TAFRIJA 2008!
The youth of Nkurobo are producing our second dinner theatre. It will feature live and recorded performances by Nkurobo in the areas of drama, poetry and music! Dinner will be provided for everyone courtesy of Mama Abena's Kitchen!
This is a fundraiser for our second youth conference: the NKUROBO NHYIAMU 2008 which will be July 18-20, 2008. Time and Place Date: Saturday, March 22, 2008 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Afrikan Djeli Cultural Center 840 R. David Abernathy Blvd. Atlanta, GA., ADMISSION: 20 for adults, 10 for teens (12-19), and 5 for children (12 and under)....large family plan is available, please call the contact number ahead of time to arrange everything...this will fund our youth conference and all of the work that it requires to put it together...if you are unable to attend you can pledge a donation amount to us (greatly appreciated)by calling our contact number below.
Contact Info Phone: 404 762 9275
Jambo! Ete Sen! Greetings!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Hunky Dorys Fight Night - Dunne set for Argy Bargy! July 12
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
HOT from Pacquiao-Diaz Media Central!
HOT FROM PACQUIAO-DIAZ MEDIA CENTRAL! Today's Select Clips
Norm Frauenheim, Arizona Republic: "Fight vs. Diaz Marks Crossroads for Pacquiao"
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/sports/articles/0623boxing23.html
Melissa Isaacson, Chicago Tribune: "Boxer David Diaz Knows The Stakes"
http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/boxing/cs-080621-david-diaz-wbc-lightweight-boxing,1,6855067.story
Roman Modrowski, Chicago Sun-Times: "Lightweight Champion David Diaz Hasn't Taken Easy Route to Success"
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/boxing/1018680,CST-SPT-fite22.article
Steve Carp, Las Vegas Review-Journal: "Diaz at Ease Heading into WBC Title Fight"
http://www.lvrj.com/sports/20638819.html
Steve Kim, MaxBoxing.com: "Pacquiao The Promoter"
http://maxboxing.com/Kim/Kim062308.asp
Bart Barry, 15Rounds.com: "In Celebration of What's Good for Us"
http://15rounds.com/Columns/bbarry/celebration-062308.php
Franklin McNeil, Star Ledger: "Pacquiao Out To Send Diaz a Powerful Message"
http://www.nj.com/columns/ledger/mcneil/index.ssf?/base/columns-0/121410937291310.xml&coll=1
John Whisler, Express-News: "View From The Corner"
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/boxing/stories/MYSA.062208.BOX.View.EN.27ee8aef.html
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Pacquiao vs. Diaz will take place Saturday, June 28 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, and will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Arthur Abraham – Edison Miranda II Giovanni Lorenzo vs. Raul Marquez June 21, 2008 ● LIVE ON SHOWTIME ● Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
HOLLYWOOD, Fla.– With three well-timed power punches, “King” Arthur Abraham blasted his was to a definitive fourth-round TKO over nemesis Edison Miranda in a thrilling rematch Saturday on SHOWTIME. In a terrific co-feature, an IBF middleweight eliminator, veteran Raul Marquez won a close unanimous 12-round decision over Dominican upstart Giovanni Lorenzo. All three judges scored the bout 114-113.
The two-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast was presented by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.
PHOTOS: TOM CASINO/ SHOWTIME
Slightly behind after three rounds, undefeated IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (white trunks) roared back to floor Edison Miranda three times before winning by convincing, impressive fourth-round TKO in their highly anticipated rematch Saturday on SHOWTIME.
In one of the most anticipated rematches since Marquez-Vazquez II, Abraham and Miranda had unfinished business. In their first fight, in September 2006 in Germany, Abraham won a controversial, and some say confusing, unanimous decision after suffering a broken jaw in the fifth round. Miranda had five points deducted in that fight (for a head butt and repeated low blows).
On Saturday, they met at a catchweight of 166 pounds with Abraham’s IBF middleweight title belt sitting safely in his dressing room. But Abraham left no doubt with a powerful display that Miranda could not withstand.
Despite winning two of the first three rounds on the scorecards, Miranda went down three times in the fourth round. The first came after a straight right hand landed squarely on Miranda’s chin. Abraham sent Miranda reeling just moments after he got up with a vicious left hook. A final, flush left hook sent Miranda down for the third time in the round and referee Tellis Assmenios waved it off at 1:13.
“Abraham showed us that he is a force to be reckoned with,” said SHOWTIME analyst AL Bernstein. “For one thing, he is very difficult to hit and hurt. More importantly, he has serious power.”
“Boom, Boom, Boom,” said Abraham as he watched the replay of his knockdown punches with SHOWTIME reporter Jim Gray immediately after the fight. “In this fight, I was more cautious. The last time, I didn't pay as much attention to that. Tonight, I tired him out then knocked him down.”
The undefeated middleweight champion, Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) is an Armenian native now living and training in Germany. After the fight, he told the SHOWTIME audience that he enjoyed fighting in America and for the enthusiastic crowd at Hard Rock Live. And that he wanted the opportunity to fight Oscar De La Hoya and Kelly Pavlik next.
Miranda, of Yonkers, NY, by way of Colombia, drops to 30-3, (26 KOs) and has said he plans to campaign at 168 regardless of the outcome of this fight.
“He came very well prepared,” said Miranda. “I have no quarrels tonight. He felt very strong. I don't know what happened. I was 100 percent coming into this fight. The last fight, I was 50 percent. I don't know. He was too strong today. He's a great champion.”
In a thrilling IBF middleweight elimination bout, veteran Raul Marquez (right) dealt previously unbeaten Giovanni Lorenzo his initial defeat with a close, unanimous 12-round decision in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature.
The Lorenzo-Marquez fight was a bruising, physical and entertaining affair. Marquez, at 36-years-old, clearly showed that he has the heart, will and skill to fight Abraham for the IBF title.
Despite a slow start, Marquez dominated Lorenzo in the middle rounds. He found a rhythm in the fourth round and fought a tough and intelligent fight. Marquez sustained two deep cuts over his right eye in the 10th as Lorenzo pressed him in the last three rounds. But it wasn’t enough to overcome the game and gritty veteran.
SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING’s Steve Albert and Al Bernstein called the action from ringside with Jim Gray serving as a roving reporter. The executive producer of the SHOWTIME telecast was David Dinkins Jr., the producer was Chuck McKean with Bob Dunphy directing.
REPLAYS
Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will re-air on SHO Sports Presents on Tuesday, June 24, at 10 p.m. ET/PT (SHO2). SHO Sports Presents, a daily weekday series, replays heart-pounding boxing and EliteXC fight telecasts from SHOWTIME Sports’ arsenal every Monday through Friday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2.
For more information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photo galleries and complete telecast information, please visit http://www.SHO.com/Sports.
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Lindland Lays Down The Law In And Out Of The Ring Oregon Politician & World-Class MMA fighter
SIGNAL HILL, California– 2000 U.S. Olympic Silver Medal Wrestler, Matt “The Law” Lindland would bring the same dogged determination that made him one of the world’s top professional mixed-martial-artists to a job in the Oregon House of Representatives.
The 38-year-old resident of Oregon City may be near the end of his fighting career, but his political life is just beginning. Recently winning the Republican nomination for House District 52 in Oregon, Lindland received 58-percent of the votes in the primary and has begun his campaign for the general election in the fall.
Oregon suffers from some of the worst unemployment rates in the country, and Lindland believes there’s a solution—if the state became competitive in the global marketplace, jobs would open in the private sector and the quality of life would improve for his prospective constituents. When it comes to building a world-class school system, the would-be Representative believes in shifting power from the bureaucracy to the teachers, parents and principals. Other key issues for him include changing land laws to make them fair to property owners, discontinuing government regulation of property values, and opposing tax increases. Lindland offers an alternative to the Democrats’ planned tax hikes, which he feels would be dangerous to an already shaky economy. Instead, he proposes that if tax revenues continue to decline, state government should spend less and not raise taxes for families already suffering from the present recession.
The Oregonian endorsed Lindland’s candidacy:
Lindland, who is making his first run for public office, is a conservative who thinks state government takes too much out of the pockets of families and generally interferes too much in their lives. After a slow start to his campaign, he has shown signs of the resolve and discipline that made him a medal-winning amateur wrestler. (Phyllis) Thiemann, while very pleasant and interested in some district issues, makes a less compelling argument for her election. We think district Republicans will be hungry for Lindland’s gift.
Lindland has been a fighter all of his life. In fact, he earned his nickname, “The Law,” in an unusual way. He lost the championship final of the U.S. Olympic Wrestling Team Trials to Keith Sieracki, who, according to Lindland, tripped him. Lindland appealed, based on rules prohibiting Greco-Roman wrestlers from using their legs for advantage and/or defensive/offensive moves. An arbitrator ordered a rematch and Lindland won. The U.S. Olympic Committee appealed in federal court to keep Sieracki on the team. A three-judge panel and federal district judge all decided in Lindland’s favor. A USOC request in the U.S. Supreme Court was denied. Lindland joined Team USA, captured an Olympic silver medal, and later took the nickname, “The Law.”
Lindland, who has won 20 of his 25 pro MMA fights, is matched against Fabio “Negao” Nascimento in one of five MMA bouts on “Affliction Banned,” July 19 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. This event is headlined by the much-anticipated return of Russian heavyweight superstar and former undisputed PRIDE® champion Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko (27-1) in association with M-1, against former 2-time UFC® heavyweight title-holder Tim “The Maine-iac” Sylvia (24-4).
“I’m so excited to be part of this show,” Lindland said. “I’m excited to be back in the gym and honored to be part of this great card. I love fighting in this arena more than in politics because I know my opponent in the ring. I look him right in the eyes.”
The superstar-studded “Affliction Banned” card is so stacked with talent that it had to be separated into two live shows produced for broadcast. The night’s activities will kick off with a one-hour, free live telecast on FSN (Fox Sports Net) starting at 5 PM Pacific (8 PM/ET), dubbed “Affliction Live,” featuring the highly anticipated US debut of Fedor’s brother, Russian heavyweight Aleksander Emelianenko (13-3), against tough Texan brawler Paul “The Headhunter” Buentello (23-10), of Amarillo, and Brazilian strongman, Antonio Rogerio “Minotoro” Nogueira (13-3) versus veteran Vernon “Tiger” White (26-32-2).
“Affliction Banned” will be distributed on Pay-Per-View and air live (9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT) on cable and satellite viewing in the USA and Canada via iN DEMAND, TVN, Shaw Communications, Viewers Choice Canada, DirecTV, DISH Network, Bell ExpressVue and Star Choice for a suggested retail price of $39.95. The telecast will be available in both standard and high definition television.
