According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former world Super Bantamweight champion Celestino caballero will make his first appearance at Jr. Lightweight when he takes on perennial contender Jason Litzau on November 27th in Las Vegas underneath the world Lightweight championship between Juan Manuel Marquez and Michael Katsidis

Details are also being worked out to add welterweight titlist Andre Berto (26-0, 20 KOs) in a mandatory defense against Selcuk Aydin (20-0, 15 KOs) to the card, promoter Lou DiBella, who promotes Caballero and Berto, told ESPN.com.

DiBella said he and Aydin co-promoter Don King are getting closer on the money. If they make a deal, then HBO will expand the card to a tripleheader.

“Caballero is moving up because he basically has to,” DiBella said of the 5-foot-11 Caballero. “He’s outgrown the 122-pound weight class. At 126, he is unquestionably being avoided. If we could have worked out suitable opposition we could have made a reasonable deal, and he would have stayed at 126. It didn’t happen.”

“We had been kicking around Litzau as a possibility if Caballero had to move up again,” DiBella said. “When it became clear there wasn’t an alternative HBO liked better, we did it. Caballero wanted to fight a name, somebody people have heard of and Litzau is that guy. He’s coming off maybe the best win of his career against Juarez. So Caballero is making a statement — he was the best 122, one of the best 126 and now he’s willing to go to 130 to fight a real guy for TV. He believes he is the best and will do what is necessary to prove it.

“I think it’s an excellent matchup,” Wirt said. “Litzau always come to fight. A lot of people wrote Litzau off, but he stood up to the plate and delivered in the Juarez fight and now we’re planning on another upset.”

This Saturday European Champion John Murray 29-0(17) will make the first defence of his title against grizzled veteran Andriy Kudriavtsev 34-7(15). It wont be an easy for Murray 25, Kudriavtsev started out his career with 5 loses in his first 9 fights and has turned his career around since a bad start to his career. Manchester based Murray will be looking to do something that only former world champion Paulus Moses has so far achieved in stopping the tough Ukrainian. He hopes that if he can take care of business and extend the longest unbeaten current run in British Boxing that he can get a world title fight in the next 12 months. Currently Murray is WBC 3# & WBO 9#.

Hello John, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – This weekend you make the first defence of your European title against Andriy Kudriavtsev what do you know about him? How good do you think he is?

John Murray – I think he’s very good, I watched plenty of tapes and DVD’s on him. Yeah he’s a good fighter. He’s very good at what he does. He throws good bodyshots and he’s very strong. So I’ve got to make sure I’m at my very peak condition, which I have done. I’ve had a great training camp and looking forward to the fight more than anything.

Anson Wainwright – How do you see the fight going?

John Murray – I think he’s going to be competitive early but as the fight wears on my extra level in class should take over and I’m thinking I’ll stop him him around the mid round rounds. Round 8.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about the training you have done for this fight? How long you have been in camp, what sort of things you concentrated on?

John Murray – I’ve had a good 10 week camp. It’s gone really well it’s been one of the best I’ve had in two or three years. I’ve had good quality sparring with my stable mate Anthony Crolla (An 18-2(6) Super Featherweight who’s in training for an English title fight on 2 October against Andy Morris) he’s at our gym. It’s gone well and I’m looking forward to the fight. We used the normal routine. We got a set plan, set structure we use everytime. We’re expecting a really good performance from myself.

Anson Wainwright – In your last fight you won the vacant European title against Gary Buckland stopping him in eleven. What can you tell us about that fight? Looking at that fight how happy were you with that performance?

John Murray – Yeah i was very happy. That fight i only had 3 weeks notice so you know i had to cram a lot of work into them 3 weeks to get myself in shape in time. I went in there, it was a bit rushed (The training) but on the night i broke Gary down steadily over the 11 rounds and considering the late notice it was a very good performance.

Anson Wainwright- How easily do you make Lightweight?

John Murray – I make weight easily. I think i showed that last time. Considering i had 3 weeks i was down on weight and over the 11 rounds i showed how strong i am.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter?

John Murray – I’m managed by Michael Marsden from up Leeds way. My trainer is Joe Gallagher and i’m currently promoted by Mick Hennessy.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career?

John Murray – I only had 24 amateur fights i was 16-8. It was a very short amateur career the first year i went to the school boy final. In the second year i went to the Junior ABA final and in the third year i went to the North West finals of the ABA’s i also boxed for England twice.

Anson Wainwright – Though you obviously don’t want to look past this fight what are your targets for the next 6months to a year?

John Murray – I think i’m knocking on the door for the world title shot. The WBC have me at number 3 now. So it wont be long before i get my chance. I just have to take care of business Saturday and you know after that hopefully i’ll get a world title shot and i’m sure i’ll bring it home.

Anson Wainwright – There is a bit of rivalry between yourself and Kevin Mitchell and Amir Khan what are your thoughts on them and a fight with them?

John Murray – I think me and Khan would be a massive fight down the line. I think Kevin after losing to Katsidis is looking to rebuild. You know down the line maybe we could get it on.

Anson Wainwright – You’ve been a pro now for 7 years and had 30 fights after this one, how far from a World title do you think you are?

John Murray – I’d like to be a world champion in the next twelve months. I don’t know any reason why I can’t be. I’ve just got to make sure I do a good job Saturday. And after this fight I’m going to hopefully be fighting for a world title or one of the big names & get myself a title eliminator. I’m really excited about the next 12 months.

Anson Wainwright – When your not Boxing what do you like to do with your time? What are your hobbies and interests?

John Murray – I just like to chill out really. I spend a lot of time with my girlfriend we go for meals and stuff like that. I enjoy going to the pictures or me and Joseph (younger brother) will go play some pool. When I’m not training I go for a drink with my mates.

Anson Wainwright – You just mentioned your younger brother Joe, he was a very successful amateur fighting in the Worlds and Olympic games. How he doing at the moment?

John Murray – Yeah he’s fighting on the undercard of my fight on Saturday. He’s looking razor sharp in the gym at the minute. So I’m sure he’s going to be spectacular Saturday night.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the Lightweight division at the moment?

John Murray – I think the Lightweight division on the world stage is wide open. You know it’s there for the taking. If I can get myself in a fight with Marquez or Katsidis I’ll takeover and become the dominant figure in the Lightweight division.

Anson Wainwright – Who do you think will win when Marquez fights Katsidis?

John Murray -I think Marquez will win it, I think he’s a bit to cute, a bit to clever for Katsidis.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a message for the Kudriavtsev and the Lightweight division in general?

John Murray – I’m just working hard, training hard and coming for a world title. I’m looking at fighting for a world title in the next 12 months and I’m sure I’m going to bring it home.

Thanks for your time John, good luck on Saturday.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.

CLICK TO ORDER HIS FIGHT

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The powerful rags to riches story of Kassim Ouma has been well publicized in print, television and most notably in a documentary feature film. Kidnapped at the age of six to be part of the National Resistance Army in Uganda, Ouma beat immeasurable odds to realize his dream of becoming a world champion at 25. Now a veteran 31-year-old, five years removed from his title reign, Ouma has set out to realize the dream a second time. His journey begins Saturday night, in an important crossroads bout against Joey Gilbert at the Grand Sierra Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada.

If one were to take a quick look at the official ledger of Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KOs) of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida by way of Kampala, Uganda, they may think he is a fighter on the decline. Ouma has dropped five of his last six contests and has not won a meaningful fight in over four years. But if you were to look a little deeper, you would notice that there is more to that story.

The first of those five losses was suffered at the hands of Jermain Taylor, who was defending his unified middleweight title. Ouma was coming up in weight, having never fought as a 160-pounder before, and was more or less overpowered by a larger, skilled fighter. “As you can see, since I fought Taylor he has been getting knocked down,” Ouma points out. “He has not been the same.”

Ouma’s next three losses take a little more explaining. Ouma at his best probably does not lose to Saul Roman or Gabriel Rosado, which he did in split decisions in 2007 and 2009 respectively. In his first fight after the loss to Roman, Ouma was upset by then-lightly regarded Cornelius Bundrage, who went on to claim a title from Cory Spinks earlier this year. “There were some fights that maybe I should have won, but maybe I was not prepared,” admits Ouma. “But now I am ready to do it again.”

Exhibit A that Ouma is in fact ready to do it again would be his last performance, a controversial decision defeat suffered at the hands of rising contender Vanes Martirosyan this past January. Ouma downed Martirosyan in round nine and it was the belief of many sitting ringside and watching on television that he deserved the nod on the scorecards. However, the judges gave him little credit and scored the fight wide for Martirosyan. “I have fights that I did not really lose, they were just controversial,” explains Ouma. “I don’t think they really beat me.”

For the fight against Martirosyan, his best performance in years, Ouma was trained by former world champion Livingstone Bramble, who is not training him for this fight. “We didn’t get along,” Ouma explains simply. “He was a good trainer, but we just couldn’t get along. I am with a different trainer, a different gym.” Ouma trained for this fight under the guidance of respected trainer Ruben Castanon out of the Capital Punishment Boxing Club in Riverside, California.

For this fight against Gilbert, Ouma is moving back up to the 160-pound middleweight division. The change seems to be a result of circumstance more so than a plotted path for the former IBF Light Middleweight Champion. “I was looking for fights all over everywhere,” says Ouma frustratingly. “I could not get nobody to give me a fight. Thanks to Joey for giving me this fight. This fight is big. If I win, I have decided that I am going to stay middleweight.” While making weight is not likely to be much of an issue for the career junior middleweight, Ouma did not alter his training regimen based on the elevated weight class. “It does not change my preparation,” claims Ouma. “I just train like I have been training, and just have more speed than ever.”

Much as was the case when he stepped up in weight to meet Taylor (his only other fight at middleweight), Ouma will be taking on a naturally larger opponent. Gilbert was a ranked middleweight three years ago and has been campaigning recently as a 168-pounder. In Gilbert’s last fight, he weighed in officially at 172-pounds, roughly fourteen pounds more than Ouma has ever weighed. Despite those facts, Ouma does not seem too concerned about any size or strength advantages Gilbert may have in the bout. “I don’t know [how it affects] him. I just know he has been a middleweight before, says Ouma. “It does not matter. We are just going to fight.”

Ouma has studied previous Joey Gilbert fights, but refuses to read too much into what he saw in the footage. “I think he is a tough guy, but watching him doesn’t mean he is going to bring it in the fight, because he is fighting a different cookie,” says Ouma. “When he fights me, he is not going to have the same plan.”

The outcome of Saturday’s fight, which is for the WBA-affiliated NABA Middleweight title, will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the career of both fighters. “I am focused on becoming champion of the world again. That is what I want,” says Ouma. “But right now I am just focused on Gilbert and that is it.” Should Ouma move past Joey Gilbert Saturday, fight fans ringside may have witnessed the beginnings of Kassim’s second dream run. No matter the outcome, Ouma has a promise. “The people are going to see Kassim Ouma back in the ring, bringing what I always deliver and I will deliver that night.”

Photo by Chris Farina/Top Rank

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

“Atlantic City is dying.”

That’s if it’s not already dead.

The proclamation that the east coast gambling hub is “dying” passed through the lips of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, whose administration is planning a massive government overhaul of Atlantic City’s gambling and entertainment district.

