Jones scores decision over Bruseles in AC; Rosado beats Roman; Kendall Holt gets stopped in an elimination bout


Mike Jones got off to a bit of a slow start but turned up the offense to cruise to a unanimous decision over Henry Brusles in a ten round Welterweight fight in front of a sold out crowd at Ballys in Atlantic City.

It was Bruseles who came out and boxed well in round one as he moved in and out and landed a couple shots to Jones’ 5’11” body. Jones started to get things going a little bit in round two when Jones started to land some quick shots inside. Over the next couple rounds, each man took turns controlling the action with Jones winning his round with the more emphatic punching while Bruseles would squeak by with by getting through using angles and pot shotting.

The fight clearly turned in round seven with Jones landing some quick lefts and then rocking Bruseles with a hard three punch combination. Over the final part of the fight, Jones was in control as he started pumping the jab two and three times to set up quick one-two combination’s and he began to pull away on the cards. Jones was very solid in the fight but probably wasn’t the dominating performance that many of the sold out crowd came to see.

Nonetheless, Jones won by scores of 98-92, 98-92 and 97-93 (same as the 15rounds.com/gofightlive.tv ringside card).

Jones, 146 ¾ lbs of Philadelphia is now 20-0. Bruseles, 147 lbs of Guarbo, Puerto Rico is now 28-4-1.


In the television co-feature, Gabriel Rosado and Saul Roman hooked up in an entertaining ten round Jr. Middleweight clash.

Rosado and Roman fought very hard with Roman coming forward for most of the bout and Rosado doing a tremendous job of countering with the right hand.

The action really picked up over the last half of the fight with Rosado firing off right hands that caused a stream of blood from around the left eye of Roman. For his trouble, Rosado was cut from the forehead. This was a battle of geography as Roman wanted to make this an inside tussle while Rosado wanted and most of the time successfully had his way at distance. In round eight, Rosado landed countless counters to offset a big left hand that Roman got through at the beginning of the round.

The last two rounds did not provide as much action as the previous entertaining eight frames but Rosado’s out was more than enough for Rosado who won the bout by split decision.
Scores were 96-94 on two cards for Rosado (15rounds.com/gofightlive.tv liked the counterpunching Rosado to the tune of 99-91) while a third card read 97-93 for Roman.

Rosado, 155 ½ lbs of Philadelphia is now 14-4. Roman, 155 lbs of Tijuana, Mexico is now 32-6.
The opening bout of the night could have been the end of the line for former WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Kendall Holy as Kaiser Mabuza bludgeoned him over six rounds of their scheduled twelve round IBF Jr. Welterweight elimination bout.

Holt actually had a decent first round as he landed some body shots and combinations. After that it was a downhill freefall for Holt as Mabuza would just walk Holt down and pound away on the ropes for the next five rounds. Holt began to bleed from the nose in round three. If one saw round two, then he saw all rounds after that as Holt did next to nothing basically let Mabuza have his way. The sixth round was a bad round for Holt as he spent nearly the whole round eating punches and swelling around the left eye was starting to form.

Holt’s corner decided to save their man from any more damage and called a halt to the action before round seven could commence.

Mabuza, 140 lbs of Johannesburg, South Africa now awaits the winner of next Saturday’s Juan Urango – Devon Alexander unification battle with a record of 23-6-3 with fourteen knockouts. Holt, 139 ½ lbs of Paterson, NJ is now 25-3.

Ariel Espinal landed two big rights in round three to drop Anthony Pietrantonio and in round four Espinal finished the job by landing four big head shots that forced referee Benji Estevez to call a halt to the action at 1:38 of round four of their scheduled six round Light Heavyweight bout.

Espinal, 181 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is now 7-12-3 with three knockouts. Pietrantonio, 171 lbs of Youngstown, OH is now 6-5.

Local favorite (and 15rounds.com blogger) Troy Maxwell made his large local throng of fans happy by scoring a four round unanimous decision over Todd Erkisson in a Super Middleweight bout.
Maxwell landed some big right hands and kept Eriksson at bay to cruise to the decision via 39-37 on all cards.

Maxwell, 168 lbs of Galloway, NJ is now 2-0. Eriksson, 166 ½ lbs of Dover, NJ is 0-3-1.
Good looking nineteen year-old prospect Glen Tapia scored a vicious knockdown just seconds into his scheduled four round Jr. Middleweight bout with Tyrone Miles and finished him off with a series of power punches that forced Esteves to stop bout just seconds into the fight.

Tapia, 152 lbs of Passaic, NJ is now 4-0 with three knockouts. Miles, 153 lbs of Camden, NJ is now 1-3.

Rugged vet, Ossie Duran scored a four round unanimous decision over Jamaal Davis in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Duran, 155 lbs of Paterson, NJ and is now 24-8-2. Davis, 156 ½ lbs of Philadelphia is now 11-6.

Photos by Tom Brigila/ Top Rank




Escalante wins action packed decision over Roman

Antonio Escalante scored a ten round unanimous decision over Miguel Roman in a thrilling fight at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas.

Escalante showed his class throughout as he brawled very nicely against the tough as nails Roman, who kept coming forward. Escalante consistently landed combinations andwas especilly effective with the left hook. He mixed up his shots evenly to the head and body. The two engaged in many exchanges where Roman would come forward winging wide shots and Escalante would get through with crisper punches.

Escalante continued to land flurries and that did not deter Roman from coming forward. In round eight, Escalante landed a body shot that was followed by a leaping right hand that sent Roman to the canvas which thrilled Escalante’s hometwon fans. All that work briefly fatigued Escalante because over the next four minutes, Roman had his best output of the fight as his aggressive nature was not met with the same resistance of the previous eight rounds. The one minute respite in between round’s nine and ten seemed to do the trick for Escalante as he finished strong as he and Roman battled all the way to the bell.

Escalante (Ranked # 8 by 15rounds.com at 122 lbs) 126 lbs of El Paso, Texas won by scores of 97-92, 97-92 and 96-93 to raise his record to 22-2. Roman, 126 lbs of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico is now 28-7.

Unbeaten Jr. Welterweight prospect Danny Garcia was in with his toughest foe to date and his fight with Ashley Theophane but Garcia hung on to win a split decision in a ten round bout.

This fight was about what the judges liked between Garcia’s punching in and out with some solid counter punching or Theophane’s awkward style. Garcia was a bit more active and landed the more telling blows and got the nod despite being docked a potentially critical point in round nine for a low blow and won by scores of 96-94, 95-94 while Theophane took a card 95-94.

Garcia, 141 lbs of Philadelphia is now 16-0. Theophane, 140 3/4 lbs of London, UK is now 25-4-1.




Vinan squeaks by Vazquez in Philly

Carlos Vinan scored a debatable split decision over local favorite Victor Vazquez in the six round Lightweight main event at The Arena in South Philadelphia.

Vazquez came out early firing some solid combination’s and punctuated round one with a nice uppercut at the bell. Vazquez landed some nice right hands in round two. He was getting through with the over hand right and seemed to be finding a home for that punch. Vinan finally started getting into the fight as he started to be effective with shots to the body. The action really picked in round four as both landed some good shots before a furious final half minute where the two stood toe to toe that delighted the Pro-Vazquez crowd.

Over the last two rounds, Vinan landed several solid straight right hands down the middle as the tough veteran continued to press the action. The rounds were very close and the fight could have gone either way but it felt like Vazquez did a little more for the victory.

When the scores were read, it was surprising to hear that Vinan took two cards by scores of 59-55 and 58-56 while a third card was almost as absurd as it was ruled that Vazquez took every round via a 60-54 tally. 15rounds.com/gofightlive.tv card saw 58-56 for Vazquez.

Vinan of Newark, New Jersey scored his second upset in The Arena (he previously beat undefeated Featherweight Prospect, Eric Hunter in the same venue) and is now 9-8-3. Vazquez of Philadelphia falls to 11-4.
In the co-feature, Kareem “Cool Breeze” Cooley took the decision out the judges hands as he scored a third round stoppage over Sidell Blocker in their scheduled four round Lightweight bout.

Cooley moved well and was effective the right hand. In round three, Cooley landed a perfectly timed counter right over the top that dropped Blocker. Blocker got to his feet but the fight was waved off at 1:12 of round three.

Cooley of Philadelphia, trains out of the Joe Hand Boxing Gym and is now 1-0. Blocker is 0-2.
Juan Rodriguez scored a third round knockdown en route to a four round unanimous decision over Dontre King in a Welterweight bout.

Rodriguez dropped King with a flurry of huge shots to the head and never looked back as he win by scores of 40-35 on all cards.

Rodriguez of Union City, NJ is now 2-0. King of Cumberland, MD is 1-6-1.

In a female four round Featherweight bout, Elizabeth Sherman scored a four round unanimous decision over Karen Dulin.

Sherman, 124 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-0. Dulin, 126 ½ lbs of Mystic, CT is now 1-5.

Anthony Yoder Jr. scored a four round unanimous decision over Francisco Portillo in a Lightweight bout.

Scores were 40-36, 40-36 and 39-37 for Yoder, 134 lbs of Vineland, NJ to win his pro debut. Portillo, 132 lbs of West Virginia is now 0-2.

Bryan Jennings made a successful pro debut by outpointing Zeferino Albino over four rounds in their heavyweight bout.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Jennings, 218 lbs of Philadelphia. Albino of Philadelphia is now 3-10-2.

Lavarn Harvell made quick work of Randy Campbell by scoring a first round stoppage in their scheduled four round bout featuring undefeated fighters.

Harvell dropped Campbell early in the round from a straight right hand. Harvell then jumped all over Campbell and landed a barrage of punches that forced referee Blair Talmidge to call of the bout just 1:52 into the fight.

Harvell, 173 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is now 5-0 with two knockouts. Campbell, 171 lbs of Bowertown, OH is now 3-1.

In an action filled four round Lightweight bout, Angel Ocasio remained perfect on the strength of a second round knockdown to score a unanimous decision over Osnel Charles.

Ocasio dropped Charles in round two from a solid left hook. Charles showed a lot of moxey as he came on strong and was involved in some nice exchanges but Ocasio’s work rate combined with the knockdown were the catalysts for the unanimous decision by scores of 39-36, 39-36 and 38-37.
Ocasio of Philadelphia is 2-0. Charles of Atlantic City is now 1-2.

