Undefeated Jr, Middleweight Glen Tapia talks about his recent sparring sessions with Manny Pacquiao as well as when he will be back from his recent broken jaw.

NEW YORK (Dec. 4, 2010) – A long-awaited showdown between top welterweight (170 pounds) rising stars, undefeated Tyron Woodley (7-0) and hard-hitting Tarec “Sponge” Saffiedine (10-2), will headline a STRIKEFORCE Challengers Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight card presented by Rockstar Energy Drink at Nashville Municipal Auditorium in Nashville, Tenn., live on SHOWTIME® at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), on Friday, Jan. 7, 2011.

Undefeated up-and-coming heavyweight prospect and former Olympic wrestling star Daniel Cormier (6-0) of San Jose, Calif., faces what could be his toughest test to date when he meets veteran Devin Cole (18-8-1) of Medford, Ore., in a feature televised contest.

In other televised fights formally announced by STRIKEFORCE for its initial presentation of the decade: undefeated Yancy “Frisson’’ Medeiros (9-0) of Waianae, Hawaii, faces John Salter (5-2) of Nashville in a middleweight (185 pounds) scrap, promising Julia “The Jewel’’ Budd (1-0) of British Columbia, Canada, faces Amanda “Lioness Of The Ring’’ Nunes (5-1), of Salvador, Brazil, in a women’s middleweight (145 pounds) match and Nate Moore (6-2) of San Jose meets Nate “Soulforce’’ Coy (8-3) of Portland, Ore., in a welterweight (170 pounds) fight.

A special ticket pre-sale purchase opportunity for the event will take place for “STRIKEFORCE Insider” e-newsletter subscribers (http://STRIKEFORCE.com/insider.html), beginning at 10 a.m. CT on Wednesday, Dec. 8, and ending at 10 p.m. CT on Thursday, Dec. 9. STRIKEFORCE Insiders will receive a special e-newsletter with the pre-sale code.

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. CT on Friday, Dec. 10, and will be available at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium ticket office, all Ticketmaster locations (800) 745-3000 including Kroger and FYE, Ticketmaster online (www.ticketmaster.com) and STRIKEFORCE’s official website (www.strikeforce.com).

The first non-televised, undercard fight on Jan. 7 will begin at 7:30 CT. Doors will open at 7.

The unbeaten 5-foot-9, 28-year-old Woodley of St. Louis, Mo., is a two-time All-American NCAA wrestler for the University of Missouri. After notching three straight victories on the Challengers series, Woodley made his debut at a STRIKEFORCE championship series event, scoring a thunderous first round (1:48) KO over fellow prospect Andre Galvao on the Diaz vs. Noons card in San Jose last Oct. 9.

Woodley fought five times in 2009, winning all five of his starts by way of submission. He was only forced beyond the first round on one occasion last year, submitting Zach Light with an armbar in the second round (3:38) of a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on Sept. 25.

Woodley, who turned pro in February 2009, is a member of American Top Team. He won his initial start for STRIKEFORCE with a first-round submission (Brabo Choke) over Sal Woods in a non-televised, undercard bout on June 6, 2009, in St. Louis.

Like Woodley, Saffiedine, a 24-year-old, 5-foot-9 native of Brussels, Belgium, has been on a surge, winning all three of his bouts in 2010, and 9 of his last 10 fights. Saffiedine’s only defeat during this stretch came via narrow, split decision against Dong Sik Yoon at DREAM 12 in Osaka, Japan on Oct. 25, 2009.

Saffiedine’s strong striking foundation stems from his teenage years when he took up Karate at age 16. He now holds a black belt in Shihaishinkai, a form of Karate that combines striking, Judo throws and wrestling, and an amateur kickboxing record of 12-1-1. After immigrating to The United States, he added Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to his repertoire.

To date, Saffiedine holds a record of 2-0 in STRIKEFORCE Challengers competition. In his debut for the promotion last Feb. 26 in San Jose, he earned a unanimous decision over James Terry. On May 21, Saffiedine scored a second-round (1:21) KO on Moore with a punch in Portland, Ore.

Cormier, a two-time JUCO national wrestling champion, six-time U.S. national champ, two-time Olympian and 2008 U.S. Olympic team captain, has been virtually unstoppable since turning pro on Sept. 25, 2009, winning all his fights inside the distance, all within two rounds.

The 5-foot-11, 31-year-old Cormier may be short in stature for a heavyweight, but he’s long on talent. His last five fights – all in 2010 — ended in the first round, the last three by submission. In his most recent outing, the exciting Cormier devoured Soa Palelei on Nov. 5. The farthest Cormier has been taken was in his pro debut when he triumphed by 3:39, second-round TKO (punches) over Gary Frazier at a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on Sept. 25, 2009.

Cormier, who whipped Jason Riley in 1:02 in his last fight for STRIKEFORCE last Aug. 21, is a member of American Kickboxing Academy. One of his teammates and chief training partners at AKA is UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez, whom Cormier helped get ready before Velasquez obliterated Brock Lesnar in November.

Cole is 6-1-1 in his last seven fights. Unquestionably, the most experienced fighter to face Cormier, Cole has fought several well-known, world-class fighters in a career that began in July 2003, including former STRIKEFORCE World Light Heavyweight Champion Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante, STRIKEFORCE star Mike “Mak” Kyle, Jeff Monson, Travis Wiuff, Krzysztof Soszynski, and Ben Rothwell.

An All-American wrestler at Oregon State, the 6-foot-4 Cole has been victorious inside the distance in 13 of his 18 victories, and has gone nearly two years without being submitted. An IFL veteran who’ll be making his STRIKEFORCE debut, Cole had a five-fight winning streak end in his last outing on Sept. 11 when he dropped a decision to Aaron Rosa.

ST. LOUIS (Dec. 5, 2010) – Legendary MMA superstar Dan Henderson, 41, proved he is back in a major way Saturday as he closed an outstanding night of exciting, non-stop action fights by demolishing former STRIKEFORCE World Champion Renato “Babalu” Sobral in 1:53 in the main event on SHOWTIME® before a crowd of 7,146 at Scottrade Center.

“Hendo answered the questions about his age, about his desire,’’ said SHOWTIME analyst and MMA pioneer, Frank Shamrock, after the fight. “There was never a question about his power.”

Other results on the televised portion of STRIKEFORCE: Henderson vs. Babalu presented by Rockstar Energy Drink:” World-ranked welterweight Paul “Semtex’’ Daley (26-9-2) of Nottingham, England, knocked out Scott “Hands Of Steel” Smith (18-8, 1 NC), of Elk Grove, Calif., with a ferocious counter left hook at 2:09 in the first; new-look Robbie Lawler (18-6, 1 NC), of Granite City, Ill., returned to his old, “Ruthless” self with a devastating 50-second, first-round knockout over Matt “The Law” Lindland (22-8), of Oregon City, Ore., in a middleweight match; Antonio “Big Foot’’ Silva (15-2), of Coconut Creek, Fla., by way of Brazil, rallied to register a second-round TKO (punches) over Mike “Mak’’ Kyle (18-8), of San Jose, Calif., in a heavyweight scrap and former University of Tennessee linebacker Ovince St. Preux (9-4) of Knoxville, Tenn., won his sixth in a row and second in two weeks with a dominant three-round unanimous decision over Benji “Razor’’ Radach (19-6, 1 NC), of Laguna Beach, Calif., at light heavyweight (205 pounds).

“I’ve said it before but not often enough: we have some of the most devastating and talented fighters in the world on the STRIKEFORCE roster,’’ said STRIKEFORCE CEO Scott Coker after the final STRIKEFORCE fight card of the year. “And these guys — Hendo, Daley, Lawler — proved it tonight. These aren’t even the champs of their divisions in STRIKEFORCE and they put on some display tonight.

“This is a second chance for Daley. He’s shown remorse for his past action and he’s earned the right to keep fighting. As for Mike Kyle: Watch out at 205 because he’s got devastating power.”

Henderson, making his first fight at 205 pounds in three years, moved a step closer to a title shot against STRIKEFORCE Light Heavyweight Champion Rafael “Feijao” Cavalcante.

“Whoever STRIKEFORCE comes up with, I’ll fight,’’ said Henderson, who floored Babalu with two solid right hands and finished him with a series of shots. “But I prefer 205. I’m ready to fight at 185 but there are plenty of good fights for me at 205.

“My body felt better for this fight. I appreciate all the support from the fans in St. Louis.’’

This was the second victory over Babalu for Henderson, who won a decision in February 2000.

Daley-Smith turned out to be the slugfest most everybody expected, but Daley, making his STRIKEFORCE debut, landed the first telling shot and that was that.

“I’m very happy with this fight and for the opportunity STRIKEFORCE is giving me,’’ said Daley, who delivered a perfectly-placed left look that sent Smith crashing head-first to the canvas.

By stopping Lindland with a picturesque, short right hook, Lawler put himself right back into the stacked STRIKEFORCE middleweight picture.

Unlike his last outing on June 16 when he may have played it a little too cautiously in a points’ loss to Babalu, Lawler was all business Saturday.

“For some reason I thought he’d try to stand with me,’’ said Lawler, who was sporting a beard and hair on his head for this one. “He probably shouldn’t have. I knew I was in good enough shape to fight my fight and not worry about take downs. I’ll take a one-day break and talk to managers and then we’ll go from there.’’

When asked if he knew the fight was over before the referee stepped in, Lawler said, “I always know when the fight is over.’’

The Silva-Kyle fight looked like it might be over in the first round, a five-minute session dominated by Kyle, who dropped Silva with a booming right hand in the opening seconds and spent the remainder of the round in the top position pounding the Brazilian with both hands.

But Silva, who outweighed Kyle by 44 pounds, rebounded strongly to triumph for the eighth time in nine starts.

“He surprised me at the beginning,’’ Silva said. ‘But I never felt I was in danger of losing or that the referee would stop the fight.’’

Kyle, who took the fight on a week’s notice after Valentijn Overeem withdrew with an injury, came close to scoring a major upset.

“I thought they were going to stop the fight,’’ said Kyle, who entered the cage having gone 5-0 with one No Contest since losing to Fedor conquerer, Fabricio Wedum, on Aug. 15, 2009. “I was really excited but they didn’t and then I realized I broke my hand and I was out of the fight mentally’’

In the opening bout of the telecast, Saint Preux dominated what many felt would be his toughest fight, outpointing Radach by the one-sided scores of 30-27, 30-26 and 30-25.

