Ripley's freak nails himself, Bernard Hopkins hammers Chad Dawson

Ripley's freak nails himself, Bernard Hopkins hammers Chad Dawson
Michael Marley

Got to admit it. The Ripley's Believe It Or Not sideshow freak ("Albert Cadabra," yeah, sure, pal) who hammered a nail into his face was imprerssive but, when it came to speechmaking at the Tuesday press conference at BB King's in Times Square, everybody but ring legend Bernard BHop Hopkins was just wasting their breath.

Hopkins, who continues his 23 year pro career, with a light heavyweight title defense against the talented but underachieving Chad Dawson at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on HBO PPV TV on Oct. 15, could have given guys named Obama, Boehner, Cantor and Reid some tips on how to keep an audience's interest from the speaker's podium.

Without futher adieu the wit, the wisdom and the "psyche job" that "Ole Popkins" laid on the soft-spoken Dawson for the second day in succession. (Dawson had to listen to a similar spiel in LA on Monday).

Hopkins is age 46 while New Haven resident Dawson is 17 years his junior.

Referring to how he picks the right opponent at the right time: "That's my fox mentality."

Fighting a lefthander: "I love fighting southpaws because I am unorthodox myself. I am 12-2 against southpaws with a split decision loss to Joe Calzaghe ands most people say that I won that fight.”

Comparing and contrasting his Hall Of Fame resume (52-5-2, 32 KOs) against that of Dawson (30-1, 17 KOs): “It’s like two guys going for a job. You look at their resumes and one is Harvard, the other is a community college. With my resume, I still have the fire and the desire. I’ve got a Ph.d.”

On his ageless physicality: “I get cramps. I get aches. Trust me, I am human.”

Reviving the 175 pounders (with a disputed draw and then a points victory over Montreal’s Jean Pascal, who had beaten Dawson): “I started a buzz for the light heavyweights. The division is alive and people are paying attention again because of my last two fights.”

(Then Hopkins began to infiltrate Dawson’s mind more directly.)

On Dawson losing to Pascal: “He fell in Canada. Now he’s getting a second chance....But that second chance is going to be very painful. You can’t be laid back against an old man, that is not good, Chad.”

On his ring future: “I am 46 and so there is no tomorrow. I won’t, I can’t lose this match. I hope Chad fights (aggressively) because we’re asking $55 in a recession. If he fights, then we all win. I want to go on, to be like Archie Moore, defending the (light heavyweight) title at age 47 or 48.”

The good news for Dawson is that he only has to listen to Hopkins persistent rap for the final prefight press conference and then at their weigh in.

I’m not sure about Dawson anmd he seems unsure of himself.

But I’ve got to think a lot of fighters would prefer to get nailed like “Albert Cadabra” did.

♔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.

The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All WORLD TITLE FIGHT BETWEEN JOSEPH AGBEKO & ABNER MARES SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 LIVE ON

Joseph King Kong Agbeko has been cleared by doctors to return to work and will defend his International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight championship against undefeated rising star and World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver 118-pound titleholder Abner Mares, who will also defend his title, in The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All on Saturday, August 13, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at a site to be determined.

The highly anticipated 12-round world title matchup between New York-based Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs) of Accra, Ghana and Mares (21-0-1, 13 KOs) of Hawaiian Gardens, Calif., by way of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, was originally scheduled for April 23, but was postponed when Agbeko was injured moments after arrival at Los Angeles International Airport for fight week. Doctors at a nearby hospital diagnosed the champion with sudden onset sciatica, a back injury.

The August 13 SHOWTIME Championship Boxing telecast will be Agbeko’s fourth consecutive appearance on the network and the third in a row for Mares.

“The talented and courageous men in this division have delivered some of the most memorable fights of the last decade,” said Ken Hershman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of SHOWTIME Sports. “This tournament concept has already delivered three excellent match-ups and the best is yet to come with this Final. I am proud of Joseph and Abner for staying on course to finish what they started. May the best man win.”

Agbeko, who had never previously missed a fight, was told by a Los Angeles physician to receive treatment and wait six weeks before resuming training after the April 23 postponement. When he was cleared to fly, Agbeko returned to his native Ghana to rest but will return to New York next week to resume training.

“I have been receiving physical therapy treatments here in Accra and I am happy to report that my body has responded well,” Agbeko said. “I feel healthy and stronger than ever and will be ready to fight on Aug. 13.”

“I would like to thank Abner Mares and SHOWTIME for giving me time to recover from this most unfortunate of injuries. I will forever remember their great sportsmanship during my time of trouble.”

Mares welcomed the news. “I’m excited to get the fight with Agbeko rescheduled so I can finish what I started and win the bantamweight tournament. It was unfortunate that Agbeko was injured in April, but I’m happy he has recovered and we have a date set now. I want to fight the best and I know I can beat the best. I will not rest until I become the best of the best in the bantamweight division.”

Agbeko will be making his first start since recapturing the IBF crown with an impressive 12-round unanimous decision win over then-unbeaten Yonnhy Perez in the bantamweight tournament semifinal on Dec. 11, 2010, in Tacoma, Wash. Agbeko convincingly won a thrilling give-and-take battle by the scores of 117-111, 116-112 and 115-113. Their exciting fight came in a rematch of a 2009 Halloween night slugfest that Perez won on points.

It will also be the first fight back for Mares since the semifinals in Tacoma, where he rallied dramatically to earn the most significant victory of his career, a 12-round split decision win over former two-division world champion Vic Darchinyan in a bloody, knockdown-laden affair. Mares recovered from a deep cut along his hairline in the opening round, the first knockdown of his career in the second round and a point-deduction in the fourth round to floor Darchinyan in the seventh round en route to a victory by scores of 115-111, 113-112 and 111-115.

The world championship fight will be promoted by Don King Productions and Golden Boy Promotions. A venue and an exciting undercard for the August 13 event will 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.

David Tua vs Monte Barrett Date Aug 13, 2011 Time 6.00pm NZST Broadcast SKY TV

If David Tua (52-3-2, 43 KO) loses his rematch with Monte Barrett (34-9-2, 20 KO) August 13, there seems to be little doubt he'll retire - But, even if Tua is victorious he could yet walk way from the game after the Barrett fight.

According to stuff.co.nz, Tua said as he signed a contract with Sky TV to co-promote the pay-per-view event:

"I'm looking forward to this but it potentially could be my last fight."

