (410 N. Oakley, Chicago, IL 60612) beginning at 12 NOON CST.



Diaz is currently training for his battle with Ramon Montano set for Saturday, March 15th at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., which will be broadcast live as part of UNFINISHED BUSINESS, headlined by the highly anticipated rematch of JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ and MANNY PACQUIAO for the WBC and vacant Ring Magazine Super Featherweight World Championship.

Said Diaz, “The Chicago fight fans and media have always been very supportive and I’m glad to open up my workout to them on Thursday. We had a big crowd at our last one before the Morales fight and it was great to see everyone.”

Chicago native Diaz brings a record of 33-1-1 (17KO’s) into the bout with Las Vegas resident Montano, 14-3. In his last bout, Diaz defended his title in an epic battle against boxing legend Erik Morales on August 4, 2007 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, before 10,000 Chicago fight fans.

The fistic debate about which fighter is the best finally will be settled when World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ defends his title against three-division world champion MANNY PACQUIAO in a 12-round battle for pound-for-pound supremacy.

Promoted by Top Rank Inc. and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with Romanza Boxing Productions and MP Promotions, Marquez-Pacquiao II will take place Saturday, March 15 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
Tickets for Marquez-Pacquiao II,priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are on sale at the Mandalay Bay box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Macy's West at the Fashion Show Mall, and Ritmo Latino). Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000 or Mandalay Bay (702) 632-7580. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Eileen Olszewski; The new WIBA Women's Flyweight World Champion, The Story: By David Pambianchi

Everyone has a right to test their courage and skills, to face an opponent, a challenge, whether in space flight, a game of chess or a sports competition. The need for accomplishment and gratification, a few extra pounds lifted at the gym, a few seconds cut on race time, we all have our little victories that make us feel good about ourselves, and sometimes, we dream big, of that special moment, and hope to make it as grand as possible..

Other times, we simply recognize accomplishments, hard work and dedication in others. As women’s boxing expands its place in the arena, we all get to share the experience and excitement. That “giving it everything you got,” you hear a lot in boxing, and no sex, race, sport or other activity in life has a monopoly on Heart.

The match up: Two personal fitness trainers, albeit two highly proficient professional boxers, Eileen Olszewski and Stefania Bianchini destined to fight for a boxing title.

Setting out two oceans away, Eileen’s journey carries her from Hawaii to New York to Italy, pineapples to hot dogs to espresso.

On the surface, she brings merely 4 undefeated professional bouts.

Yet, consider this:

3 time National Golden Gloves Champion

3 times Daily News, New York Golden Gloves Champion, placing her in the company of boxers like Sugar Ray Robinson, Riddick Bowe and Emile Griffith.

Eileen and Iran Barkley


40 amateur fights with 10 knock outs (including an upset against a 49-0 opponent)

Never knocked down

Eileen fought her recent August match in the Bronx with a severe cold, but kept it from her manager, David Selwyn, for fear of worrying him and canceling that match.

“She fought her heart out that night against a very determined fighter,” he comments.

After just 6 months, David Selwyn’s initiative and perseverance landed Eileen a title bout on Sept. 14, 2007, in Rovigo, Veneto, Italy, bringing to mind Venice, gondolas and Piazza San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square).

But business first, Eileen prepares, “Fighting for the WBC Title is a dream come true. They are the most recognized and respected professional sanctioning boxing organization. Stephania is a true champion, strong body and heart, and I look forward to our fight. I want to make an impression on the European fight fans that appreciate women’s boxing.”

Female Fighters Jill Emery (L) and Eileen (R)

Stephania’s straight shot for a title with no amateur background, and her ability to deliver a tough performance against champion, Regina Halmich, demonstrates fortitude and bravery. Now, 16 fights later, 14-2, her experience and honed skills distinguish her as a formidable Title defender. Stephania studied Eileen’s “You-tube” Beacon Theatre fight in May, and noted that Eileen was a skilled boxer, which is beautiful to see and compete against.

