In my experience as a boxing fan and historian I’ve never witnessed such a poor excuse for a World heavyweight championship fight, I felt ashamed to call this a fight, it was more of a farce as it happens!

Audley Harrison’s effort or should that be lack of has earned him the number one position of the worst ever title challenger in a World championship fight and I mean any World championship fight, I felt sorry for myself having just paid out 95 for almost nine minutes of a non event, but more so for the high rollers who paid 50 yes that’s right the best part of two thousand pounds for a disgraceful fight if you could call it a fight that is?
Sure there’s been poor displays from some fairly inept challengers through the history of the big men, Puerto Rico’s Joe Roman was brutally outclassed by the fists of George Foreman inside of a round in Japan in 73, Liston it was claimed threw the ‘fight’ against Ali in 65 and so forth but Audley Harrison on this showing has topped that list, to think they call him A Force, surely after this they should rename him A Fraud!

So enough of my rant, let’s read about the so called fight, shall we….?
Coming into the ring to a chorus of boo’s I mean Audley came in decked in a red t shirt about saving some adventure playground, Haye the champion was given a better welcome.
Haye outweighed by just over three stones {43lbs} looked much the smaller man despite being just two inches the shorter, as the paying public anticipated the outcome and that Harrison always had the proverbial punchers chance, sure the tangibles were there though David was much the more fancied going into this his second defense of the W.B.A heavyweight title.
Both to begin with did very little though Audley pressured to begin with as he came forward but Haye soon had Audley backing off with the odd attempt of a punch that failed to land and has soon as forty or so seconds had elapsed into the round the knowledgeable few began to boo both combatants, which I felt was a little premature and unfair, Haye to his credit threw a two punch combination to silence the few impatient fans, and a roar went up, but it didn’t last long!
Thing is one minute had elapsed, then yep you guessed it two minutes as neither boxer threw a punch that landed and even when they did throw which was a rarity in itself they missed or fell short has both looked far too cautious and then the bell rang to conclude the worst three minutes in the whole history of the World heavyweight championship in my opinion, I felt disgusted to even call this interesting but hey give the guys a chance, the usual feeling out process is all very well in the opener but you expect to see at least one of two meaningful punches land, sadly neither party wanted to dance!
So to the second but yet again both Audley and David did anything other than spar for a opening and it wasn’t pretty, again unbelievably neither was willing to take the initiative, it was dismal plain and simple and yep you guessed it right again, no body threw a punch and to think people call the Klitskco’s boring is rather unjust when you watch fights like this, at least they do show a little work rate.
If British heavyweights through boxing history have been called the horizontal heavy, then it’s bad enough seeing them just stand there and look at each other, no body was willing to do anything and I mean anything, even the third man Luis Pabon called for more action and to think they billed this one as ‘the best of enemies’ it seemed they were really the best of friends! by now within eighteen seconds of the second stanza the crowd began a slow hand clap…..oh dear!
Then Haye after a minute or so of inactivity finally threw a right hand that had Harrison on the retreat with his hands up, though Haye landed with a cuffing right hand shot that had very little power behind it, before both went into retirement mode again, however Haye did manage to land a decent straight right to Audley’s midsection about several seconds later but again both went to sleep and after almost a minute and a half into the round Ref Pablon called for them to get busy! Haye did in the last thirty or so seconds but landed with half hearted shots has he simply wasn’t setting himself properly, Audley seemed content to just cover up and get on the move……..the crowd booed some more at the bell to end another fruitless session, both were tarnishing the heavyweight championship, a belt that Mssr’s Johnson, Louis, Marciano and Ali had once held with pride, was now becoming something of a joke!
Oh yeah sorry meant to say Audley did actually land a straight southpaw jab to Haye’s handsome countenance in the second, sorry it was so boring it was hard to keep track!
So to the third and Harrison met Haye center ring, Haye cockily had his left hand slightly extended as if he was using it as a measure to Harrison’s chin, Harrison tried the odd punch but couldn’t find the target, after fifty seconds of unequaled boredom Haye finally came too life and threw a combination beginning with a succession of rights that had Audley backing away to the ropes where Haye punctuated it with a two handed body attack, again both looked each other over and then Haye exploded a two punch combination with a solid right that landed to Harrison’s chin before getting out of harms way, literally seconds later a series of right hands caught the bigger Harrison on the ropes that sent him spinning around, before Haye launched a series of right hands that found the target starting with a big right to the body before bringing the attack to Audley’s head has he cowered on the ropes and seemed to be here to make up the numbers, a series of straight rights pierced Harrison’s high guard before Haye unleashed right uppercuts and started to catch Harrison around the side of the head with more rights that had Audley dazed, a final combination sent Harrison over for the count as he fell forwards and rolled onto his back, Audley was almost a pathetic sight as he got too all fours and made it to his feet at the count of eight, the referee Pablon put Audley’s gum shield back in as though he was prolonging Audley’s agony, Haye like a tiger patiently waited in the corner and wasn’t to let victory out of his sights as he went in for the finish rushing across the ring trapping Audley and not allowing him off the ropes and with both hands flailing, a left hook and a few right hooks had Harrison wobbling again but the third man Pablon had seen enough and saved Audley the embarrassment of a second visit to the canvas in as many seconds as he rightfully waved it off, Audley still erect but badly wobbled stopped at 1:52 of the third.
Haye did the job but seemed too cautious in my opinion and it was beginning to stink out the joint, in the post fight interview David spoke of the brothers but on this performance Haye should really reconsider such a task, beating Audley Harrison’s one thing but in against either brother would be a far tougher proposition, as Harrison spoke of possibly giving it another go!
THIS WASN’T BOXING, THIS WAS BORING!

Any comments to micksnice@aol.com

David Torres and Santos Pakau, fighters for tonight’s main event at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, both made the contracted weight of 139-pounds this morning, Torres’ manager Lalo Martinez confirmed to 15rounds.com.

Longtime local favorite Torres (21-2, 13 KOs) of Othello, Washington is returning from his second career defeat this past January as he takes on veteran gatekeeper Pakau (27-6-1, 10 KOs) of Spokane, Washington in a ten-rounder. Torres, the naturally smaller fighter, scaled 139-even. Pakau, who has campaigned at welterweight in recent years, scaled 137-pounds.

Both fighters weighed in before Washington State Department of Licensing officials this morning in Olympia, Washington. Members of Torres’ team had expressed mild concerns regarding Pakau’s ability to make the weight at last night’s undercard weigh-in. Torres’ promoter, and host of tonight’s fights, Brian Halquist believes Torres could make 130-pounds for the right fight. Pakau comes first however, in what is an important bout in determining the direction for rest of Torres’ career.

Tickets for tonight’s six-bout card, promoted by Brian Halquist Productions, are available online at Ticketmaster.com.

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

Akron, Ohio is known as the Rubber City and the home of the All American Soap Box Derby, now is has another legacy, Dan Bobish territory. The former 2 time Super Heavyweight Champion of the World’s promotion, Ultimate Cage Battles, invaded Akron to a capacity crowd at Akron’s hot spot, The Barley House. Fans were treated to a 9 bout card that left the fighters bloody and the crowd screaming for more.

In the main event, Victor “The Italian Stallion” Guarriello stopped Bryan Gregory at 2:51 of the second round via a TKO due to strikes. Both combatants are known for their ground and pound game but the first round was mostly a stand up boxing match reminiscent of Rocky Balboa vs Apollo Creed. In the second, The Stallion took control early and Gregory could not keep up the pace of Guarriello. In his post fight interview, Guarriello thanked the fans for their support he received as he traveled into hostile territory all the way from Jamestown, New York. Guarriello, fought like a true warrior as he took this career changing bout on only 4 days notice. The Stallion improved to 3-1 while Gregory dropped to 3-2.

On the under card

Ed “Mighty” Mouse improved to 10-4 with a second round stoppage due to strikes over Trevor Stiles.

Kyle “Lil Bam-Bam” made quick work of Tyler Bess stopping him in just 24 seconds with vi\vicious strikes.

Debuting Travis Griffith upset “The Handgun” Dallas Dishman at 1:05 in the first round as he made “The Handgun” tap out with a arm choke.

“The Beast” Christian Anderson was victorious in is MMA debut over John “Big Bang” Compton who was also making his MMA debut.

Late substitute Jeremiah Yeager made Josh “Pitbull” Berkley tap out in the very first round with a Rear Naked Choke. The time was 2:29.

Brad Osborne won a 3 round unanimous decision over DeAndre Billingsly.

John Darin Choked out Sean Brown in the first round. The time 1:36.

UFC legend Wes Sims was in attendance working the corners of the Buckeye MMA fighters.

Following intermission, Dan Bobish announced the January 15, 2011 in Cleveland, Ohio will be the next installment of Ultimate Cage Battles. This pro-am card is already shaping up to be an amazing show. Already signed to fight is Brian Rogers 5-2. This 205lb combatant is riding a 4 fight win streak. None of his victories have gone past the first round.

For more information visit www.cagebattle.net

ARLINGTON, Tex. – Manny Pacquiao’s congregation wore T-shirts that said it all. Say it all.

Manny Knows

Does he ever.

There’s never a hint of doubt in that enigmatic smile and child-like eyes. Pacquiao never doubts. He just believes and on Saturday night at Cowboys Stadium he crushed those doubts and Antonio Margarito with hands that deliver an unrivalled mix of speed and power.

Questions about Pacquiao’s commitment and priorities were everywhere and building for weeks before he would challenge for an unprecedented eighth title, junior middleweight, at a catch weight. He was said to be more of a politician than a puncher since his election to the Filipino Congress. The guessing game was that he wanted a political title more than a boxing one. When he isn’t in the ring, maybe he does.

But at opening bell, this Congressman is still the pound-for-pound champion.

Margarito never had a chance in losing a decision. It was more than unanimous. It was one-sided. Judge Jurgen Langos scored it 120-108. It was 118-100 on Glen Crocker’s card. Oren Schellenbruger had it 119-109. On the 15 Rounds card, Margarito won only one round, the eighth, out of the scheduled 12. Even that one might qualify as a gift to the gutsy Margarito, who withstood a blinding succession of combinations and was clearly finished after the ninth.

“He is a tough fighter,’’ said Pacquiao, (52-3-2, 38 KOs), who said he was hurt by body punch along the ropes in the sixth.

But he is a slow fighter.

That became oh-so-evident quickly.

Seconds after the opening bell, Pacquiao was more effective with a consistent jab and an accurate right that began to expose Margarito’s ponderous lack of speed.

Pacquiao’s right landed, landed and landed in the first round. There it was again in the second, even in the face of a more aggressive Margarito, who landed an uppercut that served as an early warning and a powerful reminder that standing still was a one-way ticket to defeat for the Filipino.

Suddenly, a crowd announced at 41,734 began to witness answers to questions about Pacquiao had done the roadwork. He had. From round-to-round, Margarito moved forward. He knows no other way.

Through at least seven rounds, Pacquiao darted out of the corner, off the ropes, around Margarito as he landed a bewildering array of punches off-balance and always on the fly.

“He is the fastest fighter of our era,’’ Margarito trainer Robert Garcia said. “We’ve never seen anything like him.’’

In the later rounds, Margarito (38-7, 27 KOs) had trouble seeing at all.

In the third round, Pacquiao opened up a cut below Margarito’s right eye with an uppercut. With each round, the swelling grew and it looked as if it began to affect Margarito’s vision. By the 11th, even Pacquaio was concerned. He turned and seemed to ask referee Laurence Cole to stop it.

“My opponent looked bad,’’ Pacquiao said. “I didn’t want to damage him permanently.’’

But damage might have been done to Margarito’s future as fighter. At least, Roach thought so.

Margarito, Roach said, has “the worst corner.’’ Garcia, he said, should have stopped the fight to save Margarito’s career. But Margarito would not quit and said so in the ring after it was over. His pride, his Mexican heritage, would not permit surrender, he said. Still, there was no chance at victory either.

Magarito came into the ring just three pounds lighter than a super-middleweight and 17 pounds heavier than Pacquiao, who at 148 pounds was just one heavier than a welterweight.

Margarito gained 15 pounds between weigh-in and opening bell. He grabbed the water bottle after stepping off the official scale Friday and must have kept room service busy with orders for pasta, more pasta, for the next few hours.

But the early issue involved something that isn’t on any menu. Ephedra, a stimulant, is illegal. Roach suggested that Margarito might have been sprinkling it onto that pasta, or spiking his breakfast cup of coffee with the stuff.

In the end, neither the pounds nor ephedra, not anything else mattered.

But like the T-shirt said Pacquiao already knew that.

A good, sometimes great fight, unfolded while laptops at ringside were abuzz with tweets about a locker room debate initiated by Manny Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach, who asked that Antonio Margarito undergo drug testing for ephedra, an illegal stimulant.

