‘USS’ Cunningham Steams In To Support Enzo Maccarinelli

Former IBF World Cruiserweight Champion, Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham gives his view on this weekend’s big battle at the M.E.N. Arena in Manchesterbetween Wales’ Enzo ‘Big Mac’ Maccarinelli and American-based Brit Ola‘Kryptonite’ Afolabi for the interim WBO Title. World No. 2 ranked Cruiserweight ‘USS’ Cunningham, who had offered tostep in and face Maccarinelli after Johnathon Banks backed out of their planned date to face Cunningham’s former foe and current IBF champion,Tomasz ‘Goral’ Adamek, relishes the thought of No. 5 World ranked ‘BigMac’ being victorious as he said. “Man, I’m disappointed that I didn’t getto fight Enzo on the fourteenth. It would have been a great fight. Ireally want to fight in England, the fans there are awesome, just like thePolish fans, they’re so enthusiastic. That aside, this is going to be a real banger of a fight. Ola (Afolabi) isan underrated talent. I don’t think this will be as easy as Enzo thinks.Word is Ola can really battle, he’s no walk over. No disrespect to Ola,I’m hoping that Enzo wins though, so he gets a shot at Victor (Emilio Ramirez - Current WBO Champ). After my fight with Wayne (Braithwaite) I’ll get the rematch with Tomasz(Adamek) I still know I am the best Cruiserweight. My motto is “Two TimeIn '09”, I will get my title back, then I’ll go to unify the belts. I’llbe going after all the champions, I’d like nothing more than the firstbeing against Enzo in England. Shoot, that’ll be the fight of theCentury.” The contracts for the IBF World Cruiserweight Title eliminator boutbetween Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham and Wayne ‘Big Truck’ Braithwaite have beensigned and the fight will take place in St Louis, Missouri sometime in thevery near future. The winner earns the right to face current IBF ChampionTomasz ‘Goral’ Adamek later in 2009. See you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

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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

John Duddy and Patrick Farrell show their Irish spirit‏

Irish-American fighters, John Duddy and Patrick Farrell will participate in local New Jersey St. Patrick’s Day parades this weekend to celebrate their Irish heritage and to promote their upcoming Friday, April 24th “Main Event Boxing Series” fights at Prudential Center in Newark.

The undefeated Duddy will participate in New Jersey’s oldest and biggest annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration in West Orange, New Jersey on Sunday. He will ride in the spectacular parade, which begins at 12:00 pm, and then visit a number of local St. Patrick’s events.

Patrick Farrell will show his Irish spirit as part of Newark’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Friday, March 13. The parade route begins 1:00pm at Mulberry and Lafayette. Fans also can catch Patrick Farrell in Jersey City’s parade on Sunday at 12:30pm.

The Friday, April 24th boxing show will feature a spectacular night of boxing rich in Irish heritage! The show starts at 8 PM. In addition, beginning at 6 PM, there will be a huge Irish street festival right outside the arena featuring lots of Irish beer, food and music. Tickets are on sale now at Prudential Center Box Office or log on to prucenter.com.

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

Luck of the Irish for Danny O’Connor; Fighting Saturday night in Boston

FRAMINGHAM, Mass.– No sooner had the announcement been made that the March 16th “Erin Go Brawl II” show in New York City was canceled, Seminole Warriors Boxing informed its prize light welterweight, Danny O’Connor, of his repositioning on a show this Saturday night in Boston.

The National Guard Armory in Dorchester (70 Liberty Ave.) isn’t a long drive for family, friends and fans from Framingham to watch O’Connor (4-0, 1 KO), 2008 U.S. Olympic first alternate, fight live against Charlie Wade (4-7, 1 KO).

O’Connor is coming off of his impressive national television debut January 30, winning a 4-round decision in the opening bout on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights against light welterweight Jamar Saunders (2-1-1, 1 KO) at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

“I was disappointed when I first heard that the show at Madison Square Garden had been canceled,” O’Connor said. “I think every time I’m supposed to fight in New York something happens. This is the second time but I believe everything happens for a reason and this got me in a card in Boston. I’m so happy. It’s amazing. Now everybody from home can come watch me fight live. They wanted me on ESPN my last fight and now they can see me in person. I can’t imagine how I’ll feel when I walk into the ring with everybody there cheering for me.

“My ESPN fight was huge because a lot of people got to watch me fight for the first time. It helped build my fan-base. It was also a step-up against a tough kid. I’m a pro. This is what I do – fight! I turned in a solid performance but I’m also a perfectionist who thinks I can always do better. It was only my fourth pro fight and was another part of my learning process. I leaned a lot last fight and we’ve bee working to improve some things that I’ll bring into this fight in Boston. I want to stay busy and learn something new every fight.”

The 23-year-old O’Connor won last year’s US Future Stars National Championship, in which, he was named Most Outstanding Boxer, as well as the 2008 National Golden Gloves Tournament. The highlight of Danny’s amateur career was defeating eventual 2008 Olympic Gold medalist Felix Diaz, of the Dominican Republic, last May in a USA-Dominican Republic dual meet.

“We were very happy with Danny’s last fight against a legitimate, young fighter,” O’Connor’s head trainer and co-manager David Keefe remarked. “He used his jab very well and showed excellent speed and good overall boxing skills. We’re very happy to have Danny boxing in Boston. We accepted the opportunity right after we learned about the New York showing being canceled. This was our next best choice and we hope Danny will be fighting at Madison Square Garden in the future. When (co-manager) Rob (Valle) and I were looking for a promoter, we had a game plan for Danny to stay busy. We didn’t want only five fights a year. We believe it’s very important for a young, up-and-comer like Danny to fight a lot. It’s been that way since the first day we met Leon (Margules, Executive Director, Seminole Warriors Boxing).”

For more information about Danny O’Connor go online to www.dannyoconnorboxing.com.

See you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

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

SIX QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH LUCIAN BUTE

NEW YORK– Montreal-based Romanian Lucian Bute took time out of his busy fight-week training schedule to answer a few questions from SHOWTIME. The 29-year-old undefeated Bute risks his International Boxing Federation (IBF) super middleweight crown against hard-hitting Fulgencio Zuniga on ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, March 13 (live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast) at the Bell Centre in Montreal.

Bute is making his third defense of the 168-pound title he won with an 11th-round TKO over Alejandro Berrio on Oct. 19, 2007, in Montreal, where the defending champion’s last 11 fights have taken place.

Last Oct. 24 in Montreal on ShoBox, Bute dominated the initial 11-plus rounds against Librado Andrade but fell apart late and was brutally knocked down in the final seconds. Visibly shaken and hurt, Bute barely made it to his feet, but he beat the referee’s “10-count” to retain his belt on a lopsided decision.

SHOWTIME: How important is Friday night’s fight to you and the people of Montreal?

LUCIAN BUTE: “Montreal has become my second native land. I came here to fight my pro debut and just fell in love with the people and the culture. We’re going to keep bringing the major, major championship fights to Montreal because I know the main thing that we are doing here is selling out and that is something not too many promoters can do in other places. This is a tough time for many with the economy where it’s at but boxing still remains an important part of everyday life in Montreal.

