LAS VEGAS (Nov 19, 2013) – World Series of Fighting is happy to announce the addition of two more fighters to its rapidly growing roster, as both Scott “The Bear” Barrett (13-3) and Valdir Araujo (14-4) have agreed to exclusive, multi-fight deals with the Las Vegas-based promotion.

Both fighters are expected to debut in the World Series of Fighting decagon in early 2014.

“It’s always exciting to ink deals with exciting fighters, and today is no exception,” World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo said. “Both of these fighters have a history of putting on incredible performances, and I can’t wait to see what they can accomplish in our promotion.”

Heavyweight Barrett is a 29-year-old powerhouse who currently trains with the famed Blackzilians team at Florida’s Jaco Hybrid Training Center. Fighting professionally since 2007, Barrett boasts 10 if his 13 career wins by way of knockout. Nine of those finishes came in the very first round.

“Signing with the WSOF means the world to me,” Barrett said. “Fighting for one of the biggest organizations out there is every fighters goal. Now it’s time to show everyone who I am and what I can do! Being part of the Blackzilians has made me a different and more dangerous fighter. I can’t wait to put it all together and get in the cage. I’m here to put on a show and get finishes!”

Meanwhile, Araujo is a Brazilian native who also currently makes his home in Florida. The reigning welterweight champion of Florida’s Championship Fighting Alliance promotion, Araujo will give up that belt in order to purse World Series of Fighting success.

Araujo owns a well-rounded game, as witnessed by his six knockout wins and five submission victories. His three losses have come to top talent, including a 15-minute outing with current UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman and a disappointing defeat earlier this year to current World Series of Fighting competitor Marcelo Alfaya, setting up a potential rematch with those two somewhere down the line.

“World Series of Fighting has got a lot of excitement surrounding their welterweight division right now,” said the newly signed Araujo. “I’m honored to be a part of that excitement and show the world that I’m a warrior and champion in this sport.”

World Series of Fighting returns to action next month with its final event of 2013, “World Series of Fighting 7: Johnson vs. Kyle,” which takes place Dec. 7 at PNE Agrodome in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Like all World Series of Fighting events, the night’s main card airs on NBCSN.

About WSOF
World Series of Fighting is a professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering an incredible, action-packed entertainment experience for fight fans by producing the best possible matchups between elite fighters from around the globe. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow World Series of Fighting on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo.

n Friday, January 3, 2014, at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Iron Mike Productions, Seconds Out Promotions and Warriors Boxing will proudly present the year’s first installment of ESPN Friday Night Fights, featuring two title fights as the featured bouts.

The night’s 12-round main event will be an IBF Super Featherweight Championship fight between champion Argenis Mendez (21-2-1, 11 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York via San Juan, Dominican Republic vs. #1-ranked undefeated challenger Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy (19-0, 12 KOs) from Miami, via Cuba.

And in the 10-round televised semi-final, USBA Middleweight Champion Caleb “Golden” Truax (23-1, 4 KOs) of Osseo, Minnesota, will face former USBA Champion Derek “Pooh” Ennis (23-4-1, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia in a 10-round non-title bout.

Tickets for Friday Night Fights go on sale Friday, November 22, at 12 noon and will be priced at $35, $65, $100, $150 and $250. They will be available at Target Center’s Box Office, online at AXS.com or by calling 888.9.AXS.TIX (888.929.7849).

27-year-old Mendez will be making the second defense of his IBF title he won in March of this year with a KO 4 over Juan Carlos Salgado. The victory over Salgado also avenged one of only two defeats Mendez has suffered in his distinguished career. He was last seen in the ring fighting to a majority draw against Arash Usmanee in August. Mendez was a 2004 Olympian and previously held the USBA Super Featherweight (2010) and WBA Fedelatin Super Featherweight (2008) Titles.

27-year-old Barthelemy earned his #1 ranking with a KO 2 over Thailand’s Fahsai Sakkreerin last June. Before that, he took a unanimous decision over Arash Usmanee in January. Barthelemy is the younger brother of Olympic Gold Medalist Yan Barthelemy and older brother of Leduan Barthelemy, also a fighter. As an amateur, he was Cuban Junior National Champion.

30-year-old Truax has had a sensational 2013. Fighting out of the Convention Center in Minneapolis, Truax has vanquished two local rivals (UD 10 over Matt Vanda and TKO 4 over Ceresso Fort) and scored a nationally televised TKO 6 over world-rated Donovan George.

The victory over Fort garnered him the USBA and Minnesota State Championships. Truax’s only career loss was to world champion Jermain Taylor and Truax had Taylor down in round nine.

33-year-old Ennis is a former USBA and Pennsylvania State Champion. He won the USBA Jr. Middleweight title in October 2009 by unanimous decision in an unforgettable war against Eromosele Albert and defended it successfully via 12-round majority decision over the formidable Gabriel Rosado in 2010 He most recently fought to a close majority decision loss to world-rated contender Jonathan Gonzalez. Ennis’s brother, Farah, is a well-regarded super middleweight contender and his father, Derrick “Bozy” Ennis, was also a pro fighter.

“Iron Mike Productions is excited to be hosting the first ESPN Friday Nights Fight show of 2014,” Iron Mike Productions CEO Garry Jonas said. “We closed the 2013 ESPN Friday Night Fights season with an exciting championship fight and now we’re opening 2014 with an exciting championship fight. We’d like to thank Brian Kweder, of ESPN, for giving us this wonderful opportunity. We’re looking forward to putting on a sensational event for the great boxing fans in Minnesota.”

“I am honored to be returning to a great fight city like Minneapolis and to be working with the great Mike Tyson and his promotional company, as well as a class act like Tony Grygelko and his Seconds Out Promotions,” said Leon Margules. “This will be Rances Barthelemy, my fighter’s, first world title shot and I’m very excited for him and his chances to bring the belt home.”

“I’m very excited to be working with Iron Mike Promotions and Warriors Boxing to kick off the ESPN Friday Night Fights season here in Minneapolis,” said Tony Grygelko.

“I’m happy to be going back to my hometown of Minneapolis for this great event with one of the greatest fighters ever, the legendary Mike Tyson,” said long-time boxing adviser, Luis DeCubas.

On fight night, doors open at 6 pm, first bell is at 7 pm. ESPN broadcast starts at 8 pm.

About Iron Mike Productions(IMP)
Previously known as Acquinity Sports, Iron Mike Productions is a full-service boxing promotion company co-founded and led by CEO Garry Jonas. In partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson, IMP is committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes, inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

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

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

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

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

About Seconds Out Promotions
When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for the sport was something he couldn’t deny. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions.

By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out Promotions found instant success.

Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out Promotions strives to become a leading fight promotional company in the world, by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering our fans the highest quality programming available.

Seconds Out Promotions was created to bring the very best fights to all fans and participants worldwide. Seconds Out Promotions is committed to the recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission. Seconds Out Promotions continues to expand its web and television presence, and is establishing itself as one of the fastest-rising fight promotions in the world.

For more information on Seconds Out Promotions, visit their website at: www.SoBoxing.comor their Twitter: @soboxing.

###

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.SoBoxing.comorwww.WarriorsBoxing.com.

Mike Tyson Web Site – miketyson.com

Facebook: facebook.com/miketyson, Facebook.com/SecondsOutPromotions

Twitter: @MikeTyson @IronMikeProd @soboxing

Photos by Chris Farina / Top Rank

Click to enlarge pics

Chicago, IL, Monday, November 18, 2013–On Wednesday, November 27, undefeated super flyweights Johnny “Wite Boi” Determan (7-0, 6 KOs) of Omaha, NE and “Machine Gun” James Smith (7-0, 5 KOs) of Detroit ,MI will square off at Hitz Boxing’s “Fight Night at the Horseshoe: The Black Wednesday Battle” and if the phone conversation they shared last Thursday is any indication their bout will be full of fireworks.

“I train hard for every fight, I treat him like he is the best fighter I’ve ever fought, even though he is not,” Smith opened the call with.

“I would say this my toughest opponent to date, we are not looking past him,” Deteman said.

Both fighters predict this fight will not go the distance.

“It’s not going to go the distance, that’s for sure. Both of us are power punchers. He is going to end up on the canvas,” Determan said.

“I feel like playing with two or three rounds,” Smith said. “If he stand in front of me he is going to sleep early. His best bet is to try to out box me.”

To that point Determan responded “I want to slug with you, you don’t hit hard, you only have five knockouts.”

Promoter Bobby Hitz is looking forward to this fight and called both fighters true professionals

“As the promoter of this fight, regardless of the outcome of this fight, this fight to me means the most,” said Hitz. “Making this fight was by far the easiest thing I have done in this business because I dealt with guys who are true professionals.”

To listen to the entire call visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9_B4dQWuYg&feature=youtu.be

Tickets are available at The Venue Box office and hitzboxing.com, doors open at 7:00 PM.

Since its debut in 1991, Hitz Boxing has been the midwest’s leading boxing promoter. Led by Bobby Hitz, who boasted a 21-4 record with 18 KO’s as a boxer, Hitz Boxing is the longest running boxing promoter in the Chicago area dating back to the bi-monthly boxing series the “Ramada Rumble,” held at the former Rosemont Ramada Inn. The organization currently promotes the wildly popular “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, IN and is the subject of the actuality show “Hitz Boxing,” a web series which has amassed over 5 million internet views. Over the year’s the organization has produced matches that have included some of the top names in boxing such as James Toney, Antonio Tarver, Montell Griffin, Iran Barkley, Andrew Golota and “Fast Fres Oquendo.

The $500 million Horseshoe Casino, a Caesars Entertainment Corporation property, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago is the premier entertainment and gambling destination in Chicagoland. Where legendary gaming lives on, Horseshoe boasts more than 350,000 square feet with over 3,000 slot machines, over 100 table games, one of the largest poker rooms in the Midwest, and more. The Venue at Horseshoe Casino is proud to offer the ultimate concert and entertainment destination and premier experience in a flexible space that can hold up to 3,300 guests. Dining elegance is not overlooked and guests can choose from a variety of dining options including; Jack Binion’s Steak House which overlooks Lake Michigan and winner of the 2009, 2010, 2011 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and the May 2012 OpenTable Diners’ Choice award, around-the-globe variety at the Village Square Buffet, and a taste of Chicago at Benny’s Pub and Eatery.

For more information, please visit: www.chicagohorseshoe.com.

