Ayala, Cardona trade barbs in anticipation of title bout‏

Title town; Vacant belt up for grabs in Ayala-egan SunCardona showdown at Mohegan Sun

Elvin Ayala – known affectionately as “The Pride of New Haven” – plans on beating crosstown rival Israel “Pito” Cardona of Hartford, Conn., so convincingly that Cardona’s fans might reconsider their allegiance.

“People from Hartford are going to want to move to New Haven,” Ayala quipped.

Truth is, there’s more than just hometown pride on the line when Ayala and Cardona lock horns Friday, July 29th, 2011 in the co-main event of “Heat Wave,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville; the two are fighting for the vacant World Boxing Council U.S. National Boxing Council (WBC USNBC) middleweight title, a championship formerly held by some of boxing’s elite fighters in various divisions, most notably former two-time world champion Paul “The Punisher” Williams (39-2, 27 KOs), who won the WBC USNBC welterweight title in 2006 and went on to capture the World Boxing Organization’s welterweight and light middleweight titles in 2007 and 2008, respectively; and former WBO light welterweight champion Lamont Peterson (28-1-1, 14 KOs), who also won the WBC USNBC light welterweight title in ’06. The list of former and current WBC USNBC champions also includes Worcester, Mass., super middleweight Edwin Rodriguez (18-0, 13 KOs), Providence, R.I., light heavyweight Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-1-2, 18 KOs), and current North American Boxing Organization (NABO) champion and No. 7-ranked lightweight John Molina Jr. (23-1, 19 KOs).

“I’m taking the belt home,” said Cardona, who hasn’t fought since losing to Hector Camacho Jr. in 2009.

“There’s no way he’s beating me. He’s going to have to kill me. I don’t talk [trash]. I don’t even know who he is. He could be a great guy, but when that bell rings it’s a different story.”

Neither fighter in next month’s co-main event is a stranger to boxing’s biggest stage; Ayala (23-5-1, 11 KOs) fought current World Boxing Association (WBA) super middleweight champion Arthur Abraham for a world title in 2008 while the 36-year-old Cardona (36-10, 28 KOs) is a former two-time world champion in the super featherweight and light welterweight divisions, winning the International Boxing Organization (IBO) super featherweight title in 1995 with a unanimous-decision victory over Jeff Mayweather, and then capturing the organization’s light welterweight belt two years later by knocking out Steve Larrimore in Connecticut.

“I feel like it’s, ‘Here we go again!’” Ayala said. “I’ve been in this position before, but now it’s time for me to prove myself. I know [Cardona] is an older guy, but he’s well experienced. He’s been a world champion, so I know he has a lot of experience. I don’t want to make any mistakes. I’ve been looking better with each fight so far, so I want to do even better this time.”

While Ayala, 30, is in the midst of what could be his final run at another world-title opportunity, Cardona is taking what will surely be his last shot at adding a fifth title to his own resume; in addition to the two world championships he won in the ‘90s, Cardona is also a former United States Boxing Association (USBA) and North American Boxing Federation (NABF) lightweight champion.

Though the records show Cardona lost a unanimous decision to Paul Spadafora in 1999 for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) middleweight title, Cardona maintains he’s never lost a world-title bout on a level playing field, pointing to Spadafora’s arrest in 2003 for shooting his pregnant girlfriend as proof that his opponent “was on something” at the time of the fight. Two years later, Spadafora plead guilty to drug use charges and served additional jail time, though no link has ever been made between his drug use outside of the ring and his career inside the squared circle.

“When you mess around with drugs … you do stupid [things],” Cardona said.

Cardona also questioned the integrity of the IBF, which absorbed a serious blow in 1999 when former president Bob Lee resigned in the wake of racketeering and bribery charges, and claims he was “robbed” of a potential third world title.

“That’s another story for another time,” Cardona said. “Right now, I’m getting another title shot and it’s made me 10 times more motivated. I don’t lose title fights. You want me to fight for a title? Hell yeah! I’m soaking wet right now; I just worked out. I’m very excited. This is going to be a war.

“Guess what? My experience is definitely going to be a factor. I’ve been there. I’ve been with the best. I’ve been where he hasn’t gone. Nothing he brings will be a surprise to me. It’s going to be a fight, and it’ll come down to whoever wants it more.”

These days, facing Ayala is no easy task regardless of age. Since signing a promotional contract with CES, Ayala is 3-0 in 2011, including back-to-back knockout wins over Joe Gardner (April 1) and George Armenta (May 6). Working with newly-hired trainer Peter Manfredo Sr. has had a positive impact on Ayala’s preparation for this upcoming bout as he looks to continue his climb to the top of the rankings in the middleweight division.

“Not only is he saying the right thing, but with the way I feel when he speaks to me, I absorb everything a lot better than if it were coming from the average Joe,” Ayala said. “I trust a lot of what he’s saying. I could literally go in there with a blindfold on and have him tell me what to do and I would still win the fight.”

Cardona’s recent record is somewhat deceiving; while he’s lost his last four fights, he’s done so against elite competition, including a knockout loss to red-hot welterweight prospect Mike Jones (25-0, 19 KOs) and a unanimous-decision loss to Camacho Jr. (53-4-1, 28 KOs) for the WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation title. Ayala is ignoring the numbers and heeding the advice of his peers.

“I few people I spoke to who have sparred against him say you can hit him with everything and he keeps coming forward,” Ayala said. “I’m not looking for a knockout; I’m just going to finesse it and put my skills on display. I’ve got OK pop, but my main thing is boxing. The goal is to hit him and not get hit.”

The undercard of “Heat Wave” features undefeated Polish heavyweight Mariusz Wach (24-0, 12 KOs) starring in the second half of the co-main event, along with Pawtucket, R.I., middleweight Thomas Falowo (3-0, 3 KOs) facing Russ Niggemyer (2-2, 2 KOs) of Hilliard, Ohio; New Haven welterweight Edwin Soto (6-0-1, 2 KOs) battling Jose Duran (6-5-2, 3 KOs) of Sarasota, Fla.; undefeated heavyweight Artur Spzilka of Poland (5-0, 3 KOs) facing Tobias Rice (3-3, 2 KOs) of Macon, Ga., and New Bedford, Mass., welterweight Johnathan Vazquez (4-0, 3 KOs) taking on Augustine Maurus of Lawrence, Mass., in Maurus’ debut. Cruiserweight Jose Torres of Worcester, Mass., will also make his debut, and super middleweight Keith Kozlin (6-2, 4 KOs) of Warwick, R.I., will face Woonsocket’s Reynaldo Rodriguez (5-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round intrastate showdown. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Zab Judah Media Workout Photos H.I.T. Factory Boxing Gym, Las Vegas, NV

In preparation for his July 23rd world championship unification match against Amir "King" Khan on July 23rd at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas , Zab "Super" Judah hosted a media workout at H.I.T. Factory Boxing Gym in Las Vegas Nevada.

The champ looked fit, focused and relaxed as he worked out with his trainer, Pernell "Sweetpea" Whitaker.


Judah Works Out as Whitaker Looks On

Judah vs. Khan, a 12-round WBA and IBF Super Lightweight World Championship Unification fight, is presented by Main Events and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Super Judah Promotions and Khan Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and AT&T.


The HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 10:00 p.m.



Photo credit @chris cozzone / cozzone.com

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

HANKS MEETS ESCALERA FOR IBA HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP THIS SATURDAY JULY 23RD ON KNOCK OUT CANCER BOXING BENEFIT AT THE HUNTS POINT PRODUCE MARK

On Saturday July 23rd, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will team up with the American Cancer Society to host a benefit at the Hunts Point Produce Market to "Knock Out Cancer". All of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the American Cancer Society. The show will feature a number of up and coming fighters, and exciting fights, including the headliner, which see's American Heavyweight prospect, Joe "The Future" Hanks (16-0, 11KO's) look to capture what some believe to be the first of many Heavyweight Titles, when he takes on former, "Contender 4" participant, Alfredo Escalera Jr. (18-3-1, 12KO's) for the IBA Heavyweight Championship.

Hanks, who recently signed an exclusive long-term promotional deal with Star Boxing, was last in action in April, when he scored a brutal fourth round TKO over Terrell Nelson. Hanks controlled the action from the outset, dropping Nelson once in the second round and battering him for much of the fight. Nelson didn't answer the bell to sound round five, thus giving Hanks the 4th TKO.

Still young (28-years-old), especially for a heavyweight, Hanks gained valuable experience during his amateur days, sparring with such fighters as Heavyweight Champion, Wladamir Klitschko, Chris Byrd, Jameel McCline, and Larry Donald. As an amateur Hanks was a three-time Golden Gloves Champion, and was a National Golden Gloves semi-finalist in 2007. After the Nationals, Hanks promptly turned pro, scoring a 2nd round TKO over Joseph Rabotte.

Escalera is the son of former world champion, Alfredo Escalera. After spending the majority of his career fighting at cruiserweight, the 31-years-old, Puerto Rican native, is now looking to make some noise in the heavyweight division, and he knows a win over a prospect like Hanks, put him right into the mix.



♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Business is boomin’ Unbeaten prospect Falowo putting in long hours both in and outside the ring

Pain reliever by day, pain administrator by night.

Working double duty as a pharmacy technician for CVS and a professional boxer for Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, 22-year-old middleweight prospect Thomas Falowo (3-0, 3 KOs) of Pawtucket, R.I., is quickly becoming a household name among New England’s most loyal fans, many of whom have been following the sport religiously since the glory days of Vinny Paz and Peter Manfredo Jr.

Quiet by nature, but raucous inside the ring, the 6-foot-1 Falowo already has three knockout victories since making his professional debut in November of 2010, and will put his perfect record on the line against Russ Niggemyer (2-2, 2 KOs) of Ohio in a four-round bout July 29th, 2011 at the Mohegan Sun Arena on the undercard of “Heat Wave,” presented by CES in association with Global Boxing Promotions.

Falowo’s two-day trip to Mohegan Sun will be a welcomed reprieve from his usual hectic schedule, which includes work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at CVS five days a week, followed by training at Peter Manfredo Sr.’s gym in Pawtucket from 5:30 to 7:30; on four of those five days, Falowo squeezes out another hour and a half of running before finally heading home at 9 o’clock – a routine that keeps him in impeccable shape, but leaves little time for a social life.

“Work, train and then watch Netflix or surf Facebook – it’s a busy schedule, but it works,” Falowo said.

Though he doesn’t plan on leaving his job at CVS anytime soon, boxing is Falowo’s true passion. His uncle introduced him to the sport as a teenager when he took Falowo to an amateur boxing show at Balletto’s Gym in Johnston, R.I., that featured Demetrius Andrade of Providence, who went on to star in the 2008 Olympics.

“I was immediately hooked,” Falowo said.

Falowo eventually joined Manfredo’s Gym, which is within walking distance from where he grew up in Pawtucket, and began working under the tutelage of Manfredo Sr., who guided Falowo through 60 amateur bouts and helped him earn runner-up honors at the New England Golden Gloves and USA Boxing New England tournaments. While Falowo was just beginning his amateur career at 15, other Rhode Island-based fighters such as Jason Estrada and Matt Godfrey were putting in long hours at Manfredo’s in anticipation of their pro debuts, so Falowo always had plenty of guidance along the way.

“That was a blessing,” he said. “You see first-hand how a fighter progresses through life and you learn right away what it takes to be a professional.”

As for his full-time job as a pharmacy technician, that happened by accident.

“I basically just went with someone to take the test so they wouldn’t be alone,” he said. “I ended up passing. She didn’t.”

Shortly thereafter, Falowo landed a job at CVS’ Customer Care Center in Woonsocket, R.I., where his responsibilities include sending requests to doctors, answering phone calls for the pharmacy and providing assistance with prescription refills. The Customer Care Center in Woonsocket services stores in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and New Jersey, and CVS is the second-largest pharmacy chain in the United States behind Walgreens.

Having a full-time job outside of boxing has provided Falowo with some much-needed stability; after graduating in 2006 from Shea High School in Pawtucket, where he played football and ran track, Falowo changed jobs – and majors – several times over the next three years. He spent two and a half years at Rhode Island College, first studying to become a nurse before pursuing a career in physical education. He also worked at McDonald’s and the Nike store at the Wrentham Village Outlets in Massachusetts to help save money. Through it all, his ultimately dream was to become a professional boxer, something he realized as far back as his high-school days.

“I always liked contact sports,” Falowo said. “When I found boxing, it was the perfect fit.

“When I played football, I wasn’t the greatest, but I just loved the physical aspect of it – even playing special teams, where I could run down the field at full speed and hit somebody.”

The dream of boxing professionally has now become a reality. After just three fights, Falowo linked up with Burchfield and signed a multi-year promotional agreement in hopes of becoming Rhode Island’s next world champion. July 29th will be Falowo’s first official fight under the CES umbrella.


“Only time will tell how great he can be,” Manfredo Sr. said. “He’s always well-conditioned. The more he fights, the better he gets. Can he win the big one? We don’t know that right now. We’ll have to wait and see how he develops as a pro.

“He’s a good student and a fast learner, and he’s still working on a lot of stuff. I want to see him win a world title eventually, but I also want to take my time with him because he’s so young. He throws a million punches per round – that’s what I like most about him. He’s always in great shape and has a strong chin; he just keeps getting better.”

Any setbacks suffered along the way won’t be for a lack of effort; Falowo’s work ethic is as good as it gets – so good, in fact, that it even made a believer out of his father, a Nigerian immigrant, who originally wanted his son to pursue a different career.

“As an amateur, he was against me boxing,” Falowo said. “He would always ask me when I was going to quit. When I turned pro, he realized I was more serious. He lives across the street from me now, so he sees me when I come home late from running. He sees the work I put into it, so it makes him more comfortable.”

The next step is making a believer out of his mother, who has attended only one fight – Falowo’s debut win over Odias Dumezil at the Twin River Casino in Lincoln, R.I. – since her son turned professional six months ago.

“She had a hard time watching,” Falowo laughed. “She went to the casino to play slots and told me to call her when it was over.”