“I like being on SHOWTIME and I like being on TV. That’s the way you build up to the big fights. You have to make your name in America. To make the big money you have to be involved in the big fights and SHOWTIME and ShoBox are giving me that opportunity now.”

SHOWTIME: Do you feel like fighting in Montreal gives you a clear-cut advantage in your fights?

LUCIAN BUTE: “When you are fighting at home there are some slight advantages but once that bells sounds there is no one that can help you but yourself. Sure, the arena is packed and they are screaming your name but no one can help you. You are all by yourself and you have to perform. Between the ropes there is no more advantage.”

SHOWTIME: What do you think about Fulgencio Zuniga?

LUCIAN BUTE: “I’ve been watching Zuniga’s fights on tape, especially his last three fights. Of course, I saw his fight against Denis Inkin (for the WBO super middleweight title in which Zuniga lost in a controversial 12-round decision). It was a really, really close fight and I even thought Zuniga won the fight. But the fight was in Germany. I do think that if that fight was in America that Zuniga would have been declared the champion.

“I also have watched his fight three years ago against David Lopez, who like me is a southpaw. (Lopez) was beating him until the final round when Zuniga knocked him out. That just shows me how much heart Zuniga has. He will never quit in a fight, especially a title fight. I also saw his fight against Victor Oganov. I feel like I’ve got the speed on my side. I’ve got the boxing ability and I will make sure we will keep fighting on my level. At my level, speed kills.”

SHOWTIME: Can you compare Zuniga to your last opponent Librado Andrade?

“They are a little similar. I would say that Andrade is a busier fighter and physically a little bit stronger. In fact, probably quite a bit stronger. But on the second punch Zuniga is probably quite a bit stronger. He has more power on every single punch than Andrade does.”

SHOWTIME: Many call your win over Andrade controversial because of what happened at the end of the fight. What are your thoughts about the way the fight ended?

LUCIAN BUTE: “I think it was not a mistake on my part. I just got so tired in that last round. A 126-pounder could have knocked me out I was so tired. I learned from that experience. When I went down there were four seconds left in the fight so all I needed to do was stand up. There were eight seconds when I got to one leg. Whether the ref told Andrade to go back to his corner or not, it’s irrelevant because with just four seconds left in the fight I knew he couldn’t hit me anymore. So I think the referee did the right thing.”

SHOWTIME: Would you like to fight Andrade again?

LUCIAN BUTE: “Absolutely. It’s a must. We have to fight again. Hopefully he will win his mandatory fight aginst Vitali Tsypko (on April 4, also from Bell Centre) and he will be my next opponent for the fall. We need to settle this. I need to do this and he also deserves it.”

Nick Charles and Steve Farhood will call the ShoBox action on Friday night. 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.
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

$25,000 10th Anniversary Grapplers Quest Joins The Fight Expo, March 21-22 in Del Mar, CA

DEL MAR, Calif.- Recognizing the dedicated grappling fan base worldwide, “The Fight Expo,” the world’s largest mixed martial arts (MMA), grappling and extreme sports family-oriented supershow, announced today a landmark partnership with Grapplers Quest. Under the terms of the five-year deal, “The Fight Expo” will be the exclusive home of all Grapplers Quest Supershows, featuring $25,000 of more in prizes at each event starting with the first co-op event Saturday and Sunday, March 21t-22 in Del Mar, California.

On Saturday, March 21, starting at 2:00 PM, they will showcase a 16-Man No-Gi Superfight Absolute presented by Gameness, Jiu Jitsu Pro Gear, Bud Light and Grapplers Quest includes: Fabricio Werdum (UFC & Pride Veteran), Jeff Glover (21-Time Grapplers Quest Champion), Lucas Leite (BRASA, World Champion), Carlos "Sapao" Ban (Ralph Gracie), Vinicius “Pezao” Magalhães (TUF Season 8 Finalist), Bruno Bastos (Nova Uniao), Bill "The Grill" Cooper (Paragon Jiu Jitsu), Roberto “Tussa” Comargo (Gracie Barra), Roberto "CYBORG" Abreu (Fight Sports), Leo Santos (Saulo Ribeiro JJ), Romulo Barral (Gracie Barra BH), Kevin Lutz (Marine Wrestling/NJMA), Cristiano ´Thite´ Lazzarini (Gracie Barra) and many more.

On Sunday, March 22, starting at 2:00 PM, The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Challenge presented by Gameness and Bud Light includes: Adriano Camolese (Godoi Jiu Jitsu Black Belt), Jeff "Pipelayer" Glover (Paragon Jiu Jitsu/Franjinha Black Belt), Nivaldo De Oliveira Lima (Leo Vieira/Check Mat), Bill "The Grill" Cooper (2005 Grapplers Quest All-Star Champion), Vinicius Magalhães (TUF Finalist), Bruno Bastos (Nova Uniao, 3-Time World BJJ Champion), Carlos "Sapao" Ban (CBJJ Pan American & World Champion), Romulo Barral (Draculino/4-Time GQ Champ), Roberto "CYBORG" Abreu (2008 GQ Advanced Absolute Champion/Koral Team), Roberto “Tussa” Comargo (Gracie Barra Black Belt) , Lucas Leite (2007 GQ All-Star Pro Champion/Team KORAL), Asa Fuller (Cleber Luciano Black Belt) and many more.

Under its founder and CEO, Brian Cimins, Grapplers Quest has become the leading grappling fight organization focused on delivering high-profile professional grappling superfight tournaments, the world’s largest amateur open events for all ages and skill levels; branded Grapplers Quest fight videos and DVDs, photos and products; a searchable database of over 32,000 qualified grappling academies; and news and forums. The partnership brings together Fight Expo’s all-encompassing MMA, Grappling and Extreme Sports Supershow with the leading ground fighting competition in Grapplers Quest.

“What Brian Cimins has built with Grapplers Quest over the past 10 years is remarkable and pioneering,” said Lori Andrews, Fight Expo producer. “This deal marks a significant milestone for Fight Expo as the Grapplers Quest brand is a necessary and natural fit for the rapid expansion of this supershow. Grapplers Quest is recognized the world over as the leader in the grappling world and we are proud to be associated with it. There is tremendous cross-over between submission grappling, MMA and of course other extreme sports like motocross, all of which is accessible and interactive at The Fight Expo. Grapplers Quest, together with The Fight Expo, can now show today’s MMA stars in their early grappling tournaments, as well as introduce fans to the stars of today and the future.”

Grapplers Quest, The World's Largest Ground Fighting Tournament celebrates its 10th Anniversary on March 21-22 at THE FIGHT EXPO, The World’s Largest MMA, Grappling and Extreme Sports Expo in Del Mar, California at The Del Mar Fairgrounds. Grapplers Quest will feature 300 No-Gi Submission Grappling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Divisions for Men, Women, Children, and Teens of All Ages and Skill Levels and amazingly $25,000 in Cash & Prize Packages.

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

Bryne doesn’t get bite out of Big Apple, yet

LOS ANGELES– Unbeaten light welterweight Dean “Irish Lightning” Byrne’s dream to fight in New York is only delayed, not shattered, after the recent announcement that “Erin Go Brawl II,” scheduled for March 16 at WaMu Theater in Madison Square Garden, had been canceled.