Tua vs Barrett I
On July 17, 2010 David Tua of New Zealand battled to an exciting 12-round draw with then 39-year-old, former contender, Monte Barrett. Unfortunately, it was Tua's lackluster performance that made this fight a lot closer and far more entertaining than most experts and fans thought it would be.

In the tenth, Barrett wobbled Tua with a big right hook and had him in serious trouble. In the 12th, Tua had a point taken away for throwing Barrett to the canvas. Shortly afterwards, Barrett again had Tua in serious trouble and then the unthinkable happened - Barrett launched a right hook-left-right hook combination to the head that put the "Tuaman" on the canvas for the first time in his career. He was flat on his back. Tua beat the count but, by most accounts, the theoretical 10-7 round for Barrett should have won the fight for Monte.

Two judges scored it 113-113, and the third judge had Tua the winner 115-111. The crowd booed the decision. In defense of the judges, it was a difficult to score but, to most, the fight was relatively even going into the 12th Round so the 10-7 round seemed to have tipped things in Barrtett's favor.
Source http://www.fightsaga.com/Fights/item/824-Tua-vs-Barrett-2



♔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 "THE EXECUTIONER" HOPKINS AND "BAD" CHAD DAWSON OCTOBER 15 LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN

Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins and "Bad" Chad Dawson will hold a press conference at STAPLES Center Star Plaza to discuss their upcoming light heavyweight championship match-up, which is taking place Saturday, Oct. 15, The 12-round bout will take place Saturday, Oct. 15 at STAPLES Center and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®. Antonio DeMarco and Jorge Linares will also be in a showdown for the vacant WBC lightweight championship.

IBF JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT

KENDALL HOLT vs DANNY GARCIA ELIMINATION SHOWDOWN ON UNDERCARD

Hopkins vs. Dawson is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and AT&T.

♔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.

“Noche de ‘Maravilla’” featuring Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez defending his middleweight title vs. “Dazzling” Darren Barker on Oct 1 in Atlantic City

Sergio Martinez, Middleweight World Champion:

“I want to thank HBO and DiBella Entertainment and Sampson Lewkowicz, my adviser. I also want to thank Darren and all of his team.”

“I hope to see everyone on October 1.”

Darren Barker, Challenger:

“It’s nice to see this New York sun keeping my belt warm.”

“I am from London, my father was a boxer; I grew up around boxing. I’ve dedicated my life to this sport. I had over amateur 100 fights, fighting in hostile environments in other countries and coming away with medals. I live for that moment.”

“There is a great series of movies, Rocky. They captured the mentality of the underdog. If the favorite always won in sport, it wouldn’t be any fun. I’m here to prove that the underdog can cause a massive upset. So, you may not know who I am now, but come October 1, you will know exactly who ‘Dazzling’ Darren Barker is.”

Lou DiBella, Promoter of “Noche de ‘Maravilla’”:

“We believe this will be Maravilla’s night, but there is a man, ‘Dazzling’ Darren Barker, who wanted this fight. He called for this fight. And you should reward those who want the big fights.”

“There are plenty of $50 tickets, so this is an affordable night of great boxing.”

“HBO has made a commitment to Sergio Martinez since he came to America. HBO has made a commitment to showcasing the best of boxing.”

“Sergio Martinez respects Darren Barker and that’s why this fight is happening. Darren took to twitter and, bizarrely, that is how this fight happened. Eddie Hearn and I basically did the negotiations over twitter. This might be the first major fight ever made over twitter.”

“Sergio Martinez is a great champion. Not only one of the best fighters I’ve ever promoted, but one of the best guys I’ve ever promoted. He’s an extremely bright guy with a wonderful social consensus. He is, in fact, maravilla.”

Eddie Hearn, Barker’s Promoter:

“This fight was made in about 20 minutes on twitter, but that’s the relationship we have with Lou.”

“It’s been interesting talking to the press today, and they’re asking me who Darren Barker is. In England, he’s well renowned, but we quite like not being known. Darren has never even been in a fight where he has remotely been in trouble, so it’s hard to say how good Darren Barker is.”

“When we signed Darren Barker, we sat down and looked at the future, and he said to us ‘you might think I’m crazy, but if you ever get the chance to make a fight with Sergio Martinez, make it happen.’ And that’s why we take our hat off to Darren. He wants to fight the best middleweight in the world, because if you beat the best middleweight in the world, you are the best middleweight in the world. On October 1, Darren has the chance to become the best middleweight in the world.”

“Darren is a determined young man who has been through a lot of trials and tribulations, but he has remained committed to his dream. And [the press conference] is part of the dream, but it’s only half of the dream. We believe we can shock the world, and we wouldn’t be here otherwise.”

Kery Davis, Senior VP Programming for HBO Sports:

“What can you say about Sergio Martinez? 2010 FOY of the year, 2010 KOY, a great start to 2011 with a knockout of Sergiy Dziniziruk. This is Sergio’s sixth appearance on the network and he always puts on a great performance. He is quick, powerful, charismatic, and I swear Lou and Sampson are going to announce soon that they have signed him with Dos Equis to play “The Most Interesting Man in the World.”

“In looking at tapes of Darren Barker, he has a tremendous background. And he impressed us quite a bit with something he said leading up to this. He said he has been fighting for 16 years and its all leading up to this. That is the kind of fighting spirit we are looking for.”

Ken Condon, Representative of Caesars Atlantic City:

“Tickets are very reasonable for this level of fight, starting at $50 going up to $300 for ringside. This will be Sergio’s fourth fight in Atlantic City and he has developed a following here. It has become his home away from home.”

“From what I’ve heard, not too many people what to fight Sergio Martinez, but Darren Barker stepped up to the plate. I urge people to come down, enjoy the fall in Atlantic City, and enjoy your weekend on the shore.”

Jim Mercante, Representative of the World Boxing Council:

“We are here on a hot, hot day for New York to kick off what is going to be a hot, hot fight. This is the type of fight that my father, Arthur Mercante, would have wanted to referee.”

“Noche de ‘Maravilla’: Martinez vs. Barker” is being presented by DiBella Entertainment in association with Matchroom Sport, and Caesars Atlantic City, and is sponsored by Corona. The show will be aired live on HBO’s World Championship Boxing®, beginning at 10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT.

♔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.

