BETHLEHEM, Pa. – September 23, 2024 — In what is surely one of the best fights of 2024, James Bernadin won a eight-round split decision over Matt Conway in a war in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Wind Creek Event Center.

The fight headlined a seven bout card promoted by King’s Promotions.

The fight was fought in the pocket from the opening bell. Bernadin was able to establish himself with the harder punches, but Conway not only took them, but it seemed to only spur him on and light a fire underneath him.

The right eye of Conway started to swell as early as round two., and eventually closed later in the fight.

That did not deter the Pittsburgh native as he continued to fight back and have success with his flurry punches. The two battled down the stretch which was much to the delight o all who were in attendance

To no surprise, the eighth and final round saw the two toe-to-toe for the whole three minute period had deservedly had the fans on their feet for several minutes following the final bell.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA won by scores of 78-74, 77-75 and 76-76 and his record is now 13-2-1. Conway of Pittsburgh is 22-5.

Good looking middleweight Euri Cedeno stopped Aro Schwartz at 43 seconds of round two of their eight round bout.

Cedeno of the Dominican Republic is 10-0-1 with nine knockouts. Schwartz of Germany is 23-9-1.

Joseph Adorno stopped Luis May at the end of round two of their eight-round super lightweight bout.

Adorno of Allentown, PA is 20-4-2 with 17 knockouts. May of Mexico is 22-19-1.

Julian Gonzalez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Oscar Barajas in a junior lightweight bout.

Gonzalez of Reading, PA won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75. Barajas of Toms River, NJ is 7-10-1.

Adam Atiyeh won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Wiles in a heavyweight bout.

Atiyeh of Bethlehem, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Wiles of Philadelphia is 0-.

Brittany Sims stopped former world champion Nancy Franco in round one of their eight-round bantamweight bout.

Sims of Salem, Oregon is 7-3 with four knockouts. Franco of Mexico is 19-21-2.

Devon Young remained perfect with a first round stoppage over Kaleb Slaughter in a heavyweight bout.

Young of Aiken, SC is 5-0 with four knockouts. Slaughter of Cincinnati is 4-10-1.,

TO WATCH THE SHOW INCLUDING THE BERNADIN – CONWAY FIGHT OF THE YEAR CANDIDATE CLICK HERE

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – August 19, 2024 — Championship boxing will come to the Wind Creek Event Center on Friday night, September 20th as veterans Matt Conway and James Bernadin duel in an eight-round bout for the WBA Regional Lightweight title.

That bout will top a card promoted by King’s Promotions.

Conway, 29 of Pittsburgh has a record of 22-4 with nine knockouts. The nine-year vet has defeated Zach Kuhn (9-2-1), Victor Abreu (9-2) and Adriano Porfirio Ramirez (10-1). Conway is looking to get back in the win column after losing a decision to Hendri Cedeno on May 31st in Orlando, Florida.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 12-2-1 with six knockouts. The 31-year-old Bernadin is a six-year professional who has garnered wins over Osvaldo Morales (4-0), Edgar Torres (8-2-1), Kenny Robles (9-1) and his most recent outing when he took a split decision over Johnny Spell (8-1) on April 5th at The Wind Creek Event Center.

In an eight-round co-feature, undefeated middleweight Euri Cedeno (9-0-1, 8 KOs) of Reading, PA takes on Aro Schwartz (23-8-1, 15 KOs) of Karlsruhe, Denmark.

Also in eight-round bouts, Julian Gonzalez (14-0-1, 11 KOs) of Reading, PA battles Oscar Barajas (7-9-1,2 KOs) of Toms River, NJ in a super featherweight bout..

Joseph Adorno (19-4-2, 16 KOs) of Allentown, PA fights Luis May (22-18-1) of Cancun, Mexico in a junior welterweight bout.

Brittany Sims (6-3, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA will take on Nancy Franco (19-20-2, 5 KOs) of Jalisco, Mexico in a bantamweight bout.

In Six-round bouts:

Francis Oran (5-1, 2 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Ali Ellis (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia in a cruiserweight fight.

Khainell Wheeler (7-5, 6 KOs) of Allentown, PA takes on an opponent to be named in a super middleweight contest.

In four-round bouts, Devon Young (4-0, 3 KOs) of Atlanta squares off with Joseph Bonos (0-6) of Orlando in a heavyweight bout.

In a battle of the “Bethlehem Heavyweight Championship”, Adam Atiyeh (1-0) takes on Mike Liberto

Tickets are now on sale for $150, $100, $75 and $50 at the following link:

https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/020060FDD99A8D2F?brand=wcec

Long Island, NY (October 18. 2023) – Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” 45 is right around the corner, and the near sold-out venue tells you all you need to know about the excitement surrounding fight night. Pittsburgh’s, Matt Conway was scheduled to fight Bellport, Long Island fan favorite, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (13-0 5KO’s) in the main event, but unfortunately, Conway was forced to pull out of the fight due to a fractured elbow suffered in training. Now, Puerto Rican born, Orlando Florida based, JULIO “EL PANTERA” ROSA has stepped up to the challenge.

Star Boxing is pleased to announce the new Vargas-Rosa super lightweight main event will be for the vacant WBA Continental USA Championship, as both Vargas and Rosa will bid for the first title in their professional careers – an opportunity that is not lost on either man.

“I’m fortunate to still be fighting for my first title which was the main goal since the beginning,” said Alex Vargas. “Much respect to Rosa for stepping in and taking this opportunity. Nothing changed for me as I stayed working hard. It’s still the same mission. Win and become the new WBA Continental Champion.”