Tickets for “Affliction Banned,” range between $50.00 and $1,000.00, and are on sale at the Honda Center Box Office and online at Ticketmaster.com.
To download all video, photos and PR related media go to: http://www.afflictionbanned.com/media.html
Affliction
Already a mainstay for the most elite athletes, heaviest bands, A-listers and the fashion conscious, Affliction Clothing’s ability to set the bar high in fashion is evident in its collection’s indulgence of style and design, focus on quality, and its trademark series of divinely executed, dark and powerful themes. (www.afflictionclothing.com)
The Trump Organization
The Trump Organization encompasses global real estate development and global licensing, sales and marketing, property management, golf course development, entertainment, entertainment and product licensing, brand development as well as restaurants and event planning. Donald J. Trump is the Chairman and President of the Trump Organization, a privately held company in New York. (www.Trump.com)
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
No Holds Barred: 2008 U.S. Olympic Wrestlers VanDusen, Dantzler, Mango, Hrovat, Miller, Bernard, Mocco, Byers, Wheeler, Cormier, Chun
No Holds Barred: 2008 U.S. Olympic Wrestlers VanDusen, Dantzler, Mango, Hrovat, Miller, Bernard, Mocco, Byers, Wheeler, Cormier, Chun
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-06-23T17_40_32-07_00
On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman speaks with members of the 2008 U.S. Olympic wrestling team, who will compete this August at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
They were in New York last week for a media tour, which included promoting the Fuel the Dream program (http://fuelthedream.org/) to assist families with travel expenses to China.
At Foley's New York Pub and Restaurant, we spoke with 11 members of the team about their backgrounds, their careers, and what to expect in Beijing.
They are, in the order in which we spoke: Marcie VanDusen (55 kg/121 lbs., women's freestyle), T.C. Dantzler (74 kg/163 lbs., Greco-Roman), Spenser Mango (55 kg/121 lbs., Greco-Roman), Andy Hrovat (84 kg/185 lbs., men's freestyle), Randi Miller (63 kg/137.5 lbs., women's freestyle), Ali Bernard (72 kg/158.5 lbs., women's freestyle), Steve Mocco (120 kg/264.5 lbs., men's freestyle), Dremiel Byers (120 kg/264.5 lbs., Greco-Roman), Adam Wheeler (96 kg/211.5 lbs., Greco-Roman), Daniel Cormier (96 kg/211.5 lbs., men's freestyle), and Clarissa Chun (48 kg/105.5 lbs., women's freestyle).
Also, No Holds Barred is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.
The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.
The No Holds Barred theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).
Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we review some of the major fights held this past weekend, and preview this coming Saturday's fight between Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz. We begin by particularly focusing upon the long-awaited rematch between IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) and Edison Miranda (30-3, 26 KOs), held at a catch-weight of 166 pounds Saturday, June 21, in Hollywood, Florida, and shown in the U.S. on Showtime. While Abraham won their first bout, held in September 2006 in Germany, by unanimous decision amidst great controversy, this time he left no doubt as to the verdict by knocking down Miranda three times in the fourth round and stopping him for a TKO victory. We also discuss the bout featured on HBO this same night, where 24-year-old Andre Berto (22-0, 19 KOs) picked up the vacant WBC welterweight title, last held by the now-retired Floyd Mayweather Jr., by stopping an overmatched Miguel "Miki" Rodriguez (29-3, 23 KOs) in the seventh round. This coming Saturday, June 28, one of boxing's international icons, Manny Pacquiao (46-3-2, 35 KOs), moves up in weight to lightweight to challenge the WBC titleholder, David Diaz (34-1-1, 178 KOs). This fight will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, and shown in the U.S. on HBO pay-per-view. After reviewing the records of both fighters, we hear the responses of both Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz to questions we asked of them on their media conference calls this past week. 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:
IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/). 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
http://eddiegoldman.com
Enjoy!
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/badge.gif
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-06-23T17_40_32-07_00
On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman speaks with members of the 2008 U.S. Olympic wrestling team, who will compete this August at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
They were in New York last week for a media tour, which included promoting the Fuel the Dream program (http://fuelthedream.org/) to assist families with travel expenses to China.
At Foley's New York Pub and Restaurant, we spoke with 11 members of the team about their backgrounds, their careers, and what to expect in Beijing.
They are, in the order in which we spoke: Marcie VanDusen (55 kg/121 lbs., women's freestyle), T.C. Dantzler (74 kg/163 lbs., Greco-Roman), Spenser Mango (55 kg/121 lbs., Greco-Roman), Andy Hrovat (84 kg/185 lbs., men's freestyle), Randi Miller (63 kg/137.5 lbs., women's freestyle), Ali Bernard (72 kg/158.5 lbs., women's freestyle), Steve Mocco (120 kg/264.5 lbs., men's freestyle), Dremiel Byers (120 kg/264.5 lbs., Greco-Roman), Adam Wheeler (96 kg/211.5 lbs., Greco-Roman), Daniel Cormier (96 kg/211.5 lbs., men's freestyle), and Clarissa Chun (48 kg/105.5 lbs., women's freestyle).
Also, No Holds Barred is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.
The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.
The No Holds Barred theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).
Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we review some of the major fights held this past weekend, and preview this coming Saturday's fight between Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz. We begin by particularly focusing upon the long-awaited rematch between IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) and Edison Miranda (30-3, 26 KOs), held at a catch-weight of 166 pounds Saturday, June 21, in Hollywood, Florida, and shown in the U.S. on Showtime. While Abraham won their first bout, held in September 2006 in Germany, by unanimous decision amidst great controversy, this time he left no doubt as to the verdict by knocking down Miranda three times in the fourth round and stopping him for a TKO victory. We also discuss the bout featured on HBO this same night, where 24-year-old Andre Berto (22-0, 19 KOs) picked up the vacant WBC welterweight title, last held by the now-retired Floyd Mayweather Jr., by stopping an overmatched Miguel "Miki" Rodriguez (29-3, 23 KOs) in the seventh round. This coming Saturday, June 28, one of boxing's international icons, Manny Pacquiao (46-3-2, 35 KOs), moves up in weight to lightweight to challenge the WBC titleholder, David Diaz (34-1-1, 178 KOs). This fight will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, and shown in the U.S. on HBO pay-per-view. After reviewing the records of both fighters, we hear the responses of both Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz to questions we asked of them on their media conference calls this past week. 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:
IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/). 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
http://eddiegoldman.com
Enjoy!
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/badge.gif
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Affliction Banned Poster & Bout Sheet
Go to www.afflictionbanned.com for more information about the greatest single night in MMA history.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Celtic Warrior Bobby Gunn to Headline “War At The Shore” In Atlantic City July 12th
Former IBA cruiserweight champion Bobby Gunn 18-3-1 (15 KO’s) will return to the ring at Bernie Robbins Stadium in Atlantic City, New Jersey on July 12th. The card which is being promoted by FelKO promotions, has already received media attention as it will also feature a special attraction bout between 1988 American League MVP Jose Canseco and former All Pro football player Vai Sikahema. Gunn is excited about the opportunity to headline a highly publicized card, as well as return to the ring following his controversial fight with Cory Phelps in March.
“I’d like to thank my attorney George Kokkalenios for working hard on this deal and the Feldman brothers for helping to make this a reality. In my last fight with Cory Phelps, I was badly cut early in the first round and was not myself”, mentioned Gunn.
“I am excited to be fighting on the same card as Jose Canseco because he was an excellent baseball player who has drawn plenty of attention in the past. We are currently looking at opponents and I expect to challenge for a regional title. In addition, my personal trainer Kyle White will be making his pro debut on the undercard and July 12th will be a special night of boxing”, exclaimed the former WBO cruiserweight title challenger
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
“I’d like to thank my attorney George Kokkalenios for working hard on this deal and the Feldman brothers for helping to make this a reality. In my last fight with Cory Phelps, I was badly cut early in the first round and was not myself”, mentioned Gunn.
“I am excited to be fighting on the same card as Jose Canseco because he was an excellent baseball player who has drawn plenty of attention in the past. We are currently looking at opponents and I expect to challenge for a regional title. In addition, my personal trainer Kyle White will be making his pro debut on the undercard and July 12th will be a special night of boxing”, exclaimed the former WBO cruiserweight title challenger
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
CHICAGO SUN-TIMES PROVIDES LIVE VIDEO STREAM OF HOMETOWN OPEN WORKOUT
CHICAGO, IL.– The Chicago Sun-Times will provide a live video stream today to boxing fans around the globe as World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz along with his manager/trainer Jim Strickland and co-trainer Mike Garcia host a public/media workout at 1PM/CST at JABB Boxing Gym, 410 N. Oakley in Chicago. The live video stream can be viewed at www.sun-times.com/sports.
Said Roman Modrowski, Chicago Sun-Times Online Sports Editor, “David is such a humble person and dedicated athlete, I think he's a fantastic representative of Chicago on this global boxing stage. That's why we do what we can to tell his story in every possible way, whether in the paper or on our Web site.”
Diaz regularly updates his online blog with the Chicago Sun-Times with more information on the fight and his training. The blog can be viewed at
www.sun-times.com/sports/boxing.
The fistic debate as to who is the best will finally be settled Saturday, June 28, when World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion and No. 1 Pound for Pound fighter MANNY PACQUIAO (46-3-2, 34 KOs), challenges the pride of Chicago, WBC lightweight world champion DAVID DIAZ (34-1-1, 17 KOs), in a fight fittingly titled Pacquiao-Diaz Lethal Combination. Pacquiao is attempting to become the first Asian fighter to win sanctioned world titles in four different weight divisions.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Pacquiao vs. Diaz will take place Saturday, June 28 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, and will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Middleweights showcased on “Hassle In The Castle” Duddy-Howe headlining June 28th show in Boston
NEW YORK– Middleweights will be showcased June 28 on “Hassle In The Castle,” presented by Irish Ropes Promotions, headlined by the 10-round main event between undefeated world middleweight contender “Ireland’s” John Duddy in his first fight with new head trainer in his corner, Pat Burns, against Charles Howe (17-4-2, 9 KOs), at The Castle in downtown Boston.
The WBC and WBO No. 2 rated Duddy (24-0, 17 KOs), a native of County Derry in N. Ireland, lives and fights out of Queens, New York, heads a stellar cast of 160-pounders on the card, including unbeaten rising star Donald Orr (12-0, 5 KOs), 2000 Canadian Olympian, and red-hot prospect Edwin Rodriguez (6-0, 5 KOs).