Must be 21 years or older to gamble or attend events at The Venue. Know When To Stop Before You Start® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-9WITH-IT © 2012 Caesars License Company, LLC.
###

MACAU, CHINA (November 19, 2013) – Fighter of the Decade MANNY “Pacman” PACQUAO and former world champion BRANDON “Bam Bam” RIOS are back together – almost – at least in the same hotel, ensconced inside luxury suites at The Venetian Macao. Boxing’s top-two pound-for pound all-action superstars will make their Grand Arrivals – full of pomp and circumstance — Tuesday night – in Prime Time – at the Main Porte Cochere of the host resort. Rios will make his entrance, greeting his fans and meeting with dignitaries, at 9:00 p.m. local time, followed by Congressman Pacquiao at 9:30 p.m.

Upon their arrival at Macau International Airport on Monday evening, Pacquiao and Hall of Fame trainer World-Famous Freddie Roach had this to say:

MANNY PACQUIAO
“Am I confident for my fight with Rios? I am more than confident. Rios is bigger than me. Remember Goliath was bigger than David and yet David needed just one stone to fell the giant. I enter this fight stronger than ever. I have the strength of my country and my people coursing through my body. I fight for them, not for me. I fight for their glory, not mine.”

FREDDIE ROACH
“Manny’s last training session was nothing short of amazing. We were supposed to do six rounds on the mitts and I cut it off after four rounds. They were the best four rounds of mitts I have ever done with Manny. He was blazing. He was throwing the heat. This was the happiest and most productive camp I have had with Manny in years. I know I predicted that Manny would knock Rios out inside six rounds but based on our last workout, I don’t see how Rios makes it past the fourth round.”

Rios and Garcia hosted a roundtable in their suite with the first wave of international media who arrived earlier in the day.

BRANDON RIOS
“I want to feel Manny’s power. I want to feel all of it. This is the first training camp I have kept to the game plan and done everything I was told to do. Manny Pacquiao is a big step. I am going to shut everyone up and prove I am the best. The second Alvarado fight was my bad. I was focused on knocking him out and that’s how I trained and fought, throwing one shot at a time trying to land that knockout punch. It was also the first time I ever lifted weights and by the third round I was slowing down. This time I am focusing on winning — not on the knockout — and Robert and his dad have designed a lot of ways for me to do that. My body clock has finally adjusted to Macau. I slept until 7 a.m. and was in the gym before 9 a.m. I know we are in Manny’s backyard and I want to win every round. I have trained not to give up a minute to Manny Pacquiao.”

ROBERT GARCIA
“Twice during the two episodes of “24/7” I’ve heard Freddie Roach say he will ask Manny Pacquiao to retire if he loses to Brandon Rios. Well, Freddie had better buy that gold watch for Manny, because the retirement party begins on Saturday night. I guarantee you this will be the last time you ever see Manny Pacquiao on an HBO Pay-Per-View.”

*******************************

Promoted by Top Rank® and Sands China Ltd., in association with MP Promotions, Tecate, Warner Bros. Pictures “Grudge Match,” and Eva Airlines, Pacquiao vs. Rios will take place Saturday, November 23, at The Venetian® Macao’s CotaiArena™. It will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

For Pacquiao, this marks the pound-for-pound box office monarch’s first fight outside the U.S. since his 12-round super featherweight unanimous decision victory over former world champion Oscar Larios in 2006, which took place in the Philippines. Rios, one of boxing’s most exciting fighters, has only fought outside the U.S. twice, in México, winning a 10-round split decision over Ricardo Dominguez and knocking out Daniel Valenzuela in the second round in 2008 and 2009, respectively. .

HBO Sports’ groundbreaking “24/7” reality franchise, which has captured 17 Sports Emmy® Awards, is providing an all-access pass to Pacquiao vs. Rios. The final episode of “24/7: Pacquiao/Rios” debuts Thursday, Nov. 21 (10:00 p.m.), just two days before the welterweight showdown.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, and twitter.com/hboboxing. Use the Hashtag #PacRios to join the conversation on Twitter.

PHILADELPHIA, PA (November 18, 2013)—This Friday night, popular Heavyweight Vinny Maddalone returns to the ring when he takes on Maurenzo Smith in a scheduled eight round bout that will originate from the Paramount Theatre in Huntington, New York

The event, which is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, will be streamed LIVE all over the world on www.pandafeed.tv for $9.99

Maddalone of Queens, NY has a record of 37-8 with 28 knockouts and is on a two fight winning streak.

Maddalone is known for his exciting style has fought the elite of the Heavyweight division in former world champions Al Cole, Evander Holyfield, Jean Marc Mormeck & Tomasz Adamek as well as top contenders Dennis Boysov and Tyson Fury.
Maddalone is coming off a 3rd round stoppage over previously undefeated Richard Carmack (12-0) on May 11th.
Smith of Houston, Texas has a record of 12-7-2 with 9 knockouts.

Smith has victories over previously undefeated Robbie McClimans and in his last bout, he scored a 2nd round stoppage over Ty Cobb (16-4) on October 5th.

Smith has also fought highly regarded Andy Ruiz Jr. (15-0); Joe Hanks (20-0); Aaron Green (8-0); Tor Hamer (19-2) and Joey Abell (28-6).

In the co-feature, Undefeated Jr. Welterweight Cletus Seldin will take on his most experienced opponent in Gilbert Venegas.

The scheduled eight round bout will see Seldin of Brooklyn, NY test put his undefeated mark of 11-0 with 9 knockouts on the line when he takes on the battles tested Venegas.

Seldin has stopped 8 straight opponents with the latest being a 3rd round stoppage over Jonathan Cuba on February 23rd.

Venegas of East Moline, Illinois is 12-11-4 with 8 knockouts.

He has quality wins such as a 3rd round stoppage over world ranked Ed Paredes & undefeated Lance Williams as well as a draw with future world title challenger Jesus Soto Karass.

Venegas has also faced undefeated Lanrado Tyner, Yukeno Andino, Mike Jones, Jermall Charlo and his last bout he was stopped by Samuel Vasquez on October 12th.

In a six round Lightweight bout, Alan Gotay (6-0, 3 KO’s) of Huntington, NY will battle Calvin (2-5) of Prichard, AL.

Anthony Karperis (4-2, 2 KO’s) will fight Michael Doyle (2-6. 1KO) of Prichard, AL in six round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Wendy Toussiant (2-0) of New York will square off with debuting Ahmed Tuba in a four round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Max Tassy will box Daniel Pietch (1-2) of Ohio in a four round Cruiserweight bout.

Las Vegas, Nev. – Two world title fights headline UFC’s return to Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2014. In the night’s main event, the undisputed UFC bantamweight champion will be crowned when reigning champion Dominick Cruz (19-1, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.) returns to action after two years away from competition due to injury to meet red-hot interim champion Renan Barao (33-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil).

Then, in the night’s co-main event, UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo (23-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) returns to the Octagon® to face proven finisher Ricardo Lamas (13-2, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.), a winner of four straight.

If that wasn’t enough, two former heavyweight champions collide when former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir battles former Strikeforce® champion Alistair Overeem.

“We put together a fight worthy of Super Bowl weekend,” UFC president Dana White said. “It’s the fight that everyone has been waiting for – champion vs. champion – Dominick Cruz vs. Renan Barao for the 135-pound title. Dominick Cruz is the reigning champion and hasn’t lost a fight in six years. He takes on the interim bantamweight champion Renan Barao, who’s been on a tear with a 30-fight win streak and hasn’t lost in eight years. Two of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, two of the best 135-pounders on earth: the world is finally going to find out who is the undisputed 135-pound champion!

“Plus, the unstoppable Jose Aldo takes on the man everyone has been waiting to see him fight, Ricardo Lamas. Aldo has been the 145-pound champion since 2009 and he’s torn through the featherweight division. But Ricardo Lamas has heavy hands, great wrestling and will be the toughest test of Aldo’s career.”

Tickets for UFC® 169: CRUZ VS. BARAO go on sale Friday, Nov. 22 at 10 a.m. ET and are priced at $400, $250, $175, $100, $80, $65, and $50. Tickets will be available at all Ticketmaster locations and the Prudential Center Box Office. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices do not include applicable service charges.

UFC® Fight Club™ members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets to this event Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Nov. 21 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

For more information or current fight news, visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

About 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 FOX Sports 1.

In addition to its reach on FOX, UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries, to nearly 800 million TV households worldwide, in 28 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 more than 2.6 million followers on Twitter. Ancillary UFC businesses include best-selling DVDs and video games, UFC FIT®, an in-home fitness and nutrition program, an internationally distributed magazine, UFC.TV offering live event broadcasts and video on demand around the world, a new franchise in development with EA, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel and trading cards.

BRONX, NY (November 15, 2013) Long Island fan favorite, heavyweight Vinny Maddalone heads back to the ring against Houston’s Maurenzo Smith on Friday, NOVEMBER 22 headlining Star Boxing’s
“Rockin Fights 11” at The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island.

Maddalone, 37-8-0 (28KO’s), is coming off a pair of third round knockouts, over then undefeated Richard Carmack on MAY 11 at The Paramount and on DECEMBER 8, 2012 over Byron Polley in Queens.

“No sense in wasting any time, I’m always looking to get them out of there early” said the affable Maddalone. “But I’ve watched some tape on Smith, he’s a pretty big guy, in good shape, looks like he works off the jab very well.”

“Ideally, I beat this guy and get a shot at one of the top ten heavyweights next, that’s really what I’m looking towards.”

The hard-hitting Smith, 12-7-2 (9KO’s), is coming off his career best performance, a second round stoppage of Ty Cobb on OCTOBER 5 in Lawton, Oklahoma.

“Smith had a terrific outing against Cobb and is full of confidence coming into this fight. But Vinny is very focused, he’s ready to keep the train rolling” said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing®.

“Vinny always been extremely popular, particularly in New York, and his fans are very excited to see him back at The Paramount.”

The Paramount has become the hottest venue in the New York and perhaps the United States, with 10 sold-out shows in a row and an unequaled atmosphere to watch boxing.

Continued Maddalone, “The Paramount is truly a special place, my fans loved coming to see me there in May. Joe’s done an outstanding job resurrecting boxing on Long Island similar to its heyday when Gerry Cooney was fighting.”

Advance tickets for “ROCKIN FIGHTS 11” starting at $50, are available online through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com), the Star Boxing website (StarBoxing.com) and The Paramount Box Office, phone (631) 673-7300.

The Paramount is located at 370 New York Avenue in Huntington, New York. Doors will open on the night of the event at 7:00 p.m. with the first bell at 7:30 p.m.

ABOUT STAR BOXING ®
Star Boxing Inc. recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary (promoting pro boxing continuously since 1992). The company has produced some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star Boxing continues to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star Boxing is proud that is has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ABOUT THE PARAMOUNT:
Opened September 30, 2011 this 1,555 capacity live entertainment venue located in downtown Huntington, Long Island, features concerts, boxing, comedy, community and other special events. Booked by Live Nation, the Paramount has hosted over 150 events in its first year of operation and quickly established itself as the premier music venue on Long Island. Some recent acts to take the stage include Pitbull, Taking Back Sunday, The Pixies, Elvis Costello, Warren Haynes, Willie Nelson, Brand New, Goo Goo Dolls, Primus, Marilyn Manson, Korn, The Wanted, The Script, Panic! At the Disco and many, more.

