Lawrence, MA (January 28, 2014) – Charismatic cruiserweight Jean Pierre “Kid Creole” Augustin is already well-educated about how difficult the business of professional boxing is.

Initially scheduled to enter the paid ranks last September, Augustin, a Lawrence, MA native of Haitian descent, saw his pro debut cancelled on multiple occasions. A two-time Massachusetts State Golden Gloves champion and Gold Medalist at the 2011 Pan American Games Qualifiers, Augustin competed in the 2012 Olympic Trials but lost a decision to Jonathan Hanson. He was hoping to have a few fights under his belt by now, but things didn’t go as expected.

“I was working out two or three times a day to get ready for my original pro debut in September only to find out there was an issue with getting an opponent.” said Augustin. “I then had another date scheduled, took a week off and went back to the gym, but the whole card got cancelled. I also had two dates fall out earlier this month. This was extremely frustrating to say the least since I had a total of six fight dates fall out.”

On Saturday, February 8, Augustin’s long awaited pro debut will finally take place in Weirton, WV against 19 fight veteran Michael Davis. Davis, who faced seven unbeaten fighters, hails from Cincinnati, OH and has been a pro since 2005.

“It’s been a long time coming and I’m extremely anxious to fight. I’m ready to go in there and get a taste of the pros after waiting for too long. A knockout is always nice but I’m going in there with a game plan to win by any means necessary!”

Fans can interact with Augustin on Twitter and Instagram at @_Kidcreole

New York, NY (January 26, 2014) – Most football fans make a serious effort to get ready for the Super Bowl.

Those hosting it commonly prepare tasty food, load up on beverages, and decorate their house to make America’s most popular annual event enjoyable for a large group of guests. For the football fanatics that aren’t having others over, there are many places to watch the big game. Similar to New Years Eve, debates on where to go isn’t uncommon and choosing where to watch the Super Bowl is not typically easy.

Media coverage leading up to the game is considered ridiculous even by the biggest fans of the sport, with pre-game shows starting more than seven hours before the opening kickoff.

Much like his peers, boxer Boyd Melson’s got a lot on his mind this week however it’s not due to his undecided plan’s about what he’s doing for the game. Instead, they are because of events he’s partaking in through invitation to assist those in need.

On Monday January 27, Melson, who founded Team Fight To Walk with his best friend Christan Zaccagnino, will participate in a lobbying event in Albany, NY for Spinal Cord Injury research funding. A coalition comprised of a handful of highly influential individuals was assembled for this cause and Melson was contacted to join this team. The mission is to get Governor Andrew Cuomo to reinstate a bill already signed into legislation that allocates a percentage of each moving violation in New York State towards Spinal Cord Injury research.

Melson was asked to speak last year in Albany alongside NY State’s top Spinal Cord Injury Researchers and Physicians, and played a key role in having $2 million approved in last year’s state budget for Spinal Cord Injury research. The reinstating of the bill would equate roughly to $7.5 million annually in research funding, and this is the amount they are going for this year. The meetings will involve key legislatures within the State Assembly and Senate members in the Capitol Office Building. If successful, the potential state-provided funding could greatly assist towards finding a cure for chronic Spinal Cord Injuries.

Four days later, Captain Melson is invited to a special Mission Continues event hosted by A&E and the History Channel. The Mission Continues is an organization established to allow Post 9/11 Veterans with at least two years of service the ability to continue selfless service towards a higher purpose. They make the transition from serving their country as a member of the United States Armed Forces towards serving their communities as a citizen. During their six month fellowship with The Mission Continues, they work part time for any nonprofit willing to bring them on while The Mission Continues pays them a stipend.

Melson spent his fellowship working with The Spinal Cord Injury Project at Rutgers University as well as volunteering as an aid at Push To Walk, a Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation facility in New Jersey. The Mission Continues itself is a nonprofit founded by former Navy Seal Eric Greitens. The Mission Continues is also hosting a pre-Super Bowl dinner featuring a number of high profile politicians.

Melson, along with his brother Rudy Melson, a fellow veteran who just completed his own fellowship at the Mission Continues working with the Clinton Foundation in Manhattan, were specifically selected by Greiten’s organization to be covered by A&E and the History Channel Super Bowl weekend. For this selection, Melson and his brother will receive two tickets to the game on February 2 at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. When asked, Melson said his immediate excitement to attend was specific to think about what politicians he may be introduced to in order to expose them to Team Fight To Walk and the clinical trials he donated his fight purses towards.

Just 24 hours before the Super Bowl, Melson is participating in the annual Friendship Bowl hosted by the National Football League. The location of the game will be at a high school in New Jersey soon to be announced. Melson will be a representative on the US Ambassador team in a flag football game between US and Mexican Ambassadors. The Friendship Bowl takes place from noon until 3:30 PM on Saturday, February 1. The event is supporting the Non-Violence Project and is hosted annually by the National Football League.

“These are all incredible events that it’s an honor to be invited to,” said Melson, who gained notoriety in the sports world for donating 100% of his earnings from his purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of America’s first trial of its kind. “It is surreal that they’ve chosen me for these events. Each one is important it its own way and I plan to make a positive impact everywhere I go this week. I pray that my exposure to the various politicians at the Super Bowl will be the catalyst for something big in regards to Team Fight To Walk. We are always in the fight!”

Melson, who is an impressive 13-1-1 in the squared circle, returns to the ring Wednesday, February 12 against Mike Ruiz in the main event of the final card at New York City’s Roseland Ballroom. Tickets are available on teamfighttowalk.com.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

New York, NY (January 9, 2014) – On Wednesday, February 12 Army Reserve Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson and Mike “El Cangri” Ruiz will headline the Roseland Ballroom’s final boxing card in a ten round junior middleweight contest. However, both men are fighting for a lot more than the notion of winning the Roseland’s last boxing match.

Melson, residing in Manhattan by way of Brooklyn and White Plains, and Ruiz, who hails from Puerto Rico and resides in Long Island, are two of New York’s most popular prizefighters. Each fighter has appeared in the Big Apple various times, participating in many local classics and knows that a victory could catapult them onto a bigger stage.

With an outstanding 13-1-1 record and four wins by knockout, Melson’s fought thirteen of his bouts in the Empire State. The West Point graduate and 2008 Olympic Alternate dropped a controversial 2012 decision to Delen Parsley in what is widely considered the best match in Broadway Boxing history. Melson also dominated tough veterans Jason Thompson, Gundrick King and Yolexcy Leiva in front of sold out crowds.

A former World Boxing Federation titlist, Ruiz’ record is a deceptive 17-8 with 9 wins by knockout. The charismatic 28-year-old scored a career best victory in July 2012, knocking out world title contender Paul Delgado in his hometown of Atlanta, GA. Like his counterpart, Ruiz took place in memorable bouts in the Big Apple against the likes of Martin Wright (twice), Glen Tapia, Daniel Sostre and Charlie Ota.

“This is going to be a very tough fight for many reasons,” Melson said of his upcoming showdown with Ruiz. “He’s got a lot of experience and was in a lot of close fights that went the other way. Two fights ago, he beat a fighter that fought for a legitimate world title and he’s also faced a lot of top opponents. For most of my fights, I’ve been the clear crowd favorite but Ruiz has a large and vocal fan base of this own. I’m ready for the challenge and know a victory will lead me to better opportunities. I am also excited to have progresses up to the ladder where I am competing for the first time in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds. I owe a special thanks to Lou DiBella for sticking with me and giving me this chance.”

Tickets starting from $45 are available on teamfighttowalk.com.

Following the match, Melson’s pledge to help find a cure for chronic Spinal Cord Injuries will continue when he donates 100% of his earnings from his purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of America’s first trial of its kind.

It was recently released in the nationwide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US but it is estimated that it could start sometime in 2014. The hopes are for this trial to begin at the end of the Summer of 2014 with Mount Sinai Hospital- Manhattan’s very own- being one of the hospitals carrying out the study.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., WBO Junior Middleweight titlist/2008 US Olympian Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and fellow 08’ Olympian Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com. Fans can also interact with Melson via Twitter @BoydMelson orFacebook.com/Boydmelson

Cornwall, Ontario (December 26, 2013) – Every year, rising star Tony “Lightning” Luis celebrated one of his nation’s biggest holidays on December 26. This time around, the 25-year-old Canadian’s holding off on Boxing Day celebrations for an additional three weeks and will bring the holiday spirit south of the border.

On Friday, January 17, Luis challenges unbeaten Ivan Redkach in the main event of “Showdown on Showtime” live on ShoBox: The New Generation from the Cook Convention Center in Memphis, TN. The World Boxing Association’s tenth ranked contender, Luis has an excellent 17-1 professional record with seven wins by knockout and is one of Canada’s top young stars. The Cornwall native is known for his excellent hand speed, conditioning and body punching ability. Last month, Luis participated in Guillermo Rigondeaux’ training camp for a second consecutive time and sparred countless rounds with the Pound-for-Pound rated superstar.