Eddie Alvarez vs. Michael Chandler For Bellator Lightweight World Title set for October 15th at Bellator 54‏

After a spectacular run through the Bellator Season 4 Lightweight Tournament, Michael Chandler has earned his world title shot. With victories over Polish prodigy Marcin Held, submission specialist Lloyd Woodard and explosive Brazilian Patricky Pitbull, Chandler’s dream to become the next Bellator Lightweight World Champion is a win away from becoming reality. On October 15th from the Boardwalk Hall Ballroom in Atlantic City, Chandler will get his chance against reigning Bellator Lightweight World Champion Eddie Alvarez in a Bellator Title Fight LIVE on MTV2.

“Fighting this close to home on this big of stage is awesome,” said current Bellator Lightweight World Champion Eddie Alvarez. “I’ve never lost a fight in the States, and I certainly don’t plan on losing this one. I’ve never had this much time to prepare for a fight, and you’re going to see that preparation on display October 15th.”

Alvarez brings a near perfect record into the fight, as the Philadelphia native sports an incredible 22-2 professional record, with Bellator tournament wins over Greg Loughran, Eric Reynolds, and Toby Imada during his Season 1 Lightweight Tournament Championship run. This won’t be Alvarez’s first title defense, as he successfully defended his title against current Featherweight Tournament Finalist Pat Curran at Bellator 39. The two engaged in a five round battle that eventually ended with Alvarez securing a unanimous decision victory. Having time to scout the competition, Alvarez is more than ready to take on an eager Chandler.

“I watched the Lightweight Tournament very closely, and was really impressed with a lot of the competition,” Alvarez said. “Knowing that Chandler is my opponent, I’ve already gone back and started to watch film, and I’ll be ready. He brings a really good pace, and it’s going to be a great fight.”

For Chandler, the undefeated product out of Xtreme Couture looks to be one of the toughest tests that Alvarez has faced during his distinguished career. Only 25, Chandler brings an impressive wrestling pedigree with an improved striking game that was on display during his Bellator Lightweight Finals appearance against Patricky Pitbull at Bellator 44. Having studied Alvarez’s previous fights, Chandler already feels prepared for what faces him at Bellator 54.

“Eddie is obviously a world class lightweight, but in a lot of the fights I have watched, no one has really pushed the pace against him. I want to put him on his heels, and make him respond to what I’m doing in the cage. I’ve got a few months to prepare, and I’ll be more than ready for October 15th.”

“Anyone that has heard me speak on the topic knows I feel Eddie Alvarez is the best lightweight in the world,” said Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney. “With that said, Michael’s tournament run was one of the most impressive displays I’ve seen from any fighter, and their title fight on October 15th should be an absolute war. As a fan of the sport, this is a fight I can’t wait to see.”

♔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.

Andre Berto returns to the ring at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino on September 3 to take on Jan Zaveck in battle for welterweight gold

(ANDRE BERTO PHOTO BY KEISHA MORRISEY)

Andre Berto returns to the ring and Beau Rivage Resort & Casino on September 3 to take on Jan Zaveck in battle for welterweight gold, airing live on HBO’s World Championship Boxing.

There will be no rest this Labor Day weekend for two of the best welterweights in the world. On September 3, reigning IBF welterweight champion Jan Zaveck comes to America to put his IBF welterweight title on the line against former WBC champion Andre Berto from the Beau Rivage Theatre at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Battle in Biloxi: Berto vs. Zaveck is presented by DiBella Entertainment in association with SES Boxing. The show will be aired live on HBO’s Boxing After Dark®, beginning at 10:45 PM ET/7:45 PM PT.

"This is one of the premier matchups that could be made in the welterweight division,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment, the promoter of Battle in Biloxi. “Andre Berto is considered one of the elite in boxing and Zaveck is a reigning world champion. Both are known as all action fighters, so you know it will be explosive with so much on the line.”

Berto (27-1, 21 KOs), 27, of Winter Haven, FL, is coming off the first loss of his career, and the loss of his WBC title, on April 17 when he dropped a razor thin 12-round decision to “Vicious” Victor Ortiz, a classic battle that saw both fighters on the canvas twice and one that is considered the front runner for 2011 Fight of the Year. Prior to that Berto, a 2004 Haitian Olympian, had defended his title five times after winning it in 2008 via seventh round knockout of Miguel Angel Rodriguez.

“I am excited to get back in the ring and get gold back around my waist,” said Berto. “Everyone who knows me knows that it wasn’t the real Andre Berto in the ring in April. I’m focused on returning to reestablishing my dominance in the welterweight division and it starts with Jan Zaveck.”

Zaveck (31-1, 18 KOs), 35, originally from Ptuj, Slovenia, but now living in Germany, captured the IBF title in December, 2009 with a shocking third round stoppage of Issac Hlatshwayo in Hlatshwayo’s native South Africa. Since then, Zaveck has defended the title three times, including a majority decision win in 2010 over Rafal Jackiewicz, the only man to have previously defeated him. His bout versus Berto will mark his first professional appearance in the United States.

“I am coming to the United States to put on a great show,” said Zaveck. “When I get on the plane back to Europe, I will have my title belt.”

“Beau Rivage is happy to be partnering with DiBella Entertainment and HBO Sports to bring world championship boxing back to Biloxi,” said George P. Corchis, Jr., President and Chief Operating Officer of MGM Resorts Regional Operations. “The headliner of Andre Berto vs. Jan Zaveck is a very competitive match with Berto seeking to regain another world title and Zaveck, who hasn’t lost since 2008, fighting his first professional bout in the United States. We look forward to putting on a world-class event.”

A full undercard will 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.

Fedor ‘The Last Emperor’ Emelianenko Not Hanging Up His Gloves Admired Heavyweight Fighter Will Continue Fighting

Still possessing a champion’s heart and desire to compete, Fedor Emelianenko (31-4, 1 NC) has elected not to retire; his next opponent and date are to be determined with the bout likely slated to take place in Russia.

M-1 Global President and co-founder Vadim Finkelstein confirmed ‘The Last Emperor’s’ decision and shared his immediate plans for Europe’s leading mixed martial arts promotion.

“We consulted with Fedor and it was decided that he should not leave the sport in this way. His friends and past opponents support Fedor in continuing his career and he agreed,” said Finkelstein. “We want to organize a fight for Fedor in Russia and have already begun working in this direction. If everything goes as planned, we will produce a card in Moscow or St. Petersburg sometime in the fall with Fedor as the main event.” The opponent is yet to be determined.