Orr, now living in South Boston, faces former Mexican Pacific Coast champion Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (44-37-2, 37 KOs), in the 8-round co-feature. Valenzuela has been in against the likes of Andre Berto, Ben Tackie and Demetrius Hopkins, to name a few of the more notables.
In the chief supporting bout on the undercard, 2-time U.S. National amateur champion Rodriguez, of Worcester (MA), steps up in class to fight dangerous Hector Hernandez (10-2-2, 4 KOs) in a 6-round bout.
Also on the undercard in a pair of 6-rounders, Boston by way of Ireland cruiserweight Mark Clancy (7-0-1, 1 KO), 4-time Irish National amateur finalist, faces Salah Zabian (6-10, 4 KOs), of Lee (MA); Lynn (MA) junior welterweight Simeon Dunwell (7-0, 2 KOs) meets Aaron Drake (13-6, 9 KOs). Anthony Accardo (1-0, 1 KO) squares off against Brooklyn by way of Guyana junior welterweight Olade “One Shot” Thomas (1-3) in a 4-round match. Philadelphia junior lightweight Frank Trader (1-0, 0 KOs) is also slated to fight on the show. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.
Limited tickets are priced at $50.00 $75.00 and $100.00 and are available at The Kells (Jerry Quinn – 617.733.4535) in Allston, Porter Belly’s (Sean McCormack and Pat O’Sullivan – 617.254.3300) in Brighton, Shenanigans Bar & Grill (Shay Harris – 617.269.9509) in South Boston, and The Banshee Pub (617.436.9747). Tickets are also available at the usual Irish Ropes outlets in New York City and by going on line at www.irishropes.com. Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET, first bout at 7:30 PM/ET.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Holds Barred: Mike Chapman of Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum, Tom Atencio of Affliction
Holds Barred: Mike Chapman of Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum, Tom Atencio of Affliction
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-06-20T17_25_02-07_00
On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman begins with another commentary on the poor level of striking in the mixed martial arts, especially as compared even to mid-level boxing, and the even worse reporting and analysis by many in the so-called MMA "media" regarding various key issues, in particular reflecting their bias in favor of the current UFC owners.
Mike Chapman, the founder of the Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Waterloo, Iowa (http://wrestlingmuseum.org), has long been the top wrestling historian in America. Now that museum has been severely damaged by the storms and floods that have been recently ravaging Iowa and much of the Midwest.
We spoke with Mike about what physical damage has been done to the museum, what this means for its future, and what people can do to assist them.
We also spoke with Tom Atencio, vice president of Affliction, about the move by UFC to run a free cable show directly opposite their July 19 pay-per-view. We also discussed the news that their main event, involving top heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko and former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia, will be contested for the heavyweight championship of the new World Alliance of Mixed Martial Arts (WAMMA), which is an independent sanctioning body.
Also, No Holds Barred is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.
The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.
The No Holds Barred theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).
Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we discuss the recent string of upsets of hometown and undefeated fighters on ESPN2's series of Wednesday and Friday night televised shows, and why undefeated records should not be valued as much as they are in boxing. On Wednesday, June 11, yet another upset took place. IBF top 154-pound contender Sechew Powell of Brooklyn, fighting a subway ride away from home in the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square in Manhattan, was stopped in the seventh round by unheralded 22-year-old Deandre Latimore of Las Vegas and St. Louis. Powell, now 23-2 with 14 KOs, is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing, the co-promoter of this card and whose Seminole Tribe also owns the Hard Rock. All of the prior fights of Latimore, now 19-1 with 16 KOs, had been in Missouri against little-known opposition, with his one loss coming by KO against Ian Gardner last year. After this fight, we spoke with a victorious and jubilant Deandre Latimore. We spoke with promoter Lou DiBella, who formerly promoted Powell and now has been in negotiations with Latimore, We also spoke with ESPN2 announcer Teddy Atlas, who has been calling all these upsets from ringside. And we spoke with IBF 140-pound champion Paulie Malignaggi, who was attending this card, about his plans to fight Ricky Hatton in the fall and his injured right hand. 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:
IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/). 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
http://eddiegoldman.com
Enjoy!
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/badge.gif
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2008-06-20T17_25_02-07_00
On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman begins with another commentary on the poor level of striking in the mixed martial arts, especially as compared even to mid-level boxing, and the even worse reporting and analysis by many in the so-called MMA "media" regarding various key issues, in particular reflecting their bias in favor of the current UFC owners.
Mike Chapman, the founder of the Dan Gable International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Waterloo, Iowa (http://wrestlingmuseum.org), has long been the top wrestling historian in America. Now that museum has been severely damaged by the storms and floods that have been recently ravaging Iowa and much of the Midwest.
We spoke with Mike about what physical damage has been done to the museum, what this means for its future, and what people can do to assist them.
We also spoke with Tom Atencio, vice president of Affliction, about the move by UFC to run a free cable show directly opposite their July 19 pay-per-view. We also discussed the news that their main event, involving top heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko and former UFC heavyweight champion Tim Sylvia, will be contested for the heavyweight championship of the new World Alliance of Mixed Martial Arts (WAMMA), which is an independent sanctioning body.
Also, No Holds Barred is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.
The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.
The No Holds Barred theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).
Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, we discuss the recent string of upsets of hometown and undefeated fighters on ESPN2's series of Wednesday and Friday night televised shows, and why undefeated records should not be valued as much as they are in boxing. On Wednesday, June 11, yet another upset took place. IBF top 154-pound contender Sechew Powell of Brooklyn, fighting a subway ride away from home in the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square in Manhattan, was stopped in the seventh round by unheralded 22-year-old Deandre Latimore of Las Vegas and St. Louis. Powell, now 23-2 with 14 KOs, is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing, the co-promoter of this card and whose Seminole Tribe also owns the Hard Rock. All of the prior fights of Latimore, now 19-1 with 16 KOs, had been in Missouri against little-known opposition, with his one loss coming by KO against Ian Gardner last year. After this fight, we spoke with a victorious and jubilant Deandre Latimore. We spoke with promoter Lou DiBella, who formerly promoted Powell and now has been in negotiations with Latimore, We also spoke with ESPN2 announcer Teddy Atlas, who has been calling all these upsets from ringside. And we spoke with IBF 140-pound champion Paulie Malignaggi, who was attending this card, about his plans to fight Ricky Hatton in the fall and his injured right hand. 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:
IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/). 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
http://eddiegoldman.com
Enjoy!
http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/badge.gif
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
MIDDLEWEIGHT MELEE; Predictions
MIDDLEWEIGHT MELEE: The Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL will serve as the site for a Showtime World Championship Boxing middleweight doubleheader. The 12 round non-title main event bout will feature a rematch between Edison Miranda (30-2, 26 KO’s) and undefeated IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (26-0, 21 KO’s). In the co-feature undefeated IBF #4 ranked contender Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KO’s) challenges IBF #13 ranked contender and former world champion Raul Marquez (40-3-1, 29 KO’s) in a 12 round IBF Mandatory Eliminator bout. IBF champion Abraham is mandated to fight the winner of Lorenzo-Marquez in his next bout. SHOWTIME’s June 21 broadcast will begin at 9pm ET / PT. Tickets, priced at $202, $152, $102, and $52 are now on sale and may be purchased at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or TicketMaster.com.
LOYALTY: Lorenzo’s cut man Sid Brumbach is getting married today. He has put off his honeymoon until after the Lorenzo fight so he can be in Lorenzo’s corner on Saturday night . . . No word on whether he has informed his bride of this yet . . .
PREDICTIONS: An e-mail was sent to the boxing media and to boxing insiders asking their predictions for Saturday’s Lorenzo-Marquez bout. Surprisingly, of the 33 people who responded, 29 selected Lorenzo. Below are the predictions.
Marquez
•Marquez KO8
Conventional wisdom tells you that whenever there's a crossroads bout between an aging mediocre former title holder and a young unproven prospect, the youngster usually wins. Bear in mind, the last time Marquez was used to test a young, upcoming prospect he was brutally taken apart by Taylor in nine rounds.
But Giovanni Lorenzo is no Jermaine Taylor. To say he is an overprotected fighter is an understatement. His record reads like the membership roster of the Underachieving Boxer's Union. Granted he, like Marquez and Taylor, is of Olympian pedigree but how hard is it to make the Olympic team in a country as small as the Dominican Republic. He has displayed good speed and power as a pro but just about any above-average fighter can look spectacular against the parade of palookas he's faced.
Conventional wisdom, in this instance, is dead wrong. Lorenzo will dominate the first few rounds with his speed but Marquez' experience will kick in at about the fourth-round mark. A few well-placed body shots saps Lorenzo of his strength and Marquez tests his chin in the eighth round with a well-timed counter right hook. Lorenzo fails the test miserably as he slumps to the canvas for the full count.
Peter Lim
The Houston Chronicle
•Marquez by decision
Lorenzo is young and hungry, but he hasn’t faced any real competition, and has never gone past 8 rounds. Marquez is a 16 year veteran that is in a do-or-die situation. Lorenzo feels he is being dodged by the best, but 36 y/o Marquez has been waiting in line for a long time. He has shown that he still has something after his 2004 loss to Taylor, so I’m going with Marquez for skill and ability and the fact that he is southpaw. Lorenzo has never faced one before, and that spells trouble! Don’t count out Giovanni Lorenzo, but I do not believe he is a full grown middleweight, yet. So it will be Marquez by decision, using his rugged durability, and veteran ring skills. That silver medal form 1992 still has some luster too it.
MICHAEL CASSELL
PHILADELPHIA BOXING REPORT
•Marquez by SD
I see a tough fight for both combatants. Lorenzo's youth will be a big advantage for him; Marquez will use his experience as a counter to this. Both are hungry for a bigger fight, but it will be the veteran that will have his hand raised in the end. Marquez has better opposition to draw from and even more so, he is fighting for and with pride. He, Raul, knows this is the end of the line if he loses. Lorenzo can/will bounce back should he not be victorious.
John Martinez, ironboxing.com and brickcityboxing.com
•Marquez TKO 8
Lorenzo is younger, quicker and comes from a tremendous amateur background. He has never tasted defeat. His resume doesn’t have the big names on it; however, we have been shown that doesn’t mean anything. He is setting down on his punches and does have some good power. General consensus is that Lorenzo is the favorite of the battle worn Marquez, who happens to cut easy.
But I know Marquez trains well as he actually sparred with one of our young tigers. Should Marquez decide to rough up Lorenzo, which is something Lorenzo has never seen, and rip his body I believe the more mature fighter wins this. Avoiding a headbutt and major cut to Marquez, he may win inside the distance.