Byrne (10-0, 4 KOs), fighting out of Los Angeles by way of Dublin, was supposed to fight in an 8-round bout on the card headlined by his friend, Andy Lee, and featuring his hero, Wayne McCullough. Dean, who has Freddie Roach as his trainer, works out at Roach’s famed Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles, where he has sparred with Manny Pacquiao, Amir Khan and Juan Marquez.

“I was very disappointed,” Byrne said about not fighting Mar. 16 in New York City. “I was looking forward to fighting in front of so many Irish at Madison Square Garden in New York City. A lot of my family were coming over from Ireland and booked flights. It was a big opportunity for us because they’ve never seen me fight as a pro. Hey, that’s boxing and someday I’ll fight there. I want people in New York, all up and down the East Coast where there’s a lot of Irish – Boston and Philadelphia – to see what a good entertainer I am.

“Freddie gave me the weekend off and I was back in the gym on Monday. I’ll continue training hard and hopefully I’ll be in a fight soon, maybe the end of March or in April. Someday, though, I’ll be fighting in Madison Square Garden.”

Byrne had more than 200 amateur fights, winning an Irish National title, and he turned pro in Australia, where he captured the New South Wales State belt on only his fourth pro fight, and one fighter later added the Australian crown in a 10-rounder. On his way from Australia to relocate in Boston, Dean stopped in Los Angeles and trained at World Card, where Roach took a shine to him. “He’s a tough kid who is a really good fighter but doesn’t know it yet,” Roach spoke about Byrne. “He’s learning to sit-down on his punches and has had two knockouts since he’s been with me. Dean’s learned a lot sparring with Manny, Amir and the others. He’s a lot of fun to watch, very exciting and cleaver for a young man. Early in his career he fought 10 rounds for the Australian title, so he already has that experience. He’s one of my best prospects.”

Byrne last fought in December, when he registered a win by fourth-round technical knockout against Francisco Rios Gil (13-8) in Inglewood, California.

“One of Dean’s most important dreams is to fight at Madison Square Garden in New York City,” Bryne’s manager Steven Feder (Standing Eight Management) remarked. “Ever since we started working together, Dean has told me that coming from Ireland and traveling around the world, his dream was to fight in Madison Square Garden. He was excited about fighting in an Irish community. We feel bad for Irish Ropes. Dean was looking forward to fighting on their card with Andy and Wayne. It’s too bad things didn’t work out for that show. Dean Byrne has a clear shot at really making it big in boxing. He’s 10-0 and ready to go. He never had a 4-round fight, starting with a six and going right to eights and then tens. Fans love him and Irish fans on the East Coast will embrace him once they get to see him fight. We train in LA because that’s where Freddie is but New York is my hometown and we hope New York fight fans will make Dean their adopted son.”

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

Khan nightmare still haunting Fagan

The nightmare of his defeat to Amir Khan continues for Oisin Fagan as a planned appearance on the Hunky Dorys World Title Fight Night at The O2 on March 21 has had to be scrapped.

Fagan suffered a broken leg in his defeat to Khan last December and despite having had his cast removed and returning to training Fagan has been told he will not receive medical clearance in time to fight at The O2.

“The Khan fight was a nightmare and I just wanted to put it behind me as quickly as possible. It was a high profile fight and I felt embarrassed after being stopped in 2 rounds. That’s all people saw on the night and it’s all people remember. Nobody seemed to be too interested in the fact that I broke my leg on that first knockdown.

“Khan caught me with a nice hook but it was a punch that wouldn’t normally have been enough to put me down. It put me off balance though and when my foot turned awkwardly. I felt my ankle doubling up underneath me and heard a sickening crack. I knew at that moment, that I had broken something but I thought it was my ankle. The pain was incredible, but I got back up to fight.”

On his return home to Dublin Fagan was diagnosed with a spiral fracture of the fibula with the doctors amazed that he had managed to stand up let alone fight on with such an injury.

“Most people think I was nuts to get up and fight on with a broken leg but I feel like I have a heart, second to none and while it was very painful trying to reset my feet anytime he'd move, I had every intention of continuing for the whole fight but it was stopped and the defeat definitely goes down as the biggest disappointment of my boxing career.”

The prospect of making a quick fire return to action had motivated Fagan to return to fitness as quickly as possible and he was targeting a comeback on the undercard of the Bernard Dunne – Ricardo Cordoba WBA World title fight at The O2.

“I was very down about the Khan fight but I knew that the best way out of that was to get back in the ring as quickly as possible. After the operation the doctors told me that I could be out for up to a year which was devastating but I dedicated myself and worked so hard to put myself in a position to recover as quickly as possible.

“I converted an old office swivel chair into a training device that allowed me to shadow box while sitting in it and I also took to doing roadwork even on my crutches. When I heard about the big show at The O2 I set my heart and soul on getting a place on that card. I know it sounds crazy but in anticipation of fighting again, I had been sparring 8 and 10 rounds in training and running 10 miles on my roadwork days and generally training like a lunatic to get back in there stronger than ever.

“The bottom line was that it was medical decision to disallow me to fight and even though I made the point that we're not all clones and we don't all heal at the same time, I guess the doctors can't make an exception to the rule for an (extraordinarily and) determined quick-healer like myself, by allowing me to fight just 3 months after breaking my leg

“Personally though, I would much rather hazard physical pain and scars to my body than having to endure these mental scars that I am now tormented with and when it comes to overall health, I think that these psychological torments are so much more difficult to deal with than cuts, bruises and breaks.

“However, I don't blame the Boxing Union of Ireland or the doctors. Rules are rules and they operate to the highest medical standards to ensure that the boxers safety is paramount. Truth be known they have been fantastic and extremely generous, accomodating and supportive since my last fight. Mel Christle and Dr. Joe McKeever in particular have helped me so much through the many troubles and obstacles, which have happened as a result of the Khan fight.

“To be fair to them, their reputation would be on the line if they sanctioned a man to fight just 3 months after breaking a leg, no matter how miraculous my recovery seems to have been. However, I was just so determined to make the Irish people proud and show them that being Irish, for me, is a deep seeded mark of resilience and something that has shaped me throughout my life. This ideal is what drives me through the pain barrier every time I fight or anytime I am posed with a great challenge in my life. I remember where I am from and the courage and great tenacity that we, as a people are born with.

Fagan will now target a return in May. “I just have to wait for word to be released. I was told that since I am showing great improvement, that they would reduce the comeback date from the original 12 months, down to 6 months so that means I should be able to get back in the ring in May.

“I’m not going to stop training even though I have to take this heartbreaking news on the chin. I know at the age of 35, I am coming to the twilight of my career, but I am adamant that I have a few super fights left in me and I'm definitely not finished yet and I believe the underdog will rise, once again!”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

No Holds Barred: John Perretti on Why We Watched Boxing over UFC This Weekend

No Holds Barred: John Perretti on Why We Watched Boxing over UFC This Weekend

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2009-03-09T00_13_06-07_00

On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman begins the fourth year of this show as a podcast by speaking with the legendary matchmaker, promoter, announcer, and martial artist, and our senior correspondent on this show, John Perretti.