The rest of the boxing world has caught on, captivated by Falowo’s extraordinary volume of punches and overwhelming range, which helps him dish out punishment without taking too much abuse in return. Since his first fight in November, he’s learned to box more on the outside without sacrificing his output, a deadly combination that makes him one of New England’s most feared middleweights.

“My greatest strengths are my endurance and my heart,” he said. “When I fight, you can see how hungry I am. Ever since I was young, I always had a lot of energy, and back in my pre-teen football days, I was always known for being in shape, but a lot of it is mental.

“Even if I’m tired – and I’ve been tired in fights – I know the opponent is just as tired as I am, if not more, so it helps push me. So much of what we do is mental. Putting all those hours into the gym mentally prepares you. You’re thinking, ‘I’ve put in all this work and ran all these miles before, so I know I can do it again.’”

Falowo’s days of working overtime probably won’t last forever – “When boxing gets to the point where it demands more time from me, I won’t be able to work full-time,” he said – but until he reaches the next level, his job at CVS continues to provide stability while serving as a constant reminder of what he hopes to achieve in professional boxing.

“I know I want to be a world champion,” he said. “How I get there remains to be seen.”

“Heat Wave” features two championship bouts – a 12-round showdown between Kevin McBride (35-9-1, 29 KOs) and Mariusz Wach (24-0, 12 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International heavyweight title, and a 10-round intrastate battle between Elvin Ayala (23-5-1, 11 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., and rival Israel “Pito” Cardona (36-10, 28 KOs) of Hartford for the vacant WBC United States National Boxing Council (USNBC) middleweight title.

The undercard includes New Haven welterweight Edwin Soto (6-0-1, 2 KOs) battling Michael Denby (3-10-4, 2 KOs) of Felton, Del.; undefeated heavyweight Artur Spzilka of Poland (5-0, 3 KOs) facing Philadelphia’s David Williams (6-4-1, 2 KOs), and New Bedford, Mass., welterweight Johnathan Vazquez (4-0, 3 KOs) taking on Agustine Maurus (1-0, 1 KO) of Lawrence, Mass.

Cruiserweight Jose Torres of Springfield, Mass., will make his debut against fellow newcomer Pedro Rivera of Southbridge, Mass.; super middleweight Greg McCoy (2-3-1, 1 KO) of New Haven will fight in a separate four-round bout against Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (0-1); and super middleweight Keith Kozlin (6-2, 4 KOs) of Warwick, R.I., will face Woonsocket’s Reynaldo Rodriguez (5-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round intrastate showdown. Also, former “The Contender” reality television star Jeff Fraza (17-3, 10 KOs) of Haverhill, Mass., will face Pawtucket, R.I., light middleweight Eddie Soto (12-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout. The special attraction on July 29th will be an eight-round light middleweight bout featuring Worcester, Mass., veteran and former three-time world champion Jose Antonio Rivera (40-6-1, 24 KOs). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Danny Green VS Antonio Tarver on for July 20

Danny Green VS Antonio Tarver on for July 20
by Scott Christ on Apr 6, 2011 11:12 AM EDT in Boxing News Analysis

Danny Green will finally get his chance to face Antonio Tarver. The two fighters, who were scheduled for a December 2007 showdown that did not materialize and ultimately led to a brief retirement from Green, will square off on July 20 in Sydney.

Tarver, now 42, will be making his cruiserweight debut against the 38-year-old Green. Both are really light heavyweights, but age doesn't allow them to get down to 175 pounds anymore. Tarver flirted with a heavyweight career last October, when he fought Nagy Aguilera on Showtime. It was a waste, really; a listless Tarver's skills were too much for Aguilera, but Tarver was far from impressive as a heavyweight. A step down to cruiserweight is the right idea, if the "right idea" means fighting, anyway.

The Aussie press isn't totally sold on the fight, and it's hard to blame them given some of Green's recent stinkers, including wins over Manny Siaca and Paul Briggs, the latter of which was a pure disgrace. The Australian even has this headline: "Danny to defend title against 'Rocky' fighter." Not exactly a headline befitting a big fight.

Green (31-3, 27 KO) gained his highest level of fame with a first round stoppage of the faded Roy Jones Jr. in December 2009, and since then has gone 3-0, with only one of those wins (BJ Flores) having much credibility, but it was a good win. Tarver, of course, is the man who ended the prime of Jones definitively back in 2004 with his second round knockout of the legend.

Actually, does Roy Jones get some kind of finder's fee for this fight? He should. Both of these guys are stars mostly because of him.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Salita Promotions presents "Brighton Shore Fights"The first installment will take place on Wednesday, July 20th

Salita Promotions presents "Brighton Shore Fights". New York City's newest monthly boxing series is going to take place in Brooklyn at the Oceana Theater in the Oceanside neighborhood of Brighton Beach. "As a New Yorker, Boxer, Promoter and a fan of boxing, I feel it's important to establish a monthly series that will allow fans to follow the progress of the boxers. It is equally important for boxers to have an opportunity to stay busy and build a relationship with fans," said Dmitriy Salita, Founder and President of Salita Promotions.

The first installment will take place on Wednesday, July 20th and will feature undefeated light heavyweight prospect and four-time Golden Gloves Champion Will Rosinsky (13-0). The co-feature will showcase US Olympic Alternate, four-time Army Champion and Jr. Middleweight prospect Boyd Melson (4-0). Boyd is coming off impressive knockout wins and is looking to keep the KO streak alive as he makes his Brighton Shore debut. The undercard will feature American Heavyweight Jarrell Miller and other NYC boxing stars.

July 20th show will have special musical performance by hip hop star Big Frank.

"Brighton Shore Fights" from Oceana will be based around top professional boxers. The feature fighters include many Golden Gloves champions and established professionals, fighting for a shot at a world title. All fighters have a significant fan-base and bring different flavors reflected in their native origin, background and lifestyle. All shows will have live performances by a popular artist and include ringside celebrities, radio/TV personalities and politicians to create an exciting fight night experience.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Against all odds Former three-time champion Jose Antonio Rivera continues improbable comeback July 29th

Ex-champ Rivera joins lineup at Mohegan‏; After winning close to 40 fights in 15 years and capturing three world titles, Jose Antonio Rivera suddenly reached a point in his career he never thought he’d see three decades ago when he first put on a pair of gloves at 8 years old.

“Boxing wasn’t fun anymore,” said the former three-time world champion from Worcester, Mass.

Weighed down by personal problems outside of the ring, Rivera hit the wall in 2007 when he lost his World Boxing Association (WBA) light middleweight title to Travis Simms. He announced his retirement shortly thereafter, only to attempt a brief comeback 10 months later that left him with an injured hand.

This time, it appeared Rivera (40-6-1, 24 KOs) was done for good, but the former welterweight and light middleweight title-holder proved you can’t keep a champion down for long, making his second comeback in May with a unanimous decision win over Luis Maysonet at the Palladium in Worcester.

Only three months removed from his 38th birthday, Rivera now has his sights set on a much bigger prize as he prepares to continue his comeback Friday, July 29th, 2011 on the undercard of Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports’ “Heat Wave” show at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

Rivera will fight in a special eight-round light middleweight attraction on a show that features two championship bouts – a 12-round showdown between Kevin McBride (35-9-1, 29 KOs) and Mariusz Wach (24-0, 12 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) International heavyweight title, and a 10-round intrastate battle between Elvin Ayala (23-5-1, 11 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., and rival Israel “Pito” Cardona (36-10, 28 KOs) of Hartford for the vacant WBC United States National Boxing Council (USNBC) middleweight title.

