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Friday, April 25, 2008

DIAZ OPENS CAMP IN PREPARATION FOR SHOWDOWN WITH PACQUIAO

CHICAGO, IL- World Boxing Council Lightweight Champion David. Diaz opened up camp this morning at JABB Boxing Gym in Chicago in preparation for his title defense against THE MEXICUTIONER, Manny Pacquiao on June 28th at the

Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Said Diaz, “It’s time to go to work, everything is signed, the tickets are going on sale on Saturday and I’m thrilled to start camp.”

Diaz and his team, manager/trainer Jim Strickland and co-trainer Mike Garcia were met by a special guest this morning as Chicago Blackhawks head coach, Hall of Famer Denis Savard stopped by to offer his best wishes to David.

While posing with David and his team for pictures, Savard stated, ‘Hopefully next year I’ll bring the Stanley Cup to put alongside David’s world title belt. I want my team to be tough and keep fighting to the end, that’s what has made David a world champion.”

Savard was enthusiastic about Diaz’s showdown with Pacquiao, “I’ll be there at Mandalay Bay on June 28th. David and Manny are both warriors and it will be a great fight to see in person."

Last month Diaz aced his open tryout with the Blackhawks during the in-between periods celebrity shootout, drilling a goal through the mousetrap sized target from the blue line. “He can fight and he can shoot, I can always use a guy like that”, said Savard.

Tickets for Pacquiao vs.Diaz, priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, go on sale This Saturday! April 19, at 10 a.m., 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.

Dubbed "Republica Enemy No. 1," Pacquiao (46-3-2, 34 KOs), from General Santos City, Philippines, has blitzed through the best fighters Mexico has had to offer since 2003including Erik Morales (KO 3, TKO 10), Marco Antonio Barrera (TKO 11, W 12), Juan Manuel Marquez (W 12, D 12), Oscar Larios (W 12), Emanuel Lucero (TKO 3), Hector Velazquez (TKO 6) and Jorge Solis (KO 8). Pacquiao was named 2006 Fighter of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America and The Ring magazine for his two spectacular knockout victories of Mexican icon and three-division champion Morales, as well as his dominating 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Larios. The hard-hitting southpaw has won 22 of his last 23 bouts including 2007 victories over Barrera and Solis. Pacquiao’s 12-round split decision victory over Marquez earlier this year not only avenged a disputed draw from their 2004 battle, it also made Pacman a four-division world champion.

Diaz (34-1-1, 17 KOs), from Chicago, will be making the second defense of his title. He successfully defended it against the three-division world champion Morales last summer winning a hard-fought unanimous decision over the future Hall of Famer. Although behind on the scorecards early, Diaz remained cool and rallied before the raucous hometown Chicago crowd of 10,000 to capture the decision. He swept the championship rounds and won the decision by scores of 114-113, 115-113 and 115-112. With the victory, Diaz cemented his place among the best lightweights in the sport and one of the most popular and respected athletes in the sports-crazy town of Chicago. A member of the 1996 U.S. Olympic team, Diaz, with 12 years of experience as a professional, is more than prepared to handle the pressures that come with battling boxing’s pound-for-pound most exciting fighter.

The Pacquiao vs. Diaz pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao vs. Diaz fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.

SecondsOut Presents Selcuk 'Mini Tyson' Aydin vs Lucky Lewele‏

This Saturday (April 26th) welterweight powerhouse "Mini-Tyson" Selcuk Aydin (14-0-0, 12 kos) is coming home to Trabzon to fight for the vacant WBC international championship against former title holder "Babawazoo" Lucky Lewele (25-4-0) from South Africa. Trabzon's sport fans already go crazy about the upcoming show. It will be the first night of professional boxing ever to be held in the small city at the Black Sea.

Aydin arrived in Trabzon on Monday night and had to go through all kinds of interviews and autograph sessions since he returned home.

Whenever he stops by in a café fans start surrounding him, take pictures with their idol and tell them that they'll pray for his victory.

"I expected some excitement but the support of all the people is just overwhelming!" states Aydin. "I am highly delighted with all the enthusiasm and deeply touched. I promise all my fans that I will show a great fight and blow away Lewele to win the belt for my city and my country!"

On the undercard heavyweight sensation Odlanier Solis doesn't fight for a title but for his trip to Las Vegas! Only if Solis beats unbeaten Georgian prospect Mamuka Jikurashvili (20-0-0, 14 kos) convincingly he can go on to give his US debut on May 17th in Primm, Nevada at the "Night of the Rising Stars" headlined by "El Ciclon de Guantanamo" Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Also on the card: Middleweight prospect Mahir Oral (21-1-2) who gives his comeback after a long injury break and unbeaten heavyweight Yakup Saglam (12-0-0, 11 kos) who will fight for the Interim International German Championship.

"I am very proud to bring another big boxing night to Turkey", states promoter Ahmet Öner.

And the next show isn't far. On May 30th Sinan Samil Sam will fight against Matt Skelton for the vacant European heavyweight championship in Istanbul, also on SecondsOut (except UK)

Preview these exciting fighters at http://www.youtube.com/secondsout

WBO 130 POUND CHAMPION JOAN GUZMAN OBTAINS VISA‏

SAN DIEGO, Calif.– World Boxing Organization (WBO) Junior Lightweight Champion Joan Guzman (28-0, 17 KOs) has obtained a visa that will allow him to travel to Scotland to defend his title against interim champion and Scotland-native Alex Arthur.


“This was the last hurdle that we needed to clear before we could make our title defense,” Guzman said. “Now we’re just waiting on the new date.”

The fight was scheduled for Saturday, May 3 at Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh, Scotland, but due to Guzman’s visa issues, the fight will now have a new date.

“All we need now is for Frank Warren (promoter) of Sports Network to give us the new, rescheduled date,” said Sean Gibbons, matchmaker for Sycuan Ringside Promotions, the company that promotes Guzman. “Guzman cleared up his visa issues and is now ready to go to Scotland to successfully defend his WBO junior lightweight belt.”

Frank Warren won the rights to this championship fight in a WBO purse bid.

ABOUT SYCUAN RINGSIDE PROMOTIONS:

Sycuan Ringside Promotions of San Diego is considered to be the fastest-growing and most dynamic promotional entity in the sport. Sycuan Ringside Promotions made its promotional debut during 2004, but already has or had six current or former world champions and has promoted and presented world title bouts across the country on premium cable networks.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions has many notable boxers in its stable, including World Boxing Council super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez, World Boxing Association super bantamweight champion Celestino Caballero, former WBC welterweight champion Carlos Baldomir, former International Boxing Federation lightweight champion Julio Diaz, lightweight sensation Jorge Paez Jr., undefeated cruiserweight prospect Shawn Hawk and once-beaten, super middleweight prospect Henry Buchanan.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions is led by Glenn Quiroga, president; Willie Tucker, executive vice president; and Scott Woodworth, vice president.

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

2-time world champion John Ruiz walks for U.S. Military Troops‏

LAS VEGAS– Former two-time world heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz still be part of the ESPN Radio 1100, The Dream Team marching to show support for U.S. military troops next Wednesday morning (April 30), starting at 9 AM/PT, in Las Vegas.

Seat Williams, host of “Afternoon Gridlock” on ESPN 1100, has organized The Dream Team to march approximately three hours from Las Vegas City Hall to Nellis Air Force Base in order to help raise awareness and donations for troops and their families.

Ruiz joins The Dream Team that includes former world heavyweight boxing champion “Iron” Mike Tyson, former UFC champion Randy Couture, Williams, and Nellis Air Force Base troops.

“Our soldiers serve all over the world to help keep us free,” Ruiz said. “Joining this march is just my way of showing support for the troops. They are real heroes and should never be forgotten for the sacrifices they make every day for us. I’m honored to have been asked to participate in this great cause. I have a new team and I’m no longer held back from doing things that I really want to get involved in like this.”

Ruiz (43-7-1, 29 KOs) is the former 2-time WBA heavyweight champion presently rated No. 2 and No. 3 by the WBA and WBC, respectively, No. 6 by the IBF, and No. 10 by The Ring magazine. The Puerto Rican-American Ruiz is the first and only Latino heavyweight champion of the world. He has fought in 10 world championship fights, defeating three world heavyweight champions -- Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – in addition to beating top contenders such as Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo, Kirk Johnson and McCline during his 15-year pro career.

WPBF-USBC‏; Eileen Olszewski is ranked # 3 ratings committee

The Chairman of Ratings for World Professional Boxing Federation and United States Boxing Council is pleased to announce the introduction and rating of Eileen Olszewski. She is ranked # 3 by our ratings committee.

Eileen Olszewski


Best of luck.

Bazooka,
Chairman of Ratings World Professional Boxing Federation and United States Boxing Council.