This past Saturday night, March 7, there were two live televised fight cards on at the same time. One was an HBO boxing card featuring a TKO victory by unbeaten, rising junior middleweight James Kirkland over Joel Julio. The other was another UFC pay-per-view.

In a lengthy discussion, we explain why we both chose to watch the boxing over the UFC (and it was not because of the price of the pay-per-view). We discuss the training methods used by James Kirkland, who is under the tutelage of former boxer Ann Wolfe. We also discuss why, despite excellent fights and fighters, televised boxing often comes off looking so lame, tired, and old. And we touch on many more issues in both boxing and mixed martial arts, including fighter safety.

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 begin by commenting on a good weekend of televised fights. These included the comeback decision win by Delvin Rodriguez over Shamone Alvarez, the second-round TKO by Victor Ortiz over Mike Arnaoutis, the breakout performance by James Kirkland in stopping Joel Julio at the end of six rounds, and the brutal knockout by Mike Alvarado of Emmanuel Clottey at 2:58 of the tenth and final round. We also discuss the implications of these fights for the rankings. This coming weekend marks the start of four straight weeks of mid-level pay-per-view telecasts in the U.S. The first of these, on March 14, will pit Amir Khan against the legendary but aging Marco Antonio Barrera. This is a major test for both fighters, although of a different kind for each. Can Khan, knocked out in the first round in September 2008 by little-known but unbeaten Breidis Prescott, defeat a top-level fighter? And can the 35-year-old Barrera, who has twice fought lower-level opposition since being dominated by Manny Pacquiao in October 2007, and who contemplated retirement, still safely and competitively compete in the ring? We had a chance on a recent media conference call to get comments from both Khan and Barrera. And we also comment on this glut of pay-per-views, and what it means, and doesn't mean, for boxing. Finally, we comment on the efforts to market and position the boxing shows on Showtime. Despite showing many excellent fights, Showtime is way behind their premium cable network rival, HBO, in popularity. We discuss some of the reasons why, in particular their failure to use the Internet and the Internet boxing media properly and effectively, and the almost total absence of the use of social media for their boxing program. It is free to listen to or download SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/, and listen, learn, and enjoy.

No Holds Barred is free to listen to and is sponsored by:

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/).

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

Wrestling 411 (http://wrestling411.tv), providing coverage of the sport of wrestling on TV, the Internet, and radio. Wrestling 411 is produced by Media Sports Productions (http://www.mediasportsproductions.com/), whose sole mission is the marketing and promotion of the sport of wrestling.

Thanks, Eddie Goldman
http://eddiegoldman.com

Enjoy!
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See you at the Fights.
Thanks for your time.

Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience The Video Channel Online http://www.youtube.com/ELEmpress1

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Rodriguez-Thompson headlines “Homecoming” March 19 at historic Mechanics Hall in Worcester

WORCESTER, Mass.– Unbeaten prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez has been matched against veteran Patrick Thompson in the 8-round main event on “Homecoming,” promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Manfredo’s Gym, Thursday night, March 19 at historic Mechanics Hall.

“Homecoming” will be taped live as part of DiBella’s “Broadway Boxing Series,” which will be shooting in New England for the first time, from the beautiful Mechanic’s Hall venue that hasn’t hosted pro boxing since 1967.

“This show launches DiBella Entertainment in New England,” promoter Lou DiBella said. “We come right back April 25th at Foxwoods, featuring Jermain Taylor challenging WBC super middleweight champion Carl Froch, on Showtime. With young fighters in our stable like Edwin and Ryan, DiBella Entertainment definitely plans to have a strong promotional boxing presence in New England.”

The Dominican Republic-born Rodriguez (9-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of Worcester, recently signed an exclusive promotional contract with DiBella Entertainment. The 23-year-old middleweight has an outstanding 84-9 amateur record, including gold medal performances in the 2005 USA Boxing National Championships and 2006 U.S. Golden Gloves Championships.

Thompson (15-13-1, 5 KOs), reigning Colorado/Nebraska super middleweight champion, has defeated former Canadian champion Jason Naugler and gone the distance with present IBF mandatory middleweight title challenger Giovanni Lorenzo, John Duddy, Joe Greene, Vanes Martirosyan, Sechew Powell, Matt Vanda, Ishe Smith, Mariusz Cendrowski, Pawel Wolak, and David Medina. The thick-whiskered Thompson has been stopped only once, 5-½ years ago, by Alfonso Gomez of The Contender I fame.

“This guy is the gatekeeper to the elite level of the middleweight/super middleweight divisions,” Rodriguez’ manager Larry Army noted. “He’s fought everyone and only top-echelon fighters have defeated him. Thompson’s only been knocked out once, so he’s tough and durable.”

The 8-round co-feature pits a hot prospect, “Buddy” McGirt-trained super bantamweight Dat “Dat Be Dat” Nguyen (14-1, 6 KOs), against a proven veteran, former world title challenger Alex “Ali” Baba (26-14-1, 19 KOs).

Fighting on the undercard in 4-round bouts are Quincy (MA) lightweight Ryan Kielczewski (3-0), Brooklyn middleweight Philip Jackson Benson (2-0) vs. Dameon Mitchell (0-1), 3-time Irish national amateur champion, Steven Ormond (2-0), in his U. S. debut, along with a pair pro-debuting boxers from Providence, light heavyweight Valar Boise and welterweights Dustin Rhinehold.

“Edwin will be ready for Thompson,” Manfredo’s head coach Peter Manfredo, Sr. remarked. “He’s looking good, real sharp. He’s been going to a strength-and-conditioning coach and it’s starting to show. His power has improved and his defense is getting better. Edwin’s turning into a real pro.

“Thompson’s a tough kid, stopped only once, and he comes to fight. It would be a nice feather in Edwin’s cap to knockout Thompson, not that he’s going into the ring looking for a knockout. If it comes, we’ll take it.”

Tickets, priced at $50.00 (balcony), $75.00 (first row balcony), $60.00 (floor), $100.00 (floor), and $150.00 (ringside – first 2 rows inside security barriers), go on sale tomorrow at the Mechanics Hall box office, www.mechanicshall.org, Manfredo’s Gym in Pawtucket (RI), and the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester. Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET, first bout at 7:00 PM/ET.

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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

SecondsOut Radio: Khan-Barrera Preview, Knockout Weekend Review, PPVGlut, Showtime and the Internet

On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, host Eddie Goldman begins by commenting on a good weekend of televised fights. These included the comeback decision win by Delvin Rodriguez over Shamone Alvarez,the second-round TKO by Victor Ortiz over Mike Arnaoutis, the breakout performance by James Kirkland in stopping Joel Julio at the end of sixrounds, and the brutal knockout by Mike Alvarado of Emmanuel Clottey at 2:58 of the tenth and final round. We also discuss the implications of these fights for the rankings. This coming weekend marks the start of four straight weeks of mid-level pay-per-view telecasts in the U.S. The first of these, on March14, will pit Amir Khan against the legendary but aging Marco Antonio Barrera. This is a major test for both fighters, although of adifferent kind for each. Can Khan, knocked out in the first round inSeptember 2008 by little-known but unbeaten Breidis Prescott, defeat atop-level fighter? And can the 35-year-old Barrera, who has twice fought lower-level opposition since being dominated by Manny Pacquiaoin October 2007, and who contemplated retirement, still safely and competitively compete in the ring? We had a chance on a recent media conference call to get comments fromboth Khan and Barrera. And we also comment on this glut of pay-per-views, and what it means, and doesn't mean, for boxing. Finally, we comment on the efforts to market and position the boxing shows on Showtime. Despite showing many excellent fights, Showtime is way behind their premium cable network rival, HBO, in popularity. We discuss some of the reasons why, in particular their failure to usethe Internet and the Internet boxing media properly and effectively,and the almost total absence of the use of social media for their boxing program. It is free to listen to or download SecondsOut Radio, but you mustregister to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/,and listen, learn, and enjoy. Thanks, Eddie Goldmanhttp://eddiegoldman.comSee 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

Final chapter hasn’t been written by “The Quietman” Ruiz

LAS VEGAS– Two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz has one final chapter to live before his boxing career is finished: to capture another world title, defend his belt back home in Massachusetts, and fight for the first time in Puerto Rico.

