World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz willhave an open tryout for the National Hockey League’s Chicago Blackhawks on Friday, March 7

CHICAGO, IL- World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz will take a break from preparing for his showdown with Ramon Montano to have an open tryout for the National Hockey League’s Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night, March 7th at the United Center.

Diaz will test his shooting skills for the Blackhawks between the second and third periods of their contest against the San Jose Sharks.

Said Diaz, “This season the Blackhawks have been playing a terrific, physical brand of hockey. They called and invited me to the game this Friday and then we started talking about my chances of suiting up for the team down the stretch towards the playoffs. So Friday night is my opportunity to see if I can help them out a little bit” joked the passionate Chicago sports fan.

Diaz also hoped to address the team prior to the game to offer some fighting tips which should come in handy with the Blackhawks growing reputation as amongst the most aggressive teams in the league.

Diaz was taking in the hometown Chicago Bulls game on Thursday night as they squared off with the Cleveland Cavaliers at the United Center. Earlier in the day he hosted an open media workout at Chicago’s JABB Boxing Gym.

Diaz’s non title ten round bout against Montano will open the HBO Pay-Per View broadcast of Marquez-Pacquiao II – UNFINISHED BUSINESS—on Saturday, March 15th at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

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

Hunky Dorys Fight Night - No Olympic regrets for McCloskey‏

It might be Olympic year but Paul McCloskey says he has no regrets about making the decision to switch to the professional code. Unbeaten in his 3 year pro career McCloskey headlines the Hunky Dorys Fight Night at the Letterkenny Leisure Complex on March 29th when he takes on former World Champion, Cesar Bazan.

The Dungiven southpaw just missed out on qualification for the last Olympics losing out on a contentious points decision when victory would have qualified him for Athens.

On that occasion Andy Lee was Ireland’s sole Olympic representative but 4 years on Ireland will have at least two boxers at this summer’s games in Beijing with both Paddy Barnes and John Joe Nevin having already secured Olympic berths. There is still one further qualifying tournament left giving Ireland’s amateur one last chance at securing their plane ticket to China.

McCloskey knows all about the pressure of Olympic qualification having just missed out in 2004. In an interview with the soon to be relaunched Irish-Boxing.com McCloskey said, “It’s disappointing that I never got the opportunity to go to the Olympics but I could have hung about in the amateur game for another 4 years and still not have qualified for this years games. There’s lot of politics in amateur boxing and I felt I won those qualifying bouts but the decisions didn’t go my way.”

McCloskey, 28 continued, “If I’d have waited until after Beijing to turn pro I would have been another 4 years older and the chances of turning pro and doing well would have been reasonably slim because obviously the older you are the harder it gets. It had been an ambition of mine to fight in the Olympics and I didn’t get it but that’s water under the bridge and you can’t dwell on the past.”

The Derryman’s sights are firmly focused on the future now and after a slow burning start to his pro career he’s relishing the opportunity of headlining his first ever-professional fight night later this month.

McCloskey, who turned pro in March 0f 2003 said, “For those first couple of years I was slightly inactive through no fault of our own. But in the last year things have really picked up thanks to Brian Peters and he’s really got the ball rolling for me.

“This time last year in Letterkenny I was fighting a journeyman and now I’m getting ready to fight a former world champion so I’ve come on quite a bit. But I’ve always felt I was ready for these kind of fights and it was just a matter of getting the opportunity.”

McCloskey will not have it easy though against former WBC lightweight kingpin Bazan who has twice as many knockout wins as McCloskey has had fight.

“I’ve looked at his record and it’s one hell of record with 46 fights, 9 losses and one draw,” said McCloskey. “Of the loses two of them were to Miguel Cotto and Jose Luis Castillo and they’re the only 2 guys to have stopped him. A lot of his other defeats were on split decisions and he’s knocked out 30 people so he clearly carries a bit of power in his hands. I’m going to be treating him with all the respect in the world and I’m training as if I’m fighting for a world title.”

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

Another bout sees Irish Light Middleweight champion Ciaran Healy in a 10 round clash with former British title challenger Steve Conway.

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 are on sale now from Ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets.