More plans are also in the mix according to Finkelstein, “In addition to the fight in Russia, we’re also working with our Japanese contacts to organize a New Year’s Eve event in Japan that Fedor would participate in as well.”

When asked about 2012 Finkelstein spoke optimistically; “If all is successful, in 2012 we’ll be back in the U.S. All these ideas are being developed right now and we want to work exactly according to this plan.”

♔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.

Ronnie Shields new chief second for top super middleweight prospect Edwin ‘La Bomba’ Rodriguez Undefeated Dominican boxer headlines Broadway Boxing

Undefeated Edwin“La Bomba” Rodriguez, arguably the premier super middleweight prospect in the world, has switched head trainers and now two-time world title challenger Ronnie Shields is his chief second.

Rodriguez, a 26-year-old native of the Dominican Republic, returns on August 20 to fight at home in Worcester (MA) for the third time in as many years, headlining a special edition of Broadway Boxing, presented by DiBella Entertainment, at historic Mechanics Hall against intra-state rival and Iraq War veteran Chris Traietti (10-2, 6 KOs).

Rodriguez’manager, Larry Army, explained the head trainer change: “After Edwin’s third pro fight we switched trainers and went with Peter Manfredo, Sr., but after the McGirt and Pryor fights, Edwin and I talked about things that hadn’t been fixed– balance, wide punching and fighting out of control. So, we decided to make a change and sent Edwin to Houston to start working with Ronnie Shields. We knew that Edwin was more of a boxer as an amateur, but he had become a puncher as a young pro, and we felt he was losing his boxing skills.

“We conducted a two-month search to find the right trainer for Edwin and found him in Ronnie, who refocused Edwin on boxing without compromising his power. We didn’t send a raw prospect to Houston. Edwin had beaten three very good fighters in McGirt, Pryor and (Marcus) Upshaw, as well as veteran Darnell Boone, who had knocked off two undefeated prospects. In the August 20 fight, people are going to see an improved Edwin Rodriguez, but they’ve only been working together for three months, and he’s still a work in progress. He’s going to need an edge against better opponents and Ronnie gives him that edge he didn’t have before.”

Rodriguez (18-0, 13 KOs) is coming off of impressive back-to-back performances in high-profile victories against the sons of great fighters, James McGirt, Jr. and Aaron Pryor, Jr., respectively, on ShoBox: The New Generation and ESPN Friday Night Fights. In his last fight, Edwin suffered a dislocated shoulder during the early rounds from which he is now 100-percent fully recovered.

“I’m listening to somebody who has accomplished so much in boxing,” Rodriguez commented about working with Shields. “He knows what he’s talking about because he’s been there. The mistakes Ronnie may have made, he doesn’t want me to make, and really knows what styles work best against other styles. I feel real good about now going into a fight with several game plans, instead of just one, and being able to adjust during the fight. What I was missing in the past was more than only one game-plan; I made no adjustments during the fight, even if our game-plan wasn’t working.

“Ronnie’s been working on little things with me like blocking punches, proper balance, setting-up shots and using my defensive skills more. Now, I know what to do after hitting the body. When I used to throw a good body shot, I didn’t follow-up with a side-step, move around my opponent, and then throw a left hook upstairs. Not only wasn’t I finishing up after throwing a body shot, I left myself open for counters. I’m turning my shots and working everything off my jab. All of these changes have made a huge difference.”

The Lou DiBella-promoted Rodriguez is presently rated among the top 13 by all major governing bodies in professional boxing: International Boxing Federation (#8), World Boxing Association (#11), World Boxing Council (#13) and World Boxing Organization (#13). The 26-year-old is the reigning WBC USNBC titleholder.

In the past, the highly-regarded Shields worked with superstars such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Pernell Whitaker and the late Vernon Forrest. Today, in addition to Rodriguez, Ronnie handles WBA Interim super bantamweight champion Guillermo Rigondeaux, Erislandy Lara, Kermit Cintron, Jermall Charlo and Mike Lee, to mention some of the more notable boxers.

“Edwin is a good fighter and it didn’t take much to fix the few things that needed fixing,” Shields evaluated his new protégé. “He lacked defense and needed more head movement. He’s tall but fought like he was short. He likes to mix it up –nothing wrong with that – but nobody understood that he has such a great jab. He has a very pleasing style but, since I’ve had him in camp, I’ve tried to convince him that he’ll have a much longer career if he boxes on the outside. So far, he’s been great and he’s getting great sparring with light heavyweight Cornelius White. They have wars in the gym.

“As long as he stays focused and continues doing what he’s supposed to do, Edwin is going to be champion of the world. Timing is everything, and getting the right fights is important. Everybody knows he’s a good fighter, and he’s coming off of a shoulder injury. They’re going to see how good he really is August 20th.”

Edwin started boxing in 2001 and he developed into one of the top amateurs in the United States, compiling a solid 84-9 record, including gold-medal performances in the 2005 USA Boxing National Championships and 2006 U.S. National Golden Gloves Tournament. Rodriguez, who has dual citizenship in the U.S. and Dominican Republic, became the first Massachusetts boxer to win the middleweight title at the Nationals since “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler in 1973.

♔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.

JR. WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER EDGAR SANTANA SIGNS WITH FISTICUFFS PROMOTIONS

Fisticuffs promotions announced the signing of Jr. Welterweight contender Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana to a promotional contract.

Santana of Bronx, New York has a record of 25-3 with sixteen knockouts and has won four straight which is over a four year span.

Santana, thirty-two years old, turned pro in 1999 and went on to win twenty-one of his first twenty three bouts which included big victories over Francisco Campos (20-5-1); Meacher Major (12-2-1); Dairo Esales (30-6); Mike Gonzalez (10-2-1) and a career best victory over Josesito Lopez (22-2) in a bout that headlined a SHO BOX card on April 11, 2008.

Santana took a three year hiatus due to legal problems and with those out of the way, Santana is right back on the track to capturing a world title.

Santana returned to the ring with an explosive second round knockout over Robert Jones on May 5, 2011.

That win was especially impressive considering Jones was never stopped in his seventeen bouts.

Santana is one of the most popular ticket sellers in the competitive New York market and he owns and operates a popular Barber Shop in his native Spanish Harlem.

“Edgar Santana has always been one of the best prospects on the East Coast and I am happy we were able to work out a deal”, said Dave Escalet of Fisticuffs Promotions.

