This Thursday, January 31, 2013, at Nicotra’s Ballroom in the Hilton Garden Inn in Staten Island, New York, Greg Cohen Promotions will proudly present their second annual “Boxing at the Hilton” show, a night of world-class professional boxing, featuring in the six-round main event Staten Island’s own lightweight prospect Nicky “Lil Nicky” DeMarco (4-2, 2 KOs) against Travis Thompson (4-8-1, 3 KOs) of Pottstown, Pennsylvania.

33-year-old DeMarco, the owner of the popular DeMarco’s Boxing Gym in Staten Island, is on a two-fight winning streak and even avenged one of his losses. His fight against the more experienced Thompson will be his first in a year.

In the night’s six-round co-featured event will be former National Golden Gloves Champion Denis “Momma’s Boy” Douglin (14-2, 8 KOs) of Morganville, New Jersey, in a tough eight-round junior middleweight crossroads matchup with New York, New York’s Jose Angel “Silver Boy” Rodriguez (16-2-1, 2 KOs).

Douglin, coming off a disappointing nationally televised loss to Jermell Charlo in his last fight, has chosen a tough challenge to begin his comeback. Rodriguez has fared well and even beaten some good competition.

Also featured that night will be welterweight Shakur Jackson (pro debut) of Newark, New Jersey. Jackson was a heavily decorated amateur boxer and his transition to the professional ranks has been highly anticipated. Jackson’s fight is a four-rounder and his opponent is Cornelius Whitlock (0-0-1) of Hanover, Maryland.

Staten Island’s Susan Reno will make her pro debut against Brooklyn’s Vanessa Greco (1-1-1) in a women’s six-round flyweight contest; New Jersey veteran Dennis Sharpe (17-9-4, 4 KOs) will face Laurel, Maryland’s Norman Allen (6-6, 3 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight battle; and rounding out the action will be Mine Hill, New Jersey’s Anthony Gangemi (1-0, 1 KO) taking on Conway, Arkansas’ Willie Bryant (1-5-1, 1 KO) in a four-round junior middleweight scrap.

Tickets for “Boxing at the Hilton” are available online at www.gcpboxing.com and www.NicotrasBallroom.com or by calling 888.612.4191. They are priced at General Admission $50, Ringside $100 and VIP Ringside $150.

Attention: Last year’s event was a total sellout and another one is expected. It is strongly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.

Doors open at 6:30 pm for VIP Ringside ticket holders and at 7:00 pm for the general public. Action starts at 7:30 pm. All bouts subject to change.

The Hilton Garden Inn is located at 1100 South Avenue in Staten Island.

New York, NY (1/28/13) – Last Thursday, Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment and 50 Centof SMS Promotions hosted an international media conference call to discuss the upcoming ESPN Friday Night Fights card on March 1, at MGM Grand at Foxwoods. In the main event, SMS Promotions IBF Featherweight Champion Billy “The Kid” Dib (35-1, 21KO’s) looks to defend his title against Cuban Olympian and IBF #3 rated Luis Franco (11-1, 7KO’s). In the televised co-feature, former amateur standout and now top-ten rated junior middleweight contender Willie Nelson (19-1-1, 11KO’s) squares off against Michael Medina (26-3-2, 19KO’s) in a 10-round showdown for Nelson’s NABF junior middleweight title. The Nelson-Medina bout is promoted in association with Rumble Time Promotions. Both bouts will be aired on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Below is a complete transcript from the call.

Lou DiBella: Thanks everybody for joining us. It’s my pleasure on behalf of DiBella Entertainment to announce that we’ll be co-promoting a show with 50 Cent, SMS Promotions to present a great night of ESPN Friday Night Fights on Friday, March 1 at the MGM Theater at Foxwoods. And we’re really looking forward to what’s going to be a great event. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m., the first fight will go on at 7, ESPN’s title cast will go live at 9 p.m.

Tickets are priced affordably with the VIP ringside of $200 going down to a ringside of $100 and then there’s $75 tickets and $40 tickets. And tickets will go on sale next week at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods Box Office. You can contact them for more information.

I’d like to first introduce a man that’s been a really good friend of DiBella Entertainment and to boxing on the East Coast. I think the MGM at Foxwoods is one of the great boxing venues in the country. A number of great fighters have fought there in recent years there’s been some terrific fights like Berto-Ortiz and Sergio Martinez and Dzinziruk had taken place there among many others. And I’d like to introduce the President of Foxwoods Scott Butera.

Scott Butera: Thank you very much Lou. This is Scott Butera, President and CEO of Foxwoods the premier destination resort in the Northeast. We at Foxwoods are very exciting about hosting this event on March 1. Foxwoods has been dedicated to conducting world class boxing throughout its history and certainly this event on March 1 will be no exception. We really feel that when you add the prominence of 50 Cent, SMS Productions, Lou DiBella and obviously ESPN which you’ve had a long standing relationship with it’s just going to lead to a spectacular night.

Obviously (main event) is incredibly exciting with the Billy The Kid Dib taking on Luis Franco and my experience with (unintelligible) team is we’ll have a under card that’ll be equally as entertaining. So we look forward to a spectacular evening. I can promise everyone the crowd will be robust and we just hope everyone has a great time. But once again we’re very proud to be part of this event and know it will be another world class second to none boxing event.

Lou DiBella: Thank you Scott. The next gentlemen I’d like to introduce is the Director of Programming for ESPN sports. He’s the Manager in charge of ESPN boxing and he helped put this terrific card together. The co-feature bout will feature Willie Nelson 19-1-1 with 11 knockouts defending his NABF Junior Middleweight championship against Michael Medina who’s 26-3 and 2 with 19 KO’s. That’s a bout that could stand as a main event on its own scheduled for 10 rounds and has promoted an association with Rumble Time Promotions.

And then the main event terrific fight between IBF Featherweight Champion Billy Dib 35-1 and 21 KO’s defending his title against Cuban Olympian and IBF Number 3 rated Luis Franco 11 and 1 with 7 KO’s but Franco’s amateur credentials were astounding with hundreds of amateur wins against very few defeats and Franco won pretty much every international competition that could be won. So that’s a terrific fight.

So I’d like to introduce the Director of Programming for ESPN Doug Loughrey.

Doug Loughrey: Hey thanks Lou. I definitely want to echo, you know, Scott’s sentiments too. I think we have a great conversion of brands here between 50 Cent and SMS Promotional Company, yours and DiBella Entertainment and our long history as well with Foxwoods. You know, ESPN in its 15th year Friday Night Fights continues to service not only the sports fan but clearly the boxing fan here and our reach between ESPN 2 and ESPN Deportes allows us in the United States to service both the English and Spanish fans in well over a hundred million homes.

As well this year we’ve been able to get the ESPN Watch program for ESPN 2 implemented, you know, allowing the boxing fan to see our fights on the best as possible. So, you know, just adding up with just talking thereto between the two fights we’re looking for an exciting night. I think doing my quick math here and I might be off as we’re talking about a total of 57, 58 knock outs between theses four fighters featured in the co-feature and main event.

So small things are good from our end and in partnership with you guys and it’s going to leave it now to the combatants to come forward and present the fan there in Foxwoods at the MGM Theater as well as home with a spectacular night of entertainment.

Lou DiBella: Thank you Doug. The next gentlemen I’m going to introduce really doesn’t need an introduction in fact he doesn’t need one almost anyplace he goes. He’s a brand onto himself one of the great stars of hip hop and icon in the world of hip hop but also a very accomplished entrepreneur and someone that’s going to make a mark in boxing and I’m really proud to work with him. He is the promoter of the World Champion Billy Dib and the promoter of this main event.

And it’s my pleasure to introduce the man who runs SMS Promotions 50 Cent.

50 Cent: This is exciting for me March 1, I get a chance to do it and in Connecticut it’s actually it’s still in my background like I feel like I’m at home out there. So you’ll get a chance to see me bring the festivities that come. Of course you’ll see some of my actual friends from the music culture, there’s pop and then just because the actual event is my very first event that I’m actually getting a chance to come from the actual ground up, co-promoting that. Of course the first one was December 8 with Manny Pacquiao and Gamboa the co-promotion with Top Rank.

But this actual project is from the entire conception of the date going through the entire process. So I’m going to put my back into it. We’re definitely going to have a really good night in entertainment and have both Billy and Franco I believe are going to come on the actual A game. You know, so Billy’s been training longer than actual (usually) for this actually bout that he had – we had (unintelligible) involved and the actual process that delayed this actual match from actually happening.

But I expect nothing but the best possible entertainment for the night and I’m going to put my actual energy into marketing this project to make it a success from this point on.

50 Cent: Right now I want to introduce Billy The Kid Dib.

Billy Dib: How you doing guys. I just want to thank – first of all I just want to thank the MGM folks, I want to thank you Lou for the opportunity and 50 Cent, thank so much you know how much you really to me. And ESPN for the great opportunity to, you know, to headline their card. So and, you know, basically I just want you all to know that I’m not just coming out there to win but I’m coming out to make a serious statement. You know, there’s a lot of featherweights fighting around that time and I want to show the world that I’m the best featherweight in the world.

You know, 50 Cent believes in me, my team believes in me, I believe in me and I believe a win will come out there and we’re going to knock Luis Franco out.

Lou DiBella: That’s a bold prediction by Billy Dib and that sedge ways right into introducing his opponent who is a great Cuban amateur IBF Number 3 rated featherweight Luis Franco and I think Richard Dobal his translator is with us too. So Richard if you could – Luis could say a few words.

Luis Franco: I want to thank my management team for having gotten me to this point. I want to thank ESPN and Foxwoods as well as Lou DiBella and 50 Cent. We’re ecstatic about being a part of his first show and we think he’s great for boxing. My message to Billy Dib is whatever he has to say to me he can say it to me in the ring the night of fight.

Lou DiBella: For those who – actually 50 you will be walking Billy Dib and performing him into the ring.

Lou DiBella: So if anyone who got to see that Fight Night with Manny Pacquiao and 50’s entrance with Gamboa how to treat that night and I think any – everybody that is there on March 1 is going to be in for a treat…

Q & A:

Billy Dib: Well, you know, like you just said, now this is basically my opportunity to showcase my ability to the American fans after four years of being out from the scene. You know, I’ve hired a new team, I’ve been working with my team now for some years and, you know, I’m going on to capture one of the main straps in boxing today which is the IBF title. Basically, you know, I bring – I’m bringing versatility now and excitement to the ring. So, you know, I’m not going to (unintelligible).