Sweet Hawaiian pineapple or Italian gelato, the menu includes two talented boxers that promises up to 10 intense grueling rounds of action, fighting to attain that special moment, and live the dream. Both compete with pride, one, to emerge victorious.

Eileen Olszewski wins the WIBA Women's Flyweight World Champion February 28, 2008 defeating Elena "Baby Doll" Reid in a 10 round decision.

Maskaev vs Peter and Diaz vs Campbell History in Cancun world championship twinbill on March 8 featuring televised live in America on HBOPeter

CANCUN, Mexico—The first world heavyweight championship ever staged in Mexico will take place in Cancun’s Plaza de Torros on Saturday, March 8 when World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev makes the second defense of his title against WBC interim heavyweight champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter to determine the sole WBC heavyweight champion.

The two had been scheduled to meet in New York’s Madison Square Garden on Oct. 6, but a back injury forced Maskaev to pull out of the fight on Sept. 21.

The WBC Board of Governors convened on Sept. 24 and voted Peter its interim heavyweight champion. Peter chose to make a title defense on Oct. 6, winning a unanimous decision over Jameel “Big Time” McCline.

A tremendous co-featured main event will showcase a second world championship when undefeated World Boxing Association, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organization lightweight champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz (33-0, 17 KOs), from Houston, Tex., takes on IBF No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell (31-5-1, 25 KOs), from Jacksonville, Fla.

Tickets priced at $1,000, 500, $300, $150, $100, $70, $50 and $10 are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets including http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or by calling Ticketmaster in Mexico at +5255 5325 9000.

Both fights will be televised live in America on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT. “History in Cancun” is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Duva Boxing and Pepe Gomez Promotions.

Two domestically non-televised matches have been added to the card including former two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (42-7-1, 29 KOs), from Chelsea, Mass., squaring off against New York native Jameel “Big Time” McCline (38-8-3, 23 KOs), and former two-time WBC lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo (56-8-1, 48 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico will meet undefeated Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley (21-0, 11 KOs), from Palm Springs, Calif.

Maskaev (34-5, 26 KOs), from Kazakhstan and a U.S. citizen since 2004 with homes in Staten Island, N.Y., and West Sacramento, Calif., is riding a 12-fight winning streak that includes a 12th-round technical knockout over Hasim “The Rock” Rahman to win the WBC heavyweight crown in Las Vegas on Aug. 12, 2006.

The Russian-American won many fans that night with a dramatic and gritty final-round stoppage in a fight that was up for grabs. It has been said it takes heart to win the big ones, and Maskaev proved he had the heart of a champion. He landed a devastating left hook that sent Rahman down midway through the final stanza and shortly thereafter finished him off with an unanswered barrage that caused the referee to step in and halt the action during the last minute of the contest.

Perseverance has been a model for Maskaev in his career. A Russian amateur star who stopped Vitali Klitschko in the first round, Maskaev turned pro in 1993 but was matched too soon with the likes of Oliver “The Atomic Bull” McCall and David Tua.

He ran his record to a respectable 20-2 before stumbling against Kirk Johnson in 2000, Lance “Mount” Whitaker in 2001 and Corey Sanders in 2002. Many thought it was time for Maskaev to throw in the towel, but he took a year off and came back with a new team and vision, and he hasn’t lost a match in over five years.

Maskaev will again face the type of young lion in Peter (29-1, 22 KOs) that has caused him so much trouble in the past. The 26-year-old from Akwa Ibom, Nigeria, now living in Las Vegas, is on the precipice of achieving the success many boxing experts and fans have predicted would come for this heavy-handed knockout artist.

Promoter Don King has been telling everyone within earshot that Peter could be the next Tyson (King co-promotes Peter with Duva Boxing), and the Nigerian’s 75-percent knockout percentage backs the claim. His lone loss came by decision in 2005 against Wladimir Klitschko after Peter had knocked him down three times.