“Despite having that layoff, we feel that he is only a couple fights away from a significant fight that will put him in position for a world title. He showed in his last fight that he is a force to be reckoned with and we plan to make those important fights happen for him”

Santana will be fighting for NABA Jr. Welterweight title on August 19th at Dover Downs in Dover, Delaware.

“The NABA title will get him in the rankings and he will be right there knocking on the door after he wins the fight”, continued Escalet.

“I am happy to make a deal with Fisticuffs”, said Santana’s manager Brian Cohen.

“We already have this big fight lined up so it’s only a matter of staying busy and Edgar will be fighting for the title”

♔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.

CANELO ALVAREZ VS. ALFONSO GOMEZ SET FOR SEPT. 17 AT STAPLES CENTER AS PART OF "STAR POWER: MAYWEATHER VS. ORTIZ" TWO-SITE PPV MEGA-EVENT‏

"STAR POWER: MAYWEATHER VS. ORTIZ" GETS BIGGER, BETTER AND BRIGHTER AS CANELO ALVAREZ VS. ALFONSO GOMEZ IS ADDED TO CREATE TWO-SITE, STAR-STUDDED SEPTEMBER 17 BOXING EXTRAVAGANZA PRESENTED LIVE BY HBO PAY-PER-VIEW® STAPLES CENTER IN LOS ANGELES TO CO-HOST PAY-PER-VIEW MEGA EVENT WITH MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS LOS TUCANES DE TIJUANA AND EL GRAN SILENCIO SET FOR LIVE PERFORMANCES FOR THE CROWD AT STAPLES CENTER

"STAR POWER: Mayweather vs. Ortiz" just got propelled into another galaxy, as it was announced today that rising Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez will defend his WBC super welterweight championship against Alfonso Gomez on the televised undercard of the September 17 pay-per-view extravaganza featuring the WBC welterweight world championship mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather and Victor Ortiz.

Making this announcement more significant and unique is the fact that Alvarez and Gomez will face each other at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, while Mayweather and Ortiz will battle at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, creating a mega-event from two world-class cities.

Fans in attendance at each arena will be able to see the fight live from the other arena, making this a first-time split-site boxing experience taking place on Mexican Independence Day boxing weekend.

Both bouts will be will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Following the showing of Mayweather vs. Ortiz at STAPLES Center, fans in attendance will see two special post-fight concerts performed by Los Tucanes de Tijuana and El Gran Silencio.

"'STAR POWER' is living up to its name as a mega-event with the addition of Canelo Alvarez vs. Alfonso Gomez," said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO Mayweather Promotions. "To have this event emanate from two separate locations like STAPLES Center and MGM Grand Garden Arena is a testament to the size and magnitude of the event and what it will deliver to the fans in the arenas and those watching at home on pay-per-view. Floyd is absolutely thrilled that Alvarez vs. Gomez will be a part of this show from Los Angeles."

"This is a historic and unprecedented night for boxing and Golden Boy Promotions as we showcase the extraordinary talents of Mayweather, Ortiz, Alvarez and Gomez from two iconic and world-renowned venues in STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, the capitol of sports and entertainment and MGM Grand in Las Vegas, truly the boxing mega-center of the world," said Richard Schaefer, CEO Golden Boy Promotions. "This show is now even more loaded with stars, and to have Alvarez vs. Gomez join the magnificent boxing match-up of the year between Floyd Mayweather and Victor Ortiz is exactly why we named the fight 'STAR POWER,' which is expected to set attendance and viewership records in one night."

"September 17 at STAPLES Center will be a night to remember for boxing fans in Los Angeles as it will mark the first time the arena will host a boxing match, a pay-per-view viewing and a post-fight concert all on the same day," Lee Zeidman, STAPLES Center General Manager. "We are looking forward to what will no doubt be an incredible action-packed night of boxing and live entertainment."

"The MGM Resorts family is very excited to welcome the return of Floyd Mayweather to the MGM Grand on September 17," said Richard Sturm, president of Sports & Entertainment for MGM Resorts International. "This championship event marks Mayweather's first fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in more than 15 months and continues our tradition as the leader in the sports and entertainment industry."

"With the anticipation and star power of Mayweather-Ortiz from MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the addition of Alvarez vs. Gomez live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and the celebration of Mexican Independence Day, viewers are in for a fantastic night of boxing on September 17," said Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View.

Already Mexico's brightest young star, 21-year-old Canelo Alvarez (37-0-1, 27 KO's) of Guadalajara is quickly becoming an international sensation with fans around the world taking noting of his power and prowess in the ring and his charm and charisma outside of the ring. Following wins over former World Champions Carlos Baldomir and Lovemore N'Dou in 2010, Alvarez kicked off 2011 with a March victory over Matthew Hatton that earned him the WBC Super Welterweight World Championship. Three months later, Alvarez returned to Guadalajara for a homecoming title defense and victory over Ryan Rhodes that captivated a nation. With his American fan base growing at a meteoric pace, Alvarez will hold court in the City of Angels as he defends his title from STAPLES Center and fights for the Mexican people against ultra-tough Alfonso Gomez.

"I'm happy to come back to fight in Los Angeles at STAPLES Center for another Mexican Independence Day weekend," said Alvarez. "Alfonso Gomez is a good fighter and also from Guadalajara, Mexico. I hope the fight will be explosive because that is what the fans will be looking for between two Mexican warriors like us, but I feel confident I am going to win the fight."

A fan favorite who was present in American living rooms every week when he competed on "The Contender" reality show, Alfonso Gomez (23-4-2, 12 KO's) has proven that he has what it takes to battle it out with the elite in the years since his stint on national television. The owner of wins over Arturo Gatti, Ben Tackie, and Jesse Brinkley, the 30-year old Los Angeles resident (who originally hails from Guadalajara) has also faced current WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Miguel Cotto and Peter Manfredo Jr., but he is currently showing the best form of his 10-year career thanks to a five-fight winning streak that includes victories over Jesus Soto Karass and Jose Luis Castillo. Now, he prepares for his second world title shot as he takes on Canelo Alvarez on September 17.