Steadily on the decline for the past decade, Atlantic City’s revenue has dropped at alarming rates of late; rates that have declined exponentially since 2006 when slot parlors were first introduced in neighboring Pennsylvania. Couple that with the recent legalization of table games in the Keystone State and sports gambling in Delaware and suddenly Atlantic City looks as unattractive as ever.

But no matter what surrounding states do in their efforts to compete with the gambling capital of the east, Atlantic City will invariably have its rich history on its side. A rich history that, of course, includes the sport of boxing.

Setting aside the fact that “AC” has our country’s oldest and longest boardwalk — since 1870, in fact — for the last thirty years it has served as boxing mecca, along with a gambling one.

Once gambling was given the green light by New Jersey legislators in 1976, casinos soon started popping up on the familiar of street of Monopoly fame.

With the casinos came the gambling and entertainment, boxing included. With the gambling and entertainment came the tourists. With the tourists came the money.

In the 80‘s and 90‘s when Atlantic City was operating like a well-oiled machine, it was the Historic Atlantic City Convention Center, now known as Boardwalk Hall, that hosted some of the best fighters to ever step through the ropes and into a boxing ring: Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roberto Duran, Floyd Mayweather, Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins, George Foreman…etc, etc. Further, Boardwalk Hall played a part in what was arguably the greatest boxing trilogy in the last thirty years, hosting the final two fights between Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward.

While Atlantic City still hosts boxing on a consistent basis, no big promoter has attempted to continually showcase their fighter in “AC” in recent times. Even Main Events, who put together countless cards at Boardwalk Hall have showcased its prized possession, Tomasz Adamek, some 120 miles up the Garden State Parkway in Newark. In years past, the Duva-led promotional company virtually sent all its fighters down the coastline at some point: Pernell Whitaker, Evander Holyfield, Fernando Vargas, and the like. Atlantic City even had an adopted “hometown” fighter courtesy of Main Events in one Arturo Gatti. Towards the end of his career, Gatti could have filled half of Boardwalk Hall if he were shadowboxing.

But recent trends have seen a decline in interest with regards to the once-lively Atlantic City fight crow. When Sergio Martinez and Paul Williams fought on HBO last December, a measly gathering of about 5,000 fans were in attendance. Undoubtedly, there will be more to witness their rematch on November 20, but the numbers from their first bout are telling.

“AC” was mentioned — almost in passing — by Bob Arum as a possible site for the November 13 PPV bout between Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito but once the Texas Athletic Commission licensed Antonio Margarito, Arum took his business back to Cowboys Stadium, where upwards of 70,000 boxing fans are expected to show up.

The Atlantic City boxing scene has much more of a pulse than the city itself. However, what the two do have in common is a decline in quality over the past few years. While fewer and fewer fights that would qualify as “super” fights or PPV worthy events come to Atlantic City, one can argue that the quality of fights occurring at Boardwalk Hall has declined greatly since the “Glory Days,” with a few outliers here and there (the upcoming Martinez-Williams II being one of them).

It is possible that if Atlantic City begins to thrive once again that the boxing industry will take notice and major PPV events and mega-fights could return to the Jersey Shore.

So it is up to Governor Christie and his team to construct the plan to resurrect this “dying” city.

According to Business Week, Governor’s Christie’s plan would allow the state to “direct the agency that runs Boardwalk Hall…to attract more meetings and shows.”

The plan also includes funding to create multiple entertainment districts, outdoor amphitheaters, waterparks, and new sports complexes — perhaps one that will host the next slew of big fights to pass through the oceanfront city.

It is still Las Vegas, however, that is the go-to spot for the big fights and big PPV events, despite the trend toward stadiums that has emerged over the last year or so.

But in order for Atlantic City to once again compete with Sin City for the biggest fights the sport has to offer, it needs the makeover that Christie has in mind. For a desperate city whose casinos are struggling to stay in the black, a fresh approach to the entertainment aspect of the city might just be what the doctor ordered.

Then, and only then, will Atlantic City transform into “Las Vegas East.”

One thing is for sure, the Christie administration is counting on the wise words of one Terrance Mann as portrayed by James Earl Jones.

If you “re-build” it, they will come.

With regards to both tourism and to boxing’s biggest fights: at least that is the hope.

You can reach Kyle Kinder at Twitter.com/KyleKinder

Sources close to the situation have informed 15rounds.com that the November 8th boxing special to air on ESPN2 from Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina on November 8th will be headlined by a pairing of heavyweight prospects. Once beaten big men will look to regain some of their luster, as Travis Kauffman is pegged to take on Bowie Tupou.

Kauffman (20-1, 16 KOs) of Reading, Pennsylvania has won two straight against journeymen opponents since suffering a nationally televised setback against Tony Grano last September. Despite an accomplished amateur career, Kauffman made the mistake of slugging with the crude Grano, which made for an entertaining fight for Showtime, but ultimately helped lead to a somewhat controversial fourth-round stoppage defeat. In his last bout, Kauffman knocked out the well traveled Chris Koval in two rounds this past May.

Tupou (19-1, 15 KOs) of Los Angeles, California by way of Nuku?alofa, Tonga quietly built himself into a prospect by scoring a string of quick knockouts in mostly non-televised fights before running into longtime opponent Demetrice King in August of last year. King caught Tupou with a counter off the ropes to score a knockdown late in the first that swung the fight in his favor. Tupou, who had been signed by prominent promoter Gary Shaw, did not recover during the minute rest between rounds and was ultimately stopped in the second round. In his one fight since, Tupou stopped Alexis Mejias in four rounds in May.

The Veterans Day themed card has become an annual tradition for ESPN. Tickets will not be sold and the crowd will be comprised of servicemen and women.

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

Recently Mzonke “The Rose of Khayelitsha” Fana 30-4(12) won the IBF Super Featherweight title for a second time when he beat countryman and former nemesis Cassius Baloyi. It was a rematch from 2008 when Baloyi won, this time Fana got off to a better start and won convincingly. Over the past few years the South African quartet of Fana, Baloyi & Malcolm Klassen have all taken turns in holding the IBF title. With the win over Baloyi, Fana hopes that he can fight Klassen and repeat his previous victory in what would be a big fight in South Africa. At 37 Fana is a 16 year veteran at 130 and is considered the number 1 Super Featherweight by many including The Ring magazine & Boxrec. Here’s what Fana had to say when 15rounds.com recently spoke to him.

Hello Mzonke, welcome to 15rounds.com

Thank you! Nice to talk to your reputable website for the first time!

Anson Wainwright – Congratulations on your recent win over Cassius Baloyi for the vacant IBF Super Featherweight title. What can you tell us about that fight? How happy were you with your performance?

Mzonke Fana – I was very happy about my performance. This was the second time I fought Cassius. In our first fight two years ago, somehow I started “too late” and give away first 5 rounds. On the end, I lost my IBF title on majority decision. I could not afford the same again, so I started putting pressure from the opening bell and maintain it in all 12 rounds. Cassius is great fighter. He had many fights in USA and he never lost. It is great for me to be two times IBF World Champion.

Anson Wainwright – What does the future hold for you? When can we expect to see you back in action next? Who may you be fighting?

Mzonke Fana – Well, I’m no very young and at age of 37 I need two, three big fights in order to make same money. I will be waiting on my Promoter, and possibly end of the year I should be making the first defence.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team who is your manager, trainer & promoter?

Mzonke Fana – My manager is Butityi Konki and trainers Vuyani Bungu and Gert Strydom. You should remember Bungu. He defended his IBF Jnr. Featherweight Title 13 times and against some very big names at that point and time. Of course, my promoter is Mr. Branco Milenkovic. I have been with Mr. Branco for the past 10 years.

Anson Wainwright – There is a rivalry between yourself and Baloyi and more recently Malcolm Klassen. What can you tell us about this rivalry? Are you all good friends or not?

Mzonke Fana – Yes, we are all good friends but this is business. I would like to fight Klassen again, whom I already have beaten for the IBF World Title. It is big local match and as he has beaten Cassius as well, this fight does make sense.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your early years and how life first took you into Boxing?

Mzonke Fana – You are going to laugh. After I was given very bad split decision against my “homeboy” Mkhuseli Kondile for the National Title in 1997, I was so disappointed and I left the boxing for almost two years. I went to play soccer for Cape Town Ajax, and I never wanted to go back to boxing – I was very good soccer player!!

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing? What are your hobbies? What can you tell us about yourself that we wouldn’t know?

Mzonke Fana – I like soccer very much and music but as a professional fighter, most of the time I spend is something what have to do with boxing.

Anson Wainwright – You’ve been a pro for 16 years, what is your proudest moment and why?

Mzonke Fana – I receive the most prestigious award – The State President Award for Sport Excellence, and this was my proudest moment. Of course, I was voted two times as a Boxer of the Year as well, and my fight against Randy Suico for WBC Mandatory eliminator was voted fight of the year.

Anson Wainwright – How popular are you in South Africa? Do you do commercials and appear on tv? The Football World Cup takes place in June what are your thoughts on that?

Mzonke Fana – I’m popular as I been around for very long time. I do charity TV commercials by making awareness of HIV for young people. HIV has been major problem in Africa.

Anson Wainwright – You fought Marco Antonio Barrera, though it didn’t go well for you can you tell us about the experience of fighting a legend & being in America?

Mzonke Fana – Yes, with out doubt was very big experience to fight legendary Barrera. I thought I could do better, but Barrera is Barrera.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the Super Featherweight division at the moment? WBC Vitali Tajbert, WBA Takashi Uchiyama & WBO Ricky Burns?

Mzonke Fana – I would love to fight any unification with any of those three. Maybe Vitali Tajbert would be option. I will talk to Branco about.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans?

Mzonke Fana – Keep punching and keep reading 15rounds.com!!!

Anson Wainwright – Thanks for your time “The Rose of Khayelitsha”

Mzonke Fana – The rose is blooming!!!!

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

York, PA Super Featherweight Eric Nemo thrilled his hometown fans with a dominant six round unanimous decision over southpaw spoiler Stephan Alexander at the elegant Valencia Ballroom last Saturday evening.

Backed by nonstop chants of “Nemo, Nemo”, the local product was effectively aggressive from the opening bell, tagging Alexander in close quarters en route to dropping him with a short left hand in the second. The lanky Alexander attempted to work his way back into the fight by boxing from the outside, but had minimal success.

Despite a significant height disadvantage, Nemo consistently landed flush punches on the inside en route to taking a one sided victory.

Judges Bernard Bruni and Tony Wolfe scored the contest 60-53, while John Gradowski’s tally read 59-54. 15rounds.com also scored it 60-53 in favor of Nemo.

“I knocked him down and controlled the fight. but I didn’t feel like I was that sharp tonight,” Nemo surprisingly said following an adequate performance. “I didn’t train for a tall southpaw and he was very awkward.”

Nemo, whose lone defeat came in 2005 to future world champion Juan Manuel Lopez, improves to 10-1-1 with 5 KO’s. Alexander returns to Norfolk, VA at 4-3 with all four wins coming by knockout.

In the co-featured bout of the evening, tough but predictable welterweight Doel Carrasquillo was unable to capitalize on a rare hometown appearance, dropping an eight round majority decision to rugged Ghanaian Ayi Bruce.

Carrasquillo stood directly in front of Bruce from bell to bell firing hard hooks, but his lack of speed and movement gave his counterpart plenty of opportunities. With a close friend recording the fight near ringside while shouting instructions in his native tongue, Bruce landed the majority of the clean punches and avoided most of Carrasquillo’s return shots.