Peter has now honed his boxing skills to the extent he beat Old School boxing master James “Lights Out” Toney in back-to-back appearances on Sept. 2, 2006, and Jan. 6, 2007—both on 12-round decisions. Those victories made Peter the WBC No. 1-ranked heavyweight and the mandatory challenger to Maskaev.

Peter survived a scare from McCline, who agreed to face the Nigerian just two weeks prior to their Oct. 6 meeting. McCline has a history of being dangerous early, having knocked out heavyweight contender Michael Grant in just 43 seconds and dropped then International Boxing Federation champion Chris Byrd early in the second round when they met in 2004.

Juan Diaz became the second-youngest fighter to win a world title in the history of the sport in 2004 when, at just age 20, he won the WBA lightweight championship. In the last year, he stopped both Acelino Freitas and Julio Diaz to gain the WBO and IBF belts.

A relentless, punishing boxer that burrows forward throwing punches in bunches at all times, Diaz has become one of the most exciting boxers in the sport. When not in the ring, Diaz is a senior at the University of Houston-Downtown who would like to go on to law school someday.

In contrast, Nate Campbell didn’t participate in his first professional fight until he was almost 28 years old. A gifted athlete, Campbell learned the tricks of the trade inside the ring. His efforts have resulted in him being named IBF mandatory challenger to Diaz.

Campbell has unusually long arms, and it will be interesting to see if his reach advantage can help him find a way to do what nobody has been able to do before him: slow down and defeat the ever-charging Baby Bull. A true working man-boxer, this high-profile fight has afforded Campbell the opportunity to have a sequestered training camp in Miami. At age 35, he wants to make the most of his second world-title appearance.

●

Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.

DKP has promoted or co-promoted 11 of the top 15 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in history.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.

Dino Duva, the president of Duva Boxing, has promoted great fighters and great fights during four decades in boxing. Growing up in a renowned boxing family, the Duva name has become synonymous with excellence in the fight game as the “First Family in Boxing.” Working closely with his Hall of Fame father, Lou, and his late, great brother Dan, Duva has been involved in the promotion of over 100 world championship fights including such titlists as Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Pernell Whitaker, Arturo Gatti, and Mark Breland. Duva is presently the promoter of Samuel Peter, regarded by many as the top young heavyweight contender in boxing.

LEGENDARY KEN SHAMROCK MAKES ELITEXC DEBUT MARCH 8 ON HISTORIC NIGHT ON SHOWTIME

NEW YORK – On Saturday, March 8, SHOWTIME will present an unprecidented night of unarmed combat action with back-to-back sports telecasts featuring boxing and mixed martial arts. The evening begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT with live world championship boxing followed by an explosive MMA event from global partner EliteXC. Both exciting events will take place in London and air back-to-back on SHOWTIME.

Widely recognized as the leader in premium sports television, SHOWTIME made history on Feb. 10, 2007, when it became the first premium network to televise mixed martial arts (MMA). Now, fans will witness the classic power of boxing followed by the fresh, raw excitement of mixed martial arts—two major events on one special night.

“I have always believed that boxing and MMA are the perfect complement to one another,” said Ken Hershman, the Showtime executive behind MMA’s move to premium television. “We have seen strong crossover appeal to the core demographic for both boxing and MMA. March 8 is the prefect way to build on that success.”

Talk about a one-two punch! At 9 p.m. ET/PT, live from the O2 Arena (delayed on the West Coast), SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will present WBO cruiserweight world champion Enzo Maccarinelli against fellow world champion David Haye (WBA and WBC) in a highly anticipated unification bout between the British compatriots. It’s an important night for the division and, with an expected live crowd of 20,000, a fight fan’s dream match-up of offensive-minded brawling Brits.

