Tacoma, WA (January 22nd, 2012) – Halquist Productions and CageSport are hitting the ground running to start off 2013. Scheduled for February 16th, CageSport XXIII will feature Drew “The Eternal Fire” Brokenshire (5-1) defending his featherweight title for the 1st time against MMA veteran Enoch “The Animal” Wilson (16-8-2) in the semi-main event. In the Main Event, Brent Knopp (3-0) and Darrio Mobley (2-2) will battle it out for the 2nd time, but with the vacant CageSport middleweight title up for grabs this time around.

Tickets for CageSport XXIII are still available and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, WA.

Brent “Mankill” Knopp is quickly gaining a fan base ever since turning pro in early 2012. He has accumulated a record of 3-0 (all 3 fights coming at CageSport) and has finished every fight via the 2nd round KO or TKO. Training out of one of the most respected MMA gyms on the west coast, AMC Pankration, Knopp is surrounded by UFC and StrikeForce stars along with being coached by one of the world’s best, Matt Hume. Knopp last fought on September 29th at CageSport XXI against Team Quest’s Brandon Pitts. The event was televised in 5 states on regional sports network ROOT SPORTS. In July, Knopp entered the cage for the 1st time with his upcoming opponent, Dario Mobley. After being cut badly in the 1st round, Knopp rebounded and TKO’d Mobley in the 2nd to earn the 2nd victory of his career.

Mobley will be coming into the fight with the mindset of getting a 2nd chance after the disappointing loss the 1st time around. It was clear that Mobley had won the 1st round, but he wasn’t able to sustain the momentum and got caught. This will be his chance to prove himself to the fans that he’s a legitimate contender in the state.

Drew Brokenshire, fighting out of Tacoma, WA, may be the most captivating fighter that has ever fought at CageSport. He made his CageSport debut back in December at CageSport XXII when he took on the then featherweight champ, Julian Erosa. The two duked it out for all 5 rounds in what turned out to be one of the most thrilling MMA fights ever presented to the Emerald Queen Casino showroom. Both fighters brought huge fan bases to the event and each fighter had moments of brilliance that had their fans on their feet the entire time showing enthusiasm that fighters live for. Brokenshire also stops by and trains at AMC Pankration from time to time along with the Academy of Brian Johnson in Lacey. He will have another big test at CageSport XXIII when he takes on Enoch Wilson.

Team Quest’s Enoch Wilson brings lots of experience to the table as his 16-8-2 record would suggest. Most recently, Wilson participated on Halquist Productions’ Battle at the Boat boxing show on January 5th and came out with a dominant victory, knocking down his opponent 4 times with kidney shots before the referee stopped the fight. This will be Wilson’s 1st appearance on a CageSport card and has the potential to bring another exciting night to the Emerald Queen Casino as he also has a large fan base in the area.

Eight other action packed bouts are scheduled at CageSport XXIII including two female fighters making their debuts, Thea Wolfe vs. Sarah Lagerstrom. Up and comers scheduled to fight include: Aaron Martin and Freddie Bauman. With CageSport, Halquist Productions has created the most premier MMA promotion in the Northwest. Many fighters that have fought on a CageSport Card have moved on to fight in national organizations such as StrikeForce, Bellator, and the UFC. More information about CageSport XXIII and all other Halquist Productions can be found at www.halquistproductions.com

After confirmation at the end of 2012, Prospect Boxing and Chris Gilmour boxing are pleased to confirm the line up to their March 8th joint promotion at Ravenscraig Sports Facility in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire.

Titled the “ The Steel Men return” the card is topped by Glasgow’s Gary McCallum who takes on Stranraers Paul Allison for the vacant Scottish Middleweight title over ten rounds, while the chief under card slot sees rising flyweight Iain Butcher return to action over 8 rounds.

A full undercard features the talented Rhys Pagan, Mark Parvin, Sean Watson and Ryan Scott. While Jordan McCorry, Darren McAdam, Mitch Prince will also be in action. March 8th also sees Alex Montgomery makes his pro debut in the Super Middleweight division and Martin Taylor at Light Welterweight.

With a eleven fight card in the offering, Co-promotor Paul Graham explains that the main event was an easy choice “We had a few options for the main event, however I feel that Paul (Allison) in with Gary (McCallum) a good domestic fight and both fighters will do nothing but entertain. They both are at the stage were they want to progress there career to the next level, and an area title fight is the way to progress it.

While joint promoting with Chris Gilmour, the former pro referee admits that there is a rivalry between the both “Well Paul Allison is my fighter and Gary McCallum is Chris Gilmour’s fighter. So that itself adds another dimension to the main event, and we both have confidence in our fighters. But there can be only one winner on the evening,

“I am looking forward to returning to Motherwell, the local support over the last few shows has been great, so its good to reward them with a stacked card like this. On the evening we have eleven fights scheduled and that includes a title fight, and with a licensed bar in the venue, it will be a good evening.

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.

With a 9 fight undercard it features Rhys Pagan, Mark Parvin, Sean Watson and Ryan Scott. Jordan McCorry, Darren McAdam, Mitch Prince and Alex Montgomery makes his pro debut in the Super Middleweight division.

Tickets are priced at £30 (unreserved) and £40 (ringside) ,and further details are avail from www.prospectboxing.com and www.facebook.com/ProspectBoxing and @ProspectBoxingRavenscraig to host ‘The Steel Men’ as Championship Boxing returns

After confirmation at the end of 2012, Prospect Boxing and Chris Gilmour boxing are pleased to confirm the line up to their March 8th joint promotion at Ravenscraig Sports Facility in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire.

Titled the “ The Steel Men return” the card is topped by Glasgow’s Gary McCallum who takes on Stranraers Paul Allison for the vacant Scottish Middleweight title over ten rounds, while the chief under card slot sees rising flyweight Iain Butcher return to action over 8 rounds.

A full undercard features the talented Rhys Pagan, Mark Parvin, Sean Watson and Ryan Scott. While Jordan McCorry, Darren McAdam, Mitch Prince will also be in action. March 8th also sees Alex Montgomery makes his pro debut in the Super Middleweight division and Martin Taylor at Light Welterweight.

With a eleven fight card in the offering, Co-promotor Paul Graham explains that the main event was an easy choice “We had a few options for the main event, however I feel that Paul (Allison) in with Gary (McCallum) a good domestic fight and both fighters will do nothing but entertain. They both are at the stage were they want to progress there career to the next level, and an area title fight is the way to progress it.

While joint promoting with Chris Gilmour, the former pro referee admits that there is a rivalry between the both “Well Paul Allison is my fighter and Gary McCallum is Chris Gilmour’s fighter. So that itself adds another dimension to the main event, and we both have confidence in our fighters. But there can be only one winner on the evening,

“I am looking forward to returning to Motherwell, the local support over the last few shows has been great, so its good to reward them with a stacked card like this. On the evening we have eleven fights scheduled and that includes a title fight, and with a licensed bar in the venue, it will be a good evening.

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.

With a 9 fight undercard it features Rhys Pagan, Mark Parvin, Sean Watson and Ryan Scott. Jordan McCorry, Darren McAdam, Mitch Prince and Alex Montgomery makes his pro debut in the Super Middleweight division.

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

Las Vegas, Nevada – The world’s longest running sports reality TV series is back as The Ultimate Fighter® returns for its exciting 17th season TONIGHT at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FX with a special two-hour premier show.

Featuring UFC® light heavyweight champion Jon ‘Bones’ Jones and Chael ‘the American Gangster’ Sonnen as coaches, the premier sees several breathtaking fight finishes – including one of the fastest KOs in the history of the series – as 28 of the world’s best unsigned mixed martial artists collide in 14 fight-in eliminators.

And, for the first time in the eight-year history of TUF™, the fighters’ families and friends will be in attendance for the fight-ins as the middleweights throwdown, desperate to earn a spot in the famed TUF House and pursue their dream of a six-figure UFC contract.

Who will be on Team Jones, and who will suit up for Team Sonnen – decisions are made tonight.