Boxing returns to Philadelphia on Friday night April 2nd with a big night of action presented by Vernoca L. Michael and Blue Horizon Boxing Inc. at The Legendary Blue Horizon

The following week, Greg Robinson’s Power Productions returns to The Arena on Friday Night April 9th




Weights from Puerto Rico–Saturday on gofightlive.tv


WBO Super bantamweight title
MARVIN SONSONA – 121.4 lbs. VS. WILFREDO VÁZQUEZ JR – 122 lbs.
General Santos City, Filipinas (14-0-1, 12KOs) Bayamón, Puerto Rico (17-0-1, 14KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

WBO Latino super bantamweight title
JOSÉ ÁNGEL BERANZA – 121.4 lbs. VS. JONATHAN OQUENDO – 122 lbs.
Ciudad México, México (32-16-2, 25KOs) Vega Alta, Puerto Rico (17-2, 11KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

6 rounds 185lbs.
ROY ASHWORTH – 185 lbs. VS. CARLOS NEGRÓN – 186 lbs.
Louisiana, USA (5-7, 1KOs) Villalba, Puerto Rico (7-0, 5KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

4 rounds 112lbs.
ELIECER SÁNCHEZ – 114.25 lbs. VS. MCWILLIAMS ARROYO – 113 lbs.
Corozal, Puerto Rico (PRO DEBUT) Fajardo, Puerto Rico (PRO DEBUT)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

4 rounds 118lbs.
GIOVANNI RIVERA – 118.2 lbs. VS. MCJOE ARROYO – 118 lbs.
Arecibo, Puerto Rico (0-2) Fajardo, Puerto Rico (PRO DEBUT)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

4 rounds 135lbs.
EFIGENIO PÉREZ – 145.8 lbs. VS. LUIS GONZÁLEZ – 140.4 lbs.
Aguada, Puerto Rico (PRO DEBUT) Bayamón, Puerto Rico (2-0, 1KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

4 rounds 154lbs.
MARCOS ADORNO – 155.2 lbs. VS. GIOVANNI RODRÍGUEZ – 154.8 lbs.
Vega Alta, Puerto Rico, (0-1) Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, (1-0, 1KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:

4 rounds 140lbs.
OSENOHAD VÁZQUEZ – 141 lbs. VS. JORGE PÉREZ ADORNO – 140.2 lbs.
Vega Alta, Puerto Rico (1-1) Bayamón, Puerto Rico (1-1, 0KOs)
TRUNKS: TRUNKS:
CORNER: CORNER:




Q & A with Edison “Pantera” Miranda


When Edison “Pantera” Miranda 33-4(29) steps into the ring next month and will try to win a world title at the second attempt when he faces Lucian Bute for Bute’s IBF Super Middleweight title. The fight will take place on home territory for Bute in Montreal. Miranda hopes capitalise on this fantastic opportunity which goes out on HBO. Miranda is used to fighting with his back to the wall in both life and the ring, the bigger the challenge the more he likes it. He’s an all action knock out artist who can back up his words more often than not. Miranda 29, is a highly entertaining fighter who fans and media a like enjoy watching. Previously he’s come up short in some of his biggest fights losing twice to Arthur Abraham PTS12 where he broke Abraham’s jaw and then LKO4. He also lost to Kelly Pavlik KO7 & Andre Ward PTS12. This fight gives Miranda the chance to prove he’s not a nearly man anymore. You can bet on one thing there will be fireworks in Montreal on 17 April.

Hello Edison, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly congratulation’s on getting the opportunity to fight Lucian Bute for the IBF 168 title. What do you think of that fight?

Edison Miranda – I am very excited for this opportunity. Bute is a great fighter and has a big heart. I will need to be at my best to defeat him.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think Bute does well and what do you think you can capitalize on?

Edison Miranda – He likes to fight and so do I. It will be a very good fight for the fans. He makes mistakes and we are working on taking advantage of these.

Anson Wainwright – You were scheduled to fight Robert Stieglitz for his WBO title in January but became ill. What can you tell us about this?

Edison Miranda – I was very upset having to cancel that fight. I was so much looking forward for the chance to fight in Germany again and in front of all the European fans. We had been training very hard and I had gotten sick. We tried to work through it slowly, but it just kept getting worse. I finally got to the point where I couldn’t even get out of bed. I wanted to train and stay in shape but it was not possible.

Anson Wainwright – Since we last spoke i believe you have changed trainers and now train with Joe Goossen in L.A. How did the change come about? What difference has this made to you?

Edison Miranda – I have always had great respect for Joe Goossen. I got to meet him and talk with him when I was in Oakland to fight Andre Ward. After that fight I felt in my heart it was time to make a change. Jose Bonilla is a fantastic trainer and he is like a father to me. I still talk to him almost every day. My managers and I both liked Joe Goossen for me and we set up a time to meet and it felt great. I knew very quickly that Joe would be a trainer that could get me to the next level. I feel like a new boxer already. People will see what Joe Goossen has done for me on April 17th.

Anson Wainwright – What do you think of the Super Six tournament that they are showing on Showtime? Who has impressed you and who do you think will win it?

Edison Miranda – I have said from the beginning that Andre Ward will beat Abraham in the finals.

Anson Wainwright – You have inside information having fought three of the six fighters in the Super Six. Who do you think will win the upcoming fights between Abraham-Dirrell, Ward-Green & Froch-Kessler?

Edison Miranda – Abraham will KO Dirrell. Ward will beat Green, but it will not be as easy as most people think. Don’t sleep on Allen Green. He is a very strong fighter. Froch will beat Kessler.

Anson Wainwright – Who do you consider to be the best fighter you have fought so far and why?

Edison Miranda – Andre Ward is the best fighter. I was in great shape for that fight. I would have beaten almost anyone else. He surprised me with his incredible athleticism. Andre will go on and be a great fighter for many years. After I beat Bute, maybe we can have a rematch when the tournament is over! With Joe Goossen helping me, I think we can expose his weakness.

Anson Wainwright – You are known as a big puncher having KO’d 29 of your 37 opponents leading to a 78% KO rate but which knock out do you consider your best and why?

Edison Miranda – Although my knockout of David Banks is considered to be one of the highlight KOs of all time, I still consider my stoppage of Howard Eastman to be my most memorable stoppage. That was the day people learned the name Edison Miranda and my power was no longer questioned. After April I may have a different answer for this question (laughing).

Anson Wainwright – You fought in Britain last March, can you tell us about that experience?

Edison Miranda – The people in London are very friendly and supportive. It was a small fight in York Hall. A place with much history in boxing. My hopes were to maybe return there someday and face Carl Froch. He and I would put on a great fight for the fans in Britain.

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans & Bute?

Edison Miranda – I want to thank my fans for sticking with me. It has been a rough ride these past few years and I know that I have let them down. My concentration since my loss to Andre Ward has been on boxing and I stay very focused. My switch to Joe Goossen has been better then I could have ever dreamed. If anyone is going to be in my corner to help me become a champion, Joe is the right man for the job. I am sure that Bute is training very hard and not looking past me. I promise to give him the fight of his life and a war for the fans to enjoy.

Thanks for your time Pantera, good luck on 17 April.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com




Ortiz stops Alatorre in tenth!!


Victor Ortiz scored a stoppage win in the tenth and final scheduled round over Hector Alatorre in a Welterweight bout at Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles, CA.

Ortiz dominated the bout as he systematically won every round from the tough Alatorre.

In the final round, Ortiz came out “Guns A Blazing” as he landed some hard left hands that set up a big right that floored Alatorre. Alatorre reached his feet but the fight was waved off fifty-one seconds into the final round

Ortiz, 143 3/4 lbs of Ventura, CA nowwill look for a May 15th fight with Nate Campbell with a record now that reads 26-2-1 with twenty-one, CA. Alatorr, 143 lbs of Tulare, CA was stopped for the first time and is now 16-9.

Charles Huerta scored a six round majority decision over Guadalupe De Leon in a Featherweight bout.

De leon was tough and kept coming forward but Huerta landed the more telling blows and won by scores of 59-55, 58-56 and 57-57.

Huerta, 125 3/4 lbs of Paramount, CA is now 13-1. De Leon, 126 1/4 lbs of Mission, TX was coming off an upset win over Derrick Wilson who ironically was the only man to defeat Huerta and is now 8-10.

Luis Ramos Jr. remained undefeated by scoring a four round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Walter Estrada.

Ramos had a little difficulty adapting to the lanky southpaw of Estrada but won all scores by shutout 40-36.

Ramos, 135 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is now 14-0. Estrada, 135 1/4 lbs of Barranquilla, Colombia is now 35-12




He’s not Mayweather, but Joshua Clottey might be good enough


Timing and circumstances haven’t been kind to Joshua Clottey. He isn’t Floyd Mayweather, Jr., the welterweight everybody wanted to see against Manny Pacquiao on March 13.

Instead, Clottey has been cast as the substitute, which to a cynical public only means he isn’t Mayweather and he doesn’t have a chance against Pacquiao on a night when Cowboys Stadium in the Dallas metroplex might be the biggest attraction.

If he doesn’t feel like last season’s Detroit Lions or St. Louis Rams, then Clottey knows what it is to have been one of those replacement players in the last NFL work stoppage. In 1987, none of those guys belonged there and that’s exactly what you hear and read these days about Clottey. Pacquiao is supposed to kick him around like the soccer ball Clottey used to chase as a kid in Ghana.

Fair? I don’t think so. Then again, I’ve been wrong about these things before. I actually thought Juan Manuel Marquez was skilled, smart and tough enough to challenge Mayweather. After watching Mayweather humble Marquez through 12 one-sided rounds in September, I wondered if I had been kicked in the head one too many times.

Nevertheless, I like Clottey, perhaps not enough to pick him over Pacquiao, especially without a familiar trainer in his corner. He split with Kwame Asante after his loss by split decision in June to Miguel Cotto over a reported disagreement over money. Then, Godwin Kotay, also of Ghana, was denied a U.S. visa. Instead of Asante or Kotay, cut-man Lenny DeJesus will take the lead in Clottey’s corner.

In front a potential crowd of 45,000 and against Pacquiao’s varied skills and dangerous power, an unfamiliar face in the corner looms as a problem, especially when – not if – Clottey is in trouble.

Still, Clottey’s size, strength and durability are enough to make it difficult for Pacquiao, whose motivation could have taken a hit when an agreement to fight Mayweather fell apart because of demands that the Filipino icon undergo Olympic-style blood-testing for performance-enhancers.

Pacquiao also will jump directly into a rough-and-tumble political campaign in the Philippines after the fight.

In part, the public’s lack of any respect for Clottey might be a spillover from disgust at the abortive negotiations for Pacquiao-Mayweather. Fans and media are still angry. What they have forgotten, however, is just how close Clottey came to an upset of Cotto in front of the Puerto Rican’s loyal New York fans at Madison Square Garden.

“I did not lose the Cotto fight,’’ Clottey said Thursday during a conference call from his training camp in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Maybe not.

But Clottey also didn’t do enough in the last couple of rounds to convince anybody at ringside that he deserved more than a draw. That, like the victory he still thinks he deserves, eluded him. Clottey has been criticized for not throwing enough punches, which could quickly leave him with a deficit on the scorecards against Pacquiao’s whirlwind pace. But he is confident he can make his power count.

“I am not a flyweight,’’ Clottey said during the conference call, which will be followed by one Friday with Pacquiao. “I’m not a bantamweight. I’m a welterweight. I throw punches that connect.’’

As a natural welterweight, unlike the smaller Pacquiao (5-foot-6 ½), the 5–8 Clottey might have enough leverage to inflict some damage. Before Pacquiao’s 12th-round stoppage of Cotto in November, the Filipino’s trainer, Freddie Roach, said Clottey’s punches almost made Cotto quit during the ninth round.

“The more I play it over, the more I realize how competitive this is and that nobody with any certainty can predict the result,’’ said Top Rank’s Bob Arum, who promotes both fighters. “Everybody knows how Manny Pacquiao fights. Everybody knows the angles from which he throws punches.