Kerry Daigle
Keeppunching.com
Lorenzo
•Lorenzo TKO 7 (on cuts)
Keith Idec
Herald News
•Lorenzo W 12
Kevin Iole
Yahoo Sports
•LORENZO TKO 7
Johnny Bos
Long-time boxing insider, advisor, and manager
•Lorenzo W 12
The SOUTHPAW stance and EXPERIENCE of Marquez will play a huge role the "first few rounds" of the bout but Lorenzo's powerful punches and steady work to the body will slow the former IBF Jr. Middleweight Champ down. Don't get me wrong Marquez is "no push over, even at 36 years old." Look for Marquez to try and take Lorenzo to school during the fight but... youth will endure and Lorenzo will walk away with a tough 12 round decision securing his #1 World IBF ranking and a step closer to a fight with "THE CHAMP"... Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik.
Nelson Fernández
Boxing manager and trainer
•Lorenzo TKO 9
Raul Marquez is a step up in competition for Giovanni Lorenzo, but I believe the promising Dominican will handle it well. The early going may be fought on even terms but as the fight progresses, I expect Lorenzo’s heavier artillery to overwhelm Marquez and seize the day.
Darius Ortiz
Boxing editor, ESPN.com
•Lorenzo TKO (on cuts)
Lorenzo has flown under the radar a bit. The kid can box, he's super hungry, and he understands the opportunity at hand. Thing, Marquez, even at 36, even having been hiatus much of 2004 and 2005, is a step up for Lorenzo. But I'm going with Lorenzo here, with desire being one of the main elements separating the two. Lorenzo via TKO, cuts.
Michael Woods
ESPN The Magazine, ESPN.com, and editor of www.thesweetscience.com
•Lorenzo W 12
I like the youth of Lorenzo to take the fight late.
Steve Kim
Maxboxing.com
•Lorenzo W 12
This will be a decent fight ... Lorenzo will come on strong down the stretch. I would not be surprised if there is a knockdown for either man.
12 round majority decision for Lorenzo
Francisco Salazar
Fightnews.com
•Lorenzo KO 6
Lorenzo has come a long way since his days as a prospect (when he fought here in Reading a few times). He'll overpower Marquez easily.
Don Stewart
Reading Eagle
•Lorenzo TKO 10
Bernie Bahrmasel
Double B. Publicity Inc.
•Lorenzo W 12
I think Giovanni Lorenzo is finally ready to step up, and with a good mixture of boxing ability and pressure, I see him winning a unanimous decision. Raul Marquez will match Lorenzo's aggression, and the Dominican's defensive flaws may allow Marquez to land a few clean shots, but Lorenzo has already shown the ability to battle back from adversity. Lorenzo's speed will offset Marquez's offense and the Mexican's tender facial tissue could also play a factor.
Sean Sullivan
Editor in Chief, Boxing Digest
•Lorenzo by late TKO (cuts)
A long overdue step up for the Dominican who has the look of a future champ but the resume of a severely protected fighter. The only upset I see occurring is if Lorenzo can't take a punch, or if he falls apart should Marquez take his best early and keep firing back. Barring that, I think his precise punching will be too much for Marquez' skin to handle, forcing a cuts stoppage shortly before the bout enters the championship rounds.
Jake Donovan
Boxingscene.com
•Lorenzo W12
Lorenzo is largely unproven, and hasn't met anyone with Marquez' resume to date. Marquez, however, is in the definite twilight of a fine career, having struggled to a draw against a spent Bronko McKart in his last outing. We'll go with youth and aggression over guile and a portside stance in this one, as Lorenzo scores a hard-earned decision in his first real test as a pro.
Scott Yaniga
Bayonne Evening Star-Telegram
•Lorenzo to go 27-0
Joe Pietaro
Editor-in-Chief , New York Sportscene magazine
•Lorenzo W 12
As good a fighter as Marquez was in his heyday, this is Giovanni Lorenzo's time.
Jason Abelson
The Fight Network
•Lorenzo TKO 8 or 9 on cuts
Every time Marquez has stepped up in the past five or six years he has gotten cut and suffered a loss. He took some time off, which can't help him, and has come back to look okay against lower competition, including Bronco McKart who was coming off a KO loss. Lorenzo is young and hungry which will be the difference to the younger man from New York stopping the former world champion on cuts in eight or nine rounds.
Marc Abrams
www.15rounds.com
•Lorenzo KO (middle rounds)
He's young, hungry and may be the future of the division and Marquez, at 36, is over a decade past his title days at 154. Good opportunity for Giovanni to add a name to his resume.
Michael Swann
www.15 Rounds.com
•LORENZO TKO 8
TIM PALESKY
HOST/PRODUCER, KNOCKOUT TV
•Lorenzo W 12
Frederick Dakarai
Milwaukee Courier
•Lorenzo by late KO or decision
Raul Marquez is a tough old vet, but Lorenzo will go back to the basics and box him. Marquez is susceptible to cuts which may become a factor. Marquez will come to fight and make it interesting, especially if Lorenzo chooses to stand and trade. Good fight, but in the end Lorenzo probably stops him late or takes a close but unanimous decision.
Danny Serratelli
Doghouseboxing/Brickcityboxing.com
•Lorenzo TKO 9
Lorenzo is a slick fighter who can mix it up. He sometimes keeps his hands a bit low, but that's because he's so confident of his abilities. This will go a few rounds because Lorenzo has been a bit inactive in 2008, otherwise he would end this fight sooner. Expect Marquez to have some success early before Lorenzo takes over and beats Marquez over 7-rounds before the referee or corner stops it.
Carlos Guzman
FightBeat.com
•Lorenzo W 12
I have learned the hard way in the past with these kinds of fights (veteran vs. up and comer.) My pick is Lorenzo.
Joe Cohen
Islander YouTube's Boxing Info
•Lorenzo W 12
This is a good test for Lorenzo, against Marquez, a dangerous veteran whose resume extends all the way back to the likes of Keith Mullings and Skip Kelp. This Showtime win for Lorenzo should pave the way for a title showdown with even bigger and better opposition in the middleweight division.
Amy Green
Boxing Writer/Publicist
•Lorenzo W 12
I stood next to Sechew Powell as I watched Giovanni Lorenzo struggle with Archak Ter-Meliksetian at Schuetzen Park, but since that night Lorenzo has been on a tear. The young middleweight is undefeated and ready to make his name known throughout the world. Lorenzo will carry his momentum into the biggest fight of his career against Raul Marquez and win by either a TKO or a wide decision. Although the fight is in Florida, Lorenzo will pick up a decisive road win and line himself up for a title shot.
Christopher Roche
www.brickcityboxing.com
•Lorenzo UD (10 rounds to 2 rounds)
Dante Amato
Freelance boxing writer
•Lorenzo W 12
Time to put up or shut up for undefeated Dominican prospect Giovanni Lorenzo, who steps up a notch or two when he faces former IBF jr. middleweight champion Raul 'El Diamante' Marquez.
In spite of the difference in the quality of their opposition, I think it's Lorenzo's time and I look for him to make a statement against veteran Marquez.
Elisa Harrison
Editor, Braggingrightscorner.com
•Lorenzo W12
Raul Marquez has embarked on a successful comeback thus far but this will be Giovanni's night. The 27-year old is on a 6-fight knockout streak and he'll look to make it 7 when he faces Marquez on June 21st. Raul has proved pretty durable throughout his career and he'll make it a competitive fight early on but the younger and stronger Lorenzo will win by a clear cut unanimous decision.
Ramon Aranda
Boxing Editor, AIM: Franchise2
• Lorenzo TKO 6
Lorenzo should win this one rather easily. Marquez has been beyond his better days for quite some time now and I believe that we will see him take a beating over six rounds before the referee saves him. Lorenzo is a very decent puncher and Marquez has become more of a stationary target as the years and wars in the ring have piled up. Lorenzo in six by a stoppage. It won't be a clean KO, but it will be enough to convince the referee that Marquez has had enough.
Geno McGahee
Managing Editor, ringsidereport.com
• Lorenzo KO11
The Lorenzo-Marquez fight is a step-up fight for Lorenzo. He takes on a veteran southpaw fighter who possesses some decent power. In Marquez's last fight, he and Bronco McKart wound up in a draw. Lorenzo has stopped his last eight opponents, all within 7 rounds. I see this fight going a bit longer. Lorenzo will be able to break down Marquez through the early rounds, but Marquez's experience will keep him in the fight. Lorenzo will finally wear out Marquez in the later rounds for a stoppage. Lorenzo stops Marquez in the 11th.
Bob Carroll
Fightin' Words Radio Show Co-host, www.fightinwordsonline.com
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
RESULTS FROM CHICAGO
HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING
FRIDAY, JUNE 20, 2008/SOLO BOXEO TECATE
8 COUNT PRODUCTIONS, TOP RANK INC.
The Aragon Ballroom
Montell Griffin, 49-7, UD10 (100-89 X 3) Corey Cummings, 16-3
Alejandro Valdez, 21-2-1, UD10 (97-93, 97-93, 98-92 ) Anyetei Laryea, 17-4
Adolfo Landeros, 19-10-1, SD8 (77-75, 77-75, 75-77) Alejandro Perez, 12-1-1
Almazbek "Kid Diamond" Raiymkulov, 26-1-1 TKO4 (0:01) Leo Martinez,
13-12
Ivan Popoca, 7-0-1, TKO1 (1:40) Kristian Geraci, 3-3-1
Frederico Flores Jr., 4-3, UD4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Gustavo Palacios, 2-4
Juan Bailon, 3-0, UD4 (40-36 X 3) Gerardo Alarcon, 0-2
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
FRIDAY, JUNE 20, 2008/SOLO BOXEO TECATE
8 COUNT PRODUCTIONS, TOP RANK INC.
The Aragon Ballroom
Montell Griffin, 49-7, UD10 (100-89 X 3) Corey Cummings, 16-3
Alejandro Valdez, 21-2-1, UD10 (97-93, 97-93, 98-92 ) Anyetei Laryea, 17-4
Adolfo Landeros, 19-10-1, SD8 (77-75, 77-75, 75-77) Alejandro Perez, 12-1-1
Almazbek "Kid Diamond" Raiymkulov, 26-1-1 TKO4 (0:01) Leo Martinez,
13-12
Ivan Popoca, 7-0-1, TKO1 (1:40) Kristian Geraci, 3-3-1
Frederico Flores Jr., 4-3, UD4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Gustavo Palacios, 2-4
Juan Bailon, 3-0, UD4 (40-36 X 3) Gerardo Alarcon, 0-2
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
WILFORD SCYPION, JR in Boxing News
Wilford Scypion Jr James Slater on another exciting young gun who is trying to step out of his father’s big boxing boots. AS is the case with Ronald Hearns, another son of a boxing legend attempting to follow in his father’s shoes, Wilford Scypion Jr of Lafayette, Louisiana has a lot to live up to whenever he fights.