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

Nabaté's upcoming engagements!‏

This week, I will be featured with the legendary drummer, Charli Persip and his high-octane band, SuperSound. It's always an honor to play with him!

Also, I wrote a musical piece for a visually captivating film called 'Empire II'. It was produced and directed by well-respected filmmaker Amos Poe. It premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival next weekend. Here's the link to purchase tickets: http://www.tribecafilmfestival.org/filmguide/Empire_II.html

Of course, EVERY Wednesday check out my weekly TV/Webcast show called, 'So Much to Talk About'.

More updates on the horizon.....
Nabaté Isles

Tuesday, April 29th Charli Persip's SuperSound @
"Dizzy" Gillespie Auditorium 53 East 11th Street
(bet. University and Broadway)
8 and 9:30 pm sets
General Admission: $15
Admission w/student ID: $10
www.bahainyc.org/jazz.html

Every Wednesday '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

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

Sotheby's/SCP Auctions To Auction Frazier's Thrilla In Manila Robe


Smokin’ Joe Frazier To Auction Thrilla In Manila Robe

New York,- On April 24, Sotheby’s and SCP Auctions will offer a fine selection of sports memorabilia and cards for auction. The April sale includes an outstanding offering of material that comes directly from Smokin’ Joe Frazier. Born in 1944, the 11th child of sharecroppers in South Carolina, Frazier took up boxing at the age of 17, and his raw talent was soon discovered and honed by trainer Yank Durham. Frazier won the Middle Atlantic Golden Gloves heavyweight championship for three straight years. His professional debut came on Aug. 16, 1965, and within 12 months he was 11-0, with every victory coming by knockout. In 1971, Joe Frazier was king of the world. At 27 years old and at 26-0, he was the undisputed and undefeated heavyweight champion. However, one obstacle stood in his way to standing with other all-time immortals in the ring - Muhammad Ali. On March 8, 1971, in the "Fight of the Century" at Madison Square Garden, an unbeaten Frazier won a unanimous decision as he handed Ali his first defeat. Included is Frazier's Robe from the Weigh-In of " The Fight of The Century” (est. $10/15,000). Frazier held on to his title for three years before a younger and stronger George Foreman took it away in Jamaica.

In 1999, ESPN ranked Frazier and Ali’s third bout, nicknamed the “Thrilla in Manila,” as No. 5 on its list of the greatest fights of all time. In 1974, Ali won the second fight in a 12-round unanimous decision that didn’t win the belt for either. In 1975, the two aging heavyweights, then in their early 30s, traveled to fight in Quezon City, Phillippines. Joe Frazier's Fight-Worn Robe from the “Thrilla In Manila” (est. $30/50,000) is also among the highlights of the April sale. Also included is a Fight-Worn Robe from Frazier vs. Jerry Quarry - June 17, 1974 (est. $15/20,000) and a Cornerman’s Shirt Made for Eddie Futch, Joe Frazier’s Trainer (est. $8/12,000).

Registration is required to bid in Sotheby’s auctions. You can register in person at Sotheby’s New York headquarters any time before the sale, or via fax when you submit an absentee bid form.

For more information, please visit www.sothebys.com or www.scpauctions.com.

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

Nelson, McGivern, Schultz To Defend Titles at IFL Connecticut May 16; Two New Camps Join Team Quest, World Class Fight Center In Bouts at Mohegan Sun‏


NEW YORK, March 31, 2008 – Two IFL stars, Roy Nelson (Las Vegas) and Ryan Schultz (North Platte, Neb.) will make their second respective title defenses and another, Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf, Iowa) will make his first when the International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., with a minimum of nine bouts scheduled for Friday, May 16. HDNet will have live television coverage of the event. Tickets are on sale beginning today via www.ticketmaster.com, the Mohegan Sun Arena Box Office, and by telephone at 860-886-0070. The night will also mark the IFL debuts for the Bomb Squad, a Northeast-based camp which will take on Mario Sperry’s World Class Fight Center from Las Vegas, and for Team Prodigy, an Ohio-based camp which will battle Matt Lindland’s Team Quest of Portland, Ore. In the title bouts, Nelson will defend his heavyweight belt against UFC veteran Branden Lee Hinkle (Weirton, W. Va.). Nelson won the title in December at Mohegan Sun with a knockout of Antoine Jaoude, then defended with a decisive first-round TKO over Fabiano Scherner in Las Vegas in February. Schultz will battle Deividas Taurosevicius (Lithuania) for the lightweight crown. Schultz also won his title in his last visit to Mohegan Sun in December, bouncing Chris Horodecki from the ranks of the unbeaten, then earned a decision win over John Gunderson in Las Vegas in February to defend. McGivern, one of the most improved fighters in the IFL, took the middleweight belt from Matt Horwich in February and has won three of his past four bouts. Other bouts of note include the Bomb Squad’s John Howard (Boston) against WCFC’s Marcello Salazar (Brazil) and Danillo Villefort vs. Mike Massenzio (Paterson, N.J.). Team Quest’s three competitors, who will take on three fighters from Team Prodigy to be announced, are all IFL veterans: Zac George (Norman, Okla.), Matt Horwich (Portland, Ore.) and Aaron Stark (Portland, Ore.). IFL Mohegan SunFriday, May 16, 2008 (order TBD) World Class Fight Center vs. Bomb Squad170 lbs.: Marcello Salazar (Brazil) (1-0 IFL, 7-1-2 MMA overall) vs. John Howard (Boston) (0-0, 8-3)185 lbs.: Danillo Villefort (0-0, 6-2) vs. Mike Massenzio (Paterson, N.J.) (0-0, 10-1)155 lbs.: TBD Team Prodigy vs. Team Quest155 lbs.: TBD vs. Zac George (Norman, Okla.) (1-1, 12-2)185 lbs.: TBD vs. Matt Horwich (Portland, Ore.) (6-4, 21-10-1)205 lbs.: TBD vs. Aaron Stark (Portland, Ore.) (2-2, 5-4) Championship Bouts265 lbs.: *Roy Nelson (Las Vegas) (5-1, 12-2) vs. Branden Lee Hinkle (Weirton, W. Va.) (0-0, 13-9)185 lbs.: *Ryan McGivern (Bettendorf, Iowa) (6-4, 12-5) vs. Dan Miller (Sparta, N.J.) (1-0, 7-1)155 lbs.: *Ryan Schultz (North Platte, Neb. (6-2, 19-9-1) vs. Deividas Taurosevicius (Lithuania) (3-0, 9-2) *Current Titleholder 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. ---"You look forward to it like a birthday party when you're a kid. You think something wonderful is going to happen."- Joe DiMaggio
* * * *Jerry Milani Manager of Public Relations International Fight League * * * Catch the IFL on FSN Sundays at 5 p.m. and LIVE on HDNet on April 4 and May 16

Nick Charles To Be Honored By Boxing Writers Association‏

SHOWTIME BOXING ANNOUNCER NICK CHARLES TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
FROM BOXING WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA, MAY 1, 2008, IN LOS ANGELES

NEW YORK– Nick Charles, who serves as host and play-by-play announcer for the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series ShoBox: The New Generation, will receive the prestigious Sam Taub Award for excellence in broadcast journalism at the 83rd Annual Boxing Writers Association of America Awards Dinner on Thursday, May 1, 2008, in Los Angeles.

The lifetime achievement award, now bestowed upon all four boxing announcers serving SHOWTIME Sports telecasts (Steve Albert, Al Bernstein for Championship Boxing and analyst Steve Farhood for ShoBox), is sweet for the broadcast veteran.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to receive the lifetime achievement award,” said Charles, an Atlanta resident who is known for his accurate, colorful and refreshing delivery. “It means a lot when the Boxing Writers Association of America looks at your entire body of work and decides that you deserve to be recognized for it.”

If you tuned in to CNN during the 1980s and 90s, chances are you saw Nick Charles. Hired to help launch the network in 1980, Charles won three Cable Ace Awards as co-host of CNN’s “Sports Tonite.”

During his time with the news network, Charles covered some of the all-time greatest boxers in many of their greatest fights, including Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Riddick Bowe, Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson and Oscar De La Hoya.

“In the early years of CNN, we had such a can-do attitude,” Charles said. “It was new horizons, un-chartered waters. Ultimately, not only did we not drown, we sailed around the world.

“They had me camp out in Miami after Roberto Duran’s ‘No Mas’ fight until I got an interview. They sent me to Japan to see Buster Douglas knock Tyson on his butt. I was in camp with Hearns in Detroit and at home with Hagler. Through the years, I witnessed boxing history.”

In 2001, SHOWTIME tabbed Charles as its blow-by-blow announcer for the new boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation, which features up-and-coming fighters in tough match-ups in all boxing divisions. Thus far, Charles and his partner Farhood have called the action for nearly every ShoBox telecast since its inception—nearly 125 shows and 250 fights. In that time, Charles has witnessed many fighters advance from prospect to contender; from contender to world champion.