I’m confident in myself and I believe that I’m going to defend my title in a spectacular fashion on that event.

Billy Dib: Well, you know, 50 Cent’s my promoter (and he knows) as I told him basically all I want to do is fight, you know, I just want to get out there and fight. I just want to get in the ring that’s what I love doing, boxing is my love so, you know, I just want to be out there showcasing my ability and giving the fans the fight that they want to see. In saying that, you know, Franco’s a, you know, is a hell of a fighter, has an amazing amateur record, he’s not the Number 1 contender by accident, you know, he was robbed in his (eliminator), I believe, and now he’s given the opportunity to fight for the world title.

So, you know, I think, you know, the boxing gods have helped Luis Franco in that manner. But, you know, I’m coming out to make a statement and then if any of the other featherweights out there who want to step up and defend their title or unify the title I’m ready. You know, 50 Cent’s ready, I’m ready, my team’s ready, let’s do it.

50 Cent: Yes I been in communications with Chris John so we’re looking to try and make a fight as soon as possible I just got to go through, you know, politics, you already know.

50 Cent: Yes well we got to take it one at a time because I’m expanding the actual (roster) of the fighters at the next promotion so I’ll be picking up – every – I’ll be picking up some people you already recognize it’s just, you know, a matter of dates, picking and contractual agreements and, you know, just got to spread some of the love got to get some of the money out.

Luis Franco: I am training very hard because not only do I need to win, but I need to win impressively.

Billy Dib: My training camp has been different ever since I lost my 2008 fight, you know, I’ve been working extremely hard to win my fight and, you know, basically not just win but go out there and, you know, give the best performance that I can. So, yes I think, you know, on that day you guys are going to see something really, really special. And as I said, before, you know, I’m not just coming out to win, you know, I’m coming out to (do some) damage. So, you know, I’m coming to make a statement and show the world that 50 Cent run the best featherweight in the world.

50 Cent: Absolutely I like to look at this as the start of a new relationship that could be long term so we, you know, to actually have the first one there is going to be exciting and easy for me to actually make a lot of people aware that it’s actually taking place because I mean that in itself we’ll be able to bring people out.

Scott Butera: And this is Scott Butera from Foxwoods I can’t tell you how enthusiastic we are to have 50 here. We would host one of his events anytime, anywhere so we look forward to it as well.

Billy the Kid Dib: Yes, you know, I definitely think that Luis Franco is a very talented fighter and he’s not somebody that I’m taking lighting. I know that he’s only had 12 professional fights but he had an extensive amateur career. He was a very impressive amateur and I mean he has really impressed me as a professional as well. He showed good, you know, good grit and I think he’s made the transition well.

But I’m a seasoned professional and I’ve been doing this now for a long, long time. I’m the – I’m (full) champion and, you know, like I said, you know, I’m cleaning living, you know, I don’t drink, I don’t smoke and I live by boxing that’s what I do I love to fight. And yes it is important that I come out and make a statement you know what I mean? And, you know, I need to come out there and make a statement and let the world of boxing know that, you know, Billy Dib has arrived.

This is my opportunity and, you know, in 2013 that’ll be the year that Billy Dib did arrive on the world scene.

Billy Dib: Well basically 50 Cent got in touch with our management which is my brother Emaid he’s my manager and, you know, he was (unintelligible) flight over to Vegas to catch up with him. He was a gentlemen, you know, we sat down. The deal was done over dinner so, you know, 50 Cent is a gentlemen, he’s a great business man and, you know, he made a couple of promises and he delivered on every promises and look now here we are March 1 at the Connecticut MGM at the Foxwoods Resort we’re going to get ready to go out there and devastate the world of boxing.

Luis Franco: I have watched tape of Billy Dib and I have an idea of what I am going to do in the ring come fight now. Billy Dib that said he’s going to do damage. I want you to say that to my face the day of the weigh in.

Lou DiBella: You know, the one thing about 50 is 50 has been a promoter his whole career so not a boxing promoter but, you know, the man knows a lot about promotion and has a lot to offer in terms of his own ideas. So it’s really been more of a give and take of ideas and, you know, boxing is not the easiest business in (unintelligible) there’s a lot of politics. I think that’s one of the things that, you know, hard to get used to at first but he’s in the music business and in the music business there’s a lot of politics also.

So, you know, I figure it’s more just a matter of helping him to get acclimated to the different players in the, you know, out there in the industry and, you know, but really I’m thrilled about the opportunity to work together because I could learn as much from 50 as I could possibly, you know, teach him. I may know a little more about the boxing industry right now but 50 delivers a whole different demographic, a whole different way of marketing, you know, his fan base is huge and it crosses until like loads of demographics but particularly hits, you know, the young demographic that boxing so badly needs.

So I’m really thrilled to be able to work with 50 particularly on bringing new eyeballs and new fans to boxing.

Billy Dib: Yes look, you know, I don’t think this is a, you know, is one of those scenarios, you know, I’ve been doing my homework, I’ve been working extremely hard and I know as you guys know once you do your homework and you enter the test you pass it with flying colors. And that’s exactly what’s going to happen, you know, I’m the Champion of the World, you know, I didn’t get there by accident I beat a really good guy to win the world title I’ve defended it twice.

So, you know, I’m not World Champion by accident. I’m going to be defending my title for the third time and I’m going to be walking away with victory. You know, Luis Franco says, and I don’t need to say it to his face I don’t need to say anything when I see him I’ll show him when I get in the ring my (fists) will do the talking.

Luis Franco: My main focus is taking the title away from Billy Dib. I mean I lost the fight in Argentina that’s what two other judges said and but I don’t want to get into that and crying over spilled milk it is what it is but I have gotten this opportunity against Billy Dib and that’s my main focus. Taking that title away from Billy Dib because that’s what will change his life.

50 Cent: Well it’s been a learning experience for me, you know, I actually got into it with intentions of developing it, you know, with a partner but instead, you know it’s been – I’ve been readjusting and I’ve been able to make partnerships with other established promoters that allow me to use their message out on some actual, you know, what things have to be done first and forward.

And as far as developing the staff one person at a time, you know, it’s pretty tough because boxing is surrounded there’s a lot of people within boxing that are needy so they do things out of desperation and you got to watch, you know, who’s who and really figure out who you need to be associated with and who you don’t need to be associated with so that’s been my experience in this actual process to this point.

Lou DiBella: I think as big as he (50) wants to be in this business. I mean if you have the ability to bring an audience to promote, if you have the ability to sign the right fighters and if you have the money to sustain the business and to pay the talent then, you know, you can compete. And, you know, there’s no promoter in boxing that’s got the Twitter followers or social media following or pop culture awareness of 50 Cent there’s nobody.

So, you know, what I’ve been impressed with frankly is like the fact that he is taking things in measured steps and he’s out there, you know, doing things smartly and working, you know, with promoters to make sure his fighters fight when they’re supposed to get – defend their titles, get their opportunities and he’s faced a difficult marketplace that hasn’t, you know, always been receptive and, you know, meanwhile everybody’s, you know, getting opportunities and 50’s going to announce associations with more fighters in the future.

So I think that really it’s a matter of how much time and effort he wants to put into this and I for what I’ve seen so far I think that SMS can be a force to compete. I think frankly there need to be promoters working together and it’s not about like monster companies it’s about making the best fights and it should be equal access for all promoters, to all networks and, you know, all venues to make the best fights. And I think if I expect big things from SMS because I’ve seen the effort and the time that 50’s putting into this.

I mean he spent an awful lot of time discussing this which is a very small deal on the scope of what he does in the music industry and his other businesses. So I think, you know, as big as he wants to be.

Lou DiBella: I want to point out, you know, what ESPN’s done so far this year and what Doug Loughrey did in buying this fight also. But 50 made the point that yes we’re going to be in front, you know, there are hundred million universe that this fight’s going to go out to domestically not to mention all ESPN’s foreign outlets and I think it’s going to be on Pay Per View in Australia.

But, you know, this event’s going to go all over the world and it’s going to get a huge, you know, audience on ESPN. And ESPN is reaching out now to grab, you know, some big fights and they have, you know, Lamont Peterson, Kendall and Kendall Holt which is a terrific for ESPN and this main event the World Championship Fight.

You know, they’ve gone out also and gone after a good product and, you know, we all think this is the right home for this fight because if Billy or, you know, looks sensational here defending his title that he’s doing it in front of the most – the biggest audiences he’s likely to be able, you know, to have been able to get. And it’s a great opportunity for Franco if he upsets the apple carts to be seen again on, you know, in front an ESPN audience. So I, you know, thanks to Doug Loughrey and ESPN for making this deal possible.

Luis Franco: Whenever I fight, whether when it was in the amateurs and on the biggest stages, or a pro, I always put on a good exciting show and this time it will be no different because it’s a battle between two champions. Billy Dib is a champion and I considerd myself a champion as well.

Lou DiBella: Thanks everybody for joining us. I want to remind everybody again it’s March 1 doors open at 6:30 first fight at 7, ESPN on the air at 9 the MGM Theater at Foxwoods a great night of boxing promoted by 50 Cent, SMS Promotions and by my DiBella Entertainment, $200 VIP seats, $100 ringside, $75 and $40. So it’s priced for the people very reasonably and you’ll get to see a world title fight and 50 Cent walk his champion into the ring on a great night of boxing on ESPN.

Tickets are priced at $200, $100, $75 and $40 and will be available for purchase this week through the MGM Grand Foxwoods Box Office by calling 1 (800) 200-2882

So far, Deion Jumah is pretty relaxed. The young Brit will be giving his
debut as part of the bill to the European Championship fight between Eduard
Gutknecht (24-1, 9 KOs) and Juergen Braehmer (38-2, 30 KOs) at the
Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany on February 2. In his first
professional fight the 23-year-old takes on Ruslan Bitarov (2-5-1, 2 KOs).
However, when speaking to the Cruiserweight you get a very laidback vibe and
not the slightest hint of nerves.

For some boxers the task of their first ever fight in the pro ranks can be
quite nerve-racking. Jumah on the other hand feels nothing but excitement.
Excitement about taking the next step – excitement about being able to show
the crowd his potential. “Honestly, I can’t wait”, said the cruiserweight.
“This is an important step in my life, because I live for this sport. I want
to entertain the masses – that is what I was born to do.”

The first opponent for the 1.87 meter tall Londoner is Ruslan Bitarov. The
man from Lithuania already has eight fights under his belt and therefore
more experience on this level. Nevertheless, Jumah is not really bothered.
“I believe that he is beatable. I will only focus on myself and what I can
do. I will just do my thing.”

