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Wednesday, June 22, 2011

City of St. Charles Hosts World Championship Weigh-In For Don King Productions "Show Me Something Great... in the 'Show Me' State"

The City of St. Charles, Mo., and its Mayor, Sally Faith, have rolled out the red carpet for Don King by hosting Friday afternoon's Official Weigh-In at their beautiful and historic downtown area supporting the boxing promoter's "Show Me Something Great... in the 'Show Me' State" world championship boxing event taking place on Saturday at The Family Arena in St. Charles.
Show Me Something Great -- YouTube Promo -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PApZuwtgHZY

“We hope everyone throughout the St. Charles County area will stop by the historic district to support Don King bringing this tremendous HBO-televised event to our community,” said Mayor Faith. “This is a great way to showcase the sport along with the city of St. Charles,” she added. “We’re also excited at the prospect of showcasing the fact that the city is NOT under water!” The Weigh-In event is free and open to the general public.

“This is the Show Me State, so I need the people in the St. Charles area to be present for my Weigh In to let everyone around the country know that St. Charles supports big events like world championship boxing,” Don King said. “The hospitality and outreach of St. Charles Mayor Sally Faith, The Family Arena and the citizenry has been heartwarming. I look forward to seeing everyone on Friday, June 24 in the St. Charles historic district.”
Promoter Don King will bring Devon Alexander “The Great” (21-1, 13 KOs) back to the St. Louis area on June 25 to face a significant test in his hometown from noted Argentine knockout artist and World Boxing Organization No. 3 ranked contender Lucas Matthysse (28-1, 26 KOs). King will support the Alexander-Matthysse main event with a history-making fight card that will mark the first time four world championships have been presented in Missouri during a single event.

Undefeated International Boxing Federation light heavyweight champion Tavoris “Thunder” Cloud (21-0, 18 KOs), from Tallahassee, Fla., will defend his title against IBF No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Yusaf “Mack Attack” Mack (29-3-2, 26 KOs), from Philadelphia; rising heavyweight Bermane “B-Ware” Stiverne (20-1-1, 19 KOs), from Haiti, will square off in a World Boxing Council heavyweight elimination bout opposing Ray “The Rainman” Austin (28-5-4, 18 KOs), from Cleveland; World Boxing Association cruiserweight champion Guillermo “El Felino” Jones (37-3-2, 29 KOs), from Colon, Panama, will meet undefeated WBC USNBC champion Ryan “The Irish Outlaw” Coyne (16-0, 6 KOs), from St. Louis; and IBF junior middleweight champion Cornelius “K9” Bundrage (30-4, 18 KOs), from Detroit, will defend his title against IBF No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Sechew Powell, from Brooklyn, N.Y.

The Weigh-In is open to the public, and Don King, Mayor Faith and additional St. Charles dignitaries will be attending.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Felix Sturm, Matthew Macklin, Mark Greenberg: EPIX Conference Call Transcript‏

Three-time middleweight champion FELIX STURM (35-2-1, 15 KOs), of Germany, makes his 10th defense of his WBA middleweight title against top-rated contender MATTHEW “Mack the Knife” MACKLIN (28-2, 19 KOs), of the UK, This Saturday! June 25. It will be televised Live to the U.S., from the Lanxess Arena in Cologne, Germany, exclusively on EPIX, the multiplatform premium entertainment service. EpixHD.com, will stream the fight live as part of a free two-week trial offer. The live broadcast and the live stream on EPIX and EpixHD.com, respectively, will begin at 5 p.m. ET.

As has become the custom, EPIX will once again present the closed-captioned simulcast of this world championship rumble on a jumbotron in Times Square (Broadway between 44th and 45th Sts.)

The EPIX broadcast team will include eight-time New York Emmy® Award winner and WNBC-TV’s lead sports anchor BRUCE BECK handling the blow-by-blow, former world heavyweight champion LENNOX LEWIS with expert analysis, and ESPN.com senior boxing writer DAN RAFAEL providing his unique views. Former top-rated middleweight contender “Ireland’s” JOHN DUDDY will be at ringside for live post-fight interviews with the combatants. Viewers watching the live stream on EpixHD.com will enjoy round-by-round blogs from Sports Illustrated’s boxing writer CHRIS MANNIX.

Mark Greenberg: This is EPIX second major telecast. We did a small one last month. We had tremendous positive reaction to the first fight that we did, the Klitschko-Solis heavyweight title fight, at which point on our website we had almost 100,000 people entering into our EpixHD.com website and watching the fight live from Germany.

And we were thrilled – despite a couple of technical glitches that went along the way -- but we were thrilled with what happened – with the reaction of what was there. We got some really positive responses online from people who at least had access to a great fight that they would not otherwise have had. We were willing to take a risk of doing a fight in the middle of the afternoon, in the middle of March Madness, basketball here. So we were really pleased.

We also televised the fight live in Times Square on a big Jumbotron. And we had a large audience of people who were watching it in Times Square , and we got some very, very favorable reactions.
It was the beginning of our process. The only person that was really, committed to us on our announce team was Lennox Lewis. Lennox did a great job. We're happy to have him onboard again.

We have subsequently expanded our team. We're really pleased to announce that Bruce Beck will be doing the blow by blow. Bruce has had a stellar career in sports journalism. He's done a number of things over the years, including being a franchise for the NBC New York station here, as its lead sports anchor. Bruce comes along with eight New York Emmy® Awards and a national reputation, and we're thrilled that he'll be working with us.

Dan Rafael, who did some work with us on the last fight, has officially joined the team as an analyst, along with Lennox and Bruce. And then outside the ring and doing some live interviews from Germany, “Ireland’s” John Duddy, who is a former top-rated middleweight contender, which we think will certainly round out what's there.

So we're really pleased on our announce team, but we're mostly pleased with the fact that we'll be doing Sturm versus Macklin. We think it's a brilliant fight for us to be televising. Again, we think that Saturday afternoon timeslot – you know, I grew up watching "Wide World of Sports" and Howard Cosell on Saturday afternoons on ABC -- I think it's a great time slot. We think it'll perform well. And we're thrilled to be part of this event.

We think it's a highly competitive event. Neither of these fighters has lost in five years. They've all reached a high level of their – of the middleweight class, and we're thrilled to be part of it. So we're glad that we could be the exclusive American outlet, and we're looking forward to the fight.

Felix, can you tell us how training camp is going and what you expect this Saturday
night against Mr. Macklin?

Felix Sturm:I think Matthew is a great fighter. He's strong. He's fast, tough. He's a smart guy. I think we all can expect a huge fight, a big fight, an all-action fight.

Matthew, welcome to the call. How's Germany? And how are you feeling as you approach your first world title fight?

Matthew Macklin: In Germany it’s raining – I was expecting better weather, but not to worry. I'm sure I can bring some sunshine on Saturday. Yes, training has gone really well. I'm excited, getting ready for my first world title shot. But, you know, I'm pretty experienced, as well. I've won the European title twice, won the Irish title, the British title, and I've fought some really good opponents along the way. And, yes, I'm just really looking forward to the fight now.

The training camp's gone brilliantly. The biggest fight of my life, you want it to be the best training camp of your life, and it has been. Also, I think the challenge of Felix will bring my game to another level. I'll have to be at my best, but no doubt I will be. And, yes, I'm really confident, really, really looking forward to it. And, yes, Saturday just can't come soon enough now.

Matthew, what concerns you the most in terms of your challenge with Felix?

Matthew Macklin: He's very experienced. He's always finds a way to win. He has a great defense, a very good jab, and I think that they're two things that when I've watched him on tape consistently jumped out at you with his left jab, his left hook, and, you know, also his defense.

He can also (inaudible) when he got hurt against Javier Castillejo in the first fight, he stood toe and toe and showed a lot of heart, also. So, yes, I mean, his jab and his defense are probably two things that first jump out at you.

Obviously, with it being in Germany , people say, you know, you're going to have to knock him out to get a draw. But I'm not really dwelling on that. I'm sure I'll get a fair crack at the whip.