“And everybody knows that Joshua Clottey is a tremendous defensive fighter and can put a real hurt on an opponent. And everybody knows that Joshua Clottey is the bigger man and Manny is the smaller man. There is talk about Manny going up in weight. But he really hasn’t. He couldn’t make 130 pounds anymore, He fought at 135. He was 138 when he fought (and knocked out) Ricky Hatton.

Now, he goes into the ring at 142 or 143 pounds on the scale and that’s not because he’s putting on weight. That’s because he has breakfast and lunch before the weigh-in. If he had to, he’d still make 135 pounds. So, the idea that he’s a big man is just not true.

“Joshua has the size. He’s the natural welterweight. Manny Pacquiao isn’t. That’s the intrigue in this fight.’’

The intrigue, at least, doesn’t include more of the noisy debate about blood-testing for performance-enhancers. Clottey, ever the gentleman, said he did not and would not demand the Olympic-style testing that Mayweather says he and every one of his future opponents, including Shane Mosley on May 1, will undergo.

“No, I don’t want to do that, because I respect him so much,’’ Clottey said. “He is a very nice guy. I feel comfortable around him. He’s respectful of everybody. I don’t think Manny Pacquiao did that thing. I trust him.”

If only, Clottey could enjoy some of that same trust. He’s not Mayweather. But, trust me, he’s a better fighter than people think.




THREE BIG FIGHTS INVOLVING MEMBERS OF THE JOE HAND BOXING GYM TO TAKE PLACE THIS WEEKEND

PHILADELPHIA (FEBRUARY 25TH, 2010)—This weekend, three members of the highly regarded Joe Hand Boxing Gym will have big bouts in three different venues in the Delaware Valley.

First off, on Friday night, former Jr. Welterweight contender, Michael “No Joke” Stewart will take on Brandon Baue at Dover Downs in Dover, Delaware in an eight round Welterweight bout.

Stewart of nearby New Castle, Delaware is looking for one last run as the former USBA Jr. Welterweight champion, has been working very hard at The Joe Hand Boxing Gym and looks re energized under the guidance of trainer’s Danny Davis and Tommy Barnes.

Stewart has a record 44-7-2 with twenty-three wins coming by knockout.

The thirty-two year old is on a two fight winning streak with his previous outing being a six round unanimous decision over Louie Leija on November 7th in Atlantic City.

Just up I-95 on Friday night, Fans at The Arena in Philadelphia, fans will be able to witness the long awaited pro debut of Kareem “Cool Breeze” Cooley in a four round Lightweight bout against Sidell Blocker of Atlantic City.

Cooley, 22 years-old of Southwest Philadelphia was a decorated amateur as he amassed an impressive record of 110-10 before taking a couple years off due to injuries.

He has been back in the gym training real hard under the watchful eye of his grandfather and former pro fighter Roland Cooley and Ron Hammonds.

Cooley is managed my Doc Nowicki and Joe Hand Sr.

Then on Saturday, the attention shifts to the boardwalk in Atlantic City where the hottest prospect in America in Welterweight Mike “MJ” Jones steps up to face his toughest test in perennial contender Henry Bruseles of Puerto Rico.

Jones of Philadelphia is on the brink of a significant or world title fight has been the talk of the Philadelphia boxing scene with his dynamic abilities that have catapulted him to a perfect record of 19-0 with sixteen knockouts.

Jones has been named prospect of the year by several publications and with a win over Bruseles he will be looked at as a contender for anyone in Welterweight division. Bruseles has won seven straight fights over a five year span since his last defeat to Floyd Mayweather in 2005.

The bout from Ballys in Atlantic City can be seen nationally on Fox Sports Net and Fox Sports Espanol.

Before heading to training camp in Newtown, PA, Jones is known for his vigorous workouts at The Joe Hand Boxing Gym in Philadelphia.

Jones is trained by Vaughn Jackson, managed by Doc Nowicki and Jim Williams and promoted by Russell Peltz and Joe Hand Sr.

ABOUT THE JOE HAND BOXING GYM

Started by Joe Hand Promotions in 1983, the Joe Hand Boxing Gym has been a community landmark for over 25 years. Joe Hand, Sr., a retired Philadelphia police officer, saw the gym 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 arenas, brand new equipment, and a modern computer center where children from the community can participate in the education process, whether or not they’re interested in learning how to box.

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

Phone: 215-271-4263




Troy Maxwell Final Training Blog


It’s Thursday now, 2 days to the fight. I can honestly say I am in the best shape I’ve ever been in for a fight thus far in my life. I am already on weight! You know someone recently asked me, what’s the difference from fighting in MMA? Why did you start boxing? See in MMA I fought because I wanted to open my own gym eventually, and needed the experience. I never really saw it as a way to make a living or a future. It didn’t matter what the outcome was I just had fun. That’s the difference I guess in boxing. I can see a future; there is something at the end of the finish line. I like that in boxing every fight counts. There is no option but to win.

Since I started boxing one year ago, people have got behind me in a strong way. I am building a huge fan base and most of my MMA fans have followed me out of the cage and through the ropes. I can’t wait till Saturday; anticipation is already boiling in my blood. I truly love to fight, and I love the pressure it puts on you. I love the way the fans come alive with emotion. South Jersey has been great to me since moving down here. I grew up in Perry County, Pennsylvania and after my time in the Coast Guard I stayed down here to train. It’s been six years and a blast and it’s my home away from home.

I have recently got my first sponsor in Maxwell Construction. This is a huge deal for me as I grew up around men working hard to earn a living. I admire how hard these guys who go out and brave the elements all day and sometimes half the night to put food on the table. I reflect often when feeling tired at the gym about my Pop working constantly just to keep the lights on when I was a kid. So when my trainers say,” Troy that’s enough you workout too much” in my mind I think about it and say not as hard as these guys. So it’s great to be able to represent a company like Maxwell construction. They have been great to me and have really helped with training expenses, not to mention the names kind of catchy.

So Saturday night is 2 days away and we just put the finishing touches on my training. The hard stuff is done. Next comes the fun part we get to go in there and throw some punches. All I can say is I guarantee you’ll see , “My trainers teach me how to box with skill, and where I grew up taught me how to fight with will, so come out and you’ll be in for a thrill”.

Troy Maxwell takes on Stanhope’s Todd Eriksson Saturday night at Bally’s in Atlantic City in a four round light heavyweight contest.

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




Photo Gallery: Joshua Clottey Beach workout

“BEACH RUN” — Challenger Joshua Clottey,Ghana goes for an early-morning beach run in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Thursday to get ready for the fight of his life against seven-time world champion and “Fighter of the Decade” Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao on Saturday,May 13 at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas,Texas on HBO Pay-Per-View

Photos by Chris Farina / Top Rank




COY “PRETTY BOY” EVANS TO BE UNLEASHED THIS SATURDAY IN ALLENTOWN


PHILADELPHIA (FEBRUARY 25TH, 2010)—This Saturday night at The Roadway Inn in Allentown, PA, undefeated Featherweight Coy “Pretty Boy” Evans of Philadelphia returns to the ring when he takes on his most experienced foe in tough veteran Robert DaLuz.

The bout will be part of a big night of action promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions.

Evans is coming off a very impressive knockout on January 15th when he stopped Vineash Rungea at The Arena in Philadelphia.

Evans of Philadelphia is now 6-0-1 with that one knockout and will be looking to get good gage of his career as DaLuz has been in with some of the best Featherweights prospects in the world. Evans is looking to be on the fast track as with a win on Saturday night. He’s scheduled to be showcased in his first Main Event on Friday April 9th at The Arena in South Philly.

“We know that Coy is in with a tough, experienced fighter in DaLuz, but Coy’s a tough kid too. He’s not about to step aside any featherweights or take on any challenges we put in front of him. The kid is hunger, and he’s looking for the big time, the bright lights, and he understands the benefits that come along with that. He’s focus, dedicated, and a really good kid. Now is the season and were both grateful for the opportunity.” said Greg Robinson, Evans promoter.

Evans who just recently signed a promotional deal with Greg Robinson’s Power Productions, is a proud father of a six year old daughter and paralegal to a Center City Philadelphia Attorney. He also “Unleashed” his talents outside the ring with a successful endorsement deal proudly sponsored by Riveredge Beverage Company and their “Unleash 6 Hour Energy Drink” brand. Unleash the Power in You!

The bout as well as the rest of the card will be shown on a tape delay basis on www.gofightlive.tv for just $4.99 by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=626




Top amateur star signs with Golden Boy Promotions

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, top U.S amateur Frankie Gomez has signed a promotional contract with Golden Boy Promotions.

Gomez, 18, was a 2009 U.S. national champion at 141 pounds, defeating highly touted Top Rank prospect Jose Benavidez 11-9 in the final. Gomez also received a silver medal at the AIBA World Boxing Championships in Milan, Italy, in September. He lost an 8-2 decision to Cuba’s Roniel Iglesias Sotolongo in the gold medal match, but was the only American to reach the finals, quite an accomplishment considering it was Gomez’s first open tournament.

“It’s really exciting that we signed him. Now I have to break it to my wife that we will be spending birthdays with him,” joked Golden Boy President Oscar De La Hoya, who won his Olympic gold medal the year Gomez was born and De La Hoya shares a February 4th Birthday with Gomez.

The 5-foot-8 Gomez is scheduled to make his professional debut on April 3 on the undercard of the Roy Jones-Bernard Hopkins rematch at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. After that, De La Hoya said Gomez would fight roughly once per month with regular appearances on Golden Boy’s “Fight Night Club” series at Club Nokia in downtown Los Angeles.

“I believe a perfect fit for him will be the ‘Fight Night Club’ shows,” De La Hoya said of the series, which begins its 2010 schedule on Thursday night. “We’re there once a month and we can also have him fight on whatever other big shows we have. But we want to build him up in Los Angeles.”

“I saw him spar about three weeks ago and I haven’t seen something like that in a long, long time,” De La Hoya said. “This kid was in control. This kid just has it. You can feel it in the air. He has that explosiveness, that ring generalship. I haven’t seen it in a long time. I am very happy we signed him.

“He sparred 12 rounds with three different pros, not anybody known, but he just impressed me. It reminded me of myself. I used to spar pros all the time. That’s how I made the transition from amateurs to the pros. He is so strong and fast.”

Gomez will campaign at 135 lbs.

“He said he can make 135, so what we discussed was if he can make 135 with no problem, why not shoot for a title at 135 when the time is right and then go up to 140 and 147,” De La Hoya said.

“He is the No. 1 amateur in the U.S. and one of the best in the world and as such, he deserved a package in line with what his credentials are,” Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer told ESPN.com. “Golden Boy is the leading promoter and when we see talent, we have the financial resources to pay for it and we do. He’s a very, very talented fighter and I think there are tremendous opportunities for Frankie to make a name for himself as a pro.”




Travis Kauffman to Face Miller on 2/27 in Allentown–FIGHT TO BE SHOWN ON GFL ON MARCH 1ST

Allentown, PA (Wednesday, February 24, 2010) – The first taste of adversity for a professional boxer reveals a great deal about the character of the fighter. Heavyweight prospect Travis Kauffman of Reading, PA intends to show that what hasn’t killed him will only make him stronger when he returns to the ring this Saturday, February 27th at the Rodeway Inn & Conference Center in Allentown, PA against Mike Miller of Akron, OH in the six round main event.