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

TAVORIS CLOUD STORMS BACK TO CHICAGO ON MARCH 28TH‏

World ranked light heavyweight prospect Tavoris Cloud returns to Chicago on Friday, March 28th as he takes on Mike Wood in the twelve round main event at UNDISPUTED, an evening of world class professional boxing at the Aragon Ballroom presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING and A-TEAM Boxing along with Miller Lite.

The Aragon Ballroom is located at 1106 W. Lawrence Ave., adjacent to the corner of Broadway and Lawrence on the north side of Chicago. Tickets can be obtained in advance through Ticketmaster at 312-559-1212 or www.ticketmaster.com or by calling the 8 Count Productions’ office at 312-226-5800. Doors for this event will open at 7pm with the first bell scheduled for 8pm.

Tallahassee, Florida native Cloud, amongst the fastest rising stars in boxing, has impressively run his undefeated record to 17-0 with sixteen knockouts. Cloud ended 2007 with two of his most impressive performances, a fifth round knockout of Jose Luis Herrera on August 24th at the Congress Theatre and a third round stoppage of Jake Rodriguez on December 14th at Cicero Stadium, both of which can be viewed at Youtube.com

Cloud is currently world ranked # 12 by the WBA, #9 by the IBF and # 9 by the WBO.

Wood of St. Louis, Missouri brings a record of 19-6-1 (11KO’s) into the battle with Cloud and is riding a three bout winning streak. The scheduled twelve round bout will be for the USBA light heavyweight title.

Said Pesoli, “Tavoris is on the fast track to a world title bout in 2008. The Chicago fight fans have been very supportive of him and we’re very excited to bring him back on March 28th.”

The co-main event at UNDISPUTED features former Chicago Golden Gloves champion Louis “KNOCK” Turner, 11-1 (7KO’s), battling heavy handed Mexican veteran Jesus Valverde, 21-14-1 with sixteen knockouts, in a scheduled eight round middleweight bout.

In a special feature attraction Chicago based heavyweight Carl “IRON FIST” Davis will take on Rochester, New York’s Jermell Barnes in an eight round bout. Davis brings a record of 10-2 with eight knockouts into the bout with Barnes, 18-15-2 (4KO’s).

Also featured at UNDISPUTED is Chicago’s world ranked female boxing sensation, Rita “LA GUERA” Figueroa. The undefeated junior welterweight Figueroa, 10-0 with three knockouts, is scheduled in a six round bout.

More information on this card will be announced shortly.

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and A TEAM Boxing, UNDISPUTED is presented by Miller Lite and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters.

The Master of Ceremonies for UNDISPUTED will be ring announcer Thomas Treiber.

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

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
www.8countproductions.com

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Ladbrokes.com Fight Night - Tims set for Pro Debut

Ladbrokes.com Fight Night - Tims set for Pro Debut


Four time Irish amateur champion Ian Tims is ready to make his mark in the pro ranks. The hard hitting Dubliner will make his paid debut on the Ladrokes.com Fight Night at the National Stadium on March 22nd.

Headlining the bill is the much-anticipated middleweight clash between Irish middleweight champ Matthew Macklin and former World Champion Yori Boy Campas. However Tims debut will create a stir of it’s own as one of Ireland’s leading amateurs in recent years looks to make the switch to the professional code.

The Clondalkin native won back-to-back Irish senior heavyweight titles in 2006 and 2007 having successfully made the transition from light heavyweight. Now he’s hoping for further success as a pro.

“I think the professional game will suit me even more than the amateurs because of the longer distance,” said Tims. “Often when the final bell went in my fights I felt like I was only just getting my second wind.

“I’m the kind of boxer that likes to fight on the inside and the computer doesn’t really reward that in the amateurs. I’d sooner slug it out with someone then get on my toes and box and that probably cost me in the amateurs.

“I felt the time was right now to give the pro’s a shot. I’d achieved what I wanted to as an amateur and I just want to fight as often as possible in the pro’s and see where it takes me.”

Tims should have plenty of support for his debut having boxed out of the St. Matthews club in Dublin where he was trained by Bernard Dunne’s father, Brendan.

“Bernard has brought a real buzz back into boxing in Dublin and that’s part of the reason I decided to go pro because the opportunity is there now where as a few years ago it was that much harder to go professional in Ireland.”