ABOUT GOLD COAST BANK
“Long Islands Leading Community Bank ”

Headquartered in Islandia with additional branches located in Huntington, Setauket, Farmingdale, and Mineola, Gold Coast Bank is a New York State chartered bank whose popularity and sterling reputation stems from the strong, long-term relationships it has cultivated among its large and diverse customer base. A member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and one of Long Island’s financially strongest de novo banks, Gold Coast Bank has more than $170 million in assets and prides itself on providing businesses and individuals with quality lending and banking services. www.goldcoastbank-ny.com

ABOUT THE FOX HOLLOW:
Nestled upon 8 private acres of Long Island’s north shore is the Fox Hollow, which features a state of the art event venue, fine dining restaurant and an all-suite luxury boutique hotel. Owned & operated by the Scotto Brothers, their Above & Beyond philosophy in providing each & every guest with superior services and amenities is paramount. Visit the Fox Hollow online at www.TheFoxHollow.com & www.TheInnAtFoxHollow.com

CAMELOT LIMOUSINE:

Official Sponsor of the Paramount Boxing Series
Camelot Limos is a family owned and operated business located in Nassau County, with over 25 years of professional experience; serving satisfied clientele since 1984. The owners of Camelot Specialty Limos are very active in the business and play a major role in the company’s day-to-day operations. Camelot Specialty Limos, Inc. is an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau. www.camelotlimo.com

ABOUT WBAB 102.3:
WBAB 102.3 is the home of Long Island’s Classic Rock anchored by their Long Island Rock ‘N’ Roll Morning Show with Roger and JP. For more information or to listen online, visit their website at
www.wbab.com and follow them on Facebook.com/1023wbab and on Twitter @1023wbab.

BOLTON (Nov 18) – Haroon Khan will bounce right back into action next month in Wigan following his demolition of Bulgarian Stefan Slavchev.

The Bolton youngster looked calm and assured in the ring last Friday night at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens as he patiently broke down his 20-year-old compatriot who had no answers to the succession of quick flurries and powerful right hands that kept landing throughout.

The 2010 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist returns to the ring on December 14th in Wigan after moving to a record of 3-0 following his victory over Slavchev.

Khan showed tremendous maturity in his recent outing as he picked away at his opponent and circled him over the course of the fight, refusing to waste any shots, and smart enough to avoid getting carelessly caught by rushing in.

His patience over the four rounds was telling, as he continuously pushed back his opponent, who went into his shell after feeling the young super-flyweight’s power.

The 22-year-old, younger brother of former unified light-welterweight world champion Amir Khan, continues to show that he has inherited the same exciting boxing genes as his older sibling.

The future is bright for one of Britain’s top young prospects who is looking forward to jumping straight back into the ring again as he looks to make moves on the domestic circuit.

“I’m pleased with how I did against Stefan Slavchev but now I’m looking to the future and December 14th,” said Khan.

“It was great to get another win under my belt and I’m aiming for a similar performance in Wigan next month. My team are looking to move me at a good pace and the level of competition is going to keep getting better as I progress but I’m ready for that challenge,” he said.

“It was good to have Amir ringside for my last fight – that gave me a big boost. His insight, along with Oliver Harrison and his team gives me a solid foundation to really push on over the coming months,” Khan added.

The opponent for Haroon’s next fight and ticket details will be announced in due course.

Team Sauerland is delighted to announce the signing of British heavyweight star David Price. The 30-year-old Liverpudlian (15-2, 13 KOs), who currently holds the British and Commonwealth Titles, has inked a long-term deal with Europe´s largest and oldest promotional company. “We are thrilled to welcome David to our team of champions,” promoter Kalle Sauerland said. “He is one of the most exciting fighters in the most spectacular division. We firmly believe that David Price has all the necessary tools to become Heavyweight Champion of the World. His power is frightening and his size formidable, but in addition to this he is a genuine boxing talent. Personality wise he can become one of the big UK sports stars – no doubt about it. He is genuine and sports fans love genuine characters.’’

“I’m excited to be joining Europe’s biggest promoters,’’ said Price. “Kalle and Nisse are great blokes and I am looking forward to working with them. This is a fresh start for me. I can’t wait to get back into action and with a new team around me I feel I can pick up where I left off and become a world champion.’’

Price has teamed up with Adam Booth, who will be training him at his Hayemaker gym.

“I’ve always believed that David Price has a lot of potential,’’ said Booth. “And now I have an opportunity to help him fulfil it. He is undoubtedly one of the hardest punchers in world boxing, but he understands that in itself isn’t enough, so we are working on all other elements of his fighting. He is showing that he has the right desire and attitude to make the necessary changes. Then it’s down to David to prove himself!’’

“With Adam as his trainer and us taking care of all promotional matters we believe David has a winning team around him,’’ Nisse Sauerland said. “We will keep him busy, giving him the right fights at the right time. David is an extremely talented boxer and we have every confidence in him becoming a future World Champion.’’

Staging 20 top-class international events per year, Team Sauerland promotes the Viking Warrior Mikkel Kessler, former WBA Heavyweight Champion Alexander Povetkin, cruiserweight champions Marco Huck (WBO) and Yoan Pablo Hernandez (IBF), IBF heavyweight mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev, WBO number one ranked heavyweight Dennis Boystov, former middleweight & super middleweight world champion King Arthur Abraham and in the UK up-and-coming British cruiserweight prospect Deion Jumah, amongst many others. More information is available on www.sauerlandpromotion.com and on twitter – @sauerlandbros.

Nov. 18, 2013 –- Boxing fans can get a ringside seat for one of the sport’s most dramatic pre-fight activities when HBO telecasts WEIGH-IN LIVE: PACQUIAO/RIOS, the welterweight fight weigh-in, featuring ring rivals Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios. The hour special airs Friday, Nov. 22 at 6:30 p.m. (ET/PT) on HBO.

Hosted by Jim Lampley, the fast-moving program will include the moment when both prizefighters tip the scales as well as providing boxing fans with unprecedented access to the festivities. Live interviews with special guests will be part of the hour-long presentation. All the action will take place from the Venetian Macao’s CotaiArena.

Immediately following WEIGH-IN LIVE will be the encore replay of the HBO reality series “24/7 Pacquiao/Rios.” All three episodes will air back-to-back beginning at 7:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

The official fight headquarters for boxing fans all week long is insidehboboxing.com where fans can log on for exclusive and compelling features.

Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing; on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing; and on Twitter @hboboxing.

Opponents have been finalized for the undercard of Friday, December 6’s, “World Championship Boxing: Wlodarczyk vs. Fragomeni 3” event, featuring WBC Cruiserweight Champion Krzysztof “Diablo” Wlodarczyk (48-2-1, 34 KOs) of Warsaw, Poland, making the sixth defense of his title against Milan, Italy’s former WBC Cruiserweight Champion Giacobbe “Gabibbo” Fragomeni (31-3-2, 12 KOs).

The Ulrich Knockout Promotions, Warriors Boxing and 8 Count Promotions night of boxing will also feature the return of Chicago’s Polish Prince, IBF #1 Light Heavyweight contender Andrzej Fonfara (25-2, 14 KOs) taking on La Habra, California, via Colombia KO artist Samuel Miller (26-7, 23 KOs).

Tickets for “World Championship Boxing: Wlodarczyk vs. Fragomeni 3” are priced at VIP $201, VIP Ringside $151, Ringside $101, Box Mezzanine $76, Reserved Mezzanine $51, and General Admission $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices: 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740.

In support of the two main events will be an eight-round light welterweight match-up between Adrian “El Tigre” Granados (12-2-2, 8 KOs) of Cicero, Illinois via Mexico, and Carlos Winston “El Guerrero” Velasquez (21-17-1, 11 KOs) from Managua, Nicaragua;

An eight-round light middleweight bout between Jonathan “Mantequilla” Gonzalez (16-0-1, 13 KOs) of Puerto Rico and Jaison Palomeque (14-7-1, 9 KOs) Arpartado, Colombia;

A six-round middleweight battle involving Henry “The Western Warrior” Coyle (18-2, 12 KOs) of Chicago, via Geesala, Ireland vs. TBA

A six-round middleweight bout between Paul “The Punisher” Littleton (8-0-1, 4 KOs) of Chicago and Troy White (5-2 -1, 1 KO) of Saint Louis, Missouri;

A six-round cruiserweight bout pitting “Hurricane” Junior Wright (8-0, 7 KOs) of Evanston, Illinois against Terrance “T-Rex” Smith (8-15-2, 5 KOs) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma;

A five-round middleweight rematch between Trinidad Garcia (5-3-3) of Chicago and Ramiro Bueno Jr. (2-3-1 1 KO) of South Bend, Indiana;

And a four-round lightweight opener between Jose Romero (1-0) of Whiting, Indiana, and Fred Bowen (1-1-1) of Jackson, Tennessee.

“World Championship Boxing: Wlodarczyk vs. Fragomeni 3” is being presented by Andrew Wasilewski and Piotr Werner of Ulrich Knockout Promotions, Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing and Dominic Pesoli of 8 Count Promotions.

ABOUT 8 COUNT PRODUCTIONS

8 Count Productions, Home Of The Best In Chicago Boxing, was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland.

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

For more information on 8 Count Productions/Round 3 Productions please visit their new website, www.8countproductions.com.

ABOUT WARRIORS BOXING

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

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

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

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

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Nov. 18th, 2013) –The highly-anticipated showdown scheduled for Friday night between Peter Manfredo Jr. and Rich Gingras almost didn’t happen.

Following a decisive win over Walter Wright in March — the second fight of Manfredo’s most recent comeback — “The Pride Of Providence” quietly decided that was enough; it was finally time to hang up the gloves and be a full-time husband and father.

Then everything changed in July when Manfredo’s close friend, former Rhode Island boxer Gary Balletto, suffered a fall at his home that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

“When he got hurt, it hurt me,” Manfredo said. “He might never be able to walk again, so I thought it’d be nice to come back and fight for him while I can still walk, talk and move.”

As Balletto continues the fight of his life, doing everything within his power to walk again, Manfredo (39-7, 20 KOs) finds himself in a battle that may very well be the fight of his life, a 10-round showdown against the hard-hitting Gingras (13-3-1, 8 KOs) in the main event of “Pride & Power,” scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, 2013 at Twin River Casino and presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports.