In what will be his 10th appearance at The Paramount, Suffolk County Police Officer, Alex Vargas will look to secure the biggest win of his career, earning his first regional title and pushing himself up the super lightweight rankings. Across from Vargas is a competitor in Julio Rosa (8-3 4KO’s) who has won four of his last five bouts and is coming off a questionable majority decision, with a hunger to return to Orlando with the WBA title in hand. This 8 round super lightweight clash tops what is scheduled to be a thrilling night of fights.

Julio Rosa had this to say about the main event title fight, “After 8 years of boxing between Amateur and professional, behind a dream of being a world champion, today I feel proud and blessed by God. I want to thank Joe DeGuardia & Star Boxing as they have opened the door for me for the first shot to fight for a championship. I am extremely grateful to the promotion and to God because I feel that my dream of becoming a world champion is beginning to take place and what better way to start than this October 28th in New York representing Bayamon, Puerto Rico, a big boxing island who is hungry for triumph. I will take advantage of the moment to the fullest putting everything on the line to fulfill my dream of one day being world champion in the 140 pound division. God bless those who help me and who opened the doors for this great opportunity. I won’t waste it.”

Vargas-Rosa is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The six fight card features local talent that includes the co-main event as WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (14-2 6KO’s) takes on JERMONE “QUADRUPLE J” JONES JR. (7-1 6KO’S) of Phoenix, AZ in an 8-round super welterweight bout. On the undercard EMMANUEL ETIENNE of Uniondale, NY (4-1 2KO’s) will go toe to toe in a grudge rematch with former UFC fighter, turned professional boxer, OLUWALE “HOLY WAR ANGEL” BAMGBOSE (Bronx, NY 0-1) over 4 rounds at cruiserweight; LOUIS “IL MARTELLO” MAIETTA (Bronx, NY, 3-3) looks to continue his win streak when he fights Glen Cove, NY’s FRANKIE “MAGIC” MANACO (pro debut). Also included on the undercard in a 4-round super featherweight bout is Mexican warrior, ERICK “EL CANETE” PEREZ (1-0 1KO) retuning to The Paramount against pro debut KESLAIRE EXAVIER of Las Vegas, NV, and opening the action in a 4 round super featherweight bout will be DOM BREEN (Staten Island, NY 0-2) against JOSEPH ELZEY (Bronx, NY, pro debut).

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Long Island, NY (August 17, 2023) — Star Boxing proudly presents an electrifying main event featuring Long Island’s undefeated super lightweight sensation, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (13-0 5KO’s, Bellport, NY), who will square off against fierce challenger, MATT “SWEET CHILD” CONWAY (23-3 9KO’s), hailing from Pittsburgh, PA. Mark your calendars for October 28, as The Paramount in Huntington will transform into a battleground for what is slated to be a captivating main event and a night of boxing that will shake the foundations of The Paramount!.  

Vargas is a hometown hero and newly admitted Suffolk County Police Officer with fast hands and stellar footwork. Star Boxing has been molding Vargas into its next huge draw from the Paramount, like its prior success with Chris Algieri and Joe Smith, Jr, both of whom went from Paramount regulars to world champions.  Vargas now steps into his first 10 round fight, as a result of his previous 13 victories, where he has showcased a poised and calculated yet explosive style that has made him a true fan favorite.  

“I am really excited for my first ten-rounder in another step-up fight,” said Vargas. “I can’t wait to get back to work and go 14-0 in front of another sold out crowd at The Paramount on October 28!” 

Opposite Vargas stands the difficult task in veteran Matt Conway, a product of Pittsburgh’s gritty streets. Conway has made a name for himself in the Pittsburgh area, and across the USA, including under the bright lights of Las Vegas, against then undefeated Gabriel Flores. This will be Conway’s first fight in New York. As a twenty-six-fight veteran with an impressive record, Conway will be the toughest test and by far the most experienced fighter Vargas has ever faced.  

“I’m feeling great, and I’m excited for this opportunity,” said Conway. “I’ve been training hard, and I know my opponent is training hard as well. I am looking forward to putting on an exciting show for the fans!” 

The stage is set at The Paramount, the #1 Pollstar club venue in the world, that has witnessed some truly unforgettable “Rockin’ Fights” bouts. On October 28, in a ten-round battle of two men determined to rise the ranks to world-wide recognition, Vargas and Conway will lock horns in a fight that promises to leave spectators on the edge of their seats. 

Star Boxing CEO and Hall of Fame Promoter JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the highly anticipated main event, “This is the kind of main event that makes the Rockin’ Fights series so special. Vargas has been developing here at the Paramount since his pro debut in 2018, and now he is on the precipice of becoming a real player at the top level of the sport. Standing in his way is a ‘steel curtain’ as the Pittsburgh veteran has his sights on victory as well.  Vargas and Conway have the heart, the skill, and the fire to deliver a fight that fans will remember, and I am looking forward to it.”  

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

PITTSBURGH (January 17, 2022) – Philadelphia super featherweight Avery Sparrow (11-3, 4 KOs) upset local favorite Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-3, 9 KOs) this past Saturday night, registering a 10th round technical knockout for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight and Pennsylvania State title, at the Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

“Winter Mayhem”, presented by Gionta Management, was streamed live on www.facebooklive.com.

The scheduled 12-round main event was an old-fashioned battle of cross-state rivals, Philly’s Sparrow and Pittsburgh’s Conway.

Sparrow came out taking advantage of his considerable length advantage, jabbing effectively to rack up points round by round. Sparrow caught Conway with left hooks in the second half of the fight, hurting him in the 10th round. Once Conway was sent backwards to the ropes, Sparrow blasted him with 10 unanswered punches, until referee Chris Riskus waved off the fight. Sparrow led in scoring going into the 10th by scores of 89-82, 88-83 and 87-84.