Tims will be trained in the paid ranks by two time European Bronze medallist Phil Sutcliffe. The Dubliner has been sharpening up for his pro debut by sparring with Cuban heavyweight sensation Mike “The Rebel” Perez.

Perez, a World Junior champion as an amateur is based in Cork and his two fights to date have seen him rack up a pair of first round knockouts. Perez will also feature on the March 22nd card as well as having two further contests scheduled for March 29th (Letterkenny) and April 12th (Castlebar).

The March 22nd event also features a rematch between Andrew Murray and James Gorman for the Irish Light Welterweight title.

Tickets for the Ladrokes.com Fight Night at the National Stadium on March 22nd are priced from €60 and are on sale from Ticketmaster.ie and all usual outlets.

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

David Diaz; Undercard of "UNFINISHED BUSINESS", featuring the rematch of the epic battle almost four years ago between Pacquiao and Marquez

Chicago, IL- Chicago based World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz is busy preparing to battle Ramon Montano on Saturday, March 15th at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

The Diaz/Montano bout will be broadcast on HBO Pay-Per-View on the undercard of "UNFINISHED BUSINESS", featuring the rematch of the epic battle almost four years ago between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.

However, the collision course has been set for Diaz by his promoter, Top Rank Inc., to square off with boxing’s “Mexicutioner,” Manny Pacquiao later this year.

“I know the deal, if I beat Montano and Manny beats Marquez he’s going to move up to 135 to try and take my title. Good for him, I like the fact that he wants to fight for my title. If we both win on March 15th, I’ll be the first one to meet him at the post fight press conference to welcome him to 135. As far as I’m concerned they can officially announce the fight right then and there.”

“He wants to move up and try to continue collecting belts and I want to test myself against the very best and that’s what they call him. He beat Barrera twice, Morales twice, already has the draw with Marquez, beat Velasquez, Larios and Solis. He’s been on quite a run, if he beats Marquez on March 15th, maybe he’s the best fighter in boxing.”

Speaking about his bout with Montano, Diaz called it a priority first and foremost for him. “I’m sure Montano is preparing for the fight of his life, it’s his opportunity of a lifetime. As for me, when we touch gloves before the fight we’re going to do what we do and see who’s the better fighter. Bottom line is I know I must beat Montano to get a shot at Pacquiao.”

In regards to having the last seven months off since his win over Morales last August, Diaz said “The rest has been good, but I’m chomping at the bit here in Chicago. The cold weather and the snow we’ve had recently is both aggravating me and keeping me focused on Montano and March 15th.”

About his beloved Chicago Cubs who are in training camp in Mesa, Arizona, Diaz added, “I know a few of them want to come in for the fight. They were there when I beat Morales and at my other fights in Chicago. We’re in this together and they’re always welcome.”

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 Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, 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

All-women’s pro boxing “Finally” pay-per-view event, featuring Holm vs. Sanders, June 13th live from the Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE- Fresquez Productions, Inc. has scheduled a media tour to announce and promote its pay-per view event, “Finally,” featuring Holly Holm and Mary Joe Sanders fighting for the vacant IFBA junior middleweight championship, as well as Pound-For-Pound Supremacy, on June 13 at the Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The media tour will kick-off with a press conference March 12 in Detroit, continue the following day in Albuquerque, and conclude March 15 in Las Vegas. “Finally” will be produced and distributed by Integrated Sports.

HOLLY HOLM; 6-Time World Champion, 3 Divisions, IFBA, IBA, WBC, WBA, & GBU Welterweight Title-Holder Albuquerque, New Mexico 21-1-2 (6 KOs)

MARY JO SANDERS 4-Time World Champion, 4 Divisions, IBA Middleweight Title-Holder
Auburn Hills, Michigan25-0 (8 KOs)

Damage control for hungry Manfredo vs. Benfield “Rumble at the River,” March 14 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE– World super middleweight challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr. (28-5, 13 KOs) is hungry again and planning to do some damage to Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield (17-1, 9 KOs) on March 14 in their 10-round main event, headlining “Rumble at the River,” part of “The Budweiser Night at the Fights,” at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.


Vinny Paz and “Irish” Micky Ward are serving as honorary captains of Team Italy and Team Ireland, respectively, for the Italian-Irish themed “Rumble at the River” pro boxing show, promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in association with Twin River, Budweiser and Tournament of Contenders.