So it's been a little bit of an interesting ride for you. At one point, you were going to fight Winky Wright on the undercard of one of the Golden Boy shows here in the United States. Winky pulled out because of an injury. Then you were going to get moved to fight on an undercard a week later. And then all of a sudden, this opportunity fell in your lap. So can you sort of take me through the ups and downs of your ever-changing schedule to culminate here with an opportunity to fight for one of the major world titles?

Matthew Macklin: Yes, of course. I'm one of those fighters – I'm prepared to fight anyone to prove what I believe that I'm capable of. I believe I can go all the way in this division. I think I can be a champion and stay there for quite a while and defend against all the other top guys in the division.

And, you know, the Winky Wright fight I was excited about. I thought it was a perfect name to just sort of launch me in America on a big Pay-Per-View card over there. I was gutted when it fell through, because I really saw that as a big opportunity for me to get my name out there.

But when that kind of fell through it looked that the Khoren Gevor fight was on, which I wasn't – it wasn't as good a fight as the Winky Wright fight, but he had fought Sturm before. He gave Felix Sturm a good fight. He also had a good fight with Arthur Abraham before getting knocked out and he’s a very good fighter in his own right. So it was still a good opponent.

And then we were waiting on the contract to be signed. We went back and forth a little bit. And then slightly out of the blue, the Felix Sturm fight comes up. Why take a tough eliminator when you get a straight shot at the world title, especially when it's one that you truly believe you can win?

You figure it worked out for the best, then?

Matthew Macklin: Yes, I mean, at the time, when you're disappointed and everyone says, "Don't worry, everything happens for a reason," you don't really see it that way, but luckily in this instance, that does seem to be the way it's worked out.

Felix, you're one of the bigger names in the middleweight division. People in the United States certainly are still aware of you because of the fight that you gave Oscar De La Hoya several years ago. Many people thought that you were the winner of that fight. But you have not yet come back to America since then, and there's always been sort of talk that you would come back here and now especially perhaps against a Sergio Martinez in the future or something like that. Can you talk about your own aspirations to
eventually bring your game back to the United States from Germany?

Felix Sturm: Well, of course I would like to come back in the U.S. and to fight there at the MGM Grand or Madison Square Garden, but I have to concentrate on Saturday’s fight against Macklin. That is what is most important to me and for my teammates. And I (inaudible) maybe one of (inaudible) my whole career and to come back in the United States. And (inaudible) and (inaudible) my mistake (inaudible) never come back to the U.S. I was always ready to fight the big names (inaudible) it was not my mistake. I was always ready to fight everybody. But (we understand) (inaudible) they (inaudible) and I think we're on the right way (inaudible) (90,000 people in the arena) (inaudible) 90,000 people. And I think we're on the right way.

And when I beat Matthew on Saturday, of course, we are planning to come back to the U.S. to fight (inaudible) everybody worldwide, because he has (inaudible) be the number one (inaudible) Matthew (inaudible) a guy (inaudible) in front of me (inaudible) this will be the next challenge for me (inaudible) and we can talk again (inaudible)

The decision went against you when you fought Oscar De La Hoya, the fact that a lot of people did think that you had won that fight – has that bothered you enough to maybe stop you from wanting to come back to the U.S. to fight?

Felix Sturm: No, I'm ready. I'm always ready to come back to the U.S. whole (inaudible) and to also (inaudible) like me (inaudible) from the judges, but I'm not scared to come back there. I'm not scared (inaudible) I think I'm a better fighter than I was seven years ago, and I think now (inaudible) to the fight (inaudible) somebody else (inaudible) fight (inaudible) I think (inaudible) because I'm now (inaudible) middleweight (inaudible) fight the best and I'm still ready to fight the best. I think there's (inaudible) huge fight (inaudible)

Do you think you're a better fighter now than the one that fought De La Hoya those
years ago?

Felix Sturm: Yes, of course. It was my (inaudible) Oscar De La Hoya (inaudible) also with (inaudible) so much experience. And there was a fight (inaudible) clearly by a knockout (inaudible) learned so much (inaudible) learned my lessons (inaudible) I think I'm a much better fighter than in the past, and, of course, I'm a better fighter (inaudible) great trainer, very, very smart, and he (inaudible) for us (inaudible) so much (inaudible) stronger and better fighter than in the past.

Felix even though people here in the U.S. don't get to watch you much, you've been very consistent fighting two and three times a year. Do you feel like you're back in rhythm after you were gone for – I think it was like 12 or 14 months when you came back to fight Giovanni Lorenzo? You fought Hearns, and now you're
going basically a few months after with Macklin. Do you feel comfortable back in your
rhythm of two, three fights a year?

Felix Sturm: Yes, I feel very comfortable with three fights in a year. I'm a fighter who needs activity who needs to fight every four months. I think having a fight every four months keeps me sharp and (inaudible) and I think for me, it's good (inaudible) because I can (inaudible) and then I can (inaudible) preparation, and I think (inaudible) see a big difference (from the) first to the second fight (inaudible) come better and better (inaudible) and hopefully (inaudible) best performance.

For most of the media that remember you beating Oscar De La Hoya back in 2004, they
remember your jab and your powerful jab is still in your arsenal, but I read some comment that you made about knowing or watching videos of Matthew and basically realizing that he does take time off or rest during rounds, and you were planning on hitting the body. Is that still the plan or – obviously, it's not something you're not willing to talk about?

Felix Sturm: You know, no (inaudible) best weapon. And I think (inaudible) for this fight, and (inaudible) make some new things (inaudible) I think (inaudible) three or four (inaudible) we both will show, and then after the fourth or fifth round, you will see who has the best game plan.

But I think, of course, my jab and my body shots, those will be the key for the success. And my (inaudible) I'm ready to fight on (inaudible) from the first to the last second and can make (inaudible) and I think this will be the best weapon (inaudible)

But (inaudible) need to see what Matthew will show us (inaudible) we think we all know what will happen (inaudible)

Matthew, you're not only fighting the champion, but you're basically fighting him in his backyard. You talk about having to get a knockout in order to get the draw, but also the fans maybe – the fans or the so-called experts (inaudible) see you as a big underdog. Is that something that you use in your training as an inspiration or something to push you a little harder, for this Saturday night?

Matthew Macklin: Yes, definitely. I mean, I have always respected Felix – this is his third reign as world champion. Like you say, he's beat some big names in the division. This is my first world title shot, so it's only natural he's going to be the favorite. But I'm twice European champion. I've beaten some good fighters. And to be honest, when I've had the best performances in my career is when I'm been in against the best fighters.

For fighters not at my level I kind of drop my standard to their level, and I've not performed to the best of my abilities. But when I've been up against it or I've (gone in as) an underdog or it's seen as a 50/50 fight, that's when you usually see the best of me. So, I'm looking forward to it. I've trained hard, and it’s all gone well. I feel like that it's been the best camp of my career so far, and I'm looking forward to shocking a lot of people on Saturday night.

Matthew, what was your toughest win in your career so far? And what did you learn about it?

Matthew Macklin: I'm not sure. My last fight was a tough win. I didn't perform well, really. And to be honest, I thought it would be a fight that would be a lot easier. A few things went wrong in preparation. I had a flu, caught the flu eight weeks out, so that shortened the camp down to six weeks straight away. And then I came down with a bit of a chest infection the week of the fight.

I mean, I was OK the weekend of the fight, but I think the effects of it took a bit out of me. I didn't feel strong or powerful as I normally would. I got caught badly over the left eye. I was bruised (inaudible) so kind of – it was hard knowing, you know, in a fight feeling flat as early as the third and fourth round, where I didn't feel like I had much energy, I didn't feel strong, but I had to grip my way through it, I had to be clever in other parts. A few rounds I just had to nick. But, you know, the thing was, I found a way to win not feeling well, so that was a tough win.

Did you learn anything about yourself that way?

