★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience©®™

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Boxers to look out for at the London 2012 Olympic Games - Part III‏

With just a few days to go until the biggest show on Earth gets underway in the British capital, we look at the men and women in each of the weight categories who can have a real impact at the London 2012 Olympic Games. In the third of this four part series, we examine the Middle (75kg), Light Heavy (81kg), Heavy (91kg) and Super Heavyweight (+91kg) men.

Men Middleweight (75kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: James DeGale (GBR)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Ievgen Khytrov (UKR)

Ukraine's Khytrov was in irrepressible form in Baku last year and the word is that he will be even better this summer so he will start the tournament in London as favourite. However there are many pretenders to the Olympic title with Japan's Ryota Murata, who lost to Khytrov in the final in the Azeri capital, a serious threat to the 23-year-old Ukrainian. Tough Irishman Darren O'Neill, a 2010 European Championships silver medallist, has the experience to really influence the top of the podium and after being handed the team captaincy, the 26-year-old will want to lead by example. Azerbaijan's Soltan Migitinov, who was so impressive in the World Series of Boxing first season, could prove that his added maturity could allow him to make a big impact. 2009 AIBA World Champion and Uzbek legend Abbos Atoev, who lost his first bout at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, carries the hope of a nation on his shoulders and at 26 years of age, this could be his last opportunity to collect the Olympic gold. Vijender from India, also a veteran on the international stage, has the know-how to go deep in the competition, having taken an Olympic bronze medal in Beijing four years ago. Stylish Anthony Ogogo from Great Britain and the USA's Terrel Maurice Gausha are also both in with a good chance.

Men Light Heavyweight (81kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: Zhang Xiaoping (CHN)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Julio la Cruz Peraza (CUB)

It is very hard to see past the imposing figure of Cuba's AIBA World Champion Julio la Cruz Peraza for this one. The tall orthodox 21-year-old is a terrific mover around the ring with exceptional foot-work to go with his powerful combination punching. Adilbek Niyazymbetov from Kazakhstan made quite an impression after taking the silver medal at the AIBA World Boxing Championships Baku 2011 in his debut tournament on the international stage; the fledgling young talent is only 23 but has shown great maturity and could really challenge la Cruz Peraza for the title. Russia's gifted 2009 AIBA World Champion Egor Mekhontcev and Elshod Rasulov from Uzbekistan both took bronze back from the Azeri capital last year so will both be seeking to finish on top of the podium in London. In what promises to be an extremely competitive weight category, look out for Algeria's Olympic flag bearer Abdelhafid Benchabla, who took the World Series of Boxing by storm and won the Individual Championships in its first season. Heavy-hitter Damien Hooper from Australia was a 2010 AIBA Youth World Championships silver medallist, lost by one point to la Cruz Peraza in the quarter-finals of the AIBA World Boxing Championships Baku 2011, and at 20 is already spoken about as a future champion so maybe 2012 could be his year. Brazil's Baku bronze medallist Yamaguchi Falcao Florentino is another who will be keen to impress, the 21-year-old orthodox with the penetrating jab could be a dark horse in this category. Teenager Marcus Browne from the USA took first place at the AIBA American Olympic Qualifying Event Rio 2012 by defeating some quality opposition so expect the tactical American to also be pushing for honours. Up and coming Ukrainian Oleksandr Gvozdyk, who was a revelation during this season's World Series of Boxing, is another who could use the Olympic Games as a stage to set the boxing tournament alight with his sensational set of skills.

Men Heavyweight (91kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: Rakhim Chakhkiev (RUS)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Oleksandr Usyk (UKR)

Another division that is expected to be dominated by the reigning Ukrainian World Champion, however Azerbaijan's super talented orthodox fighter Teymur Mammadov will be primed to be the main challenger. Belarusian Siarhei Karneyeu never gives his opponents a moment's peace and his ferocious style can defeat anyone on any given day. Tervel Pulev of Bulgaria is an awesome proposition and has both the skills and the power to dominate the category. Cuban boxers can never be overlooked and this is once again the case with classy Jose Angel Larduet Gomez in the mix. Italian superstar Clemente Russo knows what it takes at this level and this intelligent boxer will be looking to go one better than in Beijing when he took the silver medal. Russia's Artur Beterbiev and Michael S Hunter II from the USA also have it in their lockers to make a big impact. World Series of Boxing star Chouaib Bouloudinats from Algeria packs so much power in his punches and has the tournament experience to surprise a few of his adversaries in this tough draw.