Sparrow won his first fight in more than three years, when he took a 10-round majority decision over fellow Philadelphian Hank Lundy (29-7-1), snapping Conway’s 3-fight win streak in the process.

“This was our best show yet,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “We had a great crowd at a first-class venue. The main event was a great fight and give credit to Avery and his team on a well-deserved victory. It was a contrast of styles between him and Conway. The slick counter-puncher prevailed in the end over the aggressive pressure fighter.”

“Matt had a very busy 11 months, dating back to last February, going 3-1 with this one being a 12-round title fight. He will look to regroup and resume his career possibly at 126 pounds as he has no trouble making that weight. That will be a decision he and his team will make.”

“I’m eager to see what Avery does next and who (his promoter) Russell Peltz matches him up with as I feel his best days are ahead of him. We were proud to hold such a high-level fight on a regional club show in Pittsburgh. All parties involved were true professionals. My wheels are already spinning for the next show.”

In the co-feature, Alliance, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford improved to 7-1 (5 KOs) by stopping an overmatched Charles Clark (3-9-1, 1 KO) when Clark’s corner threw in a white towel late in round one. Ford controlled the fight with his long jab and sharp combination punches to the head and body over a usually game and durable Clark.

Illinois heavyweight Anthony Hollaway (4-2-2, 3 KOs) overcame a 42-pound weight disadvantage against Thomas Hawkins (4-10-1, 1 KO) to take a 4-round unanimous decision. Holloway controlled the action from start to finish against a game Hawkins and mixed in some good power shots in spurts while eluding counters from Hawkins. Hawkins showed some spark with his left hand at times, but Hollaway was too skilled.

Lightning quick super featherweight Alexander Castellano (6-1, 2 KOs) started strong and never took his foot off the pedal versus Shawn Rall (1-5, 1 KO) as the former pitched a shutout, winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards. There were no knockdowns and neither fighter was hurt at any point. Rall put up a game performance once again.

Portugal super featherweight prospect Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (3-0, 2 KOs) remained undefeated as he used his 8” height advantage against an elusive and rugged David Boria (0-5), of Ashtabula, OH. Jeremias owned the first two rounds, but his Ohio opponent came back strong in the third round, rocking Jeremias with a solid head shot, and he carried the fight to the final bell. Jeremias won a 4-round majority decision.

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT

VACANT IBA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD & PENNSYLVANIA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Avery Sparrow (11-3, 4 KOs), Philadelphia, PA

WTKO10 (1:30)

Matt Conway (20-3, 8 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA

(Sparrow won the IBA Super Featherweight World & Pennsylvania State titles)

CO-FEATURE-LIGHTWEIGHTS

Ryizeemmion Ford (7-1, 5 KOs), Alliance, OH

WTKO1 (2:51)

Charles Clark (3-8-1, 1 KO), Dallas, TX

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Anthony Hollaway (4-2-2, 3 KOs), Peoria, IL

WDEC4 (40-36 x 3)

Thomas Hawkins (4-10-1, 1 KO)

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Alexander Castellano (6-1, 2 KOs), Tonawanda, NY

WDEC4 (40-36 X 3)

Shawn Rall (1-5, 1 KO), Bedford, OH

Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (3-0, 1 KO), Porto, Portugal

WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)

David Boria (0-5), Ashtabula, OH

INFORMATION:

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Twitter: @DGionta

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LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

PITTSBURGH (January 14, 2022) – The journey continues tomorrow night (Saturday) for Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-2, 8 KOs) as he continues to bring boxing’s popularity back to what it was back in the glory days.

Conway headlines “Winter Mayhem,” which will be streamed live on www.facebooklive.com for $19.99 (at Cut ‘N’ Run Productions’ page), versus cross-state rival Avery Sparrow (10-3, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, in the 12-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight Championship, at the Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

While boxing in Pittsburgh will never be as popular as it once was during the glory years when local heroes Harry Greb (1913-26), Billy Conn 1934-48), and Charlie Burley (1936-50) were household names at the junction of 3 rivers, Conway hopes to make the sweet science more relevant than it has been there in many years.

“Fighting for a world title is a dream come true for me, especially bringing a title back to Pittsburgh,” said Conway, who has never been stopped in 22 pro fights. “Pittsburgh hasn’t been a big boxing town since Paul Spadafora (1995-2014) and Sammy Vasquez fought (2012-2017). I’d like to help bring boxing back here to that level.

“I’m really hoping to win the IBA World title to get my name out there so that this kid from Pittsburgh

gets more recognition and title fight opportunities. I want to continue the rich Pittsburgh boxing tradition. It’ll start when I bring the IBA title to Pittsburgh. There are a lot of talented, young fighters in Pittsburgh. We just need to fight and (promoter) Derek Gionta is doing that for me and other fighters. He’s really helping us.”

The 26-year-old Conway is fully prepared to face Sparrow, who’s notable victories have been against fellow Philly fighter 29-2-1 Hank Lundy (WMDEC10) and 19-1-1 Jose Lopez (WUDEC10).

“He’s a tough fighter who uses his jab and is able to move and box,” Conway said about Sparrow. “I’ll try to nullify his left hand and do what I do.”

Conway, who has never been stopped in 22 pro fights to date, has successfully bounced back from back-to-back losses in Reno and Las Vegas on the ESPN+ platform to, respectively, to 10-1-1 Francisco Esparza (SDEC8) and 17-0 Gabriel Flores, Jr. (UDEC8).

