Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman and Abner Mares remain undefeated

Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman (28-0, 17 KO's) of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic remains undefeated, the WBO 130-pound junior lightweight champion defeated Humberto “Zorrito” Soto now,(43-6-2, 27 KO's) the WBO Junior Lightweight No. 2 Contender and former Interim Featherweight Champion. The HBO series “Boxing After Dark”, event co-featured rising star and 2004 Olympian Abner Mares in a bantamweight fight against the Argentinean Damian David Marchiano (See below "The Co Feature" for the fight results). With both main events going the distance, 12 rounds and the 5exciting undercards it was a long and powerful night of boxing in Atlantic City.

Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman enters the ring.


Humberto “Zorrito” Soto enters the ring.


Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman exits the ring after his victory.


Joan Guzman a premier boxers in the 130-pound weight class looked to move closer to a 2008 mega fight, by scoring a victory in their bout, on November 17 at the Borgata Hotel Casino & SPA, in Atlantic City, NJ.

Partner quotes

The 12-round championship bout is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Top Rank.

Guzman and Soto in the square ring.


“Borgata is thrilled to partner once again with Golden Boy Promotions, along with Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Top Rank Inc. to bring this highly-anticipated fight to Atlantic City and provide a world-class boxing experience for all our guests – fighters, promoters and customers.”

Joan “Little Tyson”Guzman vs। Humberto Soto promises to be one of the most explosive fights of the year,” stated Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar de la Hoya. “Golden Boy is pleased to bring this outstanding night of boxing to Borgata and to fans watching across the country on HBO.”

Scott Woodworth, VP of Sycuan Ringside Promotions added, “Sycuan Ringside is thrilled that Guzman has had the opportunity to fight the best fighters in his division. We are confident that a victory over Soto will elevate his status among the elite fighters of today.”

"This tremendous matchup is somewhat unsung with all of the great fights this fall. But believe me, Humberto Soto against Joan Guzman is one of the top, most exciting championship fights of the year," said Bob Arum, CEO, Top Rank.

The Co Feature

Unbeaten 2004 Olympian Abner Mares (15-0, 9 KO’s), of Guadalajara, Mexico made his HBO debut in a Co-feature. Abner Mares cemented his status as boxing’s next star defeating Damian David Marchiano now, (14-3-1, 5 KO’s), of San Nicolas, Argentina, in a battle that was truly a brawl to the end, the referee for the contest was Sparkle Lee.

Considered by most boxing insiders to be the sport’s next can’t miss prospect, Abner Mares has burst onto the pro scene, dazzling fans with his speed and boxing skills.

Abner Mares and Team Mares


Despite being just 21 years old, the Montebello, CA resident has already beaten fighters far more experienced than himself, including his most recent conquest over former World Champion Isidro “Chino” Garcia (24-3-2, 8 KO's) to capture the NABO Bantamweight Championship on September 7th. Further confirming his status as a boxing prodigy, Mares is trained by legendary Mexican trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain, who considers Mares one of the most talented fighters he has ever trained. Although he has only competed in 14 professional fights, he is already ranked in the top 15 in the world at bantamweight by three of the four major sanctioning organizations.

The Undercard

Also on the November 17th card, was highly regarded junior welterweight contender and Philadelphia native Demetrius “The Gladiator” Hopkins now (28-0-1, 11 KO’s) who defeated Enrique Colin (23-4-3-19, KO's) of Guasave, Mexico, by unanimous decision.

Demetrius Hopkins after his win.


The nephew of middleweight legend Bernard Hopkins, Demetrius has worked tirelessly to create his own identity in the boxing world and has passed with flying colors, earning more respect and acclaim with each outing. The current USBA Junior Welterweight Champion, “The Gladiator” was once seen as strictly a technician in the ring, but with five of his last eight wins coming by knockout over quality competition, opponents now have to fear Hopkins’ power in addition to his boxing skills. In his last fight, Hopkins, who is currently ranked number two in the world by the IBF, and eighth by the WBC, WBA and WBO, scored an emphatic first round stoppage of Haider Berrio on July 21st.

The rest of the undercard

Junior Welterweight, Rock Allen now,(12-0-7, KO's) of Philadelphia, PA., by an unanimous decision defeated Braulio Lopez now,(6-6-1-7, KO's) of Nuevo San Juan, Mexico.

Karl "Dynamite" Dorgean, cousin, 2007 Pan AM Gold Medalist, Barry Richardson, brother, Baker Assistant Coach, Bro Naseem Naazim, father and head- coach, Sharron, trainer and Rock Allen.


Heavyweight Darrel "King David" Madison now (7-1-3, KO's) of West Islip, New York won by an unanimous decision over Ryan Thompson now(3-2-3, KO's) of Cleveland, Ohio.

Coach Frank, Darrel Madison and cornerman after the victory.


Middleweight Diferson LeGrand now, (3-0-2, KO's) of New York, NY defeated James Denson, now (2-2-1, KO's) of Akron, Ohio.

Gary Starks, Diferson LeGrand and fellow stablemate Jeffrey Seabaeno.


Former, Commissioner Larry Hazzard attends Guzman vs. Soto.


Shamone Alvarez attends Guzman vs. Soto.


JOAN GUZMAN-HUMBERTO SOTO NEWS CONFERENCE/LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK CITY
OLD HOMESTEAD RESTAURANT WEDNESDAY, NOV. 14

Bernard Hopkins, CEO of Golden Boy East, Abner Mare, and Damian David Marchiano at the Press conference at the Old Homestead in New York.


Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman (27-0, 17 KO’s) is no stranger to outstanding success in the ring, as he is a former World Super Bantamweight and current Junior Lightweight Champion who has never tasted defeat in the pro ranks. A 1996 Olympian for the Dominican Republic, the Santo Domingo native turned pro in September of 1997 and was quickly dubbed “Little Tyson” for his prodigious punching power.

Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman at the New York City Press conference at the Old Homestead.


By 2002, he was a World Champion, having knocked out Fabio Oliva in three rounds to win the WBO Super Bantamweight Title. After two successful defenses, Guzman moved up to the featherweight division and quickly earned the WBO’s number one contender position. But after a series of postponements of a fight with champion Scott Harrison, Guzman decided to move up to 130 pounds, where he easily outpointed former world champ Javier Jauregui in his divisional debut and then pounded out a 12 round win over Jorge Rodrigo Barrios to win the WBO Junior Lightweight Crown. He now looks to a second successful defense of his title against Soto. Guzman, who is co-promoted by San Diego, Calif. based Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions, is trained by one of boxing’s finest teachers in Floyd Mayweather, Sr. The undefeated Guzman is considered to be one of the 130 pound division’s most skilled and dangerous fighters. He faces a tough challenge in the veteran and ring-savvy Soto.

Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman and Floyd Mayweather Sr. at the New York City Press conference at the Old Homestead.


One of the most talented fighters in the game today, Humberto “Zorrito” Soto, 26 is also one of the most avoided. His high level of skill, coupled with a warrior’s heart, has made him one of the most feared junior lightweights in boxing. A native of the boxing hotbed of Los Mochis, Mexico now living in Tijuana, Soto turned pro in 1997 and after some rocky times in the first five years of his career, this two-fisted boxer-puncher hit his stride and has gone unbeaten in his last 20 fights, dating back to 2002.