"Canelo's popularity is great for him and for boxing," said Gomez. "I know Canelo's team thinks I'm just another notch on his belt, but it's not the first time a popular fighter made the same mistake. I've fought and beaten much better competition and I'm coming to win the world title. Canelo and I come from the same place and we are both Mexican warriors. I heard there's another fight happening in Las Vegas on September 17, but as far as I'm concerned, the best fight on that day will be at STAPLES Center. I can think of no better way to celebrate Mexican Independence Day weekend...Viva Mexico!"

"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.

"STAR POWER LOS ANGELES: Alvarez vs. Gomez" is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, DeWALT Tools and AT&T. The 12-roundfight, which will be contested for Alvarez's WBC Super Welterweight World Championship, will take place Saturday, Sept. 17 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Calif.

The Mayweather vs. Ortiz & Alvarez vs. Gomez pay-per-view telecast, which begins at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View® and will be available to more than 92 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View®, a division of Home Box Office, Inc., is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Mayweather vs. Ortiz fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.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.

"STAR POWER: MAYWEATHER VS. ORTIZ" UNDERCARD PRESS TOUR QUOTES

"STAR POWER: MAYWEATHER VS. ORTIZ" UNDERCARD PRESS TOUR QUOTES. Star-Studded Fight Card Completed With Addition Of Erik Morales vs. Lucas Matthysse and Jessie Vargas vs. Josesito Lopez ERIK MORALES, Five-Time and Three Division World Champion

"When we were first talking about this fight, we were talking about an opponent who wasn't easy, but not as difficult as Lucas Matthysse.

"I have seen a lot of comments on Facebook...people saying I am crazy, and I want to confirm that I am crazy. I am crazy about what I do.

"This is a sport that I participate in with a lot of love and a lot of heart. People question me, but I know that I love to fight and I want to fight. I will be ready September 17. The Mexicans can have a great party and celebrate when I am victorious.

"This is my second fight in the United States since I came back and I am going to win.

"I am very excited to be here and to be boxing again. I was away for two and a half years, but I had a lot of desire to do great things again.

"In April I had a tough fight against Marcos Maidana. A lot of reporters doubted me, but I made it very clear that I am back and can still accomplish great things.

"Everyone can see how I have advanced in the last year. Little by little I am back at the level at which I expected to be. I am very happy with where I am and where I need to be for this fight.

"I am going to do whatever I have to do to win.

"This fight is going to be for the fans and a lot of my fans will be traveling from Tijuana to Las Vegas.

"We're going to be ready on September 17. I'll fight for the Mexican people and be champion again."

JESSIE VARGAS, Undefeated Super Lightweight Contender

"I am definitely excited and will take full advantage of this opportunity. It's a pleasure and an honor to be on the same card as Floyd Mayweather and Erik Morales.

"I feel that I am ready for this big stage. I had two quick knockouts in my last two fights, but the preparation was there. I was ready for 10 rounds.

"I have a new trainer and I'm very happy with the work we have put in. There will be a difference in my style for the better.

"I expect a great fight from Lopez. We could definitely steal the show. We are both coming to fight.

"Watching Floyd [Mayweather] train is something to be admired. He trains like a fighter who is just coming up. The fact that I have been able to be in the gym with him has helped me because I want to train like that. I am not as slick as him, but I have definitely added some of his tools to my belt.

"This is a great opportunity that has been given to me at 22 years of age and I'm going to take advantage of it. I will definitely come to fight."

JOSESITO LOPEZ, #8 Rated WBC Super Lightweight Contender

"I am thrilled, ready and focused for my fight against Jesse Vargas.

"I'm excited for the opportunity to showcase my talent on HBO Pay Per View.

"Vargas is a good fighter, but I know that I am the better fighter with more drive. Come fight night, everyone will know it.

"Whenever you put fighters like me and Jessie in the ring, you are going to have a great fight on your hands because it will be two fighters at the top of our game getting it on.

"I have to prove once again that I am ready to be at the top of my weight class. It's a tough position to be in, but if you are mentally strong, it can be the best position to be in."

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

"I have been around boxing for 30 years and I cannot remember a card that is as tremendous as this one. From top to bottom, this card is stacked with great fights.

"I think the fans are truly in for a great night of boxing.

"Behind every great young fighter there is someone who has been with them from day one and for Jessie Vargas that has been his father Jose.

"In our [Mayweather Promotions'] eyes, Jessie Vargas is the best young fighter in all of boxing. September 17 will be his coming out party.

"Jessie has been part of the Mayweather Promotions family every since he was a young kid. We have taken him under our wing for a number of years.

"I am personally very proud of him for his accomplishments thus far. Come September 17, all of you will see what Jessie Vargas is capable of."

RICHARD SCHAEFER, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions

"Today we are here to announce the two fights that will round out this amazing card. Two young prospects in Jessie Vargas vs. Josesito Lopez and of course one of the most famous Mexican fighters in the history of the sport, the legendary Erik Morales who will face Lucas Matthysse. Matthysse is as hungry to bring that belt back to his homeland of Argentina just as Erik Morales is to take it back to Mexico.

"Erik Morales does not take and does not need to take any hand outs.

"When Barrios was not available and Lucas Matthysse became available, I think that it became evident that this was never about Morales getting a title handed to him. It was about earning his titles and if someone has earned his titles the hard way, it is Erik Morales.

"Erik Morales is truly the definition of a modern day gladiator.

"Morales' resume is second to none. He will become the first Mexican to win a world championship in four weight divisions and make history.

"When the fight is over on September 17, we will have a new world champion and it is going to be Erik 'El Terrible' Morales.

"September 17 is going to be the Super Bowl, the World Series, game seven of the NBA Finals, the last lap of the Indianapolis 500, whatever sport that can help you put this into perspective, that is what September 17 is for boxing.

"The fact is, this is as good as it gets."

CARLOS MERA, Director of Box Latino Promotions (Morales' Promotional Company)

"As a company we are proud to be working with Golden Boy Promotions on this event.

"Morales is going for a championship in a fourth weight class.

"This is going to be a great event and a great fight."

KEN THOMPSON, President of Thompson Boxing Promotions (Lopez' Co-Promoter)

"This is overall best fight card I have seen in years.

"It's an opportunity for sports fans everywhere to get together with their families and friends and enjoy a great night of fights.

"This card features eight of the greatest fighters in the sport today.

"Josesito Lopez is one of the youngest, sharpest, fastest, most exciting fighters in the world."

ROBERT ALCAZAR, Vargas' Trainer

"I want to thank the people who made this fight possible and I want to thank the fighters' families.