The massive believe in his own abilities comes from his days as an amateur.
“When it comes to training, I have always been an unconventional amateur. I
started early with professional preparations for fights. The only thing that
I have to keep in mind is not to over-pace myself in order to last more
rounds.”

It remains to be seen, if Jumah is able to keep his calmness once he enters
the squared circle on February 2. However, one thing is for sure: If he is
able to win his first few battles, England could once again have an
excellent cruiserweight that has the potential to reach the very top of the
game.

Tickets for the big fight night at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin,
Germany can be purchased at www.boxen.com and www.eventim.de.

WASHINGTON, DC, January 28 – Golden Boy Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion Lamont Peterson, adding another 140-pound title holder tothe most elite roster of fighters in the sport of boxing.

“We are thrilled that Lamont Peterson will be joining Golden Boy Promotions’ team,” said President of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “We know firsthand what Lamont Peterson can do, as he’s been in the ring with our fighters Amir Khan and Victor Ortiz. We know that he is the kind of individual that will be an asset to our team and great competitor in the 140-pound weight class.”

“I am excited about signing with Golden Boy Promotions and the opportunity to work with them again,” said Peterson. “Being with Golden Boy really gives me the chance to make the best fights available in my weight class. I want to fight the best in the world at 140 [pounds] and I know it can happen as a member of the Golden Boy team. I am optimistic that this is a decision that will help further my career.”

An inspirational figure who, along with his brother Anthony, won the Boxing Writers Association of America’s Perseverance Award in 2008 for surviving a harrowing childhood to make it to the top of the boxing world, Lamont Peterson (30-1-1, 15 KO’s) doesn’t know the meaning of the word “quit.” A native of Washington, DC, Peterson and his brother were homeless for a time before finding salvation in the sport of boxing when they were young. Trained and mentored by Barry Hunter, Peterson thrived as a fighter, eventually winning numerous titles during a stellar amateur career. When he turned professional in 2004, the success continued with Peterson eventually winning the WBO Junior Welterweight World Title in 2009. He would lose the belt later that year to Timothy Bradley, but after going unbeaten in his next three bouts, Peterson got a shot at Amir Khan in December of 2011 and he made the most of the opportunity, defeating Khan and capturing the WBA Super and IBF 140-Pound World Championships in one of the best fights of that year.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, or visit us on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page.

Currently sitting on two professional wins from two starts, Wishaw’s Mark Parvin has his third professional fight at Ravenscraig Sports Facility on Friday March 8th and is looking forward to returning to the venue were he had one of his greatest amateur success “I am very excited about fighting at Ravenscraig as a Professional. I am no stranger to the venue and I fought there loads as an Amateur and won the UK Youth championship’s there a few years ago. Its a great venue and the sort of venue when full that really is cauldron of noise.

While he carves up a career as a Professional Boxer, the 18 year old also works as a Butcher, but recently has shown his commitment to his boxing by opening up a gym with his father (and trainer) Jack “My Dad and I are looking to make waves in the Boxing game, we have recently set up our own Gym and have called it ‘Fusion’. We will use it for my training but its early days yet”

“All I am focusing on is March 8th, we haven’t got a sparring partner sorted yet but were working on that, but my strength and conditioning is coming along nicely.

After turning over to the pro game in 2013, the Welterweight has enjoyed back to back points wins over Sid Razack and Johnny Greaves. Making an honest assessment of his start in the game, he admits his excitement for the upcoming year “I am happy with my start. I felt there was an improvement with how I boxed between the first bout with Sid Razack and then my second with Johnny Greaves. Both have there own style and I think I handled them well, and this was reflected in the referee’s scorecard

He adds “I am looking forward to a busy 2013, with hopefully loads of fights but all I am not over looking my first one on March 18th”

Prospect Boxing and Chris Gilmour present ‘The Steel Men Return’ an evening of Professional Championship Boxing at Ravenscraig Sports Facility on Friday March 8th. Headlined by Gary McCallum v Paul Allison for the Vacant Scottish Middleweight Title.

Mark Parvin features on a 10 fight under card which also includes Rhys Pagan, Sean Watson and Ryan Scott.

Jordan McCorry, Darren McAdam, Mitch Prince and Alex Montgomery makes his pro debut in the Super Middleweight division, while Martin Taylor makes his pro debut at Light Welterweight

Tickets are priced at £30 (unreserved) and £40 (ringside) ,and further details are avail from www.prospectboxing.com and www.facebook.com/ProspectBoxing and @ProspectBoxing

Washington, DC (January 28, 2013) – Tickets for “REDEMPTION: Peterson vs. Holt” go on sale today, Monday, January 28th at 1:00 p.m. EST. Championship boxing’s return to our nation’s capital has created a buzz among sports fans ready to see, IBF Junior Welterweight Champion, Lamont Peterson defend his title against former WBO Junior Welterweight Champion Kendall Holt on Friday, February 22nd at the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. In addition, this fight marks the first bout in fourteen months and title defense for Peterson as IBF Champ.

“REDEMPTION: Peterson vs. Holt,” a 12-round Junior Welterweight World Title Fight for Peterson’s IBF World Championship Belt taking place Friday, February 22, 2013, at the DC Armory. The fight titled “REDEMPTION”, is co-promoted by Gary Shaw Productions and Headbangers Promotions and broadcast live by ESPN 2’s Friday Night Fights beginning at 9 p.m. EST.

Tickets priced at $250, $150, $100, $75, $25 (not including applicable service charges), go on sale Monday, January 28th at 1:00 p.m. and will be available for purchase at the DC Armory box office and all Washington, D.C. Ticketmaster locations . To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com.

WBA#14 Brian “The Beast” Minto (37-5) is looking for another world title shot in 2013. A former WBO world title challenger, Minto is targeting WBA champ Denis Lebedev (25-1) and IBO kingpin Danny Green (33-5). Minto states, “After several fights last year and coming from wins, I feel that I am ready for the very best in the cruiserweight division; I match up stylisticly and size-wise very well with Green and Lebedev.”

A 10 year pro, Minto compiled an 18-0 record in the first 20 months of his career. He came to fame in 2004 on ESPN with a “Knockout of Decade” candidate victory over Vinny Maddalone who was 21-1 at the time (Minto KO’d Maddalone a second time in their rematch on HBO PPV). He became a mainstay on ESPN earning victories over other American prospects Billy Zumbrun, Danny Batchelder (24-1 at the time) and John Poore who was 20-2. In 2006, Minto brought his skills to Germany by knocking out former IBF title Challenger Axel Schulz (26-4) before dropping a close 12 round decision to Luan Krasniqi (29-2) in 2007.

Minto rebounded with 7 straight regional heavyweight title victories culminating in 2009 with a 4th round stoppage WBO NABO title victory over previously undefeated heavyweight contender Donnell Holmes, 31-0 at the time. With the wins, Minto earned another HBO fight as a heavyweight contender; he dropped a 4th round TKO loss to Chris Arreola who was 27-1. Since then, Minto moved to the cruiserweight division and failed in 2010 in his bid to capture the WBO title from Marco Huck, 28-1 at the time. Thereafter, Minto rebounded with a WBC Continental cruiserweight title victory over Aussie Cruiser Pierre Karam (18-3), and he also captured the WBA NABA-US title this past August.

ST. LOUIS (January 28, 2013) – North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Super Welterweight champion Willie “The Great” Nelson (19-1-1, 11 KOs) makes his first title defense March 1 against tough challenger Michael “El Magnifico” Medina (26-3-2, 19 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature on ESPN Friday Night Fights, live from MGM Grand at Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

SMS Promotions, owned and operated by 50-Cent, has partnered with Rumble Time Promotions and DiBella Entertainment to present the Mar. 1 ESPN Friday Night Fights show.

Nelson (19-1-1, 11 KOs), who is the top-ranked American in the World Boxing Council (WBC) ratings at No. 6, has been favorably compared to a right-handed Paul Williams and young Tommy Hearns because of his freakish size (6′ 4″ & 81″ reach) for a 154-pounder.

Coming off consecutive victories by impressive 10-round decisions over a pair of previously unbeaten prospects – two-time Cuban National champion Yudel Jhonson (12-1), on ShoBox, and World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth champion John “Dah Rock” Jackson (13-1, 12 KOs), for the vacant NABF super welterweight title – Nelson is on the verge of a world title fight.

Rumble Time Promotions president Steve Smith, who co-promotes Nelson with Lou DiBella (DiBella Entertainment), can’t wait to watch Nelson showcase his talent on ESPN FNF. “Willie is really looking forward to this fight,” Smith said. “He’s fully focused and ready to go. Willie is now a complete fighter working with head trainer Jack Lowe and his nutritionist and strength-and-conditioning coach, Mike Bartos. Willie is patient in the ring. He has learned how to use his height and long jab to be more of an advantage for him in the ring. Boxing fans will get to see the scariest 154-pounder in the world, standing 6′ 4″ and hitting his opponent from across the ring with his tremendous reach. I can’t wait for boxing fans all over the world to see the complete package known as Willie ‘The Great” Nelson.”

Willie “The Great” Nelson

(photo by Bob Barton)

Cleveland-native Nelson, who trains in Youngstown, Ohio with Loew, has a rich amateur pedigree having had nearly 250 matches, including title-winning performances in the PAL National Championships twice and U.S. Under-19 Tournament, and only 22 losses.

WBC No. 16-ranked Medina will be giving away 3 ½ inches in height, as well as a 9-inch reach, when he challenges Nelson. The Los Angeles-based fighter’s most notable win is by 10-round decision in 2011 to Grady Brewer. A former NABF and FECOMBOX light middleweight champion, Medina has been stopped only once, by Saul Roman, and his only other losses as a professional have been to undefeated WBC No. 2-rated Vanes Martirosyan and John Duddy.

Go online to www.RumbleTimePromotions.com for more information about Nelson or any of his Rumble Time Promotions stable-mates.

Detroit, Mich. (January 28) – NABO and WBC International Heavyweight Champion Johnathon Banks hosted a media workout at Bad Boy Gym in Detroit on Tuesday, January 22 in preparation for his upcoming rematch against Seth “Mayhem” Mitchell on Saturday, February 16 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City which will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. He also hosted a roundtable discussion last Saturday, January 19 in New York City during which he discussed his upcoming fight. Here’s what Banks had to say about his upcoming fight at those two media gatherings.