Humberto “Zorrito” Soto at the New York City Press conference at the Old Homestead.


In 2005, Soto arrived on the world scene when he won the Interim WBC World Featherweight Title by handing 2000 Olympic Silver Medalist Rocky Juarez his first loss as a pro, and since then he has been seemingly getting better with each fight, most recently knocking out highly-regarded Bobby Pacquiao in the seventh round in June, in his biggest win since moving to the super featherweight division where he is currently rated number two in the world by the WBC, fourth by the WBA and third by the IBF and WBO.

Don King celebrated Thanksgiving, by visit to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany

Don King celebrated Thanksgiving by making a special visit to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany where he signed autographs and ate with soldiers from the United States military. (See AP story that provides more details, pasted below).



This marks the second time King has visited recovering soldiers at this U.S. military hospital. His first morale-boosting visit took place in September 2005.

King visited Nigeria early in the week with interim World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Samuel "The Nigerian Nightmare" Peter.



LANDSTUHL, Germany: Iconic boxing promoter Don King dropped in on wounded Iraq and Afghanistan veterans Thursday in a U.S. military hospital in Germany for a Thanksgiving Day visit.

King visited Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in the late morning, shaking hands with swarms of troops, passing out little American flags, posing for photos and even handing out a few pair of boxing gloves.

"The women and men that are wearing these uniforms are indicative to everything that America stands for," King said. "I feel so humbled and so honored to be here."

He sat down for a traditional turkey lunch with the troops, and posed for more photos with the cooks.

The hospital is where some of the most severely wounded troops from Afghanistan and Iraq are taken and operated on or otherwise treated, before they are sent back to the United States.
King told the troops that the job they were doing was appreciated; visiting the wounded both in the wards and the intensive care unit.

Robert Laux, 26, a sergeant of the 101st Airborne Division from Vacaville, California, was recovering in Landstuhl from an injury on his left arm after he stepped on an explosive in Baghdad. Being away from the family on Thanksgiving Day was hard for him, Laux said.
"I miss my family, just staying at home ... just talking and gathering around, that's what I really miss," he said.

Boxing Titans Meet at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 19; Superbout Features Felix “Tito” Trinidad vs. Roy Jones Jr.

NEW YORK— Two of the greatest boxers in history, Felix “Tito” Trinidad and Roy Jones Jr., will face each other in a battle boxing fans have been waiting for years to see at New York’s famed Madison Square Garden on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2008, and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

Tito Trinidad, Don King and Roy Jones Jr., at the New York City Press conference.

Trinidad (42-2, 35 KOs), from Puerto Rico, and Jones (51-4, 38 KOs) from Pensacola, Fla.,—both destined for the Hall of Fame—have built a staggering list of accomplishments and will enter the ring for this highly anticipated 12-round fight at or below the catch weight of 170 pounds.

Jones is an eight-time world champion, winning belts in the middleweight, super middleweight, light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions, becoming the first former middleweight champion to win a world heavyweight crown in over 100 years.

Trinidad is a five-time world champion with a stunning career knockout ratio of 80 percent that has won titles in the welterweight, junior middleweight and middleweight classes. He also holds the distinction of having defeated three Olympic Games gold medalists: Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, “The Golden Boy” Oscar De La Hoya and David Reid.

Felix “Tito” Trinidad


“I always want to fight great fighters and I have always wanted to fight Roy Jones Jr., one of the greatest fighters of the era,” Trinidad said. “I have too much boxing left inside of me and I want to show that I am still one of the best fighters in the world. I feel good at this weight and it will be a great fight.”

Jones minced no words in summing up the match.

Roy Jones Jr.


“We both have bombs in our tank and are phenomenal boxers on top of that,” Jones said. “We are both powerful punchers and it will all depend on who gets there first. I will guarantee this: count on it, this will be a superfight that delivers the goods. We’re going to give fight fans exactly what they want to see.”

“Tito is a great champion and I know he leaves a great legacy behind him. If someone like that challenges you, how are you going to turn that down?”

Promoter Don King is especially proud to be promoting this fight.

“I’ve been trying to put these two superstars in a match for a long time and to get this done just leaves me breathless,” King exclaimed. “This will be a fight for the ages and will be remembered among the greatest events I have ever staged. Tito and Roy, it doesn’t get any better than that.”

Don King


HBO Pay-Per-View’s Mark Taffet shares his excitement.

“Tito Trinidad and Roy Jones are two legendary fighters who have participated in some of the biggest and most memorable fights of our generation,” Taffet said. “We’re thrilled that boxing fans will finally get to see this matchup of superstars.”

The Mecca of boxing is proud to be hosting the event at the world’s most famous arena.

“Two legendary fighters at Madison Square Garden in the greatest city in the world, it just can’t get any better than that,” said Joel Fisher, senior vice president, Madison Square Garden Sports Properties. “The Garden is strongly committed to the sport of boxing and Trinidad versus Jones is certainly an event our loyal boxing fans have been waiting to see.”

From 1993 to 2004, Jones was regarded by most as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. He was Ring magazine’s “Fighter of the Year” in 1994 and was voted 1990’s “Fighter of the Decade” by the prestigious Boxing Writers Association of America.

The list of top-name fighters Jones has defeated reads like a Who’s Who and is even more impressive when one considers the opponents’ records going into the matches: Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins (22-1); Thomas Tate (29-2); James “Lights Out” Toney (44-0-2); Vinny Pazineza (40-5); Eric Lucas (19-2-2); Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum (49-3-1); Montell Griffin (27-0); Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill (43-2); Lou Del Valle (27-1); Otis Grant (31-1-1); Reggie Johnson (39-5-1); Julio Cesar Gonzalez (27-0); Clinton Woods (32-1); John Ruiz (38-4-1); and Antonio Tarver (21-1).

Trinidad is the greatest and most revered fighter ever from the boxing-crazed island of Puerto Rico. He was named the BWAA Fighter of the Year in 2000 and in that same year participated in the BWAA and USA Today Fight of the Year when he knocked out then-undefeated “Ferocious” Fernando Vargas.

His list of vanquished star foes provides a similar list to that of Jones: Maurice Blocker (34-3); Hector “Macho” Camacho (43-2); “Yory Boy” Campas (56-0); Oba Carr (32-0); Freddie Pendleton (40-20-4); Pernell Whitaker (40-2-1); Hugo Pineda (36-1-1); Oscar De La Hoya (31-0); Fernando Vargas (20-0); William Joppy (32-1-1); and Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga (27-4-1).

Trinidad’s father, manager and trainer Felix Trinidad Sr. was named BWAA Trainer of the Year in 1995 and again in 2000 as well as Manager of the Year in 2000.

Trinidad's father, talks to the press.


The Trinidad vs. Jones domestic pay-per-view telecast will begin at 9 pm ET/6 pm PT and is being produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View, available in more than 61 million pay-per-view homes. This domestic telecast will be available in HDTV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For your Trinidad vs. Jones fight week updates, log on to http://www.hbo.com/.