Also launching for the premiere is a fantasy bracket style tournament, a competition that challenges players’ skills and strategies. The TUF™ Tournament, the first of multiple fantasy games on UFC.com/Fantasy, will encourage interactivity between fans, rewarding those earning the most points with their picks, and introducing fans to upcoming fighters.

Click links below to view preview videos:

Who’s Next?: http://youtu.be/byaAVv9_MWI

Raise The Stakes: http://youtu.be/g4LpCfA9jfE

Jones vs. Sonnen: http://youtu.be/S7RvB8kERRE

The competitors are:

Dylan Andrews (16-4-1), 32, Gold Coast, AUS
Jake Heun (3-2), 25, Salt Lake City, Utah

Kito Andrews (9-2), 34, Sacramento, Calif.
Nicholas Kohring (3-0), 22, Valley Springs, Calif.

Luke Barnatt (5-0), 24, Cambridge, ENG
Mike Jaspar (6-0), 29, Camarillo, Calif.

Leo Bercier (7-2), 31, Great Falls, Montana
Bubba McDaniel (20-6), 29, Albuquerque, N.M.

Ryan Lee Q. Bigler (9-3), 28, Guam
Frasier Opie (10-5), 25, Milton Keynes, ENG

Kevin Casey (5-2), 31, Hawthorne, Calif.
Frederick Persons (3-0), 28, Stockton, Calif.

Adam Cella (4-0), 27, Fenton, Mo.
Jimmy Quinlan (3-0), 26, Metheun, Mass.

Zak Cummings (15-3), 28, Kansas City, Mo.
Scott Rosa (4-1), 27, Sparks, Nev.

Andy Enz, (6-1), 21, Anchorage, Alaska
Josh Samman (9-2), 24, Tallahassee, Fla.

Nik Fehete (5-1), 32, Las Vegas, Nev.
Gilbert Smith (5-1), 30, Colorado Springs, Colo.

Kelvin Gastelum (5-0), 20, Yuma, Ariz.
Eldon Sproat (3-1), 27, Molohai, Hawaii

Uriah Hall (7-2), 28, New York City, N.Y.
Tor Troeng (15-4-1), 29, Umea, SWE

Collin Hart (4-1-1), 23, Santa Rosa, Calif.
Eric Wahlin (5-1), 29, Taylorsville, Utah

Clint Hester (7-3), 24, Atlanta, Ga.
Timothy Williams (7-1), 26, Millville, N.J.

Many of today’s most recognizable names in the UFC have emerged from the TUF™ series, including, among many others, Forrest Griffin, Kenny Florian, Rashad Evans, and Michael Bisping.

Tune-in and watch who will become the next THE ULTIMATE FIGHTER on FX!

For more show information, bios, videos and photos, visit ultimatefighter.com and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter under our new name @TUFonFX or on Facebook.com/TUF.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Universally recognized for its action-packed, can’t-miss events that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe, the UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, headquartered in Las Vegas and with offices in London, Toronto and Beijing, UFC produces more than 30 live events annually and is the largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. In 2012, the UFC burst into the mainstream with a landmark seven-year broadcast agreement with FOX Sports Media Group. The agreement includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, with additional fight cards and thousands of hours of programming broadcast on FOX properties FX and FUEL TV. This also includes the longest-running sports reality show on television, The Ultimate Fighter®, which now airs on FX.

In addition to its reach on FOX, UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries and territories, to nearly 800 million TV households worldwide, in 30 different languages. UFC content is also distributed commercially in the United States to bars and restaurants through Joe Hand Promotions, in English throughout Canada via Premium Sports Broadcasting Inc. and Australia via Main Event and in French throughout Quebec via Interbox. The UFC also connects with tens of millions of fans through its website, UFC.com, as well as social media sites Facebook and Twitter. UFC President Dana White is considered one of the most accessible and followed executives in sports, with over two million followers on Twitter. Ancillary UFC businesses include best-selling DVDs, an internationally distributed magazine, UFC.TV offering live event broadcasts and video on demand around the world, the best-selling UFC Undisputed® video game franchise distributed by THQ, and a new franchise in development with EA, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel and trading cards.

FX

FX is the flagship general entertainment basic cable network from Fox. Launched in June of 1994, FX is carried in more than 98 million homes. The diverse schedule features a growing roster of critically acclaimed and award-winning hit dramas series Sons of Anarchy and Justified; the miniseries American Horror Story: Asylum; the upcoming drama series The Americans; the acclaimed hit comedy series It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The League, Louie, Archer, Wilfred, BrandX with Russell Brand, and Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell; and the upcoming comedy Legit. The network’s library of acquired box-office hit movies is unmatched by any ad-supported television network. FX’s other offerings include the acquired hit series Two and a Half Men and How I Met Your Mother, and live sports with UFC and NCAA football.

NEW YORK (Jan. 22, 2013) – One of the top prospects in boxing, the talented but untested Demetrius Andrade (18-0, 13 KOs), of Providence, R.I., makes his first start for respected trainer Virgil Hunter when he faces aggressive-minded former world title challenger Freddy Hernandez (30-3, 20 KOs), of Lynwood, Calif., in the 10-round junior middleweight main event on ShoBox: The New Generation doubleheader this Friday, Jan. 25, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

In a matchup of once-beaten junior welterweights in the 10-round co-feature at Paramount Theater in Huntington, N.Y., Raymond “Tito” Serrano (18-1, 8 KOs), of Philadelphia, meets Emmanuel “Tranzforma” Taylor (15-1, 10 KOs), of Edgewood, Md. The event is promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions.

Hunter, the Boxing Writers Association of America 2011 Trainer of the Year, and Andrade, a world-ranked, 6-foot-1, 24-year-old southpaw, have been together for only a couple of months.

“All coaches get their fair share of calls, and I get some, too,’’ Hunter said. “Demetrius called me and we started talking. I’d been aware of him because he was an Olympian and knew he was a good kid, but once we met I was most definitely very pleased to make his acquaintance. I enjoy working with him.

“Demetrius’ dad did a terrific job with him. He’s a great kid with a great personality and he wants to succeed. I think he has unlimited potential and everything it takes to not only be a future champion but an ambassador for the sport. There’s really a lot of upside to Demetrius. It’s just a matter of time.’’

A former international amateur standout – Andrade (pronounced “Ann-Drade”) was the 2007 World Championships gold medalist at 152 pounds and represented the United States in the 2008 Olympic Games – continues to acclimate himself to the new surroundings in northern California.

“I’ve been training at Virgil’s private gym in Hayward, Calif.,’’ said Andrade, who owns amateur victories over the likes of current world champion Austin Trout and prospects such as Keith Thurmond, Danny Jacobs, Fernando Guerrero, Jack Culcay and Charles Hatley. “I knew Virgil from him being in the amateur program and I just reached out to him. He’s a stand-up guy and everything’s going smoothly. We’re just taking it one step at a time, just getting in shape for this fight.’’

Andrade has steadily ascended in the rankings since turning pro in October 2008. He’s currently rated No. 3 in the IBF and WBO and No. 8 in the WBC. He’s been carefully matched throughout his four-year career but owns a couple of noteworthy victories. He won his three fights in 2012 by knockout inside two rounds, including a second-round TKO over Alexis Hlores in his last start on Sept. 12.

But Hunter and ShoBox expert analyst and boxing historian Steve Farhood agree that Hernandez will be the toughest foe to date for Andrade, who’ll be making his ShoBox debut. “On paper this should be his toughest challenge, when you consider the competition the other guy has fought,’’ Hunter said.

Said Farhood, “Demetrius Andrade, along with Gary Russell Jr., was chosen as Most Likely To Succeed from the 2008 U.S. Olympic team. On ShoBox, he’s finally making that next step that will vaunt him from prospect to contender.

“Hernandez is a legit tough guy who’s fought the very best. This is a real test for Andrade, a major step up. Andrade’s been criticized for the level of his opposition, but part of that criticism stems from how easily he’s beaten the fighters put in front of him.