It wasn’t clear who was winning in the locker room.

It also wasn’t clear who was winning in the ring between Philadelphia welterweight Mike Jones (23-0, 18 KOs) and Mexican Jesus Soto-Karass (24-5-3, 16 KOs). In the end, Jones got the nod, a 12-round majority decision, over Soto-Karass.

Jones and Karass brought the crowd to its feet with a toe-to-toe, free-swinging exchange in the second. Jones won the round. For awhile, however, it looked as if had lost the fight. He nearly exhausted himself and Soto-Karass capitalized with stubborn aggressiveness and body shots followed by head-rocking right hands. Judge Serio Caiz scored it 97-93 for Jones. Jones won, 95-94, on Levi Martinez’ card. Gale Van Hoy scored it 94-94, leaving Soto-Karass with a tough loss to go along with bloody cuts near both eyes.

Guillermo Rigondeaux (7-0, 5 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist from Cuba, won a fight, but no fans. They had a new way to spell his name, as in Rigondull.

That’s what his split decision over Panamanian Ricardo Cordoba (37-3-2, 23 KOs) for a World Boxing Association interim junior-featherweight title was: Dull, dull and duller. Did we forget to say dull?

The only cheers were for legendary Roberto Duran, who accompanied Cordoba into the ring. After that, there were yawns, then boos and even the wave, which might have been the most derisive gesture from bored fans awaiting Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito.

For awhile, it sounded as if the restless crowd was watching the Cowboys, who have yet to win a game this NFL season on the home turf beneath the ring.

Rigondeaux escaped with a victory, in part because Cordoba went down on to a knee in the fourth from an apparent body shot. The Cuban won 117-109 on one judge’s card and 114-112 on a second. The third judge scored it 114-112 for Cordoba.

For the first time in days, there were cheers for Brandon Rios, who had been booed for mocking Manny Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach’s Parkinson’s symptoms in a controversial video.

Rios was booed at Friday’s weigh-in.

He was booed when he walked to the ring Saturday for the first fight on the HBO pay-per-view telecast that featured Pacquiao-Antonio Margarito. And booed when he stepped through the ropes. And when he was introduced.

The cheers came later, after Rios (26-0-1, 19 KOs), a super-lightweight from Oxnard, Calif., was declared the winner by TKO over Omri Lowther (14-3, 10 KOs) of Valdosta, Ga.

Rios cut off the ring, cut off every avenue of escape and began to subject Lowther to a withering succession of body punches. In the fifth, a few well-placed head shots brought about the inevitable end for an exhausted Lowther.

An Antonio Margarito sparring partner was beaten up in the gym and beaten Saturday night on the card’s opening bout.

Los Angeles welterweight Rashad Holloway (11-2-2, 5 KOs) lost an unanimous decision to Dennis Laurente (35-3-4, 17 KOs), one of Manny Pacquiao’s fellow Filipinos.

Fellow Filipinos already in their seats at Cowboys Stadium probably hoped that was a good sign for their revered Congressman in a main event scheduled to start six hours after the opener. For Margarito fans, it might have been a sign of what they hope he will do to Pacquiao.

Margarito reportedly hurt Holloway in sparring. One of his injuries was reported to be a dislocated eye socket. Holloway never had a chance against Laurente, who won seven of eight rounds on one card, six on another and five on the third.

In the second bout, Mexican super-lightweight Oscar Meza (20-4, 17 KOs) left no questions, scoring a knockdown in the fourth and final round for a unanimous decision over Jose Hernandez (10-3, 4 KOs) of Dallas.

There were some questions in the third fight. Filipino flyweight Richie Mepranum (17-3-1, 3 KOs) got the favorable answer, an eight-round split decision over Anthony Villareal (10-4, 6 KOs), of Perris, Calif.

Phoenix prospect Jose Benavidez Jr. (9-0, 9 KOs) knocked fellow super-lightweight Winston Mathis (6-3, 2 KOs) of Stockbridge, Ga., down and around, but never much sense into him.

After scoring two knockdowns in the first round, Benavidez sent Mathis up and back onto his heels with a looping right that landed with the impact of bat onto a fastball. Referee Neal Young looked into the hazy daze of Mathis’ eyes. What he saw was obvious: The end.

Young stopped it at 2:24 of the third. But the stoppage angered Mathis, who for a moment raised his hands and ran at Young as if he had decided to continue the fight against a different opponent. Mathis lost that one, too

Notre Dame graduate Mike Lee did to Keith Debow what the Irish used to do to Navy. He mauled him. Lucky for Debow, this one didn’t last four quarters.

It was over at 1:33 of the first round.

Lee’s report record as a light-heavyweight remained perfect (3-0) with his second knockout, which came about as a result of big right hand followed by several more against defenseless Debow (0-3-1), a St. Louis who leaned on a neutral ring post as though it if it were the only thing keeping him up and in the ring.

First-round stoppages began to become a theme in the next bout, the sixth on a card scheduled for 11. Dallas featherweight Robert Marroquin (17-0, 13 KOs) scored the encore, knocking down Mexican Francisco Dominguez (8-8, 7 KOs) twice within 87 seconds for a TKO victory at 1:27 of the first.

It was a swing fight. For super-featherweights Angel Rodriguez (6-4-2, 4 KOs) of Houston and Juan Martin Elorde (11-1, 4 KOs) of the Philippines, it was swing and mostly miss through flour erratic rounds. Rodriguez missed less often Elorde. He scored a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Filipino.

Photo By Cgris Farina / Top Rank

Jesus Ruiz scored a twelve round unanimous decision over Julio Ler in a Super Bantamweight bout in Polanco, Mexico.

Ruiz used his height advantage to pick apart Ler and and win every round on all three judges scorecards. Those card read 120-108.

Ruiz, 121 lbs of Sonora, Mexico is now 24-3-2. Ler, 121 lbs of Cordoba, Argentina is now 30-8.

FIFE, WASHINGTON — Two years ago, David Torres was an unbeaten, but unproven prospect before taking a major step up in class against former world champion Julio Diaz. The step proved to be too big, as Diaz stopped him in five. Torres has gone 1-1 in his two fights since, and will look to get back on track against fellow local Santos Pakau in the main event tonight at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. Undercard fighters weighed in late Friday at the neighboring Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino in Fife.

Torres (21-2, 13 KOs) of Othello, Washington has been a fan favorite at the Emerald Queen Casino since shortly after turning professional in 2003, having fought all but three of his fights at the venue. Torres has only been beaten once on his home court and that defeat came last time out when Raymundo Beltran halted him in the seventh round this past January.

Pakau (27-6-1, 10 KOs) of Spokane, Washington by way of Auckland, New Zealand has taken on a very tough schedule in recent years. Since moving from New Zealand to the United States Pakau has been thrown in with a bevy of prospects and top contenders, including top welterweights Paul Williams and Randall Bailey. For the fight against Torres, Pakau is moving back down to a weight at which he could likely be more competitive. The contracted weight for tonight’s ten-round bout is 139-pounds.

Although he has routinely weighed around 139, if Torres were to ever vie for a title, it would likely be at 135-pounds. Pakau has fought the majority of his fights of late at or near the welterweight limit of 147. Thus it is to the benefit of the naturally smaller Torres that the official weigh-in takes place Saturday morning, so that Pakau has less time to plump up in weight after hydrating and eating. Thus, Torres and Pakau will weigh-in at 9:00 A.M. this morning before Washington State officials in Spokane.

In the co-main event, Lafarrell Bunting (16-3-1, 16 KOs) of Memphis, Tennessee will return from a three-year absence against Junior Moar (8-2, 2 KOs) of Richmond, British Columbia, Canada in an eight-round light heavyweight bout. Bunting, a well regarded prospect at 168-pounds a few years back, weighed in at 175 ½-pounds on his second try. Moar, the reigning Canadian Light Heavyweight Champion, will be making his U.S. debut. Moar scaled 176-pounds. Promoters have designs on putting the winner of this bout in a regional title fight on a future show.

In a battle of unbeaten big men, Charles Ellis (6-0-1, 5 KOs) of Vancouver, Washington will take on Vincent Thompson (5-0, 1 KO) of nearby Federal Way, Washington in a six-rounder. Ellis, the 2003 National Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion, weighed in at a solid 227-pounds. Thompson, coming off of his career best win over former amateur rival Villi Bloomfield in August, scaled 226 ½-pounds.

Rob Diezel (3-1, 1 KO) of Seattle, Washington will meet Marco Cardenas (1-2) of Salem, Oregon in a four-round super featherweight rematch. Diezel scored a close four-round unanimous decision over Cardenas less than one month ago in Ferndale, Washington. Diezel was ahead by one point, 38-37, on two of the official cards. Cardenas scaled 129 ½ Friday, while Diezel came in at 130 ½.

Professional mixed martial artist Omar Avelar of Moses Lake, Washington will make his debut as a boxer against Ralph Prescott (0-5) of Seattle in a four-round welterweight fight. Avelar, who has a 4-0 record in MMA, scaled 145 ½-pounds after taking the fight on short notice. Prescott, who tipped the scales at 139-pounds, is winless in five tries, but has only been stopped by former Olympian Sadam Ali.

Debuting Virgil Green of Arlington, Washington will take on Miguel Garcia (2-1) also of Arlington in a four-round light welterweight fight. Green, a former regional Golden Gloves and PAL champion, weighed in at 139 ½-pounds, while Garcia scaled 141-pounds.

Tickets for the event, promoted by Brian Halquist Productions, are available online at Ticketmaster.com. Saturday’s event is the 79th edition of the “Battle at the Boat” boxing series.

Quick Weigh-in Results:

Light Welterweights, 10 Rounds
Torres*
Pakau*

Light Heavyweights, 8 Rounds
Bunting 175 ½
Moar 176

Heavyweights, 6 Rounds
Ellis 227
Thompson 226 ½

Super Featherweights, 4 Rounds
Diezel 130 ½
Cardenas 129 ½

Welterweights, 4 Rounds
Prescott 139
Avelar 145 ½

Light Welterweights, 4 Rounds
Green 139 ½
Garcia 141

*will weigh-in at 9:00 A.M. this morning

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT CARD
NORTH BERGEN, NJ — In a ten round middleweight bout, Ossie “The Ghanaian Gladiator” Duran (25-8-2, 9 KO) easily outpointed tough veteran, Matt “The Predator” Vanda (43-11, 25 KO). Working behind an electric jab, Duran was awarded a unanimous decisions by the scores of 99-91 and 100-90 twice.

From the opening bell Duran established an effective jab, consistently tagging Vanda at will. With his snapping jab, Duran was able to keep the usually combative Vanda at bay, never letting him fight on the inside.

After breezing through two rounds, Duran found himself trading with Vanda early in round three. “The Predator” came out aggressive, trying to turn the tide, but it was not meant to be. Every time Vanda enjoyed a bit of success, Duran would fire right back even the score.

By round four, Duran was peppering Vanda with a variety of punches. Besides throwing his unavoidable jab, “The Ghanaian Gladiator” was beginning to frequently land ill-intentioned body blows. Vanda’s suspect defense did little to stop the determined Duran as he began punching through or around “The Predator’s” gloves and to an exposed body.

In round seven, Vanda showed a sense of urgency by firing left hooks and straight rights Duran’s way. He tried to overwhelm Duran with power punches and backed the “Ghanaian Gladiator” up against the ropes, where he pounded away at a well-defended Duran.

Although this was Vanda’s most successful round, “The Predator” ran out of gas in the final minute, not throwing many punches and allowing the persistent Duran to steal the round.

Duran warded off a few more Vanda attacks before the final bell, but never found himself in any danger.

Juan “JZ” Zegarra vs. Bryan “The Brick” Abraham — 4 Rounds, Jr. Welterweight

In a bout that was explosive while it lasted, Juan “JZ” Zegarra stopped Bryan “The Brick” Abraham within two rounds to improve his already impressive record to 6-0, with 6 KOs.

The fight’s opening punch was a straight left hand courtesy of Zegarra that landed flush on the face of Abraham (2-4-2, 2 KO). To his credit, Abraham fired right back, connecting with wide but heavy punches. Zegarra seemingly respected Abraham’s power, but was willing to continue trading with him for the rest of the round.

Zegarra, a North Bergen import, via Lima, Peru, landed a huge straight left that rocked Abraham, sending him off balance. Abraham, although never falling to canvass, used his gloves to help keep him on his feet, resulting in a knockdown.

In the second round, Zegarra continued to trade with Abraham, seemingly willing to eat a punch or two in order to land his own shots. The Peruvian was clearly getting the better of the exchanges when his persistence paid off when he stunned Abraham with a huge left, sending him back into the ropes where Zegarra followed up and finished the job. Referee Eddie Cotten saw enough and called a halt to the bout at the 1:46 mark in round two.

Todd Erickson vs. Joe Dunn — 4 Rounds, Super Middleweights

In an impressive performance, Dover, New Jersey’s Todd Erickson (2-4-1, 1 KO) scored a unanimous decision victory of Philadelphia’s Joe Dunn.

Erickson used his height and reach advantage to keep Dunn from ever landing anything significant. The taller Erickson worked behind an effective jab in the early goings and gained more confidence as the bout progressed, as he rattled off more combinations in the last two rounds.

Dunn spent the first three rounds an arms length away from Erickson. In the final round, showing a little more urgency, Dunn attempted to get on the inside and fire off some punches, but he ended up paying a price for his efforts.

Erickson cruised to a unanimous decision victory with all three judges scoring it 40-36 for the fan-favorite.

Juan “The Beast” Rodriguez vs. Salim “The Dream” Al Quaadir — 4 Rounds, Jr. Middleweight

Juan “The Beast” Rodriguez made quick of Salim “The Dream” Al Quaadir to improve his record to 5-0, 3 KOs. Rodriguez dropped Al Quaadir (1-3) twice in the first round, with the second one concluding the fight.

Al Quaadir, who was fighting for the first time in twelve years, must have wished he never returned, as he spent the 2:57 of the first round on the receiving end of “The Beast’s” vicious punches.

Midway through the inaugural round, Al Quaadir took a knee after Rodriguez rattled off a steady stream of punches while Al Quaadir was backed into a corner.

The second knockdown, which Al Quaadir never recovered from, came courtesy of a thudding right to the body. The fight was stopped at the 2:57 mark of the first round.

Deano “Bad Newz” Burrell vs. John Passantino — 4 Rounds, Lightweight

In his highly anticipated professional debut, Deano “Bad Newz” Burrell (1-0, 1 KO) did not disappoint the tens of fans who traveled from London to North Bergen to watch him fight. For the four minutes and forty-four seconds Burrell was in the ring, he was dishing out punishment to Selden, New York’s John Passantino (0-2).

Burrell, a southpaw, battered his smaller opponent in the opening round, dropping him with a huge overhand left at the end of the round.

In the second round, Burrell picked up right were he left off, punishing his opponent with crackling body shots, ultimately forcing Passantino the drop to one knee. After beating the referee’s count, the spent Passantino backed into the ropes, where he became prey for a predator. Burrell pummeled Passantino until the referee stopped the bout at the 1:44 mark of round two.

Donald “Stone Face” Bernard vs. Rogilio Sanchez — 4 Rounds, Jr. Middleweight

In the night’s opening bout, Paterson, New Jersey’s Donald Bernard (2-0) was awarded a split decision victory over Fort Wayne, Indiana’s Rogilio Sanchez.

Sanchez forced the action the entire fight, always coming forward and pressuring Bernard. In a fight that was anything but a defensive clinic, both fighter’s had their fare share of success, but also put their chins to the test.

In the end, Bernard was awarded the split decision victory.

Judges Tony Perez and Pierre Benoist scored the bout 39-37 in favor of Bernard, while judge Alan Rubenstein scored it 39-37 in favor of Sanchez.

ARLINGTON, Tex. – Boxing history is littered with great fighters going one weight class too high. The oddsmakers still say Filipino Manny Pacquiao has not made that mistake. But if Saturday’s fight brings an unexpected loss for Pacquiao, no forensic team will be needed to uncover a cause. The evidence will be found on the scale.

Friday afternoon at Cowboys Stadium, Pacquiao and Mexican Antonio Margarito took the indoor stage of the East Side Plaza before a roaring crowd of perhaps 1,000 fight fans – moved inside by the possibility of rain. Both fighters were bundled up in multiple layers, as the Texas temperature had dropped 20 degrees in a few hours.

Margarito weighed the fight’s contracted maximum of 150 pounds. Pacquiao weighed 144.6. If Margarito’s weight was expected, Pacquiao’s was another thing entirely.

Throughout the promotion of Pacquiao-Margarito, questions have arisen about Pacquiao’s commitment to his training regimen. The naturally smaller man, by a significant margin, Pacquiao was expected to add muscle enough to weigh at least the welterweight limit of 147 pounds. He wasn’t close.

More intrigue happened when the two men stood beside one another.

After Margarito approached the scale in an all-black track suit, gold chain and gold earrings, and made weight, with a loud and mixed reception from Mexican and Filipino fans, he waited for Pacquiao to disrobe and mount the scale. And then came the customary stare-down. It held a surprise.

Margarito wore the more defined of the two bodies on Friday’s stage.

Pacquiao’s physique was muscular, not shredded. Margarito, meanwhile, was taller, wider, and closer to “ripped.”

Friday’s weight, though, may be only the beginning of the story. Pacquiao is believed to have eaten freely this week, as he has regularly during fight weeks since his move to welterweight in 2008, and if that is the case, he may not even weigh as much on Saturday as he did Friday afternoon. Margarito, on the other hand, is fully expected to be above the middleweight limit of 160 pounds, and maybe quite a bit above it.

Pacquiao remains the favorite, because of speed and class. But a fight that was already more interesting than initially expected grew more interesting, still, Friday.

Saturday’s Pacquiao-Margarito card is scheduled to begin at 5:00 PM local time, with Cowboys Stadium doors opening at 4:00 PM. The pay-per-view portion of the card will begin at 8:00, with the main event scheduled to start at 10:00. 15rounds.com will have full ringside coverage.

Photo By Chris Farina / Top Rank

Urijah Faber made his Bantamweight debut by choking out Takeya Mizugaki at 4:50 of round one of a scheduled three round bout that headlined a WEC card at the Pearl at the Palms in Las Vegas.

Faber choked Mizugaki and was impressive in his new weight class.

Faber, 136 lbs of Sacramento, CA is now 24-4. Mizugaki, 136 lbs of Japan is now 13-5-2.

Chad Mendes remained undefeated with a three round unanimous decision over Javier Vazquez in a Featherweight bout.

Scores were 30-27 on all cards for Mendez, 145 1/2 lbs and is now 9-0. Vazquez, 146 lbs of Rancho Cucamunga, CA is now 15-5.

Cub Swanson scored a three round split decision over Mackens Semerzier in a Featherweight fight.

Swans0n, 145 lbs won by scores of 29-28 on two cards while Semerzier won a card 29-28.

Erik Koch landed one devastating and made quick work over previously undefeated Francisco Rivera by scoring a stoppage in round one of their scheduled three round Featherweight bout.

Koch landed a hard left kick to the face that sent Rivera to the canvas and quickly pounced on Rivera before referee Steve Mazagatti stopped the bout just ninety-six seconds into the bout.

Koch, 146 lbs of Cedar Rapids, IA is now 11-1. Rivera, 146 lbs of Buena Park, Ca is now 5-1

Joseph Benavidez submitted Wagney Fabiano in round two of the scheduled three round Bantamweight bout.

Benavidez locked in chokes on three separate occasions with the third time being the charm as Fabiano finally tapped out.

The end came at 2:45 of round two for Benavidez, 136 lbs of Sacramento is 13-2. Fabiano, 136 lbs of Rio Di Janerio, Brazil is now 14-.3

Demetrious Johnson choked out Damacio Page in round three of their scheduled three round Bantamweight bout.

The end came at 2:27 of round for Johnson 135 lbs of Parkland, Washington is now 12-1. Page, 136 lbs of Albuquerque, is now 12-5.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
10 Rounds, Light Middleweight
Ossie Duran — 159 lbs.
vs.
Matt Vanda — 160 lbs.

6 Rounds, Light Welterweight
Juan Zegarra — 140 lbs.
vs.
Bryan Abraham — 141.5 lbs.

4 Rounds, Featherweight
Deano Burrell — 135.5 lbs.
vs.
John Passantino — 134 lbs.

4 Rounds, Welterweight
Juan Rodriguez — 148.5 lbs.
vs.
Salim Al Quaadir — 146 lbs.

4 Rounds, Light Welterweight
Donald Bernard — 150 lbs.
vs.
Rogelio Sanchez — 150 lbs.

4 Rounds, Light Heavyweight
Todd Erickson — 168.5 lbs.
vs.
Joe Dunn — 161 lbs.

On Friday night November 12th, Paterson New Jersey’s “Ghanian Gladiator” Ossie Duran, 24-8-2, 9 KO’s will take on Matt “The Predator” Vanda, 43-11, 23 KO’s who fights out of Saint Paul, Minnesota. This 10-round junior middleweight bout will set the tone for a card featuring fighters who take great pride in the fact that they do not turn down fights and they come to fight 100% every time out. “Rumble in the Park” will take place at Schuetzen Park in North Bergen, New Jersey.

The night of boxing will feature Newark, New Jersey’s Jr. middleweight prospect and 2000 Olympian Jersen “Superjerz” Ravelo, 20-5, 12 KOs, and “The Brick City Spoiler,” world ranked lightweight, Carlos Vinan, 10-8-4, 2 KOs. Exciting, well-known prospects will both make their pro debut, Deano “Bad Newz” Burrell and Scotty “Spade Ace” Burrell. Local favorite, KEA Boxing’s Juan Rodgriguez, 4-0, 2 KOs will also be fighting in addition to three other bouts. The girls of www.Roundcardmodels.com will also be featured.

Tickets for “Rumble in the Park” are priced at $100 and $45 and can be purchased by calling 201-774-1646. Doors open at 6:30 pm, first bout is at 7:30 pm.

Rico Ramos remained undefeated with a devastating one punch knockout over veteran Heriberto Ruiz at 1:03 of round two of their scheduled ten round Super Bantamweight bout in front of U.S Army members at Camp Lejuene, North Carolina.

Ramos landed perfect right that knocked Ramos, who was trying to land his own wide right hand, out with a perfectly placed shoton the chin.

Ramos, 123 1/2 lbs of Downey, CA is now 18-0 with ten knockouts. Ruiz, 122 1/2 lbs of Los Mochis, Mexico is now 44-10-2.

Former U.S. Olympian looked to be on his way to his tenth straight knockout as he dropped Tony Hirsch midway through the first round of their scheduled six round Super Middleweight fight but Hirsch showed courage but it was Estrada who walked away with the unanimous decision in the Super Middleweight bout.

Estrada dropped Hirsch with a left hook and Hirsch was in trouble but held on to get out of round one. Hirsch fought well in spots and Estrada was even cut over his left eye from an appear ant headbutt. Estrada took the latter rounds to win by scores of 59-54; 59-54 and 58-55

Estrada, 163 1/4 lbs of East Los Angeles is 10-0. Hirsch, 160 1/4 lbs of Oakland, CA is 12-4-1.

In the final bout of a long night of boxing at Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center, Zab “Super” Judah (40-6, 27 KO) was awarded a split decision victory over the previously unbeaten Lucas Matthysse (27-1, 25 KO) in front of a crowd of 4,172 people.

The main event was slow to start, as the first five rounds failed to provide fireworks, and thus, failed to excite the crowd — who, at times, ‘booed’ the fighters in the ring. The best punches of the bouts first few rounds were landed by Zab — a crisp right hook in round 1, a sharp left uppercut perfectly placed on Matthysse’s chin in round 3, and another vicious right hook in round 5.

From round 6 on, however, Matthysse looked like a different fighter. He started to press the action more and more and walk down Judah and cut off the ring. It was evident that Matthysse was trying to score big with a straight right, and finally, in round 10, he connected and Judah went crashing to the canvas. Matthysse, smelling blood in the water, tried to follow up, but Judah fired back and warded off any further attack.

Matthysse second-half comeback was not enough to overcome his slow start, however, as he lost a split decision. The judge who scored the bout in favor of the Argentinian saw it 114-113. While the two who scored the bout for Judah saw the fight 115-112 and 114-113.

The win marks Judah’s fourth in a row and second straight since returning to 140 lbs. Next up for Judah will likely be Kaizer Mabuza in another IBF junior welterweight eliminator

Robert Guerrero vs. Vincente Escobedo

In an entertaining and hard-fought ten round battle, Robert Guerrero (28-1, 18 KO) earned a unanimous decision victory over fellow Californian, Vincente Escobedo (22-3, 14 KO).

In the opening round, Guerrero got the better of Escobedo, with a sensational right hook serving as the opening rounds most devastating punch. It was a clash of heads however, not any punches, that caused a huge gash to open up on the side of Escobedo’s head. As the round progressed, Escobedo’s entire left side of his face was painted red.

Escobedo’s cutman did a nice job between rounds to slow the cut and reduce the blood flow from a pour to a slow leak. Both fighters continued to feel one another in the second round, with Guerrero getting the better of Escobedo. In the third round, Guerrero turned up the heat, as he dropped Escobedo with a dazzling combination of a right hook followed by a straight left.

To Escobedo’s credit and in round four found a lot of success when he threw punches in bunches. At times, Escobedo landed his punches flush on Guerrero’s face, but “The Ghost” was never in danger.

In the sixth round, Guerrero sent Escobedo crashing to the canvas once again, courtesy of a left uppercut.

While Escobedo battled, there was no way he could overcome the two knockdowns.

All three judges scored the bout in favor of Guerrero: 100-88, 98-90, and 96-93.

Bastie Samir vs. Damion Reed — 4 Rounds

In the night’s opening bout, Bastie Samir (6-0, 6 KOs) made quick work of Reidsville, North Carolina’s Damion Reed (2-4, 1 KO). Samir, who fights out of Las Vegas by way of Accra, Ghana, bombarded his defenseless opponent with a barrage of vicious left hooks. The former Ghanaian Olympian sent Reed to one knee four different times in the opening round before the referee called a halt to the bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:47 into round 1.

Mikael Zewski vs. Ardrick Butler — Welterweights — 4Rounds

In a four round bout at the welterweight division, undefeated prospect Mikael Zewski (5-0, 3 KOs) defeated Philadelphia’s Ardrick Butler (5-3, 2 KOs). The Canadian prospect, Zewski, showed off an impressive skillet over the twelve minutes spent in the ring. Zewski pounded away at Butler throughout the fight, hammering Butler’s body, and mixing in aggressive left hooks that often found a home. In the final round, Zewski kicked it into another gear, throwing a fifteen second flurry of viscious power punches, which Butler, to his credit, withstood. The resilient Butler had his own share of success sprinkled throughout the bout, but Zewski always had an answer. All three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Zewski.

Mike Perez vs. Hevinson Herrera — Lightweights — 6 Rounds

Undefeated prospect Mike Perez put on an electrifying performance in front of his hometown fans. Perez (10-0-1, 5 KO’s), born and raised in Newark, shocked his opponent, Hevinson Herrera (14-7-1, 12 KO’s) when he hurt him with a straight right less than a minute into the inaugural round. Perez wisely followed up backing the injured Herrera up against the ropes before finishing him off with a three punch combination — left hook, right to the body, left hook — that sent Herrera hard to the canvas. Herrera beat the ten count, but was visibly hurt and standing on wobbly legs. Referee Randy Nuemann stopped the bout 1:02 into the opening round.

Tyrone Luckey vs. Alex Montes — Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

In a fight that had the Prudential Center crowd on their feet at times, Middletown, New Jersey’s Tyrone Luckey improved his record to 2-0 with a third round stoppage over Alex Montes (1-2) of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The fight started with a bang when Montes introduced Luckey to the canvas about fifteen seconds into the fight. The fighter’s continued to exchange power punches with each other throughout the first round, standing in the pocket, and wailing away. The second round saw Luckey find Montes’ chin with regularity, as he dropped Montes twice in round two, both with violent left hooks. Round three saw more fireworks, with Montes on the receiving end of most exchanges. Once again, Luckey rocked Montes, who went down for the third time in the fight. When Montes got to his feet, he was standing on unstable legs and that’s when Luckey pounded away at his injured opponent until the referee called a halt to the bout at the 2:55 mark of the round 3.

Mike Brooks vs. Kywayne Hill — Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

Long Island, New York’s Mike “Lefty” Brooks easily outpointed Philadelphia’s Kywayne Hill to improve his record to 3-0, 1 KO. Brooks used his superior hand speed to continuously score against Hill 1-6, 1 KO, who offered up an uninspiring effort. At times, Hill looked like he could inflict some damage on Brooks, scoring sporadically with uppercuts and straight rights. He could never string together combinations, however, and seemed content at times to cover up and let Brooks throw freely — which he did. In the end, all three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Brooks.

Angel Concepcion vs. Maurice Amaro — Light Heavyweights — 4 Rounds

In a four round light heavyweight bout, Newark’s Angel Concepcion improved his record to 3-0 with a unanimous decision over Philadelphia’s Maurice Amaro, who fell to 1-3. The opening round was Concepcion’s finest, landing punches at will through Hill’s suspect defense. Concepcion pummeled HIll with left hooks that wrapped around Hill’s defense and couple them with straight rights that split Hill’s gloves. TO his credit, Hill withstood everything Concepcion threw at him, and on occasion landed some power punches of his own. Concepcion, who was never once in danger throughout the fight, imposed his will on Hill, landing punches with regularity. In the end all three judges scored the bout 40-36 in favor of Newark’s Concepcion.

Adrien Broner vs. Ilido Julio — Junior Lightweights — 8 Rounds

Undefeated prospect Adrian Broner scored a first round TKO victory over veteran journeyman Ilido Julio to improve his record to 18-0, 15 KOs. Broner, showed not only superior boxing skills, but also superior dance moves, as he came into the ring dancing, danced a little more mid-fight, and finished the show with a backflip. Broner hammered his out of shape Colombian opponent from the opening bell. Midway through the round, Broner landed a violent left hook/straight right combination that sent Julio crashing to the floor. During the 10-count, Broner walked over to where the HBO announcing trio of Jim Lampley, Max Kellerman, and Roy Jones Jr., are seated and told Roy Jones Jr. that he’s the next world champion. When the fight resumed, Broner rushed over the wobbly Julio and unleashed a continuous flow of punches until the referee stepped in and stopped the fight. The time of the stoppage was 1:34 in the first round.

Sadam Ali vs. Gary Bergeron — Welterweights — 8 Rounds 2:18

Fan favorite and former US Olympian, Brooklyn’s Sadam Ali (10-0, 6 KOs) overpowered New Orleans’ Gary Bergeron (12-7, 7 KOs) to get the TKO victory at the 2:18 mark of round 2. Ali looked as sharp as ever, creating angles with impressive footwork and landing punches at will. Bergeron seemed content to cover up his face and absorb a barrage of body punches throughout the fight. Ali hammered away at Bergeron, who was unable to create any offense whatsoever during his five-plus minutes in the ring. Towards the end of the opening round, Ali dropped Bergeron with a left hook, left uppercut combination. After beating the 10-count, Bergeron was pinned against the ropes, covering up and not firing back as Ali unleashed vicious combinations on him. The fight could have easily been stopped at the end of round 1, but Bergeron was saved by bell.

The second round was all Ali, as he once again controlled the fight. Towards the end of round 2, Ali dropped Bergeron again, this time by a right uppercut. After beating the count, Ali put pressure on, eventually rocking Bergeron again with a left hook that put the New Orleans native on unsteady legs. A straight right and one more left hook prompted the referee to call a halt to the bout at the 2:18 mark of round 2.

LAS VEGAS — It wasn’t a defining moment. For the fighter known simply as JuanMa, that will have to wait. JuanMagnifico, he wasn’t.

But JuanMature he might become after a bruising battle Saturday night at the MGM Grand that ended with Rafael Marquez unable to continue after the eighth round because of an injury to his right shoulder.

After early dominance, Juan Manuel Lopez (29-0, 26 KOs) fought through trouble, recovered and reasserted himself to stay undefeated in defense of his featherweight crown, the World Boxing Organization’s version of the 126-pound title. The 27-year-old Lopez had the crowd chanting his name – JuanMa, JuanMa — in the opening rounds and again in the end for the stinging power in his hands and the young legs that carried him into trouble, out of it and finally up the ladder to stardom. Early on, JuanMa smiled and gestured at the crow, which included boyhood idol Felix Trinidad, as though he thought he was in for an easy night. His hands were faster; his legs younger. At the end of the first round, JuanMa bounced a succession of punches off Marquez (39-6, 35 KOs) at the rate of a pinball. After the bell sounded, he turned, smiled at his corner and waved his gloved hands in front of him as if to say it would end quickly. For the next two rounds, there was nothing to change his mind.

In the third, a short left hand from the left-handed Puerto Rican sent Marquez stumbling half way across the ring and into the ropes. How tough could it be? Turns out, very tough. The experienced Marquez caught Lopez with a head-rocking counter seconds after it looked as he might be finished in the third. In the fourth, the 35-year-old Mexican began to put together punches that looked like a lesson plan. Suddenly, JuanMa’s early success began to look like a mirage. Left-handed counters left JuanMa looking dazed, yet still on his feet.

“It’s going to happen,’’ JuanMa said. “”You get hit. He gets hit. He has tremendous power.’’

Translation: JuanMa endured that part of the lesson and survived, although his youth showed for a moment. He was penalized a point by referee Tony Weeks for hitting Marquez on the back of the head. He argued with Weeks after the round ended.

But the frustration dissipated as quickly as Marquez’ chances. Marquez began to look his old. That might have been because of an unspecified injury. “I was hurt before the fight,’’ said the Mexican great, whose thumb injury in August forced the fight to be postponed from Sept. 18. Marquez said he hurt his right shoulder in the third round. After the eighth, he told his corner about the injury.

“I can’t move it,’’ Marquez said he told trainer Daniel Zaragoza. Zaragoza asked him if would have to stop the fight. Then, somebody touched Marquez shoulder. He winced. The pain was evident. “I can’t go,’’ Marquez told Zaragosa. The injury happened sometime in the third round, said Marquez, who said it limited his ability to throw punches. “I couldn’t punch the way I always do,’’ he said, “If I could have I would have won the fight.’’

Marquez seemed to be saying that he wanted a rematch. Against a JuanMature, that might be a tough sequel.

Johnson scores 8th-round TKO over Green

It took a sub to make another one look sub-par. Glen Johnson made Alan Green look like a sub sandwich in the super-middleweight’s Super Six Classic Saturday night at the MGM Grand. Green went down easily against an older and much tougher Johnson.

The 41-year-old Johnson (51-14-2, 35 KOs), who looked more comfortable at 168 pounds than he has at light heavyweight (175), threw right hands early, later and almost at will. The 31-year-old Green (29-3, 10 KOs) had no counter, no defense and not much else other than perhaps a quick shuffle out of the Showtime tournament. Like hammer to nail, Johnson’s right hand finished the job at 36 seconds of the eighth round when at least two rights put Green down.

“ I knew that eventually he would move into a position where I could really land those punches,’’ said Johnson, whose fight-ending blows crashed off of Green’s left temples As he tried to get up, referee Robert Byrd looked and saw shaky legs, unsteady feet and uncertain eyes. Byrd had seen enough. As Byrd waved his arms, Green there was a hint of relief in his dazed eyes, even though he was leading on two of three scorecards. Judges Jerry Roth and Dick Houck had Green leading, 67-66. Johnson led, 68-65, on Burt Clements’ card. En route to his TKO victory, Johnson delivered an early message, a wicked overhand right, in the first round that must have told Green that next time he should try to get into a different kind of tournament. Table tennis, anyone? Green, Johnson’s longtime friend, backpedaled until there was nowhere to go. There was no refuge in retreat. Only the ropes. That’s where Green found himself near the end of third. Johnson caught him once in the back of the head.

Then, he followed with the right hand that already had displayed its power. The bell ended the round. But Green was in trouble. He stumbled in search of his stool. It was only a matter of time before he would find only defeat and an exit from the Super Six.
Knockouts are early theme on JuanMa-Marquez undercard

Derrick Campos (20-10, 11 KOs), a super-featherweight from Topeka, Kan., got up, close and personal with the canvas. Unbeaten Diego Magdaleno (17-0, 5 KOs) of Las Vegas made sure of it a in bout that was part of Showtime’s international telecast. Magdaleno put Campos down three times in four rounds. A left-right sent Campos tumbling in the final second of the first. A right hook sent down again in the third and encore right at 15 seconds of the fourth ended it.

Knockouts were the early story. Through the first three fights, they were the only story. The biggest was delivered by Washington D.C. lightweight Daniel Attah (25-6-1, 9 KOs), whose right hook at 1:55 of the second round almost sent Mexican Marvin Quintero (20-3, 16 KOs) skipping across the canvas like a flat stone on a pond. It took several minutes before Quintero could walk under his own power. He was helped onto stool at the center of the ring where he sat, dazed, while his corner men try to tell him what had happened. He was unconscious at the moment Attah’s right landed.

Attah only took a little bit longer than Jesse Magdaleno and McWilliams Arroyo did in the first two fights of the untelevised part of a card featuring featherweights Juan Manuel Lopez and Rafael Marquez.

In the night’s opener, Arroyo (5-1, 4 KOs), a Puerto Rican flyweight, won a by TKO at 2:55 of the first round over Mexican Cesar Grajeda (7-2, 1 KO,).

Magdaleno (1-0, 1 KO), a Las Vegas super-featherweight, won his debut with a TKO at 1:38 of the first over Matthew Salazar (1-3-1, 0 KOs) of Albuquerque.

The judges finally had some say-so in the night’s fourth fight, won by Las Vegas welterweight Anthony Lenk (8-1, 4 KOs), who scored a 6-round unanimous decision over formerly-unbeaten Danny Escobar (6-1, 5 KOs) of Riverside, Calif.

In the last fight before the card moved onto the Showtime stage, Cleveland lightweight Mickey Bey stayed unbeaten (16-0, 8 KOs) with a 6-round,unanimous decision over Erick Cruz (7-6-3, 7 KOS), a Puerto Rican who was on his knees in the second after he was rocked by a right-left combo.

Fairfax, VA – It was another sensational evening at George Mason University’s Patriot Center packed by fans and families in support of their local hero Jimmy Lange in his eleventh appearance at the famed venue. The event, presented by ICE Promotions, gathered many fans and local talents across the greater VA/DC/MD Metropolitan area.

However, someone forgot to inform Pittsburg, PA’s Joe Wyatt (23-2, 15KOs), as he came to the National Capital region with an intent to spoil the party.

In the main event, Jimmy Lange (34-4, 24KOs) delivered in one of the most exciting fights of the year, akin to some of the famous come-from-behind knockouts displayed by the late Arturo Gatti.

After a slow feel-out round in the first, Wyatt began to force the attack in the second, landing a hard overhand right and stalking his opponent with intent to hurt. Lange tried to keep Wyatt at bay with jabs, but Wyatt continuously closed the gap and inflicted damage with short well-timed right hands. In the fourth, Wyatt unleashed a barrage of hard unanswered uppercuts and left hooks that cornered Lange against the ropes unable to defend. Lange came back in the fifth with a short right hand to the ear and dropped Wyatt for a quick eight count. War ensued shortly after and the two fighters fiercely exchanged before the bell. Wyatt drew blood early in the sixth and continued to punish and bust up Lange, who was now cut on his swelling left eye. Lange did his best to evade the onslaught and later caught Wyatt again with leg buckling shots to the head, also causing a cut above the eye of his opponent. A straight right landed by Lange in the beginning of the eighth briefly drew crowd’s reaction to his favor, but Wyatt landed the more effective shots to take the round. Both fighters bled profusely in round nine and Wyatt seemingly held the edge once again with cleaner uppercuts. The two exchanged furiously towards the end of the tenth and final round, but it was a devastating right hand by Lange that prevailed, landing right on the button to drop Wyatt for a full ten-count. The official time of the stoppage was 2:38. With the win, Lange picks up the vacant NABA super welterweight title and sets up a potential showdown in Atlantic City against Harry Joe Yorgey in early spring.

JOPPY HELD TO A DRAW

On the co-main event, former three time middleweight champion and ring legend William Joppy ( 39-6-2, 30KOs) made his return to the ring, fighting to a tough, physical, hard fought ten round draw against the very pugnacious and durable Cory ‘Black Ice’ Cummings (17-4-1, 13KOs).

Cummings came out strong in the first two rounds, relentlessly putting pressure on the former world champ. The third round saw Joppy using his vastly superior experience to out-jab and outmaneuver the oncoming and determined foe in Cummings. Pressure was reinforced in round five by ‘Black Ice’, continuing to push Joppy against the ropes while the D.C native tried his best to counter. Rounds six and seven were closely fought. Joppy appeared to have the edge when pitted in the center of the ring as he was able to evade wild overhand rights and place well put combinations. Against the ropes, it was Cummings who did most damage, forcing hard shots to the noggin. Joppy easily controlled the round in the eighth, using his lateral movements and caught his charging opponent with several jabs and body shots. It was back-and-forth action in round nine where Cummings again, forced the action against the ropes while Joppy aimed to counter. Cummings remained a similar pace in the final round, repeatedly catching Joppy with hard hooks. Joppy weathered the storm and fired back with staggering uppercuts and right hand as the two combatants stood toe-to-toe in the final minute.

After ten very brutal rounds, majority of the crowd in attendance stood in ovation. Ultimately, one judge scored 96-94 in favor of Joppy while the others scored it even (95-95).

Joppy, now residing in Woodbridge, VA is probably one of the three or four best middleweights to have laced the gloves in the past two decades. Although his best days as a fighter are behind him, the former champion from D.C. still appears to be a popular attraction, proved by the reaction from his immense supporting crowd in attendance.

REID DAWG WINS AND SINGS

Former reality show ‘The Contender’ participant, Jonathan ‘Reid Dawg’ Reid (35-13, 19KOs) got back on the winning track, tabbing a lopsided six round decision over veteran Mike McFail (12-41-2, 4KOs) of Baltimore, MD. From the get go, Reid dictated pace with sharper technique, easily finding his target with consistent jabs and loud blows to the mid-section. McFail persistently applied pressure, but to no avail, largely due to Reid’s tight defense and savvy ring movement. Tides momentarily turned in favor of McFail in round five when he landed a hail-mary left hook to the chin that buckled Reid against the ropes. The referee credited McFail with the knockdown, but Reid re-took his command when he landed a huge hook that sent McFail’s mouthpiece flying out of the ring. Reid resumed in charge in the sixth, utilizing his superior athleticism and more accurate punches. All judges were in agreement with outcome, scoring the bout 59-55 (twice) and 58-55.

BALLARD DRILLS MULLINS!

The very popular and former Jimmy Lange foe Perry Ballard (21-2-1, 16KOs) scored a sensational first round knockout win over Booker Mullins (3-10, 2KOs) of Sparatanburg, SC in a six round scheduled welterweight contest. Mullins rocked Ballard with a well placed uppercut, but the ‘The Punisher’ retaliated with a perfectly timed right hand that dropped Mullins, prompting the referee to put a halt to a bout at 2:54. After the bout, the charismatic West Virginia native was vaunted by the responsive crowd. Ballard, who holds a Master’s degree in Safety, proceeded to interact with the crowd and even went on to call out Jimmy Lange for a rematch.

Local favorite and Fairfax resident Todd ‘White Lightning’ Wilson punished Columbia, SC’s Cory ‘Bad Boy’ Goodwin (7-6, 4KOs) to improve his unblemished record to 9-0, 3KOs. Wilson, an energetic lefty welterweight, was simply too fast, too powerful and just too relentless to overwhelm Cummings, who was haplessly getting pounded against the ropes in the third stanza. Official time of the stoppage was 2:24.

In the opening bout of the night, Alexandria, VA’s Brandon Quarles won an entertaining four round unanimous decision over Reston, VA’s Lawrence Jones. It was a closely contested bout throughout between two junior middleweights, but Quarles was awarded with the razor thin score of 38-37 across all three judges’ cards.

It was only the second fight of the night, but fans in attendance were convincingly pleased when middleweights Zain ‘Tiger’ Shah (4-0, 2KOs) and Omar Sims (5-3, 3KOs) gave their best efforts in the ring.

Annandale, VA’s Shah appeared to have won the first round, using his superior reach and connecting with jabs and occasional right hands to the head. Action increased towards the end of the round two when Sims pressed attack, landing crisp hooks to the head. Sims, who hails from Baltimore, MD, began to find his mark in round three, landing early with right hands. Shah seemed a bit fatigued as Sims progressively applied pressure and inflict damage on the inside. Sims resumed his attack in round four, but Shah was able to stun Sims just before the bell. Fifth round was close, with Shah continuing to create distance to land his counter right hand while Sims pursued to the body and doubling up with the hook. Both fighters let their hands going in the sixth and final round, but it heavily favored Sims, who was able to relentlessly land clean hooks to the head and hard shots to the body. Most ringside observers appeared to have Sims winning, but the judges disagreed, scoring 58-56 (twice) and 59-55 in favor of Shah.

In other interesting notes, Jonathan Reid, who was coming off his hard-fought win earlier in the night, displayed talent beyond pugilistic arts, singing a happy birthday tribute to Jimmy Lange’s sister in front of the audience. Other notables at ringside included the very high regarded Paul Williams, former junior welterweight champion DeMarcus ‘Chop Chop Corley’, and junior middleweight contender Harry Joe Yorgey.

DALLAS, TEXAS — Former light middleweight title challenger Juan Carlos Candelo and rising super middleweight prospect Alfonso Lopez III each took home WBC-affiliated titles with victories in the co-featured bouts of a private event held at the Dallas Petroleum Club on Thursday night.

In a rematch, Candelo (31-10-4, 20 KOs) of Baytown, Texas by way of Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia notched his second victory over Chase Shields (30-4-1, 14 KOs) of Houston, Texas and claimed his WBC USNBC Light Middleweight title in the process.

Candelo, 154, appeared to have turned back the clock to about 2003 when he was a perennial top contender, as he outboxed and outclassed Shields, 154, from the outset. Without much trouble, Candelo picked his shots from the outside, as all Shields could do was cover up and flick out a jab.

Having boxed Shields silly from the outside, Candelo pressed the fight in the sixth, and forced his counterpart to the ropes with a hammering series of blows. Frustrated with the way the fight was progressing, Shields grabbed Candelo in a headlock and dragged him to the mat at the end of the round.

Just seconds into the seventh, Candelo, upset by the headlock that had closed the previous round, and Shields began jawing at each other. Referee Jesse Reyes called for a timeout, which did not stop the argument. In the midst of the break, Shields flagrantly headbutted Candelo, who fell to the mat. After being forced away from Candelo, who was still lying on the canvas, Shields broke from the referee’s restraint to land another cheap shot.

Both camps ran into the ring to separate the fighters before things got any further out of hand. With no other option, Reyes disqualified Shields, who had been escorted out of the ring, officially 38 seconds into the seventh round.

“He want to headbutt me and then hit me on the floor,” explained Candelo after the fight. “That is the only way he can hit me. So I guess he got a free shot because I was down.” The reasons behind Shields’ actions were clear to his opponent. “I think out of frustration, and he knows that he was down in the fight, and to me what I saw was that he didn’t want nothing anymore, so he just found a way out,” said Candelo. “And the easy way out was to do something unsportsmanlike in the ring.”

Candelo scored a stoppage victory in their first meeting last December when Shields failed to answer the bell for round eight. Candelo, known for stirring up pre-fight emotions with his words, explained how this feud may have started. “The first time around there was bad blood, but it was more just trash talking,” said Candelo. “But I got him out of there, because I told him ‘I am gonna whoop your ass and you are not going to finish the fight.’ And that is exactly what I did.”

Candelo, who saw a potential springboard fight fall through when Sergio Mora opted out of their scheduled July clash to fight Shane Mosley in September, hopes his title-winning effort will help alter the course of his resurgent career. “The doors were closed to me, but now I am pretty sure we can go and knock on some doors and the doors will open. To my fans, I am back.”

In the co-main event, Alfonso Lopez III (21-0, 16 KOs) of Cut and Shoot, Texas claimed the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight title with a twelfth-round stoppage of Romero Johnson (11-3-1, 6 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio.

It took Lopez, 168, a few rounds to warm-up, but Johnson, 168, began the fight swinging freely for the fences with hooks that began from out of range and only occasionally hit the target. Lopez did however catch Johnson a couple times with short counter shots as the Cleveland resident came forward in the early rounds.

Johnson had one of his better rounds in the third, as he most notably caught Lopez with a clean left hook in the first half. As the round progressed, Lopez appeared to be getting his timing down for a counter against the forward-moving Johnson.

After a fourth round that consisted mainly of infighting, action began to heat up near the end of the fifth. In the last minute, Johnson tagged Lopez with a short punch on the inside, which seemed to inspire Lopez to open up and land a successful three-punch combination of his own.

Lopez kept the pressure on in the sixth, and began to take over the fight offensively. After a dominate three minutes, Lopez returned to his corner shaking his right hand and wincing. With the apparent injury, Lopez went left hand happy in the seventh. Despite the disadvantage, Johnson failed to capitalize on the situation and allowed himself to get outworked in the round.

In the eighth Lopez was still taking it easy with the right, even turning southpaw for a short stretch, but remained the busier fighter. Johnson continued to look for one wild punch at a time, but did land a sweeping hook late in the round that got the crowd’s attention.

Lopez continued to keep Johnson off guard with his output in the ninth, closing the round with a clean right-left combination. Though he punctuated the round, Lopez immediately looked over to his corner after shaking his right again. Lopez continued to dominate in the tenth and eleventh, landing more than one punch that snapped Johnson’s head back like a speed bag, but it appeared his injured hand may prevent him from going for the knockout.

With Johnson fading in the twelfth, Lopez refused to allow his injured right to stop him from scoring the knockout. Lopez opened up and scored with Johnson failing to defend. With Johnson forced against the ropes, and taking a series of unanswered punches, referee Laurence Cole leaped in to stop the fight. Official time of the stoppage was 2:45 of the final round.

For Lopez Thursday’s fight marked a move down to the 168-pound super middleweight class from seven pounds north, but the Cut and Shoot native seemed to adjust just fine. “Going into the fight, we knew Romero was tough, but I felt pretty good coming down to super middleweight,” said Lopez. “Overall I thought I did a lot of things right. I was getting better as the rounds were going on. I just took my time, got a little sloppy sometimes with some power punches, but once I settled down and started putting my punches together, I got him out of there.”

The injury to Lopez’ right hand, which occurred in the middle rounds just as he seemed to be warming up, gave the young pro an opportunity to prove he could overcome adversity during the course of a twelve-round fight. “It was pretty painful,” admitted Lopez afterward. “It’s in pretty bad shape. I just had to bite down, bear down on it, and try to use my left hand more and just grin it on the right hands I landed.”

Having claimed the regional WBC title over a solid veteran, Lopez now looks forward to bigger things. “We are looking for another good name, someone who’s got some credibility, someone who has maybe been on TV,” said Lopez. “Maybe we can look for a TV fight.”

Karim Martinez (3-0, 2 KOs) of Houston scored three knockdowns en route to a second-round technical stoppage of debuting Randolph Cole (0-1) of Gulfport, Mississippi. Martinez, 138, downed Cole, 138, in the early going of round one with a stiff jab and continued to work over the tentative new pro when the action resumed, forcing him to each corner with combinations. With Cole covering up in a corner, Martinez unleashed a right hook, left hand combination to down him again near the close of the round.

Cole came out more offensive-minded in round two, but eventually two light-looking body shots downed him again a minute in, which prompted referee Jesse Reyes to stop the contest. The official time was 1:05 of round two.

In a somewhat mauling lightweight affair, Alicio Castaneda (11-1, 5 KOs) of Cut and Shoot scored a four-round majority decision over Robert Lewis Hill (2-7) of Gulfport. Hill boxed well in spots during the first round, but ended up with a high on his forehead. From the second round on, the fight was fought almost entirely on the inside, as Hill’s southpaw style led to constant tangling with the onrushing Castaneda. With not much for the judges to differentiate between the fighters, scores read 40-36 and 39-37 for Castaneda, with one card tabulated evenly at 38-38.

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com.

Jose Miguel Cotto scored a fourth round stoppage over veteran Christopher Henry in a scheduled eight round Welterweight bout.

Cotto dropped Henry in the second and battered him in round’s three and four before the referee stopped the bout at 1:19 of round four.

Cotto, 145 lbs of Caguas, PR is now 32-2-1 with twenty two knockouts. Henry, 150 lbs of Barbados is now 22-21

Jesus Rojas scored a six round split decision over Reynaldo Lopez in a Featherweight bout.

Rojas scored a knockdown in the second round which proved to be the difference.

Rojas, 123 3/4 lbs of Caguas, PR is now 16-1. Lopez, 123 1/2 lbs of Colombia is now 30-10-2.

Angel Fret remained undefeated by scoring a second round stoppage over Sigfredo Medina in a scheduled six round Super Bantamweight bout.

Fret dominated the action and the bout was stopped just after Fret landed a three punch combination that was highlighted by a wicked left uppercut from the southpaw stance.

Fret, 121 lbs of Vega Alta, PR is now 9-0 with eight knockouts. Medina, 122 3/4 lbs of Aquadilla, PR is now 3-3.

Edwin Rodriguez remained undefeated as he stopped James McGirt Jr. in round nine of a scheduled ten round Super Middleweight bout at the Scheels Arena in Fargo, North Dakota.

Rodriguez had little problems as he imposed his will very early in the fight as he came out aggressively and started backing McGirt Jr. up from the opening frame. McGirt did show short spurts of countering some of Rodriguez’ misses as Rodriguez would load up and be a bit off balance.

Rodriguez dominance began to take prominence in round eight as he pounded McGirt against the ropes throughoutthe whole round. McGirt’s father/trainer, former world champion James “Buddy” McGirt threatened to stop the fight in between the eighth and ninth frame but the younger McGirt asked for and received one more opportunity to tiltthe fight in his direction.

That would not be the case as Rodriguez pounded McGirt on the ropes some more until referee Mark Nelson stopped the bout at 1:57 of round nine.

Rodriguez, 166.2 lbs of Worcester, MA is now 17-0 with thirteen knockouts. McGirt Jr., 167.8 lbs of Vero Beach, FL is now 22-2-1-1.

Aaron Pryor Jr. extracted some sort of revenge as he beat up Dyah Davis over eight rounds to score a dominationg unanimous decision.

Pryor Jr. Continued to exploit his 80 inch reach by landing some hard one-two combinations that were flush against the head and face of Davis. Pryor Jr. hurt Davis on several occasions and seemed to be one or two punches away from having Davis in serious trouble a few times throughout the bout. Pryor Jr.’s work was evident in round six as Davis began to bleed from the mouth and around the right. The outcome was never in doubt as Pryor Jr. cruised to the unanimous decision by scores of 79-73; 79-73 and 78-74

It was Davis’ dad, Howard Davis Jr. that kept legendary former Jr. Welterweight champion Aaron Pryor off the 1976 U.S. Olympic team.

Pryor Jr., 167 1/4 lbd of Cincinnati, OH is now 15-2. Davis, 168.6 lbs of Boca Raton, FL is now 18-2.

Marcus Johnson remained undefeated by stopping Kevin Engel after round three of a scheduled eight round Super Middleweight bout.

In the first two rounds, Johnson got the better of the action that was highlighted by some nice body shots. Johnson dropped Engel early in round three with a big right hand. Johnson was all over Engel by landing a flurry of punches which was culminated by a big body shot which precipitated referee Mark Nelson to administer a standing wight count. Johnson landed a few more big shots but Engel seemed to be steadied before Nelson stopped the bout in the corner after round three.

Johnson, 172 lbs of Houston, TX is now 20-0 with fifteen knockouts. Engel, 167.8 lbs of St. Louis, MO is now 18-4.

NABO Jr. Welterweight Title/IBF Eliminator — 12 Rounds

Zab Judah (39-6, 27 KO) — 139 lbs.

vs.

Lucas Matthysse (27-0, 25 KO) — 140 lbs.

Vacant WBO Intercontinental Lightweight Title — 10 Rounds

Robert Guerrero (27-1-1, 18 KO) — 133 lbs.

vs.

Vincente Escobedo (22-2, 14 KO) — 134 lbs.

Welterweights — 8 Rounds

Sadam Ali (8-0, 5 KO) — 145.5 lbs.

vs.

Gary Bergeron (12-6, 7 KO) — 143 lbs.

Heavyweights — 8 Rounds

Mariusz Wach (22-0, 10 KO) — 263 lbs.

vs.

TBA

Light Heavyweights — 4 Rounds

Angel Concepcion (2-0) — 179 lbs.

vs.

Maurice Amaro (1-2) — 173 lbs.

Junior Welterweights — 4 Rounds

Mike Brooks (2-0, 1 KO) — 140.5 lbs.

vs.

Kywayne Hill (1-5, 1 KO) — 139 lbs.

Junior Lightweights — 4 Rounds

Tyrone Luckey (1-0, 1 KO) — 130 lbs.

vs.

Alex Montes (1-1) — 126 lbs.

Lightweights — 6 Rounds

Mike Perez (9-0, 4 KO) — 136 lbs.

vs.

Hevinson Herrera (14-6-1, 12 KO) — 135 lbs.

Junior Lightweights — 8 Rounds

Adrien Broner (17-0, 14 KO) — 134.5 lbs.

vs.

Ilido Julio (40-19-1, 35 KO) — 136.5 lbs.

Welterweights — 4 Rounds

Mikael Zewski (4-0, 3 KO) — 151 lbs.

vs.

Ardrick Butler (5-2, 2 KO)

Junior Middleweight — 4 Rounds

Bastie Samir (5-0, 5 KO) — 162 lbs.

vs.

Damion Reed (2-3, 1 KO) — 163 lbs.

Judah vs. Matthysse, a twelve round NABO junior welterweight championship bout, is part of an exciting night of boxing at Newark’s Prudential Center on Saturday, November 6. The show is presented by Main Events, Super Judah Promotions, and Golden Boy Promotions. Doors open at 6:00pm, first bout to follow immediately. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins at 11:15pm ET / PT.

Tickets are still available: Priced at $53, $78, $103 and $253 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, IBF Jr.Featherweight champion Steve Molitor has inked a four year deal with Top Rank

“It is very rejuvenating,” Molitor told ESPN.com. “I feel like it’s a fresh start. There is no bad blood or bad feelings with my former promoter, but it’s very exciting to me to be with one of the best promoters in boxing in Bob Arum and Top Rank. I’m 30 and I want to be on the big stage. I’m hungry. It’s like when you drive a car. You drive the car and it’s fine, but then you get a new car and you’re excited to drive it. That’s how I feel. Who wouldn’t be happy signing with the biggest boxing promoter on the planet?”

“He’s always been an exciting fighter and charismatic kid and we have a lot of the potential matchups for him in his weight category,” Top Rank president Todd duBoef said. “We’re looking forward to working with him.”

Dunkin and Top Rank secured Molitor’s release from promoter Allan Tremblay’s Orion Sports Management, which cleared the way for Molitor’s new deal.

“Allan was terrific,” Dunkin said. “He handled this so professionally. He let Steve go because he said that he felt there was nothing more he could do for him in Canada. He’s a smaller promoter and he said in boxing it’s a short career and that he’s 30 and he wanted Steve to get an opportunity to make as much money as he can for his wife and family, which I thought was incredibly honorable. He said he didn’t want to stand in the way of that. He said, ‘There is nothing more I can do with him to make him more money.’ I said, ‘Wow.’ That’s incredible in this business. He’s just a real classy guy.”

“I want to prove to the American fans that I’m for real,” Molitor said. “I know I don’t have a lot of TV exposure in the United States, and when I did, I didn’t perform like I am capable of against Caballero. So I need to show I am a real world champion and a real fighter.”

His first order of business is a mandatory defense against South Africa’s Ndlovu, whom he has already beaten twice, the decision to regain the belt and a ninth-round knockout in 2007 in the first defense of his first title reign.

“It will be satisfying to put a beating on him again,” Molitor said. “I’ll go out there and defend my title and continue to be a champion.”

“Steve has a mandatory due with the IBF, which he will take care of, and after that his eyes are wide open to fight anyone,” Dunkin said. “But he’s got to beat [Ndlovu] again. The guy won an eliminator and he’s baaaaaack. And so it’s got to be taken care of, so we’ll take care of it.

“I think Steve can beat any 122-pounder out there and there are some good fights for him,” Dunkin said. “Vazquez is a terrific fight and so is Rigondeaux. There are some fights that are very fan appealing.”

“The point is there are a lot of interesting fights for Steve in and around his weight division,” Dunkin said.

Said Molitor, “Top Rank has so many guys, so many possibilities. I’ll worry about this mandatory and get it out of the way, and then take on some other challenges.”

“My mom is an American citizen and I have some family in the States,” he said. “And I look forward to making new fans in the States.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former Middleweight champion has pulled out of his November 13th fight with Brian Vera that was supposed to highlight the undercard of the the Manny Pacquiao – Antonio Margarito Super Welterweight title clash with a rib injury.

Pavlik’s manager Cameron Dunkin said the reason was a rib injury. When asked if it had anything to do with Pavlik’s ongoing alcohol problem, he declined to answer.

Trainer Jack Loew also addressed the issue with ESPN.com, saying, “Since we’ve been back [in Pavlik’s hometown of Youngstown, Ohio, from training camp in Pennsylvania], I have not seen Kelly do anything wrong … In camp, I was with him 24 hours a day. Now that we are back, I’m not.”

“I don’t know exactly what happened, but I was told by Jack Loew that he had a rib injury a few days ago and might not be able to fight, and then he confirmed it to me [Monday] morning,” Dunkin said. “I’m heartbroken, I’m devastated, I’m sick to my stomach.

“This was such a great opportunity for Kelly, to be at Cowboys Stadium in front of who knows how many fans in a fun fight on a great show, a great event. I could go on and on.”

“It’s a day-by-day thing,” Dunkin said. “I spoke to Kelly. He said he’s hurt. We’re all sick about it.”

When asked if had anything to do with alcohol issues, Dunkin said, “I can’t say. I’m not there.”

Loew said Pavlik hurt the right side of his ribcage hitting the pads two weeks ago.

“He threw a punch and hurt it when we were doing pads,” Loew said. “We didn’t say anything. He still sparred (Oct. 23), but we just didn’t go to the body. Monday [Oct. 25] we went to New York for the [Tuesday] media lunch and when we came home he said it was too sore.

“He had a cortisone shot put in and it was still no better,” Loew said. “Thursday he came into the gym and he was still sore and we decided that was it. I won’t put him in there when he’s injured. He said he’s injured and the doctor said it’s very tender and that it was probably the cartilage. I gotta believe the doctor. I do have to believe Kelly’s ribs are extremely sore.”

“We’ve heard the report about the rib injury and we’re getting it confirmed,” promoter Bob Arum said. “If that’s the case, we’ll move Brandon onto Nov. 13. If Kelly can’t fight, he can’t fight, whatever the reason is.”

“Kelly realized this was a big fight for him,” Loew said, “but he didn’t want to go into a fight with a kid like Brian Vera, who will swing for the home run every time, if he wasn’t 100 percent. I don’t think we wanted to take a shot against anybody and take a chance of losing because of the rib injury and blow anything bigger or better out there. Nobody else is as disappointed as me.”

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra

Unbeaten middleweight Patrick Majewski of Atlantic City informed 15rounds that he will be take on Eddie Caminero as the co-feature to the heavyweight match up between former two division world champion Tomasz Adamek and Vinny Maddalone December 9 at the Prudential Center in Newark.

One of the most exciting up and coming fighters in New Jersey, Majewski, 14-0 (9 KO’s), is fresh off a 7th round stoppage of Joseph Gomez as part of an October 16 pay per view card in Florida. Majewski, who is of Polish descent, will be fighting at the Pru Center for the third time.

Caminero, 7-3 (3 KO’s), has won two straights against opponents with a combined 14-1 record. The Lowell, MA native most recently stopped unbeaten Joe Smith Jr. in August.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to Gardenstatefightscene.com

Miami Mayor Thomas Regalado welcomed Don King today to announce the WBC Heavyweight title elimination bout December 17th at the American Airlines Arena in Miami. 2004 Olympic gold medalist and undefeated Odlanier “La Sombra” Solis (16-0, 12 KOs), who is ranked #2 in the WBC, will be facing WBC No. 1 ranked Ray “The Rainman” Austin (28-4-4, 18 KOs) with the winner earning the right to face Vitali Klitschko for the WBC title. Solis had this to say, “This match is the key we have been missing, the chance to fight for the heavyweight championship. This is what I have been dreaming and working toward since I first picked up a pair of boxing gloves. And Austin came back with, “I feel blessed to be in this position. I’m bringing the rain and you know what comes with that: the pain.”

IBF Light heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud (21-0, 18 KOs) will be facing hard hitting Colombian fighter Fulgencio Zuniga (24-4-1, 21 KOs). Cloud is coming off of a very close hard fought decision win over former fighter of the year Glen Johnson. Cloud stated, “This is going to be a great fight and a great event. I know Zuniga is a puncher, and I am taking him very seriously. After I’m done with him—which I will do—I’ve got some bigger fish to fry.”

Heavyweight Contender Mike Marrone 19-1 (14KO) will be facing Darrel Madison 15-1(4KO). He was quoted saying, “My trainer Eddie Chambers and I are going to do great things. Vero Beach [Florida] is behind me. Darrel Madison is a good heavyweight like me. His nickname is “King David.” What I want him to know is we are developing the best jab in boxing. When we are done with him, his new nickname will be “Burger King.”

Former three-time world champion Ricardo Mayorga will also be in action with an opponent to be named. “I want people to believe in me again. I have a hunger to be world champion again. I expect to win on Dec. 17.” Said Mayorga.

WBA Cruiserweight Champion Guillermo Jones 37-3 (29K0) will be defending his title against DaVarryl Williamson 26-6(22KO).

Also on the card will be undefeated lightweight contender from Cuba Angelo Santana, 9-0(6KO), undefeated Turkish welterweight Selcuk “Little Tyson” Aydin 20-0(15KO) and heavyweight Bermane Stiverne, 18-1(17KO) and a possible female fight.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, IBF Light Heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud will defend his crown on December 17th in Miami, Florida against former Super Middleweight title challenger Fulgencio Zuniga.

“I’m not familiar with Zuniga, but my prediction is we gonna win the fight,” Cloud told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “All I heard about the fighter is he a tough fighter, been in some title fights and he comes to fight. We taking him serious like any other fight.

“Those other guys turned it down. They demanded a lot of money, but Don King made a very fair offer,” Bonanni said. “Zuniga took the fight. He was offered the fight and stepped up to the plate. He has a big guarantee with Don if he wins. This is a tougher fight in my opinion than if we fought Otis Griffin anyway. Zuniga is a proven veteran. He’s nothing to be sneezed at and we are training as such.”

“We tried everyone in the light heavyweight division [in the IBF rankings] who was available and there were no takers,” Said Cloud’s trainer Al Bonanni. “We’re training for Zuniga and we’ll be ready to go at it on Dec. 17. I’m very happy Cloud is fighting. We want to stay busy.”

“Everything’s coming together now,” Cloud said. “I had promotional problems in the past [before signing with King] and all of that has been taken care of. It’s good to be right back in the ring. I’ve been rusty as a nail when I’ve fought and I’m still performing on a world class level. It is good to be back in the ring before the year is out.”

Cloud’s goal is to take care of Zuniga and then look for a major fight in the division. He mentioned lineal champion Jean Pascal, fellow titleholders Beibut Shumenov and Jürgen Brahmer and top contenders Chad Dawson and Nathan Cleverly.

“After I take Zuniga out, I’m looking for any of those guys, wherever,” Cloud said. “Pascal, Dawson. Shumenov? We will knock him out in [his home country of] Kazakhstan or wherever he want to meet at. Cleverly, Brahmer. Tell them all to put the money up. I’ll come to their hometown and knock them out.”

In the much anticipated WBC Super Bantamweight title fight Toshiaki Nishioka retained his crown for the fifth time when he outpointed game English challenger Rendall Munroe at the Kokugikan, Tokyo in Japan. Nishioka started fast and dominated the first 3 rounds though to his credit Munroe dug in and pressured the champion, he seemed to break through with an impressive fourth round. It looked as though the tide was turning in the fifth when Munroe again started out well, until he walked into a big left hand that landed high on Munroe’s head. The Englishman covered up and though shaken wasn’t in danger of going down. From then on Nishioka was just a shade busier and more active especially with bodyshots which landed consistantly. One of those bodyshots landed in the solar plexus of the brave Leicester bin man causing him to go backwards during the seventh. In the championship rounds Nishioka again showed his edge in power stunning the challenger.

When all was said and done all three judges James Jen-Kin, David Sutherland, Alejandro Rochin Mapula scored identically 119-109. It was a thoroughly impressive performance by the 34 year old Japanese champion who reaffirmed himself as the number one 122 champion in the world. The humble challenger will head home and back to his day job as a bin man. He showed enough to prove he can come again with many of the rounds closer than the scores suggest.

On the undercard Roman “El Chocolatito” Gonzalez 27-0(23) proved he can carry his power up to Light Flyweight when he stopped Francisco Rosas 21-8-2(12) in the second round to win the Interim WBA 108 title. It was a rematch from 18 months ago when Gonzalez barely edged Rosas in Mexico. This time Gonzalez wasn’t to have nearly as tough a time dropping a stunned Rosas three times to gain a very impressive win at 1.38 of the second. The loss was the first inside the distance loss for Rosas.

Also on the card Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares 30-1(19) forced tough veteran Jesus “The Matador” Chavez 44-8(30) to retire on his stool before the fifth round. Linares had controlled the action behind his jab and fired combination’s picking apart Chavez. He seems to of recovered his confidence from the loss a year ago to Juan Carlos Salgado and will now be primed for another title shot either at Super Featherweight or Lightweight. For this fight Linares weighed 133 the same as Chavez.

Current Japanese Light Welterweight champion Yoshihiro Kamegai improved his unbeaten record to 17-0(15) stopping Nicaraguan former Lightweight World champion Jose Alfaro at 2.36 of the sixth round.

In Bantamweight action Shinsuke Yamanaka 13-0-2(9) forced Mexican Jose Silveira 11-3(4) to retire at 3.00 of the ninth. Yamanaka is the current Japanese Bantamweight champion

Mercito Gesta remained undefeated by scoring a second round stoppage over Ivan Valle in a scheduled ten round Lightweight bout in San Diego, California.

Gesta dropped Valle twice in round one. The first was from a right hook and the second was from flurry that was culminated by a hard left hook. Valle got out of round one but a hard flurry of punches the started round two had referee Pat Russell stop the bout at thirty-seven seconds of round two

Gesta, 137 lbs of San Diego, CA is 20-0-1 with ten knockouts. Valle, 137 lbs of Los Mochis, Mexico is now 27-13-3.

Michael Franco remained undefeated by pounding his way to an eight round unanimous decision over Adolfo Landeros in a Featherweight bout.

Franco landed some hard shots that Landeros took well and tried to come forward but he took too many effective blows from the younger, faster and stronger Franco.

Franco, 127 lbs of Riverside, California won by scores of 80-72; 79-73 and 78-74 to go to 17-0. Landeros, 127 lbs of Mexico City is now 19-16-1.

In a battle of pro debuting Featherweights, Christian Bojorquez scored a four round majority decision over Salvado Cifuentes.

Scores were 40-36;39-37 and 38-38 for Bojorquez, 120 lbs of Tijuana, Mexico. Cifuentes, 124 lbs of Mexico is 0-1.

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The main event of the night featured the Bronx’s Jorge Teron vs. Rock Hill, South Carolina’s James Hope in a junior welterweight fight scheduled for eight rounds at Capitale in New York City

In round 1, neither fighter established control, as Teron tried to keep the short Hope on the outside, while Hope found success landing to the body of his opponent. Hope threw more power punches in round1, and landed the round’s most significant punch, a straight right that momentarily stopped Teron in his tracks.

The second round saw an aggressive Hope come out and let his hands fly. He lunged in and landed numerous combinations landing at a high success rate. About a minute into the round, Teron landed his most significant punch to date, a right hand that was thrown perfectly over the jab of his smaller opponent. Teron jabbed less in round 2 and Hope took that as an invitation to throw more punches, but Teron was able to land quality counterpunches. The taller Teron, although not elusive, was never in any harm in round 2.

In round 3, both fighter’s came out exchanging punches, with Teron landing a meaningful left hook on Hope. Hope — whose power punches have been thrown wildly and violently — continued to look for the home run, and when he missed, Teron was able to counter. Midway through the round, Teron started to bleed from his nose and a cut began to release a steady stream of blood from above his right eye. The referee ruled that the cut above Teron’s eye was due to an accidental head-but. As the round came to a close, Teron landed a flush left hook — and followed it up moments after with a nice right hand.

As Teron came out for round4, he sported no blood on his face, as his corner was able to stop the bleeding. Teron came out with cruel intentions in round 4 and decided it was time to take over. He came out as aggressive as ever, landing at will to a defenseless Hope. Teron pummeled Hope up against the ropes, where he covered up in a defense guard, and never threw back. At the 1:38 mark of round 4, referee David Field called a halt to the bout, awarding Teron the TKO victory.

With the win, Jorge Teron improves to 24-2-1, 16 KOs, while Hope falls to 6-6-1, 4 KO.

Elmer Vera vs. Abdellah Smith

In a strange opening bout, Abdellah “The Pitbull” Smith defeated Elmer Vera by second round TKO.

From the opening bell, both fighters — who were making their professional debuts — felt no need to waste punches and came out swinging. Midway through round 1, Vera suffered an injury to his right shoulder, which momentarily stopped the fight. The doctor gave him the green light to continue, and Vera did so, only to get rocked seconds later by a huge straight right. Vera never touched the canvass, and Smith failed to immediately follow up. They continued to exchange until the bell sounded to end round 1, with Smith getting the better of his opponent.

In a strange round 2, Smith continued to find success with power punches, as Vera tried to fend off his opponent behind a stiff left jab. As the round progressed, Vera found himself with his back turned to his opponent, resting on the ropes. The referee forced Vera to turn around and continue, but about a half-minute later, Vera once again turned his back on his opponent, and Smith took advantage, reaching around and sneaking a right that caught Vera flush on the face.

It was at this point that the referee called a halt to the bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:47 into round 2.

Smith starts his career off 1-0, (1 KO), while Vera starts his career 0-1.

Hairo Sujak vs. Naseem Deen

In an action packed opening round, both fighters were able to dish out some punishment — and in doing so, excite the Capitale crowd. About a minute into the inaugural round, the Bronx’s Sujak sent Brooklyn’s Deen to the canvass courtesy of a vicious left hook. To Deen’s credit, he found his legs, and was able to rock Sujak with a straight right that sent him stumbling back into the ropes.

Round 2 was Deen’s most successful round of the four round bout. He forced most of the action, as Sujak spent the majority of the round with his back against the ropes. There were good exchanges littered throughout the round.

Round 3 was similar to round 2 in that the majority of the round, one fighter’s back was against the ropes, except this time, it was Deens. The two traded violent power punches, but it was Deen on the receiving end of most of the punishment. At the end of the round, Sujak hurt Deen during an explosive exchange that created a cut under Deen’s right eye and sent him back into his corner. Sujak bull-rushed Deen to close out the third round by landed a big straight right as the bell sounded, hurting Deen.

In the final round, Sujak dominated the action from start to finish. Sujak knocked Deen down early in the round, and the Bronx native was unable to recover. He spent the rest of the round fending off his opponent to the best of his ability, but failing to show much offense.

Two judges scored the bout 39-35, while one judge saw it 40-34 all in favor of Sujak.

With the win, Sujak improves to 6-1, 2 KO, while Deen drops to 2-3.

Elton Dharry vs. Jose Rivera

In the night’s third fight, two fan favorites squared off in a bantamweight bout, scheduled for six rounds.

The opening round served as a ‘feeling out’ round for both Brooklyn’s Elton Dharry and New Rochelle’s Jose ‘Chily’ Rivera. Both fighters kept their distance, exchanging jabs throughout and landing nothing significant.

In round 2, the fight started to come into its own, with Rivera pressing the action, while Dharry was content to try and pick of Rivera’s punches, and counter them. Round two was a tough round to score, as both fighter’s found sucess at times, and excited their loud fanbases, who battled back and forth with chants of “ELTON! ELTON!” and “CHILY! CHILY!”

Round 3 was a carbon-copy of round 2, with Rivera pressing the action and Dharry trying to counterpunch. Rivera found a bit more success this round, but once again it was a tough round to score. Both fighter’s shoed impressive boxing ability and a unwillingness to stray away from their gameplan.

In the fourth round, Rivera landed a vicious combination that hurt Rivera momentarily and put him back against the ropes. This woke Dharry up however, as he fired back with murderous intent. For the first time in the fight, Dharry was the aggressor, throwing vicious power punches, and landed them with little opposition. Dharry went on the offense and hurt Rivera with a big right hand. Towards the end of the round, blood began to flow freely from Rivera’s nose and a mouse began to develop under his right eye.

The fifth round opening up with blood continue to stream from Rivera’s nose, and the fight resorted back to its previous ways with Rivera moving forward and Dharry moving backward, counterpunching quite effectively. Although Rivera had spurts of success, he ultimately ate more than he dished out in round 5.

The final round saw Rivera score well with his jab, but Dharry effectively counterpunching the already injured Rivera. To his credit, Rivera battled through the bloody nose, and ever-swelling eye, to give Dharry all he could handle. As the fight wound down, both fighter’s exchanges blows to the delight of the crowd.

After six rounds of action, it went to the scorecards.

One judge saw the bout 57-57. While two judges scored the bout in favor of the winner, Elton Dharry, by scores of 59-55 and 58-56.

Dharry improves to 6-5-1, 1 KO, while Rivera falls to 2-2-1.

Eileen Olszewski vs. Suszannah Warner

In the only female fight of the night, Eileen Olszewski squared off against Suszannah Warner in a bout scheduled for 6 rounds, for Olszewski’s IBA world flyweight championship.

In the opening round, both fighters were content with trading jabs and getting acquainted with one another.

The second round saw more action with Warner getting the better of the exchanges. She landed a huge right flush on the face of the champion, sending her back against the ropes, where Warner continuing to land meaningful punches to both the body and the head.

In round 3, Warner pressed the action, fighting well on the inside, landing uppercuts that sent Olszewski’s head back. Warner pressed the action continuing to walk forward and fire punches. Olszewski, although retreated for much of the round, was never in danger, and found her share of success as well in the third round.

In the fourth round, Olszewski came out more aggressive than ever, letting her hands fly, but never inflicting much damage to her opponent. About a minute into the round, Warner landed a huge right on the button, a trend that would continue as the round progressed. That same bullet-like straight right hand found a home on Olszewski’s face — seemingly hurting her momentarily. Warner closed out the round strong, continuing to throw punches in bunches.

In round 5, Warner made it a point to go to the body of her opponent more often. She pummeled Olszewski with lefts and rights to to Olszewski’s unprotected midsection. To Olszewski’s credit, she never stopped firing back, but it was clearly Warner who won the round.

In the final round, Olszewski, sensing she was behind, came out aggressively, throwing countless combinations to Warner’s body and head. Warner wasn’t deterred, however, always firing back at the champion. Towards the end of the fight, Olszewski landed her best punch of the night, a straight right, flush on the button, but even still, it was Warner who outworked her opponent the entire fight.

Although it was clear Warner used effective aggression throughout and landed the fight’s most devastating punches, the judges saw the fight in favor of Olszewski. A unanimous decision was awarded to Olszewski by scores of 58-56 twice and 59-55.

With the win, Olszewski retained her IBA world flyweight champion and improved her record to 6-2-2, while Warner fell to 9-9-1.

Light Heavyweight Sean Monaghan scored a second round stoppage over Nick Whiting in a scheduled four round bout.

Monaghan dominated the action as he landed countless booming shots in round one that hurt Whiting on more than one occasion. In round two, Monaghan came out looking to end things and he got what he desired as he landed a big left hook that was follwed by a combination that backed Whiting up. Monaghan landed a paralyzing left that sent Whiting down and the bout was stopped immediately at 1:38 of roud two.

Monaghan, 174 1/2 lbs of New York is now 4-0 with three knockouts. Whiting, 176 1/2 lbs of Bermiji, MN is now 2-14-1

Photo By Claudia Bocanegra

South Florida’s based Heavyweight Factory is determined to churn out the next American Heavyweight champion of the world and tonight they put their young raw talent on display at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood Florida. The Heavyweight Factory has Former WBC heavyweight champion Oliver McCall and famed trainer John David Jackson training and grooming these former top level collegiate athletes to become the next Big thing in the heavyweight division. Recently the company has added top fighters in the lower weight divisions to round out a fantastic stable of young and emerging talent.

In the Main event of the evening Richard Abril 13-2(6KO) won the WBC Latino lightweight title with a unanimous decision win over Jose Reyes 23-9(8KO). Abril paced himself throughout the bout picking his shots and often landing great straight right hands and stunning Reyes however seldom throwing multiple punch combinations fighting a safe and slow fight. The cards read 99-91, 97-93, 98-92.

In the Co-Main event of the evening Jr Middleweight Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez 17-1-1(10KO) from Miami won in impressive fashion by way of TKO over Saul Duran. The beginning of the end came when the southpaw Hernandez floored Duran with a heavy straight left in the second round and, after barley beating the count Hernandez jumped on Duran and finished the job at 2:28.

In the second Co-Main event of the Heavyweight Factory product Luis Ortiz 4-0(3KO) won by TKO over tough veteran Zack Page 21-30(7KO). Ortiz, who had over 360 amateur fights, floored Page in round 5 with a heavy straight left in response to boos by the crowd which motivated the Cuban fighter to turn it up a notch. Ortiz overpowered Page in the 8th and final round prompting referee Sam Burgos to step in at 42 seconds putting a stop to the fight.

Another Heavyweight Factory fighter and former University of Miami fullback James Bryant 4-1(4KO) won by TKO over Dieuly “The Untamed Beast” Aristilde 7-4(1KO). Both fighters exchanged power shots throughout the entire fight, but it was Bryant who was more effective. Bryant dropped Aristilde three times throughout the fight. The fight was called at 1:38 of the fourth when referee Frank Gentile wave Aristilde off after getting up from the final knockdown.

Light heavyweight Azwa Augustama, representing the Heavyweight Factory, improved to 9-0 with a nice knockout win over tough Reggie Pena. Azwais of Haiti, now making his home in Hollywood Florida connected with a brutal body shot then a left hook to the head that caused referee Sam Burgis to step in and put a stop to the fight. The end came at 2:14 of the fourth round.

Yordenis Ugas 5-0(3) who won bronze medal for Cuba in the lightweight division at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games won a convincing unanimous decision over Anthony “Physco” Woods 7-14 from Nassau Bahamas. Woods came out aggressive while the seasoned young Cuban fought a great counter punching fight landing numerous bit shot on the way to victory. All three judges seen the fight 40-36

Light welterweight Russian Khabib Alakhuerdiev 12-0(6KO) remained perfect with a unanimous decision win over Juan Nazario 6-3(4KO). Alakhuerdiev, who is trained by John David Jackson, often rocked Nazario who fought the entire fight going backwards, trying to stay out of reach of the southpaw, just to tie up when close. All three judges scored the fight 60-52.

Cruiserweight Nicholas “The American Showstopper” Iannuzzi 15-1(9KO) won a hard fought unanimous decision over hard hitting Colombian Jose Luis Herrera 16-8(16KO). Round four was entertaining when where both fighters where down and both beat the count. Iannuzzi dropped Herrera again in the final seconds of the sixth and final round to secure the victory. The cards read: 60-54 59-54 60-52.

Cuban amateur standout Inocente Fiz 3-0(2KO) pressured the very game and tough journeyman Jose Angel Roman 11-27(5KO) all night on the way to a unanimous decision win. The cards read 59-55 58-56 59-55.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the brother of WBO interim Lightweight champion Michael Katsidis was found dead in Brisbane, Australia.

Stathi Katsidis was found dead and with Michael training it Thailand, it is unclear weather his November 27 bout with Lightweight world champion Juan Manuel Marquez will go on as scheduled.

“We haven’t spoken to Michael, but we have spoken to Brendon,” David Itskowitch, an executive with Golden Boy, Katsidis’ promoter, told ESPN.com. “Our concern right now is for Michael, not as to whether he will fight. He just lost his brother, who he was very close with. However long it takes, he will decide what he will do. Right now the fight is not a concern for us. We’re concerned for him.”

According to multiple Australian media reports, Stathi Katsidis was found dead by his girlfriend, Melissa Jackson, who also is the mother of their 4-year-old son.

The cause of death has not been determined, although he had a history of drug and alcohol problems, including a positive test for ecstasy in 2008 and a prior drunken driving arrest, according to media reports.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, two division world champion Zsolt Erdei will fight on November 20th in Atlantic City as part of the undercard featuring the middleweight championship rematch between Sergio Martinez and Paul Williams.

Erdei inked a deal with Lou DiBella over the weekend.

“I have followed him for a while and watched a number of his fights, and he’s a high quality guy,” DiBella said. “He has superstar status in Hungary. He’s like a rock star there. He doesn’t need the money. He didn’t come back for the money. Coming to America is about legacy and about trying to prove he’s belongs with the top guys, that he can beat the top guy. That is why he’s coming back.”

“What’s coming up next for me is in America,” Erdei said. “To be successful there is the next step after having achieved mostly everything in Europe. The big names in my weight division, I want to challenge and defeat them. That’s my goal. I know it’s going to be a tough and a big challenge, but I have never run away from these kinds of tasks. I didn’t want to end my career without giving it a try in the USA.

“We had a few options, especially from U.S. promoters. After a lot of discussions and negotiations, we met with Lou DiBella and DiBella Entertainment in New York. These meetings were always very positive. He made the best offer, and what was very important to me was that he believes in me. From the beginning I have seen Lou DiBella as a really nice person and I have the confidence in him, and I know that he will open the doors to the American boxing market in order to secure a successful continuation of my career.”

“I love boxing and that’s why I want to continue,” Erdei said. “Boxing is my life and I’m a fighter. I was looking for a new challenge after I had been the WBO light heavyweight world champion for nearly six years, had won the WBC cruiserweight crown and my contract with Universum Box-Promotion had ended.”

“He hasn’t taken a lot of punishment,” DiBella said. “His weight doesn’t fluctuate much. So at 36, it’s not a big deal to keep fighting. He doesn’t have a lot of mileage on him. He has taken care of himself and believes he has a lot left. But he’s not looking for a five-year comeback. He’s looking for four or five fights. He thinks he can beat the top guys at light heavyweight — Jean Pascal, Chad Dawson, that level of guy.”

Julio Cesar Miranda retained the WBO Flyweight championship with an explosive second round stoppage over Michael Arango in Monterrey, Mexico.

Miranda rocked Arango with a hard right hand that he quickly followed up with three crushing lefts that forced the referee Russell Mora to stop the bout at 1:30 of round two.

Miranda of Monterrey, Mexico is now 34-5-1 with twenty-seven knockouts. Arango is 31-10-3.

Michael Rosales scored a fourth round stoppage over Octavio Castro in a scheduled ten round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Rosales dominated the bout over the first three round until he landed a series of unanswered blows that forced referee Sergio Hernandez to stop the bout at 1:40 of round four.

Rosales, 154 1/2 lbs is now 30-3 with twenty-five knockouts. Castro, 155 lbs is now 14-6-1.

Good looking Featherweight prospect Roberto Marroquin remained undefeated with a six round unanimous decision over Rafael Cerrillo.

All scores read 60-54 for Marroquin, 126 lbs of San Antonio, TX and is now 16-0. Cerrillo, 126 lbs is now 4-5

Rodrigo Garcia remained undefeated by scoring a four round unanimous decision over Yosmani Abreu in a Welterweight bout.

Scores were 40-36; 40-36 and 39-37 for Garcia of Santa Ana, CA and is now 8-0. Abreu of La Habana, Cuba is now 1-2.