GEORGE vs. BALLOGOU LAUNCHES DBE’s “BROADWAY BOXING” 2009, FEBURARY 25th

***NYC’s Premiere Boxing Series Returns with World-Rated Light Heavyweight Shaun George vs. Jaffa Ballogou, plus Undefeated Prospects Tor Hamer and Philip Jackson Benson, at BB King’s Blues Club***

New York- DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing series makes its anticipated 2009 debut, on Wednesday, February 25, with WBC # 6 rated light heavyweight and Brooklyn’s own Shaun George taking on former IBF Continental African cruiserweight titlist Jaffa “African Assassin” Ballogou, at the intimate BB King Blues Club & Grill, located in New York City’s Times Square.

Tor Hamer


In addition to the George-Ballogou ten-round light heavyweight main event, fans won’t want to miss 2008’s number-one rated amateur super heavyweight and undefeated pro, Tor Hamer, from Harlem and middleweight prospect Philip Jackson Benson from Brooklyn, New York.

Philip Jackson Benson


“This coming April marks the five-year anniversary of ‘Broadway Boxing’ and what a great way to start off 2009 then with a high-stakes light heavyweight main event between two world-class, New York-based fighters in Shaun George and Jaffa Ballogou. Shaun is one of boxing’s most avoided men…his ‘anyone...anytime...anywhere’ attitude is why he’s willing to risk his world rankings against Ballogou, a more experienced contender who can end every fight with one punch,” commented DBE president Lou DiBella.

A winner of four straight, Shaun George (17-2-2, 8 KOs) put the boxing world on notice this past May with a brilliant, one-sided TKO victory over former two-time heavyweight champion Chris Byrd, in a nationally televised bout seen on ESPN2. Since his unexpected dramatic triumph over Byrd, few fighters have shown interest in challenging Brooklyn’s George – currently rated WBC #6, IBF #10 and WBA #11 at 175 lbs.

Fighting out of New York City, Ballogou (46-7, 40 KOs) is a southpaw of Tongan descent, who has held the IBF Continental African 200 lbs. belt as well as the WBC International super middleweight title during a stellar 20 year professional career.

Registering victories on the Berto-Collazo undercard was the aforementioned Hamer (3-0, 3 KOs), a Penn State graduate and two-time NY Golden Gloves/Empire State Games champion; and 2008 US Olympian Sadam Ali (1-0, 1 KO), himself, a two-time NY Golden Gloves titlist, who stopped Ricky Thompson in one round on Jan. 17. Both Hamer and Ali will be in four round action at BB Kings’ on February 25.

2008 US Olympian Sadam Ali


Rounding out an outstanding “Broadway Boxing” undercard of up-and-coming local talent is middleweight Philip Jackson-Benson (1-0, 1 KO), a two-time NY Golden Gloves champion from Brooklyn; four-time NY Golden Gloves titlist and Queens own undefeated light heavyweight Will Rosinsky (4-0, 4 KOs); and making his pro debut at middleweight, is Denis Douglin, a 2008 National Golden Gloves champion from Morganville, NJ.

Will Rosinsky


Tickets for Broadway Boxing priced at $150 (ringside tables, ringside seats), $100 (floor tables, floor seats, stage seats), $55 (general admission) are currently on sale. They are available by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. For more information on Broadway Boxing, please visit DiBella entertainment on the web at www.dbe1.com.

BB King Blues Club & Grill is located at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill, 237 West 42 Street in New York City.

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Bobby Harris going into CES Ring of Honor “February Frenzy,” Feb. 6 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE- Former 4-time U.S. national amateur champion Bobby Harris will be inducted into the prestigious CES Ring of Honor, Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. president Jimmy Burchfield announced, during a special “February Frenzy” card ceremony February 6 at Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.

The 8-round main event features Providence’s former USNBC and IBF Intercontinental champion light heavyweight Joey “The KO Kid” Spina (23-1-1, 16 KOs), rated No. 14 by the WBO and No. 15 by the WBC.

In the 8-round co-feature, Providence favorite Bobo “The Bull” Starnino (9-4-2, 2 KOs) meets “Irish” Joey McCreedy (9-2-1, 5 KOs), of Lowell (MA), in a rematch of a draw they fought to last year, for the vacant Eastern Boxing Association (EBA) super middleweight title.

Harris reached the 1992 U.S. Olympic Box-Offs and captured a gold medal at the 1993 National Golden Gloves Tournament. The Worcester (MA) resident went on to a 20-2-1 (13) pro record as a heavyweight and last fought in 1999.

Burchfield established the CES Ring of Honor in 2005 in order to pay respect to inductees for their special achievements and contributions to New England boxing. CES Ring of Honor inductees include Rocky Marciano, Vinny Paz, Micky Ward, Marlon Starling, Jose Antonio Rivera, John Scully Ray Oliveira, Gary Balletto and Demetrius Andrade.

“Bobby Harris stands for everything good about New England boxing,” Burchfield said. “He was a great amateur prospect who lost only two of 23 pro fights. We excited about signing his brother, Adam, who will be making his CES debut on February 7. There’s no better setting to honor Bobby than on the same night as his brother’s CES debut.”

Worcester’s unbeaten cruiserweight Adam “The Hitman” Harris (10-0, 7 KOs), will have his brother, Bobby, in his corner for the first time as a second in a 6-round fight against Philadelphia boxer David Williams (5-2-1, 2 KOs).

Undefeated Pawtucket fighter Eddie “The Puerto Rican Sensation” Soto (10-0, 4 KOs) face another Lowell native, Sean Eklund (6-2, 1 KO), who will have his uncle and head trainer, “Irish” Micky Ward, in his corner for their 6-round bout for the EBA New England lightweight belt.

Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts are U. of Connecticut graduate Brian Macy (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA; Providence junior welterweight Jesus Caro (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Olade “One Shot” Thomas (1-3, 0 KOs); Warwick (RI) super middleweight Keith Kozlin (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Daren Graham (1-4, 1 KO); Worcester heavyweight Rashad Minor (1-0, 1 KO) in his CES debut vs. Shawn McLean (2-4, 1 KO); Providence cruiserweight Jay Holland making his pro debut vs. Kevin Varnadore (0-4).