Scores were 78-74, matching 15rounds’ tally, 77-75 and a questionable 76-76.

“I knew he was a hard puncher, so I kept my hands up and countered him,” said Bruce, who resides in Albany, NY. “He was very tough and is a good fighter.”

Bruce is now 16-3 (11 KO’s). Carrasquillo, of Lancaster, PA, slips to a decisive 14-16-1 with 12 wins by KO.

Pro debutant and York native Jesus Saucedo successfully entered the paid ranks with a crowd pleasing four round UD over a very game Mike Denby. All four rounds of the welterweight contest were fought at a toe to toe pace, with both men throwing power shots as if there were no tomorrow. Although he was outweighed by 4.5 lbs, Saucedo was clearly the stronger puncher and hurt Denby on a few different occasions.

Judges Gradowski, Wolfe and Bruni all scored the bout 39-37.

Denby, of Dover, DE, falls to 3-5-3 (2 KO’s).

Entertaining middleweight Mike Moore of Cleveland, OH kept his perfect record alive following a close four round majority decision over gritty Robert Sockwell of East Stroudsburg, PA. The shorter Moore consistently brought the fight to Sockwell, who fought back valiantly and buzzed Moore with a hook in the third. Moore closed the show in style, dominating the final stanza with an impressive array of punches in close range.

Scores were 39-37 twice and 38-38.

“I saw him yesterday at the weigh in and tried to size him up, but he was a little bit more awkward than I thought he would be,” Moore said after the victory. “I came into the fight in great shape, am looking for my next fight already and am ready for whomever!”

Sockwell falls to 2-2 (2 KO’s).

In the opening bout of the evening, lightweight prospect Julius Leegrand of Cleveland moved to 4-0 with a unanimous decision over fellow Ohioan Eric Ricker. Leegrand worked behind a snappy jab throughout the contest, while mixing in left hooks and straight right hands in a solid showing.

Scores were 40-36 and 39-37 twice.

Leegrand is now 4-0 with 2 KO’s. Toledo’s Ricker slides 3-6.

Headed by Julio Alvarez, who worked double duty as the trainer of Nemo, Carrasquillo and Saucedo, the card served as A&D Promotions’ debut.

One of the most highly anticipated rematches has finally been inked as according to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Middleweight world champion Sergio Martinez will defend his crown against Paul Williams on November 20 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

“It’s nice to get it completed,” Dan Goossen, Williams’ promoter, said. “It’s not a matter of whose fault it is [that the fight took so long to make], it’s a matter that you have two of the most feared fighters in the world facing each other. It doesn’t just get made overnight. There’s a lot more to it. That’s what took time.”

Said Lou DiBella, Martinez’s promoter, “Martinez is not afraid of anybody and we did the deal that HBO wanted us to do. My take on the fight it’s the best f—— fight the rest of the year. Period. It’s the best fight for fight fans and they don’t have to fork over $60 to watch it on pay-per-view.”

The fight will be contracted at 157 pounds.

“It’s at 157 because we didn’t have a choice,” DiBella said. “Williams wanted the catch weight. There was an issue on the weight and we gave on the weight.”

When they met for the first time on Dec. 5 in the smaller arena upstairs at Boardwalk Hall, both fighters were knocked down in the first round of what turned out to be a rousing, slugfest and one of the most action-packed fights of the year. Williams won a heavily disputed majority decision in the nontitle bout.

“The fight can’t miss,” DiBella said. “You saw the first fight but I thought my guy won the first fight and I think he’ll win this one easier. I don’t think you’ll ever fight Paul Williams and have an easy fight, but I think this time he will win more clearly.”

“Sergio has just wanted to get back in the ring and wants to be treated like the middleweight champion,” DiBella said. “He knows what this fight means. He knows it’s the last time he will be bullied by anybody in a business sense. That won’t happen again if he wins. If he can beat Paul Williams after what he did to Pavlik and the damage he and Williams did to each other in the first fight, people should give him his props and he should be considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world below Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather. Sergio can establish himself at that level if he can perform in this fight. This is the prime of his career. This fight is everything to him.”

“Paul is very excited about the fight, so is [trainer] George [Peterson],” Goossen said. “It’s the type of fight boxing needs and wants and one that we’re looking to deliver. When everything is said and done, this is the fight everyone wants. But we never made any bones about the fact that we were looking for a welterweight fight. It wasn’t that we didn’t want a Sergio Martinez fight. We were hoping for the big fight at 147 pounds. We didn’t get it and therefore we went for the next biggest fight, and that was obviously against Sergio.

“The great thing about is it Paul will have more than three weeks to train for Martinez, which is what happened last time when Pavlik pulled out and we had to change opponents and train for a southpaw.”

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra

Despite a disastrous stretch, former world champion “Vicious” Vivian Harris of Carlstadt, NJ isn’t ready to hang up the gloves just yet.

Harris, 29-5-1 (19 KO’s), was on the wrong end of a third round knockout to Victor Ortiz Saturday night in Los Angeles, CA as part of an HBO pay per view telecast. Against the well regarded Ortiz, Harris got dropped four times and was unable to work his way back into the fight.

Prior to that, Harris, who was once considered an elite junior welterweight, lost a controversial fourth round TKO to Lucas Matthysse. To make matters even worse, the Matthysse fight was preceded by a scary no contest against Noe Bolanos in 2009, where he left the ring on a stretcher following a grotesque clash of heads.

While Harris has been sent to the hospital after two of his last three fights and is without notable victory since 2007, he refutes any assertion that he is going to call it quits.

“People just like to talk and they don’t know boxing,” exclaimed the always animated Harris. “This is a dirty and crazy sport. I was forced to fight (at or) around 140 and I can’t make that weight anymore. I am going to continue as a full fledged welterweight and you will never see me fight below (147 pounds) again!”

He also cites the contract weight for the Ortiz fight as a major issue.

“We tried to make it at 144 lbs, give or take a pound, but his people said no.” “They wanted to call this a welterweight fight, but (if that was the case) than why couldn’t I (fight at the) weight I wanted to? I am not trying to take away anything from his victory he did what he had to do, but (the issue over the weight) is complete bulls**t.”

Although he was also stopped in the two aforementioned fights and to Junior Witter via one punch knockout in 2007, Harris believes his punch resistance will only improve in his new weight class.

“I will be stronger at welterweight” I had to lose a good amount of to make 140 and it drained me. I (spar) with heavier guys and taking their punches (has never been) a problem.”

Upon completing his mandated suspension for the knockout loss, the former WBA champion, who is still under contract with Golden Boy Promotions, will actively seek fights with a notable welterweight.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to gardenstatefightscene.com

SAN ANTONIO – There was an excellent festival here called “Jazz’Salive,” downtown, Saturday. Some rain and lots of clouds, too. The rain was unwelcome but the clouds weren’t. No charge, though. Anyone who followed his ears to Travis Park got free jazz. And while that happened, a half mile down West Travis Street a whole lot of boxing happened for only $8 more.

That’s why it was so easy to forgo “200” later that night.

For a little less than 1/6 the price of “200: Celebrate and Dominate,” a four-fight Golden Boy Promotions pay-per-view card that certainly should not have been, a boxing fan round here could see 30 amateur bouts in a club show presented at San Fernando Gym by the South Texas Amateur Boxing Association.

The name of Saturday’s other card referred to the 200-year anniversary of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s famous “Grito” of death to the Gachupines and long life for the Virgin of Guadalupe. The shout launched Nueva España’s battle to become México and sufficed for 100 years till something like a Mexican civil war, oddly called “La Revolución,” led to another anniversary and sundry schoolhouse-renaming efforts.

San Antonio Parks and Recreation’s card featured more than a few kids whose lineage traces back to Spanish rule, too. Most names on the bout sheet that didn’t end in ‘s’ or ‘z’ went Guajardo or Garcia.

San Fernando Gym, itself, had a celebratory feel. Or maybe that was just the air conditioning. Some members didn’t know the basement could boast temperatures below 100 degrees; a heater blows year-round at the gym, even when it’s 95 outside. There was yellow tape across the heavy bags, and the speed bags, slip bags and double-end bags were in storage. In their stead were hundreds of aluminum folding chairs, convenient if not comfortable for five hours of boxing.

And it’s boxing, not fighting, by the way. The distinction is often a pedantic one, but there is a difference. Amateurs are boxers that outpoint one another in bouts. Professionals are prizefighters that hurt one another in fights.

There are some other differences. Amateurs wear headgear and heavy gloves and punch for shorter durations. Fatigue takes its same effect, though. That’s where it gets interesting. If you have less time and fewer means of inducing fatigue in your opponent, what do you do? Try harder. That means more punches and less defense. And that means quicker pace.

Quicker pace than, say, Saul “Cinnamon” Alvarez and Carlos Baldomir? Indeed. That fight on the “200” card featured an under-proven Mexican hopeful and a worn-out Argentine, and opening reviews were not positive. Then Alvarez stretched the hard-headed former welterweight champ, and hope was restored.

Alvarez is not the next great Mexican prizefighter. But he’ll suffice until Bob Arum finds him.

Hundreds of punches fly every couple of minutes in an amateur bout. Knockouts are few. Not many kids have the skill or strength to render another boxer unconscious. Too, there is a focus on process – one kid was penalized twice Saturday because his mouthpiece protruded – as much as on winning. And that’s a good way to build upstanding citizens if not future prizefighters.

Even with all the extra cushioning, though, future stars separate themselves. Saturday, that was Jairo Castaneda – a San Fernando product who knocked his opponent out hard. You can tell right away; some kids have a certain poise, regardless of fighting style. It’s impossible to fake. Castaneda measured his opponent for a round then exploited his every weakness.

Sounds like Victor Ortiz did the same thing to “Vicious” Vivian Harris in Staples Center later on. Good. Harris should not have been allowed back in a prizefighting ring after the stunt he pulled in Tucson 13 months ago. Realizing Mexican Noe Bolanos was going to beat him, Harris used an accidental collision of heads to fake a brain injury. His gurney ride from the ring actually drew taunts from the crowd at Desert Diamond Casino. When have you ever heard a gurney booed?

Worse yet, out of concern for Harris’ health we spiked a great lead that night:

“Vivian Harris entered the ring wearing ‘Vicious’ as his nickname and ‘Sugar Factory’ on the back of his trunks. The trunks won.”

That brings us to the Saturday bout that, for personal reasons, comprised the most interest: San Fernando’s Jimmy Martinez Jr. against Cutting Edge’s Henry Arredondo in a 119-pound bout of three, 90-second rounds. See, Jimmy Jr. and his father Jimmy Sr. train every weeknight at San Fernando. And they are a picture of class.

“I’m teaching him boxing because that’s what I know,” says Jimmy Sr., once a local amateur standout. “If I knew tennis, I’d teach him tennis.”

He’s also going to have to teach him not to cock his jab before throwing it. Arredondo read this hitch in Jimmy Jr.’s swing early and managed to slip every jab thrown his way. Still, the bout was excellent and worth the wait. And that’s saying something about less than five minutes of boxing that came in a card’s 325th minute.

Anyone think the main event of “200” was worth the wait? Then forgive but don’t forget. That goes for Golden Boy Promotions, of course, but more for HBO – who lent its dwindled credibility to the card.