The WBA Championship Committee recently declared No. 3 rated Ruiz (43-8-1, 29 KOs) as its mandatory challenger for the winner of this year’s Nicolai Valuev-Ruslan Chagaev WBA title fight. Valuev is the reigning WBA heavyweight champion, Chagaev its “Champion in Recess.”

The ruling stems from a petition filed by Team Ruiz after last August’s WBA title fight, when John lost a 12-round “split decision” decision to Nicolai Valuev, in which, Team Ruiz claimed, based on a Russian TV footage, Valuev’s corner knew the scoring during the bout and before the official announcement of the result, which is a substantial violation of the WBA rules considered an unfair advantage. Also argued was that judge Takeshi Shimakawa improperly kept a running-score during the fight, explaining why he changed his final round scoring, five minutes after the fight had ended, from Ruiz to Valuev.

“I’m excited about the WBA making me the mandatory challenger and grateful to my manager, Tony Cardinale, and lawyer, attorney Judd Berstein, for fighting so hard on my behalf,” Ruiz said. “It’s been a long road, starting on the streets of Chelsea (Mass.), and fighting all over the world. My final chapter in boxing is coming and I hope it ends with another world title. I also want to show my appreciation to my fans in Massachusetts and Puerto Rico. I was raised in the Boston area and I’d like to fight there again, hopefully in a world title fight. My brothers, sister and some distant cousins live there. But I’ve never fought in Puerto Rico, where a lot of my family lives -- my mother, uncles, aunts and a lot of first cousins. They’ve always supported me and I definitely would like to fight there before I retire.

“I only lived in Puerto Rico for a year, when I was five, but I do have some memories of San Grande, especially the stadium where my relatives played ball at, and later where I was honored before a capacity crowd after I won the world title for the first time. The 1 ½ ride from San Juan to San Grande took eight hours because of all the people on the streets showing their support for me. I want to give back to them and my fans in Massachusetts before I move on with the rest of my life.”

Ruiz lost controversial 12-round decisions in Germany to Valuev and Chagaev. In a pair of WBA title fights with Valuev, Ruiz lost by majority decision in 2005 and last year in the aforementioned calamity, as well as by split decision to Chagaev in their 2006 WBA title eliminator.

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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

Devon Alexander‘The Great’Wants to Fight Nate Campbell; Undefeated WBC No. 1-Ranked Super Lightweight,Wants to Face the Former Unified Lightweight

BOCA RATON, Fla.—Undefeated 22-year-old World Boxing Council No. 1-ranked super lightweight Devon Alexander “The Great” (17-0, 10 KOs) has made the brash move of actively pursuing a match against former unified lightweight world champion Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell (33-5-1, 25 KOs).

“I will fight anyone that Don King or the television networks want me to fight,” Alexander, a St. Louis native, said from his South Florida training camp. “I want to prove that I am one of the best fighters in the world, and what better way to do that than to take on a guy who was the king of the lightweights before making the recent decision to move up to junior welterweight.”

Alexander’s longtime trainer and manager Kevin Cunningham, also from St. Louis, knows this would be a dangerous match but believes his young charge is ready to make the move.

Kevin Cunningham and Devon Alexander


“There is no question this would be a big step up in terms of opposition for Devon, but it’s a challenge he’s ready to have,” Cunningham said. “Somebody brought up Nate Campbell to face Devon. I’m all for Nate vs. The Great. HBO has expressed interest in making it happen, so we’ll see.”

Cunningham also believes Campbell’s previous experiences should play a role in negotiations.

“Nate has always talked about all of the fighters who ducked him on his way up,” Cunningham said of the 36-year-old former world champion. “Now he has this opportunity. The ball is in his court. It will be interesting to see if he will welcome this challenge from a worthy young foe.”

Cunningham also noted that the winner of this fight could face the winner of the upcoming 140-pound world-championship unification match between Timothy Bradley and Kendall Holt. Bradley currently holds the WBC crown and Holt is the World Boxing Organization titleholder.

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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

‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley and Naazim Richardson Help Jamaal ‘Da Truth’ DavisPrepare For 6th March Showdown

Popular Philadelphia Middleweight Jamaal ‘Da Truth’ Davis, better knownaround the boxing scene as ‘Tyson’, spends his final day at 'Sugar' Shane Mosley’s Big Bear, California; training camp where he has been preparing for his first fight, at the Legendary Blue Horizon on Friday 6th March 2009, since being signed by promoter Russell Peltz. ‘Tyson’ was signed by Peltz Boxing following his magnificent win, over fellow Philly fighter Chris Hall 3(2KOs)-5-1, at the National Guard Armory, Philadelphia on Saturday 4th October ‘08, and the spontaneous, emotionally charged, thirty minute plus post victory reception he received from the huge crowd, which included many of Philadelphia’s biggest boxing names including Cruiserweight King, Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham, NABA Light Heavyweight Champ, Yusaf Mack, Former Jnr. Middleweight World Champions Robert ‘Bam Bam’ Hines and Kassim ‘The Dream’ Ouma, former Heavyweight Champion of the World, ‘Terrible’ Tim Witherspoon and Hall of Famer Jeff Chandler. Jamaal, who is being prepared for this fight by his long time trainer Shar’ron Baker and esteemed coach Brother Naazim Richardson as well as sparring with Brother Naazim’s Concrete Jungle Boxing Tribe members, spoke briefly prior to starting his final day at camp. “I’m ready to fight. I couldn’t be better prepared, the facilities and people here are firstclass. I’ve been to camp before, but that was to help others.

Top row from left is Jamaal "Da Truth" Davis aka Tyson, Brother NaazimRichardson, Carl "Smash" Scarborough and Karl "Dynamite" Dargan. Bottomrow from left is "Big" Bear Richardson, Coach Shar'ron Baker,"Kilimanjaro" the Rock Allen and Khalib "Big Foot" Whitmore.