JOHNATHON BANKS ROUNDTABLE QUOTES

“Seth Mitchell has contradicted himself. Right after the fight he was very humble, gave me respect for the win and said he was going to have to go back to the drawing board, work his way back to the position he was in. Now I hear him saying things like ‘I didn’t win the fight or knock him out because I was the better man that night’ and that it was his mistakes that were the cause of the loss. I find that to be out of character for this guy who seemed to be humble and respectful of me as a fighter prior to the first fight. When I lost to Adamek as a cruiserweight, I lost.

“I can see him coming for the knockout this time. He says he is going to be different this time. I believe he will be.

“I’ve been doing this a long time and it is a lonely man’s sport. I’ve experienced the bottom, middle and top. I experienced hunger and what it really feels like to sacrifice to have your dreams come true.

“I had a great night that night [November 17]. I had a lot of confidence and a special motivation. Once you feel your reason for being there, you get out there, find your rhythm and go to work. It was a great night and I do wish Emanuel [Steward] were there physically to see it happen. He would have been so happy. I miss him everyday still but know he is happy for me and will continue to lend me his spirit when I am training or getting ready for a fight.

“After I won I was in a great position and thought, okay, let’s move on. It took so long for the first fight to happen as it was pushed back, postponed and now here we are again. I just said to myself ‘I’m just going to have to stay here a little bit longer.’ I’m fine with that because I’m confident the results will be the same as the first fight in the sense that I will come out victorious.

“For me to be fighting back on HBO so soon after the first fight is a great opportunity. If your goal is to become the heavyweight champion of the world, you should be fighting on the world network, which for me is HBO.

“I think fans look at the heavyweight division differently now. I feel that I can knockout anyone I catch. I feel very strongly I can do that.

“I think the American heavyweight division is crawling back from the hole it found itself in these past few years. There are a lot of talented fighters right now on the scene and that makes the division very exciting.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve trained for a fight at home in Detroit instead of overseas, but it’s been exactly the same. I do what I need to and get ready for the fight in a very quiet, professional atmosphere, just like it’s always been. I’ve got a job to do and it doesn’t matter where it’s at.”

JOHNATHON BANKS WORKOUT QUOTES

“Like all of my camps, I’m working on my balance, my speed and on my defense, making sure the little things are taken care of.

“I like a quiet camp, even here in Detroit, no time for socializing with friends leading up to the fight. Just Sugar (Hill) and I like it always is. Wladimir calls all the time so we talk a great deal as we would at his camps.

“I did two weeks of conditioning in Los Angeles and now we’ll have four weeks in Detroit until fight week.

“My schedule is up at 5 a.m., run for an hour, breakfast at 8 a.m., nap, lunch at noon and gym at 2 p.m. It almost feels like I should be doing something else because I was so busy in my last camp training Wladimir while also preparing for the first bout with Mitchell. Like my plate is only half full.

“After my first professional loss it took a little while to regain my confidence, but I’m sure Seth will have his. I’m preparing for the very best, focused Mitchell. I expect him to be much better this time and I’ll be ready.”

January 28, 2013 – Undefeated Jr. Welterweight, Chris Algieri (15-0 7 KOs), is preparing to face off against Jose Peralta (10-1 6 KOs) in a junior welterweight showdown on February 23rd live from The Paramount Theater in Algieri’s hometown of Huntington, NY. The bout, scheduled for 10 rounds, will be the televised main event on NBC Sports Network’s Fight Night.

This will mark Algieri’s 5th consecutive performance in front of his hometown crowd at The Paramount Theater, where he enjoys a tremendous reception. Successful ticket sales aren’t the only benefactor from being a draw for Algieri, who admits his confidence level receives a boost when he is in front of his family, friends, and fans.

“I’m always excited to fight in front of my hometown crowd because it’s a sense of familiarity and it helps me stay in my comfort zone, which in turn adds to my performance in the ring. I think it really is a win-win situation because I get their support and they get the performance that comes from their support. I always want and look to impress, but in front of my people I get a heightened sense of awareness that usually translates into something special,” Algieri said.

Peralta as an opponent will bring the confidence of an 8 fight win streak into the ring and the experience of upsetting a highly touted prospect in one of his previous outings. This is a tough test for Algieri, but he insists that he relishes in the challenge and knows a win could put him in the driver seat for even more lucrative opportunities.

“I want this. I want to fight good fighters. It will make me perform up to my potential. It is time for me to step up and this is the kind of step up that will make me shine!”

NBC Sports Network has put on some of the best televised cards since their premier in 2012 and the reputation has only grown since then. Algieri can benefit from being on a network known for action fights and competitive bouts.

“I’m looking to capitalize on this television appearance. I’m excited about the opportunity to be on TV and a win under the spotlight could really open doors. People have a thing for compelling TV and boxing as a sport is as compelling as any. With boxing, there are situations that entice you to watch even if you aren’t familiar with the sport. You don’t have to know the fighters when the fight starts, but it’s up to the fighters to make them remember when it’s over. They’ll remember me after February 23rd.”

Humberto Romero, who co-manages Algieri with Damian Ramirez added, “Chris has worked very hard to get into the position he’s in. The fact that he’s fighting on national television is exactly what he needs to take his career to the next level. He’s got all the ingredients to become a star in this sport and his golden opportunity has arrived.”

Chris Algieri is promoted by Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing. For more information please visit www.chrisalgieri.com.

YOU CAN ALSO CATCH CHRIS ON BLAKNBLUTV.COM

Chicago’s “Merciless” Mike Mollo (20-3-1, 12 KOs) knows what the script says: Even though he’s in his own hometown, he’s being brought into to lose to fast-rising Polish heavyweight prospect Artur “The Pin” Szpilka.

However, Mollo says that’s NOT the way it’s going to go.

The two will meet on the undercard of the ESPN Friday Night Fights-televised “King” Carlos Molina vs. Cory “The Next Generation” Spinks 12-round IBF Junior Middleweight Title Eliminator on February 1 at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

Presented by 8 Count Productions, Round 3 Productions, Warriors Boxing and Blue Wave Boxing in association with Don King Productions, the exciting night of boxing will also feature a 10-round welterweight battle between two-time former world champion Jose Luis “EL Temible” Castillo (64-11-1, 55 KOs) and Florida’s Antwone “The Truth” Smith (22-4-1, 12 KOs) as the televised co-main event.

“I made a few bad business decisions, especially promotional-wise, and I’ve had three huge fights fall through on me on short notice, but what the boxing world may not know is that I haven’t been sitting around drinking beer and eating pizza. That’s not the case. I’ve been training the whole time for these fights. I’m in top shape and ready to go. I’m not some guy coming in for a payday.”

Mollo says he’s watched Szpilka in action and remains a lot less impressed than most.

“I don’t think he’s everything they say he is. We’re going to find out February 1. He’s fast and can hit a little, but I don’t think he’s the beast that he thinks he is. If they’re looking for an easy opponent, they should keep looking. I’m in great shape. I’ve put in a lot of hard work and all I have to do is hit him, which I’m going to. I’m going to explode on him. We’ll see how he takes it. I have never been down in my life. 25 professional fights and never hit the canvas. I know he’s been down, so we’ll see what he’s made of. I already know what I’m made of. I’m all guts and heart.”

Mollo, training at Go Time Boxing in Chicago and sparring with former UFC champion Andrei Arlovski and undefeated heavyweight David Latoria, says February 1 is going to be a great night for Chicago boxing.

“It’s going to be mobbed. He’ll probably have the Polish community out to watch him. And I have people renting buses to come watch me. It’s going to be awesome. I know it’ll be on Polish TV. I’m definitely TV worthy. I’ve proved myself.”

So if he’s not going to follow the pre-written script, how does Mollo think the fight will go?

“I’m just going to go in and do what I do, which is fight my fight and do what I’m capable of. I think it will work and so does my team. I’m going to cut the ring off and not follow him around everywhere and we’ll see what he does when a determined heavyweight is walking him down all night.”

The colorful Szpilka, who enters the ring in a jail uniform, has been known to be unpredictable in and out of the ring. Is Mollo worried about Szpilka’s antics becoming a factor at the weigh-in or press conference?

“I highly recommend he not do that. I got a lot of friends in this neighborhood who won’t put up with any of that stuff. He should keep the peace.”

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Presented by 8 Count Productions, Round 3 Productions, Warriors Boxing and Blue Wave Boxing in association with Don King Productions, advance tickets are priced are $151, $101, $51 and $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices, 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office, 312-413-5740.

Additionally featuring in separate bouts will be local favorites; middleweight contender Donovan “Da Bomb” George (23-3-1, 20 KOs), highly regarded and undefeated super middleweight prospect Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (8-0-0, 5 KOs) and popular welterweight newcomer Jimmy Murphy (1-0, 1 KO).

Further details on this world-class evening of professional boxing will be announced shortly.

The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Racine, at the corner of Harrison and Racine on the campus of University of Illinois-Chicago. Doors on the night of the event will open at 7 pm with the first bell at 7:45 pm.

LAS VEGAS, NEV. (January 28, 2013) — Top Rank’s ultra-talented stable ran the table winning all the major 2012 awards from the Boxing Writers Association of America. The BWAA announced on Sunday that World Boxing Organization junior featherweight champion NONITO DONAIRE was the recipient of its Sugar Ray Robinson “Fighter of the Year” award. Donaire (31-1, 20 KOs) won all four of his world title fights last year, defeating Wilfredo Vazquez, Jr., Jeffrey Mathebula, Toshiaki Nishioka and Jorge Arce, the last two by knockout, to extend his 11-year winning streak to 30 bouts. Capping a career-best year, Donaire had already been named the 2012 Fighter of the Year by Yahoo! Sports, ESPN, Sports Illustrated, USA Today and many other websites and newspapers.

Donaire’s trainer, former International Boxing Federation junior lightweight champion ROBERT GARCIA, was named the Eddie Futch “Trainer of the Year,” for his work with the Filipino Flash as well as with newly-minted WBO featherweight champion Mikey Garcia and undefeated former World Boxing Association lightweight champion Brandon Rios.

“Nonito came into his own in 2012. He will do even greater things in 2013 and beyond,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “He will become the next big pay-per-view star. Robert Garcia truly deserves the award as 2012 Trainer of the Year. As the best young trainer in boxing, his future is tremendous.”

“2012 was a text book year for Nonito,” added Top Rank president Todd duBoef. “Four fights against top division leaders and with decisive, impressive performances.”