The event will be distributed internationally by KingVision, available through DK International Sales, a division of Don King Productions, Inc.

Andre Berto attends the Trinidad vs. Jones Press conference in New York City.

The event is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Madison Square Garden. MSG Sports Properties is part of Madison Square Garden, L.P., owned by Cablevision Systems Corporation, which includes the New York Knicks (NBA); the New York Rangers (NHL); the New York Liberty (WNBA); the Hartford Wolf Pack (American Hockey League); MSG Entertainment, which includes concerts and events at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden, and the Beacon Theatre; MSG Media, which is comprised of MSG and FSN New York; and the Madison Square Garden arena complex, located in the heart of the New York metropolitan area.

Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.

DKP has promoted or co-promoted 11 of the top 15 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in history.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.

Media Workout Trinidad vs. Jones

Bristol, Connecticut (November 19) Five-time world champion Felix "Tito" Trinidad and eight-time world champion Roy Jones Jr. spent all day at ESPN headquarters in Bristol, Conn., on Tuesday promoting their upcoming match dubbed "Bring on the Titans" set for Jan. 19 at Madison Square Garden and on HBO Pay-Per-View, Roy appeared live on the morning show "First Take" with host Dana Jacobson and went over the day's "Hot List" with David Lloyd and paricipated in a chat on ESPN.com. Tito taped interviews for ESPN International and ESPN Deportes and chatted with fans at ESPNdeportes.com. ESPN staffers created huge lines for a 90-minute autograph signing in the ESPN employee cafeteria by Jones and Trinidad. Trinidad (42-2, 35 KOs), from Cupey Alto, Puerto Rico, is a three-time world champion, having won world titles in three different weight classes. He also holds the distinction of having defeated three Olympic gold medalists in his professional career. Jones (51-4, 38 KOs), a native of Pensacola, Fla., reigned supreme for years atop the mythical pound-for-pound best boxing lists while becoming a five-time world champion in four different weight classes.



BIG NEWS:ROY JONES JR. & FELIX TRINIDAD ARRIVE IN SACRAMENTO FOR DON KING’S “UNCOMPROMISING BOLDNESS” CARD;TWO BOXING TITANS TO PROVIDE COLOR COMMENTARYFOR SATURDAY’S INTERNATIONAL TELECAST TEAM Legendary Former World Champions Will Join Rich Marotta During Saturday’s Spectacular DKP-Promoted Fight Card At ARCO Arena; Star boxers Felix “Tito” Trinidad and Roy Jones Jr. will join Don King at Thursday’s Dawson vs. Mendoza final press conference at ARCO Arena (they will meet on Jan. 19 at Madison Square Garden).

SACRAMENTO (Sept. 26, 2007) – Two of boxing’s all-time greats and true superstars, Roy Jones Jr. and Felix “Tito” Trinidad, will work Don King’s stellar fight card Saturday night at at Sacramento’s ARCO Arena. The future Hall of Famers will join Don King at the final press conference on Thursday promoting Saturday’s world championship twin-bill in Northern California. Jones and Trinidad will serve as color analysts for the international broadcast of the sensational Don King Productions-promoted fight card, which is being presented in association with Maloof Sports & Entertainment, headlined by the World Boxing Council (WBC) light heavyweight championship between defending titleholder “Bad” Chad Dawson of New Haven, Conn., and Colombia’s Epifanio Mendoza. The legendary former world champions, who clash in an eagerly awaited 12-round bout on pay-per-view Jan. 19, 2008, at Madison Square Garden, will join blow-by-blow announcer Rich Marotta at ringside Saturday night. Trinidad and Jones will fight at 170 pounds. Long recognized as the world’s most talented pound-for-pound boxer, Jones (51-4, 38 KOs), of Pensacola, Fla., held the coveted 175-pound WBC green belt for nearly seven years (August 1997 to May 2004) and he’ll be ringside to see if Dawson, who holds the same green belt that Jones held for those many years, can keep his undefeated streak going. Jones, 38,last entered the ring July 14, 2007, when he won a unanimous decision against Anthony Hanshaw for the vacant IBC light heavyweight championship. Jones won an Olympic silver medal in 1988 and was a five-time world champion in four different weight classes. Trinidad (42-2, 35 KOs), of Cupey Alto, Puerto Rico, is an ex-world champion at welterweight, junior middleweight and middleweight and is returning to the ring after more than two years. He holds the distinction of having beaten three former Olympic gold medalists (Pernell Whitaker, David Reid, Oscar De La Hoya). The 34-year-old has always been a fan favorite due to his electrifying, wide-open style that served him well with an 80 per cent career knockout ratio. In addition to the Dawson-Mendoza championship bout Saturday night, the co-feature will pit Luis Perez
(25-1, 21 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua, risking his International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight belt against Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko (24-1, 21 KOs) of Accra, Ghana.

Don King's Thanksgiving weekend morale-boosting visits to U.S. military troops in Germany and Iraq.

ARLINGTON, Va. – Legendary promoter Don King packed quite a punch during a special visit to troops in Germany and Iraq as part of a USO/MNC-I expeditionary entertainment tour during Thanksgiving weekend (Nov. 22-25). Don King Surprises Troops with Visit & Special Free Viewing of Boxing Event During USO Tour to Germany and Iraq. President George W. Bush Addresses U.S. Armed Forces with Special Thanksgiving Day Message and Kicks Off Internationally Televised Fight to U.S. Troops.


After dining with military personnel at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany on Thanksgiving, he spent time with wounded service members, rubbed elbows with redeploying soldiers at Ramstein Air Base, posed for pictures and signed autographs. King later surprised U.S. forces in Iraq with an unannounced visit and special viewing of the Don King Productions and Main Events co-promoted match featuring “Ferocious” Fernando Vargas vs. Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga boxing event, which will be beamed live from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Vargas vs Mayorga will be televised live to all troops internationally via Armed Forces Network courtesy of Don King Productions. (King has quietly given all of his boxing events to AFN free of charge for decades.)



President George W. Bush also appeared on the telecast, expressing his heartfelt thanks and praise to service men and women serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Immediately following the fight, King mingled and ate lunch with troops in the military dining facility.

“I was supposed to be in Los Angeles to attend my boxing event on the day after Thanksgiving, but there is nothing more important to me than the men and women serving in our great American armed services,” King said. “They are the vanguard of our nation, and when I was invited to visit them in Iraq, it didn’t matter what day it was, I wanted to be there for them.

“My esteemed wife Henrietta could not join me in person for this USO tour but joins me in spirit as we celebrate the great sacrifices that members of our armed forces make in defending our country and the very democracy we are afforded. We are privileged to be Americans.”

Following his USO-sponsored trip to Iraq, Mr. King has planned a three-city stateside base tour and moral booster for the military. He will be joined on this tour titled "We Care" by five-time world champion Felix "Tito" Trinidad and eight-time world champion Roy Jones Jr.