“It wasn’t difficult,” Conway talked about coming back from two straight losses after winning his first 17 pro fights. “I lost to a 17-0 guy in Las Vegas. I learned more from my two losses than I did in my 17 wins going into those fights. I’ve taken what I’ve learned from those fights and applied it to my last three fights (all wins). I’m hungrier!”

“Matt has done everything asked of him over the last year, going 3-0),” Gionta remarked. “This is a big fight for the region. Having a cross-state rival from Philly in the main event is huge. Sparrow is a very good boxer and anyone that knows anything about boxing knows that and how good of a match-up this is.

“Putting a belt on the line in a 12-rounder is enough to intrigue casual fans aside from our loyal boxing followers. A win against Sparrow will do a lot for Conway. Most importantly, it’ll show how much he developed over the past year or so and will line him up for bigger challenges down the road.”

In the co-featured event, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (6-1, 4 KOs) faces Texan Charles Clark (3-8-1, 1 KO) in the 6-round co-featured event.

Scheduled to fight on the undercard in 4-round bouts are heavyweight Anthony Halloway (3-2-2, 3 KOs) vs. Thomas Hawkins (4-9-1, 1 KO), undefeated Portugal super featherweight Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (2-0, 2 KO) vs. David Boria (0-4), and super featherweight Alexander Castellano (5-1, 2 KOs) vs. Shawn Rall (1-4, 1 KO).

Card is subject to change.

Available tickets are priced at $50.00 (reserved seating, plus tables of 8 ($800) are available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta

Twitter: @DGionta

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LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

PITTSBURGH (December 27, 2021) – Pittsburgh favorite Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-2, 8 KOs) will fight for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight Championship, headlining Gionta Management’s “Winter Mayhem,” January 15th at Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

The reigning IBA Intercontinental Super Featherweight Champion, Conway takes on cross-state rival Avery Sparrow (10-3, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, in the 12-round main event.

The 26-year-old Conway, who has never been stopped, has reeled-off three consecutive victories. Sparrow’s most notable wins have been against fellow Philly fighter 29-2-1 Hank Lundy (WMDEC10), and 19-1-1 Jose Lopez (WUDEC10).

“We have a great, action-packed show lined up here to start the new year,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “Matt Conway versus Avery Sparrow is a TV-caliber fight. Each fight on the undercard is very intriguing as well. Expect fireworks!”

In the co-featured event, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (6-1, 4 KOs) takes on Lonnie Jackson, Jr. (5-2-2, 2 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an interesting 6-round match.

In a pair of potentially entertaining 6-round bouts, Pittsburgh middleweight prospect Eric Lomax (4-0, 3 KOs) faces Samuel Wildenhaus (4-1, 1 KO), and the Pittsburgh’s Johnny Spell, Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs) meets Dominican Republic super featherweight Nelson Morales (2-0), fighting out of Scranton (PA).

Undefeated Philadelphia welterweight Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) is slated to fight an opponent to be determined in a 6-rounder.

Also fighting on the undercard in 4-rounders, is Portugal super featherweight Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (2-0, 2 KO) vs. TBA, in addition to New York super featherweight Alexander Castellano (5-1, 2 KOs) vs. Ohio’s Shawn Rall (1-4, 1 KO).

Card is subject to change.

Available tickets are priced at $50.00 (reserved seating, plus tables of 8 ($800) and 12 ($1200), and available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

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Twitter: @DGionta

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LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

MURRYSVILLE, Penn. (September 20, 2021) – Pittsburgh junior lightweight Matt “Sweet Child” Conway, the reigning IBA Intercontinental Junior Lightweight Champion, notched his 20th career victory in this past Saturday night’s “Murrysville Madness” non-title main event against dangerous Colombian puncher Rodolfo “El Tsunami” Puente (20-8-2, 16 KOs).

“Murrysville Madness,” presented by Gionta Management, was held at a nearly sold-out SportsZone Arena in Murrayville (PA).

This was our first time promoting at this venue and things went really well overall,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “We will come back here, hopefully, in the near future. This was our third show this year at two different venues and it’s great to remain consistent despite the difficult times we encountered earlier this year in regard to the pandemic. The plan is to keep moving forward and building up these guys.”

“There were a number of intriguing fights. Matt Conway had a monumental victory for his 20th win as a professional. He will be come back January 15th in a big fight on our show in Cheswick, PA.”

Conway (20-2, 9 KOs) positioned himself for an IBA World title fight in January, which Gionta will promote at The Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, PA.

Against Puente, Conway overcame Puente’s early aggression, but after the opening round, the Colombian did little more than hold. A Conway left hook dropped Puente in the second round and that marked the end of the fight and show shortly after from a referee stoppage.

The co-feature was the “Fight of the Night.” Pittsburgh super middleweight Kiante Irving (9-0-1, 9 KOs), a 2018 National Golden Gloves Champion, and Antonio Louis Hernandez (5-11-3, 3 KOs), battled to an exciting 6-round split draw.

Irving won the first three rounds, primarily by using his stiff jab and landing solid rights to Hernandez’ body. Hernandez, however, owned the last three rounds, controlling the action and landing power shots that hurt Irving on multiple occasions. High drama filed the room as Irving proved a chin and heart to go along with his power. Hernandez, sporting a deceiving record and at just 22 years old, has time to turn the corner and make up for early struggles against high quality opposition. Both sides have expressed interest in a rematch.

Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (6-1, 4 KOs) dominated Carlos “Jaguar” Jimenez (1-3-1), of Mexico, setting the pace until he landed a hard right that buzzed Jimenez. A follow-up attack prompted the referee to halt the action midway through the opening round.