Manny Pacquiao – Juan Manuel Márquez 4, which was co-promoted with Zanfer Promotions, was named the BWAA’s Muhammad Ali – Joe Frazier “Fight of the Year.” The action-packed battle, which was held at the sold-out MGM Grand Garden Arena and sold close to 1.2 million pay-per-views in the U.S. alone, featured excitement, drama and a one-punch knockout victory by the Méxican icon Márquez.

Trampler, a Hall of Fame matchmaker, is the co-winner of the Barney Nagler Award for “Long and Meritorious Service” to the sport of boxing.

The BWAA Awards Dinner will be held in New York this spring at a venue and date to be announced.

For more information on Top Rank and the BWAA, go to www.toprank.com and www.bwaa.org, respectively.

CHICAGO, IL (January 27, 2013) Advance tickets for the FEBRUARY 1 ESPN Friday Night Fights professional boxing event at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago are selling at a record pace according to promoter Dominic Pesoli of 8 Count Productions.

“This show will mark the 15 Year Anniversary of 8 Count Productions promoting events in Chicago and I’ve never seen tickets move so fast for one of our shows,” said Pesoli. “Our last two events at the UIC Pavilion in July and November saw massive crowds and we’re on track for higher tickets sales for this event.”

“At this point a limited amount of floor seats are still available with GA’s moving very fast, well exceeding our last two events.” General Admission tickets priced at $30 will be available throughout fight week through Ticketmaster, (www.ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000) and on the night of the event at the UIC Pavilion Box Office (312-413-5740).

Headlined by a sensational Junior Middleweight IBF Title Eliminator clash between No. 4 world ranked contender “KING” Carlos Molina of Chicago, IL and two-division and five-time world champion Cory “Next Generation” Spinks, ESPN Friday Night Fights is presented by 8 Count Productions, Round 3 Productions, Warriors Boxing and Blue Wave Boxing in association with Don King Productions.

“The main event along with the terrific undercard my partners and I have put together has truly made this a must-see event on the Chicago sports scene. Additionally, the sport of boxing is seeing a tremendous resurgence across the country” continued Pesoli.

“With so much national media attention to the Pacquiao/Marquez 4 fight and the terrific ratings for the CBS and NBC broadcasts the following two Saturday afternoons in December along with ESPN Friday Night Fights telecasts, boxing is being made available across numerous platforms and fans want to see the fights LIVE as our advance ticket sales are showing.”

The FEBRUARY 1 undercard is headlined by a scheduled ten round Chicago heavyweight grudge match between fan favorite and perennial contender “Merciless” Mike Mollo of Oak Lawn, Illinois and Poland’s undefeated heavyweight prospect Artur “The Pin” Szpilka of Wieliczka, Poland.

“Right off the bat both Mollo and Szpilka have been going at each other in the press. Mollo was born and raised in Chicago and is very popular here while Szpilka will have a tremendous amount of support from the local Polish community.”

The co-main event of ESPN Friday Night Fights features the return of Mexican boxing legend Jose Luis “EL Temible” Castillo in a ten-round welterweight clash against heralded Miami based prospect Antwone “The Truth” Smith.

This past JULY 13 at the UIC Pavilion, Castillo stopped popular Chicago veteran Ivan Popoca in the eighth round in a memorable “blood and guts” battle.

Rounding out the FEBRUARY 1 card at the UIC Pavilion in separate bouts are local fan favorites; super middleweight contender Donovan “Da Bomb” George, undefeated light heavyweight prospect Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez, welterweight prospect Jaime Herrera, former cruiserweight amateur standout Junior Wright, featherweight prospect Sergio Montes de Oca and newcomer “Irish” Jimmy Murphy.

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The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Racine, at the corner of Harrison and Racine on the campus of University of Illinois-Chicago. Doors on the night of the event will open at 7pm with the first bell at 8:00pm.

ABOUT 8 COUNT PRODUCTIONS/ROUND 3 PRODUCTIONS

8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING, was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland.

Joining forces with Frank Mugnolo’s Round 3 Productions in 2011, their partnership is currently among the premier boxing promotional firms in the United States.

Fighters currently under the 8 Count Productions/Round 3 Productions banner include; IBO Light Heavyweight World Champion Andrzej Fonfara, super middleweight contender Donovan George, world class junior welterweight prospect Adrian Granados, former world title challenger Edner Cherry, super middleweight prospect Paul Littleton, middleweight prospect Viktor Polyakov and welterweight prospect Jaime Herrera.

For more information on 8 Count Productions/Round 3 Productions please visit their new website, www.8countproductions.com. Follow them on Twitter at 8_Count and Facebook at “8 Count Productions”.

ABOUT WARRIORS BOXING

Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy—bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

With a series of successful Pay-Per-View shows and packed houses to it’s credit, the Warriors business model is working wonders in a sport that was sorely in need of the innovation and energy that the company brings to the table.

When it comes down to it though, a promotional company is only as good as the fighters and fights it promotes. Warriors Boxing has delivered on all fronts, with outstanding bouts such as Lara-Molina, Cayo-Peterson, Abraham-Miranda I and II, Miranda-Pavlik, Miranda-Green, Ibragimov-Briggs, Ibragimov-Klitschko, Urango-Hatton, Urango-Bailey, Cayo-Maidana and Ibraginov-Holyfield.

For more information on Warriors Boxing, visit their website at www.WarriorsBoxing.com.

BROOKLYN (January 27) – Due to a rib injury sustained while training, Danny Garcia will be unable to compete in his scheduled February 9 world title defense against Zab Judah which was to be televised by SHOWTIME® from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. As a result, the event, and its undercard bouts, have been postponed until Saturday, April 27 at Barclays Center and will be telecast live on SHOWTIME.

All tickets purchased for the February 9 event will be honored on April 27.

Garcia vs. Judah, a 12-round bout for Garcia’s Unified Super Lightweight World Championship, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and supported by Golden Boy Promotions sponsors Corona and AT&T.

Tickets for the April 27 fight, priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com, the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling 800-745-3000.

Arthur Abraham (36-3, 28 KOs) is putting his title on the line in Magdeburg, Germany. The 32-year-old takes on Robert Stieglitz (43-3, 24 KOs) in a rematch of their August 25 bout at the o2 World Berlin. Back then Abraham won against Stieglitz in spectacular manner by unanimous decision (116:112, 116:112 and 115:113) and consequently took the WBO Super Middleweight Title of the former champion. Now the two will meet again, this time at the GETEC-Arena in Magdeburg.

“For me it is a question of honor”, said Abraham. “Robert was brave enough to face me in my backyard. Now I am travelling to Magdeburg and have to enter ‘the Lion´s Den’ to fight him.” This will be the second time that the current WBO-Champion steps into the ring of the arena, which has a capacity of 7.000 people. ”The first time I fought in Magdeburg was only my ninth pro bout. I won against Branko Sobot by technical KO in round two. Back then the arena was still known as Boerderlandhalle and Sven Ottke won his farewell fight. The fans were fantastic.”

In order for the rematch to take place, the challenger, Robert Stieglitz, had to win his last test ahead of the title shot on Saturday night. The 31-year-old traveled to Barcelona, Spain where he won in convincing fashion against Michal Nieroda by KO in round three. After coming through the bout with no injuries he is now completely focussed on the project of wining back the title. Robert Stieglitz: “Somehow I wasn’t able to fight to my full potential during my first fight against Arthur. After I suffered cuts, I couldn’t get back into it. It just was not my day. But that will not happen again”, promised the prodigy of coach Dirk Dzemski.

Tickets for the big fight night on March 23 will be available from February 4 onwards and can be purchased at www.eventim.de as well as www.boxen.com and www.sesboxing.de.

Demetrious Johnson retained the UFC Flyweight championship with a five round unanimous decision over former Ultimate Fighter Winner John Dodson in the main event at the United Center in Chicago.

Scores were 49-46, 48-47 and 48-47 for Johnson, 125 lbs of Parkland, WA and is now 17-2-1. Dodson, 124 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is now 15-6

Glovier Tiexeira scored a three round unanimous decision over former Light Heavyweight champion Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

Scores were 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28 for Tiexiera for Tiexeira, 206 lbs of Rio De Janairo, Brazil and is now 20-2. Jackson, 204 lbs of Irvine, CA is now 32-11.

Anthony Pettis scored a 1st round stoppage over Donald Cerrone on a kick to the ribs in a Lightweight bout.

The bout was stopped at 2:35.

Petts, 155 lbs of Milwaukee, WI is now 14-2. Cerrone, 155 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 19-5-1

Ricardo Lamas scored a second round stoppage over Erik Koch in a Lightweight bout

Lamas landed a big elbow while Koch was down that opened up a nasty cut over the left eye of Koch and then Lamas set iff about ten elbows and punches and referee John McCarthy stopped the bout at 2:32 of round two.

Lamas, 145 lbs of Chicago is 13-2. Koch, 145 lbs of Milwaukee, WI is also 13-2.

Lucas Matthysse made a big statement in calling for a fight with the winner of Danny Garcia and Zab Juah as he scored a spectacular first round knockout over Mike Dallas Jr. in a scheduled twelve round Super Lightweight bout at the Joint at The Hard Rock in Las Vegas.

It took one blistering right hand to knock Dallas out on his feet and he plummeted to the canvas as Matthysse missed two follow up shots and referee Robert Byrd called the bout off immedately.

Matthysse, of Argentina is now 33-2-1 with 31 knockouts. Dallas of Bakersfield, CA is now 19-3-1.

Jesus Soto Karass scored ten round majority decision over Selcuk Aydin in a Welterweight bout.

Soto Karass pushed the action and consistently had Aydin backing up.

Scores were 97-93 on two cards and 95-95.

Soto Karass, 148 lbs of North Hollywood, CA is now 27-8-3-1. Aydin, 149 lbs of Tonazza, Turkey is now 23-2.

Jermell Charlo remained perfect by scoring an eighth round stoppage over Harry Joe Yorgey in a scheduled ten round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Charlo looked very good and flashed explosive speed that led to two knockdowns in round two. The first knockdown was scored from a hard right hand. Again it was the right that was responsible for the second knockdown.

Yorgey was not very active and it was Charlo’s skills that was the cause of the inactivity. Yorgey started to bleed from around the left eye in round seven. Charlo scored a vicious one-two combination that sent Yorgey slowly to his knee in round eight. Yorget beat referee Kenny Bayless count but took a step backwards and the fight was waved off at 1:09 of round eight.