“You know little about these guys except that they better have a blazing desire to succeed,” Charles said. “The fighters have no entourages, and we do not feature ring walks. It is just boxing where two guys are matched tough, and it is a question of who moves forward and who falls back. That is the central theme of every ShoBox.”

With Charles and Farhood at the helm, ShoBox has found a niche with boxing fans and sports enthusiasts.

“Nick is a highly respected sports commentator who has traveled to more than 50 countries and covered all of the major sports stories for the last 25 years,” said Gordon Hall, SHOWTIME vice president and executive producer of ShoBox. “He brings a vast knowledge of boxing and great passion to each telecast. He is a true professional who brings out the best in those around him.”

Charles says the match-ups are what make ShoBox so intriguing.

“We usually have these young undefeated fighters who have never lost, and other times these guys who cannot afford to lose again,” Charles said. “It is all about acclaim and redemption, risk and reward. Ultimately, in this series, people’s careers have either taken off or have ended.”

The well-traveled journalist has worked as a site reporter and host for six Olympics, five Goodwill Games and the Pan-Am Games in Havana, Cuba.

“Nick's love for boxing, and specifically for ShoBox, makes every show special," said Farhood. "He's the ultimate professional, and his enthusiasm never wanes. If you ask Nick, he'll tell you he's lucky to have boxing. But if you ask me, boxing is lucky to have Nick."

For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please visit our website at http://www.sho.com/sports.

About Showtime Networks Inc.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL® HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL® ON DEMAND. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL®, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV

BOX NYC- April 16 2008; Fight card results for Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin, Chazz Witherspoon, Tommy Rainone, Jose Perlata, Gabriel Rosado



Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin now (18-0, 14 KO's) of Brooklyn New York in a 10 rounds Super Middleweights bout stopped Antwon Nichols who now drops to (31-8-4, 27 KO's) of Memphis Tn.

Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillin


Chazz Witherspoon now (23-15 KO's) of Woodbury New Jersey won the decision over Domonic Jenkins who drops to (13-8-2, 6 KO's) of La Mesa Texas in a scheduled 10 rounds Heavyweights bout.

Chazz Witherspoon


Tommy Rainone now (11- 3 KO's) of Plainview New York won by a unanimous decision defeating William Wilson who drops to (2-4, 1 KO) of Tacoma Washington in a 4 rounds Lightweights bout.

Tommy Rainone


William Wilson


Jose Perlata (1-O) of Atlanta Georgia in a Pro debut won by an unanimous decision over Garri Basdasarov who now drops to (0-1-2, 0 KO's) of Moscow Russia, in a 4 rounds Lightweights bout.

Jose Perlata


Gabriel Rosado now (8-2-0, 5 KO's) of Philadelphia PA., TKO'd Joshua Onyango who drops to (13-15-0, 11 KO's) of Lake Victori Kenya in a scheduled for 6 rounds Middleweights bout.

Sadam "World Kid" Ali, John Starks and Gary "Kid" Stark Jr., attends the BOX NYC event at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.


©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Jerson Ravelo; I WILL BE FIGHTING AGAINST 2004 U.S OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST ANDRE WARD

MANY OF YOU HAVE BEN ASKING ME IF IT'S TRUE IF I WILL BE FIGHTING AGAINST 2004 U.S OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST ANDRE WARD BECAUSE IT HAS BEEN ALL OVER THE INTERNET, THE ANSWER IS YES. THE FIGHT WILL BE ON JUNE 20TH IN THE GRAND CAYMAN ISLANDS, THE FIGHT WILL BE TELEVISED ON SHOWTIME, SAVE THE DATE. THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE IN SAN FRANCISCO ON TUESDAY AFTERNOON, THEN ONE IN NEW YORK CITY ON WEDNESDAY, AND FINALLY ONE OUT IN THE GRAND CAYMAN ISLANDS ON THURSDAY, LOTS OF TRAVELING BUT IT WILL ALL BE WORTH IT COME JUNE 20TH. THANKS FOR ALL THE SUPPORT TO THE PEOPLE WHO SHOW ME SUPPORT, ALSO THANKS TO THE ONES WHO DON'T, IT SERVES AS A LITTLE EXTRA PUSH.


>Photobucket

CHICAGO, IL Chicago based Irish prospect Henry “THE WESTERN WARRIOR” Coyle will battle Billings, Montana veteran Ben Aragon


CHICAGO, IL Chicago based Irish prospect Henry “THE WESTERN WARRIOR” Coyle will battle Billings, Montana veteran Ben Aragon in a special attraction eight round junior middleweight bout at BATTLE FOR PRIDE on Friday, May 9th at Cicero Stadium.

BATTLE FOR PRIDE, an outstanding evening of world class professional boxing is presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING and Octavius James’ One In A Million Incorporated along with Miller Lite, TCF Bank and AeroMexico, the premier travel source to Mexico.



Tickets may be purchased in advance by calling the 8 Count Productions box office 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 7:00pm with the first bell at 8:00pm.

Said Pesoli, “Chicago fight fans, particularly the Irish have really taken a liking to Henry. He’s a tough kid who loves to trade in the middle of the ring. This is his first eight rounder and he’s in against a solid veteran so it’s a true test for Henry.”

The heavy handed Coyle, 6-1 with six knockouts, made his pro debut with a first round knockout of Jason Collazo at Madison Square Garden on March 16, 2007 at a huge New York City St. Patrick’s Day Celebration card headlined by Irish boxing star John Duddy.

In his last Chicago fight, Coyle thrilled the packed Cicero Stadium with a first round knockout of Guy Packer on November 16, 2007. Since then “THE WESTERN WARRIOR” has been on the road knocking out two additional opponents.

Aragon, 7-9-2 with five knockouts, has already had a busy 2008 having fought three times with a 1-1-1 (1KO) record. With vastly more experience, the Billings, Montana resident should prove to be a very tough test for Coyle.

The main event at BATTLE FOR PRIDE features Chicago fan favorite and Season 3 contestant on ESPN’s The Contender, MACHO Miguel Hernandez in a crosstown showdown against fellow Chicagoan “SUPERMAN” Derrick Findley in a middleweight bout.

The co-main event at BATTLE FOR PRIDE will feature the return of bantamweight prospect Francisco “EL NINO AZTECA” Rodriguez. The

23 year old Rodriguez, 11-2 with seven knockouts, is looking to rebound after the controversial stoppage loss of his most recent bout with Andre Wilson on February 15th at Cicero Stadium. More information on this bout will be announced shortly.

The undercard will feature popular Chicago prospects, super bantamweight Eric Estrada, 3-0 (1KO) and lightweight Gadiel Andaluz, 2-0 (KO’s).

Estrada wlll square off against Ronnie Howell, 1-1, of Cincinnati while Andaluz will battle fellow undefeated prospect Jose Mandujano 2-0 (1KO) of Detroit, Michigan, each in four round bouts.

The weigh-in for the BATTLE FOR PRIDE event will take place on Thursday, May 8th at 7pm at Team Doctors Chiropractic Treatment and Training Center of Champions located at 6432 S. Pulaski on the South Side of Chicago. Further information can be obtained at www.teamdoctors.org.

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 www.8countproductions.com and www.jabbboxinggym.com

TCF Bank is a subsidiary of TCF Financial Corporation (NYSE: TCB), a $14.3 billion Minnesota-based financial holding company. TCF Bank—Open 7 Days—offers convenient deposit products, lending and business banking services at 235 full service locations in Chicago and Milwaukee areas including branches inside most Jewel-Osco stores. Along with our Totally Free Checking product, TCF offers a high rate Premier Checking product, convenient and affordable Home Equity Products, and Commercial Lending and Private Banking services. For more information about TCF Bank or its Products, call 1-800-TCF-BANK or visit the TCF Web site at www.tcf.com. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.

CREATING CONTENDERS SINCE 1998

Bernie Bahrmasel
Publicist/8 Count Productions

www.8countproductions.com

Golden Girl Boxing Promotions 1st promotion; Ijeoma "The Praise" Egbunine, The WIBF World champion Ijeoma Egbunine is back again after a year off

Ijeoma "The Praise" Egbunine is making a homecoming fight May 9th, 2008 at FIESTA RODEO IN ATLANTA GEORGIA.

In the main event Ijeoma "The Praise" Egbunine is fighting Lisa Ested who last fought Ann wolf and lost in a unianimous decision in 2006. There will be three other female bouts on the Golden Girl Boxing Promotions 1st promotion debut show.

Ijeoma said , "this is like a tune up fight for me", Ijeoma "The Praise" Egbunine is fighting for the WBC, IFBA, WIBA Light Heavy Weight Championship sometime in July.

"I have a score to settle with Laura Ramsey, Nikki Eplion" said Ijeoma.