In the second-half of the televised twinbill, legendary Ken “The World’s Most Dangerous Man” Shamrock returns to the cage to face Britain’s Robert “Buzz” Berry in the main event of EliteXC Presents: Cage Rage 25 at Wembley Arena. The EliteXC telecast will air on a same-day delay immediately following the boxing telecast.
Shamrock, one of the true MMA legends, is looking forward to displaying his skills on SHOWTIME.
“I’m totally committed to getting back into the cage injury free and anxious about fighting in England and on SHOWTIME for the first time,” Shamrock said. “Fight fans in England are a special breed and they are going to be treated to a very special show. Give me a fight or two and I will be ready to fight anybody.”
Shamrock, one of the most popular heavyweights on the planet, has defeated the likes of such MMA greats as Bas Rutten, Maurice Smith, Dan “The Beast” Severn and Kimo.
An exciting night of EliteXC fights will include a featherweight title clash between Jean Silva and Masakazu Imanari, UK heavyweight contender Gary Turner versus Mustapha Alturk and Pierre Guillet against Tom “Kong” Watson in a middleweight match.
In a non-televised fight March 8, Shamrock’s son, Ryan, will take on Giorgio Andrews.
“It is very exciting for both Ryan and me,” the older Shamrock said. “We will be making MMA history by being the first father and son to ever fight on the same card. This is a great opportunity we are getting with EliteXC and SHOWTIME.’’
For more information on this event, EliteXC and other MMA-related stories, including bios, video-on-demand, photos, stats, Fantasy Fight Game TM and more, please visit ProElite.com and EliteXC.com

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

# # #

About ProElite, Inc.
ProElite Inc. [PELE.PK] delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. ProElite’s interactive business, ProElite.com, capitalizes on the growing popularity of the sport of mixed martial arts by building a community of MMA enthusiasts. In addition to streaming the most exciting live fights to the web, ProElite expands the fan base of the sport by providing a comprehensive set of online social networking tools for fans, fighters and organizations. ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM


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®.

Nate Campbell: ‘Juan Diaz Is Not a Demigod’, Nate Campbell's upcoming challenge of undefeated, unified lightweight champion Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz

Nate Campbell's upcoming challenge of undefeated, unified lightweight champion Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz, IBF No. 1-Ranked Lightweight Thinks Juan Diaz Can Be Defeated;
Says He Will Teach Diaz ‘Things He Doesn’t Want to Know’.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.—International Boxing Federation No. 1-ranked lightweight and mandatory challenger Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell is confident going into his match against undefeated unified lightweight world champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz on March 8 at Plaza de Torros in Cancun, Mexico.

“I don’t want to sound conceited or overconfident but Juan Diaz is not a demigod,” Campbell said. “A demigod is half mortal, half god and I just don’t see that. Unless my team and I have been in this sport too long—or not long enough—we are seeing a lot of hype.”

Campbell (31-5-1, 25 KOs), who is co-promoted by Don King Productions and One Punch Productions, made his comments about Diaz (33-0, 17 KOs) recently while visiting King’s South Florida headquarters.

“Take a good look at who this man has fought and ask yourself, ‘Who has he fought?’ There are lots of fighters out there who throw a lot of punches. I’m going to teach things to Juan that he doesn’t want to know. I can stop this man and I don’t believe he can beat me.”

Campbell thinks he has been underestimated throughout his career, and he looks forward to utilizing a six inch reach advantage over Diaz.

“Nobody thinks I can punch,” he said, “but there’s something about the way I punch that makes guys change their mind when they get in the ring with me. Juan Diaz will ask himself after the first punch I land that makes clean contact, ‘What part of the game is this?’

“Joel Casamayor has fought Jose Luis Castillo, Acelino Freitas, Diego Corrales and me. When a reporter asked him who hits the hardest, he said, ‘Nate Cambell.’ On top of that, I heard Casamayor predicted that I’m going to win against Diaz.”