Tickets for “February Frenzy” are priced at limited $25.00 SRO, $35.00, $45.00 (Bronze), $65.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and limited $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 5::30 PM/ET, first bout at 6:30 PM/ET.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “February Frenzy.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

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Middleweight prospect Edwin Rodriguez passes another test in Biloxi

WORCESTER, Mass– Unbeaten middleweight prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez received a B+ grade from his head trainer, Peter Manfredo, Sr., for the 2-time national amateur champion’s performance last Saturday night against veteran “Bad Ass” Brad Austin (8-6, 2 KOs) at the Beau Rivage Resort Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

In his first scheduled 8-round bout, Rodriguez floored Austin four times en route to a third-round stoppage of Austin on the off-televised portion of the HBO card, headlined by the Andre Berto-Luis Collazo WBC welterweight title fight.

“I was happy with my performance but I feel I could have done better,” Rodriguez said. “I hurt him in the first round and felt I should have stopped him then. But I got antsy trying to take him out. I went back to using the short punches that had hurt him. I just got caught up in the moment. I hurt him a few more times and I knew the knockout was coming. I just had to stop looking for it. I made a mistake but learned from it and that’s important. I was really excited to fight after working so hard for four months. All of the hard worked paid-off; I was able to perform the way I’m supposed to.”

The Dominican Republic-born Rodriguez (9-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of Worcester (MA), had taken four months off to concentrate on training and his imporvements showed in the ring. “He accomplished a lot of things that we worked on,” Manfredo said. “He’s really becoming a good pro fighter, switching over from a good amateur. He used his jab well, not only to set-up combinations, but to keep his opponent off balance. Austin had a good amateur background, eight wins as a pro, and his losses were to some good fighters. But he could never muster a threat against Edwin. He tried to take away Edwin’s jab in the second round by throwing wide right hooks, but Edwin adjusted with some good check-hooks. He fought a very good fight. Defensively, he was much better, not pulling away standing straight up. I give him a B+. I was extremely pleased with the outcome and what he did in the ring.”

Rodriguez’ manager, Larry Army, agreed 100-percent with Manfredo’s assessment. “Edwin looked great,” he commented. “Everything he worked on for those four months, he put together. I had seen streaks of brilliance and loads of potential from Edwin, but he had never put it all together in one fight until last Saturday night. He showed everybody a glimmer of what he can do in the future. This was the right show for us against a tough opponent. It was a great opportunity for Edwin, who picked apart Austin from the start. We’re hoping Edwin will be back in action at the end of February.”

Go online to www.edwinrodriguezboxing.com for more information about the 23-year-old Rodriguez.

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

ESPN DEPORTES ENHANCES ITS BOXING PROGRAMMING LINEUP, MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA SIGNED AS COMMENTATOR‏

ESPN DEPORTES ENHANCES ITS BOXING PROGRAMMING LINEUP

Weekly Boxing Program Debuts January 23; Legendary Boxer Marco Antonio Barrera Signed as Commentator; Bernardo Osuna Joins ESPN2 Friday Night Fights

Marco Antonio Barrera



In its continued commitment to better serve the U.S. Hispanic sports fan, ESPN Deportes announced today significant enhancements to its boxing programming lineup, highlighted with the launch of Golpe a Golpe, weekly, live news and analysis boxing program that will be co-hosted by legendary boxer Marco Antonio Barrera. In addition, the 2009 season of Viernes de Combate (Friday Night Fights) will premiere with numerous production enhancements, including its own Spanish-language studio show incorporated into each broadcast.

Set to debut Friday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m. ET, Golpe a Golpe will be ESPN Deportes’ first news and analysis show fully dedicated to the world of boxing. The live 30-minute program will be co-hosted by SportsCenter anchor Jorge Eduardo Sánchez and Marco Antonio Barrera. The Golpe a Golpe show will extend beyond television to include radio, online and wireless to broaden fan interaction. ESPNdeportes.com will dedicate a special page to the program featuring weekly chats, blogs and video segments with Barrera exclusively produced for online. Content on ESPN Deportes Mobile will be blogs, videos and audio podcasts of the show.

“This is the beginning of an exciting new era for boxing on ESPN Deportes,” said Lino Garcia, general manager, ESPN Deportes.” “Boxing is one of the most popular sports among Hispanics and with this program we hope to fill the void for consistent boxing news and information on Spanish-language television.”

“We are proud to add Marco Antonio, a boxing legend and hero for millions of fans, to our commentator lineup,” said Chris Calcinari, vice president, production and operations, ESPN Deportes, ESPN International. “His experience will bring instant credibility to the show.”

In addition, starting with the 2009 season, boxing series Viernes de Combates will feature its own Spanish-language production of a special show incorporated into each broadcast. The program will originate from Bristol, Connecticut and feature Jose Hernandez and Leopoldo Gonzales as hosts, joined by a special in-studio guest analyst. ESPN Deportes’David Faitelson and Robert Sierra Noches will call the action for Viernes de Combates set to premiere January 30 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PST. with main event Herman Ngoudjo (17-2, 19 KO’s) vs. Juan Urango (20-1-1, 16 KO’s) of Colombia for the vacant IBF Jr. Welterweight title.

Barrera has left his mark in every division in which he has set foot - from Super Flyweight to Super Featherweight - earning world titles in three weight classes. He caught the boxing world’s attention February 3, 1996, after defeating former IBF Super Bantamweight Champion, Kennedy McKinney (28-1-1). Today, a 16-year veteran of the sport, Barrera is a seven-time world champion in three different weight classes WBO Super Bantamweight (122 lb), IBO / WBC Featherweight (126 lb), WBC Super Featherweight (130 lb) and IBF Junior Lightweight (130 lb) divisions, Barrera (61-4, 42 KOs) is without question one of the greatest Mexican fighters of all-time. On January 8, 2009, Barrera announced that he will face Johnny Nolasco of the Dominican Republic in Guadalajara, Mexico on January 31, 2009.

In addition to the boxing enhancements on ESPN Deportes, ESPN2 Friday Night Fights will feature former Telefutura Solo Boxeo analyst Bernardo Osuna throughout the network’s 2009 coverage. Osuna will be featured as part of a rotating panel that will appear in-studio on select telecasts. The entire rotating panel will be announced at a later date and will feature Bernard Hopkins. One of the most respected boxing journalists on Spanish-language television brings a wealth of knowledge on Hispanic up-and-coming boxers to ESPN2 Friday Night Fights. His professional achievements include the prestigious Sam Taub Award for excellence in broadcast journalism presented by the Boxing Writer’s Association of America, three Emmy awards, seven Golden Mic awards by the Radio and TV News Association of Southern California and a Journalist of the Year award by the World Boxing Association in 1997.