"Then after that I will collect from Natasha Rogasina what belongs to me". "I chased Laila Ali for months, she took a brake now it is you Natasha".

"Natasha you must stop fighting Junior middle weights for Supper middle weights titles, that is an insult to female boxing".

"Natasha you cannot continue with Laila's pattern and others to avoid defeats by me".

"Team Praise" PR.

STEVE “USS” CUNNINGHAM NAMED BEST BOXER BY RING MAGAZINE; IBF cruiserweight champion best boxer by the”Bible of Boxing” for second consecutive year

Philadelphia- For the second consecutive year, Ring Magazine has named Steve “USS” Cunningham the best boxer in the cruiserweight division.

It was a banner 2007 for Cunningham has he won and then defended the IBF Cruiserweight championship.

Ike and Steve Cunningham



When told of the honor, Cunningham was more then happy of the accomplishment.

“This means a lot to me. It means the hard work I have put in to reach a certain level has continued and people still recognize that. I only plan to bring my skills up to a higher level and continue to reign as champion.”

“The Ring Magazine means a lot and with David Haye moving to heavyweight, I know one of the criteria’s of crowning a new champion is that the top-two contenders fighting each other. As I look at the rankings, I am number-one and Jean-Marc Mormeck is two. We are both promoted by Don King so I hope that a fight with us can be made so I can win that belt.”

Cunningham, 21-1 with eleven knockouts will also be appearing on ESPN radio, 950-am in Philadelphia on the Mike Missinelli show this Friday in the 3 o’clock hour.

The champ will be doing the show live at O'Malley's, 56 Cresent Blvd, Gloucester City, NJ.

contact marc abrams@15rounds.com


©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

DJ Times Announces ’08 America’s Best DJ Nominees at WMC; Pioneer Pro DJ to re-up as title sponsor of the ABDJ Summer Tour!

Port Washington- As it celebrates 20 years of chronicling United States DJ Culture, DJ Times magazine kicked off its 2008 America’s Best DJ contest on March 25th at Miami’s Winter Music Conference by announcing this year’s top 100 nominees.

Now entering its third year, America’s Best DJ (ABDJ) stands to solidify itself as the pre-eminent DJ & nightlife culture branding event in the nation. Inaugurated in 2006, this exciting prize-packed promotion supports the growth of US DJ & nightlife culture by encouraging dance-music fans to get involved and promote their favorite US-based DJs in a quest to crown America’s top jock. Previous ABDJ winners include New York club king Jonathan Peters (2006) and Miami trance master George Acosta (2007).

For the second consecutive year, Pioneer Pro DJ will serve as title sponsor for the tour, which will culminate with a closing ceremony in Las Vegas. By the end of its 40 events, the tour will have entertained over 100,000 dance music fans throughout the United States.

“Our involvement with America’s Best DJ Tour extends our commitment to the art of DJing, and the experience it has on all it touches. As an industry leader, Pioneer’s success is realized when talented individuals demonstrate their skills using Pioneer Pro DJ equipment - the most advanced players and mixers in the industry,” said Matt Dever, vice president of Pioneer’s Professional Sound and Visual Division.

Over the past two summers, participating fans chose from a panel of America’s Top 100 DJs (nominated by the staff of DJ Times), casting votes both online at www.americasbestdj.net and in-person at 40 tour stops featuring showcased nominees at some of America’s top club venues like Pacha (New York), Ruby Skye (San Francisco), Crobar (Chicago), Space (Miami), Krave (Las Vegas), and Vanguard (Los Angeles).

“We believe that America’s Best DJ—the contest and the tour—will continue to bring visibility for DJ culture and strengthen its lasting foundation in the US,” says DJ Times Editor Jim Tremayne.

For the full list of 2008 America’s Best DJ nominees and more information on the Pioneer Pro DJ presents America’s Best DJ 2008 Summer Tour including tour cities dates and participating nominees, log on to www.americasbestdj.net. Voting for the 2008 contest begins May 1.

About DJ Times & Testa Communications:
In addition to hosting the America's Best DJ contest and tour, Testa Communications also sponsors the International DJ Expo and publishes DJ Times, Club World, The Music & Sound Retailer, and Sound & Communications magazines and produces Convention TV News at trade shows. For more information, visit www.testacommunications.com

About Pioneer Pro DJ:
Pioneer offers a complete line of professional DJ equipment through its Professional Sound and Visual Division. Their DJM, CDJ, DVJ and SVM Professional DJ equipment are known for their high quality sound and reliability and considered the industry standard at clubs, studios, mobile rigs and homes around the world. For more information, visit www.pioneerprodj.com

Pioneer contact:
Jaed Arzadon, 310.952.2451 or jade.arzadon@pioneer-usa.com

For more information on the 2008 International DJ Expo and the all-new
Seminar and Panel program tracks, click to www.djtimes.com/djexpo

CONTACT:
Justin Kleinfeld, Rephlektor Ink.,
Peter Wohelski, DJ Times,

2008 "IFL Fight Night" broadcast continues on FSN with Vladimir Matyushenko vs. Alex Schoenauer Title Bout, Four Other Matchups Saturday at Midnight‏



NEW YORK– The first-ever International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI) individual title bout between light heavyweights stars Vladimir Matyushenko (Belarus) and Alex Schoenauer (Las Vegas) and IFL World Grand Prix semifinal contests featuring stars Jay Hieron (Las Vegas), Delson Heleno (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and Roy Nelson (Las Vegas) will be among those featured in the next edition of “IFL Fight Night” on Fox Sports Net (FSN). The episode debuts on Saturday, April 26, at midnight local time in most markets. Viewers can confirm the time and replays during the week on their respective regional FSN networks at http://www.ifl.tv/TV-Schedule-FSN.html. In the feature bout, Matyushenko, unbeaten in IFL competition, takes on Schoenauer, who first gained attention in the MMA world as a contestant on the first Ultimate Fighter program, in the IFL’s first individual Championship. Other bouts on the one-hour telecast include: • Hieron, a Long Island, N.Y., native, tries to follow up his submission victory over Donnie Liles (Colorado Springs, Colo.) in this 170-lb. rematch• Heleno, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Capoeira master, also aims to reprise his earlier welterweight victory over Gideon Ray (Roselle, Ill.)• Nelson, whose only IFL defeat was via split decision, battles Renzo Gracie pupil Bryan Vetell (New York) in a heavyweight slugfest• Antoine Jaoude (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), unbeaten in IFL competition, takes on Shane Ott (Reading, Pa.), a surprise semifinalist after a stunning win over Chad Griggs. Veteran IFL play-by-play man Kenny Rice is joined by MMA legend Bas Rutten at the microphone ringside, with Ron Kruck providing additional commentary. The bouts were contested at the Sears Centre in suburban Chicago in November. In addition to the weekly “IFL Fight Night” on FSN, as well as in over 70 other countries and five continents around the world, ranging from HBO Latin America to Star TV in Asia and Middle Eastern Broadcasting and the Armed Forces Network, the first three IFL events of the year are being shown live on HDNet. IFL programming is already among the most viewed MMA programming worldwide, despite being in existence only two years. The next live IFL event is set for May 16 at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., where three Championship belts will be on the line. HDNet will again provide live coverage. About the IFLInternational Fight League™ (IFL) has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv.

"Hey, I'm Giuseppe Franco. I'm not putting my name on the line for something that doesn't work."- Giuseppe Franco * * *
Jerry Milani, Manager of Public Relations International Fight League
Catch the IFL on FSN Saturdays at midnight and LIVE on HDNet on May 16

Singing Sensation; Tasha Mabry will be appearing live at the Denim Lounge in Brooklyn New York Tuesday April 29, 2008, performance at 8:00 PM

Singing Sensation; Tasha Mabry will be appearing live at the Denim Lounge in Brooklyn New York Tuesday April 29, 2008, performance at 8:00 PM

WBO 130 POUND CHAMPION JOAN GUZMAN READY TO DEFEND AGAINST ALEX ARTHUR; FIGHT WILL GET A NEW DATE

SAN DIEGO, Calif– Contrary to information circulated on the internet, undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) Junior Lightweight Champion Joan Guzman (28-0, 17 KOs) will travel to Scotland to defend his title against interim champion Alex Arthur.

Joan Guzman and Floyd Mayweather Sr


Inaccurate reports across the internet have stated that Guzman has pulled out of his title fight against Arthur (26-1, 19 KOs), which is currently scheduled for Saturday, May 3 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The highly anticipated fight, however, will likely be rescheduled.

“Guzman is not giving up his belt,” said Jose Nunez, Guzman’s long time manager. “He’s worked extremely hard and gone through tremendous sacrifices to become a world champion. He’s simply not going to give up his belt. Guzman will go to Scotland and he will successfully defend his title. The date will most likely be pushed back a bit.”