He intends to visit with cadets at West Point Military Academy on Dec. 3; Eglin Air Force Base, Hulbert Field Training Base, and the Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida on Dec. 5; and Fort Buchanan and Camp Santiago in Puerto Rico on Dec. 6.
King added: “We want to thank Jim Dolan, his dad Chuck Dolan and mother Helen for supporting our troops and hosting the Trinidad-Jones match "Bring on the Titans" at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 19.

A longtime supporter of the U.S. armed forces, King visited the home of the “Screaming Eagles,” the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. During his visit, he was made an Honorary “Screaming Eagle” by then Lieutenant General David Petraeus for his continuous contributions and support that has resulted in a permanent memorial being built.

Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.

DKP has promoted or co-promoted 11 of the top 15 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in the history of the world.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.

The USO is the way for Americans to support their troops. The USO provides a bridge to home for the U.S. military, providing them and their families with entertainment and communication services that improve their lives and boost morale. In 2006, celebrity entertainers traveled more than two million miles on USO tours in 26 countries and 14 states, entertaining service men and women and their families.

AT&T, Inc. is the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours. For a list of recent and upcoming USO tours, visit www.uso.org/whatwedo/entertainment. To learn more about the USO or to find out how to support the troops, visit http://www.uso.org/.

# # #

About the USO
For more than 66 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE Systems North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, DRS Technologies, Inc., S & K Sales Co., TriWest Healthcare Alliance and The Walt Disney Company. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.Three-time world champion Ricardo “El Matador” Mayorga (27-6-1, 22 KOs) defeated Two-time world champion “El Feroz” Fernando Vargas (26-4, 22 KOs) in a street-style brawl at the STAPLES Center the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, Nov. 23.The highly-anticipated main event of a card was scheduled for 12 rounds at a catch weigh of 166 pounds. Vargas vs. Mayorga fight showcased on SHOWTIME® PPV.

MACIO'S Hazardous Material Tour at Gotham Comedy Club

Macio, Gina, Christina & the staff of MacioTV.com are doing it again and ending 2007 with a BANG! If you missed March's extravaganza shame on you~ but don't worry we have just what ya need! lol Mark your calendars for DECEMBER 14TH & 15TH to help us kick off MACIO'S Hazardous Material Tour at Gotham Comedy Club. ~Make sure you join us directly after Friday's 10:30 show for cocktails and MACIO'S media meet and greet. There will be FIVE SHOWS.

Friday December 14th

8:30 PM- ***iPod give aways for Friday's 8:30 show and Saturday's 11:45 show. Must be present to win.******

10:30 PM- Join us for cocktails and for a 2 hour media meet and greet directly following the 10:30 show.

Saturday December 15th

8:30 PM
10:30 PM
11:45 PM- ***iPod give aways for Friday's 8:30 show and Saturday's 11:45 show. Must be present to win.******

As you know we sold out in March and some people weren't able to see the show. We anticipate the same this time, so RESERVATIONS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. For RESERVATIONS call Gotham Comedy Club at: 212-367-9000

We look forward to seeing you all! Bring a friend or two and spread the word!

Hosted By: Macio& Gina Parrilla
Gotham Comedy Club
208 West 23rd Street, New York, NY 10017
Phone: 212 367-9000


~ Macio, Gina, Christina & the staff of MacioTV.com

http://www.MacioTV.com
Macio entertained the WBCares crowd at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York City in October. (Macio, and female fighters Jody-Ann Weller and Alicia "Slick" Ashley at the WBCares event.)

James Moore wins NY State Title Fight

James Moore, now (14-0-0) defeated Thomas Davis (11-6-2), a tough junior middleweight from Tennessee. James Hyland now,(10-0-0), a fellow countryman of James from Ireland, and the co-feature, defeated his opponent. Other New York fighters on the under card included: Eilon Kedem, Joe Rosa, Kamel Alolabi, Karl Desravines, Vanessa Greco, Kimberly Tomes, Daniel Sostre, Roman Oliveri and Joseph Judah.
The event took place Wednesday November 21, in Long Island, New York.

KELLY PAVLIK and JERMAIN TAYLOR; RELOAD FOR SECOND BATTLE!, SAT., FEBRUARY 16, 2008 at MGM GRAND in LAS VEGAS

KELLY PAVLIK vs. JERMAIN TAYLOR; RELOAD FOR SECOND BATTLE!, at MGM GRAND in LAS VEGAS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, LIVE ON HBO PAY-PER-VIEW. Tickets On Sale NOW!

LAS VEGAS, NEV. (November 21, 2007) -- The storied middleweight division has been rife with legendary rivalries. In the "40s Rocky Graziano had Tony Zale, in the
"50s Sugar Ray Robinson, Carmen Basilio, and Gene Fullmer had each other and in the
"60s Nino Benvenuti had Emile Griffith. However, for the past 40 years the middleweight division has endured a void -- great champions without great championship rivalries. Until now.







Jermain "Bad Intentions" Taylor and Kelly "The Ghost" Pavlik


Tickets, priced at $600, $400, $300, $200, and $100, go on sale This Saturday! November 24, at 10 a.m. PST, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office. Tickets will also be sold at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Macys West at the Fashion Show Mall, and Ritmo Latino.) Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000 or MGM Grand at (800) 929-1111. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com

"I have made a career out of fighting and beating the best and this fight is no exception," said Pavlik. "Just because I beat Jermain before doesn't take away from the fact that he is still the best contender out there. I dedicated my entire being to training to take away his title when we fought the first time and I will do no less to make sure I win this time because that's what it will take to beat him again."

"You can over hype this fight, if you want, call it a career defining fight, because that's exactly what this fight is for me," said Taylor. "This is the most important fight of my career. I'm putting it in my trainer's hands (Ozell Nelson), but I'm putting it in mine also, because I know exactly what I have to do. Ozell has been with me from the beginning, he knows the buttons to push with me that made me a world champion. We are ready to go back to work like we used to do it."

Bob Arum and Kelly Pavlik


"J.D. Power and Associates couldn't rate a fight more dangerous than this one," exclaimed Pavlik's promoter Bob Arum, CEO of Top Rank. "Kelly Pavlik is Youngstown's real-life John Henry -- a steel-drivin' man with hammers for fists. Only Kelly's not folklore, he's the real McCoy. He has captured the imagination of sports fans and media worldwide. Anyone who gets into the ring not only fights Kelly, but all of Youngstown. Their first fight was a classic and boxing fans can expect no less this time."

"Taylor-Pavlik was one of the great middleweight fights in memory and a fight that truly deserves a second go," said Lou DiBella, CEO of DiBella Entertainment, Taylor's promoter. "I am proud to be co-promoting the rematch and I'm confident that Jermain can reverse the first result."

Lou DiBella


"The first battle between Kelly Pavlik and Jermain Taylor became an instant classic and has fight fans still buzzing," said Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View. "The Pavlik-Taylor II rematch will undoubtedly be one of the most highly-anticipated matchups of 2008."

Pavlik (32-0, 29 KOs), from Youngstown, Ohio, joins former lightweight champions Harry Arroyo and Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini as hometown world champions. He returns to the ring after a "Fighter of the Year" performance, knocking out Jose Luis Zertuche (19-3-2, 14 KOs) and Edison Miranda (28-1, 24 KOs), in world title elimination bouts, earning him the right to become Taylor's mandatory challenger. All told, Pavlik Ghost wrote a career year against three of the best, who boasted a combined record of 74-4-3 (55 KOs) when he faced them. Pavlik's stoppage of Taylor extended his two-year victory by knockout streak to nine bouts.