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WBC World Champion Andre Berto Proves His Star Quality with Late Surge to Turn Back Mandatory Challenger Luis Collazo

New York– In an early candidate for “Fight of the Year” honors, WBC 147 pound world champion Andre Berto came on strong in the championship rounds to rally past former WBA welterweight king Luis Collazo, in a tremendous all-action fight that featured several shifts in momentum, as seen on HBO’s Boxing After Dark, from the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

The spirited twelve round fight offered great give-and-take action, with slick boxing southpaw Collazo (29-4, 14 KOs) getting off to a fast start, before Berto (24-0, 19 KOs) rallied in the middle rounds, only to have Collazo, who reigned as world champion in 2005, find a second gear in rounds nine and ten. With his championship in peril, Berto saved his best for last - producing an awesome two-fisted attack in the final two rounds to earn a unanimous decision on scores of 116-111 and 114-113 twice.

“Tonight we saw Andre Berto graduate from the ‘future’ to the ‘here and now’ of the welterweight division. Only a very special type of champion rises to the occasion – with his title up for grabs late in a fight – to close the show like Andre did tonight against Collazo. It’s clear why Luis Collazo won a world title and why he gave Ricky Hatton fits. Together, Berto and Collazo began 2009 with a bang,” said DBE president Lou DiBella.

Berto was tested from the beginning, as Collazo, from Queens, NY, hurt the champion with a left hand in round one and seemed to be in control through the first four rounds. To make matters worse, Berto had to overcome a point deduction for holding and a cut over his right eye from a clash of heads. Despite the adversity, Berto remained composed and eventually began to find his rhythm, while scoring effectively from the outside, before digging deep late in order to retain the championship.

“Luis Collazo is an animal! He is a tough customer. He caught me with some shots early on,” said Berto

Berto, 25, from Winterhaven, Florida, represented Haiti in the 2004 Olympics. He won the vacant WBC welterweight crown this past June via TKO 7 over Miguel Angel Rodriguez, and in his first title defense, unanimously outpointed Steve Forbes on September 27.

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Top Rank & TV Azteca to Announce New Live Boxing TV Series‏

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum, Chairman of Top Rank, and TV Azteca announcers Raul Marquez and Adrian Marquez will announce a new live television boxing series.

Bob Arum (Photographed)




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ShoBox Results:Orlando Cruz crushes Miranda w/ devastating one-punch KO, Marvin Quintero Defeats Casal, Gary Russell, Jr. Makes Successful Pro Debut

TULSA, Okla.– Featherweight Orlando Cruz remained undefeated Friday night with a devastating fifth-round knockout over previously unbeaten Leonilo Miranda on ShoBox: The New Generation. Cruz improved to 16-0-1 while Miranda fell to 24-1.

The tripleheader on SHOWTIME began with an impressive performance from 2008 United States Olympian Gary Russell, Jr. Making his professional debut, the talented 126-pounder defeated Antonio Reyes by TKO at 0:21 of the third round. In the second fight of the telecast, Marvin Quintero out-performed Nick Casal, who threw the towel in after the third round.

The event, promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, took place at the Osage Million Dollar Elm Casino in Tulsa, Okla.

Cruz, of Puerto Rico, entered the scheduled 10-round bout as an underdog, but he never acted the part against Miranda, of Mexico, who had knocked out 23 of his 24 opponents.

While he started a bit slowly, Cruz never backed down. Early into the fifth round of a close, exciting fight, Cruz dropped Miranda with a solid left hand to the chin. While Miranda attempted to beat the count, referee Steve Smoger waved off the contest at 0:39.

“I am so proud to win and prove myself,’’ Cruz said. “This is my first time fighting on national television. This is very emotional for me. I am so excited and humbled and this only motivates me to keep working and keep proving myself.”

ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood felt Miranda’s knockout percentage may have hurt him. “Miranda clearly suffered from having knocked out so many opponents so easily,’’ Farhood said. “When he didn’t get rid of Cruz, the fight turned quite suddenly. To his credit, Cruz never lost his composure; he stayed in the pocket and perfectly timed the one punch that ended the fight.”

Russell, Jr., of Capitol Heights, Md., was not overwhelmed with his performance. “I give myself a C+ for my performance tonight,’’ he said after whipping Reyes, of Dallas, whose record dropped to 3-3. “But I am excited that I got this opportunity to have my pro debut on SHOWTIME. I want to come back as quickly as possible and show everyone my A skills.”

In a bit of a surprise, Mexico’s Quintero (15-1) mostly overpowered Casal (18-4-1) of Chicago.

After Quintero thoroughly dominated the third round, Casal made the decision to retire on his stool. As he sat down, he could be overheard saying that he didn’t want to continue.

When asked by his corner what the problem was he responded, “No legs, no legs man. That’s it. I’m done.” His corner signaled to referee Mike England that the boxer did not intend to continue.

SHOWTIME will replay Friday’s telecast on Jan. 22 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO 2.

Nick Charles called the action from ringside with boxing historian Farhood serving as expert analyst. The executive producer of ShoBox is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

ShoBox: The New Generation will return on Friday, Feb. 6, when undefeated, world-ranked Andre Ward will defend his NABO super middleweight title against Henry Buchanan from The Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, Calif. (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

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

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

Don King to Stage First-Ever Boxing Card At BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla., On Valentine’s Day

SUNRISE, Fla.—One of the premier arenas in America, BankAtlantic Center of Sunrise, Fla., will host professional prizefighting for the first time when Don King Productions presents a star-studded world-championship boxing event at the South Florida venue on Saturday, Feb. 14.

Promoter Don King has dubbed the event “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” and already boasts World Boxing Organization and International Boxing Federation lightweight champion Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell risking his crowns against IBF No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Ali “Rush Hour” Funeka; former three-time world champion Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga meeting undefeated World Boxing Council No. 3-ranked contender Alfredo “Perro” Angulo to determine the WBC’s

No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger at the 154-pound limit; and another important match at 154 pounds with interim WBC super welterweight champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez taking on former IBF welterweight champion Kermit “The Killer” Cintron.