Guzman, who has fought in the U.K. once before, has had some trouble securing a visa that will allow him to travel to Scotland. According to Nunez, the issue is being resolved.

Jaon Guzman enter the ring to face Soto


“Rest assured that team Guzman will have all the appropriate paperwork for this fight,” Nunez said. “We know what has to be done and we understand the time frame that is needed to accomplish this.”

“Right now we’re taking a wait-and-see approach,” said Sean Gibbons, matchmaker for Sycuan Ringside Promotions, the company that promotes Guzman. “We are waiting for Frank Warren of Sports Network to give us the new, rescheduled date.”

Frank Warren won the rights to this championship fight in a WBO purse bid.

ABOUT SYCUAN RINGSIDE PROMOTIONS:

Sycuan Ringside Promotions of San Diego is considered to be the fastest-growing and most dynamic promotional entity in the sport. Sycuan Ringside Promotions made its promotional debut during 2004, but already has or had six current or former world champions and has promoted and presented world title bouts across the country on premium cable networks.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions has many notable boxers in its stable, including World Boxing Council super bantamweight champion Israel Vazquez, World Boxing Association super bantamweight champion Celestino Caballero, former WBC welterweight champion Carlos Baldomir, former International Boxing Federation lightweight champion Julio Diaz, lightweight sensation Jorge Paez Jr., undefeated cruiserweight prospect Shawn Hawk and once-beaten, super middleweight prospect Henry Buchanan.

Sycuan Ringside Promotions is led by Glenn Quiroga, president; Willie Tucker, executive vice president; and Scott Woodworth, vice president.

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

BJ FLORES SPEAKS ON THE STATE OF THE CRUISERWEIGHTS‏

PHOENIX, AZ- After an exciting weekend in Las Vegas taking in the Bernard Hopkins/Joe Calzaghe Light Heavyweight Title bout, undefeated and world ranked cruiserweight BJ Flores spoke about this past weekend’s IBF Title Elimination bout between Tomasz Adamek and O’Neil Bell which took place in Katowice, Poland.

“The ending was very surprising to me, I was shocked that Bell seemingly quit after the seventh round in such an important fight. He’s shown such terrific fortitude in previous world title bouts against Sebastiaan Rothmann and Jean Marc Mormeck that it’s strange he would stop fighting.

On the part of Adamek this was a terrific win. It’s very impressive that he could come up almost 25 pounds from light heavy to cruiserweight and be successful on a world class scale. He looked fast at the higher weight and fought very intelligently against Bell."

About the upcoming fight between Adamek and IBF title holder Steve Cunningham, Flores stated, “It should be an outstanding fight. Both have fast hands and are very smart fighters, particularly their use of combinations. They’re both always in great shape. Hopefully even if the fight is in Poland, it will be broadcast in the US as fight fans will see a terrific bout.”

In regards to his immediate plans, Flores said, “I’m excited to get back in the ring and we should have an announcement in the very near future.”

BJ Flores, 21-0-1 with thirteen knockouts, is currently world ranked #2 by the IBF, #7 by the WBO and #9 by the WBA.

Bernie Bahrmasel
Double B. Publicity, Inc.

James McGirt, Jr.; regroups after 1st loss, moving back to middleweight

VERO BEACH, Florida– There’s nothing more devastating in boxing that than a hot prospect’s first pro loss, especially for someone such as James McGirt, Jr. (18-1, 9 KOs), whose last name alone makes opponents perform better. McGirt suffered his first set-back April 11 when another son of a former world champion, Carlos “Baby Sugar” DeLeon, Jr. (20-2-2, 12 KOs), stopped James in the seventh round of their ShoBox co-feature.

Photo courtesy of Emily Harney


DeLeon was floored by McGirt at the end of the sixth round, but he got to his feet just before the bell sounded. “When I dropped him, instead of listening to my father (head trainer “Buddy” McGirt), I got careless,” James explained. “I had him but dropped my right hand and got caught. My legs were a little wobbly, but I was more embarrassed than anything having been knocked down for the first time in my career. I thought that I could deal with it but got hit with an uppercut. I tried to wait it out, hoping he’d gotten tired punching, but I wasn’t punching back and the ref stopped the fight.

Buddy Mc Girt



“The hardest thing in the world is to take your first loss. I still know that I’m going to be a world champion someday. This is part of the learning experience. No excuses. I should have listened and boxed. It’s a hard pill to shallow. I want a rematch, but I know it won’t happen right away. I won’t be able to sleep at night unless I fight him one more time.”

McGirt’s father, 2-time world champion “Buddy,” suffered his first pro loss in his 30th fight, as the No. 1 contender in the world, to Frankie Warren by 10-round decision. “I warned James last year that he was dropping his right hand too much,” Buddy noted. “You can’t take anything for granted. Once he knocked the other guy down, James thought that he had him, but he got caught by that left hook. It’s a great learning experience. I was talking to Roy Jones. He said at least it happened now or he would have kept doing it and now he’ll listen. James can’t have a flamboyant, relaxed attitude like he did in basketball. On the court he could be nonchalant, flashy, but you can’t do that in the ring. They’re always trying to beat Buddy McGirt’s son and Buddy McGirt. In a way I’m glad it happened. It’s going to be a good learning experience for James. I told him he should thank DeLeon for the wake-up call because he got lazy.

“Sure, it’s a hard pill to swallow. I saw the punch hit him and I can still visualize it like a picture in my mind. That night, James became a man, and not just in the ring. Taking nothing away from DeLeon, James had the fight and should have won. Now he has to put it behind him and move forward. After a first loss, you either become a better fighter, or get out of the game. James’ eyes were opened. You can’t do what he did in basketball, not in this business, and now he understands. What he does from here on will determine what he is in boxing.”

McGirt may have been more comfortable making weight and fighting as a super middleweight, but the plan is for him to slowly move back to the middleweight division. “His opponents at super middleweight are too big,” McGirt’s manager Dennis Witherow explained. “I talked with Buddy after the fight and we agree that James needs to fight as a middleweight. They weighed-in the same weight but, in the fight, the difference in their weight made a big difference. He’ll fight at 162-163 in his next fight, hopefully in July. We’re going forward, not looking backwards. The loss is part of the learning process, a bump in the road. He got caught and that’s just part of the game.”

Buddy added, “The last two days (prior to the fight) James just shadow-boxed. He didn’t run or train, ate right before the weigh in, and came in at 166. He won’t have a problem making 163. We saw how small James (166-167 lbs. in the fight) was in comparison to DeLeon (between 180-185 lbs) and even (Jason) Naugler. James will be fighting as a middleweight.”

-JM-

CONTACT:
Bob Trieger
Full Court Press
©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS; THE WBC DEEPLY SUPPORTS VITALI KLITSCHKO IN HIS CAMPAIGN TO BECOME MAYOR OF KIEV

WORLD BOXING COUNCIL NEWS

April 23, 2008 – Mexico City.
From the office of WBC President Jose Sulaiman:


THE WBC DEEPLY SUPPORTS VITALI KLITSCHKO IN HIS CAMPAIGN TO BECOME MAYOR OF KIEV

It was not a surprise for WBC President Jose Sulaiman to see that the WBC Emeritus Champion, WBC World Ambassador for Peace and Good Will, and former WBC heavyweight world champion Vitali Klitschko would run for election to become Mayor of Kiev.

President Sulaiman said, “The World Boxing Council respects the freedom of the people of Kiev to elect their mayor, and is very happy and confident that Vitali Klitschko will get the majority of the votes to become a mayor that will be dedicated, with the frame of mind as a champion, organized, charismatic, and a gentleman that comes from the people and will rule for the people.

“The people of Kiev will not vote for a military officer, a doctor, or a boxer, but the people of Kiev will vote for one who gave belief that he will be the best to lead Kiev to the highest accomplishments.

“As a boxer Vitali Klitschko has the dedication, the temperament, the image, the charisma, and the decisive hard working temperament to become a champion, which are exactly the same qualifications to become the Mayor of Kiev.

“As a citizen, Vitali comes from the people; he knows the people, and the people were his passionate followers to take him to the top of the hills, which is the reason why Vitali has the basis to run as a Mayor for the people.

“As a businessman, Vitali has administered in excellence his business of promotion in boxing to be without a doubt one of the very best in the world, and has the financial basis to know exactly what Kiev needs to be accomplished.

“And in synthesis, Vitali Klitschko has all the matters of importance that a citizen expects a Mayor of Kiev to accomplish in regards to perceiving high goals to achieve, to know and rule for the people, to have the capacity, the experience to be a Mayor, and the charisma and gentlemanlike manner that opens the doors with empathy for the people of Kiev and all parts of the world.

“Vitali Klitschko has been one of the greatest all-around champions that the WBC has had, which is the reason why we elected him as Emeritus Champion and a World Ambassador for Peace and Good Will.