Manfredo, 27, has starred on The Contender I reality television show, fought for the world title, and earned a healthy living in boxing. But something was missing after his loss by controversial stoppage to Joe Calzaghe for the world championship in Wales. “I’m hungry again,” Manfredo explained. “I didn’t really care about boxing last year. The (Jeff) Lacy fight woke me up. I realized I have to be mean, not trying to go in the ring to really hurt my opponent, but to do some damage. That’s what I plan to do against Benfield – take him out – and show everybody that’s who I really am. I love what I do. I don’t love the behind the scenes part of boxing, but in the real world it’s tough to take out your frustrations like you can in the ring. I’m the boss in the ring. We have the toughest job in the world; there are no guarantees in boxing, but I’m a fighter.

“I’d like to go back down to 160 (pounds) because I feel I’m too small fighting some of these guys. It’s not that I can’t fight at super middleweight, but I want to be the best I can, and I think that’s at middleweight. I only plan on boxing until I’m 30, so I have three years left to make one last run at aworld title. Let’s see how I do against guys my size. I’m not sure when I’ll be fighting at 160. I’m thinking maybe my next fight will be at 165. Benfield’s a big guy who fought as a cruiserweight.”

Since graduating from his role in The Contender I, Manfredo’s fought in Wales, Las Vegas and Los Angeles, but he enjoys fighting at home. “It’s the best,” Peter said about fighting in Rhode Island. “There’s no place like home. It’s all about being comfortable in your surroundings. At home, I have my family and friends, sleep in my own bed, eat food I like…..everything is comfortable. One of the reason’s Joe Calzaghe has been so successful is because all of his fights have been at home.”

Three-time world champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt (18-4-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Cranston (RI) defends her IWBF lightweight crown against GBU junior welterweight title-holder Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (23-21-3, 9 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature. Twenty-one of Larcuente’s last 22 bouts, dating back nearly five years, have been against world champions, including 10 world title fights.

Mitch Matlock, Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente and Melissa Hernandez


Stoughton (MA) cruiserweight Chris McInerney (9-1-1, 6 KOs) squares-off again versus former New England title-holder Tim “The Hammer” Flamos (19-4-1, 7 KOs), of Brockton, in a six-round rematch of a fight McInerney won by sixth round TKO last December.

Undefeated Russian middleweight Andre Nevsky (3-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), meets Eric Pinarreta (2-1, 2 KOs), of New Bedford (MA), in a four-round match. A pair of popular power-punchers, USBA No. 4 super middleweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina (20-1-1, 15 KOs), of Providence, and Lowell (MA) light heavyweight “Irish” Joey McCreedy (6-1, 4 KOs), are also on the undercard.

Undefeated Lynn (MA) flyweight Isander Beauchamp (3-0) faces Gabriel Cruz (2-1), while Providence junior welterweight Diego Pereira makes his pro debut. 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.) -CES-

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

Film Screening; ‘The Other Side Of Hip Hop - The Sixth Element’

The Original, The Most Conscious, The Best Going Strong Since 2001, For The People, By The People: Medgar Evers College Film & Culture Series
http://www.mec.cuny.edu/filmandcultureseries/

Presents the 'Brooklyn Homecoming Screening':‘The Other Side Of Hip Hop - The Sixth Element’, tells the story of long time Photo Activist Brother Ernie Paniccioli. Brother Ernie, as he is affectionately known by many, has been photographing the Hip Hop Culture since its inception. From the genesis when the culture did not have a name, it was simply something that young people created to have fun. From 1973 to the present Brother Ernie has been there, whether as an advocate for this culture that turned into a movement or speaking out against what is wrong with Hip Hop Brother Ernie has been front row center for it all.

Tonight we will have our opportunity to go upclose and personal with Brother Ernie
as we go inside his life, work in Hip Hop and his socio-political activism.

Joining us for this rich cultural experience will be Linque formerly of the Blackwatch movement,
Hip Hop Pioneer Kangol of UTFO, Dion Michael Ashman, Producer, Director and Writer of the ‘Other Side Of Hip Hop - The Sixth Element’ and the man himself Brother Ernie Paniccioli.Winner of the New York Big Apple Film Festival Best Documentary Film, 'The Other Side Of Hip-Hop showcases HIP-HOP from the beginning!
Featuring Chuck D., Afrika Bambaataa, MC Lyte, and many many others this film tells a full story!