It was the second consecutive points victory for the 6-foot-3, 27-year-old Saint Preux, who was coming off a unanimous over Antwain Britt during a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event on Nov. 19.

Saturday’s thrilling event will re-air as follows:

DAY CHANNEL

Tuesday, Dec. 7, at 10 p.m. ET/PT SHO2

The telecast also will be available On Demand beginning Wednesday, Dec. 8, and running through Dec. 21.

Mauro Ranallo called the action on SHOWTIME with MMA legends Shamrock and Pat Miletich serving as expert analysts.

In Saturday’s non-televised professional results: Fernando Bettega (7-4), Cerritos, Calif., split decision over Wayne Phillips (4-4), San Jose, at 170 pounds; Justin Lawrence (1-0), St. Louis, unanimous (technical) decision over Max Martynuk (0-1), Los Angeles, at 155 pounds; Pat Cummins (1-0), Carlsbad, Calif., TKO 1 (strikes) over Terrell Brown (2-1), O’Fallon, Mo., at 205 pounds; Matt Ricehouse (4-0), St. Peters, Mo., unanimous decision over Tom Aaron (8-2), Troy, Mo.; Booker DeRousse (4-4), St. Louis, TKO 2 (strikes) Coltin Cole (1-1) of Duquion, Ill., at 185 pounds; Cortez Coleman (6-1), Granite, City, Ill., submitted (guillotine choke) Lucas Lopes (19-11), St. Louis, in the first round (2:04) at 185 pounds; Mike Glenn (7-4), Springfield, Mo., first-round TKO over Lee Brousseau (7-3), of River Wood, Mo., at 205 pounds; and J.W. Wright (1-0), St. Louis, submitted (guillotine choke) Josh “The Loose Cannon’’ Epps (2-3), St. Louis, in the first round (1:29) at 130 pounds.

For more information on SHOWTIME Sports, including exclusive video, photos and news links on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and STRIKEFORCE mixed martial arts telecasts, along with access to the SHOWTIME Sports Facebook® and Twitter® pages, please go to http://Sports.Sho.com.

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.

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 Channel™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.

The night was supposed to belong to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., but instead it was a Humberto Soto victory over Urbano Antillon that fittingly and deservedly took center stage as the main event Saturday night at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

Soto (54-7-2, 32 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico managed to hold onto his WBC Lightweight title by engaging enough and avoiding just enough over twelve rounds with the hard-charging Antillon (28-2, 20 KOs) of Maywood, California by way of Namiquipa, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Antillon, 135, took the fight to Soto, 134¾, at the outset and the defending champion obliged. The tone of the fight was set right then, and very rarely deviated from a toe-to-toe battle. Antillon, the WBC #6 ranked lightweight, was the aggressor throughout the entire fight and had Soto in trouble at times, but it was the champion’s ability to box when needed that won him the fight. Soto was also the busier and more effective puncher, which helped give him the edge.

In the end, it was a sixth-round point deduction by referee Ray Corona from Antillon for low blows that cost the challenger a draw. Incredibly there were no knockdowns in the fight, as both men were hurt and in trouble several times. The final scores read 115-112 and 114-113 twice, all for Soto to give him the unanimous decision win.

The original plan as outlined by Top Rank promoter Bob Arum would have had the Soto-Antillon winner take on lightweight prospect Brandon Rios in February. However, the nature of tonight’s fight would seem to preclude Soto from competing that soon, something Arum acknowledged after the fight. During the post-fight interviews, Arum suggested that Antillon take on reigning IBF Lightweight Champion Miguel Vazquez on the same card as Soto-Rios, whenever that does take place, and that the winners eventually meet.

In the co-main event, former two-division titleholder Nonito Donaire Jr. (25-1, 17 KOs) of San Carlos, California announced his presence at 118-pounds with a comprehensive four-round destruction of former WBA Bantamweight Champion Wladimir Sidorenko (22-3-2, 7 KOs) of Kiev, Ukraine.

Donaire, 118, was too much for Sidorenko, 117 ½, from round one. Donaire displayed both speed and power against a fighter that looked much smaller than him, even though he had been a bantamweight for most of his career. Donaire scored knockdowns in the first, third and fourth. Sidorenko was bloodied early on and had his nose completely busted by the right hand that put him down for the final time. Official time of the stoppage was 1:48 of round four.

With the victory, Donaire claimed the WBC Continental Americas Bantamweight title and more importantly stayed on track for a clash with unified 118-pound belt holder Fernando Montiel, scheduled to take place on February 19th on HBO. Montiel must first get past unheralded Eduardo Garcia next Saturday in Mexico.

IBF #1 ranked featherweight Miguel Angel Garcia (24-0, 20 KOs) of Oxnard, California maintained his standing amongst the upper echelon at 126-pounds with a fifth-round knockout over Olivier Lontchi (18-2-2, 8 KOs) of Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Garcia, 123¼, downed a hurt Lontchi, 125 ½, with a right hand in the fifth. Lontchi sat on the seat of his trunks, seemingly debating his participation in the remainder of the bout. After getting up, Lontchi was downed again by a Garcia flurry. Referee Jerry Cantu counted Lontchi out as the Canadian shook his head to signal that he had had enough. Official time of the stoppage was 1:30. With the win, Garcia remains in line for an eventual shot at IBF/WBA Featherweight Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Pawel Wolak (28-1, 18 KOs) of Mount Arlington, New Jersey by way of Debica, Poland overcame a terrible start to score a seventh-round stoppage over Jose Pinzon (18-2-1, 12 KOs) of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.

Wolak, 161 ½, was downed in the second and nearly out, before turning around the round and the fight before the three minutes were up. Pinzon, 159, seemed drained by the end of the second and never found himself in control again. The much shorter Wolak, who had been signed for tonight’s main event against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., pressed the fight from the third round on. Finally the fifth, Pinzon was stopped on his feet while taking a serious barrage of unanswered punches. Official time of the bout was 2:24 of the seventh.

Undefeated Jessie Roman (5-0, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, California turned back the tough challenge of Johnny Frazier (2-4-3, 2 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada via four-round unanimous decision. Despite lopsided final tallies, Frazier, 132 ½, was very much in the fight. However it was Roman, 133 ½, that won over the judges with his aggression. In the end, Roman took all three cards by the scores of 39-37 and 40-36 twice.

Photos by Chris Farina/Top Rank

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

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
Before a standing room only crowd at Bally’s in Atlantic City, Ghana’s Ayi Bruce, upset hometown favorite Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez and in the process picked up the Vacant IBA Continental Welterweight Title winning a majority decision over ten exciting and action packed rounds. Alvarez-Bruce headlined a seven bout card promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Alvarez came out hard and fast in the first landing with both hands to the head and body of Bruce and setting a pace that would continue for much of the fight.

The middle rounds saw both fighters more than willing to sit and trade, bringing the packed house into a frenzy time and time again.

Bruce began finding a home for a looping right hand in the 5th against the southpaw Alvarez. Alvarez was the aggressor as he continuously pressed the action, but Bruce countered nicely from the outside.

Both fighters traded big shots in a very close action packed 8th. Near the end of the 9th round Bruce landed a huge over hand right that nearly dropped Alvarez.

Both fighters came out in the

tenth looking for the knockout hoping to prevent the close fight from going to the judges scorecards. The two traded heavy artillery for the entire round and brought the crowd into a standing ovation as they stood toe-to-toe to end the action packed main event.

In the end Bruce was awarded a close majority decision, winning by scores of 97-93, 95-94, while the third judge had it dead even at 95-95. With the win Bruce improves to 18-3, 12KO’s while Alvarez drops to 21-3, 12KO’s.

SERRANO DESTROYS SPRUIELL

In the co-feature bout of the evening, Philadelphia’s hot rising welterweight prospect Raymond “Tito” Serrano knocked out extremely tough and durable Geoffery Spruiell with a single left hand in the 5th round of their scheduled eight rounder.

Serrano came out in the first and began immediately sticking a stiff jab in the face of Spruiell. Midway through the round a short left hand dropped Spruiell on the seat of his pants. He beat the count but soon after was dropped again by a beautiful over-hand right.

Serrano used a vicious body attack during the middle rounds to begin breaking Spruiell down, as Spruiell was left trying to unsuccessfully counter off the ropes.

In the 5th round Serrano came out in a southpaw stance, and landed a vicious left hand that caught Spruiell right on the button and sent him down hard. Spruiell made it to a knee but was in no condition to continue. Official time of the stoppage was 27 seconds of the 5th round. With the win Serrano improved to a perfect 14-0 with 8 big wins coming by way of knockout.

MUSSACHIO DECISIONS KRUGER

Local fan favorite Chuck “The Professor” Mussachio improved to 17-1-2 with an unanimous dround decision over Theo Kruger (10-11-2, 3KO’s). Mussachio consistently worked off his jab and used his super speed and boxing ability to out work the rugged Kruger round after round. Kruger hung tough, but simply didn’t have enough fire power to keep up with the Wildwood, New Jersey native Mussachio who by scores of 80-72, 80-72, 79-73. Another impressive showing for the guidance counselor by day, boxer by night, Mussachio.

UNDERCARD ACTION

Ismael Garcia W4 Joe Yerdon

Isiah Seldon W4 Todd Eriksson

Althea Saunders W4 Natoya Ervin

Rashad Brown W4 Corey Preston

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing
industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

Star Boxing

Star Boxing Exclusive Merchandise

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT LIVE
NEW YORK / ATLANTIC CITY (December 4, 2010)—TONIGHT!!! at Ballys in Atlantic City, Two welterweights will vie for the IBA Welterweight championship which they hope will be a steppingstone to a shot at greener pastures.

Shamone Alvarez will look to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on Ayi Bruce that will headline a big night of boxing that can be seen live on www.gofightlive.tv

The action will begin at 7:30 pm est and fans all over the world can order the fight for just $9.99 by clicking: http://www.gofightlive.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Alverez_v_Bruce/877

Alvarez of Atlantic City has a record of 21-2 with twelve knockouts and is coming off an impressive seventh round stoppage over Alexis Camacho (17-2) in March in a bout that was seen live all over the world on gofightlive.tv

Alvarez won his first fifteen fights which included impressive victories over Mohammad Kayongo (11-0-1); & Enrique Gutierrez (10-0).