“I am sure that Vitali Klitschko is the best option to rule the beautiful and great City of Kiev and that the citizens will vote to elect him.”

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

UNDEFEATED JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT JAMES MOORE WEIGHS HIS OPTIONS

UNDEFEATED JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT JAMES MOORE WEIGHS HIS OPTIONS



Undefeated junior middleweight James Moore, 15-0 (10 KOS), a native of County Wicklow, Ireland, who fights out of Queens, New York, is itching for a fight. He wants to continue the momentum that began with his sensational 10 round decision victory over the much more experienced J.C. Candelo of Colombia in the main event of the March 15th pre-St. Patrick Day’s show at Madison Square Garden’s WaMu Theater that was called “A Fistful of Shamrocks.”

“I have been saying for years that I want big fights,” said the 30-year-old Moore, a veteran of 314 amateur bouts and the former captain of the Irish national amateur team.

“By beating Candelo I proved that I am ready to move to the next level. I don’t want any more easy fights. The only way I’m going to move my career forward is by fighting the best possible opponents.”

Early in the week of April 21, Moore agreed to a bout with Ronald Hearns, 18-0 (14 KOS), the son of the legendary Thomas “Hitman” Hearns who fights out of Detroit. That fight was being looked at as the opening bout of an HBO tripleheader in June.

When HBO told promoters they were looking for more of a New York-themed show, Moore’s matchmaker, Bruce Silverglade, said that Moore would be willing to fight Pawel Wolak, a hard-punching Polish-American with a 20-0 (14 KOS) record, or Andrey Tsurkan, a native of Ukraine who was 25-3 (16 KOS) going into an April 25 bout in the Bronx against Jesse Feliciano. Wolak and Tsurkan both fight out of New York.

“James is willing to fight anyone in the world,” said Silverglade. “I keep getting inquiries from ESPN 2, Showtime and HBO. James and his team are very confident in his abilities. We are looking for high-profile opponents. I can assure that James is not the roadblock in any negotiations for a big fight.”

During a meeting at Walker’s restaurant, which is located on the corner of North Moore and Varick steeets in the Tribeca section of Manhattan on April 22, Moore emphatically stated that he is not only eager, but extremely willing to take on any fellow undefeated prospect, especially if the fight is televised on a major network.

“I’ve been fighting a long time and realize it is time to make my move,” said Moore, who has postponed putting his 22 foot Grady White boat in the water for the season because of the possibility of going to camp to prepare for a major fistic challenge.

“I truly believe that this is going to be my year. I am very happy with the outcome of my fight with Candelo, and I would love to follow it up with a victory over someone like Hearns. If that fight does not get made, it’s not going to because of me. I’m ready, willing and eager to fight him.”

CONTACT: Colleen Ashton, Premier Strategies & Communications, LLC

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

BLACK POLITICAL TASKFORCE SUBMITS YOUTUBE VIDEO

BLACK POLITICAL TASKFORCE SUBMITS YOUTUBE VIDEO


YouTube.com and C-Span.org are soliciting video submissions from the public to address this question: “What Issue In This Election Is Most Important To You And Why?” Gary James, Chairman of the Black Political Taskforce submitted video footage and delivered the following narrative.

I think the most important issue in the presidential election of this season is the destination of the Black American vote.

This issue is critical in my view because of the current state of the Black American community at large. Black Americans are the political weakling in comparison to all other minorities in terms of political leverage.

As it is, the Black vote is not currently leveraged. Therefore we can’t hold elected officials and government accountable.

The crisis of the Black vote and our lack of political leverage is a perplexing paradox for many reasons. Not the least of which is the unprecedented advances of Black Americans coming out of slavery to emancipation in the nineteenth century. Couple this liberation with the legislative and statuary achievements of the twentieth century’s modern civil rights movement.

Hence, the political weakling state of Black America at large is indeed paradoxical and perplexing.

Therefore, the destination of the Black vote in presidential election 2008 must be strategic in establishing political leverage - the basis of community empowerment politics.

I suggest that the destination of the Black vote in this year’s general election must not be predicable as usual, in a framework of the foremost monolithic vote.

If our vote follows conventional wisdom and does not establish political leverage in November, we will remain the political weakling. Even if a Black American ascends to the White House.

We must not be enraptured and beguiled by the illusion of the personification of executive political power that is void of a strategic deployment of the Black vote in pursuit of electoral leverage.

The establishment of political leverage is the first commandment for success in the electoral politics of a given interest group, or community. This commandment has apparently eluded us.

Whoever is the ultimate nominee of the Democratic and Republican Parties, the Black vote should split accordingly: thirty percent Republican and seventy percent Democratic, in order to maximize political leverage potential.

As we approach the end of the first decade of the twenty-first century, our vote and community must be organized and deployed strategically in the electoral process. Not on the basis of emotion, habitual disposition, family history, or political correctness.

The Black community must be organized and deployed on the basis of respective permanent interests and we must also be positioned to leverage whatever political party is in control at the local or national levels. Personality, ethnicity etc., are absolutely irrelevant to establishing and managing political power relations.

Electoral politics organized and deployed on the basis of friends versus enemies are politically sophomoric and is partly responsible for the current crisis in Black American electoral and community politics.

The Black Political Taskforce has launched an initiative to establish political leverage for the Black community at large. By advocating and promoting a thirty percent verses seventy percent Republican/Democratic split in the vote we will take a decisive step toward establishing political leverage.

What do you think? We hope to inspire a broad based conversation on this issue. Engage us on our BLOG at www.blackpt.org.

Gary James is a freelance writer and an author of two books, the second of which will be released during the winter of this year. He is a longtime political analyst and strategist, and a former staff organizer for the National Welfare Rights Organization (NWRO) in New York City during the 1960s. James is the Dean of Deacons and Students of the Balthazar Monastery. The Balthazar Monastery is in communion with the Eastern Oriental Christian tradition. For more information, visit: www.garyjames.info.

©®™ 2007, 2008 All photos by "El Boxing Empress" Keisha Morrisey- Empire Morrisey Studios, for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and Starlite Boxing's Sweetscience all rights reserved

Monday, April 21, 2008

BROOKLYN’S OWN ZAB JUDAH AND NEW YORK’S FAVORITE SUGAR SHANE MOSLEY TO HOST NEW YORK PRESS CONFERENCE TO ANNOUNCE MAY 31 MEGA-FIGHT



SUGAR SHANE MOSLEY, four-time world champion, (44-5, 37 KOs) and ZAB JUDAH, three-time world champion (36-5, 25 KOs) and Golden Boy Promotions Press Conference to officially announce Mosley vs. Judah: “HIGHSTAKES” Saturday, May 31.




"Sugar" Shane Mosley and Jack Mosley


Zab Judah


Zab Judah and Katherine Hines Judah


Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, the event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and will produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

U.S.A. v. Puerto Rico National Teams, Live Webcast on www.GoFightLive.tv, This Saturday, April 26th at 7pm

National Teams from the United States and Puerto Rico will convene in the boxing Mecca of Philadelphia for an Olympic-style boxing dual on April 26 at the Liacouras Center. This major event will feature top boxers from both teams as each prepare for the Olympic Games.

The competition will showcase many of the athletes who will be vying for gold in Beijing in August. The United States and Puerto Rico battled prior to the Olympic Games in 2004 as well, and many of the same faces could be on hand for the April 26 match-up. 2007 World Champion and two-time Olympian Rau'shee Warren (Cincinnati, Ohio) could face a rematch with 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian and Pan American Games gold medalist McWilliams Arroyo. The two squared off at the light flyweight division in their earlier battle, but both have moved up to the flyweight division for the 2008 Olympic Games.

"The U.S. National Team has had a strong rivalry with Puerto Rico for years. This event will preview many of the top contenders in Beijing, and promises to be a night of outstanding competition," said USA Boxing CEO Jim Millman."

The United States is enjoying a resurgence in amateur boxing, and is currently ranked second in the world based upon their finish at the 2007 World Championships in Chicago, Ill. Puerto Rico and the United States haven't faced off in head-to-head dual action since May of 2004 as the two nations battled prior to the 2004 Olympic Games.

USA Boxing, as the national governing body for Olympic-style boxing, is the United States' member organization of the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) and a member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).

See the competition LIVE Sat., April 26th, on www.GoFightLive.tv, starting at 7 PM EDT!

Black History 101 Mobile Museum Hip Hop artifacts and was in tributeto Proof and J Dilla.

The Black History 101 Mobile Museum showcased its refurbished travel trailer at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Detroit on April 20. The exhibit was attended by approximately 300 people. The exhibit had a variety of rare Hip Hop related material objects. The graffiti concept was done in tribute to Proof and JDilla.

The Black History 101 Mobile Museum made its debut in Detroit this past weekend. The exhibit focused on avariety of rare Hip Hop artifacts and was in tribute to Proof and J Dilla.