His father was a crowd-pleasing middleweight contender back in the 1980s, and though he was unable to win a world title, his reputation is a difficult one for his 28-year-old son to follow.
“It can be hard, and it can be distracting at times,” Wilford Jr said when asked about following his dad.
“People have a tendency to always compare us both. But I try to tell them we are two
different people. My dad had punch power, I have it too. But I’m more of a boxer/puncher type. People expect a lot from me when I fight, and I try to make all my fights exciting and action-packed.”
As an amateur Wilford Jr claims a record of 32-2 (28). Softly-spoken and extremely polite (Wilford called me “sir” a number of times) he said: “I boxed at 156 [11st 2lbs] to begin with, and at the end of my amateur career I was up to 165 [11st 11lbs]. I had my first amateur fight in 1991. I was a Golden Gloves and a two-time Silver Gloves champ.”
It seemed natural he’d follow in his dad’s footsteps, but Wilford Jr explains: “He told me it was really up to my mom. At first my mom didn’t want me to box, but she saw how good I was at a young age and changed her mind. As for my dad, he motivates me. It motivates me when I watch his fights. I have a lot of his fights on tape.
“I always bragged about him when he was fighting. I was proud of him and always told everyone he was my dad.
“I don’t like watching his fight with Willie Classen [who subsequently died after getting knocked out in the 10th round in November 1979].”
Wilford seems saddened about the unfortunate turn of events. His dad fought on, of course, and challenged Marvin Hagler for the world middleweight title in 1983, having outpointed Frank “The Animal” Fletcher the same year for his shot.
Wilford Jr is smaller, though. He boxes at light-middle, but is considering dropping to welter. His record stands at 6-0 (6), having turned pro in May 2007.
“Benji Singleton, a veteran of well over a 100 fights, made me think a lot,” he admitted. “Also, Williams Ganes [who Wilford fought last time out on April 23, winning inside four], was very strong.
“I’ve never been hurt in the ring as a pro. I have been knocked down as an amateur, when I fought for the Golden Gloves. But I got straight back up and won.”
Interestingly, he has a female trainer, former Irish pro Deirdre Gogarty. “She’s a very smart trainer,” says Wilford Jnr. “She gave me a B+ for my last fight. I do a lot of good, high class sparring, too. I learn a lot from working with fighters like Reggie Johnson and Marcus Johnson. I try to spar as much as I can. I’m with good people being promoted by Kerry Daigle [of Keep Punching promotions].”
It helps that Wilford Jr loves training. He’s in the gym as often as he can be, sometimes six days a week. As much as he clearly loves boxing, Wilford has a second love – music.
“My grandfather, the late, great L.C Donatto [legendary Louisiana Zydeco musician] got me into it at age four.
“I play in a Zydeco band. I’d have to say, boxing is my first love. I have it in my heart, but I love my music, too. I admire boxers because of what they have to go through.”
He looked up to Sugar Ray Leonard, Pernell Whitaker, Evander Holyfield and Hagler (despite Marvin beating his dad). Another favourite was heavyweight Gerry Cooney, his father’s best friend.
Looking ahead, though, Scypion Jr dreams of fighting either Miguel Cotto or Floyd Mayweather.
“They are two fighters who are the best at or around my weight class,” he said.
“I don’t want to fight anybody like that before I’m ready, though.”
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
US Olympic Alternate Danny O’Connor Turning Pro in September
FRAMINGHAM, Mass.– Many amateur boxers who do not qualify for national teams often develop into better pros than some Olympians. Contrasting styles and maturation processes often are contributing factors and 2008 U.S. Olympic first alternate Danny O’Connor could very well be the next example of a boxer becoming a better professional than amateur.
The 23-year-old O’Connor, winner of this year’s US Future Stars National Championship, in which he was named Most Outstanding Boxer, as well as the National Golden Gloves Tournament, both in the 141-pound light welterweight division. Danny lost to U.S. Olympian Javier Molina in the semifinals of the 2007 Championships, 21-20, and US Olympic Trials, 18-10. As a USA Boxing Team alternate, O’Connor lives and trains with the US Olympian and other alternates in Colorado Springs and he also is a stablemate of US Olympic welterweight Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade, the 2008 World Championships gold-medal winner. Danny will also travel next month to China with Team USA for the Olympic Games.
“I wanted an opportunity to be part of the Olympics,” O’Connor explained why he’s waiting until after the Olympic to turn pro. “I’m gaining a lot of valuable experience sparring with Molina and representing the United States in competitions against other countries. If this were not an Olympic year, I’d be the No. 1 rated light welterweight in the country because I have more points than Molina. But it’s an Olympic year and he’s rated No. 1 as the US Olympian. I hadn’t been fighting very long when I fought him in the Olympic Trials.”
O’Connor was a Massachusetts high school wrestling champion when he was a sophomore. The stylish southpaw that reminds some of a cross between a young Paul Spadafora and Winky Wright, offensively and defensively, respectively, had been training less than six months when he participated in his first national tournament in 2006.
A lifelong resident of Framingham (MA), Danny has gone from a 4-time New England Golden Gloves champion, winning the novice and open titles in his first time around the circuit, to recently being profiled in Sports Illustrated (Faces In The Crowd).
“Danny has improved immensely over the last nine months,” O’Connor’s coach DaveKeefe noted. “He’s going to be a real good pro prospect with a solid defense, great speed and a sharp body shot.”
Critics sometimes question the power of amateur boxers because points are determined by punches landed, not necessarily power shots putting opponents on the canvas, and scoring is the result of accumulated points as opposed to who hurts whom the most.
O’Connor is working on power punching with his coach at the 401 Gym in Rhode Island, where Andrade also trains. “I understand if some people feel that way but I do have power and I’m working with Dave to improve in that area,” Danny explained. “There are different styles between the amateurs and pros. In the amateurs you box for points and protect leads. It’s a lot different from fighting with eight-ounce gloves and no headgear. I watch boxers but have my own style. After the Olympics I’m going to turn pro, hopefully, in September. I want to be world champion, which is a dream I’ve had since the first time I put on a pair of gloves.”
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
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©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
The 23-year-old O’Connor, winner of this year’s US Future Stars National Championship, in which he was named Most Outstanding Boxer, as well as the National Golden Gloves Tournament, both in the 141-pound light welterweight division. Danny lost to U.S. Olympian Javier Molina in the semifinals of the 2007 Championships, 21-20, and US Olympic Trials, 18-10. As a USA Boxing Team alternate, O’Connor lives and trains with the US Olympian and other alternates in Colorado Springs and he also is a stablemate of US Olympic welterweight Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade, the 2008 World Championships gold-medal winner. Danny will also travel next month to China with Team USA for the Olympic Games.
“I wanted an opportunity to be part of the Olympics,” O’Connor explained why he’s waiting until after the Olympic to turn pro. “I’m gaining a lot of valuable experience sparring with Molina and representing the United States in competitions against other countries. If this were not an Olympic year, I’d be the No. 1 rated light welterweight in the country because I have more points than Molina. But it’s an Olympic year and he’s rated No. 1 as the US Olympian. I hadn’t been fighting very long when I fought him in the Olympic Trials.”
O’Connor was a Massachusetts high school wrestling champion when he was a sophomore. The stylish southpaw that reminds some of a cross between a young Paul Spadafora and Winky Wright, offensively and defensively, respectively, had been training less than six months when he participated in his first national tournament in 2006.
A lifelong resident of Framingham (MA), Danny has gone from a 4-time New England Golden Gloves champion, winning the novice and open titles in his first time around the circuit, to recently being profiled in Sports Illustrated (Faces In The Crowd).
“Danny has improved immensely over the last nine months,” O’Connor’s coach DaveKeefe noted. “He’s going to be a real good pro prospect with a solid defense, great speed and a sharp body shot.”
Critics sometimes question the power of amateur boxers because points are determined by punches landed, not necessarily power shots putting opponents on the canvas, and scoring is the result of accumulated points as opposed to who hurts whom the most.
O’Connor is working on power punching with his coach at the 401 Gym in Rhode Island, where Andrade also trains. “I understand if some people feel that way but I do have power and I’m working with Dave to improve in that area,” Danny explained. “There are different styles between the amateurs and pros. In the amateurs you box for points and protect leads. It’s a lot different from fighting with eight-ounce gloves and no headgear. I watch boxers but have my own style. After the Olympics I’m going to turn pro, hopefully, in September. I want to be world champion, which is a dream I’ve had since the first time I put on a pair of gloves.”
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
NOONS OVERWHELMS EDWARDS TO RETAIN ELITEXC TITLE, DIAZ SCORES THIRD-ROUND TKO OVER CORBBREY, NINJA, PEE WEE, FEIJAO ALSO TRIUMPH
HONOLULU – On a night fit for a King, not even a post-fight scuffle could ruin the moment for KJ Noons, who retained the EliteXC lightweight title with a devastating 48-second, first-round TKO over Yves Edwards Saturday at the Blaisdell Arena on SHOWTIME.
Challenger Yves Edwards (left) and EliteXC lightweight champion KJ Noons pose after Friday's weigh-in at Fashion 45 in Honolulu. Noons, who weighed the division-limit 160 pounds, defends against Edwards, who weighed 158 1/2, in the main event of "Return Of The King'' Saturday at the Blaisdell Arena on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).
Photos: TOM CASINO/EliteXC
In the co-feature on a card billed as “Return Of The King,’’ Nick Diaz registered a third-round TKO over Muhsin Corbbrey.
Nick Diaz (left) and Muhsin Corbbrey pose after the weigh-in.
The victories by Noons, who was raised in Kailua-Kona until he was 16, and Diaz sets up what could be a rematch, but a return bout can’t come soon enough for the fighters’ volatile camp members who nearly came to blows in the cage after the main event. The fracas caught most everyone off guard.
“I’m not sure what happened or who started what, but I feel bad for Yves, a class act who trained really hard for this fight,’’ Noons said. “Nick has no class, he’s a bum, a piece of (expletive) and he and his team disrespected my family and I with their gestures and trash talk and tried to upstage our fight.
“I’m the champion and have the EliteXC belt. I’ll fight anybody. I didn’t see his fight but if they say Nick deserves a rematch, then we can fight and I’ll beat him again – if he can make 160 pounds.’’