Pittsburgh super middleweight Eric Lomax kept rollin’, setting the pace and blasting out Jacob Ikaika Martin (1-1) with only 9-seconds left in the fourth and scheduled final round. Lomax passed the test in impressive fashion as he boxed well and fought with explosiveness in spurts.

Kyrgyzstan native Baszybek Baratov (5-1-2, 1 KO), who fights out of Monroeville (PA), defeated Buffalo featherweight debutant Joe Reed, winning a unanimous decision. Scores were 40-36 x 2 and 39-37. “Baz” was slippery on the defense, while picking shots from all angles while Reed stood conventional and had some success of his own at times.

Pittsburgh super lightweight and Matt Conway’s brother, “Maverick” Mike Conway (4-2-1, 1 KO), joined his bro in the winner’s circle, pitching a “shutout” 4-round decision versus Joshua Zimmerman (0-4). Conway worked his way inside to nullify Zimmerman’s height and length advantage and used a double hook several times.

In the first match of the evening, southpaw Paul Palombo won his pro debut when his opponent, middleweight Jabrandon Harris (0-7) of Texas was unable to continue after two rounds. Palombo boxed well out of his southpaw stance and turned it up after a quiet opening round and picked his shots nicely on the inside.

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS

Matt Conway (20-2, 9 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA

WTKO2 (1:39)

Rodolfo Puente (20-8-2, 16 KOs), Barramquilla, Colombia

CO-FEATURE – SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Kiante Irving (9-0-1, 9 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA

D6 (58-56, 56-58, 57-57)

Antonio Louis Hernandez (5-11-2, 4 KOs), Kansas City, KS

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Eric Lomax (4-0, 3 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA

WTKO4 (2:51)

Jacob Ibaika Martin (1-1, 1 KO), Tacoma, WA

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Paul Palombo (1-0, 1 KO), Buffalo, NY

WTKO2 (3:00)

Jabrandon Harris (0-7), Bryan, TX

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS

Mike Conway (4-2-1, 1 KO), Pittsburgh, PA

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)

Joshua Zimmerman (0-4), Baltimore, MD

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Ryizeemmion Ford (6-1, 4 KOs), Alliance, OH

WTKO1 (2:01)

Carlos Jimenez (1-3-1 (0 KOs), Saltillo, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Baszybek Baratov (5-1-2, 1 KO), Monroeville, PA

WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)

Joe Reed (0-1, 0 KOs), Buffalo, NY

PITTSBURGH (September 8, 2021) – Professional boxing returns to the Greater Pittsburgh area Saturday night, September 18, as Gionta Management presents “Murrysville Madness” at Murrysville SportZone in Murrysville, Pennsylvania.

An amateur show, co-promoted by Gionta Management and Kastle Boxing of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, will take center stage during the afternoon, starting at 12 p.m. with a separate admission of $20.00

“I hope to continue promoting shows here (30-minute drive from downtown Pittsburgh) in this region moving forward,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “With another friend of mine promoting here, we can keep these guys busy, and look forward to moving them into bigger opportunities.”

Pittsburgh junior lightweight Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (19-2, 8 KOs), the reigning IBA Intercontinental Junior Lightweight Champion, will headline “Murrysville Madness” in the 8-round main event against an opponent to be finalized.

In the 6-round co-featured event, Pittsburgh super middleweight Kiante Irving (9-0, 9 KOs), a 2018 National Golden Gloves Champion, plans to keep his perfect pro record intact against Antonio Louis Hernandez (5-11-3, 3 KOs).

Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (5-1-0, 3 KOs) steps up in his first scheduled 6-rounder versus an opponent to be determined.

A 4-round featherweight match between Buffalo’s pro-debuting Joe Reed and Kyrgyzstan-native Baszybek Baratov (4-1-2, 1 KO), fighting out of Monroeville, PA, has the potential to steal the show.

2019 National Golden Gloves Champion Chatiqua “Tika” Hemingway (1-0), managed by Split-T Management, is slated to be in action against a female super middleweight to be determined.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard in 4-round matches is Pittsburgh super middleweight Eric Lomax (3-0, 2 KOs) vs, Taurean Bogguess (0-2), Pennsylvania’s pro-debuting middleweight Paul Palombo vs. Jereiah Yeager (1-1, 1 KO), and Pittsburgh super lightweight and Matt Conway’s brother, “Maverick” Mike Conway (3-2-1, 1 KO), vs. Joshua Zimmerman (0-3).

Card is subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $125.00 ringside, $60.00 and $40.00 floor seating, and $50.00 reserved seating, and available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta

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PITTSBURGH (June 5, 2021) – Pittsburgh favorite Matt “Sweet Child” Conway knocked out veteran Colombian knockout artist Jonathan “Popeye” Perez in last night’s “Battle of the Fairgrounds II” main event to capture the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) junior lightweight title at Washington County Fairgrounds in Washington, Pennsylvania.

After the second installment of the popular “Battle of the Fairgrounds” series, presented by Gionta Management, Conway (19-2, 8 KOs) proposed to his girlfriend (Melissa Norton) in the ring, and he was a winner then as well.

“We had a great event last night that I couldn’t be happier with,” promoter Derek Gionta commented. “Everyone performed well, and we will be back in the Pittsburgh area September 18th with some exciting new additions to our roster.

“I’ve said many times and I’ll say it again, Pennsylvania is one of the best states in the country for boxing. Our aim is to continue putting on competitive match up for the fans.”

Volume puncher Conway, who vacated his IBA Intercontinental lightweight champion to fight Perez (38-27, 30 KOs), the former Colombian Super Bantamweight Champion, came out ready to fight Perez and after a brief feeling-out process, Conway applied intense pressure throwing punches in bunches to Perez’ head and body. Perez was unable to answer the bell after four grueling rounds.