Oh, let me guess. If it weren’t for pay-per-view, Shane Mosley and Sergio Mora would have had to split the gate – a fraction of their Saturday purses – and those of us not in Los Angeles would have missed the chance to see them. Such a bad deal?

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter.com/bartbarry

Baltimore, MD (September 19) – With an enthusiastic crowd backing two of the Beltway Area’s gutsiest pugilists, longtime rivals Jesse Nicklow and Julius Kennedy fought to a thrilling ten round majority draw in the main event of “Baltimore Bad Boys” last Friday evening at the Du Burns Arena.

In what many ringsiders declared as Maryland’s Fight of the Year, both men landed a number of crisp blows in various toe to toe exchanges. Each fighter maintained a solid punch output in close quarters, with Nicklow relying on jabs, uppercuts and right hands, as Kennedy worked off of a steady body attack and straight rights. Both men had their moments, but Nicklow appeared to be the more consistent fighter throughout the contest.

Although multiple media outlets declared Nicklow a close victor, the scorecard of 98-92 in his favor was overruled by two tallies of 95-95.

Nicklow, of Baltimore, is now 20-2-3 (9 KO’s). Kennedy, a Windsor Mills, MD native, left the ring at 7-1-1 (3 KO’s).

“I thought Jesse won the fight,” said Promoter Jake Smith of Baltimore Pro Boxing. “He established himself and landed a lot of good combinations, but it was back and fourth the whole fight. I can’t complain though because it was a heck of a fight and the crowd seemed contempt with the draw.”

One of boxing’s legendary warriors was also thrilled with the action that transpired inside the squared circle.

“I am glad it ended in a draw both guys fought their heart out,” stated Five Time World Champion Vinny Paz. “It was a great fight and the fans definitely got their money’s worth. I hope they fight again!”

Unbeaten cruiserweight Steve “Show Stealer” Wheeler of Baltimore remained perfect with a crushing first round knockout over Virginia’s Donald Crawford. The wildly popular Wheeler put Crawford down for the count with a vicious straight left at 2:27.

Wheeler is now 6-0 with 5 KO’s. Crawford, an unbeaten mixed martial artist who came in on short notice, falls to 0-1.

Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and legendary trainer Kevin Rooney also took in the night’s action from ringside.

Baltimore Pro Boxing’s next card is slated for Saturday, October 23 at the Pikesville Armory.

For more information, go to baltimoreboxing.com

OTHER RESULTS: Heavyweights: Theron Johnson (4-3, 1 KO, Chicago, IL) TKO1 Jed Phipps (18-7, 11 KO’s Baltimore)

Cruiserweights: Maxell Taylor (14-2-1, 5 KO’s, Baltimore) UD6 Francois Ambang (2-7-1, Mechanicsville, VA)

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
VERONA, NY (September 20, 2010)—On Saturday night October 2nd, undefeated Brazilian Middleweight Isaac Rodriguez will take on Colombian power puncher Samuel Miller in a bout scheduled for twelve rounds for the WBC/USNBC Middleweight championship at The Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York.

Rodrigues of Belem, Brazil and now makes his home in West Berlin, New Jersey has a perfect record of 17-0 with fourteen knockouts will look to capture a second Middleweight championship.

The twenty-five year old won his first eight bouts via knockout in his native country. Rodrigues made his American debut on April 28, 2007 with a four round majority decision Hollister Elliott at the Foxwoods Resort in Connecticut. Rodrigues won two more bouts in the United States before heading back to Brazil.

On April 3rd, 2008, Rodrigues won the WBO Latino Middleweight title with an eighth round stoppage over Pablo Daniel Zamora Nievas (19-3-1). He defended that crown once with a tenth round stoppage over Americo Rodolfo Sagania (16-2-1) before heading back to the states.

Since the two title fights in Brazil, Rodrigues has won four straight on American soil which includes a second round stoppage over tough Jose “Macho” Medina, capable Bard Austin, upset specialist Marcos Primera and in his last bout, Rodrigues scored a ten round majority decision over Contender Brian Vera (16-3) in a bout that took place on February 26th at The Turning Stone Resort & Casino.

Miller of Arboletes, Colombia and now residing in La Habra, California is known as a knockout artist as his record reads 20-4 with seventeen knockouts.

Miller made his first twelve appearances in Colombia and won twelve straight with all but one coming inside the distance.

Miller than campaigned in the United States and won four fights in an eight month stretch that were highlighted by wins over Jason Naugler (15-5-1) and Steve Walker (19-13).

After a second round knockout win in Colombia, Miller suffered his first two pro defeats to Darrell Woods and a then undefeated Vera (12-0).

Miller dropped a fight to highly regarded David Lopez that was for the WBO Latino Middleweight title and in his last fight, Miller lost in an attempt at the same title to former world title challenger Marco Antonio Rubio (46-5-1).

In the exciting co-feature, local favorite Brian Miller will take on Ikem Orji in an eight round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Miller of Schenectady, New York is undefeated with a record 8-0-4 with three knockouts and is known as a hard working customer who will fight anybody at anytime.

Miller has signature wins over Broderick Antoine and a split decision win over Danny McDermott (8-1-1). He is coming off a draw with tough Italian Floriano Pagliara (10-4) on September 11.

Orji of Laurel, Maryland via Nigeria has a record of 6-3 with two knockouts.

Like Miller, Orji is willing to fight anyone with close losses to prospects Anthony Flores (6-0); Isaac Suarez (6-0).

Orji scored a mild upset when he scored a fourth round stoppage over Andrew Farmer (13-1) this past March 6th.

Orji dropped his last bout as he lost a unanimous decision to Rod Salka (11-0).

The rest of the card features some very good local prospects.

In a six round Welterweight bout, Kenny Abril (9-3-1, 5 KO’s) of Rochester, NY takes on Francisco Ginorio (7-6-2, 2 KO’s) of Palm Bay, Florida.

In a six round ladies Featherweight attraction, Jackie Trivilino (4-2-1, 1 KO) of Pittsburgh, NY takes on Jennifer Scott (2-2, 2 KO’s) of Warren, Ohio

In a four round Middleweight bout, Stephen Scott (4-1) of New York takes on undefeated Deferson LeGrand (3-0, 2 KO’s) of New York, NY

In a battle of debuting Lightweights, Jermell Tyson will tussle with IIlyas Aksabaez of Brooklyn, NY

Rounding out the card will be Cruiserweight Brian Clookey (2-0, 1 KO) of Chase Mills, NY fighting an opponent to be announced in a four round bout.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are just $30, $45 & $55 and can be purchased at The Showroom Box office by calling 1-888-833-SHOW (7469) and all Ticketmaster outlets by calling 315-472-0700

The entire fight card can be viewed LIVE worldwide on www.gofightlive.tv

The Turning Stone Resort and Casino is located at
5218 Patrick Rd
Verona, New York 13478
(315) 361-7711

On an a stacked card from Birmingham, England in front of around 8,000 at the LG Arena Frank Warren matched several of his up and comers in intriguing fights. Notably Nathan Cleverly beat Karo Murat in a WBO Light Heavyweight eliminator & Olympic gold medallist James Degale put on his best performance so far vanquishing Carl Dilks easily. Both appear to have the star power to follow on from here to win World Titles.

The bumper PPV started at 6pm with James “Chunky” Degale 8-0(6) getting things underway against Carl Dilks 14-3(5). Though he was favoured to win, it was expected to be Degale‘s, toughest test to date and provide him with rounds and more experience. It turned out to be anything but that as Degale had far to much speed and power for a shell shocked Dilks. In the final 10 seconds of the round Degale opened up sending Dilks back into the ropes, he followed up before referee Howard Foster Jnr stepped in for what looked a premature stoppage at 2.54 of the first. However Dilks was already bleeding from the left eye and nose and seemed not to have a problem with the stoppage.

Originally Ryan Rhodes was supposed to defend his European title against Lukas Konecny 45-3(21) however when Rhodes fell out with injury Matthew Hall 23-3(16) who was due to fight a week later was drafted in to face Konecny for the vacant EBU crown. It was a fight that promised much, both guys appeared mirror images of each other both short, with shaved heads and similar all action styles. From the first bell both stood in close and fought at close distance. Hall was busier early on while Konecny was more accurate. The Czech Konecny picked his way through dropping Hall near the ropes mid way through the sixth, Konecny used his greater experience to quickly follow up and drop Hall for a second time prompting the stoppage at 1.53 of the sixth.

The third fight of the PPV was Wales rising star Nathan Cleverly 20-0(10) against fellow unbeaten Karo Murat 22-1(13) an electric crowd responded to both men’s entrance’s. From the first bell Cleverly neutralised his greater hand and foot speed picking his way through Murat’s high held guard. After three rounds Cleverly looked fantastic picking apart Murat who showed considerable resolve taking so many shots. Murat who is an Arthur Abraham hybrid looked to close the distance and though he did land some punches he had to take 3 or 4 to land one. Things got worse for Murat in the eighth when a slashing punch cut him across the nose. Finally Murat was retired at the end of the ninth round on the advice of the ringside doctor. It was vintage Cleverly all the way he later admitted he took a few chances because he believes in his own ability and wants to be exciting.With the win Cleverly became the mandatory for Jurgen Braehmer who has to face Cleverly next. The status of Braehmer is up in the air, because of a previous indiscretion he could be incarcerated. He’s currently appealing against this if he successful he has to face Cleverly next if not Cleverly will be named the new WBO Champion.

The much anticipated Kell Brook 22-0(15) & Michael Jennings 36-3(17) fight finally took place however it ended anticlimatically when Jennings was cut in the fifth soon after the fight was called off. After a quite start in which Brook seemed to take a look at what Jennings had to offer he slowly picked his way through until the cut forced an end to the fight at 47 of the fifth. With the win Brook retained his British & WBO Inter-Continental Welterweight titles also reaffirming himself as the number 1 contender for the WBO title currently held by Manny Pacquiao. It is hoped Pacquiao will vacate because of the Margarito fight taking palce at Light Middleweight allowing Brook to fight for the next available contender.

In a rematch from 2 years ago Heavyweights Sam Sexton 13-2(6) & Dereck Chisora 14-0(9) met for the British & Commonwealth titles. There was bad blood between the two, Frank Warren had to stand between them at the Weigh in when it threatened to boil over. The action began when both guys got involved early both having there moments. By the midway point Chisora was getting the better of things. In the final minute of the ninth Chisora put his punches together hurting Sexton who dropped to the canvas though he rose he was allowed to carry on, Chisora who’s an excellent finisher jumped on him and fired away until referee stepped in and called a holt to the action with Sexton in no position to defend himself with seven seconds left in the round.

The knockout of the night maybe the year came in the action packed Enzo Maccarinelli 32-5(25) & Alexander Frenkel 23-0(18) fight. After a lively start in which Maccarinelli appeared to be getting the better of things stalking his European title challenger. Though the wild shoot out expected by many never took place it seemed more a war of attrition. In the seventh both guys threw punches Frankel’s left hook landed hard pitching Maccarinelli backwards and down hard. Always a proud warrior he rose on unsteady legs and much to many in attendance chagrin was allowed to carry on. Frenkel charged over landing another monster left hook that nearly decapitated Maccarinelli who went down heavily. The fight was instantly waved over at 2.30. There were a few anxious moments as Maccarinelli received oxygen thankfully he appeared ok leaving the ring under his own steam. While Frenkel can look to fight the big names at Cruiserweight it must be the end for Maccarinelli who won the WBO title in a storied career.