Kelly Pavlik


Taylor, (27-1-1, 17 KOs), from Little Rock, Arkansas, the 2000 U.S. Olympic Bronze Medalist, captured the undisputed middleweight title in 2005 when he dethroned Bernard Hopkins, ending the defending champion's record run of consecutive title defenses at 20 -- a run that left world champions Oscar de la Hoya, Felix Trinidad, and Glen Johnson in his wake, among others. Taylor ruled the division for nearly two years, successfully defending his title four times, all against former world champions, including Hopkins again, Winky Wright, Kassim Ouma and Cory Spinks.

Jermain Taylor


The Pavlik-Taylor II pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 pm ET/6 pm PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 61 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For your Pavlik-Taylor II fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.
For room packages and availability and event ticket information about the MGM Grand, call (800) 929-1111 or (702) 891-7777 or log onto the World Wide Web at www.mgmgrand.com

The MGM Grand Garden Arena is home to concerts, championship boxing and premier sporting and special events. The Arena offers comfortable seating for as many as 16,800 with excellent sightlines and state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting and sound. Prominent events to date have included world championship fights between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson as well as Oscar De La Hoya vs. Bernard Hopkins and George Foreman vs. Michael Moorer; and concerts by The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, Gloria Estefan, Janet Jackson, Phil Collins, Billy Joel, Backstreet Boys, ˜N Sync, Sting, Jimmy Buffett and the Barbra Streisand Millennium Concert. The MGM Grand Garden Arena is also home to the annual Andre Agassi Grand Slam for Children Benefit and the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMA).

Olympic-bound boxer Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade

PROVIDENCE – How tough is Olympic-bound boxer Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, the United States’ best bet to medal next year in China? Andrade recently dominated the AIBA Men’s World Championships in Chicago, capturing a gold medal in the 152-pound division, despite competing with impacted Wisdom teeth that were extracted last week. “I was willing to do anything to get the job done,” Andrade said. “I tried to cover up on the inside and box on the outside, but it hurt when I was hit in the back of my head, never mind every time I was punched in the mouth or face.” Andrade didn’t simply dominate the opposition, he decimated it, winning each match by an average of 13 points, 20-7, excluding his gold medal victory against Non Boonjumnong, of Thailand, when the referee stopped the contest because of an injury – Andrade had floored Boonjumnnong in the opening round and held a commanding lead – at 1:45 of the second round. Leading up to the final, in order, “Boo Boo” defeated Georgia’s Jvania Kakahaber (22-11) and Latvia’s Dmiitrjis Sostaks (19-3), Bulgaria’s No. 1 World rated at the time Magomed Nurudinov (26-6) in the preliminary rounds, Germany’s Jack Culcay-Keith (30-9) in the quarterfinals, and Turkey’s Adem Klicci (22-6) in the semifinals. “Nobody can say anything now,” Andrade remarked about winning his first gold medal in International competition. “It feels good. I dreamed of going to the Olympics and I’ve finally done it. I worked hard to get this gold medal. I wasn’t going to leave it in the hands of the judges (Demetrious lost by one point in the Pan-Am championship match to Brazilian Pedro Lima in Buenos Aires). That (World Championships) was a preview of the Olympics. I’m going to be coming even harder in the Olympics. These other guys better watch out.”Andrade and his Team USA Boxing roommate at training camp in Colorado Springs, flyweight Rau-shee Warren, became the first U.S. boxers since 1999 to win world championships. “We finally got it done,” Andrade added, “making a statement that Team USA is going to be strong to the Olympics. We’re a young team that’s getting even better.” The 19-year-old southpaw Andrade was a two-time U.S. National Championships and double National Golden Gloves champion, who blitzed David Lopez (RSCO-2), Charles Hatley (RSCO-3), Keith Thurman (27-13) and Keith Thurman (21-13) at the U.S. Boxing Trials preceding the World Championships. Andrade and his USA teammates are scheduled to compete November 23-26 in a dual against Team China in Beijing. Demetrious’ participation is questionable because of his recent oral surgery.Impacted wisdom teeth and the best amateur boxers in the world just weren’t enough from preventing “Boo Boo” from being golden at the World Championships. Andrade, who represents the 401 Boxing Club in Cranston (RI), is co-trained by his father Paul and David Keefe. Go on line to http://www.boobooboxing.com/ for more information about Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade.

NO HOLDS BARRED: Larry Hazzard, Bernard Hopkins

NO HOLDS BARRED: Larry Hazzard, Bernard Hopkins



On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman discusses the latest outrage in the combat sports: The firing of Larry Hazzard Sr., who had been the commissioner of the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board, which regulates combat sports, for almost 22 years. http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2007-11-19T23_51_18-08_00

Former Commissioner, Larry Hazzard attends the Guzman vs.Soto fight as a spectator.


We discuss his firing, as well as his place in both boxing and mixed martial arts. Simply put, without Larry Hazzard's role in developing the unified rules of MMA and having MMA sanctioned in New Jersey in 2000, that sport would not have been anywhere near as developed as it is today in the U.S. – if even it would have existed.

Eddie Goldman and Larry Hazzard


His firing, which took place Wednesday, Nov. 14, came in the wake of a letter being sent on his behalf by attorney James Binns to New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine alleging numerous charges of “malfeasance” against officials regulating boxing and mixed martial arts events in New Jersey (http://www.adcombat.com/Article.asp?Author_ID=4&Article_ID=14295). Among the many bombshells in this letter, dated Oct. 23, 2007, included citing an official for allegedly “failing to suspend a combatant who tested non-negative for HIV”; “allowing MMA promoters to deviate from sanction protocols”; “permitting contestants to compete without submitting required medical documents”; and “accepting a CT Scan that revealed marked brain impairment (Stephan Johnson)”. Johnson died on Dec. 5, 1999, from injuries suffered in a fight in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on Nov. 20, 1999, in which he was knocked out in the tenth round.

Instead of investigating these serious charges, the New Jersey politicians dismissed Larry Hazzard.

Larry Hazzard was in Atlantic City this past Saturday night, Nov. 17, for the Joan Guzman-Humberto Soto fight at the Borgata Casino, but only as a spectator. Before taking his first-row seat, he held an informal news conference with several members of the boxing media. He also then continued to answer more media questions right after that. We have both discussions for you on this show.

Among the many people who expressed their outrage at this firing and protested it was Bernard Hopkins, the light heavyweight boxing champion of the world, and the president of Golden Boy East, the lead promoter of the Guzman-Soto card (http://adcombat.com/Article.asp?Article_ID=14296). He spoke with the media as well, and we also have that discussion for you.

Bernard Hopkins speaks about the controversial decision to fire Larry Hazzard.


SecondsOut Radio is also free to hear, but you must register to gain access to it, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio.

Make sure to check out my regular articles on the ADCC News at http://www.adcombat.com and on FightBeat.com at http://fightbeat.com.