“Hernandez will bring it, so if Andrade’s as good as we think he is, he’ll not only win, but shine.”

Offered Andrade, an athletic, versatile boxer with good skills and movement: “Freddy Hernandez is a great fighter, and we’re going to put on a great show.”

Hernandez fought four former world champions in a row – DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley, Mike Anchondo, Andre Berto and Luis Collazo — between February 2010 and October 2011. “El Riel” went 3-1, winning the final fight of the four-bagger with an exciting 10-round unanimous decision over southpaw Luis Collazo on Oct. 15, 2011.

The brother-in-law of current WBC featherweight kingpin Daniel “Ponce” De Leon, Hernandez, 33, lost his most recent outing to WBC No. 1 contender Erislandy Lara on a 10-round decision on June 20, 2012. The scores in a rough fight were 95-94, 98-91 and 99-90.

“I’m not much of a talker outside of the ring, I’d rather just let my fight inside do the talking for me,’’ said Hernandez, a boxer-puncher who may come out ultra-aggressive against the less-experienced Andrade.

Serrano, a 5-foot-8, 25-year-old, will be fighting for the first time since hooking up with trainer Barry Hunter, who also handles Lamont and Anthony Peterson. It is his first start since a devastating fifth-round knockout loss to Karim Mayfield in a pick ‘em bout on May 18, 2012, that ended with chaos in Serrano’s corner. World-ranked going in, he’d won all 18 of his fights since going pro in October 2007.

“I’ve been with Barry since about July,’’ said Serrano, an accomplished amateur and ambidextrous boxer-puncher who likes to work the body. “After I fought Mayfield, I took some time off and then I got with Barry. I train at his gym and spar with the Petersons. It’s definitely stepped up my level of training. I’ve worked hard and feel it’s made me a stronger fighter.

“I haven’t seen any of Taylor’s fights, but I remember him from the amateur days. The guys in the gym know him from the amateurs and they’re helping me prepare. I’m looking forward to starting the year off right. I learned from my mistakes. I want to accomplish my goal, and become champion of the world.”

Looking back at the Mayfield defeat, Serrano said, “I was surprised how easy it was for me to hit him. He’s strong. He fought a good fight. He caught me with a good shot. I’ll be back.”

Taylor hails from a family of fighters. He was a top amateur before turning pro in March 2009. After opening with 14 consecutive victories, the 5-foot-7½-inch, 22-year-old boxer-puncher came up on the wrong end of a split eight-round decision to Prenice Brewer on Nov. 10, 2011. He regained his winning ways 11 months later when, in his lone bout since losing, won a six-round majority decision over George Dosa on Oct. 12, 2012. Taylor triumphed by the scores of 60-54, 58-56 and 57-57.

“I’ve been getting ready for this fight in Baltimore since Dec. 1,’’ he said. “I’ve worked hard in the gym and I’m ready to show what I’ve got. I’ve got a lot of styles. I can box or bang, but basically I usually box. It depends on the other fighter.

“I’m familiar with Serrano. I know him from the amateurs. He was in my region, so we fought in the same tournaments but he was a little older than me. He’s a good fighter, a good boxer. I give him credit. But absolutely, I’m going to win the fight. I’m just going to use my jab and pressure, and that’s what is going to win me the fight.”

Tickets, priced at $50, $100 and $150, are available through Ticketmaster online www.Ticketmaster.com or phone (800) 745-3000, through The Paramount Box Office (631) 673-7300, the Star Boxing Office (718) 823-2000 or on their website, www.StarBoxing.com. Doors on fight night will open at 7 p.m. ET with the first bell at 8 p.m.

CHESTER, PA (January 22, 2013)—THIS Saturday night, January 26th, It will be a special night inside of Harrahs Philadelphia as a mammoth 12 bout card of boxing will take place to celebrate the two year anniversary of Joey Eye Boxing Promotions & David Feldman’s partnership with the casino.

This will be the tenth show that the duo has put on in Harrahs Philadelphia and they have a great night in store for the fans.

“This will be a special night of boxing in many regards for myself and my partner David Feldman”, said Joey “Eye” Intrieri, founder of Joey Eye Boxing.

“We have been the only ones in the state to put on consistent good shows and have had memorable fights already. We expect to have a long run here and will continue to put on the best fights possible”

“I want to thank the General Manager of Harrahs Ron Baummann plus everyone in the entertainment department as well as our staff and the loyal fan base that comes out time and time again to make this all possible”

In the six round main event, Victor Vasquez (15-7-1, 7 KO’s) will be making his 6th appearance at Harrahs when he takes on Esteban Rodriguez (6-4-1, 1 KO) of Lebanon, PA in a Lightweight bout

DeCarlo Perez (8-2-1, 3 KO’s) of Atlantic City will fight undefeated Dante Moore (8-0-2, 4 KO’s) of Cleveland, OH in a six round Jr. Middleweight bout

In a six round Jr. Welterweight affair, Julio DeJesus (6-3-3, 3 KO’s) of Chester, PA battles Ramon Ellis (4-7-2, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia

Undefeated Light Heavyweight Amir Shabazz (2-0) of Philadelphia will rematch Abdellah Smith (2-4, 2 KO’s) of Queens, NY in a four round rematch

In a four round female Jr. Welterweight bout, undefeated Althea Saunders (3-0-1) of Atlantic City will fight debuting Laura Incarnato of Philadelphia

Undefeated Welterweight Tyrone Crawley Jr. (2-0) of Philadelphia boxes Benjamin Burgos (1-2) of Mount Pocono, PA in a four round bout

In a four round Heavyweight bout, undefeated John Mercurio (5-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia takes on Lonnie Kornegay (1-7-2) of Baltimore, MD

In another four round Heavyweight bout, undefeated Mark Rideout (2-0) takes on Aaron Bratton (0-1) of Baltimore, MD

In a four round Jr. Middleweight, Gilbert Alex Sanchez (2-1, 2 KO’s) of Camden, NJ battles Greg Jackson (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA

Undefeated Jovontae Starks (5-0, 4 KO’s) of Minneapolis, MN will fight Chad McKinney (1-0) in a fight that features two undefeated Jr. Middleweights in a bout scheduled for four rounds

In a rematch, Alex Barbosa (4-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will try to make it two straight over Arthur Parker (1-8, 1 KO) of Lancaster, PA

Rounding out the card will be debuting Sam Teah of Philadelphia taking on an opponent to be named in a four round Lightweight bout

Tickets are now on sale for $100 (VIP); $65 (Ringside) and $45 (General Admission) and can be purchased at the Harrahs Philadelphia Gift Shop; By calling Joey Eye (267-304-9399); David

Feldman (610-291-0806); 800-480-8020 or on http://www.webtix.net/

Sherman Oaks, Calif. (Jan. 21) – World-rated light welterweight Mike Dallas Jr. (19-2-1, 8 KOs) is geared up for what will be the biggest and most emotional fight of his professional career as he takes on Argentine sensation Lucas Matthysse (32-2, 20 KOs) in a SHOWTIME® Championship Boxing main event on Saturday, January 26 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME Championship Boxing broadcast begins live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

The upcoming fight will be a monumental one in Dallas’ career and personal life, as it will be his chance of achieving his goal of obtaining a title belt, but also his first bout since losing his father to leukemia last November.

“This fight means a lot to me,” the 26-year-old boxer said. “It’s the biggest fight I’ve had. If I win this fight, it takes me to another level.”

Dallas has dedicated the bout to his late father, Mike Dallas, Sr. He has been gruelingly training with Virgil Hunter to prepare for the 30-year-old Matthysse, who was anointed with the interim WBC Light Welterweight Championship belt after beating the undefeated Ajose Olusegun (30-1, 14 KOs) by technical knockout last September.

Nicknamed “The Silent Assassin,” Dallas has incorporated power with his excellent boxing skills and his persistence in wearing down his opponents, which may prove requisite in defeating Matthysse, who has lost his only two bouts by decision.