The final fight of “The Magnificent Seven” saw local Matthew Macklin 27-2(19) win the European Middleweight title for the second time when he dismantled game but over matched late substitute Shalva Jombardashvili as he systematically broke him down over 5 rounds before the fight was called off early in the sixth. Macklin who hadn’t fought in nine months showed no signs of ring rust.

Former World Amateur champion Frankie Gavin improved to 8-0(7) with a workmanlike fifth round stoppage over game Michael Kelly for the Vacant Irish title. Gavin dictated the action behind a steady jab and picked apart Kelly before the stoppage at 2.59 of the fifth.

Also in action Light Middleweight Joe Selkirk 5-0(3) stopped Jan Cernouskis 4-8(4) at 2.17 of the fourth and final round.

At Welterweight Ronnie Heffron 3-0(2) went the distance for the first time against Billy Smith 12-82-2(7).

Afterward Frank Warren said his 30 year anniversary of promoting will be this December when he will stage another bumper bill on the 11th presumably as the British leg before Khan-Maidana. He said he intends to once again have a big show with Cleverly, Macklin, Brook among others appearing along with a come backing Kevin Mitchell with Billy Joe Saunders hopefully coming back from injury.?

Arthur Abraham, Sebastian Sylvester & Marco Huck were in attendance to support Kurat & Frenkel. Also watching were Naseem Hamed supporting friend Kell Brook, Paul & Stephen Smith, Tony Bellew, Billy Joe Saunders, newly minted WBO 130 champion Ricky Burns who was presented the title in the ring between on of the fights, Amir Khan who worked the PPV for Sky TV, David Haye & George Groves were also ringside.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, talks have re-heated for a proposed January showdown between 140 lb titlists Timothy Bradley and Devon Alexander.

Alexander has already agreed to the January 29 fight as well as a proposed rematch in the late spring.

Bradley was balking that he would have to sign a contract extension with his promoter Gary Shaw.

However, Bradley and his managers, Cameron Dunkin and Michael Miller, have not been able to come to terms with Shaw.

The issue has been Shaw’s demand that Bradley agree to an extension of their promotional contract beyond its May 10 expiration as part of the deal to get the fight with Alexander, which Bradley and his team rejected.

However, the breakthrough came Friday, when the managers said Shaw offered Bradley a two-fight deal — the Alexander fight plus an automatic rematch, win or lose — and agreed to end his demand for a contract extension.

“HBO is willing to do both fights and so are we, as long as the rematch takes place by May,” Miller said. “But we’d give them until June 4.”

“We talked to Tim and he’s interested in the deal, but he wants to talk it over with is wife,” Miller said. “He thinks the money is still short, but he wants the fight. He’s supposed to get back to us Monday.”

“I won’t tell my fighter to sign a long-term agreement before he listens to other offers,” Dunkin said. “But this is going to be Timmy’s call on what he wants to do. He’ll tell us what he wants to do and we’ll go from there.”

Nearly one year ago Allan Green was featured by Showtime in what many considered a “bullpen” type of fight, before Green was asked to enter the Super Six Tournament. Green’s opponent that night, Tarvis Simms was brought in on short notice, and expected to play the role of a tune up. Simms had other plans.

“I proved I can compete with anyone that night. I went into his promoter’s show, in his backyard, and I thought I won the fight” Simms said of his performance that night.

Scorecards aside (Green won a decision), Simms looked impressive, especially considering the situation he was up against. Given his performance that night one would have imagined Simms would be poised for another opportunity in the coming months. That assumption would prove to be deadly inaccurate. Simms is approaching 12 months of inactivity and he insists that has not been by choice.

“Believe me it has nothing to do with me. I’m ready able and willing to get in there and fight the best of them”

Simms says that his promotion has dropped him by the wayside, while he remains in top notch form, and is physically and mentally prepared for a premiere fight. While a rematch with Green doesn’t seem to be written in the stars Simms has said he would have liked to have done battle with a fighter like Kelly Pavlik.

“We wanted Green again but they didn’t want to entertain the idea. I’d like to fight Pavlik, I think the fans would love it, I do well with bigger fighters” the Connecticut native said.

Tarvis also told me a story of a fight being presented to him with a purse offer intact, Tarvis referred the offer to his management, who later suspiciously presented it back to him with a smaller purse attached. It’s no secret that boxing is home to some ill practices behind the scene, but Tarvis seems to be a case that simply cannot catch a break. With Green remaining his only loss, Simms holds impressive wins over Marcus Upshaw and Carl Daniels, but can’t seem to get the attention of fighters at the next level.

Simms’ situation seems to be another example of boxing’s all too familiar dark side. After putting forth an impressive effort in October of last year, perhaps he drove opportunities away by proving to be a riskier opponent. Either way, his performance has not been rewarded and Simms has been stung by the business of boxing.

While talking with Tarvis Simms I got the impression that he is sincere in his message to the boxing community, that he is ready to fight anyone at any time or place. If you said boxing was struggling, you may be right, you may be wrong, but you wouldn’t be the first. You could search for flaws within the game all day long, but Tarvis Simms is not one of them. If there were more fighters like Tarvis Simms there would be fewer fights that should have but didn’t happen. While Tarvis Simms current situation is difficult to understand, for anyone familiar with him, he is not difficult to root for.

Former world champion, Jorge Arce and Lorenzo Parra battled to a draw in a ten round Super Bantamweight fight in Culican, Mexico

Arce stalked for the most part with Parra coming on late and seizing some of the late rounds to get the draw.

Arce, 122 lbs of Los Mochis, Mexico is now 55-6-2. Parra of Venezuela is now 31-2-1.

Humberto Soto retained the WBC Lightweight championship with a twelve round unanimous decision over Fidel Monterrosa.

It was an action filled fight at times with the challenger trying to exchange with the classy champion. The two fighters slipped numerous times on the wet canvas. Soto was very effective going to the challengers body while Monterrosa was looking for one shot in effort to wrestle away the title.

Scores were 118-109, 115-112 and 115-112 for Soto, 135 lbs of Los Mochis, Mexico and is now 53-7-2. Monterrosa, 135 lbs of Barranquilla, Colombia is now 23-2.

Omar Chavez scored a fourth round stoppage over Ricardo Juarez in a scheduled six round Welterweight bout.

Chavez dominated the action and in round four he landed four hard shots to the head that sent Juarez to his knees and was counted out at2:47 of round four.

Chavez., 147 lbs of Culican, Mexico is now 24-0-1 with seventeen knockouts. Juarez, 147 lbs of Tijuana, Mexico is now 16-12-1.

In front of the many boxing aficionados in the house such as former greats such as Pepino Cuevas and Oscar De La Hoya, Shane Mosley and Sergio Mora fought to a highly debatable draw in the main event at Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Sergio Mora (22-1-1, 6KO’s) made his way to the ring first to a huge applause. Followed shortly after by Sugar Shane Mosley (46-6, 39KO’s) to meet in a 12 round, Jr. middleweight battle.

In round one, The taller Mora danced around the ring as Mosley chased him around trying to land a jab. Mora seemed very cautious as he only threw one maybe two combination’s the entire round. Mosley couldn’t catch him so he didn’t fair much better. In round two, it was more of the same. Mora switched from Orthodox to southpaw many times as he continued to dance and faint his way around the ring. Whenever Shane got too close, Mora would tie him up. There was a small exchange at the bell, which was have been the most action of the fight. In round three, after landing a somewhat meaningful right hand, Sergio got on his horse and ran around the ring as Shane chased him, attempting to land a shot. After he got off of his bike, he seemed to want to trade a bit more but still, no meaningful punches were thrown or landed. Round 4 started with Mosley becoming more aggressive and attacking at the onset. He trapped Mora on the ropes and began to do work. Mora would clinch and and try to get off all at once. The two began to fight in a phone booth…great strategy change by Mosley. He threw more punches and landed more when he forced Mora to fight him. Mora landed a big right that didn’t seem to phase Mosley, but Mora now has a visible cut over his right eye that is leaking blood fro, an inadvertent. Round five saw a much more aggressive Shane as he would not give Mora any breathing room. Mora seemed to want to exchange more, so it made the fight pick up a bit. As slick as a snake, Mora began to play to the crowd, as he stood in front of Shane daring him to punch him. It may have looked good, but he wasn’t letting his hands go. Round six Mora seemed to revert to his running ways in the first half of the round, as he backed up and jabbed. Mosley tried hard to get him on the ropes and do work but Mora was not a willing participant. Once on the ropes, Mosley was unloading when Mora caught him with a clean, counter left hook to the chin. If Mora had any power, it may have affected Shane. The round ended in a clinch with both fighters landing body shots.

A visibly gassed Mosley came out in round seven, which seemed to give Mora a license to fight as he was more apt to stand and trade. This may have been the most punches landed from any round up until this point. It seems as if Mora got the better of Mosley that round as they exchanged combination’s. Round eight looked like a wresting match. there was a ton of holding and clinching. The tired Mosley seemed to want to lean on Mora and pot shot him. Meanwhile, Mora landed some meaningful punches in this round. Perhaps the tide is changing but it may be too late. Mosley seemed to get the edge in round nine as he had a nice flurry against the ropes. may have been his best round yet. A very nice exchange toward the end of round ten that Mora seemed to get the better of. The two guys stood toe to toe and just let their hands fly. Neither fighter would back up or give in.much more energy than Shane. The round, in my opinion, went to Mora. As we delve deeper into the championship rounds, round eleven looked like round ten. Constant body contact with an array of big punches scattered throughout the round. The older Mosley is breathing heavily out of his mouth, you have to wonder how much gas is left in the tank. Yet he keeps pressing forward (by corcelli). Mosley landed four huge shots to end the round that seemed to wobble Mora somewhat. In the twelfth and final round, it started off as somewhat of a brawl. Both boxers where throwing many punches and pushing each other around. Mosley was head hunting attempting to get Mora out of there while Mora seemed to be attempting the same while fighting with his back on the ropes! The bout ended in the corner with both guys throwing big shots trying to end it before the final bell tolled. As we go to the scorecards, 115-113 Mora, 116-112 Mosley, 114-114 for a draw!

Sugar Shane Mosley

“We both fought hard. It was a good fight so it was a good decision.

“He is not a good puncher so we had to box more.

“This was a different fight because he had to come down in weight and I had to go up.

“It would have been different if I was fighting someone my height and weight.

“Mora moved, ran away, rested and held. There were lots of head butts and that effected me.

“He was moving too much so it was hard for me to get my shots in.

“I still want to fight someone more my weight and height like Cotto.”

Sergio “The Latin Snake” Mora

“I came to win and I wanted to win, but my respect for Shane Mosley got in the way.

“I got hard headed and should have listened to my corner. They were telling me it was close and I thought I was winning the fight and my respect for Shane got in the way.

“He threw really good punches. He hit me with some hard shots.

“Going 12 rounds with Shane Mosley says something in and of itself. Honestly, I thought I won the fight.”

