In Rusty’s Corner

While the papers haven’t been signed, Manny Pacquiao’s fairly easy win over Miguel Cotto, should be the signal for a major money maker for both Pac Man and Mayweather.

No matter the victor, Mayweather thinks that since he is the big draw, he deserves a much larger percentage of the purse.

With due respect to Floyd, the Hispanic fighters pack them in far more than Mayweather. This of course could give Mayweather an excuse for not fighting Pac Man yet, and instead take on the aging but dangerous Shane Mosley. But Mosley can still fight and if he stops Mayweather, the really big money goes out the window.

I just don’t see that happening. My guess is Pacquiao, a proud man, will take a decent offer and give Mayweather the bigger bucks.***

While it’s not exactly a boxing book, my good friend Johnny Ortiz has written a great must-read called “My Life Among The Icons”. This book offers a great insight into the lives of famous Los Angeles characters. You can pick it up on the bookstores on Dec. 6th. MORE

Mikkel Kessler  vs.  Andre Ward

Photos: Jan Sanders/Goossen tutor Promotions

WBA super middleweight champion Mikkel "Viking Warrior" Kessler of Denmark and undefeated Andre "S.O.G" ward of Oakland, California, participated in a free public workout Monday at King's Gym in Oakland. This Saturday, November 17, at the oracle arena in Oakland. Live on Showtime® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast), Kessler (42-1, 32 KOs) will defend against ward (20-0, 13 KOs) in their first super six world boxing classic group stage 1 bout. Tickets, priced at $300, $150, $65 and $35, are available at the oracle arena box office Monday Friday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. And fight day starting at 10 a.m., online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, or through Ticketmaster outlets at the following outlets: select Macy’s stores and select Ritmo Latino stores. All information can be obtained at www.ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor promotions and Sauerland event in association with Antonio Leonard productions. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. PT. The first non-televised fight is at 5 o'clock. MORE

Pacquiao/Cotto Wrap-up

No argument. Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer in the world as he currently is carrying the sport on his shoulders. On a Saturday night in Las Vegas he entered his name as an all time great when Referee Kenny Bayless called a halt to his fight with Miguel Cotto at the :55 second mark of the 12th. It was Pacquiao’s (50-3-2) seventh world title in different weight divisions. Even in this day of multi ranking organizations and superfluous weight class’s that’s something. The fight?: A humdinger from the opening bell for five rounds. After splitting the first two rounds the third was going to Cotto (34-2) when out of the blue Pacquiao landed a right that dumped Cotto on his back.

The fourth round sealed the deal. With Cotto well ahead in the round he got clocked with a left uppercut late. The punch dropped Cotto like a bad habit for Lent and had his eyes spinning like a slot machine. TSR gave Cotto the fifth mainly because Pacquiao allowed it. From this point on it was “when” not “if” for Cotto. “It’s the punches you don‘t see that hurt,” opined the great trainer Emanuel Stewart. There were a lot that Cotto didn’t see but felt. “I can’t defense punches I don’t see.”  When the end came Cotto had cuts around both eyes as well as noticeable swelling. Pacquiao appeared unmarked but TSR noticed that during the post fight interview with Larry Merchant, Pacquiao’s right ear had developed all the ugly signs of cauliflower ear. Post fight photo’s show Pacquiao with his head heavily bandaged. MORE

Junior “Poison” Jones – WBA champ and 2X Conqueror of Barrera

Junior “Poison” Jones spent 13 years and 56 fights in boxing yet is most known for two fights within a span of 5 months.  These are his two victories over one of Mexico’s greatest fighters Marco Antonio Barrera in November of 1996 and April of 1997 that stand out in everyone’s mind when you mention the name of Jones.

It’s been 7 years since Jones was in the ring and he looked trim and fit at a “signing” show I visited recently in Oaks, PA.   He was next to his Brooklyn friend and fellow former world champion Mark Breland, who was about 6” taller, but by the length of those arms of Jones at 71” (reach), you knew he was an athlete of some kind. 

Jones was a two-time New York Golden Gloves champion, trained by Ray Gazer, with a 150-8 record, and 81 knockouts before losing his last amateur bout in the 1988 Olympic trials against Kennedy McKinney.  Like Barrera wants to forget the name Junior Jones, Jones would like to forget the name Kennedy McKinney.  Every fighter has a nemesis. MORE

Hustler Boxing Press Conference Quotes

On Wednesday November 4th, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and Larry Flynt's Hustler Club-NYC held a press conference at Manhattan's famous Il Postino Ristorante to announce their new promotional alliance to produce a new series of star-studded boxing events throughout the NYC area.

On Wednesday November 4, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and Larry Flynt's Hustler Club-NYC held a press conference at Manhattan's famous Il Postino Ristorante to announce their new promotional alliance to produce a new series of star-studded boxing events throughout the NYC area.

Joe DeGuardia, CEO and founder of Star Boxing was the first to address the media, thanking everyone for coming and showing their support for the upcoming event. MORE

Rooney’s Boxing Gym Presents:
Judgment Day II

TYSON THE MOVIE Joins Forces With London Gym For JUDGEMENT DAY II Boxing/MMA Event On November 25

Rooney's Boxing Gym and Revolver Entertainment have joined forces to offer British Boxing fans the chance to not only win a copy of the awesome TYSON THE MOVIE Ultimate Knockout Edition DVD, or Blue-Ray disc, but also to win V.I.P. tickets to the equally awesome JUDGEMENT DAY II White Collar Boxing event at the Cable Club in Southwark, London SE1 on the 25th November 2009 and a pair of Everlast boxing gloves signed by the director James Toback.