Manfredo has faced some of the best fighters in the world, from Jeff Lacy, to Joe Calzaghe to Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., but Friday’s bout against Gingras is a unique challenge at this stage in his career. Manfredo will turn 33 next Tuesday. He’s more than a boxer these days; he’s a father of three, a devoted husband, and a full-time laborer in Massachusetts. He no longer eats, sleeps and breathes boxing like he did during his heyday when he starred on The Contender reality series and challenged for world titles.

Having to balance his life outside of the gym with his life between the ropes makes every challenge, especially Friday’s, riskier than ever, even if Gingras doesn’t have as much experience as some of the elite fighters Manfredo has gone toe-to-toe with in the past.

“This is a young man’s game now. That’s why I retired,” Manfredo said. “I’ve been in this game 13 years as a pro – all my life, really – and it’s tough to do both when you’re working a full-time job. You need health care. You need things for your family. To compete at the level I was competing at, you can’t work.

“You have to dedicate 100 percent of your time to the sport of boxing. I decided to hang it up and become a full-time dad and worker, but Gary is a friend of mine. There were times when I didn’t get along with my old man and he threw me out of the gym. Gary always opened the door for me. He was always a friend.

“As boxers, we all have that side of ourselves where we are brothers. It takes a special person to be a fighter. My heart and prayers go out to Gary and his family. He’s in the biggest fight of his life trying to walk again, but if anyone can do it, it’s him. I want to go out there one more time and box for him.”

Though he may not admit it, this fight is about more than just honoring Balletto. Manfredo has been Rhode Island’s most popular, successful fighter since Vinny Paz stepped away from the ring and passed the torch more than a decade ago. Gingras, who owns a business in Pawtucket, R.I., and lives in nearby Lincoln, just a stone’s throw from Twin River, has a chance to dethrone Manfredo and become the talk of the town. Not on his turf, Manfredo says, and not on this night.

“He thinks he’s going to come in there and throw a million shots and wear me out and be too much for me, but it ain’t gonna happen,” Manfredo said.

“I’ve seen everything. I’ve been in there with the best in the world. I have more experience. No matter what he brings, it’s nothing I haven’t seen. I’ve prepared myself well. I’m in great shape and I know he’s going to be in great shape, too. The best man will win.”

Manfredo admits he originally wanted to face the winner of the July showdown between Gingras and fellow Providence super middleweight Vladine Biosse, but that fight ended in a draw. In the interim, Gingras agreed to step up and face Manfredo, resulting in what figures to be a fitting ending to the 2013 Twin River Fight Series.

“He’s definitely going to give me a run for my money, especially now that I’m not in the prime of my career,” Manfredo said of Gingras. “He’s a tough kid. He looks good. He’s big, strong – I’ve got my hands full, but when don’t you have your hands full? That’s why we fight. Nothing is written in stone.”

Neither are Manfredo’s retirements. After ending his first retirement in 2009, Manfredo promised he’d walk away again if he lost to Chavez Jr. in 2011. He kept his word for more than a year until he returned for the second time in November of 2012, citing the need to take advantage of his earning potential and provide for his family. Although money is his driving force these days, the passion and hunger always return once that bell rings.

“You turn into a monster. You get that tunnel vision,” he said. “I’ve always said fighters are born, not made. That fighter comes out of you when the bell rings. You can’t hear anything or anybody in the crowd and you’re focused on what you need to do.

“I’m already in that mindset. I’m dieting. I’m losing weight. I’m kind of mean right now. You change. People at work look at me and notice the change in me. That’s just part of being a fighter. The fighter is coming out of me now.

“On Friday, it’s all business. I’m good friends with Rich, but I’m going to try to knock his head off just like he’s going to try to knock off mine, and when it’s over, we’ll have a beer … but I’ll have a root beer because I don’t drink.”

Asked if he has one more fight in him after Friday, Manfredo, who is also aiming for his 40th professional win, said, “We’ll see. That’s the beauty of this game. You never know. One shot can change anything. I could be in total control, and one shot could change everything. That’s the beauty of this sport.”

Tickets for the event are priced at $46, $61, $101 and $161 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling 401-724-2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.ticketmaster.com, or at the Players Club at Twin River. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

“Pride & Power” also features the return of former four-time world champion “Hurricane” Jaime Clampitt (21-5-1, 7 KOs) of Warwick, R.I., who will face Dominga Olivo (8-8-1) of Brooklyn, N.Y., in the six-round lightweight co-feature, ending a three-year layoff. The undercard also features a special six-round heavyweight attraction with “The Armenian Assassin” Arthur Saribekian (23-4-1, 18 KOs) returning to the ring for the first time in more than a decade to face Hyannis, Mass., product Jesse Barboza (6-1-1, 4 KOs).

Also on the undercard, Cranston, R.I., welterweight Nick DeLomba (2-0) will put his undefeated record on the line against Carlos Hernandez (3-2-1, 2 KOs) of Bridgeport, Conn., in a six-round bout and Providence middleweight KJ Harrison-Lombardi (2-0-1) will return to Twin River in a four-round bout against Mike Rodriguez of Springfield, Mass., who will be making his professional debut. Harrison-Lombardi and Rodriguez faced one another in the amateurs with Rodriguez winning a close decision. Providence light middleweight Publio Pena (1-0, 1 KO) will face Antonio Marrero (0-1) of Hartford, Conn., in a four-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Click to enlarge pictures

Photo Credit: Chris Farina / Top Rank

LAS VEGAS, NEV (November 18, 2013) — Boxing’s royalty will be in Las Vegas this week talking about the historic 12-round welterweight showdown between Fighter of the Decade MANNY PACQUIAO and former world champion BRANDON RIOS. Broadcasting throughout the day Live from the Palazzo Waterfall Atrium inside The Palazzo Las Vegas — sister property of the The Venetian Macao, the resort site hosting Pacquiao vs. Rios — Thursday, November 21 and Friday, November 22, 13 national and regional radio shows will be interviewing a boxing’s Who’s Who — in-person, including Hall of Famers George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Pacquiao rivals Marco Antonio Barrera and Timothy Bradley, Rios’ professional nemesis Mike Alvarado, and former world champion Ray Mancini.

The appearance schedule is as follows:

Thursday, November 21
· Timothy Bradley, undefeated two-division world champion who dethroned Pacquiao last year to claim his WBO welterweight title. Claimed his first world title in England, dethroning WBC super lightweight champion and hometown favorite Junior Witter.
· Marco Antonio Barrera, former three-division world champion who fought the majority of his fights outside his native Mexico, including two fights with Pacquiao.
· Mike Alvarado, the former WBO jr. lightweight champion who is 1-1 against Rios.

Friday, November 22
· George Foreman, former two-time heavyweight champion. Fought all his world title fights outside the U.S. during his first title reign.
· Sugar Ray Leonard, former five-division world champion who had one fight outside the U.S. — against Roberto Duran in Montreal — where he lost a unanimous decision — and his welterweight title to Duran.
· Roberto Duran, former four-division world champion who fought the majority of his major fights outside his native Panama.
· Ray Mancini, former lightweight champion who fought outside the U.S. once, in Italy, winning a narrow decision to retain his title.

“While the fight takes place in China, we want U.S. fight fans to be treated to the same real time experience they enjoy for all pay-per-view mega-fights,” said Mark Taffet of HBO Pay-Per-View. “With the star-studded group of fighters, the breadth of the radio stations broadcasting live, and the television and print interviews which emanate from Las Vegas, we will be able to provide a constant flow of news, information and entertainment which U.S. boxing fans can engage on their time. Additionally, the press conference and weigh-in from Macau will take place live at times which are convenient for the U.S. audience; and of course the live fight telecast on Saturday night November 23rd will take place at the usual time of 9 pm ET/6 pm PT.”

The seven boxing superstars will be discussing their experiences — the victories and the losses — when they fought on foreign soil as well as their analysis of the upcoming Pacquiao-Rios battle. Both Barrera and Bradley have first-hand knowledge of what Rios should expect from Pacquiao and what Rios will need to do to have his hand raised in victory in just five days. The same is true for Alvarado, who has tangled with Rios in two Fights of the Year. .

Promoted by Top Rank® and Sands China Ltd., in association with MP Promotions, Tecate, Warner Bros. Pictures “Grudge Match,” and Eva Airlines, Pacquiao vs. Rios will take place Saturday, November 23, at The Venetian® Macao’s CotaiArena™. It will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

For Pacquiao, this marks the pound-for-pound box office monarch’s first fight outside the U.S. since his 12-round super featherweight unanimous decision victory over former world champion Oscar Larios in 2006, which took place in the Philippines. Rios, one of boxing’s most exciting fighters, has only fought outside the U.S. twice, in México, winning a 10-round split decision over Ricardo Dominguez and knocking out Daniel Valenzuela in the second round in 2008 and 2009, respectively. .

HBO Sports’ groundbreaking “24/7” reality franchise, which has captured 17 Sports Emmy® Awards, is providing an all-access pass to Pacquiao vs. Rios. The final episode of “24/7: Pacquiao/Rios” debuts Thursday, Nov. 21 (10:00 p.m.), just two days before the welterweight showdown.

The Venetian and The Palazzo will be the only resorts in Las Vegas to offer the live closed-circuit broadcast of Pacquiao vs. Rios. The bout will be available for viewing inside The Venetian Ballroom and at Lagasse’s Stadium. Doors open at 5 p.m., undercard fights begin at 6 p.m. Tickets for The Venetian Ballroom are $50. Food and beverage minimums apply for Lagasse’s Stadium. Tickets: 702-414-9000.

Las Vegas residents will still be able to order the live HBO Pay-per-View telecast in their homes.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, and twitter.com/hboboxing. Use the Hashtag #PacRios to join the conversation on Twitter.

Patrick Nielsen´s homecoming to Albertslund was a successful one as he stopped Jose Pinzon in the fifth round to defend his WBA & WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Titles in style. The 22-year-old Dane (21-0, 10 KOs) knocked down his Mexican opponent (24-6, 15 KOs) with a huge left, and the referee waved the bout off after Pinzon had scrambled back to his feet. “What a great win for Patrick,” promoter Nisse Sauerland said. “Pinzon came to win and the first four rounds were tough. But Patrick did really well and caught him with a great left. He has great potential and this sets the stage nicely for a world title fight in 2014.”

Nielsen was happy with his performance. “Pinzon was a tough opponent, he had a very long reach and he really came to fight. But my coach Joey Gamache had prepared me very well. He told me what to do. I am happy I could give my fans a great KO win.”

Patrick Nielsen´s younger brother Micki defeated Germany´s Bjoern Blaschke (KO 1), Dennis Ceylan scored a first-round knock down against Edgar Torres en route to an impressive points victory and Rashid Kassem KOd Maxime Roussel in the first round.