Matthew Macklin: Yes, well, I knew – I mean, I beat Ruben Varon who's not a bad fighter, but to beat him when I wasn't in the best of health, it showed me that I'm way (beyond the level) (inaudible) probably didn't look that way, because he gave me a tough fight, so (inaudible) maybe it looked like that's the level I was at, but I know the background situation. So, from that (inaudible) I can feel like that and still win, that's a good sign.

Felix, what was your toughest win? And what did you come away from that?

Felix Sturm: Well, of course, it was the fight against Oscar. And at this point, I was (inaudible) and I think my lesson this evening was (inaudible) but you never know what happens in the ring. And I think (inaudible) title (inaudible) and I would (prepare) (inaudible) and I think Matthew will be in the best shape of his life. And also (inaudible) think you can beat everybody in the world (inaudible) I become world champion (inaudible) I (inaudible) can beat everybody in the world, I'm the best, and I've learned my lessons. I (inaudible) and I go (inaudible) champion.

Matt, you said your best performance has come against the best guys that you fight. Is that because there's less pressure on you because you're not expected to win them?

Matthew Macklin: I'm not sure if that's the reason. I think it's more a case that you just have nerves before a fight, but the nerves make me perform better. They make me sharper, my reflexes sharper. I react quicker to punches. I counter faster. And I even feel like I punch faster and harder. I think it just affects everything, and it makes me perform to the best of my ability. You can either rise to the occasion or you can drop your standards and sometimes drop to their level. And I think that when I know I have to be on my best, I lift my game.

Matthew Macklin: A couple hundred or few hundred fans are coming out to Germany. I'm not sure if it was 200 or a bit more, but there's a – you know, not so much when you think there are going to be 15,000 to 20,000 people in there, but I'm sure they'll make their presence felt.

Matthew, you know, you've had a lot of different trainers – Buddy McGirt, Billy Graham, Floyd Mayweather, now Joe Gallagher. You know, a lot of people would say that could be sort of a detriment, but at the same time, you can learn a lot. What's been your experience with having so many trainers?

Matthew Macklin: Well, like you said, there are pros and cons. You certainly get a different outlook. For example, Billy Graham tended to train you to be aggressive, to work the body a lot, to throw a lot of hard single punches, to be gung-ho-ish, really.

But on the other side of that, Buddy McGirt was very jab-oriented. Everything has to jab, lots of jabs. And you take a bit from each one. But it's good to be comfortable with the trainer and have faith in your trainer and be comfortable and be happy and familiar in your surroundings. All my best wins from a title point of view have come with Joe Gallagher, who I've been with for nearly three years now, so I'm pretty set up at the moment.

So you're always learning. You always take new ideas from people. But from a fight point of view, my last fights have been with Joe Gallagher and I've won the European title twice with him, and the British middleweight title. I think at the moment I have the best of both worlds.

At the press conference Saturday in Cologne, you said, we're going to see the best in you because it's a big fight. Have you held back in previous fights? Is that why you keep saying that, that we're going to see the best we've ever seen because it's a big fight?

Matthew Macklin: No, I've never held back. I've always been professional and trained just as hard for every fight. But I just think sometimes the nerves of the big fight makes you rise to the occasion. You rise to the top of your game, where sometimes, you know, you can try and tell yourself that -- this guy's really good and I'm up against it and I have to perform to my best -- but really, if you look at (inaudible) and you look at (inaudible) you know, I'm going to beat this (guy probably in third gear), and you're trying not to tell yourself that, but, complacency can creep in from a subconscious point of view. It's not something you're trying to allow creep in, but subconsciously it does, and you just drop to their standard, and you don't really perform to the best of your capabilities.

So Felix is going to bring the best out of you. You're kind of a boxer puncher. You're known for your pressure. You use your jab well. You put your punches together well. Do you see this being a distance fight? Or do you see it possibly being a knockout?

Matthew Macklin: I mean, who knows? I think I punch hard enough, if I hit Felix clean on the chin in the first round, it could be over. But at the same time, he does have a good chin. He has a very good defense. And so I do see it definitely going into the later part of the fight, but, you know, possibly, you know, over to points. It could be a 12-round fight. I've trained hard. I'm fit to go bell to bell for 12 rounds. So that's not a problem, anyway.

I think it's going to be a great fight. Whether it's three rounds or 12 rounds, I think Felix throws good punches. He sits in the pocket a lot. Like I said, he likes to put a lot of pressure on. He doesn't really run too much. He kind of stands his ground in the center of the ring, and I'm pretty aggressive. I throw a lot of punches. It could well be fight of the year.

Felix, you're a great technical fighter, hands up, very stiff, great jab. But you said that you're going to set a pace that you believe that Macklin cannot keep up. Are you going to be pressuring three minutes out of each round?

Felix Sturm: Yes, of course I’ll be putting on a lot of pressure from the first round. And I think (inaudible) this was always the key for me (inaudible) and I think (inaudible) how much pressure I can make (inaudible) makes him a little bit confused and this makes him a little bit crazy (inaudible) with my left hand (inaudible) my right hand. And I will say, I can make every single round (inaudible) like in the first round, and I think this will be the key for (inaudible) for me.

In the press conference in Cologne back on Saturday you said you expect a great fight on Saturday night, but you don't believe it will go the distance. Is that why, because you will put the pressure on him -- you're going to find that opening and knock him out?

Felix Sturm: Yes, hopefully (inaudible) of course (inaudible) when they go (inaudible) will be a close fight (inaudible) decision (inaudible) knockout, because I think this is the best decision for everybody (inaudible) no excuses (inaudible) see a knockout. And we are both good fighters. We can make a lot of pressure. We can fight. We can hit hard (inaudible) I believe we will see (inaudible)

You were able to avenge your other loss against Javier Castillejo. And I know earlier they asked you about Oscar De La Hoya. Oscar is probably not going to come out of retirement. If he does, he's not going to seek to fight you. Is there part of you that regrets not being able to avenge that loss?

Felix Sturm: (inaudible) no. It was for me a dream come true to fight Oscar and to fight in the States in front of so many (inaudible) people and the fight was on HBO. And I think from this point, from this day (inaudible) this (inaudible) give me more (inaudible) because that was seven years ago, (inaudible) fight Oscar, and they are still talking about this fight (inaudible) for me and (inaudible) for the most people worldwide (inaudible) and I think, you know, it's (inaudible) and (everybody want around him knows that) I've beat him and everybody knows (inaudible) decision (inaudible) because there was (inaudible) fight. And this was, (I think, a payday) for both fighters and (inaudible) and this is OK. What happened, happened. And I will not (inaudible) and when I can do it again, I will do it the same way.

So you're comfortable – in your mind, you beat Oscar, you just didn't get it on the judges’ cards?

Felix Sturm: Yes, yes, of course. Of course (inaudible) the guys in the U.S. and worldwide (inaudible) but (inaudible) because this fight has made me world famous, first Germany and then worldwide, all from fighting Oscar De La Hoya, who everyone saw me beat.

Your concentration has been on these European fights. And way back when the Klitschkos were available you were gunning for the Klitschkos. They went with HBO for various reasons. How disappointed were you to lose that opportunity?

Mark Greenberg: We obviously had discussions. We didn't think at this point in time it was the fight that we wanted to do. We were happy to do the Klitschko-Solis fight. We thought it was the right fight for us to do. That's not saying in the future we wouldn't welcome back those heavyweight fights, because we are still big fans. I'm sure they were a little bit more motivated by our participation in the last fight. That's OK. It's good for the sport. It's good for all of us. Competition is good.

I don't want to say that we're disappointed at all. I think there are lots of great fights. We're thrilled to have the Sturm-Macklin middleweight title fight, because we think it's going to be a very competitive fight and a good one.

Just coincidentally, both fights are happening in Germany at this point in time. I wouldn't say to you that every fight is going to be an international one. It's just sort of where it went. And we'll take it slowly. I don't think we're in a race to say we have to do 10, 15 fights a year. We're going to pick competitive fights that we think are meaningful to the fight fans.