For more info: www.OURGANG62.com
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2008
DOORS OPEN AT 6:15 P.M.
OPEN MIC HOSTED BY XYAYX MULTIMEDIA
BEGINS AT 6:30 PM.Program begins at:7:00PM
A live performance by Lin-Que, will precede the film
Founders Auditorium, 1650 Bedford Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11225

Take the #2, 3, 4 or 5 train to the Franklin Ave. stop. The auditorium is between Crown & Montgomery Sts.

www.myspace.com/linquemusic and http://www.lin-que.com/

EDUCATING-ORGANIZING-MOBILIZING

Curtis "Showtime" Stevens will step into the ring at the Manhattan Center on March 6

Curtis "Showtime" Stevens
Bronx, NY- For the first time since signing a multi-year deal with Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing, Curtis "Showtime" Stevens will step into the ring at the Manhattan Center on March 6. Stevens will appear as part of the action packed under card which features a USBA Junior Welterweight title fight between "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis vs. Harrison Cuello. Also, featured in the co- main event is fan favorite New Yorker Vinny Maddalone battling veteran Jeff Yeoman in an 8 round Heavyweight match up. Sports website www.GoFightLive.TV will web cast the entire event online.


One half of the famed "Chin Checkers", Brooklyn, NY native Stevens (17-2-1, 12KO's) is a throwback to the old days of boxing with his killer left hook and crippling body punching. Curtis presents a danger to anyone who stands opposite him in the squared circle. On this occasion, it will be journeyman, Thomas Reid (35-21-1, 13KO's) of Jackson, TN, who in his own right is not to be taken lightly. Stevens will have his hands full as he will be facing a fighter who has gone up against some of the best in the business. Taking on a who's who of the 175-pound realm, Reid has fought the likes of former WBC light heavyweight champion and Roy Jones Jr. conqueror Montell Griffin, WBO 175-pound titlist Julio Gonzalez, and light heavyweight contenders Elvir Muriqi, Yusaf Mack, and Prince Badi Ajamu.


The bout is scheduled for 8 rounds in the Super Middleweight division and promises to be an all action affair.

The balance of the exciting undercard will be announced shortly.

Tickets are fan friendly priced at $202 first row ringside, $102, $52 and $32 and are available at Ticketmaster.com or by calling (212) 307-7171 and at all Ticketmaster outlets. Additionally, tickets and exclusive VIP tables can be purchased directly from Star Boxing by calling (718) 823-2000 or by visiting http://www.starboxing.com

SPECIAL NOTE: ALL VIP TABLES ARE SOLD OUT FOR THIS EVENT
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NABF junior welterweight champion Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa now a promotional free agent

New York– NABF junior welterweight champion Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa is a promotional free agent after his deal with Seeno Group recently concluded. Figueroa’s manager, Sal LoNano, is entertaining offers from numerous promoters.


Figueroa (18-2, 13 KOs), who has moved back to the Bronx after living a year in Miami, is rated No. 10 by the World Boxing Council, as well as No. 13 and No. 14 by the International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association, respectfully.

“Frankie is the reigning NABF champion, world-class fighter and a great kid,” LoNano said. “With a good promoter in his corner, he will become a world champion. We want to thank Attorney Tony Cardinale for the legal advice he gave us.”

U.S. Army veteran Figueroa currently is in Vero Beach (FL) training camp with his trainer, James “Buddy” McGirt, Sr., awaiting his next fight.

“Gato” also is the reigning WBC International Mundo Hispano welterweight and New York State light welterweight title-holder.

For more information about “Gato” Figueroa visit his web site at www.gatofigueroa.com.

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

VOTE NOW IN DECISION 2008: Club World Awards People's Choice Award!‏

HEAR THE MUSIC: www.beatportal.com/clubworldawards

VOTE: www.partystrands.com/club-world-awards

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Share My Love; By Shari Robinson, Nedra Crawley and Teesha Sumpter are two beautiful women in search of true love....

Share My Love; By Shari Robinson


Synopsis

Nedra Crawley and Teesha Sumpter are two beautiful women in search of true love. Both are intelligent and emotionally available, but in a society where men seem to have far more options than women do, the two succumb to their fears: the fear that they'll never be able to have a man all their own.