"Jose Lopez is a good fighter. He is considered one of the top fighters in the weight class by most of the sanctioning bodies, but Jessie is ready. Jessie is an excellent fighter. In my opinion, that is what is going to be the difference in this fight...a good fighter against an excellent fighter.

"In my opinion, Jessie Vargas is going to be the big champion we are waiting for in boxing. This fight will open doors for him.

"I have big expectations for this kid. I believe in him. I believe in his family. I believe we are going to have a great fight."

"STAR POWER: Mayweather vs. Ortiz," is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and is 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. and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®.



♔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 RETURNS TO THE TROPICANA SATURDAY AUGUST 27TH

(Photo of Shamone Alvarez by; Keisha Morrisey)

On Saturday, August 27th, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing returns to the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, with an exciting six bout card in the Tropicana's beautiful Ballroom, featuring the always exciting heavyweight fan-favorite, Vinny Maddalone (33-7, 24KO's) and Atlantic City's own, Shamone "The Truth" Alvarez (21-4, 12KO's) in separate bouts.

"We are really looking forward to returning to the Tropicana, and putting together another great night of exciting fights," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing. "The Tropicana has such a great venue for boxing, and the atmosphere in the Casino, especially during the summer-time is just so electric. When you combine that electricity with the fireworks that Vinny and Shamone are sure to produce, you just know you are in for one exciting night of entertainment.


Maddalone, a major attraction on the east coast, due to his never say die, warrior-like style, last fought at the Tropicana in March of last year, when he handed out a vicious beating to Dominque Alexander, dropping his opponent multiple times, before eventually scoring a 5th round TKO. Never in a dull fight, Maddalone has fought some of the top names in the Heavyweight division, including former undisputed heavyweight champion, Evander Holyfield and current top ten contenders, Tomasz Adamek, Dennis Boytsov and Jean-Marc Mormeck. Maddalone is scheduled to square off against Mike Sheppard (19-12-1 9KO's) in a ten round heavyweight showdown.

The former, WBO NABO welterweight champion Alvarez also was in action at the Tropicana at the Star Boxing promoted show in March of last year. In his fight, Alvarez scored a brutal one-punch knockout over Alexis Camacho. Alvarez is set to meet the always tough and game Chris "Kid Kayo" Fernandez (19-13-1, 12KO's) in an eight round welterweight match-up. Fernandez has been in with former world champions, Devon Alexander and Paulie Malignaggi.



"♔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 TO WOLAK "WE HAVE BUSINESS TO FINISH"

On July 15th, Delvin Rodriguez (pictured right above and below) and Pawel Wolak engaged in a ten round war on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" that has many boxing insiders calling it the leading candidate for the fight of the year. In an excellent battle of will, determination, and pure guts, Rodriguez and Wolak went toe-to-toe for their entire ten round jr. middleweight showdown before a sold-out crowd on Star Boxing's show at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Wolak started the better of the two, but Rodriguez, who was coming off a year lay-off, picked up the pace in the middle rounds, and landed the much cleaner and harder punches down the stretch of the fight which in turn caused grotesque swelling of Wolak's right eye. In the end, judge Tom Schreck scored the fight 97-93 for Rodriguez, but was overruled by judges Julie Lederman and Steve Weisfield, who both scored the fight 95-95, resulting in a majority draw. The war was an instant classic, so much so that ESPN re-aired the fight the following week, the firstever non-regularly scheduled reair for ESPN's Friday Night Fights. Fans around the world have been clamoring and wondering when the rematch will take place and while Rodriguez, the warrior he is, expected and wanted the fight to take place immediately, Wolak has been singing a different tune.

"I am reading all these different reports that Wolak has signed with a new manager (Wolak dropped long-time manager Ivan Edwards following the fight and signed with Cameron Dunkin), and he is speaking about other fighters and fights, but I really haven't heard him say anything about our rematch. This guy was supposed to be one of the roughest toughest guys in the sport, and we have a fight of the year like we did and it ends in a draw and now he doesn't want to have a rematch? Everyone has been asking when the rematch will take place, but by the looks of it, he doesn't want it. I even read one report that said he ultimately decided to fire his manager because his manager suggested he take the rematch with me and Pawel was "annoyed that he would even bring that up". I had a lot of respect for Pawel before we fought, and him continuing the way he did in our fight with his eye like that I had even more respect for him, not a lot of people would have fought through that. But now, he seems to be avoiding me. If he is the real warrior he says he is, and all about pleasing the fans, then let's make this rematch happen. The other fights can wait, we have business to finish."

♔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.

Rockstar Presents STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix Semi-Finals; Josh Barnett vs Sergei Kharitonov & Antonio Silva vs Daniel Cormier, Saturday, Sept. 10

Rockstar Presents STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix Semi-Finals Saturday, Sept. 10
US Bank Arena - Cincinnati, OH Featuring
STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix Semi-Finals
Josh Barnett vs Sergei Kharitonov & Antonio Silva vs Daniel Cormier Plus
STRIKEFORCE Middleweight Championship
Jacare Souza vs Luke Rockhold LIVE ON SHOWTIME 11 PM ET/PT


♔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.

FC 135 Jones vs Rampage, Saturday, September 24

UFC 135 Jones vs Rampage
Presented by Gears of War 3
Saturday, September 24 - Pepsi Center - Denver, CO

UFC® light heavyweight champion Jon “Bones” Jones is undoubtedly the fastest-rising star in the sport of mixed martial arts. Since bursting onto the scene in 2008, the 23-year-old New Yorker has steamrolled through the UFC’s talented 205-pound division, finishing opponents with his unmatched blend of unorthodox striking and vice-grip-like submissions. On Saturday, Sept. 24, at the Pepsi Center in Denver, Colo., Jones’ meteoric rise faces imminent danger, as “Bones” will makes his first title defense against former UFC and PRIDE® champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.
UFC HALL OF FAMER MATT HUGHES BATTLES THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER® SEASON ONE WINNER DIEGO SANCHEZ

ALSO:
TRAVIS BROWNE vs. ROB BROUGHTON
NATE DIAZ vs. TAKANORI GOMI

Jones, Jackson and UFC President Dana White will be in Denver on Tuesday, July 19 to discuss this epic card at a press conference to be held at the former BRAUNS Bar & Grill building at 1055 Auraria Pkwy at 10 a.m. MT. This event will be open to the public.