The Swedish Nordic Fight Night fighters Klara Svensson (vs. Borislava Goranova) and Anthony Yigit (vs. Anton Bekish) cruised to clear points victories, with the Norwegians Tim-Robin Lihaug (TKO Steve Kroekel round 3) and Simen Smaadal (TKO Leo Tchoula round 4) clinching impressive stoppages.

Former two division world champion David Haye has pulled out his bout with Tyson Fury for the 2nd time, this time for a shoulder injury that required immediate surgery according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

The bout was originally scheduled for September 28th but a cut over Haye’s eye forced a postponement to February 8th.

“I genuinely believed the shoulder injury wasn’t that bad,” Haye said. “But the doctor sent me for a detailed MRI scan and within 24 hours I was told the full extent of the damage. Twenty-four hours after that I was in the operating theater.

“It’s a crushing blow for me. I had big plans for next year and the ultimate goal was to win back the world heavyweight title, something my amazing fans deserve.

“What I didn’t anticipate was that this year would be the unluckiest of my career and that a number of injuries would disrupt my plans so much. Perhaps it just wasn’t meant to be. The boxing gods keep hinting that maybe enough is enough and that it’s time to finally hang up my gloves.”

“The surgery and subsequent results are a bitter pill to swallow because I truly felt I had a lot more to offer and was looking forward to paying back my loyal fans with some great fights in 2014,” Haye said. “But I’ve been boxing for 23 years now, amateur and pro, and this has clearly taken its toll on my body. I can only offer my sincerest apologies to all those fans who have followed me over the years and, like me, wanted to finish on a real high. This wasn’t how I wanted to end 2013.

“If I’m now destined to have won the European championship, the unified world cruiserweight championship and the WBA heavyweight championship of the world, then so be it. I’m proud of these achievements and consider my boxing career a huge success.”

It started at yesterday’s weigh-in when Edwin Rodriguez failed to make weight for his WBA Super Middleweight clash with Andre Ward. Then he and Ward engaged in an ugly fight that saw Ward easily score a twelve round unanimous decision ast the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.

The fight started out with Rodriguez running across the ring and trying to bully Ward. Ward would have nine of that as he started drilling Rodriguez with pinpoint shots with both hands. Ward was dominating the fight with both hands and featured a hard power jab. In round four, the fight turned ugly as inordinate amount of clutching and grabbing by both men forced referee Jack Reiss to not only pause the bout but take two points away from each man, warn them and suggest that the commission fine both fighters. Reiss also intimated that he was hit by a stray punch.

“We had two highly trained athletes full of adrenalin and emotion,” the veteran referee observed. “I deducted two points from each of them and warned them that the deduction of another point would result in a disqualification. That was done with the intent to produce an exciting, competitive fight all the way to its conclusion. And it did.”

That admonishment seemed to work as the bout picked up a better flow but unfortunately for Rodriguez it was all Ward as he continued to rock Rodriguez with body shots, hard jabs and even an uppercut that hurt Rodriguez in round eleven.

Despite being off 14 months for shoulder surgery, Ward solidified his status among the pound for pound elite bu pounding out the decision by scores of 118-106, 117-107 and 116-108 to raise his perfect mark to 27-0. Rodrigiez or Worcester, MA is now 24-1.

“We knew he would come out and try and bull me,” said Ward, who showed no ill effects from his inactivity following surgery to his right shoulder.

“Instead of trying to win rounds he was looking to land one big shot. He wanted to make it ugly and hope he could land something big. Jack Reiss did a tremendous job keeping the action going.”

“He was putting his head down a little too much,” a frustrated Rodriguez pointed out. “Andre Ward is very tricky, but does not have a lot of power in his right hand. I am just disappointed in my performance. The weight had nothing to do with it. He’s a good fighter. What can I say?”

Former world champion Daniel Ponce De Leon scored a ten round unanimous decision over Joksan Hernandez in a Super Featherweight bout at the Oasis Hotel in Cancun, Mexico.

De Leon landed an over hand left that buckled Hernandez that made Hernandez glove touch the canvas and was ruled a knockdown. The two traded heavy shots after that to finish the round. Hernandez gave a good effort but De Leon landed the more telling blows throughout the bout.

De Leon, 130 lbs of Chihuahua, Mexico is now 45-5. Hernandez, 130 lbs of Ensenada, MX is 23-6-1.

Roberto Manzanarez stopped veteran Alejandro Barrera in round three of their scheduled ten round Lightweight bout.

Barrera scored a knockdown in round. In round two he sent Barrera to the canvas from a left to the head and finished things with a hard left to the body sent crumpled Barrera to the canvas in round three and the bout was stopped.

Manzanarez, 134 1/2 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is now 25-1 with 21 knockouts. Barrera, 135 1/2 lbs of Mexico City is now 22-16.

Juan Pablo Sanchez scored a 5th round stoppage over Raul Hinojosa in a scheduled 10 round Super Featherweight bout.

Sanchez, 130 lbs of Tabasco, MX is now 26-11 with 12 knockouts. Hinojosa, 130 1/4 lbs of Mexico City is now 11-3-1.

Emanuel Medina (5-0, 4 KO’s) scored a 2nd round stoppage over Maximiliano De La Cruz (0-2) in a Welterweight bout.

Donald Cerrone choked out Evan Dunham in the 2nd round of theor Lightweight bout.

Cerrone choked out Dunham at 3:49 of round 2 with the triangle.

Cerrone, 155 lbs is 21-5-1. Dunham, 146 lbs, is 14-5.

Thales Leites scored a three round unanimous decision over Ed Herman in a Middelweight bout.

Leites, 186 lbs of Rio Di Janeanaro, BRA won by scores of 30-27 on all cards and is now 22-4. Herman, 186 lbs of Fort Collins, CO is now 21-9-1.

Rick Story scored a three round unanimous decision over Brian Ebersole in a Welterweight bout.

Scores were 30-27 on all cards for Story, 170 lbs of Vancouver, WA and is now 16-7. Ebersole, 171 lbs of Phuket, Thailand is now 50-16-1.

Erik Perez scored a three round unanimous decision over Edwin Figueroa in a Bantamweight bout.

Perez, 135 lbs of Albuquerque, NM won by scores of 30-27 on all cards and is now 14-5. Figueroa, 135 lbs of mcKinney, TX is now 9-4.

Vyacheslav Glazkov scored a ten round unanimous decision over very late replacement and tough as nails Garrett Wilson in a Heavyweight bout at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Wilson took the fight on Wednesday night after Tomasz Adamek had to pull out due to an illness.

Wilson came out firing big hayemakers in round one. Glazkov buckled Wilson in round two with a couple of flush right hands. Round three saw Glazkov continue to land right hands in between the wild attempts of offense from Wilson. Glazkov was cut over his right eye in round three as a result of an accidental headbutt. Glazkov continued to dominate the boxing aspect of the fight. Wilson would fight in spurts and landed a huge uppercut in round seven that rocked Glazkov.

Both guys tried very hard until the final bell with Wilson unsuccessfully trying to land the one equalizing punch.

Glazkov, 222 lbs of Ukraine won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 16-0-1. Wilson, 204 lbs of Philadelphia was making his Heavyweight debut is now 13-7-1.

Karl Dargan scored a ten round unanimous decision over Michael Brooks in a bout that featured previously undefeated Lightweights.

Dargan controlled the action with his boxing ability where Brooks was lunging in and trying to land the big shot. Brooks started to swell around the right eye in round four but that was never an issue as the fight went on. Dragan focused on the body and landed some nice combinations upstairs. Knowing he was behind, Brooks tried to pick up the pace in the final round and got through with a couple shots. The final round provided a lot of action with Dargan getting the better of the action.

Dargan, 134 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 99-91, 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 14-0. Brooks, 134 1/s lbs of Long Island, NY is now 10-1-1.

Ronald Cruz 150 Hector Munoz 150.4
Jason Sosa 133.3 Bryne Green 136.3
Darnell Jiles 139.8 Jerome Rodriguez 139.1
Todd Unthank-May 182.8 Kentrell Claiborne 184.9
Terrell James 145.4 Carlo Moore 148
Pablo Sanchez 147.1 Arturo Trujillo 148.3
Nathaniel Rivas 143.6 Johnathan Williams 141.8
Jean Carlos Hernandez 142 Ismael Serrano 141.8

Venue: Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem
Promoter: Peltz Boxing Promotions, Inc., & BAM Boxing
First Bout: 7pm
Tickets: $50 and $75 available at the door

LONDON (16 Nov) – Super-middleweight king Andre Ward has laid down the gauntlet to Carl Froch, declaring he can knockout the ‘delusional’ British star in a world title unification rematch.

The WBA Super and Ring Magazine world champion has opened the door to a potential blockbuster matchup against the reigning IBF world champion Froch, should both men come through their upcoming battles.

Ward faces off against the unbeaten Edwin Rodriguez in Ontario, California this weekend, a fight you can see live and exclusive on BoxNation, with Froch taking on the rising George Groves in a grudge match later this month.

Should both prevail, Ward is convinced that a super-fight could be next up for the 168-pound division’s two top dogs.

“I think a fight with Froch is definitely something that could happen,” said Ward.

“I’ve said this so many times but I’m not chasing that fight. I won the last fight hands down, and I would be secure moving on. But it’s something that he feels he wants to get another crack at and I’m open for that, absolutely,” he said.

The Olympic gold medalist is also of the belief he can make an early night of it should he share the ring with the Nottingham man again, especially due to the fact he fought with a broken left hand in their first encounter.

“I think I could stop Froch in a rematch. I don’t believe the hype that Froch is invincible. I think he has a really good chin, has taken some big shots and stood up under them and I give him credit for that,” Ward said.

“But sometimes the media makes him out to be some iron man who can’t be stopped. He can be stopped if he gets hit with flush shots.

“It’s only natural to think that if you come into a fight inhibited, injured and limited and you’re still able to do a certain amount of work – if you’re fully healthy just imagine what would happen,” he stated.

The bad blood between the pair has grown ever since their fight in December 2011, due in part to a perceived lack of respect from Froch who has questioned his contemporary’s drawing power.

“I don’t look at it as disrespect – I think he’s delusional,” Ward stated.

“Look at Carl Froch and some of the stuff he says and it doesn’t always add up. One aspect he talks about [is drawing power], if you look at his last ratings on HBO and my last one, it’s night and day.

“He had a few hundred thousand people watch his fight in America and we had over a million watch my last fight with Chad Dawson, so I think he needs to focus on what he’s doing,” said Ward.

The 29-year-old from Oakland has also thrown into question Froch’s apparent warrior tag and has asked why he never brought it to the fore when they clashed.

“It’s funny when a guy says you’re boring but he had 12 rounds, 12 rounds, to make it interesting, to be the monster that he says that he is and get a war going,” he said.