The original Judgment Day White Collar Boxing event, at London’s Cable Club on the 30th September ’09 was a massive, sold-out, success. The promoters, Rooney’s Boxing Gym, set the new standard for White Collar events by staging one seriously slick show featuring professional standard bouts, genuine Page 3 Models, as Ring Card Girls, as well as introducing MMA to the White Collar scene. JUDGEMENT DAY II on the 25th November ‘09, which again will also be held at Cable Club, is set to raise the bar even higher. MORE

Jack Johnson vs. Jim Jeffries Centennial Celebration - July, 2010 in Reno
www.johnsonjeffries.com 

On July 4, 1910, the fight of the 20th century took place in Reno, NV. The reigning heavyweight champion, Jack Johnson, and former undefeated heavyweight champion, James J. Jeffries, squared off in Reno for a bout that transcended professional sports.

More was on the line than just the Heavyweight Crown on that day. To many, the fight was a battle for racial supremacy – as Johnson, the first black Heavyweight Champion was matched against Jeffries, who came to be known as “The Great White Hope.” Nearly one hundred years have passed - and next summer the professional boxing community, boxing fans, historians, political leaders, and the City of Reno will be celebrating the historic event.

With the recent passing of the Jack Johnson Congressional Resolution, and wide demand for a posthumous pardon for his 1912 violation of the Mann Act, the festivities in Reno will largely be a celebration of the life and career of the legendary fighter. MORE

“The New Generation/La Nueva Generacion II” in Houston

Larry Hernandez’s Aztec Empire Promotions will continue to keep Houston boxing alive with their latest installment of “The New Generation / La Nueva Generacion II”, on Thursday, December 3rd, 2009, at Club El Portal, which is located on 7024 Lawndale, Houston, TX 77023.

AEP is rapidly being known for attracting boisterous and enthusiastic crowds. The first show at this venue provided no shortage of fireworks and is grassroots boxing at its very best.

Returning on the main event will be Texas Super Featherweight Champion Angel ”El Picosito” Rodriguez who is coming off a very impressive KO win over highly regarded undefeated Eleazar “Pelon” Renteria.

On the undercard showcasing their talents on what will be another action-packed show are fast rising local prospects Nelson Ramos, Uko Isidien, Gerardo Carrillo, Gil Garcia, Cesar Martinez, power punching Jose “El Tejanito” Guzman making his much anticipated pro debut, and Fred Allen from Texas City. Also a female 126lbs pro debut match April Cuntino from Houston, TX going up against Jamie Briones from Victoria, TX. MORE

It’s All About the Action!

Major League Baseball has the minor leagues; the NBA has the D-League; the NHL has the AHL; and the NFL has college football.

All the major sports leagues have "feeder systems" and now Southern California fight promoter and sports entrepreneur Roy Englebecht has decided that mixed martial arts also needs its own legitimate minor league system.

In an effort to help develop the next generation of MMA stars while providing investors a chance to own their own professional sports franchise, Englebrecht announced Wednesday the launch of the Professional Mixed Martial Arts League (PMMAL).

Set to begin play in early 2010, the PMMAL (www.pmmal.com) will award charter ownerships to teams in eight specific areas including six Southern California counties and Las Vegas.

"The time has finally arrived for mixed martial arts and for the PMMAL," stated Englebrecht. "As a club promoter of MMA since it was approved in California in 2006, I know first-hand the struggle young fighters have in trying to get fights, and the major struggles small mixed martial arts promoters encounter just trying to promote a show, give the fighters and fans a good experience, and most important -- hopefully turn a small profit. MORE

2009 Maxwell, Bednarik, and Munger Award Semifinalists

Maxwell Football Club President, Ron Jaworski, announced the 2009 Semifinalists for the 73rd Maxwell Award for the Collegiate Player of the Year, the 15th Chuck Bednarik Award for the Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year, and the 21st George Munger Award for College Coach of the Year. The respective lists include a field of 16 candidates for the Maxwell and Bednarik Awards and 15 candidates for the Munger Award as selected by the Maxwell Football Club Advisory Committee. Tim Tebow the 2007 and 2008 winner of the Maxwell Award leads an impressive list of candidates for this season's honor. In 2007 Tebow was the first sophomore ever selected as the winner of the Maxwell Award. Tebow followed up with another impressive performance in 2008 and became the second two time winner of the Maxwell Award in the Club's 73-year history. On the defensive side of the ball Alabama's standout linebacker Rolando McClain and defensive tackle Terrence Cody head up an impressive group of defensive players under consideration for this year's Bednarik Award. MORE

Undefeated Magazine - Second Edition

Undefeated Magazine is excited to present to you the second edition in glossy format and will be in the newsstands in 2010. To celebrate this commemorative issue is dedicated to undefeated fighters. The magazine is now being distributed at the national level and we are expanding our coverage to include national story lines to provide our readership with event results and exclusive fighter interviews. 