In "Share My Love", we go with the young women as they struggle through their personal insecurities, their hopes and dreams for the future, and ultimately, their willingness to risk their hearts and egos for the chance to experience true intimacy with a man.

Nedra knows all about the shortcomings of men. After all, her own beloved father disillusions her when he reveals himself to be less than the perfect gentleman she'd grown up believing he was. When Nedra's mother breaks it down to her that men and women are simply not alike when it comes to things like fidelity and sexual appetite, we see her lay down her ideals for the sake of "versatility". But is she fooling herself?



Not even Teesha's sheltered southern upbringing can squelch the sexual hunger she feels inside. But as she goes from one humiliating experience to another, it finally takes its toll. By the time her new best friend comes up with a unique and intriguing plan to get them both the love they crave and the security they need, she is ripe to try something revolutionary in the bedroom. They agree to share the same man on a rotating schedule of sex, outings and vacations, but can this idea really work?

In "Share My Love", the question of whether or not three is company gets answered once and for all. Is three pleasant company or emotional chaos?

For more information: www.booksbysharirobinson.com

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Africa Unite; Danny Glover & Marleys To Walk Red Carpet

Miami- Part biography, reggae musical and humanitarian effort, Africa Unite highlights Bob Marley's massive 60th birthday celebration in Ethiopia. This intimate look at the life and work of the late musician and activist is also an appeal for a united Africa that can stand proudly and independently on the world stage. The documentary will be showcased this year during the 25th anniversary of the Miami International Film Festival (MIFF).

Africa Unite Director Stephanie Black and co-producer Danny Glover will talk about the film at a press conference on Tuesday, March 4 at 11 a.m. at the Royal Palm Hotel, 1545 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. The film will be screened the evening of March 4 at 9 p.m. at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts, 174 East Flagler Street, Miami.

In 2005, more than 350,000 people from all over the globe came together in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to celebrate Marley's 60th birthday. The Africa Unite Foundation, founded by the Marley family, organized the weeklong celebration and sponsored the attendance of students from Africa and Jamaica for a conference and dialogue with support from UNICEF (The United Nations Children's Fund) and partners. Actor and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Danny Glover chaired the symposium.

While the film is anchored by this historic benefit concert, it also branches into other parallels that delve into Marley's personal dream of a united Africa. It features a cameo by Glover, as well as performances by recording artists Lauryn Hill, Angelique Kidjo, and members of the Marley clan, including children Ziggy, Damian, Stephen, Cedella, Julian, and Ky-Mani.

Africa Unite was crafted by Stephanie Black, an award-winning director and producer, and co-produced by the Marley family's Tuff Gong Pictures and Glover's co-founded production company, Louverture Films. Black's past films include two documentaries: Life and Debt (2001) and H-2 Worker (1990). She has directed programming for BRAVO, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon, and the Cartoon Network, and numerous music videos. In addition, she is also teaches documentary film at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Getting Your Fiscal House In Order - A Family First Friday Presenation‏

FAMILY FIRST FRIDAY

Presents a

FINANCIAL SEMINAR @ St. Mark’s UMC

49-55 Edgecombe Avenue, @ 137th Street

Friday, March 7, 2008 6 PM to 9 PM

God’s Plan For Your Future

We want to help your family have a better financial future!

Everyone’s life is different. But some things are universal.

The dream of owning a home;

College for kids;

A worry-free retirement;

Sometimes, it seems too hard.

There are too many bills

Responsibilities

Too much month and too little money


The question is the same. How to prepare? How to be ready when tomorrow comes?
There is a way to make dreams come true. Discover the SOLUTIONS.
During this session you will learn how to deal with serious financial issues affecting millions of Americans today.

• forget past financial mistakes and start fresh

• stop emotional spending and still be content

• fund future objectives with confidence

Did you know that there are over 2,350 verses in the Bible about handling your money and possessions? Jesus said more about money than just about any other topic.

If your minister were to preach one verse a week, it would take him over 45 years to cover all of them.