Hall of Fame referee Steve Smoger was the IBA supervisor at ringside.

“I wanted him out by the sixth round, and I reached my goal,” a happy Conway said after the fight. “I thought I did a pretty good job. I was a little tentative, hesitant at first, because I wasn’t sure of his power. But then I got more comfortable, digging the body, and breaking him down. When I started feeling my groove. I started landing my big shots. Next up is the IBA World title, hopefully, in January. I want that next!”

Pittsburgh’s crowd-pleasing super middleweight “Pretty” Richie Cantolina (7-0-1, 3 KOs) exploded out of the corner and thoroughly dominated upset-minded Darryl “Dream King” Bunting (4-10-2, 2 KOs) in the co-featured event. The popular Cantolina, a former mixed-martial-arts fighter (12-8 as an amateur), exploded early in the opening round, decking his opponent, and then finished off Bunting when he dropped him later in the first round.

Ohio super featherweight Ryizeemmion “Humble Beast” Ford (5-1, 3 KOs) cruised to 4-round unanimous decision over late replacement Ryan Venerable (2-5). Ford’s consistent jabbing kept Venerable at a distance, eventually trapping ed Venerable on the ropes and unloading a barrage of punches to the head and body. Ford scored a knockdown in the fourth round, but Venerable survived to go the distance.

Puerto Rican-native Joel De La Paz (10-1-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Atlantic City (NJ), and Cleveland challenger Latiss Norman (4-6-1, 2 KOs) fought to a somewhat disputed 6-round draw in a highly competitive, technical fight. Styles make fights and Norman switched efficiently between orthodox and southpaw stances, while De La Paz walked down his opponent and landed the more impactful punches. De La Paz, whose 3-fight win streak was snapped, opened a cut over Norman’s swollen left eye.

The Fight of the Night was an entertaining 4-round match between Pittsburgh’s Deon “The Blood Hound” Goodlow (2-3,) and Ivan “The Hurricane” Hernandez (2-5-1, 2 KOs). Goodlow won a 4-round majority decision in a match contested at a 152-pound catchweight. Goodlow picked his spots, successfully setting everything up with his jabs, but Hernandez came on strong towards the end of the fight.

Ohio super featherweight Shawn Rall (0-5) registered his first victory as a pro with a first-round stoppage of North Carolina’s Brandon Grimett (0-3). Rall took immediate control, applying pressure to stagger and drop his opponent.

Full results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT IBA INTERNCONTINENTAL JR. LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Matt Conway (19-2, 8 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA
WTKO4 (3:00)
Jonathan Perez (38-27, 30 KOs), Barranquilla, Colombia
(Conway won IBA Intercontinental Junior Lightweight title)

CO-FEATURE – SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Richie Cantolina (7-0-1, 3 KOs), Pittsburgh, PA
WTKO1 (0:44)
Darryl Bunting (4-10-2, 2 KOs), Asbury Park, NJ

152-POUND CATCHWEIGHT
Joel De La Paz (10-1-1, 6 KOs), Atlantic City, NJ
D6 (58-56, 56-58, 57-57)
Latiss Norman (4-6-1, 2 KOs), Dunkirk, NY

LIGHTWEIGHTS
Deon Goodlow (2-3, 1 KO), Pittsburgh, PA
WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)
Ivan Hernandez (2-4-1, 2 KOs), Dunkirk, NY

JUNIOR FEATERWEIGHTS
Shawn Rall (1-4, 1 KO), Bedford, OH
WTKO1 (0:51)
Brandon Grimett (0-3), Greensboro, NC

PITTSBURGH (June 1, 2021) – A lot is on the line for Pittsburgh super featherweight Matt “Sweet Child” Conway this Friday night (June 4) when he headlines the second installment of the popular “Battle of the Fairgrounds” series, presented by Gionta Management, at Washington County Fairgrounds in Washington, Pennsylvania.

Conway (18-2, 7 KOs), a former International Boxing Association (IBA) Intercontinental lightweight champion, takes on Colombian knockout specialist Jonathan “Popeye” Perez (38-26, 30 KOs), the former Colombian Super Bantamweight Champion, in the 8-round main event for the vacant IBA Intercontinental Super Featherweight Championship.

The 25-year-old Conway is in a crossroads fight having suffered the first losses of his pro career. He is coming off a win by way of a 6-round unanimous decision this past February against Vincent Jennings, but prior to that fight, Conway stepped up in class and lost to Francisco Esparza (9-1-1) and Gabriel Flores, Jr. (16-0), respectively, by way of 8-round split and unanimous decisions in Las Vegas on Top Rank-promoted cards against its fighters.

Conway, who has never been stopped as a professional, realizes that he needs to get back on the winning track and he’s thrilled to be headlining in his hometown.

“It’s kind of a crossroads fight for me because now, I don’t have much wiggle room and losing can’t be an option,” Conway said. “But losing those two fights pushed me to get better and taught me what I had to work on, and it’s not like I got blown out of those fights. I can still make my mark with quality opponents. I learned to be more patient, and I need to trust myself and know I’m there for a reason.

“Being pumped for this fight is an understatement, especially headlining in a title fight. People are going crazy because they wanted boxing back after the pandemic and we’re making it happen. My hometown fans always come to support me and with this fight in my backyard, I’m ready to put on a show.”

Battle-tested Perez, who has fought world champions Cristian Mijares and Abner Mares, has become a gatekeeper having fought rising prospects such as Toka Khan Clary, Carlos Videl, Nestor Bravo Velezquez, Karl Dargan, Luis Rosa, and many others during the past decade.