King’s Promotions will promote the ten-bout event that will feature both professional and amateur boxing action.
The full card can be seen via tape delay on www.gofightlive.tv for just $4.99 by clicking

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=626
Kauffman, 18-1 (15 KO), will be making his first appearance since his first professional loss to Tony Grano in September. Ahead on the scorecards and trying to finish off his fading opponent, Kauffman was drawn in by his opponent’s dirty tactics and left himself open in the process. After taking some time to deal with the defeat, Kauffman has put the experience into perspective.

“It got me down a little bit at first,” admits Kauffman, “but I feel I’ve won bigger fights than that as an amateur. I fought with my heart instead of my head and that was my biggest mistake in that fight. I got over it in time and am now 100% focused in the gym. I still feel I have the potential to be the heavyweight champion of the world and hold the title. All this has done is strengthen my desire to prove that I am a world class fighter.”

Kauffman, a former number one ranked heavyweight amateur in the country, accrued a number of amateur accolades, including a gold medal in the 2004 PAL Nationals. The 6?3? Kauffman was on an eight-fight knockout streak prior to the defeat but has demonstrated technical boxing skills in addition to power.

Kauffman was originally supposed to face Baltimore, MD’s Bernard Brown but plans changed when Brown suffered from cold feet in the last 24 hours and pulled out of the fight. Stepping in on short notice is the durable Mike Miller, 6-15 (3 KO), who was the first person to extend Kauffman the distance in the pros. Miller has only been knocked out once as a professional, by the aforementioned Grano.

“It doesn’t matter who they put in front of me, I’m ready to fight. I want to show Allentown, the entire Pennsylvania and the world that I’m still on a mission to become heavyweight champion of the world.”

In the co-featured attraction, Jason Cintron of Reading, PA will clash with Maurice Chalmers in junior-welterweight action. Cintron, 11-1, is the brother of former welterweight champion Kermit Cintron. He is fresh off a unanimous decision win over Martinus Clay at Reading’s Sovereign Center in December.

Rounding out the professional action, undefeated super-middleweight Farah Ennis (11-0, 5 KO) of Philadelphia will face Emmanuel Gonzalez of San Juan, Puerto Rico in a six round bout. Featherweight Coy Evans (6-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA will face Robert DaLuz of Providence, Rhode Island in a six round bout. Middleweight Derrick Webster of Glassboro, NJ will face Pete Guthy of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in a four round bout. New York super-featherweight Emanuel Gonzalez will face Jamar Saunders of Atlanta, GA in a four round bout.

Bragging rights will be at stake in the amateur portion of the night when fighters from the Allentown Boxing Club challenge their counterparts from Reading’s King’s Gym.

Tickets are priced at $25.00, 50.00 and 65.00 and are now available at the Rodeway Inn (610-395-3731), Kingsboxing.com and the Allentown Boxing Club (Luis Melendez: 484-860-5162). A special student discount of $5.00 off any ticket price will be available at the door only along with student ID. A portion of ticket sales will be donated by King’s Promotions to the Allentown Boxing Club. Doors open at 6:00 pm; first bout starts at 6:3




Gunn-Ali off!

This Saturday’s bout between Rochelle Park, NJ’s Bobby “The Celtic Warrior” Gunn (21-4-1 18 KO’s) and Nigerian Bash Ali has been canned due to multiple difficulties. The bout, which was to be promoted by the Nigerian government, was initially scheduled for December.

Many doubted that the bout would ever take place due to the fact that Ali tuns 54 on Saturday and in addition to not fighting since August 2004, but Gunn was set on taking it due to a handsome payday. Gunn, who made a name amongst locals for his brave performance last July against Secaucus’ Tomasz Adamek, now has his sights set on landing a bout with unbeaten Ran Nakash later in the year.




Joshua Clottey workout Photo Gallery

“RIPPED AND READY” — Challenger and #1 contender Joshua Clottey,Ghana is in top condition, ripped and ready to challenge Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,General Santos City,Philippines on Saturday,May 13 at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas,Texas on HBO Pay-Per-View. Here are some Clottey camp photos from Fort Lauderdale,Florida

Photos by Chris Farina/Top Rank




Vazquez-Sonsona Press Conference Quotes–FIGHT SATURDAY ON GFL


Wilfredo Vazquez Jr.: “I am ready physically and mentally for this fight. We taken training seriously and I’m in the best condition that I can be. We are focused on our opponent and when we get in the ring, Sonsona will see that wanting to fight me was wrong.”

Marvin Sonsona: “At this weight I feel great; stronger and my punch is stronger, too. I think I have everything to beat Vazquez and I have much more experience than him. I’m going to win that title and show my skills in the ring.”

“The Double Assault” PPV Fact Sheet

WHAT: “The Double Assault” PPV

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

WHERE: Bayamon, Puerto Rico & Guadalajara, Mexico

PROMOTER: In Puerto Rico: PR Best Boxing, in association with All Star Boxing and Sampson Boxing LLC. In Mexico: Boxeo De Gala

“The Double Assault” PPV is also available on www.GoFightLive.TV outside of the United States, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the Philippines for just $9.99 by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=604

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




Berto to defend against Quintana on April 10


According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBC Welterweight champion Andre Berto will defend his crown against former WBO champion Carlos Quintana on April 10th in Sunrise, Florida.

“Andre is energized and ready to fight again,” said Berto’s promoter Lou DiBella. “The working title of the card is ‘Fighting for Haiti.’ There will be a lot of charitable elements to the event.”

In the televised co-feature, light heavyweight titlist Tavoris Cloud (20-0, 18 KOs) will make his first defense against mandatory challenger and former champion Glen Johnson (50-13-2, 34 KOs), who is also from South Florida.

“Cloud and Johnson, stylistically, can’t miss,” DiBella said.

“Obviously, Mosley being the huge name that he is presented a big opportunity for Andre, but I believe this is a good test for him,” said DiBella, who promotes Berto and Quintana. “He is fighting a guy who is 1-1 with Paul Williams and who is clearly one of the 10 best welterweights in the world. Quintana is an excellent fighter. This fight is no walk in the park. People want to see Berto with a real quality welterweight. This guy is a real quality welterweight. It’s a difficult fight. Quintana is a tough fighter. Just ask Paul Williams.”

“Carlos is very slick and capable of being an excellent offensive fighter,” DiBella said. “He’s got a good skill set and he’s tricky. I don’t think there is a welterweight out there who would view Quintana as a day at the beach.

“Quintana has wanted a big fight for a long time and Berto has been a guy who has always come up as a possibility because he views fighting Berto as a big fight. So I am happy for Carlos that he is getting the opportunity. I think Berto knows he has to focus on the fight and be at his best because he’s fighting a damned good fighter,” he said.




Making History for Puerto Rican and Filipino Boxing

“Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona (14-0-1 12KO’s) and Wilfredo “Papito” Vazquez Jr. (17-0-1 14KO’s) will be looking to make history and add to the brewing rivalry between Puerto Rico and the Phillipines come Saturday night. The two undefeated boxers will square off for the WBO super bantamweight title at the Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum in Bayamón Puerto Rico.

Sonsona is, along with Ben Villaflor (54-8-7 31KO’s), one of the two youngest ever Filipino world champions having both won their first belts at the age of 19. Unlike Villaflor, whose last fight was fifteen round decision loss against Puerto Rican Samuel Serrano, Sonsona is moving up in weight, two divisions, to look for his second world title. After winning the WBO super flyweight title from Puerto Rican José “Carita” López (39-8-2 32KO’s) last year but having failed to make weight for his first defense against Alejandro Hernández (22-7-2 11KO’s), “Marvelous” skipped the bantamweights altogether and is aiming to become the youngest ever two division Filipino world champion.

Vazquez Jr. on his part is also a young fighter at 25. Not as young in years as his next opponent but the fact that he didn’t have an amateur career helps him look fresher than his age would suggest. Still, it is not age which offers a spot on the history books for “Papito” but his lineage. His father, Wilfredo “The Pride of Puerto Rico” Vazquez is a former three division world champion and one of the island’s most cherished fighters. Winning the world title this Saturday would make them the first ever Puerto Rican father and son duo to win world titles.

Still, more history could, and probably will, be made this Saturday. This is because for several years now, a rivalry has been developing between Puerto Rico and the Philippines in terms of boxing. Manny Pacquiao, by himself, has made sure that Filipino boxers are considered when speaking of any division south of junior middleweight but he may only be the tip of the iceberg.

The biggest match to date is Pacuqiao knocking Cotto out but many other titles have been disputed and many other match-ups have produced great battles. Even though it was mostly one sided, Juan Manuel López and Gerry Peñalosa was an entertaining fight with good action with the WBO super bantamweight title on the line. Recently, Mario Santiago and Bernabe Concepcion gave us a good show on the same card that Eric Morel and Gerry Peñalosa fought for an interim version of the WBO bantamweight title. Sonsona himself showed maturity well beyond his years when he fought tough veteran “Carita” in a very entertaining affair and Rodel Mayol gave Iván Calderón all he could handle for twelve rounds over the course of two title defenses.

Come Saturday night, we will have two young, undefeated fighters fighting for their countries, their place in history and their livelihood. Sonsona, an accomplished amateur boxer, enjoys clear advantages in reach and amateur experience while Vazquez Jr. should be more comfortable at the weight and should come in the heavier man.

At 115lbs. Sonsona had serious power. Only “Carita” López, a man who has never been stopped, went more than five rounds with the Filipino and when they met each other September of last year. López was down on the fourth and never really recovered fron the straight left that put him there. Nonetheless, Sonsona’s failure to make weight for his first defense and the resulting draw may have shed a little bit of light into his incredible power. Enjoying advantages in size over of his previous opponents may have proved very advantageous and he is now jumping, not one, but two divisions and seven pounds north to face a natural super bantamweight.

Sonsona is also a southpaw with good punching technique and decent ring generalship. Yet, he often carries his hands low and keeps his stance wide when looking to counter. This could prove dangerous against Vazquez Jr. who has good power on his hands and can go to the body fairly well. Sonsona’s skinnier frame may be too available for Vazquez Jr. if he can’t keep the Puerto Rican at bay with jabs and straight lefts.

Papito will most likely carry the weight advantage the day of the fight and will have a hometown crowd cheering for every punch he throws. He should also feel more comfortable absorbing punishment and if he can take Sonsona’s firepower for the first half of the fight, has a chance of wearing the Filipino down. It must be noted that Vazquez Jr. has not faced a southpaw the likes of Sonsona and he may find it difficult to adapt his footwork properly.

With both fighters carrying power and motivation into the fight, this should be an exciting bout with a very good chance of ending before the final bell. Sonsona said he will look for the knockout and his own piece of history, Vazquez Jr. says he is looking for the money a victory would put him in position to earn. With WBO featherweight champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” López set to defend against Bernabe Concepción this summer, the rivalry between the nations just keeps getting more interesting.




Q & A with Craig McEwan


Scotland’s Craig McEwan has made his home in Los Angeles, Ca since turning pro 3 and a half years ago where he has run his record to an impressive 17-0(9). The 27 year old originally hails from a tough part of Edinburgh. He had an impressive amateur career that got the attention of Freddie Roach who brought him to Los Angeles where he still trains at the Wild Card. McEwan trains with a galaxy of Boxing superstars lead by Manny Pacquiao, the supporting cast isn’t to shabby either with Amir Khan & Guillermo Rigondeaux plus an assortment of other fighters at various points of there career’s. McEwan doesn’t currently have a fight lined up but he’s ready and raring to get back into action.

