From Mondays press conference in Cancun; Nate Campbell, Juan Diaz, Samuel Peter, Oleg Maskaev

Nate Campbell: “It has been a hard road for me to get here but I am here now. I don’t have anything to do with what’s going on between Juan Diaz and Don King but I can tell you this: On Saturday night I’m going to take you to hell, Juan.”

Juan Diaz: “I’ve fought in Mexico many times and it’s great to be back home. I fought here when I was 16 years old. Nate Campbell is a good fighter and I’m ready to go 12 rounds.

Samuel Peter: (To Oleg Maskaev’s promoter Dennis Rappaport): “Buy a new pair of glasses because I want you to see how hard I’m going to hit your man on Saturday.”

(To Oleg Maskaev): “I want to tell you one thing: “I’m going to knock you out. I’m going to eat you alive.”


Samuel Peter: “I’m coming to fight on Saturday night and I promise I’m going to beat you. I’m going to punish you and beat you up. I’ve been fighting for seven years and I’ve never ducked anyone. I hope you’re planning on coming to fight on Saturday. You can run no more.”

Oleg Maskaev: “I’m ready and I’m coming to win on Saturday night. I have worked very hard.”

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Don King Quits Juan Diaz; Diaz’s Attorney Fred Levin Quit Undefeated Lightweight Champion in February, Promoter Decides to Follow Suit .....

Don King Quits Juan Diaz; Diaz’s Attorney Fred Levin Quit Undefeated Lightweight Champion in February, Promoter Decides to Follow Suit by Abandoning Star Boxer after Saturday’s Match

CANCUN, MEXICO—Boxing promoter Don King made a surprise announcement on Wednesday that he will no longer represent undefeated unified lightweight world champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz after his match on Saturday with Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell in Cancun, Mexico.

King has represented Diaz since September 2006, and it is highly unusual for the world’s greatest promoter to give up on a star client without an attempt to keep him in his stable of fighters.

King is in Cancun presenting a world championship doubleheader on Saturday featuring the first world heavyweight championship ever staged in Mexico when World Boxing Council champion Oleg Maskaev defends his title against WBC interim champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter as well as Diaz facing Campbell, the International Boxing Federation No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger.

King made the announcement at the final press conference for the event, named “History in Cancun.” With principals from Saturday’s fight card assembled in front of the media, King read passages from a February resignation letter from Diaz’s attorney Fred Levin addressed to Diaz’s manager Willie Savannah.

“It has come to the point where I can no longer in good conscience represent Juan Diaz,” Levin wrote, lamenting the fact that he had only spoken to Diaz on one occasion.

The highly respected and successful lawyer added: “Willie, I’ve been practicing law for almost 47 years. I have never had a client complain about anything that I have done in the practice of law until now.”

King echoed Levin’s sentiments, noting that he, too, is enduring a barrage of complaints from Savannah while Diaz’s career continues to skyrocket.

“Juan Diaz and Willie Savannah seem to be doing just fine,” King said. “Juan was lucky to make $100,000 for a fight before he came to me. He made $2 million in his first year with me and I arranged for him to fight for two more world titles, which he won. He’ll make another $800,000 on Saturday night.

“It seems to me that Juan has been doing his job inside the ring and I’ve been doing my job as his promoter outside the ring. I’m still trying to figure out what it is Willie’s not getting when looking back upon one of the best financed and most successful career progressions I have ever been part of.”

King then announced his resignation.

“I bring this up to you today because, like Fred Levin, I have made a decision to no longer promote Juan Diaz after Saturday’s fight. And it’s not because I wouldn’t like to continue to work with Juan. It’s for the same reason the esteemed Fred Levin quit. I will no longer work with Juan’s manager Willie Savannah.”

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Throwdown Industries To Become IFL's Official Energy Drink, Fight Gloves and Ring‏

NEW YORK– The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) and Throwdown Industries today announced a multi-year partnership, making Throwdown “The Official Energy Drink, Fight Gloves and Ring” of the IFL. Throwdown Industries is a leading provider of MMA fight gear, cages, rings, training centers and the Official Energy Drink of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Cott Corporation (NYSE:COT; TSX:BCB), is the world's largest retailer brand soft drink provider. The deal began Friday, February 29 at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas and will continue with all IFL events in 2008 and 2009. “We are very pleased to be able to add one of the growing brands in the industry in Throwdown to the IFL family,” said IFL CEO Jay Larkin. “The extensive marketing that an industry giant like the Cott Corporation, one of the legends in the consumer packaging industry, will put behind this gives us a very strong position to grow our brand and our athletes into the future.” “Throwdown and Cott add credibility and excitement to the sport of MMA through its products, services and partnership with the IFL and other fight leagues, firmly entrenching Throwdown’s global leadership position in supporting MMA” added Throwdown President Mike McIntyre. Throwdown and Cott will implement an extensive activation platform at retail and at IFL events, using IFL athletes, coaches and brands in consumer promotions and a multimedia campaign. They will also support the partnership on IFL broadcasts in the United States on FSN and HDNet, as well as in Canada on Fox Sports Canada and worldwide in the over 70 countries IFL program is currently carried on a weekly basis. The activation plan will launch around the IFL’s next event on Friday, April 4, at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey. About Cott Corporation Cott Corporation is one of the world's largest nonalcoholic beverage companies and the world's largest retailer brand soft drink provider. The Company commercializes its business in over 60 countries worldwide, with its principal markets being the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Mexico. Cott markets or supplies over 200 retailer and licensed brands, and Company-owned brands. Its products include carbonated soft drinks, sparkling and flavored waters, energy drinks, sports drinks, juices, juice drinks and smoothies, ready-to-drink teas, and other non-carbonated beverages. The company website is www.cott.com. The brand names referenced in this press release are trademarks of Cott Corporation, its affiliated companies, our customers, or other third parties. About Throwdown Throwdown™ Energy drink is unique in the energy category. Throwdown is a credible, respected brand that has a high level of efficacy with the impact/action sports consumer. “The Throwdown consumer has a mentality of never giving up, putting it all on the line, and pushing toward until they achieve their goal and live under the mindset that to “conquer without risk, is to triumph without glory™”. Classic and Rampage Punch – both available in regular and sugar-free formats -- are scientifically designed for those who want to “Throwdown” by providing double the energy than the average drink in this category. Throwdown Rampage Punch™, the signature flavor of Light Heavyweight Champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, was created specifically for him as he loves punch and loves to punch. About the IFL International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv. ---“So much of a professional athlete's success depends upon not necessarily the play itself but how he deals with... always saying how you deal with good, is just as important as how you deal with bad.”- Brett Favre
Catch the IFL on FSN Sundays at 5 p।m. and LIVE on HDNet on April 4 and May 16 boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