“I have been trying for years to land a date at the BankAtlantic Center and finally the stars aligned for me to make it happen,” promoter Don King said of the Broward County venue not far from his Deerfield Beach, Fla., headquarters. “I have been able to bring a number of tremendous boxing cards to South Florida over the years, and this big Valentine’s Day card is going to be another fantastic night for boxing fans.”

King said he plans to have 10 fights or more on the card. Ticket prices and full event information will be announced at a South Florida press conference King is planning for next week.

The BankAtlantic Center is the home arena for the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League and recently gained prestige after being named one of eight finalists for “Arena of the Year” by Pollstar Magazine, an influential trade publication that closely follows the entertainment touring industry.

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ISRAELI SOLDIERS RAN NAKASH AND ELAD SHMOUEL FIGHTING INSIDE THE RING WHILE COUNTRY IS AT WAR

PHILADELPHIA )—On Friday night, February 6th, Ran Nakash will headline a big night of boxing at The Legendary Blue Horizon.

Fighting so far way from home usually isn’t a big deal for Nakash—or fellow Israeli soldier Elad Shmouel who will also make the trip—as this will be his eighth fight at The Legendary Blue Horizon and Shmouel’s seventh, however the circumstances around this fight are a little different for both

Nakash and Shmouel are in the Israel Defense Force. Nakash serves as Chief Commander of the IDF’s krav maga instructional division is the highest ranking professional authority in Krav Maga, while Shmouel is a First Sergeant in the Army.

In layman’s terms, Nakash is the chief instructor of hand-to-hand combat for the entire Israeli Army.

As most people know, Israel is at war with Hamas in Gaza and both men have been part of the war effort, and also served in the 2006 war against Hezbollah in Lebanon. With unrest in their homeland weighing heavily on their minds, Nakash and Shmouel will still make the trek to Philadelphia and apply their boxing trade in front of a packed crowd at The Legendary Blue Horizon on February 6th.

Nakash (16-0, 12 KO’s) of Haifa , Israel will battle Ryan Carroll (7-1, 4 KO’s) of Delaware , Ohio in the eight round cruiserweight main event.

Shmouel (18-2, 12 KO’s) will battle Khristian Garaci (4-5-1, 2 KO’s) of Pittsburgh in a Jr. Welterweight bout scheduled for six rounds.

These fights have extra meaning as Nakash & Shmouel have pride and country as extra motivation to put an a great performance on February 6th.

In the co-feature, Steve Upsher Chambers (19-1-1, 5 KO’s) battles an opponent to be announced in an eight round Jr. Welterweight bout.

In a six round Light Heavyweight affair, Andre Hemphill (7-9-2, 4 KO’s) takes on an opponent to be announced.

Darren Fallen (12-4-1, six knockouts) battles New Yorker, Jason Thompson (4-3, 3 KO’s) in a six round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Julius Edmonds (3-3) of Philadelphia takes on Linwood Hurd (2-0-3) of Atlantic City in a four round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Derrick Bivins (1-0) takes on debuting Gabriel Gomez in a four round battle of Philadelphia bred Featherweights.

John Turner (1-0, 1 KO) takes on Marcus Bianconi (1-0, 1 KO) of Houston, Texas in a clash of undefeated Middleweights scheduled for four rounds.

Fresh off his twenty-three second knockout, Johnny Pawlowski (2-1-1, 2KO’s) gets it on with Tyrone Miles of Philadelphia, who will be making his pro debut.

These fights will be streamed live all over the world on www.gofightlive.tv

Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential seats, $65 for VIP, $55 for Ringside, and $45 for General Admission and can be purchased by calling The Legendary Blue Horizon at 1-215-763-0500 or by logging on to comcasttix.com. Doors open at 6:30 PM / 1st bout begins at 7:30 PM

The Legendary Blue Horizon is located at 1314 North Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA

For more information, log on to www.legendarybluehorizon.com

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

Huge SHOWTIME Boxing Weekend Begins Feb. 6 With Andre Ward-Buchanan On ShoBox‏

One day before Vic Darchinyan risks his IBF/WBC/WBA super flyweight belts against former world champion Jorge Arce on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, undefeated, world-ranked Andre Ward will defend his NABO super middleweight title against once-beaten Henry Buchanan on Friday, Feb. 6, on ShoBox The New Generation (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast).

The ShoBox event, presented by Goossen Tutor Promotions, will originate from The Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino at Lemoore, Calif.

The only boxer from the United States to capture a gold medal at the 2004 Olympic Games, Ward, of Oakland, Calif., will bring a record of 17-0 with 12 knockouts into the 12-round main event. This will be his third appearance on ShoBox.

Ward, who captured the NABO belt with an eighth-round TKO over Jerson Ravelo on June 20, 2008, on ShoBox, is highly ranked by the four major organizations. He is No. 3 in the WBC and WBO, No. 10 in the WBA and No. 14 in the IBF.

Buchanan, of Chesterfield, S.C., is 17-1 with 12 KOs. He has won three in a row, including a ninth-round knockout over Brian Norman on June 25, 2008.

In his ShoBox debut on July 28, 2006, Buchanan, the nephew of San Diego Chargers Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman, triumphed via 10th-round disqualification over Lucas Green-Arias.

On Saturday, Feb. 7, the eagerly anticipated world title fight between Darchinyan (31-1-1, 25 KOs), of Sydney, Australia, and Arce (51-4-1, 39 KOs), of Los Mochis, Mexico, will highlight a telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast).

In the Feb. 7 co-feature on SHOWTIME, Antonio DeMarco (19-1-1, 13 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, will take on Almazbek “Kid Diamond” Raiymkulov (27-1-1, 15 KOs) in a 12-rounder for the NABO lightweight title from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

See you at the Fights.
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Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

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

Hollywood, FL– iBN Sports, a premiere Internet-based broadcast sports television network announced that has reached a n agreement with Hollywood, Florida based Seminole Warriors Boxing, starting with the airing of its 2009 debut tripleheader over the Al Bernstein Boxing Channel (ABBC) and iBN Sports. The January 14th event from the Hard Rock in Florida will be made available for Pay-Per-View fans along with a spectacular fight from the Seminole Warriors library of past events. The tripleheader live card will feature Edison Miranda, Sechew Powell and O’Neil Bell and is billed as the “Hard Knocks at the Hard Rock.”

The agreement to broadcast this January match-up, a first of many Warriors Boxing events over the ABBC, represents iBN Sports’ commitment to bring engaging and competitive bouts to a new worldwide generation of boxing fans. In addition to showcasing the current! fights, iBN Sports will also offer Pay-Per-View packages from the Warriors’ action packed library.