“I’m trying to push myself and test myself to see how much I have left in the tank,” said Rivera, who was born in Philadelphia and also lived in Puerto Rico before moving to Worcester as a teenager. “My goal is to get back into world-championship form.

“I want to ease my way into a couple of fights this year and by next year hopefully I’ll be knocking on the door of another big fight. … You’re only as old as you feel.”

Asked how old he feels, Rivera said, “Twenty-eight, both mentally and physically.”

How he feels mentally is arguably more important right now than how Rivera feels physically, especially considering the internal problems that derailed his career four years ago. His first comeback attempt in 2008 ended with a win over Clarence Taylor, but Rivera admits he still would’ve walked away again even without the subsequent hand injury because his “mind wasn’t right.”

“The injury was just the icing on the cake,” he said. “That gave me a more convenient excuse to retire, but the truth is I was still dealing with a lot of personal stuff, too.”

The idea of returning to the ring a second time was always in the back of his mind during his retirement phase, but Rivera didn’t pull the trigger until he knew he was mentally ready.

“I had to type up all the loose ends in my life,” he said. “As soon as everything was good, I said to myself, ‘OK, now is the time.’ Being mentally prepared is the key. I don’t care how strong you are. You could be a beast in that ring, but if you’re not mentally ready, then it all goes out the window.

“That’s what got me to take some time off. Everything going on in my life was affecting my performance and my career.”

On May 20th at the Palladium, Rivera proved he made the right decision with a convincing win over Maysonet, a Hartford native who entered the bout with 32 wins, including 25 by knockout. The former world champion struggled early, but settled into a groove later in the fight after solving Maysonet’s game plan. Rivera captured an eight-round unanimous decision, 79-73, on all three scorecards.

“I didn’t expect him to try to outbox me,” Rivera said. “He seemed hesitant to move inside. We trained for a brawl, and I had to adjust midway through the fight. His style kind of threw me off a little. By the time I warmed up in the sixth, seventh and eighth rounds, I was unloading on him.

“To tell you the truth, it went by so quickly. When I went back to my corner after the eighth round, the referee came to me and said the fight was over. I asked if he had quit and the referee said, ‘No, that’s eight rounds!’”

Rivera’s next bout on July 29th will go a long way toward determining whether his dream of winning a fourth world title – he captured the WBA light middleweight and welterweight titles, in addition to the International Boxing Organization (IBO) welterweight title – is a realistic premise or an improbable fantasy. One thing that’s certain is Rivera views his age as an advantage, not a roadblock, as he aims to follow in the footsteps of legends George Foreman and Bernard Hopkins, who beat the odds to win world titles at the ages of 45 and 46, respectively (Hopkins accomplished the feat by beating Jean Pascal the night after Rivera’s comeback win over Maysonet).

“A lot of people knock it, and that’s fine because it just gives me more motivation, but the great thing about being an older fighter is I bring a lot of experience to the ring,” Rivera said. “I know my body. Conditioning has always been the key to my success, and it’s one of the main reasons I became champion, but some of my losses were a result of overtraining when I was younger; I left it all in the gym. The things I took for granted back then are things I no longer take for granted anymore. That’s what makes it enjoyable.”

Rivera’s having fun again, and that could be bad news for the elite fighters in the 154-pound division.

“I just want another chance at a title fight, whether it’s the WBC, WBA or IBO – any of them,” Rivera said. “This is a great opportunity for me, and I’m excited to be on this card. I’ve always wanted to fight at Mohegan Sun and now I’ll have that chance. I’m just thankful Burchfield was able to make it happen.”

The undercard of “Heat Wave” features Pawtucket, R.I., middleweight Thomas Falowo (3-0, 3 KOs) facing Russ Niggemyer (2-2, 2 KOs) of Hilliard, Ohio; New Haven welterweight Edwin Soto (6-0-1, 2 KOs) battling Jose Duran (6-5-2, 3 KOs) of Sarasota, Fla.; undefeated heavyweight Artur Spzilka of Poland (5-0, 3 KOs) facing Philadelphia’s David Williams (6-4-1, 2 KOs), and New Bedford, Mass., welterweight Johnathan Vazquez (4-0, 3 KOs) taking on Agustine Maurus of Lawrence, Mass., in Maurus’ debut. Cruiserweight Jose Torres of Springfield, Mass., will make his debut; super middleweight Greg McCoy (2-3-1, 1 KO) of New Haven will fight in a separate four-round bout; and super middleweight Keith Kozlin (6-2, 4 KOs) of Warwick, R.I., will face Woonsocket’s Reynaldo Rodriguez (5-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round intrastate showdown. Also, former “The Contender” reality television star Jeff Fraza (17-3, 10 KOs) of Haverhill, Mass., will face Pawtucket, R.I., light middleweight Eddie Soto (12-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Boxing returns on Channel 5 Al Bernstein calling ‘The Big Brawl’ action July 23

Boxing’s back on terrestrial television in the United Kingdom, starting July 23 with the worldwide broadcast of “The Big Brawl” event, which will be anchored by award-winning boxing announcer Al Bernstein, Channel 5 and promoter Hennessy Sports announced today.

British and Commonwealth heavyweight Champion Dereck “Del Boy” Chisora (14-0, 9 KOs) puts his belts on the line Saturday night, July 23 against undefeated challenger Tyson Fury (14-0, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event at Wembley Arena in London.

“The Big Brawl" will air live in the UK on Channel 5, the UK’s premier terrestrial network. “Boxing is a new venture for Channel Five and we want to create the very best impression,” said Mark Sharman, Executive Producer, S3 Media Ltd. “Fury v Chisora is a great match-up between two unbeaten heavyweights with world title aspirations, so we want a world-class expert to call the fight. They don’t come any bigger than Al Bernstein and I know the viewers will enjoy the benefits of his insight and expertise.”

Sports fans in United States will also be able to watch the “The Big Brawl” event on PPV, distributed in the U.S. by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 3 PM/ET – 12 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, and Avail-TVN, for a suggested retail price of only $24.95. (Check with your PPV provider for same day replay times.) The telecast is also available in Canada to all Super Channel network subscribers.

Bernstein, a highly respected boxing authority for more than three decades, will join blow-by-blow announcer Mark Pougatch at ringside for “The Big Brawl” call. He was a boxing analyst for ESPN from 1980 to 2003, covered boxing for NBC during the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games, and has been a popular boxing announcer since 2003 for Showtime Championship Boxing.

“"While this fight certainly resonates for British boxing fans,” Bernstein commented, “it now has wider implications and interest. The winner has an excellent chance of fighting for the heavyweight title. But, that aside, perhaps the most salient part of this match is that it will very likely be an exciting shootout – something we don't often see in the heavyweight division. A lot is at stake and the styles of these two fighters should make it an entertaining match."

The headliner showcases a pair of undefeated heavyweights, sporting nearly identical professional records, fighting in hopes of rising from prospect to contender, especially with world title shot implications for the winner of this clash to settle it all.