Making his way to the ring first Carlos “Tata” Baldomir, looking to pin the first loss on Saul Alvarez’s record. This is a scheduled 10 rounder in the super welter division. Alvarez, out of Mexico, was easily the crowd favorite as they roared as he made his way to the ring in the co-main event of the evening. There was really no hesitating in the fight. Both fighters threw many punches and came at each other, not many landed. There were a few exchanges in the second round. It seemed when one fighter would land, the other would jump right back as to say, I’m not going anywhere! The third saw more action and more exchanges but it seems to be an even match or Baldomir is slightly ahead. No huge action or huge shots to speak of as of yet. Baldomir looked like a grizzled old veteran as he landed a sneaky right in between the gloves of Canelo many times. Alvarez, however has a left hook/uppercut that seems to land whenever he fires it. Baldomir seemed to take one of Canelo’s biggest punches and urged him to bring more!

Alvarez landed big shot after big shot in the fifth round, but Baldomir would not budge. He stayed on the inside and loaded up his right hand, waiting to fire it. Canelo is clearly the faster fighter though which is to be expected given that he’s 19 years Baldomir’s junior. Towards the end of the round, Alvarez landed a series or huge power shots! Baldomir tried his best but the onslaught was way too much for him to handle! The youngster has power in both hands and he proved it as he dropped Tata with a left hook. Baldomir fell down face first and as he tried to recover, he was counted out at 2:58 of the fifth round. Alvarez is still undefeated as he improves to 34-0-1 with 26 knockouts. Baldomir fades into the darkness with a record of 45-13-6.

Saul “Canelo” Alvarez

“I told you guys I was going to come with experience. I didn’t talk very much. I just showed you.

“I came to give it my all. This is for Mexico and all of my fans.

“I was prepared for the distance. Sometimes the knockout comes when you prepare for it, and it did tonight.

“He wasn’t very fast and I used that to my advantage.

“I want to fight at welterweight and be a welterweight champion. I am going to do my best to be the best in the world.”

Carlos “Tata” Baldomir

“It is true that he hits hard. I was surprised by his power.

“I am going to go home and think about what I am going to do next.

“He is the real deal. He is oing to be a real champion.

“No one has hit me like he did. No one has knocked me down like he did. He is definitely the real deal.”

The next bout was to determine who was more “Vicious”….Vicious Victor Ortiz or Vicious Vivian Harris. East Coast vs West Coast! Victor fighting out of Ventura, CA while Vivian is representing Brooklyn. The bout was scheduled for 10 in the 147 pound division. Not much action to speak of in the first. Both guys looked somewhat timid, while Harris was looking to counter. Early in the second round, Ortiz dropped Harris with what seemed to be more so a result of Harris being off balance. But moments later, Ortiz landed another right and floored Harris for a second and a long left that dropped him a third time! Harris did not seem hurt, but he was visibly confused. In the third round, Mr. Ortiz landed a mini Mike Tyson-esque combo…a short right to the body and even shorter right to the head, dropping Harris for the fourth and final time at :45 seconds in the third round. Ortiz is now 28-2-1 with 22 knockouts while Harris drops to 29-5-1

“Vicious” Victor Ortiz

“The fans either love me or they hate me, but hopefully they love me now.

“I sensed his bluff at the weigh in and I called him out on it.

“I have progressed and learned a lot since the fight with Maidana. I still want him wherever he is.

“I want a shot at a world championship. I am not dodging anyone. I am ready for anyone.

“I listened to what my coaches said and I got the victory.”

“Vicious” Vivian Harris

“He caught me with some great punches. He looked very different. He was very sharp and accurate.”

.

Antonio Escalante (23-2, 15KO’s) met Daniel Ponce De Leon (39-2, 32KO’s), in the WBO Featherweight Eliminator. The first round was the typical feeling out routine. Both fighters kind of measured the other to see where they were. Escalante landed a few big shots in the second round and did a semi-good job of avoiding the return fire of De Leon. De Leon is very aggressive and relentless and throws punches from many different angles. The third round saw both guys throwing many combonation’s that would drop many men. Nearing the end of the third, De Leon landed a mean left upstairs immediately followed by a right hook to the face that floored Escalante. The referee didn’t waste a second in waving the fight off, declaring De Leon the victor at 2:40 of round 3.

“My timing was off, but once I loosened up and got in my groove it was over”, Said De Leon

“I didnt feel his punches at all and I am gonna be a world champion again.”

“De Leon was very poweful and strong and he deserved to win the fight”, said Escalante

So what did we learn today?? Nothing! I think everything that we expected came to fruition. Daniel Ponce De Leon is a stud and is a top contender in the featherweight division. Victor Ortiz and Saul Alvarez are the future of Golden Boy boxing. Alvarez made a huge impression and will be a force in the 154 division. An old, and tired Mosley still has enough in the tank to draw a powerless Sergio Mora.

The next big thing to come out of the Golden Boy stable put on a show for the fans in Los Angeles. Frankie Gomez of East Los, improved his record to 6-0 all by knockout as he pushed around and bullied Ricardo Calzada of Las Vegas. The first round, Gomez felt the power of Calzada and once he knew he couldn’t be harmed, he seeked and destroyed! Calzada did his best to hold on and made it out of the second round, but the third round was a different story. Gomez came out head hunting and got right in Ricardo’s kitchen. He landed a few tough shots on the inside, to the head, that put Calzada on his butt. He rose only to meet an onslaught of punches from all different angles that bloodied his nose and once again saw him on the canvas. The ringside doc stood on the edge of the canvas before the ref even started his count, and at 1:06 of round three, the fight was over. Calzada heads back to Vegas with a record of 2 up and 3 down.

Our next fight was a scheduled six rounder in the lightweight division. David Rodela of nearby Oxnard met Juan Manuel Montiel of Mexico City. This was one of the first bouts of the night where it seemed as if both fighters were using their boxing skills and not a flat out brawl. There were many jab-led combination’s from both fighters. This also made for a boring fight and left the crowd jeering and booing, begging for more action. It seemed like a sparring session and that both guys were going through the motions. The final round did see somewhat of a spike in action which somewhat energized the restless crowd but still, no one really stood out. The fight went the distance, and according to the scorecards which were 59-55 Rodela and the others had it 57-57 resulting in a majority draw, basically indicative of what both fighters displayed. Rodela is now 15-3-4 while Montiel is 6-3-2.

For the only female bout of the night, local lady Kaliesha “Wild Wild” West met Angel Gladney of South Carolina in a scheduled 10 rounder. The first round was a feel out round but West ladned a few meaningful punches as she pressed the action. The next few rounds were all uneventful, not much action, but a lot of faints and jabs. It seemed as if neither fighter wanted to take a chance. In the fourth round, West opened up a bit and started throwing, and landing, meaningful combination’s. Near the beginning of round seven, Wild West landed a huge left that floored Gladney. Gladney rose but the ref waved the fight at :59 seconds in round 7. West, now 13-1-2 with 4 KO’s, is the new bantamweight champion while Gladney drops to 6-3-1.

The third bout was in the junior middleweight division. Undefeated Keith Thurman walked across the ring in the opening seconds and was dropped by a humongous right to the head by Quandray Robertson. Thurman returned the favor at the end of the round as he dropped Robertson with a flurry of punches. Robertson survived the round. This bout was an all out brawl, both boxers swinging wildly when Thurman landed a sneaky body shot that dropped Robertson for the second time midway through round two. In a somewhat uneventful third round, out of nowhere, Thurman landed a left hook inside and up top floored Robertson. The ref immediately waved the fight off and at 2:40 of the third round, Thurman maintained his undefeated record improving to 14-0 with 13KO’s. Robertson drops to 15-10.

Undefeated Sharif Bogere from Nevada made an impressive entrance into the ring as he was donning the fur and head of a lion. Got the few people that are actually in attendance excited. He is facing Julian Rodriguez in a six round, junior welterweight battle. All the action was pressed by Bogere as he landed a thunderous left hook up top at 1:42 of the second round to win by KO and improve his record to 17-0 with 11 KO’s. Rodriguez drops to 17-20-4.

In our first bout, Eric Areola of Mexico met Missael Nunez, also of Mexico, in a four round, featherweight battle. In what was a lopsided fight, Areola improved to 1-1 with a majority decision as the judges called it 38-38 on one card and 40-36 on the other two. Nunez drops to 4-9-2.

CLICK TO WATCH FOR FREE
Come to Gleason’s gym tonight and watch some exciting amateur boxing.

The bouts tonight are sanctioned by USABoxingMetro and are part of Gleason’s monthly boxing series.

The bouts will include junior, senior and master boxers. Both male and female bouts are on tap.

The price of admission is $20.

Gym members and amateurs with their books in hand pay $15.

If you can not make it to the gym tonight, you can watch the bouts for free on:

www.gofightlive.tv

Nestor Rocha pounded out an eight round unanimous decision over Jose Navarro in a bantamweight fight between former world title challengers that took place outside LA Live in downtown Los Angeles.

The two stood in the pocket and fought at close quarters with Navarro’s eye shutting as early as round three.  Rocha continued to pressure and by the eighth round, the right eye of Navarro was grotesquely shut.

Scores were 79-73 on all cards for Rocha, 118 1/4 lbs of Montebello, CA and he is now 23-2.  Navarro, 118 lbs of South Central Los Angeles, CA is now 27-6

Luis Ramos Jr. scored a last round knockdown en route to an eight round unanimous decision over John Figueroa in Jr. Welterweight bout.

Ramos Jr. dropped Figueroa with a left in the final round and coasted to the victory.

Ramos Jr., 138 1/2 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is 17-0.  Figueroa, 137 1/2 lbs of Salina, PR is now 7-7-3

WBO Welterweight Eliminator (10st 7lbs)
Michael Jennings – 10st 6lbs 8oz
Kell Brook – 10st 6lbs 8oz

European Middleweight title (11st 6lbs)
Shalva Jomardashvili – 11st 5lbs
Matthew Macklin – 11st 5lbs

WBO Cruiserweight Interim title (12st 7lb)
Karo Murat – 12st 5lbs 8oz
Nathan Cleverly – 12st 5lbs 8oz

12 Rounds Super-Middleweight (12st)
Carl Dilks – 11st 13lbs 8oz
James DeGale – 12st (at second attempt)

European Cruiserweight title (14st 4lbs)
Alexander Frenkel – 14st 0lbs 12oz
Enzo Maccarinelli – 13st 13lbs 8oz

British and Commonwealth Heavyweight title (No limit)
Sam Sexton – 17st 2lbs 8oz
Derek Chisora – 17st 6lbs 8oz

European Light-Middleweight title (11st)
Lucas Konecny – 10st 13lbs 12oz
Matthew Hall – 10st 12lbs 12oz

The self-proclaimed face of boxing was captured last week in a booking photo. Floyd Mayweather Jr. looks as if he has a chance to go to the senior prom instead of prison. He’s smiling.

Or is that a sneer? Whatever it is, it’s no joke.

It turned deadly serious Thursday with news that the Clark County Attorney’s office in Las Vegas has charged Mayweather with four felony counts of coercion, robbery and grand larceny in addition to four misdemeanor counts on battery and harassment for an alleged incident involving former girlfriend Josie Harris on Sept. 9.

Just a couple of months ago, it looked as if Mayweather, who faces 34 years behind bars if convicted on all charges, would be busy in early November. He will be, but not against Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather is scheduled for arraignment in Las Vegas on Nov. 9, four days before he was supposed to have Pacquiao on his schedule.