For more information regarding this and other events, log on to: www.warriorsboxing.com

For more information on iBN Sports visit http://www.ibnsports.com to view live and on-demand sporting events.

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

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

“The Havoc Continues!” on Long Island January 23 at the Huntington Hilton Hotel

NEW YORK CITY – Pro boxing returns Friday night, January 23 to Long Island with “Havoc at the Hilton II: The Havoc Continues!,” co-promoted by Bob Duffy’s Ring Promotions and Frankie G Productions, at the Huntington Hilton Hotel in Melville, New York.

“Havoc at the Hilton II: The Havoc Continues!” features some of New York’s finest, most entertaining pro boxers, headlined by an 8-round New York State welterweight title fight between Long Island favorite Mike Ruiz (8-2, 5 KOs) and Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (7-3, 3 KOs), who is fighting out of Highland (NY) by way of Puerto Rico.


Harlem middleweight George “Blaze” Walton (19-3, 12 KOs) meets unbeaten Jose Angel “Silver Boy” Rodriquez (12-0-1, 2 KOs) for the New York State middleweight crown in the 8-round co-feature.

“I’m excited to promote another card at the Huntington Hilton Hotel and back working with my friend and fellow promoter, Frankie G,” Bob Duffy said. “We have some of the hottest, young prospects on the East Coast in action on this show. We have several national amateur champions fighting on this card and fans should closely watch some of the kids making their pro debuts, especially Adam Willet.”


In a scheduled 6-round bout popular Plainview (NY) light middleweight Tommy “The Razor” Rainone (12-2, 4 KOs) faces an opponent to be determined.


Also on the undercard in 4-round matches: Brooklyn light heavyweight and 3-time National Golden Gloves champion Will “Will Power” Rosinsky vs. TBA; Manhattan by way of Faso Isouf Kinda (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Brooklyn welterweight Pablo Tejada (2-8-1, 0 KOs); Bay Shore welterweight Joseph Llovett (2-1, 1 KO) vs. Westbury’s pro debuting Laquan Lewis;


Bronx super middleweight Mike O’Conner (1-0, 1 KO) vs. fellow fighter Juan Zapata (0-2); Bellport cruiserweight Adam “The Bellport Kid” Willet vs. Andrew “Come To Fight” Hutchinson (2-10-2, 0 KOs); Westbury heavyweight Jaquis Louis vs.Bay Shore’s Mark Jackson in pro debuts for both; Brooklyn super middleweight Philip Jackson Benson (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Rafael Jastrewski (0-6-1). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $100.00 (Limited Ringside), $75.00 (Reserved – rows 3-7) and $40.00 (General Admission). VIP tables of 10 are $1,500.00 (includes 1 ½ hour cocktail party staring at 6 PM, 7-course dinner and dessert, and unlimited drinks). To purchase tickets go on line to www.ringpromotions.com or call 516.313.2304. Tickets are also available at The Academy of Boxing (631.673.3520), Winters Boxing Club (516.992.0177) and West Babylon Lions Club (631.321.2999). Doors open at 7:00 PM, first bout at 7:30 PM.

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

Drumond plans to KO Chagaev or punish him for 12 rounds Feb. 7 PPV card live from Germany

HOBOKEN, N.J.– WBA No. 10 rated and undefeated heavyweight contender, Carl Davis Drumond, plans to shock the boxing world February 7th when he fights WBA “Champion in Recess” Ruslan “White Tyson” Chagaev, live on pay-per-view in the United States from Rostock, Germany.

“The Champion Returns” card, presented by Universum Boxing-Promotion, will also feature on PPV the WBA light welterweight title fight between title holder Andreas Kotelnik and undefeated No. 1 contender Marcos Rene “El Chino” Maidana, as well as hot Russian prospect Denis Boytsov against a challenger to be determined for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship.

The broadcast of the three 12-round bouts is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports for live viewing at 2 PM/ET – 11 AM/PT on cable pay-per-view via iN Demand and TVN for a suggested retail price of only $24.95. A same day replay will be shown at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/ET. The event will also be available in Canada on TSN. Hall of Fame announcer Col. Bob Sheridan will handle blow-by-blow duties and Benny Ricardo, former NFL placekicker, will serve once again as the color commentator.

Drumond (26-0, 20 KOs), promoted by Warriors Seminole Boxing, fights out of Costa Rica and remains a relative mystery to boxing fans outside of Central America. His most notable win to date was in 2007, when he won a 10-round decision against former world champion Kelvin Davis. Drumond is the former IBF and WBO Latino champion, as well as the ex-WBC FECARBOX title holder.

“This is a big opportunity for me and I’m happy to have this chance,” Drumond said from his Florida training camp. I want to dictate the fight and want to move around. People who haven’t watched me fight will be surprised that I box and move so well. I want to fight in three steps – close, mid-range, and from a distance. I am a complete fighter.”

“We are very excited that Carl is getting this opportunity,” Seminole Warriors Boxing executive director Leon Margules added. “He has been getting great sparring at Lion’s Den Gym in Hollywood, Florida. Drumond’s new trainer, John David Jackson, is fine tuning his technique and the world will see a great fighter against a champion. Carl is very confident that he will win.”

Chagaev (24-0-1, 17 KOs), the 2000 Uzbekistan Olympian and The Ring’s No. 3 rated heavyweight, captured the WBA crown on April 14, 2007 via a 12-round decision against Nikolai Valuev (46-0). However, due to injuries, Ruslan has fought only once since then, winning a 12-round decision against Matt Skelton (21-1) a year ago. An Achilles tendon injury prevented Chagaev from defending his title last year against Valuev and the WBA regulated him to its “champion in recess.”

“Soccer is No. 1 in my country but I will bring great pride back home when I beat Chagaev,” Drumond remarked. “I’m not concerned about fighting him in Germany. I’ve trained hard and know what I have to do. It’s just going to be me and him in the ring. I could knock him out in the first round or go the full distance. If the fight goes 12 rounds, though, I promise that he will be punished. I will shock the boxing world.”

Ukrainian-born Kotelnik, rated No. 4 by The Ring magazine, won the WBA light welterweight title last March with a 12th round TKO of previously unbeaten Gavin Rees (27-0). Kotelnik, now living in Hamburg (Germany), had previously fought Souleymane M’baye to a draw in their 2007 WBA light welterweight title fight.