It’s awesometo think that Shar’ron, Naz and all these great fighters are taking thetime to help me get ready. You know, Naz’s last two fighters were Bernard(Hopkins) and Shane (Mosley), and he’s helping me. Awesome. I’m hundred percent ready for anyone. I can’t thank Shane, Naazim, Shar’ron, Rock, Dynamite, Khalib and Smash enough. These guys are the best. This place is awesome. I’m so blessed to have them, as well as the support of Rob (Epstein) andDiane (Bennett) of DiamondBoxing, who are sponsoring me and the American Cancer Society again. These are really great people that really believe inme and the campaign. I can’t thank them enough, they gave me a hundred percent and I’m going to give a hundred percent in the fight for them, Patrilla (his young wife who passed away in December 2007) and the American Cancer Society.” Jamaal’s ever present coach, Shar’ron Baker added. “Tyson has gotten in alot of good sparring with Rock Allen, Karl ‘Dynamite’ Dargan, Khalib ‘Big Foot’ Whitmore and Carl ‘Smash’ Scarborough. He's looking fit and ready for any test set before him. Even though we have about a few days to gobefore we return to Philly' Tyson is ready to go now!!! We'd like to give a shout out to ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley thanking him for allowing us to use his training facilities and an even bigger shout out to Brother NaazimRichardson for making it all possible.” The ever popular Jamaal 8(6KOs)-4, will be entering the ring, when hefaces Wilmington, Delaware’s Clarence ‘Sonny Bono’ Taylor 13 (6KOs)-20-3 at the Legendary Blue Horizon in his home town of Philadelphia at the Russell Peltz/Joe Hand promoted March 6th event, wearing the distinctivepink Diamond Boxing/American Cancer Society T-Shirt as he did for his previous fight. All sponsorship monies are to be donated to The American Cancer Society in the name of his young bride, Patrilla, who passed awayjust one week before Christmas 2007 after battling breast cancer for many years. Diane Bennett from DiamondBoxing.com said of their support for Jamaal.“Diamond Boxing is once again proud and honored to help Jamaal raise moneyfor The American Cancer Society. We are so proud of Jamaal who has dedicated his boxing career and more to his beloved wife. Diamond Boxing ‘Fight For the Cure’ pink t-shirts will be available forsale at the fight, the profits will be donated to the American CancerSociety.” The 6th March fight is headlined by fellow Philadelphian Mike Jones who defends his NABA welterweight title against Los Angeles, California’s Larry Mosley.

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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

Babe Wood to be posthumously inducted into CES Ring of Honor “Mayflower Madness,” Friday night at Memorial Hall in Plymouth, MA

PROVIDENCE– The late Charles “Babe” Wood will be posthumously inducted into the CES Ring of Honor during a special ceremony Friday night (March 6) at “Mayflower Madness,” promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in historic Plymouth Memorial Hall.

“Mayflower Madness” is the first in a 4-fight arrangement, “The Radisson Hotel Plymouth Harbor Fight Series,” scheduled in 2009 at Plymouth Memorial Hall and promoted by CES.

Promoter Jimmy Burchfield, president of CES, established the CES Ring of Honor in 2005 to honor inductees for their special accomplishments and contributions to New England boxing. Charter members include 5-time world champion Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz, former WBA and WBC welterweight title-holder Marlon “Magic Man” Starling, and 3-time The Ring Fighter of the Year (2001-2003) participant “Irish” Micky Ward. Other CES Ring of Honor members include the late, great Rocky Marciano, former 3-time world champion “El Gallo” Jose Antonio Rivera, world light heavyweight contender “Iceman” John Scully, famed Connecticut trainer Johnny Dukes, 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade, Gary “Tiger” Balletto, and 4-time national amateur champion Bobby Harris.

“We lost Babe last year and everyone dearly misses him, especially in this area where he lived,” Burchfield said. “He trained world champions Rocky Marciano, Sonny Liston and Paul Pender, among the most notable fighters he coached and advised for so many years. ‘Babe’ embodies everything that I envisioned for inductees when we started the CES Ring of Honor and we’re delighted to honor ‘Babe’ and his family.”

New Bedford police officer Jason “School Boy” Pires, former USBA champion and 1996 U.S. Olympic Team Alternate, headlines in an 8-round welterweight bout against former IBF Intercontinental champion Louie Leija. Pires (21-3, 9 KOs), returning from a 5 ½ year lay-off to complete his education at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth and become a police officer, won a 6-round decision against Frank Houghtaling last November. Leija (21-9-1, 15 KOs), fighting out of San Antonio, has fought some of the world’s top fighters such as Floyd Mayweather, Jr., Ben Tackie, and Jesus Chavez. Leija’s cousin is former WBC super bantamweight champion “The Texas Tornado” Jessie James Leija.

Former New Bedford fighter Paul “The Truth” Delgado (19-8-1, 4 KOs), now based in Atlanta, returns home to Massachusetts for a 6-round welterweight bout versus Troy Smith (6-9-3, 0 KOs), of Brockton. Delgado has faced the iron during his 10-year pro career, including Paulie Malignaggi (twice), Dmitry Salita and Demetrius Hopkins.

On the undercard in 4-round bouts is Marshfield (MA) light heavyweight Manuel Antonio Lopes (4-0-1, 1 KO) vs. Eric Clinton; light heavyweight Mical Weisberg (1-0, 1 KO), of Stoughton (MA), Bridgewater State College graduate from Stoughton (MA), vs. Pete Guthy; unbeaten Russian middleweight Andrey Nevsky (5-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), vs. William Deets; Providence junior middleweight Kali Reiss (1-0, 1 KO) against pro-debuting Alexsandra Magdziak Lopes, who is married to Manuel Lopes’ father, Wayne.

Also fighting on the undercard unbeaten Lynn (MA) junior bantamweight Isander “Peachy” Beauchamp (5-0-1, 2 KOs) versus TBA. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

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McCullough wants one more title shot before hanging up gloves St. Patrick’s Day Eve, Monday Night, Mar. 16, WaMu Theater in MSG, to be ho

NEW YORK– Former WBC bantamweight champion and 1992 Olympic silver medalist, Wayne “Pocket Rocket” McCullough, wants one more world title shot at that’s why he’s fighting St. Patrick’s Day Eve (Monday, March 16) “Erin Go Brawl II” card, presented by Irish Ropes Promotions, at WaMu Theater in the famed Madison Square Garden.

Limerick’s 2004 Irish Olympian Andy Lee (16-1, 13 KOs), 14 years younger than his 38-year-old hero, McCullough, headlines in the 10-round main event against 3-time world title challenger Antwun “Kid Dynamite” Echols (31-9-4, 27 KOs).

McCullough (27-7, 18 KOs), fighting out of Las Vegas by way of Belfast, takes on Mexican super bantamweight Alex “El Diablo” Becerra (19-7, 9 KOs), in the 10 round co-feature.

“Andy Lee was the only one on the Ireland’s 2004 Olympic Boxing Team,” McCullough spoke about his warm relationship with Lee. “I’ve always supported him and feel that he’s good for Irish boxing. We’ve kept in touch and we’re behind each other 100-percent. I believe he will be world champion. I’m looking forward to fighting again on the East Coast and in Madison Square Garden. The Irish packed the house when I fought in New York (1993), Boston (1993 & 1997) or Atlantic City (1998). There are Irish on the West Coast but not as many as on the East Coast. If we brought then all back to Ireland the island would sink.