Charlo, 153 1/2 lbs of Houston, TX us 20-0 with 10 knockouts. Yorgey, 153 1/2 lbs of Bridgeport, PA is now 25-2-1.

Francisco Vargas scored a second round stoppage over Ira Terry in a Jr. Lightweight bout.

Vargas landed a hard right hand that sent Terry down for the ten count and the bout was waved off at 1:46 of round two.

Garcia, 130 lbs of Mexico City is now 15-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Terry, 129 lbs of Memphis, TN is now 26-11.

Julian Williams remained undefeated by stopping Jeremiah Wiggins in round seven of an eight round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Williams dominated the action and hurt Wiggins repeatedly throughout the fight. Williams had extremely string rounds in three, four, five and six as landed hard shots with both hands. Wiggins stayed in the fight by occasionally landing combinations but never had Williams in serious trouble.

Williams landed a huge left hook in round seven that set off a barrage of punches on the ropes that facilitated Wiggins corner to throw in the towel.

Williams, 154 1/s lbs of Philadelphia is now 11-0-1 with six knockouts. Wiggins, 151 lbs of Newport News, VA is now 10-2-1

2012 U.S. Olympian Errol Spence Jr. drilled overmatched Nathan Butcher in the first round of a scheduled four round Welterweight bout.

Spence landed a right to the body that was followed by a vicious right and left to the head that had Butcher sprawling into the ropes and referee Russell Mora stopped the bout at 1:03 of round one.

Spence of Dallas is 3-0 with all wins coming via knockout. Butcher of Huntington, WV is 0-2.

Victor Vasquez 136 – Esteban Rodriguez 135.5
DeCarlo Perez 156.25 – Dante Moore 156
Tyrone Crawley Jr. 134 – Benjamin Burgos 135
John Mercurio 229 – Lonnie Kornegay 264
Julio DeJesus 139 ½ – Ramon Ellis 139
Arthur Parker 122.5 – Alex Barbosa 122
Jovantae Starks 148 – Romon Barber 150

Venue: Harrahs Philadelpia
Promoter: Joey Eye Boxing & David Feldman
1st bell: 7 pm est

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (January 26, 2013) – Less than 24 hours after the World Boxing Council (WBC) Female Championship Committee ordered a mega-fight between undefeated WBC welterweight championCecilia “First Lady” Braekhus (21-0, 5 KOs) and 14-time, three-division world championHolly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm (32-2-3, 9 KOs), Braekhus’ promoter, Sauerland Boxing, notified Holm’s promoter, Fresquez Productions, that Braekhus had instead agreed to fight 45-year-old Mia “The Knockout” St. John (47-12-2, 18 KOs) on April 13 in Denmark.

The WBC had awarded the distinction of the Diamond Belt for the Braekhus-Holm fight because “it is regarded as one of the best fights in the history of female boxing.” Sauerland and Fresquez had discussions prior to the WBC’s order and, if the promoters were unable to reach an agreement – negotiations have now broken off due to Sauerland’s announcement that Braekhus is fighting St. John – that the WBC will conduct a purse bid Friday, February 15 at its headquarters in Mexico City.

Sauerland has reportedly requested an exception from the ordered mandatory defense for Braekhus in order for her to fight St. John. Fresquez has requested an answer from the WBC regarding how the Braekhus-Holm purse bid will proceed, as well as having additionally petitioned the World Boxing Association (WBA) to order its welterweight champion, Braekhus, to fight No. 1 challenger Holm in a mandatory defense.

Last December, Sauerland sent a video tape to Fresquez and media outlets, in which Braekhus challenged the WBC & WBA No. 1-rated Holm to a Sauerland-proposed July fight in Las Vegas, which was quickly accepted, pending final terms.

“This is an embarrassment for our sport,” Fresquez said. “Holly Holm is the Queen of Boxing and she was ready to fight Braekhus. They’ve been using Holly’s name for the last two years, so they could build Braekhus’ name, and we’ve been chasing her for that long. Based on their decision to fight Mia, they obviously aren’t serious about fighting Holly. I don’t understand why they challenged Holly and then, after we had accepted their challenge, ducked her again. Maybe they expected certain demands from us, giving them an easy way out of the fight, to make them look good in the media and public. In that video, Breakhus made a big deal about Holly being knocked out by (Ann Sophie) Mathis, but Holly showed the heart of a champion by sticking to her game plan to win their rematch. Braekhus used Holly’s same game plan to beat Mathis. Sauerland and Braekhus have turned their backs, once again, on being in the greatest women’s fight of all-time, which is another black eye for women’s boxing.”

St. John is a two-time world champion who has lost six of 11 fights since her 2005 defeat by way of a 10-round shutout decision (100-90 on all three judges’ scorecards) to Holm.

Here’s a look at a direct comparison between Holm and St. John, in terms of the more legitimate challenger for Braekhus, who also reigns as the World Boxing Organization (WBO) 147-pound female champion:

—————————————————————————————————————

Holly Holm Mia St. John

Age 31 45

World Titles 14 2

World Title Fights Record 21-1-1 3-5

Record vs. World Champions 14-1-1 1-8

Common Opponents:

Christy Martin WDEC10 LDEC10 & WDEC10

Jamie Clampitt WTKO1 LDEC10

Present Ratings:

WBC #1 Welterweight #9 Super Welterweight

WBAN #1 Welterweight #4 Super Welterweight

WBA #1 Welterweight #5 Super Welterweight

Box Rec #1 Welterweight #9 Welterweight

—————————————————————————————————————

Holm held the WBC 147-pound division belt in 2008 but relinquished it after one successful title defense. She has also been world champion in the light welterweight and light middleweight divisions.

Fresquez announced that Holm (2-0) would be in a Bellator mixed-martial-arts fight on February 28 at Santa Ana Star Center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. “We’re not waiting around to fight anybody,” Fresquez noted. “Holly can be a world champion in MMA, too, but boxing is her first love. We can’t make Braekhus fight Holly. Unfortunately, the dilemma for Holly is that there just aren’t any big names left for her to box, at least those ready and willing to fight her.”

For more information go to www.fresquezproductions.com or follow Holly Holm on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HollyHolm.

January 25, 2013 -Tonight Gary Shaw Productions and the Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, Calif., enjoyed another cell out crowd for their show titled “Central Coast Championship Night.”

The main event featured undefeated super-bantamweight standout Roman Morales (14-0, 7 KOs) vs. Jose Iniguez (6-15, 1 KO). Morales, known for his great body punching, used all his tools to come out victorious against Iniguez. After five dominating rounds, Morales ended the bout with a vicious body shot. With the win, Morales looks to march on toward a regional title, a shot he hopes to get by the end of the year.

“I’m happy with my performance tonight.” said Morales. “I feel I’m getting better with each fight. I’m getting different looks each time out and I really believe it’s going to benefit my career as I move forward with my career. My goal is to get ranked in the top ten by all sanctioning organizations by the end of the year and hopefully fight for a small title shortly after.”

Underdard Results

Local super-welterweight Francisco Santana (15-3-1, 8 KOs) demolished Dustin Reinhold with a first round knockout.

Tijuana Mexico’s Edwin Solis (4-2-1) defeated Santa Maria native, Ruffino Serrano (13-5) in a 6-round featherweight bout.

Maria Suarez (3-0-1) of Santa Maria, CA won by unanimous decision against Torrance California’s Abigail Casteneda (3-2-2) in a 6-round bout in the flyweight division.

Miami Florida’s Valentino Knowles (1-0) defeated Alejandro Ochoa (1-4-1) by way of four a round unanimous decision in the super-featherweight division.

Middleweight Eric Prado (1-2-1) of Santa Maria got his first win against Victor Manuel Medina (3-4) of Los Angeles by way of unanimous decision.

Roy Tapia (4-0-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles CA defeated Jesus Adame (2-10-1) of San Bernardino, CA by unanimous decision over 6-rounds in the featherweight division.

January 25, 2013 – Global icon fighter Kimbo Slice, who’s promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, is less than a week away from his highly anticipated 4-round bout against QLD Heavyweight champion Shane Tilyard. The bout takes place at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, on Wednesday, January 30, as the co-feature on the undercard of Mundine vs. Geale II.

Earlier toady Kimbo recently spent time with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, one of Australia’s professional Rugby league teams. He watched the team train and afterwards posed with the players while answering questions from the media.

“I enjoyed watching the Sharks practice today.” said Kimbo Slice. “The whole team along with their coaches greeted me with open arms. They all seemed real excited about watching me fight live in their native land. The all smiled when I said I’m here to do what I do and that’s knock somebody out.”

It was evident that Kimbo Slice’s popularity has reached a worldwide status as tons of Australian fans that were present mobbed the global sensation, once they got a glimpse of him.

“The fans out here in Australia are really cool. It’s a good feeling to know that I have fans half way around the world and I really encourage them all to come see the fight live or watch it on Pay Per View.” stated Kimbo Slice.

“There is no doubt about it…I’m going to put on a great show for all my fans. Shane Tilyard is a tough guy, but he’s never been in the ring with a brawler like me. I’m on another level.”

Gary Shaw believes Kimbo Slice’s mass appeal to connect with fans is unique and he expects those watching on PPV will get their money’s worth.

“Every time Kimbo Slice is about to fight the whole world waits in anticipation to see what he’s going to do against his opponent,” said Shaw. “One thing you can always count on is Kimbo going for the knockout. He throws with bad intentions

Gary Shaw Productions, in association with Grange Old School Boxing and Black Venom Promotions, will show Mundine vs. Geale II on PPV. MAIN EVENT will broadcast the entire card live and exclusive from 7:30pm AEDT. Book now through www.mainevent.com.au. Tickets are still available through www.ticketmaster.com.au.

For further information, please contact Tristan Hay on 0418 773 477

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com Golden Boy Promotions offered Top Rank a $3 million package in order to make a Super Bantamweight unification bout between Nonito Donaire and Abner Mares.

“The offer is now in writing and was sent (Friday) afternoon,” said Richard Schaefer.

“There’s a signature line for Donaire and one for (Top Rank chairman Bob) Arum. I signed already and Mares is in, too. It’s $3 million for their side to do whatever they want with. It’s probably a world-record amount of money for a man in that (122-pound) weight class.”

“We are not asking for any options, not asking for anything besides this fight,” Schaefer said, adding that there is no rematch clause language. “We will treat Top Rank with respect. They can hang their banner up at the press conferences and the fight, we’ll have the fight be announced ‘in association with Top Rank,’ we’ll give them library rights to the fight. All that stuff. No catch weights, no bull—-. This is a serious offer. I am anxious to know what kind of excuses they will come up with now.”