In Celebration of Womans History Month, My Christ Entertainment in association with McKoy Joubert presents; Virtuous Woman

In Celebration of Womans History Month, My Christ Entertainment in association with McKoy Joubert presents; Virtuous Woman

EliteXC Presents Cage Rage 25 On SHOWTIME This SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2008

BOXING cruiserweight world title unification bout between Enzo Maccarinelli (World Boxing Organization) and David Haye (World Boxing Council/World Boxing Association) at the O2 Arena in London, live at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast).
Mauro Ranallo will provide play-by-play with Stephen Quadros serving as color analyst. EliteXC Presents Cage Rage 25 will take place at the Wembley Arena London, England


HEAVYWEIGHT MAIN EVENT

Ken Shamrock vs. Buzz Berry
26-10-2 11-7-0
San Diego, Calif. England

CAGE RAGE FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE
Jean Silva vs. Masakazu Imanari
15-7-3, 1NC 13-5-1
Japan Brazil

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT ATTRACTION
Neil Grove vs. Rob Broughton
5-0-0 7-3-1
England England

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS MIDDLEWEIGHT ATTRACTION
Tom Watson vs. Pierre Guillet
4-3-0 10-7-0
England USA

EliteXC Presents: Cage Rage 25 Fight Preview

Shamrock vs. Berry

This fight is destined to be an absolute war and for Robert Berry, the biggest challenge of his MMA career. After having been forced to retire after the first round in his fight against Neil Grove, Berry will be out to prove a point to all the watching fans as he takes on a living legend in MMA. Ken Shamrock needs no introduction whatsoever and remains supremely confident in his ability to stand and trade with anyone or take it to the ground. Berry’s ground game is vastly underestimated and should contribute to this fight living up to its main billing.

Silva vs. Imanari

This is another fight fans will not want to miss as two of the world’s top featherweights go head to head. Imanari will be making his second title defense against former Cage Rage Champion Jean Silva, who has openly proclaimed that he will do what it takes to get his title back. Both these fighters are technically gifted in all areas, which will make this one of the fights of the night

Grove vs. Broughton

Fan favorite Rob Broughton is returning after suffering severe injury problems. Broughton became an instant hit when he made his debut as an underdog against heavyweight superstar James Thompson. He surprised everyone by stopping Thompson via vicious ground and pound. He will now face one of his toughest tests when he goes head to head with heavyweight title contender Neil Grove. Grove, a towering practitioner of Gojo Ryu Karate, also had an impressive win over Thompson in ten seconds with a devastating right hand. He followed that with a first round stoppage of Dominic Ostich, a formidable kickboxer, and Cage Rage veteran Robert “Buzz” Berry. One question remains will “The Bear” have what it takes to stop the reign of Goliath.

Watson vs. Guillet

These two middleweights are dangerous opponents for any fighter they face, but to be facing one another is a middleweight dream fight. Both Watson and Guillet have had recent losses and both will be out to get back to winning ways as the cage door shuts. Tom Watson, a former boxer with excellent technical stand up striking, has recently spent time training in the states to improve on his wrestling and submission skills. Pierre Guillet is a well rounded fighter and has proven to be one of the toughest fighters on the Cage Rage middleweight roster. This will be great fight between two technically skilled fighters.

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YAMMA Pit Fighting Final Fight Card Announced‏; Eric Esch, Gary Goodridge, Don Frye, Oleg Taktarov, Marcelo Pereira, Sherman Pendergarst

Los Angeles– YAMMA Pit Fighting (YPF), a new mixed martial arts (MMA) organization created by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) founder Bob Meyrowitz, announced the final details of the organization’s first live pay-per-view event. The event, comprised of an eight-man tournament for the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion and two ‘Masters Superfights,’ will air live from the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City on April 11, 2008. Tickets for the event will go on sale March 8 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the Trump Taj Mahal Box Office from March 9 onwards. The live pay-per-view broadcast is available in the United States and Canada through In Demand Networks, TVN Entertainment, Bell ExpressVu, Viewer’s Choice Canada and Dish Network.

The two ‘Masters Superfights’ will feature Eric “Butterbean” Esch versus Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge and Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov versus Don “The Predator” Frye. The veteran fighters will face off in ‘Masters Superfights,’ one-on-one matches that feature some of MMA’s most illustrious and legendary fighters. The April 11th event will also showcase the skill and endurance of eight fearsome competitors in a tournament match. Tournament fighters include: Marcelo “Pato” Pereira, Sherman Pendergarst, Rex Richards, Tony Sylvester, Chris Tuscherer, Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff, Alexey Oleynik and George Bush. Jeff Blatnick will serve as a commentator for both the Heavyweight Tournament and “Masters Superfights.”

The April 11th event will unveil “The YAMMA,” an evolution of the traditional fighting structure that will change how the fight is fought and the strategy the fighters must use to win. This new “ring” has been specifically designed to keep the fighting more explosive and continuous.

“For YAMMA Pit Fighting’s inaugural event, we’ve brought together some of the greatest MMA veterans as well as some of the best emerging fighters,” said Bob Meyrowitz. “The event will demonstrate that these MMA legends still have a lot to teach and will also advance the tournament fighters towards legendary status themselves.”

Eric "Butterbean" Esch is a professional Super-Heavyweight boxer, kickboxer and mixed martial artist. Esch has held the title of IBA World Super-Heavyweight Champion, as well as the WWA World Heavyweight title. Esch stands 5 ft 11 tall and weighs 398lbs. He has a MMA record of 11 wins with 4 knockouts, 6 losses and 1 draw.

Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge, a UFC/Pride/K-1 veteran, was born in Trinidad & Tobago and now resides in Ontario, Canada. Goodridge is known for his devastating strikes and showmanship. He first turned heads in the MMA scene with his victory over Paul Herrera in UFC 8. Goodridge is also a top-ranked contender in professional arm wrestling. He stands 6 ft 3 in tall and weighs 240lbs and has a record of 23-15-1.

For the first time in over a decade, MMA will return to its origins by reviving the hugely popular tournament format, in which fighters will participate in multiple fights on their way to claiming the ultimate victory, the title of YAMMA Heavyweight Champion. The format will test the endurance and skill of each fighter, as victory in each round is rewarded not with extended rest, but with another fight. Tournament fighting has long been a huge draw for dedicated MMA fans due to the non-stop action provided by fight-after-fight formatting.

The two newly announced MMA fighters are:

Alexey Oleynik - a 6'1" 220 pound fighter on Russia's #1 team, Red Devil Sports Club, and an M-1 and Bodog veteran with an MMA record of 4-3-0

George Bush – a 6’ 1” 235 pound fighter from Columbus, OH with a MMA record of 5-0-0

The April 11th fight card is as follows:

MASTERS SUPERFIGHTS

Oleg “The Russian Bear” Taktarov VS. Don “The Predator” Frye

Eric “Butterbean” Esch VS. Gary "Big Daddy" Goodridge

8 MAN HEAVYWEIGHT TOURNAMENT

Marcelo “Pato” Pereira
Sherman Pendergarst
Rex Richards
Tony Sylvester
Chris Tuscherer
Travis “The Diesel” Wiuff
Alexey Oleynik
George Bush
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster’s extensive network of 81 ticket centers throughout the Delaware Valley including Boscov’s, Marshalls and select West Coast Video and Gallery of Sound locations or call Ticketmaster’s convenient Charge-by-Phone service at 1-800-736-1420. For Online Information: www.ticketmaster.com

YAMMA Pit Fighting will be available throughout the Unites States and Canada on pay-per-view. The April 11th live event will carried by In Demand Networks (virtually every cable pay-per-view system in the US – 38 million pay-per-view homes), TVN Entertainment (a leading supplier of on-demand programming & the exclusive provider to Verizon Fios & AT&T U-Verse – 7 million pay-per-view & VOD homes), Bell ExpressVu (the largest pay-per-view provider in Canada – 1.8 million pay-per-view homes), Viewer’s Choice Canada (over 1 million pay-per-view homes) and Dish Network (over 14 million satellite pay-per-view homes).

About Rope Partners

Rope Partners, formed by Bob Meyrowitz and Peter Kauff, have over a 20 year track record of pioneering successful ventures in the music, broadcasting and sports industries. As illustrated by their successes in building the largest independent radio syndication company, DIR Broadcasting, The College Television Network, the largest private television network in the United States, and Semaphore Entertainment Group the originator and founder of the UFC.
For more information, visit www.yammapitfighting.com
FIGHTER LINKS
Butterbean- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eric_Esch- Wikipedia
Goodridge- http://www.garygoodridge.com/index.html - official website
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

INTERNATIONAL FIGHT LEAGUE, ALFRED HABER DISTRIBUTION ANNOUNCE ADDITION OF MALAYSIA TELEVISION TO THEIR INTERNATIONAL BROADCAST LINEUP

NEW YORK– The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) and Alfred Haber Distribution (AHDI) today announced that Media Prima Berhad, the largest integrated investment group in Malaysia and the owners of Malaysia Television stations TV3, TV8, NTV7 and TV9, will begin showing “IFL Fight Night” on a weekly basis beginning in 2008 “We are very pleased to be add another international television partner to the fold,” said IFL CEO Jay Larkin. “The Far East and the Pacific are hotbeds for the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, and it will be great to partner with Malaysia TV to expose our brand of fighting in a ring to a growing audience.: Malaysia TV joins an ever-growing international TV lineup for IFL programming, which includes HBO Latin America, HDNet and FSN in the United States, MBC in the Middle East and parts of Africa, Star TV in Asia, CanWest Global and Fox Sports Canada in Canada, EGO in Israel, TV4 in Sweden and Armed Forces Television worldwide, among others. IFL programming reaches over 300 million homes worldwide. About Alfred Haber Distribution, Inc. ALFRED HABER, INC. and ALFRED HABER DISTRIBUTION, INC., established 39 years ago, together form the world's largest distributor of U.S. Network (CBS, ABC, NBC and FOX) reality, music and event specials, and are major independent distributors of reality and documentary series, mini-series and made-for-television motion pictures for the U.S. and the international television marketplace. More information is available at www.alfredhaber.com. About the IFL International Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv. ---“Fortune may have yet a better success in reserve for you, and they who lose today may win tomorrow.”- Cervantes
Catch the IFL on FSN Sundays at 5 p.m. and LIVE on HDNet on April 4 and May 16
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On Nabaté's TV/Webcast Show Tonight‏

On Nabaté's TV/Webcast Show Tonight‏an interview with one of America's up-and-coming filmmakers, Pete Chatmon. His critically-acclaimed debut feature, 'Premium' has been airing on Showtime and Starz. He's an insightful artist and you'll see why tonight.

Every Wednesday

March 5-Guest: Pete Chatmon, Writer/Producer/Director for Premium
on'So Much to Talk About' @ 9pm (Eastern Time)

Channel 57 (Time Warner-Manhattan Cable)
Channel 84 (RCN-Manhattan Cable)
Streams LIVE: www.mnn.org, click 57/84 link

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DAVID DIAZ HOSTS CHICAGO OPEN WORKOUT TOMORROW THURSDAY, MARCH 6TH— 12NOON, JABB BOXING GYM

CHICAGO, IL, (March 1, 2008)—World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz will host his only open workout on Thursday, March 6th at JABB Boxing Gym (410 N. Oakley, Chicago, IL 60612) beginning at 12 NOON CST.

Diaz is currently training for his battle with Ramon Montano set for Saturday, March 15th at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., which will be broadcast live as part of UNFINISHED BUSINESS, headlined by the highly anticipated rematch of JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ and MANNY PACQUIAO for the WBC and vacant Ring Magazine Super Featherweight World Championship.


Said Diaz, “The Chicago fight fans and media have always been very supportive and I’m glad to open up my workout to them on Thursday. We had a big crowd at our last one before the Morales fight and it was great to see everyone.”

Chicago native Diaz brings a record of 33-1-1 (17KO’s) into the bout with Las Vegas resident Montano, 14-3. In his last bout, Diaz defended his title in an epic battle against boxing legend Erik Morales on August 4, 2007 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, before 10,000 Chicago fight fans.

The fistic debate about which fighter is the best finally will be settled when World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ defends his title against three-division world champion MANNY PACQUIAO in a 12-round battle for pound-for-pound supremacy.

Promoted by Top Rank Inc. and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with Romanza Boxing Productions and MP Promotions, Marquez-Pacquiao II will take place Saturday, March 15 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.


Tickets for Marquez-Pacquiao II,priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are on sale at the Mandalay Bay box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Macy's 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 Mandalay Bay (702) 632-7580. Tickets are also available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com



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“MIGHTY MIKE” ARNAOUTIS AND VINNY MADDALONE SHARE CENTER STAGE IN MANHATTAN

New York- Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will feed the insatiable appetite of the boxing world with a fight card that is too hot to handle, featuring two of Star Boxing's titans in Co-Main Events. “Mighty” Mike Arnaoutis (17-2, 9 KO's) the Pride of Greece, collides with Dominican power puncher Harrison Cuello (15-5, 11 KO's) in a 140-pound contest for the USBA Junior Welterweight Title. As an added attraction fan favorite, heavyweight Vinny Maddalone (28-4, 20KO's) once again steps through the ropes to show all why he is New York's most exciting boxer, All the action takes place on Thursday, March 6th at the Grand Ballroom of The Manhattan Center in New York City,

“I'm thrilled to be able to have two of our fan favorite fighters on the same show” stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO of Star Boxing. “This card will be a signature Star Boxing event, as both will have their fans yelling and flags waving. Ethnic pride always makes for exciting fights. Since Arnaoutis wants another World Title fight and Maddalone always leaves everything in the ring, we expect a FANtastic night of boxing on March 6th” DeGuardia added.

“Mighty” Mike has been thrilling boxing fans for years since turning pro in 2001, and has compiled an impressive record that includes six first-round knockout victories, two of which were against previously undefeated veterans.

Arnaoutis won over thousands of boxing enthusiasts in November of 2006 when fought for the WBO junior welterweight Championship against Ricardo Torres on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao-Erik Morales III. In a fight that rivaled the main event for excitement, Arnaoutis had the crowd on their feet when he put Torres on the canvas in the seventh round from one of his disastrous punches. Arnaoutis continued his onslaught for the remainder of the fight, seemingly winning the Championship of the World that night.

Unfortunately, the split decision went to Torres. Even though two of the judges did not see the close fight in Arnaoutis' favor, “Mighty” Mike had gone up against Torres who had given Miguel Cotto the toughest fight of his career, and it was there that the 28-year old Greek native proved he had the heart of a lion, willing to mix it up with anyone stepping in his way.

In Harrison Cuello, “Mighty” Mike will be facing an opponent with impressive power and stamina. Cuello has experience in both the sweet science and as a kick boxer, and has shown he is willing to take on the best, even on short notice. Last year, Cuello faced former WBA and WBO junior welterweight champion Randall Bailey on two-day's notice, knocked out hot prospect and local favorite Edgar Santana in the third round, bringing an end to Santana's 5-year, 16-fight win streak.

When the bell rings on March 6th, those in attendance will not be surprised to see Arnaoutis and Cuello start the war against each other in the same place it is certain to end: in the middle of the ring.

The fight fans in attendance at the Manhattan Center on the night of March 6th will also be treated to a heavyweight battle with the exciting Vinny Maddalone in the co-main event of the evening. Having been in the ring with the legendary Evander Holyfield and cherished by fans and boxing experts for his wars with Brian Minto, Maddalone is certain to give the fans what they have came to see as none of his knockout victims have ever been past the fifth round. This will be one show you do not want to miss!


STAR BOXING RESERVES THE BEST SEATS FOR YOU!
Consistent with Star Boxing's commitment to providing our loyal fans with the best seats in the house, we have reserved the best seats in every price category $102, $52 and $32. Star Boxing is holding these prime seats exclusively for our mailing list subscribers for 3 days, before being released to the public.

Contact: Dottie Raven- 718-823-2000.
draven@starboxing.com - www.starboxing.com

Tickets are fan friendly priced at $102 Ringside, $52 and $32 General Admission and are available at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling (212) 307-7171 and at all other Ticketmaster outlets. Additionally, tickets can be purchased directly from Star Boxing call (718) 823-2000 or visit http://www.starboxing.com




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SANTANA TO SHINE WEDNESDAY NIGHT; DBE Spanish Harlem Junior Welterweight wants Salita

NEW YORK- Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana (22-3, 14 KO’s) is looking to take the next big step in his quest to be a major player in the junior welterweight division. The DBE Spansh Harlem Junior Welterweight will face a tough, veteran test when he goes up against Grover Wiley (30-10, 14 KO’s) Wednesday night at DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing card at Grand Ballroom at Manhattan Center. “Santana has been diligently training and looking sharp for his return to Broadway Boxing,” said manager Ernesto Dallas.



Santana is looking to rebound and “is on the comeback trail since his disappointing loss in June and is ready to show that one bad night does not derail a career,” said Dallas. “Santana is still an emerging force in the Junior Welterweight division. It is a testament to our faith in Santana that we are going to fight Grover Wiley as a comeback fight. This is the same Grover Wiley who fought Dmitriy Salita and went the distance with him as a main event.”



Team Santana knows exactly who they have their sights set on for the future. “I want to invite all fans to come out to the Manhattan Center on March 5th and see Santana’s performance against Wiley and compare to what Salita looked like against Wiley,” said Dallas. “I also want to extend a personal invitation to Dmitriy and the rest of Team Salita to come out and watch a real fighter at work. There will be ringside seats waiting at the door coutesy of Edgar Santana. Team Santana doesn’t take on bums! Salita was too scared to fight us on HBO last year. Maybe after Santana’s performance with Wiley, Salita will grow a pair and step into the ring with Edgar and try to justify his ridiculous #3 ranking by the WBA!”

The Santana/Wiley matchup will be apart of a great night of fights headlined by the rematch between Gary “Kid” Stark (20-2, 8 KO’s) and Andres Ledesma (14-7-1, 9 KO’s). Also on the card will be DBE Bronx heavyweight Israel “King Kong” Garcia (18-1, 10 KO’s), Puerto Rican native Joel Torres (8-0, 5 KO’s), Brooklyn Junior Middleweights Ariel Espinal (6-2-1, 2 KO’s) and Raymond Biggs Jr. (7-0, 6 KO’s), Queens native Joselito Collado (1-0), and featherweight Tracey Hutt making her pro debut out of Island Park.

Tickets for Broadway Boxing priced at $150, $100, $80, $60, and $40 are currently on sale. They are available by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. For more information on Broadway Boxing, please visit DiBella entertainment on the web at www.dbe1.com.
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In Celebration of Woman's History Month, Memorial Baptist Church Presents; "Living and Moving In The Spirit" Praise Dance Celebration

In Celebration of Woman's History Month, Memorial Baptist Church Presents; "Living and Moving In The Spirit" Praise Dance Celebration, w/ Dr. Renee F. Washington Gardner, Senior Pastor, on Saturday March 15th, 2008
boxing entertainment fight sports mixed martial arts special events sports worldwide

Boxing Legends to Attend Historic Fight In Mexico on Saturday March 8

Larry ‘The Easton Assassin’ Holmes, Ken Norton, Gerry Cooney, Thomas ‘Hitman’ Hearns, Roberto ‘Hands of Stone’ Duran and Saoul Mamby; Join Promoter Don King for the First-Ever Heavyweight Championship in Mexico

CANCUN, Mexico—Promoter Don King is pulling out the stops on Saturday to make sure the first heavyweight championship ever staged in Mexico is a star-studded affair.


He announced today that boxing legends Larry “The Easton Assassin” Holmes, Ken Norton, Gerry Cooney, Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, Roberto “Hands of Stone” Duran and Saoul Mamby will all join him ringside when World Boxing Council heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev squares off with WBC interim heavyweight champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter on Saturday night at Plaza de Toros in Cancun, Mexico.

“I love Mexico and I love the Mexican people so it’s only fitting that some of biggest names in the sport of boxing are here to witness history in Cancun,” King said. “Mexico has contributed some of the best boxers ever to our sport but a world heavyweight championship has never been decided here.

“Cancun has fully recovered from the devastation of hurricane Wilma in 2005 and is now a better-than-ever First Class resort destination capable of hosting an event of this magnitude.”

King and his posse of ring legends will also take in a second world championship when undefeated World Boxing Association, International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organization lightweight champion Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz takes on IBF No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell.

Former two-time world champion Jose Luis Castillo will meet undefeated No. 1 contender Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley in a WBC super lightweight elimination bout, and former two-time WBA heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz is in a WBC qualification bout opposing Jameel “Big Time” McCline.

Tickets priced at $1,000, 500, $300, $150, $100, $70, $50 and $10 are on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets including www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster in Mexico at +5255 5325 9000. Both fights will be televised live in America on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at

9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT. “History in Cancun” is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Duva Boxing, Pepe Gomez Promotions and One Punch Productions.

King also praised the governor of Quintana Roo, the state inside Mexico that Cancun is located in.

“Quintana Roo Governor Felix Gonzalez Canto is a visionary and a true representative of his people,” King said. “Without his help and guidance, Mexico would not be hosting its first heavyweight championship on Saturday

●
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.

Dino Duva, the president of Duva Boxing, has promoted great fighters and great fights during four decades in boxing. Growing up in a renowned boxing family, the Duva name has become synonymous with excellence in the fight game as the “First Family in Boxing.” Working closely with his Hall of Fame father, Lou, and his late, great brother Dan, Duva has been involved in the promotion of over 100 world championship fights including such titlists as Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Pernell Whitaker, Arturo Gatti, and Mark Breland. Duva is presently the promoter of Samuel Peter, regarded by many as the top young heavyweight contender in boxing.
Alan Hopper
Don King Productions
Event Page: http://www.kevincalero.com/donking/event%5F3808/

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Puerto Rican newcomer Gadiel Andaluz will return to the Cicero Stadium squared circle on Friday, March 14th at MARCH BADNESS

Puerto Rican newcomer Gadiel Andaluz will return to the Cicero Stadium squared circle on Friday, March 14th at MARCH BADNESS, another evening of world class professional boxing presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING.

Andaluz thrilled the packed Cicero Stadium crowd making his pro debut on January 25th with a devastating third round knockout of Marsay Buggs, a video of which can be viewed on Youtube.com

The hard punching Andaluz is scheduled to battle fellow Chicagoan Nick Arellano, 1-2 in a four round lightweight bout. Arellano is coming off a four round decision victory over Greg Dziubek on February 1st in Chicago.

Said Pesoli, “Gadiel looked terrific in his pro debut and our fans really
enjoyed seeing his performance. He’s been working diligently at JABB since he arrived back in Chicago six months ago and we’re very happy to have him back on MARCH BADNESS.”

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

Tickets for MARCH BADNESS are available in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions offices at 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie, just minutes from the Eisenhower and Stevenson Expressways. Doors for this event will open at 5:30pm with the first bell at 6:30pm.

The full MARCH BADNESS card is as follows;

Javier Jauregui vs. Miguel Huerta, twelve rounds, lightweights
Brandon Rios vs. Alvin Brown, eight rounds, lightweights
Victor Polyakov vs. Derrick Findley, eight rounds, middleweights
Leo Martinez vs. Jose Navarette, six rounds, lightweights
Gadiel Andaluz vs. Nick Arellano, four rounds, lightweights
Eric Estrada vs. TBA, super bantamweights

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit http://www.8countproductions.com/ and http://www.jabbboxinggym.com/

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit
http://www.toprank.com/

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions
http://www.8countproductions.com/

2-time world heavyweight champion John Ruiz' fight Saturday night against Jameel McCline in Cancun; Ruiz fighting to position himself for one last run

CANCUN, Mexico– Two-time World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (42-7-1, 29 KOs), rated No. 3 by the WBA and No. 5 by the WBC, fights veteran Jameel “Big Time” McCline this Saturday night on the Oleg Maskaev-Samuel Peter card in Cancun, Mexico.


Ruiz, who broke Las Vegas-based training camp Sunday and flew to Cancun with his head trainer, Manny Siaca, Sr., has positioned himself for one last title run and a win Saturday against McCline will put him in line to challenge in the WBC and WBA.

“We’re (Ruiz and McCline) not old fighters but we seem to be the last from our group that’s talked about as title contenders,” Ruiz said. “I don’t know why anybody’s talking about the Klitschkos anymore, especially after that joke of a fight last week. Everybody seems to be looking for that up-and-coming heavyweight who is supposedly going to save the heavyweight division. None of these guys have proven anything, yet. McCline is a veteran of a lot of boxing wars like me.”

McCline (38-8-3, 23 KOs) is a 4-time world title challenger, currently rated No. 9 by the WBC and No. 13 by the WBO, who has defeated former world champion Shannon Briggs.

Jameel “Big Time” McCline



“McCline put on a great show against Peter even though he fell short,” Ruiz noted. “He still has it and I’m looking forward to fighting him. We’re both willing to go toe-to-toe. I’m glad to be fighting in front of a Latin crowd and I know it’s going to be a tough fight.”

In his last three fights, Ruiz has reverted back to the aggressive fighter he was when he first captured the world title in 2001, but two of those bouts were in Europe and the other off television, leaving American boxing fans still with the image of Ruiz clutching and grabbing.

“I’m tired of talking about the new John Ruiz,” the first and only Hispanic heavyweight champion of the world remarked. “I can’t change people’s minds without them seeing me fight. I need more action, less talking about it, and I intend to show them in the ring. I’ve blocked that talk out for this fight.

“It’s my last hurrah. The heavyweight division is wide open and it needs somebody to step-up and take charge. The statement I want to make Saturday night is I’m that heavyweight. That’s why I brought in Manny, trained very hard, and have gotten so mentally focused. I’ve talked less about it with reporters, but fans there in Mexico will see the new John Ruiz for themselves.”

Ruiz, who has fought in 11 world championship fights (including one interim and one eliminator), has beaten three world heavyweight champions -- Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – as well as top contenders Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo and Kirk Johnson during his 15-year pro career.
CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

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NO HOLDS BARRED: Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo on the Fight of the Year: Vazquez-Marquez 3

NO HOLDS BARRED: Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo on the Fight of the Year: Vazquez-Marquez 3

http://nhbnews.podOmatic.com/entry/eg/2008-03-03T14_20_53-08_00

On this edition of NO HOLDS BARRED, host Eddie Goldman speaks with our colleagues Charles Farrell and Frank Lotierzo of The Boxing Standard (http://boxingstandard.com/).

Our lengthy discussion focuses mainly on this past Saturday's thrilling rubber match between super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez and former world champion Rafael Marquez, won by Vazquez by split decision. We analyze this fight, what it means for boxing, how the American boxing media once again largely blew this story, and more.

To listen to NO HOLDS BARRED, click the link at the start of this message, scroll down that page, and just press the play button on the player.

You can also download it by scrolling down that page and clicking on the download link (right-click to save it).

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.

The NO HOLDS BARRED theme song is called "The Heist", by musician Ian Carpenter (http://iancarpenter.com/).

Make sure to check out my regular weekly boxing show SecondsOut Radio, at http://www.secondsout.com/radio/. On this week's edition, we begin by reviewing the third, classic battle between WBC super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez (43-4, 31 KOs) and former world champion Rafael Marquez (37-5, 33 KOs), which took place Saturday, March 1, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. After splitting the first two fights, Vazquez won the rubber match by split decision in an early Fight of the Year front runner. Next, we preview another fight which will also take place at the Home Depot Center. On May 3, Oscar De La Hoya (38-5, 30 KOs), in what he says will be the first of the final three fights in his career, will take on Steve Forbes (33-5, 9 KOs) at a catch-weight of 150 pounds. Both De La Hoya and Forbes were on a national media tour last week, and we caught up with them when they were in New York. It is free to listen to SecondsOut Radio, but you must register to gain access to it. Just click here, http://www.secondsout.com/radio/, and listen, learn, and enjoy.

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.

NO HOLDS BARRED is free to listen to and is sponsored by:

YAMMA Pit Fighting (http://yammapitfighting.com). The producers of the original UFC and Live Nation (http://livenation.com/), worldwide leaders in live entertainment, present YAMMA Pit Fighting mixed martial arts. On the streets, it's against the law. In the pit, it IS the law.

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. 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/

The Boxing Standard
http://boxingstandard.com/

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



Enjoy!

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World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz

CHICAGO, IL,- World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David Diaz will host his only media workout on Thursday, March 6th at JABB Boxing Gym (410 N. Oakley, Chicago, IL 60612) beginning at 12 NOON CST.

Diaz is currently training for his battle with Ramon Montano set for Saturday, March 15th at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., which will be broadcast live as part of UNFINISHED BUSINESS, headlined by the highly anticipated rematch of JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ and MANNY PACQUIAO for the WBC and vacant Ring Magazine Super Featherweight World Championship.


Promoted by Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with Romanza Boxing Productions and MP Promotions, UNFINISHED BUSINESS will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay Per View, beginning at 9pm ET, 6pm PT.

Chicago native Diaz brings a record of 33-1-1 (17KO’s) into the bout with Las Vegas resident Montano, 14-3. In his last bout, Diaz defended his title in an epic battle against boxing legend Erik Morales on August 4, 2007 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, before 10,000 Chicago fight fans.

Vinny Paz vs. Micky Ward “Rumble at the River,” March 14 at Twin River Event Center

RI PROVIDENCE– Two popular blasts from the past, Vinny Paz and “Irish” Micky Ward, will be in opposite corners on March 14 as honorary captains of Team Italy and Team Ireland, respectively, for the Italian-Irish themed “Rumble at the River” pro boxing show at Twin River Events Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. “Rumble at the River,” part of “The Budweiser Night at the Fights” series at Twin River, is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in association with Twin River, Budweiser and Tournament of Contenders.

World super middleweight challenger “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo, Jr. (28-5, 13 KOs), star of The Contender I television reality series, headlines “Rumble at the River” against Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield (17-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event. Paz is a former 5-time world champion who won 50 pro fights, while Ward participated in three “Fights of the Year,” highlighted by his famed trilogy fighting Arturo Gatti. “Vinny Paz and Micky Ward are two of boxing’s all-time great warriors,” promoter Jimmy Burchfield said of the two charter members of CES’ Ring of Honor. “They have both kept their fires burning in boxing, Vinny as a television analyst and Micky as a trainer.

Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt Jimmy Burchfield and Peter Manfredo, Jr.
(photo courtesy of Emily Harney)


Many young fighters, especially in New England, are involved in the sport because they watched these two fighters in action. We’re thrilled that they are involved in ‘Rumble at the River’ as team captains. I’m very happy to call Vinny and Micky my personal friends. They know what boxing has done for them and they give a lot back to the boxing community. They’ll be available to pose for pictures and sign autographs. Our unbeaten heavyweight contender, “Baby” Joe Mesi, will also be there for fans to meet.”