Check out the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvBXc22pBHE

EliteXC Heavyweight Sensation, Kimbo Slice, Will Headline an Exciting Night of Mixed Martial Arts

THE FIRST "CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS" TO BE BROADCAST LIVE ON SATURDAY, MAY 31, ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Middleweight Champion "Ruthless" Robbie Lawler will Defend His Title Against Scott "Hands of Steel" Smith

LOS ANGELES— CBS and ProElite, Inc. today announced that the first live prime time mixed martial arts event will be broadcast Saturday, May 31 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS will be broadcast live from the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.

"We're excited to introduce broadcast television viewers to America's fastest growing sport with this prime time event," said Kelly Kahl, Senior Executive Vice President, CBS Primetime. "EliteXC is putting together a lineup card that showcases the unique personalities, world-class athleticism, and raw power and emotion that characterizes mixed martial arts."

Champion "Ruthless" Robbie Lawler will put his title on the line against Scott "Hands of Steel" Smith in a middleweight championship bout. EliteXC heavyweight phenom, Kimbo Slice, will also participate in the May 31 event along with other stars from mixed martial arts. Additional matchups will be announced at a later date.

PHOTO COURTESY TOM CASINO SHOWTIME NETWORKS; Vernon Forrest and Kimbo Slice


"I am very happy for the highly trained fighters, who will finally get the kind of exposure they deserve, and, of course, the viewers, who will get the opportunity to learn that MMA is truly a sport that requires an abundance of skills, both mentally and physically," said Gary Shaw, EliteXC Live Events President.

CBS and ProElite, Inc., a Los Angeles-based leading entertainment and media company that produces world class mixed martial arts (MMA) events, announced last month they were teaming up to bring MMA to a major broadcast television network for the first time. CBS will broadcast four MMA events per year, produced by ProElite's live fight division, EliteXC, as two-hour live primetime specials.

Mixed martial arts is a sport evolved from a number of ancient combat disciplines including judo, jiu-jitsu, karate, wrestling and kickboxing. World-class athletes engage in hand-to-hand combat in a ring — both caged and traditional — and must adapt their fighting style to fit their opponent. The wide variety of styles and techniques make every event an unpredictable spectacle.

CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS will be produced by SHOWTIME Sports. The executive producer is David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.

For additional information visit www.proelite.com

Ross Realty International; The Right Relationship Makes A World of Difference

Rhonda Ross, President



Greetings!

Welcome to A Whole New World of Real Estate Brokerage!

Ross Realty International is a loyal, private, and internationally-connected oasis where sellers of prime real estate can connect with eager and available buyers around the world. With quality, relationship-centered client services, founder Rhonda Ross, daughter of legendary superstar, Diana Ross, and business mogul, Berry Gordy, has created a whole new world of real estate brokerage. To read more about Rhonda Ross and the launch of RRI click here.

You are among the first to receive the premier issue of the Ross Realty International Newsletter. In it, you will find inside tips about the hotest properties and most well-kept Real Estate secrets for buying and selling real property in Manhattan and around the globe. If you are not currently in the market, please forward this email to someone who is. We guarantee they will thank you for it.

With an exclusive 'Rolodex' that reaches around the world, across the country, and throughout New York City, Ross Realty International has bridged the Manhattan and global real estate markets. Whether buying or selling a property, you require good counsel and a solid plan. Join our growing family and let Ross Realty International show you how:

The Right Relationship Makes A World of Difference

Sincerely,

The RRI Team
Ross Realty International, LLC
(917) 463 - 0397 Tel/Fax
www.RossRealtyInternational.com
Info@RRI-LLC.com

At the Moment...

In each newsletter, we at Ross Realty International will share an "Inside Tip" that is exciting us "At The Moment"...

Your first Inside Tip will be on your television sets. We are very happy to announce that Friday, March 28th between 5am - 8am, NY1 will begin airing the first of three real estate segments that feature president, Rhonda Ross. If you live in the New York City area (and are up that early) please tune in for a little "Ross Realty Real Estate Wisdom". We'll be talking about:

1. How to get your property to stand out in this changing market
2. How to best prepare yourself to purchase a property
3. Exclusive versus Open Listings, choosing the best for you

And don't forget to check out RossRealtyInternational.com if you're thinking about moving and for daily updates of our featured sales and rentals.

DIACONU vs. HENRY REPLAY AT DONKINGTV.COM‏

DonKingTV.com will exclusively webcast for free around the world the Adrian Diaconu vs. Chris Henry match for the interim WBC light heavyweight championship on Saturday beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET/10:30 PT (GMT 5:30 p.m.)


To celebrate his second webcast, Don has broken out three great fights from his film library: Ruiz vs. Valuev, Golota vs. McBride and Golota vs. Mollo.

Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Championship Webcast Exclusively on DonKingTV.com on Saturday Live From Bucharest, Romania

Adrian Diaconu (Romania/Canada) vs. Chris Henry (U.S.A.) in Main Event;

Plus Three More Bouts: Ion Ionut ‘Jo Jo’ Dan (Romania) vs. Raul Balbi (Argentina),

Viorel Simion (Romania) vs. Rudy Encarnacion (Spain),

And Bogdan Dinu (Romania) vs. Stephane Tessier (Canada);

Webcast Begins at 1:30 p.m. ET/10:30 a.m. PT (GMT 5:30 p.m.)

Visitors to DonKingTV.com Can Also See Three Fights Never-Before-Shown in America:

Nikolai Valuev vs. John Ruiz & Andrew Golota Battles Both Kevin McBride & Mike Mollo

BUCHAREST, Romania—Don King will continue his march into Internet webcasting on Saturday with a battle of undefeated boxers vying for the interim World Boxing Council light heavyweight championship that pits Adrian Diaconu against Chris Henry that can be seen live exclusively on DonKingTV.com for free beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET/10:30 a.m. PT (GMT 5:30 p.m.) from the Sala Polivalenta in Bucharest, Romania.

Three additional bouts will be shown live from Romania. Undefeated Ion Ionut “Jo Jo” Dan (20-0, 11 KOs), from Romania will take on Argentinean veteran Raul Balbi (55-8-1, 38 KOs) in a North American Boxing Association 140-pound championship; undefeated Romanian prospect Viorel Simion (7-0, 3 KOs) tangles with Spanish battler Rudy Encarnacion (18-11-2, 8 KOs); and 2003 world junior champion Bogdan Dinu, from Romania, will make his professional debut against Stephane Tessier, from Canada.

To celebrate his second webcast, King has broken into his vast vault of previous fights to allow DonKingTV.com visitors to see three big fights for free that have never been shown in America. Beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Thursday through the weekend, fans can see the bout where Nikolai “Giant Russian” Valuev won his first world title in a controversial decision over two-time World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz at Max Schmeling Halle in Berlin, Germany, on Dec. 17, 2005.

“I have been overwhelmed by the people’s blessings of success to our pioneer effort in launching DonKingTV.com,” King said. “DonKingTV.com is the people’s global network. I want to thank all the people who have logged on and will long on and to the bloggers who are the modern-day apostles of the media.”

Beginning at 1 p.m. ET on Friday through the weekend, two more fan-favorite fights will be added to the DonKingTV.com schedule: Andrew Golota’s memorable Madison Square Garden brawls with Mike Tyson conqueror Kevin “The Clones Colossus” McBride that took place on Oct. 6, 2007, and the slugfest against Chicago heavyweight contender “Merciless” Mike Mollo from Jan. 19.

Diaconu (24-0, 15 KO), born in Romania and now fighting out of Montreal, is the WBC No. 1 ranked mandatory challenger at the 175-pound weight limit and was to have faced WBC champion Chad Dawson during a Don King-promoted fight card on Sept. 29 at ARCO Arena in Sacramento, Calif. Diaconu was forced to bow out two weeks prior to that contest after suffering a hand injury that included bone contusions and soft tissue damage.

Diaconu’s perfect record, and ability to re-schedule the postponed match with Dawson, will be challenged by the similarly perfect Henry (21-0, 17 KOs), from Houston, Texas.

“I’m going to win this fight,” Henry said. “He [Diaconu] has no idea what he signed up for and is up against in Chris Henry.”

Henry has shown great power with an 86-percent knockout percentage in 21 fights after being a professional prizefighter for just over three years. Henry’s style is to come straight to his opponents, which should cause fireworks with Diaconu, who possesses power in both hands as well.

“Henry is talking a good game,” Diaconu said. “Let’s hope he brings that spirit to the ring on Saturday.”

Henry has recently teamed with Ronnie Shields, one of boxing’s greatest trainers.

“I needed Ronnie Shields to add just a little polish and experience,” Henry said. “Bobby Benton has always been my trainer and he’ll still be in my corner as a second along with Mike Roberts. Ronnie’s been working with me for about six months now and he has me ready.”