Because your focus has now been swung over to the European scene, but yet your market, you know, with the film titles of EPIX, is obviously here in the United States. Why haven't you sought out some competitive matches here in the U.S. with better known American fighters? And no slight, of course, to Felix Sturm or Matthew Macklin. it's a great fight. But it's a fight that's really made for the hardcore fans, not for the
casual fans. How come you haven't come back here in the States and sought out something that's more American?

Mark Greenberg: Well, I don't know. It's been three months since we've done the last fight. I think this is just sort of happenstance that we've gotten here. I mean, we certainly are looking at where the fights can be. Some get presented to us, some don't.

I will say that boxing is probably one of those sports that truly has become a global sport. I would say 15 years ago Americans dominated the sport. I'd hardly say that today. And so I think you have to sit there and say, where is the sport? Where is the best in the class? And I think in this case, boxing has certainly changed its milieu, that it's largely a lot of international fighters from around the world. And look at all the different categories.

We're going to go do the right fights at the right moment, and that's where we've been so far. If we find the right fight that's here in the States, great, we're excited to do it.

I think the sport needs to find competitive fights like this. Just because there's one or two losses on a fighter's card doesn't mean they aren't great fighters. And I think this is a great example of where both Sturm and Macklin have developed themselves as competitive fighters, have taken on challenging fights, and this is a competitive fight.

I don't think it's great for the sport when you have these guys who are undefeated and they haven't had great match-ups, because the matchmakers are making sure their records end up unblemished. And we've seen a lot of unblemished fighters when they get to a competitive fight are not prepared.

So our view in life is, let's take these fighters, look at the ones that are really good fights, and show good match-ups. And when that happens for us, we can find those fights happening here in the United States, great.

But I will say to you, we had over 100,000 people trying to get onto our EpixHD.com website to watch the Klitschko-Solis fight. I don't think they cared that one was Cuban and one was German. I think that it was a matter of people saying that it was a competitive fight and were willing to come watch it.

And I think that's where we as people who are broadcasting and programming need to find things that consumers find to be meaningful. Otherwise, we just become the United States Boxing Association, and that's not exactly what we should be doing if we want to present the most competitive fights that we can find.

Is there anybody in the United States – if you win this fight Saturday -- you'd like to
fight, say, a Sergio Martinez or someone like that?

Felix Sturm: Well, of course (inaudible) for the most (inaudible) I would like to fight Martinez and show that I can beat the best in the world and – of course. I think (inaudible) middleweight for me (inaudible) against Sergio Martinez, but now my focus is on fighting Matthew Macklin, and after this fight, we can talk again about Martinez.

Is it important to you to make more of a name for yourself in the United States? Or are
you satisfied being the best European out there and – how do you feel about that?

Felix Sturm: Of course I'm happy with the situation right now -- one of the top fighters in European boxing and one of the biggest names in Germany. But I would like to come back to the U.S. because I had very good experience fighting in the U.S. against Oscar, and it was a huge, huge fight for me. And I would like to do it again. I’m always watching what happens in the United States.

Felix Sturm’s greatest attribute is obviously his jab. It's probably one of the best in the entire sport. How do you deal with that? And are you of the agreement that it is an excellent jab?

Matthew Macklin: Oh, it's an excellent jab, it's an excellent jab, but it's not an awkward jab. He doesn't shoot it down from his hip. It's a pretty orthodox, textbook jab. It's hard. It's fast. He gets a lot of rhythm off it, and he hooks off it well. He goes to the body off it well. And it's constant.

But you can always nullify the jab, especially if you've got a good jab yourself. I think sometimes I've neglected my jab in the past, and other fights I've used it really well. I'm pretty sure I'm going to match him for jabs and head movements. We've worked on a few things, and I've got a good game plan.

Obviously, that'll depend on what he does, but, you know, he fights pretty similar in most of his fights, so we're expecting a tough fight, but one we're very confident of winning.

Felix Sturm: Yes, of course. First of all, I would like to say hello to all my fans in the U.S. Hopefully they will see this great fight. And, of course, I would like to say thank you very much to EPIX for the opportunity to show my best and to show the fight in the U.S. And also, when I win this fight, we will go on EPIX again.

Matthew Macklin: Just to echo what Felix said a little bit. I'm looking forward to the fight. I think it's going to be a great fight. I think the stars are really going to come together. I think it's going to be a great fight to watch, could be fight of the year. And I'm delighted that it's on EPIX in the U.S. and I'm going to get the American exposure out of it. And, yes, there's going to be a new world champion on Saturday.

Mark Greenberg: I think it's going to be a terrific night of boxing. We're looking forward to it. And so if you can't get to Times Square , we certainly hope that you do go on to the Web site on EpixHD.com, which, you know, we think will be a great opportunity for fight fans to experience it. We know that we need to breathe younger life into the sport, younger viewers, and we know they all go to the web, and that's one of our major tenets. We've done it in movies; we're hoping to do it on boxing. So we're excited that it's going to be there.


EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Troy Ross hospitalized Off June 24 show in Canada

World cruiserweight contender Troy Ross is experiencing abdominal pains and has been hospitalized in Toronto, where he is undergoing precautionary tests. He has been forced to withdraw from fighting June 24 on the “Friday Night At The Fights” show at Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Ross (24-2, 16 KOs), a two-time Canadian Olympian, is the top-rated IBF contender at No. 3 (#1 and #2 are not rated), as well as ranked No. 5 by The Ring magazine, No. 14 by the WBA, and No. 15 by the WBC. He is expected to return to the ring in late August.

NABA Lightweight Champion Logan Cotton McGuinness (14-0-1, 7 KOs), rated No. 11 by the World Boxing Association, defends his title for the first time June 24 in the 10-round main event against Daniel “Canerito” Ruiz. “Friday Night At The Fights” is being presented by United Boxing Promotions in association with Hennessy Sports and Groupe Yvon Michel.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Friday, June 17, 2011

Kaliesha West vs Ava Knight- REMATCH; June 18th

June 18th, Kaliesha will be defending her title against one of the top ranked fighters in women's boxing Ava Knight.

Kaliesha West will be defending her WBO Female Bantamweight title at the Pico Rivera Stadium on June 18th against Ava Knight.

If the name is familiar to boxing fans, it’s because she is the daugher of one of the best pound-for-pound boxers to step in the ring, Juan West.

If you missed it. Here is the link to KCAL9 news. Kaliesha preparing for her title fight this Saturday, June 18th at Pico Rivera Arena.

http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/06/13/kaliesha-west-returning-to-ring-after-serious-accident/

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix: Heavyweight Tournament Quarterfinals June 18th on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT


Strikeforce Heavyweights: News Update - Overeem vs. Werdum & Rogers vs. Barnett - SHOWTIME
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcsBYDTMEKM



This Saturday the STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix: Heavyweight Tournament Quarterfinals continue on SHOWTIME with the long-awaited rematch between Alistair Overeem and Fabricio Werdum along with the exciting match-up between Brett Rogers and Josh Barnett.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

IBF NUMBER ONE RANKED LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT YUSAF MACK PAYS HOMAGE TO LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT KING BERNARD HOPKINS‏

Next Saturday night in St. Charles, Missouri, Yusaf Mack of Philadelphia will attempt to follow in the legendary shoes of Bernard Hopkins and capture a slice of the Light Heavyweight championship as he takes on Tavoris Cloud for Cloud’s IBF title.

Mack of Philadelphia has been extra motivated by a man he calls one of his mentors as he watched Hopkins become the oldest man to win a major boxing championship when he won the WBC/Ring Magazine crown with his win over Jean Pascal on May 21st in Montreal.

“I have known Bernard for my whole boxing life and he was one of the guys who has given me pointers and helped me throughout my career and seeing what he has accomplished and in particular what he did to Pascal gives me that extra drive and inspiration that lets me know I can win this fight”, said Mack
Mack has a record of 29-3-2 with seventeen knockouts recently attended a ceremony where the Mayor of Philadelphia, Michael Nutter presented Hopkins with gifts and recognized him for his amazing accomplishment.