Also, we are excited to announce that we are developing a series of Undefeated Fighter Seminar Series held throughout Texas.  The seminars will feature top instructors and experts from various industries and backgrounds on topics such as nutrition, financial planning, media training, and legal representation. Our goal is to provide fighters with continuing education for their personal growth on physical, mental and spiritual levels. We will keep you informed via our newsletter and website.

Undefeated Magazine and H.I.T. Gyms co-hosted the first Elite Texas Amateur Showcase.  The showcase provided top young boxers an opportunity to prepare for the 2009 National Police Athletic League Championship in San Antonio, Texas. This unique event featured over 50 bouts, with fighters from more than 25 gyms from across Texas and Louisiana. The event took place October 3rd at Texans Indoor Soccer in Houston, Texas with over 500 spectators in attendance. Many Houston based professional boxing promoters were at the event. Cameron Park of Rock Solid Promotions, Tuan Tran of TKO Promotions, Chris Henard of Chris Henard Promotions, Larry Hernandez of Aztec Empire Promotions, and Joe Spudic of the TDLR came out to keep tabs on the next crop of upcoming talent.

Undefeated will publish one more issue in 2009 and is asking its loyal supporters to email us and subscribe to the Undefeated Newsletter and in return you will receive a free one year subscription. Undefeated will still be available at boxing gyms, mixed martial arts centers, sports bars, & restaurants throughout the United States. We encourage you to advertise with us and tap into the niche market of sport fanatics within the combative sport industry. 

To be added to our gym mailing list email us at undefeatedmagazine@gmail.com

Visit us at www.undefeatedmagazine.com

Kingpin Woes Champion Klitschko and Swiss at Press Conference

When Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight Kevin "Kingpin" Johnson (22-0-1, 9KO) faces off against Vitali Klitschko (38-2, 37KO) for Vitali's WBC Heavyweight Championship belt on December 12th at the PostFinance Arena in Bern, Switzerland, there won't be an empty seat left in the house. The arena which holds 17,000 people has already completely sold out all of its pre-sale tickets. And while many of those 17,000 people will consist of Klitschko's adoring European fans, after Johnson's recent appearance in Switzerland to officially announce the upcoming bout, there just might be more than a few fans cheering for the American Johnson.

"Everyone fell in love with Kevin in Switzerland. The press, the fans, and even Vitali was impressed with Kevin," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and founder of Star Boxing, who accompanied Johnson on the trip.
The official press conference to announce the fight was held Friday at Switzerland's famous Jungfraujoch (elevation, 11,333 feet; 3,454 meters), the highest train station in all of Europe.

Johnson was the first of the fighter's to address the audience, thanking everyone for coming, and inviting him to their beautiful country and to Vitali for accepting the challenge.

"Vitali is a great champion, but I am not leaving this country on December 12th without that belt," stated Johnson. "I made a promise to my daughter at home that I will be coming back the WBC Heavyweight Champion of the World, and I have no intentions of breaking that promise." MORE

Casal vs. Fernandez at
Buffalo Niagara Convention Center

Promoter Nick Garone and his X-Cel Worldwide have announced most of the opponents for their November 6 “Road to Redemption” event at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.

In the main event, hometown hero Nick “Hands of Gold” Casal (19-4-1, 15 KOs) will face Salt Lake City’s Christopher “Kid Kayo” Fernandez (18-7-1, 11 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight showdown.

Fernandez has had mixed success as he’s stepped up his competition, but recently went the distance with highly rated former junior welterweight champion Paulie Malignaggi.

"The first time Nick fought on one of my shows, it was just to get him back in the ring and back to the winning column. This fight against Fernandez represents the next step in our plans," explained Garone. “He’s a tough kid who’s gone some rounds with some very tough guys and even taken a few 0’s along the way from some undefeated fighters. We think he’s a great choice for the fans and for Nick." MORE

Star Boxing and Larry Flynt's Hustler Club NYC to Present A New Boxing Special Event Series

PREMIERE EVENT TO FEATURE ARNAOUTIS VS. COLEMAN FOR USBA TITLE AS WELL AS THE RETURN OF KID CHOCOLATE

Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing announces a promotional alliance with Larry Flynt's Hustler Club-NYC to produce a new series of star-studded boxing events. There will be a press conference held this Wednesday at New York's celebrity favorite, Il Postino Ristorante to officially announce the joint venture and the company's first upcoming event.

The first event, to be held on December 3rd at the Manhattan Center, will feature a USBA light welterweight title championship between Star Boxing's "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis (22-3-2, 10KO) and Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman (16-1-1, 4KO). Also on the card are Brooklyn's sensational knockout artist Peter "Kid Chocolate" Quillen (20-0, 15KO) and Star Boxing's undefeated light welterweight prospect "The New" Ray Robinson (11-0, 4KO).

The series is a collaborative effort between leading boxing promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing and Steve Karel, the director of marketing at Larry Flynt's Hustler Club New York. Karel, who also operates Stonecutter Event Promotions, Inc. is a longstanding television industry veteran who also does pay-per-view placement and event marketing. MORE

Annual Children's Holiday Show to Take Place on December 4 at the Legendary Blue Horizon and Broadcasted on GFL

Upsher Chambers, Cullmer ; Nathan Perrott and three of Sweden’s best boxers on a loaded card

PHILADELPHIA (October 31, 2009)—On Friday night December 4th, it will be a special night at The Legendary Blue Horizon as Steve Upsher Chambers will look to continue his climb up the Jr. Welterweight division as he headlines the annual “Children’s Holiday Show” boxing card at the famous boxing venue.