Hello Craig, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly can you tell us what your up to at the moment? Do you have any fights lined up? If so can you give us the details?

Craig McEwan – Right now there’s nothing concrete. Hoping to fight soon. I’m training hard and I’m ready to go. I’m currently sparring with Edison Miranda. Great sparring so I should be well prepared for any thing that comes my way!

Anson Wainwright – It’s been the better part of three and a half years since you decided to go pro, how do you assess your development?

Craig McEwan – I’ve learned so much since I’ve been over here in Hollywood. Being in the WildCard, training with world-renowned fighters, getting great sparring really keeps you motivated. I’ve been lucky enough to have the opportunity to spar with so many great fighters, from world champions like Bernard Hopkins, Winky Wright, Tony Margarito, Kingsley Ikeke, Edison Miranda, as well as great prospects like Shawn Porter, Vanes Martirosyan, Peter Manfredo, Enrique Ornelas, Librado Andrade. If I take something from all of these guys and use it in my own game then hopefully it’ll help me get to where I want to be. All of these opportunities have helped me develop as a fighter. I’ve still got a lot to learn but I hope I’m improving with every fight.

Anson Wainwright – Your from Scotland but decided to base yourself in Los Angleles. Can you tell us how this came about? Would you ever like to go back to Britain and fight?

Craig McEwan – Well, as an amateur in 2005, I came over to spar in the Wild Card ahead of the Commonwealth Games. Freddie and I have a mutual friend, Terry McCormack (another boxing coach). Terry had been over to the WildCard gym a few times and would come back and tell me all about it. He recommended I come here. I loved it. I have been training since I was 7 years old and training at home was getting a bit repetitive. The WildCard was so different and the sparring was brilliant. After the month-long training camp Freddie wanted me to stay and turn professional in the States but I had made a promise to compete for Scotland in the Games, which I did. I came over here in August 2007 and Freddie signed me immediately. He is now my co-manager and trainer.
I would really like to fight in Britain, especially Scotland, but I’m not sure that’s going to happen any time soon. You never know, with Amir signing with Golden Boy they may start promoting shows in Britain and I’ll get my chance then. At this moment in time I’d be happy to fight anywhere!!

Anson Wainwright – You obviously get to see many top fighters like Manny Pacquiao, Amir Khan, Guillermo Rigondeaux etc work out. What have you learnt from being around some of these guys in the gym?

Craig McEwan – With Manny, it’s the way he trains, he’s a different species!! He doesn’t know the word tired! It encourages me to train harder. I was also lucky enough to be in the gym when Floyd Mayweather was there. He is another one that trains really hard. He trained non-stop for 2 hours without pausing for even a minute. Unbelievable!! It show how hard you need to work to be a champion. Amir has a similar attitude too. I’ve seen him mature so much since he’s been here. A nice guy, doesn’t deserve any of the bad press he gets. Even guys like Kingsley Ikeke who is in the gym every day without fail even when there is no sign of a fight on the horizon…that’s dedication for you!
Anson Wainwright – You train at the Wild Card gym that is obviously a tremendous experience for you with the host of stars that have come through those doors. Can you tell us about some of those?

Craig McEwan – I’ve mentioned a few already. There’s a lot of boxing stars who train there but also a lot of celebrities about. I was a bit star struck at the start but you soon get used to seeing guys such as Mickey Rourke, Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale hanging around. Obviously the biggest boxing superstar is the Pacman but you would barely know it because he’s one of the most down to earth guys you will ever meet. He’s forever trying to imitate my accent!! Floyd was actually a really nice guy too. He’s not as he comes across in the media.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about Team McEwan, who is your manager, trainer and promoter and also anyone else who may help you out?

Craig McEwan – Well, I am trained and co-managed by Freddie Roach. My other co-manager is Billy Keane, who also manages veteran Pilipino fighter Gerry Penelosa, and UFC fighter Andrei Arlovski. I work a lot with Freddie’s assistant Jesse Arevalo on a day to day basis. He makes sure I’m working hard! I’m promoted by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions. You know, if Freddie Roach and Oscar De La Hoya keep telling you, you can be a World Champion then you start to believe it.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about how it was for you growing up in Scotland and the path that took you into Boxing?

Craig McEwan – It was my dad who got me into boxing. He started boxing at 32 and would fight anyone! He tried to get my two older brothers into boxing. They got fed up, he stuck at it. He had 100 fights as an amateur and boxed for Scotland. He now has his own amateur gym in Edinburgh and has produced a number of champions. When I started boxing at 7, my dad’s hero was Sugar Ray Leonard. He taught me how to move before I could punch! Boxing just came naturally to me and 20 years later I’m still fighting!!

Anson Wainwright – You had an impressive amateur career, can you tell us about the titles you won and what your final record was?

Craig McEwan – Well, I had about 378 amateur fights. I would fight more than twice a week sometimes!! To tell you the truth, I have no idea what my final record was but I definitely won more than I lost…I think, haha! I fought for the Scottish National team since I was 15. Travelled the world! I think I won 10 gold medals in international tournaments, one of them the European U19’s, as well as a bronze at the 2002 Commonwealth Games. My amateur experience stood me in good stead for the pro game. I have learned to adapt my amateur style into something more suited to a pro.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing?

Craig McEwan – Eat and spend time with my family…in that order, haha!! My wife, Sally, and my son, Callum are out here with me. We take advantage of the California sun as much as possible, trips to the park, zoo, beaches, anything outdoors. My wife is due our second son in June so we’re going to have our hands full! We have no other family here so we’re going to be busy – no babysitters! Mind you, I’m going to be even fitter, chasing after two boys!!

Anson Wainwright – The Middleweight division looks pretty weak at the top with only Pavlik, Sturm, Williams and Martinez however it looks as though there is a new wave of talent coming through including Korobov, Jacobs, Guerrero, Golovkin, N’Dam N’Jikam etc How do you assess the division and where do you think you sit with the new wave of guys coming through?

Craig McEwan – Yeah, it’s going to be tough at the top in the future but this is a good thing. You know, I take every fight seriously. It’s exciting just to be among those names that you mentioned. I’m just waiting for my chance then I’ll train hard and my time will come!

Anson Wainwright – What goals do you have in Boxing?

Craig McEwan – I have trained all my life to win a world title. I would love to win one and defend it in Edinburgh, at Easter Road or the castle!! I just want to be involved in great fights, know that I’ve done my best and to have a long and healthy career. I also want to keep my good looks intact, haha! That’s not too much to ask for, is it?

Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans back in Britain and the one you have in America?

Craig McEwan – Just thanks for all their support. There’s a lot of people who have been working hard to keep me in the Scottish and British press and that support really means a lot to me especially when all of my fights have been over here in America. Any time any one is in L.A come in and see me at the Wild Card!

Thanks for your time Craig, keep up the good work.

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com




“Hammerin” Hank Lundy ready, willing and able to fight any Lightweight in the world

PHILADELPHIA (February 23, 2010)—“Hammerin” Hank Lundy is undefeated and wants to prove to the world that he is one of the top Lightweight prospect’s anywhere and he is willing to face anyone to prove that.

Lundy of Philadelphia took his record to 17-0-1 with ten knockouts with a ten round split decision against former Cuban amateur star Richard Abril (12-1-1) on January 22nd in Boston.

Lundy has a fan friendly style and has the confidence that champions need to excel to the next level.

“Look at the records of the guys who I have fought.. I was fighting opponents with fifty-plus fights in my sixth bout. “, said Lundy

“I have fought many veterans, undefeated guys and now contenders. I am ready for the next level so any lightweight out there preferably in the top ten because I know I am very close to realizing my dream to become world champion.”

Lundy has taken on five undefeated guys (4-0-1) before his meeting with Abril. Lundy annihilated then 10-0 Jason Cintron on April 24, 2009 and the momentum has continued to grow on his way to a significant fight.

“He is Mr. Excitement and shortly he will be Mr. World champion”, said Lundy’s manager Ivan Cohen.

“We are looking to move him rapidly as we he is ready for anybody in the Lightweight division. We are working on getting him a little more exposure here in Philly then it’s time to unleash him on the world.”

Lundy is currently ranked sixth by the NABO and is ready to fight anybody in order to get his chance at the world title.

Lundy, who is promoted by Providence, based Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports feels the same way as the fighter and manager.

“Hank is ready for anyone in the top-ten at 135 pounds”, said Burchfield

“Look at his last four fights. Especially Cintron who was undefeated, Valtierra who was a grizzled veteran who had only been stopped once and Hank got him out of there in one. Then Abril who was a decorated amateur who brought a style of a lot of movement and Hank was able to beat these guys showing the versatility of a champion.”

“We would love to fight guys such as John Murray of England, David Diaz, Michael Katsidis, Anthony Peterson or Martin Honorio right now.”

“There is always a special fighter that comes out of the woodwork who is very exciting and knocks people out. Hank is that guy. I defiantly put him in the class of a Ray Mancini and Vinny Paz in terms of excitement”

“This kid belongs on ESPN and SHO BOX now. And any of those fights that I mentioned are more than worthy for the networks. He has a terrific team in place with Ivan Cohen and Sloan Harrison who bring a lot to the table as they have each been in the game along time and have worked with many world champions themselves and we all feel we are ready to get to the top of the mountain.”

“On top of everything else, this kid has a great personality and is a quote machine. He feels he is the best and he doesn’t use any sware words when he talks. Once the rest of the country gets to know Hank Lundy they will be sure to fall in love with him as a fighter and person.”

Lundy is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports (CES); managed by Ivan Cohen and trained by Sloan Harrison as well as his strength and condition coach Brian Cohen.




Gamboa to take on Jonathan Victor Barros


According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBA Featherweight champion will take on undefeated Argentinean Jonathan Victor Barros (28-0-1, 16 KO’s) March 27th in Germany.

The card will take place in Hamburg and will be the first show of Gamboa’s co-promoter, Arena-Box deal with German television network SAT.1

“We don’t know a lot about him, but any time you fight a fighter from Argentina, you’ll probably get a crude guy with a decent chin who is a wild puncher, so there is always some danger,” said CarlMoretti of Gamboa’s co-promoter Top Rank. “I know Gamboa is an excellent talent and this is another step as we move forward.”

“This will be our special highlight for our new TV partner,” said Ahmet Öner of Arena Box. “Of course, it is not easy to bring a superstar like Gamboa to Germany, but he is my fighter so I am very proud to bring him back to where his pro career started three years ago. When Gamboa will be back in Hamburg it will feel like a circle is complete.

“I know that he has lots of friends here and is happy to return to Germany. But this will be an exception. Gamboa’s main market is in the USA now. He will be in Germany for this one fight only and then continue his great career in the big venues in the States.

“This will be our biggest show in Germany so far,” Öner said. “With SAT.1 we have finally found a major TV partner who helps us to bring great fights to a big audience. Of course, a German TV station wants to present German fighters. That is why we have decided to feature the heavyweight clash between Steffen Kretschmann and Denis Bakhtov as one of two main events.”