Zimbabwe-native Chisora (14-0, 9 KOs), rated No. 12 by the World Boxing Organization, fights out of London. He has twice had scheduled World Boxing Organization (“WBO”) title fights cancelled against champion Wladimir Klitschko, who will be at ringside for “The Big Brawl.” “Del Boy” has twice stopped Sam Sexton, winner of “The Prizefighter Heavyweight Tournament,” as well as Mike Tyson-conqueror Danny Williams.

Fury is a 6’ 9” 260-pound Irishman born in Manchester and lives in Cheshire, England. His rapidly growing fan-base is spreading across the Atlantic to America. Named after “Iron” Mike Tyson, the World Boxing Council’s No 21-rated Fury is the cousin of world middleweight contender Andy Lee. In his last action this past February, the mammoth 261-pound Fury knocked out previously unbeaten Narcelo Luiz Nascimento (13-0) in the fifth round. Other notable United Kingdom heavyweights defeated by Tyson include John McDermott and Scott Belshaw. Fury, only 22, has dedicated his fight against Chisora to the memory of former world heavyweight title challenger and European champion, Sir Henry Cooper.

The 12-round co-feature showcases British Boxing Board of Control (“BBB of C”) Light Welterweight Champion Ashley “Treasure” Theophane in his first title defense against Welsh champion Jason “The Power” Cook.

Theophane (29-4-1, 7 KOs), rated No. 14 by the International Boxing Federation, captured the BBB of C light welterweight championship in his last fight by winning a unanimous 12-round decision against Lenny Daws (21-1-2) this past February in London. Ashley’s most significant victories to date have been versus Delvin Rodriguez (DEC10) and former world champion DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley (DEC8).

The 5’ 9” Cook (28-3-1, 14 KOs), a former International Boxing Organization and European lightweight champion, has lost only three times in 32 pro fights, the last in 2009 to former World Boxing Association champion Gavin Rees by three-round decision in the semi-finals of “Prizefighter” tournament.♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

MAURICE HARRIS TO BATTLE DERRICK ROSSY FOR USBA HEAVYWEIGHT CROWN ON JULY 16TH AT RESORTS IN ATLANTIC CITY‏

MAURICE HARRIS TO BATTLE DERRICK ROSSY FOR USBA HEAVYWEIGHT CROWN ON JULY 16TH AT RESORTS IN ATLANTIC CITY. TERRIFIC TITLE BOUT HIGHLIGHTS BIG CARD OF BOXING PROMOTED BY CARLA HILL WITH A SPECIAL APPEARANCE BY THE LEGENDARY EVANDER HOLYFIELD


On Saturday night, July 16th Carla Hill Promotions will present a championship card of professional boxing to Resorts in Atlantic City that will be highlighted by a USBA Heavyweight title bout between Maurice Harris and Derrick Rossy.

Carla Hill Promotions is headed by Carla Hill, who is the wife of former Light Heavyweight and Cruiserweight champion, Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill.

“I am excited about this card and starting my first show off with a championship fight of importance”, said Carla Hill.

“Besides the title bout we have put together a terrific undercard that will feature many of the best fighters in the area. This is the kind of show that will lay the groundwork for some great events that we have planned in the future”

Future Hall of Famer, Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield will be making an appearance ringside

Harris of East Orange, New Jersey has a record of 24-15-2 with ten win coming by way of knockout and is currently ranked number eight in the world by the IBF.

He turned pro in 1992 at the ripe age of sixteen years old. He has been in the ring with many of the biggest names in boxing such as former world title challenger Vaughn Bean; former Cruiserweight title challenger Dale Brown; Future world champions Chris Byrd and Henry Akinwande

Harris got his notice in a loss when he battled Hall of Famer Larry Holmes to a split decision that many at ringside and around the world watching on Television believed Harris should have been awarded the victory

He lost a six round war with undefeated Derrick Jefferson (21-0-1) in a bout that has been tabbed as one of the best Heavyweight bouts that HBO has ever televised.

He has big wins over David Izon (18-0); Jeremy Williams (34-2) and future world champion Sergei Liakhovich (16-0).

He won the vacant USBA title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Nagy Aguilera on August 6th, 2010.

Harris coming off a disappointing third round stoppage defeated to former world title challenger Tony Thompson on May 27th.

Rossy of Medford, New York has an impressive mark of 25-4 with fifteen knockouts and is ranked number-fifteen by the IBF.

Rossy began his career by winning his first fourteen bouts before being stopped in seven rounds by former world title challenger and highly regarded Eddie Chambers.

Rossy then went on to win three straight bouts which was highlighted by a twelve round unanimous decision over former world champion and Olympic Gold Medal winner Ray Mercer in Macao, China.

After losing to undefeated Russian contender Alexander Dimentrenko, Rossy went on a seven fight win streak as he beat the likes of undefeated William Shahan and former world title challenger Carl Drummond in a bout that was televised live all over America on ESPN 2.

That bout catapulted Rossy into a rematch with Chambers.

Unfortunately after starting out fast, Rossy dropped a twelve round unanimous decision to Chambers in an IBF Elimination bout.

In his previous bout, Rossy traveled to Germany but was stopped in five rounds to heralded Kubrat Pulav on May 7th.

An exciting undercard featuring many of the best prospects in the area has been assembled.

In a four round Super Middleweight bout, Troy Maxwell (2-2, 1 KO) of Galloway, NJ will do battle with Darrion Fletcher (1-1, 1 KO) of Evansville, IN

In a four round Heavyweight bout, Kyle McNutt (1-0, 1 KO) of Battle Creek, Michigan will take on Keon Graham (2-6) of Akron, OH

Lavarn “Baby Bowe” Harvell (7-0, 3 KO’s) of Atlantic City will put his perfect mark on the line when he takes on Hamid Abdul Mateen (2-1) of Hempstead, NY in a Light Heavyweight bout scheduled fof four rounds.

Thomas Hardwick (1-0, 1 KO) of Yonker, NY will take Rodelle Bolar (0-3) of Akron, OH in a four round Heavyweight bout

Electric Bantamweight Qa’Id Muhammad (5-0, 5 KO’s) taking on veteran Jason Rorie (6-12-2, 3 KO’s) of Winston-Salem, NC

Rounding out the card will be the son of former Heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, Middleweight Isiah Seldon (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Atlantic City, NJ taking on John Michael Terry (3-19-3, 1 KO) of Portsmouth, VA

WEIGH IN FOR USBA HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP FIGHT THIS FRIDAY AT 3PM ON THE BOARDWALK IN FRONT OF RESORTS IN ATLANTIC CITY‏

This Friday afternoon, the weigh-in for Saturday night’s USBA Heavyweight championship fight between Maurice Harris and Derric Rossy will take place on the Boardwalk in front of Resorts Casino.

The weigh-in will start at 3pm eastern and all participants in Saturday night’s card will be on the scale in advance of the big card promoted by Carla Hill and Carla Hill Promotions

Fans will have an opportunity to take pictures of the fighters as they prepare for battle the next evening.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Bernard Hopkins on the Business of Boxing

Bernard Hopkins on the Business of Boxing
By Lee Hawkins

Light heavyweight champion Bernard Hopkins has done things differently in the boxing world. And in a sport where top-earning athletes can find themselves in financial crises, and sometimes bankrupt, Hopkins also manages his own career. Earlier this spring, at age 46, the three-time world champion made history when he beat George Foreman’s record, and became the oldest boxer ever to win a title bout.