THE SHOW CAN BE VIEWED LIVE!! ON WWW.GOFIGHTLIVE.TV FOR $5.99 BY CLICKING:

http://www.gofightlive.tv/showEvent.do?event=546

MORE

IBO Sends Pacquiao Ultimatum

Beginning Nov. 15, International Boxing Organization junior welterweight title-holder Manny Pacquiao will have 60 days to decide whether he’ll defend or relinquish his championship, according to a Wednesday statement from IBO President Ed Levine.

The IBO is the only sanctioning body to recognize Pacquiao as a world champion.

“Manny Pacquiao was notified that he will be given time to decide whether to defend his championship at 140 pounds or vacate the title,” Levine said. “He is still well within his time requirements to make a title defense in the weight class. So, we’ll allow him a chance to decide and notify us.”

Levine released the statement in response to several inquiries about Pacquiao’s title status. MORE

“Gentleman” Gerry Cooney
Could Have Been Champ!

So many times I’ve seen certain good boxers come along when there was a dominating champion.  On the other hand I have seen some better than average boxers win world titles because there wasn’t such a champion.  “Gentleman” Gerry Cooney is a perfect example. I remember when Ali was inactive and there was a tournament of eight boxers. Joe Frazier decided not to enter it and wait for the winner. Jimmy Ellis was an underdog and won the tournament becoming champion. Today, Cooney would be a champion.

At a recent signing show Cooney was just leaving as I got there.  At 6:06 and still looking like he could enter the ring you couldn’t miss him if you were a fight fan. As soon as I talked to him I could see the nickname “Gentleman” was not something he didn’t earn but lived.

Cooney was 55-3 in the amateurs and a New York Golden Gloves champion in 1976.  He was closer to 200 pounds than the 238 at his highest weight in the professional ranks.   He trained at the Huntington Athletic Club on Long Island.  His trainer was John Capobianco, Sr. He was signed by the “odd couple” Mike Jones and Dennis Rappaport.  His new trainer would be Victor Valle, Sr.  He made his debut in New York the on Valentine’s Day week-end knocking out the first of nine opponents in then fights in the next twelve months. MORE

Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham to Face Matt ‘Too Smooth’ Godfrey for Vacant IBF Cruiserweight Crown?

Former Cruiserweight King Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham’s dreams of regaining the IBF Cruiserweight belt from the man that took his coveted title were shattered on Monday when Main Event’s boss Kathy Duva announced that Tomasz ‘Goral’ Adamek had relinquished the crown.

The IBF reacted quickly to Adamek’s resignation by announcing that Matt ‘Too Smooth’ Godfrey would be the next available for the vacant title and ordered negotiations to start for the fight with ‘USS’ Cunningham. MORE

Edison "Pantera" Miranda Scores Spectacular 1st Round KO
Manuel "El Toro" Quezada 
Retains WBC CABOFE Heavyweight Title 

October 22, 2009 Tachi Palace Casino in Lemoore CA
Photos by Jan Sanders/Goossen Tutor Promotions

Former world title challenger and current top rated super-middleweight contender, Edison "Pantera" Miranda (33-4, 29 KO's), scored a spectacular 1st round KO over Mexican National Champion, Francisco "Panchito" Sierra (20-3, 19 KO's).
 
Early in the round both fighters were feeling each other out.  Sierra came out jabbing while Miranda landed some left hooks to the head.  The action started to get heavy as the round continued and both fighters were landing solid punches.  Miranda started to work his way inside and used his strength to back up Sierra.  Sierra was holding his ground but headed to the ropes.  That's when Miranda landed an overhand right, that landed flush on Sierra's temple.  The fight was stopped immediately at 2:16 of round one and Miranda became the new NABO super-middleweight champion. MORE

Johnson and DeGuardia
Head to Switzerland
WBC Heavyweight Championship of the World

On December 12, Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight contender Kevin "Kingpin" Johnson (22-0-1, 9KO) finally will have his chance to stake his claim as the best heavyweight in the world when he challenges Vitali "Dr. Ironfist" Klitschko (38-2, 37KO) for Vitali's WBC Heavyweight Championship at the Post Finance Arena in Berne, Switzerland.

Kingpin, along with promoter Joe DeGuardia, will travel to Switzerland today to officially announce the upcoming bout Johnson, (WBC #6, WBA #6, WBO #9, IBF #12) is coming off an impressive fifth round stoppage victory over previously unbeaten, 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Captain, Devin Vargas in May on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights". MORE

Rumble at the Hilton Rye Town II Results

On Wednesday night at the Hilton Rye Town Hotel in Rye Brook, NY, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presented an exciting five bout card before a near capacity crowd. Headlining the show was former number one light heavyweight contender, and Westchester County native, David Telesco, taking on former two-time super middleweight champion, Bryon Mitchell, in a match-up of two explosive punchers.

MITCHELL (R) STOPS TELESCO
Both fighters came out in the first looking to measure each other with their jabs, and find the range to land their power shots.

Near the end of the first a huge counter overhand right from Mitchell caught Telesco flush on the chin while Telesco was looking to exchange, sending him to the canvas just as the bell sounded to end the first. Telesco jumped up immediately, but seemed to be on shaky legs.

In the second Telesco began using his jab to keep Mitchell at bay, and landed a nice left hook midway through the round that seemed to stun the hard pressing Mitchell. With Telesco's back against the ropes Mitchell landed another huge counter overhand right just as Telesco was unleashing a left hook, dropping Telesco face first to the canvas.

Telesco tried to get to his feet, but was in no condition to continue, forcing the referee to call a halt to the contest at 2:08 of the second round.

With the win, Mitchell improves to 28-5-1, 21KO while Telesco drops to 30-7-1, 25 KO. MORE

The nationally known Battle in the Ballroom will become the first USA fight promotions company to market to fight fans with Content Rich Text Messaging and we want our fans to jump on board to get the latest information on ticket discounts, view video highlights and be alerted with up to date fight cards. As an incentive to opt in all you have to do is text “BATTLE” to 35620 and you are automatically entered to win one of three VIP Packages we are giving away to three lucky fight fans, which includes dinner for two at Prego Restaurante, and a overnight room at the Irvine Marriott and two (2) tickets to either the Oct 29th or Dec 17th Boxing shows.

With the Battle in the Ballroom now going mobile it allows fans an easier way to win the $1,000 Knock Out Promotion, KO winners will be announced on the spot during our show via a text message. 

The October 29th Battle in the Ballroom Boxing show will feature Joe Hanks (9-0 6ko's) who is coming off his Aug 27th Ballroom win over Ashanti Jordan facing experienced Big John Clark fighting out of Huntington Beach with a record of (14-14 9ko’s). This will be the fight to watch as Hanks tries to keep his undefeated record from being tainted. MORE

Philly’s Fab Five Are All Unbeaten!

In the mid 70’s Philly had an era that has not been seen since up until now. There was “Boogaloo” (Bobby Watts), “Bad Bennie” (Bennie Briscoe),” Kitten” (Stanley Hayward), “Cyclone” (Eugene Hart), and the “Worm” (Willie Monroe). They went to war fighting each other in the ring and in the gyms.  The promoter’s like J. Russell Peltz, Herman Taylor and Lou Lucchesse had a field day of success but only two of the fighters got title bouts, but neither won a title. From upstate Pennsylvania (Leesport) Lucchesse was the most popular of the promoters and was able to get Hayward a title fight. Briscoe had three shots under Peltz.  That era is gone but a new wave of fighters has arrived with five unbeaten fighters all with out of state promoters. Let’s start with the past era. MORE

Rumble at the Hilton Rye Town II
Undercard Announced

On Wednesday October 21st, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presents its second installment of Rumble at the Hilton Rye Town at the Hilton Rye Town Hotel in Rye Brook, NY. Headlining the card will be former number one light heavyweight contender David Telesco (30-6-1, 25KO) taking on former two- time world champion Byron Mitchell (27-5-1, 20KO).

In addition to the main event, there will be five exciting undercard bouts, featuring two former armed forces representatives and also including three undefeated prospects.

U.S. MARINE/REALITY TV SHOW STAR IN CO-FEATURE

Fighting in one of the feature bouts of the evening is Yonkers fan favorite, Jon Schneider (7-3-1, 5KO) as he squares off against 1996 Guyana Olympian John Douglas (6-13-3, 3KO) in a six round cruiserweight match-up. Schneider, who is a former U.S. Marine, who served four years of active duty, was most recently seen participating as one of the Star's on the hit reality show "The Contender" Season 4. MORE

Hall of Fame for José Legra?

He was a two time world champion and a perennial contender for the featherweight title for more then a decade. In a fifteen year career he amassed 150 fights. He won 134 of them. At one point in his career he reeled off over 50 straight wins. Are these the credentials for a future Hall Of fame inductee?

Born in Cuba in 1943, Legra turned pro in 1960. Although active, most of his early fights took place in Cuba and Mexico. He made his first appearance in Spain in 1963. It is there that he decided to live and ply his trade. He was tall, lean and very fast. He would befuddle his opponents with his grace and boxing skills. He would emerge as a serious threat for world honors. MORE

Former Champ Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham’s ‘Fighting Obesity In Children’ Camp This Saturday

Former IBF Cruiserweight World Champion, and current #1 ranked IBF contender, Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham is keeping himself busy as he waits to reclaim the coveted Cruiserweight crown by hosting a free camp for the children of Philadelphia at Rock Ministry in Philadelphia on Saturday 17th October 2009.

‘USS’ Cunningham, who lost the IBF Cruiserweight title by a close split decision, after the magnificent December ‘08  ‘Fight Of The Year’ nominated battle with Tomasz ‘Goral’ Adamek, created the camp to teach children the value of physical fitness and healthy nutrition, as well as provide them with the confidence and tools to achieve their health and fitness goals. MORE

Taylor vs. Abraham Tale of the Tape

Two of the strongest middleweight champions ever will clash on Saturday, October 17th in the opening bout of SHOWTIME’S Super Six World Boxing Classic, when Jermain Taylor (28-3-1,17 KO's) and Arthur Abraham (30-0, 24 KO's) meet at the o2 World Arena in Berlin, Germany. The Anatomy Of A Fight, known historically as The Tale Of The Tape, shows the physical differences between the fighters. Only one will prevail when Taylor pits his greater height, reach, and natural athleticism against Abraham's durability and strength. But there is one thing that the "The Anatomy of a Fight" cannot measure -- the size of each man’s heart and his will to win. That's where this fight will be decided. MORE

Battle in the Ballroom Newsletter

The biggest fight card the Battle in the Ballroom has seen in several years was announced today by promoter Roy Englebrecht. Three undefeated heavyweights, two undefeated Santa Ana prospects, and a fierce female matchup headline the Thursday Oct 29th show at the Irvine Marriott. Fans won’t want to miss up and coming local Santa Ana fighters Robert Vargas and Arquimedez Garcia take to the ring as well as undefeated heavyweight prospects Scott Alexander, Lionel Davis and Ballroom fan favorite Joe Hanks now 9-0 with 6 KO’s.

Hanks who is coming off his Aug 27th Ballroom win over Ashanti Jordan faces experienced Big John Clark fighting out of Huntington Beach with a record of 14-14 9ko’s. This will be the fight to watch as Hanks tries to keep his undefeated record from being tainted.

In a six round female war Jennifer “The Razor” Barber puts her record (8-1) against Santa Ana local favorite Gloria Ramirez (10-15-7 1 KO) who is coming off a draw with Rhonda Luna last month at San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino. MORE

“War at the Armory” Season Begins, Rochester November 19, Featuring Edwin Rodriguez, Unbeaten Prospects

Resnick Productions, DiBella Entertainment and the Main Street Armory are teaming up and bringing to Rochester an ongoing Professional Boxing series. Thursday, November 19th will be the first of four (4) shows in the 2009-2010 season.

Headlining the show will be one of the sports hottest new prospects Edwin Rodriguez, supported by fights featuring the best young talent upstate and western New York has to offer.

Rodriguez 12-0 with 8ko’s, born in the Dominican Republic and fighting out of Worchester, Massachusetts is highly regarded in the industry as the best up and coming prospect in the Middleweight division.

Ron Resnick, the event’s co-promoter, is thrilled to bring back a world class talent like Edwin Rodriguez, to the fans in Rochester for the headline fight in what promises to be a memorable night at the Main Street Armory. 

Rodriguez was the most impressive fighter on this summers “Fight Night at Frontier” card scoring a 3rd round TKO over Angle Gonzales. “Edwin is the real thing I was blown away by his talent and ring present,” said Resnick. “He is the fighter that will be headlining shows on HBO or Showtime in the near future. Fans in Rochester are in for a treat when they see just how good he is." MORE

The Professor and the Apprentice

The trip from the top of the world to the lowest rung on the ladder can be slow and excruciatingly painful or fast and nearly pain free. Seldom are you allowed to plan your own itinerary for this excursion. In some cases the slide downward is not only pain free, but planned, well in advance.
Trip's like this are for the male population, which has enjoyed centuries of dominance are difficulty, to say the least. For women who have only recently been in a position to make it to the top, departing from the mountain's crest has to my knowledge never been planned.

What do you do when you are at very bottom of the valley? The strong willed (nearly all who have made it to the top are strong willed... but the fall can easily break the spirit), place their foot on the bottom rung of the ladder and try to make the ascent back up. An example is Donald Trump, who with all his real estate, hotels, restaurants, casinos, etc., etc., found himself in bankruptcy court one day and the next day nearly penniless and in debt up to his well styled hair. What to do? "The Donald" scrambled back up that ladder and placed himself in a position to tell all, YOU'RE FIRED! MORE

Fist Series Mixed Martial Arts Newsletter

In a sign that mixed martial arts has truly made it, the sport was satirized on Sunday's new installment of the "The Simpsons" on Fox, and OC Fight Promoter Roy Englebrecht was the MMA promoter they featured.

In the episode, dubbed "The Great Wife Hope," Marge takes on mixed martial arts after Springfield's male population embraces the local MMA organization UPKCC, the acronym for the Ultimate Punch, Kick and Choke Championship.

Marge later competes after UPKCC president Chet Englebrecht agrees to shut down the promotion if Marge can beat him in a cage match.

MMA fans can appreciate the show writers' obvious knowledge of MMA, including references to a septagon, tribal bicep tattoos, and Marge's training regiment, which includes boxing with Drederick Tatum, Jiu Jitsu with local martial-arts instructor Akira, and wrestling with Mr. Burns. In fact, during one exchange in which Marge talks about getting the sport shut down, Nelson explains. MORE

Another Falls as Rocky Marciano’s 49-0 Is Still Standing Since 1955!

For over 50 years since “The Brockton Blockbuster” Rocky Marciano retired after his September 21st fight in 1955 with Archie Moore there have only been a handful of boxers that surpassed his 49-0 record.  But none of these boxers would retire with an unblemished record.  Recently in Manchester, New Hampshire another “Marciano record breaker want-to-be” bit the dust.  But before we go there let’s look at some others who came close.

Joe Calzaghe, 46-0, the man Roy Jones, Jr. called “the best pound for pound boxer” after losing to him in November of 2008 retired after that fight.  The Pride of Wales was so close to matching the Rock’s record.  “Pretty Boy” Floyd Mayweather is currently at 40-0 and stopped Ricky Hattons streak at 43-0.  Alabama’s Don Steele in 1997 had won 40 straight all by knockout (1 no decision) when he lost to Denmark’s Brian Nielsen, then 38-0.  Nielsen would get to 49-0 tying the Marciano mark until he faced Dickie Ryan and ran out of gas in the 10th and final round. MORE

See Israel Vazquez Return to the Ring
Get the Battle in the Ballroom Free

Golden Boy Promotions and Roy Englebrecht Promotions announced today a Special Ticket Offer to celebrate the return to the ring of Two Time World Champion Israel Vazquez! For each $200 or $100 ticket that fans receiving this email purchase to see Israel Vazquez face Angel Priolo on Saturday, October 10 at Nokia Theater at L.A. Live, they will receive an equal number of free tickets to the Battle In The Ballroom October 29 show or December 17 show at the Irvine Marriott. The $200 seats are located on the Nokia Theater stage next to the ring, and the $100 tickets are in the Orchestra right in front of the stage! Now fans can see a great champion at the Nokia Theatre and see future champions at the Marriott at no additional cost!

To take advantage of this Special 2 for 1 Ticket Offer, you must call Drew at Roy Englebrecht Promotions at 949-760-3131, with the deadline to order being Thursday, October 8. MORE

Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero says:
Goosen-Tutor Press Release is Wrong!

This afternoon Goossen-Tutor Promotions, LLC ("GTP") issued a press release relating to Robert Guerrero, which misstates the relevant facts.  In order to avoid all confusion, here are the facts relative to the dispute between Guerrero and GTP.
 
1.     In March 2003, Guerrero and GTP entered into a promotional agreement which provided for a 5 year term commencing on May 4, 2003 (the GTP Promotional Agreement").
 
2.     All professional boxing promotional agreements executed in California must include the Commission-approved California Addendum.
 
3.     The California Addendum expressly provides that no promotional agreement may exceed 5 years, and that the terms of the California Addendum control over any conflicting provision in the parties' promotional agreement.  (A copy of the California Addendum, with the relevant provisions marked is annexed hereto may be attained from Team Guerrero Publicist Mario Serrano email: boxingpublicst@aol.com.)
MORE

Jermain Taylor Not Lacking In Confidence Or Feeling Any Pressure As He Sets His Sights On Arthur Abraham at the O2 World Arena, Saturday, October 17 in Berlin, Germany

"I respect Arthur as a fighter, he has good power and he's a smart fighter, but I smell victory in the air for this fight."
Jermain Taylor

Sometimes a fighter can find himself up against the ropes. That's the feeling most people in the boxing community have about Jermain Taylor. He’s fighting an undefeated former champ in his hometown and he is the underdog. The pressure is on, but nothing could be further from Taylor’s mind as he prepares to face Arthur Abraham on October 17th, at the o2 World arena in Berlin, Germany.
 
“If anyone thinks I'm lacking in confidence or feeling any pressure, they’re dead wrong,” said Taylor. “Just because I've lost a few fights, I'm not ready to be written off. “Sometimes a fighter can lose and get beat up with that loss. That has not happened to me. I beat myself in every fight I lost, but I have learned from my mistakes. I'm a better fighter because of the losses.”

Taylor is also a more focused and disciplined boxer in the gym. He’s already put in close to three months of training for the Abraham fight, including a 10-week camp at George Foreman’s Youth Center in Houston, Texas, where a new road-work routine was added to his training. Taylor says he has enjoyed the challenge of the new routine, which has him running a full mile and then alternating 400- and 800- meter intervals with 100-meter sprints in-between. The total track work adds up to five quality miles of road work. MORE

Steve “Bluesman” McCrory was Solid Gold in 84!

When your brother is Milt “Ice Man” McCrory, the WBC welterweight champion you have some large shoes to fill.  This was 1983 and his younger brother Steve “Bluesman” as he was called, had just won his third United States Amateur title and was heading to the Pan Am Games in Caracas.  He would bring back a Bronze medal and be determined to go to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 1984 and bring home the Fold.  In 1984 when Milt was making his second title defense his kid brother was winning the Gold medal for team USA. 

“He came into the Kronk Gym at the age of 9 along with his brother Milt, Jimmy Paul and Duane Thomas.  He would move around with his hands down just like a pro”, said Manny Steward.  McCrory would end his amateur career with a 221-17 record and turn professional in October of 1984.  Thomas had already turned professional in 1979 and was the USBA champion.  He would win the WBC light middleweight title in 1986 stopping John “The Beast” Mugabi. MORE

Boxing Promoters Association Praises Boxing Event

It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Boxing Promoter's Association (BPA), to congratulate our sport in once again showing that BOXING is truly desired by fans. In as much the recent Mayweather-Marquez boxing event on HBO/PPV produced over a million buys and generated over $52 million dollars, it is clear that those that underestimate the appeal of BOXING are mistaken.

What is particularly interesting is that the BOXING match went head to head with UFC 103, which was also a PPV event. Many sports reporters incorrectly predicted that the UFC/MMA event would exceed the sales of the BOXING event. While the exact amount of buys for UFC 103 hasn't been made available by UFC President Dana White, all estimates are under 500K buys, less than one-half as the Mayweather-Marquez BOXING broadcast. MORE

Olympian Devin Vargas Returns to Action at Howard’s Beach 9/30!

