PHILADELPHIA (April 2, 2010)- Weights for TONIGHT’S Spring Fling Boxing event at The Legendary Blue Horizon.

Derek Ennis 157.5 – Jose Gonzlaez 155
Farah Ennis 169 – Frankie Santos 173
Clenete Bethea 139.5 – Jason Sia 139
John Bolden 237.5 – Bryant Jennings 221
Luis Esquilin 126 – Jose Ortiz 129
Duane King 154 – Kamel Al-Olabi 159

Promoter: Blue Horizon Boxing Promotions LLC
Start Time: 7:30 pm est
Tickets: 215-763-0500

Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential Seats, $65 for VIP Seating, $55 for Ringside Seating and $45 for General Admission Seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-763-0500 or through PayPal by clicking www.legendarybluehorizon.com/html/tickets.html Doors open at 6:30 PM / First Bout begins at 7:30 P.M.

The Legendary Blue Horizon™

1314 North Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA

The entire fight card can be seen LIVE!! On www.gofightlive.tv beginning at 7:30 pm for just $6.99 by clicking http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=576

14-0(8) Sharif Bogere -V- Martin Tucker 7-5(3)
139 143

7-3(5) Eddie Salas -V- Mike Alexander 1-4(0)
164 164

1-0(1) Fidel Maldonado Jr -V- Blake Franklin 3-3-1(1)
136 137

2-0(0) Robert Rodriguez -V- Manuel Delgado 1-3(0)
124.5 124

1-0(1) Michael Finney -V- TBA
143.5

Debut Bradley Blenkenship -V- Abraham Espinoza 0-1(0)
157 158

Advance tickets for HOMETOWN HEROES, priced at $100, $50 and $30, can be purchased through Ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com., 1-800-745-3000) and the Rio Casino box office www.riolasvegas.com., 1-888-746-7784).

It’s easy to be outraged. It’s easy to be sad. It’s even easy not to care at all. But nothing will be easy Saturday night for Alton Merkerson, whom Roy Jones Jr. calls “coach” with the kind of affection a kid has for mom and dad.

Other than the piece of square canvas that Jones and Bernard Hopkins will contest, no spot at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas figures to be as difficult as the corner Merkerson will occupy.

Concern for Jones, more than confidence in his chances, has been the flashing red light, the warning sign, throughout talk preceding a rematch of a 1993 fight. Merkerson has heard it, acknowledges it and repeats it.

“My concern is the same concern that everybody else has,’’ said Merkerson, whose 22-year-old friendship with Jones started when he as an assistant U.S. Olympic coach at the infamous Seoul Games in 1988 when Jones was robbed of a gold medal.

Despite acquiring a Nevada license after passing a battery of tests that included a brain scan, the 41-year-old Jones steps through the ropes against the older, yet-seemingly ageless Hopkins, 45, stamped with anecdotal evidence that he is damaged enough to be in serious peril.

The medical tests have been criticized on at least two fronts:

· Either they failed to account for three stoppages in six years that indicate Jones has lost the reflexes he needs to defend himself.

· Or, they have been diagnosed as business as usual. To wit: Las Vegas’ struggling casino industry needs the action.

Whether it’s one or both or none of the above, the controversy has shifted the focus onto whether Jones should be fighting at all in the rematch of a forgotten bout, a Jones victory that happened when Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. were teenagers.

The talk might prove to be a timely diversion for Jones, who has promised to knock out the heavily-favored Hopkins in what would be an upset and a role reversal. Instead of Jones, the worry would be for Hopkins. On a night not long after April Fools Day and a few hours before Easter, it’s hard to say what will happen. But the controversy is a certainty and it raises questions about whether it will influence Merkerson and perhaps referee Tony Weeks.

At the first sight of trouble, will Merkerson be quick to throw in the towel? Or Weeks quick to stop it?

Merkerson’s loyalty for Jones is as evident as it is admirable. Some trainers express their concern for a fighter in apparent decline by leaving the corner altogether. But Merkerson is always there for Jones, almost like a concerned parent.

“Yes, it’s getting close to the time where Bernard and Roy are going to give this thing up because you can’t do it forever,” Merkerson said in a conference call. “But right now, from a medical standpoint, he’s fine. I stick with Roy, and I’ve been with him for 20 years, and I’m going to continue to be with him.

“I’m not afraid to stop a fight. If in fact he was getting punished and didn’t get caught with one shot clean, I would stop the fight, and that’s what another young, inexperienced trainer probably wouldn’t do just to worry about their credibility and what people say about them. But it’s not going to be long before we give it up and do some other things, but Roy is fine right now.”

Right now is just one punch from forever wrong, however

That’s true for anybody who answers an opening bell, not just Jones or Hopkins or some other forty-something fighter. The repeated concern for Jones is that age has turned his reflexes into stone. He has become a stationary target for that disabling blow. For years, he fought with his hands down, yet his instincts, anticipation and unrivalled speed kept dancing in, out and always mere inches from harm. Through 12 rounds, the only sure bet is that those hands will fall and leave him defenseless.

Quickness might vanish, but habits rarely do.

Jones argues that Australian Danny Green’s hands were wrapped illegally before Jones suffered a first-round stoppage last December. Maybe, they were. But Jones’ protest misses the point the way punches missed him so long ago. Alter or unaltered, the relatively-unknown Green quickly and easily hit somebody that nobody could a decade ago.

Worried? You bet. There is no easy way out of that. In the end, Merkerson might be Jones’ only defense.

NOTES, ANECDOTES
· There was only one class act last Saturday in another stage of the super-middleweight tournament. It was delivered by Andre Dirrell, who was accused of acting when a desperate Arthur Abraham teed off with shot to the jaw with Dirrell on one knee after slipping on ice in Abraham’s corner. A disqualification of Abraham resulted in a victory for Dirrell, who was leading on the scorecards. The DQ was incomplete. Abraham should have been suspended. Now, it looks as if Dirrell will fight Andrew Ward, his 2004 Olympic teammate. Ward-Dirrell would re-ignite interest in the on-again, off-again tournament.

· Jose Benavidez Jr., a junior-welter-weight prospect from Phoenix, has an opponent for his fourth pro fight on April 10 at the Hard Rock in Las Vegas on a Top Rank card televised by Fox Sports Espanol. Expect Benavidez to go 4-0 against Scott Paul (5-4) of Ontario, Canada. The 17-year old Benavidez turns 18 on May 15.

· Is there an AARP convention scheduled for Las Vegas next week? Eight days after Jones-Hopkins, 47-year-old Evander Holyfield is scheduled to fight 41-year-old Francois Botha at Thomas & Mack Center. That adds up to two main events with an average age of 43-plus years.

On the undercard of David Haye’s WBA Heavyweight title defence against mandatory challenger John Ruiz will be the returning Jamie Moore 32-4(23). Back last October Moore then European Light Middleweight champion was close to a world title fight but like the best laid plans things didn’t quite work out and he was stopped in seven by Ryan Rhodes. Since then Moore 31, has decided enough is enough boiling down to 154 and he’ll return up at Middleweight. Here’s what one of Britain’s most exciting fighters had to say.

Hello Jamie, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Your about to embark on a comeback at Middleweight where you’ll fight Sergey Khomitski 21-7-1(8). He seems durable having only been stopped once and that to Gennady Golovkin. What do you think of this fight and how has training gone?

Jamie Moore – Yes training’s gone great, especially because i’m in a lot better shape health wise not having to drag myself down to 11st. As you say Khomitski is durable and gave my gym mate Martin Murray a tough fight over 8 rounds, and with me coming back from surgery on my shoulder again, it’s the right fight for me at this time.

Anson Wainwright – How much better do you feel now not having to make 154? When did you start to struggle to make Light Middleweight?

Jamie Moore – I feel 10 times better in the gym than i have done over the last 2-3 years because of the struggle to make 154, simply because i’m able to eat a healthier diet. I didn’t realise how bad i had been performing in the gym until i started training for this fight, i was training at 50% because of my energy levels, but it’s my own fault for being stubborn. People have been telling me to move up for the last 2 years because of my struggles, Oliver, Kerry, Frank Maloney, Steve Wood, but i was that close to fighting for a world title i didn’t want to give it up. But losing was a blessing in disguise because i could have got hurt fighting in that condition at world level.

Anson Wainwright – All being well this weekend against Khomitski, what are your plans for the rest of the year? who are you targeting?

Jamie Moore – I’m not targeting anyone in particular, i just want to be involved in big fights, give the fans what they want to see. But i also want to go and fight in America, i think they’d love my style over there and it would bring greater opportunities.

Anson Wainwright – Of course your old nemesis Matthew Macklin is now fighting and successfully at Middleweight. Is that a a fight you’d like to do again?

Jamie Moore – As i said i’m not looking for 1 particular fight but if that fight could be made then i think it would be great for british boxing, but as i’ve said in the past we’d have to be paid right for it because for the 1st fight we got peanuts, and for what we went through we deserve more.

Anson Wainwright – Your from Salford which has a reputation as been a tough place can you tell us about how things were for you as a youngster and the path it took you into Boxing?

Jamie Moore – Salford has a bad reputation but it’s a good place. The people of salford are great, down to earth people. Things growing up we’re great, we didn’t have a lot but my mam and dad worked there arses off for us and made it work. I’m the 1st person from Salford to have ever had a Lonsdale belt in his possession never mind own it outright, so for me that is a massive achievement in itself. Salford builds characters and it’s made me, along with my parents, the man i am today and i wouldn’t change that for anything.

Anson Wainwright – So far what has been your proudest moment in Boxing?

Jamie Moore – My proudest moment so far was winning the British title from Michael Jones, I came in at 5 days notice and no one gave me a chance, but i beat him in every department that night and it set me on the road to where i am today. It was a life changing moment and one i’ll never forget.

Anson Wainwright – What is the best thing about being a boxer? What about the worst?

Jamie Moore – The best thing about being a boxer is that i’m doing a job that i love and it gives me the chance to fulfil my childhood dreams, which not many people get the chance to do. I’m very grateful for that. The worst part…..F!%?£?* DIETING!!!!!!!!!

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

Jamie Moore – Spend time with my wife and kids, when your training you’ve gotta be very selfish and my wife is great and helps me out no end, so when i get chance i just love spending time with them. I miss my kids like crazy so love spoiling them after it’s all over.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your Boxing hero and why?

Jamie Moore – Nigel Benn and Arturo Gatti, both absolute warriors and just my cup of tea!

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have anything you’d like to add?

Jamie Moore – Just that i hope the fans have enjoyed my career so far and hopefully i can fulfil my dream of fighting for, and winning, a world title. After some of the up’s and down’s i’ve had so far it would be some story and a great ending to it.

Thanks for your time Jamie, good luck on Saturday

Anson Wainwright

15rounds.com

Brad Marchetti- Charismatic Brooklyn bomber Shannon Briggs will make his return to the ring Friday April 13th against Rafael Pedro in a 10-round main event from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. The 38-year old American heavyweight contender Briggs, 48-5-1, 42 KO’s, is coming off a dominating 1st round KO over journeyman Marcus McGee. Briggs’s opponent Rafael “The Cuban Giant“ Pedro, 20-8-1, 14 KO’s, is capable skyscraper 6’7” heavyweight that has only been stopped once and should provide a good litmus test for the deadly punching Briggs. Shannon has been hard at work training out of Kris Lawrence’s Heavyweight Factory and from his slimmed down physique he looks poised for another run at the heavyweight title. Tickets are on sale now for the April 13th show that will feature a strong undercard littered with promising young prospects from boxing’s glamorous heavyweight division.

Shannon Briggs was inactive for 30 months before smashing McGee in his last bout but he has shown the resiliency to bounce back from low points in his career before. Briggs revived his career in 2003 by reeling off 12 straight wins after most boxing scribes had written him off. With improved footwork and counterpunching skills Briggs reclaimed the heavyweight title in 2007 with a dramatic 12th round KO over Sergey Lyakhovich for the W.B.O strap. In his first title defense Briggs was on the losing end of a 12-round decision to Sultan Ibragimov in a fight where he was severely depleted due to a case of pneumonia shortly before the bout. Like a true warrior Briggs showed up to the job but he clearly wasn’t himself against Sultan. The 6’4” 270 Lb. Briggs at 100% health is a dangerous fighter with the power to remove any heavyweight in the world from their senses. April 13th will be Shannon’s chance to show why “The Cannon” is still a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division.

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster at ticketmaster.com by phone at 800-745-3000 tickets can be purchased at The Hard Rock Hotel Box Office in Ft. Lauderdale, FL

After the initial introduction and proceedings both fighters took there turns at the dais. Jones Jnr now 41, vowed to repeat history and once again come out victorious. Commenting “I guess he is what they call my rival I don’t like it, but it is what it is, Saturday I am going to clear that up.”

For his part Hopkins maintained that Jones Jnr had run from him for 17 long years and now he will finally get the win over his old rival. At one point Hopkins in keeping with it being Easter weekend gave Jones an Easter bunny complete with Easter eggs playfully adding “He has been running like a rabbit for 17 years” Things ended dramatically when Hopkins said to Alton Merkerson (Jones Trainer) along the assembled media and fans “It is going to be up to Merkerson whether he lives or dies”

Tail of the tape

JONES JNR – V- HOPKINS

Hometown Pensacola, Fl Philadelphia, Pa
Record 54-6(40) 50-5-1(32)
Rounds Boxed 392 406
KO% 66.67 56.14%
Age 41 45
Height 5’11 6’1
Reach 74 75
Nickname The Terminator The Executioner
Titles IBF Middleweight IBF Middleweight
IBF S. Middleweight WBC Middleweight
WBC Lt Heavyweight WBA Middleweight
WBA Lt Heavyweight WBO Middleweight
IBF Lt Heavyweight
WBA Heavyweight
World title 23-3(15) 20-3-1(13) 1 No Contest
Record

Much has been said a made of two guys in the early 40’s with a combined age of 86 squaring off 17 years after there original fight. However there is still a certain intrigue as to what will happen between these two guys who appear destined to be linked forever in history like Ali-Frazier, Leonard-Hearns & Ward-Gatti etc

The odds with the Bookies have Hopkins a big favourite at -575 while Jones Jnr is +375.

Tickets are still available ranging from $750 down to $100. Also worth noting is that while it will be on HBO PPV live Saturday it will not be repeated the following week.

PHILADELPHIA (March 31, 2010)—Wednesday morning at The Legendary Blue Horizon, some of the principals involved with Friday night’s big “Spring Fling” boxing even were on hand to talk about their bouts.

In the main event, USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek “Pooh” Ennis will take on tough Jose Gonzalez in a non-title bout. In the co-feature, it will be Ennis’ brother, Farah Ennis risking his undefeated record when he takes on Frankie Santos in a Super Middleweight bout scheduled for eight rounds.

The card is promoted by Blue Horizon Boxing Promotions LLC

Derek “Pooh” Ennis (20-2-1, 13 KO’s—USBA Jr. Middleweight champion)–
“I am ready to fight. I was supposed to defend my title by things fell though”
“All I know he is 6 feet tall and Friday night we will get it on”

Mike Fingerman (Fingerman Promotions—Promoter of Derek & Farah Ennis)
“I am proud to have Derek and Farah on the same card”
“We will defiantly defend the title next”
“This is the first time the at the Ennis brothers will appear on the same card in Philadelphia”

Farah Ennis (12-0, 6 KO’s—Super Middleweight)
“I came from a fighting family and I am going to put on a show”

Moz Gonzalez (Co-Manager of Derek and Farah Ennis)
“When you have a team that we have, it’s worth giving 110%”
“Both of these boys will be world champions”

Luis Esquilin (1-2-1, Featherweight)
“My Nickname is Smurf. I trained real hard to be somebody and stay out of trouble”

Billy Briscoe (Trainer for Luis Esqulin)
“This is my first time being Luis head trainer. I worked cuts and was 2nd for his previous fights and I have seen great improvement from Luis”

Clement Bethea (1-0, Jr. Welterweight)
“I am thankful for the opportunity to fight again”

Vernoca L. Michael (Promoter for Blue Horizon Boxing Promotions LLC)
“Cards like this is what the Blue Horizon is a bout.”
“The venue gives these fighters an opportunity to showcase their skills”

Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential Seats, $65 for VIP Seating, $55 for Ringside Seating and $45 for General Admission Seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-763-0500 or through PayPal by clicking www.legendarybluehorizon.com/html/tickets.html Doors open at 6:30 PM / First Bout begins at 7:30 P.M.

The Legendary Blue Horizon™

1314 North Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA

The entire fight card can be seen LIVE!! On www.gofightlive.tv beginning at 7:30 pm for just $6.99 by clicking http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=576

Kenny Florian scored a third round choke out over Japanese import Takanori Gomi at 2:52 of the final round in the main event at Ultimate Fight Night 21 at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina

Florian was dominant and softened Gomi as he mounted him with a choke just before going hind Gomi for the rear-naked choke.

Florian, 156 lbs of Brookline, MA is now 15-4. Gomi, 155 lbs of Tokyo, Japan is now 31-6-1.

Reigning Ultimate Fighter winner, Roy “Big Country” Nelson landed one huge over hand right that lvirtually knocked out Stefan Struve and scored a first round stoppage in their scheduled three round Heavyweight bout.

After Nelson landed that blow he pounced on Struve and the fight was quickly stopped thirty-nine seconds into the bout.

Nelson, 263 lbs of Las vegas was giving up eleven inches to the 6?11? Struve is now 16-4. Struve of the Netherlands is now 23-4.

Jorge Rivera pounded Nate Quarry over two rounds in their scheduled three round Middleweight bout.

Rivera pounded Quarry and bloodied him in round one. In round two, Rivera quickly knocked Quarry down and then pounded on a Quarry when the fight was stopped by referee Mario Yamasaki at twenty-nine seconds of round two.

Rivera, 186 lbs of Milford, MA is now 18-7. Quarry, 186 lbs of Gresham, OR is now 18-4.

Ross Pearson scored a three round unanimous decision over Dennis Siver in a Lightweight bout.

Pearson bloodied Siver in round one but Siver showed some spunk but it wasnt enough as Pearson won by scores of 30-27 on all cards.

Pearson, 156 lbs of Sunderland, England is now 13-3. Siver, 156 lbs of Manheim, Germany

VICTOR TERRAZAS and his camp believe they have nothing to fear by facing Rendall Munroe in England.

‘The Viking’ is locked away preparing for his WBC world super-bantamweight title final eliminator against Rendall Munroe on Friday April 23.

Mexican star Terrazas, 27, is preparing for the tough 12 rounder in his hometown Guadalajara and will arrive in Britain ten days before the fight.

He is managed by Edison Reynoso and promoted exclusively by top Mexican outfit HG promotions.

Reynoso said: “Victor’s confidence is rocketing and he is getting better with every fight.

“Although he has won some titles, Victor has been a little bit behind some of the top Mexicans in terms of image.

“His promoter Hector Garcia has worked hard to get him up the rankings and secured an excellent purse for this fight.

“Fighting outside of Mexico is no problem because we generally do that with other fighters we train like Oscar Larios.”

Terrazas (25-1-1) is unbeaten in seven years, and suffered the sole loss of his professional career on his paid debut when he was knocked out inside two rounds by Adrian Tellez.

In May 2007 he got revenge on Tellez, when he stopped his rival in seven rounds.

The only other blemish came on Victor’s eighth professional fight when he drew with Saul Osana.

He is currently hitting harder than ever with six of his last seven wins coming inside the distance.

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 will also be selling tickets.

PHILADELPHIA (March 29, 2010)—There have been some slight changes to the two main events that will takes place this Friday night’s big “Spring Fling” boxing event that will take place at the Legendary Blue Horizon.

The new main event will still feature USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek “Pooh” Ennis. He will now face Jose Adelaydo Gonzalez of Garden City, Kansas.

Ennis was originally supposed to do battle with Frankie Santos. Santos will still fight Ennis but he will now face Derek’s brother Farah Ennis in an eight round Super Middleweight bout.

Gonzalez brings in a record of 13-6-1 with eleven knockouts and despite facing top competition has only been stopped one time.

On March 7th, 2008 he fought then undefeated Jason LeHoullier (21-0) for the NABA Super Welterweight title in LeHoullier’s backyard in Connecticut and held LeHoullier to a disputed draw.

He twice went the distance with highly regarded Carson Jones as well as fringe contender Joaquin Zamora. Gonzalez went seven rounds with then undefeated Ronald Hearns.

In his last bout, Gonzalez lost an eight round unanimous decision to Jones on October 24, 2009 in Joplin, Missouri.

Santos has a record of 17-8-4 with eight knockouts.

The native of Salinas, Puerto Rico will be looking to get back into the win column after dropping an eight round unanimous decision to prized Cuban prospect Yudel Jhonson (8-0) on September 18th.

He was unbeaten in his first fourteen bouts (13-0-1) before stepping up the competition and has lost to notables Francisco Bojado (10-1), Irving Garcia (9-2); Lamont Peterson (21-0) and Matthew Hatton (32-3-2).

In a battle of undefeated Heavyweights, John Bolden (1-0, 1 KO) of New York, who scored a sensational knockout over Nathan Perrot on December at The Legendary Blue Horizon

Jennings (1-0) of Philadelphia is coming off a four round unanimoud decision over Zeferino Albino on February 27th at The Arena in Philadelphia.

In a four round battle of Philadelphia based Cruiserweights, Heath Harris (1-6, 1 KO) takes on Taneal Goyco (3-1, 1 KO).

In a four round battle of Philadelphian’s, Clement Bethea (1-0) takes on Jason Sia (0-1) in a four round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Jose Ortiz (2-2, 1 KO) of Jersey City, NJ takes on Luis Esquilin (1-2-1) of Philadelphia in a Four Round Featherweight bout.

In a four round Light Heavyweight bout, Duane King (0-1) of Reidsville, NC takes on Kamel Al-Olabi (0-2) of New York City.
Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential Seats, $65 for VIP Seating, $55 for Ringside Seating and $45 for General Admission Seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-763-0500 or through PayPal by clicking www.legendarybluehorizon.com/html/tickets.html Doors open at 6:30 PM / First Bout begins at 7:30 P.M.

The Legendary Blue Horizon™

1314 North Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA

The entire fight card can be seen LIVE!! On www.gofightlive.tv beginning at 7:30 pm for just $6.99 by clicking http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=576

Back in 2005 Keandre Letherwood was a highly touted young fighter who was part of the American team that successfully took part in the Under 17 World Championships. Fast forward five years and Letherwood is looking to end his near year long hiatus from the ring and build on his 5-0(3) record. Here’s what he had to say.

Hello Keandre, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly how are you? You turned pro in June 2008 going 5-0(3) but only fought once in 2009 that being last April, why the long lay off?

Keandre Letherwood – I’m doing good. I’ve had different personal issues that have kept me out of action. I had a lot of things that i had to get straight. The time off has been good for me but i’m looking forward to getting back in action.

Anson Wainwright – Any news on when you will be back in action?

Keandre Letherwood – I hope to fight in the next month or so.

Anson Wainwright – Your a fighter who is quite under the radar, can you tell us about your fighting style and what you consider your biggest strengths as a fighter?

Keandre Letherwood – I have good hand and foot speed and now my power has really come along, so now i feel like i can box when i need to and take you out if the opportunity presents itself. I’m a boxer-puncher.

Anson Wainwright – Who is your manager, trainer & promoter? Where do you train for upcoming fights?

Keandre Letherwood – I’m training with Mark Murdock in Atlanta. He also trains Kevin Johnson. I’m still working out things as far as manager and promoter go. That’s the main reason i’ve been off so long.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your gym? Training with Deontay Wilder must be a help to you as you both develop as fighters?

Keandre Letherwood – The gym is good. I was at Sky gym in Tuscaloosa and worked out alongside Deontay Wilder for a couple of years and had a good experience there. Now i’m in Atlanta and things are good here.

Anson Wainwright – You were part of a successful American team that took part in the World U17 championship’s in 2005. How did you do personally and what can you tell us about this experience?

Keandre Letherwood – When i travelled overseas to Liverpool, England it was the first time i ever had been that far and i got beat by a Cuban by a couple of points. He had stopped or dominated everyone but barely beat me. Between fighting the best guy and jet lag and all it was a good experience but really more of a learning experience.

Anson Wainwright – You represented your country at Junior level, did you do so as a Senior? What title’s did you win in the amateur’s? What was your final record?

Keandre Letherwood – As a Senior i went to the nationals several times. I think i should have made the Olympic team but there were a lot of personal things going on in my life at the time that kept me out of the gym. I ended up with about 120-125 fights and won about 100 of them.

Anson Wainwright – Growing up in Alabama can you tell us how you first became interested and then involved in Boxing?

Keandre Letherwood – I was born in Alabama and moved to Cincinnati as a young kid. I got into boxing there. I sparred with Raushee Warren, Adrian Broner and Brandon Bennett and took some real beatings, but i got better and better. I trained with Mike Stafford (2 time national coach of the year), then moved to Atlanta and trained under my step-dad Pete Crumpley, then moved to Tuscaloosa Alabama and trained with Jay Deas (National coach of the year- coach of Deontay Wilder) and now in Atlanta with Murdock (Kevin Kingpin Johnson). So i’ve had good coaches along the way and they all have their own styles.

Anson Wainwright – What are your interests away from Boxing?

Keandre Letherwood – I enjoy cooking. My Grandfather has a great restaurant in Mississippi, so i guess it runs in the family.

Anson Wainwright – Do you have a nickname?

Keandre Letherwood – No nickname as of yet.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your favourite fighter growing up?

Keandre Letherwood – Roy Jones, Jr. was the guy i always loved to watch.

Anson Wainwright – Finally is there anything you’d like to add?

Keandre Letherwood – I want to mention that Alabama has a Boxing commission now and will be doing pro fights in a few months. I’m excited to be working with jay deas again to bring boxing back to Tuscaloosa. I’ve got a lot of family there and friends and can’t wait to fight again in front of them. I think me and Deontay in a co-feature would be a great ESPN or Showtime type thing in a couple of years. He can handle the heavyweights and i’ll handle the 154-160.

Thanks for your time Keandre

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com

TONY JEFFRIES got one up on potential rivals James Degale and Carl Froch when he won the Lonsdale Challenge in Nottingham.

The challenge involved the three boxers taking part in a variety of exercises against the clock to see who could register the most repetitions.

It was held to mark Lonsdale’s 50 year anniversary which has seen the sporting brand associated with some of boxing’s greatest ever fighters including Muhammad Ali, Joe Calzaghe and Henry Cooper.

Jeffries was pitted against the clock to see how many of each exercise he could register in a 30 second time period.

He left his rivals toiling with 104 punches thrown, 53 tuck jumps and 44 sit ups as Olympic Gold medallist Degale and WBC super middleweight champion Froch found ‘The Mighty Mackem’ too hot to handle.

“It was great fun and I’m happy with my totals,” explained Olympic Bronze medallist Jeffries.

“It was good to see both James and Carl as I get on well with both of them. We had a laugh when we did it as well.

“It was only for 30 seconds but it was tough because it was flat out the whole time!

“I don’t think anyone expected me to win because I was the underdog.James is an Olympic champion and Carl is a world champion so I’m happy to come out on top.”

Jeffries returns on the undercard of Rendall Munroe’s WBC super-bantamweight title eliminator against Victor Terrazas at Coventry Skydome on April 23 and is itching to get back in action following an injury lay-off.

He said: “I can’t wait to get back in there. Training has gone really really well and I’m just focused on putting in a good performance in April.”

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

Philadelphia (March 28, 2010)—Mike Fingerman of Fingerman Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated Super Middleweight prospect Farah Ennis to a promotional contract.

Ennis of Philadelphia has been perfect as he has amassed a record of 12-0 with six knockouts.

The twenty-seven year old Ennis has generated a buzz in the Philadelphia boxing scene since he turned pro with 2nd round stoppage over Sylvester Golding on February 11, 2006 in Philadelphia.

Ennis has not had many easy opponents as he has been matched with more experienced foes with most having winning records.

“We plan to build him up as we have a great team around him that has great chemistry”, said promoter Mike Fingerman

“I believe he has the potential to be a world champion.”

Ennis is co-managed by Moz Gonzalez and Eddie Woods.

“Farah has tremendous potential”, said Moz Gonzalez.

“He is undefeated and we plan to keep him busy as we feel he isn’t far away from those important step-up bouts that will put him right in the thick of things at 168.”

Ennis brother is currant USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek “Pooh” Ennis. Farah joins Derek in fighting under the Fingerman Promotions banner.

Besides Fingerman, Woods and Gonzalez a vital part to the team is Ennis Father, Derrick “Bozy” Ennis who because of his work with Derek Ennis, Demetrius Hopkins and Coy Evans, is recognized as one of the top trainers on the East Coast.

Ennis is coming off a third round stoppage over Emanuel Gonzalez on February 27th in Allentown, PA.

Ennis next bout is scheduled for this Friday, April 2nd at The Legendary Blue Horizon.

Minneapolis, MN- Minnesota’s top junior middleweight prospect and former national champion Javontae Starks(3-0 3 ko’s) suffered the first setback of his career this month when he was forced to pull out of his bout with Bobby Kliewer(10-9 6 ko’s) on April 2.

Starks suffered a back injury while training alongside stablemate and former amateur elite Jamal James,who will make his pro debut April 2. Although disappointed with the cancellation Starks plans to return to the ring in May, and remains open whatever fight that is brought to the table, including Kliewer.

“I’ve fought the best in the world I’ve trained with the best and been recognized as the best, I’m not afraid of any fight” Starks noted.

Starks insists the injury will not remain a problem for much longer, and feels he could have fought, but the risk was just too great at this stage of his career.

“I feel like I could have fought and won, but it’s how I want to win that’s important this early in my career”

Starks and his team aim to return to training during the first week of April, and hope to take to the ring as soon as possible, a date in late May the most likely scenario.

Javontae Starks is expected to be on hand April 2 to support close friend Jamal James, and Midwest Sports Council stablemate Jeremy McLaurin in their bouts. The card is headlined by the long awaited rematch between Matt Vanda and Andy Kolle for the Minnesota State Middleweight title. Tickets are available at grandcasinomn.com.

Starks trains at the Circle of Discipline Gym in Minneapolis alongside fellow celebrated amateur Jamal James. Under the direction of trainer Sankara Frazier Starks aims to put his home state of Minnesota on the boxing map. After capturing National and regional titles in the amateur ranks, he made his professional debut in late 2009.

With an undeniable will, and professional level skills Starks aims to become a beacon of hope for Minnesota fight fans.

Keep Andre Dirrell in your prayers. What happened to him Saturday is graver than a disqualification victory. It’s about Dirrell being struck with a right uppercut on the chin and then reaching for a spot over his left eye. It’s not about a breach of sportsmanship by Arthur Abraham. It’s about Dirrell needing ice eight inches from where Abraham hit him.

It’s about Dirrell’s incoherence after the fight. It’s about his crying, “I’m hurt, man!” It’s about the way he winced and scrunched the left side of his face. It’s about an ambulance ride to the hospital for a CT scan – apparently negative, thankfully.

What a terrible way to get two points in Showtime’s Super Six World Boxing Classic.

Saturday in Detroit, American Andre Dirrell got those two points when Armenian Arthur Abraham got disqualified for an intentional foul at 1:13 of round 11. Behind by prohibitive margins on all scorecards, Abraham landed a perfect right uppercut with Dirrell on the seat of his trunks after he slipped on a Cemex Tolteca ad on the canvas.

Abraham still leads the tournament with the three points he won in October. That’s the best that can be said after his second trip to the United States from Germany, where he resides. The rest comprises the derogatory things now being thought about him in America, a country that’s still pretty important to the prizefighting world.

In some sense both men were victims of Abraham’s concussive power Saturday. Had Abraham missed with his right hand he might have stopped Dirrell in the five minutes that remained. Dirrell was fading. Had Abraham caught Dirrell with a glancing, or anyhow less-effective, punch he would have lost a point that didn’t matter anyway – à la Marco Antonio Barrera against Juan Manuel Marquez. Instead he knocked Dirrell senseless and left referee Laurence Cole no choice but to disqualify him. His record is now blemished in more than one way.

That’s nothing compared to what Abraham’s right hand may have done to Dirrell, who was on the precipice of a career-defining victory.

Gone were so many of the bad habits that had ruined Dirrell’s last fight with Carl Froch. In Saturday’s first six rounds Dirrell damn near threw a shutout against an undefeated former world champion. He threw leveraged, scientific punches, looped correctly round Abraham’s customarily high guard. He slipped punches like he wanted to counter them, not just impress his boys back home. He did almost everything the professional way.

Almost everything. There was one glaringly amateurish trait that survived Dirrell’s training camp. It happened five or six times. It was his move to the right. It was all wrong. Hands at his waist, feet crossed, chin pointed skyward, Dirrell leaped away from Abraham’s left hook. It made Abraham look ridiculous and slow. But to learned eyes, it made Dirrell look ridiculous, too.

Guess what Dirrell was doing when he slipped in the first minute of the 11th round. Dropped in the 10th from a right cross, Dirrell began the 11th wisely intending to play Keep Away. But he unwisely switched from Andre Dirrell to “The Matrix” – the kid with too much athleticism for his own good – and began to bounce back and forth, hands low. He Matrixed rightward. His right foot landed on the ‘x’ in Cemex – the sticker wet and frictionless – and his legs splayed.

That has to be the last thing Dirrell remembers from Saturday.

His hands on the canvas, Dirrell looked at Abraham’s onrushing right fist. The punch landed on the left side of his chin. Dirrell appeared disappointed, betrayed. Then the left side of his face contorted. Dirrell closed his left eye and brought his left glove to his forehead. He did not rub where he’d been struck. Rather he rubbed the place his jarred brain would have struck its protective shell. He rolled on his back. His legs began to shake involuntarily. It was ugly and frightening.

Abraham stood to the side, believing Dirrell was being theatrical – a belief he confirmed afterwards – and disbelieving he was about to lose by disqualification. What Abraham did was intentional. He deserved the result he got. But what Abraham did was not premeditated. That must be remembered.

Imagine you are Arthur Abraham. Like any man in the 31st minute of a championship prizefight, you’re more than a little buzzed from your opponent’s punches. You are desperate to sink your knuckles in the other man’s flesh. He has hit you repeatedly. He has taunted you. He has also been to the canvas minutes before. He is weakened and slowing. You have to render him unconscious or you lose.

For a half hour, he has evaded you with unorthodox moves. He drops his hands, changes levels and swoops away. You have cornered him. He struck the top of your chest with a jab after his head dropped oddly away. Now his hands are down. He is absolutely defenseless. That is a green light for you, not a red one. You throw the right hand you have cocked. You finish the defenseless man because that’s your job.

Moral judgments on Abraham need not apply here. Within the relative world of prizefighting, Abraham broke the rules and received a proper punishment. Had Dirrell been just as defenseless while standing, though – out on his feet, hands down – we’d be applauding Abraham as a great finisher for throwing that right hand.

None of this relativity helps Dirrell – a fighter about whom many things became more serious Saturday in Joe Louis Arena. If he is able to return to previous form, if subsequent tests come back negative, that is, expect the last vestiges of “The Matrix” to go away. Expect a far less playful guy in the ring. Expect a man who uses his athleticism to hurt other men. Expect some resentment at the end of those punches.

Expect that everything about Andre Dirrell just got a lot more serious.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter.com/bartbarry

PHILADELPHIA (March 29, 2010)—Next Friday night, Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc will present that annual “Spring Fling” boxing card that will be headlined by USBA Jr. Middleweight champion, Derek “Pooh” Ennis battling Frankie Santos in a ten round non-title bout.

The bout was originally to be a title defense for Ennis but after actively seeking every fighter in the top-15 that is mandated by the USBA, several different factors prohibited the title defense.

“We looked for everyone in the top-15”, said Moz Gonzalez, co-manager of Ennis.

“Several guys did not like the money being offered, a few more were unavailable. We thought that we had a very suitable guy but his trainer is going through some serious medical issues and he did not want the fight under those circumstances.”

“We want to keep Derek busy and that’s why we are fighting Santos.”

Ennis of Philadelphia has a record of 20-2-1 with thirteen knockouts won the USBA Jr. Middleweight championship on October 16th at The Legendary Blue Horizon with a classic vack and forth unanimous decision over Eromosele Albert.

In his last bout, he took out Edwin Vazquez (22-14-2) in five rounds on February 5th also at The Legendary Blue Horizon.

This will be Ennis fifth appearance at The Legendary Blue Horizon (4-0, 3 KO’s)

Santos has a record of 17-8-4 with eight knockouts.

The native of Salinas, Puerto Rico will be looking to get back into the win column after dropping an eight round unanimous decision to prized Cuban prospect Yudel Jhonson (8-0) on September 18th.

He was unbeaten in his first fourteen bouts (13-0-1) before stepping up the competition and has lost to notables Francisco Bojado (10-1), Irving Garcia (9-2); Lamont Peterson (21-0) and Matthew Hatton (32-3-2).

A win by Ennis will likely set up a title defense in June.

Ennis’ brother, Farah Ennis will see action in the eight round co-feature in a Super Middleweight bout.

Ennis of Philadelphia is perfect in twelve bouts with half of his wins coming by talent.

This will be Ennis first fight at The Legendary Blue Horizon and just his first fight in Philadelphia since his third fight in 2007.

He is coming off a third round stoppage over Emanuel Gonzalez on February 27th in Allentown, PA.

Ennis opponent will be named shortly.

In a battle of undefeated Heavyweights, John Bolden (1-0, 1 KO) of New York, who scored a sensational knockout over Nathan Perrot on December at The Legendary Blue Horizon

Jennings (1-0) of Philadelphia is coming off a four round unanimoud decision over Zeferino Albino on February 27th at The Arena in Philadelphia.

In a four round battle of Philadelphia based Cruiserweights, Heath Harris (1-6, 1 KO) takes on Taneal Goyco (3-1, 1 KO).

In a four round battle of Philadelphian’s, Clement Bethea (1-0) takes on Jason Sia (0-1) in a four round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Jose Ortiz (2-2, 1 KO) of Jersey City, NJ takes on Luis Esquilin (1-2-1) of Philadelphia in a Four Round Featherweight bout.

In a four round Light Heavyweight bout, Duane King (0-1) of Reidsville, NC takes on Kamel Al-Olabi (0-2) of New York City.

Ticket prices for this great night of boxing are $200 for Queen Seating, $125 for Presidential Seats, $65 for VIP Seating, $55 for Ringside Seating and $45 for General Admission Seating. Tickets can be purchased by calling 215-763-0500 or through PayPal by clicking www.legendarybluehorizon.com/html/tickets.html Doors open at 6:30 PM / First Bout begins at 7:30 P.M.

The Legendary Blue Horizon™

1314 North Broad Street in Philadelphia, PA

The entire fight card can be seen LIVE!! On www.gofightlive.tv beginning at 7:30 pm for just $6.99 by clicking http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=576

Sunday Sizzler REPLAY: Pete Quillin Interview and Marc Abrams LIVE on air!! – Dirrell Abraham/ Guzman Funeka/ Cayo Maidana Weekend Fight recaps and upcoming fight previews! In addition Florida amateur LBC President Armando Fiallo Live on Air . 15rounds.com’s Johnny Schulz presents: Talking BOXING with JSizzle and New York Dan NYD – A weekly Sunday boxing show covering Boxing from all angles. Alongside and boxing aficionado Danny “NYD” Stasiukiewicz, RTB will cover: • All of the week’s top boxing stories from results to previews.

New York Giants running back, Brandon Jacobs talks to Matt Yanofsky about his fledgling manager career in boxing

OROVILLE, CALIFORNIA — In the mixed martial arts main event of a three sport card, Jesse Brock outwrestled local favorite Chris David before a sellout crowd at the Feather Falls Casino & Lodge in on Saturday night. Boxing and amateur kickboxing rounded out a fun-filled event dubbed “Playboy Fight Night.”

What looked to be a competitive main event on paper turned into a one-sided wrestling match as Brock (11-5, 2 KOs, 5 Submissions) of Boise, Idaho took David (13-8-2, 4 KOs, 5 Submissions) of Oroville to the mat early and often, never relinquishing control in the fight. Brock, 136, took David, 135, to the mat immediately, but did little real damage in the first round.

David momentarily locked in a rear naked choke with Brock on the mat, but the Boise native quickly broke the hold while maintaining his position on top. For the most part David was either on his back, or on his face, with Brock on his back. In either position he was at Brock’s mercy, unable to get started with any sort of offense. For a brief moment, David broke from Brock’s grasp, much to the delight of his loyal supporters. However, the shift in momentum was only temporary, as Brock took David back down to the canvas. The third round was more of the same before Brock was declared the unanimous victor via shutout, 30-27 on all three judges’ cards.

Fighting for the second time in ten days, Ryan Wong (2-2, 1 KO) of San Jose, California took a hotly-contested three-round split decision over previously unbeaten Colin Hart (3-1, 2 Submissions) of Santa Rosa, California. Each fighter had their moments in a tough fight. Wong, 185, fought just last Friday in Reno, but had no problem with endurance. Hart, 184 ¼, fought hard until the end, but two judges saw the fight for Wong, 29-28. The lone dissenting judge had the same score, but for the Santa Rosa resident.

Martin Sandoval (5-2, 3 KOs, 2 Submissions) of Oakdale, California scored a first-round submission victory over Sammy Sanders (1-3, 1 KO) of Santa Rosa. Sandoval, 125 ¼, had his back on the mat, for much of the fight. Sanders, 125 ¾, looked to be in complete control before Sandoval grabbed onto his arm. Time of the submission was 1:03 of the first.

Taylor McCorriston (4-0, 2 Submissions) of San Ramon, California remained unbeaten via first-round stoppage over Bryant Munoz (4-3, 4 Submissions) of Oakdale. McCorriston, 135 ¼, looked to be in some trouble on the mat, but was able to grab a hold of the arm of Munoz, 135, and forced the submission. Time of the stoppage was 1:33 of the first.

Rounding out the MMA portion of the card, Rafael Rios (2-0, 2 Submissions) of Stockton, California forced Junior Villanueva (1-1, 1 KO) of Oakdale to tap out in the first round. Rios, 149 ½, cinched in with an armbar and submitted Villanueva, 147 ¾, at just 1:11 of the round.

In the first boxing match on the card, former amateur standout Richard Hargraves (2-0, 2 KOs) of San Francisco, California scored his second consecutive stoppage victory, this time over J.C. Saade (0-2) of Los Angeles, California. Hargraves, 151 ¾, punished Saade, 151, throughout the first round, flashing hand speed that his opponent could not compete with. Before the bell to begin the second round, Saade told the referee that he could not continue due to fatigue which prompted the stoppage.

In the other boxing match on the card, heavyweights Yohan Banks (3-3-3, 1 KO) of Redwood City, California and Hector Martinez (5-4, 4 KOs) of Broderick, California let loose in an action-packed four-rounder. Banks, 264, dropped Martinez, 228 ¾, with a clubbing overhand right midway through the second. Martinez was clearly dazed, but managed to pull himself up with a little help from the turnbuckle. With some clever footwork, Martinez was able to get out of the round and clear his head.

Banks may have punched himself out going for the knockout, which allowed Martinez to punch his way back into the fight in the third. Two-way action closed the fight out in the fourth, with Martinez getting the best of it over the tired Banks. In the end, two judges liked Banks by the score of 38-37. One dissenting judge favored Martinez by the same score, 38-37.

In the first of two amateur kickboxing bouts, Ignacio Zambrano of Stockton, California scored two knockdowns in the third round en route to a unanimous decision over Mike Spatz of Sacramento. Zambrano, 197 ¾, may not have been body beautiful, but he was able to outslug the reluctant Spatz, 187, for the three rounds.

Gaston Bolanos of Pleasanton scored the stoppage victory over Mitch Thompson of Sacramento, California in a welterweight amateur kickboxing contest. Bolanos, 141 ¾, was the superior fighter and it was fairly evident from the outset. Thompson, 144 ¾, did not give referee Dan Stell the response he was looking for after a standing eight-count in the third. Time of the stoppage was 1:44 of the third-round.

Tonight’s event, promoted by ESMG World, was taped to air at a later date. Adding some spice to the evening was the Playmate Dancers, including 2006 Playmate of the Year Kara Monaco, and a bevy of ring card girls. Former contender Juan Lazcano worked the corner of Hector Martinez and current WBA Interim Super Flyweight Champion Nonito Donaire Jr. was ringside taking photographs.

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

Marcos Maidana retained the WBA “Interim” Super Lightweight title with a sixth round stoppage over previously undefeated Victor Cayo at The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

The bout was competitive over the first four rounds as each guy accomplished what they set out to do. In Cayo’s case it was to move in and out and mix it up when need be while Maidana was looking and at times imposed his will on Cayo.

At the end of round two, Maidana landed a left to the top of the head just as the bell sounded that put Cayo on the canvas. Replays showed that the punch may have come a split second afher the round finished but was still was ruled a knockdown by referee Joe Cortez.

Round five saw the most action with fighters having success with Cayo landing the flurries and Maidana landing the hard shots.

In round six, Maidna landed a good right hand that was followed up by a right to the body that sent Cayo down to the canvas for Cortez ten count at the 1:38 mark of thr round.

Maidana, 140 lbs of Santa Fe, Argentina is now 28-1 with twenty-seven knockouts. Cayo, 140 lbs of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic loses for the first time and is 24-1.

Joan Guzman made amends (sort of) for his poor performance last November when he was bludgeoned by Ali Funeka only to get a gift draw. This time Guzman showed the skills that many boxing insider praised throughout the last half decade as Guzman defeated Funeka by split decision in a fight that was tainted by Guzman’s in ability to make the weight for the bout which originally to be contested for the IBF Lightweight title.

Guzman showed his elusiveness early by showing lightning handspeed and reflexes as he would make Funeka miss and then make him pay. Funeka came forward to throw more then 250 more punches then did Guzman and had some success as he pressed the action but Guzman was efficient was his countering and body punching.

In round six, Guzman landed a huge right to the top of the head that sent Funeka to the canvas. Funeka had some moments going down the stretch but they werent enough as Guzman was very consitant with his combinations and movement.

Guzman won by scores of 116-111 and 114-113 while Funeka took a card by a 114-113 tally.

Guzman was unable to compter for the IBF crown as he weighed in a staggering NINE pounds overweight at Fridays weigh-in. After a financial deal with Funeka’s camp, the fight went on. Guzman, 144 lbs of Brooklyn, NY remains undefeated at 30-0-1. Funeka, 135 lbs of East London, South Africa is now 30-3-3.

Andre Dirrell fought the most polished fight of his career and and even had the most satisfying result but he deserved to win with the flare that he demonstrated over the balance of his eleven beat down of Arthur Abraham as Dirrell was awarded the victory via disqualification as Abraham knocked Dirrell out cold while Dirrell was on the ground during the eleventh round of their Super Middleweight clash at The Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

Dirrell was brilliant throughout as he befuddled Abraham with quick combinations to the body and head. Dirrell kept up the boxing skills that Abraham had no answer for as the German contined to come in with his hands up eating punches. In round four, Dirrell landed a left off the ropes that sent the former IBF Middleweight champion to the canvas for the first time in his career. Abraham shook it off and sporadically would get through with one shot at a time.

Every time it seemed that Abraham was changing momentum, Dirrell would use his athleticism to land some solid combionations on Abraham. In round seven, a nasty cut opened over the right eye brow of Abraham which seemed to spur the visitor on.

In round ten, Abraham landed a big right that sent Dirrell to the canvas for which referee Laurence Cole ruled that it was a slip as the fighters’ feet were close but replays showed that it should have been ruled a knockdown. That was a foreshadow of the craziness to come.

In round eleven, Abraham landed a big right that was combined with Dirrell slipping on the ring and Dirrell went to his knee. While Dirrell was prone on the ground, Abraham wound him and drilled Dirrell with a vicious right that knocked Dirrell out with Dirrell’s legs beginning to tremble and Cole waved the fight off immediately at 1:13 of round eleven.

“He did not go down. I shouldn’t be DQ’d for this,’’ the favored Abraham told SHOWTIME’s Jim Gray in the ring afterward.

Later, at the post-fight press conference, Abraham added, “I was not looking at his feet. I was looking at his eyes.

“If you are a professional boxer, you look for every opportunity to knock out your opponent. You do not wait for him to recover. But I wish Andre Dirrell well and hope he is OK.’’

After order was restored in the ring, Dirrell believed he was knocked out and therefore he left the ring and to the hospital while Abraham thought Dirrell was acting.

Dirrell of Flint, Michigan is now 19-1. Abraham of Berlin is now 31-1.

Lisa Brown scored a ten round unanimous decision over popular Ana Julaton to claim the WBA Super Bantamweight championship.

Brown dominated the action throughout the fight as she landed the more telling blows and cut Julaton in two places around her eyes. Julaton never really got into the fight as Brown basically took every round as she won by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 99-92.

Brown of Scarbough, ONT is now 17-4-3. Jualton of Daly City, CA is now 6-2-1.

Fabian Ramirez scored a vicious first round stoppage over Justin Fountain in a six round Welterweight bout.

The two tradedd shots until Ramirez dropped Fountain with a hard right uppercut. Fountain got to his feet only to engage in a toe to toe flurry where he was rocked several times until a huge right hand put Fountain down and out at 2:59 of round one.

Ramirez, 147 lbs of Culican, Mexico is now 10-1-1 with seven knockouts. Fountain, 145.2 lbs of Hamilton, ONT is now 6-2-3.

Stephan Boyd scored a six round unanimous decision over Jason Douglas in an entertaining battle of Super Middleweights from Ontario.

The two traded good shots over the first four round until Boyd landed big uppercut that rocked Douglas that set up a big barrage that had Douglas rocked and barely made it out of round five.

Douglas furthered his demise as he was docked two points for low blows in the final round.

Scores were 59-53, 59-53 and 59-54 for Boyd, 165.6 lbs of Toronto and is now 10-3-1. Douglas, 165.8 lbs of Kitchner, ONT is now 7-2-2.

Felix Mercedes hung on to win unanimous decision over Ivan Flores in a six round Featherweight bout.

Mercedes dominated the first five round even though he took a nice nice right hand in round four. Flores landed two huge shots in the final round that had Mercedes holding on but he built up a big lead and made ito the final bell for victory.

Mercedes of Buffalo, New York won by scores of 59-55, 59-55 and 59-54 to raise his record to 5-0. Flores of Culican, Mexico is now 6-5-2

NEW YORK (March 27, 2010)—Tonight on the world leader for live combat sports on the Internet, www.gofightlive.tv, there will be two big boxing events that includes the return of a legend as well as a world championship fight.

In Mexico, future hall of famer, Erik “El Terrible” Morales returns after a 2 ½ year layoff and moves up to Welterweight when he takes on former WBA Lightweight champion Jose Alfaro.

In Canada, former IBF Jr. Featherweight champion, Steve “The Canadian Kid” Militor looks to reclaim his world title when he takes on Takalani Ndlovu in a rematch of a thrilling fight.

Molitor – Nodlovu gets underway at 8pm eastern and carry a price tag of just $9.99

Morales – Alfaro starts at 9pm eastern

THE RETURN OF THE CHAMPION—MORALES VS ALFARO

WEIGHTS FOR MORALES-ALFARO PPV

WBC INTERCONTINENTAL WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

MAIN EVENT – 12 ROUNDS

ERIK “El Terrible” MORALES JOSE “Jicaras” ALFARO
Former 3-Division World Champion Former WBA Lightweight Champion/WBC #13
Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Nagarot, Nicaragua
48-6 (34 KOs) 23-5 (20 KOs)
146.8 lbs. 146.1 lbs.

WBA LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR

CO-FEATURE – 12 ROUNDS

HUGO HERNAN “Pigu” GARAY CHRIS “Hard Hittin’” HENRY
Former WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Former NABF, NABA, USNBC & IBA Intercontinental
WBA #3/2000 Argentinean Olympian WBA #4
Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina Houston, Texas, USA
32-4 (17 KOs) 24-2 (19 KOs)
175 lbs. 175 lbs.

SPECIAL HEAVYWEIGHT ATTRACTION

10 ROUNDS
DAVID “Nino” RODRIGUEZ DANIEL BISPO
NABA Heavyweight Champion/WBA #13 1996 Brazilian Olympian
El Paso, Texas, USA Sao Paulo, Brazil
32-0 (30 KOs) 22-12 (16 KOs)
266.4 lbs. 224.8 lbs.

(all fights and fighters subject to change)

WHAT: “The Champion Returns” PPV

WHEN: Saturday, March 27, 2010 – 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT

WHERE: Monterrey, Mexico

PROMOTER: KO Entertainment and Box Latino

PAY-PER-VIEW INFORMATION: “The Champion Returns” PPV is available on www.GoFightLive.TV outside of the United States and Mexico .by clicking: http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=635

PAY-PER-VIEW ANNOUNCERS: World Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Col. Bob Sheridan (blow-by-blow) and former NFL player and veteran boxing announcer Benny Ricardo (color analyst).

RUMBLE AT RAMA XI—MOLITOR VS NDLOVU II FOR THE IBF JR. FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

RUMBLE AT RAMA XI

Weigh-In Results (Saturday, March 27th)

RAMA, ON –

MAIN EVENT:

I.B.F. Junior Featherweight Championship of the World

(122 Pounds, 12 Rounds)

Steve Molitor vs Takalni Ndlov
(31-1-0, 12 KOS) (30-5, 18 KO’s)
121.6 lbs 121.2 lbs

Canadian Heavyweight Championship
(10 Rounds)

Greg Kielsa vs Neven Pajkic
(11-0, 5 KOS) (11-0, 5 KO’s)
239 lbs 240.6 lbs

W.B.A. Woman’s Super Bantamweight Championship of the World

(122 Pounds, 10 Rounds)

Ana Julaton vs Lisa Brown
(6-1-1, 1 KOs) (16-4-3, 5 KO’s)
120.8 lbs 122 lbs

Welterweight

(147 Pounds, 6 Rounds)

Justin Fountain vs Fabian Ramirez
(6-1-3, 2 KOs) (9-1-1, 6 KO’s)
145.2 lbs 147 lbs

Super Middleweights

(168 Pounds, 6 Rounds)

Jason Douglas vs Stephan Boyd
(7-1-2, 3 KOs) (9-3-1, 4 KO’s)
168.8 lbs 166 lbs

Welterweight

(147 pounds, 6 Rounds)

Felix Mercedes vs Ivan Flores
(4-0, 3 KOs) (6-4-2, 3 KO’s)
144 lbs 142.4 lbs

CLICK http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=656 TO ORDER

OROVILLE, CALIFORNIA — Three combat sports will be on display tonight at the Feather Falls Casino & Lodge. In the mixed martial arts headliner, veterans Chris David and Jesse Brock square off in an important crossroads bout. Boxing and amateur kickboxing are also featured on the “Playboy Fight Night” card. Fighters weighed-in Friday evening at the casino showroom where they will fight tonight.

David (13-7-2, 4 KOs, 5 Submissions) of Oroville will be looking to continue his winning steak, which stands at four fights, in front of his hometown crowd tonight. Brock (10-5, 2 KOs, 5 Submissions) of Boise, Idaho will be looking to bounce back from a knockout defeat this past February. Brock, a Urijah Faber sparring partner, weighed in at 136-pounds, while David scaled 135.

Colin Hart (3-0, 2 Submissions) of Santa Rosa, California will take on Ryan Wong (1-2, 1 KO) of San Jose, California in a three-round middleweight fight. Wong, who fought just last Friday in Reno, Nevada, scaled 185, while Hart weighed in at 184 ¼-pounds.

In a three-round flyweight bout, Martin Sandoval (4-2, 3 KOs, 1 Submission) of Oakdale, California will meet Sammy Sanders (1-2, 1 KO) of Santa Rosa. Sandoval, nicknamed “Tarzan,” weighed in at 125 ¼, while Sanders scaled 125 ¾-pounds.

Oakdale’s Bryant Munoz (4-2, 4 Submissions) meets Taylor McCorriston (3-0, 1 Submission) of San Ramon, California in a three-round bantamweight fight. Munoz, looking to rebound from a tough stoppage loss to Alvin Cacdac last October, scaled 135-pounds, while McCorriston came in at 135 ¼.

Rounding out the MMA portion of the card, Junior Villanueva (1-0, 1 KO) of Oakdale will take on Rafael Rios (1-0, 1 Submission) of Stockton, California in a three-round lightweight bout. Villanueva, weighed in at 147 ¾-pounds, while Rios scaled 149 ½.

The boxing side of the card consists of two fights. In a four-round light middleweight fight, former amateur star Richard Hargraves (1-0, 1 KO) of San Francisco, California will meet J.C. Saade (0-1) of Los Angeles, California. Hargraves, the USA Boxing #3 ranked amateur welterweight before turning pro in December, weighed in at 151 ¾-pounds, while Saade scaled 151 even. Saade is fighting for the first time since 2005.

Heavyweight boxer, and MMA fighter, Yohan Banks was not sure who he would be fighting tonight, or even which rules his bout would be fought under, until sometime shortly before the weigh-in last night. Banks (2-3-3, 1 KO) of Redwood City, California will be boxing 6’5” Hector Martinez (5-3, 4 KOs) of Broderick, California in a four-rounder. Banks weighed in at 264, while Martinez scaled 228 ¾-pounds.

Two amateur kickboxing bouts will open the card. Mitch Thompson of Sacramento, California will take on Gaston Bolanos of Pleasanton in a three-round welterweight fight. Thompson weighed in at 144 ¾, while Bolanos came in at 141 ¾.

Mike Spatz (1-0) of Sacramento will fight Ignacio Zambrano of Stockton, California in a three-round cruiserweight fight. Spatz weighed in at 187, while Zambrano came in at 197 ¾-pounds.

Tickets for the event, promoted by ESMG World, are available by calling the casino at 530-533-3885 ext. 510.

Quick Weigh-in Results:

Mixed Martial Arts Results:

Bantamweights, 3 Rounds
David 135
Brock 136

Middleweights, 3 Rounds
Wong 185
Hart 184 ¼

Flyweights, 3 Rounds
Sandoval 125 ¼
Sanders 125 ¾

Bantamweights, 3 Rounds
Munoz 135
McCorriston 135 ¼

Lightweights, 3 Rounds
Villanueva 147 ¾
Rios 149 ½

Boxing:

Light middleweights, 4 Rounds
Hargraves 151 ¾
Saade 151

Heavyweights, 4 Rounds
Banks 264
Martinez 228 ¾

Amateur Kickboxing:

Welterweights, 3 Rounds
Thompson 144 ¾
Bolanos 141 ¾

Cruiserweights, 3 Rounds
Spatz 187
Zambrano 197 ¾

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

15rounds’ Matt Yanofsky catches up with former IBF Cruiserweight Steve “USS” Cunningham, who has had a lot going on as of late, even though he has been out of the ring since July 09′. Check out the interview for more!
steve-cunningham

WBC INTERCONTINENTAL WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

MAIN EVENT – 12 ROUNDS

ERIK “El Terrible” MORALES JOSE “Jicaras” ALFARO

Former 3-Division World Champion Former WBA Lightweight Champion/WBC #13

Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Nagarot, Nicaragua

48-6 (34 KOs) 23-5 (20 KOs)

146.8 lbs. 146.1 lbs.

WBA LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR

CO-FEATURE – 12 ROUNDS

HUGO HERNAN “Pigu” GARAY CHRIS “Hard Hittin’” HENRY

Former WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Former NABF, NABA, USNBC & IBA Intercontinental Champion

WBA #3/2000 Argentinean Olympian WBA #4

Tigre, Buenos Aires, Argentina Houston, Texas, USA

32-4 (17 KOs) 24-2 (19 KOs)

175 lbs. 175 lbs.

SPECIAL HEAVYWEIGHT ATTRACTION

10 ROUNDS

DAVID “Nino” RODRIGUEZ DANIEL BISPO

NABA Heavyweight Champion/WBA #13 1996 Brazilian Olympian

El Paso, Texas, USA Sao Paulo, Brazil

32-0 (30 KOs) 22-12 (16 KOs)

266.4 lbs. 224.8 lbs.

(all fights and fighters subject to change)

WHAT: “The Champion Returns” PPV

WHEN: Saturday, March 27, 2010 – 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT

WHERE: Monterrey, Mexico

PROMOTER: KO Entertainment and Box Latino

PAY-PER-VIEW INFORMATION: Distributed in the United States 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, TVN and DISH Network, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“The Champion Returns” PPV is also available on www.GoFightLive.TV outside of the United States and Mexico.

PAY-PER-VIEW ANNOUNCERS: World Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Col. Bob Sheridan (blow-by-blow) and former NFL player and veteran boxing announcer Benny Ricardo (color analyst).

INFORMATION: www.integratedsportsnet.com

TICKETS: Purchase at www.superboletos.com

Integrated Sports Media: North America’s leading distributor of International Pay-Per-View and Closed Circuit sports events has presented World Championship and world-class boxing matches featuring Ricky Hatton, Christian Mijares, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Jr., Ivan Calderon, Rocky Martinez, Nicolai Valuev, Amir Kahn, Marco Antonio Barrera, Arthur Abraham, David Haye, John Ruiz, Wilfredo Vazquez, Jr., and Ruslan Chagaev. In addition, Integrated Sports Media distributed numerous International soccer matches showcasing teams like Club America of Mexico and the National Teams of Argentina, Honduras, El Salvador and the USA, as well as World Championship and world-class mixed martial arts shows featuring Fedor Emelianenko, Tim Sylvia, Bobby Lashley, Bob Sapp, Jeff Monson, and Roy Nelson. For more information on upcoming Integrated Sports events visit www.integratedsportsnet.com.

Atlantic City, NJ—Undefeated Teon Kennedy, of Philadelphia, PA, makes the first defense of his United States Boxing Association (USBA) super bantamweight title when he faces Jose Angel Beranza, of San Pedro, CA, in the scheduled 12-round main event on Saturday evening, May 22, in the Grand Ballroom at Bally’s Atlantic City. First fight at 7.30 p.m.

This will mark Kennedy’s first fight since Nov. 20, 2009, the night he won the vacant USBA title in his tragic encounter with Francisco Rodriguez, of Chicago, IL, at the Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, PA.

In that match, which was close on the scorecards after nine rounds, Kennedy won by knockout when referee Benji Estevez stopped the contest at 1.52 of the 10th round. Rodriguez had taken a beating in the 10th, but was still on his feet when the fight was stopped.

Rodriguez was led back to his corner and he sat down on the stool, but when he did not respond minutes later, he was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. He died 48 hours later from brain injuries suffered in the fight.

Kennedy, 23, has a 14-0-1 record, 6 K0s. The win over Rodriguez landed Kennedy the No. 13 spot in the International Boxing Federation (IBF) world rankings at 122 pounds.

A former National Golden Gloves flyweight champion, Kennedy has pro wins over Castulo Gonzales, Thomas Snow and Lucian Gonzales.

Beranza, 33, turned pro in 1996. His pro record is 32-17-2, 25 K0s. He has fought some of the best in the world between 118 and 122 pounds, including world champions Wilfredo Vasquez, Jr., and Jhonny Gonzalez, as well as top contenders Jorge Lacierva, Antonio Escalante, Nestor Rocha and Jonathan Oquendo.

Twice in the last 16 months Beranza upset unbeaten prospects. He out-pointed Jesus Rojas, then 13-0, on Dec. 6, 2008, on the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquiao card at the MGM in Las Vegas, and he also beat highly touted Juan Carlos Velasquez, then 9-0, on July 24, 2008, on an ESPN-televised card from El Paso, TX.

The combined record of Beranza’s last 13 opponents was 260-33-10.

Tickets for the seven-bout card, promoted by Peltz Boxing Promotions, Inc., are priced at $75 and $50. They are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing Promotions (215-765-0922) and all Ticketmaster outlets (1-800-745-3000). Tickets also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.xcom and www.Ticketmaster.com.

Pound 4 Pound Promotions’ maintenance crew would have been wise to remove ring following the co-feature as Jersey City, NJ’s Danny “Little Mac” McDermott and Brian Miller seemingly fought in a phone booth throughout the eight round main event.

Miller came into the bout with a boatload of confidence as did McDermott. Both men were looking to stamp their ticket as a rising prospect in the lightweight division. Neither wanted to lose. Each refused to quit. But following eight competitive rounds, Miller’s consistency and conditioning helped him score the minor upset.

Miller of Schenectady, NY improved to 8-0-3 (3 KO’s) after pulling out an entertaining eight round split decision over the popular McDermott. McDermott got off to a solid start over the first two rounds, landing a number of hard head shots on his hard charging opponent. Miller controlled the pace of the third round by volume punching and crowding McDermott, as the latter began to show signs of fatigue.

Rounds four through six were action packed, with the heavier handed McDermott landing hard shots while Miller continued to keep his hands busy from bell to bell. Neither fighter gave an inch and the majority of the standing room only at North Bergen’s Schuetzen Park remained on their feet.

McDermott had difficulty regaining his wind in the seventh, as struggles making weight and consecutive action packed rounds can be torture for any fighter. The multi time Golden Gloves champion fired heavy hooks, but Miller slipped under a majority of the punches and remained busy in close quarters. With the fight up in the air, the two exchanged leather as if there were no tomorrow, with McDermott landing the bigger punches and Miller once again keeping his hands moving in a definite Garden State Fight of the Year candidate.

The first two scorecards read 77-75 McDermott and 78-74 Miller. The third judge somehow scored the bout a ridiculous 79-74 but unlike the majority of asinine scorecards, this one didn’t go to the hometown fighter. GSFS scored the ultra competitive contest 77-75 for Miller, who won the WBF All Americas title in the process.

“It was definitely a tough fight and knew it was going to be, but I give 110% every time I enter the ring”, Miller said after the fight.

As a fighter who received two questionable draws in his opponent’s hometown, Miller initially thought the final scorecard was going to be responsible for his first defeat.

“I fought twice in Jersey before and this is boxing. If you fight in the other guys hometown and the fight is close, the decision can go against you. Fortunately this wasn’t the case tonight.”

McDermott drops to 8-2-1 (3 KO’s) after the tough defeat.

Hard hitting Union City, NJ based super middleweight Jason “Monstruo” Escalera embarrassed previously unbeaten Jesus Torres, stopping him inside of one round. Torres entered the squared circle for the first time in 11 years, but would have been better off staying away for good. From the moment Escalera landed his first shot, Torres was clearly looking for a way out. His opponent had no problem giving him one. Escalera dropped him three times en route to a TKO victory at 2:14.

“I was very disappointed with my opponent”, Escalera said after a quick night of work. “I figured he was going to give me more of a challenge because of his record but as you saw, I got him out of there quickly.”

Escalera moves to 8-0 (7 KO’s). Torres heads home at 5-1-1 (4 KO’s)

Newly signed super bantamweight Elion “Nono” Kedem of Queens, NY via Israel earned a hard fought six round unanimous decision over Puerto Rico’s Pedro Salcedo. Kedem controlled the majority of the action and was the busier fighter, but the game Salcedo had his moments as well. Scores were 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56. Kedem improves to 11-3-4 (7 KO’s). Salcedo falls to 3-3 (2 KO’s).

In an all-Jersey matchup between two raw fighters, Todd “Viking” Eriksson of Dover viciously stopped Newark’s Eddie Edmonds. Both fighters missed with a number of wild shots in the opening two rounds, but Eriksson managed to briefly hurt Edmonds. Eriksson lined up a huge right hand in the third, sending his opponent tumbling to the deck. Edmonds, who has a striking resemblance to actor Luis Guzman, got up on unsteady legs, forcing the stoppage 59 seconds in.

Eriksson wins his first bout and is 1-3-1 (1 KO). Edmonds, whose father is a local promoter, drops to 1-1-1

With former world champion Paulie Malignaggi guiding his ring walk, welterweight Christian Martinez of The Bronx impressively stopped debuting Union City native Hector Collado in three rounds. Martinez was clearly the more polished fighter and needed little time to prove it, decking his counterpart seconds after the opening bell. Martinez controlled the second round and ended Collado’s night with a big right hand at 1:09 of the third. Martinez is now 3-0 with all 3 coming by way of KO.

In the opening bout of the evening former National Amateur Champion Steven Martinez destroyed debuting North Carolinian Michael Ransome in 1:59. Martinez, a talented Bronx based Middleweight, put Ransome down twice. Martinez is now 4-0 with all four wins coming by way of kayo.

Dubbed as “March Badness”, last night’s card was Pound 4 Pound’s seventh consecutive show at Schuetzen Park. Notables on hand included New York Giants running back/boxing manager Brandon Jacobs, former IBF Cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham and the aforementioned Paulie Malignaggi.

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

This great show can be seen by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=658

This past December, rising Fil-Am star Ana Julaton claimed her second world title in just her eighth professional bout with a comprehensive ten-round decision over veteran Donna Biggers. On Saturday, Julaton will look to make it three-for-three, as she battles world class 122-pounder Lisa Brown for the vacant WBA Super Bantamweight title at the Casino Rama in Rama, Ontario, Canada. Their ten-round title fight, the chief supporting bout to the Steve Molitor-Takalani Ndlovu rematch, will be streamed live on GoFightLive.tv as part of “Rumble at Rama XI.”

Julaton (6-1-1, 1 KO) of Daly City, California continues to take the road less traveled en route to prominence in the realm of professional boxing. With only a handful of pro bouts under her belt, Julaton knocked off one of the mainstays in women’s boxing last year when she decisioned Kelsey Jeffries to claim the IBA 122-pound title. Next up is another respected, perennial division leader and reigning WIBA kingpin Lisa Brown (16-4-3, 5 KOs). Adding additional intrigue, Julaton will be attempting to win the title on what amounts to Brown’s home turf. Brown, who has fought all over the world, resides in nearby Scarborough, Ontario.

The fact that the fight takes place near Brown’s home may be a sign of karmic justice. Brown, who has not fought in Canada in over three years, traveled all the way to South Korea for her last bout. In one of the worse decisions of recent years, Brown lost a ten-round decision to South Korea’s Hyo Min Kim. The highly controversial loss ended a four-fight winning streak for Brown.

To prepare for Brown, Julaton returned to train under the architect of her title victory over Jeffries, Nonito Donaire Sr. A scheduling conflict precluded Donaire from training Julaton for her last bout, but the team was been able to pick things up right from where they left off. “She is a very hard-working fighter,” says Donaire. “So I don’t have any problems training her.”

Donaire’s son, world class flyweight Glenn Donaire, was Julaton’s chief sparring partner in camp. “[Ana] is a hard working person, and it really makes you work hard,” said Glenn. “She is ready for this fight, and I know she can knock that girl out.” The younger Donaire was able to emulate the southpaw Brown’s style after studying the champion on film. “It is not hard emulating Lisa Brown, because she stands right here,” said Glenn a couple weeks ago. “I was happy about that. I don’t have to do too much. All I do is emulate her movement and how she throws her punches.”

Saturday’s fight marks the first time that Julaton has traveled outside of the western part of the United States for a fight as a professional. Julaton, the WBO/IBA Super Bantamweight Champion, feels that travel should be part of a world champion’s job description. “I feel the fans out there want to see a world champion that is willing to travel to other countries and fight the best fighters and beat them,” said Julaton. “It is very exciting for me, and I feel it is a great experience.”

If Julaton is able to defeat Brown on her home turf on Saturday and claim the WBA title, it would be perhaps the most impressive victory on an already impressive resume. “She is experienced, she’s game. She is a world champion, and that should say enough about her,” said the respectful Julaton of her opponent. “She wants to fight me, and I want to fight her, and we are going for the world title.”

The fight can be seen LIVE on www.gofightlive.tv

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

RAMA, ON (Thursday, March 25, 2010) – With time ticking away prior to Rumble at Rama XI, topped by the rematch between Steve Molitor (30-1, 12 KO’s) and Takalani Ndlovu (30-5, 18 KO’s, IBF #1) for the vacant IBF Junior Featherweight championship, the six main combatants involved went face-to-face Thursday in Toronto for the final press conference.
In the main event, Molitor will try to become a two-time world champion, and regain the title he lost to Celestino Caballero in November of 2008 via 4th round TKO.
To do that, he’ll have to turn back time nearly three years, and repeat his sensational performance against Ndlovu in July of 2007.
In what was Molitor’s first of five successful title defenses, “The Canadian Kid” battered the South African from pillar-to-post in the very same Casino Rama ring that they’ll step into Saturday night, en route to a one-sided ninth round TKO beating.
“On Saturday, I’m going to take my title back. It’s been a hard year and a half, but that made getting ready for this fight so motivating for me,” Molitor said.
“I’m healthier and stronger coming into this fight than I’ve ever been, and Chris (Johnson, Molitor’s trainer) and I had such a great camp. There’s no way I’m losing, especially to a guy I’ve already pummeled.”
Ndlovu, understandably, never even referred to his first encounter with Steve Molitor.
“This is a vacant title fight, we are both challengers,” Ndlovu said.  “I’m the IBF # 1 fighter, and he’s number 2., it’s that simple.”Â
“It’s an honour to be back, I’m ready.”


But while Ndlovu wanted to focus solely on Saturday night, Chris Johnson, Molitor’s trainer was eager to remind him of his first trip to Canada.
The fight is available on www.gofightlive.tv by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=661
“You came here before and you got whupped,” Johnson told Ndlovu from the podium. Â ”And you travelled here again to get whupped again. Â But the only thing this time that’s going to be different is how long it takes you to get off that canvas.”
Â
In the evening’s co-feature, Canadian Heavyweight champion, Greg “The Steel Pole” Kielsa (11-0, 5 KO’s), of Brampton, Ontario, defends against Toronto’s Neven Pajkic (11-0, 5 KO’s), over 10 rounds in a historic meeting of undefeated foes battling for the Canadian Heavyweight title.
“I want to thank Casino Rama, Orion Sports, and my manager James Jardine,” a typically low-keyed Kielsa told the assembled media.
“And good luck to Neven.”
Like Kielsa, Pajkic seemed equally unaffected by being part of a truly historic fight.
“I do my talking in the ring, with these,” Pajkic said, holding up his fists.”Â
And in a special added 10 round attraction, burgeoning female superstar, and WBO/IBA Super Bantamweight champion, Ana “The Hurricane” Julaton (6-1-1, 1 KO), of the Philippines, via San Francisco, California, faces Toronto’s Lisa “Bad News” Brown (16-4-3, 5 KO’s), a four-time world champion, for the vacant WBA Super Bantamweight world title.
“I’ve only been her for one day, but already Canada feels like home,” said Julaton, who flew into Toronto on Wednesday, and has been continuously in the public eye since landing, with welcoming dinners, media workouts, and press conferences.
“I’m anxious to get in the ring with Lisa, and have us thrilling the fans with how great women’s boxing can be.”
For her part, Brown is just as ready to step in the ring, and make a spotlight for herself to shine in.
“I’m ready. I’m in shape. I’m a warrior ready to destroy Ana,” Brown said.
“When there’s a hurricane, there’s always bad news.”
Orion Sports Management President, Allan Tremblay, thinks this card could be the best ever offered in Canada.
“Simply put, this is the best card ever put of in Ontario” Tremblay said proudly.Â
“Two world title fights, and a history-making Canadian heavyweight title fight.”
“It’s never been better than this in Ontario.”
Rumble at Rama XI will be promoted by Orion Sports Management, in association with Casino Rama.
Tickets for Rumble at Rama XI are $125, $75, $50 and $25 and are available in-person at the Casino Rama Box Office, and at all TicketMaster locations, by calling (416) 870-8000 and online at www.casinorama.com. Â Ticket prices do not include applicable taxes or service charges.
ABOUT ORION SPORTS MANAGEMENT
Orion Sports Management is an Ontario based promotional company known for staging first class boxing events.  Run by former Canadian Airline executive Allan Tremblay, Orion is the force behind Ontario’s biggest match ups, from their launch event at The Air Canada Centre (”The Night Of The Hurricane”) to a series of televised events in the Niagara region featuring “Baby Joe” Mesi, Razor Ruddock, Egerton Marcus, Chad Brisson, and Steve Molitor. Â
ABOUT CASINO RAMA
Operating since July 31, 1996, Casino Rama is Ontario’s only First Nations commercial casino. Â The Casino offers a complete entertainment experience with over 2,500 slot machines, more than 110 gaming tables, ten unique restaurants, a world-class 5,000 seat Entertainment Centre and a 300-room all-suite, full-service hotel, featuring spa and health club facilities. Â Casino Rama is operated by Penn National Gaming, Inc.