Dallas isn’t overcomplicating his approach to the fight as the game plan is mapped out by Hunter the 2011 Trainer of the Year. His plan of attack is to remain true to his style of boxing, speed and quickness.

“I’m just going to be myself and box and take advantage of openings,” the Bakersfield, Calif. native said. “I’ll do what I’ve been taught to do and force him to have to make the adjustments as the fight goes on. I’m just going to be smart and fast.”

“I truly believe that Mike can defy the odds against Matthysse,” said Dallas promoter Dan Goossen of Goossen Tutor Promotions. “Fights against the likes of Josesito Lopez and Mauricio Herrera, which I thought he won, prepare you for these opportunities.”

The Matthtsse vs. Dallas fight is being promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions and Goossen Tutor Promotions.

For more information visit www.goossentutorpromotions.com and follow up on Twitter at GoossenTutor, keep up with the latest using or becoming a GTP fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoossenTutor.

Former world heavyweight title challenger Manuel Charr returns to action on February 22nd in Galati (Romania). The „Diamond Boy“ will defend his WBC Silver International Championship against 35-year old Turk Yakup Saglam. Saglam was scheduled to fight former world champion Ruslan Chagaev on December 1st in Dusseldorf but Chagaev didn’t show up for the weigh-in.

„Chagaev was scared, that’s why he didn’t come to fight me!“, said Saglam. Felix Sturm who promoted the show in Dusseldorf tried to convince former cruiserweight champion Firat Arslan to jump in as last-minute replacement. But Arslan didn’t want to fight Saglam either so the bout was cancelled.

„That two former world champions refused to fight Yakup Saglam tells you a lot about him and his power“, states Charr. „Chagaev just didn’t show up without any reason. I am not like that. I don’t duck anybody. So here I am giving Saglam the fight he has been waiting for for a long time.“

Saglam won 28 of his 29 professional fights with 25 wins coming by way of knockout. His sole loss was a controversial decision awarded to unbeaten German champion Michael Wallisch in April 2011. „I thank Manuel Charr for giving me the opportunity to fight him“, says Saglam. „I hope that he doesn’t decide to chicken out like Chagaev. I am a warrior, I’ll fight anybody. I promise that I will be in top shape on February 22nd and make Charr regret that he offered me this fight.“

The show in Galati will be promoted by EC Boxing and broadcasted live on Eurosport. Charr who promotes himself is paying all costs for his own fight. „I want to remain active and defend my titles to earn another title shot“, says the „Diamond Boy“. „My only goal is to get my hands on Vitali Klitschko again. I just hope that he doesn’t retire before I get a second chance to take the title from him.“

NEW YORK (JANUARY 21, 2013)—On the heels of Saturday night’s controversial WBO Super Featherweight title bout that saw defending champion Roman Martinez receive a gift draw against Juan Carlos Burgos, Burgos promoters Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing are filing a request to the WBO for an immediate rematch.

The bout saw Burgos batter and get the better of Martinez for the duration of the twelve round fight yet only judge Waleska Roldan had the fight scored in favor of Burgos by a tally of 117-111. Somehow judges Tony Paolillo saw the fight for Martinez 116-112 and John Signorile had the fight even at 114-114.

Even before the scores were announced, the HBO broadcast team called into question about the judges as they had 9 combined title assignments with Signorile working his first title bout ever.

HBO Boxing Analyst Max Kellerman went as far to say to “Keep your eye on Paolillo” before the scores were even announced. Kellerman later said he “should not get an assignment on this level…”

The official punch stats showed a 286-193 advantage for Burgos with a 234-164 tally on power punches

HBO also ran a poll where fans sent in their thoughts on who won the fight and an overwhelming 84% of those who participated believed that Burgos should have been awarded the victory and title.

“Juan Carlos won that fight hands down and this week we will file for an immediate rematch”, said Arthur Pelullo, CEO of Banner Promotions.

Continued Pelullo, “The kid worked hard and should be a world champion this morning. We just hope the WBO agrees with what the whole world saw and does the right thing by granting us this rematch”.

Added Alex Camponovo, General Manager of Thompson Boxing, “The draw left Juan Carlos Burgos completely dejected and angry. We all felt the same way as his dream of becoming a champion turned into a New York nightmare. We hope the WBO does not punish a young man who has given everything to his craft since the age of 10 and joined the pros when he was 16 years old. An immediate rematch should be the only solution to a poor ending and I think Martinez’s people and the champion himself know deep down that he did not do enough to retain the belt.”

Below is a sampling of respected boxing media opinions on the fight:

– Mike Rosenthal of Ring Magazine: “This is what bothers me: Juan Carlos Burgos dreams his entire life of winning a major world championship, which so far had eluded him, and then earns that title by dominating the current champion in the ring. Then a bungling judge steals what should’ve been the greatest night of his career. That’s what happened on Saturday, when Burgos clearly outboxed WBO lightweight titleholder Rocky Martinez but had to settle for a draw because of a horrible split decision. The rogue judge was Tony Paolillo, who somehow scored the fight 116-112 (eight rounds to four) for Martinez. The 114-114 score of John Signorile also is baffling. The biggest punches of the fight were the dozens of punishing body shots landed by Burgos. And, according to punch stats, Burgos landed 93 more overall punches and 70 more power punches than Martinez (286-193 and 234-164). That Paolillo and Signorile somehow failed to see that left Burgos (30-1-1, 20 KOs) on the wrong end of yet another injustice in boxing. Shame.”

– Dan Rafäel of espn.com: 116-112 Burgos. “The 24-year-old Burgos (30-1-1, 20 KOs), however, seemed to carry the better of it. He used a hard, sustained body attack throughout the fight. Of the 234 power shots Burgos landed, 118 were to the body, according to CompuBox statistics. Burgos outlanded Martinez (26-1-2, 16 KOs) in 10 of the 12 rounds”

– Harold Lederman-HBO Judge: 117-111 Burgos. On the broadcast, Lederman was quoted as saying, “Burgos carried this fight. I don’t know how you miss it”

– Doug Fischer of Ring Magazine: I scored 115-113 for Burgos.

-Steve Kim of Maxboxing.com: 116-112 Burgos

-Lem Satterfield of Ring Magazine: 115-113 for Burgos

– Kevin Iole of yahoo.com 115-113 for Burgos

With this much discord, the boxing world deserves redemption for this injustice. Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing eagerly await a response from the World Boxing Organization.

January 21, 2013 – Highly touted undefeated super-featherweight prospect, Joel Diaz Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) will make his well anticipated return to the ring on February 8, 2013, against Canada’s Tyler Asselstine (12-0, 7 KOs). The 10-round co-feature bout takes place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. ESPN2 “Friday Night Fights” will televise the show which is promoted by is Yvon Michel’s GYM Promotions in association with Boxing 360.

Having knocked out his last nine opponents, Diaz looks to continue his reign as one of the biggest power punchers in the division. Asselstine will present a stern step up in competition for Diaz, but one he is looking forward to.

“I’ve been training very hard for the last six months waiting for my named to be called and now that time has come,” said Diaz. “I know this will be a fight where I will have to go to my opponents’ backyard and fight him on his homeland. These are the type of fights that can only make me better. I have complete confidence that I will come out victorious against Asselstine.”

Diaz who fights under the promotional banner of Boxing 360, has been training at “The Summit” in Big Bear, California, with his well know trainer Able Sanchez. Together the two have been working diligently on improving all aspects of Joel’s God given attributes.

“Able is a great trainer and he knows what my strengths are,” Diaz stated. “I know if I listen to his instructions I’m going to become a better fighter. He’s trained many well known fighters and I just want to follow the footsteps of those who’ve made it to the top. Right now I’m feeling very comfortable in the ring fighting both on the inside and out. In addition, my stamina is at an all time high as I’m in the best shape of my life. I want to thank my promoter Mario Yagobi and Boxing 360 for giving me this opportunity.”

Boxing 360 expects Joel Diaz Jr. to have a tremendous 2013. Fans can expect Joel to be fighting frequently in the months ahead. For more information on Joel Diaz Jr. please visit www.boxing360.com.

Up until last week Robert Woge (10-0, 9 KOs) did not even know if he was
going to participate on the bill of the European Light Heavyweight
Championship between Eduard Gutknecht and Juergen Braehmer at the
Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin on February 2. But not only will the prodigy
of coach Ulli Wegner be part of the night, he will also get his first shot
at a professional title, when he takes on Hakim Zoulikha (18-3, 9 KOs) for
the vacant IBF Intercontinental Title.

Woge, who is known for his spectacular and hugely entertaining style of
fighting, is rewarded for his professional attitude when it comes to
training. “I’m constantly keeping myself in shape. This sport isn’t just my
job it’s also my greatest passion. That is why I kept myself active right
after my last fight against Serhiy Demchenko on November 3. And that showed
during the latest fitness test – I have improved in almost every aspect,”
says the light heavyweight.

The only downside to this opportunity: “It is very unfortunate that I got
this chance because of the injury Yoan Pablo Hernandez sustained. We train
together and he is a friend of mine. But obviously, he couldn’t compete in a
championship fight with a fractured hand. However, I believe that he is
happy that I have now earned myself a shot at a professional title. He will
keep his fingers crossed for me”, said Woge.

The 28-year-old is currently preparing himself for Zoulikha at training camp
in Kienbaum. “I am in great shape. The training got more intense at the
beginning of January. However, I know that I do not have an easy task ahead
of me when I square off with Hakim Zoulikha. His record is good and he has
some victories over tough opposition to his name.” Hence, Woge is counting
on the support of the fans. “I will probably be a bit more nervous than I am
normally as this championship opportunity came out of nowhere. That’s why
the fans are very important. I am hoping that the people in Berlin will
stand firmly behind me.”

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, former Middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik has to decided to retire as he lacks the desire to continue his career and wants to preserve his long term health.

“When you stay in the sport too long you have health problems. That’s a big, big thing for me,” Pavlik said. “I’m not talking about now. I’m talking about in the future. I’m talking about when I’m 55 or 60. What’s gonna happen to me then? Why take any more chances, especially in that sport. It’s a brutal sport and you never know what can happen.

“I won the world title, I defended my title, I was champ for three years and I made good money. Why take the chance of medical problems? That’s a big part of it. I also don’t think the drive is there anymore. I’m moving on to a new chapter in my life.”

“I’ve been a pro for 13 years and doing this since I was 9,” he said. “I go away for two or three months at a time (to train) and I’m tired of leaving my family. It comes to a point where you just don’t want to do that anymore. I put my money away and then with the Ward fight being canceled, well, health and time with my family is more important at this stage, especially with no guaranteed big fight or date.

“I love Kelly. He did a lot of great things. He’s a friend and a great guy to know,” said Pavlik’s manager Cameron Dunkin, who is in New York because his fighter, Miguel Angel “Mikey” Garcia challenges for a featherweight world title against Orlando Salido in Saturday night’s HBO main event. “It was a great experience working with Kelly and I’m very happy for him making his decision.

“All the stuff he accomplished, when people said he couldn’t, when they were down on him earlier in his career and said he would never do anything, I believed in him and knew what he could do. I am so proud of what he accomplished.”

“I had a pretty good career,” Pavlik said. “I was 40-2 and I only lost to two of the best guys, Martinez and Hopkins. I’m content. It’s not like I got knocked out. It’s not like I got knocked out the way Manny Pacquiao got knocked out (in December by Juan Manuel Marquez).

“I’m fine physically. But I feel like why keep pushing the envelope? I made it this long and this far and I have had fights that were tough fights. I got dropped by Jermain Taylor, got dropped earlier in my career. But you constantly take punches and it all adds up. When you’re done, you might have brain problems, you might be punchy, you might develop Parkinson’s. Why push it? I don’t need it and my heart’s not in it anymore. So why take the chances? I’ve been very fortunate up to this point.”

“I know this — if it had been me who pulled out of the Ward fight, I would have been reamed. At this stage, I am just tired of the negativity and comments and a whole bunch of things. But I know people will think I’m drinking and it will be the first thing people go after.”

“I was contemplating it even before the last fight (in July),” Pavlik said. “Then they came up with the Andre Ward fight and I guess I got the motivation back. But I had been thinking about retiring and when the Ward fight fell out, that was icing on the cake for me.”

“For two or three years, she was telling me she wants me to be done. She said when I got to the age of 30, she wanted me to retire, so she backed it,” Pavlik said. “Her biggest fear was long-term (physical) affects of boxing. My parents are behind it. They always said if I am not going into the ring 100 percent mentally ready, they didn’t want me doing it, so they’ve been supportive of it.”

“As of right now, being a fighter and doing this since I was 9 and being at the level I’ve been at, I’m done,” Pavlik said. “Is out of the question would I come back? I can’t say that but then you can’t rule it out. But as of now, it’s legit.”

Deontay Wilder kept his perfect knockout record intact by disposing of Matthew Greer in round two of a scheduled ten round Heavyweight bout.

Wilder dropped Greer from a hard right hand in round two and moments later the fight was ended after a combination put Greer to his knees.

Wilder, 225 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is now 27-0 with twenty-seven knockouts. Greer, 240 lbs is now 15-9.

Robinson Castellanos scored a first round stoppage over Edgar Ramirez in a scheduled ten round Featherweight bout.

Castellanos dropped Ramirez with a left hook and a second knockdown was registered from a right hand and the bout was stopped at 1:49 of round one.

Castellanos. 126 lbs of Cumajuato, MX is now 17-9 with eleven knockouts. Ramirez, 124 1/2 lbs of Hermoso, MX is now 13-6

Ivan Morales scored a spectacular one punch knockout over Patricio Camacho in the opening frame of their scheduled eight round Bantamweight bout.

Morales landed a perfect right hook that put Camacho flat on his back and the fight was immediately stopped at Forty-Seven seconds.

Morales, 117.7 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 20-0 with thirteen knockouts. Camacho, 114 lbs of Gusuave. MX is now 16-8-1

In a scheduled six round Middleweight bout, Francisco Reza scored a fourth round stoppage over Roberto Ventura.

Reza is now 11-5 with nine knockouts. Ventura is now 11-7.

Michael Anderson 146 Emmanuel Lartei Lartey 145.5

Derek Webster 164 Darnell Boone 164.5

Ty Yab Beale 246.5 Aaron Kinch 267

Peter Reyes 158 Oscar Pagan 159

Shakir Aquel Dunn 147 Tobias Molina 144

Anthony Jones 157 Issa Coulibaly 161

Maurice Amaro 173 Abdellah Smith 176

Venue: Robert Treat Hotel

Promoter: All Out Promotions

RED BLUE

4Rounds- Heavyweights

Jarrell Miller vs. Joey Dawejko

Brooklyn, NY Philadelphia, PA

4-0, 4 KO’s 7-1-1, 3 KO’s

WT:286 TKS: Black/Silver WT:242.75 TKS: Black/Gold

6 Rounds-Super Featherweights

Chip Perez Jason Sosa

East Hartford, CT Camden, NJ

10-1, 3 KO’s 7-1-3, 3 KO’s

WT:130.25 TKS: Blue/Black/Silver WT:130.75 TKS: Black/Gold

8 Rounds- Super Middleweights

Vladine Biosse vs. Marcus Upshaw

Providence, RI Jacksonville, FL

14-1-1, 7 KO’s 14-8-1, 6 KO’s

WT:167 TKS: White WT:164 TKS: Black/Red

8 Round-Lightweights

Edwin Cotto vs. Ian James

Willimantic, CT Brooklyn, NY

Pro Debut 2-4-1, 1 KO

WT:132.25 TKS: Red/White WT:134 TKS:Black/Red

4RoundsWelterweights

Jimmy Williams vs. Noel Garcia

New Haven, CT Springfield, CT

Pro Debut 2-15-8, 1 KO

WT:153 TKS: Black/Red WT:158 TKS: Black/White

6 Rounds – Bantamweight

Shelito (Michelle) Vincent vs. Nydia Feliciano

New London, CT Bronx, NY

6-0 5-3-3

WT:121.5 TKS: Red/White/Green WT:121 TKS: Yellow/Blue/White

Elvin Ayala (L), Curtis Stevens (R)