He won the NABO Welterweight title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Cruz (34-2-2) and defended it with a unanimous decision over Germaine Sanders (27-3).

He suffered his first pro defeat when he dropped a twelve round unanimous decision to future world champion Joshua Clottey. He rebounded nicely to score a decision over former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (33-4) before dropping a razor thin decision to future world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (23-2-2).

Bruce of Accra, Ghana has a record of 17-3 with twelve knockouts won his first fourteen bouts in his native Ghana. In that process he won the Ghananian Jr. Welterweight title.

Since coming to America he has only lost to undefeated prospects Emanuel Taylor (7-0) and Raymond Serrano (12-0). Bruce has two in a row which includes a third round stoppage over forty-four fight veteran Larry Brothers on October 27th.

In the co-feature bout of the evening, hot up and coming Philadelphian prospect, Raymond “Tito” Serrano (13-0, 6KO’s) looks to close out 2010 by improving to 14-0 when he takes on tough veteran Geoffrey Spruiell, in an eight round welterweight showdown.

Also on the card is Wildwood, New Jersey’s popular light heavyweight contender, and reigning WBF US Light Heavyweight Champion, Chuck “The Professor” Mussachio (16-1-2, 5KO’s) as he squares off over eight scheduled rounds against Theo Kruger.

Exciting jr. middleweight, Ismael Garcia (1-0) will look to pick up his second win as a pro when he takes on New York’s, Joe Jerdon (0-1-2). Garcia, who lives in nearby Millville, NJ, made his pro-debut in Atlantic City in March, winning a dominating four round decision over previously unbeaten Josh Mercado (3-0). Garcia-Yerdon is scheduled for four rounds.

In a four round middleweight match-up Philadelphia’s Rashad Brown (1-0) squares off against Corey Preston (0-2).

The son of former WBA Heavyweight champion, Bruce Seldon, Isiah Seldon (2-0) takes on Todd Eriksson in a four round Middleweight bout.

Rounding out the card is Atlantic City’s Althera Saunders (1-0) in a four round female jr. welterweight contest against Natoya Ervin (1-6).

After embarking on an outstanding amateur career Robbie “Bomber” Peden turned professional back in late 1996, nearly ten years later he retired aged aged 33. Having gone 25-4(14) the highlight coming in February 2005 when in a rare appearance in his home country of Australia he won the IBF Super Featherweight title when he stopped Nate Campbell in the eighth round. The aforementioned amateur career saw him represent Australia in both the 1992 & 1996 Olympics. He then based himself in America for 10 years in which time he fought both Marco Antonio Barrera & Juan Manuel Marquez, so he’s well accustomed to the nuances of the game. Now 37, he works in the community with underprivileged kids though admits to being tempted by a return to the ring.

Hello Robbie, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – It’s been three and a half years since you retired from the Boxing ring, what have you done since you retired?

Robbie Peden – I started a not for profit organization Indigenous Solutions Aboriginal Corporation where I coordinate and facilitate programs for disadvantaged youth and families. I manage The Fitzroy Stars Health and Fitness Academy and co own a mobile gym company ( Mobile Gyms Australia) with my mate and former Commonwealth champion Julian Holland . I also tutor Indigenous/ Aboriginal children at local high schools trying to better lives of Aboriginal children through out Australia.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have anything to do with Boxing today?

Robbie Peden – Anson I run the Fitzroy Stars health and fitness academy. Here the boxing program is run through out the year from Monday to Friday.

Anson Wainwright – I would imagine the best part of your career was winning the in 2005 when you stopped Nate Campbell for the Vacant IBF Super Featherweight title. Looking back now what are your thoughts on that win and what it meant to you?

Robbie Peden – It was my ambition to go to America to test myself against the best in the world not to fight at home with hand picked opponents. Luckily the opportunity came for me to fight for the title in Australia. Although I didn’t get paid by the promoter Tony Caradona it was still one of the greatest experiences I have had in my life.

Anson Wainwright – Looking at your record it struck me that you had 29 fights but only 2 of them took place in Australia. Why was this?

Robbie Peden – I never wanted to be a big fish in a small pool. I wanted to swim with the sharks, I even bit a few! Obviously I did things a little different then most but I am happy with the choices I made in my career.

Anson Wainwright – You were a road warrior fighting in America many times plus Poland & New Zealand, can you tell us about some of the experiences you had going to all those places?

Robbie Peden – I was based in America for 10 years, but fought in Poland, New Zealand and Vanuatu as well. Andrew Golota wanted me to fight on his undercard in Poland against a Polish Olympian. But travelling with the Australian National team for 6 years, well there wasn’t much I hadn’t seen.

Anson Wainwright – How did you first become interested and then involved in Boxing?

Robbie Peden – I only started boxing to get the girls! (Joking) My father Brian Peden was a fighter and also excellent trainer. He trained my mother’s brothers so it was a natural progression.

Anson Wainwright – I would imagine from fighting so many times in America that you have several friends in the Boxing community? Can you name them & tell us about some of those relationships?

Robbie Peden – Many friends indeed, Roger Bloodworth my trainer, well with out him none of my Professional career would have been possible. I think there are too many people to name whom I consider friends over there. I will say I lost 2 of my good mates last year Vernon Forrest and Arturo Gatti as well as my daughter, so 2009 wasn’t a good year for me!

Anson Wainwright – I’m sure you have seen some crazy things in the Boxing world or been involved in some amusing things. Could you share one of your favourite Boxing stories with us?

Robbie Peden – The training camp with Pernell Whitaker when he was getting ready for Delahoya. That camp was a blast, everyone playing practical jokes on each other. Very funny camp!

Anson Wainwright – You fought many top guys in your career with the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera & Juan Manuel Marquez being the two biggest names. What can you tell us about those fights?

Robbie Peden – Both legends and Hall of fame specials. As for the Marquez fight I spewed up in the 9th round. I entered that fight with a virus but as it was a great opportunity I didn’t want to let it get away from me like the Proposed Augie Sanchez fight.

The Barrera fight I had a pretty good camp but was looking after a friend whom had a lot of issues. Of course things didn’t work out for me and I wasn’t as focused as I should’ve been.

I would like to add I do not wish to take away anything from these tow great fighters victories but I wasn’t 100% for them fights.

Anson Wainwright – Just a few pounds above were you fought two Australians Michael Katsidis and Lenny Zappavigna are making waves on the world scene. What are your thoughts on them and how good do you think they are? What do you think happens when Katsidis fights Marquez?

Robbie Peden – Both Michael and Lenny have been very, very well managed. Michael is never in a boring fight and Lenny is still learning his craft. I think that they’re just below the top echelon in the light weight division at the moment.

I went to Stathi’s (Michael’s brother) funeral last month. Having known both guys for a long time I knew how close they were. It will be very difficult for Michael to won this fight on even terms let alone with this tragedy happening, but things like this can take people to greatness!

Anson Wainwright – What guys do you think could make an impact on the World scene that you guys have in Australia that perhaps aren’t so well known and are on there way up?

Robbie Peden – We are a country of only around 20 million people so out talent pool in very small. Boxing has changed and is more about manipulating the ratings and the media to make the fighters seem better then they really are. I actually very rarely watch or attend boxing because of this reason.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the Boxing world and you fans?

Robbie Peden – I am seriously thinking of returning to boxing in 2011 to help bring attention to Aboriginal Men’s health. There is about a 15 to 20 year difference in the life span for Aboriginal men to non Aboriginal men in Australia. So I’d really like main stream media get behind my cause.

Thanks for your time Robbie.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Weekend Flurries – So far, and if we learnt anything in 2010 it was that your best laid plans are likely to be turned upside down, with several cancelations of big fights. It looks like an impressive 2011 calendar Bradley-Alexander on 29 January in Detroit, Montiel-Donaire on 19 February in Las Vegas, Lucian Bute fights in March & Manny Pacquiao’s next appearance will be on 16 April…A couple of interesting cards this weekend, Top Rank are doing their independant PPV in Anaheim, Ca i look for Donaire to outpoint Wladimir Sidorenko & Humberto Soto to stop Urbano Antillon late. Solid fight for Mikey Garcia against Olivier Lontchi, who’s been very active in 2010. I’m interested to see how Jessie Magdeleno & Gabino Saenz look early in there fledgling career’s. Also this weekend Saul Alvarez gets back in action against Lovemore Ndou, I think Alvarez will be the first to stop Ndou. In Scotland Ricky Burns makes the first defence of his WBO 130 against Andreas Evansen, I see Burns outpointing his Scandanavian challenger.

Lateef Kayode remained undefeated and in the process scored his fourteenth straight knockout when he stopped Ed Perry in round six of their scheduled ten round Cruiserweight fight at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, CA.

Kayode dominted the action with few exception when Perry would move his hands and get in a few shots.

Kayode dropped Perry in round four when he landed a left and right to the body that dropped Perry to his knees. Kayode finished the fight in round six when he landed a hard three punch combination that sent Perry to the canvas for referee Jack Reiss’ ten count at fifty-one seconds of round six.

Kayode of Lagos, Nigeria is now 15-0 with fourteen knockouts. Perry, 198 3/4 lbs of Frankfort, IN is now 17-5-2

“It was a good fight for me,” said Kayode, 27, who is trained by Freddie Roach and was fighting at cruiserweight for the fifth time in his career. “I waited a round or two to gauge what he had. He took some shots. Normally guys would have fallen after some of those shots but he had a good chin and stayed in there.”

“The body shots took their toll,” said Perry, who had never seen the canvas in his career but took a knee after a lethal combination by Kayode in the fourth round before standing at an eight-count. “I don’t know, I’ve always been pretty tough. It takes a brave man to stand in there and get hit like that, especially on national TV.”

Added Kayode: “He tried to rush me and rough me in the fifth round. He came at me, so I didn’t go with my jab anymore. I went with my straight right because he was bending to my right side and then I got him with the left uppercut.”

In a battle of decorated amateur stars, former Cuban Olympian Luis Franco defeated former American Olympic alternate Eric Hunter via an eighth round disqulaification for excessive low blows.