“My goal is to become world champion within two years. It’s all about promoting and I thank Irish Ropes and Cedric Kushner for this opportunity to fight on St. Patrick’s Day Eve in Madison Square Garden. I should be a 3-time world champion because a lot of people thought I won against (Daniel) Zaragoza and the first (Oscar) Larios fight. I’m 38 but I’ve taken good care of my body. I’m an Irish guy who doesn’t drink and I have a gym in my home. I’m like Bernard Hopkins.”

Making his New York City debut in an 8-round bout is unbeaten light welterweight Dean “Irish Lightning” Byrne, who was an Irish National champion when he lived in Crumlin, and he later captured the Australian light welterweight title in his fifth pro fight. Byrne (10-0, 4 KOs), now fights out of Los Angeles, where he’s trained by Freddie Roach and has sparred at the Wild Card Gym with superstars Manny Pacquiao, Amir Kahn, Juan Marquez and even Oscar De La Hoya for a few rounds.

“He’s a tough kid who is a really good fighter but doesn’t know it yet,” Roach spoke about Byrne. “He’s learning to sit-down on his punches and has had two knockouts since he’s been with me. Dean’s learned a lot sparring with Manny, Amir and the others. He’s a lot of fun to watch, very exciting and cleaver for a young man. Early in his career he fought 10 rounds for the Australian title, so he already has that experience. He’s one of my best prospects.”

Scheduled to fight in 6-rounders on “Erin Go Brawl II” are Irish super featherweight champion Eddie “Pride of Tallaght” Hyland (11-1, 3 KOs), of Dublin; Philadelphia by way of Galway middleweight “Slick Fightin’Irish” Simon O’Donnell (8-1, 5 KOs); Limerick light heavyweight Jamie Power (4-0, 2 KOs) against Reggie “Concrete” LaCrete (4-0-2, 3 KOs), from Brooklyn; Jersey City super featherweight Danny “Little Mac” McDermott (7-1-1, 2 KOs).

Also on the card in 4-round matches are Massachusetts light welterweight Danny O’Connor (4-0, 1 KO), 2008 U.S. Olympic Team alternate; Brooklyn featherweight Sadam Ali (1-0, 1 KO), 2008 U.S. Olympian; former St. Xavier College star football player Tommy Brown, fighting out of Chicago and trained by Kevin Rooney, making his pro debut in the light middleweight division.

County Galway’s Sean Mannion (42-14-1, 14 KOs) will be honored at “Erin Go Brawl II” in honor of the 25th anniversary of his WBA light middleweight title fight at Madison Square Garden against the eventual champion Mike “The Bodysnatcher” McCallum.

Tickets, priced at $50.00, $75.00, $100.00, $150.00, $200.00, and $300.00, are on sale at TicketMaster.com as well as Jack Demsey’s in Manhattan, Hilltop in Elmhurst, and the Heritage in Yonkers

For more information call Irish Ropes Promotions (212.868.9544) or go on line to www.irishropespromotions.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

Barrera on historic mission Khan next on Mexican’s hit list, “Don’t forget what I did to Prince Naseem Hamed”

HOBOKEN, N.J.- The 12-round main event March 14th between 22-year-old lightweight prospect Amir Khan and Hall of Fame bound multiple world champion, “The Baby Faced Assassin” Marco Antonio Barrera, shapes up as a potential classic at The M.E.N. Arena in Manchester, United Kingdom.

Khan (19-1, 15 KOs), 2004 Olympic silver medallist, defends his WBA International lightweight crown against Barrera (65-6, 43 KOs) in a 12-round bout. Barrera, rated No. 1 by the WBO, has already captured the WBO super bantamweight (three times), WBC and IBO featherweight, WBC and IBF super featherweight titles. The Mexican icon has defeated a Who’s Who of contemporary world champions and/or challengers during his sensational 19-year pro career such as Erik Morales (twice), Paulie Ayala, Prince Naseem Hamed, Kevin Kelly, Johnny Tapia, Robbie Peden, Mzonke Fana, and Rocky Juarez (twice).

“The reason I took this fight is because a win here puts me in line to realize my top remaining goal to become the first Mexican-born fighter to win world championships in four separate weight divisions,” Barrera said. “I’ve been world champion in three weight divisions (122, 126 and 130) and my goal is to win a world championship in the lightweight division. I don’t want to wait. I want to get there as fast as I can. A win over Khan puts me right where I want to be.


“I will beat Khan because I have more experience than him and I’m still a much better fighter than he is. Khan is tall and has a good jab and hand speed. He is a good young fighter but there’s nothing he can do between now and March 14 to surpass my skills and experience. Jose Luis Balbuena and Kennedy McKinney are two fighters I successfully defended my WBO super bantamweight titles that I can compare to Khan. They were both good fighters with good hand speed that I was able to defeat. McKinney won an Olympic gold medal. Don’t forget what I did to Prince Naseem Hamed, too, another highly-touted guy with fast hands.”

Integrated Sports is distributing three 12-round championship bouts featured on the “Khan-Barrera” pay-per-view card, presented by Frank Warren, in North America for live viewing at 4 PM/ET – 1 PM/PT on cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, TVN, DirecTV and Dish Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Bell TV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $24.95. Veteran blow-by-blow announcer Ian Darke and color analyst, former WBC lightweight champion Jim Watt, will be calling the action from ringside for Sky Box Office and Integrated Sports PPV.

In addition to Khan-Barrera, two other fights will be broadcast on PPV: former WBO cruiserweight title-holder Enzo Maccarinelli (29-2, 22 KOs), the No. 1 contender, battles No. 2 rated and NABO champ Ola “Kryptonite” Afolabi (13-1-3, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBO cruiserweight championship; WBO super middleweight champion Nicky “Cookie” Cook (29-1, 16 KOs) defends his title belt against undefeated No. 1 contender Roman “Rocky” Martinez (21-0-1, 12 KOs).

The Ring No. 6 rated Maccarinelli beat Mohamed Azzaoui, Wayne Braithwaite, Bobby Gunn, Marcelo Fabian Dominguez and Mark Hobson (twice) during his WBO title reign (2006-2008). London-born Afolabi, now living in California, captured the NABO crown last April with a 10th round TKO of previously unbeaten Eric Fields.

Former European champion Cook, rated No. 6 by The Ring, won the WBO super featherweight title via a 12-round unanimous decision in his last fight against Alex Arthur (26-1). NABO super featherweight title-holder Martinez, fighting out of his native Puerto Rico, is rankd WBA No. 9 by The Ring.