Noons shocked the MMA world when he captured the first-ever EliteXC lightweight belt with an upset TKO victory over Diaz during EliteXC’s fight card on Nov. 10, 2007, on SHOWTIME. “I hope they make the fight with Diaz right here at the Blaisdell, but wherever it is, I will be ready,’’ Noons said.
Offered Diaz, who weighed in at 169 pounds a day earlier: “I’m sorry about what happened in the cage afterward, but I didn’t start it. His guys were talking (expletive) to us.’
The event was presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s EliteXC, and aired on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). The explosive main event can be seen exclusively on Cage Cam at SHO.com/Sports.
“We accomplished what we set out to do on each and every fight card and that is deliver quality, exciting, entertaining fights,’’ said Douglas DeLuca, Executive Chairman, ProElite, Inc. “The fights were outstanding. I can’t say enough about the athletes’ performances. They were just spectacular.
“It was great being back in Honolulu. The fans in attendance and those watching on SHOWTIME got a terrific night of mixed martial arts.’’
As far as homecomings go, it doesn’t get better than this for the popular Noons, who gave the hometown fans what they came to see: a sensational knockout win.
Fighting in the same arena his father did 30 years ago, Noons (6-1), of San Diego, Calif., landed a straight right hand that dropped Edwards (34-14-1), of Coconut Creek, Fla., on the seat of his pants. Noons quickly pounced on the veteran, who had a three-fight winning streak end, landed upwards of 16 unanswered punches, most of which connected, and that was that.
“Yves caught me, rocked me,” said Noons, who also is a professional boxer. He has won all six of his MMA fights inside the distance. “But once I knocked him down I knew I had to go in and finish it.’
After a close, competitive first-round, Diaz (17-7) of Stockton, Calif., mostly had his way against Corbbrey (7-3) of Hilton Head, S.C. He was on top and had landed about 17 unanswered punches, many of which landed, before the referee stepped in and halted matters at 3:59 of the third.
“I wasn’t exactly thrilled with my fight; in fact, I am pretty disappointed,’’ said southpaw Diaz, who suffered a cut around his left eye. “This was one of my worst fights. I felt slow. I hated coming in that heavy. I worked very hard to cut the weight, but it just wouldn’t come off.
“I will and can still make 160 pounds and will fight KJ any time, any place. I’ll fight anybody in the world who thinks they are better than me or who is considered better than me.’’
Despite a leap in class, Corbbrey did not appear intimidated or in awe of the world-class Cesar Gracie jiu-jitsu black. Diaz was just too big.
“Please, powers of be, let me fight Diaz again, but only when we weigh the same,’’ Corbbrey said. “I have no problem with the stoppage and I know I agreed to the fight, but he must have weighed 200 pounds. He out-fought me and I respect him for that. But he wore me out when he leaned on me.’’
In other SHOWTIME televised fights: former EliteXC 185-pound champ Murilo “Ninja” Rua (16-8-1) of Brazil scored a 3:16, first-round TKO (strikes) over previously undefeated Australian-born, Las Vegas-based Tony Bonello (16-1-1, 1 NC)Undefeated Tony Bonello (left) and former EliteXC middleweight titleholder Murilo "Ninja" Rua square off after Friday's weigh-in.
Brazil’s highly regarded Rafael Feijao (6-1) registered an impressive 2:47, first-round TKO (strikes) over Wayne Cole (11-7) of Norman, Okla., in a fight at 205 pounds.
Wayne Cole (left) faces highly regarded Brazilian Rafael Feijao in the opening bout of the telecast.
Heavyweight prospect Dave “Pee Wee” Herman (11-0) of Bloomington, Ind., registered a 2:19, first-round TKO (strikes) over Ron Waterman (15-6-2) of Greeley, Colo. (Fighter Pages below).
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman (left) puts his unbeaten record on the line against veteran Ron Waterman in one of the five SHOWTIME-televised fights.
In an upset in the top undercard fight streamed live and for free at ProElite.com, Bubba McDaniel (12-4) of Wichita Falls, Tex., submitted (rear choke) popular local favorite and ICON 185-pound champ Kala Kolohe (6-2) of Waianae, Hawaii, at 0:41 of the first round. In other results on an undercard that featured all Hawaiian fighters, Mark Oshiro (11-1) of Honolulu scored a 2:12, first-round TKO over Chris “Red Bull’’ Willems (2-2-1) of Hilo at 140 pounds; Kaleo Kwan (9-8) of Waimanalo took a unanimous decision over Mike Aina (9-7-1) of Hilo at 160; and PJ Dean (1-3-1) of Waianae and Dean Lista (3-1-1) of Honolulu fought to a majority draw. A scheduled scrap between promising unbeaten Lolohea Mahe (4-0) of Kahului, Maui, and Chris Barnard (1-3) of Waianae at 265 pounds was cancelled when Barnard withdrew earlier in the evening.
Russell Doane of Waipahu overpowered Dwayne Haney (2-1) of Honolulu en route to winning a 2:46, first-round TKO and Carl Barton (1-0) of Honolulu scored a 55-second, first-round TKO over Kepa Madeiros (0-1) of Honolulu in non-televised bouts.
In a performance in which SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo referred to as “vintage Ninja Rua,” the Brazilian totally outclassed Bonello, who was stepping up in class for the first time.
“I really wanted to prove a point and that was to win by knockout and not submission,’’ Ninja said. “This guy did a lot of talking; I know he was trying to get to me. So when I had him down, I really wanted to hurt him. I want to get back the EliteXC belt and will fight anybody to do so.
“I get criticized by people who don’t think I have good striking skills so I’m happy to win the way I did. This fight was dedicated to my baby boy who is due in late August or early September.’’
In a wild, fast-paced, exciting encounter, Herman overcame a quick start by Waterman to win decisively in a performance highlighted by a remarkable flying roundhouse leg kick.
“I didn’t really know what to expect,’’ said Herman, who trains out of the garage at his house. “Nothing he did fazed me. I’m thrilled to get the win and especially happy to get the knockout. But I think I’m going to dump my ‘Pee Wee’’ nickname and go with ‘Blueberry Muffin’ from now on.
“I love blueberry muffins and my mom, Karen, makes the best.’’
In an outstanding performance, Brazil’s Rafael Feijao was smashing in his second EliteXC start. The referee stopped the bout after Feijao had landed about 12 unanswered shots on Cole.
“This is the kind of impressive performance that I wanted, but I still have more to show,” said Feijao, who was cornered by Anderson Silva, among others. “The ref did his job. If he didn’t stop it when he did I’d still be throwing punches.
“He got me with a good shot at the start but I get hit like that in training all the time. I felt strong. Training with Anderson and the guys I do is the best thing to ever to happen to me. Whether it’s a knockout or not, as long as I win I’m happy. I’m ready to fight anybody at 205 pounds.
Said Cole: “That guy is talented, for sure, but I feel I am in his class. I was just flat tonight for some reason. It was good experience and I will be back.’’
SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo handled play-by-play Saturday with world wrestling star Bill Goldberg and The Fight Professor, Stephen Quadros, serving as color analysts. The executive producer was David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.
Saturday’s sensational card will re-air as follows;
Fighter pages (televised bouts): Noons (http://kjnoons.proelite.com), Edwards (http://yvesedwards.proelite.com), Diaz (http://nickdiaz.proelite.com), Corbbrey (http://muhsincorbbrey.proelite.com), Rua (http://murilorua.proelite.com), Bonello (http://tonybonello.proelite.com), Herman (http://daveherman.proelite.com), Waterman (http://ronwaterman.proelite.com), Feijao (http://rafaelfeijao.proelite.com), Cole (http://waynecole.proelite.com).
Fighter pages (non-televised bouts): Kolohe (http://kalakolohe.proelite.com), McDaniel (http://bubbamcdaniel.proelite.com), Oshiro (http://markoshiro.proelite.com), Williams (http://chriswillems.proelite.com), Kwan (http://kaleokwan.proelite.com), Aina (http://mikeaina.proelite.com), Mahe (http://Lolaheamahe.proelite.com), Bernard (http://chrisbernard.proelite.com), Dean (http://pjdean.proelite.com), Lista (http://deanlista.proelite.com), Doane (http://russelldoane.proelite.com), Haney (http://dwaynehaney.proelite.com), Madeiros (http://kepamadeiros.proelite.com), Barton (http://carlbarton.proelite.com).
For more information on 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 information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photo galleries and complete telecast information, please visit http://www.SHO.com/Sports.
About ProElite, Inc.
ProElite, Inc. 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. The company has established a partnership with CBS that brings MMA to a major primetime network for the first time. Through acquisitions of MMA organizations in Asia and Europe, ProElite is a global leader with an exclusive distribution agreement for its program library with IMG Media. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. The company’s social media platform, ProElite.com, continues to add thousands of subscribers each month due to the large number of live streaming MMA events, social networking tools, and original and partner-driven content.
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®.
Showtime Networks Inc.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Challenger Yves Edwards (left) and EliteXC lightweight champion KJ Noons pose after Friday's weigh-in at Fashion 45 in Honolulu. Noons, who weighed the division-limit 160 pounds, defends against Edwards, who weighed 158 1/2, in the main event of "Return Of The King'' Saturday at the Blaisdell Arena on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).
Photos: TOM CASINO/EliteXC
In the co-feature on a card billed as “Return Of The King,’’ Nick Diaz registered a third-round TKO over Muhsin Corbbrey.
Nick Diaz (left) and Muhsin Corbbrey pose after the weigh-in.
The victories by Noons, who was raised in Kailua-Kona until he was 16, and Diaz sets up what could be a rematch, but a return bout can’t come soon enough for the fighters’ volatile camp members who nearly came to blows in the cage after the main event. The fracas caught most everyone off guard.
“I’m not sure what happened or who started what, but I feel bad for Yves, a class act who trained really hard for this fight,’’ Noons said. “Nick has no class, he’s a bum, a piece of (expletive) and he and his team disrespected my family and I with their gestures and trash talk and tried to upstage our fight.
“I’m the champion and have the EliteXC belt. I’ll fight anybody. I didn’t see his fight but if they say Nick deserves a rematch, then we can fight and I’ll beat him again – if he can make 160 pounds.’’
Noons shocked the MMA world when he captured the first-ever EliteXC lightweight belt with an upset TKO victory over Diaz during EliteXC’s fight card on Nov. 10, 2007, on SHOWTIME. “I hope they make the fight with Diaz right here at the Blaisdell, but wherever it is, I will be ready,’’ Noons said.