Photo by Claudia Bocanegra




Mayol-Nino & Vazquez-Sonsona World title fights featured on “The Double Assault” PPV–THIS SATURDAY ON GFL


HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 23, 2010) – Styles make fights and Saturday night’s WBC light flyweight title bout between Filipino power puncher Rodel “Batang Mandaue” Mayol and stylish Mexican boxer Omar “Giant Killer” Nino shapes-up as a potential classic from Guadalajara, Mexico on “The Double Assault” pay-per-view extravaganza.

The 12-round main event matches Mayol (26-4-1, 20 KOs), rated No. 2 by The Ring, defending his crown against the WBC No. 1 contender, former WBC light flyweight titlist Nino (28-3-1, 20 KOs). Also airing on the entertaining Guadalajara card, presented by Boxeo De Gala, is a 10-round WBC Youth lightweight championship bout between defending champ Daniel “Tremendo” Estrada (21-1, 17 KOs) and veteran Angel Alirio “El Morocho” Rivero (21-7-1, 14 KOs).

“The Double Assault” pay-per-view action commences at 9 PM/ET live from Reben Rodriquez Coliseum in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, with hometown hero Wilfredo “WV2” Vazquez, Jr., who plans to make Puerto Rican history when he fights the 19-year-old Philippine sensation, “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona, for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO junior featherweight title. PR Best Boxing Promotions, in association with All Star Boxing and Sampson Boxing LLC., is presenting the Puerto Rican segment of “The Double Assault” pay-per-view.

The unique, split site broadcast is being distributed outside of North America on www.gofightlive.tv for just $9.99 by cliicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=604

THIS EVENT WILL NOT BE OFFERED BY GFL IN THE UNITED STATES, MEXICO, PUERTO RICO AND THE PHILIPPINES. IN ORDER TO PURCHASE THIS EVENT PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CABLE/SATELLITE SERVICE PROVIDER.

Mayol, now fighting out of Los Angeles, captured the WBC light flyweight crown in his last fight (November 21) with a win by second-round technical knockout of Edgar Sosa (37-5) in Mexico. Mayol, who has stopped 20 of 26 victims, had come off of back-to-back fights against WBO light flyweight titlist Ivan Calderon that ended in technical decisions, due to cuts from accidental head butts suffered by the Puerto Rican, for a Calderon win and draw.

Nino hopes to live-up to his “Giant Killer” nickname by out-boxing and taking Mayol into the later rounds. Nino earned his title shot by winning an 8-round technical decision, when he suffered a cut to his head caused buy an accidental head butt, against Juanito Rubillar (46-11-7) in their June WBC title eliminator in Mexico. Nino, who upset Brian Viloria in 2006 to capture the WBC title, will also be fighting in his hometown of Guadalajara, where he is undefeated in nearly 20 career fights.

WBO No. 2 rated Vazquez, Jr. (17-0-1, 14 KOs), the WBO Latino super bantamweight champion, would become the first Puerto Rican son of a world champion (Wilfredo Vazquez, Sr.) to capture a world title by defeating former WBO super flyweight titlist Sonsona (14-0-1, 12 KOs), ranked No. 3 by the WBO.

Unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Carlos Negron (7-0, 6 KOs), 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian, provides chief support in a 6-round bout against Rudy Ashworth. Also fighting on the card in their pro debuts are the Arroyo twins and also 2008 Puerto Rican Olympians, flyweight McWilliams and bantamweight McJoe.




Q & A with Steve O’Meara


This Friday marks the return of the hugely popular Prize-Fighter in Britain. This time it’s the turn of the Light Middleweight’s. It starts with 8 men who fight over 3×3 minute rounds with the winner advancing to the next round until one man is left standing. One man hoping that is him is Londoner Steve O’Meara 11-0(2). In the first round the 26 year old faces battle hardened Martin Concepcion 16-6(10). O’Meara has packed some interesting things into his 2 years as a pro he’s already fought at two of the most famous boxing venue’s in the world The York Hall in London and The Blue Horizon in Philadelphia. He’s also been to Las Vegas and trained and sparred with Floyd Mayweather Jnr. Since returning home he has begun training with Olympic Gold medallist James Degale. However Prize-fighter gives him his chance to put his own name up in lights. On Friday we’ll find out if he can write another interesting paragraph in his storied career.

Hello Steve, welcome to 15rounds.com

Anson Wainwright – Firstly you are fighting in the upcoming Light Middleweight Prize-fighter. What do you think of this concept? Who do you see as the danger men?

Steve O’Meara – The concept is great its like the FA Cup (A famous Soccer competition in Britain) of boxing were you’ll see underdogs beating the favourites more often than usual. With the experience an KO% you would say Sinclair and Pryce but i don’t think the experience will come into play as much in this tournament.

Anson Wainwright – Early in your career you fought in America. How did this come about?

Steve O’Meara – I had links with some good people in Philly. Ron Boddie was friends with Tom Moran who managed Kassim Ouma and Tim Witherspoon. So that lead me to be trained by Tim Witherspoon, which was great. I trained at Shulers.

Anson Wainwright – What happened to make you come back to Britain?

Steve O’Meara – I went over to America 2 or 3 times. I was supposed to debut at Madison Square Garden (On 15/3/08 on a card hedlined by James Moore-V-J.C Candelo) but that feel through. I went home and made my debut before coming back to America. I was supposed to fight in Atlantic City but my opponent didn’t turn up, before i got the fight in Philly. I wasn’t fighting regularly enough an probably a bit of home sickness. After the fight at The Blue Horizon i came back Mick Hennessy got in touch and said i fight regular with him. So i stayed.

Anson Wainwright – Your second pro fight was at the world famous Blue Horizon in Philadelphia. Looking back at that experience what can you tell us about it?

Steve O’Meara – Well i knew nothing of my opponent other than what i had seen on the net (which was him KO in a guy in an amateur bout) so thought i was in for a hard nights work. I was also feeling a lot of pressure as a lot of people at home were watching live. So when i stopped him in the second i celebrated like i had won a title but really i was just so relieved i hadn’t let everyone down. Looking back now it makes me laugh at it a bit.

Anson Wainwright – Since coming back to Britain you have aligned yourself with James Degale. How did this come about and how has this helped you personally?

Steve O’Meara – Me an James boxed at the same club as amateur’s so have been friends for years so when he was looking to turn pro i told him my trainer Jim McDonnell was a great trainer who he should work with, they automatically gelled together. Obviously sparring James everyday is great for me to progress as a fighter too.

Anson Wainwright – You went to Las Vegas and trained with Floyd Mayweather Jnr. What can you tell us about this? Did you spar with him? What did you make of him having been up close and personal with him?

Steve O’Meara – Yes this is something i will remember forever, it was a great experience, we had a good spar an he gave me some positive compliments. Floyd is a machine, he trains like no one i’ve ever seen. I would love to one day go back an train an spar with him again.

Anson Wainwright – Who is your manager, trainer and promoter? Also what gym do you use for your training?

Steve O’Meara – My manager is Tony Sims, trainer is Jim McDonnell and promoter is Mick Hennessey. I train at the Loughton Academy in Essex.

Anson Wainwright – What is the best part about being a Boxer? and the worst?

Steve O’Meara – The respect between fighters, worst for me is the traveling i do to the gym i travel about 130-150 miles a day.

Anson Wainwright – So far what is your best memory you have as a Boxer?

Steve O’Meara – Sparring with Floyd Mayweather.

Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing in your spare time?

Steve O’Meara – I like watching football (soccer) my teams Tottenham Hotspur and i’m a movie buff. I like all sorts comedies, action anything. My favourite movies are Friday, 300, Oldboy etc.

Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your amateur career and what titles you won? What was your final record?

Steve O’Meara – I won the national Middleweight novices, London opens at Welterweight, 26 bouts 22 wins 4 losses

Anson Wainwright – What are your goals in Boxing?

Steve O’Meara – I don’t like to say to much about this because it can come across as arrogant so I’ll go with to be remembered as a good fighter.

Anson Wainwright – Who was your favourite fighter growing up?

Steve O’Meara – Nigel Benn and Roberto Duran

Thanks for your time Steve, good luck in the Prizefighter. Make Philly proud Haha

Thank mate

Anson Wainwright
15rounds.com




Chris Murphy retires

Sparta, NJ based junior middleweight Chris Murphy, 3-0-1 3 KO’s, notified 15Rounds that he is retiring due to a reoccurring retina injury. Murphy first hurt his eye three years ago and after multiple surgeries, re injured it sparring with contender Alfredo Angulo a few months back.

Murphy, a pressure fighter who loved to brawl, will remembered among most locals for his scintillating four round draw with Abe Torres, which will likely go down as one of the most entertaining club show fights in North Jersey history.

“I am blessed because I have a year left in school and aspirations to get a higher degree when I am done with that” said Murphy, a student at Sussex County College who also played professional hockey. “I am looking to follow in my brother’s footsteps (who graduates from Georgetown law in the spring).”

Although he will no longer be fighting, Murphy vows to support his stablemates as they develop.

“Glen Tapia, Jeremy Bryan, (Bobby) Rooney, Jorge Diaz, Pat Farrell, Danny McDermott and the rest of Pound 4 Pound (promotions) are my family for life. It was great to work with them as well as trainer Mike Skowronski.”

15Rounds wishes Murphy the best of luck in his future outside of boxing.

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




A tribute to Rocky Marciano’s legendary boxing trainer, Allie Colombo

A tribute to Rocky Marciano’s legendary boxing trainer, Allie Colombo, will be held tomorrow night at Joe Angelo’s Café in Brockton.

Both Marciano (49-0, 43 KOs), who retired in 1956 as the only undefeated heavyweight champion in boxing history, and Colombo were born and raised in “The City of Champions” and they became friends at a young age.

“The Brockton Blockbuster,” a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame who was selected fighter of the year by Ring Magazine on three separate occasions, was a terrific athlete and he particularly flourished on the baseball diamond during his youth.

However, Marciano eventually decided to quit baseball because he wanted to focus all of his efforts on the sport of boxing.

Colombo observed Marciano as he trained and sparred and he knew that “The Rock” could develop into an elite prizefighter if he was correctly mentored.

“He (Colombo) devoted his life to Rocky,” Brockton native Denis Marrese said of Colombo. “He knew Rocky had the ability and he wrote letters to promoters once Rocky got into boxing. He knew.”

In January 1969, Colombo tragically died at the age of 49 in an industrial accident on a loading dock where he was employed.

In a sad twist of irony, Marciano was killed only seven months later on the eve of his 46th birthday when a private plane that he was a passenger in struck a tree near a small airfield outside Newton, Iowa.

Before Marciano’s terrible misfortune occurred, the great pugilist raved about Colombo as both his friend and trainer.

“It was Allie’s contention that I could make it very big in the professional ranks, so we talked it over together and decided to give it a try,” recalled Marciano, who Ring Magazine ranked as the twelfth greatest fighter of the last 80 years in 2002.

“Allie was a real buddy. He kept my interest in boxing alive through all the difficult moments. Prize fighting is a very serious business, but Allie was very witty and when we got too serious he’d use his sense of humor to relax the atmosphere.”

Veteran boxing trainer Roger “Pit” Perron will serve as master of ceremonies at Saturday’s celebration for Colombo.