“I know my opponent is tough,” Conway added. “He has a lot of experience and is coming here to fight, but I don’t want this fight going more than six rounds. An impressive victory will let everyone know I’m in the running to make some noise, especially in the IBA. My name has a little buzz to it, but it’s not big enough.”

Unbeaten Pittsburgh super middleweight “Pretty” Richie Cantolina (6-0-1, 2 KOs) faces upset-minded Darryl “Dreamking” Bunting (4-9-2, 2 KOs) in the In the 6-round co-featured event. A former mixed-martial-arts fighter (12-8 as an amateur), Cantolina has successfully transitioned to boxing, evident by his pro record.

Ohio super featherweight Ryizeemmion “Humble Beast” Ford (4-1, 3 KOs) meets 21-fight veteran Christopher Nelson, of Louisville, in a 6-rouind match.

Puerto Rico-native Joel De La Paz (10-1, 6 KOs), a promising prospect out of Atlantic City (NJ), takes on Cleveland challenger Latiss Norman (4-6, 2 KOs) in a 6-round bout. De La Paz is riding a 3-fight win streak since he suffered his only pro loss in 2018 to 8-1 Naim Terbunja.

Also slated to fight on the under in 4-round bouts are Pittsburgh’s Deon Goodlow (1-3) and Ivan “The Hurricane” Hernandez (2-4-1, 2 KOs), of Buffalo, battle in a 4-round fight at a 152-pound catchweight, Buffalo lightweight Gerffred Ngayot (2-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA, and Ohio super featherweight Shawn Rall (0-4) vs. North Carolina’s Brandon Grimett (0-2).

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $30.00 general admission, $50.00 reserved seating, and $100.00 table seats (limited available) and available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta
Twitter: @DGionta
Instagram: @d_p_g1
LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

PITTSBURGH (May 19, 2021) – Pittsburgh super featherweight Matt “Sweet Child” Conway will headline the June 4tth “Battle of the Fairgrounds” card, presented by Gionta Management, at Washington County Fairgrounds in Washington, Pennsylvania.

This will be the second installment of “Battle of the Fairgrounds” for Gionta Management having launched the series this past February 6th.

The 25-year-old Conway (18-2, 7 KOs) faces Colombian knockout artist Jonathan “Popeye” Perez (38-26, 30 KOs), the former Colombian Super Bantamweight Champion, in the 8-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Intercontinental Super Featherweight Championship.

Conway, who has never been stopped as a professional, is coming off a win by way of a 6-round unanimous decision this past February against Vincent Jennings. Perez has become a gatekeeper for the super featherweight division having fought some of the leading prospects during the past few years.

“We are excited to bring professional boxing back to the Washington County Fairgrounds,” promoter Derek Gionta said. “This will be our second show there since February. We were under tight restriction (due to COVID-19) at our first show and everybody there were great to work with. As of May 31st, we are allowed 100-percent capacity at the venue and no social distancing measures are required. This will be great for the fights and fans.

“We are featuring Matt Conway, who has been in some tough fights recently on ESPN+ in Reno and Las Vegas on Top Rank-shows. He won a decision over Vincent Jennings in February and will take another step up in competition to prepare for another opportunity on a bigger stage. Our undercard has a number of exciting local and former amateur standouts who will be exciting to watch.”

In the 6-round co-featured event, unbeaten Pittsburgh super middleweight “Pretty” Richie Cantolina (6-0-1, 2 KOs) takes on Darryl “Dreamking” Bunting (4-9-2, 2 KOs), fighting out of Asbury Park, New Jersey.

Puerto Rican super middleweight prospect Joel De La Paz (10-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Atlantic City, faces Bronx challenger Troy Artis (5-9-1, 3 KOs) in a 6-round bout. De La Paz has won his last three fights since suffering his only pro loss to 8-1 Naim Terbunja in 2018.

Hyped Louisville welterweight prospect Demontaze Duncan (2-0, 2 KOs), the No. 1 ranked United States amateur in the Youth middleweight division last year, meets Andres Borrego (0-1), of Colorado, in a 4-rounder. Duncan is only 18 years old.

Local boxer Deon Goodlow (1-3) and Ivan “The Hurricane” Hernandez (2-4-1, 2 KOs), of Buffalo, square off in a 4-round fight at a 152-pound catchweight, while Buffalo lightweight Gerffred Ngayot (2-0, 1 KO) squares off against Robert Bevilacqua (2-0, 2 KOs) in a 4-rounder.

Ohio super featherweight Ryizeemmion Ford (4-1) is scheduled to fight on the undercard 6-round match against an opponent to be determined.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $30.00 general admission, $50.00 reserved seating, and $100.00 table seats (limited available) and available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta
Twitter: @DGionta
Instagram: @d_p_g1
LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement

LAS VEGAS–Tyson Fury was spectacular in wearing down, beating down and eventually stopping Deontay Wilder to win the WBC Heavyweight title at the MGM Grand.

Fury was the aggressor and used his 42 pound size advantage to dictate the entire bout that had Wilder showing little resistance.

Fury sent Wilder to the canvas in round three when he landed a cuffing right to the ear. After that, Wilder seemed to lose his energy as the Fury continued to wear Wilder down. The punch the that sent Wilder down also caused bleeding out the right ear of Wilder. In round five, Fury dropped Wilder again, this time it was a body shot. Fury continued to land thudding shots and Wilder kept looking worse with each landed Fury punch.

After looking bad in the corner in between round’s six and seven, Fury came and landed two booming right hand that had referee Kenny Bayless and the corner of Wilder throwing in the towel simultaneously at 1:39.

Fury, 273 lbs of Winslow, UK is now 30-0-1 with 21 knockouts. Wilder, 231 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 42-1-1.