Men Super Heavyweight (+91kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: Roberto Cammarelle (ITA)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Magomedrasul Medzhidov (AZE)

There is talent aplenty in the heaviest weight category where both the Olympic title holder and reigning AIBA World Champion will be battling it out for supremacy. But this promises to be the most difficult category to predict with so many technical and flair boxers looking to take gold. Cammarelle and APB's Medzhidov will have to deal with the immense power of Great Britain's Anthony Joshua, who at only 23 years old is already being spoken about as one of the future greats, the 198cm tall, 6ft6in, Londoner has developed into one of the most feared fighters in the World. There is also an immense threat posed by the electric Cuban Erislandy Savon Cotilla, nephew of the great Felix Savon who won three Olympic gold medals. Kazakhstan heavy-hitter Ivan Dychko, a bronze medallist at the AIBA World Boxing Championships Baku 2011, has always had huge potential and with added maturity to his approach in the last year, we could see the 21-year-old having a real breakthrough at these Olympic Games. The emerging talent from Russia Magomed Omarov is another one who cannot be discarded; the giant won the AIBA European Olympic Qualifying Event Trabzon 2012 and last year became the European Champion after defeating Italy's Roberto Cammarelle in the final. The teenage sensation from Ecuador Ytalo Antonio Perea Castillo looked in devastating form at the AIBA American Olympic Qualifying Event Rio 2012, and although not the tallest, his hand speed and movement around the ring is awe inspiring, so he could really have an impact.

♔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.

ELITE HEAT BOXING TEAM EXCELS AT JR. GOLDEN GLOVES TOURNEY IN LAS VEGAS

ELITE HEAT BOXING TEAM EXCELS AT JR. GOLDEN GLOVES TOURNEY IN LAS VEGAS

Once again, The Elite Heat Boxing Team out of Newark, New Jersey made their presence felt at this past weekend’s National Jr. Golden Gloves Tournament in Las Vegas

The team placed third overall in the entire country.

Vito Mielnicki repeated at the 9-10 Year old national champion at 70 pounds as did Malik Nelson in the 11-12 Year old - 70 pound division; Eysa Dorsey 11-12 year old at 65 pounds and Dantrell Perry in the 15-16 year old -- 154 pound division.

Tysir Daniels took 2nd in the 9-10 year old -- 65 pound division.

Golden Boy Promotions, SHOWTIME Sports® & CBS Team Up To Showcase Olympic Boxers Making Their Pro Debuts On Network Television‏

Golden Boy Promotions, SHOWTIME Sports and CBS Sportswill team up to showcase standout boxers from the 2012 Summer Olympic Games making their professional debuts live on the CBS Television Network. The initial live boxing broadcasts, which will be produced by SHOWTIME Sports, include two dates, Sunday, October 14 and Saturday, December 15 with additional dates to follow.

"It is a great pleasure for Golden Boy Promotions to be working with CBS on this excitingnetwork television opportunity for these young athletes," said Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. "It is a chance of a lifetime and a guaranteed career jumpstart for some of these fighters to be able to make their professional debuts in front of millions of viewers on the CBS Television network."

"It is a dream come true for any Olympic fighter to make his or her pro debut on network television," said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. "I am grateful to my colleagues at CBS who are giving SHOWTIME the opportunity to present the future of the sport to the largest possible audience. It will be an exciting moment for boxing and I am proud to be part of this special presentation."

Schaefer will travel to the Olympic Games in London which begin on Friday, July 27. He will attend the boxing events watching closely for breakout performances by fighters in all weight classes. Schaefer expects to keep a keen eye on the 12 men and women representing the United States, one of the largest U.S. boxing delegations at the Olympic Games in recent years.

"On behalf of Golden Boy Promotions, I am excited to attend the Olympic Games and see firsthand the worldwide talent that will be competing in the tournament," said Schaefer. "We know these men and women have the potential to become the future champions in our sport and it will be a thrill to see what boxing can look forward to in the years to come."

In addition, Olympic gold medalist and Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar De La Hoya, who this year celebrates the 20^th anniversary of his own Olympic gold medal win (1992 Barcelona), has pledged to be personally involved in the development of these fighters as they look for advice and guidance when he or she transition from their amateur to professional careers.

"I know from my own experience the pressure these young fighters are under to compete in the Olympics, to represent their country well and to bring home a medal," said De La Hoya. "Once the celebrating is over and they turn professional, there are certain things that happen during that transition that I feel I can assist them with because I did it myself."

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

50 Cent Leaves Music Behind to Enter World of Boxing

50 Cent Leaves Music Behind to Enter World of Boxing

50 Cent and Floyd Mayweather Jr. seem to now have a lot more in common than just being BFF’s. That’s because the G-Unit Records founder is taking a stab at the business of his boxing great friend, suiting up as a boxing promoter.

50 has launched TMT Promotions, short for The Money Team Promotions. It’s a company licensed to promote boxing matches in New York, and is in the process of being licensed in Nevada.

Former featherweight title holder Yuri Gamboa, and super middleweight contender Andre Dirrell, are said to be some of the first fighters to sign to TMT Promotions.

Here’s what’s being reported by the NY Post:

“Mayweather hinted in April that Curtis would be getting involved in the fight game, during a conference call to promote his fight against Miguel Cotto.

I think he’s going to be involved on the promotion side. We may even put him out there, let him fight on pay-per-view one time. So we don’t really know what the future holds, but Fiddy is getting involved with boxing.”

Is 50 Cent trying to be the next Don King? Of course he is. Don’t believe me.. Ask Leonard Ellerbe.

♔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.