Campbell’s fight is part of the History in Cancun event that will include the first world heavyweight championship ever decided in Mexico when World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev faces WBC interim champion Sameul “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter. Both Diaz vs. Campell and Maskaev vs.
Peter will be televised live in America on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT. The event is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Duva Boxing, Pepe Gomez Promotions and One Punch Productions.

Tickets priced at $1,000, 500, $300, $150, $100, $70, $50 and $10 are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets including www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster in Mexico at +5255 5325 9000.

Campbell said his preparation for the fight has been going well while splitting training time in West Palm Beach and Pembroke Pines in South Florida.

“I hate it when fighters say, ‘I’m in the best shape of my life,’” Campbell said. “I’m always in great shape. I will say though that this is the first time in a long time that I’ve been able to focus only on my training and no other outside stuff like relationships or family problems.

“I have stayed away from everything and everyone that could distract me from winning these titles. My promoters Don King and Terry Trekas have taken good care of me. My trainer John David Jackson and his assistant Noel Carbajal and all my gym mates have been great as usual.”

Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.

DKP has promoted or co-promoted 11 of the top 15 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in history.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.

Dino Duva, the president of Duva Boxing, has promoted great fighters and great fights during four decades in boxing. Growing up in a renowned boxing family, the Duva name has become synonymous with excellence in the fight game as the “First Family in Boxing.” Working closely with his Hall of Fame father, Lou, and his late, great brother Dan, Duva has been involved in the promotion of over 100 world championship fights including such titlists as Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Pernell Whitaker, Arturo Gatti, and Mark Breland. Duva is presently the promoter of Samuel Peter, regarded by many as the top young heavyweight contender in boxing.

Alan Hopper, Don King Prouctions
EVENT PAGE LINK: http://www.kevincalero.com/donking/event%5F3808/

ROBERT GUERRERO RETAINS IBF FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE WITH SCINTILLATING EIGHTH-ROUND KO OVER JASON LITZAU, TRAVIS WALKER GETS REVENGE, STOPS T.J. WILSON

LEMOORE, Calif. Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero produced perhaps the finest performance of his career Friday when he successfully defended his International Boxing Federation (IBF) featherweight title with an exciting eighth-round knockout over Jason “The American Boy’’ Litzau in a thrilling one-sided war in the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME.

Robert Guerrero lands a left uppercut en route to knocking out Jason Litzau in the eighth round and retaining his IBF featherweight title Friday on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME.

Photos: Daisy Rosas/For Showtime





Afterward, a triumphant Guerrero poses with his wife, Casey. This was his second fight since Casey, who is now in remission, was diagnosed with leukemia in 2007.


In the co-feature, promising once-beaten Travis “Freight Train” Walker got back on track by registering a second-round knockout over the only boxer to defeat him, T.J. Wilson, in a non-stop action heavyweight fight.

In a thrilling heavyweight brawl for as long as it lasted, Travis Walker registered a second-round knockout over T.J. Wilson in a rematch of a fight Wilson won by controversial first-round KO on Oct. 19, 2007 on ShoBox.








The crowd-pleasing doubleheader, promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, LLC, took place in front of a sellout crowd at Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino in Lemoore, Calif. It aired live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast).

Fans anxiously awaiting the highly anticipated rubber match between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez today/Saturday, March 1, on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) got more than an appetizer. They got two marvelous main courses rolled into one.

So what else is new? After all, this is ShoBox and exhilarating, compelling matchups has been the norm since the popular pugilistic series debuted in July 2001.

Southpaw Guerrero (22-1-1, 1 ND, 15 KOs), of nearby Gilroy, Calif., fairly dominated Litzau (23-2, 19 KOs), of St. Paul, Minn., before dropping him twice in the eighth round. After the second knockdown, the referee stopped the contest at 2:25.

Making the second defense in his second stint as IBF 126-pound kingpin, Guerrero floored the challenger the first time with two left hands approximately 40 seconds into the session. A three-punch combination ended the evening for Litzau.