TYSON FURY:

“A big shout out to Deontay Wilder. He came here tonight and he manned up and he really did show the heart of a champion.

“I hit him with a clean right that dropped him and he got back up. He is a warrior. He will be back. He will be champion again.

“But I will say, the king has returned to the top of the throne!”

DEONTAY WILDER:

“I’m doing good. Things like this happen. The best man won tonight, but my corner threw in the towel and I was ready to go out on my shield. I had a lot of things going on heading into this fight. It is what it is, but I make no excuses tonight. I just wish my corner would have let me go out on my shield. I’m a warrior. He had a great performance and we will be back stronger.”

“Even the greatest have lost and came back, that is just part of it. You just take it for what it is. I can make no excuses tonight. I had a lot of complications. But we’ll come back stronger next time around. This is what big-time boxing is all about, the best must fight the best. I appreciate all the fans that came out and supported the show, and I hope that everyone gets home safely.”

Former Heavyweight champion Charles Martin scored a one-punch knockout over former world title challenger challenger in round six of their scheduled 12-round elimination bout.

The bout was void of action until Martin landed a booming left that sent Washington to the canvas. Washington got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 1:57.

Martin, 254 lbs of Carson, CA is 28-2-1 with 25 knockouts. Washington, 236 1/2 lbs of Vallejo, CA is 20-4-1.

CHARLES MARTIN

“I knew that I had him hurt a few times in the fight. Every round I think I hurt him, but I just couldn’t finish him. I knew that I had to take my time in there. It took me some rounds to catch up with him, because he’s very quick on the retreat.

“This win means a lot. It shows that I’ve been working hard. The people can see it. I was never hurt at any point. This has just given me more confidence in myself. I can take the punches and give the punches.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“The referee did what he thought was right. He’s a top notch ref so I won’t complain about the stoppage. He put me down and I got up, so I definitely wanted to get back to it.”

Emanuel Navarrete stopped Jeo Santisima in round 11 to retain the WBO Super Bantamweight title.

Navarrete dominated the action and finally was able to get Santisima out there with a brutal 11 punch flurry at 2:20 of round 11.

Navarrete, 122 lbs of Mexico City is 31-1 with 27 knockouts. Santisima, 122 lbs of the Philippines is 19-3.

Sebastian Fundora won a 10-round unanimous decision over Daniel Lewis in a junior middleweight bout.

In round two, Fundora began to bleed from the nose

Fundora, 153 1/2 lbs of Cochella, CA won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-94 and is now 14-0-1. Lewis, 153 lbs of Sydney, AUS is 6-1.

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I think it was a fair decision and a good fight. There were a lot of hard punches. I knew he would be tough. When they told me I was fighting an Olympian, I knew it would be a tough fight. He probably had more experience than me, but we prepared the right way and got the win.

“I always want to use my height and my physical gifts, but it just depends on the fight. If the situation changes, we have to be ready to adapt.

“Whether we’re fighting on the inside or the outside, I always want to be the busier fighter. The more punches you throw, the more you’re going to land. It’s the way I like to fight.

“I’ll have to talk to my team, but I want to keep facing the best competition possible and continue to grow in the sport.”

Javier Molina won an eight-round unanimous decision over Amir Imam in a junior welterweight bout.

Molina, 141 1/2 lbs of Norwalk, CA won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 twice and is now 22-2. Imam, 141 1/2 lbs of Albany, NY is 21-3.

Petros Ananyan won an upset 10-round unanimous decision over previosuly undefeated knockout artist Subriel Matias in a junior welterweight bout.

In round seven, Ananyan landed some booming shots that hurt Matias and drove him back to the ropes. Matias seemed out on his feet and for some reason referee Robert Byrd administered an eight-count.

That was the difference in the fight as Matias won by scores of 96-93 and 95-94 twice for Ananyan, 142 lbs of Brooklyn, NY and is now 15-2-2. Matias, 142, Fajardo, PR is 15-1.

Gabriel Flores Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous over Matt Conway in a junior lightweight bout.

In round one, Flores dropped Conway with an overhand right. In round two, Conway started to swell around his right eye.

Flores, 132 1/2 lbs of Stockton, CA won by scores of 80-71 twice and 79-72, and is now 16-0. Conway, 132 1/2 lbs of Pittsburgh, PA is 17-2.

Vito Mielnicki Jr. remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Corey Champion in a welterweight bout.

In round one, Mielnicki dropped Champion with a flush counter right. In round four, Champion was bleeding from his nose.

Mielnicki, 147 lbs of Roseland, NJ won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 5-0. Champion, 147 lbs of Louisa, VA is 1-3.

In a foul fest 10 featherweight fight, Isaac Lowe won a unanimous decision over Alberto Guevara.

In round four, Guevara was deducted a point for hitting on the break. Low was deducted apoint for hitting on the break and then another one for throwing Guevara down.

In round five, Lowe was deducted a point for hitting behind the head. In round six, Guevara was deducted for hitting on the break. Lowe was deducted another point in the round for hitting on the break. In round eight, Lowe dropped Guevara with a left hook.

Lowe, 125 1/2 lbs of Morecambe, UK won by scores of 96-87 twice and 95-88 and is now 20-0-3. Guevara, 126 lbs of Mazatlan, MEX is 27-6.

Rolando Romero stopped Arturs Ahmetovs in round two of a scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.

Romero dropped Ahmetovs twice and the fight was stopped at 1:22 of round two.

Romero, 137 lbs of Las Vegas is 11-0 with 10 knockouts. Ahmetovs, 136 lbs of Delray Beach, FL is 5-1