Recognized by most boxing insiders as a future world champion, Redkach has been a force to be reckoned with since turning pro in 2009. Born in Ukraine and based in Los Angeles, CA, the 5’11 southpaw scored six first round knockouts and has dominated every fight he’s been in.

“He’s a tall and strong southpaw with great power,” Luis said of the 15-0 Redkach, who has 13 wins by knockout. He knows how to use his power, moves his head, and his amateur base is very good. It’s helped him become successful. “Facing him is going to be a real challenge but we have a great game plan.”

To prepare for the bout, Luis brought in sparring partners with similarities to Redkach and is working through the holiday season to be razor sharp on the 17th. He also believes the path he’s taken leading up to the Redkach bout will help power him to victory.

“I have experience, hand speed and intelligence. I’ve learned from my past experiences as a pro and have been places he hasn’t been before. I’m not an old veteran who fights in spots and will just give him rounds. I’m also a good young fighter but I have experience he doesn’t. I’m not an over the hill fighter that he’s adding to his resume. We’re working hard as always in the gym and I’m already in top condition. I know on the 17th we’ll have a perfect the game plan to come out victorious and that will truly be my Boxing Day!”

The Tony Luis-Ivan Redkach lightweight showdown is scheduled for ten rounds and tops a ShoBox quadrupleheader featuring five other unbeaten fighters. “Showdown on Showtime” is promoted by Greg Cohen Promotions, Dibella Entertainment and Prize Fight Boxing.

Bethlehem, PA (December 19, 2013) – Former WBC-USNBC, WBA-NABA and IBA cruiserweight titlist Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn believed yesterday’s match up with boxing great Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson would serve as a perfect ending to a career that started four decades ago.

Gunn, a bare knuckle boxing legend who is well known for his toughness, previously came up short in big fights versus Enzo Maccarinelli, Tomasz Adamek and James Toney. Against Johnson, “The Celtic Warrior” planned to box with speed, stay on his toes and move his head.

Unfortunately, he was never able to get on track, taking a number of good shots from the aggressive and busier Johnson. As the rounds progressed, Johnson’s pressure bothered Gunn, who suffered a cut on his nose and showed a solid chin but was never able to match Johnson’s punch output.

All three judges scored the eight round cruiserweight bout 80-72 in favor of Johnson, who improved to 53-18-2 with 36 knockouts.

Moments after the decision was announced, the classy Gunn took the microphone to congratulate his opponent on a well-earned victory and inform his fans that this was the last time they’d see him inside the squared circle.

“Some nights you just don’t have it,” stated the dejected Gunn. “I (got too caught up) in trying to land one punch but Glen isn’t the type of fighter that you can get out of there easily. Had I fought Roy Jones, I think I could have stopped him but I just couldn’t get my punches off.

Gunn, who had a good training camp and didn’t have any major injuries, gave credit where it was due and didn’t search for excuses regarding his performance.

“I couldn’t pull the trigger and I promised my wife that this would be my last fight. I want to thank everybody who’s been there for me when I was at my lowest point and rode with me all the way to the biggest fights of my career. My main focus right now is helping my son, Bobby Jr., get ready for his pro debut and this is the last time you’ll see me as a professional boxer.”

Gunn, who was self managed and negotiated a number of big fights during his career, also plans to assist other young fighters and ensure they are not taken advantage of from a business standpoint.

Since turning pro in 1989, Gunn fought in Mexico, England, Arizona, New Jersey, Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Virginia, Mississippi, Arizona and Pennsylvania. He competed in nine title fights, multiple controversial bouts, had more than 250 amateur matches and served as a sparring partner during his younger years for more than 25 world champions.

His final professional record is 21-6-1 with 18 knockouts.

Hackensack, NJ (December 16, 2013) – Wednesday, December 18 2013 is a day that Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn hopes he’ll reminisce about for the rest of his life.

Gunn, a bare knuckle boxing legend who won multiple cruiserweight titles, fought a number of top fighters and participated in controversial fights, could spend hours talking about the trials and tribulations of his career.

“It’s no secret that my career’s been controversial,” stated Gunn, who was born in Canada but resides in New Jersey. “I’ve had a few fights stopped early, opponents switched on 24 hours notice, fought multiple times in hostile territory, sparred with more than 25 world champions when I was a young prospect and boxed all around the world. There was a lot of craziness that I have been a part of and that’s not even including my bare knuckle fights.”

Even with all he’s witnessed and been a part of, winning the WBU Cruiserweight championship Wednesday evening at Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA against former Fighter of the Year and boxing great Glen Johnson would be the icing on the cake.

“Beating Glen Johnson is going to be the best memory of my entire pro or amateur career and would even top winning the bare knuckle championship. Johnson is one of the most underappreciated fighters in boxing history and he viciously knocked out my original opponent Roy Jones Jr. A victory on Wednesday evening would be the highest point of my career without question.”

With the proposed Roy Jones Jr. matchup moved multiple times prior to Jones Jr’s withdrawal, Gunn’s been a gym rat since the summer. The 39 year-old is in great condition and believes his extended training camp will be a big part of what leads him to victory.

“I’ve never spent so much time in the gym for one fight. In a way, it’s a blessing everything that went down with the Roy Jones Jr. situation because we had a lot of changes. What that means is I had the opportunity to work on everything in camp and I had tremendous sparring. Mark my word, I will be victorious Wednesday evening because this is The Gunn’s time!”

Hackensack, NJ (December 10, 2013) – In eight days, former WBC-USNBC, WBA-NABA and IBA cruiserweight titlist Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn will take yet another difficult assignment when he faces boxing great Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson in a twelve round bout for the WBU cruiserweight championship at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA.

Like his other top-notch foes Tomasz Adamek, Enzo Maccarinelli and James Toney, Gunn understands that he must be sharp and stick to his game plan. Failure to do so could be a crucial mistake and one that ends his career.

To prepare for Johnson, one of the toughest fighters in boxing history, Gunn’s enlisted contender Ossie “The Ghanaian Gladiator” Duran as a chief sparring partner. Like Johnson, Duran’s only been stopped once, rarely gets knocked down, pushes all of his opponents to the limit and lost many controversial decisions. Best described as an “old pro” or “gym rat”, Duran is virtually flawless in mimicking Johnson’s style.

“Ossie is an incredible training partner and I thank him for all of the work he’s given me so far,” said Gunn, who hones his craft in the fighting city of Paterson, NJ. “Anybody who knows the sport and is around the gym definitely heard stories about Ossie schooling good fighters during training camps. He’s the consummate professional and I couldn’t ask for better work.”

Two major focal points of Gunn’s camp are speed and power. Like Gunn, Johnson, 52-18-2 (36 KO’s), is known for standing in the pocket and fighting with his opponents. Johnson’s high guard and anticipation of punches are a major part of why he’s been able to stand toe to toe with boxing’s elite. Gunn however has noted one of Johnson’s biggest flaws and plans to expose it on the 18th.

“Glen has one of the greatest chins of all time and doesn’t take a step backwards, but he’s struggled against opponents with speed or explosive power. Chad Dawson fought him perfectly in their rematch. Lucian Bute, George Groves and Carl Froch did a great job as well. They were all a step ahead and made him uncomfortable with fast and hard punches.”

Gunn also believes this is a great opportunity to display that he’s more than just a crude puncher.

“Everybody knows I can do damage with both hands. Even with my punching power, I’m not going in there and recklessly looking for a knockout. Glen’s matured into his body and I expect him to look like a natural cruiserweight with great punch resistance. With that said my power’s going to be more dangerous than ever before because of the speed I’m going to pack with it. For this reason, I believe I’m going to be the first man to legitimately knock out Glen Johnson!”

New York, NY (December 5, 2013) – Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson hit durable Alabaman Gundrick “Sho Gun” King with everything but the kitchen sink during their eight round all-southpaw main event Wednesday evening at BB King Blues Club in New York City.

Melson, who had the support of a standing room only crowd at a place he’s accustomed to helping sell out, was in total control from the opening bell. The beloved 2003 West Point grad found a home early and often for right hooks, straight left hands and hard body punches, making King visibly uncomfortable. The 5’5 King, a former D1 college football player, was wobbled on a few occasions but displayed excellent toughness and made it obvious he wasn’t going away. Ultimately, Melson’s consistent offensive attack and his ability to step outside of the pocket after firing shots at King powered him to an impressive victory.

All three judges scored the middleweight bout 80-72 in favor of Melson.