Power-punching Argentinean Maidana (25-0, 24 KOs), the WBA No. 1 contender, has stopped 24 of his 25 pro victims. The former WBA Fedelatin light welterweight champion is rated No. 9 by The Ring.

Unbeaten 22-year-old Boytsov (23-0, 18 KOs), a native of Russia now living in Germany, is the latest in a long line of Russian heavyweight contenders. The 2004 Junior World Championships super heavyweight winner is rated No. 11 by the WBA.

For more information about the “The Champion Returns” PPV show, go on line to www.integratedsportsnet.com.

See you at the Fights.
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Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

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

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

COTTO & PAVLIK; TWO WORLD TITLE FIGHTS - ONE NIGHT

Former two-division world champion MIGUEL COTTO, from Puerto Rico, and his opponent, top-rated contender MICHAEL JENNINGS, from England, World Middleweight Champion KELLY PAVLIK, from Youngstown, Ohio and his opponent, No. 1 contender MARCO ANTONIO RUBIO, from Mexico, will hold a news conference to announce their world championship pay-per-view event. Cotto vs. Jennings / Pavlik vs. Rubio, will take place Saturday, February 21, at Madison Square Garden and Chevrolet Centre, respectively, and broadcast Live on Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 P.M. ET / 6 P.M. PT.

MIGUEL COTTO


MICHAEL JENNINGS


Top Rank presents a tale of two cities. Miguel Cotto and Michael Jennings rumble for the vacant WBO welterweight title in the main event at Madison Square Garden and Kelly “The Ghost” Pavlik defends his World Middleweight Championship against No. 1 contender Marco Antonio Rubio, headlining an action-packed card at the Chevrolet Centre in Youngstown , Ohio, in winner-take-all brawls, live on pay-per-view!


KELLY PAVLIK


Melvina Lathan, Chairperson NYSAC, MARCO ANTONIO RUBIO, EVANGELISTA COTTO, MIGUEL COTTO


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

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

“February Frenzy” features old-time boxing Feb. 6 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE– Old-time boxing returns Friday might, February 6 as Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES) presents “February Frenzy,” featuring many of New England’s most promising prospects, at Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island.

The 8-round main event pits Providence light heavyweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina, rated No. 14 by the WBO, against veteran Steve “The Spoiler” Walker. Spina (23-1-1, 16 KOs) is the former USNBC and IBF Intercontinental champion, while Missouri invader Walker (22-19, 16 KOs) once held the MWBA title.

In the 8-round co-feature, Providence favorite Bobo “The Bull” Starnino (9-4-2, 2 KOs) meets “Irish” Joey McCreedy (9-2-1, 5 KOs), of Lowell (MA), in a rematch of a draw they fought to last year, for the vacant Eastern Boxing Association (EBA) super middleweight title.

In a 6-round bout for the vacant EBA New England lightweight crown, unbeaten Pawtucket fighter Eddie “The Puerto Rican Sensation” Soto (10-0, 4 KOs) meets another Lowell native, Sean Eklund (6-2, 1 KO), who will have his uncle and head trainer, “Irish” Micky Ward, in his corner.

“We have 10 big fights on February 6th,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield (CES president) said. “It’s headlined by one of the most exciting fighters around, Joey ‘KO Kid’ Spina. Our co-feature is like it’s from the old days of boxing, when nobody walked away from anybody. Joey McCreedy is an Irish fighter from Lowell. He’s fighting a rematch against Bobo Starnino, an Italian fighter from Providence. They fought to an exciting draw in a non-stop bout last year. They’re going to let it all hang out in the ring.

“CES is a grassroots promotional company. The entertainment dollar will be spent very wisely in 2009 because of today’s economy. CES shows are entertaining from the opening bell, through intermission, right to the final second of the last fight. We’re offer the whole package and fans are leaving as the ask when the next CES show is going to be.”

Undefeated cruiserweight Adam “The Hitman” Harris (10-0, 7 KOs), of Worcester (MA), makes his CES debut in a 6-round battle against Philadelphia boxer David Williams (5-2-1, 2 KOs).

Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts are U. of Connecticut graduate Brian Macy (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. Brockton (MA) super middleweight Steve Detar (8-9-1, 1 KO), former Mass. State champion; U.S. Coast Guard seaman Phillip “Killa” Miller (4-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Providence, vs. Sam “Showtime” Brown (4-4-2, 1 KO); Providence junior welterweight Jesus Caro (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Olade “One Shot” Thomas (1-3, 0 KOs); Warwick (RI) super middleweight Keith Kozlin (2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA; Worcester heavyweight Rashad Minor (1-0, 1 KO) in his CES debut vs. TBA; Providence cruiserweight Jay Holland making his pro debut vs. TBA.

Tickets for “February Frenzy” are priced at limited $25.00 SRO, $35.00, $45.00 (Bronze), $65.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and limited $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 5:30 PM/ET, first bout at 6:30 PM/ET.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “February Frenzy.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Joey McCreedy: “We’re going to have a great fight February 6th. I’m in great shape, almost at weight. I’m ready to go to war. I respect Bobo. Once we step through the ropes, respect goes out the window. I guarantee that this will be the fight of 2009.”

Sean Eklund: “People know that Jimmy Burchfield promotes great fights from top to bottom. I could have fought more stiffs but all that would do is blow up my record. This is a great opportunity for me. Eddie must be doing something right, he’s 10-0. I’m coming into this fight in great shape. Micky’s working me like I’ve never been worked before. I want to thank CES for signing me.”

Rashad Minor: “Five months ago I didn’t think I’d be up here. I couldn’t have better people behind me – a great fan base, friends, family, my manager, coaches. I’ve been through trials and tribulations and I’m going to bring the heavyweight championship here to Worcester. I’m going 100-percent in the gym. No more problems out of me; all good and glory. I couldn’t ask for more love from Worcester and now I’m going to start giving it back.”

Adam Harris: “I haven’t fought since November of 2007 at the Blue Horizon (in Philadelphia). My ex-promoter sold me a lot of dreams and then he lost interest. Everything went downhill from there. I was training on The Cape (Cape Cod) with Kippy Diggs, who was good friends with Mr. Burchfield. We sat down and I’ve joined Team CES. I’ve comeback (from Philadelphia) to Worcester, where I started and never should have left. I’m here to make a statement February 6th. My brother (Bobby) is in my corner as my second for the first time. I’m going to fulfill the steps he once walked and bring the cruiserweight title to Worcester.”