Photo Credits: Rich Graessle/Main Events

10 Rounds- NABF Middleweight Title

Elvin Ayala vs. Curtis Stevens

New Haven, CT Brooklyn, NY

26-5-1, 12KO’s 22-3, 16 KO’s

WT:159 TKS:Black/Red WT:159 TKS:Black/Green

Sergey Kovalev (L), Gabriel Campillo (R)

Photo Credits: Rich Graessle/Main Events

10 Rounds – Light Heavyweight

Gabriel Campillo vs. Sergey Kovalev

Madrid, Spain Chelyabinsk, Russia

21-4-1, 7 KO’s 19-0-1, 16 KO’s

WT:175 TKS:White/Red/Black WT:175 TKS: Red/White

BOUTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Orlando Salido 126 – Mikey Garcia 125.5
Roman Martinez 129.5 – Juan Carlos Burgos 129

D and D Management Team LLC would like to treat two fans to a free night of boxing on January 26th at Harrah’s Casino Philadelphia being promoted by Joey Eyes Promotion. The first fan that is able to have 25 people like the “DandD Management Team LLC” Facebook page will win two all access credentials to enter the fight and meet the D and D Management Team LLC fighters. Every person that likes the facebook page must inbox D and D to let us know which fan receives the credit.

“THE FAB 4”

Mark Rideout Javontae Starks Alex Sanchez Decarlo Perez

2-0 5-0, 4kos 3-1, 2kos 8-2, 3kos

Special Guest appearance two of D and D Management Team’s “D-Boys”

Todd “2Gunz” Unthank-May & Jesse “Hard Work” Hart

Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing and co-promoter Carlos Gonzalez of Best Boxing are proud to officially announce an historic event in which two Panamanians will face two Filipinos for world titles on the same show on March 16, at the luxury Megapolis Convention Center and Hard Rock Hotel of Panama Avenida Balboa in Panama City.

In the night’s main event, IBF Junior Flyweight Champion Jon Riel Casimero (17-2, 10 KOs) will make the second defense of his belt against hometown hero Luis Alberto “Pan Blanco” Rios (18-1-1, 13 KOs).

22-year-old Casimero won his title in February 2012 in a wild affair in Argentina against Luis Alberto Lazarte, which saw both fighters down multiple times and both fighters losing several points for fouls. The eventual TKO 10 awarded to Casimero sparked one of the worst riots in recent boxing history.

Rios is the IBF’s number one contender in the division. The 22-year-old Panamanian has already held the WBC Latino light flyweight title and successfully defended it once.

And in the co-main event, former two-time world champion Roberto “La Arana” Vasquez (32-5-1, 22 KOs) of Panama will face John Mark “Iceman” Apolinario (17-2-2, 4 KOs) of the Philippines in a rematch for the WBA Interim Bantamweight Championship.

The pair fought to an exciting majority draw for the same title in Colon Entre Rios, Argentina, last November 3. Both say they deserved the victory last time and both are looking to settle it once and for all with this performance.

“I am very proud to be bringing this unforgettable night of boxing to the Panamanian people,” said promoter Lewkowicz. “This show will feature two sensational match-ups for world title belts. The Megapolis Convention Center in Panama City is a beautiful place for a fight and my partner Carlos Gonzalez and I are honored to be able to present it.”

January 18, 2013 – Gary Shaw Productions, in association with Grange Old School Boxing and Black Venom Promotions, are pleased to announce a heavyweight showdown on the undercard to the Mundine vs. Geale world title fight at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, on Wednesday, January 30.

Cult sensation Kimbo Slice, will put his devastating punching power to the ultimate test when he squares off with QLD Heavyweight champion Shane Tilyard.

Kimbo Slice is no stranger to knocking people out. He’s known around the world for his brute strength and granite chin as well as his amazing punching power. One thing you can count on, Kimbo Slice is coming to fight!

“Tilyard thinks he’s been in the ring with tough guys but he’s never been in there with a monster like me,” stated Kimbo Slice. “He better be ready because I’m coming to knock his head off and show the fans of Australia who the real KO King is.”

Tilyard overcame some formidable opposition including former kickboxing world champion Nathan ‘Carnage’ Corbett and NRL star turned boxer John Hopoate to claim the KO Kimbo competition and earn the right to fight former UFC star Kimbo Slice.

The 27 year-old from Brisbane is a knock-out specialist, setting the scene for what is certain to be one of the most explosive heavyweight bouts ever seen on Australian shores.

All six of Tilyard’s professional wins have come by way of knock out, including a stunning demolition of former Australian Heavyweight champion Colin Wilson last year.

“I’ve been training the house down since I heard about this competition and I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to show Kimbo a thing or two about fighters in Australia”. Tilyard said.

“Kimbo has a big reputation, but he has never fought anyone in a backyard, Octagon or boxing ring that has my power.”

“I’ve seen his clips on You Tube and I can tell you there will be another one very soon of me putting Kimbo on his backside once and for all”.

Today’s announcement rounds out a blockbuster card that will feature some of the most exciting prospects in Australian boxing.

Undefeated cruiserweight David Aloua will square off with Newcastle’s Daniel Aman for the Australian Cruiserweight Title.

Unbeaten contender, Joel Brunker will look to continue his rapid rise up the Featherweight rankings when he takes on Mexican Joksan Hernandez.

Former world title contender Jamie Pittman looks set for an epic showdown with Zak Awad, Cowra’s Steve Lovett will do battle with Joel Casey in a light heavyweight contest while Lauryn Eagle will round out the card when she takes on Nadine Browne.

Daniel Geale, Kimbo Slice and Joel Brunker are all promoted by Gary Shaw and are guaranteed to bring the fans to their feet with their electrifying styles.

Tickets for Mundine v Geale II are still available through www.ticketmaster.com.au

MAIN EVENT will broadcast the entire card live and exclusive from 7:30pm AEDT. Book now through www.mainevent.com.au

Bobby Hitz, the “Godfather of Chicago Boxing” will return on Friday, February 15, 2013, with his own version of a St. Valentine’s Day massacre in the form of another of his jam-packed nights of old-school professional boxing at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana.

Fresh off an extended recurring role on the Fox series Mob Doctor where he played right hand man to the mob boss played by William Forsythe, Hitz will continue his series of Horseshoe boxing shows that are known for consistently delivering all-action fights to the sold-out crowds who flock to this Indiana casino just 20 minutes outside Chicago.

The first main event of the year will feature the rematch of an explosive war held last November at this very same venue, as Chicago (via Lithuania) middleweight Donatas Bondorovas (16-3-1, 5 KOs) will once again face Evansville, Indiana’s “King” David Thomas (10-3-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round battle.

In their first encounter, Bondorovas had to get off the floor and survive several shaky moments before storming back to win via a come-from-behind (and some would say early) stoppage in round two. Plenty of doubt remains and both fighters are eager to do it again and prove their superiority once and for all.

Several Chicagoland favorites are scheduled to appear in supporting bouts including Chicago’s red-hot undefeated Dimar “Strongman” Ortuz (7-0, 5 KOs), who will go six rounds in the cruiserweight division. Ortuz is coming off back-to-back sensational victories at the Horseshoe over then-undefeated opponents Donta Woods and Terry Martin.

Also returning for a six-rounder is wildly popular Chicago super middleweight prospect Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (8-0, 5 KOs), who is fresh off his very impressive stoppage of former world title challenger Antwun Echols last November at the Horseshoe. Jimenez will fight twice this month and is looking to have a breakout year in 2013.