Integrated Sports: North America’s leading distributor of International Pay-Per-View and Closed Circuit sports events is Integrated Sports. Among the many events brought to North American viewers by Integrated Sports include World Championship boxing matches featuring Ricky Hatton, Christian Mijares, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Jr., Nicolai Valuev and Ruslan Chagaev. In addition, Integrated Sports has distributed numerous International soccer matches showcasing teams like Club America of Mexico and the National Team of Argentina. For more information on upcoming Integrated Sports events visit www.integratedsportsnet.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

No Holds Barred: John Perretti on Marquez-Diaz, Boxing, and MMA

On this edition of No Holds Barred, host Eddie Goldman speaks with the legendary matchmaker, promoter, announcer, and martial artist, our oldfriend and colleague John Perretti. Beginning with this show, John will be a senior correspondent on No Holds Barred and appear frequently. In a lengthy discussion, we begin by analyzing the awesome andbeautiful fight held this past Saturday involving lightweight championJuan Manuel Marquez and Juan Diaz. We then branch out to discussboxing technique in general, how most of the commentary on televisedboxing shows fails to explain this technique properly, the role ofBruce Lee, the techniques and cultures of boxing and mixed martialarts, the technical deterioration of mixed martial arts, how mixedmartial arts is not run like a sport should be, and much more. You can play or download No Holds Barred athttp://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/2009-03-02T01_09_02-08_00. You can also download No Holds Barred at http://www.mediafire.com/?eyzwtxpwxtg. If one link does not work, please try another. The show is in MP3format, so may take some time to download. The No Holds Barred theme song is called "The Heist", by musician IanCarpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/). No Holds Barred is free to listen to and is sponsored by: Gladiator Magazine (http://gladmag.com/), for in-depth coverage ofBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, and MMA, as well aslifestyle articles on surfing, cars, movies, and more. GladiatorMagazine is available at any major bookstore and online at BJJMart.com(http://bjjmart.com) or Jiu Jitsu Pro Gear (http://jiujitsuprogear.com/). BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com), your premier source for allBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear, videos, books, and much more. Wrestling 411 (http://wrestling411.tv), providing coverage of thesport of wrestling on TV, the Internet, and radio. Wrestling 411 isproduced by Media Sports Productions (http://www.mediasportsproductions.com/), whose sole mission is the marketingand promotion of the sport of wrestling. Thanks, Eddie Goldmanhttp://eddiegoldman.comSee 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

SecondsOut Radio: Marquez-Diaz and John-Juarez Reviews, Shaun George,Travis Simms, Tor Hamer, Luis Del Valle, Lou DiBella

SecondsOut Radio: Marquez-Diaz and John-Juarez Reviews, Shaun George,Travis Simms, Tor Hamer, Luis Del Valle, Lou DiBella on Broadway Boxing On this week's edition of SecondsOut Radio, host Eddie Goldman beginsby reviewing the brilliant performance of lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez, who stopped Juan Diaz in the ninth round Saturday in Houston, Texas. We discuss this early Fight of the Year candidate, as well as the co-feature where featherweight champion Chris John of Indonesia was held to a controversial draw by Rocky Juarez of Houston.We also discuss the implications of putting such an important cardlike this not on pay-per-view or in a casino city, but on regular HBOin the U.S. and in a major city like Houston, and the likelihood ofsuch good sense continuing to be shown by the lords of boxing if andwhen the economy rebounds. Next, we review the Broadway Boxing card held Wednesday, Feb. 25, inNew York. We spoke with light heavyweight contender Shaun George, who needed only 1:26 of the first round to stop veteran Jaffa Ballogou,and make his case that he deserves a boost in the rankings and aneventual title shot. We spoke with heavyweight Tor Hamer andfeatherweight Luis Del Valle, two prospects who fought on this showand remained unbeaten. And we spoke with promoter Lou DiBella about his Broadway Boxing series and boxing in New York. In a special interview, we spoke with two-time former WBA 154-pound champion Travis Simms, who is now a free agent and, although he has a stellar record of 26-1 with 19 KOs, is actually finding it difficult to get fights. It is free to listen to or download SecondsOut Radio, but you mustregister to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/,and listen, learn, and enjoy. Thanks, Eddie Goldmanhttp://eddiegoldman.comSee 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

2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada finally gets shot at Alexander Povetkin April 4 in Dusseldorf, Germany

PROVIDENCE– The long awaited showdown between America’s leading young heavyweight prospect, 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada, and Alexander Povetkin, 2004 Olympic gold medalist and the IBF’s No. 1 contender, will finally happen April 4 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Estrada (15-1, 3 KOs) and Povetkin (16-0, 12 KOs) should have fought in the amateurs at the 2003 World Championships or a scheduled USA-Russia dual meet later that year. Estrada, however, as the No. 1 USA super heavyweight, had to fight in the Pan-American Games, where he captured gold in his Olympic qualifier. Meanwhile, at the same time, Povetkin won a gold medal at The World Championships. Team Russia pulled out of the aforementioned dual meet and a foot injury hampered Estrada’s training for the 2004 Olympics. He was eliminated prior to the medal rounds as Povetkin rolled to gold.

Povetkin has a mandated title shot this fall against IBF heavyweight Wladimir Klitschko, if he gets past the lightning quick Estrada. “The fight’s on April 4 but Povetkin’s the April Fool,” Estrada said during a break from training at his Big Six Academy in Providence. “I really see this guy as just a big-name opponent. He has his gold medal but he’s been babied his entire career. They just put guys in front of him to fight. He’s making a big mistake taking this fight. I’m not dwelling on the past. The old stuff doesn’t matter to me; I’m focusing on the present. It doesn’t upset me that people are calling this a tune-up for him. If the shoe was on the other foot, I wouldn’t take him lightly, but they’re making a huge mistake if they’re taking me lightly.

“I think it will be easier fighting him today than in the amateurs because he had to box a little more back then. You don’t see him boxing now. He’s a sitting duck. This (pro boxing) is a whole different game, something I learned in my first fight and I’ve progressed from there. He’s got the same stuff. Our fight didn’t happen in the amateurs, so I’m focused on beating him as a pro. I can’t see how he took this fight. His people must be telling him I’m just fast, like (Eddie) Chambers or (Chris) Byrd, but I’m more aggressive and they weren’t. I’m not worried about going over there because, if I smash him and lose, everybody will see that. No way I’m going to lose; I’m either going to stop him, or I’ll deserve a win by decision. He can’t prepare for what I’m bringing.”

Estrada’s promoter, Jimmy Burchfield (Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc.), worked tirelessly for several months to get Povetkin for Estrada. “I’ve never worked so hard to make a fight happen,” Burchfield explained. “I know how badly Jason wanted it. I have to compliment Povetkin’s people for taking it. The Estrada Unit doesn’t back-off from any opponent. They’ve talked about this fight for a long, long time. In 2008, Jason went from a youngster to a man, doing everything asked of him. For everything he’s done since he signed with CES, especially in 2008, this fight is a reward for all of his hard work. I believe Jason Estrada is a future world champion.”

Providence-native Estrada was one of the most highly decorated American amateur boxers ever, compiling an amazing 261-14 record in U.S. competition. He was the first boxer to win both the U.S. Nationals and U.S. Challenge three years (2001-2003) in a row.

Estrada’s father/head trainer, Dr. Roland Estrada, believes the risk of fighting No. 1 ranked Povetkin is worth the reward for Jason. “It’s an opportunity we couldn’t turn down,” he remarked. “If we did it would take us 1 ½-2 years to fight somebody as highly ranked as Povetkin. Back in the amateurs, Povetkin was No. 1 in the East, and Jason was No. 1 in the West. It’s a fight that almost happened three times but didn’t. We’ve had this fight in the back of our minds ever since. He’s still a straight forward, combination puncher without exceptional speed or technique. As a pro, he’s probably become better because he faced adversity, down a few rounds against Eddie Chambers with his eye swelled up, but overcoming it to win. Other than that, though, he’s pretty much the same guy he was as an amateur.”

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