“If you watch that fight I didn’t run, I didn’t duck, I didn’t dodge, I was right in the pocket with him. It was tougher than he thought it was going to be, so instead of giving me my just due he makes excuses,” Ward added.

“Now he’s turning into a TV executive, and then a promoter, when he’s talking about no one wants to watch me. Well, his fans in the UK want to watch me as well as fans in the US, so I just don’t think the stuff he says is accurate or adds up,” he said.

Ward believes that the three-time world champion should take a leaf out of Ricky Hatton’s book and give credit where credit is due.

The fan favourite ‘Hitman’ suffered defeats against two of boxing’s household names in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao but was quick to praise both following his losses, something which Ward thinks Froch can learn from.

“It’s really sad a champion of his calibre can’t give a guy his just due and say ‘you know what, he was the better man that night’,” said Ward.

“I think the fans would respect him a lot more if he did that, American fans and UK fans. Look at Ricky Hatton, he was that type of guy, he lost and he said ‘no excuses, it was my fault’ and then moved onto the next one,” Ward said.

“I think that’s why Ricky Hatton is so beloved the way he is because he was going to give it his all, 100%, and if it didn’t go right he wasn’t going to make excuses. And that’s what Carl Froch specialises in – making excuses,” he said.

Andre Ward vs. Edwin Rodriguez is live on BoxNation (Sky Ch. 437/Virgin Ch. 546) this Sunday at 2am. Visit www.boxnation.com to subscribe.

-Ends-
About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £10* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (ch 437), Virgin (ch 546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £10 one off registration fee for Sky TV and new Livesport.tv customers.

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (Nov. 15th, 2013) – After losing to tough Brazilian Gil de Freitas earlier this summer, Chuck O’Neil needed a change of pace to get back on the winning track.

“I got right back to training camp and began putting those elbows to use,” O’Neil.

Veteran Chris Woodall (12-5) bore the brunt of O’Neil’s frustration Saturday night, absorbing a series of elbows midway through the opening round, the final one opening a nasty gash on Woodall’s forehead and prompting the referee to mercifully stop the bout at the 2-minute, 24-mark second mark in the main event of Classic Entertainment & Sports’ “November To Remember” pro-am card at Foxwoods Resorts Casino’s Fox Theater.

O’Neil (12-6, 4 KOs), a Bridgewater, Mass., native who starred on The Ultimate Fighter reality series several years ago, got off to a quick start in Saturday’s main event, taking Woodall to the canvas within the first 30 seconds. From there, it was a series of unanswered strikes followed by the vicious elbows that subsequently busted Woodall wide open and put an end to the night.

“After my loss, I got right back into training camp and made some improvements,” O’Neil said. “I added some extra muscle. I have a great team and it paid off tonight.”

The evenly-matched co-feature lived up to all the pre-fight hype as Amsterdam, N.Y., veteran Harley Beekman (5-2) got back on track with a hard-fought, unanimous-decision win over former UFC vet Thomas Egan (7-4) of Dorchester, Mass. Beekman won the fight 30-27 on all three scorecards, but it appeared much closer inside the cage until the third and final round when Beekman scored an early takedown and proceeded to wear down Egan over the final four and a half minutes. On his back for the majority of the round, Egan had no answer, though he did an admirable job of sustaining further damage.

“I wanted to stand up with him. He’s a hell of a striker,” said Beekman, who snapped a two-fight losing streak, “but when Plan A doesn’t work you have to go to Plan B.”

Fighting out of Dorchester, Mass., and working with famed boxing coach Peter Welch, featherweight James Murrin (1-0, 1 KO) let his hands do the talking Saturday in his professional debut, peppering fellow newcomer Douglas Monteiro (0-1) of Framingham, Mass., with relentless combinations, opening a vicious gash over Monteiro’s right eye and forcing the ringside physician to stop the bout at the end of the opening round. Utilizing his boxing training, Murrin consistently switched between working the body and landing cleanly upstairs. Monteiro had no answer other than try to attempt a takedown to stem the tide, but Murrin stuffed each attempt and cruised to a near-flawless win.

Looking to snap a two-fight losing streak, Providence flyweight Dan Cormier (2-3) came through swimmingly, defeating newcomer Marvin Maldonado (0-1) of Latham, N.Y., by split decision, 30-27, 30-27, 28-29. Also on the undercard, Meriden, Conn., Willie Brown Jr. (2-0) won for the second time in as many fight, this time exerting his will against the taller, leaner Chaz Dowdell (0-1), defeating the Pittsburgh, Pa., newcomer by submission via the rear-naked choke at the 1:18 minute of the second round.

Asked if submission victories are his new forte, Brown Jr. said, “I just take what they give me.”

In a rematch of one of his few losses as a professional, heavyweight Josh Diekmann (14-5, 10 KOs) of Groton, Conn., made quick work of journeyman Chris Guillen (13-16), stopping the 41-year-old veteran with a series of unanswered strikes at the 1:15 mark of the opening round. Guillen submitted Diekmann in 2007, but was no match for Diekmann this time around, prompting Diekmann to seek yet another rematch during his post-fight celebration.

“I want to thank Chris for coming out here from halfway across the country to give me a rematch. That’s what real men do, not yellow-bellied cowards like Tyler King,” Diekmann said in reference to King, who beat him by unanimous decision in October of 2012.

VERONA, NY – On just three days’ notice, Philadelphian Garrett Wilson, 13-6-1, 7 KOs, has agreed to take on rising heavyweight prospect Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov, 15-0-1, 11 KOs, in a nationally televised 10-rounder at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY. The opportunity came when Galzkov’s original opponent, Tomasz Adamek, was forced to pull out of the bout on short notice due to a stomach virus.

With the fight slated for Saturday afternoon and the chance to perform in front of millions on the NBC network television platform, facing Glazkov amounts to a chance of a lifetime for Wilson. And the fighter known as “The Ultimate Warrior” is ready to make the most of his big break.

“I think this is an excellent opportunity for me to showcase my talent on NBC,” Wilson said. “It’s a gift, and I am going to make the most of it. Everybody will get to see me. It’s amazing!”

Wilson has always been a fighter ready and willing to take on the world. It’s not the first time he’s stepped into the ring on short notice, but this time the stakes – and possible rewards – have never been greater.

“I’ve taken fights on 24-hour notice,” Wilson said. “I took this fight because I like to fight guys who, on paper, look like excellent fighters, and then show that I am better.”

Wilson’s resume includes several upset wins, as well as a few truly spectacular knockouts. If the former USBA & NABF cruiserweight champion can do it again on Saturday afternoon, he will make his mark in the heavyweight division and jump-start his career like never before.

“I’m going to give the fans a show,” Wilson said. “They call me the “Ultimate Warrior”, and this is what I do. I’m always in shape, and I’m always ready for battle. This is the chance I’ve been waiting for and I’m going to show the world who I am.”

The NBC broadcast begins at 2:30 PM with a 10-round showdown between unbeaten lightweights for the USBA Atlantic Coast Region Lightweight Title, Karl “Dynamite” Dargan, 13-0, 7 KOs, and Mike “Lefty” Brooks, 10-0-1, 2 KOs, with the Glazkov-Wilson fight immediately following.

Ticket Info: Tickets range from $25 to $70 and are on sale now at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or Click Here to Purchase Tickets for Nov 16 Adamek vs Glazkov Fight at Turning Stone Resort & Casino.

FOLLOW US:
www.mainevents.com
Twitter: @main_events or twitter.com/main_events
Twitter: #FightNight
Facebook:facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing
facebook.com/NBCSports
www.turningstone.com/
Twitter: @TurningStone or twitter.com/TurningStone
Facebook: www.facebook.com/home.php#!/TurningStoneResort

ABOUT TURNING STONE RESORT CASINO:
A premier four-season, destination resort in Upstate New York, the Oneida Indian Nation’s Turning Stone Resort Casino is conveniently located about 30 miles east of Syracuse at NYS Thruway exit 33. Turning Stone was named “Most Excellent Golf Resort” in 2010 by Condé Nast Johansens. The Academy of Country Music named Turning Stone “Casino of the Year” in 2009. The resort offers world-class gaming, golf, entertainment, accommodations and spa facilities, and has earned AAA Four Diamond ratings for The Lodge, The Tower Hotel, and Wildflowers restaurant. For more information and reservations, call (315) 361-7711 or (800) 771-7711. Visit the website at TurningStone.com.

Super Middleweight Edwin Rodriguez was 2 pounds over the 168 pound weight limit for his Saturday fight with champion Andre Ward in Ontario, California according to Dan Rafel of espn.com

“We’re going to work on [losing the 2 pounds]. I feel pretty good,” Rodriguez said while still at the scale after being overweight. “I’m gonna work on it.”

“I think there’s a chance Edwin might not be able to make this weight again,” Lou DiBella, Rodriguez’s promoter, told ESPN.com. “He couldn’t lose another ounce. He couldn’t even spit.”

For missing weight, the commission fined Rodriguez 20 percent of his career-high $1 million purse. Of the $200,000 fine, half will go to the commission and the remaining $100,000 will be given to Ward, boosting his purse from $1.9 million to $2 million.

As part of a deal made with the Ward camp, Rodriguez is required to reweigh at 9 a.m. PT on Saturday and cannot be heavier than 180 pounds.

“It’s at his peril,” DiBella said.

“I’m greatly disappointed and I’m really annoyed,” DiBella said. “I’m not a hypocrite. I’ve been public about this situation with other fighters and talked about their unprofessionalism, and I’m not going to change my tune because he’s my fighter.

“This is the opportunity of your lifetime, this is everything to this kid and his family, and I’m greatly disappointed. I truly believe in him as a fighter and that he had a chance to do something great, and now he is in a situation where he can’t win the belt, and he has been docked money his family desperately needed, and I have a hard time believing he will be at his best. I have empathy if he simply couldn’t make the weight, but that doesn’t change the annoyance or disappointment or stop me from saying I’m sorry on behalf of his team to Andre Ward, Ward’s team, HBO and to the fans.”

BOB ARUM: Welcome to the new global age, where fights take place around the world and promotions kick in as if we were still in Las Vegas. On Thursday and Friday we will have Radio Row broadcasting live from the Palazzo Waterfall Atrium inside The Palazzo Las Vegas resort. Thirteen national and regional radio shows are participating and we’ll have a whole host of great fighters from the past – guys who made this sport what it is today and as popular as it is today. George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Ray Mancini, Marco Antonio Barrera; and the stars of today — Tim Bradley and Mike Alvarado — in-person being interviewed on their views on Pacquiao vs. Rios and talking about their experiences fighting outside their own countries. The world is becoming a very, very small place. This event in Macao is making a huge impact in Asia and around the world. I thank all of the participants on today’s call, A lot of them have fought abroad throughout their career and you can ask them about their experience fighting in multiple time zones from where they trained.

Tim, what can Brandon Rios expect from Manny when he gets in the ring?

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: First of all, he should expect to see Manny Pacquiao being very quick and very elusive and lots of feints in this fight. Manny Pacquiao dropped a lot of feints on me and it kept me off balance as far as shots. He is very difficult to hit at times too because he is always angling out. He’s coming in, he’s out, he’s angling out to the right or to the left. That’s what Brandon Rios should expect. He shouldn’t expect Pacquiao to come right at him. He is going to have to expect a lot of angles in this fight. Rios, if he is going to have a chance to beat Pacquiao he is going to have to close the distance. He is going to have to get close, stay close and punch. Pacquiao has a tendency to stay on the ropes with his hands high and stay in position to allow opponents to punch him at times and that will work in Rios’ favor. Rios likes to bring the pressure and throw uppercuts and body shots and I think that’s how he’s going to be effective in this fight. If he’s out too far, he’s doomed. If he can close the distance, he’ll be OK. And expect Pacquiao to come right back too … he has to have really good defense after he punches. And if he does that, he’ll be successful but if he allows Pacquiao to move on him and find angles … Manny has power in both hands, he can hurt you. I know Rios can take a punch but this is not Mike Alvarado – he is facing Manny Pacquiao who has speed and power.

George, you won your first title out of the country and defended it out of the country – what should Rios expect since he is making the long trip?

GEORGE FOREMAN: It’s going to be rough and that’s all there is to it because you can say to yourself ‘I am accustomed to it’ but you can be there for a month. I have been there for two weeks – it’s just not going to help you. You wake up at the wrong times. You eat at the wrong times. Pacquiao, because he lives in that area, boy it’s probably going to be a shut out if he is on his game at all.

Fighting in the morning – can you get over that – after being used to fighting in the evening?

GEORGE FOREMAN: It’s a challenge because like I said, it’s a thing you can’t control. It’s your body. Forget about the mental showdown. It’s a physical showdown. You really have to pick the fight out of the guy at 8 in the morning – it’s just not going to be the same.

Ray, Rios will be attacking and Pacquiao is coming off the knockout – do you think that will affect him?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: What Brandon Rios needs to do is not let Pacquiao forget about what took place in his last fight. Rios has to jump right on top of Pacquiao, because what happens is when you get knocked out in the fashion that Pacquiao was knocked out, it becomes like an Achilles heel. But if there is anyone that could block that out, Pacquiao is definitely the guy to do that. This fight depends on whose game plan, who dominates the other, takes control early in the fight.

Roberto, when you fought Ray Leonard, Ray was a huge star and very popular. Rios is now fighting a huge star that is very popular with the people. How does that play in the fight?

ROBERTO DURAN: First of all, the stars live in the sky. On Earth, everyone is an equal. Yes, Manny Pacquiao is a well-known star and he is not finished by any means. He is embarrassed by the Marquez loss and he feels that he needs to redeem himself. Brandon Rios needs to be very careful because I once was knocked out and I came back and won the title so by no means can you count Manny Pacquiao out – he is a very dangerous fighter. Brandon Rios needs to be intelligent in the ring, protect himself at all times because he doesn’t know where these hits are coming from. Manny Pacquiao is not finished in my eyes and I still believe he is one of the world’s most dangerous fighters in the world. I just give some advice to Brandon Rios – go in and attack and don’t be afraid and don’t hesitate because he can win if he fights intelligently. Manny Pacquiao is still a very dangerous fighter.

Do you feel the fighters will have a difficult time getting acclimated?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: Getting acclimated is one of the biggest obstacles along with facing Manny Pacquiao. In fact, Roberto Duran really described it and put things in perspective about what he said about this fight. Pacquiao is not finished even though he was knocked out in a viscous manner. If there was anyone that has the ability to come back, both physically and psychologically, it’s Manny Pacquiao. So Rios, having to become acclimated to being there, even though he is there now, it does take time. It’s an intriguing fight.

ROBERTO DURAN: I don’t think he’s going to have any problems as long as he is not extremely overweight and having to worry about losing a lot of pounds. I think Brandon will be just fine as long as he gets there in time. I have never been out that way so I can’t really say how it is but I think he will be just fine acclimating to the time zone.

BOB ARUM: Manny’s problem is not the weight in the sense that he has to eat five meals a day. A couple of weeks ago when I was in General Santos City he was down to 143 pounds – 4 pounds below the weight. Brandon has been used to fighting at 140 now he is fighting at 147 so he has no problem with the weight. So at least for this fight we don’t have to worry about the guys being overweight when they hit the scales.

Could you each make a prediction on the fight?

GEORGE FOREMAN: I think it’s going to be a 12-round decision and I give Pacquiao the hometown decision. How about a home-region decision.

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: I think Pacquiao will win although I give Rios a shot, a big shot. It’s not going to be an easy fight. I’m picking Manny because he is Manny Pacquiao.

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: I’ve got Manny Pacquiao by a mid to late round KO. Eight rounds.

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: I think it is a complicated fight for both of them. You have Brandon Rios who comes straightforward and will apply the pressure on Manny. Then you have Manny who moves around the ring very well and picks and chooses his spots and comes at different angles and is a very strong fighter with a lot of speed. It’s just going to be a tough fight for both of them.

How do you think Manny can deal with the distractions of the typhoon?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: I want to offer my condolences first and foremost, and my prayers, to the victims of that horrible disaster. But Manny is a fighter and a warrior. He can – he will have to – block out everything and have tunnel vision going into the ring against Brandon Rios. I say intriguing because it’s a big question mark over that ring. Who goes into the ring that night with the mindset of winning and not thinking about other things.

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: I have had some things in the past during training camp, but Manny has a job to do and he needs to take care of his job first. Then after that he can go back and take care of everything else he needs to.

GEORGE FOREMAN: Just before I fought Michael Moorer there was a big tragic flood right here in the Houston area and I had to wade through waist-deep water to rescue my family. There were many deaths. But when it came time to put on the boxing trunks – it all disappeared.

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: Distractions play a big deal and in many Pacquiao’s situation, say if you train 100%, distractions could take away 40% of the training of all the work that you put in. Manny has to concentrate on one thing and that’s boxing. He does have responsibilities with the typhoon and everything, which makes it harder, but he can’t separate himself from being a boxer. If he tries to be a politician and a boxer at the same time, he’s going to be in trouble. In Brandon, he is facing the toughest and the most important fight of his life. That’s the type of fighter Manny is going up against, so I just say that Manny better be 100% focused as a boxer for this fight.

Freddie Roach said Pacquiao should retire if he loses, what do you think?

GEORGE FOREMAN: I think the hardest thing for any boxer is to retire. It takes a phenomenon really (laughter). You almost have to pull him [a fighter] out of there. We don’t like to retire. I don’t think that’s going to be in his mind and even if it was it will disappear quickly.

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: It’s the hardest thing, like George said. After a loss, you try to fix that. You try to repair that. As a fighter, you go back. You go back time and time again. Even if you win, because that win becomes seductive – you go back. I wish both guys the very best.

Did you think about retiring after your first fight against Roberto Duran in Montreal?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: I contemplated it, naturally, because of the physical fight. It was so physical and it just didn’t feel good. I went home and went on vacation and cleared my head and came back. It all depends on how you lose that last fight. That plays a significant role in your decision-making.

Do you think Pacquiao will fight Mayweather if he wins?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: Pacquiao-Rios, that’s what is important to Manny Pacquiao right now.

What do you remember with your first fight with Pacquiao?

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: What I do remember is fighting a guy I knew nothing about and a very explosive fighter. What I remember about other than losing the fight was he really beat me with the body shots. He was an extremely quick fighter that I was not prepared for. More than anything, Manny Pacquiao gained a lot of respect from the fans by beating me. Other than that, he continued his success – and by beating bigger guys. He threw logic out the door because everyone thought that a guy in a smaller weight would never beat a heavier guy. Manny Pacquiao has made himself a star and gave smaller fighters the idea that ‘hey, I can make it in the bigger weights.’ That’s the type of fighter that Manny Pacquiao is.

Bob, of all the international events you promoted, which one stands out the most?

BOB ARUM: The one that sticks out and is most comparable because it takes place in the same time zone is the Thrilla in Manila when Muhammad Ali faced off against Joe Frazier. That fight took place the same time that the Pacquiao-Rios fight will take place – around Noon Manila time. It was one of the greatest fights I have ever seen in my life. These guys went at it and Eddie Futch wouldn’t let Joe Frazier come out for the 15th round and Muhammad won the fight. What I remember most was going outside the Coliseum after the fight was over – we had just seen this unbelievable fight and the sun was the brightest that I have ever seen it and it was almost as if everyone was blinded by the daylight and it was one of the most memorable experiences I ever had in my life. It’s now almost 50 years from that date and I still remember it like it was yesterday.

What do you think Rios’ biggest concern should be?

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: I think the biggest concern should be that left hand of Pacquiao. Pacquiao has a huge left hand. He feints a lot and tries to lure you in. He will probably let Rios get off first. And he’s going to make him pay for every mistake he does. Rios has a tendency to lunge in so he better be careful because the left hand is definitely coming over the top so he better be aware of it. I told my manager Cameron Dunkin to let him know to stay away from that left hand.

Do you think Manny can overcome that knockout?

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: Absolutely – you saw me in my last fight and I overcame a brutal fight with Ruslan Provodnikov – I took a lot of punishment in that fight and suffered a concussion. I bounced back and I fought smart. I got hit with some shots in that fight and I was OK. The big thing is styles – styles make fights. We all know that and Rios definitely has a style that suits Manny Pacquiao – he comes forward and he’s face-first. He doesn’t care about defense. He gets his with big shots. But what Rios has to understand is that he never took a shot from Manny Pacquiao, who throws them with either hand. I’m telling you, I’ve been in the ring with this guy and what’s special about him is that he throws combinations and every shot is a death blow. Every shot is hard. Rios is going to have to be on his P’s and Q’s. Rios is a big puncher and I know he comes to fight but I think he’s a tad too slow for Pacquiao and I don’t think he has the power in his punch either, so…

What do you think about staying on your diet when you go overseas?

GEORGE FOREMAN: When I went to fight everything was cooked in the same fashion that as I received it when I was home. Maybe a little better so that won’t mean anything. Just like home but maybe a little better. When I went to Macao, the food was great. It was great.

BOB ARUM: George was over in Macao a couple of times and the food at the Macao was first class. It’s mostly western. Steakhouses, buffets all western food. I don’t think the food will be a problem for Rios and certainly not for Manny. I know Rios had a chef with him and I know Manny will have a chef with him. They both have suites that have kitchens so they can prepare their own food.

Ray did you bring your own chef?