Franco dominated the fight as he came forward and landed the harder shots that backed Hunter up. In round two, Hunter was getting rocked by the flurry of punches. It was later in that round where Hunter was deducted a point for the second shot below the belt. In round three, Hunter was once again staggered on the ropes. Hunter still tried to work the body and landed some nice shots despite being one low shot away from being tossed from the fight. Franco continued to land nice cominations.

In round eight, Franco was deducted a point for a headbutt. Just a moment later, Hunter landed a hard right to the cup area and referee Jon Schorle stopped the bout at 2:34 of round eight.

Franco, 125 1/2 lbs of Havana, Cuba is now 8-0. Hunter, 125 1/2 lbs of Philadelphia, PA is now 15-2.

“It looks like he was looking for a way out,” said Franco, who won every round in the dominating win. “My body shots were just hurting him and he didn’t want to get knocked out. He knew he was going to get knocked out in the ninth round and so he decided to take the disqualification. I out-jabbed him and out worked him and finally got the DQ.”

Hunter, 24, who first appeared on ShoBox back in 2007 and was a 2004 U.S. Olympic alternate, was visibly upset after the disqualification. “There was just too much complaining going on the whole time,” he said. “I said before the fight they better watch out for his complaining. Ah, man. I don’t even want to talk about it. He played to the crowd and the ref. It should have never been stopped.”

Dioniso Miranda scored a twelve round split decision over world ranked LaJuan Simon to claim the WBC Continental Americas title at the Rollins Center inside Dover Downs Hotel in Casino in Dover, Delaware.

Miranda landed the more authoritative punches where Simon would come forward and attempt little cominations without much behind them. Miranda would land some hard body shots throughout the affair that went the distance.

Miranda sewed up most of the rounds by landing long hard shots with one occasion in particular in round nine where a big right from Miranda buckled Simon. Miranda and Simon fought almost even down the stretch.

Miranda, 159 1/2 lbs of Miami won by scores of 116-112; 115-113 while Simon grabbed a card by a 115-114 tally.

Miranda is now 21-6-2. Simon, 150 lbs of Philadelphia is 23-3-2.

Mike Tiberi scored a six round unanimous decision over Marcus Don Hall in a Light Heavyweight bout.

Tiberi put on a workmanlike performance as he landed many more shots then did Hall. Tiberi worked very well inside as he wokrked the body and put together many combiantions to the head. Hall tried to the very end as the two engaged in a crowd pleasing final twenty seconds of toe to toe war.

Tiberi, 170 1/2 lbs of Smyrna, DE won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 15-1. Hall, 173 lbs of Savannah, GA is now 11-6

Heavyweight Amir “Hardcore” Mansour scored his second straight wicked knockout since his eight plus year hiatus when he took out Joseph Rabotte at 1:04 of round three in a scheduled eight round bout.

Mansour landed some hard shots early as he focused on some hard body shots with both hands before coming upstairs. Rabotte did his best to use his legs to stay at bay. In round three, Mansour caught up to him and landed a wicked right that sent Rabotte into the ropes where Mansour followed up with a straight left that dropped Rabotte to the canvas. Rabotte got to his feet but was stumbling and that’s when referee Gary Rosato stopped the bout.

Mansour, 218 lbs of Wilmington, DE is now 11-0 with eight knockouts. Rabotte, 258 lbs of Myrtle Beach, SC is now 9-15-1.

Anthony Caputo Smith made short work of Cleony Fuqua as he scored a fifty-five second knockout in a scheduled four round Light Heavyweight bout.

Smith landed a body combination in the corner that sent Fuqua down for referee Vic De WySocki’s ten count.

Smith, 175 lbs of Kennett Square, PA is now 8-0 with six knockouts. Fuqua, 171 lbs of Alabama is now 2-4.

Rachel Clark scored a four round unanimous decision over Michelle Garland in a woman’s Jr. Middleweight bout.

Scores were 39-37 on all cards for Clark, 155 1/2 lbs of Philadelphia and is now 6-4-1. Garland, 154 lbs is now 0-1-1.

Dan Biddle scored a four round unanimous decision over Zeferino Albino in a Cruiserweight bout.

Both guys landed hard shots but Biddle was more active and won by scores of 40-36; 40-36 and 39-37.

Biddle, 193 1/2 lbs of Hockessian, DE is now 5-1. Albino, 200 lbs of Philadelphia is now 3-12-2.

Popular Welterweight, Michael “No Joke” Stewart scored a six round unanimous decision over Chad Greenleaf in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Stewart got off to a bit of a slow start as Greenleaf did well for the first round and a half until he started putting his punches together and dominated the last few rounds. He rocked Greenleaf a couple of times with right/left combinations over the final two rounds.

Stewart, 147 lbs of New Castle, DE won by scores of 59-55; 59-55 and 58-56 to raise his mark to 46-7-2. Greenleaf, 151 lbs of Parksburg, WV is now 13-17-1.

Ryan Belasco scored a six round unanimous decision over Gustavo Dailey in a Lightweight bout.

Belasco rocked Dailey on a couple of a occasions and had little problem with the Philadelphia Southpaw.

Belasco, 134 lbs of Wilmington, DE won by scores 60-54 on two cards and 59-55 to go to 14-4-3. Dailey, 133 lbs is now 4-10.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
All participants for tomorrow night’s Star Boxing promoted show at Bally’s in Atlantic City weighed-in today. The card is headlined by Atlantic City’s own, Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez (21-2, 12KO’s) taking on Ghana’s Ayi Bruce (17-3, 12KO’s) for the Vacant IBA Intercontinental Welterweight Title. Below is the scheduled bout sheet with weight’s included.

Main Event – Welterweights
10 Rounds

Shamone Alvarez – 146 1/2 lbs.
Vs.
Ayi Bruce – 144 1/2 lbs.

____________________________

Welterweights
8 Rounds

Raymond Serrano – 147 1/2 lbs.
Vs.
Geoffery Spruiell – 148 1/2 lbs.
_____________________________

Cruiserweights
8 Rounds

Chuck Mussachio – 177 lbs.
Vs.
Theo Kruger – 184 1/2 lbs.
__________________________

Jr. Middleweights
4 Rounds

Ismael Garcia – 156 1/2 lbs.
Vs.
Joe Yerdon – 155 lbs.
___________________________

Welterweights
4 Rounds

Althea Saunders – 138 1/2 lbs.
Vs.
Natoya Ervin – 142 1/2 lbs.
__________________________

Super Middleweights
4 Rounds

Isiah Seldon – 167 lbs.
Vs.
Todd Eriksson – 168 lbs.
____________________________

Middleweights
4 Rounds

Rashad Brown – 161 lbs.
Vs.
Corey Preston – 159 lbs.

*** ALL BOUTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE***

Tickets are currently on sale and are being priced at $75, and $50 with a few limited 1st Row VIP Packages also available ($150). Tickets can be purchased by visiting any ticketmaster location, or simply by CLICKING HERE:. TICKETS MAY ALSO BE PURCHASED OUTSIDE OF THE GRAND BALLROOM AT BALLY’S TOMORROW STARTING AT 4PM. Bally’s Atlantic City, is located at Park Place and the Boardwalk (1900 Pacific Ave.) Atlantic City, NJ 08401. For more information call (609) 340-2000.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing
industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

Star Boxing

Star Boxing Exclusive Merchandise

NEW YORK / ATLANTA/ATLANTIC CITY (December 3, 2010)—This weekend two big boxing events will be featured on gofightlive as championship action from Atlanta and Atlantic City will highlight a big weekend of fistacuffs

TONIGHT championship boxing returns to www.gofightlive.tv as Sports Fans Properties presents a big night of boxing that is headlined by the USBA Southern Regional Welterweight Championship.

The title fight will be a ten round battle for the USBA Southern Regional featuring Paul Delgado battling Chris Gray.

The entire nine bout card can be seen for FREE at 7pm eastern by clicking: http://www.gofightlive.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/The_Big_Rock_Out_4/878

Delgado of Atlanta has a record of 24-9-1 with four knockouts and has faced a litany world class opponents and world champions.

Delgado has been in with the top of the division which includes tussled with former IBF Jr. Welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi; Former contestant of the Contender season I Jeff Fraza; former world title challenger Dmitry Salita; Former world title challenger Demetrious Hopkins as well as title chances when he lost via sixth round knockout to top Welterweight contender Said Ouali for the USBO Welterweight championship.

Delgado dropped two more opportunities to capture hardware as he was stopped in twelve by undefeated Jo Jo Dan for NABA Welterweight title as well as losing a twelve round unanimous decision to undefeated Vitaly Demyanenko for the WBO Asia Pacific and PABA Welterweight title.

Delgado has won four in a row which includes his last outing when he won a six round unanimous decision over Chad Greenleaf on August 27th in Atlanta.

Gray has been thrown in with top competition as well.

The native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has a record of 13-12 with one knockout.

In just his third bout Gray was stopped in one with top ranked Welterweight contender Mike Jones. Gray came back to Philadelphia to score an upset over Jr. Middleweight Gabriel Rosado (5-1). After a couple of losses it was déjà vu for Gray as he scored a split decision former amateur star Jason Thompson (4-1).

Since then it’s been literally up and down for Gray but you can’t fault his strength of Schedule such as top undefeated prospects such as Erislandy Lara and Joe Greene as well as contenders such as ishe Smith, David Estrada and Billy Lyell.

Gray is coming off a six round stoppage over Gerald Jordan (7-1-1) on August 27th in Atlanta.

The rest of the card as follows:
4 Rounds—Cruiserweights—Brian Howard (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Tobias Rice (2-2, 2 KO’s)
4 Rounds—Heavyweights—John McDermott IV (PD) vs. Dereck Walker (1-3)
4 Rounds—Jr. Middleweights—Adonis Inman (2-0) vs. Dino Dumonjic (1-1)
4 Rounds—Jr. Welterweights—Jesus Tavera (0-1) vs. Yusef Shabazz (PD)
4 Rounds—Jr. Middleweights—Ghislan Ntsikoto (1-0) vs. Erix Quinteros (2-6)
4 Rounds—Jr. Welterweights—Jackie Breitenstein (5-0, 5 KO’s) vs. TBA
Super Middleweights—Lamar Russ (5-0, 5 KO’s) vs. Brad Austin (8-9, 5 KO’s)
Middleweights—Evgeny Gradovich (6-0, 5 KO’s) vs. Jesse Carradine (6-0-1, 3 KO’s)

This Saturday night at Ballys in Atlantic City, Two welterweights will vie for the IBA Welterweight championship which they hope will be a steppingstone to a shot at greener pastures.