Instead, Pacquiao faces Antonio Margarito on Nov. 13 at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas. Instead of a record-setting payday against Pacquiao, Mayweather has a chance at being O.J. Simpson’s roommate. Why-oh-why is he smiling? There’s a theory that none of this would have happened if Mayweather had agreed to the fight. He would have been in training. The regimen would have keep him busy and out of trouble.

It’s a good argument, but not convincing, at least not from this corner. He is always training. It’s routine, Mayweather’s lifestyle. So, too, is trouble, which has always lurked like a bad rumor. Yet, Mayweather has been able to elude serious consequences, including assault complaint in 2003 from Harris, who backed off the allegation at a trial in 2005. Oscar De La Hoya, a regular target of Mayweather’s trash-talk, has taken the high road, expressing sympathy for his former rival and current promotional client.

Maybe, Mayweather’s troubles are a cry for help, De La Hoya said while promoting the Shane Mosley-Sergio Mora fight Saturday night at Los Angeles’ Staples Center in a week-long celebration of the 200-year anniversary of the Mexican Revolution.

Maybe, but Mayweather’s self-destructive spiral might be a symptom of something predicted a couple of years ago by Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum, Mayweather’s former promoter. Months before two rounds of failed negotiations, Arum said Mayweather wouldn’t fight Pacquiao because the welterweight didn’t want to take a chance at jeopardizing his unbeaten record.

Late last year, Mayweather suddenly shattered an apparent agreement for a bout in March by parroting unconfirmed gossip that Pacquiao used performance-enhancers. The deal fell apart with Mayweather’s demand for random, Olympic-style drug-testing.

A couple of months ago, there was a flurry of speculation, including a midnight media call with Arum. Again, there was no deal, yet many denials from the Mayweather camp about whether there were any talks at all.

A couple of weeks ago, Mayweather unleashed a racist, homophobic video directed at Pacquiao. The alleged incident at the Harris’ residence in Las Vegas quickly followed.

If there is a parallel, maybe it is Mike Tyson. During his days of rage, commentator Teddy Atlas, who also trained the retired heavyweight, theorized that Tyson’s behavior was the expression of a fighter doing everything he could not to fight.

Sound familiar? It’s beginning to.

Mayweather acts as if he is doing all he can not to fight Pacquiao.

Maybe that explains the smile.

According to Dan Rafael the WBC/Ring Magazine Light Heavyweight champion Jean Pascal will take on Bernard Hopkins on December 18th in Quebec City, Canada and it will be televised on Showtime PPV.

“Showtime will be using their announcers and doing it like a first-class Showtime broadcast. Showtime is excited about it and so are we,” Said Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer.

Hopkins said he weighed 182 pounds on Thursday and was anxious to begin training for the 175-pound fight. He usually prepares for fights in Miami, but said he would instead train in either Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains or New York’s Catskill Mountains.

“I’m doing that because of the climate and the conditions,” Hopkins told ESPN.com just before signing on the dotted line. “I’m not going to train in 80-degree Miami and then go to Canada, where it will be five below.”

“This is the fight where I see if I can go forward or does it end for me,” said Hopkins, who routed nemesis Roy Jones in a lopsided decision in April in a rematch of Jones’ middleweight title win 17 years ago.

“I know what I gotta do to pull out another surprise,” Hopkins said.

Jesse Nicklow 159 Julius Kennedy 158.5 (WBF All-Americas and Maryland State Middleweight Championship Bout)

Jed Phipps 218.5 Theron Johnson 227

Steve Wheeler 199 Donald Crawford 206

Maxell Taylor 177 Francois Ambang 183

Promoter: Jake Smith; Baltimore Pro Boxing

Venue: Du Burns Arena (doors open at 6:30 first fight is at 8 pm)

Tickets: 410-675-6900

NEW YORK (Sept. 16, 2010)—SHOWTIME Sports officially announced today a series of high-profile fights amongst four of the world’s elite fighters in the exciting and deep bantamweight division. The two-round, single-elimination tournament to determine the best fighter at 118 pounds will begin with two semifinal bouts on Saturday, Dec. 11, live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the west coast) from Leon, Mexico.

The talented and willing field comprises unbeaten International Boxing Federation (IBF) 118-pound champion Yonnhy “El Colombiano” Perez, undefeated, world-ranked rising star Abner Mares, former IBF bantamweight champion Joseph “King Kong’’ Agbeko, and two-division world champion Vic “Raging Bull” Darchinyan.

Each bout will be scheduled for 12 rounds. The winners of each semifinal will clash in the final in 2011 with the losing fighters competing in a consolation fight.

“Meaningful match-ups with high stakes in boxing’s most competitive divisions—that’s our promise to boxing fans,” said SHOWTIME Sports Executive Vice President and General Manager Ken Hershman. “I hold these four world championship competitors in the highest regard for taking the fights that the fans want to see; for risking their status as one of the world’s best, to prove they are the sole champion in the division. When you consistently fight and defeat the best, you deserve to be recognized as such.”

The bantamweight tournament is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions for Darchinyan and, in association with Thompson Boxing Promotions, for Perez, Golden Boy Promotions for Mares, and Don King Productions for Agbeko. The venue in Leon, Mexico for the Dec. 11 telecast is to be announced. The semifinal matchups are as follows:

IBF Bantamweight World Championship

Yonnhy Perez vs. Joseph Agbeko

20-0-1, 14 KOs 27-2, 22 KOs

Santa Fe Springs, Calif. Bronx, New York

By way of Colombia By way of Ghana

Abner Mares vs. Vic Darchinyan

20-0-1, 13 KOs 35-2-1, 27 KOs

Montebello, Calif. Sydney, Australia

By way of Guadalajara, Mexico By way of Armenia

Each of the participants in the bantamweight tournament has previously fought at least one of the other fighters in competitive bouts, all on SHOWTIME.

Perez unanimously outpointed then-defending champion Agbeko to capture the IBF belt on Oct. 31, 2009, and retained it with a disputed majority draw over Mares last May 22. Agbeko, in his outing before getting dethroned by Perez, retained the same title with a close, unanimous decision over Darchinyan on July 7, 2009.

The beauty of a tournament is that rankings and past performances can be dismissed once it begins. Each boxer starts with the same chance to make, and win, the final.

The humble, hard-working, 5-foot-11, 31-year-old Perez is looking at the tournament as a chance to continue to stamp himself as perhaps the premier bantamweight boxer on the planet.

“I’m excited to be included in the 118-pound tournament that SHOWTIME has put together,” said Perez, who held onto his belt by the narrowest of margins (114-114 twice and 113-115) against Mares.

“SHOWTIME has helped me reveal my ability to the world and I’m honored they will televise my next two fights. I knew the instant I earned my IBF bantamweight championship title that it would open a lot of doors for me. This is the first of many opportunities. I am going to get through this tournament as the reigning champion.”

The gifted, handsome Mares, who showed his class with a highly proficient performance against Perez, doesn’t anticipate any dull moments in the ring once the first tournament bell rings.

“Boxing fans know that the little guys always make for the best fights and this tournament is guaranteed to prove that again,” said the personable 5-foot-5, 25-year-old Mares. “This is a great opportunity for all of us to prove ourselves in the spotlight and I am excited that this fight will take place in Mexico with all of the support of my people for the first time in my career.

“Of course, I am also grateful and looking forward to having a rematch with Yonnhy in the final. I felt I did enough in our first fight to win a unanimous decision. I know if I do my best again, I’ll come away with the IBF belt.”

The 5-foot-5 ½-inch, 30-year-old Agbeko hasn’t fought since falling short against Perez in Oct. 2009, but feels he is ready to step in and re-establish himself as the man to beat at 118 pounds.

“I’ve always said, and believed in my heart, that I am the best bantamweight in the world,” Agbeko said. “Now it is time to prove it once and for all.

“I’m beyond happy and excited that SHOWTIME is doing a tournament in this weight class. This truly is an opportunity that I never expected, and I am going to take full advantage of it. It is my destiny to win it all.”

Darchinyan is by far the most experienced boxer in the foursome and has participated in more than twice as many world title fights (14) as the others have combined. He is as confident as always.

“I think that this is a beautiful thing that SHOWTIME is doing, but it isn’t a bantamweight tournament, it’s The Darchinyan Tournament,” said the 5-foot-5½-inch, 34-year-old Darchinyan, a former world champion at 112 and 115 pounds who’ll be making his 12th appearance on SHOWTIME. “Everyone who faces me will feel my power and be a loser.

“I owe Agbeko because he got away with one last time. But it doesn’t matter who I fight. Even the winner in the other bracket will be a loser because he will eventually have to face me and lose.”

For information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries, complete telecast information and more, please visit the website www.Sports.SHO.com.

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™, SHOWTIME 2 HD™, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD™, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND™ and FLIX ON DEMAND®. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution which recently launched SMITHSONIAN CHANNEL™. 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®.

Fighting on his 29th birthday, Jhonny Gonzalez dropped Jackson Asiku three times in less than six rounds to wrest the IBO Featherweight title and validate his standing among the top 126-pounders in the main event of a pay-per-view telecast emanating from the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas, Nevada on Wednesday night.

What ended up becoming a dominate showing for Gonzalez (46-7, 40 KOs) of Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico, was actually a highly competitive fight for the first three rounds. Asiku (26-4, 14 KOs) of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia by way of Uganda traded on even ground with the Mexican free-swinger, and may have deserved the nod in the first and third rounds. The third round especially featured some excellent two-way action.

Gonzalez, 125.8, turned the fight completely in his favor with a picture-perfect left hook that landed squarely on Asiku’s chin halfway through the fourth round. The punch rocked Asiku, 125, with Gonzalez’ follow-up swings leading to the first knockdown. Asiku returned to his feet and stayed on his toes the remainder of the round. Gonzalez closed the gap late, but time ran out before he could really punish him any further.

Early in the fifth, Gonzalez, the WBC#3/WBA #3/IBF #4 ranked featherweight, dropped the defending IBO titlist with another clean left to the chin. Asiku showed great heart in getting up again, but he would taste the canvas after another left late in the round. Referee Kenny Bayless looked to have thoughts about stopping the fight then, Asiku still had the foot work to maneuver around the ring and out of the round.

Asiku’s bravery would be for not, as Gonzalez rocked the Ugandan into a corner with a two-handed flurry early in the sixth, leaving Bayless with little other choice but to leap in and stop the fight. The official time of the stoppage was 1:09 round of round six. The victory netted Gonzalez the IBO title and could put him in line for a crack at one of the major title holders or other top featherweights. “I am ready for anybody,” boldly proclaimed Gonzalez after the fight.

All-action super featherweight Miguel Roman (31-7, 23 KOs) of Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico notched a quality win over Tyrone Harris (24-7, 16 KOs) of Lansing, Michigan via fifth-round stoppage. Roman, 131.8, began asserting himself in the second round, pressuring Harris, 130, and landing a few big shots.

Even though he took control early in the bout, it looked as though Roman may get himself into trouble with fouls. Referee Jay Nady warned him twice for headbutts and called a timeout for a low blow in the third. Harris took his time recovering from the low blow, which may have been an indication that his dedication to the fight was waning.

Roman continued to press the action into the fifth, before landing a rib-caving left to Harris’ body that prompted a delayed knockdown. At 2:03 of round five, Nady counted Harris out. This fight was put together on short notice, when Harris’ originally scheduled opponent Juan Carlos Salgado pulled out of their fight with an injury. Roman had been slated to fight Cuauhtemoc Vargas on the undercard. By weighing in over the super featherweight limit, Roman may have cost himself a fight against Salgado, which would have been for the IBO Super Featherweight title.