MANNY GONZALEZ FIGHTS CHAZZ MCDOWELL FOR NEW YORK STATE TITLE NEXT SATURDAY NIGHT AT STAR BOXING'S "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4" BREW HAMMER"

Undefeated junior lightweight and Bronx native Manny Gonzalez will challenge Chazz McDowell of Yonkers in a cross-town showdown for the New York State Junior Lightweight Championship next Saturday night, July 28th at "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4" at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

Known for his all-action bouts, hot Puerto Rican prospect Gonzalez has compiled a record of 10-0-0 with seven knockouts since turning pro in December 2008.

The 24-year-old former amateur standout is coming off a dominant victory over Jesus Bayron on February 10th at the Mohegan Sun Casino. Although cut under his right eye from an accidental head butt, the colorful and hard punching Gonzalez stormed to a unanimous decision impressing the huge crowd in attendance and ESPN Friday Night Fights viewers.

Said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing, "Manny has come along very nicely over his last few bouts and this bout against McDowell is a big step up for him but we truly believe one that he is ready for. He brings a terrific energy to the ring and fight fans at The Paramount are in for a real treat."

McDowell, sporting a record of 6-1-0 (1KO), was also a standout amateur, winning the 2007 New York Golden Gloves and the 2005 Junior Olympics.

Known for his slick boxing skills McDowell won a six round decision over Yuriel Ramos on May 12th in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Speaking in between training sessions, Gonzalez declared himself "more than ready" for this opportunity, "I've had great sparring the last couple of weeks with Jose Nieves and Braulio Santos. I know Chazz very well and he has more speed and is more of a mover so it's important that I use my power to slow him down."

Born and raised in the Bronx, Gonzalez is very proud of his heritage, "I'm 100% Puerto Rican and I'll have a lot of support at The Paramount. "

In the main event at "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4", "The Fighting Pride of Huntington, New York", undefeated junior welterweight prospect Chris Algieri, 14-0-0 (7KO's), will battle tough Texas veteran Raul Tovar, 10-5-1 (4KO's).

♔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.

Start Of Tournament‏; Rumors circulate: Tournament Favorite Minowa, Bare Knuckle Fight King Gunn Questionable For Start Of Tournament

Rumors circulate: Tournament Favorite Minowa, Bare Knuckle Fight King Gunn Questionable For Start Of Tournament

It was announced recently that there have been some questions raised as to the readiness of tournament favorite Ikuhisa Minowa and Bobby Gunn—bare knuckle boxing champion from the States.

Minowa suffered a heartfelt loss last week at the hands of the tragic flood that took the lives of 26 people in Tokyo, one of Minowa’s elders being a victim.

Rumors have also circulated that Gunn has suffered injury during training camp and is not 100% ready to compete within a tournament of such high standards, though time will see.

In latest news Scandanavian MMA star Henrik Gustafson was arrested while flying into Tokyo for the tournament on suspicious of drug trafficking. While no further information has been released at this time, tournament officials have immediately announced that he has been disqualified from fighting to keep the good name of the tournament.

The preliminaries for qualifying for the tournament begin next week, with the finals leading to the crowning of the champion commencing on August 9.

The most skilled fighters in their discipline from around the world will engage in battle for the luxurious prize of $1 million dollars and the eligibility to walk on to any major fighting tournament across the world for the period of 12 months.

“This tournament is shaping up to be quite the list of the usual suspects,” said Kazuyoshi Ishii, creator and founder of the Japanese Grand Prix Fighting Tournament. “We have had our share of excitement this week, but it is imperative for each fighter to stay focused. The winning fighter of this tournament will become the largest fight icon in the world, with access to countless endorsement deals worldwide and the opportunity to become a grand champion by winning all of the other major events.”

The highly anticipated tournament will begin July 30, with the finals promptly starting less than two weeks later.

Time will tell who the ultimate warrior in the world is.

WBC SILVER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION JOSESITO LOPEZ & RIVERSIDE MAYOR LOVERIDGE CELEBRATE!

WBC Silver Welterweight Champion Josesito Lopez (30-4, 18 KOs) met with Riverside's Mayor Ronald Loveridge to celebrate his recent upset victory over 'Vicious' Victor Ortiz.

Just under a month ago Mayor Loveridge and the mayor of Ventura, Mike Tracy, put up a friendly wager of their city's home-grown fruits for the Victor Ortiz - Josesito Lopez fight. Mayor Tracy bet a flat of strawberries to Riverside Mayor Loveridge's box of oranges that Ventura's Ortiz would beat Riverside's Lopez for the WBC Welterweight Silver Belt Championship. The Ventura resident did not succeed.

It was a stunning upset win for Lopez who took the fight on short notice after Ortiz's original opponent, Andre Berto, tested positive for an illegal substance.

"We're very proud to have Jose Lopez as a member of the Riverside community. He is a great athlete that showed his determination to achieve his goals. He represents the heart of Riverside. I have no doubt that he will continue being successful."

Now, Lopez is scheduled to take on reigning WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (40-0-1, 29 KOs) on Saturday, September 15 in front of thousands of fight fans at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The "Knockout King" card will also be televised on SHOWTIME Championship boxing - free to subscribers.

"Knockout Kings," a tremendous evening of pure Mexican pride, is promoted byGolden Boy Promotions and Canelo Promotions in association with Goossen Tutor Promotions and Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored byCorona, DeWalt Tools and AT&T. The quadruple-header will take place at theMGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. and will be televised live onSHOWTIME.

Although Mayor Loveridge has yet to receive his flat of fresh strawberries, it didn't stop the two Riverside representatives from shaking hands over a strawberry shake. With the crowning belt proudly draped over Lopez's shoulder, the pair discussed the dramatic upset victory and their future plans to keep their city on the map.

Photo credit: Carlos Baeza/Thompson Boxing Promotions

"THE HEBREW HAMMER", CLETUS SELDIN HEADS UNDERCARD AT "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4"

Sporting an undefeated record of 7-0-0 with five knockouts, the

25-year-old Seldin has become a staple at The Paramount, with three straight wins by knockout at the consistently sold-out venue.

At "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4", Seldin will battle San Juan Puerto Rico's Jonathan Garcia, 3-2-1 (1KO), in a scheduled six round bout.

"Cletus has had three spectacular knockouts in a row at The Paramount and has become a true fan favorite. The interest from fans and media alike about his return to the ring has been very impressive," said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing.

"Along with Cletus' return we've put together a very strong undercard at "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4" to ensure that the terrific boxing fans at The Paramount get a full evening of entertainment."

In the main event at "ROCKIN FIGHTS 4", "The Fighting Pride of Huntington, New York", undefeated junior welterweight prospect Chris Algieri, 14-0-0 (7KO's), will battle tough Texas veteran Raul Tovar,10-5-1 (4KO's).

Also featured on the undercard will be a New York State Junior Lightweight Title bout between undefeated Bronx native Manny Gonzalez, 10-0-0 (7KO's) and cross-town rival Chazz McDowell, 6-1-0 (1KO) of Yonkers, New York.

The 24-year-old Gonzalez heads back to the ring following his unanimous decision win over Jesus Bayron on February 10th at the Mohegan Sun Casino.

Also returning to The Paramount is junior middleweight newcomer Raul Nuncio, 2-0-1 (1KO), of Glen Cove, New York in a four round tilt against Enver Halili, 1-0-0 (1KO) of Bronx, New York. Nuncio is coming off a four round decision win on March 31st over Valdrin Muriqi.

Local pro debuter Alan Gotay of Huntington will face off against Brooklyn's Ian James, 2-3-0 (1KO), in a four round junior welterweight clash.

Rounding out the undercard, Hicksville, New York junior welterweight Anthony Karperis, 1-0-0 (1KO), will challenge Travis McElhaney, 0-1-0, of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Invicta FC 2 to Stream Live for Free World Wide @ http://invictafc.com/

All-women’s MMA promotion Invicta FC announced the details of the live online stream of their second event, today. According to a prepared statement from the company, Invicta FC will once again make a live stream available for free, world wide via the organization’s website this Saturday.

The inaugural Invicta event was streamed similarly for free without advertisements and got an extremely warm reception from the MMA fan community. The first Invicta card has been hailed as an early favorite for event of the year and the promotion will be coming in to this Saturday’s Baszler versus McMann event with a full head of steam.

Headlining the card is the eponymous bout between former Olympian turned undefeated mixed martial artist Sara McMann and long time 135 pound staple Shayna Baszler. Returning to the Invicta FC broadcast booth to call the action will be Showtime MMA voice Mauro Ranallo, newest addition to the Bellator light heavyweight stable Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal and women’s MMA veteran Julie Kedzie.

The live stream on InvictaFC.com will begin at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST with the event’s six-bout preliminary card and continue with the eight-bout main card.

Aces Boxing Club To Host ‘Back In Black Round II” August 10

Aces Boxing Club To Host ‘Back In Black Round II” August 10

On Friday, August 10, boxing again returns to Boonton as Aces Boxing Club hosts ‘Back In Black Round II’. The show is a follow-up to their inaugural show held in May, where seven amateur boxers competed for Aces Boxing Club.

“The show back in May was great; it gave our boys a chance to fight in front of their hometown friends, family and fans,” said Joe Zabry, owner and coach of Aces Boxing Club. “We received an overwhelming response from the community and are hoping this next show is even a bigger success.”

Aces second show will consist of 10 bouts featuring local boxers of varied ages competing against fighters from some of the top boxing gyms in North Jersey.

Opening the gym on Main Street in March, Aces has quickly established themselves as the premier boxing club in Morris County, offering an array of boxing skills programs, as well as strength and conditioning classes and core training.

A close knit town, Boonton has welcomed Aces with open arms and continues to embrace what the boxing club brings to the community.

“We continue to receive an abundance of support from the town of Boonton—residents and other local businesses,” said Zabry. “It means a great deal to be able to put on these show every few months to showcase the up-and-coming talent produced from our club.”

In addition to the 10 amateur bouts, Aces has also announced that there may be a special exhibition pro bout featuring Boonton’s own Anthony Fraguada.

In addition to the assortment of training programs offered at Aces—including women’s only competition training, specific programs for Cops and Firefighters, Boxing for MMA, and more—Aces is implementing a scholarship program for high school students and adults pursuing continued education.

Aces Boxing Club’s ‘Back In Black Round II’ amateur boxing show will be held at the Boonton Elks Lodge, 125 Cornelia Street, Boonton, NJ 07005. The doors open at 7 p.m. with the first bout beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are now available at the boxing club, and are expected to sell fast so boxing fans are encouraged to get their tickets in advance to avoid the show being sold out on August 10.

Veteran Rehm expecting difficult challenge next month against ‘Doomsday’ Howard

Scott Rehm knows what he’s up against.

He knows he’ll be a heavy underdog when he faces former Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) veteran John “Doomsday” Howard on Friday, Aug. 3, 2012 at Twin River Casino. He also knows he’s got the sport’s greatest equalizer, a secret weapon tucked away behind two explosive fists.

“Anything can happen if you put your hands on somebody in the right spot,” Rehm said. “On any given night, right?”

At 44 years old, Rehm (6-6, 6 KOs) has a puncher’s chance, a chance few thought he had in September when he knocked out 30-year-old challenger Steve Skrzat in just 29 seconds. Years of training in both law enforcement and martial arts, including the Israeli self-defense technique Krav Maga, have given Rehm the “heavy hands” Howard (16-7, 5 KOs) will fear most when the two Boston natives face one another next week in the three-round main event of Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports’ “Far Beyond Driven” card.

“He has a lot of balls,” said Howard, who recently defeated Rhode Island native Todd Chattelle in April to win CES MMA’s inaugural middleweight title.

“He comes to bang, and he knocks a lot of people out. He’s a little unorthodox, and he will hit you and put you out if you give him the chance, but I think me being younger and more experienced will work against him.”

Rehm is as relaxed as ever entering next week’s fight; facing Howard is an opportunity of a lifetime. A win would be the signature moment of his career, and, perhaps, the perfect sendoff if he decides to walk away once the fight ends.

“There’s no difference in this camp,” Rehm said. “There are bumps and bruises like there are in every camp, but they seem to be piling up more this time around. It’s not that I’m necessarily training harder. Like my doctor says, the engine looks good, the transmission is in great shape, and there’s not a scratch on it, but I’m still 44 years old. These things will happen.”

For “Doomsday,” the stakes are much higher; a loss could be the death sentence – or, at best, a temporary derailment – in his quest to return to the UFC, a goal he’s worked toward feverishly since the promotion released him in July of 2011 following three consecutive losses. Having been there before, Howard feels more internal pressure to beat Rehm than he does to get back to the sport’s biggest stage.

“Honestly, I’m not in a rush,” he said, “because I’ve already proven I belong there. I went to Miami [in October] and beat Dennis Olson, who was one of the top-ranked welterweights. I came [to Rhode Island] and beat Todd Chattelle, who was No. 1 in New England. Part of me not being in the UFC is a case of bad luck. Everyone goes through it. Marcus Davis [released from the UFC in January of 2011] went through it – we’ve all gone through it.

“With this fight, I’m once again in a lose-lose situation because if I beat him, then I was supposed to beat him, but if I lose … He has nothing to lose and everything to gain, whereas I have everything to lose and nothing to gain.”

The only hiccup in putting this fight together was the fact Rehm and Howard are close friends who’ve trained and worked with one another through the years, so Rehm sent Howard a text message shortly after the fight was proposed.

Howard’s response?

“Let’s go have some fun,” he said.

At heart, Rehm is a realist who knows he’s not competing for a spot in the UFC, nor would he dodge anyone to avoid putting an unnecessary blemish on his record.

“I’ve never looked at those things,” he said. “I didn’t get into this sport expecting to go to the UFC, but I’m still going to challenge myself, and John is a phenomenal challenge.

“I guess we all want to see where we stand. The type of fighter I am is someone who goes out and challenges himself. I’m fighting for the love of it and to see where I stand in the grand scheme. This is clearly the biggest challenge ever put in front of me.

“I bet no one has me at even money.”

Howard isn’t nearly as quick to dismiss his opponent. He respects Rehm’s power and is entering this fight unsure of what to expect, similar to his last bout against Chattelle in which he needed at least one round to figure out the game plan.

“I think Scott will take his time,” Howard said. “He’s a smart man, but I honestly don’t know how he’ll fight me. He might try to throw a curveball and take me down.

“I don’t go into a fight expecting it to be a certain way. If he just comes at me with his hands, then so be it, but if he wants to take me down, I’ll be prepared for that, too. It depends on how he comes at me. I’ve got a Plan A, B, C, D and E.”

Aside from his own punching power, which he used to dispose of Chattelle shortly before the end of the second round in their five-round title bout in April, Howard is also relying on his experience in big fights to push him over the top.

“Fighting Top 10 guys and training with Top 10 guys, you know what to expect when you get on that big stage,” Howard said. “It’s a totally different mindset. I’ve fought some of the best guys in the world, so I know what it takes to be there.

“You could see the difference in experience against [Chattelle]. I knew what to do, and how to pace myself. Everyone thought I’d take him down immediately, but people forget I’m a striker. I took my time to see what he would do. All he was thinking of doing was knocking me out. Knowing his game plan made it easier for me.”

Though he tries to eliminate any thoughts of a potential return to the UFC should he win this fight, Howard admits there’s been some “buzz” recently about what the future holds. The only question is whether or not he’d continue fighting at 185 pounds, or if he’ll return to welterweight, where he spent the bulk of his UFC career.

“I want to make sure I’m really ready,” Howard said. “Most guys who get kicked out and come back only come back once. I don’t want to have to go through that again.”

Until then, Howard’s main focus is on facing Rehm, who could be the roadblock in his path back to the top. Rehm, after all, has nothing to lose on Aug. 3, a stark contrast to the pressure Howard will face next Friday at Twin River.

“No one is ever going to turn around when I’m done and say I wasn’t legit,” Rehm said. “I didn’t just get in on some small level to see if I could do it; I’ve only fought one fighter who had a losing record going into the fight and he beat me [Elias Rivera in 2009].

“In my mind, I’m constantly looking to see who’s out there and where I stand. I know my hands are full. I know I’m swimming in the deep end of the water. Look, John is the real deal. He’s 29 years old. He’s been to the UFC, and he’s fought nothing but animals there. I know what I’m getting into, but when it’s all said and done, regardless of the outcome, I know I’ll have fought the tough fights.”

Tickets for “Far Beyond Driven” are $35.00, $55.00, $100.00 and $125.00 and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesmma.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

The undercard features a lightweight showdown between Providence’s Mike “The Beast” Campbell (10-4, 7 KOs) and Bombsquad veteran Don Carlo-Clauss (9-6, 3 KOs) of Ithaca, N.Y., in addition to a light heavyweight battle between Greg Rebello (13-4, 7 KOs), also of Providence, and Carlos Cline (3-3, 1 KO) of Queens.

Lightweight Ruben Rey (5-3, 5 KOs) of Providence will face Sergio Moran Cabrera (1-0) of Boston; Hector Sanchez (0-3) of Woonsocket, R.I., will battle newcomer Dave Maggiore of Framingham, Mass., in a welterweight bout; and Johnston, R.I., light heavyweight Joe Pingitore(1-0, 1 KO) will face newcomer Ahsan Abdullah of Cortland, N.Y. Also on the undercard, Tyson Chartier (2-2) of Waltham, Mass., will face Wakefield, R.I., welterweight Tim O’Connell (4-4); welterweight Chris Cole (2-1) of Attleboro, Mass., will battle Robbie Leroux (3-1, 1 KO) of Fall River, Mass.; and Dinis Paiva Jr. (1-3) of East Providence, R.I., will face Framingham’s Gilvan Santos (1-3) in a welterweight bout. Providence middleweight Brennan Ward (2-0, 1 KO) will also be featured in a separate three-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

“Title Wave”; The undercard Friday, July 27th, 2012 on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights in Atlantic City, N.J.

The undercard also features a six-round light middleweight bout between Thomas Lamanna (8-0, 5 KOs) of Millville, N.J., and William Brown (5-3) of Akron, Ohio, in addition to a four-round welterweight bout between Anthony Young (4-0, 2 KOs) of Atlantic City and Richie Andrews (3-1-3, 1 KO) of Stuarts Draft, Va. Josh Mercado (5-1, 2 KOs) of Cape May, N.J., will battleKorey Sloane (2-4-1) of Philadelphia in a four-round bout and Atlantic City’s Antowyan Aikens (5-0, 1 KO) will face Jimmy Ellis (3-5-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round super middleweight bout.

Also on the undercard, Kenneth Moody (2-3-2, 1 KO) of Virginia Beach, Va., will face Ismael Garcia (3-0) of Millville, N.J., in a four-round middleweight bout and super middleweight Isaiah Seldon of Somers Point, N.J., will face Steven Tyner (3-5-2, 2 KOs) of Akron in a four-round bout. All fights and fighters subject to change.

Philadelphia's brightest ready to shine‏; Takin’ over the city Philadelphia’s hottest prospects featured on Fridays ESPN telecast in Atlantic City

For years, it was Joe Frazier and Sonny Liston. Then along came Bernard Hopkins and Steve Cunningham.

Now there’s a new breed of young, up-and-comers in Philadelphia, and three of the city’s brightest will be on display Friday, July 27th, 2012 on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights in Atlantic City, N.J., when Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports presents, “Title Wave,” live professional boxing from Resorts Casino Hotel.

The headliner of Friday’s card is “Hammerin’” Hank Lundy (22-1-1, 11 KOs), the reigning North American Boxing Federation (NABF) lightweight champion, the world’s No. 1-ranked 135-pounder, and, perhaps most fittingly, the heir apparent to Hopkins’ throne in the City of Brotherly Love as Philadelphia’s next world champion. He’ll face Mexican challenger Raymundo Beltran in ESPN’s 10-round main event.

Lundy will be joined by 29-year-old super middleweight prospect Farah Ennis (19-1, 12 KOs), who will star in Friday’s nationally-televised 10-round co-feature against Richard Pierson, and bantamweight Miguel Cartagena (5-0, 3 KOs), who will put his unbeaten record on the line against Jose Rivera in a six-round bout.

With fellow Philadelphian Danny Garcia pulling off the upset two weeks against the heavily-favored Amir Kahn to capture the light welterweight world title and two fighters from the same city being featured this weekend on the worldwide leader in sports, there’s a boxing renaissance brewing in the heart of Philadelphia.

“Philly is hot right now!” Lundy said. “There are a lot of other Philadelphia fighters that could’ve been on this card, but we’re holding Philly down right now. We’re bringing that Philadelphia fight back to the city. It’s been a while. For a long time, it was just Bernard, but now we’re all coming out at one time. Don’t be surprised if we have a champion in every weight class real soon.”

Perhaps the most unique angle with three Philadelphia fighters on Friday’s card is the fact each one is from a different neighborhood. Lundy was raised in South Philadelphia, where he got his start in boxing by knocking out a would-be bully in the streets. Ennis grew up in Germantown, a small neighborhood in the northwest section, and Cartagena was raised in North Philadelphia – the birthplace of Frazier – where roughly half the population lives below the poverty line.

“We didn’t have the best living conditions,” Cartagena said, “but we always had food on the table and clothes on our back.”

Similar to Lundy, who passed up a football scholarship so his sister could attend college, Cartagena took up boxing as a way to stay off the streets and out of trouble.

“My dad put me in the gym at 7 years old and I’ve never left,” Cartagena said. “I’m glad I started early.”

Ennis’ introduction to boxing began at an even earlier age; his father and current trainer, Derrick Ennis, boxed briefly as a professional in the late 1970s and early ‘80s, and his older brother, Derek “Pooh” Ennis, is a former United States Boxing Association (USBA) light middleweight champion, so, suffice to say, the younger Ennis has been in the gym his whole life.

“I’ve got videos of my brother and I sparring in the gym from 1989,” Ennis said. “Once I got older, I realized this was what I wanted to do, and I wanted to pursue it before I got too old and reached the point where I was talking about what I could’ve been. I want to do it now and put my all into it before it’s too late.”

Nicknamed “The Quiet Storm,” Ennis is on the right path; he won his first 17 pro fights and captured the NABF super middleweight title before losing a close, majority decision to unbeaten prospect Alexander Johnson in April of 2011. Since then, he’s won his last two and will now make his national television debut Friday night.

“I’m treating it like just another fight,” Ennis said. “I can’t afford to think about the TV aspect.”

“He can punch,” Lundy said of Ennis, “and he’s a humble guy. That’s why they call him ‘The Quiet Storm,’ but don’t mistake that quietness for weakness.”

That quiet, yet destructive, nature, Lundy said, is part of what sets Philadelphia fighters apart from others. The city gained fame through the popularity of the Rocky movie series, but the reality is Philadelphia has always been home to some of boxing’s toughest warriors, whether it was Liston – who fought out of Philadelphia in the late ‘50s and early ‘60s – Frazier, Tim Witherspoon, Harold Johnson, Bob Montgomery or Hopkins, who recently became the oldest fighter in boxing history to win a world title.

“We always come ready to fight,” Ennis said. “There’s a lot of heart in this city.”

“I think we’ve got more heart than others,” Cartagena added. “We bring a little more attraction to each fight.”

The world will find out what that Philadelphia spirit is all about when Lundy and Ennis invade homes across the world Friday night on ESPN. Pay attention, because this might be the start of a new boxing renaissance in the City of Brotherly Love.

“We’ll show what we’re all about,” Lundy said. “It’s great to see Philadelphia back on top.”

AIBA Road to London II boxers ready for the Games after training camp comes to an end‏

After three weeks of intense training at Cardiff University in the Welsh capital, 44 boxers from underprivileged countries are now all set to take to the ring at the ExCeL London and compete for Olympic medals. As part of the Road to Dream program which aims to provide athletes with the best possible preparations before major international competitions, the AIBA Road to London II was overseen by Thomas Coulter, a former Olympic Head Coach of Team USA, and his Italian Assistant Carmine 'Nino' Fracasso. All costs were covered by AIBA.

The gruelling three-week program ended on Monday 23 July with a Farewell Dinner at the Welsh National Cricket Centre organised by the Welsh Boxing Association (WABA). This morning, the athletes departed from Cardiff and travelled to the Olympic Village where they will be based for the entirety of the London 2012 Olympic Games. For all the boxers that participated, the memories of this tough but extremely beneficial training camp will live long.

Great friendships developed during the period in which the boxers were together and the opportunity to train with so many fighters from all over the world is one they will never forget.

Lots of sweat and hard work went into the first two weeks of training, with the focus on getting the participants' fitness levels to their peak and eradicating any bad habits in their techniques, before priming them to be able to challenge the best of the best in the ring. Once Head Coach Coulter had put the boxers through days of some of the hardest exercises known in the sport, the progress made by all the athletes was huge and very satisfying for all involved. Throughout their stay, the boxers also had constant access to top physiotherapists as well as any medical services they required.

The final two days of the camp were dedicated to light sessions where the boxers were free to choose their training program. The idea was to give a bit of down time to the athletes before they take part in the most important competition of their lives.

The Road to London II boxers as well as their coaches (37) were said to have been delighted with the training camp and believed that they had learnt a great deal and were now ready, raring to go and fully prepared to make their mark on the biggest stage of all, the Olympic Games. AIBA has worked tremendously hard with the Road to Dream program and there are high hopes now that the London 2012 Olympic Games will see participants of the program claim several medals.

"Thank you AIBA for the opportunity to attend another great 'Road to Dream' camp. I am very grateful for what you are doing to develop boxers from all over the globe, including me. London, here I come", declared Alexis Pritchard (60kg) from New Zealand.

Boxers to look out for at the London 2012 Olympic Games - Part II‏

With just a few days to go until the biggest show on Earth gets underway in the British capital, we look at the men and women in each of the weight categories who can have a real impact at the London 2012 Olympic Games. In the second of this four part series, we examine the Light (60kg), Light Welter (64kg) and Welterweight (69kg) men.

Men Lightweight (60kg)

2008 Olympic Title holder: Alexey Tishchenko (RUS)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Vasyl Lomachenko (UKR)

It is hard to look beyond arguably the world's best Olympic pound for pound boxer, Ukrainian superstar Vasyl Lomachenko (photo), for this one. After taking the Featherweight (57kg) gold in 2008, the last four years have geared up towards the London 2012 Olympic Games for the powerful 24-year-old. He was the leading light in Beijing where he took the Val Barker Trophy, awarded to the outstanding fighter in the whole tournament. Last year, he was crowned AIBA World Champion for a second time so many expect him to once again take centre stage. Cuba's Yasnier Toledo Lopez will be the main challenger, along with Italy's 2009 AIBA World Champion Domenico Valentino and Brazilian Robson Conceicao, who pushed Lomachenko all the way in the Round of 16 in Baku. Road to London II participant Evaldas Petrauskas from Lithuania created the sensation in 2011 when he took bronze in the Azeri capital and could have a major say in what happens in this weight category. Belarus's elegant southpaw Vazgen Safaryants is a clever operator and can surprise a fair few. So if Lomachenko wants to take gold, he will not have it easy, guaranteed.

Men Light Welterweight (64kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: Félix Diaz (DOM)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Everton Dos Santos Lopes (BRA)

22-year-old Everton Dos Santos Lopez made history at the AIBA World Boxing Championships Baku 2011 by becoming the first ever Brazilian to claim a boxing gold medal. The lightening-quick southpaw's array of combination punches make him a fearsome opponent so he will be the one to look out for in London. Ukraine's Denys Berinchyk made his big breakthrough last year and will be hungry for more success; he is also backed by the formidable national team coaching set-up so expect him to come out all guns blazing when the action gets underway. The experienced Cuban Roniel Iglesias Sotolongo took bronze in Beijing so will now be targeting the top of the podium this time around. Thomas Lee Stalker from Great Britain has always been a promising talent and there is no better time than to turn potential into medals when the Olympic Games are on your home soil. Kazak star Daniyar Yeleussinov looked calm and composed after taking first place at the AIBA Asian Olympic Qualifying Event in Astana and could come of age in London. Puerto Rican 18-year-old Francisco Vargas Ramirez is one of the rising stars in this category and his style will cause a lot of problems for his rivals. Finally Sweden's Anthony Yigit is also another who cannot be taken for granted.

Men Welterweight (69kg)
2008 Olympic Title holder: Bakhyt Sarsekbayev (KAZ)
2011 AIBA World Champion: Taras Shelestyuk (UKR)

The AIBA World Champion will be the man to beat in this category, the 26-year-old was part of the fearsome Ukraine team that topped the rankings in Baku and he will once again be one of the favourites for gold in London. But with so much talent set to take to the ring at the ExCeL, it promises to be completely unpredictable. Bronze medallist at the Beijing Olympic Games, Alexis Vastine knows that the XXX Olympiad in London is his last opportunity to take the top prize, he will have high hopes however after having built-up to these Games with the French team. Germany's Patrick Wojcicki is an emerging talent with an extremely calm demeanour that could surprise a few. European Champion Freddie Evans is also primed to go all the way in London. AIBA Road to Dream program active participant Egidijus Kavaliauskas from Lithuania's looks better and better every time he steps onto the canvas and his thunderous right hook could spell danger for his rivals. Ireland's Adam Nolan announced his arrival on the international stage by taking first place at the AIBA European Olympic Qualifying Event Trabzon 2012 and looked classy throughout so could be a dark horse in the British capital. One man who will certainly want to make an impact is 28-year-old Brazilian Myke Ribeiro De Carvalho who looked in tremendous form at the AIBA American Olympic Qualifying Event Rio 2012 where he won all his five fights to take the title. All eyes will be on fleet footed counterpuncher Serik Sapiyev of Kazakhstan, also recently signed up to APB, a double AIBA World Champion at Light Welterweight and silver medallist at the last edition in Baku, who has the know-how to go all the way.

Share SBS w/Family or Friends

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Boxers to look out for at the London 2012 Olympic Games - Part II‏