Here are just a few verses that represent God’s views on Money;

Get Out of Debt - Romans 13: 8, Proverbs 22:7

Accumulate Wealth – Joshua 1:8, Deuteronomy 8:18

Properly protect your family and assets –

Proverbs 22:3, Ecclesiastes 7:11-12

Build a Family retirement Trust – Proverbs 13:22

Why does the Bible have so much to say about money?

Because so much of our lives revolves around it.

Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Phil 4:11-13

Presented by: Theresa Henry, President TH Financials

Refreshments Served

Having your finances advised by a financial expert that practices Biblical truths can give you more free time and a peace-of-mind with managing your finances.

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Charlotta Janssen 'Americana' opening Thursday March 6 from 6 -9 at Gloria Kennedy Gallery‏

Please join us for the opening reception of ‘Americana’ by Charlotta Janssen, Thursday March 6 from 6-9 PM. Her skaintings (sketched paintings) are from her Americana (1900 – 1950) series featuring church groups, rallies, sports teams, performers and families before posing became an epidemic. Her large dramatic canvases capture a diacritic pictorialization of bygone days. Ms. Jansen works on canvas and paper with acrylics, oil and iron oxide. Limited edition Giclee´ prints are also available. The exhibition runs until March 15th.

The Harlem Swimming Team' inspired by a photograph by James Van der Zee 4.5' x 16' acrylic, iron oxide & oil stick onto canvas.





Gloria Kennedy Gallery is a contemporary art gallery defining the art space in a new vernacular by presenting diverse, fresh and riveting exhibitions of original art.
© 2008 Gloria Kennedy Gallery. All rights reserved


boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

From Mondays press conference in Cancun; Nate Campbell, Juan Diaz, Samuel Peter, Oleg Maskaev

Nate Campbell: “It has been a hard road for me to get here but I am here now. I don’t have anything to do with what’s going on between Juan Diaz and Don King but I can tell you this: On Saturday night I’m going to take you to hell, Juan.”

Juan Diaz: “I’ve fought in Mexico many times and it’s great to be back home. I fought here when I was 16 years old. Nate Campbell is a good fighter and I’m ready to go 12 rounds.

Samuel Peter: (To Oleg Maskaev’s promoter Dennis Rappaport): “Buy a new pair of glasses because I want you to see how hard I’m going to hit your man on Saturday.”

(To Oleg Maskaev): “I want to tell you one thing: “I’m going to knock you out. I’m going to eat you alive.”


Samuel Peter: “I’m coming to fight on Saturday night and I promise I’m going to beat you. I’m going to punish you and beat you up. I’ve been fighting for seven years and I’ve never ducked anyone. I hope you’re planning on coming to fight on Saturday. You can run no more.”

Oleg Maskaev: “I’m ready and I’m coming to win on Saturday night. I have worked very hard.”

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Don King Quits Juan Diaz; Diaz’s Attorney Fred Levin Quit Undefeated Lightweight Champion in February, Promoter Decides to Follow Suit .....

Don King Quits Juan Diaz; Diaz’s Attorney Fred Levin Quit Undefeated Lightweight Champion in February, Promoter Decides to Follow Suit by Abandoning Star Boxer after Saturday’s Match

CANCUN, MEXICO—Boxing promoter Don King made a surprise announcement on Wednesday that he will no longer represent undefeated unified lightweight world champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz after his match on Saturday with Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell in Cancun, Mexico.

King has represented Diaz since September 2006, and it is highly unusual for the world’s greatest promoter to give up on a star client without an attempt to keep him in his stable of fighters.

King is in Cancun presenting a world championship doubleheader on Saturday featuring the first world heavyweight championship ever staged in Mexico when World Boxing Council champion Oleg Maskaev defends his title against WBC interim champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter as well as Diaz facing Campbell, the International Boxing Federation No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger.

King made the announcement at the final press conference for the event, named “History in Cancun.” With principals from Saturday’s fight card assembled in front of the media, King read passages from a February resignation letter from Diaz’s attorney Fred Levin addressed to Diaz’s manager Willie Savannah.

“It has come to the point where I can no longer in good conscience represent Juan Diaz,” Levin wrote, lamenting the fact that he had only spoken to Diaz on one occasion.

The highly respected and successful lawyer added: “Willie, I’ve been practicing law for almost 47 years. I have never had a client complain about anything that I have done in the practice of law until now.”