In matches already finalized, Hammond, Indiana’s own heavyweight powerhouse David Martin III (6-0-1, 5 KOs) is coming back for a six-rounder against Chicago tough guy Felix Abner (3-2, 2 KOs); and 21-year-old Rockford, Illinois, lightweight Anthony Linenfelser (3-3, 3 KOs) will bring his brand of excitement to bear against explosive Chicago native Russell “Rocky” Fiore (6-2-1, 6 KOs) in a four-rounder.

In another six-round bout, talented Hitz Boxing prospect Prenice Brewer (16-3-1, 6 KOs) will return to action in a welterweight match-up.

Popular locals also featured in four-round fights will be junior welterweight Genaro Mendez (5-1-1, 3 KOs); pro super flyweight and former National Jr. Olympic Champion Johnny “WiteBoi” Determan (5-0, 4 KOs) from Nebraska, as well as the other heavily decorated Chicago-based amateur he is on a collision course with: 21-year-old super flyweight prospect Adan Ortiz (5-0, 4 KOs); welterweight “Irish” Jimmy Murphy (1-0, 1 KO) and the second fight of welterweight Nick Ramirez (0-0-1).

All opponents not specified will be announced shortly.

The high-class atmosphere and luxurious surroundings the Horseshoe has to offer make their boxing shows a Las Vegas-style night of boxing that Chicago-area fans don’t have to get on a plane to enjoy.
The Horseshoe Casino has an intimate, comfortable venue with luxurious seats, a spectacular gaming area, free parking, exquisite food and all the amenities — and is just 20 minutes from Downtown Chicago.

Tickets are priced at $90 Ringside & $40 Orchestra and available at all Ticketmaster outlets and ticketmaster.com.

On fight night, doors open 6:30 pm and the action starts at 7:30.

All bouts are subject to change.

NEW YORK (January 17, 2013) — The final press conference took place today at The Garden for Saturday’s World Championship Triple Header at the Theater at Madison Square Garden broadcast Live on HBO®.

Quotes follow…

FELIX VERDEJO (highlights of the 2012 Puerto Rico Olympian’s fight will be shown during the broadcast): This a great opportunity for me, to fight at Madsion Square Garden. Great Puerto Rican fighters that I followed as a kid have fought here. This is my first time fighting here and this is only the beginning. I hope this is the first of many to come.

JUAN CARLOS BURGOS: I am ready and confident for the fight on Saturday night. This was the best training camp of my career. I know I am fighting a Puerto Rican warrior. But like many who have come before me, I am a warrior also, a Mexican warrior. I will take this title back to Mexico where it belongs. I will be the first Mexican of 2013 to win a world championship.

PETER RIVERA (Roman Martinez’ co-promoter from Perto Rico): Rocky Martinez is Puerto Rico’s only current world champion. Everyone in Puerto Rico will be watching

ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ: This is a great opportunity for me to fight at Madison Square Garden, where many of the great Puerto Rican champions have fought. I look to carry the torch and retain the title. Puerto Rico has a great boxing history and we will continue that. I prepared very well for this fight – it was the best camp ever and I am 100% ready for this fight. I prepared for twelve rounds. The man who prepared the best will win the fight.

BIILY BRISCOE (Gabriel Rosado Trainer): We were the mandatory challenger to junior middleweight champion k9 Buddrage, but we didn’t think twice about taking this fight. We are old school. We want to fight the best. Golovkin is the undefeated world champion, but you can’t let the man’s reputation beat you, you have to make the man beat you. Golovkin is the real deal but all fighters are beatable and we believe we have the plan. We are going tow in the fight. I don’t want to predict the round, but it’s not going to go the distance.

GABRIEL ROSADO: I turned down the opportunity to fight K9 for the world title. I took this fight because it is higher risk, higher reward. I know this guy is really good and has the will to win, but so do I.

GENNADY GOLOVKIN: Very excited to be fighting at Madison Square Garden which has always been a dream of mine. I’m happy to once again fight on HBO and ready to perform at a very high level. I’m glad that Gabriel accepted this opportunity and I wish him luck on Saturday night. ‘I’m prepared for anything Gabriel brings to the fight. Thanks to HBO and Madison Square Garden for their support.”

ROBERT GARCIA (Former world champion, brother and trainer of Mikey Garcia): Madison Square Garden is one of the great places to be. Mikey is in great shape. We had a great training camp. We know we are going up against the best featherweight int he world.

MIKEY GARCIA: It is going to be a great show on Saturday night. It is a great roster from top to bottom. I am very excited for the opportunity that is ahead of me. I plan to win the championship on Saturday night in a fight that i want people to never forget. This fight will leave a lasting impression on the boxing world for years to come.

FERNANDO BELTRAN (Salido co-promoter): My figher is 39-11 and the best featherweight in the world. When he defended his title against Juan Manuel Lopez on March 10, it probably should have been fight-of-the-year, but it was on the wrong network so that’s why we probably didn’t get it. He knocked Juan Manuel out and ruined his plans.

ORLANDO SALIDO: We always want to fight the best fighters in the world and one of them is right in front of us. He is a different type of fighter than I am and I know it will be a difficult fight. This fight is one that will be a war in the ring.

ORLANDO “Siri” SALIDO will defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight title against undefeated No. 1 contender MIKEY GARCIA; undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) / International Boxing Organization (IBO) middleweight champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN will look to extend his reign into its third year against world-rated contender “King”GABRIEL ROSADO; and two-time WBO junior lightweight champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ will put it all on the line when he goes mano a mano with No. 1 contender JUAN CARLOS “Mini” BURGOS. All three fights will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, Saturday, January 19, beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

These six warriors have a combined record of 170-18-3 (123 KOs) — a winning percentage of 89% and a victory by knockout ratio of 72%.

Promoted by Top Rank® and K2 Promotions, in association with Tecate and Madison Square Garden, remaining tickets, priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, are currently available for purchase at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com orwww.thegarden.com

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing.

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (Jan. 17, 2013) – Elvin Ayala had no idea he’d be fighting for a title this weekend until he stepped foot inside Mohegan Sun Casino for Thursday’s pre-fight press conference. The sudden news has done little to change his approach.

“I’ve been training hard regardless,” said Ayala (26-5-1, 12 KOs), the New Haven, Conn., native who will face New York’s Curtis Stevens (22-3, 16 KOs) for the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) middleweight title Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013 in the nationally-televised co-feature of NBC Sports’ Fight Night series.

“For years, I’ve been talking about trying to get the beast out. Well, today it’s out. You’re going to see a different me on Saturday night.”

Saturday’s show, which is co-promoted by Main Events and Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, also features the 10-round main event between No. 3-ranked light heavyweight Sergey Kovalev (19-0-1, 17 KOs) of Russia and former world champion Gabriel Campillo (21-4-1, 8 KOs) of Spain. The live telecast will begin 9 p.m. ET on the NBC Sports Network.

Stevens, a former title contender from Brownsville, represents Ayala’s toughest test since facing David Lemieux in 2010. Since then, Ayala has won six consecutive bouts to rise to No. 9 in the World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight rankings, so fighting for a title Saturday night is “just a bonus.”

“Right now, I’m bubbling. I’ve got a lot going through my mind,” Ayala said. “I know my opponent is trying to stop me from eating and stop my children from eating. He’s a strong opponent, but I’ve been in there with the best.

“There was no Christmas, no New Year’s and no birthday for me,” added Ayala, who turned 32 on Tuesday. “It’s just been training, so I know when I go in there Saturday night I’ll be 100 percent.”

Stevens, initially irked when Ayala said he was “no Arthur Abraham” – a reference to Ayala’s world-title bout against Abraham in 2008 – will face an additional challenge Saturday night in front of the Mohegan Sun crowd, which figures to be pro-Ayala.

“The fight may be in his backyard, but on Saturday night he’ll be in my house,” Stevens said.

“I feel great. I had two years off [after losing to Jesse Brinkley in 2010], which gave me a lot of time to think. Before I was partying a lot, and not really focusing on boxing. The loss to Brinkley might’ve been the best thing that happened to me. I’ve been through a lot, but come Saturday night I’ll be ready to climb to the top. The crowd won’t bother me; in the ring it’s my house. There won’t be much he can do with a wild beast on him.

“And whether I’m fighting for a title or not, I’ve got to win. I’ve got no choice.”

Added Ayala: “Unless [the crowd] can come in there with me and hold him down while I punch him, it won’t help me win the fight. If I’m not moving, slipping and using combinations, all the screaming in the world won’t help me. I appreciate the support – I always do – but I need to focus on what I need to do to win. He’s a strong opponent, and whether he’s happy, mad or neutral, I know he’s coming to beat me.”

The main event promises major fireworks as the Russian Kovalev looks to move one step closer toward challenging for a world title in the light heavyweight division.

“Right after we signed him, the first thing he asked me was how soon he could fight for a world title, not how many tune-up fights he could have,” said Main Events president Kathy Duva. “He’s really, really ready. This is a make-or-break fight for both of them. With a win, Sergey would be making a statement that he is, in fact, one of the best light heavyweights in the division.”

Since fighting to a draw against Grover Young in 2011, Kovalev has won each of his last three fights by knockout, including a third-round knockout win over Lionell Thompson in September.

“I’ll do my best to put on a great show,” Kovalev said. “You won’t regret spending your money.”

“He only has one thing on his mind,” added Kovalev’s trainer, Egis Klimas, “and that’s to become a world champion. He’s here to prove it on Saturday night.”

Campillo is looking to make one more run at championship glory. From 2009 to 2010, he held the World Boxing Association (WBA) light heavyweight title, defending the belt once against Beibut Shumenov before losing the rematch – and the title – by split decision in January of 2010. Campillo also challenged for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) light heavyweight title in February, but lost a narrow split-decision to Tavoris Cloud.

“This is an important fight for me,” Campillo said. “I’ve been training really hard for this. When you come to see me, you’re coming to see a great fight.”

The undercard includes an eight-round super middleweight showdown between Vladine Biosse (14-1-1, 7 KOs) of Providence, R.I., and Marcus Upshaw (14-8-2, 6 KOs) of Jacksonville, Fla., and a six-round female bantamweight bout between undefeated Shelito Vincent (6-0) of Providence (New London, Conn.) and Bronx native Nydia Feliciano (5-3-3).

Hartford, Conn., super featherweight Joseph “Chip” Perez (10-3, 1 KO) will face Jason Sosa (7-1-3, 3 KOs) of Camden, N.J., in a six-round bout; Brooklyn’s Ian James (2-4-1, 1 KO) will battle newcomer Edwin Cotto of Willimantic, Conn., in a four-round lightweight bout; and unbeaten heavyweight Jarrell Miller (4-0, 4 KOs) of New York will face Philadelphia’s Joey Dawejko (7-1-1, 3 KOs) in a four-round bout. New Haven newcomer Jimmy Williams will make his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout against Springfield, Mass., veteran Noel Garcia (2-15-2, 1 KO). Tickets are priced at $40 and $125 and can be purchased by calling TicketMaster at 1-800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

January 17, 2013 – On Saturday January 19th, live from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut, undefeated heavyweight Jarrell Miller (4-0 4 KOs) will face off against Joey Dawejko (7-1-1 3 KOs) of Philadelphia in a scheduled 4 rounder. The fight will be part of the NBC Sports Networks televised lineup, which includes the main event between Gabriel Campillo and Sergey Kovalev.

Miller is a flamboyant fighter with a big personality to go along with his big right hand. Miller has accumulated 4 KO/TKO victories in his 4 professional fights as a boxer, although he also maintains an undefeated record as a kick boxer, competing in some past K-1 events. Miller stands 6’4″ and he will enjoy a 6 inch height advantage in this matchup.

Dawejko will be a step up in competition for Miller and with the fight being televised on NBC Sports Network the scene is set perfectly for Miller to showcase his brand of fighting.

“I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity to be on TV and I plan on making a lot of new fans,” Miller said. “I’m going to put a new spin on the heavyweight division and I think people will appreciate my outlook, so plan on getting familiar with me. I know what I’m capable of doing, it’s everyone else that is unfamiliar with my talents and I plan on taking everyone to school on January 19th.”

NEW YORK – January 17, 2013 – NBC Sports Group continues its Fight Night series, Saturday at 9 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Network, with a main event featuring Gabriel “Chico Guapo” Campillo (21-4-1, 7 KO’s) of Madrid, Spain vs. Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (19-0-1, 16 KO’s) of Ft. Lauderdale Fla., at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Conn. The Fight Night telecast on Saturday will be the first 2013 edition of the popular nationally televised boxing series.

Former light heavyweight world champion Campillo, rated No. 3 in the world by the IBF, takes on Kovalev rated No. 10 in the world by the WBC and No. 14 by the IBF, in a 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In the co-feature bout, Elvin Ayala (26-5-1, 12 KO’s) of New Haven, Conn., steps in to the ring against Curtis Stevens (22-3, 16 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY., in a 10-round middleweight bout.

NBC Sports Group’s Fight Night broadcast team of Kenny Rice (play-by-play), Hall-of-Fame boxing trainer Freddie Roach (analyst), cruiserweight contender B.J. Flores (analyst) and Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix (reporter) will call the action.

2013 NBC SPORTS GROUP FIGHT NIGHT SCHEDULE

(All times ET and subject to change)

Saturday, Jan., 19
9 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
Mohegan, CT

Saturday, Feb., 23
10:30 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

Saturday, Mar., 9
10 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

Saturday, June 14
9 p.m. ET
NBC Sports Network
TBA

FIGHT NIGHT FUTURE STARS

Rising four- and six-round fighters will get their chance to shine when NBC Sports Group and Main Events present Fight Night Future Stars, a one-hour program that will highlight the performances of developing undercard fighters on the regular NBC Sports Network Fight Night presentations.

“Boxing fans will now get the chance to see up-and-coming talent through our Fight Night Future Stars telecasts,” said Jon Miller, President Programming, NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network. “Up until now, the only way to watch the development ofthis kind of talent was to attend the live fights. Now, the most promising young performers will get the chance to showcase their talents to a national audience.”

The first Fight Night Future Stars telecast will feature taped performances from the upcoming Saturday, January 19th NBC Sports Network Fight Night card, which will take place at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT. The action will be called by Fight Night talent, Kenny Rice and B.J. Flores.

“Fight Night has provided a launching pad for many of the young men who appeared on our programs in 2012,” said promoter Kathy Duva of Main Events. “Gabriel Rosado and Zab Judah enhanced their careers through the Fight Night series on NBC Sports Network and are now scheduled for world title bouts in the first quarter of 2013. The addition of Future Stars will simply create more opportunities for the many talented fighters who have yet to gain national television exposure.”

Telecast dates and times for the Fight Night Future Stars series will be forthcoming.

About Fight Night: NBC Sports Network’s Fight Night series is collaboration between NBC Sports Group, Main Events and Hall of Fame matchmaker J Russell Peltz. The series premiered on January 21, 2012 and featured six original telecasts on NBC Sports Network and one broadcast on NBC. In 2013, a total of seven original telecasts will air on NBC Sports Network and NBC.

– NBC Sports Group –

ABOUT JANUARY 19 FIGHTS

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 can be purchased through Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000. Ticketmaster Link to January 19 NBCSN Fight Night at Mohegan Sun. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office 1-800-862-8499.

Eight bouts are planned for the January 19 card to be held at Mohegan Sun Arena, 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard Uncasville, CT. Doors open at 6:00PM. First fight is at 6:30PM.

Sergey Kovalev, 19-0-1, 17 KOs, takes on Gabriel Campillo, 21-4-1, 8 KOs, in an international 10-round light heavyweight main event. In the co-feature, Elvin Ayala, 26-5-1, 12 KO’s, battles Curtis Stevens, 22-3, 16 KO’s, in a 10-round middleweight contest.

The card is promoted by Main Events and Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports in association with Peltz Boxing, and Sampson Boxing.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Twitter: #FightNight Twitter: @main_events @NBCSN