“Many people think that Jon Jones should be considered one of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world, but I wouldn’t make that claim too fast,” UFC President Dana White said. “The 205-pound division is and always has been the most stacked division in MMA. Rampage Jackson has been one of the top five light heavyweights in the world since 2003. A win over Rampage Jackson will definitely put Jon Jones on the right track for becoming the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.”

PUBLIC PRESS CONFERENCE IN DENVER ON TUESDAY, JULY 19 - 10 a.m. MT
http://www.ufc.com/news/ufc-135-jones-vs-rampage-in-denver-press-release-071411

After capturing the UFC light heavyweight crown by stopping Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in March, Jon Jones (fighting out of Endicott, N.Y.) makes his first title defense in Denver when he meets Rampage Jackson. At 13-1, the 23-year-old Team Jackson fighter owns wins over the likes of Stephan Bonnar, Vladimir Matyushenko and Ryan Bader. Despite his impressive resume, “Bones” believes a win over Jackson would truly cement his place as one of the world’s most dominant fighters.

“Fighting Rampage Jackson is an awesome opportunity and a win is definitely something that could add to my legacy as champion,” Jones said. “I think he’s re-motivated and that makes him dangerous. He’s driving me to a different level of training right now. I’m training like a champion so that I can go in there on Sept. 24 and perform like a champion.”

With his bone-crushing power and seek-and-destroy mentality, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (fighting out of Irvine, Calif.) owns victories over some of the sport’s all-time greats, including Wanderlei Silva, Dan Henderson and Chuck Liddell. While his opponent on Sept. 24 appears to be heading toward a similarly historic career, Jackson (32-8) looks to end Jones’ surge when the two battle for the title at Pepsi Center. Simply put, Jackson believes it’s his time to once again reign over arguably the most stacked division in the UFC.

“I am planning on bringing the belt back to where it belongs,” Jackson said. “That belt is very serious and very dear to me. That belt should never have been taken off of me, and it’s been a long time coming to get my chance to get my belt back. The proudest thing I’ve done in my career is unify that title with the PRIDE FC title, and in the next fight it was taken off me despite me winning the fight. I’ve had to wait since 2008 to get my chance to get my belt back, but anything that comes easy isn’t worth having in the first place.”

♔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 TO APPEAR IN INTERNATIONAL NEW PRADA "LINEA ROSSA" EYEWEAR CAMPAIGN

Two-Division and current light heavyweight world champion Bernard "The Executioner" Hopkins can add another title to his resume...eyewear model. The future Hall of Famer who at 46-years-old is the oldest champion in boxing history, is appearing in a new Prada eyewear ad campaign that can be found in the Italian and international press beginning this month.

Hopkins was photographed by Brigitte Lacombe, one of the best world-class portrait photographers, as he showcased the new Prada "Linea Rossa" eyewear collection, named after the "sweet science": Prada Upper Cut, Prada Jab, Prada Barnburner.

"I am thrilled to be a part of this campaign," said Hopkins. "Prada is known throughout the world as a top luxury brand and as a world champion, it is great to represent the sport in ads that will be seen around the globe. People are already familiar with the way I work my upper cut and jab in the ring, now they can see me wearing them in my Prada ads."

Hopkins is joined by fellow pugilists super lightweight world champion Amir Khan of the UK and 2008 Olympic super heavyweight champion Roberto Cammarelle of Italy, who appear in separate ad layouts.

Prada stated that all three boxers were chosen, "Not just thanks to their prestigious track record, but also because of their strong personalities and their sporting talent and determination."

♔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.

Pacquiao: I'm SICK of Waiting for Floyd Mayweather

Manny Pacquiao wants a judge to declare him the winner in his ongoing legal war with Floyd Mayweather -- claiming the Pretty Boy has been LYING HIS FACE OFF to get out of being deposed by Manny's lawyers.

Manny filed the papers today in Nevada as part of his defamation suit against Mayweather -- in which he claimed Floyd falsely accused Manny of using steroids.

According to the documents, Manny's camp offered up 24 dates for Floyd to be deposed -- but Mayweather kept coming up with excuses as to why he couldn't show up for any of them.

Manny claims Floyd often blamed his intense boxing training for the scheduling issues -- but says it's all BS ... because on many of the days Floyd said he was training, he was seen partying at various nightclubs in Vegas and Atlanta.

Point is -- Manny says he's SICK AND TIRED of waiting around for Floyd and wants the judge to issue a default judgment in his favor, making Manny the winner ... and entitling him to damages.

No word on how much $$$ Manny is looking to pocket from the lawsuit.

♔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.

WORLD RANKED CRUISERWEIGHT CONTENDER BJ FLORES TARGETS LATEEF KAYODE

World Ranked Cruiserweight, BJ Flores wants to make a statement and he has pinpointed the man that will not only make a fan friendly fight with, but be a fight of importance.

Fresh off his 5th round TKO victory of highly rated Nick Iannuzz on July 23rd, Flores wants world rated and undefeated cruiserweight Lateef Kayode next. Flores has a date in Springfield, Missouri in October and is more than willing to bring in the highly rated rugged Nigerian as his next opponent.

Flores is 25-1 with sixteen knockouts.

Kayode, 17-0 with fourteen knockouts is ranked Number one by the WBA; Number three by the WBO; number four the WBC; and Number five by the IBF.

"I wanted Kaydoe after the fight he had with Iannuzzi. For whatever reason, they went in another direction. Now I have another date in Springfield, Missouri at the end of October and Lateef is on the top of my list! I contacted his promoter today and still waiting for a response. I want to clear up any confusion about who the top US cruiserweight contender is. This is a new phase in my career”, said Flores

"We had a wonderful turnout at the O’Rielly Center and had over 2100 people at the event! The guys at the O’Rielly are very excited to do another show as are we! I will be fighting here every 3 months until I get a shot at a title! If Lateef Kayode will take the fight then he will be the next victim. If not that, I will fight another highly rated US contender."

“Kayode is rated higher than me and I'm willing to prove in the ring that I can beat him. It’s nothing personal but he has something I want and that’s a number-one ranking by the WBA and top five rating by all three other sanctioning bodies. He stands in my way of returning to a title fight and I want to set the record straight that I will fight any cruiserweight that is in my way of a title shot"!

VIDEO LINK TO HIGHLIGHTS OF FLORES KO OVER IANNUZZI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4el80ZHPNYM

♔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.