King echoed Levin’s sentiments, noting that he, too, is enduring a barrage of complaints from Savannah while Diaz’s career continues to skyrocket.

“Juan Diaz and Willie Savannah seem to be doing just fine,” King said. “Juan was lucky to make $100,000 for a fight before he came to me. He made $2 million in his first year with me and I arranged for him to fight for two more world titles, which he won. He’ll make another $800,000 on Saturday night.

“It seems to me that Juan has been doing his job inside the ring and I’ve been doing my job as his promoter outside the ring. I’m still trying to figure out what it is Willie’s not getting when looking back upon one of the best financed and most successful career progressions I have ever been part of.”

King then announced his resignation.

“I bring this up to you today because, like Fred Levin, I have made a decision to no longer promote Juan Diaz after Saturday’s fight. And it’s not because I wouldn’t like to continue to work with Juan. It’s for the same reason the esteemed Fred Levin quit. I will no longer work with Juan’s manager Willie Savannah.”

boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worlwide

Throwdown Industries To Become IFL's Official Energy Drink, Fight Gloves and Ring‏

NEW YORK– The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) and Throwdown Industries today announced a multi-year partnership, making Throwdown “The Official Energy Drink, Fight Gloves and Ring” of the IFL. Throwdown Industries is a leading provider of MMA fight gear, cages, rings, training centers and the Official Energy Drink of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Cott Corporation (NYSE:COT; TSX:BCB), is the world's largest retailer brand soft drink provider. The deal began Friday, February 29 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas and will continue with all IFL events in 2008 and 2009. “We are very pleased to be able to add one of the growing brands in the industry in Throwdown to the IFL family,” said IFL CEO Jay Larkin. “The extensive marketing that an industry giant like the Cott Corporation, one of the legends in the consumer packaging industry, will put behind this gives us a very strong position to grow our brand and our athletes into the future.” “Throwdown and Cott add credibility and excitement to the sport of MMA through its products, services and partnership with the IFL and other fight leagues, firmly entrenching Throwdown’s global leadership position in supporting MMA” added Throwdown President Mike McIntyre. Throwdown and Cott will implement an extensive activation platform at retail and at IFL events, using IFL athletes, coaches and brands in consumer promotions and a multimedia campaign. They will also support the partnership on IFL broadcasts in the United States on FSN and HDNet, as well as in Canada on Fox Sports Canada and worldwide in the over 70 countries IFL program is currently carried on a weekly basis. The activation plan will launch around the IFL’s next event on Friday, April 4, at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. About Cott Corporation Cott Corporation is one of the world's largest nonalcoholic beverage companies and the world's largest retailer brand soft drink provider. The Company commercializes its business in over 60 countries worldwide, with its principal markets being the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Mexico. Cott markets or supplies over 200 retailer and licensed brands, and Company-owned brands. Its products include carbonated soft drinks, sparkling and flavored waters, energy drinks, sports drinks, juices, juice drinks and smoothies, ready-to-drink teas, and other non-carbonated beverages. The company website is www.cott.com. The brand names referenced in this press release are trademarks of Cott Corporation, its affiliated companies, our customers, or other third parties. About Throwdown Throwdown™ Energy drink is unique in the energy category. Throwdown is a credible, respected brand that has a high level of efficacy with the impact/action sports consumer. “The Throwdown consumer has a mentality of never giving up, putting it all on the line, and pushing toward until they achieve their goal and live under the mindset that to “conquer without risk, is to triumph without glory™”. Classic and Rampage Punch – both available in regular and sugar-free formats -- are scientifically designed for those who want to “Throwdown” by providing double the energy than the average drink in this category. Throwdown Rampage Punch™, the signature flavor of Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, was created specifically for him as he loves punch and loves to punch. About the IFL International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv. ---“So much of a professional athlete's success depends upon not necessarily the play itself but how he deals with... always saying how you deal with good, is just as important as how you deal with bad.”- Brett Favre
Catch the IFL on FSN Sundays at 5 p।m. and LIVE on HDNet on April 4 and May 16 boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

In Celebration of Womans History Month, My Christ Entertainment in association with McKoy Joubert presents; Virtuous Woman

In Celebration of Womans History Month, My Christ Entertainment in association with McKoy Joubert presents; Virtuous Woman