Hopkins is an outspoken advocate for athletes taking as much control over their careers as possible, and for spending conservatively.

In a way, he says, his investment style is very similar to his fighting style. In the ring, he dances around and engages his opponent as little as possible, and so doesn’t get hit nearly enough as most fighters do.

In this financial world, he does the same. He is a self-proclaimed “conservative investor,” staying away from unnecessary risks.

“I’m a government municipal bonds, tax-free bonds guy. It’s not a big 15 or 8 or 9 percent return, but at the end of the day it’s safe money,” he said. “My lifestyle is in line with the dividends that are paid out of the bonds.”

He bristles when he speaks of athletes being encouraged by their advisers to leave their business affairs to others.

“No one in boxing came to me and told me the business of boxing. I was told the opposite. I was told, ‘Don’t learn about the business of boxing. Your job is to fight. Your job is to be the champion. This is what I do. I’m the manager, I’m the advisor, I’m the promoter. You concentrate on boxing, I’ll concentrate on the business points.’”

“’Why can’t I have both?’” he countered. “’You’re saying I should stay in the gym, I should train and concentrate on being the champion and being the labor. Why can’t I be the athlete and manage myself?’”

So, he said, “‘Let me try.’”

“And here we are, 26 years later.”

Video: More from Bernard Hopkins on being the oldest boxer ever to win a title bout and his life as an investor and a businessman.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

JOSEPH AGBEKO AND ABNER MARES HOST LAS VEGAS PRESSER ANNOUNCING THEIR AUG. 13 WORLD TITLE FIGHT TO DETERMINE BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT FINAL WINNER

JOSEPH AGBEKO AND ABNER MARES HOST LAS VEGAS PRESS CONFERENCE ANNOUNCING THEIR AUG. 13 WORLD TITLE FIGHT TO DETERMINE BANTAMWEIGHT TOURNAMENT FINAL WINNER Thursday, July 14 Noon PT At Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas Muse Hall

International Boxing Federation (IBF) Bantamweight World Champion Joseph Agbeko and undefeated rising star and World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver Bantamweight Champion Abner Mares will meet to announce their world title fight in The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All set to take place on Saturday, August 13, 2011 live from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. and to be televised live on SHOWTIME.

The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All grand finale will take place on Saturday, August 13, live on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev. The event is promoted by Don King Production and Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

RODRIGUEZ-WOLAK EXCLUSIVE HEAD-TO-HEAD INTERVIEW FIGHT THIS FRIDAY AT ROSELAND BALLROOM ON ESPN'S "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS"

This Friday night, Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14KO's) and Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak (29-1, 19KO's) will step into the ring against one another, in their highly anticipated ten round jr. middleweight showdown, promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and being broadcast live on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" from the Roseland Ballroom in NYC. The match-up has the boxing world buzzing in anticipation, as both Rodriguez and Wolak have exciting styles, and as anyone who has seen them before know, they always come to fight and leave everything they have in the ring. Before the two combatants step inside the ring, they both sat down to give their take on the fight.

Q: Thank you guys for sitting down to talk to me before your big showdown. I'll start with you Delvin, how has training camp been for this fight."

DR: Camp has been absolutely great. I can honestly say this is probably the best camp I have ever had. I haven't felt this good in a long time, if ever.

Q: What about for yourself Pawel?

PW: Camp was very good, and very tough, but that's the type of fight this is going to be so I knew I needed a tough camp to get prepared.

(Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak; photo by Keisha Morrisey)

Q: This will be your first fight at 154 lbs. Delvin. Do you think this is an advantage or disadvantage to you?

DR: I see it as a huge advantage for me. Like I said before this is the best I have felt for as long I can remember. I feel stronger and faster than ever my body is reacting so good from not having to cut the extra weight. I have a lot of boxing inside me and I feel like before my body couldn't react to what my mind wanted it to do. Now there is no hesitation, I do twelve rounds now and it feels like nothing. I'm in the best shape of my life and everyone will see that this Friday night.

Q: Pawel, what is your take on him moving up in weight?

PW: I'd have to agree with Delvin, now that he doesn't have to cut weight I'm sure he will be more physically fit and stronger than before. I'm expecting the best Delvin Rodriguez there is, and that's what I have prepared myself for.

Q: Pawel, you are rated among all four sanctioning bodies, some people question why you would take a fight like this. What are you looking to prove in this fight?

PW: I know Delvin is a dangerous opponent, but this is very important to me to be fighting on ESPN against someone like Delvin. Not only is this a huge test for me, but I know that every time Delvin fights on ESPN he draws huge ratings, so by fighting him I will be seen by a huge audience. I'm looking to expand my fan base, and fighting on ESPN against a fighter like Delvin is perfect opportunity to do that.

Q: You have had some very unfortunate decisions go against you recently Delvin, do you view this as your opportunity to erase those decisions and start off fresh in your new division?

DR: Yes that's exactly how I feel. This is great opportunity for me, I'm stepping up to 154 and in my first fight I have a chance to face a guy like Pawel where a win throws me right into the mix.

Q: You both are known for putting on exciting performances, without giving your game-plans away, how do you see the fight playing out this Friday night and can I get a prediction from both of you on the outcome?

DR: The only prediction I have is that it's going to be a great, and exciting fight. I know it's going to be a tough fight and that's what I have trained for. The way I feel right now and the way I have prepared I am very confident. My boxing ability is going to come out and shine in this fight. I know I must be on my A-game because Pawel is a very tough guy. I can't fall asleep with, must be alert at all times and because of that I honestly feel that he is going to bring the absolute best out in me.

PW:I don't know what's going to happen, ask me after the first or second round I should know better by then, haha. All seriousness though, I expect a hard, tough fight. The pace will be set very early, and we will see how the fight plays out. I expect the best of him and I know I am going to bring my best. Look there are no secrets here, I think most people know my style and they know Delvin's style. They know what I have to do and what Delvin has to do to be victorious in this fight. Whoever can execute and whoever stays most true to their game plan will come out on top.

Q: Is there anything either of you would like to say in closing?

DR: Everyone should expect a great fight this Friday night. Everyone knows that they are getting a great performance in this fight. This fight is very important for both of us, and we are going to put our heart and soul into every round. This is definitely one fight you won't want to miss. I think this is going to be one of best fights on ESPN in a really long-time.

PW: I think Delvin said it all. This is going to be a great fight. This sport is all about entertaining the fans, that's exactly what this fight is going to be. I hope everyone can make it out on Friday night, and if you can't make it to Roseland Ballroom be sure to watch it on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights".

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Star Boxing's upcoming "Knock Out Cancer" Boxing benefit

Star Boxing's upcoming "Knock Out Cancer" Boxing benefit, being done in assocation with the American Cancer Society and the Hunts Point Produce Market. The event, which will take place outside at the Market, will be headlined by Star Boxing's Joe "The Future" Hanks (16-0, 11KO's) taking on "Contender" Season 4 participant, Alfredo Escalera Jr. (18-3-1, 12KO's) for the IBA Heavyweight World Championship.


♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Denis “Da Mommas Boy” Douglin tops McCants in Atlantic City!

Well regarded junior middleweight prospect Denis “Da Mommas Boy” Douglin outpointed hard-nosed Philadelphian Philip McCants over six rounds last Saturday evening at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ.

Fighting for the first time since a shocking loss in February, Douglin effectively outboxed McCants, connecting with jabs, hooks and hard straight left hands throughout the contest. McCants proved to be game and displayed a great chin, but Douglin’s skillful performance earned him a clear-cut unanimous decision victory.

Scores were 60-54 twice and 58-56.

“It felt great to finally get back in the ring,” said Douglin, who had a bevy of fans cheering him on. “I had a very serious training camp and what happened in my last fight made me work even harder.”

He was also glad to get rounds in against a credible opponent.

“I’m glad I fought a tough opponent. I didn’t want to face a guy that would go down if I breathed in his direction. Phillip McCants is a solid fighter and this was the start of a new beginning.”

Douglin, who improved to 13-1 with 8 knockouts, has already returned to the gym and expects his next bout to be announced shortly.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

INTRODUCING CARLA HILL AND CARLA HILL PROMOTIONS

Wife of Future Hall of Famer ready to make her own name in the boxing world this Saturday with USBA Heavyweight title bout between Maurice Harris and Derric Rossy at Resorts in Atlantic City

This Saturday night at The New Resorts Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, Maurice Harris and Derric Rossy will battle it out for the USBA Heavyweight championship on a card that will be promoted by first time promoter Carla Hill and Carla Hill Promotions.

Hill, a resident of nearby Pleasantville, New Jersey isn’t your ordinary first time promoter as she has some unique experiences that she brings to the game.

Besides the obvious of being a female in a male dominated world of boxing, she brings a wealth of experience in boxing.

Carla is the wife of former five-time world champion and future Hall of Famer, Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill.

Carla was at her husband’s side for the past twenty years and learned the ropes of boxing by being around Virgil’s title bouts.

“Virgil thought I would make a good promoter. He inspired me and being around his fights and many big events over the better part of twenty years is what prepared me for this great event on Saturday night.”, said Carla Hill.

Hill who was also around the area when Atlantic City was the premier boxing town in the world in the 1980’s and early 1990’s, sees an opportunity to help restore the glamour to the fight town.

“My goal is to bring championship fights to Atlantic City. I am not looking to branch out other places. I have a great relationship with the people here at Resorts and I want to bring those “mega events” back to the boardwalk”

Making it in Atlantic City is something that is very personal as Hill was born in Atlantic City and raised in Pleasantville.

Another aspect of Hill is her extensive education background. Hill has earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Information at Richard Stockton College and she is close to earning her Masters Degree in Aeronautical Engineering and she has a New Jersey Realtors License.

With all of her boxing, educational and business experience, this mother of two, with her articulate & charismatic approach will be refreshing to the boxing business.

In just her first card, she has assembled one of the best cards top to bottom of the year:

12 Rounds for the USBA Heavyweight title: Maurice Harris (24-15-2, 10 KO’s) vs. Derric Rossy (25-4, 15 KO’s)

The undercard will feature seven undefeated prospects with three coming from Atlantic City:

Lavarn “Baby Bowe” Harvell (7-0, 3 KO’s) of Atlantic City will take on Hamid Abdul Mateen (2-1, 1 KO) in a four round Light Heavyweight clash

After a two year layoff, undefeated Bantamweight sensation, Qa’Id Muhammad (5-0, 5 KO’s) will battle veteran Jason Rorie (6-12-2, 3 KO’s) of Winston Salam, North Carolina in a six round affair

The son of former Heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, Isaiah Seldon (4-0, 2 KO’s) will take on John Michael Terry (3-19-3, 1 KO) of Portsmouth, Virginia in a four round Middleweight bout.

Ismael Garcia (3-0) of nearby Millville, NJ will also take on an opponent to be named in a four round Jr. Middleweight bout

Kyle McNutt (1-0, 1 KO) of Battle Creek, Michigan will take on Keon Graham (2-6) of Akron, Ohio in a four round Heavyweight bout

Thomas Hardwick (1-0, 1 KO) will see action against Rodell Bolar (0-3) of Akron, Ohio in a four round Heavyweight bout

Ladies NABF Featherweight champion, Amanda Serrano (10-0-1, 6 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY will take on an opponent to be named in a six round bout.

Troy Maxwell (2-2, 1 KO) from right down the road in Galloway, New Jersey will battle Darrion Fletcher (1-1, 1 KO’s) of Evansville, Indiana in a four round Super Middleweight bout
♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Michael Oliveira has heavy hitters in corner Jofre & Johnson supporting ‘The Brazilian Rocky’ WBC Latino title fight vs. Soto, Saturday night in Sao

Michael Oliveira fighting at home once again. WBC Latino title fight vs. Soto, Saturday night in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Undefeated prospect Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira will have some heavy hitters supporting him Saturday night – Hall of Famer Eder “Golden Bantam” Jofre and former world light heavyweight champion Glen “Road Warrior” Johnson – when he enters the ring against Dominican veteran Jose “Minguito” Soto, headlining the “Sao Paulo Fight Night” pro-am boxing card, presented by MO Productions, at Credicard Hall in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The 21-year-old Oliveira (14-0, 11 KOs), now rated No. 18 by the World Boxing Council (“WBC”), takes on Soto (24-7-2, 13 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant WBC Latino middleweight championship.

“Sao Paulo Fight Night” will air live on TV Globo Network, SporTV cable, GloboEsporte and TV Globo International, as well as TYC Sports in Argentina, and streaming for free outside of Brazil and Argentina for free on www.BoxingChannel.tv.

Oliveira, the two-time defending Brazilian International Press Award’s Athlete of the Year (2009 and 2010), was born in Sao Paulo but he moved two weeks after birth with his family to Miami. He will be fighting for the third time in Brazil as part of a six-fight, two-year deal with TV Global.

Jofre (72-2-4, 50 KOs) is a four-time, two-division world champion who is considered the greatest Brazilian boxer of all-time and arguably the best bantamweight ever. He has supported Oliveira and MO Productions in their quest to popularize boxing once again in Brazil. Oliveira and Johnson train in the same Miami gym and have become friends.

“I’m honored to have Mr. Jofre supporting me at my fight once again,” Michael said. “He is a living legend, not only in Brazil, but in the entire boxing world. I was privileged to walk the great Glen Johnson into the ring for his last fight. I’ve learned a lot from him, in and out of the ring, and I’m very happy that he is here in Brazil for my fight.”

Brazil’s last superstar boxer, four-time world champion Acelino “Popo” Freitas, made his third World Boxing Organization super featherweight title defense in Credicard Hall, one of the largest show arenas in South America, when he knocked out challenger Javier Jauregui in 2000.