“That was amazing. I was and am so proud of Bernard and being at the ceremony I just kept thinking that if can accomplish some of those things, I can achieve the same. It starts on June 25th when I beat Tavoris Cloud and bring back that IBF Belt home. Ironically it the IBF belt that Bernard first won.”

“After I win on June 25th, The Light Heavyweight division will run through Philadelphia with Bernard and I ruling the division. This has been the best training camp of my life and if Tavoris thinks he is seeing the same guy who fought Glen Johnson, then that will be his problem on June 25th.”

Cloud against Mack is part of a big fight card that will be televised LIVE on HBO. EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Quest for GloryFighting Championships presents 'The Beginning' a night of epic battles in pursuit of 4 inaugural Titles in Mua; Friday, June 17th 2011

Local MMA Fighters battle it out this Friday! Quest for Glory Fighting Championships presents 'The Beginning' a night of epic battles in pursuit of 4 inaugural Titles in Muay Thai and MMA.
Canada vs. the USA, Mainland vs. The Island and many more exciting match-ups will be only a part of Friday's entertainment with pre-fight and half time performances by local multi-talented mixed martial artists Ragin Kajan Johnson.


EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

True ‘Homecoming’ June 25 in Holyoke for seven boxers

The June 25th pro boxing show in Holyoke, only the second there in the last 50 years, is a true “Homecoming” for seven boxers scheduled to fight on the card, presented by American Fighting Organization, at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke.

Three fighters from Holyoke and four from bordering Springfield are set to participate in “Homecoming,” which is the first pro boxing show in Holyoke since 2000. Boxing in this western Massachusetts city dates back to 1896. Rocky Marciano made his pro debut there in 1947 and other Hall of Famers such as Willie Pep, Sandy Saddler, Beau Jack, Sixto Escobar and Fritzie Zivic, along with world champions Tony DeMarco, Paddy DeMarco, Lou Ambers and Lou Salica, fought in Holyoke. “Iron” Mike Tyson won a Golden Gloves title there in 1984.

Holyoke’s veteran boxer Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (24-25-3, 11 KOs), who owns and operates Whitley’s Gym in Holyoke, returns to the ring for the first time in nearly four years. Never dropped in 52 pro fights, Whitley takes on Adam “Hitman” Harris (10-4, 7 KOs), of Worcester (MA), in the eight-round main event at a 190-pound catch-weight.

Holyoke favorite Joseph “Chip” Perez (5-1, 2 KOs), who learned to box at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holyoke, faces lightweight Kristian “K Smooth” Vasquez (1-0, 1 KO in the four-round co-feature.

The other Holyoke boxer on the card is light heavyweight Pedro “Tyson” Gonzales, who makes his pro debut in a four-round bout versus Randy “The Rattler” Campbell (3-5, 2 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts is Springfield light heavyweight Reinaldo Graceski (1-0) vs. pro debuting Delvery Wofford, Springfield welterweights Jose Angel “KO” Ortiz (4-6-1, 1 KO) and Noel Garcia (2-9-1, 1 KO) battle for local bragging rights, Springfield cruiserweight Jose Torres and Covon Graham make their pro debuts, as do New Haven bantamweight Nate Green and Philadelphia’s John Lowery, and welterweight Jair “Da-Bully” Ramos, of Waterbury (CT), who meets Robert Dortch (0-2). All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

New Haven Six to be showcased June 18 on ‘The New Generation Boxing Series’ in Hartford

Undefeated, highly-regarded junior featherweight Luis Rosa, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs) lead the New Haven Six into the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford this Saturday night, launching “The New Generation Boxing Series,” presented by Bulldog Cartel Promotions, Saturday night, June 18 at.

“This new series is all about Connecticut boxers fighting at home,” said former pro boxer and new Bulldog Cartel promoter Craig Salamone. “There are a lot of talented, young boxers in this state and our goal is to get them fighting at home on a regular basis in order for them to build fan-bases. We have six New Haven-based fighters on this show and our plans call for us to promote our next show in New Haven later this summer.”

The eight-round main event features two veteran cruiserweights sporting deceiving records, Joshua “Juice” Harris (7-4-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, and Harvey “Candy Man” Jolly (11-17-1, 6 KOs).

Undefeated Puerto Rican welterweight prospect Javier “El Chino” Flores (5-0, 5 KOs), now fighting out of Hartford, takes on veteran Shaka Moore (11-15-3, 2 KOs), of Norwalk, in the eight-round co-feature.

Rosa, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), who recently signed a promotional contract DiBella Entertainment, takes on dangerous Shawn “Bones” Nichol (5-4, 5 KOs) in a six-round bout. As a heralded amateur boxer, Rosa was a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion and 2009 USA Boxing National Championship silver medalist, which earned him a spot on the US National Boxing Team.

New Haven favorites such as lightweight Oscar Bonilla, junior featherweight Josh Crespo and super middleweight Charles Foster will all be making their pro debuts in four-round matches, respectively, versus Corey White (1-1, 1 KO) and a pro debuting pair of opponents, Frankie Garriga and Lee Snow.

Two other New Haven boxers are slated to be in action June 18: junior welterweight Carlos Hernandez (0-2) and undefeated super lightweight Christian Lao (2-0, 1 KOs), who will square-off, respectively, against Barrington Douse (0-1) and Javier Calderon (1-0, 1 KO).

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Former world light middleweight champion Vincent “The Ambassador” Pettway will be working the corners of Jolley and Snow.EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

David Hayemaker Haye's shocker: I'll KO Klitschko, quit with money and marbles

WBA heavyweight champion Britain’s David Haye takes on WBO, IBO and IBF heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko in one of the most anticipated fights of the decade.


David Haye will never do it, never. It’s impossible, really.

When he fights heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitschko July 2 before 50,000 in Hamburg, Haye certainly can upset the odds and lay claim to the throne.

Simply put, it’s a matter of Haye’s suspect chin (see super middleweight Lolenga Mock decking him in video, going way back to Sept. 26, 2003, not betraying him before he crack Wlad’s lantern jaw with some Hayemakers.

But upsetting Wladimir is not what many think is the impossible feat.

You see, in what may be the most intriguing storyline in boxing these days, Hayes continue to insist against all sensible arguments that, after he whips Wlad, he will retire from the ring on or before his 31stbirthday on Oct. 13.

One keen UK fight observer, Daily Mail pundit Lord Jeff Powell, told me Tuesday he thinks Haye is sincere and dedicated to fulfilling this somewhat odd double goal.

“I think David really means what he says,” Powell told me by phone from London. “He’s got a movie lined up after the fight. It will be shot in Miami, based on his life and he’ll play himself.

“David says he’s got big plans away from boxing so I see no reason to disbelieve him. He doesn’t waver on the retirement deadline or on how he will shock Wladimir.”

Powell, who just visited Klitschko and trainer Emanuel Steward at the champ’s Austrian mountaintop training lair, said he fancies the British Bulldog's chances.

“David’s got the punch to do it although we know how formidable Klitschko is,” the veteran columnist said. “I have an optimistic feeling. Maybe British boxing is on the upswing, first the continuing success of Carl Froch and Amir Khan in the lower weights and now Haye has the big opportunity. Haye winning a heavyweight crown would really be the icing on the cake.”

It’s nothing new, really, Haye has listed quitting while he’s still age 30 as a premier goal for a couple of years.

“I want to get out with two things, money and marbles,” Haye said as quoted by Pat Sheehan in huge tabloid The Sun on Nov. 15, 2010. “I don’t want to ruin my health.”

As bad examples of fighters who lingered too long, Haye usually mentions Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard and the still wobbling Roy Jones.

Klitschko, whose fellow champ and brother Vitali fights redoubtable Pole Tomasz Adamek in Poland on Sept. 10, is going to come out fast and aggressive, or at least Haye thinks so.

And the Hayemaker says he’d like a fast pace.


“I’ve got to put him in a dogfight real quick,” Haye said.

Haye had orginally planned to thump both Klitschko Brothers, then hang it up at age 30 but obviously Vitali won't face Adamek on Sept. 10 and then fight again the next month.