“It went how I expected it to go,’’ Guerrero said. “A lot of fans came here and a whole lot more were watching on SHOWTIME to see me put on a good show and I think I did. The support I get is just incredible and I really appreciate the fans that come to see me fight or watch on television.

“I expended a lot of energy at the beginning throwing a lot of power punches. A lot landed, but some missed, too. Between rounds, my corner told me to just go out and relax and box more and let the knockout come and sure enough they were right and it did.

“I’ll fight anybody next. There are a lot of big fights out there. If the winner of Vazquez-Marquez wants to move up, I would fight either of them. I am ready to fight now.’’

Litzau started slowly and seemed reluctant to let his fists go. Once he picked up the pace, however, he landed some solid shots, but rarely in combination. Guerrero also made him miss, at one point avoiding six consecutive punches.

“I have nothing but respect for Guerrero. He is a great champion,’’ said Litzau, who’s three fight-winning streak ended. “He came in and did his job. He got a little dirty at times and got me with some good headbutts, but you will not hear any excuses from me.

“I worked my butt off in the gym and trained hard. I was as ready as I could be, but this was his night. I know I did my part to make this a very entertaining fight, but I’m just 24 and I will be back.’’

In the telecast’s opening bout, Walker (27-1-1, 21 KOs) of Houston, Tex., exacted sweet revenge on Wilson (12-2, eight KOs) of Miami, Fla. Walker won by knockout at 1:50 of the second round.

This was a rematch of a fight Wilson won on a controversial 15-second, first-round KO on Oct. 19, 2007, on ShoBox.

Both boxers came out aggressively and connected with solid shots in a fast-paced opening round. The second frame picked up where the first left off until Wilson ran into a Walker right uppercut. Walker continued to connect with unanswered right and left hands and had Wilson out on his feet when the referee stepped in and waved off the proceedings.

“I have never been motivated for any fight before and this is total vindication and exactly the kind of fight I wanted,’’ Walker said. “I did what I was supposed to do in our first fight. I knew he wasn’t in my league and I couldn’t wait to show the world that.

“He hit me with the same kind of punches this time as he did in our first fight, but this time the referee let it go on. The guy lost a lot of weight and came in shape (at 264, Wilson weighed 18 pounds lighter than he did four months ago), but it didn’t matter.

“Maybe the loss was a good thing. It made me smarter. I do know the real Travis Walker got to show what he was about tonight. I would love to fight any of the top heavyweights.’’

If Wilson has his way, he and Wilson will have a third encounter.

“There’s a rematch clause in my contract, so, yes, we will fight again,’’ Wilson said. “I have no idea why the referee stopped the fight. I could have gone on. I wanted to go on. Walker got his rematch with me. Now he has to give me a rematch with him.’’

Nick Charles called the action from ringside with Steve Farhood serving as expert analyst. The executive producer of ShoBox is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing.

Friday’s stirring bouts will re-air this week as follows:

DAY CHANNEL

Saturday, March 1, at 3 a.m. ET/PT SHOTOO

Monday, March 3, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT SHO EXTREME

Tuesday, March 4, at Midnight ET/PT SHO EXTREME

Thursday, March 6, at 10 p.m. ET/PT SHOTOO

Four world-class boxers with a combined record of 93-0 will headline a “Special Edition” of ShoBox on Saturday, March 29, (SHOWTIME, 11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) in England. In the main event, the World Boxing Council’s (WBC’s) No. 1 and No. 2 super middleweight contenders, respectively, Carl Froch (22-0) and Dennis Inkin (32-0), collide in a 168-pound elimination bout. The winner becomes the mandatory challenger to WBC titleholder Joe Calzaghe. In the co-feature, John Murray (23-0) faces John “Fireball” Fewkes (16-0) in a junior welterweight bout.

The ShoBox telecast will follow an excellent EliteXC Mixed Martial Arts event on SHOWTIME (9 p.m., ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) that features the legendary Frank Shamrock against Cung Le.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

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