Shamone Alvarez will look to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on Ayi Bruce that will headline a big night of boxing that can be seen live on www.gofightlive.tv

The action will begin at 7:30 pm est and fans all over the world can order the fight for just $9.99 by clicking: http://www.gofightlive.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Alverez_v_Bruce/877

Alvarez of Atlantic City has a record of 21-2 with twelve knockouts and is coming off an impressive seventh round stoppage over Alexis Camacho (17-2) in March in a bout that was seen live all over the world on gofightlive.tv

Alvarez won his first fifteen fights which included impressive victories over Mohammad Kayongo (11-0-1); & Enrique Gutierrez (10-0).

He won the NABO Welterweight title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Cruz (34-2-2) and defended it with a unanimous decision over Germaine Sanders (27-3).

He suffered his first pro defeat when he dropped a twelve round unanimous decision to future world champion Joshua Clottey. He rebounded nicely to score a decision over former U.S. Olympian Terrance Cauthen (33-4) before dropping a razor thin decision to future world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (23-2-2).

Bruce of Accra, Ghana has a record of 17-3 with twelve knockouts won his first fourteen bouts in his native Ghana. In that process he won the Ghananian Jr. Welterweight title.

Since coming to America he has only lost to undefeated prospects Emanuel Taylor (7-0) and Raymond Serrano (12-0). Bruce has two in a row which includes a third round stoppage over forty-four fight veteran Larry Brothers on October 27th.

In the co-feature bout of the evening, hot up and coming Philadelphian prospect, Raymond “Tito” Serrano (13-0, 6KO’s) looks to close out 2010 by improving to 14-0 when he takes on tough veteran Geoffrey Spruiell, in an eight round welterweight showdown.

Also on the card is Wildwood, New Jersey’s popular light heavyweight contender, and reigning WBF US Light Heavyweight Champion, Chuck “The Professor” Mussachio (16-1-2, 5KO’s) as he squares off over eight scheduled rounds against Theo Kruger.

Exciting jr. middleweight, Ismael Garcia (1-0) will look to pick up his second win as a pro when he takes on New York’s, Joe Jerdon (0-1-2). Garcia, who lives in nearby Millville, NJ, made his pro-debut in Atlantic City in March, winning a dominating four round decision over previously unbeaten Josh Mercado (3-0). Garcia-Jerdon is scheduled for four rounds.

In a four round middleweight match-up Philadelphia’s Rashad Brown (1-0) squares off against Corey Preston (0-2).

The son of former WBA Heavyweight champion, Bruce Seldon, Isiah Seldon (2-0) takes on Todd Eriksson in a four round Middleweight bout.

Rounding out the card is Atlantic City’s Althera Saunders (1-0) in a four round female jr. welterweight contest against Natoya Ervin (1-6).

UPCOMING BOXING ON GOFIGHTLIVE.TV

Tuesday December 7th—Oliver McCall vs. Fres Oquendo

Friday December 17th—Windy City Fight Night—Hernandez vs. Adama

CLICK TO WATCH THE FIGHTS LIVE
NEW YORK / ATLANTA (December 3, 2010)—TONIGHT championship boxing returns to www.gofightlive.tv as Sports Fans Properties presents a big night of boxing that is headlined by the USBA Southern Regional Welterweight Championship.

The title fight will be a ten round battle for the USBA Southern Regional featuring Paul Delgado battling Chris Gray.

The entire nine bout card can be seen for FREE at 7pm eastern by clicking: http://www.gofightlive.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/The_Big_Rock_Out_4/878

Delgado of Atlanta has a record of 24-9-1 with four knockouts and has faced a litany world class opponents and world champions.

Delgado has been in with the top of the division which includes tussled with former IBF Jr. Welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi; Former contestant of the Contender season I Jeff Fraza; former world title challenger Dmitry Salita; Former world title challenger Demetrious Hopkins as well as title chances when he lost via sixth round knockout to top Welterweight contender Said Ouali for the USBO Welterweight championship.

Delgado dropped two more opportunities to capture hardware as he was stopped in twelve by undefeated Jo Jo Dan for NABA Welterweight title as well as losing a twelve round unanimous decision to undefeated Vitaly Demyanenko for the WBO Asia Pacific and PABA Welterweight title.

Delgado has won four in a row which includes his last outing when he won a six round unanimous decision over Chad Greenleaf on August 27th in Atlanta.

Gray has been thrown in with top competition as well.

The native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has a record of 13-12 with one knockout.

In just his third bout Gray was stopped in one with top ranked Welterweight contender Mike Jones. Gray came back to Philadelphia to score an upset over Jr. Middleweight Gabriel Rosado (5-1). After a couple of losses it was déjà vu for Gray as he scored a split decision former amateur star Jason Thompson (4-1).

Since then it’s been literally up and down for Gray but you can’t fault his strength of Schedule such as top undefeated prospects such as Erislandy Lara and Joe Greene as well as contenders such as ishe Smith, David Estrada and Billy Lyell.

Gray is coming off a six round stoppage over Gerald Jordan (7-1-1) on August 27th in Atlanta.

The rest of the card as follows:
4 Rounds—Cruiserweights—Brian Howard (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Tobias Rice (2-2, 2 KO’s)
4 Rounds—Heavyweights—John McDermott IV (PD) vs. Dereck Walker (1-3)
4 Rounds—Jr. Middleweights—Adonis Inman (2-0) vs. Dino Dumonjic (1-1)
4 Rounds—Jr. Welterweights—Jesus Tavera (0-1) vs. Yusef Shabazz (PD)
4 Rounds—Jr. Middleweights—Ghislan Ntsikoto (1-0) vs. Erix Quinteros (2-6)
4 Rounds—Jr. Welterweights—Jackie Breitenstein (5-0, 5 KO’s) vs. TBA
Super Middleweights—Lamar Russ (5-0, 5 KO’s) vs. Brad Austin (8-9, 5 KO’s)
Middleweights—Evgeny Gradovich (6-0, 5 KO’s) vs. Jesse Carradine (6-0-1, 3 KO’s)

UPCOMING BOXING ON GOFIGHTLIVE.TV

Saturday December 4th—IBA Welterweight title—Shamone Alvarez vs. Ayi Bruce

Tuesday December 7th—Oliver McCall vs. Fres Oquendo

Friday December 17th—Wsindy City Fight Night—Hernandez vs. Adama

Longtime top ranked U.S. amateur Roman Morales of San Ardo, California went to Berck Sur Mer, France to take part in the prestigious Four Nations Tournament and came home with the gold medal at 122-pounds, having defeated French National Champion Nordine Ait Ihya in the championship round. Next for Morales may be the leap into the paid ranks as he begins his pursuit of pro gold.

In the final round of the championship bout, Morales found himself trailing in the fight with only seconds remaining. “I started off a little slow, but I picked it up and the fight was pretty interesting,” recounts Morales. “I was down some points, but I knew I had to go forward and do something else. So I was just going all out and giving everything I had. I made the points up and came out with the victory.”

With the 8-7 victory over Ait Ihya, Morales effectively notched the biggest victory in what has been a stellar amateur career. “This is one of my biggest [wins] yet. This one, fighting international and representing the USA, is a pretty big accomplishment,” said Morales.

Morales, one of only two Americans to take home gold, showed the poise and maturity of an experienced veteran in France. “My coach told me to keep in mind that I am going in three points down, so make sure that you score as many points as you can, because you are already down three,” said Morales. “I learned that [the Europeans] don’t like pressure. When I applied pressure, they couldn’t concentrate and they couldn’t work right because they were counter-punchers. If I would throw one punch, they would counter it, so I realized I had to throw a lot of punches and keep going forward to take them out of their game.”

Now Morales is contemplating the move from amateur to pro while mulling over a managerial contract with Repo Ric, known as the biggest hype man in boxing. The Fresno, California-based Repo Ric is looking to add Morales to a stable that already boasts prospects Michael Ruiz Jr. and Guy Robb Jr.

“He’s 5’8 ½” and he goes both ways, left and right,” says Ric, who would have him make his pro debut on January 8th at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino in Lemoore, California, of Morales. “Any given time, if you watch him, he’ll switch and he doesn’t even realize what he is doing when he’s switching. He’s left and right. He can brawl, he can box and he can fight.”

Repo Ric has been aware of Morales for sometime, as the San Ardo resident would make the trip to Fresno at times for sparring. “I saw his amateur fights, and he’s sparred a lot in Fresno, California. He’s sparred Michael Ruiz, and he was on the same 2008 USA Men’s team with Guy Robb,” says Ric, who has already had preliminary discussions with Goossen Tutor Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions about Morales.

Morales looks forward to making his debut as a professional, and when he does he plans to have his amateur trainer Rodolpho Tapia with him every step of the way. “He is the one that made me into boxing and everything, so I am going to keep him as my professional coach,” says Morales. “There is no way that I would change him. To me, he is one of the best coaches ever and he has taught me so many things and that is who I want to stay with.”

Once Morales makes the move, anyone who has fortunate enough to claim a victory over him as an amateur will eventually have a target on their back as a professional. “I would like to face off with them again,” says Morales. “Any losses I had as an amateur, they weren’t easy losses. I always gave them a good fight, and I know I have my respect in amateur boxing. If they beat me, then I know that they are one of the best, and I want to fight the best.”

Though his success in the amateurs has definitely paved the way for him to find success as a pro, Morales understands it will take hard work and dedication. “I want to make it to the top,” says Morales. “I want to start out good and end up good, without any defeats. Whatever it takes, I am going to do it.”

Claudia Bocanegra ringside photos from Broadway Boxing at BB Kings on December 1, 2010

The sun set on the British Empire long ago, but it might be rising for the UK’s newest hope at conquering the world, or at least the junior-welterweight’s version of it. Amir Khan’s promotional nickname is King.

King Khan sounds good, but an alliterative ring straight from Hollywood’s history of a much-aped film doesn’t make him worthy of a real crown. Not yet, anyway.