So Haye scratched the beating both brothers goal.

If Haye does both, whips Klitschko and then quits the ring, it will be one of the most fascinating fistic stories ever.

The smart money says he won’t win and then abruptly quit.

But, then again, the smart money is on Klitschko and his 49 knockouts in 55 victories.

Won’t it be fun if the smart money winds up looking stupid?

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

SHOW ME SOMETHING GREAT' - JUNE 25; Devon Alexander, Lucas Matthysse, Tavoris Cloud and Yusaf Mack

"Show Me Something Great... in the 'Show Me' State!" featuring former WBC/IBF 140-pound champion Devon Alexander vs. WBO No. 3-ranked Lucas Matthysse and four world championships--a first in Missouri history.

TAVORIS CLOUD: I have been training 8 weeks for this fight. My game plan going in is to win the fight.

YUSAF MACK: I am working in the gym and looking for a win. Tavoris is a rough fighter and I’m just looking for a win and a good fight. He brings it and that is the type of fighter I like to fight. We are going to give the fans what they want to see. Come the 25th at the end of the fight I am going to have my hand raised.

You have a recent common opponent in Glen Johnson. Does that have any bearing on this fight?

YUSAF MACK: It is just the style of fight. Going in, I thought Johnson was old but in this fight I will stick to my game plan to win. I took Glen for granted. I should have looked right in front of me and taken care of business. This fight is going to be different and I’m going to show the world.

TAVORIS CLOUD: I looked at it and initially I dismiss that fight but still keep it inside my head that if he starts to fold under pressure, I go about things as usual. I am not expecting the same fighter. He had time to learn from his mistakes. I am expecting a better fighter since he is fighting for a world championship. I am expecting the best Yusaf Mack we have ever seen.

How much did the Johnson fight do for you?

TAVORIS CLOUD: I learned a lot from that fight. It was a good win as far as my confidence. I never had a lock of confidence when it comes to boxing and maybe that’s the reason why I am undefeated.

What kind of performance do you envision?

TAVORIS CLOUD: I don’t predict knockouts. The outcome and the performance I am looking for is a victory, nothing less than a victory. I respect every fighter that gets inside of the ring, especially with me. We just have to see how it will work out and the fashion that the fight will be won in, I don’t know yet, but hopefully it is in great fashion.

How does it affect the mentality going into the fight as a favorite?

TAVORIS CLOUD: It doesn’t affect me and I don’t let it affect me.

How do you beat Cloud?

YUSAF MACK: I don’t have a strategy – just win.

PERCY CUSTIS, Yusaf Mack’s trainer): We have been watching Tavoris and we know he’s a great fighter. We know he’s in shape and we know what we’re up against. We will do what we have to do and make adjustments as we go along on the day of the fight. Right now we are working on a lot of things that we normally do and the rest is up to him. Tavoris brings a lot of stuff to the ring and we don’t know what he’s going to do that day. We know one thing, we are in good shape and we’re ready to go.

YUSAF MACK: I am on my game and just ready. I want to put on a good show and hopefully get a good win. Steve Cunningham and Eddie Chambers (who were in camp with Yusaf), they have all been there before and I’ve been there before and they are pushing me.

With Bernard Hopkins and Jean Pascal fighting is there added pressure for you to be added into that conversation?

TAVORIS CLOUD: I am not thinking about those fights right now. The only fight I am thinking about is Yusaf Mack on June 25th. Other than that, no other fight matters to me right now.

What are your aspirations in the division?

TAVORIS CLOUD: My plan is to stay in the division and running it, unifying the titles as much as I can. I’m not going anywhere for a while.

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, trainer and manager of Devon Alexander: I was training at this location [Colorado Springs] when I had Cory Spinks against Zab Judah in the first fight and you know how that turned out, so wait until you see this. We are in a town called Monument, Colorado. It’s about 20 miles north of Colorado Springs, 7500 feet above sea level. There are a bunch of ranches and farmland up here and it’s a beautiful place to train. I look out my window every morning and look at Pikes Peak. We didn’t run Pikes Peak, but we are at 7500 feet so we didn’t need that and we have had a great training camp.



DEVON ALEXANDER: It’s definitely good to be back. Training at the high altitude is great and the last time I was here was the USA Championships as an amateur. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday we run the trail and on Tuesday and Thursday we run a monster hill and it’s going pretty good. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday we are sparring and Tuesday and Thursday in the gym. So every day we are doing something hard. I am ready to rock and roll now.

ERIC GOMEZ, Vice President of Golden Boy Promotions: Lucas is obviously very excited for this opportunity. This is a great opportunity for him. He lost a very close decision to the IBF Champion Zab Judah. We know that Devon is a top-notch fighter and this is going to be a great fight.

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: I have been in Oxnard, California for two months and we are training out of the Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez training camp. This is a very important fight for me. It is going to be a tough fight. I have been training very hard and am in the last stages of preparation. This is going to be my last week of sparring. This is a very important fight, which I am dedicating to Argentina. It is great training here. It is my second time here. The first time I came over I spent three weeks for the Judah fight and I felt if I had been here longer it would have been better. So this time I have been here for two months and the preparation has been great. It’s tough training but I like it and it’s going to prepare me for this fight. Maravilla has been great and I’ve had the opportunity to train and spar with him a few times. He is one of the top southpaws in the game and it has helped my preparation and I’m very excited.

Have you gotten over the disappointment of the loss to Bradley?

DEVON ALEXANDER: No one likes to lose. I was upset for about a couple weeks but my coach was talking to me and it wasn’t like it was the end of the world. It’s not like Bradley dominated the fight. It was something I didn’t do. I didn’t follow the game plan. There were things I was supposed to be doing in the ring to come out with the victory and Bradley didn’t do anything that we didn’t prepare for in camp. It was all me and I definitely learned from that. Now I am back and ready to rock and roll. I just put it behind me and now I am 110%.

DON KING: We have the biggest show that has ever been in Missouri with four world title fights plus Devon Alexander “The Great” and Lucas Matthysse so we need to make certain the people get what they pay for and get what we promise. This event means a lot to me because I am a promoter of the people for the people and this is an example of that and that’s why I am appreciative of Kevin Cunningham who has been working with me and in the St. Louis area in the great state of Missouri. I have been in touch with the Mayors of St. Charles and St. Louis and the President of the St. Louis Board of Alderman to make this a real happening. It is going to take people like Devon Alexander, Kevin Cunningham as well as Eric Gomez and Lucas Matthysse to make this happen. And we have one of St. Charles’ own in Ryan Coyne challenging Guillermo Jones for the cruiserweight championship of the world, along with the guy that beat Cory Spinks, Cornelius Bundrage—they call him K-9—who is taking on Sechew Powell defending his title for the first time. We have a super hero who fought there before in Tavoris Cloud, the Thunder Cloud who is going to be defending his title against Yusaf Mack. And we put Cory Spinks back on who is looking for redemption from the loss to K-9. I will be arriving in St. Louis tonight (Tuesday, June 14) to work throughout the night of the fight. It means a lot to me to be turning 80 and have a birthday present and you bring these young men together to give them an opportunity to get them into the eyes of the world and it makes me feel good and not do it with knives or guns but with physical prowess and with understanding and love in their heart. They are going to go after it and do each other in. It is a great feeling for me and God bless America and it’s the greatest country in the world.

Talk about fighting in St. Charles.

DEVON ALEXANDER: It feels good and actually I will be fighting right around the corner from where I just moved. It’s going to feel good to get back in the ring in my hometown. My coach and I are preparing 120% to stay focused once we get there and will put on a spectacular performance for the fans in St. Louis.

Do you feel the loss was a blessing in disguise?

DEVON ALEXANDER: I hate to lose and even as an amateur I won every tournament I was in. That fight taught me I had to do what I needed to do, in any circumstance and any obstacle there is in that ring I need to get through it. I didn’t do what I was supposed to do and you saw the result of that. Whoever saw the fight saw that Bradley wasn’t better than me that night – it was all me and what I didn’t do. That’s why we are taking on a tough guy like Matthysse because the Bradley fight didn’t take anything out of me. It only motivated me to get in with the best and continue to fight the best. That’s why I am taking on one of the toughest guys in the division.