Also, NO HOLDS BARRED is available through iTunes at http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=150801513&s=143441.

The show is in MP3 format, so may take some time to download.

Art of War (http://www.artofwarlive.com), the undisputed arena fighting championship, promoted by SUN Sports and Entertainment, producing world class mixed martial arts events. For more information, check out their web site, ArtOfWarLive.com (http://www.artofwarlive.com).

IFL, the International Fight League (http://ifl.tv/), the world's first professional mixed martial arts league. Make sure to check out their regular TV shows on FSN (Fox Sports Net) (http://msn.foxsports.com/story/1636002) in the U.S., and to check your local listings for dates and times. You can also catch IFL Battleground on MyNetworkTV (http://www.mynetworktv.com/). Check out the IFL web site (http://ifl.tv/), for a listing of IFL live events and their TV schedule, at http://ifl.tv/TV-Schedule.html.

Gladiator Challenge (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/), shaking up the mixed martial arts world since 1999, and now with 30 shows per year. For more news and info, check out their web site, GladiatorChallenge.com (http://gladiatorchallenge.com/).

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

Gladiator Magazine (http://gladmag.com/), for in-depth coverage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, submission grappling, and MMA, as well as lifestyle articles on surfing, cars, movies, and more. Gladiator Magazine is available at any major bookstore and online at BJJMart.com (http://bjjmart.com) or Jiu Jitsu Pro Gear (http://jiujitsuprogear.com/).

FightBeat.com (http://fightbeat.com/), for news, results, interviews, and free exclusive videos from the worlds of boxing and mixed martial arts.

Thanks, Eddie Goldman

No Holds Barred blog
http://nhbnews.blogspot.com/

No Holds Barred podcast
http://nhbnews.podomatic.com/

No Holds Barred on MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/nhbnews

Enjoy!

Frankie "El Gato" Figueroa vs. Noel Rodriguez; Figueroa closing out 2007 in grand style

NABF light welterweight champion Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa defended his first title defense Friday November 16 against fellow southpaw Noel Rodriguez at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Figueroa-Rodriguez 12-round main event aired live on Telemundo.



The Spanish Harlem-born, Bronx-raised Figueroa (18-2, 13 KOs), now fighting out of Miami, is rated No. 12 by the World Boxing Council and No. 14 by the International Boxing Federation. Legendary trainer and former 2-time world champion James “Buddy” McGirt was in his corner for the first time.

“I’m going to close out the year with a bang,” Figueroa said. “This will be my first national exposure. I’m glad to be fighting on Telemundo because I’m Spanish. Next year has got to be my year. I hope to move up higher in the ratings after this fight and get a world title fight in 2008. I’m going to let ‘The Cat (El Gato)’ out of the bag. I know Rodriguez is a tough guy who is going to come hard to fight and try to take my title belt. I’m bringing my A game, though, and it’s going to be an explosive fight.”

By the time the fight happens, U.S. Army veteran Figueroa will have been at his Vero Beach training camp with McGirt for 2 ½ months, primarily because Frankie’s fight originally was scheduled to be held in October. “There wasn’t a television fight available until November so we waited,” Figueroa explained. “I’m still flabbergasted and motivated to have Buddy, a 2-time world champion, in my corner. I want to make him happy and proud. Buddy doesn’t change a world-class fighter; he has me doing a lot more jabbing, something I only really did for exercise, and circling left as I throw punches. I never threw punches that way before.”

McGirt, who has trained numerous world champions, enjoys working with Figueroa. “He’s been doing real good,” Buddy noted. “He’s coming along great. Frankie’s a great kid who listens well and is never a problem.
Rodriguez, fighting out of Texas, is riding an eight-fight win streak, dating back two full years. His most notable victory to date was a win by unanimous eight-round decision against 18-5 Robert Frankel this past April in New Mexico.

“The main reason we took this fight was the need to get Frankie television exposure and fighting Rodriguez in the main event on Telemundo is the way to go,” Figueroa’s manager Sal LoNano noted. “We’re happy that the people at HBO and Showtime will have an opportunity to see Frankie’s talents. Next year, he’ll have a shot at a world title. He’s ready now with a new team that includes the best trainer in boxing, Buddy McGirt. We believe an impressive win against Rodriguez will set-up Frankie for a world title fight in 2008.

“Gato” also is the reigning WBC International Mundo Hispano welterweight and New York State light welterweight title-holder.

New Buddy in El Gato’s corner

Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa now has James “Buddy” McGirt as his new head trainer and the two are working together at Figueroa’s training camp at McGirt’s Gym in Vero Beach, Florida.

McGirt working his corner represents a move by Figueroa’s manager, Sal LoNano, to take Frankie to the next level and into a position for a world title fight by the end of 2008. LoNano and Buddy became good friends during the Gatti-Ward trilogy, when LoNano managed “Irish” Micky Ward, and McGirt trained Arturo Gatti. They worked together as a manager-trainer act for the first time with Paulie Malignaggi, which culminated with Malignaggi capturing the IBF light welterweight title this past June.

James “Buddy” McGirt


LoNano, who no longer manages Malignaggi, signed Figueroa this past spring and he immediately set out to get McGirt onboard. “Buddy’s the best trainer around,” LoNano explained, “plus, we’re like family. I knew ‘El Gato’ was only scratching the surface of his talent; now Buddy’s teaching him. Frankie has a lot of talent but he hasn’t gotten to that next level, yet, where he can challenge for a world title. Buddy’s going to get him there and that’s why I wanted Buddy to train Frankie.”

Friends, Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa, and Paulie Malignaggi


Frankie gained invaluable experience sparring with the likes of Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton and Arturo Gatti. “I had Frankie in camp with Arturo when he was getting ready to fight (Thomas) Damgaard,” McGirt spoke about his familiarity with Figueroa before this training camp. “I saw that he had a lot of ability and moved well. But at that time he had a trainer and I didn’t want to mess around. That’s not my style. I’m going to be able to study him at this camp and then I’ll know a lot more about him.”

U.S. Army veteran Figueroa is thrilled to be working with McGirt, the former 2-time world champion and 2002 Trainer of the Year. “Buddy was referred by my manager, Sal, and they’ve done a lot of great things,” Frankie remarked. “He is one of the great trainers in boxing today. Buddy’s a down to earth guy who doesn’t get on my case. Every trainer critiquing a new fighter notices some things a previous trainer may not have seen. He’s noticed what’s been missing in my style and I’m walking a path with Buddy that I haven’t walked before.

“There was good chemistry between me and Buddy going back to when I was sparring with Gatti (end of 2005, beginning of 2006). He’s going to take me to another level. He’s accessing me now and we’re bonding. Buddy can be a joker like me. I focus on training but I also like to giggle and joke, not have a closed camp where nobody smiles. That’s my character, I’m a Gemini. I’m glad that Buddy has accepted me for who I am. This is my first elite training camp.”

Figueroa is in training camp preparing for his next fight, probably in mid-November, against an opponent to be determined by his promoter, Yaseen Malnik (Seeno Group), and LoNano.


“El Gato” Figueroa All In & On Track

Newly crowned NABF light welterweight champion Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa, in a reality short time period, has gone from counseling rebellious teens to tormenting opponents in the ring.

The Spanish Harlem-born, Bronx-raised Figueroa (17-2, 13 KOs), now fighting out of Miami, captured his NABF title belt on July 28, stopping former NABA champion Ubaldo Hernandez in the 12th round. Hernandez’ portfolio includes a win against former IBF title challenger Moses Pedroza, as well as going the distance with current WBA lightweight champion Juan Diaz, WBC title challenger Vivian Harris and hot junior welterweight prospect Demetrius Hopkins.

Figueroa, a 2-time New York City high school champion wrestler who was 14-0 his senior year, didn’t get off of the mat and into the ring until seven years ago, when he took a friend’s suggestion and walked into the nearby Morris Park Gym in the Bronx.

“Wrestling has helped me as a boxer,” Figueroa explained. “It helped my balance, conditioning and determination. Some fans have told me I should be a mixed martial arts fighter with my wrestling and boxing background, but I’m 29 now, so I’m going to stick with boxing. I’m joining a wrestling club in Florida and do it just as a hobby, never while I’m preparing for a fight.”

Frankie responded to an ad for a childcare counselor and worked four years with children and teenagers with behavioral problems. Figueroa grew-up in a tough neighborhood, but he stayed in school and out of trouble, concentrating on sports.

The son of a single mother, Frankie’s life had dramatically changed when he was six, the year he first lived with the Morrissette family in the small Vermont town of Troy, thanks to the Fresh Air Fund. “I lived with them during the summer from the ages of six through 17,” Figueroa remembered. “One year I attended a Catholic school there. It was a completely different experience for me. I became an alter boy, learned to ski, milked cows. I lived a double life. I had the good fortune of having two families. I adapted to changes and had a blast. My Vermont family
is very proud of me. My brother, Roger Morrissette, watched me win the NABF title. I have a brother and sister in Vermont and a brother and sister in the Bronx. I just hung out living in the Bronx; I never got caught up in drugs, or doing something that would send me to jail, nothing. I’ve always wanted to make both of my families proud of me.”

Frankie and Keisha


Due to his relatively late start in boxing, as well as a slap of amateur boxing reality, Frankie’s amateur career lasted only 2 ½ years. He fought in the 147-pound division, winning his first 14 matches, before losing in the semifinals of a national tournament to Juan McPherson, 16-14, and then Alvin Aconta in the Golden Gloves.

“McPherson has over 200 amateur fights and they (USA Boxing) wanted him fighting for them on ESPN, not me,” Figueroa noted. “It was boxing politics. I never had a chance with my style of just coming forward and fighting, going to the body instead of slapping punches for points. So, I decided to turn pro.”

His pro debut was November 8, 2002, winning a four-round decision against Richard Dean at Club Amazura in Jamaica, New York. Figueroa then hit the road and fought in places like Savannah (Georgia), Winston-Salem (NC), Atlanta, Detroit and Sarasota. His first loss was by four-round majority decision to hometown favorite Troy Wilson in Atlanta. Frankie’s only other career loss was in his 10th pro fight to Francisco Rincon (8-1) in Poughkeepsie, New York.

“My first loss was a joke,” Figueroa added. “I dropped him and they called it a slip. Then I got head butted. I don’t even consider it a loss. I got hit with some good shots (against Rincon). My inexperience showed. I had the balls, but my legs weren’t there. He was the better man that night but I’m proud I kept fighting after I went down. I learned a lot.”

Three fights later, Figueroa stopped Hector Alejandro, Jr. (10-1) in the sixth round for the New York State lightweight title. Frankie followed that bout with a 10-round decision versus Maximo Cuevas (7-2-1) for the vacant WBC Intercontinental Mundo Hispano welterweight crown.

Figueroa came of age on 11/11 (November 11) in 2006, successfully defending his New York State light welterweight championship against highly touted prospect, unbeaten Joey Rios (14-0), by 10-round majority decision at the famed Madison Square Garden.

A third-round TKO of veteran Antonio Ramirez (24-14-6) this past March 2 was Frankie’s last fight in New York, at least for a while, because he relocated in North Miami. “I was based in New York State but I was fighting on the road and there wasn’t a real buzz about me in New York City,” Figueroa remarked. “I had been my own business manager and my new promoter, Seeno Group, bought out my contract. I’m living in Miami in great weather with my own apartment and a car. I like it here where I’m isolated. I never was one to go to clubs in New York City and I don’t hit them in South Beach. I am building a good following in Florida."

Frankie, a U.S. Army veteran who has a son named Frankie, III (aka Ian), gained invaluable experience sparring with the likes of Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton and Arturo Gatti. In fact, he really enjoyed training camp with Cotto in Puerto Rico, where Frankie has family in Santurce.

Frankie after one of his many his victories.


“After winning the NABF title, I’m where I want to be right now,” Figueroa concluded. “I think boxing all of the time, but it really isn’t my life. I like going on line. I hope to defend my title this year and fight for a world title next year. I’m in all out wars, that’s who I am. I’m a boxer-puncher but, more than anything, I’m a fighter. I like seek-and-destroy missions, but I can play chess, too. I go all out, balls to the wall, all of the time.

“My new manager, Sal LoNano, is going to get me a world title fight. He’s been in this business a long time. I signed with him because of his experience. He helped Micky Ward make millions of dollars and he got my good friend, (IBF junior welterweight champ) Paulie Malignaggi, two world title shots in a year. We really get along well. He’s a funny guy and so am I. I never knew pay scales, but now I just concentrate on fighting; Sal’s protecting me.”

Figueroa is nicknamed “El Gato” – The Cat – because he was the only one quick enough to catch a cat that was a mascot at his original gym in the Bronx. This cat is a fan-friendly fighter who, at 29, is all in and ready to make noise in the 140-pound division.

For more information about Frankie Figueroa visit his web site at www.gatofigueroa.com.

MALIGNAGGI vs. NGOUDJO January 5, 2008

MALIGNAGGI vs. NGOUDJO, Airing LIVE On SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
At Bally’s Atlantic City, January 5, 2008

DiBella Entertainment in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, To Promote the First Big Fight of 2008

New York, NY -- Paulie “The Magic Man” Malignaggi (23-1, 5 KO’s) will take on IBF mandatory challenger Herman Ngoudjo (16-1, 9 KO’s) for Malignaggi’s IBF Junior Welterweight Title on January 5, 2008. The bout will take place at Bally’s Main Ballroom in Atlantic City and will be televised LIVE on Showtime Championship Boxing with coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Paulie “The Magic Man” Malignaggi


Malignaggi last fought at Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino on June 16 where he scored a 12 round unanimous decision over Lovemore Ndou (45-9-1, 30 KO’s) to win the IBF Junior Welterweight Title. “I am looking to start the New Year off right with a win over a tough competitor in Ngoudjo”, said Malignaggi. “I want to fight the best competition and prove that there is no one better than Paulie Malignaggi in the Junior Welterweight division. I know I have to train through the holidays and that’s always tough, but I plan on making up for it by making Herman Ngoudjo my own personal Christmas tree and lighting his ass up on January 5th.”