Khan’s chance at a claim takes him to Las Vegas next week for a Dec. 11 date against Marcos Maidana at Mandalay Bay. On the path back from his lone defeat, the fight looms as a decisive marker en route to perhaps the Devon Alexander-Tim Bradley winner and undisputed rule of the rich 140-pound division. Lose it, and a potential milestone turns into a deadly millstone, a career killer.

In a conference call Thursday, Khan was part confident, part cautious.

The confidence comes from the most capable corner in this empire and perhaps a few others.

Freddie Roach is there and has been since Khan beat Marco Antonio Barrera, a fading fighter with a master tactician’s undiminished smarts. Through four fights with Roach, Khan first re-established credentials tarnished by a 2008 loss – a first-round knockout – to Breidis Prescott in front of his stunned countrymen in Manchester, England. A steep learning curve followed, one which displayed a marked increase in versatility and poise.

“We haven’t lost a round since we’ve been together,’’ said Roach, who predicts Khan will knock out Maidana in a late round. “… I don’t see us losing a round here either.’’

Further confidence is rooted in Khan’s work with Manny Pacquiao in a globetrotting camp that started in the Philippines, stopped in Los Angeles at the Wild Card Gym and ended in Dallas before the Filipino Congressman dismantled Antonio Margarito on Nov. 13 at Cowboys Stadium. During 15 to 20 rounds of sparring, Roach said Khan had some good moments against Pacquiao, who took the mythical out of the pound-for-pound debate with a performance that, among other things, displayed speed that Maidana does not possess.

Do well against Pacquiao, Khan said, “and you can do well against anybody.’’

But a good measure of caution was unmistakable Thursday in perhaps a reflection of Khan’s growing maturity and certainly a byproduct of Maidana’s record. Maidana has already proven himself to be a dangerously effective roadblock for anybody with eyes on a bigger horizon. Ask Victor Ortiz, a surfer who sounded as if he wanted to leave the ring and retire to his board after suffering a sixth-round stoppage at the powerful hands of Maidana.

Lest anybody forget that Maidana is dangerous, the Dec. 11 card includes a warning with the presence of Ortiz, who faces Lamont Peterson in an attempt to go 5-0 since his lone loss in 2009 at Staples Center in Los Angeles.

“It won’t be easy, because he is durable guy,’’ Roach said.

And Khan said he won’t be focused to on trying to make good on Roach’s knockout prediction.

“Because when you do, you make mistakes,’’ said Khan, who perhaps betrayed some of his confidence when he said Maidana’s unadorned, straight-ahead style means he “won’t be hard to find.’’
In terms of career momentum, Khan has an edge. He has been on a roll, especially since he joined Roach. For Maidana, there are questions left by a poor showing in a decision over DeMarcus Corley in August. He spent too much time training in his native Argentina, trainer Miguel Diaz said.

“First he came to the United States, late and fat,’’ Diaz said. “Then, he signed a contract with Golden Boy (Promotions). That was another week lost.

“For this fight, he has already been here nine weeks. By the time of the fight, it will be 10 weeks in America. He has been isolated. He comes only to the gym, leaves and rests. He is ready.’’

Problems against Corley, Diaz said, taught Maidana that there would no more training in Argentina, where boxing has become a popular diversion from soccer and tango. First, there was Maidana. Then, there was Sergio Martinez’ stunning second-round knockout of Paul Williams.

Translation: Khan would be surprised if he doesn’t see the best in Maidana; if he doesn’t encounter the stubborn, power puncher who shocked Ortiz. Actually, it sounds as if he would be more than just surprised. He’d be disappointed. Khan’s birthday is Wednesday. He’ll be 24.

But there won’t be a celebration of some newfound maturity until at least Saturday, Dec. 11. And there won’t be one at all if Khan can’t display it against a prepared and capable Maidana.

Canelo in, Junior out
In a budding rivalry to win over Mexico, Saul Alvarez appears to have grabbed an advantage over Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr., who inherited a name and crushing expectations from his father, the senior legend and scarred face of the Mexican franchise.

Alvarez is fighting Saturday.

Chavez isn’t.

The Golden Boy-promoted Alvarez, better known as Canelo, faces Lovemore N’dou in Veracruz on a night when a reported fever and flu bumped Junior off a shuffled Top Rank card Saturday in Anaheim, Calif., against Pawel Wolak, who stepped in for injured Alfonso Gomez.

“This happens sometimes,’’ said Chavez promoter Bob Arum, who went on to to describe Junior’s luck as the kind that gets flushed. “Really bad luck, not of his doing. Anybody can get a serious fever and get knocked out of a fight. It’s not something you can really guard against. It just happens.

“It’s like fate, man. It happens. Bleep happens.’’

What won’t happen any time soon is a fight with Miguel Cotto, who could do more damage to Chavez’ career than the flu.

“I don’t think it would be prudent, at this point, to put him in with Miguel,’’ said Arum, who is offering ticket refunds for anybody who wants one, yet will proceed with the pay-per-view card at the Honda Center with bantamweight Nonito Donaire in the main event against Volodymyr Sydorenko.
Ideally, Arum said, he would like to see Chavez win two fights at 154 pounds before Cotto is again a possibility for Junior, still an heir-apparent in name only.

Donaire, who has Margarito trainer Robert Garcia in his corner, is fighting for a shot at Fernando Montiel. Montiel and Donaire turned down a chance to be part of a bantamweight tournament that includes Yonnhy Perez -versus-Joseph Agbeko and Abner Mares-versus-Vic Darchinyan at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Wash., in a Showtime-televised doubleheader on Dec. 11.

Drachinyan ripped Montiel in a conference-call doubleheader Thursday.

“He’s already a loser,’’ Darchinyan said from Australia. “He didn’t want to be part of the tournament.’’

On second thought
Attendance was disappointing for cards in November, which looked like a banquet for fans starved for fights throughout a long, dark summer.

Juan Manuel Marquez’ victory over Michael Katsidis at Las Vegas MGM Grand on Nov. 27 drew 4,920.
Andre Ward’s win over Sakio Bika, also on Nov.27, in Oakland, drew 4,100.

There were 4,818 for Juan Manuel Lopez’ win on Nov. 6 over Rafael Marquez, also at the MGM Grand.
Pacquiao’s destruction of Margarito on Nov. 13 attracted 41,734, but even that was a disappointment. Arum predicted 60,000-plus.

In a tight economy, perhaps there were too many fights. It might have been tough on the wallet to see them all. Or maybe fans are staying away, turned off by the abortive talks for Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Then again, more and more living rooms have high-definition television screens, which are getting cheaper almost by the day.

It is easier to stay at home and more satisfying to watch a fight on HDTV than it is from a seat at the venue. You save on parking and see more. A lot more. Even from the press section on the floor at Cowboys Stadium, I found myself looking up at the brilliant screen above the ring throughout Pacquiao-Margarito. The fighters were bigger on that screen than they were in the ring.

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra

Gabriel Bracero scored an eight round unanimous decision over Hector Alatorre in a Jr. Welterweight bout that was the main event at BB Kings in Times Square, but it was undefeated Jr. Lightweight Javier Fortuna stole the show with his explosive first round knockout over Victor Valenzuela sent chills throughout the venue.

Fortuna and Valenzuela came out blistering as they threw reckless power shots that delighted the sold out crowd. When the two were along the ropes, Fortuna landed a thudding and smacking overhand left that knocked Valenzuela out cold before he plummeted to the canvas. The fight was waved off immediately at 1:10 of round one of their scheduled eight round bout.

Fortuna, 128 lbs of La Romana, DR is now 13-0 with ten knockouts. Valenzuela, 123 ½ lbs of Passaic, NJ is now 8-1-1.–Marc Abrams

Bracero took on the rugged Alatorre in a bit of a step up bout.

Bacero was effective as he has become a big draw on the Broadway Boxing series. He landed various right hands and fought through adversity as he was cut along the left eye in round two and on the side of the face midway through the fight. Those marks were the result of headbutts but that seemed to have spurred him on as he fought even harder. Alatorre gave a good effort but it wasn’t enough as Bracero took every round by a 80-72 tally on all three judges cards.

Bracero, 141 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is now 13-0. Alatorre, 140 lbs of Tulatre, CA is now 16-12. —Marc Abrams

Heavyweight Tor Hamer scored a methodical eight round unanimous decision over trial horse Demertice King.

Hamer boxed smart as he made his punches count and countered very nice wheh King did decide to throw, which wasn’t often.

Hamer, 221 lbs of New York won by scores of 80-72 on all cards is now 13-1. King, 277 lbs of Flint, MI is now 15-19.

Sonya Lomanakis once again thrilled the crowd with an exciting six round unanimous decision over Tiffany Woodward.

Woodward came out looking like the more rounded boxer but it was Lomanakis landing the more telling blows.

Lomanakis landed the harder shots but that did not stop Woodward from coming on. There were big exchanges with Lomanakis getting the better of the action

Lomanakis, 221 lbs of New York won by scores of 58-56; 58-56 and 58-58 and remains undefeated at 3-0. Woodward, 198.2 lbs of Wilson, NC is now 3-4.

Alex Perez scored an eight round unanimous decision in an at times exciting welterweight bout over Doel Carrasquillo.

Perez came out throwing and landing big punches. Carrasquillo responded making mocking Perez by making facial gestures in an effort to tell Perez that those punches had little effect. Carrasquillo continued to make faces while taking punches. In round four, Carasquillo started to pen up more as he landed some hooks.

Perez was stunned in round five by a big right. Perez was knocked down later in the round by a hook but it looked like feet may have been tangled but was still ruled an eight count.

Perez controlled the fight but in round six showed some signs of slowing. Perez dominated the final two rounds and cruised the victory by scores of 78-73; 78-72 and 78-73

Perez, 147 lbs of Newark, NJ is now 13-0. Carrasquillo, 146 ½ lbs of Lancaster, PA is now 14-17-1.
Jr. Middleweight Steven Martinez went the distance for the first time but scored a six round unanimous decision over David Lopez.

Scores were 59-55 on all cards for Martinez, 154 ½ lbs of Bronx, NY and is now 7-0. Lopez, 158 lbs of Caldwell, ID is now 3-3-3.–Marc Abrams

Tall and lean Delen Parsley scored a four round unanimous decision over Eberto Medina in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Scores were 39-37 on all cards for Parsley, 153 lbs of New York and is now 3-0. Medina, 154 ½ lbs of New Jersey is now 5-5.