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: Well yes, I brought my mom and dad. Home cooked meals and never a problem.

Marco, you had to move your training camp for your first fight with Pacquiao – did it affect your training?

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: First I would like to say I am not making any excuses – Manny Pacquiao beat me clearly. Because of the distractions, I probably trained a total of 20 days for that fight. The first distraction was there was a fire in Big Bear and we had to evacuate training camp. Then after that I had to get evaluated – get my head checked by my surgeon in Houston – and that delayed some of the training camp as well. There were distractions but it just goes to show that you have to stay focused and how much distractions will really affect the outcome of a fight.

Tell us about your China fight…

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: What I remember most about that fight was asking myself, ‘do I stay in boxing or retire?’ I remember that there were a lot of boxing fans in China and they treated me really well. There are a lot of fans out there and Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios will both see that. The Pacquiao-Rios fight will be very entertaining for the fans. Two great fighters clashing.

In closing…

BOB ARUM: I want to thank all the fighters for being on the call. I leave for Macao tomorrow. I am looking forward to this event. It has world-wide significance and I hope that everyone enjoys Saturday night November 23rd because they are going to see a great show.

GEORGE FOREMAN: I look forward to a great fight. Both guys know this is a showdown for their career. I am going to make certain that everyone I know sees it because it’s going to be a great fight. I was distracted, that’s why I lost [in Zaire.]

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA: I know it’s going to be a great fight – an explosive fight. A fight of styles and styles make fights. It is going to be a brand new type of public out there that is going to enjoy a great show. Americans and Mexicans, to them I say, do not miss this fight – it is the fight you want to see.

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: I just want to tell Bob that I want to be there next time.

BOB ARUM: We are going to continue to do big shows in Las Vegas but this is a new market in Macao and China and so we’ll be back on an number of occasions. Mark your calendar Ray, February 22nd is going to be the next big show at The Venetian Macao.

SUGAR RAY LEONARD: I am marking it down right now. I feel that Pacquiao is going to surprise the majority, even being knocked out the way he was it could be over, but it’s all about the mind. Pacquiao has incredible mind and confidence and conditioning. Rios is not just coming in to play – it’s going to be an incredible fight.

TIMOTHY BRADLEY: I came into the Pacquiao fight in the best shape of my life. I trained extremely hard for that fight. I remember it being around the 4th round – I was exhausted – after four rounds! I am in the best shape of my life and I am exhausted. Pacquiao drops so many feints on you and he keeps you so tense – he hits hard with both hands – you always have to be alert and it drains you as a fighter. With that being said I hope that Rios is ready for that because Pacquiao will make it seem like he’s coming in and he’s not. I think it’s going to be explosive and Bob Arum is giving the fight fans another great fight and another great promotion and for all the fans in China – I wish it was on U.S. soil – enjoy this great show that Top Rank is putting on and I can’t wait to see this fight – it is going to be exciting.

*************************************************

Promoted by Top Rank® and Sands China Ltd., in association with MP Promotions, Tecate, Warner Bros. Pictures “Grudge Match,” and Eva Airlines, Pacquiao vs. Rios will take place Saturday, November 23, at The Venetian® Macao’s CotaiArena™. It will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

For Pacquiao, this marks the pound-for-pound box office monarch’s first fight outside the U.S. since his 12-round super featherweight unanimous decision victory over former world champion Oscar Larios in 2006, which took place in the Philippines. Rios, one of boxing’s most exciting fighters, has only fought outside the U.S. twice, in México, winning a 10-round split decision over Ricardo Dominguez and knocking out Daniel Valenzuela in the second round in 2008 and 2009, respectively. .

HBO Sports’ groundbreaking “24/7” reality franchise, which has captured 17 Sports Emmy® Awards, is providing an all-access pass to Pacquiao vs. Rios. Episodes two and three of “24/7 Pacquiao/Rios” premiere in prime time this Saturday, Nov. 16 (9:30 p.m.) and next Thursday, Nov. 21 (10:00 p.m.), just two days before the welterweight showdown.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, and twitter.com/hboboxing. Use the Hashtag #PacRios to join the conversation on Twitter.

NEW YORK: (November 15, 2013) Highly touted welterweight knockout artist Cletus “The Hebrew Hammer” Seldin returns to action on Friday, NOVEMBER 22 in an eight round clash against battle tested veteran Gilbert Venegas featured at Star Boxing’s “ROCKIN FIGHTS 11” at The Paramount in Huntington, New York.

Fully recovered from a torn rotator and labrum, the 27-year-old Seldin brings his legion of fans to The Paramount for the seventh time defending his unblemished and hard hitting record of 11-0-0 (9KO’s).

“It’s been a long wait, my last fight was on FEBRUARY 22 and I had the surgery two months later” said Seldin of Shirley, New York. “The doctor said it was worse than Doc Gooden’s (Former MLB Pitcher or Former NY Mets and Yankees pitcher) who he also repaired. It’s basically an old high school injury which was never fully repaired.”

‘While I waited for it to be properly healed I ran every day and stayed in great shape. I couldn’t wait to get back.”

Stated Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing, “Along with being one of the premier prospects in the area, Cletus is also a very popular fighter. We’ve had calls into our office for many months asking about his return.”

“Also to his credit, he wanted to come back strong. It’s an eight round fight, right where he left off and he’s facing an experienced veteran who should give him tough opposition.”

Fighting out of Moline, Illinois, the busy Venegas, 12-11-4 (8KO’s), will be entering the ring for the eighth time in 2013.

“He’s been active and I know he’s a very game fighter,” continued Seldin, “but I think my power and pace of fighting will work to my advantage.”

“I’ll have been down here in West Palm Beach, Florida, training for almost five weeks. I’ve had great sparring with Randall Bailey and all the tough prospects over at Iron Mike Promotions’ Gym.”

“I love fighting at The Paramount, the atmosphere is terrific. Now that I’m healthy I want to stay active, fight as often as possible, hopefully get on TV and show the world how good I am.”

“ROCKIN FIGHTS 11″ is headlined by an exciting heavyweight clash between ‘The Fighting Pride of Queens, New York”, Vinny Maddalone and hard-hitting Houston native Maurenzo Smith.

Advance tickets for “ROCKIN FIGHTS 11” starting at $50, are available online through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com), the Star Boxing website (StarBoxing.com) and The Paramount Box Office, phone (631) 673-7300.

The Paramount is located at 370 New York Avenue in Huntington, New York. Doors will open on the night of the event at 7:00 p.m. with the first bell at 7:30 p.m.

ABOUT STAR BOXING

Star Boxing Inc. recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary (promoting pro boxing continuously since 1992). The company has produced some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star Boxing continues to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star Boxing is proud that is has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ABOUT THE PARAMOUNT:

Opened September 30, 2011 this 1,555 capacity live entertainment venue located in downtown Huntington, Long Island, features concerts, boxing, comedy, community and other special events. Booked by Live Nation, the Paramount has hosted over 150 events in its first year of operation and quickly established itself as the premier music venue on Long Island. Some recent acts to take the stage include Pitbull, Taking Back Sunday, The Pixies, Elvis Costello, Warren Haynes, Willie Nelson, Brand New, Goo Goo Dolls, Primus, Marilyn Manson, Korn, The Wanted, The Script, Panic! At the Disco and many, more.

ABOUT GOLD COAST BANK
“Long Islands Leading Community Bank ”

Headquartered in Islandia with additional branches located in Huntington, Setauket, Farmingdale, and Mineola, Gold Coast Bank is a New York State chartered bank whose popularity and sterling reputation stems from the strong, long-term relationships it has cultivated among its large and diverse customer base. A member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and one of Long Island’s financially strongest de novo banks, Gold Coast Bank has more than $170 million in assets and prides itself on providing businesses and individuals with quality lending and banking services. www.goldcoastbank-ny.com

ABOUT THE FOX HOLLOW:

Nestled upon 8 private acres of Long Island’s north shore is the Fox Hollow, which features a state of the art event venue, fine dining restaurant and an all-suite luxury boutique hotel. Owned & operated by the Scotto Brothers, their Above & Beyond philosophy in providing each & every guest with superior services and amenities is paramount. Visit the Fox Hollow online at www.TheFoxHollow.com & www.TheInnAtFoxHollow.com

ABOUT CAMELOT LIMOUSINE

Official Sponsor of the Paramount Boxing Series
Camelot Limos is a family owned and operated business located in Nassau County, with over 25 years of professional experience; serving satisfied clientele since 1984. The owners of Camelot Specialty Limos are very active in the business and play a major role in the company’s day to day operations. Camelot Specialty Limos, Inc. is an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau. www.camelotlimo.com

ABOUT WBAB 102.3
LONG ISLANDS #1 ROCK STATION
The WBAB Long Island Rock’N’Roll Morning Show With Roger & JP! Weekdays 5:30am-10am
listen daily at 102.3 or online at www.wbab.com
follow us at facebook.com/1023wbab an @1023wbab on twitter

oronto – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 television channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, will present a live broadcast of Enfusion Live kickboxing entitled “Glorious Heroes” from Groningen, Netherlands this Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m. ET.

Fight Network’s live broadcast of Enfusion Live: Groningen will be aired nationwide in Canada, as well as internationally as part of Fight Network’s expansion on ZON in Portugal, Telenet in Belgium, D-Smart in Turkey, and ZAP in Angola and Mozambique.

In the featured bout, Laetitia Bakissy of France challenges Holland’s Rachida Bouhout for the Enfusion -64kg women’s championship.

Other fights include Russian Andrey Levandin vs. Georgian Romeo Gablaia, Surinamese Fabian Gondorf vs. Dutchman Martin Terpstra, Brian Douwes vs. Patrick Veenstra in a clash of Dutch combatants, Morroco’s Tarik Cherkaoui vs. Curacao’s Alva Remor , plus Syria’s Leon Zadeh vs. Holland’s Ali Zoubai.

For a full listing of Fight Network’s broadcast schedule, please visit tv.fightnetwork.com and follow on Twitter @fightnet, become a fan on Facebook and visit us on Instagram @fightnet.

For More Information Contact:

Fight Network
Chad Midgley
VP Programming & Production
chad@fightnetwork.com
www.fightnetwork.com

About Fight Network:

Fight Network (www.fightnetwork.com) is the world’s premier combat sports network dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, including fights, fighters, fight news and fight lifestyle. The channel is available on all major carriers in Canada, select countries in Europe and Africa, on TSN Radio in Canada via its program “Live Audio Wrestling,” and in North America via its programming on Sirius XM Channel 167 and its programming block on Pursuit Channel (www.pursuitchannel.com). Fight Network’s parent company Anthem Media Group also owns a significant interest in the Pursuit Channel and will be launching the Fantasy Sports Network (FNTSY) across North America in 2013.