Several amateur matches featuring some of Brazils top Olympic boxers will be part of the “Sao Paulo Fight Night” card, in addition to one other pro fight between Sao Paulo light middleweights – Jailton “Dragao Branco” De Jesus Souza (12-2, 10 KOs) and Douglas Ataibe (1-0, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Brian Vera signs promotional contract with DiBella Entertainment‏

DiBella Entertainment has added middleweight contender Brian Vera to its stable of fighters. Vera, 29, is a Mexican-American from Austin, TX, who is a straightforward brawler capable winning big fights, no matter what the odds are. In his 24-fight career, Vera (19-5, 12 KOs) has upset the applecart, and top middleweights, on several occasions.

In his last bout on June 24, Vera impressively stopped Eloy Suarez with a body shot in the eighth round.

“There are boxers, there are runners, and then there are fighters. Brian Vera is a fighter and he will give anyone in the middleweight division a fight,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Just look at his record and you will see that Brian Vera has never backed down from a challenge. That's the kind of guy that anyone would be happy to promote.”

After winning fourteen consecutive fights between 2004 and 2007 to begin his career, Vera joined the cast of season three of The Contender reality television show. In his first bout as a member of the cast, he lost the first fight of his career, a second round knockout at the hands of eventual finalist Jaidon Codrington. Vera made his mark on the show, however, when he returned on the undercard of the finals bout between Codrington and Sakio Bika, by winning a clear cut unanimous decision over fellow show participant Max Alexander.

One fight later, in the biggest win of his career, Vera got off the deck to stop the then-undefeated and highly touted prospect Andy Lee in the seventh round in March 2008.

Since then, Vera has refused to back down from a challenge. He has gotten in the ring with some of the top names in and around the middleweight decision. His wins over Sebastian Demers and The Contender season one winner Sergio Mora have propelled him into a full-fledged middleweight contender. His losses to James Kirkland, Craig McEwan, Issac Rodrigues, and Maksym Bursak have only enforced Vera’s reputation as an all action warrior who won’t back down from a challenge.

“Fighting big names is what motivates me,” said Vera. “With DiBella Entertainment I want to take on all comers and eventually get my chance at the middleweight championship.”

Vera’s DiBella Entertainment debut is anticipated for this fall. Full details will be announced in the coming days.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER VS. VICTOR ORTIZ TICKETS LAUNCH INTO ORBIT

Tickets went on sale tomorrow, Friday, July 8, for the biggest boxing event of 2011 "STAR POWER: Mayweather vs. Ortiz." The welterweight championship showdown, set for Saturday, Sept. 17 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, is the hottest ticket in the boxing universe.

"STAR POWER: Mayweather vs. Ortiz" is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions, and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, DeWALT Tools and AT&T. The 12-round mega-fight, which will be contested for Ortiz's WBC Welterweight World Championship, will take place Saturday, Sept. 17 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nev.

Why "STAR POWER"?


"Floyd Mayweather is the biggest star in boxing and it was proven once again as media and fans turned out in huge numbers during last week's press tour. Mayweather's draw combined with Ortiz's desire to successfully defend his title makes the name of this fight, Star Power, a perfect fit."

- Leonard Ellerbe, CEO, Mayweather Promotions

"Victor Ortiz has the power and that is the story line. Is the star, the undefeated Mayweather going to remain undefeated, or is the power going to put a stop to that?"

- Richard Schaefer, CEO, Golden Boy Promotions

MAYWEATHER - The Star
In his seven pay-per-view fights, Mayweather has generated a star-bursting 6.9 million buys and $375 million in pay-per-view revenue, $78 million of which was from his fight against Sugar Shane Mosley on May 1, 2010.

Mayweather's star power has also attracted Hollywood's and sports' biggest name celebrities who have been seen ringside for his past fights including Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Muhammad Ali, Leonardo DiCaprio, Paris Hilton, Will Smith and Jamie Foxx. He has also become a crossover star with this fight marking his fifth HBO 24/7 series appearance, the most by any fighter.

ORTIZ - The Power

In his welterweight world championship fight against Andre Berto on April 16, 2011, Ortiz showed his galaxy-like power inlanding 281 of 696 total punches thrown (40 percent) as opposed to Berto who landed 147 of 480 total punches thrown (31 percent).

Sixteen of Ortiz's 22 knockouts occurred in the first half his fights. Two-thirds of his 33 fights have ended by way of knockout. All of this points to one thing...Ortiz's immense power is on display every time he steps into the ring.

(All photos y Keisha Morrisey except promos)

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner’s Headline Bout Takes Fight of the Night Heavyweight Duel Ends in Second Round Knockout

Last Friday night’s M-1 Challenge: Bennett vs. Garner event from The Hangar in Costa Mesa, Calif. Not only captured the attention of the crowd and those tuning in to the live telecast on SHOWTIME but also the approval from fight fans around the world. With fighters hitting the canvass from every angle, the card’s Fight of the Night top honour was awarded to the headline bout’s participants: Pat Bennett and Kenny ‘Deuce’ Garner. Garner got the best of Bennett in a tremendous back and forth war that ended via KO at 1:15 of the second round.

Unlike their first meeting back in September of last year at the M-1 Selection Americas tournament, Bennett wasted no time bringing the action to Garner as he connected with a Superman punch that sets off a wild exchange of heavy blows before the men tied up on the ropes. As the big men come apart, it was Bennett who once again landed the better power punches but Garner snuck in a return blast which landed on his opponent’s chin as payback for the early barrage. As the onslaught continued, Garner regained confidence and momentum, landing a nasty, looping right that opened a gash on the left side of Bennett’s head. Refusing to back down, Bennett tied up Garner in the corner to work the foot stomps as a precursor to securing the bout’s first successful take down in the last seconds of round one.

The second frame started off with the same intense action and it was Garner who once again struck first blood, this time connecting with another razor shot that split Bennett’s face on the left side. With Bennett rocked and wobbly, ‘Deuce’ wasted no time going in for the kill, dropping Bennett with a crisp, clipping shot to the chin. With Bennett floored on the canvas, Garner fired off one more right for good measure before referee ‘Big John’ McCarthy dove between them.

The win improves Garner to 7-3
Love to hate him or hate to love him, the Port St. Lucie, Florida and American Top Team fighter, Kenny Garner is making a name for himself; he’s outspoken, versatile, packs lethal one-punch power and a potent submission game. With an affliction for the camera and ‘in your face’ personality, Garner is surprising fans, media and executives at every turn, proving to critics that he’s the ‘real deal’ in M-1’s heavyweight division – Deuce is proving to be a force to reckon with.

Garner has shown time and time again he’s a capable fighter with a deadly arsenal of skills. Eager for a second shot at Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion’s Heavyweight Champion Guram Gugenishvili, the remainder of 2011 is shaping up to be a great year for ‘Deuce’.

Garner won the 2010 M-1 Selection Americas Heavyweight tournament with wins over Matt Hopkins, Andre Kapilou and Pat Bennett.

With M-1 Challenge champions established in all five weight classes, a true contenders system will fuel events throughout 2011, driving M-1 Global’s growth as a leading brand in the US and international markets.

2011’s full slate of M-1 Challenge events held in the United States and Europe are primed to be mega-event spectaculars where Champions defend their titles and contenders jockey for position for a coveted shot at the gold. Feeding the contention system will be two Selection tournaments in 2011 with details being announced shortly.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.