Ngoudjo most recently defeated Randall Bailey (35-6, 32 KO’s) to earn the mandatory shot against Malignaggi. The Montreal resident lost a controversial split decision to Jose Luis Castillo (56-8-1, 48 KO’s) in January of this year. “On January 5th, I will fulfill my dream to become world champion! I will be the first champion ever born in Cameroon”, said Ngoudjo. “Paul Malignaggi can run all over the ring but he can’t hide. He has no respect for me, but after our fight, he will be begging me for a rematch!”

Promoter Lou DiBella is extremely excited for the first battle of 2008. “Paulie has been underestimated his whole career and this fight will give him another chance to prove that he’s an elite champion”, said DiBella. “Herman Ngoudjo is a worthy number one contender who could have easily been given a decision against Jose Luis Castillo.”

Paulie Malignaggi talks to Aaron Braunstein.



Ngoudjo promoter Yvon Michel is happy to showcase his fighter to a worldwide audience. “We are thrilled to be associated with Lou DiBella for this event”, said Michel. “We also wish to thank Showtime for launching their 2008 season with this very promising fight. We have a lot of respect for the IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Paul Malignaggi but the time has come for Canadian Herman Ngoudjo.”

Paulie takes time out to photograph with fans.

Miguel Cotto defeats "SUGAR" Shane Mosley, Vetereans Day Parade an option, for Cotto....

Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Madison Square Garden, Cotto vs. Mosley took place Saturday, November 10, at the Mecca of Boxing Madison Square Garden. 17,135 in attendance watched, undefeated WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto, now (31-0, 25 KOs), from Puerto Rico, defeat four-time world champion "SUGAR" Shane Mosley, (44-5-1, 37 KOs) from Pomona, Calif., in their world welterweight championship fight. 3.8 million tuned in to the Cotto vs. Mosley pay-per-view telecast.

Miguel Cotto before he departs the post press conference.




"Sugar" Shane Mosley, exits the ring after his loss to Miguel Cotto.




Cotto vs. Mosley, The Under-card

Margarito vs. Johnson

Antonio Margarito (35-5-24, KOs) of Torrance California defeated, Golden Johnson (25-7-3, KOs) of Houston Texas. Antonio Margarito wants another title shot,Margarito turned down the opportunity to fight Cotto at the Garden back in June, instead Margarito vs Williams was scheduled. Williams defeated Margarito.

Antonio Margarito after his defeat of Golden Johnson.


Casamayor vs. Cruz

Joel Casamayor now (35-3-1, 21 KOs) of Guatemala, Cuba in a scheduled 12 round WBC Interim Lightweight Championship defeated Jose A.Santa Cruz (25-3, 14 KOs) of Michoacan, Mexico.

Joel Casamayor and Manager, display the belts at the BB King's, press conference.


Joel Casamayor and Jose A. Santa Cruz, in the ring.


Jose A. Santa Cruz exits the ring after his loss to Joel Casamayor.


Anderson vs. Thomas

Michael Anderson now (1-0) of Newark, New Jersey, in a pro debut defeated Olade Thomas now (1-3), of Brooklyn, New York, the referee stopped the contest in round 1 of a scheduled 4 rounds. Michael Anderson is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Michael Anderson and Shane Mosley


Michael Anderson and trainer, Elliot Ness.


Rojas vs. Diaz

Jesus Rojas now (10-0-7 KOs) of Puerto Rico, defeated Carlos Diaz now (9-11-4-7 KOs) of Tampa Florida, the referee stopped the contest.


Vargas vs. Mullis

Ronney Vargas now (4-0-2 KOs) of the Bronx, defeated Bryan Mullis now (4-2-1-2, KOs)of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Ronney Vargas after his victory.


Cotto vs. Mosley, and the Stars

Celebrity sitings for Cotto vs. Mosley included Shaquille O'Neal, several members of the The Knicks and the Wizards, Roy Jones Jr., Felix "Tito" Trinidad, Michael Bivins, of New Edition, and rap artist Duh of "Lords of the under ground" rap group. Recording artist Tank, sang the "National Anthem".

Andre Berto and Gary "Kid" Starks attend Cotto vs. Mosley


Keisha and Larenz Tate, actor atttend Cotto vs. Mosley.


Hector Camacho, the legend atttend Cotto vs. Mosley


Keisha and Rampage, MMA Fighter attend Cotto vs. Mosley


The Cotto vs. Mosley Post Press Conference

Cotto address the media immediately following the fight victory.


"Sugar" Shane Mosley address the media after his loss to Cotto.


Miguel Cotto and Bob Arum


"Sugar" Shane Mosley and Jack Mosley, address the media at the post press conference.


Oscar De La Hoya and Shane Mosley Jr., attend the post press conference.


The Media Press Conference at BB Kings In New York City

Miguel Cotto and "Sugar" Shane Mosley face-off at press conference.


Bob Arum, Miguel Cotto, Jack Mosley, Shane Mosley, Oscar De La Hoya


Cotto, Mosley and Oscar De La Hoya


Bernard Hopkins address the media at the press conference.


Shane exits New York City press conference at BB Kings.


Miguel Cotto OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT

NEW YORK, NY (November 5) Undefeated WBA welterweight champion MIGUEL COTTO will host his ONLY open media workout. Cotto is in his final days of working out in preparation for the four-bout pay-per-view extravaganza headlined by Cotto's world title defense against three-division world champion Sugar Shane Mosley in a battle of legendary superstars. Cotto will be joined by Hall of Fame promoter BOB ARUM.

Cotto (30-0, 25 KOs), from Caguas, Puerto Rico, has headlined at the ˜Mecca of Boxing on the eve of New York's annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade the last three years. On June 9, in front of a capacity crowd of over 20,600, Cotto, 27, knocked out two-division world champion Zab Judah to retain his title and improve his record at The Garden to 31-0, 26 KOs.

Cotto vs Judah face-off, earlier this year at Madison Square Garden, press conference and weigh- ins.


Miguel Cotto at Kingsway Gym, Open Media Workout


Cotto sweats.


Cotto is swift.


Cotto workout on the treadmill.


Cotto and Nettles Nasir, trainer.


Cotto and Fighting Sensation, Yaskushima of Kingsway Gym.



"Sugar" Shane Mosley OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT

New York, NY (November 6) at Kingsway Gym.

Shane Mosley arrives at the media workout session.


"Sugar" Shane Mosley and Jack Mosley in the ring.


"Sugar" Shane Mosley


Jack Mosley laces, "Sugar" Shane Mosley.


"Sugar" Shane Mosley


"Sugar" Shane Mosley hit the bags.


The Mosley trio, "Sugar" Shane Mosley Shane Jr., and Jack Mosley.


Sean Daughtry, former fighter and currently employed in global private investments and Cassius, legendary trainer and cornerman for "Sugar" Shane Mosley, at Kingsway Boxing Gym.



KINGSWAY GYM
1 West 28th Street (at 5th Avenue)
New York, NY 10001

Keisha and Ms. Kay Operator and Owner Kingsway Gym.