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

NEW YORK– United States Olympian Gary Russell, Jr.’s dream of competing in the Olympic Games last August ended without him throwing a punch. But he promises that won’t be the case this Friday night as he makes his pro debut in what is now a tripleheader on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Russell will be opposed by Antonio Reyes (3-2) of Dallas in a four-round featherweight bout at the Million Dollar Elm Casino in Tulsa, Okla.

Russell, a two time National Amateur Boxing Champion, passed out in his Beijing dorm room on the eve of the weigh-in, at approximately 1 a.m. The 20-year-old boxer wasn’t hospitalized, but he was not permitted to participate in the weigh-in, or the Games.

“To be honest, none of it made sense to me,’’ Russell said. “I still do not know for sure what happened that night and never received the official diagnosis as to why or what happened. Olympic doctors never gave me an exact reason. They just said, ‘it could be this, it could be that.’

“I’d been in Beijing for a month and everything was fine. I was ready to achieve a life-long goal, something I had dedicated myself to for eight or nine years. When it all came down, when I couldn’t fight, I was so mad and blown away. Everything I worked for went down the drain in an instant.’’

Reports blamed dehydration for Russell’s collapse, saying he had been fighting at 125-plus pounds in recent fights and that making 119 had become an impossible chore.

But Russell insists excess poundage was not a factor. “I don’t think it had anything to do with weight,’’ he said. “I think I weighed 120.4 the day before the weigh-in, which is not bad for me.

“My dream was to become an Olympian, but that is not the same as not competing. Turning pro will definitely help. I am really looking forward to fighting on SHOWTIME and appreciate the opportunity. I have a lot of family, friends and fans who’ve supported and followed my career a long time. I really want to make it up to them.

“I’m 100 percent now and really looking forward to making my mark on SHOWTIME.”

ESPN.com’s Dan Rafael likes what he’s seen from Russell.

“I've been following Russell's amateur career for several years since he's from the area where I live and I have always thought he'd be a quality professional prospect,’’ Rafael said. “I thought he was one of the best medal hopes for the U.S. at the Beijing Olympics, so it was unfortunate that he was unable to participate because of his weight situation.

“But as a pro,’’ Rafael concluded, “he'll be a featherweight instead of a bantamweight, and I think he's got a lot of potential. He's got speed, skills and good defense from what I've seen of him in the amateurs. I'm looking forward to following his progress in the pros.’’

Undefeated featherweights Antonio Reyes (24-0, 23 KOs), of Mexico, and Orlando Cruz (15-0-1, 6 KOs), of Puerto Rico, will clash in an excellent ShoBox 10-round main event. The co-feature will match Marvin Quintero (14-1, 11 KOs), of Mexico, against Nick Casal (18-3-1, 14 KOs) of Chicago, in an eight-round lightweight bout. The first ShoBox event in 2009 is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions.

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

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

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

A LIGHTWEIGHT SHOWDOWN:Antonio DeMarco-Kid Diamond Clash In Showtime Feb. 7 Co-Feature At Honda Center‏

NEW YORK– Before fan favorite Vic Darchinyan (31-1-1, 25 KOs) puts his International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Council (WBC) and World Boxing Association (WBA) super flyweight titles on the line against the popular, crowd pleasing Jorge Arce (51-4-1, 39 KOs) on Feb. 7, 2009, boxing fans will feast on a spectacular co-feature that will no doubt whet their appetite for the main event later that evening.

Vic Darchinyan

No. 5 ranked WBC lightweight challenger Antonio DeMarco (19-1-1, 13 KOs) will take on “Kid Diamond” Almazbek Raiymkulov (27-1-1, 15 KOs) in a 12-round lightweight bout for the North American Boxing Organization (NABO) title on Saturday, Feb. 7, live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (SHOWTIME, 9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast)

Both 12-round fights are co-promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, and Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc., and will take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

DeMarco, who had three ShoBox victories in 2008, is known for his aggressiveness and speed. The rangy southpaw is coming off a hard fought, split decision victory over Jose Reyes and while he is taking a big step up in opposition against Raiymkulov, the Mexico native is not worried.

"I already know every facet of Kid Diamond's style because I've been studying his fight videos," DeMarco said. "On Feb. 7, boxing fans will see that diamonds aren’t forever."

Shaw, who has two fighters on the telecast (DeMarco and Darchinyan) going up against two of Arum’s fighters (Arce and Raiymkulov), agrees.

"Tony DeMarco is the real gem of the lightweight division,” Shaw said. “He's going to prove it on SHOWTIME when he leaves Diamond in the roughest shape of his life.”

Raiymkulov, who was an Olympic representative for the former Soviet Republic of
Kyrgyzstan, is a crafty boxer with a solid left jab. His only defeat came in 2005 against current IBF, WBA and World Boxing Organization (WBO) lightweight champion Nate Campbell.

Raiymkulov feels his power punch will be the difference. "I am working hard in the gym preparing for my fight against DeMarco,” he said. “He is a good champion but I have a lot more thunder in my punching. He will find that out on Feb 7. I do not expect this fight to go 12 rounds -- not the way I hit."

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING announcers Gus Johnson and Al Bernstein will call the action from ringside with Jim Gray and Karyn Bryant reporting from ringside. The executive producer of SHOWTIME Sports is David Dinkins Jr., with Bob Dunphy directing.

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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 Photo-Studios, Khris Kirkpatrick Morrisey for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Samuel Peter:I am Back in 2009! "The Nigerian Nightmare" Ready to Prove Klitschko bout was a Fluke, Issues Challenge to Chris "The Nightmare" Arreola

Approximately, four years ago, Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare" Peter burst onto the scene and generated tremendous excitement and buzz in the heavyweight division. But since his disappointing loss to Vitali Klitschko in Berlin, Germany, last October, the division has once again gone flat.

Feeling rejuvenated and eager to electrify the division once again, the former WBC Heavyweight Champion is using the start of a new year to set goals for the future and let go of past mistakes. Peter (30-2, 23 KOs) has also begun speaking publicly about his ninth-round stoppage loss to Klitschko.

"I was very disappointed with my performance," he admits, "I know the fans weren't happy with it either. I vow I will make it up to them ten times over with my future fights."