“I haven’t fought a southpaw since my second pro fight and he was very short so I had to work hard to hit him with combinations,” said Melson, who improved to 13-1-1 with 4 knockouts. “I wasn’t discouraged (that a knockout probably wasn’t coming) and I kept trying to get him out of there but he was very tough physically. My rhythm was good especially during the last few rounds since I was connecting then moving out of the way.”

His next bout will likely take place at BB King against fellow fan favorite Mike Ruiz, with information to follow shortly.

Following the victory, Melson contined his pledge to help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries by donating 100% of his purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of America’s first trial of its kind.

It was recently released in the nationwide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US but it is estimated that it could start sometime in 2014.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., WBO Junior Middleweight titlist/2008 US Olympian Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and fellow 08’ Olympian Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

Hackensack, NJ (December 5, 2013) – Hard hitting contender Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn and 2004 Fighter of the Year Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson confirmed they’ll meet Wednesday, December 18 at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA.

Tickets for the XFE promoted “Celtic Warrior vs Road Warrior” are available by going to http://sandseventcenter.com/event/details/world-championship-boxing/ or calling the Sands box office at 610-297-7400. The card is also available on IPPV for just $14.99 and can be ordered by going to http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Glen_Johnson_V_Bobby_Gunn/2139

A former IBA, WBC-USNBC and WBA-NABA cruiserweight champion, Gunn’s 21-5-1 as a professional with 18 wins coming by way of knockout. Born and raised in Canada but based in Hackensack, NJ, the bare-knuckle boxing legend was slated to face eight-time world champion Roy Jones Jr. Unfortunately, Team Gunn received word that he would not be going through with the fight, opening the door for Johnson in what has the potential to be the most exciting cruiserweight fight of 2013.

“I know he’s a former champion with a great record and I respect him,” Johnson said of Gunn. “He’s a natural cruiserweight and has fought some big names. This is my first fight at cruiserweight and there’s definitely some risk with doing that but I’m looking forward to the challenge. I’ve been working on some new stuff (in the gym) and I feel energized again. I needed a break from boxing and now I feel like a new fighter. I’m looking forward to the 18th and am excited about getting in the ring to show what I still have.”

Globally recognized as one of the toughest fighters in boxing history and for his willingness to fight in his opponents’ backyards, Johnson’s professional record is a solid 52-18-2 with 36 knockouts. The Miami based Jamaican took the boxing world by storm in 2004, viciously knocking out the aforementioned Jones Jr. while topping world champions Clinton Woods and Antonio Tarver. Since turning pro back in 1993, Johnson has one of the most impressive resume’s in history, facing Bernard Hopkins, Jones Jr., Tarver (twice), Chad Dawson (twice), Carl Froch, Sven Ottke, Tavoris Cloud, Lucian Bute and Silvio Branco amongst others. In 72 professional fights spanning 500 rounds, Johnson’s only stoppage defeat came while he was still on his feet against the legendary Hopkins.

“To be honest with you, this is a way tougher fight,” said Gunn, who battled Enzo Maccarinelli, Tomasz Adamek and James Toney. “It’s been a dream of mine to Roy Jones Jr as long as I can remember but he backed out only a few weeks before fight night. I’m very thankful that Glen Johnson accepted the bout on short notice. He’s fought everybody you can think of and was on the wrong end of a lot of bad decisions. This is a very dangerous fight for me but I’m a fighter and what fighters do is fight. I know he’s never been knocked out before and was only stopped on his feet once but he’s also never faced a solid cruiserweight. My goal is to end the fight early and take my frustrations (over the Jones situation) out on Johnson.”

Newark, NJ (November 24, 2013) – Popular welterweight Michael “Slick” Anderson had all that he could handle from dynamite-fisted George Sosa in the eight round main event of All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions’ “Fighting For Attendance” at Weequahic High School in Newark.

Backed by a large group of supporters, Anderson was clearly the most popular fighter of the evening, but Sosa quickly made it evident that he wanted to silence the hometown favorite’s fans by knocking him out. Anderson, who accommodated Sosa, a late replacement, by agreeing to fight at 152 pounds, stepped on the scale Friday evening at 148 and was visibly smaller on fight night.

The opening stanza was a close one, with Anderson using his speed and boxing while the aggressive Sosa threw every punch with bad intentions. In the second, Sosa landed a number of hard head shots, forcing Anderson to retreat. Shortly thereafter, a hard right hand by Sosa opened a gash above Anderson’s left eye but Anderson returned the favor and bloodied Sosa’s mouth.

Throughout the rest of the contest, Sosa came forward throwing and landing hard punches, buzzing Anderson on a few occasions, while the faster Anderson used speed along with good left hooks to the body in attempt to keep his rugged foe off of him.

When the final bell sounded, the crowd got on their feet and gave both fighters a standing ovation, though they weren’t sure who would emerge victorious.

After eight outstanding rounds, Judge Larry Layton scored the bout 77-75 for Sosa, but was overruled by Eugene Grant and Shafeeq Rashada’s tallies of 77-75 for Anderson.

“George Sosa is very strong and definitely the strongest guy I’ve ever fought,” said Anderson. “He definitely came to win tonight but I did as well and we put on a good show. He landed some good shots and did honestly buzz me one time. A lot of it was that my legs were cramping up and that caused me to look more hurt than I was, but I had to pull through.”

Anderson also acknowledged that the bout was close but didn’t believe his opponent was robbed.

“Sosa threw a lot of bombs he wasn’t trying to box at all or work a jab. I was doing a lot more pure boxing than he was. Going into the eighth round, I honestly wasn’t sure what the judges were thinking. I have no control over what they decide but went into the ring with a problem and overcame it.”

Sosa and his team vehemently disagreed.

“We are filing a formal complaint with the New Jersey State Athletic Commission,” stated a furious Mike Melendez, trainer of Sosa. “We have this fight recorded and I want everybody to go back and watch the fight. One round went well over four minutes and there’s no doubt that we were robbed!”

Sosa echoed his trainer.

“Everybody saw how he could not continue. All he did at the end of the fight was say that the issue was a cramp in his leg? That’s admitting a loss! Everybody in his hometown approached me after the fight and said that I won. We’re filing a protest!”

With the win, Anderson improves to 13-2-1 with 10 knockouts, while Sosa slides to 12-5 with all of his wins by KO.

In the eight round co-feature, rising Newark heavyweight Tyyab Beale, 9-3-1 (3 KO’s), ran his unbeaten streak to eight fights by outpointing hard-hitting New Yorker Jon Bolden, 6-7 (5 KO’s). Beale and Bolden were familiar with one another, as they put on an exciting bout in June 2011 with Beale taking a spit decision. On this night, the confident Beale was able to outbox Bolden, who lost a point for holding during the sixth round.

Scores were 80-71 and 78-73 twice.

Throughout the city of Newark, attendance is a major problem that is only getting worse, with the average student missing more than 30 days of school annually. To help promote getting children into the classrooms and off the streets, All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions donated more than 70 tickets to students from multiple district schools that had outstanding attendance. They also hosted assemblies at Weequahic and Newark Vocational High Schools. Weequahic’s principal, Faheem Ellis, spoke to the crowd about improving attendance and also honored two alums that went onto have successful athletic careers.

All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions held a special 50/50 raffle for the family of Dwayne “Dutch” Vanderveer, a friend of Anderson’s who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on August 31 at the young age of 33.

UNDERCARD RESULTS:

MIDDLEWEIGHTS: “War Machine” Michael Mitchell (Paterson, NJ), 2-2-2, UD4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Eddie Edmond (Newark, NJ), 2-3-2 (1 KO)

CRUISERWEIGHTS: Ibn Akbar Richardson (Newark, NJ) 1-0 UD4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Eric George (Niagara Falls, NY) 0-6

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS: Godson “Soldier Boy” Noel (Bloomfield, NJ), 3-0 (2 KO’s) MD4 (49-36, 39-37, 38-38) Lavon Slade (Philadelphia, PA) 0-1

NOVEMBER 23, 2013, AT WEEQUAHIC HIGH SCHOOL IN NEWARK, NEW JERSEY

DOORS OPEN AT 6:45 PM AND THE FIRST BOUT IS SCHEDULED FOR 7:30

MAIN EVENT 8 Rounds Junior Middleweights
MICHAEL “SLICK” ANDERSON
12-2-1 10 KO’s
Newark, New Jersey
148 lbs
VS.
GEORGE “EL TERRIBLE” SOSA
12-4, 12 KO’s
Reading, Pennsylvania
151 lbs

CO-FEATURE 8 Rounds Heavyweights*
TYYAB BEALE
8-3-1, 3 KO’s
Newark, New Jersey
235 lbs
VS.
JON BOLDEN
6-6, 5 KO’s
New York, New York
219 lbs

4 Rounds Middleweights
EDDIE EDMOND
2-1-2 (2 KO’s)
Newark, New Jersey
160 lbs
VS.
MICHAEL MITCHELL
1-2-2
Paterson, New Jersey
159 lbs

4 Rounds Super Middleweights
GODSON “SOLDIER BOY” NOEL
2-0 2 KO’s
Newark, New Jersey
162.5 lbs
VS.
LAVON SLADE
DEBUT
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
164 lbs

4 Rds. Cruiserweights
IBN AKBAR RICAHRDSON
DEBUT
Newark, New Jersey
199 lbs
VS.
ERIC GEORGE
0-5
Niagara Falls, New York
196 lbs

Michael Anderson: “Tomorrow is huge for me and I’m in real fight. Sosa is a big puncher but all of my fans didn’t come to see me get clipped. I know what he’s got but he doesn’t know what I’ve got coming for him!”