Col. Bob Sheridan will provide blow-by-blow ringside descriptions from Romania and is being joined by special guest analyst Glen Johnson, a former light heavyweight champion. Promoter of the Romanian event is Gankor Promotions. DonKingTV.com is the exclusive webcaster of this event. It’s not TV. It’s DonKingTV.com.

Alan Hopper/Bob Goodman Don King Productions

Southern Starr Promotions MAY 3RD, 2008

SOUTHERN STARR PROMOTIONS Cinco de Mayo, EXPLOSION, Featuring Singing Sensation Marla Mitchell Televised by Univision MAY 3RD, 2008 at VINELAND HIGH SCHOOL DOORS OPEN AT 6PM • FIRST BOUT 7PM, TICKETS ON SALE NOW $30 GENERAL ADMISSION $60 RING SIDE $75 VIP TABLES AVAILABLE FOR DETAILS CALL 609-202-9278. Official After Party Spot: Harry’s Lounge, Vineland, NJ

ALL BOUTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE. NO REFUNDS / NO RETURNS
FEATURED BOUTS and CO-MAIN EVENT

Jose Reyes (24-4,8 KO) WBO Lightweight Latino Champ of Vineland, NJ,

Mighty Mike Tiberi (8-0 ) of Wilmington, DE

Yasin Rashad (6-0-1) of Mobile, AL

Simon O’Donnell (6-1) of London, England

Bryan Green (1-0) of Vineland, NJ

Steve O’Meara (1-0) of London, England

Damien Rapley (6-0-6 KO's) of Queens, NY
Damien Rapley

ADAMEK STOPS BELL IN SEVEN; Adamek made his plans clear. “Next Up is IBF Champion Cunningham and then a unification bout against David Haye.”

TOTOWA, NJ – IBF #3 cruiserweight contender Tomasz Adamek secured a world title opportunity today by stopping IBF #7 contender O’ Neil Bell at Spodek Arena in Katowice, Poland, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. Adamek floored Bell in the opening round and then schooled the former undisputed world cruiserweight champion for the next six rounds, forcing Bell to retire on his stool prior to round eight (TKO 7).

Adamek’s victory earned him the IBF’s #1 mandatory position. Both IBF champion Steve Cunningham and Adamek are mandated to battle each other in their next bouts.

Ike and Steve Cunningham


At the time of the stoppage all three judges had Adamek ahead on the scorecards (69-63, 68-64, and 67-65). After surrendering following the completion of round seven, Bell complained of “dizziness” and said he “felt ill”.

“Bell was the most dangerous opponent I’ve faced,” said Adamek. “I trained hard and showed what I can do. This was my best performance. I am looking forward to the title fight.”

Both IBF champion Steve Cunningham and Adamek are mandated to battle each other in their next bouts.


APRIL 19 IN KATOWICE, POLAND ADAMEK-BELL IN IBF CRUISERWEIGHT ELIMINATOR

TOTOWA, NJ– Two of the world’s top cruiserweights will vie for the IBF’s #1 mandatory position on April 19, 2008, when Tomasz Adamek (IBF #3) and O’ Neil Bell (IBF #7) battle in a 12 round IBF eliminator, it was jointly announced today by Main Events, Ziggy Promotions, Warriors Boxing, and KnockOut Promotion.

Adamek (33-1, 22 KO’s) has stopped 15 opponents within the first three rounds. The 31-year-old Zywiec, Poland native captured the vacant WBC light heavyweight championship on May 21, 2005, when he decisioned Paul Briggs (W 12). He defended the title twice before losing to Chad Dawson on Feb 3, 2007 (L 12). Since moving to cruiserweight he is 2-0, 1 KO. Adamek is also recognized as the IBO Cruiserweight Champion.

Bell (26-2, 24 KO’s) is the former undisputed cruiserweight champion. The 33-year-old Atlanta, Georgian by way of Jamaica captured the undisputed crown on January 7, 2006, when he stopped defending champion Jean-Marc Mormeck (KO 10). Bell surrendered the undisputed title in his last bout on March 17, 2007, when he lost a decision in the rematch against Mormeck (L 12). Prior to the loss Bell had won 25 consecutive bouts.

“I am very excited about returning to my Polish homeland for this fight against Bell,” said Adamek. “Bell is a very good fighter, but I need to win this bout to get another title shot. I won’t let anyone stand in my way.”

“I look forward to this fight being the first step for me in recapturing the belts that rightfully are mine,” said Bell."

For more info contact; Donald Tremblay Main Events

OSCAR DE LA HOYA'S RETURN TO HBO'S CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING WITH MAY 3 "HOMECOMING" FIGHT AGAINST STEVE FORBES

Olympic Gold Medalist and Six-Division World Champion OSCAR DE LA HOYA and Former World Champion, STEVE FORBES, will host a news conference to announce "HOMECOMING," set for Saturday, May 3 at The Home Depot Center in Los Angeles and televised live on HBO. The bout also marks De La Hoya's return to HBO's Championship Boxing since his last appearance in 2000.



"Homecoming" is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with AEG and The Home Depot Center, and sponsored by Cazadores Tequila, Tecate Beer, Rockstar Energy Drink, Southwest Airlines and Affliction Clothing. The event will be televised live by HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10pm ET / 7pm PT.

2-time world heavyweight champion John 'The Quietman' Ruiz, Ruiz rated high, still avoided "Team Ruiz"

LAS VEGAS– Former two-time world heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz used to be the Rodney Dangerfield of boxing as well as one of its most avoided fighters. Now, though, the new Ruiz has gained respect in many circles, particularly after his impressive win against 4-time world title challenger Jameel McCline, yet, John remains the opponent champions and top contenders alike least want to fight.

Top American contender Ruiz and European challenger Alexander Dimitrenko are the only heavyweights rated among the top six in the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Council and International Boxing Federation. Rated No. 2 and No. 3 by the WBA and WBC, respectively, and No. 6 by the IBF but, unlike Dimitrenko, Ruiz is also ranked in the top 10 by The Ring magazine.

“After so many years of not being respected,” Ruiz said, “it’s exciting to know and feel that I’m finally being recognized as one of the top heavyweights in the world. I’m glad. It’s been a long time coming. I’m ready to clean-up the heavyweight division and I’m willing to fight any of the reigning champs or other top contenders.

“I can’t wait for my next fight. I’m so much more confident fighting this time around, throwing more punches and combinations, just being more aggressive in the ring. I’m motivated more today than I ever was in the past. I changed my whole team and it’s really made a big difference, especially having Manny Siaca, Sr. as head trainer. I’ve learned so much from Manny. We’ve been working hard and it’s paying off.”

Ruiz (43-7-1, 29 KOs) has fought himself back into position for another world title shot, coming off an impressive 12-round decision on March 8 in a near shutout performance (119-109, 118-110, 117-111) against McCline, who is his previous fight had three times floored new Samuel Peter, returning to the vintage days when “The Quietman” first won a world title with a 12-round decision against legendary Evander Holyfield in 2001.

The Puerto Rican-American Ruiz is the first and only Latino heavyweight champion of the world. He has fought in 10 world championship fights, defeating three world heavyweight champions -- Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – in addition to beating top contenders such as Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo, Kirk Johnson and McCline during his 15-year pro career.

Bob Trieger, Full Court Press

JOE CALZAGHE WINS DECISION OVER BERNARD HOPKINS



BERNARD HOPKINS VS. JOE CALZAGHE

HBO Sports presented Bernard Hopkins vs. Joe Calzaghe a light heavyweight fight live SATURDAY, APRIL 19(9:45 PM ET/6:45 PM PT) from The Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Six years after unsuccessfully seeking a matchup with Hopkins, Joe Calzaghe now (45-0, 32 KOs), from Newbridge, Wales, finally gets his wish. Known as "The Pride of Wales," the 35-year-old will be fighting at light heavyweight for the first time following a record-tying 21 consecutive world title defenses at super middleweight. In his most recent bout on Nov. 4, Calzaghe unified a host of world titles by taking the belts from Mikkel Kessler in front of a raucous home crowd at Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. The Hopkins fight will be Calzaghe's first in the United States and only his third outside the United Kingdom, as well as his third HBO appearance.


Over the course of his 20-year career, Philadelphia's Bernard Hopkins now (48-5-1, 32 KOs) has established himself as one of the premier fighters of his era and one of the greatest middleweight champions of all time. After building a reputation on stellar performances against premium competition like Felix Trinidad and Oscar De La Hoya, Hopkins cemented his legacy with a stunning victory over reigning champion Antonio Tarver in June 2006 in his first fight at light heavyweight. Following a short retirement, Hopkins returned to the ring last July, scoring a convincing victory over former 154-pound champion Ronald "Winky" Wright in his second light heavyweight bout. This bout marks the 43-year-old Hopkins' 16th appearance on HBO.