★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience©®™

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Derek Ennis says He's using 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade as Springboard

Derek Ennis using 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade as springboard

NABO Junior Middleweight Title Fight Feb. 10 on ESPN FNF live from Mohegan Sun

Philadelphia junior middleweight Derek "Pooh" Ennis plans to use unbeaten 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade as a springboard February 10 in their main event fight for the vacant North American Boxing Organization ("NABO") title.

Andrade-Ennis headlines the Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing show on ESPN Friday Night Fights at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. The 10-round bout has future world title belt implications for the winner.

Andrade (15-0, 10 KOs), fighting out of nearby Providence, in addition to being an

Olympians also was the 2007 World Amateur Championships gold-medal winner, the first American to do so since 1999. Fighting Feb. 10 on ESPN for the ninth time in his three-year professional career, the 23-year-old Andrade has been so dominating he has won 55 of the 59 rounds fought on the judges' scorecards

Andrade is rapidly climbing the ratings ladder, currently ranked in the top 15 of all four major governing bodies: No. 9 by the World Boxing Organization ("WBO"), No. 13 by the International Boxing Federation ("IBF") and World Boxing Council ("WBC") and No. 15 by the World Boxing Association ("WBA"). He is co-promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions.

The confident 5' 8" Ennis (23-3-1, 13 KOs), a former USBA title-holder who is rated No. 9 by the IBF, believes a victory against Andrade will put him right back into the junior middleweight picture. "I'm just looking at this as another fight," Ennis said. "But, as soon as I beat him, I'm right back on top. I really don't know too much about him other than he's tall (6' 1") and a southpaw.

"Coming from Philly, I have a good name or persona, so everybody knows I'm coming to fight. People are going to see a lot of speed and pressure put on by me in a world-class fight."

Ennis' most significant victory to date was against another relatively tall Olympian, 6' 1" world title challenger Ermosele Albert (22-3-1), of Nigeria, by way of a12-round decisions in 2009 for the vacant USBA championship.

"This fight is a great opportunity for us," Ennis' co-manager Moe Gonzalez (E & M Management) noted. "We know he's in tough against this kid, but Derek is tough, too. They better not think they have a cakewalk, Derek is coming to fight. He doesn't have problems with southpaws or taller guys. Derek really gets up for fights like this and he'll be ready."

♔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.

Undefeated Jr. Welterweight Chris Algieri (12-0 6KO Huntington, NY) as he takes he takes on hard hitting Curtis Smith (10-5 5KO Atlanta, GA)

Saturday January 28th at the Paramount Theater in Huntington, Long Island. Headlining the show will be Undefeated Jr. Welterweight Chris Algieri (12-0 6KO Huntington, NY) as he takes he takes on hard hitting Curtis Smith (10-5 5KO Atlanta, GA)
♔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.

Friday, January 20, 2012

SHOBOX TRIPLEHEADER FINAL WEIGHTS AND QUOTES Friday, Jan. 20, The Pearl Theatre at Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nev.

SHOBOX TRIPLEHEADER

FINAL WEIGHTS AND QUOTES

Friday, Jan. 20, The Pearl Theatre at Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nev.

Live at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) on SHOWTIME^®

Rico “Suavecito” Ramos: 122 pounds

Guillermo “El Chacal” Rigondeaux: 120.5 pounds

Guy Robb: 128.5 pounds

Joel Diaz Jr.: 129 pounds

Matthew Villanueva: 115 pounds

Michael “El Unico” Ruiz Jr.: 114.5 pounds

All six fighters made weight Thursday from the Key West Ballroom at Palms Casino Resort a day before an exciting special edition tripleheader on SHOWTIME^® which will feature World Boxing Association (WBA) super bantamweight champion Rico Ramos defending his title for the first time against the WBA interim champion Guillermo Rigondeaux, matching two world champions and two of the sport's rising stars.

The main event showdown and two more exciting co-features on ShoBox: The New Generation, Friday, Jan. 20, at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) originates from the Pearl Theatre at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nev.

Ramos (20-0, 11 KOs) of Los Angeles weighed in at 122 pounds on Thursday while the 31-year-old Rigondeaux (8-0, 6 KOs), of Miami, Fla., by way of Cuba, tipped the scales at 120.5.

In an eight-round super featherweight attraction between two undefeated prospects, Guy Robb (7-0, 3 KOs), a 22-year-old out of Sacramento, Calif., registered a weight of 128.5 pounds and Joel Diaz Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs) of Los Angeles weighed 129 pounds.

Opening the ShoBox telecast, undefeated Matthew Villanueva (6-0-1, 6 KOs) of Burbank, Calif. will fight Mike Ruiz Jr. (8-1-1, 3 KOs) of Fresno, Calif., in an eight-round super flyweight affair. Villanueva weighed 115 pounds while Ruiz Jr. weighed 114.5 pounds.

The night of fights are being promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions.

Here’s what each fighter had to say on Thursday:

RICO RAMOS:

“A lot of people are doubting me for this fight but who cares? It's me and him in that ring. I came to keep that title. I'm the WBA champ and I will stay the champ.

“It's hard work to stay the champion. I put a lot of hard work and dedication into this. I'm still moving, man. I've got my son, he's two, that keeps me motivated. I've got my fans, my friends, my family, it all keeps me motivated.”

GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX:

“Of course I should be the betting favorite. What should I expect from Ramos? He has to worry what to expect from me!

“I'm very happy for the opportunity to win a title with less than 10 pro fights. I'm ready for the challenge.”

GUY ROBB:

“Boxing came into my life at a perfect time. I was getting in a little trouble but I was on the verge of getting in big trouble. I was introduced to Ray Woods and I was intrigued by who he was (Diego Corrales' stepfather and original trainer).

“Boxing was fun when I started. But I didn't like getting tired and beat on so I realized I had to give it 100 percent. It took over my life.

“This fight will be action-packed. He's aggressive but I plan to beat him up. It should be a brutal fight.”

JOEL DIAZ JR.:

“I don't want to rely on just one punch. Yeah, I can brawl but I can box. If I have to stay in his face and throw punches all day, fine. But I'm ready for anything.

“I can't wrong go with this opportunity. I took it on two weeks notice. I'm going to show everybody what I got. With all the people watching, you don't want to look bad.”

MATTHEW VILLANUEVA:

“I've got to get this victory, that's first. But if I can do it in big fashion, a KO, even better. I believe I can knock him out.

“I've sparred Ruiz before and I believe I got the best of him. It was my reach, my aggression, my power. And now, I'm even more conditioned than I was when we sparred.”

MIKE RUIZ JR.:

“This is do or die. It sucks when you don't put your hand up at the end of a fight (like my last outing). I've gotta do this.

“I feel good. I feel I'm two or three times better than when we sparred the first time. The sparring sessions were pretty even but now I'm sharper.”

Monday, January 16, 2012

Manny Pacquiao’s team react to Floyd Mayweather tweets‏

It's a pound-for-pound super showdown that's failed twice at the negotiation table in the past two years, a match-up that would surpass all pay-per-view figures in boxing and one that would unify two alphabet titles… WBC welterweight world championship incumbent Floyd Mayweather Jr wants it, WBO titlist at 147lbs Manny Pacquiao wants it but the team behind the Filipino have mixed opinions about how the bout can turn from pipe-dream into reality.

Credit: Floyd Mayweather (@FloydMayweather)

"I'm ready to put my belt up. What about you Manny Pacquiao? Let's make history," Mayweather (42-0-0, 26ko) said via his official Twitter account yesterday, Wednesday, one day after calling "punk" Pacman out for a fight on May 5.

There had been increasing suggestions that Pacquiao (54-3-2, 38ko) would not shirk from the challenge and meet it head on, however, his trainer; Freddie Roach, trusted adviser; Michael Koncz and promoter; Bob Arum, of Top Rank Boxing, have all made public their thoughts and, although differing from each other, all suggest a further postponement to what is already a protracted and laboured attempt at putting together two of the finest fighters from the past decade.

"I think it has to happen in 2012, because people are starting to say, 'Who cares at this point?'" explained Roach regarding the frustration felt by fans during a segment with host Mario Diaz of WPIX. "It is starting to lose momentum instead of gaining, so they better do it this year. I definitely think it will be the second fight for both of them this year. I think they will both have one more fight, a tune-up fight."

Mayweather's allowance to push his 87-day jail sentence back until June 1 hinged on his previous commitment to box on Cinco de Mayo so, in the event that Pacquiao is not his opponent, another - likely Saul Canelo Alvarez - will be drafted in. For Pacquiao, it could well be a fourth fight with Juan Manuel Marquez the following month.

Pushing the Mayweather v Pacquiao fight into the second half of the year is a stance also advocated by Koncz, who regards the MGM Grand Garden Arena's 16,800 seats to have a capacity too meagre for a contest of this calibre. Koncz, like Bob Arum, believes a makeshift 40,000 seat arena should be constructed on the strip. Such a task would render a May 5 date too soon.

"Why would I tell Manny to fight on the 5th and throw away a percentage of 30 million? That's crazy," Koncz was quoted by AP to have said, perhaps overlooking the fact that Las Vegas already has a mega-stadium - the Motor Speedway - that could entertain 140,000 people.

Arum echoed Koncz's views on the outdoor ground: "[The fight] could happen very easily," he said during an address on GMA TV in the Philippines. "[But] the fight badly needs [the makeshift arena]."

Yankovich to fight McGee for Vacant WIBA Title

On January 21, 2012, at the ReservClub in Lima, Peru, Brazilian Duda Yankovich will be fighting Mary Mcgee of Gary, Indiana, USA. The two will be fighting for the vacant WIBA Lightweight world title.

In a press release that WBAN received earlier today they wrote the following: "In what some thought was going to be an embarrassment for the Women�s International Boxing Association (WIBA), in their pre-sanctioning a WIBA Lightweight World Title bout between Melissa �Huracan� Hernandez (16-3) and Valentina Shevchenko (2-0, 1-0 at time of pre-sanctioning) has turned into quite an interesting match up for said vacant World title, which was vacated by Hernandez in her Historic �physical-dumping� of this Association�s Championship Belt in November 2011 (See link to story).

Then came the announcement that Mary McGee, 18-1-0 with 10 KO�s, of Gary, Indiana, was stepping in to compete against Valentina Shevchenko in Lima, Peru on January 14, 2012, for the Vacant WIBA Lightweight Title. Again, �a bad match-up for a world title bout,� many said.

In a sudden turn of events and with no reason given, Valentina Shevchenko pulled out of the bout against McGee. A seasoned Duda Yankovich, 11-3-0, 5 KO�s has, stepped in to replace Shevchenko."

Yankovich talked about this upcoming fight and said, "What better time to return than at the beginning of the year against a fighter like Mary McGee who is considered a Top 10 lightweight and a Genuine challenge for me. Although this is a Lightweight title bout, I endeavor competing in both the Lightweight and the Super lightweight categories eventually seeking rematches with each Holm, Phiri and Mathis. For now, I am focused on McGee. I want to stay within range of the best fighters in the world. I also look forward to competing against Monica Acosta (WBA & WBC Super Lightweight Champion), Fernanda Soledad Alegre (WBO Super Lightweight Champion), Myriam Lamare (IBF & WBF Light Welterweight Champion), Loli Munoz, Chris Namus, Layla McCarter and any of the top 10."

In the press release they wrote, "This bout between Yankovich and McGee is a more legitimate match up for a �World Title� bout. For Yankovich, it is a MUST-WIN bout given she has 3 consecutive losses to World Champions, three of Women Boxing�s Best �pound-for-pound� fighters; Ann Sophie Mathis, Holly Holm and Esther Phiri, respectively.

McGee stated: "Initially, I was supposed to fight against Valentina Shevchenko, a girl who I was told was a Muay Thai World Champion with a record of 21-0 and a 1-0 record in boxing. After viewing her videos, I knew it was a risky bout to take against a fighter like Shevchenko who uses her elbows a lot but I am game to fight anybody. When I was told that Valentina pulled out and that Lindsay Garbatt or Duda Yankovich may be possible opponents, I was prepared to take any of them on because my goal for 2012 is, to compete against the best in the Super Featherweight and Lightweight Divisions. I know many questioned why I took the fight against Valentina Shevchenko but I felt that I needed to compete and Valentina seemed like a fighter I can get busy with whether for a title or not. I understand that WBA Super Featherweight Champion Kina Malpartida is going to be present at my fight against Yankovich. I hope to compete against Kina for her WBA Super Featherweight title after this fight but then again, there is WBA Lightweight Champion Alejandra Oliveras, WBC Lightweight Champion Erica Farias, Erin McGowan, Melissa Hernandez, Chevelle Hallback, Fujin Raika, Karo Ro, Diana Prazak, Lindsay Garbatt, Frida Wallberg and other fighters that are right up there who I can compete against. My representative is handling these details while I concentrate on my training.�

This event is being promoted by Mr. Heber Alejos Valderrama of ALFA Productions, SAC., who says he will ensure there is an impartial panel of judges on January 21, 2012, for this WIBA World title bout. Alejos Valderrama added; �Each fighter comes into this bout with enough preparation time and with the ease that neither is a favorite in Lima, Peru.�

In the Press Release, they added, "South America has received and continues to receive critical reviews
and harsh criticism for the manner in which �certain female bouts� were being favored, officiated and intentionally misjudged (score card manipulations). "Hopefully", Mr Alejos Valderrama continues, �I can change that perception of South America in the eyes of the world by what I endeavor accomplishing in Peru on my fight cards. I intend on promoting Genuine boxing matches that will be judged by impartial officials.

With these change of events in the beginning of 2012, in the sport of Women Boxing, and the WIBA�s stroke of luck in obtaining, albeit incidentally, a World title match-up such as Yankovich vs. McGee, let�s pray the sport has a good start from the gate.

Martinez and Macklin go head-to-head‏

Pressure fighting Irishman Matthew Macklin (28-3-0, 19ko) and unorthodox Argentine Sergio Martinez (48-2-2, 27ko) lace their gloves up for a St Patrick's day fisticuffs on March 17 inside New York City's historic Madison Square Garden and the two middleweights engaged in the customary head-to-head prior to a world championship fight that has The Ring magazine title on the line. Andy Lee is the co-feature who is facing an, as yet, undetermined opponent.

Martinez appears to have a height advantage, but both fighters are 5'10. Credit: Ed Diller/ DBE

Middleweight contender Lee, a compatriot of Macklin's, separates the 160lb rivals. Credit: Ed Diller/ DBE

Lee (27-1-0, 19ko) has beaten everyone put in front of him and is chasing a 2012 world title shot. Credit: Ed Diller/ DBE

Martinez and promoter Lou DiBella want opponents with a higher profile but Sergio is mostly avoided. Credit: Ed Diller/ DBE

Martinez has stated he will, once again, fight to raise awareness for victims of domestic violence. Credit: Ed Diller/DBE

Matthew Macklin warns Sergio Martinez: The Irish are coming!‏

Former world title challenger Matthew Macklin has a message for St Patrick's Day opponent and lineal middleweight champion Sergio Martinez - "the Irish are coming!" Macklin, 29, attempts to unseat Martinez from his throne in the 160lb weight class on March 17 at Madison Square Garden in New York City and is calling on Irish fans from all over the world to support him at the ground dubbed; The World's Most Famous Arena.

Mack the Knife on the podium. Credit: Ed Diller/ DBE

Prior to 2011, Macklin - a former Irish, British and European champion - had fought predominantly on the domestic and continental circuit. One fight last summer, though, propelled him into international stardom as he took on long-reigning Super WBA middleweight titlist Felix Sturm in Cologne, Germany.

Macklin (28-3-0, 19ko) took the fight to Sturm, fought constantly from the opening minute to the last and was largely expected to receive a deserved decision victory on points, however, on all three judges' scorecards he was on the losing side.

Despite the controversial defeat, Macklin had made a name for himself and the performance itself was perceived - by Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment - to be worthy of adding him to his own stable of fighters and matching the England-born Irishman with his premier boxer; Maravilla Martinez (48-2-2, 27ko).

"As I have done throughout my entire career I will go up a notch for this fight," said Macklin this week. "Sergio is going to bring the best out of me and I am very confident in my mind that I will be the new middleweight champion come March 17.

He continued: "Fighting at The Garden on St Patty's Day - it's going to be like I'm fighting in Dublin. The Irish are coming from all over the world to see this [and] the atmosphere is going to be electric!

"It is an honour to have the opportunity to fight here at MSG where so many great fights have taken place. I am proud and privileged to be a part of this great tradition."

Providing the co-support to Macklin and Martinez's main event is technically-savvy Andy Lee, a product of Emanuel Steward's renowned Kronk Gym set-up in Detroit and, like Macklin, a pugilist cut from Irish cloth. Lee is a fast-rising contender in the middleweight division and enjoyed a breakout 2011 as he stopped Craig McEwan in a thrilling Celtic War in March, won a one-sided decision over tough journeyman Alex Bunema in May, before avenging his only defeat by boxing smart and overseeing Brian Vera with ease in October.

On the St Patrick's Day undercard, Lee (27-1-0, 19ko) is currently without an opponent, but has the fists and experience to compete for a world title later in the year - something promised to him by promoter DiBella. "I want to thank Lou for letting me showcase myself on this show," Lee said.

"There is nothing more I can wish for then to have this opportunity to fight at MSG on St Patrick's Day. I consider myself as a serious contender and I hope to get my title shot in 2012. I'm not sure who my opponent is going to be yet, but I promise you a good St. Patty's Day beating."

Devon Alexander: Marcos Maidana is coming to tear my head off‏

A classic stylistic match-up between the archetypal boxer against the feared heavy hitter takes place on February 25 at the Scottrade Center in Saint Louis as former super lightweight world champion Devon Alexander clashes with macho El Chino; Marcos Maidana. Alexander is relishing the bout - to be competed at 147lbs - and has indicated that he will be ready in order to compete against a Maidana who has one intention - decapitation.

Alexander stripped away his shades to engage in a tense head to head with Maidana. Credit: Hogan Photos

Alexander. Credit: Hogan Photos

"These last few fights at 140 pounds were hard for me to make weight," said Alexander (22-1-0, 13ko) in St Louis this week. "I’m going to be stronger and faster at 147. Maidana is coming to tear my head off, but I’m going to be ready, 110 per cent."

Trainer Kevin Cunningham echoed the sentiment made by his fighter and pointed out the potent threat El Chino poses: "We’re bringing a killer into Devon’s hometown who is going to try and take him out, but that’s the business of boxing. Devon is going to slay the killer on February 25."

Alexander, despite his boxing skills, still has to convince commentators and fight fans that he is a big-time contender. The 24-year-old looked every bit of a world-beater in 2009 and 2010 when he scalped Junior Witter and Juan Urango, however, his three fights since have been questionable.

Against Bradley, in a two-belt unification contest in January, last year, he lost a technical decision in the tenth round due to cuts, however, he attracted criticism for the manner in which he appeared to willingly seek an exit route out of the fight. His heart, desire and willingness to take a punch at elite level consequently came into question. And, in the fight both before and after Bradley, Alexander was the main benefactor of fishy judging and hometown cooking as he secured dubious points victories over Andriy Kotelnik and Lucas Matthysse.

Following the censure regarding his heart, Alexander, however, has been moved into what should be applaudable fights as he has taken on two of the biggest pound-for-pound punchers in the modern game one directly after the other. What would have been more convincing would be to do so away from St Louis.

Maidana. Credit: Hogan Photos

"I’m excited to fight in the United States again," said Maidana (31-2-0, 28ko), unflustered by the prospect of trading leather in the city his opponent was born and raised in. "This [the US] is the Mecca of boxing. I dedicate my life to boxing and I’m taking this fight very seriously."

Maidana's adviser, Sebastian Contursi, added: "We are happy to be here. It’s been a long road with the cancelation of the Guerrero fight, so Marcos is very anxious to back in the ring.

"As usual, we will bring a war to St. Louis and, as everyone knows, Marcos always delivers!"

Adrien Broner and Eloy Perez both dressing dapper‏

Adrien 'The Problem' Broner (22-0-0, 18ko) makes the first defense of his WBO super featherweight world championship title at the Scottrade Center in Saint Louis on February 25 and has already talked down the talents of his opponent, Eloy Perez (23-0-2, 7ko): "He’s a feather-fisted puncher in the featherweight division… not a good combination against me who punches like a middleweight," he said this week.

Broner teases Perez over his (lack of) power. Credit: Hogan Photos

Rubio doesn’t want to ‘risk’ judges scores, will go for KO against Chavez Jr‏

The Coahuila puncher, Marco Antonio Rubio, who faces Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday, February 4, has acknowledged that the WBC middleweight world champion is a dangerous fighter, but said: "I will face the best version of the legend’s son. In his last fights he has shown great advances but I have the punch to knock him out… I don't want to risk with the judges, I’ll go for the knock out."

Rubio (second left) wants to take a famous scalp in Chavez Jr (second right). Credit: Chris Farina/Top Rank

Marco, who looks strong and in very good condition, said that he is in the final stage of the preparation of his next fight against Chavez and is practicing sparring with Marco “Dorado” Reyes (22-1-0, 20ko) and other partners, with whom he puts into practice the tactics deployed to combat the fighter from Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; Chavez Jr.

The bout to confront Chavez on February 4, will be at the Alamo Dome. After losing his first attempt to be crowned WBC middleweight champion against Kelly Pavlik in 2009, to date, he has added nine wins by ko to his record, which makes him an extremely live opponent, with a possibility to be crowned.

♔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.

Saturday, January 14, 2012

WBA orders immediate rematch between Khan and Peterson to take place within 180 days

Peterson’s split decision victory over Khan in Washington DC has been riddled with controversy as a result of a plethora of anomalies in connection with the bout, including referee Joseph Cooper not counting a knockdown of Peterson and deducting two points from Khan for pushing (something for which points are almost never deducted), both of which ended up having a direct impact on the outcome of the fight; the ringside appearance of an unauthorized individual in Mustafa Ameen who apparently handled official scoring slips, seemingly communicated with fight officials throughout the fight and appeared to be photographed posing with a celebrating Team Peterson in the ring following the fight; and possible differences between the score sheet of the WBA and those of the IBF and the District of Columbia Boxing and Wrestling Commission.

Acting under its authority pursuant to WBA Rule C.26, the WBA concluded that the bout’s outcome was impacted by referee Joseph Cooper’s questionable failure to credit Khan with a knock down in round one and his questionable decisions to deduct points from Khan in rounds seven and 12.

As further cause to order the rematch, the WBA also pointed to Mr. Ameen’s apparent intrusion into the scoring process as well as possible discrepancies between the score sheets of the two sanctioning organisations and the local athletic commission. In its resolution mandating the rematch, the WBA went out of its way to note that under normal circumstances it would not disturb the discretionary function of a referee, however, in this case, because of the multiple irregularities, it was necessary for it to order the rematch.

"I’m pleased that justice has been done and the WBA has ordered an immediate rematch. All we ask as sportsmen is for a fair and level playing field when we compete," said Khan. "Lamont Peterson proved in our fight that he is a great competitor and I hope that a second bout will be just as exciting. I want to prove without doubt that I’m the best in the 140lb division by taking care of business in the rematch."

"I am thrilled about the decision and hope that we can start negotiations and get the rematch done," said Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. "Both Amir and Lamont are terrific young men and athletes who fought their hearts out in Washington last December. I am sure that fight fans from around the world applaud the WBA’s decision since this will be one of the most anticipated fights of 2012."

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

STEVE ‘USS’ CUNNINGHAM Two Time IBF Cruiserweight Champion Of The World Two Time ‘Fighter of The Year’ Briscoe Award Recipient‏

Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham Awarded ‘Fighter of The Year’ Briscoe For Second Time

Two time IBF Cruiserweight Champion of the World Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham became the first two time Briscoe Award winner, after receiving his second ‘Fighter Of The Year’ award, at the 4th Annual Briscoe Awards, which took place at the VBA Club in Port Richmond, PA, on Monday evening.

Cunningham, who was awarded the 2007 ‘Fighter of the Year’ Briscoe ahead of his December ‘08 ‘Fight of the Year’ nominated battle against Tomasz Adamek, was put forward for his second Briscoe after securing the IBF title for the second time, and won based on votes cast by boxing fans, boxing media, and the readers of the Web site PhillyBoxingHistory.com.

Speaking from his Philadelphia home earlier today Cunningham said, “Being voted Philly’s boxer of the year for 2010 means a lot to me.

I don’t get to fight at home and so my Philly fans don’t really get to see me fight, so to be recognized was special.

The event was great, a lot of people came out to show support.

I would like to thank John Di Santo, he works really hard keeping Philly’s boxing history alive and organizing the awards, I appreciate all that he does for Philly boxing.”

Also receiving Briscoe Awards on Monday were, Derek ‘Pooh’ Ennis and ‘King’ Gabriel Rosado, for their classic 12-round war, which received the ‘2010 Philly Fight of the Year’. Ennis won the fight, but both boxers rightly won the ‘Briscoe’.

Dhafir Smith won a special Briscoe Award for his ‘Upset of the Year’, for his magnificent victory over former world champion Jeff Lacy. Smith defied all odds by going onto Lacy's own back yard to battle his way to a major upset victory.

Amateur star Damon Allen, Jr. won the ‘Everett Brothers Award’ which is presented by Eddie Everett and Mike Everett in the name of their deceased brother Tyrone and their family's great boxing tradition.

PHOTO CREDIT; Gary Purfield

♔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.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Kimbo Slice Invades Heartland Oct. 15 fight in Nebraska

One of the world’s most feared fighters, heavyweight Kimbo Slice, returns to the ring October 15 for only the second time as a professional boxer, facing Tay Bledsoe in a four-round bout at Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Nebraska.

“Kimbo Slice is a tremendous puncher,” his co-promoter Gary Shaw said. “We believe that he has unlimited potential in boxing. He’ll learn each fight and become even more of a threat in the boxing ring than he ever was in mixed martial arts.”

An underground combat-fighting legend, largely through You Tube, Kimbo Slice, aka Kevin Ferguson, made his much-anticipated MMA debut in a 2007 exhibition in Atlantic City, where he defeated former WBO heavyweight champion and Olympic gold-medalist Ray Mercer by way of a guillotine choke at 1:12 of the first round. Slice soon signed a contract with ProElite and later joined the UFC.

Slice’s development as a boxer has been on an accelerated pace because of world-renown trainer John David Jackson’s presence in his corner as chief second.

In his pro boxing debut this past August in Miami, Oklahoma, Slice (1-0, 1 KO) needed only 17 seconds, including the referee’s 10 count, to register a sensational knockout of James Wade. In front of a sold-out crowd at Buffalo Run Casino, Slice immediately attacked Wade, cutting off the ring and throwing combinations, until a powerful right sent Wade through the ropes and into a deep sleep.

Slice’s other co-promoter, Tony Holden, believes Kimbo Slice is on his way to becoming the most exciting American heavyweight in years. “The heavyweight division is searching for a star that can punch like Mike Tyson and fill arenas,” Holden commented. “Kimbo is developing quickly as a heavyweight boxer and, when he gets some experience, look out!”

Hard-hitting heavyweights Kimbo Slice and Franklin“Yah Yah” Lawrence will be showcased in separate bouts October 15 on the“Rumble in the Heartland” card, presented by Gary Shaw Productions and Legacy Communications, at Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Nebraska.
♔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.

PHIL LO GRECO STRIPPED; VICTOR LUPO TO FIGHT FOR VACATED WBC INTERNATIONAL WELTERWEIGHT TITLE

The World Boxing Council ("WBC") has announced today that Phil Lo Greco has been stripped of his WBC International Welterweight belt due to his refusal to defend against mandatory challenger Victor Lupo (19-1-2, 9KO's). The official announcement can be found below:

To Whom it may Concern

Taking into account what reported last night by Christian Cherchi, manager of Phil Lo Greco, about the current status of our WBC International Welterweight champion, this WBC International Championships Committee has no alternatives but to now rule the following :

Phil Lo Greco won the WBC International 147 Lbs title on 18th June 2010
Up to date, Lo Greco has never defended his title.
This Committee has always tried to do its best to support such a good champion and see if there were good reasons not to strip him of his title.
In the meantime, not to keep the division frozen, the Committee approved a WBC International "Silver Belt" Championship.
This "Silver belt" Championship regularly took place in Canada on 19th February 2011 .
Victor Puiu "Lupo" beat former WBC champion Junior Witter to win the WBC International "Silver Belt" 147 lbs title.
Several attemps have been made in order to have a Unification Bout in this division between the Full titlist and the Silver champion.
All attempts failed. No fault by this Committee.
A purse offers bid was held at the WBC Head Office in México and Hennessy Sports Canada won it on September 9th 2011.
Hennessy Sports Canada fixed October 22nd 2011 as the official date of the bout to be promoted in Ontario, Mississauga, and sent the official contracts to the two boxers within the regular deadline.
Victor Puiu "Lupo" signed his contract.
Phil Lo Greco did not and his manager sent an email last night to report that his fighter would not be ready to fight Puiu on the scheduled date.

As clearly shown above, in view of the fact that this Committee has always tried to make every possible effort to avoid coming to this conclusion, for all the facts clearly summarized in this email ;

much to our regret , we must now report the following decision:

THE WBC INTERNATIONAL WELTERweight title is hereby declared VACANT with immediate effect.

Victor Puiu "Lupo" is now to be considered the preferential challenger to the vacant title.

Hennessy Sports Canada, which has already paid the sanction fee for this WBC International title bout, will be given the chance to promote the vacant Championship between Puiu and TBA.

We hope that the same date will be confirmed .

Phil Lo Greco, if future circumstances are in favor, will be reconsidered as a possible challenger after we have crowned the new champion.

We are looking forward to reading from Hennessy Sports Canada in short terms.

Sincerely yours,

Mauro Betti

Chairman

Is Phil Lo Greco ducking Victor Lupo?

Romanian welterweight Victor Lupo has done everything possible to get undefeated World Boxing Council (“WBC”) International Welterweight Champion Phil “The Italian Sensation” Lo Greco into a fight.. The clock is ticking, however, Lo Greco has refused to sign a deal to fight mandatory challenger Lupo.

Lupo (19-1-2, 9 KOs), who lives in Toronto, defeated former world champion Junior Witter (37-3-2) by a 10-round decision last February for the vacant WBC International Silver title to become the mandatory challenger.Lupo’s promoter, Hennessey Sports, won a purse bid but Lo Greco (22-0, 12 KOs) has thus far been reluctant to accept the fight offer.

“Lo Greco doesn’t want any part of me,” WBC #21 rated Lupo said.“He’s a real tough guy, huh, talking trash on Twitter. I don’t know what his problem is but, maybe, he needs a heart transplant?I’m from Romania but I’m proud that Canada is my home.He’s from here but doesn’t respect Canadian boxing fans enough to even fight here.He only wants to fight in Italy

“I worked very hard to become the mandatory challenger.Hey, we even agreed to fight in his hometown.I’d rather fight him for the belt because I know I’ll beat him. But, I can’t make him fight me; it’s all on Lo Greco.”

Darren Hamilton: I’m Fighting For Redemption, Not The Money‏

With all the controversy surrounding the recent Victor Ortiz - Floyd Mayweather jnr. fight many London fans may be a little confused to why Ortiz only received the penalty of a single point deduction - and a dubious sucker punch KO for his efforts - whilst back at York Hall in June Darren Hamilton was not just disqualified, but also fined and suspended, for an almost identical action against Dave Ryan.

Like Ortiz, Hamilton accepted the result without argument. In fact the likable Bristol born fighter, now residing in London, has spent a lot of time soul searching and bridge mending, as he is keen to make amends before the pair once again face each other, for The British Master Light Welterweight title, a second time on the Spencer Fearon Hard Knocks Boxing Promotions ‘This is Hard Knocks’ show at York Hall in London on Friday, 7th October.

Hamilton’s determination to make amends, for that red mist moment, became clear when he spoke earlier today, “I’m fighting for redemption, not the money, he’s fighting for the money.

Basically Dave Ryan has asked for more money to fight me again, myself personally I’m completely not interested in the money.

You wouldn’t believe what I actually went through. On the night I didn’t realise the seriousness of what I did.

Afterwards I soon found out. Not only couldn’t I box for twenty eight days, because the British Boxing Board of Control suspended me, but I also had to pay a fine to the BBBofC.

I was getting abuse from his fans. My girlfriend, who was at the fight at the time, she was getting abuse as well from his fans. Some of it I heard, it was racial abuse.

Since then I’ve also been getting abuse on the internet from his fans, which I may not like but do understand.

I let Spencer (promoter Spencer Fearon) down, I let the fans down and I let myself down, something I am really sorry for.

It’s put me in a position, like where I was before, where I have to prove myself again like I did against Ideh Ochuku, after being knocked out by Daryl Setterfield, and the time they said I didn’t have a chance against Peter McDonagh, where I was the complete underdog.

I’ve gone right back to that hunger again, this is it again right now. I am completely solemn and completely dedicated to winning this fight. My head is completely on it, it’s all I’ve been thinking about, you know.”

Darren Hamilton versus Dave Ryan, for the British Masters Light Welterweight title, will take place at the Hard Knocks Boxing Promotions ‘This Is Hard Knocks’ event, which will be headlined by Choi Tseveenpürev, at York Hall, Bethnal Green, on Friday 7th October 2011 and broadcast live on Premier Sports (Sky channel 433).

♔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.

Believe It Or Not!: Hopkins vs. Dawson

“Believe It Or Not!: Hopkins vs. Dawson” is a 12-round bout for Hopkins’ WBC and Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight World Championship Titles taking place on Saturday, Oct. 15 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, Calif. and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. The event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, AT&T and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. In addition to this championship main event showdown, the televised pay-per-view undercard will also feature Antonio DeMarco vs. Jorge Linares in a 12-round fight for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Title, Kendall Holt vs. Danny Garcia in 12-round bout for the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight Title and Paulie Malignaggi vs. Orlando Lora in a 10-round welterweight bout. DeMarco vs. Linares is presented in association with Teiken Promotions.

Nick Casal's journey continues Oct 15‏

Buffalo welterweight Nick “Hands of Gold” Casal continues his journey back to boxing prominence October 15 against undefeated prospect Michael “Slick” Anderson on the non-televised portion of the Bernard Hopkins vs. Chad Dawson pay-per-view event at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Casal (21-4-1, 16 KOs) was a highly-decorated amateur who captured gold medals at the 2002 U.S. National Junior Championships and the Sweden Box-Cup for Under-19 boxers. In 2003, Nick reached the quarterfinals of the National Golden Gloves Tournament, defeating Anthony Dirrell in the process, before losing to current world champion, Andre Berto. Casal also won a bronze medal at the 2004 U.S. Championships but he had to drop out of the competition with a hand injury.

In 2004, Casal turned pro and he was unbeaten in his first 17 pro bouts, including a pair of draws. Nick extended current WBC Silver champion Antonio “Tony” DeMarco, the former WBC Interim light titlist, the full 10 rounds in 2002, albeit in a losing effort (94-96, 93-93, 97-93) that demonstrated his vast potential. Casal has won his last three fights, including a third-round technical knockout of Martin Tucker this past April in his Boxing 360 debut.

Casal, however, damaged his hand and he has been out of action since. His fight against Andersson was supposed to be September 30 on ShoBox, before being switched to Oct. 15. “Fighting on ShoBox would have given me more exposure but the Hopkins-Dawson show is much bigger with a larger audience,” said Casal who is training in Las Vegas. “I hurt my hand a little bit in my last fight but it’s now 100-percent.”

The 30-year-old Anderson (11-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Newark, hasn’t fought anybody near Casal’s level of competition. If Anderson believes he’s going to use Casal as a stepping-stone, according to Nick, he’s got another thing coming. “I’m going to use him as a stepping-stone,”Casal insisted. “He has no experience and I’m coming for a win. I don’t know anything about him but, after the first round, I’ll know what to do.

“In another year, I hope to be fighting for a world title. I beat both Dirrells (Andre and Anthony), Berto and Vanes Martirosyan in the amateurs. I fought at 156 as an amateur and moved down to fight at 140 as a pro. Some of them went up in weight and won world titles. I just need a couple of more fights to be ready for a world title shot. I turned pro when I was 18 – maybe a little early – but I’m only 25 with a lot of fights left in me. I had a lot of growing up to do and now’s the time to make something happen.”

Casal’s promoter, Boxing 360 founder and CEO Mario Yagobi, believes his upcoming fight is a tremendous opportunity for Nick. “Nick has to step-up and, if he passes this test, it’s on to bigger and better things for him. This is a great opportunity. I think he’s up to it. In the past he has won better challenges in bigger fights. I believe he has the talent and heart to take him to the top. He made the commitment to train in Las Vegas, away from his home in Buffalo, in order to get better sparring. He’s working hard and I know he’ll be ready October 15^th.”

Casal’s talented Boxing 360 stable-mate, undefeated middleweight prospect DonYil Livingston (5-0-1, 3 KOs), will also be in action on the Oct. 15^thHopkins-Dawson undercard against unbeaten Kurtiss Colvin (6-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round bout.

WHERE ARE THE AMERICAN HEAVYWEIGHTS?

The United States of America has dominated professional boxing in the heavyweight division for decades, possibly this last century. Jack Johnson, Rocky Marciano, James Jeffries, Jack Dempsey, Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield are all names that ring a bell. Today most people can’t name a heavyweight from America. Two brothers, Wladimir Klitschko and Vitali Klitschko have dominated the heavyweight division for years. The two brothers hold every conceivable heavyweight championship to hold and from the Ukraine. Amazingly, the top contenders are all from the European countries. American heavyweights have attempted to take those belts away from the Klitschko’s but have come home to the USA humbled and embarrassed.

It seems no heavyweight is willing to gamble to make the Klitschko’s fight tough fights. That is until now. There is a prospect lurking in the background very quietly. He stands 6’8” tall, weighs 250 pounds, is quick, can punch, and has only 8% bodyfat. He looks the part and he has been learning his craft carefully under the guiding eye of Bobby Benton in Houston, Texas. This giant has only 3 amateur fights but comes from an extensive kickboxing background. His agent, Kerry Daigle, claims SKIP SCOTT is the quickest heavyweight he has seen in the 38 years he has been managing fighters and promoting professional boxing. “He has the jab of a Larry Holmes, the speed of a Muhammad Ali and the knockout power of an Earnie Shavers and will be the next great heavyweight from America,” claims Daigle.

Learning his craft will continue Thursday night at the Houston Club in Downtown Houston, Texas on September 29^th starting at 7pm as he fights an 8 round main event looking for his 14th consecutive win.

The American heavyweights are few, I must conclude. Skip Scott plans on getting the attention of the giants like HBO and Showtime. He is articulate, well educated, dresses the part and does an incredible interview. On top of that, Skip “Strictly Business” Scott can fight.

Scott lives in Houston, Texas where he is an incredible drawing card for Lou Savarese’s shows. His fans are white collar who don’t hesitate to dish up $1000 to $2000 per table to watch him fight.

His plans? “I’ve got my eyes on 3 guys right now I would like to fight as soon as possible. One is Ray Austin because of his experience, Hasim Rachman because he is rated again and a former world champion, and Tyson Fury overseas. Fury is making a name for himself and it would be an honor to challenge him,” states the confident Scott.

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