George Sosa: “Even though I came in on short notice, I trained very hard for this fight and made weight. I know this is Michael’s hometown so I’m not leaving this fight in the judges’ hands!”

*= The Beale-Boldin bout was moved from six rounds to eight after another bout was cancelled at the last minute. All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions would like to think both fighters for their willingness to assist the card by fighting additional rounds.

Newark, NJ (November 21, 2013) – Popular Michael “Slick” Anderson will now face dynamite-fisted George “El Terrible” Sosa in the eight round main event of All Out Promotions and Edmond’s Promotions’ “Fighting for Attendance” in an eight round bout this Saturday evening at Weequahic High School in Newark, NJ.

Tickets from $35 are available by going to http://www.eventbrite.com/event/8886354325?ref=ebtnebtckt

Hailing from Reading, PA, Sosa’s 12-4 with all of his wins coming by knockout. In his four defeats, Sosa faced quality fighters in world rated Emmanuel Taylor, who won a debatable majority decision, and unbeaten Wilkins Santiago, Sammy Vasquez and Javonte Starks.

One of the biggest ticket sellers in the Garden State, Anderson has an excellent 12-2-1 professional ledger with 10 of his victories coming by way of knockout. The Newark based southpaw is looking to get back on track after dropping a decision against unbeaten late replacement Emmanuel Lartey in January.

“Outside of the fact that he’s a big puncher, I don’t know much about him to be honest,” stated Anderson. “I expect hell come to fight because I’m coming to fight and I want to put on a great show for my loyal fans.”

In order to accommodate Sosa, Anderson agreed to meet him at a catchweight of 152 lbs.

In addition to training for his bout and dealing with multiple opponents turning the fight down, Anderson’s spearheaded the “Fighting for Attendance” initiative by speaking to students at Weequahic and Newark Vocational High School about the importance of staying in school. He also donated tickets that will be given to the top students from both schools on behalf of All Out and Edmond’s Promotions.

“It’s a good thing for me to be able to speak to the kids and that they’re listening to the importance of being in school and not bullying,” said Anderson. “I hope the message synchs in and they continue to do it. Donating tickets means we didn’t give up on them and we want them to succeed. I’m from Newark and these kids are always in our heart. This was the effort of all out and Edmond’s labeling it fighting for attendance for the kids.”

Rising heavyweight Tyyab Beale will meet Jon Bolden in the six round co-featured bout. The two previously fought in June 201, with Beale winning an action-packed split decision. Beale, who hails from Newark, hasn’t in 3 ½ years and is 8-3-1 with 3 knockouts. Confident that he’ll come out the victor on the 23rd, the hard-hitting New York City resident is 6-6 and has five knockouts.

In undercard action, middleweight Eddie Edmond of Newark meets Paterson native Michael Mitchell in a battle for Garden State bragging rights. Unbeaten Bloomfield police officer Godson Noel risks his 2-0 record against debuting Philadelphian Anthony Slade in four round middleweight bout, while debuting Newark cruiserweight Iban Akbar Richardson challenges experienced Eric George of Niagara Falls, NY. Exciting lightweight Allan Phelan of New York City by way of Ireland challenges New Jersey’s Dwayne Holman Jr and Newark’s Shakir Dunn, 1-1 (1 KO), faces an opponent to be named.

In addition to an excellent evening of boxing, All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions will have a 50/50 with the proceeds going to the family of Dwayne “Dutch” Vanderveer, a friend of Anderson’s who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on August 31 at age 33. There will also be a special tribute for him.

Doors open at 6:45 and the opening bell is scheduled for 7:30. Weequahic High School is located at 279 Chancellor Ave in Newark.

New York, NY (November 19, 2013) – Popular junior middleweight Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson of New York City looks to take another step in the right direction when he squares off against solid veteran Gundrick “Sho-Gun” King over eight rounds in the main event of Broadway Boxing Wednesday, December 4 at BB King Blues Club in Time Square.

Melson, 12-1-1 (4 KO’s), was originally slated to face unbeaten Chris Gilbert however, the bout fell apart after an unauthorized representative accepted the bout on his behalf.

A four time US Army Champion, 100% of Melson’s purses, thirteen which went to Justadollarplease.org to help support America’s first trial to cure Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries and the other to help a friend who had a young son with cancer, were donated. In his most recent bout, the 2003 West Point grad outpointed tougher than advertised Jason Thompson for a unanimous decision. That night included 8 rounds of exciting boxing for Melson in front of a standing room only crowd, in which Melson knocked Thompson down in the 8th round. Former NBA power forward/Knicks legend Larry Johnson and Academy Award Winner Cuba Gooding Jr., both fans of Melson, went to the fights that night to support him.

King, who is fighting in the Big Apple for a third time, has a solid 18-10 professional ledger with 11 wins by knockout. The 35-year-old Tuscaloosa, AL native’s battled a number of quality fighters including former world champion Yuri Foreman, title challenger Paul Delgado, world rated junior middleweights Jonathan Gonzalez and Charlie Ota and unbeaten Brad Solomon.

The 28 fight veteran is far more experienced than any of Melson’s prior opponents and is expected to test him.

“He’s got a lot of experience against top fighters,” Melson said of King. “This is the kind of opponent that I’ve got to beat in order to get to that level. I’m expecting King to bring the heat and try to use his experience to overwhelm me. Fortunately, I have a strong amateur background that gave me different but important experience as well. I am already prepared for whatever he has to offer, and I love a good scrap.”

Tickets starting at $55 are available on Teamfighttowalk.com but sell fast due to a high demand. Following the bout, Melson will once again donate his entire fight purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of bringing trials to the United States that could help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. It was recently released in the nationwide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US but it is estimated that it could start sometime in 2014.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., WBO Junior Middleweight titlist/2008 US Olympian Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and fellow 08’ Olympian Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

New York, NY (November 11, 2013) – On Sunday, November 17, Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson, junior middleweight boxer and charitable figure, will be knighted by St. John of Jerusalem.

The Order of St. John is one of the greatest treasures of Christendom and is one of the world’s oldest, continuing knightly institutions. The Order is the world’s oldest humanitarian organization nominating members of society into Knighthood because of their commitment towards helping improve our world’s humanity through their chosen humanitarian acts. The development and expansion of the Order has influenced the course of world history and bridged the disparate cultures of the Christian East and West. The Order began in the eleventh century as a local charitable institution, a hospital, in Jerusalem. Founded by a group of pious men, led by Brother Gerald the Blessed, it rapidly gained world fame for spiritual and temporal care of pilgrims traveling to and in the Holy Land. In time, the Order also protected them. This is the reason it developed its military arm, which soon transformed this devout group into a great military-religious brotherhood.

A 2003 West Point grad who is an active Army Reserve officer, the 32-year-old is one of the most recognizable faces in the New York boxing scene. Melson, who’s donated every penny from all 14 of his fight purses, 13 to a specific clinical trial aimed at curing Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries and one to a friend with a son that had cancer, gained notoriety throughout the boxing community as he’s been featured on ESPN, HBO, Yahoo, Sports Illustrated and various other outlets. A 2008 Olympic alternate selection Melson holds an excellent 12-1-1 professional record with 4 wins by knockout. In 2011, Melson and best friend Christan Zaccagnino started Team Fight to Walk in effort to financially support and publicize America’s first clinical trial using the transplantation of Umbilical Cord Cells.

Current results gathered from data acquired in China, where the study has already taken place, is extraordinarily promising. They show that if the necessary funds are raised allowing for these clinical trials to be conducted here in the United States, with a target time frame of summer of 2014, then the United States, with great probability, could host human history’s first cure for Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries.

Since the launching of Team Fight to Walk, Melson and Zaccagnino raised more than $230,000 and hosted their first charity gala May 16 at BB King Blues Club in New York City. Team Fight to Walk has begun planning for their second annual “FIGHTING FOR THE CURE” Gala which will take place May 8th of 2014. For the trial to take place, a total of $5 million dollars to treat 40 patients needs to be raised; $0 of which are being funded by the federal government or private industry.

“This is one of the ultimate honors of my lifetime,” Melson said of the knighthood. “I’ve never been a part of anything like this, and the fact that I’ve been selected to be a member of something that’s had such an impact in history is incredible.”

The ceremony takes place at The Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Protection, located at 59 East 2nd St in New York, NY.

Melson’s next bout takes place December 4 at BB King Blues Club in New York City and tickets are available on Teamfighttowak.com

Baltimore, MD (November 9, 2013) – Promoter Jake Smith of Baltimore Boxing Promotions will put his team from Baltimore against top fighters from Pittsburgh at the “Festival of Fists” Saturday, November 16 at William Myers Pavilion in Baltimore.

Tickets staring at $25 are available by calling 410-375-9175 or going to baltimoreboxing.com. Those who purchased tickets for the postponed October 12 card may present it on the 16th to gain admission.

Baltimore Boxing Club heavyweight Sam “Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed faces Pittsburgh’s Donnell Daniel in the main event of the evening. The popular pugilist gained major notoriety in the beltway region by scoring a thunderous four second knockout in his last bout. Since his scintillating knockout, Crossed’s been in the gym preparing for his next challenge.

Former Golden Gloves middleweight titlist Jerome Featherstone looks to get back on track when he faces Rashid Kitpatrick of Pittsburgh. On August 31, Featherstone lost a decision to Kevin Ottley, marking the first time he was defeated on a non-national level. Featherstone, who Smith calls a phenomenal natural talent, starred as a wrestler at nearby Boys Latin High School and had a solid collegiate career at Oklahoma State University.

In separate special attraction matches, female sensation Adrianne Stedding and Allen Burris, both of the Baltimore Boxing Club, face opponents to be named. Although this will be Stedding’s first fight, Smith believes she’s showing the kind of potential that will one day make her a star in women’s boxing. The card will also feature a number of other local prospects from Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Washington DC.

“This is going to be another exciting event for the community,” stated Smith. “Any time you put Baltimore and Pittsburgh in the same sentence, it generates interest. The locals have been great in supporting my first two cards and I’m anticipating my biggest turnout yet on the 16th. This is a family friendly event at a price everybody can afford so make sure to come out for the fights.”

In conjunction with the fights, there will be a special 50/50 raffle. All proceeds are for Baltimore Boxing’s amateur program, a non-profit which rescued many local youths from the tough Charm City streets and helped develop them into boxers. Baltimore Boxing and James Hogan are also hosting a food drive on fight night to help feed the hungry in time for the holidays. All ticketholders are encouraged to bring at least one canned good to the arena.

Doors open at 6:30 pm and the opening bell will sound at 8:00. All bouts are scheduled by USA Boxing.

For more information, go to Baltimoreboxing.com

Ontario, Canada (November 8, 2013) – Promising lightweight Tony “Lighting” Luis believes he could very well become the first fighter to stop rugged New Yorker Raphael Luna when the two battle tomorrow evening at the Whitehall Athletic Club in Whitehall, NY.

About eight years ago as an amateur, the 17 year old Luis trekked from his native Canada to face Luna, who is six years his senior. At the time, Luis was aware of Luna’s reputation and knew he’d have to work hard for a victory.

“It was a dangerous fight to take at the time,” Luis said of their initial meeting. “He was known as a big puncher in the amateurs. He was a little bit of a trash talker before the fight but I outboxed him and won a decision.”

As professionals however, the two have gone on separate paths.

Although Luna’s record is an uneven 4-5-2 with 1 win by knockout, he’s had no help from the judges. The Albany native’s two draws came in the hometown of his opponent and he’s also dropped split and majority decisions. Two of the three men to defeat him unanimously, Ryan Kielczweski and Mel Crossty, are now a combined 22-0.

Known as one of Canada’s brightest young stars, Luis won his first 15 bouts and claimed a minor WBC title following a first round knockout in 2011. On January 25, the fast and exciting 25-year-old stepped up and battled 6’0 late replacement Jose Hernandez. The two warriors engaged in one of ESPN’s most exciting fights of the year however, Luis was stopped in the eighth round. After spending time in the gym to correct some of his mistakes, Luis returned in May to shut out iron chinned veteran Maurycy Gojko.

Against Luna, Luis, who has never seen his foe fight in the paid ranks, admittedly is entering the ring with plenty of confidence.

“I haven’t seen him since we fought as amateurs. The way I’m looking it at is he’s 31 now and I am a man not a teen. I believe I’ve made more improvements than him. The game plan is to box smart, stay away from his punches and kill him with hand speed. I’m not worried about him he should be worried about me. I don’t want this to go to the judges and I want to punish him but I won’t force a knockout.”

Luis is also aware that another significant fight will likely proceed if he’s victorious.

“I am penciled in for an ESPN fight in January at Turning Stone. With that said, I’m focused on Luna now. I have to take care of business. Come Saturday, everybody will see a smarter Tony Luis who is just as fast and aggressive. I fought stupid against Hernandez I got caught up in the moment. I did soul searching and got back to my boxing and the style that made me effective.”

For tickets or more information, go to Whitehallathleticclub.com or call 518-832-3662.

Newark, NJ (October 31, 2013) – Welterweight hopeful Michael “Slick” Anderson will headline All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions’ “Fighting for Attendance” in a ten round bout Saturday, November 23 at Weequahic High School in Newark, NJ.

Throughout the city of Newark, attendance is a major problem that is only getting worse, with the average student missing more than 30 days of school annually. To help promote getting children into the classrooms and off the streets, All Out Promotions is donating tickets to the “Fighting for Attendance” card to Weequahic students with outstanding attendance. They’re also hosting assemblies throughout the district.

“I am very bothered by these attendance issues in Newark,” said Michael Daughety, CEO of All Out Promotions. “These kids are not in class being educated but instead running the streets and making choices that could potentially be fatal. I hope that we’re able to donate a lot of tickets because that means kids are attending school and learning like they’re supposed to.”

Tickets from $35 are available by going to http://www.eventbrite.com/event/8886354325?ref=ebtnebtckt

The quick-handed Anderson is 12-2-1 as a professional with 10 wins by way of knockout. A Newark native, Anderson founded the Showoff Riders Bike Club and is a huge local draw. In his last bout, Anderson dropped a competitive ten round decision against then-unbeaten southpaw Emmanuel Lartey.

Anderson’s opponent will be named shortly.

In the co-featured bout, surging heavyweight Tyyab Beale meets an opponent to be named in a six rounder. Beale, who also hails from Newark, is 8-3-1 with three wins by knockout and is unbeaten in his last seven bouts. On January 19, Beale topped previously unbeaten Aaron Kinch.

In a special attraction bout, highly touted Burke, VA middleweight Antoine “Action” Douglas will appear in a six round bout. Douglas, 10-0 (6 KO’s), has a fan friendly style and the 21-year-old is on the fast track to stardom.

Popular locals Jason “Monstruo” Escalera, Adam Kownacki, Godson Noel, Eddie Edmonds, George Borges, Josaliz Cepeda, Allan Phelan, Iban Akbar Richardson and Shakir Dunn will appear in separate bouts.

In addition to an excellent evening of boxing, All Out Promotions and Edmonds Promotions will have a 50/50 with the proceeds benefitting the Lupus Foundation of America. There will also be a special tribute to Dwayne “Dutch” Vanderveer, a friend of Anderson’s who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident on August 31 at the young age of 33.

Doors open at 6:45 and the opening bell is scheduled for 7:30. Weequahic High School is located at 279 Chancellor Ave in Newark.

New York, NY (October 27, 2013) – For the last two months, Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson was contacted by a representative of Vermont’s Chris Gilbert about a fight in the Big Apple.

Melson was aware that Gilbert, an unbeaten power puncher, would be a tough opponent, but had no doubt that he’d emerge victorious. After a number of back and forth conversations with Team Gilbert, both sides agreed to make the match for December 4 in the main event of a DiBella Entertainment card at BB King Blues Club.

Unfortunately for Melson, 12-1-1 (4 KO’s), a bout with Gilbert is on hold after a different member of his team revealed the shocking truth.

“I reached out to a gentleman named Mel who turns out to be Gilbert’s real manager, and he notified me that Chris never agreed to the fight and his team never spoke about it,” stated the frustrated Melson. “I was also made aware that the Bill O’Brien, who contacted me many times and agreed to the bout on behalf of Gilbert, was not authorized to do so. Mel said they’re not interested in facing me and are looking at other options.

While the charitable and humble Melson holds absolutely no ills against Gilbert, he’s understandably upset over the situation.

“This is extremely frustrating because I was highly anticipating this fight with Gilbert. In fairness, he never agreed to the fight and neither did his actual manager, so I’m not going to accuse them of ducking me. Hopefully we can make this fight in the future. It’s a shame that somebody like O’Brien overstepped his boundaries and caused problems for multiple parties. I do not know why O’Brien would stay on me weekly over Facebook about fighting Chris when he is not affiliated with Gilbert’s manager, but initially stated he was Gilbert’s manager. As of right now, Gilbert as an opponent is off. I am still hoping his team changes their mind and puts their fighter against me in the near future.”

Melson’s opponent for the eight round main event will be announced shortly.

Tickets starting at $55 are available on Teamfighttowalk.com, and they are selling extremely fast. Following the bout, Melson will once again donate his entire fight purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of bringing trials to the United States that could help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. It was recently released in the nation-wide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, WBA junior middleweight titlist Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., 2008 US Olympians Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

Hackensack, NJ (October 17, 2013) – Former IBA, WBC USNBC and WBA NABA cruiserweight titlist Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn will have a career defining opportunity when he meets former pound for pound king Roy Jones Jr. in December in Pennsylvania.

Gunn, who sports a professional ledger of 21-5-1 with 18 wins by knockout, fought James Toney and Tomasz Adamek in his last two bouts but came up short both times. A legendary bare knuckle boxer whose bouts have been viewed more than 600,000 times on YouTube, Gunn also won other cruiserweight belts and was rated in the top 10 by the WBA and WBC. The heavy-handed New Jersey based Canadian was on the verge of retiring but had interest in fighting Jones Jr. for a number of years.

“I’ve wanted a match up with Roy for quite some time but it never worked out for a number of reasons,” stated Gunn. “We’ve been working on this for awhile and I wasn’t sure if it was ever going to happen but I’m glad it will. People can say what they want about Roy and I at this stage but this is an extremely important fight. The winner will take a huge step forward and the loser is at the end of the road.”

One of the greatest fighters in boxing history, Roy Jones Jr. is one of the few boxers of any era that truly doesn’t need an introduction. In 64 professional bouts, Jones Jr. is an outstanding 56-8 with 40 wins by way of knockout. The former middleweight, undisputed light heavyweight and heavyweight titleholder has wins over boxing greats Bernard Hopkins, Felix Trinidad, the aforementioned Toney and Hall of Famer Virgil Hill amongst others. In his most recent bout, Jones Jr. traveled to Poland and topped unbeaten hometown favorite Pawel Glazewski.

Jones Jr.-Gunn is scheduled for 12 rounds in the cruiserweight division. The card is promoted by Jones Jr’s Square Ring Promotions and the exact date and location along with undercard bouts will be announced shortly.

Cornwall, Ontario (October 10, 2013) – Lightweight standout Tony “Lightning” Luis of Cornwall, Ontario, Canada makes his highly anticipated return to the ring Saturday, November 9 when he battles an opponent to be named at the Whitehall Athletic Club in Whitehall, NY.

A former WBC Continental Americas Junior Welterweight champion, the all-action Luis holds an excellent 16-1 record with 7 victories coming by way of knockout. On May 17, Luis showed no ill-effects from his lone career defeat, dominating durable Maurycy Gojko over six one-sided frames. Returning to New York State for the first time since his January 25 war with Jose Hernandez on ESPN, Luis believes a victory on November 9 will be another step in the right direction.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and explode,” said the likable Luis, who also works a full-time job assisting handicapped children and adults. “I’m 100% physically and mentally. Most importantly, I’ve spent time in the gym making improvements and I know that a victory moves me closer to another significant fight.”

“Tony’s an excellent talent and I am a firm believer that he’s going to be a player in the lightweight division in 2014,” said Greg Cohen, Luis’ promoter. “If everything goes as planned on the 9th, you’ll be seeing Tony in a noteworthy fight in the near future.”

Baltimore, MD (October 1, 2013) – Due to a number of injuries to the featured fighters, Jake “The Snake” Smith’s Baltimore Boxing has rescheduled “Festival of Fists” for Saturday, November 16.

The show was originally slated for October 12 and the November card will take place at the William Myers Pavilion in Baltimore.

“I hate to postpone cards, especially considering the support we’ve had from the community,” stated Smith. “Unfortunately, injuries happen in this sport and this was the best way to ensure the fans get a quality show when we return.”

All tickets purchased will be honored on the 16th and more information about the new date will be released shortly.

Baltimore, MD (September 20, 2013) – Jake Smith’s Baltimore Boxing Promotions makes their second trip to the William Meyers Pavilion for the “Festival of Fists” Saturday, October 12.

Bleacher tickets starting at $15 are available by calling 410-375-9175. In addition, floor seats are $35, individual VIP seats are available for $50, VIP mini tables of 4 at $200, reserved tables of 10 for $350 and first row VIP tables priced at $500 are currently on sale.

All VIP ticketholders can enjoy free hors d’oeurves and half price drinks from 7-8:15.

The “Festival of Fists” card features four of the Beltway’s top rising stars, three of whom fought at the very same venue August 31.

“I’m glad that we’re able to come back so quickly,” said Smith, a well known promoter and former prizefighter. “We had a good turnout for the last card and that was on Labor Day Weekend. I definitely expect a much bigger crowd this time and the fans will get to enjoy an excellent night of action.”

Headlining the Olympic style boxing card is local star and former internationally rated junior welterweight Joey “Bazooka Joe” Veazey of the Baltimore Boxing Club. Veazey, who won numerous tournaments, attends Northeast High School. The soft spoken but confident Veazy most notably won the 2009 Ringside championship and is backed by a large group of supporters every time he fights in the Beltway region.

Baltimore Boxing Club heavyweight Sam Crossed, fresh off a victory on the 31st, faces Washington DC’s Darnell Daniel. In his prior bout, Crossed instantly became the talk of the town after scoring a vicious scored 4 second knockout, which can be seen by going to Youtube.com/watch?v=KgjpWOYpqx4.

2013 Golden Gloves Middleweight Champion and former high school wrestling legend Jerome Featherstone looks to rebound from an upset defeat when he faces Kevin Ottley in a rematch. Featherstone, who made it to the Nationals less than a year and a half after first lacing up a pair of gloves, wrestled at Oklahoma State University and trains out of the Baltimore Boxing Club.

In addition to the action, there will be a special 50/50 raffle. All proceeds are for Baltimore Boxing’s amateur program, a non-profit which rescued many local youths from the tough Charm City streets and helped develop them into boxers.

The card will also feature a number of other local prospects including Allen Burris along with boxers from Maryland, DC and Virginia.

Doors open at 6:15 pm and the opening bell will sound at 8:15. All bouts are scheduled by USA Boxing.

For more information, go to Baltimoreboxing.com

Lexington, MA (September 17, 2013) ­­– Provia Labs’ Store-A-Tooth™, a stem cell bank specializing in dental stem cell preservation, announces the appointment of Boyd Melson, world-class athlete and strong advocate for stem cell research, to their Advisory Board. Melson brings his big heart and passion for improving the lives of those dealing with spinal cord injury to the team of dedicated advisors who help shape Provia’s mission and services.
Melson is a gifted professional boxer who donates all of the money that he earns in the ring to stem cell research for the treatment of spinal cord injury. His advocacy efforts have been profiled on Emmy Award winning HBO series Real Sports, ESPN.com, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo. He is a founder of the organization Team Fight to Walk (www.teamfighttowalk.com), which through professional boxers and other athletes raises money for JustADollarPlease (www.justadollarplease.org), which supports efforts to bring clinical trials of stem cell treatments for spinal cord injury to the USA.
“In the USA-alone, where a spinal cord injury occurs every 41 minutes, there are 1.3 million people living with the tragic after-effects”, said Melson. “The exploding field of regenerative medicine holds great promise for the treatment of these injuries. My dearest friend in this world, Christan, who is the inspiration behind my passion for all things relating to stem cell therapy, lives every day with the challenges resulting from a spinal cord injury. I have experienced firsthand, in her case, how stem cells can improve the quality of life. I live to help Christan and others like her.”
Boyd continues, “I am really pumped about being an Advisor to Store-A-Tooth, whose mission is to help the world prepare for a future where stem cells have changed medicine as we know it. Everyone should be banking their cells.”
“We are thrilled to have Boyd on our Advisory Board,” said Provia Labs CEO Howard Greenman. He brings a boundless passion and devotion to advancing the public’s awareness of the potential of stem cells and regenerative medical treatment. “His heartfelt insights about the effects of accidents like spinal cord injury, and his advocacy for the needs of people living with the chronic condition, are a constant inspiration to us all here at Provia Labs.”
As an amateur boxer, Melson won the 48th World Military Boxing Championship gold medal in the 69 kg. weight class, and was a four-time United States Army champion and three-time NCBA All-American boxer. He won gold medals at the All Army Boxing Championships twice and at the Armed Forces Boxing Championships twice. He won a bronze medal at the 2005 US Amateur Boxing Championships. Melson turned professional in 2010, in order to raise money for stem cell research. He serves as an Army Reserves Captain of the 1179th Transportation Brigade at Fort Hamilton, in Brooklyn, NY. He is a Manhattan, NY resident.
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About Provia Laboratories, LLC
Provia Laboratories, LLC (www.provialabs.com) is a health services company specializing in high quality stem cell biobanking (the collection, transport, processing, and cryogenic storage of biological specimens). Its dental stem cell banking service, Store-A-ToothTM, gives parents the option to store stem cells today to protect their children’s health tomorrow. Store-A-Tooth preserves stem cells from baby and wisdom teeth that would otherwise be discarded, so parents can be prepared for advances in stem cell therapies that someday may help treat conditions such as type 1 diabetes, spinal cord injury, heart attack, stroke, and neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
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Las Vegas, NV (September 5, 2013) – Hard hitting junior middleweight contender Deandre “The Bull” Latimore has never been a fighter to avoid challenges.

In December 2007, Latimore, then 23, stepped up and dominated previously unbeaten Durrell Richardson over ten rounds. Six months later, the dynamite fisted southpaw scored a shocking upset when he stopped world rated Sechew Powell in front of a nationally televised audience on ESPN’s Wednesday Night Fights. The very next fight, he challenged fellow St. Louisan Cory Spinks for the vacant IBF championship. With a packed house on hand, Latimore scored a flash knockdown in the opening round and cut Spinks in the fourth but ultimately dropped a debatable split decision.

Following the defeat to Spinks, Latimore reeled off four victories in his next five bouts, one of which came on ShoBox in his promotional debut for Mayweather Promotions. Under Mayweather’s wing, Latimore, who currently lives and fights out of Las Vegas, NV, landed the biggest opportunity of his career against former welterweight champion Carlos Quintana. The bout was seen by more than 1.5 million people as part of the Floyd Mayweather-Miguel Cotto undercard. Unfortunately, he was on the wrong end of a sixth round TKO.

“Quintana was the better man that night but I wasn’t focused,” stated Latimore. “There were a lot of out of the ring issues involving my family at that time and I wasn’t myself mentally.”

The aforementioned out of the ring issues kept him idle since his May 2012 bout with Quintana and led to an amicable split from Mayweather Promotions after just two bouts.

Latimore, currently a promotional and managerial free agent, is ready to return and recently teamed up with respected trainer Fareed Samad of Denver, CO. A former prizefighter, Samad, who owns Train 2 Perfection, retired 10-0 with 9 knockouts. As a trainer, he’s guided notable fighters in both boxing and mixed martial arts such as “King” Mo Lawl, Lyoto “The Dragon” Machida, Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson and Davarryl “Touch of Sleep” Williamson amongst others.

“I’m ready excited about working with Fareed,” stated Latimore. “He’s got me back to working on the basics and fundamentals. I believe he’ll unleash my talents and have me doing things that I never did before. Physically, I feel like a million bucks and I’m ready to get the ball rolling. After a few tune ups to shake off the ring rust, I’ll be right there ready, willing and able to face the world’s best at 154 and even 160 pounds.”

Samad agrees.

“Deandre was an outstanding puncher and a world class fighter before I started working with him. There are a lot of things we’re fine tuning to make him a more complete fighter than he was in the past. I believe the boxing world will soon mention a much improved Deandre Latimore as a foe for the top fighters in the immediate future.”

For more information on Samad, please visit Train2perfection.com, Facebook.com/Brother.Fareed or on Twitter @T2P_Boxing.

Baltimore, MD (August 28, 2013) – It’s not everyday that a student just days into their second year of high school has to get ready for homecoming, let alone one where all eyes are focused on them.

Most high schoolers don’t carry the expectations of Joey “Bazooka” Veazey.

Veazey, a 140 pound sensation, already captured numerous boxing championships and sparred regularly with noteworthy professionals. The Northeast High School sophomore spent a good amount of his early childhood around boxing gyms shadowing his father, a former trainer. Infatuated with the sport from an early age, he competed in his first match at seven and dominated ever since. Veazey became a six-time local Silver Gloves titlist, two-time regional titlist, one-time National Silver Gloves winner and 2009 Ringside World champion.

On Saturday evening, Veazey headlines Jake “The Snake” Smith’s Baltimore Boxing Promotions’ “Hard Knock Life” fight card at the William Myers Pavilion in Baltimore; the same arena he ran by countless times.

“This place is almost literally in the backyard of my old house and I love it,” Veazey said about topping a fight card at the William Myers Pavilion. “This is a great venue and I think Jake Smith did an excellent job by bringing a card there. I’ll have a lot of support and that makes me fight harder.”

Smith, a former fighter who now trains and promotes fighters, is equally excited about hosting the event.

“Joey is a great kid with huge fan base,” said the DC and Maryland Boxing Hall of Famer. “He’s got a great head on his shoulders and you’d never know all that he’s accomplished. It’s an honor to have him train at my gym, the Baltimore Boxing Club, because he sets a great example of how a fighter should conduct themselves in and out of the ring. Along with the large group of people coming to support him, I’m looking forward to seeing Joey do what he does best. Win.”

Bleacher tickets starting at $15 are available by calling 410-375-9175. In addition, floor seats are $35, individual VIP seats are available for $50, VIP mini tables of 4 at $200, reserved tables of 10 for $350 and first row VIP tables priced at $500 are currently on sale.

2013 Golden Gloves Champion and former Oklahoma State wrestling star Jerome Featherstone Jr. will have a stiff test when he meets former champion Kevin Ottley, who fights out of Mack Lewis’ Boxing Gym. Featherstone, a legend at Boys Latin HS who begun boxing less than two years ago, captured the 165 pound Golden Gloves regional title earlier this year, outpointing the best talent from Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia and the Marines.

Popular Baltimore Boxing Club heavyweight Sam Crossed will also appear in a special attraction bout against Darnell Daniel of Washington, DC.

The card also features eight additional bouts between fighters from Maryland, DC and Pennsylvania.

Doors open at 6:30 pm and the opening bell will sound at 8:15. All bouts are scheduled by USA Boxing.

“Hard Knock Life” is also being held in honor Jake’s father Murray Smith Sr. Smith Sr., who sadly lost his battle with cancer on July 12, was a well known member of the community. To honor Murray, who supported the many hats his son’s worn in boxing, Jake’s holding a 50/50 raffle along with a silent auction. All proceeds are going towards the Baltimore Boxing amateur program, a non-profit which rescued many local youths from the tough Charm City streets and helped develop them into boxers.

For more information, go to Baltimoreboxing.com

Baltimore, MD (August 20, 2013) – Jake “The Snake” Smith’s Baltimore Boxing Promotions will be honoring the Warthen Fuel Co as part of his “Hard Knock Life” fight card Saturday, August 31 at the William Myers Pavilion.

Bleacher tickets starting at $15 are available by calling 410-375-9175. In addition, floor seats are $35, individual VIP seats are available for $50, VIP mini tables of 4 at $200, reserved tables of 10 for $350 and first row VIP tables priced at $500 are currently on sale.

All VIP ticketholders can enjoy free hors d’oeurves and half price drinks from 7-8:15.

One of the most recognizable local businesses in Maryland, Warthen Fuel Co’s been in business since 1933. Family owned and operated since they opened their doors 80 years ago, Warthen Fuel’s helped families cope with rising fuel costs by setting up budget plans that provide financial relief. They also install and services Air conditioners and water heaters.

“Donnie Warthen and Warthen Fuel are not only very important to the community but they’ve been a big part of my life,” said Smith. “Donnie was my father’s best friend for 50 years and has always been a proud supporter of mine from the time I was an amateur boxer. I really appreciate all the Warthen’s have done and it’s only fitting that we honor them.”

In the main event of the evening, multi-time National Champion and local superstar Joey “Bazooka Joe” Veazey of the Baltimore Boxing Club takes on upset-minded Pennsylvanian Brandon Hadden. Veazy, who is backed by a large fan base every time he fights in the Baltimore area, was previously rated number one in the world. The “Hard Knock Life” card is expected to turn up even more Veazy than ever before, as he grew up a few blocks from the arena.

2013 Golden Gloves Champion and former Oklahoma State wrestling star Jerome Featherstone Jr. will have a stiff test when he meets former champion Kevin Ottley, who fights out of Mack Lewis’ Boxing Gym. Featherstone, a legend at Boys Latin HS who begun boxing less than two years ago, captured the 165 pound Golden Gloves regional title earlier this year, outpointing the best talent from Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia and the Marines.

Popular Baltimore Boxing Club heavyweight Sam Crossed will also appear in a special attraction bout against Darnell Daniel of Washington, DC.

The card also features eight additional bouts between fighters from Maryland, DC and Pennsylvania.

Doors open at 6:15 pm and the opening bell will sound at 8:15. All bouts are scheduled by USA Boxing.

“Hard Knock Life” is also being held in honor Jake’s father Murray Smith Sr. Smith Sr., who sadly lost his battle with cancer on July 12, was a well known member of the community. To honor Murray, who supported the many hats his son’s worn in boxing, Jake’s holding a 50/50 raffle along with a silent auction. All proceeds are going towards the Baltimore Boxing amateur program, a non-profit which rescued many local youths from the tough Charm City streets and helped develop them into boxers.

For more information, go to Baltimoreboxing.com

New York, NY (August 12, 2013) – When calm and mild mannered Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson enters the ring Wednesday evening at BB King Blues Club in New York City for a rematch against Jason Thompson, his sights are set on redemption; sort of.

In their first bout, Thompson sent Melson to the canvas in opening round but the West Point grad recovered and mostly outboxed his Brooklyn based foe. Following the six round junior middleweight contest, the first ever at Barclays Center, all three judges scored the bout a draw. Melson, who is 11-1-1 with 4 knockouts, left the ring frustrated and is eager to leave no doubt as to whom the better fighter is.

“A rematch did not have prevalence in my mind, but when the rematch was offered, my competitive spirit immediately smiled. Both Jason and I feel won our first bout against one another, so I know he accepted this match with the same eagerness,” said Melson, who’s been featured on HBO Real Sports, Espn.com, Yahoo and Sports Illustrated amongst other media outlets for the money he’s raised by donating 100% of his fight purses to Justadollarplease.org. “Jason’s tough and he’s fought very good opposition. I am shining bright Wednesday night- the end!”

Thompson, a notable gatekeeper who has fought a number of good fighters, is exactly the kind of fighter Melson believes he must defeat impressively before stepping up to the next level.

“If everything goes the way I expect it to, I’m only looking to fight in eight and ten rounders going forward. I’ve been boxing more than 10 years so it’s appropriate that I test myself against other up and coming fighters. We have already received offers to face unbeaten opponents but first I’ve got to handle Thompson. I am sure Jason and I both have the same plan – leave it out of the judges’ hands this time. Our team has our OPORD and Army Strong mission oriented. I have about ten of my classmates from West Point coming down to BB King to see me who have all been deployed to Iraq and/or Afghanistan. I am not about to come up short in front of my fellow warriors. This one is for them!”

An extremely limited amount of tickets are still available on Teamfighttowalk.com. Following the bout, Melson will once again donate his entire fight purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of bringing trials to the United States that could help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. It was recently released in the nation-wide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients enrolled in the study in China now walking who were paralyzed an average of 7 years ranging from their necks down to their lower backs: 13 of the 15 needing a walker to help them walk and 2 of the 15 needing nothing to help them walk. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, WBA junior middleweight titlist Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., 2008 US Olympians Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

Baltimore, MD (August 1, 2013) – Jake “The Snake” Smith’s Baltimore Boxing Promotions enters the William Meyers Pavilion in Baltimore for the first time when they present “Hard Knock Life” Saturday, August 31.

Bleacher tickets starting at $15 are available by calling 410-375-9175. In addition, floor seats are $35, individual VIP seats are available for $50, VIP mini tables of 4 at $200, reserved tables of 10 for $350 and first row VIP tables priced at $500 are currently on sale.

All VIP ticketholders can enjoy free hors d’oeurves and half price drinks from 7-8:15.

With approximately ten Olympic style bouts scheduled, “Hard Knock Life” is an action packed card featuring the best talent in the beltway region. “Hard Knock Life” also serves as an honorary card for Jake’s father Murray Smith Sr. On July 12, Murray passed away following a lengthy battle with cancer. To honor Murray, who supported his son’s career as a boxer, trainer and now promoter,Jake’s holding a 50/50 raffle along with a silent auction. All proceeds are going towards the Baltimore Boxing amateur program, a non-profit which rescued many local youths from the tough Charm City streets and helped develop them into boxers.

“August 31 is going to be a bittersweet evening for me,” stated Smith, a member of the DC and Maryland boxing hall of fames. “My father did so much not only to support the many aspects of boxing I’ve been involved in but with all of the community. He was a regular at the gym, came to all of the fights and backed a lot of non-boxing events. It’s going to be weird without him in the crowd but I’m happy to honor him exactly how he deserves.”

Highlighting the card will be separate bouts featuring multi-time National Champion Joey “Bazooka Joe” Veazey 2013 Golden Gloves Champion Jerome Featherstone Jr. and heavyweight Sam Crossed.

Opponents for Featherstone Jr., Crossed and Veazy along with additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Doors for “Hard Knock Life” open at 6:15 pm and the opening bell is scheduled for 8:15. All bouts are scheduled by USA Boxing.

For more information, go to Baltimoreboxing.com

ew York, NY (July 18, 2013) – Junior middleweight and charitable figure Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson of New York City gets a crack at redemption when he faces Brooklyn, NY’s Jason Thompson in an eight round featured bout Wednesday, August 14 at BB King Blues Club in New York City.

On October 20, 2012, Melson and Thompson fought in the first bout ever at the brand new Barclays Center. In the opening round, Melson suffered a flash knockdown but rebounded well and mostly outboxed his foe. Most ringsiders believed Melson would walk away with a decision, but all three judges scored the bout 56-56 even.

Since their first bout, each fought once, with Melson, 11-1-1 (4 KO’s), dominating veteran Edgar Perez and Thompson, 5-6-3 (4 KO’s), fighting to a draw against highly regarded Frank Galarza. With the battle of the boroughs set for round two, Melson doesn’t want there to be any questions as to who the victor is this time around.

“Regardless of how I feel I performed or what I and others believe the outcome of the first fight should have been, it was ruled a draw” said Melson, who helped raised more than $70,000 profit during Team Fight to Walk’s first fundraiser May 16 at BB King. “He’s a tough fighter and has faced good opposition but he’s been stopped in a few of his losses. On August 14th, I will be special. I will look different in the ring. If you are asking what that means, then you will have to be there to see. It’s about time I stop someone again!”

Tickets starting at $50 are available on Teamfighttowalk.com. Following the bout, Melson will once again donate his entire fight purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of bringing trials to the United States that could help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. It was recently released in the nation-wide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, WBA junior middleweight titlist Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., 2008 US Olympians Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

New York, NY (June 12, 2013) – Junior middleweight boxer and charitable figure Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson is attending the third annual “Walk to Believe” Saturday, June 15 at the High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway, NJ.

A non-profit organization founded in 2010, A “Walk to Believe” raises awareness and funds to aid in the recovery of former Rutgers football player Eric LeGrand, who was paralyzed in a game against Army on October 16th, 2010. This tragic day for Eric took place against The Rainmaker’s alma mater, West Point, and on his birthday. Melson told LeGrand that none of this is by chance as the universe has a plan for them to change the world together. LeGrand, who won an ESPY Award last year and is an active member of Team Fight to Walk, serves as one of America’s most powerful voices behind Spinal Cord Injury care. Through strenuous rehabilitation and an incredible will, LeGrand’s made excellent progress but still has a long way to go.

“Events like these are incredibly important to me because I will not be satisfied until I see those suffering like Eric and my best friend Christan Zaccagnino walking again,” stated Melson, who along with Zaccagnino, helped raise more than $130,000 for Spinal Cord Injury research by donating his fight purses to Justadollarplease.org. This amount is now rapidly approaching $200,000 in total thanks to Team Fight To Walk’s first official fundraiser dinner- Fighting For The Cure- covering the costs for two human beings with Spinal Cord Injuries to take part in the trial.”

“Research and care are very expensive, and the US Government has not contributed a single penny towards this specific clinical trial which is the very first in the United States aimed at curing Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries for human beings with an injured Spinal Cord for at least one year. Even a single penny from the government offered to fund this trial would serve as the United States government showing its gratitude specifically to its 40,000 Veterans that live paralyzed in America. I am extremely excited to stand by my brother Eric as he is trying to change the world similar to how he did for Team Fight To Walk at our “Fighting For The Cure” Event. I already told him that I am sitting on his lap for the walk to ensure that I am as close to the champ as possible!”

To participate or for more information, please to go Awalktobelieve.org