Middleweight prospect Marcos Reyes (17-1, 15 KOs) of Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico made short work of journeyman Victor Villereal (9-6-2, 5 KOs) of Longmont, Colorado, scoring a second-round technical knockout. Reyes, 159, opened up early in the second, eventually hurting Villereal, 158, with a right to the body and dropping him with a follow-up barrage upstairs. Villereal beat the count, but was soon down again from another body shot. When Villereal rose again, Reyes pounced looking for the knockout. With Villereal covering up and moving against the ropes, referee Russell Mora stopped the fight at 2:57 of the second.

Khadaphi Proctor (6-5-1) of Hesperia, California took advantage of his reach advantage to score a four-round unanimous decision over Rynell Griffin (6-3-1, 2 KOs) of Las Vegas. Griffin, 133, boxed well to open the fight as he outworked the longer Proctor, 135.2. As the fight wore on, Proctor began to move his hands and stay out of the shorter Griffin’s punching range. One judge scored the fight even, 38-38, but was overruled by the other two judges who had the fight a shutout 40-36 for Proctor.

In the televised opener, Yohan Banks (4-4-3, 1 KO) of Redwood City, California rescued a decision defeat with a right uppercut induced knockout over ESPN The Magazine cover boy Quadtrine Hill (1-1, 1 KO) of Sunrise, Florida with less than a minute to go in the fight. Hill, 228, controlled the pace for much of the bout and landed two hard left hands which may have left him overconfident. With one swift right, Banks, 272, made all of Hill’s hard work for not. Officially the knockout came at 2:24 of round four.

Photo by Naoki Fukuda/Roy Englebrecht Promotions

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

CLICK TO WATCH THE FIGHT LIVE
Atlantic City, NJ–Undefeated super bantamweight Teon “The Technician” Kennedy is wrapping up his training for his North American Boxing Association (NABA) title fight with Alex Becerra, scheduled for Saturday evening, Sept. 25, in the Grand Ballroom at Bally’s Atlantic City.

The scheduled 12-rounder for the vacant 122-pound belt tops a seven-fight card which begins at 7.30 p.m. The card will be televised by www.gofightlive.tv.

Kennedy, 24, of North Philadelphia, works out nightly under the guidance of trainers Randy and Wade Hinnant at Joe Hand’s Gym in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia. The gym is owned by Joe Hand, who co-manages Kennedy with Doc Nowicki.

Now ranked No. 6 in the world by the International Boxing Federation (IBF), Kennedy is 15-0-1, 6 K0s. This will be his fourth fight at Bally’s, where he has beaten Lucian Gonzalez and Jose Angel Berranza and boxed a draw with Lante Addy.

Kennedy also holds the United States Boxing Association (USBA) super bantamweight title.

Becerra, 29, finishes up his sparring this week in his El Paso, TX, hometown with handlers Ruben Garcia and Adan Hernandez. He will arrive in Atlantic City on Wednesday, Sept. 22.

Tickets priced at $50 and $75 are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing Promotions (215-765-0922) and also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com.

NEW YORK (Sept. 15, 2010) – Top-10 world-ranked welterweight, Paul Daley, has signed a multi-fight deal with world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) promotion STRIKEFORCE.

The 5-foot-9, 27-year-old native of London who fights out of Nottingham, England, has won two straight and six of his last seven. Overall, the cocky, brash seven-year pro is 25-9-2.

Nicknamed “Semtex” after an explosive that British armed forces use to demolish large structures, Daley is coming off a unanimous three-round decision over recent STRIKEFORCE signee, Jorge Masvidal, last Saturday, Sept. 11. It was the first time since July 1, 2006, that Daley had won a fight on points.

Daley is a freelance mixed martial artist whose style is an aggressive mix of striking, striking and more striking.

“I am a striker – there is no secret about that,” the exciting British bomber said. “I like to knock people out aggressively and quickly. That’s my game and no opponent’s going to change that. Almost all my fights are exciting and memorable with non-stop action.”

Daley specializes in Muay Thai (Dutch style). He utilizes lead leg kicks often and possesses devastating knees and quick, heavy hands.

“I’m looking forward to fighting for STRIKEFORCE and would really love to fight (current STRIKEFORCE welterweight champion) Nick Diaz,” Daley said. “He’s a big name and a great fighter. Diaz would bring out the best in me and would be a great test.”

Daley, who has compiled a highlight reel of impressive knockout victories, has competed against some of the best since turning professional in June 2003. Three of his most significant victories came against Masvidal, a 2:24, first-round KO (punches) over Dustin Hazelett on Jan. 2, 2010, and a 2:31, first-round TKO (punches) over Martin Kampmann on Sept. 19, 2009.

A former Cage Rage champion, Daley appeared on a STRIKEFORCE co-promoted card on June 22, 2007. On the undercard of Frank Shamrock vs. Phil Baroni in San Jose, Calif., he registered a second-round TKO (punches) over Duane “Bang”Ludwig.

Daley was introduced to martial arts when he began taking karate at the age of 7. Besides England, he also trains in Holland. For a time several years ago, Daley was involved in a project with Mothers Against Guns in London.

About STRIKEFORCE
STRIKEFORCE (www.strikeforce.com ) is a world-class mixed martial arts cage fight promotion which, on Friday, March 10, 2006, made history with its “Shamrock vs. Gracie” event, the first sanctioned mixed martial arts fight card in California state history. The star-studded extravaganza, which pitted legendary champion Frank Shamrock against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Cesar Gracie at San Jose’s HP Pavilion, played host to a sold-out, record crowd of 18,265. Since 1995, STRIKEFORCE, sanctioned by ISKA, has been the exclusive provider of martial arts programming for ESPN and, after 12 years of success as a leading, world championship kickboxing promotion, the company unveiled its mixed martial arts (MMA) series with “Shamrock vs. Gracie.” In May 2008, West Coast Productions, the parent company of STRIKEFORCE, partnered with Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment (SVS&E), an entity created in 2000 to oversee all business operation aspects of the San Jose Sharks and HP Pavilion at San Jose. In March 2009, STRIKEFORCE signed a multi-year agreement with SHOWTIME® to stage live events on the premium cable television network. The promotion has since also produced two live, primetime events on the CBS Television Network.

In what may be the most ambitious move in boxing since an Attorney General told Frankie Carbo that the sport would be better off without him, a world league has formed.

And it pays. Scheduled to begin in November of 2010, it calls itself the World Series of Boxing (WSB) and with 12 teams scattered across the globe in places like Azerbijan, China, Los Angeles, Paris, India and Milan it may, unlike its Americentric baseball namesake, actually live up to that billing.

There are three divisions: Europe, Asia and the Americas, with four teams in each—though the exact location of the would be teams has been somewhat fluid. Sites in London, New York, Chicago and Boston have fallen through, but the current lineup of American cities does include Los Angeles, Miami, Mexico City and Memphis, Tennessee.

Boxers in the WSB are required to sign three year contracts and salaries are said to range around $25,000 per year, with an additional $5,000 for each win, $1000 for each loss—though there is talk of adjustments to take account of the cost of living differences across the world that sound like significantly less dollars if you live in Bombay: “We have been struggling to regulate salaries and a salary cap. India’s money is worth different from the United States and France. It will be about $25,000 a year not including prize money per boxer,” said a Mr. Ivan Khodabakhsh, the Chief Operating Officer of the WSB in a recent interview. There is also talk in some of the dailies about a pay ceiling of $300,000—but it is not clear to me how one would get there from here—unless the championships pay big.

Participation is limited to boxers who have yet to fight a pro bout, and, with the league owned primarily by the International Boxing Association (AISA)— the governing body of Olympic boxing—perhaps not surprisingly, participation will not exclude a league boxer from later fighting in the Olympics. The league is a for profit affair— or at least it seeks to be.

The bouts are scheduled for 5 rounds, three minutes apiece without headgear. Scoring is on a ten point must system and will be visible after each round. There will be no draws and Olympic anti-doping rules will be in effect.

The four teams in each division are scheduled to engage each other (teams or not, no one “plays” boxing) four times during the course of the regular season, which will run from November 19th to March 19th—which equals out to twelve matches over the course of 14 weeks. The top two teams from each division enter the playoffs, culminating in a championship match scheduled in the Chinese city of Macau—gambling capital of The East.

The league will also hold individual championships—7 rounds— at each of its only five weight classes. That’s right, only five: bantamweight , 54kg/ 119lbs; lightweight 61kg/135lbs; middleweight 73kg/160lbs; light heavyweight 85kg/187lbs; and heavyweight 91kg/201+ lbs. The five individual champions will be awarded automatic berths into the Olympics.

Having seen Olympic boxing, or more pointedly, the judging in Olympic boxing, I’m a little reluctant to throw my proverbial hat into the league’s ring. But truth be told, I’ve seen judge’s cards in a number of pro fights these last few years that might have made even Frankie Carbo blush. Having said that, if there were a match anywhere closer to Newark, New Jersey than Memphis, Tennessee I’d find a way to get ringside.

Exercising what the poet Keats called “negative capability,” or the capacity for accepting uncertainty and the unresolved (yes, I’m thinking about the judges again), I find myself intrigued and heartened by the prospect of the WSB.

Even beyond the fact that winning will be at least five times better than losing for a boy wearing gloves, the league has a number of things to recommend it— not the least of which is that it’s the culmination of an idea uttered back in the 1950’s by the denizens of Stillman’s Gym and the Neutral Corner, the famous New York boxing bar a few blocks down from Stillman’s.

The great A.J. Liebling wrote:

“The immediate crisis in the United States, forestalling the one high living standards might bring on, has been caused by the popularization of a ridiculous gadget called television. This is utilized in the sale of beer and razor blades. The clients of the television companies [advertisers], by putting on a free boxing show almost every night of the week, have knocked out of business the hundreds of small-city and neighborhood boxing clubs where youngsters had a chance to learn their trade and journeyman to mature their skills. Consequently the number of good new prospects diminishes with every year, and the peddlers’ public is already being asked to believe that a boy with perhaps ten or fifteen fights behind him is a topnotch performer. Neither advertising agencies nor brewers, and least of all the networks, give a hoot if they push the Sweet Science back into the period of genre painting. When it is in a coma they will find some other way to peddle their peanuts.”

Fifty some-odd years later with Liebling’s coma circuit complete, the Heavyweight Champion of the World is fighting only on the internet here in the United States. Peanuts peddled decidedly elsewhere.
And the managers, trainers and ex-fighters at Stillman’s and the Corner? Liebling writes:

One school of savants holds that if the television companies are going to monopolize boxing they should set up a system of farm clubs to develop new talent. Another believes the situation will cure itself, but painfully. ‘Without the little clubs, nobody new will come up,’ a leader of this group argues. ‘The television fans will get tired of the same bums, the Hooper will drop, the sponsors will drop boxing, and then we can start all over again.’”

And maybe that’s what the World Series of Boxing is: a system of farm teams looking to start all over again.

Rocky Graziano’s manager, Irving Cohen, put it well: “Fighting is like education. The four-round fights are elementary school. Six rounders is high school. Feature bouts is college, but nowadays without the small clubs we got too many boys in college without sufficient preparation.”
So maybe we can look at the WSB as a kind of global prep school— teaching sweet science.