“He (Colombo) was a real easy going, laid-back kind of guy, easy to talk to and willing to talk anytime,” said Perron, 73, also a product of Brockton who managed to defeat bladder cancer in 2004.

In order to be admitted, all attendants must purchase a ticket for $25 and they will be served a hot and cold buffet by Chef Henry Tartaglia.

All proceeds collected from the event will be utilized to pay for a statute of Colombo.

Ideally, the statue of Colombo will be situated near a bronze sculpture of Marciano where it will overlook Rocky Marciano Stadium at Brockton High School.

“Allie did something great for this city,” said Marrese. “He never forgot about Brockton and we shouldn’t forget about Allie. He did something great for all of us. He discovered raw talent in a guy named Rocky Marciano.”

“The Brockton Blockbuster” was once quoted as saying, “I don’t want to be remembered as a beaten champion.”

Ultimately, Marciano would never be “remembered as a beaten champion.”

In many ways, Allie Colombo helped make Rocky Marciano the athletic icon that he is today.




Boxing Returns to Akron, Ohio

Area boxing fans are in for a night of thrilling competition when two of the best heavyweights around square off. Local favorite Charles Hatcher, with a lifetime record of 15-6 with 11 KOs, will unleash his comeback fury against Midwest fighter Thomas on Saturday, May 1 at The Chapparell in Akron.

One of Hatcher’s last fights was against Michael Grant, the former IBC Heavy Weight Champion. Hatcher, born in Columbus and now living in Canton, is 6′ 3″ and will be entering the ring against Thomas between 228 and 230 pounds. Hatcher has fought at well-known venues like Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, City Center Pavilion in Reno, Nevada, Caesar’s Tahoe in Stateline, Nevada and The Palace at Auburn Hills, Michigan.

Introducing the main event and the undercards will be popular ring announcer George Phillips, who always brings high-octane energy and excitement to any boxing match. Phillips is a veteran announcer on the local and national scene for both championship-style boxing events and mixed martial arts matches. Fans who come to The Chapparell on May 1 won’t want to miss George’s unique style of ring announcing and the way he interacts with the audience.

Hatcher vs. Thomas is the kickoff event for the new Hall of Fame Boxing and Promotions Company, headquartered in the Half of Fame city of Canton. Hall of Fame Boxing is licensed by the Ohio Athletic Commission and will be producing future championship-style boxing events around Ohio and the Midwest.




Sonsona hungry for another world title and redemption on “The Double Assault” PPV—LIVE IN GFL


HOBOKEN, N.J. (Feb. 22, 2010) – Filipino sensation “Marvelous” Marvin Sonoma is hungry to capture another world title, as well as overcoming the aftereffect of losing his WBO super flyweight belt on the scales in his last fight, this coming Saturday night in the highly-anticipated showdown against hometown hero Wilfredo “WV2” Vazquez, Jr. for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior featherweight championship.

Vazquez, Jr.-Sonsona is one of two world title fights featured on the split-site “The Double Assault” pay-per-view broadcast, commencing at 9 PM/ET live from Reben Rodriquez Coliseum in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, the hometown Vazquez, Jr., who plans to make Puerto Rican history by defeating 19-year-old Sonsona.

The unique, double-barrelled broadcast 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, TVN, DISH Network, Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

Outside the United States and Canada fans can watch this great fight on www.gofightlive.tv for just $9.99 by clicking:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?eventId=604

THIS EVENT WILL NOT BE OFFERED BY GFL IN THE UNITED STATES, MEXICO, PUERTO RICO AND THE PHILIPPINES. IN ORDER TO PURCHASE THIS EVENT PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CABLE/SATELLITE SERVICE PROVIDER.

PR Best Boxing Promotions, in association with All Star Boxing and Sampson Boxing LLC., is presenting the Puerto Rican segment of “The Double Assault” pay-per-view.

WBO No. 2 rated Vazquez, Jr. (17-0-1, 14 KOs), the WBO Latino super bantamweight champion, would become the first Puerto Rican son of a world champion (Wilfredo Vazquez, Sr.) to capture a world title by defeating former WBO super flyweight titlist Sonsona (14-0-1, 12 KOs), ranked No. 3 by the WBO.

Sonsona, billed in the Philippines as that country’s next Manny Pacquiao, fought Alejandro Hernandez to a draw last November in Canada. Marvin, however, lost the WBO super flyweight title that he had won in his previous fight against Jose Lopez, due to weighing-in 2 ½ pounds over the 115-pound contractual weight. Sonsona is fighting two full weight classes above super flyweight against Vasquez, instead of taking a “tune-up” fight before fighting in this world title bout.

“My promoter (Sampson Lewkowicz) wanted me to take this fight because I have a big chance to win the title,” Sonsona explained. “It’s a good opportunity for me to get a championship belt back. I’ve trained hard for this fight and we’ve worked on his (Vazquez) weaknesses. He makes a lot of mistakes. This fight is very important for me, especially being on pay-per-view in North America. I want to make up for what happened in Canada and win another world title. I’m hungry and focused on this fight; I’m hungry like a tiger.

“Manny is Manny. It’s hard following in his footsteps but all I can be is my best and, hopefully, bring another world title home. Fighting in his (Vasquez) hometown doesn’t bother me. The officials will be fair and I have a lot of Puerto Rican fans, too. I’m not sure if it’ll end in a knockout, but it’s going to be a very good fight.”

Unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Carlos Negron (7-0, 6 KOs), 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian, provides chief support in a 6-round bout against Rudy Ashworth. Also fighting on the card in their pro debuts are the Arroyo twins, flyweight McWilliams and bantamweight McJoe, also members of the 2008 Puerto Rican Olympic Boxing Team.

The PPV action continues later Saturday night, live from Guadalajara, as WBC light flyweight champion Rodel “Bantang Mandaue” Mayol (26-4-1, 20 KOs), rated No. 2 by The Ring, defends his belt in the 12-round main event versus the WBC No. 1 contender, former WBC light flyweight titlist Omar “Giant Killer” Nino (28-3-1, 20 KOs). Also airing on the Guadalajara card, presented by Boxeo De Gala, is a 10-round WBC Youth lightweight championship match between defending champ Daniel “Tremendo” Estrada (21-1, 17 KOs) and veteran Angel Alirio “El Morocho” Rivero (21-7-1, 14 KOs).

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, Cristian Mijares, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Jr., Ivan Calderon, Rocky Martinez, Nicolai Valuev, Amir Khan, Marco Antonio Barrera, Arthur Abraham, David Haye, John Ruiz, 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




SubUrbano blight


The second event I covered was a Top Rank card on May 6, 2005 at Fort McDowell Casino in Fountain Hills, Ariz. Televised on “Solo Boxeo,” the marquee comprised Mexican prospects like Giovanni Segura, Mike Alvarado, Jesus Soto Karass and Jesus Gonzales. But that night no one stood out like Urbano Antillon.

I miss “Solo Boxeo.” I miss Urbano Antillon.

An easily hit facsimile of Antillon was in action Saturday on Fox Sports Español. He stopped a fellow Mexican named Luis Arceo who’d lost eight of his preceding 11 fights. The match goes on the books “TKO-3” for Antillon. That’s a very happy rendition of what actually happened, though.

Referee Juan Jose Ramirez called the fight off, on doctor’s orders, 2:25 into the third round. Could Arceo have continued? Sure. He had an ugly gash on his left eyebrow, but had the same gash happened over Antillon’s brow, the fight wouldn’t have stopped. The nature of the entire televised card was one of over-protectiveness. Who was protected? That’s the question. Every time the favorite got his man in trouble, the referee’s intervention came quick. Records got preserved.

Did the cut over Arceo’s brow come from a punch? That’s another question. Arceo’s trainer said to the referee, “Juan, it’s a ‘t’.” And the cut did have the sort of ‘t’ shape that rarely comes from a gloved fist and more often from a man’s head. Replays were inconclusive because there weren’t any.

Had the cut been ruled the result of a butt, and had the fight lasted another round, it likely would have been a draw on my card. I gave the first to Arceo. I had the second even. The third was trending Antillon. Don’t know what would have happened after that. Point is, Antillon (27-1) and Arceo (22-10-2) were a lot more even than their records.

This was supposed to be a rehab fight for Antillon, who was stopped in his last match by Miguel Acosta, a Venezuelan whose previous exploits did not anticipate a round 9 knockout victory over Antillon. Arceo was put there to be hit by Antillon. Trouble was, Antillon’s chin was available like he held a “Vacancy” sign between his gloves.

Where was the guy who boxed confidently, occasionally slipped punches and dropped a smooth left hook on the liver? Abandoned in the corner of some Southern California gym, I’m guessing.

The So-Cal gym scene is a delight to aficionados and visiting trainers. It’s a great place to get sparring for a champion who readies for a title defense. It’s where hungry young guys hone their craft, prove their toughness and impress fellow gym rats – then wear themselves into injury-prone strongmen with diminished coordination and a reflexive appetite for abuse.

The more a young Mexican demonstrates he has a strong chin, the more he gets to use it. That’s the trouble with reflexivity. At the same time he uses his strong chin to take a more direct route to his opponents, forsaking head movement and punch parrying, he also sustains the sorts of blows that slow the signals passed from brain to body. Soon enough, he’s brazen about getting hit and begins down a path that ends the same way for everyone who takes it – with an opponent whose punch he cannot withstand.

Urbano Antillon’s defense of a left hook, Saturday, was to throw his own left hook. His defense for a right hand, it seemed, was to eat the punch then throw another left hook. That sort of thing can be inevitable when you find yourself across the ring from an equal. But if Luis Arceo is now Antillon’s equal, Antillon’s last five years have been awfully damning.

That’s a real possibility. Antillon made his first noteworthy gym war in 2004 with Edwin Valero. Yes, that Valero. The Venezuelan got the better of Antillon. Not as much better as some have come to remember it, but better enough. Since then, Antillon has been on an atonement tour.

He made another gym war with Juan Manuel Marquez in 2007. Just last year, he was the toughest sparring Manny Pacquiao found while readying for Ricky Hatton – and much tougher on Pacman, as it turned out, than Hatton was. When you make hellish battles with Marquez and Pacquiao, though, aren’t you supposed to make lots of money?

The fights Antillon has been paid for include wearying brawls, too. There was an Olympic Auditorium scrap with Ivan “El Relampago” Valle in only Antillon’s 10th fight. Then came a 10-round battle of attrition with Fernando “El Pillo” Trejo right after Trejo stopped Jose Armando Santa Cruz. Antillon won both and gained experience. He gained experience in hard sparring with world champions as well. But at some point, Antillon’s valuable experiences became counterproductive proofs of machismo.

Saturday, Antillon seemed too deliberate. Nothing happened with the ease it used to. Some of that might be attributable to Arceo having a good opening round; Arceo does, after all, have 22 victories on his resume. But Antillon also seemed graceless. He was trying much harder and accomplishing less. That’s the troubling trait of a guy who’s been fighting either too often or too much. That’s a troubling trait to have at age 27 with nary a title fight on your record.

It’s time for Antillon to stop proving his toughness and start preserving himself. Next time some junior welterweight champion calls for sparring, Urbano needn’t answer the phone. He needn’t prove himself against hungry young prospects who remind him of his 2005 vintage either. He should work on defense with sparring partners who don’t take his hard counterpunches personally.

