It’s popular these days to rip Victor Ortiz. It’s also a little too easy, perhaps because his quick mix of honesty and anger create a convenient target. The heart is always there, on Ortiz’ sleeve and never hidden beneath layers and loopholes. But it’s the heart that’s under attack. The critics say Ortiz doesn’t have one.

In our playground full of clichés, heart has been confused with courage. For anybody who forgot or just didn’t know, Ortiz, battered as a child in a broken home, became the legal guardian for a younger brother. That’s heart, the kind that many of our celebrated winners could use a lot more of.

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra

So, please, don’t question Ortiz’ heart. It’s proven. But you can question his focus. That’s the issue Saturday night in his welterweight date with unbeaten Andre Berto in a HBO bout at The Foxwoods in Connecticut. Talented and powerful, Ortiz’ resume is tarnished with two fights that leave questions about whether he can fight, adjust and endure long enough to prevail in the face of a tough challenge

He didn’t against Marcos Maidana, whom he knocked down three times before his infamous surrender in the sixth about a year-and-half ago at Staples Center in Los Angeles. About 18 months later in a troublesome moment that led critics to recall his loss to Maidana, he seemed to settle for a majority draw in December after knocking down Lamont Peterson twice in the third in Las Vegas.

In the immediate aftermath of both, Ortiz didn’t sound or appear frustrated. Only after an unrelenting tide of media criticism did he react in anger.

“I felt like a piece of gum on the bottom of someone’s shoes,’’ he said in February during a news conference in New York. “So, I said to myself: ‘It’s my turn.’

“I’m going in against some tough opposition. Andre Berto is no chump. But now I’m hungry. I’m tired of people saying I have no heart or no balls. At the end of the day, I’m not scared of getting in the ring or challenging anyone.’’

But there’s more to the task than having the courage to make that walk from the dressing room, through the crowd, up the steps, under the ropes and into harm’s way. There’s finishing the job and that’s what Ortiz has yet to do in a defining fashion. Berto gives him that opportunity.

Ortiz is armed with powerful motivation. The media have piled on, putting a massive chip on his shoulder. As motivation, it figures to drive him and make him very dangerous during the first three to four rounds. But then what?

The guess here is that Berto will be careful early and still around later. Once the anger is gone as an emotional weapon, Ortiz will have to rely and re-fashion his evident talent with adjustments. He’ll have to think his way through adversity. I don’t think he will, simply because he has yet to show that he can. Still, a part of me will be cheering for him because of the media criticism arrayed against him.

His honesty, that heart, makes him a likable underdog at a career crossroads that could either propel him to real stardom or make him as forgettable as that chewed-up piece of gum.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA — The most dangerous times for leading contenders are the fights they take while waiting for that world title shot. Super featherweight contender Eloy Perez has had a top three world ranking for sometime now, but still waits for that right opportunity to come his way. Tonight at the Longshoremen’s Hall, Perez steps into the ring against unknown once-beaten Mexican Alejandro Rodriguez, risking everything he has worked so hard for in the process. Their ten-round bout headlines the Telefutura Solo Boxeo telecast. Fighters weighed in Thursday at the Radisson Hotel Fisherman’s Wharf just around the corner from where the fights take place tonight.

Perez (20-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, California will be making the third defense of his WBO NABO Super Featherweight belt, a regional title he claimed with a fifth-round stoppage of Juan Santiago back in December 2009. It was a win that catapulted Perez into the WBO world rankings at 130-pounds. Currently, Perez sits at the WBO #2 position in the division, a spot that means the next call his manager Kathy Garcia gets could be from Scotland – the home of world champion Ricky Burns.

Before Perez can look at that possibility, he must first get past Rodriguez (12-1, 6 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Rodriguez represents that great unknown, as almost all of his fights have taken place in a small arena in Jalisco. In fact, every one of his widely reported bouts have taken place in Jalisco, while it is likely he has more fights under his belt than his listed record indicates. Rodriguez’ claim to fame, if you could call it that, was that he scored a twelve-round stoppage of a 5-0 fighter for the Jalisco State Lightweight title in August of last year. However, Rodriguez’ last win was over an 0-1 opponent, a level of opposition that will not adequately prepare anyone for Eloy Perez. Rodriguez weighed in at 129, while Perez scaled 129 ½-pounds Thursday.

In the televised co-main event, 2008 U.S. Olympian Gary Russell Jr. (14-0, 9 KOs) of Capitol Heights, Maryland will take on long tenured Mexican journeyman Adolfo Landeros (21-18-1, 10 KOs) of Hidalgo, Hidalgo, Mexico in a six-round super featherweight fight. Russell had been slated to appear on a pay-per-view card last Saturday, but had several opponents fall out before finally his bout was scratched. Russell, competing for the second time this year, weighed in at 128-pounds Thursday.

Landeros (21-18-1, 10 KOs) of Hidalgo, Hidalgo, Mexico is as experienced as they come, and enters the bout off of a rare victory. Landeros ended an eight-fight winless streak with a four-round stoppage of usually durable Juan Jose Beltran on April 1st. Prior to the win over Beltran, the last time Landeros tasted victory was a June 2008 split decision over then unbeaten prospect Alejandro Perez. Making the win stand out even more, Perez recently bombed out contender Antonio Escalante and looks to be a player at 126-pounds. Landeros, a super bantamweight in his prime, weighed in at 128-pounds Thursday.

In the first television swing bout, now likely to make air with the announcement today that Solo Boxeo will run two hours long, San Francisco’s Jonathan Chicas will make his debut against Maja Khali of Oakland, California in a four-round light welterweight fight. Chicas has been one of the better amateurs from the Bay Area in recent years while training under Ben Bautista at San Francisco’s Straight Forward Club. Khali, also making his pro debut, weighed in at 139-pounds, while Chicas scaled 140.

In the next swing bout, former amateur standout Bruno Escalante Jr. (2-0-1, 1 KO) of San Carlos, California by way of Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines will take on tough journeyman Shaun Solomon (1-2-1) of Moreno Valley, California in a four-round super bantamweight fight. Though he does not have a glossy record, Solomon should provide Escalante with a stern test. Escalante, the 2008 National PAL Champion at 112-pounds, admittedly would be better suited for a lower weight class, but has taken fights at super bantam due to the dearth of available opponents any lower down the scale. Escalante scaled 120, while Solomon came in at 121 ½-pounds.

Exciting brawler Joe Gumina (1-0, 1 KO) of nearby San Bruno, California makes his much anticipated return to the Longshoremen’s Hall Friday against debuting Harry Gopaul of Sacramento, California in a four-round cruiserweight fight. Gumina excited the local fight fans with a first-round demolition of Jose Jesus Hurtado at the Longshoremen’s Hall in February. Gumina had planned to return to the ring in late March, but promoters in Fairfield, California had a hard time finding an opponent willing to get in the ring with the slugger. Gopaul, a professional mixed martial artist, gets the assignment tonight. Gumina weighed in at 181, while Gopaul came in at 183-pounds.

In another interesting cruiserweight attraction set for four rounds, Lamont Williams (3-1, 1 KO) of Fairfield will take on Juan Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO) of Redwood City, California. Williams comes in off of a hard-fought four-round split decision over much larger heavyweight Hector Martinez in February. A rematch had been planned between the two, before Williams was sidelined with a minor injury. Hopefully Williams is fully healed, because he may have his hands full with Hernandez, a powerhouse cruiserweight in the mold of former champion Kelvin Davis. Hernandez bombed out Seth Keeling in his debut in August of last year, but has been idle since. Hernandez scaled 197, while Williams came in at 194-pounds.

Tickets for the event, promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, Don Chargin Productions, Jorge Marron Productions and Paco Presents, are available online at http://theboxingtruth.vbotickets.com/events

Quick Weigh-in Results:

WBO NABO Super Featherweight Championship, 10 Rounds
Perez 129 ½
Rodriguez 129

Super Featherweights, 6 Rounds
Russell Jr. 128
Landeros 128

Light Welterweights, 4 Rounds
Chicas 140
Khali 139

Super Bantamweights, 4 Rounds
Escalante Jr. 120
Solomon 121 ½

Cruiserweights, 4 Rounds
Gumina 181
Gopaul 183

Cruiserweights, 4 Rounds
Williams 194
Hernandez 197

Photos by Mark Ortega

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

Once again 15rounds.com was prominent in the annual and prestigious Barney Awards for 2010 as staff writers took home three awards as Bart Barry took home an honorable mention for best News Story and Norm Frauenheim once again took home multiple awards as he took second place for feature under 1750 words and also was an honorable mention for Investigative Reporting for a piece that ran in Ring Magazine.

Barry and Frauenheim will get their awards on May 6th at the annual BWAA Awards banquet which will take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

This was the 10th annual Boxing Writers Association of America writing contest, known as the “Barneys” in honor of Barney Nagler, the late former president of the BWAA.

Dmitriy “Star of David” Salita notched his third consecutive victory Wednesday evening by earning a workmanlike eight round unanimous decision over offensively inefficient Ronnie Warrior Jr. at the Oceana Club in his hometown of Brooklyn, NY.

With a standing room only crowd cheering him on, Salita took the fight to Warrior from the opening bell, but tumbled to the canvas shortly thereafter following a clash of heads. Those on hand would soon learn that Warrior’s surname gave no indication of the way he fought.

While Salita spent much of the bout ripping body and head shots in close quarters, Warrior struggled to move his hands and relied on dirty tactics. On multiple occasions, the Oklahoma City, OK native led with his head, held and forced his elbow into Salita’s neck during clinches.

Rather than let his counterpart’s dirty tactics take him off his game plan, Salita continued to dominate the action until the completion of the 8th and final round of the welterweight contest.

Scores were 80-72 twice and 79-73.

Salita, whose only defeat came via first round TKO against Amir Khan in a world title bout, improves 33-1-1 with 17 KO’s. Warrior falls to 13-5-1 (4 KO’s) after the disappointing effort.

In his first fight in nearly two years, Luis Collazo (30-4, 15 KO’s, 149lbs) made his return to boxing (and New York City) against Franklin Gonzalez (13-8, 10 KO’s, 151lbs). Despite the disparity in wins, Gonzalez was expected to be crafty enough to show how much rust Collazo had built up during his layoff, and he had enough pop in his punches to show whether or not Collazo was capable of handling the punches at the junior middleweight weight class.

After a boisterous entrance, Collazo went right to work. Both fighters were left handed, so Collazo skipped right past the feeling out process and tried going right into Gonzalez’ chest. Despite not being known as a big puncher, Collazo’s strengths lie in his in-fighting. By the second round, Gonzalez was no match for Collazo. A short left followed by a right dropped Gonzalez just a few seconds before the bell to end the round had sounded. As the third round started, Collazo did not want to take too many risks, so he just went right back to the game plan that was already working.

Collazo landed a sharp combination consisting of a straight left, right hook, right body shot that seemed to hurt Gonzalez. Collazo followed up with a left uppercut, which sent Gonzalez down. After beating the count, Gonzalez was immediately met with another uppercut, and the referee was forced to stop the fight at the 2:14 mark, giving Collazo a TKO victory in the third round.

Although Philadelphia junior middleweight Greg “Hot Shot” Hackett’s professional ledger doesn’t coincide with his moniker, he’s without question tougher than a two dollar steak; or shall we say Philly Cheesesteak. Hackett, 2-8, dropped a hard fought unanimous decision to Mike Ruiz of Long Island, NY where he made the hometown favorite work throughout the six round contest.

Ruiz, 12-4 (6 KO’s), was the busier fighter, landed the cleaner punches and scored a knockdown in the final round with a straight right hand, but Hackett was consistently applying pressure throughout the bout. Hackett connected with a few solid shots that garnered a reaction from the crowd, although he wasn’t consistent enough to make a case for a victory.

Scores were 60-53, 59-54 and 58-55.

Wildly popular Brooklynite Rafael Vazquez scored an emotional third round TKO over Puerto Rico’s Juan Melendez. With autism awareness serving as a focal point of the card, Vazquez proudly sported trunks that read “I love a child with autism”. It was clear that he was out to make a splash to honor his child while pleasing his fans; and that’s exactly what he did. Vazquez was the busier fighter during the first two rounds, where he displayed solid body work.

In the third, Vazquez dominated Melendez and a hard combination sent the latter tumbling into the ropes, which prompted Referee Benjiy Esteves to rule it a knockdown. Before Vazquez could continue his assault, Mendez’ corner elected to end the junior lightweight contest by throwing in the towel.

Time of stoppage was 1:48.

Vazquez improves to 6-0 with 4 knockouts. Melendez slips to 2-5-1.

The first fight of the evening saw Hamid Abdul-Mateen (1-1, 180lbs) in the ring against a man with one name; Bakari (0-1). The bout was a sloppy affair. Abdul-Mateen was the more talented of the two and used his athleticism to gain advantage over Bakari. Bakari did not show much offensive arsenal.

He would go into a shell any time Abdul-Mateen threw a flurry, and after the fracas was over with, he would attempt a wild hook. Abdul-Mateen threw mostly flurries to the body, as Bakari’s defensive shell was difficult to work around. In the end, Abdul-Mateen walked away with a unanimous decision victory with all three judges scoring the bout 40-36 in his favor.

Arben Paloka contributed to this report by covering the Collazo-Gonzalez and Abdul-Mateen-Bakari bouts.

Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that the much anticipated rematch between WBC Lightweight champion Humberto Soto and Urbano Antillon scheduled for the May 7 Pacquiao – Mosley undercard will not happen sue to Soto’s unhappiness and impending exit from Top Rank

“We are no longer with Top Rank and he is not fighting Antillon for sure,” said Fight attorney Michael Miller. “We’ll go out and find out if any other promoter is interested in signing him. We’ll start on that next week and see if Gary [Shaw], Lou [DiBella], Golden Boy, and anyone else, might be interested in making a bid for the guy. And then we have to see if we will seek legal action against Top Rank for the lost purses, which we certainly will. I don’t know why we wouldn’t.”

Miller said Soto and co-manager Antonio Lozada have been unhappy with his promotional agreement for some time and hired him last week as a co-manager and as an attorney to look at his contract.

Miller said there were several issues, including that Soto had been told the contract expired in October, even though Miller said he believed the deal had expired in 2009.

Miller said another serious issue was that even though the promotional contract was with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, he was being paid — and shorted — by Zanfer Promotions’ Fernando Beltran, who works closely with Top Rank on numerous fighters.

“Soto’s contract was with Top Rank and he was getting checks from Beltran and they were 40, 50, 60 percent of what they should be,” Miller said.

Miller said Soto was due a minimum purse of $200,000 to fight for a world title and $300,000 to defend the title.

“He was never paid $300,000 and Top Rank rarely even showed up at his fights,” Miller said. “[Soto and Lozada] would complain to Beltran about the money and he would promise to make it up. He never did. Our quick and dirty numbers are that they are $1.285 million short to Humberto compared to the minimums they owed him for something like 10 or 11 fights. He would complain. He was pissed. He was told they would make it up. And because he was shorted, that means Lozada is owed about $425,000.”

Miller said Soto continued to fight because he needed the money he was getting and because he was hopeful that he would receive what he was owed.

“I wrote Top Rank a letter [Wednesday] advising that he has been grossly underpaid and we need some answers,” Miller said. “Why was Beltran involved since Soto never signed a contract with Beltran?”

Miller said besides being underpaid on his minimum purses, Beltran sometimes paid him in installments — sometimes using cash — on the money he did receive, and another time his check bounced.

“I’m trying to get as much information as possible,” said Top Rank President Todd DeBeouf. “I’m reaching out to them. All I hear is stuff from other people. Right now, our primary issue is is the Soto-Antillon rematch happening? There is a high probability that it is not. If that’s the case, we will make adjustments.”

“Obviously, the supporting cast is fantastic with the return of [former middleweight champ] Kelly Pavlik and with the Wilfredo Vazquez-[Jorge] Arce [junior featherweight] title fight. We’d like to add something sensational.”

DuBoef said that without a rematch against Soto, Antillon likely would challenge Brandon Rios, another of the lightweight titleholders whom Top Rank promotes, on July 9 on Showtime.

“I’d like to do that fight,” duBoef said.

CLICK TO ORDER CHAMPIONSHIP CARD
Atlantic City, NJ—Unbeaten heavyweight Bryant “Bye Bye” Jennings (pictured to the left) faces another stiff test when he boxes fellow-Philadelphian David Williams in a scheduled six-round heavyweight contest evening, April 23, in the Palladium Ballroom at Caesars Atlantic City.

Topping the seven-bout card is a scheduled 12-round contest between Omar Sheika, of Paterson, NJ, and Garrett Wilson, of Philadelphia, PA, for the vacant united States Boxing Association (USBA) cruiserweight title. The first of seven fights begins at 7.30 p.m. in the 1,450-seat ballroom, the first time it has been used for boxing.

Jennings, 26, earned a six-round decision over Theron Johnson, of Chicago, IL, in his last fight Feb. 26 at Bally’s Atlantic City. He is 6-0, 3 K0s.

As an amateur, Jennings made it to the finals of the National Golden Gloves and the National PAL, losing each time by decision to veteran lefty Lenroy Thompson.

Williams, 33. is making his first start in two years after compiling a 6-3-1 record with two knockouts. He was scheduled to fight March 8 at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL, but his fight, scheduled as a walkout bout, was canceled due to time constraints.

A pro since 2003, Williams has not had many problems with unbeaten opposition. He was the only man to defeat Michael Carr, of Pittsburgh, PA, who was 10-0 when Williams outpointed him in 2003. Williams also was the first boxer to defeat Adam Harris, of Worcester, MA, when he met in 2009.

In his most ambitious start, Williams was stopped in seven rounds by Aaron Williams, of Las Vegas, when they fought in 2009. Williams was 18-1-1 at the time.

Five additional fights complete the card.

Tickets priced at $50 and $75 are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing Promotions (215-765-0922) and all Ticketmaster outlets (800-736-1420). They also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com and www.Ticketmaster.com .

# # #

For press credentials, contact Maureen (215-765-0922)
Press request deadline: Friday, April 16, 2011.

ABOUT PELTZ BOXING PROMOTIONS

Peltz Boxing Promotions Inc., has been staging fights in and around the Philadelphia area since 1969, beginning at the Legendary Blue Horizon in North Philadelphia, expanding to The Arena in West Philadelphia and on to The Spectrum in South Philadelphia. Numerous other smaller venues also have hosted Peltz shows as well as nearly all of the Atlantic City casinos. Many of the sport’s best have boxed for J Russell Peltz over the last four decades, including Hall-of-Famers Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Matthew Saad Muhammad, Michael Spinks, Roberto Duran, Aaron Pryor, Jeff Chandler, Emile Griffith, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Bobby Chacon and Pernell Whittaker. Peltz was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, class of 2004. Visit the website at www.peltzboxing.com

ISLA VERDE, Puerto Rico (April 13, 2011) – The four fighters who will compete in this Saturday’s doubleheader on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) participated in the final press conference Wednesday at the Verdanza Hotel here.

In the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, Juan Manuel Lopez (30-0, 27 KOs) will risk his unblemished record and World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight title against former International Boxing Federation (IBF) 126-pound titleholder Orlando “Siri’’ Salido (34-11-2, 22 KOs), of Ciudad Obregon, Mexico.

The co-feature from Ruben Rodriguez Coliseo in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, will pit promising, undefeated Luis Cruz (17-0, 14 KOs), of Philadelphia by way of Las Piedras, Puerto Rico, versus late substitute and No. 8 IBF contender, Martin “El Brochas’’ Honorio (29-5-1, 15 KOs), of Mexico City, in a 10-round junior lightweight bout. Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc. will promote the doubleheader.

What the fighters had to say:

JUANMA LOPEZ

“I am very excited to be fighting at home and have worked very hard so that I can give my fans as good a fight as I can.

“Salido is a very good fighter. He is strong and will come after me all night long. I have to be smart and try to win as many rounds as I can, but if I hurt him I will go for the knockout.

“The Puerto Rico-Mexico rivalry is one full of tradition and I hope that this fight will become one of the most remembered in the history of these great confrontations between the two countries.”

ORLANDO SALIDO

“This is an opportunity for me to become a world champion away and I look forward to this fight. I expect it to be hard, but with my great preparation I feel that I can win.

“I am not intimidated to come to his home country for this fight. I know what I am capable of doing and I will be ready for war on Saturday.

“Many great fighters from both Mexico and Puerto Rico have been part of this great rivalry and I look forward to having this considered one of the best fights in the history of it.’’

LUIS CRUZ

“I am very happy to be part of this card and that I will be able to showcase my talent to a lot of people as part of the SHOWTIME telecast.

“I have a big responsibility fighting at home and will make my country proud on Saturday night.”

MIGUEL COTTO (Three-time world champion and Cruz’ promoter)

“We know that Luis Cruz is ready for this type of fight. He has trained very hard and will be ready to win.”

MARTIN HONORIO

“I am grateful for this opportunity. A win will put me on the road to another world championship fight.

“I have come all the way here to give it my best and to win this fight. It should be a good fight and I am ready for it.”

The old Boxing adage “Win and look good next time” applied to Adrien “The Problem” Broner 20-0(16), the young Cincinnati prospect scrapped by former world champion Daniel Ponce De Leon to claim a narrow points win. It wasn’t the most impressive performance of Broner’s career but it was against by far his toughest opponent to date. Next up he returns on HBO on 11 June against a resurgent Jason Litzau, it’s another tough fight for “The Problem” but one that could set him up for a world title fight later in 2011. At the moment he’s rated WBC 10, WBA 5 & WBO 6.

Hello Adrien, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Your last fight was a big step up for you, beating Daniel Ponce De Leon. What are your thoughts on that fight? Were you happy with your performance?

Adrien Broner – It was a great fight, I stuck to the game plan and did what I was supposed to do to get the win.

Anson Wainwright – Many people have commented on that fight saying you were negative and not very good to watch. Would you like to respond to that?

Adrien Broner – You know I wasn’t trying to be a negative person, I was just trying to be myself and do it as comfortably as possible.

Anson Wainwright – Do you think you learned a lot from fighting De Leon?

Adrien Broner – I definately learned a lot. Going to somebody elses territory and taking the win it really showed me lot. I’ll do the same things, stay focused and do what I got to do to win. I think I did a great job and put on a helluva performance.

Anson Wainwright – When do you hope to be back in action next?

Adrien Broner – June 11, it’s supposed to be Jason Litzau on HBO. I’m hearing it may take place in Texas but I don’t know yet.

Anson Wainwright – You were a very good amateur and had a lot of fights. Can you tell us what titles you won in the amateur’s and what your final record was? Can you tell us what happened to prevent yourself from fighting in the last Olympics?

Adrien Broner – National Silver Gloves, Junior Olympics I got the bronze, Junior Golden Gloves. I had over 300 fights, I know I lost 15 for sure. I never got the chance to turn up (For the Olympics) and you know things came up in my life and I had a couple of setbacks, I’m back now.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us who is in your team? Your manager, trainer, promoter? What gym do you train at?

Adrien Broner – I’m with Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya. I’m with Al Haymon Management. I’m co-promoted by R&R promotions with Andrew Williams in Cincinnati. Mike Stafford is my trainer too. I have a helluva team, my dad comes in and helps. I train in various places, sometimes I go to Colorado, sometimes I go to Texas, you know we move around. I train in Cincinnati at the Mount Arben PAL gym.

Anson Wainwright – You mentioned you’re with R&R Promotions who are based out of Cincinnati and you’ve fought there several times to date. Is building a home following something that’s important to you?

Adrien Broner – It’s very important to me, because a lot of people don’t have the fan base at home and I have a pretty good following. Soon we should have a big fight.

Anson Wainwright – If you fought at home now, how many fans do you think would come and watch you?

Adrien Broner – The sky’s the limit right now. I’d probably bring the whole of Cincinnati if I fought at home.

Anson Wainwright – You fight at 130 what are your thoughts on that division? How far do you think you are from fighting for a world title?

Adrien Broner – About one or two fights, I think I should be a world champion by the end of this year. There’s some ok guys in my division but I know I’m going to wipe out the one’s out above me.

Anson Wainwright – Have you sparred with any of the top guys at or around that weight?

Adrien Broner – Yeah, The Peterson’s, Devon Alexander, Shawn Porter, Ricardo Williams, I sparred a lot of guys, Diego Magdeleno. It went good, it was a great experience, I do what I’ve got to do, just be myself.

Anson Wainwright – How did you get into Boxing in Cincinnati growing up?

Adrien Broner – Growing up in Cincinnati was very rough, I’m coming up in the hood and rough areas. I put it all together as fuel to my fire in boxing and that’s what I’ve done and It worked out, which is great.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing? What are your hobbies and Interests?

Adrien Broner – Sometimes I play basketball, listen to music, I like Rap music. Chill with my family and play with my kids.

Anson Wainwright – Aaron Pryor was with you for the Ponce De Leon fight, Is he one of your Boxing heroes?

Adrien Broner – He was one of my first trainers when I first came to the gym, we hit the pads together and stuff so I know Aaron pretty well. I also like Roy Jones Jnr & Floyd Mayweather

Anson Wainwright – People have said after you’re last fight your Mayweather Lite. What do you think of those sort of comments?

Adrien Broner – I like them, I agree.

Anson Wainwright – Since your last fight you have travelled overseas to visit American soldiers along with Oscar De La Hoya, Seth Mitchell & Daniel Jacobs. Can you tell us about the trip?

Adrien Broner – It was great, it was the experience of my life, it’s not everyday you get to go overseas and see what’s really going on out there. These soldiers are really fighting for us and If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be able to fight today. Some of it was very emotional and touching to see those guys, they’re dedicated to what they do. They look at us like hero’s but at the end of the day they’re the real heroes because they’re the ones over there putting their life on the line defending the country. It was great.

Anson Wainwright – What are your goals in Boxing?

Adrien Broner – I’m trying to be not just one of the best to come from Cincinnati but one of the best to ever be in the Boxing business.

Anson Wainwright – Finally is there anything you’d like to say in closing?

Adrien Broner – There’s definitely a problem in the game, that’s why they call me the problem. You can catch me on facebook on Adrien “The Problem” Broner or follow me on twitter at ajthe problem21.

Thanks for your time Adrien

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

Midweek Musings – I hear that after James Kirkland’s loss his trainer Kenny Adams, passed out. He’s been to hospital and I’m told doing well. Last year I spent three months in Las Vegas and spent a good deal of time with Kenny, he’s one of Boxing’s characters. He’s a helluva trainer too. I’d just like to wish him well an hope to see him back ringside soon…Rumours are that Humberto Soto hasn’t signed to face Urbano Antillon in what was a much anticipated rematch. Apparently his contract has run out with Zanfer & Top Rank and he is exploring other options, a move accross the street to Golden Boy is possible…Over on this side of the pond the Amir Khan-Paul McCloskey show has gone from PPV on Sky to ordinary Sky Sports to Primetime in the space of a week. I rate McCloskey highly and think he’s more than capable of giving Khan some trouble, though you have to figure Khan’s speed and extra class should tell…I’m looking forward to the Omar Narvaez-Cesar Seda fight Friday in Argentina, Narvaez is long reigning and very experienced champion but Seda is confident and a very live underdog…Also on Friday in Spain Jason Booth goes to fight Kiko Martinez for the vacant European Super Featherweight title. That could be a closely contested fight…On Showtime Juanma Lopez takes on grizzled former champion Orlando Salido, who’s a tough night for anyone…In the HBO show I’m expecting Andre Berto to stop Victor Ortiz who moves up to 147.

– Saturday, April 16, 2011 8:00pm ET featuring Showdown Fights – Shootout at the UCCU Center, Orem, Utah. The main event has former UFC and WEC fighter Tim “The Wrecking Machine” McKenzie (12-8) and Jordan “Mata Ele” Smith (15-1) will face off in welterweight action. Only one of McKenzie’s twenty professional fights has reached the judges, and he’ll be looking to rebound from a losing effort to former Ultimate Fighter star Seth Baczynski in December. Smith scored a rear-naked choke submission over Mario Sartori in his last bout and has only suffered one defeat thus far in his career. The co-main event of the evening will see Team Alpha Male product and UFC veteran Justin Buchholz taking on hometown favorite Steven “Razor” Sharp. Buchholz looks to return to his winning ways in the Showdown Fights: Shootout, while Sharp will be looking to improve on his win over Brad McRae at “Showdown Fights: New Blood.” 11 Total Fights.

– Saturday, April 16, 2011 8:00pm ET featuring Cage Fury Fighting Championship 7 – No Mercy at The Resorts Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City, NJ. The promotion is back with an 11 bout card featuring a sensational main event headlined by former UFC and IFL vet Andre Gusmao (6-2) VS undefeated upstart Tim Williams (5-0). Both Gusmao and Williams are known for their aggressive style with only one fight between them ever having gone to a decision; and that lone decision was a fight Gusmao had with reigning UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, Jon Jones, back at UFC 87. Gusmao and Williams will be true to form on April 16 and give the fans a fight loaded with fireworks. The co-main event features two seasoned lightweights as Lester Caslow (6-4), fresh off a stint with Bellator looks to test Eddie Fyvie (8-4).

– Saturday, April 16, 2011 9:00pm ET featuring Ring of Fire – Backlash at the 1St Bank Center, Denver, Colorado. Headlining the event will be a clash of two of the top Welterweight prospects on the professional circuit. ROF Young Gun Champion, Brandon “Rukus” Thatch will be defending his belt against challenger Chris “The Hammer” Holland. There is no more dynamic exciting fighter in the welterweight division then Brandon “Ruckus” Thatch. He is a lifelong martial artist whose father and grandfather were both professional fighters. After a short stint in Kickboxing Thatch set his sights on MMA, and has never looked back. A neck injury de-railed the young star, and after a 20 month absence he returned at ROF 39, where he finished Las Vegas fighter Danny DEE-1 Davis in a non title bout. Thatch now looks forward to returning to the ROF cage and defending his YOUNG GUN Title belt against Chris Holland. Thatch won’t have to look very far for motivation as Holland has beaten two of Thatch’s training partners in the ROF cage. 8 Scheduled fights.

– Saturday, April 16, 2011 8:00pm ET featuring Saturday Night of KO Fights: 3 Future World Champions at the Greensboro Coliseum, North Carolina. Undefeated popular Light Heavyweight Scott “Cujo” Sigmon takes on Tiwon Taylor in a ten round bout for the UNBC America’s Light Heavyweight title. Sigmon of Bedford, Virginia has a record of 15-2 with seven knockouts and has a great fan base in the Virginia area. Sigmon is riding a seven bout winning streak and has defeated the likes of Abdul Gillard (2-0); Frankie Filipone (2-0); Toris Brewer (14-2); Julius Kennedy (7-1) and his last fight he scored a 4th round stoppage over John Michael Terry. Taylor is a veteran who has been in with the “who’s-who” of the Light Heavyweight divisions.

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Featherweight prospect and 2008 U.S. Olympian Gary Russell Jr. will make his second ring appearance of the year this Friday night in the televised co-main event on Telefutura Solo Boxeo. Russell, who had been slated to appear on the ‘Action Heroes’ pay-per-view event this past Saturday in Las Vegas, Nevada will take on long tenured journeyman Adolfo Landeros in a six-round bout.

Russell (14-0, 9 KOs) of Capitol Heights, Maryland was slated to fight on the free preview portion of the televised card at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on Saturday, but had several opponents fall out before finally his bout was scratched. Russell was pegged for a step-up opponent in the form of former prospect Ira Terry, who withdrew earlier last week. Then Russell had been tabbed to me undefeated replacement opponent Sherali Dostiev, who missed his flight to Las Vegas.

Luckily for Russell, the co-feature slot had yet to be filled for this Friday’s edition of Solo Boxeo, emanating from the Longshoremen’s Hall in San Francisco, California. Landeros (21-18-1, 10 KOs) of Hidalgo, Hidalgo, Mexico is as experienced as they come, and enters the bout off of a rare victory. Landeros ended an eight-fight winless streak with a four-round stoppage of usually durable Juan Jose Beltran just eleven days ago, April 1st. Prior to that, the last Landeros victory was a June 2008 split decision over Alejandro Perez, a win that looks even better in retrospect. Perez recently bombed out contender Antonio Escalante and looks to be a contender at 126-pounds.

In the televised main event, WBO #2 ranked super featherweight Eloy Perez defends his WBO NABO Super Featherweight title and risks his world ranking against unknown Mexican contender Alejandro Rodriguez in a ten-rounder.

Tickets for the event, promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, Don Chargin Productions, Jorge Marron Productions and Paco Presents, are available online at http://theboxingtruth.vbotickets.com/events

Photo by Jim Wyatt

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

Well, nobody saw that one coming.

Or should I say, nobody saw those TWO coming?

Or three or four…

It was a weekend of upsets and almost upsets, where a legend’s legend grew even in defeat and prospects were halted in their tracks by opponents who were supposed go quietly into the win column.

This past weekend also served as a reminder of why we all love boxing. Once a boxer steps into the squared circle, they literally all have a puncher’s chance.

In Las Vegas, future Hall-of-Famer Erik Morales lost a close decision to thunder-fisted Argentinian, Marcos Maidana, but once again won the respect of the boxing community. At the same site, just a few fight’s earlier, down went former undefeated phenom James Kirkland, thrice. And one night prior, in Montreal, before his home fans, up in flames went my 2010 Prospect of the Year, David Lemiuex.

Morales was supposed to be decapitated by the stone hands of Maidana, wasn’t he? At least I thought so. And I wasn’t alone.

But then on Friday ESPN’s Dan Rafael and Yahoo’s Kevin Iole were both reporting that many respected media members were giving Morales a real chance to win on Saturday night. Maybe they got information that day that nobody else had because prior to Friday I can’t recall one reporter — or fans not of Mexican descent — giving “El Terrible” a chance to win. In fact, the general consensus seemed to be that everyone loved the undercard of “Action Heroes,” but was turned off by the Morales-Maidana main event.

But after twelve rounds of action, El Terrible’s head remained attached to his neck and he stood waiting to hear the judge’s scorecards with a realistic chance that afterwards it would be his hand raised in victory. That wasn’t the case, however, and rightfully so, as Maidana earned himself a majority decision victory over the world-class veteran.

The fight was a pleasant surprise that concluded a card that was host to what will perhaps be the biggest surprise of the entire year — and could very well earn Upset of the Year honors some months down the road.

When Kevin Iole asked his twitter followers “Who do you like?” with regards to the James Kirkland-Nobuhiro Ishida bout, DiBella replied in all capital letters, “YOU’RE KIDDING, RIGHT?”

No way, no how, not in a million years was Nobuhiro Ishida going to beat James Kirkland. I thought so, Lou DiBella thought so, the whole boxing world thought so…except Nobuhiro Ishida himself.

And for the first twenty seconds, nobody’s thoughts changed. And then coinciding with the twenty-first second was Nobuhiro’s perfectly placed left cross that crashed through Kirkland’s jaw. His legs gave out and he methodically collapsed to the canvas for the first of three visits. The last visit, a violent knockdown that resulted in Kirkland’s entire body jolting upon impact, was enough for the firm, but fair Joe Cortez to call a halt to the bout.

Stunning.

And then there was the main event of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec where hometown hero David Lemieux took a step up in opposition when he faced the resilient veteran, Marco Antonio Rubio. Lemieux, my vote for 2010 Prospect of the Year, entered this fight with an unblemished record of 25-0, with 24 knockouts.

The heavy-handed Canadian unloaded his usual bombs on his opponent, but Rubio reacted much differently than the twenty-five that came before him. He withstood Lemieux’s blows, and by the sixth round Rubio had no problems at all trading with Lemieux — in fact, that’s just what he wanted to do.

Lemieux, against the advice of his corner, came out in the seventh and did what he knows how to do — and that was let his hands fly and look for the KO. It would come alright, but it would be Rubio who got the TKO victory.

With Lemieux hurting after hitting the canvas, chief second Russ Anber stepped up to the apron and called for a halt to the bout.

Even from watching on television, you can feel the air being sucked out of the Bell Centre. The hometown hero left humbled in defeat.

Stunning.

There were other upsets and other shocks over the weekend, but none as significant as these three. Together, they represent what we all love about boxing.

After Ishida’s TKO of Kirkland, DiBella, myself, and millions of fans around the globe collectively ate their words. But DiBella tweeted immediately after the bout, acknowledging that he and everyone else in the world didn’t see that coming. But it’s fights like these that keep people watching the sport, that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

“This kind of upset…shocker…part of the beauty of boxing,” DiBella tweeted.

And to that, I’ll simply add…this kind of weekend…embodied the beauty of boxing.

Kyle Kinder can be found on Twitter.com/KyleKinder or KyleKinder1@gmail.com

BIG BEAR, Calif. (April 12, 2011) – More than 50 members of the media spent several hours Tuesday at the high-altitude training camp of three-division world champion “Sugar’’ Shane Mosley. Bus transportation to-and-from Las Vegas and Los Angeles was provided by Top Rank, Inc.

On Saturday, May 7, Mosley (46-6-1, 39 KOs), of Pomona, Calif., will challenge World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao (52-3-2, 38 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, in the main event of a blockbuster event at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions, Sugar Shane Mosley Promotions, Tecate and MGM Grand, Pacquiao vs. Mosley will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV®.

What Mosley said Tuesday:

“My energy is great, at a very high level. I have a lot of power in both hands. I know Pacquiao will go right to the attack which is a great advantage for me.

“I know how difficult this fight is. Pacquiao fires punches from all kinds of angles, is on his toes during late rounds and gives you different looks.

“But pure power can take over all of that. I know I will be able to get good hard punches onto Pacquiao.

Plus I have the biggest advantage of all with my chief trainer Naazim Richardson. He’s never lost a fight against a Top Rank champion.”

“I know President Obama met Pacquiao. I can deal with it. President Obama will always be my man. I will always vote for him. Someday I hope to meet the President and maybe play a little basketball.”

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
GREENSBORO / NEW YORK (April 12, 2011)—This Saturday night from the Greensboro Coliseum a night of championship boxing will take place

In the main event, undefeated popular Light Heavyweight Scott “Cujo” Sigmon takes on Tiwon Taylor in a ten round bout for the UNBC America’s Light Heavyweight title.

To order this championship night of boxing for just $9.99, click: http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Saturday_Night_KO_Fights_3_Future_World_Champions/1013

The action begins at 8pm eastern time.

Sigmon of Bedford, Virginia has a record of 15-2 with seven knockouts and has a great fan base in the Virginia area.

Sigmon is riding a seven bout winning streak and has defeated the likes of Abdul Gillard (2-0); Frankie Filipone (2-0); Toris Brewer (14-2); Julius Kennedy (7-1) and his last fight he scored a 4th round stoppage over John Michael Terry.

Taylor is a veteran who has been in with the “whose-who” of the Light Heavyweight divisions.

The native of Las Vegas has a record of 26-19-1 with nineteen knockouts and has been in the ring with Jerry Ballard (18-1); Saul Montana (31-6); Former world champion Fabrice Tiozzo (42-2); Elvir Muriqi (25-1); Former world champion Adrian Diocanu (12-0); Daniel Judah (18-0-2); Former world champion Lou Del Valle (31-3-1); Max Alexander (8-0-1); Omar Sheika (26-8); Joe Spina (24-1); Yathomas Riley (6-0); Alfonso Lopez (17-0) and his last bout with Dyah Davis (17-1);

In a six round co-feature, undefeated middleweight and exciting knockout artist Jonathan Cepeda of West Palm Beach, FL taking on Brad Austin.

Cepeda has built a reputation for his knockout prowess in Florida and will be looking for his eighth consecutive stoppage. He is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Rafael Gonzalez on April 1st.

Austin of Johnson City, Tennessee has a record of 8-10 with five knockouts and because of his ring experience should be a test for Cepeda.

Austin has been in the ring with prospects Peter Quillin (6-0); James McGirt (14-0); Edwin Rodriguez (8-0); Farah Ennis (9-0); Isaac Rodriguez (14-0); Daniel Kooij (7-0); and in his last bout Lamar Russ (5-0).

The son of former WBC Heavyweight champion, Oliver McCall, Elijah McCall (4-1-1, 4 KO’s) will take on Matt Green (14-20, 10 KO’s) in a four round Heavyweight bout.

Undefeated Middleweight Ronnie Glass (5-0-1, 3 KO’s) will take on sixty-nine fight veteran Kevin Carter in bout scheduled for four rounds.

In a Jr. Lightweight bout scheduled for six rounds, Jesse Carradine (6-1-1, 4 KO’s) battles John Willoughy (3-7, 2 KO’s)

Two pro debaters will get it on as Kwan Morgan and David Cook will see their first paid action in a four round Cruiserweight bout.

In a four round Light Heavyweight bout, Quinton Rankin (1-0, 1 KO) will tangle with Travis White in an all North Carolina battle.

In a ladies six round affair, Lisa Garland (5-4, 2 KO’s) will take on Ohio’s Natoya Ervin (2-7) in a Welterweight bout.

Rounding out the card will Cristian Dominguez making his pro debut when he takes on undefeated Mickey Osborne (3-0, 3 KO’s) in a Welterweight bout scheduled for five rounds.

This past Saturday night at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, Golden Boy Promotions hosted a highly entertaining HBO Pay-Per-View dubbed ‘Action Heroes.’ In the main event, light welterweight contender Marcos Maidana survived a surprisingly stiff challenge from aging former champion and all-time great Erik Morales. The undercard featured several other surprises and thrills, as did the post-fight press conference, thanks in large part to the emcee work of Oscar De La Hoya.


Watch Morales-Maidana Post-Fight Press Conference in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

As the old saying goes “Third time lucky” it was certainly a charm for South African Takalani “Panther” Ndlovu 32-6(18). Recently he won the IBF Super Bantamweight title when he bested Steve Molitor over twelve rounds. Ndlovu 33, had previously lost twice to Molitor in 2007 & 2010 both times in Canada, the first time being stopped in the ninth round. On the second occasion he fought Molitor to a standstill but still lost a decision. Originally hailing from the township of Soweto, he’s come a long way the world seems to be his oyster. Here’s what he had to say on winning the title, what his future hopes are and what life was like growing up in South Africa and the path he took into Boxing.

Hello Takalani, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly congratulations on a terrific win over Steve Molitor to claim the IBF Super Bantamweight title. What can you tell us about the fight looking back?

Takalani Ndlovu – Thank you. Going into this fight I was realistic. I knew I had to fight and give it my all to win the belt; I didn’t want to leave anything to the judges. I enjoyed my preparations, it was like when you study for exams and can’t wait to write the paper and I couldn’t wait to get into the ring. I also knew Molitor was looking past me because of our previous encounters, the possible plans Top Rank had for him after this fight and he was banking on my past mistakes and losses to him to beat me.

Anson Wainwright – How did you feel when they announced that you had won and were the new champion? Will winning the title change your life?

Takalani Ndlovu – I was emotional. It was a dream a true. I believe my life will change for the better

Anson Wainwright – Thought it is obviously early days what are your future plans now you are the champion?

Takalani Ndlovu – I haven’t had time to sit with my promoter and discuss the way forward. It’s too early to tell, but knowing Branco he has some plans in mind.

Anson Wainwright – It was the third time you had fought Molitor. What was different this time?

Takalani Ndlovu – My mindset and surroundings was different, I matured, I not only had a trainer, but a teacher, I was taught and was willing to learn. We had the same goal and interest. I owed the opportunity to fight Molitor for the 3rd time to my promoter Branco and I was not going to let him or myself down without a fight. I put in more and took nothing for granted.

Anson Wainwright – Who are the members of your team; who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you train at?

Takalani Ndlovu – I train at BRD boxing gym in the south of Johannesburg. My trainer is Mr. Manny Fernandes, my promoter Mr. Branco Milenkovic; I’m managing my boxing career now with the help of my wife and my promoter.

Anson Wainwright – In your career to date you have fought all over the world in Canada, Germany, Britain, America as well as in South Africa. What can you tell us about this experience? Did it help mould you as a fighter & person?

Takalani Ndlovu – As a fighter I learned a lot from my traveling, there are many things and people in my life that helped mold me as a person. I’m grateful for every experience.

Anson Wainwright – Could you tell us about your youth growing up in Soweto? Was it similar to many boxers and it was tough for you?

Takalani Ndlovu – Growing up in Soweto was never easy. Most boxers have a similar story to tell. There were many challenges, but I had a choice. With the guide of my late cousin I followed boxing and at the age of 9 I decided to try it. Turned out my cousin opened a gift I had, but wasn’t aware of it. I boxed and it’s been my bread and butter.

Anson Wainwright – Last year the Soccer World Cup took place in South Africa. What did you think of it? Did you go to any games? What impact has that had on your country?

Takalani Ndlovu – It was breathtaking, it brought Africans closer together! I went to a few games. South Africa has changed since the world cup; our economy is standing the test of time. Africa is shinning on the map.

Anson Wainwright – When you’re not boxing what do you enjoy doing with your spare time?

Takalani Ndlovu – I work as a personal trainer and boxing instructor, but importantly I enjoy spending time with my family. My wife and kids are wonderful and humorous beings. I always look forward to spending time with them.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the other champions at Super Bantamweight WBC Nishioka, WBA Shimoda & Interim champion Rigondeaux & WBO Vazquez?

Takalani Ndlovu – I don’t know much about them. I know I might have to face one of them one day, I won’t say much I’ll cross the bridge when I get to it. My promoter is a capable man and anything is possible, I’m game to defend my title

Anson Wainwright – Now that you are world champions what goals do you have still in Boxing?

Takalani Ndlovu – I’d like to defend my title three or four times and maybe unify with one of the champions in my division

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for the people of South Africa after your title win?

Takalani Ndlovu – I’m humbled by the like and support I received. I’d like to thank my fellow South Africans/fans for their support and well wishes, I hope to defend my title long enough to be able to give back to my supportive community and the South African boxing world.

Thanks for your time Takalani.

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

Weekend Thoughts – The HBO PPV card on Saturday was billed as “Action Heroes” and it certainly lived up to its name. Many people believed the main event was a mismatch, however Erik Morales rolled back the years giving Marcos Maidana hell all the way through. It was a remarkable performance by “El Terrible” his right eye was closed midway through the second. It was truly inspiring to see the tough Mexican veteran now entering his 35th year roll back the years, if there’s ever been a fighter who fought with such heart I’ve yet to see him, it really was that humbling. The fight most people looked forward to going into the card was Michael Katsidis-Robert Guerrero, it never let us down either. Though for large parts of the fight Guerrero out boxed Katsidis, there were several outstanding exchanges. Guerrero on the back of a very good win deserves a fight with Juan Manuel Marquez. The referee Russell Mora had a poor night, he missed a knock down in the second when Guerrero’s glove touched down. He also penalized Katsidis twice in the eighth for low blows, incredibly without any prior warning, he then did the same to Guerrero in the ninth. I’ve always been a big fan of James Kirkland but his first round loss was stunning, I never saw that coming…It was a weekend of shocks first on Friday Night Fights Marco Antonio Rubio took a shellacking for 5 and a half rounds before he stunning David Lemieux coming on strong in the sixth before the well thought of Canadian was rescued in the seventh. On Shobox all three favored fighters lost, Marcus Johnson lost to Dyan Davis, Willie Nelson to Vincent Arroyo & Danny O’Connor was upset against Gabriel Bracero. While over in Primm, NV Ghanian Olympian Bastie Samir drew with unheralded Lester Gonzalez. In Japan Hozumi Hasegawa was surprisingly stopped in four by Jhonny Gonzalez.

PHOENIX –About a year after controversy over immigration legislation forced the cancellation of Jose Benavidez Jr.’s hometown debut as a pro, the Arizona prospect has another chance to fight in his home state for the first time on June 11 at Wild Horse Pass at Gila River in suburban Chandler.

Gerry Truax of Showdown Promotions requested approval of the date Monday at a meeting of the Arizona State Boxing Commission for a card scheduled to feature Benavidez (10-0, 9 KOs), a Top Rank fighter who also is scheduled for a bout on the Manny Pacquiao-Shane Mosley undercard on May 7 at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand.

Top Rank matchmaker Bruce Trampler said a couple of months ago that he had the go-ahead to seek a site and date for Benavidez to fight in Arizona. Before the immigration controversy forced him to stay on the road, Benavidez’ homecoming was scheduled for last July 17, also at Wild Horse and also on a card promoted by Showdown, which represents Antonio Margarito.

“We’ve been waiting for a long, long time to fight,’’ said father-and-trainer Jose Benavidez, Sr., whose 18-year-old son is considered Arizona’s best prospect since Jesus Gonzales and Hall of Famer Michael Carbajal. “I can’t tell you how happy we are at this opportunity. It’s really important, I think, to build a hometown identity.

“My son has been fighting in Las Vegas and Texas and just about everywhere but here at home.

Everywhere we go, everybody knows him, more than they know him here. It’s time to come home.’’

Showdown’s request for Commission approval of the June 11 date coincided with a federal appeal court’s refusal to lift a stay on the toughest parts of the controversial Arizona law, SB1070. The 9th U.S. Court in San Francisco on Monday rejected Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer’s appeal. Among other things, SB1070 would require police to check on an immigrant’s legal status during routine traffic stops.

Benavidez’ homecoming last July was canceled when Top Rank’s Bob Arum said he was told by TV Azteca and beer sponsor Tecate that they did not want to do business in Arizona. At the height of the controversy, World Boxing Council chief Jose Sulaiman issued a directive from his Mexico City office in which he banned Mexican fighters from bouts in Arizona. When two Mexicans fought on a Don Chargin-promoted card in Tucson last August, Sulaiman threatened to suspend both in their home country.

While watching Benavidez spar in February, Trampler said he was given clearance to schedule a hometown fight for the Phoenix prospect because the controversy had begun to subside.

Benavidez, who has been fighting as a junior-welterweight, has been training in Phoenix for the last several months after leaving trainer Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles. He signed as a 17-year-old, whose potential for stardom began to spread far and fast through YouTube clips of his sparring sessions with Amir Khan.

In other business heard by the Arizona commission Monday, Fanbase Promotions requested approval of a Phoenix card at Celebrity Theatre, featuring Gonzales (26-1, 14 KOs) against Henry Buchanan (20-2, 13 KOs) of Capitol Heights, Md., in a super-middleweight bout at Celebrity Theatre. Gonzales (24-20-7, 4 KOs) made his hometown comeback on March 18 with a unanimous decision over Dhafir Smith (24-20-7, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia, also at Celebrity.

A suspicion was confirmed Saturday. No, it wasn’t the suspicion we all harbored about Erik “El Terrible” Morales’ shopworn frailty. Morales’ comportment in the main event of “Action Heroes” was first rate. Rather, the suspicion was that this new generation of fighters, while competitive and proud, is not what the last generation of fighters was.

Argentine junior welterweight Marcos Maidana whacked and plowed his way to a majority decision against Morales – Mexico’s former super bantamweight, featherweight and super featherweight world champion – at MGM Grand in a fight broadcast on HBO pay-per-view Saturday. Maidana won by scores of 116-112, 116-112 and 114-114.

My scorecard went 118-113 for Maidana. I had the Argentine winning rounds 1, 3, 4, 6, 9, 11 and 12. I had Morales winning rounds 5 and 8. I had rounds 2, 7 and 10 even. If those even rounds all went Morales’ way, as many an “Action Heroes” viewer saw them, I still had Maidana winning 7-5.

A word or two about “Action Heroes” viewers. They were, almost to a man, advocates. It was not possible to buy the card without a zealous belief in “El Terrible.” Those who’ve shown Morales their zeal through the years were rewarded Saturday, they were vindicated Saturday, and they were thrilled Saturday. But they were not objective Saturday.

All paeans to punch accuracy and effect aside, Morales had rounds in which he landed fewer than 10 meaningful blows. Maidana was not in Morales’ class but was ineffectively aggressive throughout. And if you want boxing to entertain, you present scorecards that value ineffective aggressiveness over any criterion but its effective cousin.

If there was a loser Saturday it was not Morales or Maidana – though Maidana’s terrifying mystique was eroded. Instead, the losers were a new generation of fighters in general and two prizefighters in specific.

Those two prizefighters are Victor Ortiz and Amir Khan. Ortiz wilted and quit under Maidana’s assault 22 months ago then informed Staples Center patrons he should not have to endure an assault like Maidana’s. Khan then spent six minutes shamelessly fleeing Maidana in December while successfully defending his WBA 140-pound title in a performance for which he was lauded.

How does that performance look today?

While you consider that, consider this: Erik Morales, a 34-year-old veteran of 57 prizefights who retired almost four years ago and met Maidana 14 pounds above his prime fighting weight, just acquitted himself more nobly than Khan and Ortiz combined. And he did it with one eye.

The punches with which Maidana struck Morales – the same blows that still wake Ortiz and Khan with nightmares – had nary an effect on Morales who, after having his right eye shuttered by a left uppercut in round 1, did not wobble, run or signal for a doctor in the 33 minutes that followed.

That an overweight, overaged guy unable to see a left hook for 11 rounds just beat back the most-feared puncher in boxing’s most-competitive division does not speak well of our sport’s new generation. Not well at all.

And beat him back, Morales did.

The opening round saw Maidana’s relentless and undisciplined attack land all over Morales’ body, causing HBO commentator Jim Lampley to call Morales, quite rightly, a “shell” of his former self.

Maidana raced out his corner and whacked away at Morales spinning the former champion making him look poorly balanced and fragile bruising him with huge shots and rendering his right eye useless with a ferocious inside uppercut that nearly signaled the end.

But Morales knew the storm would subside. He had been across from men just as determined and feral as Maidana. And those men had twice Maidana’s class and savvy. Morales returned fire with three-punch combinations. He watched Maidana stumble and play motorboat while breathing.

Maidana never got comfortable as he’d planned because he was unable to chase Morales bullying him hitting him making him reel and retreat or skip sideways desperately – Maidana was unable to relax because he was across from a man who was not intimidated by him in the slightest a man whose fear of being struck by Maidana dissipated with each Maidana strike.

Then Morales buckled Maidana with a naked left hook lead. Morales was too old to hit Maidana with combinations half as intricate as he’d thrown a decade ago. But Morales still forced Maidana backwards and made the Argentine’s eyes grow with surprise and worry.

Maidana deserved to win for approaching the championship rounds with more self-belief than he deserved to carry charging after Morales reminding the crafty Mexican of the seven-year difference in their ages.

But Morales’ severe arrogance was not diminished. A half hour of combat with Maidana served only to remind him of his greatness.

Who were the winners Saturday? Maidana, for having his hand raised. Morales, for burnishing his legacy at age 34 in a way he could not at age 30. Morales’ generation of fighters, generally. And Manny Pacquiao, specifically.

If you did not watch Morales in his middle rounds with Maidana and think of Pacquiao, you were not watching creatively enough. Morales threw half as many punches at Maidana, coming off the ropes, as he’d thrown at Pacquiao. And Maidana retreated, held or pushed his head under Morales’ chin. One-one-two from Morales made Maidana pause. One-one-two, one-one-two from Morales made Pacquiao bang his hands together and hurl himself on Morales like a doberman on a t-bone. Pacquiao twice slashed to the canvas, at 130 pounds, a man Maidana could not affect at 140.

Let us have no more loose talk of greatness, then, about today’s junior welterweight division. They are a good if coddled lot. They are not worthy of comparisons to men like Morales, Pacquiao, Juan Manuel Marquez or Marco Antonio Barrera.

They have dignity and heart, yes. But they do not have “dignidad y corazón” – not the way Morales used those words Saturday.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter: @bartbarry

PART 2

Tomasz Adamek tuned up for a September 10th showdown with WBC Heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko with a workmanlike twelve round pounding over Kevin McBride in front of over 7,300 mostly Polish Adamek supporters at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

It was obvious early who this fight would go as Adamek had a what looked at times a “Light Years” speed advantage over the slow, plodding and and even confused McBride as Adamek landed combination s as Adamek concentrated in working the flabby body of McBride. The combination’s were three, four and five punches at a time as it was clear what Adamek was trying to do. It looked like all McBride wanted to do was push a weak jab and lean on Adamek in an effort to tire him out. McBride started to bleed under the right eye as early as round four.

A round later, McBride began to bleed from his forehead but neither cut bothered the big Irishman during the fight. Every once in a while McBride, who did walk Adamek down for most of the fight would land a punch but with the punches that could be timed by a sun dial Adamek was able to move enough to take most of the sting of McBride’s punches.

Over the last half of the fight it was more of the same that saw Adamek move in and out and use his legs to keep away from McBride. For all of his lack of shape, McBride showed good endurance as he didint look much more fatigued then Adamek, who showed signs of tiredness which was mostly due to all the moving and the many times that McBride would lay his ample body on top of the top contender from Poland. McBride was deducted a point in round seven for excessive holding. Adamek closed the show as he landed some hard punches and the two exchanged for most of the final round with neither man ever looking like they would be hurt or knocked down.

The fight, which was billed “The Last Big Hurdle” for Adamek as he jumped over McBride with ease as he won by scores of 120-107; 119-108 and 119-1108.

Adamek, 215 lbs of Jersey City, NJ will via Gilowice, Poland will return to the homeland for what will be the biggest sporting event in the history of that European country when he takes on Adamek with a record of 44-1.

McBrdie, (every bit of) 285 lbs of Brocton, MA via Ireland is now 35-9-1.

The co-feature saw rising Welterweight and former U.S. Olympian Sadam Ali make easy work of Javier Perez by scoring a third round stoppage in a scheduled eight round bout.

Ali wasted no time by landing a left hook that sent Perez to the floor in round one. In round three, Ali landed a huge left hook that flattened Perez as he laid on the canvas for several moments.

The time of the stoppage was 2:40 of round three for Ali, 149 1/2 lbs of Brooklyn, NY who remains undefeated at 12-0 with seven knockouts. Perez, 146 1/2 lbs of Ponce, PR is now 8-5.

Andrzej Fonfara warmed up the large Polish contingent by taking out Ray Smith in round four of an eight round Light Heavyweight bout.

Fonfara landed some nice punches over the first three round and then really turned up the heat in round four as he landed a big right on the ropes that rocked Smith. he followed that up with a big combination that sent Smith to the canvas. Fonfara landed a big right off the ropes that was followed by a perfect left that sent Smith down for the ten count at 1:09 of round four.

Fonfara, 175 lbs of Chicago is now 17-2 with eight knockouts. Smith, 179 lbs of Little Rock, Arkansas is now 9-6.

Joselito Collado remained undefeated by scoring a six round split decision over Rafael Lora in a Featherweight.
Collado was cut early in round one over the right eye and it seemed to have bothered him just a tad but the cut was controlled nicely as the fight went on. The two fighters engaged in nice exchanges with each taking turns getting through with left hooks.

The fight was very close but Collado was a bit more active and scored the split decision victory by scores of 59-54 and 57-56 while Lora took a card 57-56.

Collado, 128 lbs of Queens, NY is now 12-0. Lora, 128 1/2 lbs of Irvington, NJ is now 11-4.

Jose Peralta beat up Eber Luis Perez and stopped him in round three of a scheduled six round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Peralta rocked Perez with a hard right in round two and followed up with a combination that sent Perez to the canvas. Peralta opened up round three with a hard left that started blood flow from Perez nose.
Peralta dropped Perez with a right hand later in the round. With Perez down, his corner decided to stop the bout at 2:49 of round three.

Peralta, 142 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is now 6-1 with four knockouts. Perez, 136 lbs of Cartegena, Colombia is now 12-20

Vinny O’Brien scored a fourth round stoppage over Shakir Aquel Dunn in a scheduled four round Welterweight bout.

It was a tough bout with both guys landing good shots for which O’Brien, who has a terrific fan base, got in the better shots.

In round four, O’Brien landed some thudding shots that ended with a hard combination on the ropes and the bout was stopped just nine seconds before its scheduled conclusion.

O’Brien, 146 ½ lbs of East Hanover, NJ is 2-0 with both wins coming via stoppage. Dunn, 145 lbs of Newark, NJ was making his pro debut

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA — Marcos Maidana may have turned back the challenge of Erik Morales at the MGM Hotel & Casino tonight, but it was the Mexican legend’s unexpectedly heroic performance that will undoubtedly be remembered most.

Few gave Morales (51-7, 35 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico any hope of even making the fight competitive in the days and weeks leading up to the fight. More than a few experts were fearful for Morales’ well-being. But after twelve wildly entertaining rounds, some of those same experts were calling for a rematch.

One of the top four fighters in the light welterweight division, Maidana (30-2, 27 KOs) of Jose Leon Suarez, Buenos Aires, Argentina took the Mexican head on and pounded his way to the deserved majority decision.

Maidana, 140, got off to a solid start, as he forced Morales, 140, to the ropes in the very early going. Maidana found Morales’ body with his left hand and shot an uppercut that got the Mexican’s attention. Morales did land one right in the first that seemed to perk up Maidana and prompt the Argentine to close out the round throwing. Morales returned to the corner with a rapidly swelling right eye at the end of round one.

Maidana, the WBA #1 ranked light welterweight, began the second surprisingly measured, but eventually forced Morales to the ropes with a left to the body and a following combination. Morales came off the ropes throwing, and landed one right that looked good and excited the crowd.

In the third, again Maidana fought more tentatively than advertised, and may have allowed Morales to take the round with his jab and greater output. Early in the fourth, Morales landed a counter left hook that landed clean, but the round was mostly Maidana’s. If Morales’ right eye was not bad enough, he was now dealing with a cut over his left as well.

Maidana caught Morales with a right early in the fifth, but the Mexican returned fire with a combination that stopped the always fearless Maidana in his tracks. The warriors took turns rallying off flurries, but Morales landed a right uppercut that backed up Maidana. Glimpses of a younger Morales would flash intermittently throughout the fight. In one such instance, Morales made Maidana miss and countered beautifully circa 2002. Maidana walked slowly across the ring to his corner when the bell for the fifth sounded.

Each fighter had their moments in the sixth, as Morales did well early, but began to tire towards the end. Maidana came on, catching Morales clean with a looping right. Morales fired back and had Maidana in trouble before the round ended. Maidana began the seventh with a jab that staggered Morales, and took the round pretty clearly.

Morales, ranked WBA #5 entering the bout, battled back in the eighth, staggering Maidana, who rolled around behind his opponent and went for a rabbit punch. Morales came back with a one-two combination that had Maidana in trouble again. Not to be outdone, Maidana fired a right, left combination, to which Morales nodded back. Maidana tried pressuring Morales, but the Mexican warrior managed to evade the Argentine until the end of the round.

Maidana hurt Morales with a left to the body, and followed with two more to his back. Just as Maidana began to put the hurt on Morales, “El Terrible” battled back with a combination that stunned the Argentine. Morales pressured Maidana against the ropes and appeared to have Maidana in some trouble. Morales went for a wild punch that missed and forced his head through the ropes. Maidana, who had been rough and somewhat dirty, missed an opportunity to capitalize. By the end of the ninth, Morales’ right eye was not only swollen shut, but a large knot was forming around the socket.

Morales continued to keep the fight in close in the tenth, landing a right. Morales caught Maidana lazily waiting for a break with an overhand right, and followed with a left uppercut. Maidana was forced back to the ropes, but landed a stiff left that had Morales in trouble before the bell.

Another Maidana left hurt Morales in the eleventh. Just when everything was going his way, Maidana gassed out and stood winded, looking to gain a breath. But the 2011 version of Morales could not take advantage of the moment, and Maidana came on to close out the round strong.

Another right rocked Morales to start the twelfth, but it was the Mexican that got the best of the following exchange. As the round came to an end, it was Marcos Maidana that pulled an Erik Morales – throwing everything right at the ten second warning for the final bell. HBO’s unofficial scorer Harold Lederman had the fight a draw, as did one of the official scorers. But alas, the potentially monumental upset was not to be, as Maidana took the other two cards 116-112.

At the post-fight press conference, promoter Oscar De La Hoya pointed the finger at some of those media members who talked down the fight when it was made and said, “I told you so.” De La Hoya stated he would like to put together the Maidana-Morales rematch, something both Maidana and Morales seemed to welcome.

In a thrilling action fight, Robert Guerrero (29-1-1, 18 KOs) of Gilroy, California waged war for twelve rounds with Michael Katsidis (27-4, 22 KOs) of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia. It was the type of fight Katsidis has become known for, but this time he met up with a stronger and more scientifically skilled foe in Guerrero, who came away with a wide unanimous decision to claim two interim titles.

Guerrero, the WBA #1/WBO #1/IBF #4 ranked lightweight entering the bout, flexed his muscle early and often. Determined as always, Katsidis, the WBA #2/WBO #3 ranked 135-pounder, came forward and was effective in spots, especially when Guerrero could be enticed to go blow-for-blow.

In the second round, Katsidis rocked Guerrero with a left. When Guerrero fell back, it appeared that his right glove touched the canvas. It was not ruled a knockdown by referee Russell Mora, who may have felt the fall was the result of contact between their feet. Whatever the cause, it seemed to provoke Guerrero into a firefight. Guerrero comes back with two hard lefts inside.

After a close third round, Guerrero was rocked by a straight right in the fourth, which kicked off another fiery exchange. The momentum of the fight began to turn more heavily in Guerrero’s favor in the fifth, as the three-time champion wobbled Katsidis with a straight left. Still on unsteady legs, Katsidis fired back, but Guerrero was clearly getting the better of the exchange.

In the eighth, the referee got unnecessarily involved after a stray low blow from Katsidis. Though it did not appear flagrant, a point was deducted from Katsidis for the infraction. Motivated to get the point back, Katsidis went for Guerrero’s body, which seemed to be taking an effect. One stray shot, prompted the referee to stop the action and deduct another point from Katsidis, which gave Guerrero time and effectively end the Aussie’s rally. Somewhat comically, the referee Mora seemed to make up for one of the Katsdis deductions by taking a point from Guerrero in the following round for an inadvertent low blow.

The action continued through the tenth, before Guerrero got back out at range and boxed Katsidis in the eleventh. Katsidis came out determined in the twelfth and caught Guerrero with one stiff shot before Guerrero took back over and closed out the fight landing the harder blows again. By scores of 118-107, 118-106 and 117-108, Guerrero claimed the interim versions of both the WBA and WBO Light Welterweight titles.

Former WBA Interim Light Middleweight titleholder Nobuhiro Ishida (23-6-2, 8 KOs) of Osaka, Osaka, Japan scored three first round knockdowns in an unbelievable upset over James Kirkland (27-1, 24 KOs) of Las Vegas. Kirkland, 158, fighting for the third time in a month after a two-year absence, came right out at Ishida, 158. The much taller Japanese import met him square on and took some decent shots.

Kirkland, already the WBO #4 ranked middleweight despite fighting complete fall guys in his two previous bouts this year, stepped right into a straight right from Ishida that dropped him and silenced the crowd. Ishida, the usually light-punching WBA #4 ranked junior middle, dropped Kirkland a second time with another right. Despite moving on wobbly legs, Kirkland still came forward throwing punches. It was an unwise move, as Ishida came straight with a third right to score a third and final knockdown.

With the three knockdown rule in effect, referee Joe Cortez waved off the fight at the 1:52 mark of the first. Afterwards, Kirkland claimed he was not hurt, and that his trips to the canvas (there were three of them) were flash knockdowns. With the victory, Ishida immediately becomes a player at junior middleweight. With the loss, the talk of Kirkland fighting Sergio Martinez for the middleweight crown looks pretty foolish in retrospect.

Paul Malignaggi (29-4, 6 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York jabbed and move his way to a wide unanimous ten-round decision over undersized Jose Miguel Cotto (32-3-1, 24 KOs) of Caguas, Puerto Rico.

Cotto, 147, came out firing in the first and had Malignaggi, 147, in retreat for much of the round. Towards the end of the second, Cotto roughed up Malignaggi with a few right hands. However, by the third round, Malignaggi, the IBF #11/WBO #12 ranked welterweight, settled in to his usual stick-and-move style took over control of the bout.

Cotto, the WBO #11 ranked light welterweight, could not get into range for most of the fight, as Malignaggi moved three steps back anytime the Puerto Rican took one forward. By the late rounds, what steam Cotto carried up to welterweight had mostly come off of his punches, so when he did get his one shot in, it did not have close to the same effect it had early in the contest.

Unable to get in on Malignaggi, Cotto attempted to lure the former champion to him by languishing against the ropes. It was a tactic that did nothing but maybe give both men a short rest, as Malignaggi did not take the bait. In the end, Malignaggi won comfortably by scores of 97-93 and 99-91 twice. With the victory, Malignaggi gained a small measure of revenge over the Cotto family, as younger brother Miguel broke his right cheekbone en route to issuing him his first defeat back in 2003.

Emerging light welterweight contender Danny Garcia (21-0, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia Pennsylvania did everything better, faster and harder on his way to a ten-round unanimous decision over faded former champion Nate Campbell (33-8-1, 25 KOs) of Jacksonville, Florida.

Garcia, 139, showed the poise of a veteran throughout a classy performance. Campbell, 140, did a little showboating and posturing, but never committed to any serious offensive attack. Garcia, the WBC #9 ranked light welterweight, was not baited by any of Campbell’s tactics, even remaining composed when the veteran took a swing at him long after the bell to end round nine. In the end, all three judges had the fight wide for Garcia, by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92.

With his decisive victory, Garcia looks to be more than ready for the next level of competition. Campbell on the other hand appears to be comfortable in playing the role of opponent at this stage of his career. Campbell had announced his retirement after a loss to journeyman Walter Estrada last November before returning to the ring for tonight’s bout.

2008 Russian Olympic Gold Medalist Rakhim Chakhkiev (9-0, 7 KOs) of Hamburg, Germany by way of Tobolsk, Russia continued rolling as a professional with a measured performance en route to a third-round knockout of journeyman Harvey Jolly (11-16-1, 6 KOs) of Adrian, Michigan.

Chakhiev, 203, pressured and chased Jolly, 203, around the ring for the most part. In the second, Chakhiev was credited with a knockdown when he forced Jolly to hunch over from a body shots. Although Jolly did not go down, he was not defending himself and referee Joe Cortez separated the fighters to administer a standing eight count. Finally in the third, Chakhiev landed the power shot he was looking for, an overhand right that sent Jolly down. The journeyman opted to sit out Cortez’ ten count, with the stoppage coming at 2:18 of the third.

In the opener, heralded former amateur star Mikael Zewski (9-0, 5 KOs) of Trois-Rivieres, Quebec, Canada had all he could handle in the form of rugged swinger Clint Coronel (4-2-2, 1 KO) of San Jose, California in a six-round split decision victory.

Despite his solid amateur background, Zewski, 151, opted to stand and trade with Coronel, 151, who knows how to do little else. It turned out to be a solid scrap, with Coronel winning over the small crowd and rocking Zewski in the final round. In the end, two judges inexplicably had each fighter a shutout winner, 60-54. The third judge had the fight 59-55 for Zewski, thus maintaining his unbeaten mark.

Photo courtesy Golden Boy Promotions

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

HARTFORD (April 9, 2011) – Heavyweight Tony “TNT” Grano got back on the winning track tonight in the main event on “The Willie Pep Boxing Classic,” presented by Hard Hittin’ Promotions, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

Grano improved his record to 18-2-1 (14 KOs) with a sixth round technical knockout of crafty veteran “Diamond” Dominique Alexander (20-11-1, 10 KOs). Grano dropped Alexander three times in the final round.

“I am impressed by his durability,” Grano said after the fight. “I caught him with a lot of clean shots early. He’s a lot more durable than I thought. I hit him right on the button. It was a good experience for me. He gave me six rounds and I needed to be back in the ring. Surprisingly, he took my best shots. I didn’t think he had a good chin. I want to fight again very soon. I’m in great shape. I want to keep busy. I hope to fight again in May or June.”

In the co-feature, Meriden bantamweight prospect Danny Aquino (6-1, 2 KOs) turned in a very impressive performance, effectively working the body and then going upstairs to stop James Owens (4-3, 2 KOs) at 2:12 of the opening round. Aquino hurt Owens with a powerful left hook, trapping him on the ropes, and then unloading a barrage of punishing punches until referee Danny Schiavone signaled that the fight was over.

Fan friendly East Hartford super featherweight Joseph “Chip” Perez’ unbeaten win streak ended at five when he was disqualified for hitting undefeated Esteban Nichol, who had been decked and was on one knee as the referee counted.

Philadelphia light weight Frank Trader (8-0) kept his undefeated record intact, winning all six rounds en route to a unanimous decision victory against a game Tommy Atencio.

Welterweight Shakha Moore won his first fight in nearly four years by way of a technical decision against Noel Garcia. The scheduled six-round bout was halted after four due to damages resulting from accidental head-butts by both fighters.

Ian Cannon, an 18-year-old college student, was matched with former New England Golden Gloves champion Luis Reynoso, of Springfield (MA), in a wheelchair boxing exhibition (three, one minute-rounds) under amateur boxing rules (headgear, large gloves, etc.). Cannon, of Glastonbury (CT), suffers from cerebral palsy but he trains regularly at Lion’s Den Connecticut in Middletown, where he has created a wheelchair boxing program, Rollin With The Punches

Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra proclaimed Saturday, April 9, 2011 as Willie Pep Day in a special ceremony, in which the late Pep’s son, Billy, represented the family.

Complete Results:

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Tony Grano (18-2-1, 14 KOs), Hebron, CT WTKO6 (2:09) Dominique Alexander (20-11-1, 10 KOs), Topeka, KS

WELTERWEIGHTS

Shakha Moore (11-15-3, 2 KOs), Norwalk, CT WTD4 (40-36, 39-37, 39-37) Noel Garcia (2-9, 1 KO), Springfield, MA

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Esteban Nichol (3-0, 1 KO), Denver, CO WDQ3 (1:23) Joseph Perez (5-1, 2 KOs), E. Hartford, CT

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Frank Trader (8-0, 2 KOs), Philadelphia, PA WDEC8 (60-54-60-54, 60-54) Tommy Atencio (5-7, 3 KOs), Denver, CO

BANTAMWEIGHTS

Danny Aquino (6-1, 2 KOs), Meriden, CT WTKO1 (2:12) James Owens (4-3, 2 KOs), Milwaukee, WI

IBF #6 ranked lightweight contender Vicente Escobedo is in Las Vegas, Nevada this weekend, taking in the anticipated Erik Morales-Marcos Maidana HBO Pay-Per-View event at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino tonight. Escobedo (23-3, 14 KOs) of Woodland, California is a knowledgeable observer, considering he fought both co-main event participants, Robert Guerrero and Michael Katsidis, and was in negotiations to fight Morales some time back. Escobedo, who was also presented with the Cinturon Tecate title for getting the most votes via text message during Telefutura Solo Boxeo telecasts as the boxer who displayed the most character, weighed in on both of tonight’s fights with 15rounds.com.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, newly crowned WBC Super Welterweight champion Saul Alvarez will make his first defense against Ryan Rhodes of England on June 18th in Mexico in a bout that will be televised by HBO.

“For me it is so huge, but for my Mexican people it’s going to be even bigger,” Alvarez said backstage at the weigh-in for Saturday night’s Erik Morales-Marcos Maidana fight at MGM Grand Garden Arena. “It was my dream to have my first defense in Mexico and now the dream is reality. I am very happy.”

“After seeing the ratings Canelo had, the highest [‘Boxing After Dark’] ratings in like three years, they obviously are very interested to have Canelo back live on the network,” Golden Boy Promotions Richard Schaefer said of the new television arrangement. “To have Canelo live on HBO before he does his first pay-per-view is the right approach.”

Featherweight contender Daniel Ponce De Leon of Mexico will open the HBO telecast, Schaefer said. Ponce De Leon (41-3, 34 KOs), a former junior featherweight titleholder, fought his last bout on the Alvarez-Hatton undercard, when he moved up to junior lightweight and lost a close, debatable decision to prospect Adrien Broner.

Ponce De Leon’s opponent has not been signed yet. “We have two names we are talking about, so we are working on it,” Schaefer said.

“They criticize Canelo for fighting smaller guys like Jose Cotto or Matthew Hatton. Now he’s actually fighting a bigger guy, a substantially bigger guy, because Ryan Rhodes has fought many middleweight fights,” Schaefer said. “He’s a big guy, he’s a strong guy and it’s a real, real test. I told Canelo this is a very tough guy and Canelo looked at me, flexed his muscles and said, ‘So am I.’ ”

Said Alvarez: “I respect my opponent. He is a real opponent. He has fought at middleweight. He’s a real, real challenger. I could do an optional defense, but I choose a real opponent. I just want to prove to the people and media that I am capable of dealing with those type of fighters.”

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA — Beloved Mexican boxing icon Erik Morales returns to Las Vegas as a long shot to knock off fearsome puncher Marcos Maidana with a vacant interim title at stake to headline an event dubbed ‘Action Heroes’ at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino tonight. Fighters for the HBO Pay-Per-View event weighed in Friday at the same venue where the fight will be taking place tonight.

The match-up has many questioning aloud Morales’ readiness for such stiff competition and worrying about his well-being. Morales (51-6, 35 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico returned to the ring a year ago last March, and has scored three wins against mid-level opposition. Morales, the WBA #5 ranked light welterweight, won over the hearts of Mexican fans everywhere over his long career with his aggressive and fiery style. Though he is a classy boxer when he wishes to be, he has a penchant for trading once the action heats up and the crowd gets into it. It is a penchant that could get him in serious trouble tonight. Morales weighed in at 140 Friday, bearing no resemblance to the anorexic guy that used to make 122-pounds.

Maidana (29-2, 27 KOs) of Jose Leon Suarez, Buenos Aires, Argentina claimed the interim WBA title which is at stake tonight back in June of 2009 with an upset of Victor Ortiz and made three defenses before running into full champion Amir Khan last December. It is Maidana’s obscene knockout percentage that has many worried about Morales’ health. If there is one thing to pick out on Maidana’s resume that could give Morales supporters hope it would be the Argentine’s off night against DeMarcus Corley last August. Even though he won a clear decision, Maidana struggled with the classy boxer in a bout that went the full twelve. Maidana, the WBA #1 ranked light welterweight, weighed in at 140-pounds.

In the fight most insiders are predicting will steal the show, Robert Guerrero (28-1-1, 18 KOs) of Gilroy, California will take on Michael Katsidis (27-3, 22 KOs) of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia in a twelve-rounder with two interim belts on the line.

Guerrero, the WBA #1/WBO #1/IBF #4 ranked lightweight, appears to be on the cusp of breaking through as a major player in the sport and an impressive victory over Katsidis would go a long way in making that happen. In Katsidis, the WBA #2/WBO #3 ranked 135-pounder, Guerrero has an adversary that could make for a thrilling war, which is the type of fight that could launch the Gilroy native into stardom. Guerrero claimed titles at featherweight and super feather before abdicating the latter title for a move up to 135-pounds a year ago. Guerrero came in at 134-pounds Friday.

Katsidis is a blood and guts warrior in the mold of the late Arturo Gatti. Katsidis, a former WBO Interim Lightweight titleholder, has tripped up at the elite level, but always given a good account of himself in those situations. Does Robert Guerrero represent the elite level of the sport? That is the question that will be answered tonight. Katsidis, who unveiled a beach bum character throughout fight week, donning sunglasses and suntan lotion on his nose, scaled 134 as well. If you try to keep on the crazy title belt situation, this fight is for both the WBO and WBA interim versions of the lightweight crown. Juan Manuel Marquez holds the more recognized versions of both those titles.

In his first test since regaining his freedom after a 17-month prison term, former rising star James Kirkland (27-0, 24 KOs) of Las Vegas take on former interim belt holder Nobuhiro Ishida (22-6-2, 7 KOs) of Osaka, Osaka, Japan in an eight-round middleweight attraction. Kirkland returned to action for the first time in two years just one month ago and has already scored two quick stoppage victories. However, the former junior middleweight contender did look rusty in his last outing on March 18th, which ultimately ended in the second round.

Ishida, who claimed the WBA Interim Light Middleweight title in 2009 before dropping it to Rigoberto Alvarez by split decision last October, does have a sizeable height and reach advantage over the power-punching Kirkland. The loss to Alvarez was Ishida’s only fight outside of Japan, and it was a loss. Kirkland, already the WBO #4 ranked middleweight, and Ishida, the WBA #4 ranked junior middle, both scaled 158-pounds Friday.

The always colorful Paul Malignaggi (28-4, 6 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York, who takes on Jose Miguel Cotto (32-2-1, 24 KOs) of Caguas, Puerto Rico in the ten-round pay-per-view opener, stole the show at Friday’s weigh-in, as came out painted up like a golden Green Lantern, spandex shorts and all. The former 140-pound title holder is now campaigning at welterweight and will take on the diminutive brother of Miguel Cotto in his second fight at the new weight class.

Cotto, who was underpowered as a lightweight title challenger, did rock current 154-pound titlist Saul Alvarez early in their meeting last May before succumbing to a ninth-round stoppage. Malignaggi has a history with the Cotto family, having fought Jose’s brother Miguel to a twelve-round decision defeat in a war back in 2006. Malignaggi, the IBF #11/WBO #12 ranked welter, and Cotto, the WBO #11 ranked light welterweight, both scaled the 147-pound welterweight limit Friday.

Fast-rising light welterweight contender Danny Garcia (20-0, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia Pennsylvania looks to embellish his reputation a victory over faded former unified lightweight champion Nate Campbell (33-7-1, 25 KOs) of Jacksonville, Florida in a ten-rounder that will be televised just before the pay-per-view hits the air at 6 o’clock.

Garcia has been on a knockout tear over the last year, most notably knocking out former title contender Mike Arnaoutis last October. Campbell retired after a shocking loss to journeyman Walter Estrada via split decision last November. Garcia is expected to get the victory, but a win over Campbell will look good on your resume nonetheless. Garcia, the WBC #9 ranked light welterweight, scaled 139, while Campbell came in at 140-pounds.

In the heavyweight attraction, former international amateur star Rakhim Chakhkiev (9-0, 7 KOs) of Hamburg, Germany by way of Tobolsk, Russia takes on journeyman Harvey Jolly (11-16-1, 6 KOs) of Adrian, Michigan. Chakhiev, who is apparently moving down to cruiserweight, weighed in at 203-pounds, as did Jolly.

In the scheduled curtain raiser, touted former amateur star Mikael Zewski (8-0, 5 KOs) of Trois-Rivieres, Quebec, Canada takes on west coast tough guy Clint Coronel (4-1-2, 1 KO) of San Jose, California in a six-round light middleweight fight. Zewski and Coronel both weighed in at 151-pounds.

2008 U.S. Olympian Gary Russell Jr. (14-0, 9 KOs) of Capitol Heights, Maryland was slated to fight on the free preview portion of the televised card, but had several opponents fall out before finally his bout was scratched. Russell was originally pegged to fight Ira Terry, and his replacement opponent Sherali Dostiev missed his flight to Las Vegas.

According to Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Keith Kizer, a late replacement opponent for undefeated Omar Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas that was matched late Thursday also missed his flight. Originally tabbed opponent John Figueroa fell out early Thursday.

Ivan Morales (9-0, 5 KOs) of Tijuana, a southpaw that bares a striking resemblance to his older brother Erik, never had an opponent scheduled and fell off of the card.

Tickets for the event, promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, Box Latino and Universum Box Promotions, are available online at Ticketmaster.com.

Quick Weigh-in Results:

WBA Interim Light Middleweight Championship, 12 rounds
Morales 140
Maidana 140

WBA Interim Lightweight Championship
WBO Interim Lightweight Championship, 12 Rounds
Guerrero 134
Katsidis 134

Middleweights, 8 Rounds
Kirkland 158
Ishida 158

Welterweights, 10 Rounds
Malignaggi 147
Cotto 147

Light Welterweights, 10 Rounds
Garcia 139
Campbell 140

Heavyweights, 4 Rounds
Chakhkiev 203
Jolly 203

Light Middleweights, 6 Rounds
Zewski 151
Coronel 151

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