Offered Diaz, who weighed in at 169 pounds a day earlier: “I’m sorry about what happened in the cage afterward, but I didn’t start it. His guys were talking (expletive) to us.’
The event was presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s EliteXC, and aired on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast). The explosive main event can be seen exclusively on Cage Cam at SHO.com/Sports.
“We accomplished what we set out to do on each and every fight card and that is deliver quality, exciting, entertaining fights,’’ said Douglas DeLuca, Executive Chairman, ProElite, Inc. “The fights were outstanding. I can’t say enough about the athletes’ performances. They were just spectacular.
“It was great being back in Honolulu. The fans in attendance and those watching on SHOWTIME got a terrific night of mixed martial arts.’’
As far as homecomings go, it doesn’t get better than this for the popular Noons, who gave the hometown fans what they came to see: a sensational knockout win.
Fighting in the same arena his father did 30 years ago, Noons (6-1), of San Diego, Calif., landed a straight right hand that dropped Edwards (34-14-1), of Coconut Creek, Fla., on the seat of his pants. Noons quickly pounced on the veteran, who had a three-fight winning streak end, landed upwards of 16 unanswered punches, most of which connected, and that was that.
“Yves caught me, rocked me,” said Noons, who also is a professional boxer. He has won all six of his MMA fights inside the distance. “But once I knocked him down I knew I had to go in and finish it.’
After a close, competitive first-round, Diaz (17-7) of Stockton, Calif., mostly had his way against Corbbrey (7-3) of Hilton Head, S.C. He was on top and had landed about 17 unanswered punches, many of which landed, before the referee stepped in and halted matters at 3:59 of the third.
“I wasn’t exactly thrilled with my fight; in fact, I am pretty disappointed,’’ said southpaw Diaz, who suffered a cut around his left eye. “This was one of my worst fights. I felt slow. I hated coming in that heavy. I worked very hard to cut the weight, but it just wouldn’t come off.
“I will and can still make 160 pounds and will fight KJ any time, any place. I’ll fight anybody in the world who thinks they are better than me or who is considered better than me.’’
Despite a leap in class, Corbbrey did not appear intimidated or in awe of the world-class Cesar Gracie jiu-jitsu black. Diaz was just too big.
“Please, powers of be, let me fight Diaz again, but only when we weigh the same,’’ Corbbrey said. “I have no problem with the stoppage and I know I agreed to the fight, but he must have weighed 200 pounds. He out-fought me and I respect him for that. But he wore me out when he leaned on me.’’
In other SHOWTIME televised fights: former EliteXC 185-pound champ Murilo “Ninja” Rua (16-8-1) of Brazil scored a 3:16, first-round TKO (strikes) over previously undefeated Australian-born, Las Vegas-based Tony Bonello (16-1-1, 1 NC)Undefeated Tony Bonello (left) and former EliteXC middleweight titleholder Murilo "Ninja" Rua square off after Friday's weigh-in.
Brazil’s highly regarded Rafael Feijao (6-1) registered an impressive 2:47, first-round TKO (strikes) over Wayne Cole (11-7) of Norman, Okla., in a fight at 205 pounds.
Wayne Cole (left) faces highly regarded Brazilian Rafael Feijao in the opening bout of the telecast.
Heavyweight prospect Dave “Pee Wee” Herman (11-0) of Bloomington, Ind., registered a 2:19, first-round TKO (strikes) over Ron Waterman (15-6-2) of Greeley, Colo. (Fighter Pages below).
Dave "Pee Wee" Herman (left) puts his unbeaten record on the line against veteran Ron Waterman in one of the five SHOWTIME-televised fights.
In an upset in the top undercard fight streamed live and for free at ProElite.com, Bubba McDaniel (12-4) of Wichita Falls, Tex., submitted (rear choke) popular local favorite and ICON 185-pound champ Kala Kolohe (6-2) of Waianae, Hawaii, at 0:41 of the first round. In other results on an undercard that featured all Hawaiian fighters, Mark Oshiro (11-1) of Honolulu scored a 2:12, first-round TKO over Chris “Red Bull’’ Willems (2-2-1) of Hilo at 140 pounds; Kaleo Kwan (9-8) of Waimanalo took a unanimous decision over Mike Aina (9-7-1) of Hilo at 160; and PJ Dean (1-3-1) of Waianae and Dean Lista (3-1-1) of Honolulu fought to a majority draw. A scheduled scrap between promising unbeaten Lolohea Mahe (4-0) of Kahului, Maui, and Chris Barnard (1-3) of Waianae at 265 pounds was cancelled when Barnard withdrew earlier in the evening.
Russell Doane of Waipahu overpowered Dwayne Haney (2-1) of Honolulu en route to winning a 2:46, first-round TKO and Carl Barton (1-0) of Honolulu scored a 55-second, first-round TKO over Kepa Madeiros (0-1) of Honolulu in non-televised bouts.
In a performance in which SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo referred to as “vintage Ninja Rua,” the Brazilian totally outclassed Bonello, who was stepping up in class for the first time.
“I really wanted to prove a point and that was to win by knockout and not submission,’’ Ninja said. “This guy did a lot of talking; I know he was trying to get to me. So when I had him down, I really wanted to hurt him. I want to get back the EliteXC belt and will fight anybody to do so.
“I get criticized by people who don’t think I have good striking skills so I’m happy to win the way I did. This fight was dedicated to my baby boy who is due in late August or early September.’’
In a wild, fast-paced, exciting encounter, Herman overcame a quick start by Waterman to win decisively in a performance highlighted by a remarkable flying roundhouse leg kick.
“I didn’t really know what to expect,’’ said Herman, who trains out of the garage at his house. “Nothing he did fazed me. I’m thrilled to get the win and especially happy to get the knockout. But I think I’m going to dump my ‘Pee Wee’’ nickname and go with ‘Blueberry Muffin’ from now on.
“I love blueberry muffins and my mom, Karen, makes the best.’’
In an outstanding performance, Brazil’s Rafael Feijao was smashing in his second EliteXC start. The referee stopped the bout after Feijao had landed about 12 unanswered shots on Cole.
“This is the kind of impressive performance that I wanted, but I still have more to show,” said Feijao, who was cornered by Anderson Silva, among others. “The ref did his job. If he didn’t stop it when he did I’d still be throwing punches.
“He got me with a good shot at the start but I get hit like that in training all the time. I felt strong. Training with Anderson and the guys I do is the best thing to ever to happen to me. Whether it’s a knockout or not, as long as I win I’m happy. I’m ready to fight anybody at 205 pounds.
Said Cole: “That guy is talented, for sure, but I feel I am in his class. I was just flat tonight for some reason. It was good experience and I will be back.’’
SHOWTIME announcer Mauro Ranallo handled play-by-play Saturday with world wrestling star Bill Goldberg and The Fight Professor, Stephen Quadros, serving as color analysts. The executive producer was David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.
Saturday’s sensational card will re-air as follows;
Fighter pages (televised bouts): Noons (http://kjnoons.proelite.com), Edwards (http://yvesedwards.proelite.com), Diaz (http://nickdiaz.proelite.com), Corbbrey (http://muhsincorbbrey.proelite.com), Rua (http://murilorua.proelite.com), Bonello (http://tonybonello.proelite.com), Herman (http://daveherman.proelite.com), Waterman (http://ronwaterman.proelite.com), Feijao (http://rafaelfeijao.proelite.com), Cole (http://waynecole.proelite.com).
Fighter pages (non-televised bouts): Kolohe (http://kalakolohe.proelite.com), McDaniel (http://bubbamcdaniel.proelite.com), Oshiro (http://markoshiro.proelite.com), Williams (http://chriswillems.proelite.com), Kwan (http://kaleokwan.proelite.com), Aina (http://mikeaina.proelite.com), Mahe (http://Lolaheamahe.proelite.com), Bernard (http://chrisbernard.proelite.com), Dean (http://pjdean.proelite.com), Lista (http://deanlista.proelite.com), Doane (http://russelldoane.proelite.com), Haney (http://dwaynehaney.proelite.com), Madeiros (http://kepamadeiros.proelite.com), Barton (http://carlbarton.proelite.com).
For more information on 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 information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video, photo galleries and complete telecast information, please visit http://www.SHO.com/Sports.
About ProElite, Inc.
ProElite, Inc. 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. The company has established a partnership with CBS that brings MMA to a major primetime network for the first time. Through acquisitions of MMA organizations in Asia and Europe, ProElite is a global leader with an exclusive distribution agreement for its program library with IMG Media. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. The company’s social media platform, ProElite.com, continues to add thousands of subscribers each month due to the large number of live streaming MMA events, social networking tools, and original and partner-driven content.
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®.
Showtime Networks Inc.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Pacquiao vs. Diaz will take place Saturday, June 28th
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Pacquiao vs. Diaz will take place Saturday, June 28th, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada. The 12-round lightweight championship bout will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 P.M. ET /6 P.M. PT.
Remaining tickets for Pacquiao vs.Diaz, priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, can be purchased 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.
“This will be my hardest-fought battle,” said Pacquiao. “It’s been over three years since I have changed weight divisions and I will be doing it against the lightweight division’s world champion. I saw how he took the fight to Erik Morales in his last title defense and I’m expecting to see the same firepower out of him when we meet. But this is my drive for five. Five world titles in five different weight classes and I will not be denied. I am fighting for history, for destiny and for my people of the Philippines.”
"Manny Pacquiao has beaten many great fighters, especially Mexicans like Morales, Barrera, Marquez, Larios and Solis. That's why they call him “The Mexicutioner,” said Diaz. “I will shock the world and beat Pacquiao at his own game, power for power. He’s a great champion but he’s fighting in my division – lightweight. I have worked too hard for this world title and I will not give it up to him."
“Two world champions, at the top of their game, matching each other in speed, power, stamina and courage is a recipe for a great fight,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “Manny has never felt the power thrown at this weight class just as Diaz has never gone toe-to-toe with such a human dynamo. But Manny possesses an inner strength from his fellow countrymen the likes I have never seen as a promoter with over 40 years of experience. Manny is more than a national treasure to the Philippines, he is the very symbol of its national pride. He doesn’t fight for himself, he fights for his people. It’s a responsibility that no other athlete could, or attempt to, accomplish.”
“Boxing fans recognize that in Pacquiao vs. Diaz you have one of the sport’s best fighters and biggest attractions moving up in weight to challenge a bigger, stronger champion,” said HBOPPV’s Mark Taffet. “It’s a very intriguing proposition and we look forward to the event."