There’s little room for hope; Antillon appears to have lost too much already. But we’re loath to end things on a down note. So, there’s news that Antillon has a refreshed outlook on life with new trainer Abel Sanchez!

Still down? Well, how about the rumor that “Solo Boxeo” might come back . . .

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter.com/bartbarry

Dynamic symulation and experiment on a sprayer boom structure.(Report)

Annals of DAAAM & Proceedings January 1, 2009 | Lupea, Iulian; Tudose, Lucian; Stanescu, Cristina Mihaela; Lupea, Mihaela 1. INTRODUCTION The dynamic behavior of agriculture sprayer mechanisms trailed by tractors has been constantly observed and analyzed (Ramon & De Baerdemaeker, 1997); (Kennes et al., 1999). The sprayer boom is a large and relatively slender component, used to support the spray nozzles. It is important to control and minimize the vibration of the structure on the vertical and horizontal planes, in order to insure the uniformity of pulverization over the field (Lupea et al., 2008). The horizontal and vertical movements, as well as the geometrical features of the sprayer boom, influence the pulverization quality. It has been made (Lebeau et al., 2004) a spray controller aiming to compensate the effect of the horizontal boom movements on the spray deposits homogeneity. In this paper the dynamic study of a sprayer boom structure of about 12m length on each side is presented. Initially, the real boom has been optimized in terms of minimizing the vertical vibration, considering the dynamic model of the whole sprayer mechanism excited from the ground when is following a standard bumpy path. In that approach the dynamic model of the whole sprayer mechanism and a rigid sprayer boom were considered. A similar downscaled (1/10) boom structure has been manufactured and tested. An important parameter of the dynamic behavior is the boom tip vibration amplitude. This parameter is observed in the finite element analysis of the optimized structure considered at a natural scale and in the experimental approach of the downscaled structure, resulting a good correlation (considering the scale factor). During the tests of the manufactured structure, scale factors such as the time factor and the force factor for transient dynamic load, have been considered. Other similar parameters, such as the resonant frequencies, have been observed in both models. This work was supported by the grant of the Romanian Government PNII Idei id 1077 (2007). website force factor reviews

[FIGURE 1 OMITTED] Further research is aiming a better understanding of the similarities of the real boom structure, the associated finite element model and the down-scaled real structure used for tests in the laboratory.

2. FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS Starting from the CAD model of the sprayer boom structure, a standard mesh procedure as a preprocessing step of a finite element analysis has been followed. Mainly shells, a reduced number of solid elements, rigid connections and a few spring elements were used. Some small components were replaced by lumped masses and finally, the same mass in both, the model and the real structure has been reached.

The model was prepared with HyperMesh preprocessor (2007, HyperWorks) for normal modal analysis with Optistruct solver which is using Nastran similar cards in the deck file. The frequency band of interest was between 0.1 and 60Hz. Some modes of vibration are preponderant moving on the vertical plane, others are on the horizontal plane and some are moving on both planes. The lowest mode is a lateral bending of the structure. The most important modes of vibration are in general the lowest ones, which generate large amplitude at the free end of the sprayer boom. Other important modes of vibration are those which can be excited by active loads. Hence, a typical time dependent load coming from the ground has been used to excite the sprayer boom arm structure. This load was derived from the dynamic simulation of the whole agriculture sprayer machine (including the suspension) trailed by a tractor when is following a standardized bumpy path. site force factor reviews

In order to find out the sprayer tip (node #202497, Fig.1.) vibration amplitude as a response to the dynamic load, a modal transient response procedure by using finite element analysis, has been applied. The time variable load coming from the dynamic modeling of the sprayer mechanism excited from the ground has been applied at the level of the symmetry line of the structure. The free end motion and the amplitude of the boom have been registered in three perpendicular directions (Fig. 2). The vertical (Oy) response amplitude is the most important (0.068m), followed by the lateral one (Oz) and finally the response along the length (Ox) of the arm. The modal method, instead of the direct integration method, has been chosen. The modal damping, experimentally measured on a similar downscaled (1/10) real structure which was manufactured for testing, has been plugged into the finite element model.

[FIGURE 2 OMITTED] 3. EXPERIMENTS 3.1 Measurement Set-up A similar down-scaled (1/10) boom arm structure has been manufactured in order to perform tests in the laboratory, in parallel to the field tests.

The frequency response function–inertance of the downscaled manufactured structure has been measured.

A measuring set-up available in the Vibration & Noise Measuring Laboratory (www.viaclab.utcluj.ro) has been used. It is based on an acquisition system, a shaker, a force transducer, a light accelerometer and a Labview application.

A simplified measurement set-up is shown in Fig. 3. The device under test (DUT) is excited from the output channel 0, while the force transducer and the mini-accelerometer are monitored by using the input channel 0 and channel 1, respectively.

[FIGURE 3 OMITTED] 3.2 Measurement of the FRF-Inertance The force transducer measures the force transfered from the shaker to the DUT. The accelerometer, glued on the structure’s free end is monitoring the vertical acceleration. From the FRF peaks (Fig.4), the resonant frequencies of the structure in vertical plane and the modal damping values have been derived. A mean damping ratio value of 0.02, derived by using the bandwidth method for resonant peaks, has been plugged into the finite element simulation. The structure has been considered as lightly damped.

For the FRF-inertance (magnitude–phase) derivation, a Labview application based on sine sweept procedure in the frequency band of interest has been used (2008, Labview).

[FIGURE 4 OMITTED] 3.3 Down-scaled Structure Free End Response A Labview application has been developed. The application derives the manufactured structure compliance by double integrating the measured FRF-inertance, finds the main harmonics of the down-scaled time varying load acting on the similar down-scaled structure and calculates the structure responses for each harmonic (magnitude and phase) excitation. Finally, the application superposes the responses of the downscaled structure to the main harmonic excitations (Lupea, 2005). The time varying load imposed on the real structure is similar (down-scaled: 1/100) to that used for excitation on the modal transient response finite element simulation.

After the superposition of the harmonical responses, the structure’s tip vibration is depicted in Fig. 5.

[FIGURE 5 OMITTED] 4. CONCLUSION A transient response simulation of a real-sized and an experimental approach on the down-scaled sprayer boom structure have been performed. The free end boom structure vibration amplitude derived from FEA is in good correlation with the one obtained from the experiment based on the measured FRF-inertance. Resonant frequencies resulted from the simulation of the boom structure, the measurements on the real structure and on the down-scaled structure, correlate as well. By improving the finite element model, better results are expected. Other standard excitations will be imposed on the structures, observing the responses.

5. REFERENCES Kennes, P.; Ramon, H. & De Baerdemaeker, J. (1999). Modeling the effect of the passive suspensions on the dynamic behavior of sprayer booms. Journal of Agricultural Engineering Research, Vol. 72, Issue 3, 1999, pp 217-229 Lebeau, F.; El Bahir, L.; Destain, M.; Kinnaert, M. & Hanus, R. (2004). Improvement of spray deposit homogeneity using a PWM spray controller to compensate horizontal boom speed variations, Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, Vol. 43, Issue 2, 2004, pp 149-161 Lupea, I. (2005). Vibration and noise measurement by using Labview programming, Casa Cartii de Stiinta Publisher, Cluj-Napoca, ISBN 973-686-840-0 Lupea, I.; Stanescu, C. & Drocas, I. (2008). Measurements on the Sprayer Boom Vibration, The Fifth International Symposium about forming and design in mechanical engineering, COD 2008 Proceedings pp. 331-334, ISBN 978-86-7892-104-9, ADEKO Association for Design, Elements and Constructions, Belgrade, 15-16. April 2008, Novi Sad Ramon, H. & De Baerdemaeker, J. (1997). Spray boom motions and spray distribution – part 2: experimental validation of the mathematical relation and simulation, Journal of Agricultural Engineering Research, Vol. 66, Issue 1, 1997, pp 31-39 *** (2008) Labview–Sound and vibration toolset, National Instruments, Austin, Texas *** (2007) HyperWorks (HyperMesh and Optistruct), Altair Engineering Inc., Troy – Michigan Lupea, Iulian; Tudose, Lucian; Stanescu, Cristina Mihaela; Lupea, Mihaela




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Welterweight Mike “MJ” Jones 19-0(16KO) Interview and Marc Abrams LIVE on air!! – Weekend Fight recaps and upcoming fight previews! 15rounds.com’s Johnny Schulz presents: Talking BOXING with JSizzle and New York Danny Stash – A weekly Sunday boxing show covering Boxing from all angles. • All of the week’s top boxing stories from results to previews, history, to stories outside of the ring and more.




Jewish champ will lose to Puerto Rican icon at Yankee Stadium


Provided that a bar mitzvah doesn’t prohibit it from occurring, WBA super welterweight champion Yuri Foreman is expected to defend his crown against former WBO welterweight titlist Miguel Cotto on June 5 at Yankee Stadium.

“The Yankees want to make a deal, we know we can make a deal, they’re just working through a problem at Yankee Stadium,” promoter Bob Arum told the Associated Press on Tuesday.

“But you wouldn’t believe it if I told you. They’ve leased out some lounges for this bar mitzvah and part of the deal was for a half hour or so, they could use the big screen in center field to show pictures and all that sort of stuff. Obviously you can’t do that if there’s a fight going on.”

Cotto (34-2, 27 KOs) last fought on Nov. 14 when he relinquished his belt to Manny Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 KOs) by a brutal 12th round TKO.

On the undercard of the Pacquiao versus Cotto bout, Foreman (28-0, 8 KOs), who is ironically an aspiring rabbi, defeated Daniel Santos (32-4-1-1, 23 KOs) by unanimous decision to become Israel’s first ever world boxing champion.

Foreman, 29, the winner of the New York Golden Gloves in 2001, was considered as a potential opponent for Pacquiao after the WBO champion’s proposed matchup with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. (40-0, 25 KOs) deteriorated earlier this month.

However, Pacquiao rejected the offer mainly because Foreman, at five feet and eleven inches, is quite tall for a welterweight. As evidenced by his paltry knockout percentage, Foreman does not possess tremendous power in either of his fists.

Still, Foreman is a tactician in the ring and his height has posed problems for his opponents in the past.

“Foreman is a solid boxer,” said Brad Sherwood, a personal trainer at Gold’s Gym in Medford, Massachusetts. “He is way taller than Cotto and Cotto has been through so many wars that he is old for a 29-year-old. But, I still think Cotto will win though because he is such a powerful warrior. I would take Cotto by a stoppage in the later rounds.”

Foreman was born in Gomel, Belarus.

At age nine, Foreman immigrated with his family to Israel and it was in the Holy Land where he began to box at a local Arab gym.

“The first time I walked in, I saw the stares. In their eyes, there was a lot of hatred,” said Foreman. “But, I needed to box; and boy, did they all want to box me.”

Particularly because of the pounding he received at the hands of Pacquiao, Cotto is going to “want to box” and bludgeon Foreman as well.

Foreman’s vast size advantage and relatively cautious style will keep him competitive in the fight.

Nevertheless, expect Cotto to ultimately brawl his way to a decisive knockout victory over Foreman whenever the two finally meet in the Bronx.

Photo by Chris Farina/Top Rank