Angel Gonzalez needed just forty-three seconds to take care of win less Borngod Washington in a scheduled four round Light heavyweight bout.

Gonzalez landed a series of the lefts that staggered Washington before referee Arthur Mercante stopped the bout.

Gonzalez, 175 lbs of Yonkers, NY is now 2-2 with two knockouts. Washington, 174 lbs of Queens, NY is now 0-7

The card was promoted by DiBella Entertainment

Our Last Amateur Show of 2010

The final show for the 2010 Gleason’s Gym monthly boxing series will be December 18, 2010.

The show is open to any registered amateur. This includes Juniors, Seniors and Master boxers. There will be both male and female bouts. (We already have four confirmed female bouts.)

If you wish to compete, please contact New York’s number one matchmaker Angela Querol at 718 797 2872 or gleasons75@aol.com.

The weigh in will begin at 4:00PM and the first bout will begin at 6:00PM.

All our bouts are pre-matched. They are sanctioned by USABoxingMetro. All boxers must have their boxing book with them in order to participate.

The ticket price is $20 per person. Children 6 and under are not charged. All gym members and registered amateurs with their books in hand pay $15 per person.

This show will be shown live and free of cost on: www.gofightlive.tv . The blow by blow for these fights will be done by our very own Champion Sonya Lamonakis.

Going into his WBC Super Bantamweight defense in October, some wondered if Toshiaki Nishioka 37-4-3(23) would grow old at 34 against the pressure of Britain’s Rendall Munroe. As it turned out Nishioka’s class told as he posted a near shut out win one of his best career performance’s. It was Nishioka’s fifth title defense, he’s also widely recognized as the number one fighter at 122. Here’s what the Japanese maestro had to say.

Hello Toshiaki, welcome back to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Congratulations on your win over Rendall Munroe, you looked very impressive. What are your thoughts on the fight? What did you think of Munroe?

Toshiaki Nishioka – Munroe was a very skilled opponent. I was very impressed with endurance.

Anson Wainwright – It seems that at 34 even with some tough fights you are getting better, why do you think that is?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I believe it comes from my dedication to make myself better. I train hardest I can to make myself a better boxer.

Anson Wainwright – Though it’s early days do you have any idea when we may see you back in the ring? Any idea on who you may face?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I do not have any fights scheduled at this time. Mr. Honda will speak with me once he determines what would be a good match for me.

Anson Wainwright – You have fought once previously in 2010 when you beat Balweg Bangoyan when you stopped him in five. What can you tell us about that fight and what did you think of your performance?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I recall that I was not really looking for a knock out. But I was able to put him away in the 5 round.

Anson Wainwright – Your 34 now how much longer do you think you can continue to fight at the highest possible level? What would you like to do when you retire?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I want box for anther 10 years,

Anson Wainwright – You had four fantastic wars with Thai legend Veeraphol Sahaprom they must of helped shape you into the fighter you are today. What can you tell us about those 4 fights?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I do have lots of respect for Veeraphol. But, I do not believe that those 4 fights have made me the fighter that I am today. But those fights are some what in the past.

Anson Wainwright – Your Teikken Team mate Hozumi Hasegawa lost to Fernando Montiel back in April, Montiel has said he like to become the first Mexican to become a 4 weight world champion. Is that a fight you like to try to get revenge?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I would love the opportunity to fight Montiel.

Anson Wainwright – Over the summer you and some other members of Teikken went to Cardiff to attend “The Night of Champions” how did you enjoy the experience of being in Britain? What were your thoughts on how you thought the event went?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I had a great time and enjoyed meeting the people from UK.

Anson Wainwright – Japanese food is known to be healthy, can you tell us a little about your diet before a fight as it would be very different from what we eat in the West?

Toshiaki Nishioka – My typical diet is pasta in the afternoon and home made chicken soup at night.

Anson Wainwright – What fighters past or present do you enjoy watching fight?

Toshiaki Nishioka – I am a big fan of Sugar Ray Leonard.

Anson Wainwright – What goals do you still have in Boxing?

Toshiaki Nishioka – To become the the best fight I can possibly be.

Anson Wainwright – Finally you broke a few British hearts when you beat Rendell Munroe, do you have a message for him and his loyal fans who travelled thousands of miles to see the fight?

Toshiaki Nishioka – Munroe is a very talented fighter. He has what it takes to become a world champion. I hope to see him become a world champion someday.

Thanks for your time.

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

Random Thoughts – Having been in Las Vegas for several days, I’ve headed to Texas to visit relatives in Odessa. It’s true everything in the “Lone Star State” is bigger. My relatives have a house that’s 21,000 square feet house not including the land around. It’s also the biggest house between Fort Worth, Tx & Phoenix, Az. Highly impressive isn’t the word, I don’t have my own room, I have my own wing!…Nate Campbell decided to hang up his gloves after the weekend, Congrats on a solid career in which he won the WBA/WBO & IBF Lightweight Championships…Chavez Jnr finally pulled out of this weekend’s fight, not a tremendous surprise as there were lots of rumors of various things being up or wrong…Arthur Abraham said he’s undersized at Super Middleweight but still intends to go through with his next fight of the “Super 6”, something seems up he isn’t the beats he was at 160. If he can get back down to Middleweight maybe he could mix things up with Sergio Martinez or head back to Germany and fight Felix Sturm or get Russian Dmitry Pirog, all would be interesting.

Photo by : Naoki Fukuda/TEIKEN PROMOTIONS

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the January 29 showdown between Jr. Welterweight beltholders, Devon Alexander and Tomothy Bradley will take place at the Pontiac Silverdome in Pontiac, Michigan.

“We’re going to the Silverdome, [outside of] Detroit. It’s done,” Said Gary Shaw who promotes Bradley.

“The two finalists were Atlanta and Detroit and at the end of the day, we felt Detroit was the best place to the put the fight. Detroit is a great fight town and has a rich fight history,” Shaw said of the city that produced several boxing stars, including Thomas Hearns. “We’re excited to go there and give them a great fight with these two great young fighters. HBO has promised to put a lot of muscle behind this fight.”

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
On Saturday night, Atlantic City native, Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez (21-2, 12KO’s) looks to take yet another step towards challenging for a world title when he takes on Ghana’s Ayi Bruce (17-3, 12KO’s) in the main event bout of the evening in the Grand Ballroom at Bally’s in Atlantic City. The bout, promoted by Star Boxing, is scheduled for ten rounds and will be for the vacant IBA Welterweight Championship.

Alvarez, recently sat down to talk about his upcoming bout, the loaded welterweight division, and where he sees himself in the coming years.

Q: Shamone, how has this training camp been?

SA: Training camp has been how it usually is, trying, intense, and I’m always learning. I’m always looking to improve and looking at what part of my game I need to focus more on. I feel great and I am more than ready to go Saturday night.

Q: What do you know about your opponent?

SA: I know my opponent is a tough guy and that he definitely is not coming to lose. He has busy hands overall and I expect him to be ready to go.

Q:In your last fight you showed that you have some serious power, knocking out your opponent with one shot. Is this something new to your arsenal or do you think you have always had this power?

SA: I believe I always possessed knock out power, it’s just the life trials I have had that kept me a little more focused on going in and doing what should be done. I’m on a mission now and you can expect to see more performances like my last from here on out. I just had a new baby girl about 9 months ago, and it has made me more focused and hungrier than ever to succeed in this game.

Q: You fight in a very loaded division, how do you think you match up against some of the other top guys out there? Is there anyone on your direct hit list?

SA: Yes the division is loaded but not only do I feel, but I know that I can hang with all of them. There is no one in particular at 147 I will avoid or not step up against. I’m ready, willing and able to go in with whoever my promoter Star Boxing puts in front of me.

Q: Give us your perfect 2011?

SA: Well first I must win this fight and pick up the IBA belt. Then I would like to defend my title and work my way back into a Title Elimination and by the end of the year I would like to be fighting for a World Championship.

Q: Thank you for sitting down with us, is there anything you want to say in closing?

SA: I just want to thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to having everyone come out and show their support this Saturday night at Bally’s. A lot of people counted me out after the Joshua Clotty fight and then most definitely after the Delvin Rodriguez fight. But so everyone is aware, I have learned how not to let things slip past me anymore. I’m the same with my focus, I just know what I have to do it to get the W. So for all those people who did count me out, remember I’m still here. I made some noise this year and plan to make even more in 2011. Remember GOD is all that matters in life and let him know you know every once and a while. Peace.

Tickets are currently on sale and are being priced at $75, and $50 with a few limited 1st Row VIP Packages also available ($150). Tickets can be purchased by visiting any ticketmaster location, or simply by CLICKING HERE:. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Star Boxing at (718)823-2000 or visiting www.starboxing.com. Bally’s Atlantic City, is located at Park Place and the Boardwalk (1900 Pacific Ave.) Atlantic City, NJ 08401. For more information call (609) 340-2000.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing
industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

Star Boxing

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***All press releases are available in word and pdf documents. Contact Kevin Rooney Jr. at rooney@starboxing.com if neededd.***

Photo’s taken by Marty Rosengarten

The attached Photograph(s) may only be used for news, information or promotional purposes and only for the period commencing on the date of this e-mail and ending 90 days later (the “License Period”). Any other use and any use after the License Period is strictly prohibited without permission in writing from Star Boxing, Inc. All inquiries should be addressed to Star Boxing, Inc., 991 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, New York 10462.

Copyright c Star Boxing, Inc. 2010 All Rights Reserved.

Kevin Rooney Jr.
Star Boxing

Director Media Relations

718 823-2000

There is a long list of things motivating Bernard Hopkins for his December 18 title bout with Jean Pascal but etched at the top is making history.

“You can’t make history all the time,” Hopkins said. “You can have a winning record, a winning season, but to actually make history — a baseball player hitting 500 home runs or something like that — these things don’t happen all the time.”

“I get a chance to be the oldest boxer on record in boxing history to win a title,” Hopkins continued. “And history making hasn’t ran out for Bernard Hopkins.”