Dubbed "Republica Enemy No. 1," Pacquiao (46-3-2, 34 KOs), from General Santos City, Philippines, has blitzed through the best fighters Mexico has had to offer since 2003 including Erik Morales (KO 3, TKO 10), Marco Antonio Barrera (TKO 11, W 12), Juan Manuel Marquez (W 12, D 12), Oscar Larios (W 12), Emanuel Lucero (TKO 3), Hector Velazquez (TKO 6) and Jorge Solis (KO 8). Pacquiao was named 2006 Fighter of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America and The Ring magazine for his two spectacular knockout victories of Mexican icon and three-division champion Morales, as well as his dominating 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Larios. The hard-hitting southpaw has won 22 of his last 23 bouts including 2007 victories over Barrera and Solis. Pacquiao’s 12-round split decision victory over Marquez earlier this year not only avenged a disputed draw from their 2004 battle, it also made Pacman a four-division world champion.
Diaz (34-1-1, 17 KOs), from Chicago, will be making the second defense of his title. He successfully defended it against the three-division world champion Morales last summer winning a hard-fought unanimous decision over the future Hall of Famer. Although behind on the scorecards early, Diaz remained cool and rallied before the raucous hometown Chicago crowd of 10,000 to capture the decision. He swept the championship rounds and won the decision by scores of 114-113, 115-113 and 115-112. With the victory, Diaz cemented his place among the best lightweights in the sport and one of the most popular and respected athletes in the sports-crazy town of Chicago. A member of the 1996 U.S. Olympic team, Diaz, with 12 years of experience as a professional, is more than prepared to handle the pressures that come with battling boxing’s pound-for-pound most exciting fighter.
The Pacquiao vs. Diaz pay-per-view telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao vs. Diaz fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES ARTHUR ABRAHAM & EDISON MIRANDA
In an eagerly anticipated rematch, undefeated middleweight champion Abraham (left) will face Miranda in Saturday's main event at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino at Hollywood, Fla. The 12-rounder will be fought at a catch weight of 166 pounds.
Photos: TOM CASINO/SHOWTIME
In one of the most eagerly awaited rematches in years – and the most anticipated since Vazquez-Marquez II -- undefeated middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (26-0, 21 KOs) and explosive, hard-hitting Edison Miranda (30-2, 26 KOs) will clash in the main event live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, June 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
Abraham, an Armenian based in Germany, outlasted Miranda, a Colombian who lives in Puerto Rico, in their amazing first fight, winning a hotly disputed decision on September 23, 2006, in a slugfest in Germany that was rife with drama, incredible two-way exchanges, a broken jaw, multiple head butts, low blows and controversy. Saturday’s 12-rounder will be contested at a catch weight of 166 pounds.
SHOWTIME will re-air Abraham-Miranda I tonight/Thursday, June 19, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2 and this Saturday, June 21, at 6 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®.
In the SHOWTIME co-feature, undefeated middleweight Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KOs) of New York, by way of Dominican Republic, will face Raul Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) of Houston, Texas, by way of Mexico, in an IBF world title elimination bout.
The doubleheader will originate from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., and is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The four talented, world-class fighters who will compete this Saturday on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT) pose after Thursday's press conference at Hollywood, Fla. Left to-right: Arthur Abraham, Giovanni Lorenzo, Raul Marquez and Edison Miranda.
ARTHUR ABRAHAM
Abraham poses with his IBF 160-pound belt.
“I’m very happy to be in America and to fight in America. I’m only in the beginning of my American career. I want to develop myself in America and fight here more.
“We (my team) don’t have a big mouth. but we have strong fists and I will show him Saturday. I am absolutely convinced I will win. I’m sure I will win. I never fight without my confidence and I am absolutely convinced I will win this fight.
(When asked what he would say to Miranda if they were face to face) “My eyes say more than his words. I wouldn’t need to say anything. I’m not interested in talking to him or hearing what he has to say.
“This will be a very interesting fight for the fans. People will see me, the man who beats Miranda and will beat Kelly Pavlik down the road. I will beat Oscar De La Hoya. I want to fight him. I don’t want to do it for money. I will do it for free. His name means more to me then the money. His name is bigger than the money.’’
EDISON MIRANDA
Miranda takes his turn at the dais while Abraham and his promoter, Wilfred Sauerland (left), look on.
“I want to ask Abraham a question: Do you remember me? (looking at Abraham) Do you want me to do the same?
“I know it was a controversial fight. They took it from me and disrespected me in Germany. (But) Not just me, but the sport of boxing.
“To have Abraham here in America; well, God is helping me. Taking this fight is the most important thing for my career. I know Abraham will come to fight. (looking at him) Are you (Abraham) going to come to fight? I hope you come to fight.
“The only stupid king I know is King Arthur. Are you ready king? I am ready.
Referring to Abraham when he said he had nothing to say to Miranda) “Of course he doesn’t have anything to say. I destroyed his mouth.
“I feel in perfect condition. No problems in my camp. What has surprised me about him is that he is an idiot. Didn’t you see how nervous he (Abraham) was up there? He was talking like a little girl. He knows I destroyed him. His trainers lied to him. His trainers don’t care about him otherwise they wouldn’t have brought him here. I care more about him then his trainers do.’’
RAUL MARQUEZ
“This is an important fight; a do or die fight for me. He (Lorenzo) is young and undefeated but I’m older, wiser than him. I’m hungry for this. I know if I don’t win here my career is over. My father and I have been working hard for this. It will be a great fight. We’re both warriors.''
Lorenzo (left) and Marquez square off in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature.
GIOVANNI LORENZO
“It is my turn now. I will show you Saturday what I can do. My dream was to fight Raul Marquez. I’ve got him and Saturday I will show you what I can do.’’
PROMOTER WILFRED SAUERLAND
“Arthur always wanted his rematch with Miranda. He wanted to go to America. He has defended his title several times and competition is getting thin. He wanted to come fight Miranda. I could have talked him out of it but I wanted to see a rematch. As a true boxing fan I want to see this.’’
ULLI WAGNER (Abraham’s trainer)
“This is a big success for boxing. We will see a great fight on Saturday.
JOSE BONILLA (Miranda’s Trainer)
“I just know one king. The only king I know is God.’’
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
Photos: TOM CASINO/SHOWTIME
In one of the most eagerly awaited rematches in years – and the most anticipated since Vazquez-Marquez II -- undefeated middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (26-0, 21 KOs) and explosive, hard-hitting Edison Miranda (30-2, 26 KOs) will clash in the main event live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING this Saturday, June 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
Abraham, an Armenian based in Germany, outlasted Miranda, a Colombian who lives in Puerto Rico, in their amazing first fight, winning a hotly disputed decision on September 23, 2006, in a slugfest in Germany that was rife with drama, incredible two-way exchanges, a broken jaw, multiple head butts, low blows and controversy. Saturday’s 12-rounder will be contested at a catch weight of 166 pounds.
SHOWTIME will re-air Abraham-Miranda I tonight/Thursday, June 19, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO2 and this Saturday, June 21, at 6 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME®.
In the SHOWTIME co-feature, undefeated middleweight Giovanni Lorenzo (26-0, 18 KOs) of New York, by way of Dominican Republic, will face Raul Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) of Houston, Texas, by way of Mexico, in an IBF world title elimination bout.
The doubleheader will originate from the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Fla., and is promoted by Seminole Warriors Boxing and Sauerland Event in association with The Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The four talented, world-class fighters who will compete this Saturday on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT) pose after Thursday's press conference at Hollywood, Fla. Left to-right: Arthur Abraham, Giovanni Lorenzo, Raul Marquez and Edison Miranda.
ARTHUR ABRAHAM
Abraham poses with his IBF 160-pound belt.
“I’m very happy to be in America and to fight in America. I’m only in the beginning of my American career. I want to develop myself in America and fight here more.
“We (my team) don’t have a big mouth. but we have strong fists and I will show him Saturday. I am absolutely convinced I will win. I’m sure I will win. I never fight without my confidence and I am absolutely convinced I will win this fight.
(When asked what he would say to Miranda if they were face to face) “My eyes say more than his words. I wouldn’t need to say anything. I’m not interested in talking to him or hearing what he has to say.
“This will be a very interesting fight for the fans. People will see me, the man who beats Miranda and will beat Kelly Pavlik down the road. I will beat Oscar De La Hoya. I want to fight him. I don’t want to do it for money. I will do it for free. His name means more to me then the money. His name is bigger than the money.’’
EDISON MIRANDA
Miranda takes his turn at the dais while Abraham and his promoter, Wilfred Sauerland (left), look on.
“I want to ask Abraham a question: Do you remember me? (looking at Abraham) Do you want me to do the same?
“I know it was a controversial fight. They took it from me and disrespected me in Germany. (But) Not just me, but the sport of boxing.
“To have Abraham here in America; well, God is helping me. Taking this fight is the most important thing for my career. I know Abraham will come to fight. (looking at him) Are you (Abraham) going to come to fight? I hope you come to fight.
“The only stupid king I know is King Arthur. Are you ready king? I am ready.
Referring to Abraham when he said he had nothing to say to Miranda) “Of course he doesn’t have anything to say. I destroyed his mouth.
“I feel in perfect condition. No problems in my camp. What has surprised me about him is that he is an idiot. Didn’t you see how nervous he (Abraham) was up there? He was talking like a little girl. He knows I destroyed him. His trainers lied to him. His trainers don’t care about him otherwise they wouldn’t have brought him here. I care more about him then his trainers do.’’
RAUL MARQUEZ
“This is an important fight; a do or die fight for me. He (Lorenzo) is young and undefeated but I’m older, wiser than him. I’m hungry for this. I know if I don’t win here my career is over. My father and I have been working hard for this. It will be a great fight. We’re both warriors.''
Lorenzo (left) and Marquez square off in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature.
GIOVANNI LORENZO
“It is my turn now. I will show you Saturday what I can do. My dream was to fight Raul Marquez. I’ve got him and Saturday I will show you what I can do.’’
PROMOTER WILFRED SAUERLAND
“Arthur always wanted his rematch with Miranda. He wanted to go to America. He has defended his title several times and competition is getting thin. He wanted to come fight Miranda. I could have talked him out of it but I wanted to see a rematch. As a true boxing fan I want to see this.’’
ULLI WAGNER (Abraham’s trainer)
“This is a big success for boxing. We will see a great fight on Saturday.
JOSE BONILLA (Miranda’s Trainer)
“I just know one king. The only king I know is God.’’
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.
Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1
EL Boxing Empress Keisha Morrisey's Myspace http://www.myspace.com/Keishadivine
Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved
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