“There’s nothing more I can do to make this fight than to make that kind of serious offer,” Schaefer said.

“I’m going to go where I can make the most money,” Schaefer said. “I believe this is a big fight and there’s substantial revenues involved. I value the fight differently than Arum. I might be wrong. But I am willing to take the risk.”

“They offered us a million dollars for Abner, (Mares manager Frank)Espinoza and me. It was a joke,” Schaefer said. “Top Rank obviously values the fight differently than I do.”

“I don’t know what the catch is,” Schaefer said. “I’m anxious to know about their excuses for not doing the fight. Like Bob always says, maybe the fight needs to marinate a bit longer. I’m sure they will come up with something. If Arum and Donaire go and do another fight, it means they don’t want the fight because they can’t make the money in any other fight than what they can make with this offer. No strings attached.

“I swear on my kids there is no catch here. This is as straight forward as can be. Bob can even bring his Top Rank banner to the fight. I don’t care. I just want to make the fight.

“This is fair as can be. Arum can (question) me all he wants and this and that, but it does not change the fact that there is a great deal here for him and his fighter on the table. At the end of the day, he doesn’t want his fighters to fight our fighters.”

“I haven’t seen anything yet, so how can I say if it sounds OK if I haven’t seen it yet,” said Donaire manager Cameron Dunkin. “But I have never had a problem with Nonito fighting Abner Mares. It’s a great fight. Two great fighters. It’s a big fight. Do I like my guy (to win)? Of course, I like my guy. Does my guy win? Absolutely. But they are two solid names and this is a big fight.”

“I’ll know more when I see an offer from Top Rank and get their take on it,” Dunkin said. “Is (the offer) true and straight forward? We’ll find out.”

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 25, 2013) – All the boxers competing on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and SHOWTIME EXTREME tomorrow, Saturday, January 26, made weight Friday at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

The always-exciting, hard-hitting WBC Interim Super Lightweight World Champion Lucas Matthysse (32-2, 30 KO’s), of Trelew, Argentina, will defend against confident, upset-minded Mike “The Silent Assassin” Dallas Jr. (19-2-1, 8 KOs), of Bakersfield, Calif., in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

In what will be an exciting co-feature, Selcuk Aydin (23-1, 17 KO’s), of Trabzon, Turkey, will be opposed by Jesus Soto Karass (26-8-3, 17 KO’s), of Los Mochis, Mexico, in a 10-round junior middleweight match. Jermell Charlo (19-0, 9 KO’s), of Houston, Texas, collides with Harry Joe Yorgey (25-1-1, 12 KO’s), of Bridgeport, Pa., for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title in the opening bout of the SHOWTIME telecast.

The main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME (8 p.m. ET/PT) will pit unbeaten 2008 Mexican Olympian Francisco Vargas (13-0, 10 KO’s) against Ira Terry (26-10, 16 KO’s), of Memphis, Tenn., in a 10-round junior lightweight bout. Philadelphia’s Julian Williams (10-0-1, 5 KO’s) takes on Jeremiah Wiggins (10-1-1, 5 KO’s), of Newport News, Va., in an eight-round super welterweight SHO EXTREME opener.

Tickets priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, along with a limited number of VIP suite seats priced at $125, are on sale at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (800) 745-3000.

The SHOWTIME tripleheader is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T with Matthysse vs. Dallas being presented in association with Arano Box Promotions and Goossen Tutor Promotions, Aydin vs. Soto Karass being presented in association with Arena-Box Promotion and Charlo vs. Yorgey being presented in association with Banner Promotions.

WEIGHTS: Matthysse weighed 138.5 pounds, Dallas Jr. 139.5 pounds; Aydin tipped the scale at 149 pounds, Soto Karass 148. Charlo and Yorgey each weighed 153.5 pounds. Vargas weighed 131, Terry 129; Williams weighed 154.5 and Wiggins, 151.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, and follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @TheJointLV,@hardrockhotellv, @SHOsports, follow the conversation using or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.facebook.com/ShoBoxing.

World ranked Jr. Middleweight Demetrius Andrade scored a ten round whitewash over former world title challenger Freddy Hernandez at the Paramount Theatre in Huntington, New York

Andrade dominated the action from the opening frame using his wide speed and skill advantage and made the fight look easy. He could score anytime he desired and scored a hard knockdown in round six from a crushing right to the head. Hernandez spit his mouthpiece out in order to get more time to recover and was able to make it out of the round but it did int stop the beating that he received over the next four rounds.

Andrade won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and could be fighting for the WBO Jr. Middleweight crown in his next bout with an undefeated record of 19-0. Hernandez of Mexico City is 30-4-1

Emanuel Taylor scored the biggest win of his career when he scored a six round stoppage over one-time prospect Raymond Serrano in a scheduled ten round Jr. Welterweight bout.

It was a close bout early as Serrano tried to work the body and Taylor worked the head. Taylor started getting ahead in round four by landing some sharp right hands. He continued that in the fifth. In round six, Taylor landed a hard combination with the last four shots rendering Serrano defenseless and referee Steve Willis stopped the bout at 1:42 of round six.

Taylor, 141 1/2 lbs of Edgewood, MS is now 16-1 with 11 knockouts. Serrano, 140 1/2 lbs of Philadelphia, PA is now 18-2.

EDMONTON (Jan 25, 2013) – Super Channel, Canada’s only national English pay television network and SHOWTIME Sports® are pleased to announce an exclusive deal that will make Super Channel the home of SHOWTIME boxing events in Canada. Under this agreement Super Channel will air live SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and ShoBox: The New Generation telecasts through 2014 to viewers in Canada.

The first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event under the new deal airs this Saturday, Jan 26 at 10 p.m. ET, live from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas and features Lucas Matthysse (32-2, 30 KOs) taking on Mike Dallas Jr. (19-2-1, 8 KOs) for the WBC Super Lightweight Interim Championship. In the co-feature bouts, Selcuk Aydin (23-1, 17 KOs) faces Jesus Soto Karass (28-8-3, 17 KOs) in a Welterweight bout, and Jermell Charlo (10-0, 6 KOs) takes on Harry Joe Yorgey (25-1-1, 12 KO’s) in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring SHOWTIME back to our viewers in Canada. Super Channel’s fight fans let us know just how much they missed these exclusive and exciting events and now we are able to consistently bring them all the SHOWTIME boxing that they want to see, live,” said Sandy Perkins, Super Channel’s Vice President of Programming. “We are very pleased to continue our relationship with SHOWTIME and proud that Super Channel continues to be a place where our viewers can go to see unique programming that can’t be seen anywhere else on television.”

“The Super Channel has been a great partner for us over the years,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “The Canadian sports fan has shown a voracious appetite for boxing so we are very proud to present our slate of world-class fights to the nation. Not only does it increase the awareness of our brand throughout the country, it also gives the elite fighters competing on our network a broader stage on which to perform.”

About Super Channel

Super Channel is Canada’s only national English pay television network, consisting of two HD channels, four SD channels, and Super Channel On Demand. Super Channel’s vision is to expand the Canadian premium TV experience by offering a broad range of fresh, entertaining movies, series and fights. Super Channel is owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc., an Edmonton-based media company. Super Channel is currently available on Bell TV, Shaw Direct, Rogers Anyplace TV, Shaw Cable, Cogeco Cable, Access Communications, Bell Aliant TV, Source Cable, SaskTel, MTS, Novus, EastLink, TELUS and other regional providers. www.superchannel.ca

About Showtime Networks Inc.

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

VERONA, NY (January 27, 2013)—Brian Vera threw his name in the middleweight title mix by scoring an entertaining 10th round stoppage over former Jr. Middleweight champion Sergiy Dzinziruk to retain his NABO Middleweight title at the Turning Stone Resort Casino.

The card was promoted by Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions and wad televised Live on ESPN Friday Night Fights

In round one, Vera dropped Dzinziruk two times. The first one was a flash knockdown where a left sent Dzinziruk down. That knockdown was more of a trip and the second one was from a hard right. Vera closed the round by battering Dzinziruk from more hard right hands. Vera continued to get through with right hands while Dzinziruk fought hard to stay in the fight behind a hard right jab.

In round eight, Vera was all over Dziziruk before the former world champion showed a lot of mettle by fighting out of the corner. Dzinziruk came back to have a solid round nine.

In round ten, Vera landed a pair of right hands that set off an onslaught of punches that crumpled Dzinziruk to the canvas. Dzinziruk got to his feet but referee Benji Esteves stopped the bout at 1:50 of round 10.

Vera, who is ranked #3 by the WBO is now 22-6 with 13 knockouts. Dzinziruk is now 36-2-1

Jose Hernandez scored an eighth round stoppage over previously undefeated Tony Luis in a scheduled ten round Jr. Middleweight bout.

It was a terrific back and forth brawl with both guys landing hard shots at close range. Hernandez started to take control as he landed a plethora of head shots while Luis was very effective landing thudding body blows.

In round eight, Hernandez rocked Luis several times before sending him to the canvas. Luis showed tremendous courage as he continued to throw shots but that only left him exposed to eat more shots which had previously bloodied his mouth which prompted his father/trainer Jorge to throw in the towel at 2:43 of round eight.

Hernandez of Fort Worth, Texas is now 14-6-1 with 6 knockouts. Luis of Cornwall, Ontario loses for the first time and is 15-1.

Good looking Middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas scored a four round unanimous decision over Emanuel Medina.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Douglas of Burke, Virginia and is now 4-0. Medina of Quincy, Massachusetts is now 2-3-1.

In the opening bout, WBO #11 Light Heavyweight Jackson Junior Dos Santos scored an explosive first round stoppage over former U.S. Olympian Dante Craig.

Dos Santos dropped Craig with a hard combination midway through the first frame. Dos Santos followed that up by blasting a right hand to the chin of Craig that sent him flat on his back and the fight was waved off immediately at 2:43 of round one.

Dos Santos of San Paulo, Brazil is now 14-0 with 12 knockouts. Craig of Cincinnati, OH is now 20-15-1.

On the strength of 2nd round knockdown, Jose Saenz scored a four round split decision over Jermell Tyson in a Lightweight bout.

Scores were 38-37 on two cards for Saenz while Tyson took a third card 38-37.
Saenz of Kansas City is 4-0. The gritty Tyson is now 3-9-1.

Local favorite Ryon McKenzie took out Rayshawn Myers after two round of their Light Heavyweight bout.

McKenzie dropped Myers twice in round two. First from an uppercut followed by a right hand. He than scored a hard knockdown from a hard left hook. Myers made it out of round two but his corner pulled the plug on the fight between rounds.

McKenzie of Syracuse is now 12-0 with eleven knockouts. Myers of Cleveland is now 4-16-1.

Eduard Gutknecht (24-1, 9 KOs) is probably facing his toughest challenge to
date. The European Light Heavyweight Champion is putting his title on the
line in an all-German affair when he takes on former world champion Juergen
Braehmer (38-2, 30 KOs) on February 2. But the current titlist is not just
thinking about the EBU Belt. The winner will receive mandatory challenger
status for the WBO Championship. Just a week ahead of the fight Gutknecht
reveals why he believes that he is the only realistic option to win the
championship bout.

Eduard Gutknecht, you will be making the fourth defense of your EBU Title on
February 2. What are your thoughts on the challenger Juergen Braehmer?

Eduard Gutknecht: Juergen is a very powerful and goal orientated man. I
remember him being extremely dedicated to the sport from our days at
Universum. I expect him to be the same now. Therefore, I know that I have a
big challenge at hand. However, our main focus during this preparation has
been on my strengths and not as much on his weaknesses. The plan is to take
advantage of his mistakes and get the win.

This fight is also an eliminator for a WBO Title shot. Does that give you
some extra motivation?

Eduard Gutknecht: It is motivation enough to be able to prove myself against
Juergen Braehmer. He is a former world champion and was at the top of his
game while I was just at the beginning of my career. Now I am the European
champion and he is challenging me. I am excited about that.

As you said earlier, you know Braehmer from your days at Universum before
you joined Team Sauerland. What do you remember from that time?

Eduard Gutknecht: Juergen is an easy and straightforward guy. He doesn’t
hide behind the bushes and he tells you what he thinks. We have never had
any problems.

How did your preparation go? Did you pay attention to anything in
particular?

Eduard Gutknecht: I have been training a lot in order to get into the best
shape possible. We paid especially attention to my defense as Braehmer has
some pop in his fists.

Braehmer obviously has an advantage when it comes to experience. How are you
going to make up for that?

Eduard Gutknecht: I am ready for this bout and really looking forward to it.
Everybody can talk ahead of a fight but it’s an entirely different thing
once you have entered the ring. At the end of the day, it is just the two of
us and two pair of fists. I am planning to use my ‘weapons’ to defeat him.

February 2 will be your first outing as a professional boxer in Berlin. How
excited are you to be fighting at the Max-Schmeling-Halle?

Eduard Gutknecht: I did have quite a few fights in Berlin during my days as
an amateur. Now I am really excited about my first pro fight in the German
capital.

Are you thinking ahead of the Braehmer fight? What does the future hold for
you?

Eduard Gutknecht: I’m not. Braehmer is a tough challenge and he won’t be
brushed aside just like that. There is a lot of pressure on me and I know
that many people are saying that Juergen Braehmer will be in great shape.
I’m expecting to meet the best Juergen Braehmer of all time and that is
exactly what I have been preparing for. As soon as I heard that he signed
with Team Sauerland, I knew that we would face each other. Afterwards we
will know who is heading towards a world championship and who will be back
to the drawing board.

What is your prediction for the fight in Berlin?

Eduard Gutknecht: I will give it my all in order to leave the ring as the
champion. I do not want to leave any kind of doubt on who the winner of the
fight is. If required I will not rely on the judges – and in hindsight all
the fans want to witness an early end. It will be hard but I believe in
myself and that I will defend the European championship.

Tickets for the big fight night at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin,
Germany can be purschased at www.boxen.com and www.eventim.de.

Two stablemates will meet inside the ring when Eduard Gutknecht (24-1, 9
KOs) puts his European Light Heavyweight Championship on the line against
Juergen Braehmer (38-2, 30 Kos). And the excitement about the EBU Title
fight is high, as the winner will get a crack at the WBO World Champion.
Juergen Braehmer took some time out of his training schedule to answer some
burning questions.

Juergen Braehmer, after almost ten months you will be returning to the ring
on February 2. How are you feeling?

Juergen Braehmer: I am feeling good. The training and the new surroundings
are great.

How is your training camp going?

Juergen Braehmer: Really well. My coach Karsten Roewer and I have been
preparing in North Germany for almost three weeks now. I almost weigh as
much as I did during my super-middleweight days.

This will be your first professional fight under the guidance of Roewer.
What are the differences between him and your old coach Michael Timm?

Juergen Braehmer: I know Karsten Roewer since my days as a junior. There are
a few things he does differently than Timm – which is a good thing. I am
always up for new and different input, that way I don’t get bored.

What are your thoughts on the fight? Any predictions?

Juergen Braehmer: I have never made any predictions and I won’t start now. I
will focus on my strengths. I am ready for the challenge.

You already know Gutknecht from your days at Universum, now both of you are
signed to Sauerland. Do you know each other well?

Juergen Braehmer: No, we were in different training groups.

Have you been studying any of his old fights on video?

Juergen Braehmer: I haven’t. That is part of coach Roewer´s job. He comes up
with the game plan – I deliver inside the ring.

Are you looking forward to be boxing in Berlin?

Juergen Braehmer: Of course, Berlin is a great city and lots of boxing fans
live here. I have some fond memories from my previous fights here. I am very
excited to be fighting at the Max-Schmeling-Halle.

You will probably also be very excited about the fact, that a lot of
travelling fans from your hometown Schwerin are heading for Berlin…

Juergen Braehmer: Definitely, that is great. It is amazing that so many of
them will be present. Getting support from the crowd is very important to
me, although I won’t be able to realize it while I am fighting as my whole
focus is on the opponent.

What are you most looking forward to once the fight is over?

Juergen Braehmer: My girlfriend Tatjana and my little baby girl Jasmin.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a lot of time for them during preparation. I
definitely have to make up for that afterwards.

Tickets for the big fight night at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin,
Germany can be purchased at www.boxen.com and www.eventim.de.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com a potential WBA Welterweight title clash between Paulie Malignaggi and Shane Mosley broke down over financial terms

“Mosley was on board, and I was under the impression that Paulie was on board as well, but for whatever reason, that was not the case,” Golden Boy Promotions Richard Schaefer told ESPN.com.

“The fight is dead in the water. At the end of the day, the financial package was not attractive enough for Paulie to take the fight, and that is his right.”

“I talked to Shane and he said OK and that he didn’t blame anybody,” Schaefer said. “I know this fight meant a lot to him, that he wanted a chance to win the title again, and I think if the right opportunity comes along, I would still make a fight for Shane Mosley if he wants it, so that’s one of the things I am working on.”

“I felt a fight between Paulie and Shane would be a good fight and sell tickets. I felt it was an intriguing matchup,” Schaefer said. “You ask people who will win, and they scratch their head and say Mosley might actually win the fight. I felt I could sell this fight at the Barclays Center. Life goes on.”

One of the fighters to now be in the mix to face Malignaggi could be Marcos Maidana

“Malignaggi is one of the few fighters out there who really have b—-, not like the others. I want his title,” Maidana tweeted.

Responded Malignaggi: “(Maidana) is a worthy challenger. He deserves a shot. Let’s get it done.”

“We were (surprised) to read Malignaggi’s statement that he wants Maidana and not Mosley, so I immediately called Maidana on the phone to let him know and he instructed me to ask (Golden Boy) for that fight yet again since Maidana has no fights scheduled as of yet,” he said.

“If I’m going to do Malignaggi-Maidana, I wouldn’t want to take the risk at the Barclays Center,” Schaefer said. “I’m probably going to do a fight for Paulie (April 27), but I don’t see many other headline fights for him at Barclays. Do I think Malignaggi-Maidana is a good fight? I do, but I am not sure that’s the main event at the Barclays Center, a big, big arena. I don’t want to put that fight in a huge venue.

“Right now, I have been thrown a bit of a curveball with this (Malignaggi-Mosley) fight situation, but we will move on. We will have an event on April 27 on Showtime and we are coming up with the right card, but it won’t necessarily be at Barclays Center. My first choice is Lucas Matthysse against Marcos Maidana, assuming Matthysse wins on Saturday, from the West Coast.”

“A fight between Andre Berto and Paulie Malignaggi would be of interest to the networks and fans,” he said. “A fight between Maidana and Matthysse is of interest. A fight between Malignaggi and Maidana is of interest. Now there are different amounts of license fees being paid for these fights, so I will go to Malignaggi, to Maidana, to Berto, to Matthysse, and I will tell them what the different purses they can make and we’ll go from there.”

PHILADELPHIA, PA (JANUARY 25, 2013)—This weekend, fighters from Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions will be featured on all the major televised fight cards in the United States.

TONIGHT!! Banner Promotions will promote an edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights from the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. In the main event, The NABO Middleweight championship will be at stake as NABO champion and perennial contender Brian Vera defends against former Jr. Middleweight champion Sergiy Dzinziruk.

On the undercard, WBO #11 ranked Light Heavyweight contender and undefeated Jackson Junior of Brazil will make his American debut when he takes on former United States Olympian Dante Craig.

ALSO TONIGHT at the Paramount Theatre in Huntington, New York, former United States Olympian and world ranked (IBF #3, WBO #3) ranked Jr. Middleweight Demetrius Andrade takes on Freddy Hernandez in a ten round bout for the WBO Intercontinental Junior Middleweight title in a bout that will be the main event on Showtime’s acclaimed SHOBOX series.

Finally on Saturday night, Harry Joe Yorgey will fight undefeated contender Jermell Charlo on Showtime World Championship Boxing Live from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

“This is a great weekend for us”, said Arthur Pelullo, CEO of Banner Promotions.

“We have a terrific ESPN show on Friday night with the winner between Dzinziruk and Vera will get a significant fight. Sergiy has been a world champion and wants to get to that mountain top again while Vera has knocked on the door and has been so close in the past and he is very confident that he can breakthrough again and get a major victory”.

“As for Andrade, my partner Joe DeGuardia & I feel that this is a big test for Demetrius. Hernandez has been in with some of the best so when Demetrius comes through, we feel he will be ready for any title shot at Jr. Middleweight”.

“Finally on Saturday we believe in Harry Yorgey. He has been waiting for the right fight to get back in the mix and when we offered this fight to him he jumped at it. We know he is confident and we are confident he will put on a terrific performance and put his name right back in the Jr. Middleweight championship discussion”