Lat time you fought here you thought you were distracted. What will happen this time?

DEVON ALEXANDER: At this point in my career every fight means everything. I have to stay focused no matter how high the stakes are or how low the stakes are, you have to stay focused and follow the game plan. At the end of the day it is going to be you and that guy in the ring and it’s who wins the game will win the fight. That’s what I learned.

Is Matthysse’s knockout power a concern?

DEVON ALEXANDER: Of course I will be concerned about whatever the other person’s strong trait is. We are prepared for that and ready to go 12 hard rounds. We know what we have in front of us and I am confident in my team that we have a strong game plan.

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: I call him Lucas ‘The Beast’ Matthysse. I think he’s a beast and he’s got the highest knockout percentage in the division and that makes him the biggest puncher in the division. We know exactly the challenge we have in front of us and this is exactly what we want. This fight is a lot more dangerous than the Tim Bradley fight. Devon has to be on his game. He is prepared and he has to be focused. These are the type of fights that if you want to claim you are the best in your division these are the types of fights you need to take on. A lot of guys think Maidana is the toughest guy in the division and I think it is Matthysse. He has a better punching style and better boxing skills. He is the most dangerous guy in the division and that’s what we are going to be dealing with n the 25th.

He knocked out Corley in short…

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: You are talking about Chop Chop and he is pretty much chopped liver. He is a strong guy and has a decent skill set. This is the type of guy that Devon will rebound with. Most guys coming off a loss are looking for an easy guy and that’s not what we are in business to do. We want to prove we are the best so we have to beat the best.

What did you gain from watching the Judah fight?

DEVON ALEXANDER: Nothing because he is not going to get the same thing he got from Zab with me. I think Zab is older and his legs are pretty much gone. I am fresher, younger and hungrier. I will be on him and throwing punches all night.

Does the criticism after your last loss weigh on you?

DEVON ALEXANDER: I am going to look spectacular. I learned from the loss against Bradley. I want to beat him and beat him convincingly. Not just go in there and it be an OK fight. I want to say ‘OK, I lost the Bradley fight but now I am back on top’ and be one of the best in the division.

Are there similarities between Judah and Alexander?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: I learned a lot from the Judah fight but this is going to be a different kind of fight because Devon is a much better fighter. He is a better boxer and throws more punches and he will be the best fighter I have ever faced. Martinez has given me tips. It is going to be a tough fight and I am very well prepared.

Did he spar with Brandon Rios?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: I learn from any fighter I go in and spar with. It was a great experience and I did very well against him. We both learned from each other. It was six rounds of intense sparring and it was a great opportunity.

Do you agree with Kevin Cunningham when he stated you are better than Maidana?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: It is due to my training. I train hard. There are a lot of good fighters in this division: Maidana, Kahn, Judah, Alexander. My main thing is I want to be included in the mix and this is my opportunity and I’m happy to be here.

Have you changed training in anticipation of this fight?

DEVON ALEXANDER: We didn’t change much. We added a little strength and conditioning but other than that I just got back to what I do best. We added the stuff I needed to be doing in the Bradley fight, just doing it right instead of going in there and just doing anything.

You are going into another guy’s hometown, Lucas. Does that make you nervous?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: No, I am not worried at all. I train for a knockout. I can’t worry about a decision and I can’t let it get to a decision and that’s what I have been working for.

Did you predict a round?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: I don’t like to predict rounds. That is not my job. If it does go the distance, I have to respect the judges and there won’t be a hometown decision.

Do you hear criticisms regarding the Bradley fight?

DEVON ALEXANDER: People want to criticize everything you do. People criticize Pacquiao, Mayweather or Obama, everyone that is at the top of their game. It’s part of the territory. I didn’t read anything after the fight. I just stayed to myself. I knew there was going to be criticism. I just stayed away from it and blocked it all out. I know what I’m capable of doing in the ring and it only motivated me to get back in the gym and get back on top. So it didn’t affect me at all.

Can you respond to the type of criticism?

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: I wasn’t surprised by it. I lay the blame on Devon and me and that’s where it should be laid. When you don’t go out and do what you’re capable of doing, you are going to get criticized. I accept the criticism, he accepts the criticism and we accept full responsibility for coming up short in a great opportunity that was before us, but I’m telling you we won’t come up short on June 25, and I believe this fight is going to be a lot tougher fight than the Bradley fight.

Did you ever think of taking a lighter fight?

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: If I thought that Devon wasn’t the real deal and exactly who we say he is, then I would think about taking a couple steps back and find a soft touch, but Devon is clearly one of the best fighters in the division, so we don’t need to look for a soft opponent. As far as the Bradley fight, Devon didn’t perform up to his capabilities, and Bradley got the decision, which he deserved, but if you look a the fight, it was a close fight, a back-and-forth fight, and when you see that and say that Devon wasn’t performing up to his capabilities, but it’s a close fight with the No. 1 guy in the division. It was a close fight and my guy is doing nothing he is capable of doing and I know that so there is no reason to take a step back. So that is why we are taking this fight and if Devon performs the way he is capable of performing and we’ll move on from there.

Did you start to slow against Judah?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: That was the game plan. I felt he was an older guy. In the first few rounds we had to work the body and then finish the fight strong and put a lot of pressure on him. The game plan worked perfectly and I won that fight. I thought I won the fight and the judges saw it differently and there is nothing to say about that. I learned a lot in that fight and one thing you can’t take for granted when fighting in another guy’s hometown you have to fight hard and challenge him every single second every single minute of every round.

Why didn’t you fight up to your capabilities against Bradley?

DEVON ALEXANDER: I didn’t do what I needed to do. I listened to the crowd and did what they wanted me to do which is just go out there and fight and that’s not how I do it. We had the perfect game plan throughout camp and we threw it all away in one night and that’s not good.

The Bradley fight is motivation because I know I am way better than Bradley and I let it slip out of my hands. After the fight a guy was telling me that Sugar Ray Leonard lost his first fight against Duran then he came back and knocked him out. That is motivation too. I am self-motivated in any situation but as far as this situation it just got me more motivated.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

DEVON ALEXANDER: I can’t say that I have a biggest inspiration because I look at all positive inspirations. My mom, my dad and my coach, too, inspire me. No one is bigger. I just use it all and take it and use it.

What is your biggest fight to date?

LUCAS MATTHYSSE: It would have to be the Zab Judah fight. It was a very important fight. Now this fight is going to be the biggest and most important fight, so I can demonstrate what I am capable of doing. I train very hard.

How do feel about being the loser in the Bradley fight and coming right back for a big fight when the winner has turned down a much bigger fight and is sitting on the sidelines?

DEVON ALEXANDER: I don’t know who is advising Bradley but coming off a big win and Kahn has a belt I would have definitely taken the fight. I don’t know what Bradley’s problem is and I heard they even upped it to $1.8 [million]. I want to get back to where I am in position to where I am fighting in Vegas. People promise fights and you never know what can happen. You have to take the opportunity as they come and I would have taken it. But everything happens for a reason.

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: You know how we operate. We make fights, we don’t turn down fights. We would have taken that fight but I don’t want to speak for Tim and his team because I’m sure they have a strategy. I can only speak for us, and if we had the opportunity, we would have taken it and hopefully for us if Devon beats Matthysse we get the winner of Kahn-Judah or something like that.

What did you want Devon to become more aware of when you went back to camp?