Mesi ESPN Friday Night Fights In-Studio Guest Undefeated heavyweight contender “Baby” Joe Mesi (36-0, 29 KOs), who is slated to headline the April 4 ESPN2Friday Night Fights show at Twin River, will make his third appearance as ESPN2 FNF “In Studio” guest on this Friday (Feb. 29) night. Mesi will review the Joe Louis documentary, Klitschko-Ibragimov heavyweight unification fight, Pavlik-Taylor II and preview Vasquez-Marquez III.

IWBF lightweight champion Jaime “The Hurricane” Clampitt (18-4-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Cranston (RI) puts her belt on the line against veteran contender Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (23-20-3, 9 KOs), the GBU junior welterweight title-holder from New York City, in the 10-round co-feature. Clampitt is a 3-time world champion, while 20 of Larcuente’s last 21 bouts, dating back nearly five years, have been against world champions.

Belinda “Brown Sugar” Larcuente (L) and Mellissa, trainer

Stoughton (MA) cruiserweight Chris McInerney (9-1-1, 6 KOs) meets former New England title-holder Tim “The Hammer” Flamos (19-4-1, 7 KOs), of Brockton, in a six-round rematch of a bout McInerney won by sixth round TKO last December. Undefeated Russian middleweight Andre Nevsky (3-0, 3 KOs), of Worcester (MA), faces Eric Pinarreta (2-1, 2 KOs), of New Bedford (MA), in a four-round match. USBA No. 4 super middleweight Joey “KO Kid” Spina (20-1-1, 15 KOs), of Providence; light heavyweight “Irish” Joey McCreedy (6-1, 4 KOs), of Lowell (MA); unbeaten Lynn (MA) flyweight Isander Beauchamp (3-0) and Providence junior welterweight Diego Pereira making his pro debut are also on the undercard against opponents to be determined. All fights and fighters are subject to change. Manfredo, Spina, Flamos and Pinarreta are on Paz’ Team Italy; Benfield, Clampitt, McInerney and McCreedy are captained by Ward on Team Ireland. Tickets for “Rumble at the River” are priced at $35.00 (ADA stage seating only), $40.00, $50.00, (Bronze), $75.00 (Silver), $100.00 (Gold) and $150.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club) and may be purchased by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at http://www.cesboxing.com/ or http://www.twinriver.com/, at the Twin River Event Center (100 Twin River Road, Lincoln, RI), or any TicketMaster location. Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or Twin River Events Center (877.82.RIVER/ http://www.twinriver.com/) for more information. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET. (Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Rumble at the River.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

CONTACT: Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

Bob Arum’s Top Rank and Chicago’s 8 Count Prods presents; MARCH BADNESS, March 14th headlined by Javier Jauregui and Miguel Angel Huerta

MARCH BADNESS is headlined by an outstanding lightweight clash between former world champion Javier “EL Chatito” Jauregui and world ranked contender Miguel Angel “EL Anestesista “Huerta.

Tickets for MARCH BADNESS are available in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions offices at 312-226-5800. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie, just minutes from the Eisenhower and Stevenson Expressways. Doors for this event will open at 5:30pm with the first bell at 6:30pm.

Guadalajara, Mexico’s Jauregui, 52-14-2 (36KO’s) is coming off an eight round knockout of undefeated prospect Adrian Mora this past September 18th in Friant, California. Jauregui’s illustrious 20 year professional career includes wins over Leavander Johnson (TKO-11) for the IBF title in 2003, Jose Luis Castillo (TKO-10 twice) and Alex Trujillo (UD-12).

Huerta, of Mexico City, 26-8-1 (18KO’s), will be making his third Chicago appearance in the last two years, most recently knocking out former world title challenger Daniel Alicea in the third round on December 14, 2007 at Cicero Stadium. He is currently ranked #5 in the world by the World Boxing Council.

The co-main event of MARCH BADNESS features the return to Chicago of Oxnard, California’s undefeated lightweight prospect Brandon “BAM BAM” Rios, 15-0 (10KO’s) squaring off against Kansas City veteran Alvin Brown, who brings a record of 26-10 (12KO’s) into battle.

Rios’ last bout in Chicago was an outstanding eight round decision over Humberto Tapia on December 22, 2006 at Cicero Stadium. He is trained by the highly regarded father and son team of Eduardo and Robert Garcia.

The outstanding undercard at MARCH BADNESS features Chicago based fan favorites including undefeated middleweight prospect Victor ‘THE UKRAINIAN TIGER” Polyakov, 7-0 (6KO’s), sensational Puerto Rican lightweight newcomer Gadiel Andaluz, 1-0 (1KO), lightweight veteran Leo Martinez, 12-9 (5KO’s) and 19 year old super bantamweight prospect Eric “EL LOCO” Estrada, 3-0 (1KO) in separate bouts. More information on these bouts will be announced shortly.
Polyakov and Andaluz’s most recent knockouts are featured on Youtube.com

Along with Dominic Pesoli's 8 Count Productions and Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, MARCH BADNESS is presented by TCF Bank, Tecate Beer and AeroMexico, Mexico’s premier airline travel headquarters. The SOLO BOXEO TECATE broadcast will be viewed in 42 US markets and 70 foreign countries.

The Master of Ceremonies for MARCH BADNESS will be Lupe Contreras, the internationally recognized voice of Latino boxing.

8 Count Productions was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland. In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

To view the seating chart and poster for this event or for more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit http://www.8countproductions.com/ and http://www.jabbboxinggym.com/

For more information on Bob Arum’s Top Rank Incorporated, please visit
http://www.toprank.com/

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions