Queens, NY (February 3, 2015)–On Saturday Night, February 14 Sal Musumeci’s Final Forum Boxing will promote a very special night of Boxing titled Championship Title Boxing from the Resorts World Casino New York City and will be shown LIVE on a major national network to be announced.

In the one main event, Perennial Heavyweight contender Derric Rossy (29-9, 14 KO’s) will take on undefeated Akhror Muralimov (16-0, 13 KO’s) in a 10-round bout for the IBF North American Heavyweight title. In a co-main event, the popular & undefeated Mike Lee (13-0, 7 KO’s) will fight Gary Tapusoa (6-3-1, 5 KO’s) in an 6-round bout for the UBF All America’s title.

Rossy of Medford, NY has faced and beaten some of the top Heavyweights in the world such as Gary Bell (22-3-1), Shannon Miller (14-2), Edward Gutierrez (15-3-1), Former Heavyweight champion Ray Mercer (35-6-1), William Shahan (7-0), Carl Davis Drummond (26-1), Alexis Mejias (10-2), Ian Lewison (6-1-1), Travis Walker (39-8-1), and Joe Hanks (21-1).

Rossy, 34 years-old is coming off a highly disputed majority decision defeat to current IBF number-two ranked Heavyweight Vyacheslav Glazkov on August 9 in Bethlehem, PA.

Muralimov of Houston, Texas by way of Toytepa, Uzbekistan is looking for a signature win as he already has wins over previously undefeated Olanrewaju Duradola (9-0) and Nate James (9-2).

In his last bout, Muralimov scored a 2nd round stoppage over Jason Bergman on July 26 in Washington, PA.

Lee of Chicago is popular throughout the country as he has amassed many fans from his alma mater Notre Dame and being the star of several Subway commercials.

The 27 year-old turned pro in 2010 and has wins over undefeated Peter Lewison (6-0) and his bout when he won a 6-round majority decision over Paul Gonsalves on July 25 in his hometown of Chicago.

To find out more on Mike Lee, click www.mikeleeboxing.com

Tapusoa of Independence, MO has faced 4 undefeated fighters and has a win over Nick Guivas (4-0-1).

There will be one more additional television bout to be announced.

Also slated to appear on the off-tv portion card are Super Middleweight Devaun Lee (3-1, 1 KO) of Jamaica, Queens, NY; Cruiserweight Armin Mrkanovic (6-2, 3 KO’s) of Queens, NY; Cruiserweight Dave Valykeo (4-3) of Neptune, NJ; Middleweight Henry Beckford (0-1) of New York and pro debuting Phillip LeGrand.

Tickets for this great evening of boxing can be purchased at www.rwnewyork.com or www.etix.com.

1st Bout is at 8 PM with the doors opening at 7 PM

Resorts World Casino New York City is located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY

“I didn’t know the odds were 7-1 against me, or I would have bet on myself!” laughed Canadian lightweight Tony “Lightning” Luis (19-2, 7 KOs).

In the first boxing upset of the new year, Luis picked up the WBC Continental Americas Lightweight Championship and ruined the undefeated record of IBF #15 rated Karl “Dynamite” Dargan (17-1, 9 KOs), last Friday night at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, by way of a 10-round unanimous decision. Luis clearly dominated Dargan and dropped him in rounds three (the referee mistakenly ruled it a slip) and 10 to cap off a very impressive performance.

The career-changing victory is the latest in a hot streak for the 27-year-old Luis, from Cornwall, Ontario. Dargan’s was the second “0” in a row that Luis has taken, as he handed New Jersey’s Wanzell Ellison his first loss last July as well. It would be his third consecutive if not for some questionable scoring against Ukraine’s Ivan Redkach last January. The combined records of Luis’s last three opponents were 43-0-1, 27 KOs.

“Words can’t even describe what I’m feeling right now,” continued Luis. “It hasn’t even sunk in yet. It seemed like it took so long to get there, with all the highs and lows of training camp, but now that it’s over, it feels like it happened too quickly.”

Luis says that while it may have appeared to be an easy win for him (scores were 97-92, 99-90, and 97-92), looks are deceiving. “I didn’t think it was going to look as easy as it did. It wasn’t easy in any way, I had to work hard in there to get the win, but watching it, it looks like I had an easy time. I’m just grateful to my promoter, Greg Cohen, for the opportunity and for the fair judging and officiating we received this time.”

2015 is starting out smashingly for Luis. Not only will he now sky rocket through the world rankings as a streaking contender (he is currently #13 in the WBA), he and fiance Manon Latulippe are expecting their first child any day now.

“The year is starting off with a bang. I couldn’t be happier. I’m going to enjoy my baby and then, soon as he’s born, I’ll be right back in the gym.”

Promoter Greg Cohen says he’s excited about the future for his Canadian slugger.

“Tony works very hard in the gym and has all the heart you could ask for and it shows in his fights. He outworks his opponents and overwhelms them with his relentlessness aggression. This is his second consecutive win over a well-regarded, undefeated fighter, and should actually be his third. I am proud to be working with such an outstanding fighter and his team. Tony is ready to fight for the world title and we are going to do everything we can to deliver him a title fight or title eliminator.”

A substance abuse counselor back home, Luis says the reception in Cornwall has been tremendous. “Everybody. My family, all my friends and so many fans from back home are ecstatic. I’m overwhelmed by the support I get. It’s an honor.”

###

About Greg Cohen Promotions

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen made headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman (50-8-2, 41 KOs); and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney (74-7-3, 45 KOs).

Current world-rated contenders in the GCP roster include Arash Usmanee, universally recognized as a top-10 super featherweight; former WBA International Middleweight Champion and world-rated middleweight contender Jarrod Fletcher; top-rated featherweight Joel Brunker; Freddie Roach-trained heavyweight Lateef Kayode; Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis, currently rated #12 in the WBA; Top 15 IBF and WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Rising Undefeated Welterweight sensation Cecil McCalla.

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

LONDON (3 FEB) Eager to make up for lost time, Hughie Fury returns to the ring on February 21 in Monte Carlo knowing a win over Ukrainian dangerman Andriy Rudenko will make the rest of the heavyweight division sit up and take notice.

The 20-year-old Fury, inactive since May due to illness, is back firing on all cylinders and keen to emerge as the UK’s leading heavyweight prospect in 2015. To do so, he’ll have to beat Rudenko and stay one step ahead of unbeaten Olympic champion Anthony Joshua.

“Rudenko has had 25 fights, 24 wins and 16 knockouts, and I don’t think Joshua has fought anybody with that sort of record yet,” said Fury, 14-0 (8 KOs). “It might be a while before he does.

“Unlike some of Joshua’s opponents, Rudenko is still ambitious and has plans of his own. He will try to win. He won’t just be expected to lose.

“His fight with Lucas ‘Big Daddy’ Browne (August 2014) was a very, very close one. If you ask Rudenko, he’ll probably say he’s still unbeaten. He still wants it and he wants to make a statement against me, I’m sure. He’ll be going full force on February 21 and I know this isn’t some knockover job.”

Should Fury defeat Rudenko and continue his climb up the heavyweight ladder, an all-British showdown with Joshua could become a real possibility in time.

“Joshua’s done well so far and he’s a good fighter,” said Fury. “But he’s been very comfortable at a certain level and we still have yet to see him tested. He’s in the same situation I’m in. We’re winning comfortably at a certain level, but we need to be tested in order to prove just how good we are. I’m going to be getting that sort of test on February 21. Joshua needs to do the same this year. For now, it’s just a waiting game.

“Saying that, I think our paths will definitely one day meet, and I’m happy to take that fight whenever it comes about. As soon as my dad says I’m ready for it, that’s when it happens. If we both keeping winning, we could have some big fights in the future.”

Fury’s father and trainer, Peter, added: “I remember a time when they were comparing Joshua to Hughie, but now they’re comparing him to Tyson (Fury). Let’s not forget, Hughie is fighting an opponent in Rudenko who is better than anybody Joshua has faced. Rudenko has had more knockouts than Hughie’s had fights. This is a guy who is coming to win. He’s not just going to fiddle his way around, hope to stay upright and then collect his money.”

For now, Peter Fury likes what he sees in Joshua. And he fully expects to one day be in the opposing corner to him, stood alongside either Hughie or Tyson.

“I think Joshua’s moved quite well,” said Peter. “He’s a good fighter, I like everything about him. He’s athletic and he’s dedicated.

“But you can only train so much. Boxing and real fighting are either in your DNA or they’re not. Let’s see what he’s like when he can’t hit the target and he’s getting hit back and going rounds. If he has to go five or six rounds and is getting hit repeatedly, how will he react? We don’t know yet.

“One thing’s for sure, if he got in there with Tyson or Hughie, he’d get hit a lot. He also won’t be landing the bombs he’s been using to take people out with one shot. You can’t get away with that at any kind of serious level.

“I just hope everybody keeps winning because then we’ll have some massive fights this year and next. When the time comes and the money’s right, we can make all of these heavyweight fights people keep talking about. And I’d be over the moon if those fights happen because it’s good for British boxing. We need fights like that to keep people talking about this sport.”

*** Fury vs. Rudenko is part of the ‘Thunderbolt in Monaco’ show on February 21 (Channel 5). Headlining the event will be the WBA Super world middleweight title fight between the fearsome Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin and Britain’s Martin Murray ***

FOLLOW US ON ON TWITTER @HENNESSYSPORTS
For more information on Channel 5, MaxNutrition, Golden Gloves and Hennessy Sports:

www.channel5.com
www.maxinutrition.com
www.hennessysports.com
www.goldengloves.co.za

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS VISIT WWW.HENNESSYSPORTS.COM

ORANGE, Calif. (Feb. 2, 2015) – Undefeated junior welterweight Giovani Santillan (15-0, 8 KOs), one of Thompson Boxing Promotions most promising prospects, headlines “Path to Glory,” Friday, Feb. 20, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Santillan, a San Diego native, takes on Rafael Cobos (15-5-5, 3 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex. in the 8-round main event.

Santillan is coming off a monster year in 2014. The 23-year-old southpaw recorded four impressive wins against quality opposition, took the next step in his development by winning a vacant regional title, and further improved his resume by successfully defending his championship.

“I want to build on what I accomplished last year,” said the 23-year-old Santillan. “I know things will only get tougher from here on out, so the only thing I’m focusing on is beating Cobos. Nothing else matters for me right now.”

“We feel very confident in Santillan’s abilities,” said Ken Thompson, president of Thompson Boxing Promotions. “He has an appetite for winning in dramatic fashion and is well disciplined. He’s on the doorstep of becoming a fantastic, crowd pleasing boxer.”

Tickets for “Path to Glory” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and can be purchased by calling (714) 935-0900, or online at www.ThompsonBoxing.com.

Santillan has been on a tear since turning professional in 2012, while Cobos was beginning to turn his career around until dropping a decision to popular welterweight contender Josesito “Riverside Rocky” Lopez in September. Lopez is co-promoted by Thompson Boxing and Goossen Promotions.

“I can’t afford to lose back-to-back fights at this point of my career,” said Cobos, who has been active since 2006. “I’m a natural welterweight, so by dropping to a lower division I know I’ll have the power and strength advantage.”

“I’m not worried that he might be bigger than me,” Santillan said. “I’ve fought guys at 147 before and I have the longer reach so I’m not worried about that. I know have the boxing skills and acumen to win this fight.”

The co-main event features super bantamweight Isaac Zarate (9-1-1, 1 KO), newly signed to Thompson Boxing Promotions. Zarate is a quick-handed southpaw from the Los Angeles port city of San Pedro.

His exciting brand of boxing – high volume boxer-puncher – has made him a fan favorite on the Southern California boxing scene. He faces a more experienced fighter in Pedro Melo (12-6-2, 3 KOs) out of Tijuana, Mex.

“Melo may have more experience, but I have better skills and a higher aptitude for the game,” said the 23-year-old Zarate. “I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

Additionally on “Path to Glory”

Taras Shelestyuk vs. TBD (8-rounds/super welterweights)

Ukrainian super welterweight prospect Taras Shelestyuk (10-0, 7 KOs) puts his unbeaten streak on the line against an opponent to be named later. Shelestyuk last fought on a Thompson Boxing card in September – an 8-round split decision win over Patrick Boozer.

Cesar Villarraga vs. Eduardo Rivera (6-rounds/lightweights)

Former Colombian Olympian Cesar Villarraga (5-0, 3 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten against Eduardo Rivera (9-1-2 3 KOs) of Mazatlan, Mex. Villarraga, 29, got a late start to his professional career, but nevertheless, has made excellent progress thanks to his outstanding amateur career that saw him win more than 200 fights.

Francisco Javier Lapisco vs. Gilberto Mendoza (4-rounds/junior flyweights)

Francisco Javier Lapisco (7-0, 2 KOs) of Sonora, Mex. is among the most exciting prospects in the junior flyweight division. While not particularly powerful, Lapisco more than makes up for his power deficiency with his high work rate and ability to throw punches from virtually any angle. He will be tested against Gilberto Mendoza (4-4, 1 KO) of San Francisco.

LaRon Mitchell vs. Chad Davis (4-rounds/heavyweights)

Undefeated heavyweight LaRon Mitchell (5-0, 5 KOs) aims to score his sixth knockout win against Chad Davis (5-12, 1 KO) of Phoenix, Ariz. Mitchell possesses the height (6’4″) and punching power to advance in boxing’s most glamorous division.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m, and the first bell rings at 7:45 p.m. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N Vineyard Ave, Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at (909) 937-0900.

“Path to Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Lucas Oil, in association with KCAL 96.7 FM Rocks!, KOLA 99.9 FM, and LATV Networks.

For additional information please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ThompsonBoxing. To follow the conversation on social media, please use hash tags #ThompsonBoxing & #PathtoGlory.

IAMI, FLORIDA (February 2, 2015) – Undefeated light-heavyweight prospect, Ahmed Elbiali (8-0, 8 KOs) will square off against unbeaten Dustin Craig Echard (10-0, 7 KOs), this Friday February 6, 2015, at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. The 6-round bout will open up the telecast on ESPN “Friday Night Fights”.

In his last fight, a bout that was shown on ESPN “Friday Night Fights”, Ahmed showed great power, dropping his opponent Lawrence Blakey three times before the referee stopped fight at the 1:44 mark of round three. Known for having heavy hands, Elbiali is a knockout artist who will look to extend on his KO streak.

“I want to continue to get better with each fight,” said Elbiali. “I’m always throwing hard punches and the knockouts are happening. I don’t want to rely on my power every time I step in the ring. I know if I start head hunting then I’ll be doing myself a disservice. I want to keep improving on my body punching and head movement. If I see my opponent is in trouble, then that’s when I’ll try to end the fight.”

Advised by Al Haymon, Elbiali feels he has what it takes to become something special in the cruiserweight division. With a few more victories, Ahmed sees himself fighting for a regional title.

“I know with Al Haymon steering me in the right direction, I can become a household name in this sport,” Ahmed continued. “If I can have a strong outing in 2015, I know there will be opportunities for me to capture the fans attention. I just want to keep fighting on a regular basis and make some noise in the light-heavyweight division.”

Los Angeles, CA (February 2, 2015) World ranked welterweight contender CHRIS “The Heat” VAN HEERDEN, fresh off his highly successful New York City debut has arrived this past weekend in Los Angeles to open camp at the Wild Card Boxing Gym under the tutelage of renowned trainer FREDDIE ROACH.

On January 9, at “The Mecca of Boxing”, Madison Square Garden, Van Heerden improved to 20-1-1 (11KO’s) with a dominant ten round decision over Cecil McCalla earning the IBF International Welterweight Title.

Calling from his native Johannesburg, South Africa last week, the 27-year-old Van Heerden was anxious to return to Southern California.

“It’s been terrific to see family and friends here but coming off my last win I’m excited to see what’s next and get back in the gym with Freddie,” said the southpaw. “This was my first time home in thirteen months.”

Recruited by Los Angeles’s based promoters KING SPORTS, Van Heerden relocated to Southern California the day after Christmas in 2013 and went right to work.

Fighting for the first time in the United States and with Roach in his corner, Van Heerden stopped battle tested Mexican veteran Cosme Rivera on February 6, 2014 in Hollywood, California.

Just two months later Van Heerden followed up with a ten round decision over perennial contender Ray Narh in Santa Monica on April 16.

“Working with Freddie I’ve truly seen a major improvement, I feel like a different fighter,” said Van Heerden. “Right from the beginning I knew relocating to the United States was the perfect move. New trainer, new promotional group and its all worked out well.”

“We were confident in Chris’ skill level but these last three fights have clearly displayed those of a future world champion,” said MICHAEL KING of KING SPORTS.
“He had high quality wins in the past over Matthew Hatton for the IBO Title and against Kaizer Mabuza back in South Africa.”

“This week we’ll get together as a team and prepare our next course.”

Continued Van Heerden, “I’m ready to go, I’ve won the fights I should. I’ve spent dozens of rounds sparring with Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez and held my own. I want to be a world champion and I’m prepared to make the sacrifices and put in the work to make it happen. “

Chris Van Heerden Promo Video

ABOUT KING SPORTS
King Sports is a company started by entertainment entrepreneur Michael King. King Sports’ first foray into boxing was with All-American Heavyweights, a revolutionary boxing program that boasted a state-of-the-art training facility equipped with the latest technology, premiere coaching and medical staff along with the ideal dietary and nutritional needs for its fighters. Since making the decision to enter professional boxing, King Sports has spent time evaluating the entire spectrum of global boxing talent. Through an exhaustive scouting and evaluation process, King Sports has found some of the most exciting young fighters from around the world.

For more information follow King Sports on Twitter @KingSportsWorld, Facebook @KingSportsWorldwide and visit their website at www.KingSportsWorldwide.com.

For more information on Chris Van Heerden follow him on Twitter @TheHeat001 and
Facebook at @ChrisVanHeerdenBoxing.

New York, N.Y. (Monday, Feb. 2, 2015) – Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions, in association with Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, have announced a loaded fight card coming up on Friday, February 13th, at the Five Star Banquet Hall in Long Island City, Queens. On the show, Top Rank welterweight John “Action” Jackson (16-3-1, 13 KOs) is slated to headline against Rafael Gonzalez (8-2, 6 KOs), while fan favorite super featherweight Gary Stark Jr. (23-3, 8 KOs) will be ending a long layoff to face 33-bout veteran Jose Roberto Gonzalez. Additionally on the card, undefeated super middleweight prospect Ronald Ellis (10-0, 8 KOs) will step in against battle-tested Samuel Clarkson (12-3, 7 KOs), and Uprising Promotions super featherweight Angel Luna (9-0-1, 6 KOs) will return against Jhovany Collado.

“I’m pretty excited about the lineup we have,” Uprising Promotions President Ronson Frank stated. “From top to bottom, we have some really competitive fights. I’m excited about seeing Ronald Ellis. I’ve heard some really good things about him. I’m also looking forward to seeing John Jackson. It’s nice for us to be getting these high caliber fighters on our show. We have a co-promotion with Top Rank for the Jackson fight, and they will have an entourage at the show supporting him.”

After a decorated amateur career, the hammer-fisted John Jackson turned professional in 2005. Of his 16 victories, the Miami resident has stopped 13 of his opponents inside the distance. Born in Detroit, Jackson groomed his skills at the famed Kronk Gym. On the other side of the ring will be hard-hitting Puerto Rican native Rafael Gonzalez, who now fights out of Easton, Pennsylvania, and will be competing for the first time in the United States.

Rising super middleweight Ronald Ellis has been on a tear since turning professional, winning 10 consecutive fights and knocking out eight of his opponents. Trained by former IBF Super Featherweight Champion Roberto Garcia Cortez, Ellis had a stellar amateur career that included an upset of 2012 US Olympian Terrell Gausha in the 2010 National Golden Gloves Championships. He will have a worthy test in front of him on February 13th when he meets Samuel Clarkson, who is just one of three fighters who has taken super middleweight prospect Jesse Hart the distance.

Fan favorite Gary “Kid” Stark Jr. will be ending a four-plus year layoff when he returns to action to meet 33-fight veteran Jose Roberto Gonzalez. The native New Yorker is known for a large following, and his crowd-pleasing tactical style is the reason behind that. Prior to turning professional, Stark created a huge buzz for himself after becoming a three-time New York City Golden Gloves Champion and reaching the Olympic Trials.

Returning to action on the card is Uprising Promotions super featherweight Angel Luna, who puts his aggressive style on the line against 18-bout veteran Jhovany Collado. A pair of Gleason’s Gym stablemates are also slated for action, with junior welterweight Mikkel Lespierre (5-0, 3 KOs) and lightweight Dean Burrell (9-1, 7 KOs) fighting in separate bouts against opponents to be named.

The women will again take the stage on February 13th as well when Susan Reno and Paolo Ortiz meet in a flyweight match. World Series of Boxing veteran Marcos Forestal will also appear on the card when he makes his professional debut against an opponent to be announced. An additional professional debut is slated in the welterweight division, with Maxito Sainvil stepping through the ropes for the first time to square off against Kashif Mohamed. The final bout of the card is a junior middleweight scrap that will feature Queens native Villo Bello in his third professional fight against an opponent to be named.

“It’s just a blessing to be such a young promotion and go from where we started, doing small club shows, to expanding into having big names, top prospects and really good up-and-coming guys,” Frank concluded. “I’m feeling blessed and appreciative about this upcoming show, and I’m expecting a great event. I hope everyone comes out, supports our show and has a really good time.”

Five Star Banquet Hall is located at 13-05 43rd Avenue in Long Island City, Queens. Tickets for the February 13th card are priced at $60 for general admission and $100 for ringside seating. Additionally, all law enforcement and military members with ID will receive 10% off their ticket prices when purchased at the door. There is also a table option with dinner, beer/wine and seating with a celebrity fighter. For pricing on those tables, call (516) 451-6773.

The card, entitled “The Big Pay Back,” continues the initiative of Uprising Promotions to KO Autism, and proceeds from the night will be donated to The School For Language and Communication Development (SLCD) in Glen Cove, New York. This show is being sponsored by Resolution Sports, Brooklyn Brothers and Charlie’s Auto Collision in Long Island City.

For more information on Uprising Promotions and to keep up with all of our latest news, make sure to check out www.UprisingPromotions.com and follow us on social media: @UprisingNYC

UPRISING PROMOTIONS MISSION STATEMENT:
Our mission is to grow interest in the sport of boxing in New York City by showcasing entertaining and evenly matched fights. We are focused on providing opportunities to local New York City area fighters.

GOBBLER’S KNOB, (Groundhog Day 2015) — At approximately 7:23 A.M. ET today, Punxsutawney Phil — the Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of Prognosticators — emerged from his burrow at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, PA, and proclaimed, in his native Groundhogese, that two-time Chinese Olympic gold medalist and three-time World Amateur Champion ZOU SHIMING (6-0, 1 KO), from Guizhou, China, would become China’s first Olympic champion to win a world title in the professional ranks. Zou challenges International Boxing Federation (IBF) flyweight world champion AMNAT RUENROENG (14-0, 5 KOs), from Si Racha, Thailand, in the main event of The Showdown at Sands, Saturday, March 7, at The Venetian® Macao’s Cotai Arena. Promoted by Top Rank® and Sands China Ltd., in association with Tecate, SECA, Kreerin Promotions, Sampson Boxing and Foreman Boys Promotions, the Zou Shiming – Amnat Ruenroeng World Flyweight Championship fight will be televised via same-day delay on HBO2®, beginning at 5:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Singing his version of Duke Ellington’s, “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Shiming), Punxsutawney Phil strolled up to the microphone for his annual press conference. Wearing a Wild Card Boxing Club t-shirt, personally signed by Zou’s Hall of Fame trainer World-Famous Freddie Roach, the world’s No. 1 pound for pound quadruped had this to say:

“Without a shadow of a doubt, Boxing will begin its Shiming Dynasty on March 7 at The Venetian Macao. How appropriate that the Chinese New Year — The Year of the Sheep — begins in a few weeks. Because it would be shear madness to think anyone can stop Zou Shiming from becoming the new IBF flyweight world champion. We may be facing six more weeks of winter, but Shimingtime is right around the corner. Can Amnat Ruenroeng successfully defend his title against Zou Shiming? Russell Wilson had a better shot of completing his last pass to Ricardo Lockette.”

“You can’t pull the wool over Punxsutawney Phil’s eyes,” said Roach, when reached for a comment at Zou’s Hollywood-based training camp at Wild Card.

When pressed for a definitive answer on whether Ruenroeng had a chance to defeat Zou, Phil astounded the media by answering in Mandarin and in English.

Quoth the groundhog, “Nevermore.”

Making the fight even more intriguing is the history these two warriors already have with each other. Their amateur trilogy began with Ruenroeng winning their first battle — as a late substitute called up by the Thailand amateur team — at the 2007 King’s Cup, which was also Ruenroeng’s first international competition. Zou won the next two times they fought, including a reverse in their semi-final of the 2010 Asian Games that could have gone either way — and did. Now that they are professionals, the stakes are much higher and their simmering rivalry is set to become a roiling boil.

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

Los Angeles, CA (February 2, 2015)– “The Siberian Rocky”, former WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Sunday night to begin preparations for a major Spring bout that will be announced shortly.

Provodnikov was greeted by his manager Vadim Kornilov and was joined by Boxcino 2015 Heavyweight participant Andrey Fedosov.

They will begin training at the famed Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.

Philadelphia, PA—Heavyweight prospect Joey Dawejko, who has scored three straight one-round knockouts, takes on Enobong Umohette, of Nigeria, in an eight-round fight Friday evening, March 6, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.
The Dawejko-Umohette match, as well as the eight-round junior lightweight contest between Jason Sosa, of Camden, NJ, and Bergman Aguilar, of Escazu, Costa Rica, top a seven-bout card which begins at 7pm

Dawejko (right), 24, had a big year in 2014, going 5-0 and beating fringe contender Derric Rossy, of New York, to break onto the heavyweight scene 12 months ago..
A pro since 2009, Dawejko, also known as The Tank, is 13-3-2, 6 K0s. In his last three fights, neither David Williams, of Philadelphia, Yohan Banks, of Redwood City, CA, nor Rayford Johnson, of Longview, TX, were able to survive the first round. Dawejko also defeated then-unbeaten Philadelphia Mark Rideout in 2014.
“This could be the start of a big year for me,” Dawejko said, “so I’m not taking any chances. I’m going away to the mountains to train for this fight. Umohette is a big, strong guy and I need to be prepared. Last year was a rebuilding year for me and I hope to get into the world rankings in 2015.
“I saw Umohette fight on video and I listened to his story. This is a big fight for him, also.”
Umohette (left), 35, now living in Milwaukee, WI, started boxing in 1998. Known as The Nigerian Gentleman, he won his country’s National Amateur Championship in 2005 in the super heavyweight division.
After relocating to Wisconsin, he won that state’s Novice Heavyweight Title in 2007.
Umohette turned pro in 2009 and promptly lost his first fight before going on a nine-fight winning streak which included winning the Wisconsin State Heavyweight Title.
“It will be an honor and a privilege to compete against the highly decorated former World Amateur Champion, Joey Dawejko, in his home state of Pennsylvania, which has a legendary boxing history,” Umohette said. “Dawejko’s very distinguished amateur career and his blazing pro career is testimony to his enormous talent. I look forward to an entertaining bout against The Tank on March 6.”

About March 6

The Dawejko-Umohette and Sosa-Aguilar fights headline a seven-bout card at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia. Doors open at 6 pm; first fight is 7pm. The card will be streamed live on www.gfl.com and on Comcast SportsNet (CSN) on a delayed basis. Tickets are priced $35, $50 and $75 and they can be purchased by calling Peltz Boxing (215-765-0922) and Wanamaker’s Tickets (215-568-2400). Tickets also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com and www.wanatix.com. The March 6 card is promoted by Joe Hand Promotions, Peltz Boxing and BAM Boxing.

Philadelphia, PA (February 2, 2015)–His fans came from hundreds and even thousands of miles away. Undefeated Jr. Middleweight Prichard Colon made their trip a happy one as he pounded a 6-round unanimous decision over rugged Hector Munoz to highlight an 8-bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The show was promoted by King’s Promotions and XFE.

Colon looked to make it a short night as he landed a huge uppercut that sent Munoz to the canvas in the first round which brought the 2300 Arena to a deafening sound. Colon continued to drill Munoz with power shot after power shot which drew blood over the left eye of Munoz as early as round three. Colon continued to show fluid movement while landing hard shots on the game Munoz who fought the last few rounds with that left eye closing. The blood was running down the face of Munoz which was a result of Colon’s master performance.

Colon of Puerto Rico won by scored of 60-53 twice and 60-51 and is now 13-0. Munoz of Albuquerque, NM is now 23-14-1.

Grayson Blake fought through some adversity to win a 6-round unanimous decision over Anthony Prescott in a Welterweight bout.

Blake was badly hurt in round two by a big right hand but was able to hold on and stem the tide. Blake started taking control of the bout and he hurt Prescott in round five with a hard right of his own.

Blake of State College, PA won by scores of 58-56 on all cards and is now 6-3. Prescott of Cherry Hill, NJ is 5-5-2.

Kyrone Davis pounded out a 6-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Garcia in an entertaining Middleweight bout.

Davis of Wilmington, DE won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 6-0. Garcia of Aguada, PR is 4-12.

Rayell Williams overcame a 4th round knockdown to win a 6-round unanimous decision over Ryan Picou in a Lightweight bout.

Williams got the better of the action but was caught with a right hand that stumbled him back on the canvas. He was able to recover and box his way to the unanimous decision by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-55.

Williams, who was a 2008 Olympian out of Cleveland, OH is 6-0. Picou of Las Vegas is 2-5.

Earl Newman dropped Yusshua Zadok in round three from a hard left to the body won a 4-round unanimous decision in a Cruiserweight bout.

Newman of Brooklyn, NY won by 40-35 tallies on all cards is now 4-1. Zadok of Atlanta. GA is 2-3-1.

Stephen Fulton of Philadelphia won a 6-round unanimous decision over Eric Gotay in a Jr. Featherweight bout.

Fulton won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice is now 4-0. Gotay of Puerto Rico is 3-3.

Jamontay Clark boxed his way to a 4-round unanimous decision over Dominique Foster in a Welterweight bout.

Clark bloodied Foster’s nose in round two and won by shutout margins of 40-36 on all cards.

Clark of Cincinnati, OH is 4-0. Foster of of Las Vegas is 2-7-1.

In the opening bout, Antonio Russell scored a scary and wicked 2nd round stoppage over Harold Reyes in a scheduled 4-round Bantamweight bout.

Russell landed a nice combination in the corner which was culminated by a booming right hand that sent Reyes down and out for several minutes.

Reyes had to have some oxygen applied but he was able to walk out of the ring under his own power.

The time of the stoppage was 2:10 of round two for Russell of Capitol Heights, MD who made his pro debut. Reyes of Puerto Rico is 1-2.

PHOTOS BY DARRYL COBB

KINGS PROMOTIONS RETURNS WITH ANOTHER GREAT NIGHT OF BOXING ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21 AT THE ECONO LODGE IN ALLENTOWN, PA FEATURING RISING JR. LIGHTWEIGHT FRANK DE ALBA

LONDON (2 FEB) Bristol bantamweight Lee Haskins knows a European title win later this month could set him up for a shot at a version of the world title, as well as a potential domestic blockbuster with WBA champion and old rival Jamie McDonnell.

Thirty-one-year-old Haskins faces Omar Lamiri on February 21 in Monte Carlo, with the vacant European title up for grabs, but has even bigger things planned for the rest of the year.

“I try not to look at the world title picture anymore,” he said. “They’ve shut me out so much and it can get a little frustrating.

“The sport of boxing isn’t fair, and that’s putting it nicely. You don’t get what you deserve and it doesn’t always treat you well.

“I just have to try and stay positive and focus on dealing with what is in front of me. That’s what I’m doing. If I get a world title shot in 2015, I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. For now, I’m going to look after myself, dictate my own future and keep winning.”

Despite winning an eight-round decision over McDonnell in 2008, Haskins has watched his former opponent progress, improve and benefit from the kind of opportunities that have so far eluded the Bristolian. McDonnell now holds a version of the world title, while Stuart Hall, another former Haskins victim, also scooped an IBF title in 2013.

“We’ve tried to get both of them (McDonnell and Hall) to fight me for the world title and they just put me to the back of the queue,” said Haskins, 30-3 (13 KOs), a former British, Commonwealth and European champion. “It was a bit unfair. But, if I was in their shoes, I’d have probably done the same. I wouldn’t want to fight me, either.

“Jamie’s done really well, to be fair. He’s put himself in some serious positions, he’s trained very hard, he’s improved and he’s delivered when he has needed to. I can’t take anything away from him. He’s a great champion and deserves to be where he is. But, still, I’d do anything to get a shot at him and fight him again.

“When we fought first time round, he just couldn’t work me out. It was a very easy and one-sided fight for me. If I fought him again, it would be the same. I’d get the upper hand and win the belt.

“To be honest, I never used to train for fights back then. Even when I fought Jamie, I wasn’t training. I’d do two or three weeks of light training and then struggle making the weight. I was never anywhere near peak fighting condition.

“Now it’s different, though. I’ve got a family and I’m older and wiser. I’m constantly in the gym and train three times a day most days. I learnt my lesson a good few times. It usually ended with me getting beaten up.”

Should a rejuvenated Haskins (WBC no.3) pick up the European title on February 21, and then continue his march up the world rankings, a fight with McDonnell could very much be in the offing. More importantly, he will be on the cusp of landing the world title shot that has so far eluded him in an 12-year professional career.

“It’s in the back of my mind,” he said. “I’d love to fight Jamie again for a world title. I’m not singling him out, though. I’d love to fight anybody from bantamweight to super-bantamweight for a world title. I just want my shot. I’ve won every major belt beneath a world title and I think I’m now entitled to a shot at one. I want to end my career knowing I had the chance to become world champion. That’s all I’m asking for.

“At my best, I’m a dangerous night for anybody in this division. They all know that. It’s the reason they won’t go near me. There are easier fights out there, stylistically. I’m not an easy puzzle to solve.

“Promoters look to protect their champions and they want them to look good and impress each time they defend their belt. I can’t see anybody impressing or looking good against me. I’ll make them look silly.”

*** Haskins vs. Lamiri is part of the ‘Thunderbolt in Monaco’ show on February 21 (Channel 5). Headlining the event will be the WBA Super world middleweight title fight between the fearsome Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin and Britain’s Martin Murray ***

FOLLOW US ON ON TWITTER @HENNESSYSPORTS
For more information on Channel 5, MaxNutrition, Golden Gloves and Hennessy Sports:

www.channel5.com
www.maxinutrition.com
www.hennessysports.com
www.goldengloves.co.za

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS VISIT WWW.HENNESSYSPORTS.COM

Turkish promoter Ahmet Öner signed a new heavyweight prospect. Mohamed Al Zein gave his pro debut on January 17th in Düsseldorf when he beat Czech journeyman Lukas Skirca and returned to action this Saturday (January 31st) to knock out Martin Stensky.

“This boy is the real deal”, states Öner. “He has fists of stone and is very explosive. I am sure that he will make his way to the top very fast.”

26-year-old Al Zein was a promising amateur but took a break from boxing for a couple of years before finally turning pro under Öner’s guidance. The Turkish promoter was a professional fighter himself before starting as a manger for Turkish heavyweight legend Sinan Samil Sam. In 2006, Öner founded ARENA Box-Promotion and got worldwide recognition by signing Cuban Olympic gold medalists Odlanier Solis and Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Solis suffered a disappointing loss to US veteran Tony Thompson last March in Turkey. Their rematch was postponed multiple times but is now finally rescheduled to take place on February 27th in Budapest, Hungary. “Mohamed Al Zein will be on the undercard so the whole world can take a look at the kid”, says Öner.

Los Angeles, CA (January 31, 2015) Emphatically announcing the start to his 2015 campaign, former world title challenger MICHEL SORO of Rhone, France scored a first round knockout over Hungarian veteran SANDOR MICSKO on Friday night at the Salle Polyvalente Du Ramier in Blagnac, France.

After a brief feeling out period, Soro drilled Micsko with a massive left hook to the head ending the scheduled 10-round junior middleweight clash shortly following the one minute mark as the referee called an immediate halt to the bout.

Said Soro, “My team told me to be dynamic and efficient this year – well there you go. I can’t wait to get back into the ring and continue my march towards a world title.”

Among those cheering on his knockout victory was friend and top rated middleweight challenger HASSAN N’DAM.

The full fight can be viewed here;

With the win, the 27-year-old Soro improved to 24-1-1 (14KO’s) and got back in the win column after a highly disputed ten round draw to Antoine Douglas on July 25th in Verona, New York.

“Our next step for Michel is a fight against a top ten junior middleweight,” said MICHAEL KING of KING SPORTS. “We have a great deal of confidence in him and want him to stay busy in 2015 as we build towards a world championship fight.”

With the loss Micsko fell to 25-8-2 (19KO’s).

ABOUT KING SPORTS
King Sports is a company started by entertainment entrepreneur Michael King. King Sports’ first foray into boxing was with All-American Heavyweights, a revolutionary boxing program that boasted a state-of-the-art training facility equipped with the latest technology, premiere coaching and medical staff along with the ideal dietary and nutritional needs for its fighters. Since making the decision to enter professional boxing, King Sports has spent time evaluating the entire spectrum of global boxing talent. Through an exhaustive scouting and evaluation process, King Sports has found some of the most exciting young fighters from around the world.

For more information follow King Sports on Twitter @KingSportsWorld, Facebook @KingSportsWorldwide and visit their website at www.KingSportsWorldwide.com.

LINCOLN, R.I. (Jan. 30th, 2015) – Ultimate Fighter alums Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil and Julian “Nitrane” Lane defended their respective CES MMA titles Friday night on the main card of “CES MMA XXVII” on AXS TV, each in much different fashion.

Lane (9-3-1), the Mansfield, Ohio, native who captured CES MMA’s vacant lightweight belt in August, needed all five rounds to hold onto his title while O’Neil needed a mere 11 seconds to bring his welterweight crown back to his hometown of East Bridgewater, Mass.

Facing the red-hot Emmanuel Walo (7-2-1) of Jersey City, who had won seven of eight entering Friday, O’Neil came out swinging and clipped Walo square on the chin with an overhand night. Referee Kevin MacDonald stopped the fight as Walo crashed to the canvas, wrapping up O’Neil’s fourth consecutive win and sixth in his last seven fights.

Continuing to make Rhode Island his second home, Lane won for the third time at Twin River, narrowly beating Somerville, Mass., vet Lucas Cruz (7-3) by split decision, 48-47, 47-48, 48-47, to retain the CES MMA lightweight title he won in August, also on AXS TV.

Reminiscent of his win over Gemiyale Adkins last June, Lane controlled the early rounds by mixing up his left jab and rear leg kicks to keep Cruz at a distance. Cruz’s best round was the fourth, when he scored a takedown midway through and maintained side guard for the remainder of the round, but Cruz didn’t let his hands go until the closing seconds, allowing Lane to survive despite momentarily giving up his back.

Lane bounced back in the fifth and final round, again peppering Cruz with his jab, and then closed out strong with a single-leg takedown in the closing minutes, preventing Cruz from executing his game plan. Judges Wayne Lima and Brian Minor scored it in favor of Lane while judge Nick Mahmood scored it in favor of Cruz. The Ultimate Fighter alum has won four consecutive bouts dating back to November of 2013.

Seven months removed from his impressive knockout win over Joe Cushman, New England’s Most Improved Fighter Dinis Paiva (6-5, 4 KOs) took another step in the right direction in his network television debut, knocking out Salem, Mass., bantamweight Dan Cormier (3-2) 10 seconds into the opening round of their scheduled three-round bout.

The East Providence, R.I., native came out swinging, clipping Cormier with a right cross shortly after the opening bell and landing an effective combination before finishing Cormier for good with another left to the chin. Referee Kevin MacDonald quickly stopped the bout as Cormier fell to the canvas. Paiva has now won three consecutive bouts, all by first-round knockout.

A late addition to the main card, Boston featherweight Kyle Bochniak (4-0) dominated in his AXS TV debut, earning a 30-27, 30-26, 30-27 unanimous decision win over Long Island vet Thomas English (5-6).

Providence, R.I., lightweight Luis Felix (12-8) rebounded from his loss on AXS TV in August with a hard-fought 30-27 unanimous decision win over Richmond, Va., vet D’Juan Owens (11-9). The pace picked up in the second round as two exchanged flurries in the center of the ring with Felix landing the cleaner, more effective shots. The slugfest continued in the third, but Felix took control with a handful of critical takedowns, allowing him to use his strong wrestling background to his advantage.

Ultimate Fighter alum Jon Manley (9-2) of Ludlow, Mass., submitted Dedham, Mass., welterweight Brett Oteri via American armbar at the 3:17 mark of the second round in a wildly entertaining, back-and-forth bout. Manley spent the majority of the opening round peppering Oteri with lefts and rights until Oteri clipped him on the chin with a right cross late in the round, sending Manley stumbling toward the cage.

Oteri landed two more clean rights before picking up Manley and slamming him to the canvas, which actually worked in Manley’s favor because it allowed him to recover and survive the round. Oteri began the second round by landing more flurries, momentarily stunning Manley, but Manley turned the tables with a crucial takedown and eventually worked his way into the armbar, earning his fourth career submission.

Once Bochniak found his distance after a slow opening round, he busted English open with a series of rights and short elbows. Bochniak scored a key takedown late in the second and nearly finished the fight with a flurry of elbows and fists. The third round was more of the same with Bochniak dominating the stand-up and coasting to his fourth consecutive victory.

Peabody, Mass., featherweight Rico Disciullo and Providence middleweight Eric Spicely both remained unbeaten Friday with victories on the preliminary card.

In the most entertaining bout of the preliminaries, Disciullo (4-0) earned a 30-27, 29-28, 29-28 unanimous decision win over newcomer Mak Kelleher (0-1) of Selden, N.Y., who made his professional debut. Disciullo came out swinging in the opening round, landing a series of overhand rights, but Kelleher scored a takedown late in the round and closed out the final minute with a flurry of hammerfists.

Saved by the bell in round one, Disciullo opened the second round with back-to-back roundhouse head kicks to catch Kelleher off guard and fought effectively in the third to stave off the hard-charging Kelleher in a bout much closer than the scores indicated.

Spicely improved to 6-0 with his third career submissions, forcing Dover, N.H., native Kevin Haley (3-3) to tap out via heel hook at the 2-minute, 26-second mark of the opening round.

Also on the undercard, Dorchester, Mass., lightweight Andres Jeudi (7-4, 3 KOs) – fighting on just 24 hours notice – stopped veteran Jeff Anderson (11-10) of Pawtucket, R.I., at 2:03 of the opening round with a flurries of lefts and rights, the last one sending Anderson tumbling to the canvas and forcing referee Dan Miragliotta to stop the bout.

Fan-favorite James Murrin (2-2) of South Boston, Mass., had his hands full with scrappy featherweight vet Robert Sullivan (5-3) of Baltimore as Sullivan used his sheer strength to grind out a 29-28, 30-27, 30-27 unanimous decision win. Murrin tried to trade hands with Sullivan, but Sullivan consistently scored takedowns and wore out Murrin with effective ground-and-pound over the first two rounds. Murrin finally had his opportunity late in the third and unleashed a series of overhand rights that stunned Sullivan, but didn’t have enough time to score a knockout and salvage the win.

Flyweight Chris Cole (4-2) of North Attleboro, Mass., also dominated in his bout against East Providence, R.I., native Dan Cormier (4-5), earning a 30-27 unanimous decision win.

The televised portion of “CES MMA XXVII” began at 9 p.m. ET and aired live on AXS TV.

Prichard Colon 151.4 – Hector Munoz 153.8
Stephen Fulton 123.1 – Eric Gotay 122.9
Anthony Prescott 150.2 – Grayson Blake 146.7
Kyrone Davis 159.8 – Jonathan Garcia 160
Raynell Williams 133.9 – Ryan Picou 135.5
Jamontay Clark 150.6 – Dominique Foster 150.6
Earl Newman 180 – Yuwshua Zadok 181.1
Antonio Russell 116.2 – Harold Reyes 120

Promoter: King’s Promotions & XFE
Venue: 2300 Arena
1st Bell: 6:45 PM

LINCOLN, R.I. (Jan. 30th, 2015) – Peabody, Mass., featherweight Rico Disciullo and Providence, R.I., middleweight Eric Spicely both remained unbeaten Friday with victories on the preliminary card of “CES MMA XXVII” at Twin River Casino.

In the most entertaining bout of the preliminaries, Disciullo (4-0) earned a 30-27, 29-28, 29-28 unanimous decision win over newcomer Mak Kelleher (0-1) of Selden, N.Y., who made his professional debut. Disciullo came out swinging in the opening round, landing a series of overhand rights, but Kelleher scored a takedown late in the round and closed out the final minute with a flurry of hammerfists.

Saved by the bell in round one, Disciullo opened the second round with back-to-back roundhouse head kicks to catch Kelleher off guard and fought effectively in the third to stave off the hard-charging Kelleher in a bout much closer than the scores indicated.

Spicely improved to 6-0 with his third career submissions, forcing Dover, N.H., native Kevin Haley (3-3) to tap out via heel hook at the 2-minute, 26-second mark of the opening round.

Also on the undercard, Dorchester, Mass., lightweight Andres Jeudi (7-4, 3 KOs) – fighting on just 24 hours notice – stopped veteran Jeff Anderson (11-10) of Pawtucket, R.I., at 2:03 of the opening round with a flurries of lefts and rights, the last one sending Anderson tumbling to the canvas and forcing referee Dan Miragliotta to stop the bout.

Fan-favorite James Murrin (2-2) of South Boston, Mass., had his hands full with scrappy featherweight vet Robert Sullivan (5-3) of Baltimore as Sullivan used his sheer strength to grind out a 29-28, 30-27, 30-27 unanimous decision win. Murrin tried to trade hands with Sullivan, but Sullivan consistently scored takedowns and wore out Murrin with effective ground-and-pound over the first two rounds. Murrin finally had his opportunity late in the third and unleashed a series of overhand rights that stunned Sullivan, but didn’t have enough time to score a knockout and salvage the win.

Flyweight Chris Cole (4-2) of North Attleboro, Mass., also dominated in his bout against East Providence, R.I., native Dan Cormier (4-5), earning a 30-27 unanimous decision win.

The televised portion of “CES MMA XXVII” began at 9 p.m. ET and aired live on AXS TV.

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 30) – Former WBC Latino Lightweight Champion, Marcelino “Nino” Lopez has signed a promotional contract with Golden Boy Promotions. The 28-year-old from Arribenos, Buenos Aires, Argentina has already has a strong career as a professional boxer in South American, winning and defending several titles and maintaining a near perfect record of 31-1-1 (15 KOs).

“Golden Boy Promotions continues to strengthen its roster of fighters and adding Marcelino Lopez to the team confirms the great plans we have to find the best talent to put on the best fights for the fans,” said Oscar De La Hoya, President and Founder of Golden Boy Promotions.

“I am glad to be working with Golden Boy Promotions, I feel that this is a great opportunity for me to be introduced to a larger boxing audience,” said Lopez. “I am excited to see what 2015 will bring being part of a world recognized promotional company.”

“I am happy to continue working with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Mario Arano, Lopez’s manager. “They are family and have always chosen the best fights for their fighters. They have done a great job with Lucas Matthysse and trust that they will do an excellent job bringing international acclaim and notoriety to Marcelino Lopez.”

The current South American Super Lightweight title holder is looking to expand his fan base and his record. Fighting almost exclusively in Argentina, the hard-hitting puncher would like to fight in a world title match all while conquering the love of North American fans.

Philadelphia, PA (January 30, 2015)–This Saturday night at the 2300 Arena, Grayson Blake will take on Anthony Prescott in a 6-round Jr. Middleweight bout that will serve as a local attraction on a card promoted by King’s Promotions.

The main event will see undefeated Prichard Colon (12-0, 10 KO’s) of Orocovis, Puerto Rico taking on Hector Munoz (23-13-1, 15 KO’s) of Albuquerque, New Mexico in the 8-round Jr. Middleweight fight.

Blake of State College, PA has a record of 5-3 with two stoppages is trying to break three-fight losing streak and is very confident going into the bout with Prescott.

“Training was wonderful . I was in camp for a month and a half. I have a new trainer, I have been on a new nutrition regimen and I feel faster and stronger,” said Blake.

He has respect for Prescott but Blake feels he has the style to come out on top.

“He is strong but we will pressure, pressure, pressure him and stick to our game plan.”

Even though Blake is a Pennsylvania resident, fighting guys from the area and especially New Jersey is extra special.

“It is good for me to fight people who are close and from the area. Most of my family is from New Jersey and they are former boxers.”

With his new team around him, Blake is believes he has what it takes to come out on top.

“No matter what we do, I plan to take him into deep waters and drown him. I am coming back to gain my respect in the ring.”

In 6 round bouts:

Raynell Williams (5-0, 3 KO’s) of Cleveland, OH will battle Ryan Picou (2-4) of Las Vegas in a Lightweight bout.

Kyrone Davis (5-0, 3 KO’s) to battle Jonathan Garcia (4-11, 1 KO) in a Middleweight bout

In 4 round bouts:

Earl Newman (3-1, 3 KO’s) of Brooklyn, NY will do battle with Yuwshua Zadok (2-2-1) of Atlanta, GA in a Cruiserweight fight.

Jamatay Clark (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Cincinnati, OH will fight Dominique Foster (2-6-1) of Las Vegas, NV in a Welterweight fight.

Antonio Russell of Capitol Heights, MD will make his pro debut against Gabriel Braxton (2-7, 1 KO) of Red Oak, GA in a Bantamweight fight.

Stephen Fulton (3-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on Eric Gotay (3-2, 1 KO) of the Dominican republic in a Super Bantamweight bout.

Tickets for this great night of boxing cost $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased by calling 610-587-5950 or www.hboxing.eventbrite.com

THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE THAT WILL BE FOLLOWED BY THE WEIGH IN ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 30 AT 5 PM AT THE STADIUM HOLIDAY INN (900 PACKER AVENUE)

The 1st bout will start at 7 PM with the doors opening at 6 PM.

On March 21, it is ‘The Moment of Truth’ as WBA World Light Heavyweight Champion Juergen Braehmer (45-2, 33 KOs) takes on the WBA number one challenger Robin Krasniqi (43-3, 16 KOs) in an all-German showdown at the StadtHalle in Rostock.

Ahead of their world championship clash, the two fighters came face-to-face at a kick-off press conference yesterday in Warnemuende, just a few kilometers away from the arena, where the fight is going to take place.

The Champion, Braehmer appeared in a confident mood, as he prepares to return to the ring following his record-breaking 55 second knockout of Pawel Glazewski in his last world title defense.

“Krasniqi has earned his shot,” said the 36 year-old southpaw. “He is number one in the WBA rankings. I’m happy to prove myself against him in this domestic showdown, which will have all of Germany talking. I will as always prepare to for the full 12 rounds, but if the opportunity arises, I will not hesitate to make it another early night.”

Krasniqi is respectful of the champion’s status, but remains eager to claim his first world title and avenge the amateur losses of his coach Dirk Dzemski.

“It’s a big honor to share the ring with a prolific fighter like Braehmer,” said the Munich-based boxer. “He was already a top-notch boxer, when I started my professional career. It would mean a lot for me to win and claim my first world championship against him. Especially as my coach Dirk Dzemski was beaten twice by Braehmer in the amateurs – I will avenge those losses for him.”

Promoter Kalle Sauerland has labelled the domestic world championship clash as the “Dawning of an golden era for German boxing”, and is looking forward to a memorable encounter at the StadtHalle in Rostock.

“On March 21, we have the WBA World Champion against the WBA number one. This is a chance for Juergen to prove why he belongs at the top. Since his comeback in early 2013, Juergen has excited the masses with his performances. Last time around, he set the record for fastest KO in a world title fight in light heavyweight history. In Rostock, Braehmer will show his class inside the ring once again.”

Starting February 3rd, Tickets for the WBA World Light Heavyweight Championship clash between Braehmer and Krasniqi will be available via tickethall.de.

Karl “Dynamite” Dargan
Tony Luis
Philadelphia, PA Ontario, Canada
17-0, 9 KOs 18-2, 7 KOs
Weight: 134 Trunks: Black/Gold Weight: 134 Trunks: Camo

Falowo and Lamour
Photo Credits:
David Spagnolo/Main Events

Thomas Falowo
Russell Lamour
Pawtucket, RI
Portland, ME
12-3, 8 KOs
11-0, 5 KOs
Weight: 158.4 Trunks: Green/White
Weight: 159 Trunks: Black/Red/White

Barrera and Lacy
David Spagnolo/Main Events

Sullivan Barrera
Jeff Lacy
Miami, FL
Tampa, FL
14-0, 9 KOs
27-5, 18 KOs
Weight: 172.4 Trunks: Red/White/Blue
Weight: 168.2 Trunks: Black/White

Tapia and Oltmanns
David Spagnolo/Main Events

Keith Tapia
Jesse Oltmanns
Santurce, Puerto Rico Bartonsville, PA
12-0, 7 KOs 10-4, 7 KOs
Weight: 210.4 Trunks: Red/White Weight: 200.4 Trunks: Black/White

Pryor and Foster
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Larry Pryor
Charles Foster
Washington, DC New Haven, CT
9-8, 5 KOs 6-0, 3 KOs
Weight: 174.8 Trunks: Black/Gold Weight: 173.4 Trunks: Red/Black

Wilson and Rodriguez
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

David Wilson
Michael Rodriguez
New Haven, CT New York, NY
4-0 0-2
Weight: 159.2 Trunks: Black Weight: 162 Trunks: Blue

Whitmore and Reyes
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Khalib Whitmore
Carlos Reyes
Philadelphia, PA Kuarny, AZ
6-0, 5 KOs 6-5-1, 4 KOs
Weight: 189.2 Trunks: Black/Gold Weight: 189.4 Trunks: Red/White

Mosley, Jr. and Machado
David Spagnolo/Main Events

Shane Mosley, Jr.
Rafael Machado
Pomona, CA Philadelphia, PA
2-1, 2 KOs 0-2
Weight: 161.4 Trunks: Black Weight: 161.8 Trunks: Black

Chaney
Photo Credits:
David Spagnolo/Main Events

TBD
Cassius Chaney

New London, CT

Professional Debut

Weight: 236 Trunks: Red

About January 30
Presented by Main Events in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, the Jan. 30 edition of Friday Night Fights on ESPN2 and will take place at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT. It features a ten-round lightweight battle between undefeated contender Karl “Dynamite” Dargan (17-0, 9 KOs) against Tony “The Lightning” Luis (18-2, 7 KOs) for the WBC Continental Americas Lightweight Championship in the main event. The co-feature is an eight-round middleweight bout between Thomas Falowo (12-3, 8 KOs) against Russell Lamour (11-0, 5 KOs). Bouts are subject to change. Tickets are $40, $60 and $75 and available now through Foxwoods.com and the Foxwoods box office. The doors will open at 5:00 PM ET and the Friday Night Fights telecast will begin at 9:00 PM ET on ESPN2.

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LINCOLN, R.I. (Jan. 29th, 2015) – Listed below are the results from the official weigh-in of “CES MMA XXVII,” scheduled for Friday, Jan. 30th, 2015 at Twin River Casino.

The participants of both co-main event title bouts, featuring CES MMA lightweight champion Julian Lane of Mansfield, Ohio and challenger Lucas Cruz of Boston and reigning CES MMA welterweight champion Chuck O’Neil of East Bridgewater, Mass., and Jersey City, N.J., challenger Emmanuel Walo, each made weight. The remaining weigh-in results are listed below. Doors open at 6 p.m. and showtime is 7 p.m. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Friday’s event is the launch of CES MMA’s 2015 Twin River Fight Series and the first of five events airing live on AXS TV. Tickets starting at $41.00 are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com or by phone at 401-724-2253/2254.

JON MANLEY
Ludlow, Mass.
8-2, 3 submissions
170

BRETT OTERI
Dedham, Mass.
12-5, 1 KO, 7 submissions

LUIS FELIX
Cranston, R.I.
11-8, 4 KOs, 5 submissions
156

D’JUAN OWENS
Richmond, Va.
11-8, 4 KOs, 3 submissions
160

DINIS PAIVA
East Providence, R.I.
5-5, 3 KOs, 1 submission
137

MATT DOHERTY
Salem, Mass.
3-1, 2 KOs, 1 submission
136

KYLE BOCHNIAK
Boston, Mass.
3-0, 1 KO, 1 submission
146

THOMAS ENGLISH
Long Island, N.Y.
5-5, 2 KOs, 1 submission
145 ½

RICO DISCIULLO
Peabody, Mass.
3-0, 1 KO
146

MAK KELLEHER
Selden, N.Y.
Pro debut
146

JAMES MURRIN
South Boston, Mass.
2-1, 2 KOs
145 ½

ROBERT SULLIVAN
Baltimore, Md.
4-3
145 ½

ERIC SPICELY
Providence, R.I.
5-0, 2 KOs, 2 submissions
198

ANDRES JEUDI
Dorchester, Mass.
6-4, 2 KOs
166

JEFF ANDERSON
Pawtucket, R.I.
11-9, 2 KOs
158 ½

CHRIS COLE
North Attleboro, Mass.
3-2, 2 submissions
124

DAN CORMIER
East Providence, R.I.
4-4, 1 KO
124

Karl “Dynamite” Dargan
“I feel like I was just here at Foxwoods yesterday. I want to thank Tony for accepting this challenge. We had a great camp. I go into every fight looking at it like it’s a world championship fight. Tomorrow night they might like “Lighting” but when “Lighting” strikes “Dynamite” it is going to blow up. We will see what happens. Get there are early to see [Khalib] Whitmore and [Shane] Mosley, Jr.”

“Lightning” Luis
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Tony Luis
“It is a pleasure to have everyone here. We are ready to give you guys a great show tonight and I am ready to put on the fight of my life.”

Russell Lamour
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Russell Lamour
“I am glad to be here. I feel blessed to be fighting on this card. Come out tomorrow because I am going to put a show on and show the world what I can do.”

Thomas Falowo
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Thomas Falowo
“Fighting is the easy part. I don’t like this part. I feel grateful to be here. It is going to be great. I feel stronger than ever. I am ready to steal the show tomorrow.”

Kathy Duva
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events
“Tomorrow, Friday Night Fights on ESPN2 starts at 9:00. This show has been the product with a lot of hard work. I could not have done it without my good friend Al Valenti.

“There is going to be “Lightning” and “Dynamite” in the ring and that is a combustible combination. We are very excited to show “Dynamite” in his first nationally televised main event.

“This fight is Karl stepping up in competition. Both “Dynamite” and “Lightning” came here to win.”

Al Valenti
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Al Valenti
“Foxwoods has been a major player in boxing for over 23 years. It is so great to be here with Kathy and Main Events, the premiere in professional boxing. We have great confidence in this event. This is the coming together of a great boxing fraternity. There is a great local match. Russell Lamour and Tommy Falowo have met several times in the amateurs. This co-feature shows that the amateur program in the US is alive and producing future stars like these two. Tommy and Russell are here because they know the next step to becoming the next Karl Dargan is to perform well tomorrow night”

Greg Cohen
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Greg Cohen, Promoter for Tony Luis
“It is always terrific to do business with Main Events. This is going to be a special fight. Tony is one of the most professional fighters I have ever worked with. Tony just beat an undefeated kid (Wanzell Ellison) on ShoBox. Other fighters might shy away from fighting Dargan. There were other fights on the table but Tony jumped at this opportunity. I believe in him. He had an unbelievable training camp. Everybody should get ready because “Lighting” is going to strike tomorrow.”

Brother Naazim Richardson
Photo Credits: David Spagnolo/Main Events

Naazim Richardson, Trainer for Karl “Dynamite” Dargan
“I would like to thank Kathy Duva and the staff at Main Events. I watched tape on Tony Luis and I like what I saw. He is an exceptional young athlete. My little cousin [Dargan] is something special also. We are going to put on a performance that will let the world know we are ready for the next level. The card is exceptional.”

About January 30
Presented by Main Events in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, the Jan. 30 edition of Friday Night Fights on ESPN2 and will take place at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT. It features a ten-round lightweight battle between undefeated contender Karl “Dynamite” Dargan (17-0, 9 KOs) against Tony “The Lightning” Luis (18-2, 7 KOs) for the WBC Continental Americas Lightweight Championship in the main event. The co-feature is an eight-round middleweight bout between Thomas Falowo (12-3, 8 KOs) against Russell Lamour (11-0, 5 KOs). Bouts are subject to change. Tickets are $40, $60 and $75 and available now through Foxwoods.com and the Foxwoods box office. The doors will open at 5:00 PM ET and the Friday Night Fights telecast will begin at 9:00 PM ET on ESPN2.

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PITTSBURGH, Pa. (Jan. 29, 2015) – High-energy hometown favorite and unbeaten welterweight Sammy Vasquez Jr. (17-0, 13 KOs) will return to action seeking his 10th consecutive victory by knockout when he takes on fellow southpaw Emmanuel Lartey (17-2, 8 KOs, 1 NC), of Brooklyn, N.Y. by way of Ghana, in the 10-round main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from CONSOL Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pa.

In the co-feature of the Goossen Promotions event, former longtime Cuban amateur star and current third-ranked WBC light heavyweight Humberto Savigne (12-1, 9 KOs, 1 NC), of Miami via Guantanamo, Cuba, will take on undefeated Craig Baker (15-0, 11 KOs), of Baytown, Texas, in an 8/10-round bout.

In the opening bout of the telecast, talented southpaw and WBA No. 7 ranked featherweight Claudio Marrero (17-1, 13 KOs), of Miami by way of the Dominican Republic, will box an opponent to be announced in an eight-round match.

“We’re honored to present Sammy’s return to action against Lartey,” said Tom Brown of Goossen Promotions. “For decades Western Pennsylvania has produced world champions and some of the boxing’s toughest warriors and Sammy fits right in. He’s really made CONSOL his home. With the tremendous past support from the Pittsburgh area for his fights, we strongly encourage fans to purchase tickets well in advance.”

“We are very excited to once again host hometown hero Sammy Vasquez, Jr., at CONSOL Energy Center as he headlines the feature bout for a terrific professional boxing card on Feb. 20,” said Tim Hassett, CONSOL Energy Center General Manager and Regional VP of AEG Facilities. “The City of Pittsburgh has a rich history and tradition in boxing, and is the center of a region full of enthusiastic sports fans. We are thrilled that Goossen Promotions and SHOWTIME have chosen our venue as the site for this event, and we look forward to all involved enjoying all that our great city has to offer.”

One of the most popular fighters from the area in years, the crowd-pleasing Vasquez, 28, will be making his second ShoBox start and third consecutive appearance at CONSOL Energy Center, where he is coming off two of the finest victories of his promising career.

In his most recent start, the aggressive-minded Vasquez registered an explosive 2:35, first-round knockout over Alberto Mosquera (21-1-2 going in) last Nov. 14. He scored a smashing ninth-round TKO over then-unbeaten James Stevenson (21-0 going in) on Aug. 8. Vasquez dropped Mosquera twice with body shots, Stevenson once.

Vasquez has fought one time past the sixth round. He has never gone more than nine and has won his last nine consecutive fights by knockout. Lartey, conversely, has gone 10 or more rounds five times, never been knocked out and never been knocked down.

“Lartey is a good, tough fighter and it’s going to be a good fight,’’ Vasquez said. “I know I’m going to keep my KO streak going. Whether it’s in the first or the 10th, it will happen. He’s never been knocked out and I like those kinds of challenges.’’

In his ShoBox debut, Vasquez scored three knockdowns en route to a 2:49, first-round knockout over Juan Rodriguez Jr. on April 18, 2014, in Monroeville. Pa. Despite all the stoppages, the 5-foot-10 Vasquez never considered himself a knockout puncher.

“I consider myself well-rounded but if the opportunity comes, I take advantage,” Vasquez said. “Whether I am considered by others as a KO or guy or not, I’ll take advantage of the opportunity. I know I could be entering the world rankings soon. But, for now, I don’t really pay attention to them.’’

An accomplished amateur (2011 National PAL Championships and 2010 All-Army Championships gold medalist at 152 pounds), Vasquez has been a crowd favorite since turning pro in August 2012. All but three of his fights have taken place in the Pittsburgh area.

“Fighting again at CONSOL Energy Center, the home arena for the Pittsburgh Penguins, is great,’’ said Vasquez, a United States Army veteran who served two combat tours in Iraq (2005-2006 and 2008-2009) during a nine-year stint as a member of the National Guard. “I am very grateful to be able to headline there and I’m glad to be able to bring attention and publicity to Pittsburgh for the boxing fans to enjoy. I’m happy to bring boxing back and to put on a good show for the city and our area.

“There is no pressure in boxing after some of the things I’ve been through outside of boxing. I always want to win, but win, lose or draw, in boxing you always come out of that ring alive.’’

Lartey (pronounced “LAR-tay”), 32, is coming off his most noteworthy victory, a unanimous 10-round decision victory over former world champion Steve Forbes on June 7, 2014 in Tacoma, Wash.

“I’ve faced much tougher competition than Vasquez and I’m not worried about fighting in his hometown,” Lartey said. “Sammy is a very tough fighter, but so am I. He’s been knocking out a lot of guys, but he hasn’t faced anyone like me.”

In his bout before last, his ShoBox debut, Lartey came up on the wrong end of a hard-fought split eight-round decision to 2008 U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Felix Diaz.

Three fights ago the game, durable Lartey gave unbeaten rising star and 2012 U.S. Olympian Errol Spence his toughest pro fight, taking him the eight-round distance for the first time. Although clearly behind and seemingly beaten, Lartey landed a body shot near the end of the seventh before rocking Spence with a big right hook late at the bell. Lartey came forward for most of the eighth round, forcing Spence to stand his ground in the final minute of the fight.

“I had a few setbacks and I’m very grateful for this opportunity. This is my time to shine and show the world how good I am.”

The 5-foot-8 Lartey turned pro in April 2005 in Ghana, and fought through 2009 there. He was 11-0 with 1 NC – winning the African and Ghanaian super lightweight championships along the way – before moving to the United States and making his stateside debut in February 2011.

This will be the fourth time he’s faced an unbeaten prospect on the road. He is 1-2, losing on points to Diaz in April 2014 and Spence in October 2013 and winning via points against Jonathan Bautista (13-0 going in) in April 2013.

Savigne (pronounced “sa-VEEN-yay”), 34, knocked out former world champion Jeff Lacy in the second round in his last start on July 10, 2014. That upped his record to 10-0 with 1 NC since suffering his lone defeat to underdog Harvey Jolly in December 2009, a fight in which he may have entered with an injured ankle.

A former international amateur standout and a member of the Cuban National team for seven years, Humberto (pronounced “Umberto” – with a silent “H”) made his pro and stateside debut at the late age of 30. Baker represents the fourth undefeated fighter that Savigne has faced as a pro.

“The only thing I know is that Baker is going to go down before the fifth round,” Savigne said. “I’m going in there to knock him out and make it a quick night. I don’t know what he is thinking about me, but I know I’m not underestimating him. I’m going to do my job like I always do. It doesn’t matter what he does. I’ll be ready.

“I’m going to prove that I’m the new don of the light heavyweight division,” said Savigne, who is nicknamed “El Don.”

A natural left-hander, Savigne went 398-23 in the amateurs. He won the national championship four times, and was on the national team for seven years. Savigne defected from Cuba to the United States in April 2009. The 6-foot-1 Savigne, who has fought exclusively in the U.S. since turning pro, has quickly rose to No. 3 in the WBC 175-pound rankings after just 14 professional bouts.

“I feel I was ready for a world title fight since last year,” Savigne said. “I’m looking forward to getting a win on Feb 20 and facing the big names in the light heavyweight division. I’ve been training hard and I’ve been patient and humble. When the time comes, I’m going to be in prime shape and ready to fulfill my dream of becoming a world champion. Whether it’s early this year, late this year or next year, I’m ready.

“I want to fight the champions at 175 pounds, but I need to take care of Baker first. I want Adonis Stevenson. I feel that I’m better than him. He’s never fought a guy like me and I don’t see enough skill set in him to be able to defeat me.”

Baker, who turns 31 on Feb. 10, will be making his ShoBox debut. A seven-year-pro, Baker is a pressure fighter who likes to wear down opponents intelligently. He is coming off a third-round knockout over Sergio Cordoba last Nov. 15 in Argentina. He has won his last three fights inside three rounds, but not against fighters on the level of Savigne.

“I’m always the underdog, so this is nothing new,” Baker said. “I’ve been in this position before. You just have to do what you’re supposed to do you’ll get the win. “We’ve been waiting for this opportunity to prove who we are.

“When I win it will mean everything, it will be a dream come true. It’s going to open some doors for me. I’ll be 16-0 and be right there to face some of the top fighters at 175 pounds.”

Baker turned to boxing in 2005 as a way to lose weight. At the time, he weighed 293 pounds. He would lose his amateur debut but then went on to win the Texas State Golden Gloves and the Texas State USA Championships in both 2007 and 2008. Baker was also runner up at the National PAL Tournament in 2007, a quarterfinalist in both the National USA Championships Tournament and the National Golden Gloves, which earned him a USA boxing national ranking of No. 3.

“I’ve faced guys like him before,” Baker said. “At the end of the day, all that matters is what you bring to the ring. On the national level in the amateurs you can face guys with a few hundred fights on the first day of a tournament. So his amateur pedigree doesn’t scare me.

“I’m just expecting a W anyway it comes. That’s what I want and that’s what I’m getting. He’s just like any other fighter. You have to wait and see what they have. We’ll find out on fight night.”

Marrero, 25, is no stranger to local fans, having fought twice in the area last year, both times on cards also featuring Vasquez.

An excellent fighter whose only loss came on a tight 12-round decision to Jesus Cuellar in a let-it-all-hang-out, action-packed slugfest for the WBA Interim Featherweight World Championship (scored 114-113, 115-114 and 111-111) in August 2013, Marrero will be making his ShoBox and 2015 debut. He went 3-0 last year, winning by sixth-round TKO over Ira Terry in his most recent start last Nov. 21 in Tulsa, Okla.

Advance tickets priced at $238, $100, $60, $40 and $25 for students and military with valid ID (Box Office Only), plus applicable fees, for “The Pride of Pittsburgh III” will go on sale Friday, January 30 at 10:00 a.m. through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Box Office at CONSOL Energy Center, Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at 800-745-3000. Prices increase $5 on the day of the event. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:30 p.m. with the first bell at 6:30 p.m.

CONSOL Energy Center is located at 1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219. Further information can be located at their website, www.consolenergycenter.com

Social Media: Follow Goossen Promotions on Twitter @GoossenBoxing, Sammy Vasquez on Twitter @TeamSVasquez, SHOWTIME Sports @SHOsports and CONSOL Energy Center @CONSOLEnergyCtr. Use hashtag #VasquezLartey to follow the discussion.

For more information on Goossen Promotions view their website at www.GoossenPromotions.com. For additional information on Showtime Sports visit www.Sho.com/sports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 58 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

Jersey City, NJ (January 29, 2015)-WBU Jr. Welterweight Champion Danny “Little Mac” McDermott announced today the formation of a new Boxing Promotional Company that will be based out of his hometown in Jersey City NJ.
McDermott has partnered up with local businessman Nick Jayme to form LGM Promotions

LGM also announced today that it will put on its first show “fists of the Fighting Irish” at the Jersey City Armory on Saturday March 14th with McDermott headlining the card in a defense of the title he captured this past July in GenSan City, Phillipines.

“I am excited to start this company. Launching it on the tenth anniversary of my pro debut makes it that much sweeter. This is something that I have been thinking about for some time now. I love boxing. It is my life. It just makes a lot of sense for us right now to begin to prepare for a life after boxing and what better way then be able to put on a fight in my own hometown.” said McDermott.

Mr. Jayme is a longtime friend of the McDermott’s and is former amateur boxer himself. He is an active community servant in the Jersey City area.

“I have always loved boxing and I have a passion for the sport. I came up in the amateurs with Danny and have known him for many years.

“I recently reconnected with boxing after doing an event with Miguel Cotto and that is when i decided to form LGM Promotions.”

“We are looking to do 4 or 5 events this year in the community. I am a big believer in the Hudson County community. LGM is Jersey City based and that’s where we are basing our roots.”

“March 14 is about celebrating the Irish Heritage Parade. We are working close with the Jersey City Irish Parade committee. They are having their dinner on March 13. We are doing the fight on March 14 and then the Parade is on March 15. This event is all about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day said Mr Jayme.”

“On the boxing side, we hired Rich Komissar (RKO Boxing) to be our Director of Boxing Operations. Rich has a wealth of experience in the sport from on every level. It is very comforting to have a guy on our team that people actually call back” joked Jayme.

Mr. Jayma also added “We also set up a strategic alliance with Mariusz Kolodziej and his group at Global Boxing in North Bergen. Mariusz and Danny go back a long time. He is a great friend of the sport on more than a local level.

“These first events will be Jersey City ethnic based with family friendly ticket pricing and family friendly concessions,”

“We want the entire community to embrace us. We will make it affordable for a guy to bring his kids to the fights and have a few hot dogs with a couple of sodas and maybe a beer or two without breaking the bank” finished Jayme.

“I’m excited to help. Danny is family. Danny is my guy. He always was and always will be. I’m proud of all he has done in the last year or two. He is extremely popular in this part of New Jersey (as well as across the river in New York City) so it makes great sense to launch here. Nick Jayme has a great vision on where he wants his company to be in a year or two. His community minded spirit enlightens me. Nick Jayme is a solutions guy. I like that” said Komissar.

“Our job will not be too hard. This part of New Jersey has an awful lot of boxing clubs and it is teaming with youngsters that want opportunities. We are here to give them just that” added Komissar

The full event will be announced shortly.

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 29) – San Antonio fans are in for a treat as Golden Boy Promotions and Leija * Battah Promotions brings a big night of boxing to the Freeman Coliseum on Thursday, March 12. Tickets for the special HBO Latino® Boxing event go on sale January 31st at 12:00 p.m. CT.

In the main event Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (21-0-1, 15 KOs) puts his WBO International and NABF Junior Lightweight titles on the line when he faces off against Australian’s “Wild” Will Tomlinson (23-1-1, 13 KOs). Also, undefeated Mexican brawler, Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (21-0, 15 KOs) takes on the tough puncher Emanuel “Tranzformer” Taylor (18-3, 12 KOs) in a 10-round junior welterweight co-main bout promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing.

Tickets priced at $150, $100, $50, and $25 plus applicable taxes and service charges go on sale Saturday, Jan. 31 at 12:00 p.m. CT and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, by calling 800-745-3000, or in person at the Freeman Coliseum/AT&T Center SE Box Office, Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., or through Leija*Battah Promotions by calling (210) 979-3302 or emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com.

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Tickets for #VargasTomlinson on sale Jan31 http://bit.ly/VargasTomlinson @GoldenboyBoxing @LeijaBattahPR @FreemanColiseum

Vargas vs. Tomlinson, is a 10-round WBO International and NABF Junior Lightweight bout is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Lejia*Battah Promotions. Orozco vs. Taylor is a 10-round junior welterweight fight promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The HBO Latino Boxing two-fight telecast begins at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT is sponsored by Corona Extra and Mexico – Live It To Believe It!. The Freeman Coliseum doors will open at 5:00 p.m. CT, and the first bout will start at 5:30 p.m. CT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.leijabattahpromo.com and www.freemancoliseum.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @LeijaBattahPr, @HBOLatino, @elbandido130, @WillTomlinsonAU, @PuroOrozco, and become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/hbolatino or www.facebook.com/LeijaBattah, and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @LeijaBattahPr,@elbandido130, @willtomlinsonau, @allrelentless, and @tranzformaa.

WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Chris Algieri returned to his roots yesterday spending the entire day visiting his alma mater Stony Brook as well as Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.

Algieri started the day off by meeting Dr. Joseph Laver, Chief Medical Officer and Professor of Pediatrics at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital. Chris toured the facilities and also met Dr. Joan Alpers, director of Child Life programs at the hospital and embarked on a tour of the hospital eventually meeting some of their pediatric patients in the playroom with Dr. Michael Attard, a Chief Life specialist.

Spending time with the children in the playroom was perhaps the most rewarding part of the day as Chris met with many of the kids who are patients at the hospital. In addition to meeting Long Island’s most recent Champion, the kids were elated to see his championship belt and take pictures with him. Chris spent time talking to the kids and cheering them up.

From there Chris hooked up with Dr. Craig Lehman, Dean for the school of Health, Technology, and Management and Professor of Clinical Laboratory services and concluded his tour with Dr. Andrew Wackett, Assistant Dean for Medical for Medical Education and Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine.
Later in the day Chris traveled to his alma mater, Stony Brook University for dinner and took in the Stony Brook-Hartford Division 1 Basketball game.
It was a very rewarding for Chris Algieri who maintains the importance of staying close with the community in which he was raised.
Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia, Chris’ promoter had this to say about the day’s activities, “I’m pleased that Chris continues to give back to the community he so loves and cherishes. It speaks volumes of his character and I am proud that he continues to devote his time to such charitable activities. He’s a true champion both in and out of the ring”.
DeGuardia expects that we will see Chris Algieri back in the ring later this spring and expects to make an announcement soon as to his next fight.

Philadelphia, PA–January 29, 2015– Banner Promotions is pleased to announce a brand new interactive contest where fans from all over the United States can be involved in boxing’s premiere tournament–Boxcino 2015!!!
The Contest: Attention fans! Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions, Inc. is pleased to announce “The 2015 Boxcino Brackets Challenge Contest.”

The Rules:
1.Fill in each slot on the official Banner Boxcino Brackets, making your predictions on which fighters will advance to the semifinal and final rounds in both the Jr. Middleweight and Heavyweight rounds of the 2015 Boxcino Tournament.

2.Include your name, phone number, and e-mail address on your contest entry.

3.Submit the brackets on the Banner Promotions website: LINK TO BRACKETS PAGE HERE!!!!!

4.The contestant who picks the right fighters who advance to the semifinals and finals in both weight classes or has the closest bracket predictions will win. If there is more than one winner, the contestants will be entered into a random drawing to determine the ultimate grand prize winner and the first runner up.

5.Please Note: Each contestant must submit brackets for BOTH weight classes, Jr. Middleweight and Heavyweight, in order to be eligible to win.

Deadline: All brackets must be submitted by Wednesday, February 11, 2015 by 11:59PM EST., in order to be eligible to win.

The Grand Prize:
Two ringside tickets to the 2015 Boxcino finals on Friday, May 22, 2015, to be televised live on ESPN Friday Night Fights.
Two-night stay in one standard hotel room from Thursday, May 21, 2015 to Saturday, May 23, 2015.
Meals to accommodate two people during the two-night hotel stay.
Round-trip, coach airfare for two to the 2015 Boxcino finals.
Invitation to the weigh-in and post-fight press conference.
Two 2015 Boxcino t-shirts.

First Runner Up:
Two general admission tickets to the 2015 Boxcino finals on Friday, May 22, 2015.
Two 2015 Boxcino t-shirts.

Contest winners will be contacted via telephone and/or e-mail by the end of April and announced publicly through press release and via Banner Promotions social media.

Additional Rules & Restrictions:
Each contestant must submit brackets for BOTH weight classes, Jr. Middleweight and Heavyweight, in order to be eligible to win.
Only one (1) entry per person is permitted.
This contest is open to all legal US citizens ages 18 years or older.
This contest is void where prohibited or restricted by law.
Those ineligible to enter this contest include: Employees, officers, directors, managers, fighters, and family members of those participating in or associated with the Boxcino tournament, ESPN, the tournament site locations, and any other associated Banner Promotions, Inc. affiliates.
The Boxcino Bracket Challenge is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
By participating in this contest, entrants are confirming that they have complied with all rules and regulations of the contest and are eligible participants.
Banner Promotions, Inc. reserves the right, at its discretion, to remove or deny entry to the contest winner and/or guest if either participates in disruptive, harmful, inappropriate, or threatening behavior.
All decisions and results are final.
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Singapore – The UFC® today announced their inaugural, and much anticipated UFC Fight Night Manila event in partnership with SM Lifestyle Entertainment inc. The first UFC event in Asia of 2015 will take place in Manila on the 16th May 2015 at the city’s destination venue, SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Executive Vice President and General Manager, UFC Asia, Ken Berger said: “We are thrilled to be kicking off our Asia event calendar in Manila this year. The UFC has a loyal and passionate fan base in the Philippines and we’re looking forward to bringing the very best of mixed martial arts (MMA) to Manila for the first time. We have found a great event partner in SM Lifestyle Entertainment inc. and are excited that the SM Mall of Asia Arena will be home to a historic UFC event that fans will remember for years to come.”

“We are really excited to have the first UFC event in the Philippines,” says President of SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Mr. Edgar Tejerero, “We are happy to share that this is the only UFC event to take place in South East Asia this year.” He continues. “At SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc., we are determined to bringing topnotch sports and entertainment events for the enjoyment of every Filipino. We have already introduced the first pre-season game of a globally-renowned basketball association, and have recently brought the world’s top tennis players into our venue. It is only fitting that SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc. welcomes the MMA phenomenon which is UFC into the Philippines.”

The UFC is the fastest growing sports organization in the world and is viewed as the pinnacle of MMA by both athletes and fans. With close to 40 Asian fighters signed, the UFC in Asia is growing at an exponential rate. Previous events in the region have taken place in Macao, Singapore and Tokyo attracting tens of thousands of fans and millions of TV viewers. Last November, former UFC champion Carlos “The Natural Born Killer” Condit was in Manila for a media tour and fan experience, hosting an open workout event which attracted over 4,000 fans.

The UFC Fight Night Manila event will be broadcast all over the world giving the UFC’s international fans a taste of the immense passion and support the Philippines fans have for MMA.

Tickets will go on-sale in March, launched in conjunction with SM Tickets at www.smtickets.com.

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About the UFC®
Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the UFC® is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in 129 countries and territories to nearly 800 million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT® (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, UFC branded apparel, DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

RED CORNER BLUE CORNER

8 ROUNDS – JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS
Rafael Vazquez vs. Joseph Rios
Brooklyn, NY San Antonio, TX
12-1, 10 KO’s 13-11-2, 4 KO’s
122 lbs. 120¼ lbs.

8 ROUNDS – FEATHERWEIGHTS
Luis Rosa vs. Noel Echevarria
New Haven, CT Winston-Salem, NC
17-0, 7 KO’s 11-4, 6 KO’s
123¾ lbs. 122¾ lbs.

8 ROUNDS – CRUISERWEIGHTS
Travis Peterkin vs. Julio Garcia
Brooklyn, NY Boston, MA
13-0, 5 KO’s 6-7, 3 KO’s
180½ lbs. 182 lbs.

6 ROUNDS – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Shawn Cameron vs. Daniel Calzada
Brooklyn, NY Dona Ana, New Mexico
7-0, 4 KO’s 10-12-2, 2 KO’s
154 lbs. 153¾ lbs.

6 ROUNDS – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Christopher Galeano vs. Alexander Mancera
Bronx, NY Queens, NY
5-0 8-5-1, 5 KO’s
155¾ lbs. 156 lbs.

6 ROUNDS – LIGHTWEIGHTS
Wesley Ferrer vs. Hilario Medina
Brooklyn, NY Longmont, CO
6-0, 4 KO’s 2-4
134¼ lbs. 134½ lbs.

6 ROUNDS – SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Steed Woodall vs. Jas Phipps
Miami, FL Kileen, TX
6-0, 4 KO’s 5-5-1, 2 KO’s
161 lbs. 160½ lbs.

6 ROUNDS – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Ivan Golub vs. Rashawn McCain
Brooklyn, NY Tucson, AZ
4-0, 3 KO’s 2-2
156½ lbs. 155½ lbs.

6 ROUNDS – LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Lennox Allen vs. Kojo Issah
New York, NY Frederick, MD
17-0-1, 10 KO’s 14-1-1, 7 KO’s
173 lbs. 173 lbs.

4 ROUNDS – JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Ivan Baranchyk vs. Ian James
Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn, NY
3-0, 2 KO’s 3-10-1, 1 KO
138½ lbs. 138½ lbs.

The event on January 29 is sponsored by Manfredi Auto Group and Everlast. Tickets remain on sale and are priced at $125, $100, $75 and $55. Tables are also available for purchase for this event, with VIP tables going for $1,000 per table (5 seats at $200 per seat), Ringside tables for $500 (5 seats at $100), and $375 tables (5 seats at $75). Tickets are available for purchase by calling the DiBella Entertainment office at (212) 947-2577. Doors open at 6:30pm with the first bout scheduled for 7:00pm.