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM: You can’t prepare for Matthysse the way you prepare for Tim Bradley. They are two different fighters, and I think Matthysse is more dangerous. This guy is the biggest puncher in the division. For the most part, we got back in the gym and stayed positive and want to turn the Bradley negative into a positive on June 25. We got back in the gym and worked on the basics, and we’ll come out smelling like a rose.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.
EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

NABA Lightweight Champion Logan Cotton McGuinness headlines ‘Friday Night At The Fights’ Troy Ross returns for June 24 show in Ontario, Canada

NABA Lightweight Champion Logan Cotton McGuinness defends his title for the first time June 24th in the 10-round main event against Daniel “Canerito” Ruiz, headlining “Friday Night At The Fights,” at Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

The “Friday Night At the Fights” show is presented by United Boxing Promotions, in association with McGuiness’ promoter, Hennessy Sports, and Groupe Yvon Michel.

Hot, unbeaten prospect McGuinness (14-0-1, 7 KOs), rated No. 11 by the WBA, will be fighting at home where he won the NABA belt this past February, stopping veteran Hector Julio Avila (47-5) in the fourth round.

The only blemish on Cotton’s otherwise perfect pro record is a six-round draw 13 months ago with dangerous Walter Estrada, who holds victories against former world champion Nate Campbell and Verquan Kimbrough.

Ruiz (22-3-1, 16 KOs) will be fighting outside of his native Mexico for the first time. He is undefeated in his last five fights with four wins and a draw. He is the former Mexican Pacific Coast Featherweight Champion.

Two-time Canadian Olympian and world title cruiserweight challenger, Troy Ross (24-2, 16 KOs), fights an opponent to soon be determined in an eight-round Special Feature. Ross is the top-rated IBF contender at No. 3 (#1 and #2 are not rated), as well as ranked No. 5 by The Ring magazine, No. 14 by the WBA, and No. 15 by the WBC.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Georgia Boxing Championship July 15th at The Buckhead Theatre; Nicole Woods featured‏

Nicole Woods fights for a living and for a good cause.

Woods, ranked No. 4 in the light welterweight division with a 12-6-1 record, divides her time between boxing professionally and fighting fires in Fulton County.

“Being a firefighter gives you one of the best schedules to have if you fight,” said Woods, who has been responding to emergencies for more than a year.

The 32-year-old Brooklyn, New York native has been boxing much longer (seven years) than she has been fighting fires and even though the two professions are similar, in a sense, Woods got drawn to each in a different manner.

“After college, I still wanted to pursue something athletically,” said Woods, who attended South Carolina State on a basketball scholarship. “I was watching boxing on television and figured ‘hey let me go and give that a try.’ Because I was already athletic, I kind of picked it up pretty quickly and I’ve been doing it every since.”

However, putting out hazardous fires began by way of a personal recommendation.

“I was working as a human resource manager but I was just bored,” said Woods, who also has a master’s degree. “A girl that boxed with me was a firefighter said ‘you would love it, you should try it.’ So initially I was like ‘no’ then I was like ‘let me give it a try.’ I did and I love it.”

Competing in the ring has also been beneficial to Woods since it has allowed her to travel to Uruguay, Germany and Argentina.

“Nicole is not like a lot of fighters,” Barry Richardson said. “She goes into hostile territory.”

“…At the end of the day I want to be able to say I went and I fought with all my heart and I’m the best in the world not just because I stayed in one place and I was safe,” Woods said. “I want to be able to beat you in your house because I’m just that good.”

Five to six days a week, Woods has been training with Richardson at Metro Fitness in East Point. This month, she will begin sparring three days a week to continue to prepare for a bout on July 15 at the Buckhead Theatre, which is being promoted by Shea Bailey and Greg Barckoff.

Woods also thanked her sponsors Vixente Boxing Apparel, Mix 1, Belts and Money, and AA Boxing.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

SIZZLING SUMMER SHOWDOWN-RODRIGUEZ TO TAKE ON WOLAK-IN MUST SEE FIGHT-ON ESPN'S FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS‏

On July 15th, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presents a highly anticipated ESPN "Friday Night Fights" card at New York City's famed Roseland Ballroom with a sensational main event, featuring exciting former welterweight world title challenger, Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14KO's) looking to throw himself into the mix of top jr. middleweight contenders when he takes on top rated, Pawel "Raging Bull" Wolak (29-1, 19KO's) in a can't miss, all-action showdown.

"This fight has all the makings to be a fight of the year candidate," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing, Rodriguez's promoter. "You have two guys who continuously produce fireworks each and every time they step into the ring, going up against one another in what is arguably the most important fight of their respective careers. These are the type of fights that as a true fight fan you just know you can't miss."


"I'm excited to get back into the ring and show that I am a force to be reckoned with in the jr. middleweight division," said Rodriguez. "I have a new team behind me and I feel better than I ever have before. On July 15th, Pawel Wolak and the entire world will see a stronger, faster, and more exciting Delvin Rodriguez."

"I want to thank Delvin Rodriquez for taking the fight," stated Wolak. "It is going to be a hard fight with lots of action. I expect Delvin will give me everything he's got and I will be prepared. The fans will get their money worth like they do with every fight of mine. I am looking forward to continuing towards my goal of winning a world title by end of 2011."

The bout between Rodriguez and Wolak, who is rated as the WBO #3, WBA #6, IBF #8, WBC #11 jr. middleweight in the world, has huge implications for both fighters. Wolak, who is currently riding an eight fight win streak, including his most impressive victory to date in his last bout, when he dominated and made former WBA jr. middleweight champion Yuri Foreman retire on his stool after six rounds, is looking to cash in on his recent success, and earn his shot at a world title. While Rodriguez on the other hand, who has become a fan-favorite, drawing some of the highest ratings on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" over the years, knows a win over the red-hot Wolak will throw him right into the mix with the top jr. middleweights in the world, and put him back on the path to challenging for another world title.

The Rodriguez-Wolak bout is scheduled for ten rounds and is promoted by Star Boxing in association with Top Rank.

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Monday, June 13, 2011

"Punchin at the Paradise" show, Thursday July 7th, at the Paradise Theater in the Bronx, NY

"Punchin at the Paradise" show, Thursday July 7th, at the Paradise Theater in the Bronx, NY. The card will feature popular Yonkers middleweight/policeman/all-around good guy, Bryant Pappas (12-0, 12KO's) and exciting Bronx super featherweight prospect Danny Valle (4-0, 3KO's) as well as two separate showdowns for Bronx neighborhood bragging rights and four additional amateur bouts to open the show.


EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time.EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved

Troy Ross added to June 24 professional boxing, show in Canada‏

World cruiserweight contender Troy Ross has been added to the “Friday Night At The Fights” professional boxing card, June 24 at Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

“Friday Night At The Fights” is being presented by United Boxing Promotions in association with Hennessy Sports and Groupe Yvon Michel.

Ross is the top-rated IBF contender at No. 3 (#1 and #2 are not rated), as well as ranked No. 5 by The Ring magazine, No. 14 by the WBA, and No. 15 by the WBC. The two-time Canadian Olympian will face an opponent to be determined June 24 in a eight-round bout. Troy wants a rematch with IBF champion Steve Cunningham and he also has issued a challenge to unbeaten Lateef Kayode for a major showdown later this summer.

“I can’t wait to get back in action,” Ross said. “I’m trying to force (IBF champion Steve) Cunningham into a rematch. I dropped him and should have won that fight by technical decision because he thumbed me in the eye and the fight was stopped (cut eyelid) because of that. I’m fighting June 24th to get sharp for Cunningham, Kayode or any of the top 10 fighters I may fight this year on my way to winning a world title.”

A native of Guyana who lives in Toronto, Ross (24-2, 16 KOs) was a member of the 1996 and 2000 Canadian Olympic Teams, and winner of The Contender, Season Four reality television series.

Ross’ most notable wins to date have been against former NABF/USBA champion Felix Cora, Jr. (TKO1), Ehino Ehikamenor (TKO4), David Haye-conquerer (as an amateur) Michael Simms (DEC10), Akinyemi Laleye (DEC5), and Brazilian Olympian Daniel Bispo (KO1). Troy’s last fight was a win by unanimous 10-round decision over Carl Handy (24-7-2) this past October.


Troy Ross (L). Photo by Durell Wambolt/The Boxing Examiner

EL Boxing Empress See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved