On 29 May Luis “El Mosquito” Lazarte 46-9-1(18) gets an unprecedented sixth world title shot when he faces Carlos Tamara for the IBF Light Flyweight title. At 39 this is almost certainly Lazarte final chance to win a world title, he’ll also get the chance in front of his hometown fans in Mar Del Plata, Argentina. He has won the Argentinean & South American Light Flyweight & Strawweight titles in an eventful career and is currently ranked #7 by the IBF at 108. Lazarte is a down to earth guy who still works a day job as a Road Sweeper and enjoys spending time with his family. Here’s what he had to say ahead of his big chance.

Hello Luis, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly could you tell us when you maybe back in action next?

Luis Lazarte – According to my managers it would be on May 29 against Carlos Tamara for the IBF Light Flyweight Title in my hometown (Mar del Plata, Argentina). It would be my 6 World Title shot.

Anson Wainwright – Your debuted way back in 1996 and have had 57 fights since at 39 how much longer do you feel you can carry on fighting?

Luis Lazarte – I know I am not young but I am always in good shape and I love training, so I will keep boxing until I feel I can.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team, who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Also what gym do you use?

Luis Lazarte – My trainer and manager is Mr. Hector DiPilato but I don’t have a promoter. I train in DiPilato’s gym (Raul Santos Villalba).

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us how life was for you when you were young in Mar Del Plata & how you got into Boxing?

Luis Lazarte – I left my house when I was very young, at the age of 12 so I grew up in the streets. Once I fought a boxer in the street and after that I wanted to learn how to box so I went to a gym and I started practising, I liked it so much that I have never stopped.

Anson Wainwright – Did you have an amateur career, if so what titles did you win and what was your final record?

Luis Lazarte – As an amateur I did around 40 fights and I lost only 5. I was Argentine Champion and I represented my country in several international tournaments.

Anson Wainwright – You have had 5 title shots firstly against Kermin Guardia, Pongsaklek Wongjongkam, Omar Narvaez, Edgar Sosa & Daniel Reyes. What can you tell us about those fights from your point of view?

Luis Lazarte – On 1999, against Kermin Guardia at Minimumweight, I was very nervous because it was my first title shot, moreover it was in my hometown and his style (southpaw) was very difficult for me.

Against Pongsaklek I was taken as a last minute substitute, I had a very long trip and I didn’t know anything about his style.

Against Narvaez, once again I was called at last minute, however I think the referee was unfair disqualifying me.

Against Sosa, I consider it was a nice fight but I started becoming anxious when they read the scorecards during the fight, referee started cautioning me and finally I was disqualified in the 10º round.

Finally against Reyes, I was in very good shape, very confident and I had a good start but then he started boxing very well with his jab and he fought better than me.

Anson Wainwright – Who do you think was the best? How do you think a fight between Pongsaklek & Narvaez would of gone?

Luis Lazarte – I think the best one was Kermin Guardia. And in my opinion, a fight between Narvaez and Pongsaklek would be very interesting as both as great boxers but I can’t give a result.

Anson Wainwright – You have lost 9 times 4 of them were via Disqualification, can you tell us what happened in these fights?

Luis Lazarte – The fights I lost by disqualification were because I used to get nervous very often but now I have learned that lesson.

Anson Wainwright – What do you consider you best fight & win?

Luis Lazarte – I have done many good fights but I consider that my best wins were against Raul Medina (second fight) and Adrian Rodriguez (second fight).

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do when your not Boxing?

Luis Lazarte – I like to be with my family. In summer we go to the beach in my hometown, then the rest of the year, go to the cinema, shopping center.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a job apart of Boxing?

Luis Lazarte – Yes, I work as road sweeper in my hometown, I have been working in that position for many years.

Anson Wainwright – Who do you consider as the up and comers of Argentinean Boxing at the moment?

Luis Lazarte – For sure, the best one is Marcos Maidana, current Junior Welterweight World Champion and there also some good prospects like Diego Chaves, Jesus Cuellar & Maxi Marquez.

Thanks for your time and good luck with your upcoming title challenge.

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

LAS VEGAS (April 10, 2010) – Hall of Fame-bound Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield added the World Boxing Federation heavyweight title belt to his overcrowded trophy case, stopping defending champion Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha in the 8th round last night in the main event on “The Legend Returns” card, promoted by Crown Boxing, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Botha (47-5-3, 28 KOs) came out throwing bombs for the first five rounds, buzzing Holyfield (43-10-2, 27 KOs) a few times. Holyfield came on strong at the end of the fifth, taking full control of the fight in the sixth and seventh by throwing letting his hands go and throwing effective combinations.

In the eighth round, Holyfield dropped Botha with a right hand and when a damaged Botha got to his feet, Evander overwhelmed his South African opponent until referee Russell Mora called an end to the fight.

“He is a very good defensive fighter,” Holyfield said after the fight. “He’s a smart fighter, too. His right hand had a lot of power and he’s also a very quick big man. I gave myself a 7. I can get better. I’d been off a long time and I know I can get better. I want to come back very soon.”

“Evander is a great fighter,” Botha remarked. “He capitalized on my mistakes. I thought I had him going early. I have to go home and sit down with my team. Who knows (about his future plans)? We’ll see how he goes forward.”:

In the co-feature, hometown favorite Henry Namauu, 2006 National Collegiate champion at UNLV, stopped a game Rayford Johnson in the seventh round of their back-and-forth battle of tough cruiserweights. Referee Tony Weeks halted the action when Namauu unleashed a series of unanswered, power-packed punches.

Former IBF cruiserweight champion “King” Arthur Williams recorded his 47th career victory, winning a unanimous 6-round decision against previously unbeaten Valente Tinajero (8-1).

Complete Results

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Evander Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs), Atlanta, GA WTKO8 (2:05) Frans Botha (47-5-3, 28 KOs), Newport Beach, CA

(Holyfield wins World Boxing Federation title)

CRUISERWEIGHTS

Henry Namauu (6-3, 4 KOs), Las Vegas, NV WTKO7 (2:43) Rayford Johnson (5-5, 3 KOs), Longview, TX

Arthur Williams (47-16-1, 30 KOs), Pensacola, FL WDEC6 (59-55, 59-55, 59-55) Valente Tinajero (8-1, 4 KOs), Roy UT

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Lawrence Hughes (4-0, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV DC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Juan Alcolea (2-2, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, NV

FEMALE SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Jennifer Han (1-1-1), Tucson, AZ WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36) Crystal Hoy (3-21-2, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Rocco Santomauro (4-0, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, NV WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-26) Karl Hammer (1-3, 0 KOs), Clearfield, UT

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS

Alexis Santiago (3-0-1, 1 KO), Phoenix, AZ WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36) Brice Yeniki (0-5), Las Vegas, NV

Post Fight Press Conference Quotes

Evander Holyfield: “People talk and you act like it doesn’t bother you when they call you old and senile. I’ve been telling people since 1992 when I lost to Riddick Bowe that I was going to be undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. I won 2 but not the third. It’s never been about money. I was brought up poor and never had anything. I was taught to have goals and to never quit.

“Botha gave me an opportunity. People talk about my legacy. It’s about who you’ve fought. They can’t deny me; I fight the best. I always want to fight somebody to get a little credit if I beat ‘em. When I decided to comeback it wasn’t because I’m the type that says he’s one of the best. This is a new era and I didn’t think I’d be in this era. I was laughing a little when I fought George Foreman. He was 42 and I was 29. I rally didn’t want to fight him. He didn’t beat me but he did become world champion again. What I learned from that fight was George said it wasn’t about age but that I will give my all.

“You can’t let people tell you what you can do. I fight because I want to. I wouldn’t be the person I am without opportunities.”

Frans Botha: “I’m honored to fight in Las Vegas and to fight a great champion. Evander Holyfield is the real deal, a true champion and warrior. I can’t feel ashamed to lose to a great champion. I think he’s going to rule again. He has the skill, power and determination, everything to get that title again.”

Sunrise, FL — Fighting for Haiti was the name of the card and the name of the game tonight for WBC Welterweight Champion Andre Berto. Berto 26-0 (20KO) retains his WBC strap with an exciting KO win over Carlos Quintana 27-3(21). Berto was able to fight through an early fight torn bicep muscle to overpower the southpaw Quintana.

Berto showed blazing speed right from the opening bell in round one however, was knocked down by the southpaw early, the clean shot was called a rabbit punch, and a knockdown was not credited.

In round 2 Quintana caught Berto with a big straight left that stunned the champ and turned the boxing match into a slugfest.

Round three found both fighters throwing mean shots and Berto catching Quintana with a clever left hook mid round and putting him on the ropes with a variety of body head shots. Quintana was deducted 1 point for hitting behind the head, which he did often.

Berto answered the bell of the fourth round with fast sharp punches, but kept the southpaw in front of him creating a power punch fest. Berto’s pressure served up intense infighting that produced a barrage of heavy shots.

The tempo was just as fierce in the 5th round with several exchanges as these two warriors battled for punching positioning by doing just that, punching. In the seventh Berto came out swinging hard and caught Quintana with some crisp shots all the while being the aggressor. In the eight came the end for Quintana, who was caught with a barrage of crushing right hands. Berto’s onslaught lasted a good minute before referee Tommy Kimmons called an end to the contest at 2:16 of the eighth round with a TKO accredited to Berto’s records. This was a great showing for Berto who is coming off close to a one year layoff. Berto, some may say looked less than perfect but Quintana’s unorthodox style can make a great fighter look average. Berto retained his WBC belt and looks to move up the ladder for a possible super fight in the near future.

“My knockout was pretty vicious,” said Berto. “It may open up their eyes a little bit. But then again they have to look at I’ve been off for a long time so it’s only going get better from here.”

The card, promoted as “Fighting for Haiti” due to, part of the proceeds will benefit the Haitian earthquake relief fund. Berto was born in Florida and his parents were born in Haiti. To help rebuild Haiti, Berto started the Berto Dynasty Foundation.

In the Co-Main Event featherweight Celestino Caballero 34-2 (23 Kos) of Panama city Panama claimed the WBA World title strap with a unanimous decision win over Daud “Cino” Yordan 25-1(19KO) hailing all the way from Indonesia. The longtime WBC and IBF champion Calallero dropped Yordan in the second as a result of a Yordan falling into sharp uppercut. Caballero used his height and reach well throughout the fight keeping the Indonesian fighter at the end of his sharp punches often throwing multi punch combinations at a high connect rate. Yordan found a home for a strong left hook, however not nearly enough as the Mexican’s punch output proved to be too much for Yordan. The twelfth round was wildly entertaining when Yordan stunned Caballero with a series of hard shots, but the attack was a little to late as Caballero weathered the late storm and captured the title with a unanimous decision with the cards reading 119-108 120-107 118-108.

Antwone Smith 18-1 (9kos) from Miami Florida took it to Franklin Gonzalez 13-5 (9kos) of the Dominican Republic in the 10 round welterweight fight. Smith, who often used a George Foreman-like infighting techniques, worked uppercuts and body shot throughout the fight. The end came at 2:40 in the third when Smith caught Gonzalez with a brutal liver shot which left Gonzalez on the canvas for some time after the bell.

Jonathan ‘El Conquistador” Cepeda 8-0 (7KO) from West Palm Beach dominated Shadrack Kipruto 18-15(10KO) with constant heavy shots from the opening bell. Kipruto was dropped in the first and rounds from constant pressure on the Kenyan fighter who looked off balance and awkward. A huge left hook finally ended the bout @2:31 of the second round.

In a very entertaining fight light welterweight Joseph Elegele 6-0(4KO) stopped the game and tough Mario Hayes with a straight left hand in the third round at 2:51. Hayes was also knocked down with a perfect left hook earlier in the 3rd which ultimately set up the KO. Elegele was the 2008 National Golden Gloves runner up, who lost a close and controversial decision to Danny O’Conner.

In a one sided Jr. Middle weight bout Yhudel Johnson 6-0 (4 KO’s) completely dominated Chris Grays 9-20(2KO) who got knocked down twice in the first round did not make it out of the first. Referee stoppage at 2:04.

In a great second fight of the night Willie Monroe (8-0 3ko’s) looked both the slicker and the more powerful puncher beating Ibaheim King 7-2 (2ko’s) to a decision in the six round fight. Scores were all 60-54 for Monroe.

In the first bout of the evening, Yunier Dorticos 4-0 (4ko’s) knocked Zack Ziegler 3-1 (2 KO’s) to his knees with a well placed liver shot at 1:24 in the first in a very one sided fight. Ziegler’s 3 wins must have some by way of Ragu container.

Notable boxing attendees where, Randall Bailey Andre Dirrell, Francisco Palascios, John Jackson, and more.

Johnny Schulz and Dan Stasiukiewicz reporting ringside.

Be sure to listen to the Sunday Sizzler at 4pm with interview from the winning fighters.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 10, 2010) — Electrifying lightweight prospect “Hammerin’” Hank Lundy of Philadelphia will face his toughest test to date Friday night, April 16, in the co-feature of ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights” at the Omni New Daisy Theater in Memphis, Tenn.

Lundy (17-0-1, 10 KOs) will battle fellow unbeaten lightweight Tyrese ”Head Honcho” Hendrix (18-0-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-round NABO title bout. The event is co-promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports and Prize Fight Boxing Promotions in conjunction with Goossen Tutor.

The main event Friday will feature heavyweights Owen “What The Heck” Beck (29-4, 20 KOs) and Tony Thompson (33-2, 21 KOs) squaring off in a 10-round bout, but Lundy and Hendrix could steal the show in what is expected to be a hard-fought battle. Lundy is currently ranked No. 2 in the NABO while Hendrix is ranked sixth.

Lundy last fought on Jan. 22 at The Roxy in Boston, Mass., beating tough challenger Richie Abril (12-1-1) by split decision. Hendrix hasn’t fought since November of 2009 when he earned a unanimous decision victory over Marteze Logan. Lundy has won each of his last seven fights — four by knockout — with the only blemish on his record being a controversial draw against Darnell Jiles Jr. in 2008.

Visit CESBoxing.comfor more information on Lundy’s quest for the title, in addition to news and information about CES’ upcoming events, including “Spring Fever,” which will be held Friday, May 7, 2010 at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I. Tickets for that event ($35, $50, $75 and $100) are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting the Website or calling 401-724-2253.

Photo by Emily Harney/CES

Veteran Welterweight David Estrada knocked Orlando Lora from the ranks of the undefeated by scoring a very impressive stoppage after eight rounds in a scheduled twelve round bout at the Agua Caleinte Resort in Palm Springs, California.

Estrada battered Lora from the beginning of the fight as he landed hard right hands and continuously drove Lora back on his heels. Those shots began to mark Lora as blood tricked from the nose of Lora as early as round three. A round later, the blood stared coming from the left eye as a result of the many right hands that Estrada was landing. In round’s seven and eight it became evident that Lora was going to have a tough time being competitive as Estrada was laning almost everything his threw and Lora’s face was becoming a crimson mask. After those two rounds, Lora had less foght in him and the ringside doctor stopped the fight following the eighth.

Estrada, 147 lbs of Chicago is now 24-6 with fifteen knockouts. Lora, 145 1/2 lbs of Culican, Mexico loses for the first time and is now 25-1-1.

Despite taking the fight on just two days notice, Leonilo Miranda scored a sixth round stoppage over Andre Wilson in a scheduled eight round Super Bantamweight bout.

Miranda landed the harder shots as he was the bigger man and was able to impose his will. Miranda was cut in the forehead at the end of round three from a clash of heads. At the end of round five, Miranda turned up the head as he landed some hard left hands just before the bell. That was a precursor as Miranda landed a hard straight left that sent Wilson to a knee. he beat referee Lou Moret’s count but the fight was waved off at forty-three seconds of round six.

Miranda, 125 lbs of Sonora, Mexico is now 25-2 with twenty-four knockouts. Wilson122 lbs of St. Joseph, MO is now 11-4-1.

Angel Osuna handed Ruben Rivera the first loss of his career as he scored a battering first round stoppage in their scheduled four round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Osuna was relentless with right hands as he landed clubbing shots in the first minute. Osuna then unloaded a series of hard rights to the head that forced referee Lou Moret to stop the bout at 1:33 of round on.

Ousna, 154 lbs of Cochella, CA is now 4-2-1- with two knockouts. Rivera, 154 1/2 lbs of Los Mochis, Mexico is now 4-1-1.

Mark Melligen 146 -V- Norberto Gonzalez 147 10 Rounds Welterweight
17-2(13) 18-1(12)

Diego Magdeleno 132 -V- Manny Perez 134.5 10 Rounds Super Featherweight
14-0(3) 14-5-1(2)

Lamont Peterson 143 -V-Damien Fuller 143 10 Rounds Light Welterweight
27-1(13) 30-6-1(14)

Vladimir Tereshkin 241 -V- Joseph Rabotte 254 6 Rounds Heavyweight
12-0-1(7) 7-11(3)

Anthony Lenk 138 -V- Wilson Rivera 138 6 Rounds Light Welterweight
6-1(3) 3-3(1)

Cortez Bey 137 -V- Marcos Herrera 137 6 Rounds Light Welterweight
8-1(4) 5-1(1)

Jose Benavidez Jr 138 -V- Scott Paul 137 4 Rounds Light Welterweight
3-0(3) 5-4(1)

Isaac Atencio 173 -V- Hiromitsu Miura 174 4 Rounds Light Heavyweight
2-2-1(2) Pro Debut

LEMOORE, CALIFORNIA — In an entertaining ten-round affair, longtime journeyman Jason Gavern scored the biggest win of his career and upset the future plans of WBC #9 ranked heavyweight Manuel Quezada in the process, taking a split decision on Thursday night at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino.

Quezada (29-5, 18 KOs) of Wasco, California got off to a good start in the first, stalking his opponent early before finding a home with some stiff right hands. Gavern (19-7-3, 8 KOs) of Kissimmee, Florida did more playing to the crowd than anything else in the first, as he would mug to the crowd after Quezada landed a clean blow.

The momentum of the fight seemed to change in the second, as Gavern, 226.2, caught Quezada, 228, with an accidental headbutt that visibly shook up the defending WBC CABOFE Heavyweight Champion. One point was deducted from Gavern for the headbutt due to an absurd WBC rule penalizing the uninjured fighter after an accidental foul. The headbutt, and the resulting point deduction, seemed to invigorate both fighters, who went toe-to-toe to close the round. While Quezada landed his share, Gavern clearly got the best of the exchange.

Quezada was the busier fighter to start the third, but Gavern picked up the pace late which may have earned him the round. On several occasions, especially during the middle rounds, Quezada would land one solid shot at a time, and Gavern would laugh it off or play to the crowd. After some posturing, Gavern would turn offensive again and win heated exchanges.

Quezada opened the sixth with some solid straight right hands, but still Gavern turned and shook them off. Midway through the round, a normally inconsequential left caught Quezada off balance, sending him to the mat. Referee Marcos Rosales waved off the knockdown, much to the chagrin of Gavern, but the house replay suggested that it was a knockdown. Either way, Quezada was clearly not hurt by the blow, and both fighters closed the round with more gave-and-take action. Again Gavern appeared to be getting the better of the exchange.

The pace slowed in the seventh, as both fighters, Gavern especially, looked drained from the fast-paced bout. Even with their stamina depleting, there was plenty of action in the seventh and to close the eighth. With Gavern resting against the ropes, and looking to hold at times on the inside, Quezada may have won the ninth. Both fighters went all out in the tenth, but a somewhat rejuvenated Gavern got a bit more done. In the end, one judge scored the bout for Quezada, 95-94, but was overruled by the other two judges who both scored it 95-94 the other way.

“I wasn’t supposed to get this fight,” said Gavern after the bout. “I lost my last two fights, and that’s why I think they picked me.” Gavern cited personal issues contributing to defeats to unbeaten prospects, Neven Pajkic and Denis Boystov, in his last two fights. “I lost my last two fights because of my mental state, I wasn’t really ready for those fights, but this time I was prepared.” The prepared Gavern of Thursday night upset a fighter who late last year was ranked WBC #4 and could have been a fight or two away from a title eliminator or a big money fight overseas. While there was no stipulation for a rematch in the event Quezada lost, Gavern said he would be more than willing to give Quezada a rematch. “He gave me the opportunity, so I have to give him the opportunity back.”

After the fight, Quezada sounded like someone who was hoping for another opportunity at Gavern. “As soon as I can get back in the ring, I want to get back in the ring, and if it is with him I would love that,” said Quezada. “As soon as we can do it, let’s do it. If I put my hands together, and got busier, I can definitely beat this guy.” The usually busy Quezada had not fought since October, and feels that may have played a part in his performance. “I don’t take anything away from the guy,” said Quezada. “I knew he was going to be a tough guy. What didn’t help me was the sixth-month layoff. It is what it is, but we have to go back and get at it.”

Rising light welterweight prospect Mike Dallas Jr. (13-0-1, 4 KOs) of Bakersfield, California obliterated journeyman Genaro Trazancos (22-11-1, 13 KOs) of Fort Myers, Florida in the opening round. Dallas, 142.8, dropped Trazancos midway through the first and Trazancos, 140.8, never recovered. A left hook wobbled Trazancos again, this time against the ropes, which brought referee Dan Stell in close to the action. A devastating uppercut and right hook combination sent Trazancos down again, prompting Stell to leap in before he hit the mat. Official time of the stoppage was 2:51 of the first.

The kayo of Trazancos was the second straight impressive knockout victory for Dallas this year. Early in his pro run Dallas had more of a shoeshine style, but has made efforts in sitting down on his blows, and the results are speaking volumes. “A lot of people told me I would hit harder if I slowed it down, since I still had more of an amateur style,” said Dallas. “I have been taking my time, and it has been working in fights. I am hitting much harder.” There has been talk about a fight against Josesito Lopez for Dallas on either the Chris Arreola-Tomasz Adamek undercard on April 24th at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California or on May 8th at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California on the Paul Williams-Kermit Cintron card.

Former amateur star Michael Ruiz Jr. (1-0) of nearby Fresno, California looked impressive in his professional debut, scoring unanimous shutout over durable Jose Luis Mares (0-3) of Lompoc, California. Ruiz, 117.6, stayed in the pocket and picked Mares, 117.4, apart for the four rounds. Any offense Mares could muster was quickly countered with precise shots. Early in the third, a straight left counter busted up a discouraged Mares’ nose. By late in the third, Mares was mostly defensive, which limited Ruiz’ ability to land clean counters. Ruiz, the USA Boxing #3 ranked flyweight before turning pro, won by the unanimous score of 40-36. Ruiz is slated to return to the ring on the May 8th card in Carson.

Forward-moving Juan Tepoz (4-2-1) of Santa Rosa, California pounded out a unanimous four-round decision over game late replacement Jose Pacheco (2-12-6) of Cudahy, California. Tepoz, 122.2, was clearly the harder-puncher and was able to stun Pacheco, 125, at times in the bout. What Pacheco lacked in speed and power, he made up for in heart, as he never took a backward step. After four action-packed rounds, all three judges gave Tepoz the nod at 40-36. Tepoz was originally scheduled to take on Ephraim Martinez (4-0, 1 KO) of Buttonwillow, California, who was forced to pull out after a recent automobile accident.

In a back-and-forth corker, Paul Mendez (4-1, 2 KOs) of Bakersfield, California scored a four-round split decision over previously unbeaten Tyrell Hendrix (4-1-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles, California. Hendrix, 170.8, got off to a solid start in the first, as Mendez, 167.8, seemed bothered by his speed and languished on the ropes for long stretches. Action began to heat up in the second, as Mendez settled in as the counter-puncher against the aggressive Hendrix.

Mendez looked briefly winded in the third, which prompted Hendrix to open up even more. Mendez sucked it up and wobbled the onrushing Hendrix coming in late in the third. The fourth featured more two-way action, as Mendez cut Hendrix early in the round, before Hendrix got his second wind and came on late. In the end, one judge scored the bout for Hendrix, 39-37, but was overruled by the other two, who scored the fight 40-36 and 39-37 respectively for Mendez. Mendez may fight in May, but will return to the Central Valley on a June 19th card at the McDermont Fieldhouse in Lindsay, California.

In an entertaining opener, Rufino Serrano (5-3) of Santa Maria, California scored a hard-fought four-round unanimous decision over determined Eder Peralta (1-2, 1 KO) of Pasadena, California. Serrano, 126.4, pressed on the gas pedal late in the first to take control of the fight. Peralta, 127, was not the gifted boxer-mover his opponent was, but it did not stop him from pressing forward for the four rounds. Serrano countered Peralta coming in with a right hand late in the fourth to score the only knockdown in the fight. In the end, all three judges scored the bout for Serrano, 40-35.

2008 U.S. Olympic teammates Shawn Estrada and Javier Molina were originally slated for the card, but had to withdraw with nagging hand injures. Estrada, a former resident of nearby Hanford, was in attendance.

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

15rounds.com Claudia Bocanegra was in Yankee Stadium on Friday to take the up-close pictures of WBA Super Welterweight champion Yuri Formean and former two-divison champion Miguel Cotto as they met the media in reference to their June 5th showdown in the Stadium

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WBC CHAMP CARL FROCH & FORMER WBA CHAMP MIKKEL KESSLER INT’L MEDIA TELECONFERENCE
WBC Super Middleweight Champ Carl Froch Former WBA 168-pound Champ Mikkel Kessler Kalle Sauerland of Sauerland Event Mick Hennessy of Hennessy Sports WHAT: Super Six World Boxing Classic competitors Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler will participate in an international media conference call to discuss their crucial Group Stage 2 bout in the tournament on Saturday, April 24 on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m., ET/PT, same-day delay) from MCH Arena, in Herning, Denmark. Denmark’s Kessler will be counting on the support of his home fans when he challenges Froch, of Nottingham, England, for the WBC 168-pound crown, a title he previously held before losing it to the retired Joe Calzaghe. Kessler is hoping that home-field advantage prevails for the fifth straight fight in the super middleweight tournament. After one round in the tournament, Froch (26-0, 20 KOs) has two points, while Kessler (42-2, 32 KOs), who has never lost a fight in his hometown of Denmark, needs a victory to get on the board. The Super Six World Boxing Classic bout will be co-promoted by Hennessy Sports and Sauerland Event.
ALSO ON THE PLAYER:
KELLY PAVLIK MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL
YOUNGSTOWN, OH (April 7, 2010) – World Middleweight Champion KELLY “The Ghost” PAVLIK, trainer JACK LOEW, manager CAMERON DUNKIN, and Hall of Fame promoter BOB ARUM, will host an international media conference call Tomorrow! Thursday, April 8, to discuss Pavlik’s upcoming title defense against World Boxing Council super welterweight champion Sergio Martinez. The call will begin at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT. Pavlik (36-1, 32 KOs), of Youngstown, OH, who has worn the middleweight crown since 2007, defends it against Martinez (44-2-2, 24 KOs), of Argentina, now fighting out of Spain, on Saturday, April 17, at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall. It will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing, beginning at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. Combined, they boast an incredible record of 80-3-2 (56 KOs), a winning percentage of 94% and a victory by knockout ratio of 70%! Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment and Caesars Atlantic City, remaining Tickets, priced at $350, $200, $100 and $50, can be purchased at the Boardwalk Hall box office, by calling Ticketmaster (800) 736-1420 or online at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Coy Evans 124.5 – Morris Chule 125.5
Derrick Webster 172 – Octiviase Harrison TBD
Keenan Smith 130 – Luis Esquilin 127 lbs
Joe McKenzie 170.5 – Maurice Amaro 170
Kareem Cooley 133 – Puro Pairol 130.5
William Davies 127 – Joseliz Cepeda 127

Venue: The Arena
Promoter: Greg Robinson’s Power Productions
First Bell: 7:30 pm est

TONY JEFFRIES wants to land his first professional title by the end of the year.

The Olympic bronze medallist has fully recovered from a spate of injuries and returns to action at Coventry Skydome on Friday April 23.

‘Jaffa’, 25, will be bidding to stretch his unbeaten record to six when he tackles tough Welshman Nathan King on the bill being televised live by Sky Sports.

Jeffries said: “It would be nice to have an English title belt by the end of 2010, but it is a slow process and I am still learning.

“The injuries meant that I haven’t boxed since December so the aim is for Frank Maloney to keep me busy.”

Sunderland’s favourite sporting son has just returned from a week sparring with WBC super-middleweight champion Carl Froch.

Jeffries added: “I got to know Carl well after we did a television show recently and the sparring was fantastic.

“Working with soemone like him only added to my desire to become a world champion. His dedication is fantastic and I learnt so much being around him.”

Promote Frank Maloney said: “Top prospects like Tony and David Price will learn more from quality sparring than anything else.

“There are not many better fighters in Britain than Carl to learn from.”

King’s 12-15 record might not be impressive, but he owns one of the sturdiest chins in British boxing.

He has fought numerous champions and in December went the distance with Olympic gold medallist James DeGale.

Top of Maloney’s blockbuster bill is Rendall Munroe’s WBC world super-bantamweight title final eliminator against Mexican star Victor Terrazas.

The winner is guaranteed a crack at Japan’s formidable world title holder Toshiaki Nishioka later this year.

Tickets are on sale, prices £30, £50 and £70 by logging onto www.frankmaloney.com or by calling 0871 226 1508. Boxers on the bill are also selling tickets.

Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Eastern Regional Finals

Saturday – April 10 @ 7 PM

Blue Horizon 1314-16 North Broad Street – Phila, Pa 19121

Tickets $35

For Info: Contact Joe Hand Promotions 215-364-9000 or www.JoeHandBoxingGym.com

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, a Jr. Welterweight shown between WBC champion Timothy Bradley and WBA Interimn champion Marcos Maidana is set for June 19th in the Agua Caliente resort in Rancho Mirage, Calif.

“It’s done,” said Gary Shaw, who promotes Bradley. “It’s a tremendous fight. It’s a great fight in a great division. Great for fans, who will definitely see an exciting fight, great for HBO, great for Gary Shaw, Golden Boy, Bradley, Maidana and boxing. It’s great for all of us.”

“He asked if I had a signed agreement from Abregu and when I said I didn’t, he said, ‘I have an idea. Would you fight Maidana?’ I said, ‘In a heartbeat.'” Shaw said. “We talked about it for a few days and when I spoke to Richard we were able to get it worked out and the fight got made.”

“We’re ready to go,” said Cameron Dunkin, Bradley’s manager. “It’s what Tim deserves and what he needs. The other kid [Maidana] deserves this too. It’s a great opportunity for both of them. Tim was so excited when I told him about it. He just went crazy. He sounded like a little kid. It makes you feel good when something like this gets done and your guy is happy.”

Nobody has to tell Kelly Pavlik about The Great Recession. He lived it. His career declined like the economy from late 2008 through 2009. It’s hard to say whether projections from so-called business experts are bearish or just more bull. But at least Pavlik has a chance in hand, now healthy, to restore fundamental confidence in an attempt to forget the last 18 months and perhaps re-create a promising future.

Pavlik’s first fight in 2010, a Home Box Office-televised date on April 17 against Sergio Martinez in Atlantic City, is being called the most important middleweight fight in several years by promoter Bob Arum.

Important means it is an indicator about whether it is time to re-invest in Pavlik, whose future was knocked sideways in October, 2008 by Bernard Hopkins and almost knocked out a few months later by a dangerous infection on the middle knuckle on the index finger of his left hand. The infection and maybe Hopkins are gone. But some of the questions aren’t. Pavlik knows that. He has the scars he can see. But professional maturity is often about dealing with the unseen. Second-guessing and unfounded speculation leave their own scars.

“Flak,’’ Pavlik said Thursday during a conference call in a matter-of-fact tone that also seemed to say that he has come to terms with it

Flak is the price of stardom these days and perhaps in any day. Manny Pacquiao has had to endure it in rumors about performance-enhancers that were planted by Floyd Mayweather Sr. and have continued in the wake of negotiations for a March fight that fell apart when Floyd Jr. demanded Olympic-style drug testing. Hopkins is dealing with it all over again from critics and allies urging his retirement after a messy victory over Roy Jones, Jr. Pick the star and you’ll find the flak. Like big money, it’s part of the guarantee.

Along Pavlik’s career path, it may have landed early. But his apparent understanding of it is a good sign for a business that could use him.

“If the flak is going to be there, there’s nothing I can do,’’ said Pavlik, who questioned the quality of opposition Arthur Abraham beat for the International Boxing Federation’s version of the middleweight title before his super-middleweight loss by disqualification to Andre Dirrell. “Abraham got the middleweight world title by vacancy. He didn’t fight nobody to win the world title. Who did Arthur Abraham defend his title against? Why didn’t he get the flak?’’

In Martinez, Pavlik hopes rumors about his willingness to fight Williams.

“Next to Williams, Martinez is the toughest guy out there,’’ Pavlik said

Still, Martinez doesn’t register much on marquee, the marketing scale that measures name-recognition. He also doesn’t represent the career-defining fight that seemed to be Pavlik’s destiny after knocking out Jermain Taylor three years ago. Nonetheless, Martinez is there, in his way and dangerous enough to crush him beneath a burden that will collapse if Pavlik can’t prove he is as good as everybody thought he was before his recession. In December, Martinez lost a debatable decision to Paul Williams, whom Pavlik was supposed to fight before MRSA — a virulent staph infection — put him in the hospital.

“I thought he won the fight,’’ said Pavlik, who went on to say that Martinez’s impressive performance also some weaknesses. ‘I was impressed, but I wasn’t impressed.’’

Martinez left himself open to punches that Pavlik intends to land. However, there are questions – big ones in that collective burden of proof – about Pavlik’s hand speed and ability to deal with punches thrown from angles. They’ve been there since Hopkins upset him at heavier weight, 175 pounds instead of 160.

“From mind-to-fist, I just couldn’t let it go,” said Pavlik, who said he wasn’t feeling well on the night of his only loss in 37 bouts. “It was just a bad fight. Nothing we could do about it. I was lethargic.’’

If Pavlik wins, the guess is that he will finally face Williams in a bout that has been talked about for a while. It might not be quite the showdown it might have been, however, because Williams was disappointing against Martinez.

If not Williams, Arum hinted at what might await Pavlik if he beats Martinez and, in the process, is impressive enough to eliminate the doubts. Pavlik’s future, Arum said, might be at 168 pounds, the super-middleweight division that currently is being decided by the on-again, off-again World Classic Tournament. People are bigger and so are the real middleweights, Arum said. The best, he says are working as super-middleweights, which could mean the emerging Americans, Andre Ward and Dirrell, are in Pavlik’s future.

“After he cleans up the middleweights, then he moves up,’’ Arum said of a post-recession path through flak and now fertile for the beginning of a Pavlik renewal.

Fathers know best
Jack Mosley, Shane’s dad, and Floyd Maywather Sr, Floyd’ Jr.’s father, held court in conference call last week about their son’s welterweight clash on May 1 at Las Vegas MGM Grand in the year’s most anticipated fight.

Floyd Sr. made a lot of noise. Jack Mosley made a lot of sense. That was predictable, unlike the fight.

Jack Mosley says his son’s superior punching power gives him.

Shane, he said, is “fast enough to hit Floyd over-and-over again. That will be a problem for Floyd.’’
Floyd Sr. laughed. Floyd Jr., he said, has superior brain power.

“Shane’s not smart,’’ said Floyd Sr., who believes his son is the more complete fighter.

Floyd Sr. also was no impressed with Shane Mosley stoppage of Antonio Margarito more than a year ago in Los Angeles.

“Margarito was a walking mummy,’’ Floyd Sr. said not long after suggesting that Shane Mosley was a dummy

Notes, anecdotes
· Andre Berto will fight for himself and a cause Saturday in south Florida against Carlos Quintana. Proceeds will go to Haiti’s efforts to rebuild from the February earthquake, which forced Berto to withdraw from a bout with Mosley. Berto has family in Haiti. Money is designated for Project Medishare, a health-care fund. Berto, has been active in trying to help Haitians, also has a Dynasty Foundation in his name at www.AndreBerto.com.

· Margarito isn’t helping himself in the court of public opinion by not accepting some accountability for gauze described irregular by his attorney Daniel Petrocelli and rock-like by others before he was forced to re-wrap hands in the loss to Mosley in Los Angeles. Margarito, who returns to the ring on May 8 in Mexico and hopes to be re-licensed in the United States, again said Tuesday at a news conference in Los Angeles that he had no idea disgraced trainer Javier Capitello had inserted an illegal pad The media will never buy the repeated claim that he had no clue. Writers know that fighters treat their hands the way a master carpenter cares for his tools. They protect their hands so much that some won’t even engage in a simple handshake. Some of the media will never believe him. But a campaign to restore Margarito’s reputation can gain some traction, if he at least says he’s sorry. If he didn’t know, he should have.

· And I can’t help but think of Mike Tyson while watching Tiger Woods at The Masters. It isn’t about golf as much as it is a Tyson-like spectacle. Late in his career, Tyson wasn’t about boxing either. The media would gather at ringside, waiting for an accident to happen. Now, that media are in Augusta, waiting for another one.

Bob Arum said today that IBF #2-ranked Samuel ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ Peter is available and ready to take on world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Klitschko has not defended his IBF world title against a mandatory challenger since April, 2007. Alexander Povetkin is ranked IBF #1 and is next in line.

“If Povetkin doesn’t take the fight, Klitschko is obligated to defend against Samuel Peter,” Arum said. “We plan to pursue that on behalf of Samuel.”

Peter has a ring record of 34-3 with 27 knockouts.

Boxing fans are ecstatic as Frank Luca’s Crown Boxing presents THE LEGEND RETURNS. The one and only Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield returns to the ring after 16 months to battle Francois “The White Buffalo” Botha in the main event, Saturday, April 10th in Las Vegas.

Holyfield’s pro career spans a staggering 27 years and he holds a record of 42-10-2 with 27 KOs. He’ll be facing one of his toughest opponents to date in Botha, 47-4-3, with 28 KOs. Botha’s boxing 20 year boxing career has taken him to the top, fighting for the Heavyweight title on 3 occasions.

Holyfield will be more determined than ever as he looks to climb the ranks back to the top. At the press conference for the event, Holyfield reiterated that he won’t give up until he is the champion of the world.

Knockout fans be ready and make no mistake, both men are more than capable of knocking out the other. With so much on the line for each man’s career, there’s no doubt the fireworks could come early in this main event! You DO NOT want to miss this event. The undercard will also be filled with heavy hitting, rising stars in the boxing world. For more information about the event and to find out who’s on the fight card, CLICK HERE or visit www.GoFightLive.tv and preorder the live stream to watch THE LEGEND RETURNS, a night of knockouts!

NOTE: This event is not available on GFL in the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, or Canada

PHILADELPHIA (April 8, 2010)—This Friday night at The Arena in South Philadelphia, one of the most decorated amateurs in recent Philadelphia boxing history, Kareem “Cool Breeze” Cooley will look to go to 2-0 when he takes on Puro Pairol in a scheduled four round Super Featherweight bout as part of a seven bout card promoted by Greg Robinson’s Power Productions in association with River Edge Beverage Company.

Cooley of West Philadelphia scored a thrilling third round stoppage over Sidell Blocker in his first outing back on February 26th at The Arena thinks the bout with Pairol will showcase a better performance.

“The first fight was amazing and I was nervous”, said the twenty-two year old.

“I will go in there being me and doing what I do best”

Cooley, who works out at The Joe Hand Boxing Gym had a stellar amateur mark of 103-18, was a seven time Golden Glove champion, two-time Silver Glove champion and a multiple time Mid-Atlantic champion.

Cooley started boxing at age seven under the guidance of his grandfather and former fighter Roland Cooley.

The elder Cooley is joined in the corner by Ron Hammonds as lead trainer and is managed by Doc Nowicki, Jim Williams and Joe Hand Sr.

In the main event, undefeated Featherweight, Coy “Pretty Boy” Evans (7-0-1, 1 KO) will take on battle tested Morris Chule (11-10-1, 8 KO’s) in a bout scheduled for eight rounds.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are priced at $100 (ringside); $75 (VIP); $65 (Super Box); and $40 (floor seating) and can be purchased by calling the following Locations:

1st bout is 7:30

Ticketmaster 215-336-2000
The Arena 267-687-7560
Total Car Care 267-912-8747
G’s Auto 267-784-8797
Atpro 609-871-3552
Bozy Ennis 267-237-0354

LAS VEGAS (Apr. 6, 2010) – Boxing fans all over the world will be watching Saturday night’s “The Legend Returns” pay-per-view event, headlined by 4-time world heavyweight champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield challenging World Boxing Federation heavyweight title-holder Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha, live from the Thomas & Mack center in Las Vegas.

“The Legend Returns,” presented by Crown Boxing, is being distributed in the United States and Canada by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Avail-TVN, Viewer’s Choice and Bell TV, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

It also will be shown in more than 20 countries, including live broadcasts in Brazil, Mexico, China and the United Kingdom (channel 480 on Sky, streaming on www.primetimelive.co.uk). The card is available on www.gofightlive.tv PPV outside of the U.S., Canada, Brazil, United Kingdom, China and Mexico.

Holyfield (42-10-2, 27 KOs), coming off of a controversial 12-round majority decision loss December 20, 2008 in Switzerland to then World Boxing Association champion Nicolai Valuev, takes on Botha (47-4-3, 28 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

In the 10-round co-feature, Las Vegas cruiserweight Henry Namauu (5-3, 3 KOs), the former UNLV boxer and 2006 National Collegiate Cruiserweight Champion, faces dangerous Texan Rayford Johnson (5-4, 3 KOs). Former IBF cruiserweight champion “King” Arthur Williams (46-16-1, 30 KOs) tests unbeaten Utah prospect Valente Tinajero (8-0, 4 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts is Las Vegas featherweight Rocco Santomauro (3-0) vs. Karl Hammer (1-2), Las Vegas super featherweight Crystal Hoy (3-1-2, 2 KOs) vs. Jennifer Han (0-1-1), Detroit lightweight Joel Flores (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, St. Louis welterweight Lawrence Hughes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Las Vegas’ Juan Alcolea (2-1, 0 KOs), Las Vegas lightweight Jesus Gutierez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Jonathan Garcia, and Phoenix super bantamweight Alexis Santiago (2-0-1, 1 KO) vs. Brice Yeniki (0-4). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $25.00, $75.00, $150.00 and $250.00, are available to purchase at www.UNLVtickets.com or by calling 702.739.3267.

Doors open at 4 PM/PT, first bout 4:30 PM/PT, and first PPV bout 6:00 PM/PT (9:00 PM/ET). Go on line to www.crown-boxing-inc.com or www.worldboxingfederation.net for additional information

LEMOORE, CALIFORNIA — In the years following a Summer Olympics, the top amateur boxers must make the decision to either stay in the unpaid ranks for another four years and attempt making the next Olympic team, or turn professional and begin their hopeful journey to fame and fortune. Over the past couple of months, some highly touted former U.S. amateur stars have made the leap of faith and turned professional. Tonight at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino, one of the top 112-pound fighters in the nation over the last two years Michael Ruiz Jr. takes that first step on the road to prominence.

Ruiz, who hails from nearby Fresno, California, will take on Jose Luis Mares (0-2) of Lompoc, California in a four-round bantamweight bout. Despite being just shy of his 21st birthday, Ruiz handles himself like a veteran and appears to be completely satisfied with his decision to put his amateur days in the rearview mirror. “This is just the perfect time,” said Ruiz yesterday. “The Olympics are 2, 3 years away, and they wanted me to get away from my pro style and go more towards the amateur style. I have more of a pro style, and I wanted to keep it, so I decided to go pro.”

Despite what he describes as a pro style, Ruiz’ did just fine in that style as an amateur. Ruiz came close to winning a national title on several occasions, claiming the silver at both the 2008 National PAL Championships and 2009 National Golden Gloves. Currently Ruiz is ranked #3 at 112-pounds by USA Boxing.

“I believe I went about as far as I could go in the amateurs,” says Ruiz, before qualifying that statement. “I could go further, and I appreciate everything they did for me in amateur boxing. The last couple of years I was one of the top amateurs in my weight class, and there were some nationals I could have won, and some I felt I did win, but that is the amateurs. It is time to turn pro. I did as much as I could.”

The United States boxing team had its worst showing in history in claiming just one bronze medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China. That showing may serve as reason for many of the best American amateurs to turn pro and start earning a paycheck, rather than waiting it out for 2012. While Ruiz says 2008 had no bearing on his decision, he pulls no punches when talking about the American showing.

“The people that made the Olympics, they just didn’t have the heart to fight more for their country,” surmises Ruiz. “They already knew that they were going to go places, so they didn’t have their heart fully into it as amateurs. So they should have decided to go pro a long time ago, and let people with heart look forward to it. Right now I have my heart more into being a pro and not as much as being an amateur, so shouldn’t keep myself as an amateur when this is where my heart is at.”

Competing at the highest level in the same 112-pound weight class for two years, Ruiz undoubtedly has some amateur rivals he will likely see in the pro ranks. But has history has taught us, what happens in the amateurs does not always necessarily translate to the pros. “There’s a lot of guys that I fought already, that they know if it was pros, it would be a different story,” says the ultra-confident Ruiz. “And we will just leave it at that because I have love for everybody in the amateurs. It’s all competition, it’s all good. But now it’s the pros, it’s more serious.”

Adding incentive, if there wasn’t enough already, Ruiz will be fighting close to home as he fights without headgear for the first time. “It is amazing that I get to fight my first pro fight, and all my friends and family get to see me. It helps me feel really confident.” Ruiz promises not to disappoint the local supporters, who unquestionably have high hopes, as he launches his pro campaign. “It is going to be a good show, a really good show,” claims Ruiz. “[My supporters] can expect to see me do what I have trained to do, and what I do in the gym. I am not going to let them down.”

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

LEMOORE, CALIFORNIA — Overlooked heavyweight contender Manuel Quezada will again be featured in the main event at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino tonight, as he looks to further his cause against venerable journeyman Jason Gavern. Their ten-round fight, with Quezada’s WBC CABOFE Heavyweight title on the line, caps a six-bout card. Fighters weighed in Wednesday afternoon at the casino’s Den Sports Bar.

Quezada (29-4, 18 KOs) of Wasco, California has not been beaten in four-and-a-half years, while looming around in WBC world rankings. Quezada last fought in October, scoring a ten-round decision over Nicolai Firtha, and is one fight removed from a surprising first-round kayo of Travis Walker. Quezada, the WBC #9 ranked heavyweight, weighed in at 228-pounds Wednesday.

Gavern (18-7-3, 8 KOs) of Kissimmee, Florida is one heavyweight used to being placed in the role of spoiler. Gavern, a pro since 2003, has been in with several top prospects, scoring the occasional upset. Gavern is on a two-fight skid, one of which resulted in his first career knockout defeat suffered at the hands of unbeaten Denis Boystov. Gavern, vying for his first pro title of any kind, weighed in at 226.2-pounds.

Moving up to eight rounds for the first time, light welterweight prospect Mike Dallas Jr. (12-0-1, 3 KOs) of Bakersfield, California will take on the well-traveled Genaro Trazancos (22-10-1, 13 KOs) of Fort Myers, Florida, United States by way of Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico. Dallas has been on an impressive run since getting a draw on his ledger after a close fight in November of 2008. In his most recent outing, Dallas scored a devastating first-round stoppage over Fabian Luque in a bout televised by ESPN2. Dallas, a 2006 National PAL Champion, weighed in at 142.8-pounds.

Trazancos, who was competitive with high level fighters at 130-pounds, weighed in at 140.8. Trazancos has been stopped in four of his last six fights, but against a high caliber of opposition. A big fight looms as a possibility for Dallas should he get past Trazancos without injury, as there have been discussions about a fight against Josesito Lopez on the Chris Arreola-Tomasz Adamek undercard on April 24th.

One of the top amateurs in the nation over the last couple of years, Michael Ruiz Jr. of nearby Fresno, California will make his professional debut against Jose Luis Mares (0-2) of Lompoc, California in a four-round bantamweight bout. The 20-year-old Ruiz is currently listed as the USA Boxing #3 ranked flyweight (112-pounds). Ruiz weighed in at 117.6-pounds, while Mares came in at a near identical 117.4.

Scrappy Juan Tepoz (3-2-1) of Santa Rosa, California will take on late replacement Jose Pacheco (2-11-6) of Cudahy, California in a four-round super bantamweight fight. Pacheco, weighed in at 125-pounds. Tepoz, originally slated to battle Ephraim Martinez (4-0, 1 KO) of Buttonwillow, California in what would have been an action fight, scaled 122.2 pounds. Martinez was reportedly in a car accident recently, which forced him to withdraw from tonight’s card.

Super middleweight prospect Tyrell Hendrix (4-0-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles, California will take on perhaps his toughest test to date in Paul Mendez (3-1, 2 KOs) of Bakersfield, California in a four-rounder. Hendrix weighed in at 170.8-pounds, while Mendez came in at 167.8.

In the scheduled opener, Rufino Serrano (4-3) of Santa Maria, California will take on Eder Peralta (1-1, 1 KO) of Pasadena, California in a four-round featherweight fight. Serrano, who came up just short against the aforementioned Ephraim Martinez last month, weighed in at 126.4-pounds, while Peralta came in at 127 even.

2008 U.S. Olympic teammates Shawn Estrada and Javier Molina were originally slated to compete tonight. Estrada, a former resident of nearby Hanford, California, reinjured his hand in preparing for the fight. Molina is also suffering from a nagging hand injury that may be more serious than was originally thought. Estrada will be ringside at the event.

Tickets for the event, promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions, are available online at Tickets.com.

Quick Weigh-in Results:

WBC CABOFE Heavyweight Championship, 10 Rounds
Quezada 228
Gavern 226.2

Light welterweights, 8 Rounds
Dallas Jr. 142.8
Trazancos 140.8

Bantamweights, 4 Rounds
Ruiz Jr. 117.6
Mares 117.4

Super bantamweights, 4 Rounds
Pacheco 125
Tepoz 122.2

Super middleweights, 4 Rounds
Hendrix 170.8
Mendez 167.8

Super bantamweights, 4 Rounds
Serrano 126.4
Peralta 127

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

Evander Holyfield: “I’m happy to have the opportunity to fight in Las Vegas again. Everything that’s happened to me has been here – in 1984 I had to win Saturday and Sunday to make the Olympic team. In 1990, 1993, 1996 and 2000 I won the heavyweight title here. Las Vegas has been the place that’s given me the opportunity to be the person I am. I’m thankful for Botha giving me an opportunity to fight for a title again. My goal has simply been to be undisputed heavyweight champion. I’m a person – I think my attitude is good when people tell me I can’t do something — I’m driven by what people say I can’t do to prove I can. I’m not disappointed by decisions. I felt I beat Valuev. I won’t quit seeking to do my best and Saturday night you’ll see me give my all. If not enough, I’ll make adjustments.

“To be perfect is to reach my goal. I thought I did it in 1999 against Lennox (Lewis). Here, in 2010, and it’s going to be a great fight. I’m telling you, Saturday night, I’ll look better than I used to be.”

Frans Botha: “I’m defending my title against one of the greatest legends of all-time. This will make my resume perfect. I’ve fought some of the best and Evander is one of the best. Saturday night, I’m prepared for this. Evander had talent and experience. I’m getting in there knowing it’s going to be a tough fight. ‘The White Buffalo’ is roaming the prairie. I’m going to end your career, make you retire. The Buffalo is charging.

“I’m very grateful to be here. Me and Evander would have fought 10 years ago. I was No. 1 and he was champion. It didn’t work out. You’re a legend. You’ve fought some of the greatest, but I have to stop that. Saturday night you’re going to see a helluva fight.”

Henry Namauu: “I’m going to take advantage of what has been given to me. I’m not much for words; I just show up to fight.”

Rayford Johnson: “I’m guaranteeing Saturday night that I’ll win. My losses are losses, but I’m coming to fight and win.”

Arthur Williams: “I’m honored to be on a card with Evander Holyfield and Frans Botha. It’s a big card. I’m excited and ready to fight. My last fight I had a tragedy in my family. No excuse, I thought the referee stopped the fight prematurely, and I was winning. I’m ready to get it on. When all the smoke and dust clear, I’ll be standing.”

FACT SHEET

WORLD BOXING FEDERATION HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

MAIN EVENT – 12 ROUNDS – PPV
EVANDER “The Real Deal” HOLYFIELD FRANS “The White Buffalo” BOTHA
4-Time World Heavyweight Champion World Boxing Federation Champion
Atlanta, GA Newport Beach, CA by way of South Africa
42-10-2 (27 KOs) 47-4-3 (28 KOs)
CO-FEATURE
10 ROUNDS – CRUISERWEIGHTS
HENRY NAMAUU RAYFORD JOHNSON
2006 National Collegiate Cruiserweight Champion Dangerous Opponent
Las Vegas, NV Austin, TX
5-3 (3 KOs) 5-4 (3 KOs)
6 ROUNDS – CRUISERWEIGHTS

“King” ARTHUR WILLIAMS VALENTE TINAJERO

Former IBF Cruiserweight Champion Unbeaten Prospect

Pensacola, FL Roy, UT

46-16-1 (30 KOs) 8-0 (4 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – FEATHERWEIGHTS
ROCCO SANTOMAURO KARL HAMMER
Las Vegas, NV Clearfield, UT
3-0 (0 KOs) 1-2 (0 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – FEMALE SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS
CRYSTAL HOY JENNIFER HAN
Las Vegas, NV Tucson, AZ
3-1-2 (2 KOs) 0-1-1
4 ROUNDS – LIGHTWEIGHTS
JOEL FLORES TBA
Detroit, MI
3-0 (3 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – WELTERWEIGHTS
LAWRENCE HUGHES JUAN ALCOLEA
St. Louis, MO Las Vegas, NV
3-0 (3 KOs) 2-1 (0 KOs)
4 ROUNDS — LIGHTWEIGHTS

JESUS GUTIEREZ JONATHAN GARCIA

Las Vegas, NV Watsonville, CA

1-0 (1 KO) 1-0 (1 KO)

4 ROUNDS – SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS
ALEXIS SANTIAGO BRICE YENIKI
Phoenix, AZ Las Vegas, NV
2-0-1 (1 KO) 0-4

(All Fights and Fighters subject to change)

WHAT: “The Legend Returns” PPV

WHEN: Saturday, April 10, 2010 – 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT

WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada

PROMOTER: Crown Boxing

York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England
March 21st 2010

Miranda Carter put on her first show of the year, featuring a good looking card which saw the return of Leon Williams in his first start since losing his unbeaten record to Hastings Rasani.
A good card featured many devastating finishes, one not particuarly pleasing to the eye as you’ll read, other than that a good value for money show all round!

Navid Iran {Brighton} v Steve Timms {West Bromwich}
Result: Iran won KO 1

In the opening fight of the afternoon, Brighton debutant Iran exploded in devastating fashion as he detonated a huge left hook off of the unprotected jaw of poor Steve Timms to send him crashing to the canvas out for the full count, Timm’s who himself was coming back after a six year lay off might well call it a day after such a crushing loss.
To begin with both came out shaping up, both looking to land the left jab, as the two shaped up Timm’s {169lbs} a well muscled type backed off as Navid {167lbs} took the iniative, before darting in and out, shortly after the Brighton man came inside before he connected with a left hook that dumped Timm’s to the canvas, the ref dispensing with the count as the Midlander was out cold, the fight being stopped after only just thirty seconds of the opening gong by third man Ken Curtis!
With that kind of concussive power, Ronnie Davie’s {formerly Chris Eubank’s trainer} trained, Iran could be one to look out for in a year or two’s time, time will tell naturally!
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Martin Welsh {Swanley} v Ryan Clark {Waddington}
Result: Welsh won points
In an exciting action packed four rounder, Welsh found the range and pace to beat the tough, competitive Clark from Waddington, who tried to puzzle the Swanley man, {sorry for the pun, do Waddington’s still make puzzles? bung us a email}.
Welsh to begin with did most of the work, on his bike countering off the ropes proving a little too elusive for the never say die Clark, however the second saw Clark {155lbs} come into the contest moreso, asserting himself as Welsh hands high in a shell like guard did little to begin the session, Martin did however try to assume control and was met by a rampaging Clark that produced some lively exchanges, a nice right from the Waddington man landed on the bell and Welsh {154lbs}, it seemed Clark had evened the score mathematically.
However the last two rounds were basically hard fought encounters as each man took there respective turns to back the other up, Welsh did seem to nick the last two session’s with slightly the better accuracy, at the bell something strange happened as the ref could’nt seem to make his mind up whose hand to raise, before opting for Welsh’s glove, and though I had Martin the winner, I certainly did’nt agree with the land slide 40-36 in favour of the Swanley man on ref Kieran McCann’s card, again I’m not the judge but maybe when decision’s like this are announced I should be!!!!
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Laura Saperstein {Australia} v Lana Cooper {Wales}
Result: Saperstein won rsc 2

From the opening bell, it was evident that Saperstein was the boss, as she got off the better with her shots proving just that bit better and faster than her Welsh adversary, Cooper for her part tried but just seemed that bit off par for my liking.
Saperstein {135lbs} clearing taking the opener, came out relaxed looking in the second as she controlled the pace and tempo, keeping the blonde Cooper {137lbs} at bay, however Lana in one attack was cranking a left hook when all of a sudden, a terrible etch of pain crept across her face as she fell to the canvas clutching her left arm, obviously in agony she writhed on the canvas where ref had no alternative but to halt it there and then, medic’s attended to Cooper who also gave her oxygen and had to stretcher her out of the ring after she was attended to for a good several moments, aparently Lana dislocated her shoulder as she was throwing the respective shot, I wish her a speedy recovery and praise the medics who attended to her, they did a great job!
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Ryan Toms {Northolt} v John Paul Temple {Brighton}
Result: Toms won rsc 2

In a fight that was billed as Temple’s last engagement, he could’nt have picked a more tastier foe in the shape of Northolt’s Toms.
From the offset it was looking inevitable that Temple was way in over his head, as he could’nt even get near Ryan who basically hardly moved out of first gear, confident, even almost cocky Toms looked relaxed as he took his time before taking apart the hapless Brighton man.
Circling, Toms southpaw stance was proving too much for Temple, one straight left shaking John before the end of the round.
Round two proved no different, as Ryan moving up the gears, backed up Temple with a solid left hook before dropping him with a solid right, doing well to get up and showing some of the Dunkirk, Temple was backed into a corner where Toms unloaded with a blistering fusilade of leather, outpunched and outclassed Temple was rescued and rightfully so, the last shot almost reintroducing the Brighton man to the canvas a second time, luckily the third man Keiran McCann grabbing Temple saving him the embarrassment of another visit stopping it at the 1:06 mark, Tom’s celebrated wildly, he is certainly one to look out for, as he has a composure that certanly belies that of a guy having only his fourth paid fight, watch out for this guy!!!!
Temple retired from the sport, beaten yes, brave? certainly, a great competitor. both weighed 155lbs.
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Tony Conquest {Dagenham} v John Anthony {Doncaster}
Result: Conquest won points

In a fight that looked as good as over in the first couple of seconds by way of a short solid right hand from the handsome looking Conquest, it looked like disaster for the man from Doncaster {I know another pun, sorry!!!!}
Thing is Anthony did’nt read the script, he picked himself up from the uncerimoniuos heap he found himself in and battled back, Conquest seemed to keep his man at bay and got the better of things, until just before the bell it was Tony, and not Anthony {201lbs} who was on the deck himself, from a half decent shot to return the dose, a knockdown a piece in the opener, as I mentioned before this John had’nt read the script.
From the second onwards Conquest {193lbs} kept things at range, despite a scrappy second, Conquest piled up the points behind a nice left jab before managing to rock Anthony with another big right.
The fourth proved no different to the previuos session as Tony outboxed the Doncaster man, however in the fifth Anthony had more success as he started to land a little more frequently with rights but Conquest notched up another session.
The final session saw pretty much of the same, until that is Conquest tasted the canvas a second time, looking more embarrassed than hurt Tony got up and continued to outbox his man, and this despite being floored twice reflected in the score of 59-56 which I felt was an accurate assesment of the previous events from the last eighteen minutes boxing.
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Leon Williams {Streatham} v Tyrone Wright {Nottingham}
Result: Williams won ko 2

Making a return to the ring was Streatham’s Leon Williams returning to the ring after a points loss to Hastings Rasani in this very ring just before Christmas.
Opposing “solid” was Tyrone Wright {195lbs}, in the opener Williams seemed to be bufuddled a little by the tricky Wright who outboxed the plodding Williams, who could’nt seem to connect with anything of any real note, Wright easily taking the opener, however in the second Williams {194lbs} asserted himself as he continued to push back the taller Wright, then it came the punch that Williams needed a smashing right landed on the back pedalling Nottingham man who took the punch flush on the money and went down heavily on his back, there seemed no need to count and the third man waved it over, Williams was back as Wright was flat on his, several minutes in fact during some anxiuos moments while again the medics attended to Tyrone, it was a relief when he got to his feet, but still due to the nature of the stoppage had to sit on his corner stool almost ring centre where oxygen was administered to him for a good ten minutes, the medics did a great job and proved that how well protected the fighters are, more so especially at Miranda’s show’s
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John Wayne Hibbert {Stanford Le Hope} v Ricky Boulter {Lincoln}
Result: Hibbert won rsc 2nd

John Wayne Hibbert showed plenty of idea as he patiently stalked down his opponent grinding out a second round stoppage.
In the opener Boulter {159lbs} looked as though he had the book on Hibbert as he countered effictively off the ropes with nice short bursts of shots, and despite taking some good shots to the body seemed too quick and busy for the Essex man, however come the second Hibbert {158lbs} upped the pace and soon showed he was the boss as Boulter’s work rate dropped significantly, moreso enabling Hibbert to tee off on his man, a series of hard shots blooded Ricky’s nose, battered literally from pillar to post, Boulter was under a lot of pressure and looked on a hiding to nothing, every now and again he tried to fight back but it was a losing battle and at the end of the second session, Boulter’s corner rightfully pulled there man out of what was becoming too one sided for my liking.
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Kreshnik Qato {Wembley} v Alex Spitko {Latvia}
Result: Qato won points

It was the usual fan fare that greeted possibly the most well supported boxer in the country, when Qato fights, he ussually as back up in the form of his own army, an army of fans that make it known that our sport, the sport of boxing is far from the final count, now if only more people got behind boxers than they did footballers, we’d all be a lot happier for the experience as boxing fans and the like.
Qato got a rousing reception as he entered the ring, you could have been far away, in the far East as opposed to the East end of London.
However in the opener tough guy Spitko {166lbs} came marching in, punches flailing not taking a backward step, one right hand floored the Albanian to the shock of the Albanian and his contingent, more so to my horror if the unimaginable was to happen and he was to lose, I was preparing for a fight myself, to get out of the place alive.
Luckily Qato got up and more surprised than hurt shook off the effects, Spitko was’nt to be denied as he tried hard to catch Qato again, but Qato survived, the second was basically a carbon copy of the opener, despite there being no repeat of a knockdown, Spitko pressured and was bullying Kreshnik out of his stride and the contest and easily seemed to take the opening two sessions.
However from the third onwards Qato seemed as though he knew fighting with a guy like Spitko might not be such a good idea and so opted to box, and once he did, he seemed to have the measure of the Latvian, even as much as Spitko tried to cut the ring off Qato {163lbs} threw a series of fast accurate flurry’s that reminded me of Sugar Ray Leonard in the Hagler fight, now please for one moment don’t think I’m comparing Qato to a technical genius like Leonard, I’m not but it reminded me as such of back on that fateful night in April 1987.
Each successive flurry from Qato was met by the Latvian’s countanence and a roar of approval from the Qato faithful, the last four rounds were all fought in a similar vein from the third onwards, but outboxed as he was I tipped my hat to Spitko who did’nt stop trying to the bitter end, but the early points lead was a distant memory on the scorecard and I gave it to Qato by a similar margin to that of the official 59-57 on Ken Curtis card, Qato when the mood takes him can box nicely and with a bit more iniative could prove a hard man to beat when his on his game!

Michael Angelo Serra reporting

So it was the turn of the light middles in Barry Hearn’s Prize Fighter series.
However this particular tournament turned out to be more one for the purists, as no particular bout failed to produce a inside schedule win.
As I walked into the York Hall, I could’nt find a spare seat in the press row, so I noticed over the other side a couple of empty seats, on finding them I noticed an athletic looking chap sitting there, it was…..Anthony Small the current reigning British and Commonwealth champion, it seemed the King was here to keep an eye on his hopeful predecessors!!!!

Quarter finals….

George Hillyard {Canning Town} v Prince Arron {Manchester}
Result: Arron won points

In the first fight of the evening, George Hillyard coming back after a devastating kayo loss last time out, certainly did’nt look damaged pyschologically from that bad experience, as he came out throwing big rights as he made Arron retreat, However the second saw Prince begin to get into the contest as he began scoring as he used his natural advantages in reach, the third was no different as Arron kept Hillyard at bay with good boxing to take a fairly conclusive decison of 30-27 on all three judges scorecards, both weighed 154 lbs.
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Bradley Pryce {Newbridge} v Neil Sinclair {Belfast}
Result: Pryce won points

In what many in the trade would have considered more fitting a match up for the final ended up due to the luck or should that be bad luck of the draw a one of the opening contests, Irishman Sinclair won the opener fairly easily as he did more work as Pryce {154lbs} did very little, the second saw a change in the tide as Pryce began to land with some solid shots as he began to stamp his authority, Sinclair {155lbs} for the remainder of the bout never was allowed back in the running and Pryce sealed victory with the heavier punches to take a well earned decision winning on two judges scorecards of identical scores of 29-28, however one judge leant in favour surprisingly of the Belfast man by 29-28.
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Danny Butler {Bristol} v Bret Flourney {Birkenhead}
Result: Flourney won points

Bristol’s Danny Butler showed a lot of fighting spirit as he continuosly attacked Flourney, who contented himself by boxing on the back foot, Butler coming back from the loss to Darren Barker for the vacant British middle title, showed plenty of ticker as he had done against Barker on this night, though at times his tactics were a little kamikaze, both {154lbs} worked hard in the second though I did however think Flourney did enough to shade the second, but rounds one and three Butler seemed to be getting through the more but sadly the judges unbelievably voted in favour of Flourney 30-27 twice and 29-28.
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Martin Concepcion {Leicester} v Steve O’Meara {Wembley}
Result: O’Meara won points

Jim Mcdonnell trained O’Meara ticked all the boxes for me in this one as he did a paint job on the robust, mechanical looking Concepcion {155lbs} who for the best part of the nine minutes was looking to land the big shot, instead of looking to maintain a good workrate to possibly present those mathematicians, the prizefighter judges with a bit more of a sterner tally up afterwards, however it was O’Meara {154lbs} who was doing all the scoring through out and this reflected in the wide scoring at the bout’s conclusion as he was voted a unaminous winner 30-27 twice and 30-28 by the three wise men!

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Semi Finals…..

Prince Arron {Manchester} v Bradley Pryce {Newbridge}
Result: Arron won points

In the opener, Arron used his obvious reach and height advantage’s over the Welshman, keeping Pryce at bay as Bradley tried to get inside but was finding the target a very elusive one.
Second round action saw Pryce desparatley try to bridge the gap, but did find the target at last as he managed to get through a couple of times with big rights, one even managing to rock the gangly Arron, who did well to survive, Pryce had pulled even on my scorecard going into the final session.
The third saw Pryce tiring badly as father time seemingly was catching up with the Welshman, mother nature too has he could’nt evade the longer arms of Prince, who throughly outboxed Bradley and took his place in the final by scores of 30-27 twice and 29-28.

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Bret Flourney {Birkenhead} v Steve O’Meara {Wembley}
Result: Flourney won points

O’Meara came out looking slick, as he seemed to outbox the Birkenhead man for the first couple of rounds, and in my view there was no way O’Meara lost the first couple of rounds, that said the third was a lot closer and possibly Flourney did enough to win the session.
However it was to my surprise when Flourney was adjudged the winner as I had O’Meara one round the better man, I should be a judge perhaps I don’t know, what do you think? answers on a postcard, or better still drop me an email!!!!!!
For the record scores were 29-28 twice in favour of, and 28-29 in favour against, confused I was?

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THE FINAL…..

Prince Arron {Manchester} v Bret Flourney {Birkenhead}
Result: Arron won points

In the first round Arron looked rather decidedly tired, and it was Flourney who looked fortunate to even be in the final, took the chance with both hands, looking rejuvenated he had possibly due to a lack of effort from his previous two efforts this evening, with something left in the tank as he took control, a little like Audley Harrison had done back last October in stealing the show with a workrate that was for the best part non existent in the last Prize Fighter, Flourney was’nt about to change such a trend, until now that is in the final!!!!!
The Second saw Arron make a better argument of it as he showed a big heart as he dug in and started to mount a fight back as he boxed his way back into the contest, doing enough to shade the session, in the third though, finally there was a knockdown, not that I was looking for any real drama, I’m a self confessed sad git who today’s fight fan could’nt bear to sit there and witness what I would deem a classic, Mike McCallum v Carl Jones is one, as I prefer an exhibition of boxing as opposed to the slam, bang fanfare that today’s fight fan get’s off on, hence the Prize Fighter series, sorry Baz!!!! whoops!!!! almost forgot back to the knockdown which seemed a little harsh on the Birkenhead man as it looked as if he was bundled over more than floored by a legitimate enough punch or punches, still the third man took up the count and it counted!!!!
It seemed the bow Flourney took in the form of a knockdown to the man fittingly known as Prince, proved a crowning moment for the Manchester man, as the knockdown had proved decisive in the scorecards, well after the kindness via the judges in favour of Flourney beforehand it was in true cockney idiom poetic justice, innit!!!!
Scores were 29-28 twice and 28-27 all in favour of the Prince, who could face off against the King who was ringside in a rematch for what that’s worth as Small destroyed Arron inside of two rounds back in 2006, and surely it would be a case of ‘good night sweet Prince’ again should a rematch materialise, remember there’s an old saying in boxing that goe’s ‘uneasy lie’s the head, that wears the crown’ on this night the King will sleep peacefully.

Michael Angelo Serra reporting with the King sat one seat but one, next to himself….

Any views or emails to mickyserra@aol.com if you can be bothered….????? {only kidding guys, seriously}

PHILADELPHIA (April 7, 2010)—This Saturday night, Anthony Burgin will be looking to give himself a belated birthday present.

Burgin, who turned eighteen today (April 7) will be competing in the finals of the Eastern regional’s of the 2010 Golden Gloves that will be held at The Legendary Blue Horizon.

Burgin came to the Joe Hand Gym six months ago with his trainer Orlando Perez.

Burgin started boxing at age fourteen when his step mother encouraged him to take up the sport.

Burgin was a quick study as he was recognized as one of the top amateurs in the talent rich city. He has amassed an impressive record of 24-3 and was a 2008 National Jr. Olympic champion at 106 lbs. Later in the year he claimed a Mid-Atlantic championship. In 2009 he made it to the semi-finals of the National Golden Gloves at 119 lbs.

Burgin, from the Kensington section of Philadelphia attends Philadelphia Military Academy where he has learned discipline that he has instilled in his boxing career.

Burgin has aspirations of becoming a professional boxer and lists Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao and Bernard Hopkins as his favorite fighters.

While at the Joe Hand Boxing Gym, Burgin trains with his younger brothers Nicholas and Nathan.

There also will be a special celebrity boxing exhibition that will feature Mike Fera, who is the president of Local 592 and head of the Cement Masons taking on Liam Mulvy, who is a currant boxing documentary producer as well as a former amateur boxing champion in the United Kingdom.

The competition is sponsored by Joe Hand Promotions with all proceeds going to the Joe Hand Boxing Gym and Computer Lab.

This is the fifteenth year that Joe Hand Promotions has been involved with this great event.

Tickets are $35 and can be purchased by calling Joe Hand Promotions at 1-215-364-9000.

The doors open at 6pm with the first fight beginning promptly at 6:30

The Legendary Blue Horizon is located at 1314 North Broad Street.

ABOUT THE JOE HAND BOXING GYM

Started by Joe Hand Promotions in 1995, the Joe Hand Boxing Gym has been a community landmark for over 15 years. Joe Hand, Sr., a retired Philadelphia police detective, saw the gym as a safe place for Philly’s children and young adults to come and hone their skills in boxing or spend time learning computer skills for their futures.

A world of opportunity is right here, as kids are mentored by educators and athletes, guiding them down what can be a difficult path. The Joe Hand Boxing Gym offers regulation boxing rings, brand new equipment, and a modern computer center where children from the community can participate in the educational process.

Location:
543-547 North Third Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123

Phone: 215-271-4263

Twin Cities, MN- Previously undefeated lightweight Jeremy Mclaurin(7-1, 5 ko’s) suffered a shocking unanimous decision loss to underdog Hector Orozco this past weekend in Hinckley, but the St. Paul based fighter wants to make it clear he plans to return with a sharpened focus.

“I was just stuck in the mud all night, I have no excuses, I lost my drive somewhere in the last few months and stopped hitting the pavement. I was running on treadmills and waking up at 9AM instead of six. I tip my hat to Hector and I’ll take the positives from this loss, and build toward my future.”

Prior to April 2nd Mclaurin had been followed by whispers of a potential showdown with Gary Eyer (8-0, 6 ko’s) of Duluth, who stopped Brad Patraw on the same card, but plans now likely point to Mclaurin returning to 130 and taking on two or three more fights before an Eyer bout comes to fruition.

“If there is one positive from Friday I’m happy to be able to take a learning experience like this early on in my career rather than later, and on a bigger stage. I want to thank all my fans, and supporters for sticking by me, and I plan to bring you a better show next time around.”

McLaurin stopped Orozco in February, and no plans have been mentioned at this time for a third bout between the two. Also in action Friday Tyler Hultin and Tim Taggart fought to a draw, Donny Tierney edged Dan Copp, and in the main event middleweight Andy Kolle dominated Matt Vanda for a unanimous decision win.

St. Paul, MN (April 6, 2010) – Highly touted super middleweight Caleb “Golden” Truax will meet in-state rival Phil “The Drill” Williams at the St. Paul Armory Friday, April 23, in the main event of Seconds Out Promotions’ “St. Paul Brawl”.

A flawless 14-0 with 9 knockouts, Truax is amongst the top up-and-comers in the Midwest. The Osseo, MN native stopped five of his last seven opponents, most recently outpointing well regarded Kerry Hope in the World Boxing Federation’s Fight of the Year.

Williams, a dynamic power puncher, looks to get back on track following two recent setbacks. At 11-3 with 10 KO’s, Williams owns knockout victories over former title challenger Antwun Echols, underrated Marcus Upshaw, and twice decked unbeaten contender Marcus Oliveira before coming up short. A resident of Minneapolis, MN by way of Queens, NY, Williams is confident he will tarnish Truax’ perfect record.

Truax and Williams meet over ten rounds for local bragging rights, as the Minnesota State Super Middleweight title will be up for grabs.

In the eight round co-feature, cement fisted heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell battles 31 fight veteran Josh “The Griz” Gutcher of Albia, IA. A fan favorite based out of Coon Rapids, Abell sports a 25-4 record with 24 wins by knockout. Having fought in the U.S., Sweden, Canada and Saint Lucia, Abel is globally recognized as a devastating puncher.

Unbeaten featherweights Ismail Muwendo and Gustavo Espinoza meet over four rounds, while crowd favorites Jon “Iron Man” Schmidt, Charles Meier, Derek Winston and Antwon Robertson will appear in separate bouts against opponents to be announced.

With mixed martial arts’ interest at an all time high, Seconds Out added three special attraction MMA bouts to the card. Middleweight Jedidiah Jones meets Isiah Mahto in a highly anticipated three round rematch, while well regarded locals Travis Reddinger and Zach Juusola meet opponents TBA.

Tickets for the “St. Paul Brawl” are $25 for general admission and $75 for VIP and are available at ticketweb.com. Doors to open at 7 pm. The first bell is slated for 8.

The St. Paul Armory is located at 600 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55101.

When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for boxing was undeniable. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions. By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out quickly became a hit.

Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out strives to become a top promotional firm by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering fans the highest quality of entertainment. Seconds Out is committed to recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission.

Seconds Out Promotions’ current stable of pugilists includes undefeated prospects “Golden” Caleb Truax, Marcus Oliveria, Michael Faulk, Ismail Muwendo, dynamite fisted Heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell, Willshaun Boxley, Charles Meier, Jon “The Ironman” Schmidt, and Mohammed Kayongo.

For more information, go to www.soboxing.com or text “fights” to 95495

PHILADELPHIA (April 6, 2010)—THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 9th, at The Arena in South Philadelphia, one of the hottest Featherweight prospects in the United States will make his eight round debut as Coy “Pretty Boy” Evans takes on twenty-three fight veteran Morris Chule in the Main event.

The event is promoted by Greg Robinson’s Power Productions in association with Riveredge Beverage company.

Evans of Philadelphia is becoming one of the most talked about fighters in Philadelphia, has a record of 7-0-1 with one win coming by knockouts and is coming off a six round unanimous decision over Robert Daluz on February 27th in Allentown, PA.

In his last outing at The Arena, Evans scored a stunning second round stoppage over Vineash Rungea on January 15th.

Chula of Kenya, and now fights out of Pahokee, Florida has a record of 11-10-2 with eight knockouts and has fought all over the globe as he has participated in bouts in Kenya, Uganda, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Russia, The Philippines and his last three bouts in the United States.

In his last four bouts, Chule has fought former world title challenger Czar Amonsot (19-3-1); Future world title challenger Mario Santiago (20-1-1); Argenis Mendez (14-1) and Jerry Belmontes (10-0).

In the six round co-feature, Derrick Webster of Glassboro, NJ will see action in a six round Middleweight bout against Andre Espuet of Morristown, NJ.

Webster is perfect in his five bouts with four coming by knockout. In his last bout, Webster scored a fourth round stoppage over eleven fight veteran Pete Guthy on February 27th in Allentown, PA.

Espuet has a record of 2-1 and is coming off a four round unanimous decision loss to knockout specialist, Jason Escalera (6-0, 6 KO’s) on August 27th in North Bergen, NJ

The very popular Olivia “The Great” Fonseca (3-2-2, 2 KO’s) will take on Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes (1-1, 1 KO) in a Ladies Jr. Middleweight bout.

Fonseca of Philadelphia has been off since her July 10 second round stoppage over Lisa Bolin at The Arena.

In a four round Light Heavyweight bout Joe McKenzie will make his pro debut against Maurice Amaro (0-2)

Fresh off his pro debut knockout, Kareem Cooley (1-0, 1 KO) will take on Puro Pairol in a four round Lightweight bout.

Coming off a successful pro debut on February 26th at The Arena, Lightweight Kareem “Cool Breeze” Cooley returns to the scene of his third round knockout when he see action in a four round bout.

Cooley, who trains out of the Joe Hand Boxing Gym had a very successful amateur career and had that impressive pro debut.

Lightweight Keenan Smith will make his pro debut when he takes on Luis Esquilin (1-3-1) of Philadelphia in a four round Featherweight fight.

Featherweight William Davies also make his pro debut against Joseliz Capeda (0-1 ) in a four round bout.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are priced at $100 (ringside); $75 (VIP); $65 (Super Box); and $40 (floor seating) and can be purchased by calling the following Locations:

Ticketmaster 215-336-2000
The Arena 267-687-7560
Total Car Care 267-912-8747
G’s Auto 2670784-8797
Atpro 609-871-3552
Bozy Ennis 267-237-0354

Attorney Daniel Pertocelli dismissed reports that Antonio Margarito’s gloves were loaded with a rock-like substance before he was ordered to re-wrap his hands before a loss to Shane Mosley more than a year ago in Los Angeles.

“Completely false,’’ Petrocelli said Monday in a conference call that included Top Rank’s Bob Arum, who is promoting Margarito’s return to the ring in Mexico on May 8.

Arum said he scheduled the conference call in an attempt to correct conclusions that he says were based on “misinformation” about circumstances that led to a one-year revocation of Margarito’s license by the California State Athletic Commission.

Margarito, who has been free to re-apply for a license in the United States since February, is scheduled to appear at a news conference Tuesday at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

Petrocelli said an “irregularity” was discovered in the gauze above one knuckle in the wraps when Mosley trainer Nazim Richardson asked for a closer look before opening bell of a welterweight fight on Jan 24 at Staples Center. The California commission conducted a forensic test of the wraps, said Petrocelli, who said he was not allowed to have different experts conduct a second test.

The California test turned up traces of calcium and sulfur, according to Petrocelli, who said both substances can be found in hand creams.

Pertocelli also dismissed talk that Margarito used similar wraps in the summer of 2008 in an upset of Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas. He called the speculation a “myth.”

California and Nevada rules are different, said Petrocelli, who won a wrongful death judgment in 1997 against O.J. Simpson in civil court. In California, trainers are allowed to bring their own wraps. Nevada provides the wraps. Javier Capitello, Margarito’s trainer for Mosley, also had his license revoked for 12 months. Robert Garcia of Oxnard, Calif., is Margarito’s current trainer.

Margarito has said consistently that he did not know Capetillo had wrapped his hands illegally. In an interview with 15 Rounds on March 11 in a lobby of a Dallas-area hotel before Manny Pacquiao’s victory over Joshua Clottey on March 13 at Cowboys Stadium; Margarito said; “I did nothing wrong.’’

Petrocelli said he is trying to clear Margarito’s name with an appeal in the California courts. He expects a ruling sometime this year. Meanwhile, Arum plans to apply for license in the U.S. after Margarito’s May 8 bout against Roberto Garcia in Aguascalientes.

“His next fight will be in the United States,’’ said Arum, who was unable to get Margarito licensed in Texas in time for him to fight on the Pacquiao-Clottey undercard.

This past Friday Night at The Legendary Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, Derek Ennis and Jose Gonzalez locked up in a classic bout that headlined a six bout card. 15rounds.com Claudia Bocanegra was there capture all the vivid images from this memorable night

CLICK PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

PHILADELPHIA (April 4, 2010)—Boxing historians can now add this past Friday’s bout between USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek “Pooh” Ennis and Jose Gonzalez to list of classic biuts that have taken place at The Legendary Blue Horizon as they engaged in a ten round war that was won by Ennis via majority decision.

The show was promoted by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing LLC

Ennis and Gonzalez waged a classic toe to toe war which had the near capacity crowd on the edge of their seats throughout the ten round classic.

Ennis showed amazing hand speed as he ripped up six and seven punch combination’s that rocked Gonzalez all over the ring. Gonzalez stunned Ennis in round two for which Ennis seemed like he was in big trouble as Gonzalez continuously landed hard shots to the head but Ennis showed a great chin and came back more furious then before.

It seemed that every time Ennis would have Gonzalez in serious trouble and ready to go, the visitor from Garden City, Kansas would come back as not only did he show a granite chin but heart that was unparalleled as he would come but to be more than competitive in the ebb and flow contest. Ennis himself showed heart and determination because not only beat a relentless opponent but over the final few rounds he fought with a nasty cut on his right eyebrow,

Ennis won by scores of 98-92; 98-92and 95-95 to raise his record to 21-2-1. He will now look to defend his USBA crown in June or July.

The co-feature saw Derek’s brother, Farah dominated and then scored a emphatic second round knockout over Frankie Santos in their scheduled eight round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Ennis dropped Santos at the end of the round and Santos was not able to continue at the 3:10 of the second frame.

Ennis remained undefeated at 13-0 while recording his seventh stoppage.

Heavyweight Bryant Jennings landed a perfect uppercut that laid out Jon Bolden for several minutes as Jennings scored a highlight reel third round knockout in a scheduled four round bout of undefeated heavyweights.

Other winners on the card were Clemente Bethea, Jose Ortiz and Duane King.

FULL RESULTS

10 ROUNDS JR. MIDDLEWEIGHTS—Derek “Pooh” Ennis (21-2-1), 157 ½ lbs of Philadelphia MD over Jose Gonzalez (13-7-1), 155 lbs of Garden City, Kansas…Scores were 98-92, 98-92 and 95-95

8 ROUNDS SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS—Farah Ennis (13-0, 7 KO’s) 169 lbs of Philadelphia KO 2 (3:10) over Frankie Santos (17-9-4) 173 lbs of Salinas, PR

4 ROUNDS HEAVYWEIGHTS— Bryant Jennings (2-0, 1 KO) 221 lbs of Philadelphia KO 3 (3:06 over Jon Bolden (1-1) 237 ½ lbs of New York, NY

4 ROUNDS JR WELTERWEIGHTS— Clemente Bethea (2-0) 139 ½ lbs of Camden, NJ U DEC over Jason Sia (0-2) 139 lbs of Philadelphia….scores were 38-36 on all cards

4 ROUNDS FEATHERWEIGHTS—Jose Ortiz (3-2) 129 lbs of Jersey City, NJ U DEC over Luis Esquilin (1-3-1) 126 lbs of Philadelphia…Scores were 40-36; 40-36 and 39-37

4 ROUNDS MIDDLEWEIGHTS—Duane King (1-1) 154 lbs of Reidsville, NC MAJDEC over Kamel Al-Olabi (0-3) 159 lbs of Saudi Arabia… Scores were 39-37; 39-37 and 38-38

Photo Credit: Claudia Bocanegra

This classic night of boxing is now available to be viewed all over the world on www.gofightlive.tv by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=576

THE NEXT EVENT AT THE LEGENDARY BLUE HORIZON WILL BE FRIDAY NIGHT, JUNE 4TH