CARTERET, NEW JERSEY (FEBRURAY 15, 2012)—This Friday night at Nutley High School in Nutley, New Jersey, Heavyweight John Lennox will make his second start of 2012 when he takes on Miles Kelly as part of nine bout card promoted by Gabe LaConte’s First Round Promotions.

Lennox, 9-1, 4 KO’s of Carteret, New Jersey is coming off a grueling four round unanimous decision over Riley Brooks on January 13th in Philadelphia.

Lennox and Brooks waged a toe to toe war that thrilled the crowd but was not one of Lennox’ best performaces.

“He didn’t have a full training camp”, said Lennox manager Rich Masini.

“John was flat footed and he fought Brooks fight”

With a full camp under the tutelage of Ray McCline, Mike Hall and Charles Thomas, Masini expects a better performance on Friday night.

“John is firing on all cylinders and we expect this to be his best performance to date”

Although Kelly’s record on reads 2-6, Team Lennox was looking for a fighter with a better record but they also are taking Kelly’s bid for an upset very seriously.

“We couldn’t make the fight we wanted to make but John isn’t taking anybody lightly. Despite Kelly’s record we know he has confidence as he is the one who stepped up for the challenge”

Lennox is already looking for a big 2012 as he begins to step up in class.

“This will be John’s first six round fight and we have an eight rounder penciled in for April in the Netherlands then we should be fighting ten rounders later in the year”

Masini has a lot of faith in his fighter and believes that he will be a player in the Heavyweight division before very long. He also believes that his only loss, that being a controversial first round stoppage at the hands of highly regarded Joey Dawejko in September.

“John hasn’t got a fair shake from the boxing public. He hasn’t been given the respect because of one controversial round and the fact he is one of the most active Heavyweights and he picked himself up from that adversity and continues to win should say something about what he has inside of him”

“He trains like he is fighting for the Heavyweight championship. We have goals of being the top Heavyweight in the world”

“Mark my words, John Lennox will surprise a lot of people down the road and these people will be eating their words”

Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing cost $100 for VIP (which includes a buffet dinner) and $40 General Admission.

There will be discounted tickets for Students and seniors and all tickets can be purchased at the following places:

Elite Heat Boxing Gym
130 Mt. Pleasant Ave.
Newark, NJ
862 772-2532

White Oak Barber Shop
83 Union Ave.
Nutley, NJ
973-661-3334

Boardwalk Saloon
206 Bloomfield Ave
Newark, NJ
973-483-8766

Nutley High School is located at 300 Franklin Ave.

After first saying he would not fight WBA Welterweight champion Vyacheslav Senchenko for the allotted $250,000 from a purse bid, Former Jr. Welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi changed his mind and will travel to the Ukraine and take on Sanchenko on April 29th according to espn.com’s Dan Rafael.

“I’m making this a real-life ‘Rocky’ story, I’m going to the Ukraine to bring that title back to the United States of America,” Malignaggi said on his Twitter account. “This fight is for the people who have supported me from day one. I’m bringing the belt back to New York.”

Union Boxing Promotions bid $1,000,010 on the fight, while Malignaggi’s promoter, Golden Boy, bid only $250,000, and no television outlet was interested in buying it. Under the bid terms, Malignaggi is due 25 percent, with the rest going to Senchenko (32-0, 21 KOs), who will be making his fourth title defense.

“Once again I am going into enemy territory, but that’s life,” Malignaggi said. “Gotta do what you gotta do.”

Golden Boy’s Richard Schaefer, Malignaggi’s promoter, told ESPN.com that the deal was done.

“We have a signed contract, so he is going to Ukraine,” Schaefer said. “We worked everything out and now we have a fight. Paulie has a hell of a chance to become a world champion again. We like our chances and we are fully supportive of Paulie. A lot of credit goes to Paulie for taking this fight and going to Ukraine and we are convinced he will come back with a world title.”

“We gave up our percentage to help get this deal done. That is how much we believe in Paulie,” Schaefer said.

“I did pay my dues, but no one wants to fight me here,” Malignaggi said. “I gotta do what I gotta do and fight this dude in the Ukraine. No one wants to throw Paulie Malignaggi a bone, but they throw bones left and right to cheaters. So now I have to go bone-collecting in the Ukraine. I am making a ballsy decision by going to the Ukraine, but life is a risk. Take a risk or sit back and watch someone else take that risk.

“My whole life, nothing was handed to me. I had to go out in the world and get it. So going to the Ukraine is nothing new.

– Friday, February 17, 2012 8:30pm ET featuring Ultimate Reno Combat 31 at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. In the main event, Brandon Costa (4-0) representing Uriah Faber’s Ultimate Fitness battles “Bad” Brad Robasciotti (2-1) for the light heavyweight title. Costa is the reigning champion and this will be his first title defense in the 205 lb division. A heavy puncher, the undefeated Costa has 3 of his wins via TKO so he will try and use his hand speed to connect early with Robasciotti. For Robasciotti, he earned this title shot, but a great showing at URC 30 when he TKO’d his opponent in the opening round. This is a great matchup of two heavy hitters and odds are this will not go the distance. Be ready for fireworks. In the co-main event, Oscar Ramirez (7-1) fights Michael Hutchins (2-0) in a bantamweight scrap. For Ramirez this will be his 9th time competing in the URC cage so he will definitely have the advantage with familiarity and experience. A former champion for the promotion, Ramirez is looking to get back to the top and the fastest way to do that is with a spectacular win against Hutchins. Hutchins is a newcomer to MMA, but both of his wins have come via first round submission inside of the URC cage. Hutchins is a great grappler and will not hesitate to go for an arm, leg or neck if he sees an opening. Don’t blink for this bout folks; it’s going to be a barnburner. The winner of this bout will be in line for a title shot soon.

– Saturday, February 18, 2012 4:00am ET / 7:00pm Canberra time, featuring Brace for War 14 at The National Convention Centre, Canberra, Australia. The 9-bout card is headlined by the country’s top MMA talents and this event promises to show the world that mixed martial arts is a thriving and growing sport Down Under. In the main event, Luke Hume fights Dave Brooksbank. This is a battle of Australia versus the UK as Hume will have the home Aussies cheering him on against Brooksbank who is ready to conquer the hometown hero. Hume is coming off a tough loss at Brace for War 13, and looks to get back into title contention with a victory over the up and coming Brooksbank. Hume is able to finish fights on the ground or in the standup and if need be has the conditioning to go the distance. Look for him to try and wear out the less experienced Brooksbank and get him to the later rounds. Brooksbank is a noted grappler as his two victories have both come via first round submissions. Brooksbank will look to do the same against Hume and make it another short night. In the co-main event, Duke Didier battles Hugo Miller in a heavyweight tilt. Didier is an Australian judo champion and will have a huge advantage if the fight goes to the ground. Didier finished his only opponent in under a minute at Brace for War 10, and will try and implement the same game plan here. Miller’s large limbs will be calling cards for submission attempts if Didier can get the bout to the mat. But Miller’s size advantage and reach will pose a huge threat to Didier while the fighters are on their feet. Also scheduled to compete, in a battle of giants, are local favorite Andrew Machin versus Joel Dixon and females Bec “Rowdy” Hyatt against the debuting Sara Morrison.

– Saturday, February 18, 2012 6:30pm ET featuring NAAFS Caged Vengeance 10 at Grays Armory in Cleveland, Ohio. The cards main event will feature former NAAFS welterweight champion Nick Duell who looks for his second straight win against StrikeForce veteran and Team Gracie product, Alex Trevino. Duell is looking for his second straight win after taking home a split decision victory in his last bout back on November 23rd. Trevino, who won his first three fights in StrikeForce, will make his NAAFS debut as he too looks for his second consecutive win. Fan favorite and Ohio native Jessica Eye will battle Jackson MMA’s Kelly Warren in a 125 lbs divisional showcase. Eye was impressive in her last NAAFS appearance when she took out Jennifer Scott by unanimous decision. While Warren looks to rebound off her first career loss, a hard fought loss to current champion Aisling Daly. Long time NAAFS veteran Paul Compton returns to the NAAFS for what could be one of the cards most exciting match ups when he collides with Anotnio Castillo Jr. Both fighters are coming off impressive wins in their last outings. A win in this fight, may earn the victor a crack at the 145 lbs NAAFS title later this year. Former NAAFS national amateur champion Isaiah Chapman will make his long awaited professional debut against newcomer Richard McDole while two time national champion George Comer takes on Ryan Shank to round out the pro portion of the card. The amateur undercard will be highlighted by nationally ranked Cody Garbrandt who may be making his last trip to the cage as an amateur against undefeated up and comer Jarell Hodge.

– Saturday, February 18, 2012 7:30pm ET featuring Absolute Action MMA 23 “A Night of Champions” at Drawbridge Inn in Ft Mitchell, Kentucky. Complete fight card with Pro/Am fights, 8 Title fights including 2 female titles up for grabs, Pro Debut of Former AAMMA 155 champion James Morton and Pro Debut of former AAMMA 135 Champion Eric Moell, The return of former 135 and 145 Champion Doug Ballinger in a Pro matchup

Other events this week:

Boxing: First Round Promotions – Pro Boxing Fight Night (Pay-per-View): Feb 17, 2012 7:00pm ET.

Pro-Wrestling: Future Stars of Wrestling Arizona – Adrenaline Rush (free view): Feb 16, 2012 9:00pm ET . Future Stars of Wrestling Nevada – High Octane (free view): Feb 16, 2012 10:00pm ET.

Impact Zone Wrestling (free view): Feb 18, 2012 8:00pm ET

GFL now offers full access to over 6,000 fights for the low monthly price of $9.99 subscribe now at www.GFL.tv

***GFL is a pioneer in Internet Sports Broadcasting. Over the years GFL has broadcast more than 1200 live events with over 6000 combat sports videos in 196 countries. GFL is especially proud to have served greater than 5 million public viewers over the years with more than 250 combat sports related website affiliates in its network. GFL is also available on Roku, Android, IPhone, IPad, as well as other internet ready devices. Check the event page for details.

If Combat Sports is your game…Go Fight-Every Night with GFL Combat Sports Network

Join us at: www.GFL.tv or twitter.com/GFL or youtube.com/Gofightlive or inquiries contact press@gfl.tv

Totowa, NJ – Super Featherweight boxer Jerry Belmontes of Corpus Christi, Texas, 15-0, 5 KOs, has signed a promotional deal with Northern New Jersey based Main Events, it was announced today by promoter Kathy Duva.

An outstanding amateur fighter who won numerous tournaments and made it to the semi-finals of the USA Olympic Trials in 2008, Belmontes (15-0, 5 KO’s) has built a large local fan base in Texas as he has swept through the first chapter of his career as a professional.

Known as the “Corpus Christi Kid”, Belmontes defeated Justo Vallecillo by 6-round unanimous decision in his most recent bout on June 24, 2011. After a nine-month layoff, Belmontes looks forward to getting back in the ring and fighting the rest of his way to the top.

“Everyone in the boxing world knows Main Events. They are a big company that can get me where I need to be in the rankings, and into a world title fight,” said Belmontes. “That’s what I want. Fighting is what I do.”

Manager, Adrian Clark added, “Jerry is a big star in Corpus Christi, and the rest of the world is going to love him too. I call him the Mexican Floyd Mayweather. He’s a speed fighter who prides himself on his defense and not getting touched.”

“Jerry has all the attributes that we look for in a fighter,” Duva said. “He is skilled and exciting, he has a large local fan following in Corpus and he has the potential to become a world champion. We are delighted to add Jerry to the Main Events roster and expect great things from him going forward.” She continued, “we are also excited to return to Corpus Christi, where Main Events has promoted many fights in the past. Corpus has always been one of my favorite cities.”

Belmontes joins Main Events as one of its elite young prospects, and is expected to fight under the promoter’s banner for the first time in May in a bout to be televised on Telefutura’s Solo Boxeo Tecate. Details about the show will be released in the coming weeks.

The White Wolf, Sergei Liakhovich will take on Philadelphia’s hot Bryant Jennings in a 10-round co-feature, while heavyweight Tomasz Adamek makes his first ring appearance since facing Heavyweight King Vitali Klitschko on Saturday, March 24th when the NBC Sports Network’s “Fight Night” boxing series comes to Brooklyn’s Aviator Sports Complex. In the main event of the evening, Brooklyn’s Zab Judah takes on unbeaten Junior Welterweight Vernon Paris in a mandated fight for the #1 position in the IBF.

Jennings, 12-0, 5 KO’s, who made an enormous hit with the NBC Sports Network audience, last month, when he stepped into the main event on just five days’ notice on the inaugural “Fight Night” broadcast and captured the Pennsylvania Heavyweight Title in an exciting 12-round brawl with Maurice Byarm, will face one of the big men who he replaced that night. Liakhovich, 25-4, 16 KO’s, caught a tough break just a few days earlier when no suitable opponent could be found to replace top contender Eddie Chambers on short notice when he suffered two broken ribs in sparring and had to withdraw. Always ready to do battle in the ring, Liakhovich was anxious to get back on the fight calendar as soon as possible.

Liakhovich, “I am glad to be fighting on NBC Sports Network. I look forward to my fight with Jennings. I like fighting guys who appreciate a challenge like me. I am in great shape and can’t wait to get back in the ring.”

Russell Peltz of Peltz Boxing said that Jennings was eager to get back in the ring, “We feel we should strike while the iron is hot. Why go backwards after the win over Byarm?”

A former World Light Heavyweight, Cruiserweight and IBF International Heavyweight champion, Adamek, 44-2, 28 KO’s, is equally anxious to begin his climb back up to the top of the heavyweight rankings with his first ever appearance in Brooklyn. A suitable opponent is being sought and his name will be released shortly.

“This show is shaping up to be quite extraordinary,” promoter Kathy Duva said. “There will be excitement from start to finish and I’m sure that every boxing fan who can’t get a ticket won’t want to miss the broadcast on the NBC Sports Network.”

Gary Quinn, Sr. Director of Programming & Acquisitions NBC Sports Group added, “We are pleased with the high caliber of the March 24th card from top to bottom. We are building on the positive momentum we established with our January 21 show. Fans will be able to tune in for another fantastic night of boxing March 24th on NBC Sports Network Fight Night.”

Tickets to the blockbuster triple-header, priced at $200, $100 and $75 and may be purchased by calling Peltz Boxing, (215) 765-0922, or online through www.peltzboxing.com. The non-televised undercard fights will begin at 7:30 p.m., the NBC Sports Network Fight Night broadcast will begin at 10 p.m. ET on Mar 24th.

The Aviator Sports and Events Center offers free parking. You can also take public transportation via the Q35 MTA bus from the Flatbush Avenue/Brooklyn College subway station.

Promoted by Main Events in association with Super Judah Promotions and Peltz Boxing.

Be sure to tune into NBCSN for all the action following the NCAA basketball tournament!

NBC SPORTS NETWORK FIGHT NIGHT SCHEDULE (All Times ET)

Saturday, March 24, Aviator Sports and Events Center, Brooklyn, NY
Saturday, June 16, 9-11 p.m. – Site TBA
Saturday, December 8, 9-11 p.m. – Site TBA

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://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

Facebook: facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing facebook.com/NBCSports

February 14, 2012 -Boxing360’s, Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (13-0-1, 9KOs), who holds the IBF female super featherweight title, will once again face the rough and rugged, Ela Nunez (11-12-2, 3 KOs), in an eight round non-title bout, this Friday, February 17, at Cicero Stadium, in Cicero, Illinois. The fight takes place as the co-main event on Sammy Merza Promotion’s “International Rumble in Cicero” card, showcasing Joel Diaz Jr. (7-0, 6 KO’s) in the main event.

When asked about fighting Nunez for the fourth time, Serrano, a native of Brooklyn, New York stated, “It’s going to be fun, I love Ela, she’s a great person and a great fighter. She’s always a tough fight and I know she’s in good shape because she just fought a week and a half ago. I’m stronger than the last time I fought her and I’m always progressing when we fight each other. This will be a great fight for the fans.”

Jordan Maldonado, who trains Serrano added, “Ela is a very tough and cagey fighter. She’s always coming with a different style and we have a lot of respect for her. Once we knew we were fighting her again, we stepped up our training, because we know she has something to prove against Amanda. Nunez is always dangerous and I know this fight will be the best fight of the night. Amanda is ready to go.”

Tickets priced $30 & $50 to “International Rumble in Cicero” are on sale now by calling (773) 716-9111. Tickets can also be purchased at the Cicero Stadium box office Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M – 8:00 P.M. and on Saturday from 9:00 A.M – 3:00 P.M. Cicero Stadium is located at 1909 S. Laramie Ave, Cicero, IL 60804 (between 19th St & 21st St) Phone: (708) 652-3545. Doors open at 6:30 P.M first fight starts at 7:30 P.M. Bouts subject to change.

# # #

For more information on Amanda Serrano please visit www.boxing360.com.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
NUTLEY, NJ (February 14, 2012)—Last Wednesday night on ATG Radio (www.alltimegreat), undefeated Jr. Middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna and Daniel Crabtree squared off in a war of words in advance of their six round Jr. Middleweight main event main event fight that will take place this Friday night at Nutley High School.

LaManna was born and raised in Nutley

This on-air meeting was set up due to some bold predictions that Crabtree had vowed just a week earlier on Facebook. Below are quotes from both fighters.

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (6-0, 4 KO’s)
“He is a tough guy. I saw him on tape and respect him and said let’s go”
“It means everything to me to be fighting at home. I will have lots of support”
“I have been training extra hard”
“I laughed when I saw that Facebook post”
“I see a win and that’s it”

Daniel Crabtree (3-3, 3 KO’s)
“We are going to be coming hard on the 17th”
“He has a nice record. A 6-0 guy in his hometown is perfect for me”
“I enjoy fighting in New Jersey”
“I have one job and that’s too take his head off and I will be damned if he will do anything about it”
“I see a knockout no question about it”

The LaManna – Crabtree bout will headline a nine bout card that is promoted by Gabe LaConte’s First Round Promotions and can be seen LIVE worldwide on www.gfl.tv

The rest of the card is as follows:

Richard Person (9-2, 6 KO’s) takes on Anibal Acevedo (13-8-1, 11 KO’s) of Moca, Puerto Rico in a six round Middleweight bout

In a four round Middleweight bout, John Thompson (5-0, 1 KO) of Newark, New Jersey battles Laureno Laracuente (7-4-1, 2 KO’s) of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico

John Lennox (9-1, 4 KO’s) battles Miles Kelly (2-6, 2 KO’s) of Pine Bluff, Arkansas in a six round Heavyweight bout.

Former Iraqi veteran Godson Noel will make his long awaited pro debut will take on fellow pro debuter Satchell James of Alabama in a Middleweight bout

Alantez Fox (6-0, 3 KO’s) of Newark, New Jersey will take on Fitzgerald Johnson (2-5, 1 KO) of Newark, New Jersey in a four round Light Heavyweight bout.

Aaron Kinch (1-0) of Newark, NJ will take on debuting Clyde Daniel of New York in a four round Heavyweight bout.

Leandro Acevedo of New York will make his pro debut against Marcus Clay (0-1) of Baton Rouge, LA in a four round Super Middleweight bout.

Jose Javier Calderon (3-0, 3 KO’s) will battle Jonathan Garcia (1-1, 1 KO) in a Jr. Welterweight bout featuring Puerto Rican based fighters.

The Matchmaker is Renee Aiken

Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing cost $100 for VIP (which includes a buffet dinner) and $40 General Admission.

There will be discounted tickets for Students and seniors and all tickets can be purchased at the following places:

Elite Heat Boxing Gym
130 Mt. Pleasant Ave.
Newark, NJ
862 772-2532

White Oak Barber Shop
83 Union Ave.
Nutley, NJ
973-661-3334

Boardwalk Saloon
206 Bloomfield Ave
Newark, NJ
973-483-8766

Nutley High School is located at 300 Franklin Ave.

2/13/12 Cleveland, OH: With just under six days left before the NAAFS returns to Cleveland, the league has announced that less than 100 tickets remain for Saturday’s highly anticipated event. Saturday’s card is currently set with thirteen total fights featuring both the NAAFS professional and amateur series.

One major change has been confirmed as Alex Trevino was forced to withdraw due to a back injury suffered during training camp. Team Miletich product Sean Huffman (18-17 pro,) has filled the spot and will now face former NAAFS welterweight champion, Nick Duell, in the night’s main event. Huffman has faced a long list of high level fighters during his MMA career including the likes of Jake Ellenberger, Jeff Cox and Nick Thompson among others. This bout is pending approval by the Ohio Athletic Commission as all bouts are subject to change.

The NAAFS also confirmed that Caged Vengeance 10 will stream live via PPV on GFL.tv. The live stream will begin at 6:30pm (EST) on both www.NAAFS.tv and www.GFL.tv for a fee of only $9.99. GoFightlive.tv will also feature a brand new “Free View” function that will allow NAAFS fans to watch at no cost for 15 minutes prior to purchasing the live stream.

Presale tickets start at just $30 and range up to $80 for VIP seating which is becoming limited. Caged Vengeance 10 is proudly sponsored by Discount Drug Mart, Tim Lally Chevrolet, Intimidation Clothing, Action Graphx, The Barley House and John P Lennon.

For additional Caged Vengeance 10 information, tickets and updates, fans can log on to www.NAAFS.tv.

Official NAAFS Caged Vengeance 10 Bout Order:

AMATEUR PRELIMINARY BOUTS

155 lbs – David Gamble 0-0 (Independent) vs Nick Browne 1-0 (Uniontown Fight Club)

205 lbs – Dan Stevenson 1-0 (Dojo Fight Club) vs Tony Hodges 3-1 (Team Prototype)

135 lbs – Jon Rooks 2-1 (Warrior MMA) vs Ryan Arce 3-0 (Evolve MMA)

185 lbs – John Antanitis 5-3 (Penn Hills MMA) vs John Burbol 5-4 (Griffon Rawl)

165 lbs- Grant Hoppel 9-5 (Independent) vs Andrew Law 7-2 (Evolve MMA)

170 lbs – Devontai Moore 1-1 (Independent) vs Emmanuel Kangah 1-1 (Tru Roots MMA)

145 lbs – Thomas Uylenbroek 5-0 (Ground Zero) vs Wes Hanson 5-0 (Hiles MMA)

145 lbs – Eric Gifford 3-1 (Brick House MMA) vs Vince Bullard 3-0 (Evolve MMA)

135 lbs – Jarrell Hodge 3-0 (Brick House MMA) vs Cody Garbrandt 5-1 (Strong Style)

FEATURED PROFESSIONAL BOUTS

135 lbs – Richard McDole 7-2 (Team Elite) vs Isaiah Chapman 12-1 (Rock Hard MMA)

125 lbs – Kelly Warren 12-4 (Jackson’s MMA) vs Jessica Eye 10-1 (Strong Style Fight Team)

145 lbs – Paul Compton 14-6 (Grifon Rawl) vs Antonio Castillo Jr 11-3 (Instigator Fight Team)

170 lbs – Sean Huffman 18-17 (Miletich Fighting Systems) vs Nick Duell 19-5-1 (Strong Style Fight Team)

*All bouts subject to change

About the NAAFS

Established in 2005, The NAAFS is one of the fastest growing mixed martial arts organizations in the sport and has produced over 100 live events in the region. Fighters that have been featured in the NAAFS include Stipe Miocic, Chris Lozano, Jason Dent, Donny Walker, Forrest Petz, Matt Brown, Ben Rothwell, Jessica Eye, Dave Herman, Nick Duell, Ryan Madigan, Paul Bradley, Sean Salmon, Jeff Cox, Josh Hendricks, Aisling Daly, Daniel Straus, Brian Rogers and Phil Davis among many others. The television program “NAAFS Cage Fighting” can be seen each week domestically on the television home of the Cleveland Indians Sports Time Ohio, nationally via Direct TV and Dish Network. The NAAFS has been featured internationally via G-TV. Log on to the league’s official website at www.NAAFS.tv for additional information.

About GFL

Established in 2007, The GFL is the pioneer in Internet Sports Broadcasting. Over the years GFL has broadcast more than 1100 live events with over 6000 combat sports videos in 196 countries. GFL is especially proud to have served greater than 5 million public viewers over the years with more than 250 combat sports related website affiliates in its network. GFL is also available on Roku, Android, IPhone, IPad, as well as other internet ready devices. Check the event page for details.

GFL now offers full access to over 6,000 fights for the low monthly price of $9.99 subscribe now at www.GFL.tv

If Combat Sports is your game…Go Fight-Every Night with GFL Combat Sports Network

Join us at: www.GFL.tv or twitter.com/GFL or youtube.com/user/Gofightlive or inquiries contact press@gfl.tv

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT CARD
NEW YORK (FEBRUARY 13, 2012)—Last Saturday night at Times Union Center in Albany, New York undefeated Heavyweight Joe Hanks scored an explosive second round stoppage over Rafael Pedro to retain his IBA Americas Title.

That bout plus a full five fight undercard which featured two highly regarded undefeated prospects can now be seen on demand on www.gfl.tv for just $9.99

The show can be ordered by clicking: http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/KO_at_the_TU/1362

Hanks (19-0, 13 KO’s) threw his name in the hat to become America’s hope to bring back the Heavyweight crown as hanks dominate the action from the opening bell and then floored Pedro. Pedro then signaled to the referee that he was unable to continue and the bout was stopped just forty-eight seconds into round two.

Sahabib Usarov made an impressive American debut by scoring a ten round unanimous decision over former Cuban Olympic Gold Medal winner Yan Barthelemy in a Bantamweight bout.

With the win Usarov is now 18-0.

Kevin Rooney Jr. scored a four round unanimous decision over Stanley Harvey in a Jr, Middleweight bout.

Good looking knockout artist Jason Escalera remained perfect (13-0, 12 KO’s) by taking out Marcus Brooks in round four of a scheduled eight round Super Middleweight contest.

In a shocking upset, Bryan Abraham (6-10, 6 KO’s) took out local favorite Darnell Jiles (8-3-1)

Mike Seitz of Albany thrilled the home folks be scoring a first round stoppage over Karim Richardson.

GFL now offers full access to over 5,000 fights for the low monthly price of $9.99 subscribe now at www.GFL.tv

***GFL is a pioneer in Internet Sports Broadcasting. Over the years GFL has broadcast more than 1100 live events with over 5500 combat sports videos in 196 countries. GFL is especially proud to have served greater than 5 million public viewers over the years with more than 250 combat sports related website affiliates in its network. GFL is now available on Roku, Android, IPhone, IPad, as well as other internet ready devices.

If Combat Sports is your game…Go Fight-Every Night with GFL Combat Sports Network

Join us at: www.GFL.tv or twitter.com/GFL or for press inquiries contact press@gfl.tv

Orlando Cruz scored an eleventh round stoppage over Alejandro Delgado in a twelve round Featherweight bout.

Cruz dropped Delagado with a flurry of punches in that eleventh round. Delgado was able to fight on until eating another of flurry that was punctuated by a perfect straight left that sent Delgado flat on his back and the fight was stopped just as the bell rang to end round eleven.

Cruz is now 18-2-1 with nine knockouts. Delgado is 15-6

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that WBC Super Welterweight champion Saul Alvarez will take on future Hall of Famer Shane Mosley on May 5th in Las Vegas as part of the Floyd Mayweather – Miguel Cotto Pay per View undercard.

“This is more of a fight to prove myself. I know I didn’t look good in my last couple of fights and I really to make a statement in this fight,” Mosley told ESPN.com on Friday night. “I just want to get in the ring, fight a world champion and win another belt.

“I’m very excited and happy. It’s another chance for me to show that I still belong. He’s a young guy and it’s a tough fight, but I’m excited to get the fight. A lot of guys want to be in the position I am in to have this type of fight.”

Said Alvarez, “This is the fight I was looking for. Shane Mosley is a tremendous fighter with a lot of experience and big victories in his storied career. Even though I have enormous respect and admiration for Mosley, because he is a great person outside of the ring, my goal is to defeat him with a great performance.

“It’s Cinco de Mayo, so when you add Mexico’s biggest star to a card that already has Mayweather, the pound-for-pound king, and Cotto, Puerto Rico’s biggest star, and ‘Canelo’ is fighting Mosley, who is a legend, that is a huge night,” said Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer, who had been working for weeks on the fight.

“It was not an easy fight to put together because it is really a main event on its own and could have sold out a venue on its own or even been its own pay-per-view,” he said. “But this takes a mega event with Mayweather and Cotto, which is a huge fight and didn’t need any help at all, and takes it to a totally different level. With these two fights on the card, it’s one of the biggest events we’ve ever promoted. It will be a celebration of the sport of boxing, a shining moment for the sport. To have Mayweather, Cotto, Canelo and ‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley all on the same card, I get the chills thinking about it.”

“I have to give a lot of credit to Oscar,” Schaefer said. “He worked very hard on this to get this done. He did a terrific job. He pulled it together. He dealt with Canelo. It was challenging to secure the spot than getting the actual fight done. But Canelo knows it’s a big fight. When we met with him, he said he knows it’s a dangerous fight. Shane Mosley knows he has his back against the wall. He knows it’s do or be done and that makes a veteran that much more dangerous.” “Canelo said he’s going to go into the fight and make a statement and that would be to stop Mosley, because nobody has ever done that before.”

“I didn’t have any negativity about being the co-main event,” he said. “I know I am not a co-main event fighter, but I want to get in the ring. To fight someone like Canelo Alvarez will be tremendous for me at this stage of my career. I believe I’m a lot more experienced that he is. It’s youth against experience. It’s ‘Sugar’ against ‘Cinnamon.'”

“I have no grudges against Golden Boy, they’re a good company,” he said. “I can do business with them. I can do business with Top Rank, whoever is going to be fair. I wanted this fight, so we did what we had to do to get it. It would be great to beat somebody like Canelo to kind of show that the naysayers that say I’m old and can’t do it anymore and should retire are wrong. This will be the victory to show I am still here and I haven’t left yet.”

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that 140 lb world champion Timothy Bradley has signed on the dotted line for his June 9 showdown with Manny Pacquaio that will take place in Las Vegas.

“It’s a very tough fight. Stylistically, Timmy poses a real threat,” Top Rank president Todd duBoef said. “I think Timmy is an incredibly skilled fighter. He has quick hands, quick feet, he’s undefeated and he doesn’t know how to lose. Tim Bradley is a winner. Manny will have to be on top of his game against Tim Bradley, who is in his prime. Manny has always taken on those challenges.”

“Manny and his team understand that in order to put on these big events you need the most skilled fighters in the world and competition, and that’s why he respects all of his opponents and what they bring to the table,” duBoef said.

“In Timmy Bradley, you’re dealing with an accomplished fighter,” duBoef said. “He’s a premier fighter in the 140-pound division and he’s on everyone’s pound-for-pound list in the top 5 to 10. He had a destruction of Peterson (in a one-sided decision in December 2009). He played with Peterson, who just beat Khan, and I was on the other end in that fight because I was Peterson’s promoter. Bottom line — Timmy Bradley is a terrific fighter.”

CHESTER, PA (February 10, 2012)—On Friday night February 24th, Joey Eye Boxing Promotions presents a terrific night of boxing at Harrah’s in Chester, Pennsylvania.

In the main event, Tony Ferrante will look to notch the biggest win of his career when he takes on former four-time world title challenger Omar Sheika in a bout for the BAM Light Heavyweight title that is scheduled for ten rounds.

Ferrante of Philadelphia has a record of 12-2 with seven knockouts and is one of the most popular fighters in Philadelphia. Ferrante won his first nine professional bouts before dropping back to back bouts to Chuck Mussachio (15-1-2) and Ronson Frank (17-0).

Ferrante has responded with three consecutive victories, with two of those coming at Harrahs in Chester.

Ferrante is coming off a first round stoppage over Joe Park last August 12th at Harrahs in Chester.

Sheika of Paterson, New Jersey has been a mainstay at the top of the Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight divisions for sixteen years. He won his first fourteen bouts and went on to beat former world champions Simon Brown and Glen Johnson.

Sheika challenged Joe Calzaghe, Eric Lucas; Jeff Lacy and Markus Beyer for world Super Middleweight supremacy but each time came up just a little bit short.

Sheika, 31-11 with twenty-one is coming off a majority decision victory over based Light heavyweight Charles Hayward on January 21st.

In a six round co-feature, Jamie Campbell (3-2, 2 KO’s) of Ridley Park, PA will battle Lonnie Kornegay (1-5-2) of Baltimore, MD in a Heavyweight bout.

In a six round Jr. Welterweight bout, Julio DeJesus (5-3-1, 3 KO’s) of Millville, NJ will take on an opponent to be named.

In a six round Cruiserweight bout, Dennis Hasson (12-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia will see action. Hasson is coming off an exciting knockout over William Santiago on Februray 4th in Atlantic City

In a four round Light Heavyweight bout, Teneal Goyco (4-3, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on the come backing Reuel Williams (6-1, 2 KO’s) of Wilmington, DE.

Hot shot Bantamweight prospect Miguel Cartagena (4-0, 3 KO’s) will take on an opponent to be named in a four round bout.

Dan Biddle (8-1, 5 KO’s) of Wilmington, DE will take on an opponent to be named in a four round Cruiserweight affair.

In a four round Jr. Welterweight battle, undefeated Naim Nelson (4-0) of Philadelphia will take on Linwood Hurd (3-2-4, 1 KO) of Atlantic City

Tyrone Crawley Jr. of Philadelphia and Hamid Robinson of Philadelphia will do battle in a four round bout featuring pro debuter’s.

Rounding out the card will be a battle of pro debuting Welterweight’s Danny Mills of Glen Mills, PA will take on Mike Haynes of Wilmington, DE

Tickets are now on sale for $100 (VIP); $65 (Ringside) and $45 (General Admission) and can be purchased at the Harrahs Chester Gift Shop; By calling Joey Eye (267-304-9399); David Feldman (610-291-0806); 800-480-8020 or on www.webtix.net

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY (February 9, 2012)—Many have tried and haven’t last lasted but New Jersey’s Gabe LaConte has been a boxing promoter for over twenty years and now looks to take it to the next level.

“I have been doing this a long time”, said LaConte who was known for his memorable shows at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark.

“I have never been more excited about boxing in my life. I have some of the best young talent under contract and I feel I have a couple of future world champions in my stable”

That stable includes some of the best fighters in the talent rich New Jersey. LaConte believes in a three tier theory that will help getting the maximum out of his fighters

“Fighting the right fights, developing a fan base and climbing the ladder”

LaConte believes that he has the right mix of fighters to do just that.

The current First Round Promotions Roster:

John “Apollo Kid” Thompson (Middleweight—5-0, 1 KO)—Thompson was a three-time Ringside amateur champion…150 amateur fights..State Golden Gloves champion..Great athlete and decorated amateur… Twenty-two year old Newark, New Jersey native will next see action on February 17th in Nutley, New Jersey

Godson Noel (Middleweight—Pro Debut)—49-1 as an amateur…Twenty-seven year old former Iraq veteran…Beat the number one, two and three ranked fighters at his weight class at the National’s..”He is an explosive power puncher”, said LaConte…Will be making his pro debut on February 17th in Nutley, New Jersey

Michael Torres (Welterweight—14-3, 7 KO’s)—107 amateur fights…New Jersey State Jr. Welterweight champion…”We are looking to get him 5 or 6 fights to position him for a regional championship fight…Native of Jersey City, NJ

Qa’id “Kid Dynamite” Muhammad (Bantamweight—6-0, 5 KO’s)—This native of Atlantic City was a 2008 U.S. Olympic Alternate…The twenty-two year old had 200 amateur fights..Former National PAL, Golden Gloves and Silver Gloves Champion…”This kid has explosive power and has all the makings of a future world champion”, said LaConte

Gabriel “GPHAM” Pham (Super Middleweight—4-0, 2 KO’s)—Massive Super Middleweight who stands 6’3”…over 100 amateur fights…The Atlantic City native is twenty-two years old…”With this kids size and being a talented southpaw, Gabby has a chance to be a special fighter”, Said LaConte

Lavarn “Baby Bowe” Harvell (Light Heavyweight—8-0, 3 KO’s)—Striking facial resemblance to former Heavyweight champion Riddick Bowe…100 amateur fights…Twenty-three year old Atlantic City native…Humble and soft spoken”He is our featured signee. We expect to have him in a regional belt within the next seven or eight fights”, said LaConte

Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill (Cruiserweight—50-7, 23 KO’s)—Former three time Light Heavyweight champion of the world…Former two time Cruiserweight champion of the world..1984 Olympic Silver Medal Winner..Coming back after nearly five years out of the ring to fight for a Cruiserweight world championship…Fought the best competition…Co-Promoted with Greg Cohen Promotions

Richard Pierson (Middleweight—9-2-1, 6 KO’s)—Thirty-one year old who had over 100 amateur bouts…Articulate man who has written articles on boxing websites…Has fought top competition with wins over Ray Smith (7-1); Jimmy Campbell (10-1); Jamaal Davis (7-3) and his most recent first round knockout over Reynaldo Rodriguez (5-0)…

First round Promotions will be extremely active as the next show will take place on Friday night February 17th at Nutley High School in Nutley, New Jersey and then is coming right back as First Round Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions will put on a spectacular night of boxing on Saturday April 14th at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, New Jersey

For More information on First Round Promotions, visit: www.firstroundpromotions.org

For Tickets for the February 17th show at Nutley High School in Nutley, NJ:

Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing cost $100 for VIP (which includes a buffet dinner) and $40 General Admission.

There will be discounted tickets for Students and seniors and all tickets can be purchased at the following places:

Elite Heat Boxing Gym
130 Mt. Pleasant Ave.
Newark, NJ
862 772-2532

White Oak Barber Shop
83 Union Ave.
Nutley, NJ
973-661-3334

Boardwalk Saloon
206 Bloomfield Ave
Newark, NJ
973-483-8766

Nutley High School is located at 300 Franklin Ave.

For More information and Credentials, Contact

Marc Abrams at 856 287 7611 or mabrams@15rounds.com; phillyboxing@gmail.com

Abner Mares relinquished his IBF Bantamweight title rather then face mandatory challenger Vusi Malinga and will abandon the division in order to compete at Super Bantamweight according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“The whole team came to a decision to give up the title when we sat down and talked with Richard (Schaefer of Golden Boy Promotions) and the staff,” Mares told ESPN.com on Wednesday. “The IBF ordered the mandatory against Malinga and the team asked me, ‘What do you think?’ We knew TV didn’t want the fight because the guy is not known and I didn’t really want to go back fighting on a smaller show.

“I’m in a great position and I want to continue to fight the best. So no disrespect to Malinga, but I just feel there’s more fights at 122 pounds, and I am struggling to make 118 anyway, so why not move up to 122 and fight the best up there?”

“(The IBF was) forcing the South African guy and there was no interest here in the fight,” Schaefer said. “The money is not there. You have to decide if you want to go for the title or the money. Abner has a big name and a good following and we have Televisa in Mexico interested in him and Showtime.

“Every fighter wants to have a belt and be called a world champion, but they have to make a living as well, and that was important to him — to do a fight commercially more viable than fighting a South African mandatory

Mares is scheduled to return April 21 on Showtime in a fight that is supposed to take place in Mexico City. Although Mares (23-0-1, 13 KOs) grew up in Southern California and lives in Lakewood, Calif., he was born in Mexico and has wanted to fight there.

“I’m really excited and thrilled that I can fight in Mexico City,” Mares said, adding that he would head to Mexico in the next week or so to train there in order to get used to the altitude. “What I told (manager Frank) Espinoza and my team is that even though I can make 118, I would rather have this April 21 fight be my debut at 122.”

“I think it’s just the way the business goes,” Mares said. “I did fight the best at 118. I fought four tough opponents back to back and I don’t think anyone could take that away from me. It’s the right decision to fight at 122 now.”

“I have no problem moving up and fighting the best fighters at 122,” he said. “This is the best decision we could have made. There’s no use for us to fight at 118 for this next fight. I don’t want to struggle making 118 anymore. Why kill myself to make 118?”

Mares does not yet have an opponent for the April 21 bout but he said Golden Boy has brought up three names: former flyweight and interim bantamweight titlist Eric Morel (46-2, 33 KOs) of Puerto Rico; former junior bantamweight champion Cristian Mijares (44-6-2, 20 KOs) of Mexico, who has been fighting at junior featherweight; and junior featherweight contender Victor Terrazas (32-2-1, 18 KOs) of Mexico, who is coming off an upset decision win against former bantamweight champion Fernando Montiel in November.

Schaefer said Mares probably would face Morel.

“It will be a classic Mexico versus Puerto Rico rivalry fight and it’s a fight that means more to Abner than fighting the South African,” Schaefer said.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Super Bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire hurt his left hand during his Saturday night title win over Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. but that hand was deemed ok after x-rays were negative.

“My hand is swollen and there is damaged soft tissue, but everything is good,” Donaire said. “The doctor said I need three or four weeks to get the proper healing and then I can go.”

“The blood was because I popped a little vein in there, near the knuckle area, but it was nothing major, just bloody,” Donaire said. “It was a vein and that’s why it was bleeding a lot. It kept bleeding and didn’t stop bleeding until the next day. My hand kept bleeding after the fight. I guess from all the impact, I popped a vein.

“It looked really bad and it felt so painful for a couple of days, but it was unbearable in the later rounds of the fight. I’m just very thankful that there’s nothing seriously wrong and that I will be ready to go when we get our next date from Top Rank.”

Top Rank, Donaire’s promoter, plans to match him with Mexican star Jorge Arce, who vacated the title Donaire (28-1, 18 KOs) won to move down and claim one of the bantamweight belts Donaire had relinquished. Arce (59-6-2, 45 KOs) would move back up to 122 to challenge Donaire.

“I’m fine with fighting Arce next. That’s a fight I’ve been looking at,” Donaire, 29, said. “Whoever it is, I will be ready. Tell me who I am fighting and I will train to the best of my ability. In three or four weeks my hand should be healed and I will be ready to go. Everything is good. My hand is OK, I got my title and I’m happy.

Tacoma, Washington (February 8, 2012) – Strikeforce veteran “Fast” Eddy Ellis of Yelm, WA defends his Cagesport Welterweight championship Saturday, February 25 when he challenges David “Hollywood” Hulett in the five round main event of Halquist Productions’ “CageSport XVIII” at the Emerald Queen Casino.

Individual tickets start at $35 and are available at the EQC box office or by going to EmeraldQueen.com.

Although his professional ledger is 17-15, Ellis has won nine of his last ten fights, eight of which came via knockout or submission. In his most recent bout, the well-rounded Ellis stopped J.T. Taylor in the opening round.

Like his foe Hulett, 18-10, doesn’t believe in leaving the fight in the judges’ hands. The Las Vegas native is a submission specialist who forced 12 of his opponents to tap out, many of whom failed to make out of the opening round.

“This is going to be an amazing fight without question,” said Brian Halquist, the card’s promoter and CEO of Halquist Productions. “Eddy has a huge following in Washington and Hulett’s fought all over the place, so coming into enemy territory isn’t a problem for him. I’d be shocked if this one heard the final bell.”

In the co-featured bout of the evening, hard-hitting veteran Chanti “The Brooklyn Knight” Johnson faces surging submission specialist Ryan Mulvihill of Spokane, WA. Both Johnson, 7-4, and Mulvihill, 4-2, are CageSport veterans.

Doors for “CageSport XVIII” open at 6 pm and the first match takes place at 7 pm. For more information, go to Halquist Productions.com

Other undercard bouts will be announced shortly.

BRONX, NY (February 8, 2012) – Star Boxing president Joe DeGuardia has announced that former world title challenger Angel “Toro” Hernandez (30-10, 17 KOs) has replaced an ill Derek Ennis for Friday’s night’s main event against 2008US Olympian Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (15-0, 10 KOs) on ESPN Friday Night Fights at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

The headliner is a 10-round battle for the vacant North American Boxing Organization (“NABO”) junior middleweight title. Ennis was forced to withdraw due to the flu.

“We’re very fortunate to find a solid veteran like Angel Hernandez as a late replacement,” DeGuardia said. “He’s been in with some of the best and beaten the likes of Juan Carlos Candelo, Frankie Randall, James McGirt, Larry Marks, and Antwun Echols. We expect him to be a solid test for Demetrius.”

Hernandez, fighting out of Chicago, is a typically tough Mexican fighter who has been stopped only twice in 40 professional fights. In 2004, he lost a 12-round decision to Winky Wright in their IBF light middleweight title fight. A former NABF, IBA Americas and NABA champion, Angel lost a disputed 12-round split decision to former world champion Kassim Ouma for the vacant USBA championship.

Former World amateur champion Andrade – WBO #9, WBC & IBF #13 and WBA #15 – fights out of nearby Providence.

Star Boxing’s undefeated junior welterweight prospect, WBA #15 Raymond “Tito” Serrano (17-0, 8 KOs), meets former New York State champion Kenny Abril (11-4-1, 6 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature.

A strong undercard features past and future champions and contenders, as well as some of the most promising prospects on the East Coast.

Former USBA & NABO light welterweight champion “Mighty” Mike Arnaoutis (22-7-2, 10 KOs) returns against popular veteran Shaka Moore (11-16-3, 2 KOs), in a six-round bout.

Star Boxing’s undefeated super featherweight prospect Emanuel Gonzalez (9-0, 7 KOs) plans to keep his perfect intact in a six-round bout dangerous Jesus Bayron (5-3-1, 4 KOs). East Hartford favorite Joseph “Chip” Perez (6-1, 2 KOs) faces Jamell Tyson (2-4-1, 1 KO) in another six rounder.

Also fighting on the undercard in separate four-round bouts is a pair of promising Connecticut boxers. Waterbury’s gifted junior welterweight Jair Ramos (1-0) fights Miguel Rodriguez (0-1), while New Haven super middleweight Charles Foster (1-0) tangles with Queens veteran Borngood Washington.

Tickets are $75.00, $40.00 and $30.00 (plus $5.00 facility fee for all tickets) and are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com; call Ticketmaster’s national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000; or visit any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets are also available at the Mohegan Sun Box Office, subject to availability, or by calling Star Boxing at 1.718.823.2000 and online via www.StarBoxing.com.

For more information go online to www.starboxing.com or www.mohegansun.com.

ABOUT STAR BOXING: Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since 1992. Founded by Joe DeGuardia, its President and CEO, Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world-rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at
www.starboxing.com.

1996 Olympian Terrance Cauthen will step in for the ill Derek Ennis and face 2008 Olympian Demetrius Andrade this Friday night at the Mohegan Sun on ESPN 2 according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

Ennis fell ill Monday and was forced to pull out of the elimination bout

“I’m lucky to get a guy with the pedigree of Cauthen on such short notice,” said Star Boxing matchmaker Ron Katz said. “It’s not often you’ll see two former Olympians fighting each other.”

“He’s not happy because he trained six weeks for a right-hander and now he is faced with a completely different style,” Katz said. “But being the type of kid he is, he is stepping up to the plate. Some fighters can be a wuss about it, but he said if it’s what he has to do, it’s what he has to do.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com the rematch scheduled for this weekend between former Welterweight champions Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto is looking to be rescheduled for June 30th.

The fight will now take place at the Mandalay Bay instead of the MGM Grand.

“Being cautious, Berto should be prepared to fight in about four months,” said Berto’s promoter Lou DiBella. “The fight is going to happen and the fight is going to happen next. My expectation is it will happen next within about four months, somewhere between late May and late June. I’ve talked to Showtime and they’ll accommodate it. This is a fight they want very much.”

Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer said he was unsure what would happen with the other two bouts that were scheduled to be part of the Showtime tripleheader — junior middleweight contender Erislandy Lara against Ronald Hearns and featherweight Gary Russell Jr., the 2011 ESPN.com prospect of the year, against Dat Nguyen — but that he was working on it.

“We don’t want to wait until June,” said Luis DeCubas Jr., Lara’s manager. “If he did, that would be just about a year since his last fight (a highly controversial decision loss to Paul Williams last July). That’s too long. Either we’re hoping to reschedule Hearns as quickly as we can or we hope to move on to a bigger fight. But we need to start working things out. Right now they don’t know, but I know Richard is working on it.”

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra

– Friday, February 10, 2012 8:30pm ET featuring Ring of Combat 38 at Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. The main event, ROC Light Heavyweight Champion Tom DeBlass (6-0) defends his title against Randy Smith (13-9-1). DeBlass is an undefeated fighter who trains out of the Renzo Gracie Academy and has improved his overall game with every fight. A strong grappler, DeBlass also has put together a top-notch striking game and looks to show a new layer to his MMA game against Smith. For Smith, riding a 2-fight win streak of his own, he comes into the contest with almost four times the experience as the champion and brings a tough ground and pound game. It will be very interesting to see how the fight plays out as many times, two grapplers will turn into boxers or kickboxers and put on a standup fight. Expect both DeBlass and Smith to first try out their wrestling and submission game to test their opponent. The winner of this bout has to be considered the top 205 lb prospect in the Northeast, which puts him on the radar of the UFC, so that combined with a title fight makes this main event a great fight. In the co-main event, for the vacant Featherweight Title, Jeff Lentz (8-3-1) battles Giovanni Moljo (4-4) for king of the 145 lb division. Lentz is a Bellator veteran and is coming off 2 wins and 1 draw in his last 3 fights. For the New Jersey native, Lentz, this is the second time he has had the opportunity to go for ROC gold as he lost via decision on his first attempt. Lentz has finished 6 of his 8 opponents and he is ready finish this fight and not leave it in the hands of the judges so expect him to come out guns blazing from the opening bell. For Moljo this is a great opportunity to win gold and a rare no-lose situation. Lentz was supposed to take on former ROC Champion Deividas Taurosevicus but fate turned in the favor of Moljo who now has a chance to shake up the ROC featherweight division with a victory. In other action, former ROC Welterweight Champion Pete Sell (9-6) is back in action facing Mitch Whitesel (16-20) in a 170 lb scrap. For Sell, this is his first bout since losing the title so it will be interesting to see his game plan for Whitesel. Will he come out aggressive or tentative? Knowing Sell, it will be full speed ahead. For Whitesel, a veteran of Strikeforce, this is an opportunity to add another well-known name to his list of opponents and prove once again, that he is willing to fight anyone in the business at the drop of a hat. For the winner, a title fight is not too far off so this is a big fight for both men.

– Saturday, February 11, 2012 8:00pm ET featuring Spartan Fighting Championship 12 presents Invasion at the Morehead Conference Center in Morehead, Kentucky. In the main event, Billy Poe (7-4) fights Steve Bell (4-3) with Poe’s SFC 185 lb Amateur Title at stake. Poe won the championship last November with a second round TKO win. 5 of 7 wins for Poe have come via stoppage and he will look to make Bell number 6. A strong all around fighter, Poe can finish on his feet or on the ground. This is a dangerous fight for Bell, but the spoils are huge if Bell can defeat the champ. Bell is a top flight grappler who has submitted 75% of his opponents. Look for him to try and get Poe to the ground and finish the fight with a choke. This bout promises to tear down the house as both Poe and Bell are always in attack mode. In the co-main event, for the SFC 145 lb Amateur Title, undefeated Champion Bill Conley (7-0) defends against Blayne Hodges (5-1) in what is sure to be a high octane title fight between two top featherweights. Conley has never been pushed yet in his career. A rangy fighter, who stands 6’0″, Conley poses a tough matchup for fellow featherweights, with his long limbs. His specialty is the triangle choke, so that is something Hodges will have to be ready to defend if it goes to the ground. As luck would have it, Hodges is also an experienced grappler and he two likes to end fights with the triangle choke, finishing his last two opponents by this exact move. For fans of grappling, this has all of the makings for fight of the night as there will be a lot of great action if things hit the mat. Also up for grabs is the SFC 135 lb Amateur Title when Champion Ronnie Jordan (7-2) defends his title against an opponent to be determined. Jordan is a powerhouse in the bantamweight division and executes a strong ground game from the top, landing devastating ground and pound combined with slick submission work. Whoever the opponent is is going to have his hands full in this title bout.

– Saturday, February 11, 2012 8:00pm ET featuring The Big Lot Presents Cummings vs Stafford from the O’Reilly Family Event Center, Springfield, Missouri. At 13-3, Zak Cummings has the UFC in his near plans. However, Oklahoma City’s Lamont ‘KO KID’ Stafford has other plans. Very athletic, Stafford most likely has the advantage everywhere but on the ground. Stafford is bigger (6’5″), stronger, and much more athletic. If this fight stays standing, it could be a long night for the hometown fighter. If Cummings is able to get Stafford on the ground, Zak will most likely prevail. Styles make fights, and this one will be fun to watch. Recently offered a UFC fight, this is likely Whitney’s last fight in Springfield. He’s a joy to work with as when he says ‘I want to fight the best,’ he means it. Unfortunately, it’s hard to find someone to rise to the occasion and fight Andrew. Brandon Wood is an Iraq War Veteran, who’s very tough and durable. Both guys prefer to wrestle, but want to stand up. This one should be a stand-up battle, and fun for all involved. Top fighters from local gyms collide when Shepard (Springfield Fit 2 Fight) and Golden (Team Fusion) meet. Golden earned a reputation as one of the top amateurs around over the last few years, and will have a stiff challenge in his pro debut vs. Shepard. Both guys are elite wrestlers. Even better do they genuinely dislike one another? That often makes for ‘fight of the night.’

– Saturday, February 11, 2012 9:00pm ET featuring Cut Throat MMA – Babes and Brawls 10 at the Atlantis Gentlemen’s Club in Ford Heights, Illinois. Cut Throat MMA keeps churning out first-rate events and has quickly established itself as one of the top dogs in the loaded Midwest MMA scene

– Saturday, February 11, 2012 10:30pm ET featuring Fight Night Round XVIII – Clash at the College from The Everett Community College Fitness Center in Everett, Washington. FNE is one of the largest and quickest growing companies throughout the State dedicated to delivering an exhilarating, entertaining, fighter-beneficial, and spectator satisfying experience through each of its promotions. Our organization is proud to say that each event has produced an amazing show of skill and performance displayed through exceptional Fighter Match Making. FNE works close together with a match making affiliate in which helps organize the outstanding performances displayed at each Fight Night event.

– Saturday, February 11, 2012 7:30pm ET featuring Rise of a Warrior 5 at the Havert L. Fenn Center in Fort Pierce, Florida. In the main event, for the 155 lb championship, Chad Livingston (5-0) takes on Charles Rosa (9-1). Livingston has been on a tear in the Rise of a Warrior cage, going 4 for 4. Now, as the champion he looks to make it 5 for 5 with Rise of a Warrior as he defends his title against tough challenger Rosa. Rosa’s only loss was a controversial split decision and his wins have come at variety of ways, including KO and submission. This will definitely be the toughest test for Livingston. An experienced grappler, Rosa presents a lot of challenges on the ground, but even more than that is he has twice the amount of cage time as Livingston. For Livingston this is a tremendous opportunity to defend his title against one of the very best lightweights in Florida. The winner of this bout should turn pro as they will have nothing left to prove in the amateur ranks. This bout is sure to be “fight of the night” as these two fighters will bring it. In other action, 16 fighters will compete in a tournament to crown a 170lb champion. The first round will be on February 11, which means 8 tourney fights are scheduled… FNE is one of the largest and quickest

Other events this week: Pro-Wrestling: Impact Zone Wrestling-Violent Valentine: Feb 11, 2012 8:00pm ET. Pro Wrestling Onslaught – Empire Ryzing 3 Feb 12, 4:00pm ET.

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15rounds.com has learned that Jr. Middleweight Derek Ennis was forced to pull out of this Friday Night’s elimination bout with Demetious Andrade at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut due to a bout with the flu.

Ennis started feeling iil on Sunday and saw a doctor on Monday he was ruled out after seeing a doctor and told to do nothing but rest for the next couple days.

“It’s very disappointing because Derek trained his ass off and was in great shape”, said Ennis manager Moz Gonzalez.

LAS VEGAS (February 5, 2012)–World Boxing Organization (WBO) number three ranked Cruiserweight B.J. Flores is looking for a world title shot and may have just received it….with a catch.

Flores (27-1-1, 17 KO’s) was extended an offer by K2 Promotions to face number-ranked Ola Afolabi (18-2-3, 8 KO’s) on March 3rd (25 DAYS AWAY) in Germany on the Wladimir Klitschko – Jean Marc Mormeck world Heavyweight title card.

Flores is ready and able to take on Afolabi but the timing seems to be a bit dubious.

“I want this fight badly and this is a GREAT opportunity for me to fight a big fight against a very good opponent. I look forward to facing you for the WBO interim world title!”

Flores is coming off his 3rd fight in the last 6 months, a very active schedule nowadays and wants at least 45 days, as the WBO rules state before this important fight is to take place.

“I want this fight!!!! I have been very active lately and ready for this type of challenge. But on twenty-six days notice? And having to go to GERMANY? This is a very serious fight for a very serious title and I demand my full 45 days of preparation, especially considering I just fought last Saturday. It’s only fair”

“I have worked very hard for this opportunity and combine that with a very very low 25,000 offer, it doesn’t seem like they really want this fight. This is a great chance for the Cruiserweight division to put on a great fight and they want to stick it on an undercard where no one will see it, for very low money with only 26 days notice and I would have to travel to Germany”, continued Flores

“I have just had three successful shows in Springfield, Missouri and with the cash streams we can generate, we could do the fight there and bring in a network TV station and both of us can not only make more money but it could re-energize the Cruiserweight division in the States. This fight deserves to be on TV and I deserve the regulated 45 day preparation time as I am the highest rated contender. Ola, I will pay you more money than you have offered me and we can definitely get American TV to cover this event. I demand the proper amount of time and I want everyone in America to see this fight as it is good for the division. Fighting on the undercard in Germany is with 25 days notice is not the right way to win a WORLD title”

“Have your promoter get in touch with Don King and we can set this up EASY!! I want this fight!”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, pound for pound king Manny Pacquaio has agreed to defend the WBO Welterweight title against Timothy Bradley on June 9th in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao is just waiting on Bradley to make a deal with promoter Top Rank which is expected shortly.

“From our end, the fight is done,” said Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz. “I just got off the phone with (Top Rank’s) Bob Arum and Manny, so we’re done. I don’t assume there will be a problem from the Bradley side. We came to terms with Top Rank on the fight and Manny has approved everything. This morning I had a number of conversations with Bob negotiating the June 9 fight and I relayed everything to Manny.”

“We are going to be having further conversations with Bradley and his management early this week and hopefully finalize the deal,” said Top Rank President Todd duBoef. “But the truth is my (promotional) agreement with Bradley lays out certain parameters for a Pacquiao fight, so there is a framework already.

“We’ve been talking about this for over a month and we always had a Plan B in case Mayweather didn’t happen,” Koncz said. “Last time I went to the Philippines, I took Manny tapes of all of the opponents we were talking about and he watched them with his wife, Jinkee. Bradley was one of them, as everybody knows

“Bradley is a young, undefeated fighter who deserves a chance,” Koncz said. “Manny is excited. Until we name an opponent, boxing is out of Manny’s mind. He’s busy working in (the Filipino) congress. But he gets interested in boxing again when he has an opponent and a fight. Now we know we have a date (and) an opponent and he’s excited.”

Phpto by Chris Farina / Top Rank

NUTLEY, NEW JERSEY (February 6, 2012)—On Friday night, February 17th, Boxing returns to Nutley, New Jersey at Nutley High School for the first time in nearly three decades as Gabe LaConte’s First Round Promotions presents a terrific night of boxing that will feature some of the best prospects on the East Coast.

In the main event, undefeated Jr. Middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will see action in his first six round bout.

“I have been around boxing a long time and it is great to bring boxing back to Nutley”, said LaConte who promoted some of the most memorable shows in the early 1990’s.

“On this card are some of the best prospects around this looks to be one of the best shows in years. We have six undefeated fighters and they will be put in competitive matchups and I look forward to a great night in Nutley”

“We have a great story in Godson Noel who served in the Iraq war and became a decorated amateur and will be making his pro debut on our show”

It’s great to be finally coming home here to Nutley where we haven’t had a show in over thirty years”, said Vinny LaManna, longtime boxing guy and manager/father to the main event fighter..

“In fact the promotion is honoring a gentleman named Ronny Vasallo who happened to be my history teacher in tenth grade. He participated in the last show thirty years ago”

Thomas LaManna, who recently became a licensed manager and has three fighters under his guidance, will look to improve to 7-0 when he takes on Daniel Crabtree.

This will be a special night for LaManna as the Millville, New Jersey resident will return home to the town he grew up in.

He will take on Daniel Crabtree of Hilliard, Ohio. He has a record of 3-3 with all of his wins coming by knockout.

Crabtree has knocked out his last two opponents which includes his last bout on January 13th when he took out Aaron Luckey in Two rounds.

In one co-feature bout, John Lennox (9-1, 4 KO’s) of Carteret, New Jersey will compete for the BAM Heavyweight title when he takes on an opponent to be named in a six round bout.

Richard Pierson (9-2, 6 KO’s) of Newark, NJ will battle an opponent to be named in a Middleweight bout.

Andy Mejias (11-0, 4 KO’s) of Utica, NY will risk his undefeated mark when he takes on an opponent to be named in a Super Middleweight affair.

Kamil Laszczyk of North Bergen, New Jersey via Poland will take on an opponent to be named in a four round Jr. Lightweight bout.

In a four round Middleweight bout, John Thompson (5-0, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ will take on Laureno Laracuente (7-4-1, 2 KO’s) of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico

In a four round Jr. Middleweight bout, nineteen year-old Alantez Fox (6-0, 3 KO’s) battles Fitzgerlad Johnson (2-5, 1 KO) of Asheboro, NC

Godson Noel of Newark, New Jersey will be making his pro debut against fellow debuter Satchell James of Alabama in a four round Middleweight bout.

Rounding out the card will be Heavyweight Aarin Kinch (1-0) of Newark, NJ taking on Clyde Daniel of New York who will be making his pro debut.

Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing cost $100 for VIP (which includes a buffet dinner) and $40 General Admission.

There will be discounted tickets for Students and seniors and all tickets can be purchased at the following places:

Elite Heat Boxing Gym
130 Mt. Pleasant Ave.
Newark, NJ
862 772-2532

White Oak Barber Shop
83 Union Ave.
Nutley, NJ
973-661-3334

Boardwalk Saloon
206 Bloomfield Ave
Newark, NJ
973-483-8766

Nutley High School is located at 300 Franklin Ave.