A win in Quebec City against Pascal would result in Hopkins laying claim to both the WBC and Ring Magazine light heavyweight titles. It would also erase George Foreman’s name from the history books next to “Oldest Fighter To Win a Major Championship” and replace it with the Executioner’s.

“I’ll walk through fire with gasoline shoes on to get that,” Hopkins said.

Hopkins (51-5-1, 31 KO), who turns 46 on January 15, is convinced he has seen it all inside the ropes, and doesn’t believe Pascal (26-1, 16 KO) stands out as a superior talent.

“I’ve watched this guy’s [Pascal’s] defense,” Hopkins said. “I’ve watched how he swings with his head down. I’ve watched how he throws wild punches.”

Hopkins continued, “Then I looked at the fighters who have fought me the same way over the years — the Antwun Echols — the guys who threw punches to knock you out. Those punches don’t hit Bernard Hopkins.”

Hopkins, although seventeen years his counterpart’s senior, is convinced he has taken the necessary steps to ensure that he’ll be able to go toe-to-toe with Pascal over the potential thirty six minutes in the ring.

“I’m here because I am the most health conscious, clean-living person. No wine, no champagne; no anniversary, no birthday parties, no New Year’s — no sips,” Hopkins said of his strict zero-alcohol policy. “When you have that mentality, it buys you more time.”

If The Executioner was the least bit unsure he could beat Pascal, he wouldn’t be in the ring, his place in boxing history means too much to him.

“[I’ll fight] as long as it doesn’t take away from my legacy, as long as it doesn’t embarrass my legacy,” Hopkins said.

In less than three weeks, in a bout televised live on Showtime, Hopkins will have the opportunity to continue decorating his already Hall of Fame enshrined resume.

But for an aging prizefighter, one slip up can spell the end of a career — even for fighter as celebrated as Hopkins.

It is for that reason, Hopkins has allowed making history to be his carrot on a stick.

A win for Hopkins reserves another place in the all-important history books for Philadelphia’s finest, while a loss for the man they call ‘B-Hop’ could mean his career is history.

“I know it’s win and go further or lose and go home,” Hopkins said. “It’s the playoffs, baby.”

Thoughts on select fights this past weekend:

Carl Froch vs. Arthur Abraham

I’m having trouble coming to grips that the same guy who showed unbelievable courage and heart by fighting eight-plus rounds with a broken jaw against Edison Miranda took such few risks against Carl Froch.

I also don’t understand how there’s no ‘Plan B’ to Abraham’s strategy. In March, Andre Dirrell provided the blueprint on how to beat Abraham — on Saturday, Froch perfected it. The result: ‘2’ in the loss column for King Arthur.

While he seems to have retained his power moving up in weight — KO’ing Jermain Taylor — and flooring Dirrell twice in Detroit (neither of which counted, one was generously ruled a slip, the other was illegal and left Dirrell out cold) — the problem is that Abraham’s power punches land few and far between.

At super middleweight, he’s just too small in stature to effectively implement his strategy. The taller opponents have been able to keep Abraham on the outside with relative ease. Further, it’s a nice luxury for a boxer to know that when you fire punches Abraham’s way, there will be none coming back at you. For whatever reason, Abraham is either incapable or unwilling to counterpunch.

Although contractually obligated, I do admire how Abraham already stated that he will stay in the Super Six and do battle with Andre Ward in the semi-finals.

While Ward has been more of a brawler than a boxer of late, previous fights and his amateur pedigree leave no doubt that he can box when he has to/wants to. I’d imagine Ward will do his best to adopt the Dirrell-Froch strategy, despite only sporting a one inch reach advantage over the Armenian-born German.

Lastly, I felt really bad for the blonde girl who had to sit behind Nikolai Valuev in Helsinki. Paid top-dollar for a sixth row seat and got planted right behind the 7’2” Russian. Ouch.

Celestino Caballero vs. Jason Litzau

Classic case of underestimation — and struggling with weight apparently. But more importantly, two weeks ago Celestino Caballero uploaded a forty-six second Youtube video in which the lanky Panamanian called out JuanMa Lopez. Caballero called Lopez a “big chicken” with “no heart” & “no cojones” — whatever they are. He was apparently looking forward to a clash with top-notch featherweights and junior lightweights, while overlooking Litzau.

Also, previous to that, he posted a video directed at Litzau telling him the he was going to “break his face” and “kick his ass.”

Whoops.

Andre Berto vs. Freddy Hernandez

According to Dan Rafael of ESPN, Andre Berto made $915,000 for his two minute and seven second fight with Freddy Hernandez. That’s approaching the money Sergio Martinez received for his rematch against Paul Williams. Think about it…

Legendary Bernard Hopkins talks about his December 18th showdown with Jean Pascal

Watch Bernard Hopkins Media Day 1 in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
PART 2

Watch Bernard Hopkins media day Part 2 in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com
PART 3

Watch Bernard Hopkins Media Day Part 3 in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
Atlantic City welterweight contender Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez will square-off against Ayi Bruce of Ghana this Friday at Bally’s Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. The scheduled twelve round bout will serve as the main event of a card promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. Alvarez (21-2 12 KO’s) is coming off the biggest win of his eight year pro career, a seventh round knockout victory over Alexis Camacho this past March. With a win over the experienced Bruce (17-3 12 KO’s), Alvarez would capture the vacant IBA title and would be one step closer to a major title shot in 2011.

Philadelphia’s Raymond Serrano, whose last win came over the aforementioned Bruce in October, will face Geoffery Spruiell in the co-feature. Even though twenty-one year old Serrano (13-0 6 KO’s) is sixteen years his opponent’s junior, he enters the ring with almost as much pro experience as the Spruiell (8-9 2 KO’s).

In other action, Wildwood native Chuck “The Professor” Mussachio will battle Floridian Theo Kruger in an eight round light heavyweight bout. Mussachio (15-1 5 KO’s) is seeking his forth straight victory since losing to Tommy Karpency last October.

Mussachio, who also currently works as a guidance counselor at a nearby elementary school, is one of the true nice guys in the sport. Where some athletes are praised for merely staying out of trouble, Mussachio actually improves his community everyday through his work with troubled youths.

Millville junior middleweight Ismael Garcia (2-0) will fight for the second time in three weeks when he takes on Joe Yerdon of Berlin, NY. Garcia scored a unanimous decision over Corey Preston (who happens to also be on the card against Philadelphia’s Rashad Brown) last month at Harrah’s.

In a battle of New Jersey based super middleweights, Atlantic City’s, Isiah Seldon (2-0, 1 KO), the son of former heavyweight titleholder Bruce Seldon, will square off against the always tough Dover native Todd Eriksson (2-4-1, 1 KO) in a four round bout.

Rounding out the card is female junior welterweight Althera Sanders fighting an opponent to be announced.

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

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. – Pawel Wolak fight scheduled for Saturday night as part of a Top Rank PPV card is off due to Chavez being ill but the rest of the show will go on that will feature two title fights.

Chavez woke up with a 103-degree temperature on Tuesday and won’t fight, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum told ESPN.com.

“He looked like he had shaken it and he worked out Monday. I was there and I saw it,” said Bob Arum, who will promote the show from Anaheim, California. “His legs were a little tight but he worked out OK. [Tuesday morning] he got up with a 103 fever. He tried. You can’t fault the kid. You can’t put him in a fight with a temperature. It is absolutely legitimate.”

Instead of the Chavez-Wolak main event, Arum said he would elevate the scheduled co-feature, a 12-round bantamweight match between the Philippines’ pound-for-pound-ranked Nonito Donaire (24-1, 16 KOs) and former bantamweight titlist Wladimir Sidorenko (22-2-2, 7 KOs) of Ukraine.

“He got sick last Thursday after sparring and we kind of knew something was wrong,” strength coach Alex Ariza told ESPN.com. “He felt a little weak, but he finished 10 rounds [of sparring] but he kept telling Freddie he wasn’t in the groove. We thought maybe it was just a bad day, but later that night when he did an interview he started getting the cold sweats.

“He got back in the ring on Monday. He did four rounds, but once he started hitting the mitts with Freddie, he had cramps in his legs and later that night when we went to my house, he had a low-grade fever. [Tuesday morning] he woke up around 7 when we were going to train and he had a higher fever, about 102 or 103, and we knew this was more serious than we thought. I reported to Bob and he said if the kid is sick, he’s sick and there’s nothing we can do about it between now and Saturday.”

Arum said Wolak (27-1, 17 KOs) would remain on the televised portion of the card and could face Mexico’s Jose Pinzon (18-1-1, 12 KOs), although Wolak and his team wanted to view a video of Pinzon before committing to the bout.

Also on the card: lightweight titlist Humberto Soto (53-7-2, 32 KOs) of Mexico defends his belt against Urbano Antillon (28-1, 20 KOs) of Maywood, Calif., and featherweight contender Miguel Angel “Mikey” Garcia (23-0, 19 KOs) of Oxnard, Calif., faces Olivier Lontchi (18-1-2, 8 KOs) of Montreal.

“I’m not going to cancel the show,” Arum said. “Anyone who wants a refund at the gate can get a refund. But you can’t cancel the show and do that to the kids who were getting ready to fight for the past six or eight weeks. You have an obligation if you can to follow through on the card.”

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT LIVE
Isiah Seldon (2-0, 1KO), the son of former heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, has been added to this Saturday’s card at Bally’s in Atlantic City. The card, promoted by Star Boxing, is headlined by Atlantic City’s own, Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez (21-2, 12KO’s) taking on Ayi Bruce (17-3, 12KO’s) for the vacant IBA Welterweight Championship.

Seldon, whose last fight in August was also in Atlantic City, will take on Dover, New Jersey’s Todd Eriksson (2-4, 1KO). Seldon is trained by his father Bruce and Bruce’s long-time trainer Bill Johnson. The bout is scheduled for four rounds in the super middleweight division.

Tickets are currently on sale and are being priced at $75, and $50 with a few limited 1st Row VIP Packages also available ($150). Tickets can be purchased by visiting any ticketmaster location, or simply by CLICKING HERE:. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Star Boxing at (718)823-2000 or visiting www.starboxing.com. Bally’s Atlantic City, is located at Park Place and the Boardwalk (1900 Pacific Ave.) Atlantic City, NJ 08401. For more information call (609) 340-2000.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing
industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

Star Boxing

Star Boxing Exclusive Merchandise