Normally a dangerous predator in the ring, Peter appeared sluggish and discouraged while losing his cherished world title against Klitschko. "All great fighters have a bad night. In 2009, I'm ready to get back in action. I will show the fans that fight was a fluke and I'm still the best heavyweight in the world."

The perfect motivation for his return to glory is to silence a fighter Peter claims is "using his name to try and build himself up."

Peter says he's offended by undefeated Los Angeles-based contender Chris Arreola's choice of nickname. "To Chris Arreola, I want to say that there is only one true Nightmare in the heavyweight division and that's me, Samuel Peter "The Nigerian Nightmare!"

Peter proposes a showdown between the two sluggers this year with an agreement that the loser must change his ring moniker. "He says he's the top contender, but he hasn't done anything to prove that. He has to fight a top contender before he can claim he's the best," snarled Peter. "I'll show him and the fans how determined I am to win back my belt. And at the same time, I'll prove who the real Nightmare is in boxing."

Peter's promoter, Dino Duva of Duva Boxing, says a Peter vs. Arreola match-up, with an agreement there can only be one "Nightmare" when it's over, would be the kind of bombs away affair that re-energizes heavyweight boxing.

"The best non-title fight that can be made in the division is Sam Peter against Chris Arreola.," Duva asserts. "A high-stakes fight like this is exactly what it will take to remind everyone that Sam Peter is still the hardest puncher in the entire sport. He knows he had a bad night in Germany, but taking out Chris Arreola would be exactly the type of thing he'd need to do to prove it was just a fluke. As for Arreola, he is claiming to be the top contender in the heavyweight division, but he's never fought anybody to deserve that distinction. All nobodies. He has to beat Sam Peter to prove he's worthy."

Duva claims he's already reached out to Arreola's promoter, Dan Goossen, about making the electrifying fight a reality. "I've called Dan to discuss the possibility of them fighting each other and Dan told me he was hoping to get a Klitschko fight in the spring. Obviously if he can get that fight, all power to him and I wish him the best. But if he doesn't get the Klitschko fight, I hope Dan will call me. This is the fight to establish the true top contender and one that people would want to see. Everything else is bullshit. Of course, if Arreola doesn't have the balls to fight, Sam is willing to fight any heavyweight in the world including Kevin Johnson, David Haye or any other top name out there."

See you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

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 Photo-Studios, Khris Kirkpatrick Morrisey for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

TWO UNDEFEATED SOUTHPAW FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECTS KICK START 2009 SEASON OF SHOBOX; From Osage Million Dollar Elm Casino in Tulsa, Okla.

NEW YORK– For two, unproven, but talented prospects, the New Year brings a dangerous challenge that will test their ring smarts, skills, mental toughness and unbeaten records.

Leonilo Miranda (24-0, 23 KOs), a featherweight from Mexico, will aim for another knockout victory when he faces fellow unbeaten Orlando Cruz (15-0-1, 6 KOs) of Puerto Rico, in a 10-round featherweight bout on Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, live on ShoBox: The New Generation (SHOWTIME 11 p.m. E/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Both prospects are southpaws and both are making their American television debut. “ShoBox is in large part about giving young talented, unknown and untested fighters opportunities to take center stage,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of the acclaimed SHOWTIME Sports series, ShoBox. “Miranda and Cruz will be fighting, to live up to lofty expectations and to keep their undefeated records intact. They are unproven and untested until they fight on ShoBox.”

Miranda, who supports his boxing career by working as a full-time fisherman in Mexico, finds himself outside the friendly confines of his home state of Sonora for the first time.

“There’s going to be some pressure on Miranda to perform well because this is his first fight in the U.S. and it’s on SHOWTIME so this is a big deal for him,” said Julio Marines of Marines Promotions, the company that co-promotes Miranda along with Gary Shaw Productions. “We feel he has the right tools and attitude to become a special prizefighter.”

Miranda, a tall lefty with an upright boxing style, is coming off an impressive eighth-round knockout victory over the iron-chinned Cruz Carbajal in July 2008. His precise jab, solid footwork and two-fisted power was on display on that summer night.

“His record is deceiving because his high knockout rate would suggest he is mostly a brawler, but he can box beautifully too,” Marines said. “He uses his jab well and he is a sound technician. He didn’t have much of an amateur career so we’re still developing his boxing skills. Once he puts everything together, he’s going to raise some eyebrows.”

Marines was first turned on to Miranda two years ago when one of his talent scouts tipped him off about a certain, young Mexican fisherman who happened to have power in both mitts.

Miranda, who is fighting for the first time outside of Mexico, is thought of as an unproven prospect. Ranked No. 7 by the WBC at the featherweight division, Miranda will get his shot to show off his impressive power on January 16.

“We are impressed with his sparring,” Marines said of 26 year old Miranda. “He moves real well on his toes. He has good footwork which we didn’t expect. He has an amazing story. Leonilo comes from a family of fishermen. The kid has never been away from home and his mom was brought along so she can cook his meals. I didn’t want him to get homesick.”

Cruz, a 2000 Olympian with over 180 amateur fights, is also a southpaw, and much like Miranda, he is an untested prospect. “I have a lot of experience from my past that I rely on,” said Cruz.

While not a power puncher, Cruz has the ability to outbox his competition. He is coming off a 12-round unanimous decision win over Carlos Guevara in March 2008. Cruz’s manager, Victor Montanez, is confident that he will come out on top. “Orlando looks better than he has ever looked in his life. He is completely mentally and physically prepared,” said Montanez. “We believe that Orlando will put on a beautiful show on January 16.”

Cruz, a proud Puerto Rican, grew up idolizing his 2000 Olympic teammates and fellow countrymen, boxing stalwarts, Miguel Cotto and Ivan Calderon. His manager, Juan De Leon, believes that he will one day follow in their footsteps and see the same success that they have achieved. “With his ability and potential, he will make it to the top. Not only does he deserve to be there for his skills but he has the heart of a champion as well.”

In the co-feature, Marvin Quintero (14-1, 11 KOs) of Mexico will face his toughest test to date against ShoBox alum Nick Casal (18-3-1, 14 KOs) of Chicago, in an eight-round lightweight bout.

The event is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions and will originate from the Million Dollar Elm Casino in Tulsa, Okla.

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

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

See you at the Fights.
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Honorable Keisha Morrisey http://www.keishamorrisey.com/

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