One of the most decorated amateurs in recent years, Devin Vargas, 17-1 (7), who represented the USA in the 2004 Olympics headlines against Terrell “Baby Bull” Nelson, 8-8 (5), in the main event Wednesday at Russo’s On The Bay, Howard Beach, New York.  This is a Joe DeGuardia Star Boxing Promotion that will also mark the return of one of Vargas’ 2004 teammates, Roberto Benitez, 5-0 (3), after a 3 year lay-off.

Vargas ran off 17 straight wins from November of 2004 to March of this year.  He then took a major step up against one of the top heavyweight contender’s in Kevin Johnson, 21-0-1, at the time.  He was to be fighting the former heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon on the card when Monte Barrett pulled out against Johnson. Vargas was to have his first 10 rounder that night but fought someone with a completely different style.  He did fine until the 3rd round when Johnson’s slapping left hooks caused a hole in the ear drum of Vargas.  He had problems with his balance from then on until the fight was stopped. He certainly had a champion’s heart which says a lot for his future.  “I felt I won the first 3 rounds and had him in trouble.  I couldn’t keep my balance after the injury to my ear. In the 5th round I thought I was closer to the ropes in backing up to them when I went down,” said Vargas. MORE

One on One with 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Captain: Devastatin Devin Vargas

On Wednesday September 30th Star Boxing's heavyweight contender, "Devastatin" Devin Vargas (17-1, 7KO) will look to get back into the win column when he takes on Terrell "Baby Bull" Nelson (8-8, 5KO) at Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, NY. The bout is scheduled for eight rounds in the heavyweight division.

Vargas recently took time out of his training schedule to talk about his upcoming fight, what he thinks of the heavyweight division as a whole, and what fighters in particular are on his immediate hitlist.

Q: Devin, how has everything been leading up to this fight? How long have you been in training?

DV: Everything has been good leading up to this fight. I had a good six weeks notice for this so I trained really hard. I will weigh anywhere between 216lbs and 220lbs. I finally started lifting weights so I am starting to put some muscle on, I still need some work, but I feel much stronger already.

Q: Your opponent Nelson has been in with some pretty good fighters, what do you know about him? MORE

In Our Prayers

Our team cutman Hank is very ill with Cancer, he recently relocated from Vegas to Georgia to live with his family. I am asking all the boxers & the boxing community if they would send Hank a card, this would lift his spirits and make him so happy. I am trying to flood Hank with get well wishes, I want him to know we are all thinking about him. Hank is also a Viet Nam War Hero.

Please keep Hank in your prayers.

Charles Hank Henry
468 Copper Creek Circle
Pooler, Georgia 31322

Thank you so much & God Bless,
Mary Ann & Butch / infinity boxing LLC

CA Hall of Fame’s Newest Inductees
Don Fraser Honors Boxing’s Best

By Michele Chong

Don Fraser is a legend in boxing.

As a former editor of KO magazine, PR Director for the Olympic Auditorium, Inglewood Forum, promoter for the Olympic and Irvine Marriott Hotel, it would be an understatement to say he knows the business of the sweet science very, very well.

And he has been a mentor to many in the boxing community. Fraser’s generosity in mentoring others is well-documented; the proof is in his protégés’ many successes. The veteran of the fight game is also founder and President of the California Boxing Hall of Fame.

This organization holds an annual induction for those who have contributed to the sport of boxing in the California. This West Coast function is a prestigious honor that I, myself, am proud to be a part of. Last year, Don surprised me with my own induction (along with Steve Harpst). Our day at the Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City will always remain a special highlight for me. MORE

Rusty's Boxercise/ BodyBoxing/SafeBoxing

My name is Rusty Rosenberger, a former New Jersey State middleweight boxing champion, now living in Ohio.

I'm a very experienced teacher, trainer, and the innovator of Boxercise, invented in 1995. "Boxercise" is a non-contact boxing fitness exercise program where students are taught boxing footwork, boxing punch techniques, the jab, power hand, and hook. After being taught the correct punch techniques and footwork, the student is gloved up, and I wear a pair of hand pads/focus mitts, the electronic timer is activated, and the round begins. I'll lead you through 1-2-3... rounds of a safe boxing workout.

As your conditioning level and technique ability improves, and they will in a short period of time, the amount of rounds and the intensity will also increase. Weight loss and muscle toning is eminent, and fast, training three times per week, for 6 minutes per training session.

BodyBoxing is the ultimate in safe boxing and physical conditioning.

A personal demonstration will convince you of my professionalism and expertise, and the conditioning, mentally and physically, you'll receive from this of this unique, safe boxing fitness program.

Click HERE for a video.

Terrible Tim Witherspoon:
Why I liked Him

by Jim Amato

In my opinion one of the most under rated heavyweights over the last twenty years has been "Terrible" Tim Witherspoon. He was a two time world champion and a solid contender for close to two decades. This man DESERVES some recognition.

Tim, a native of the great fight city of Philadelphia turned pro in 1979. He won his first fifteen fights beating the likes of Marvin Stinson, Alonzo Ratliff and Renaldo Snipes. This led to a 1983 title shot against the respected Larry Holmes. Larry walked away with a highly controversial decision win. Despite the loss the "Terrible" one had arrived.

Tim rebounded outscoring Jumbo Cummings and blasting out James "Quick" Tillis in one for the NABF title. In 1984 Witherspoon was matched with the talented Greg Page for the vacant WBC title. On this night Tim would outscore Page to win his first title. In his first defense Tim was out jabbed and out boxed by the speedy Pinklon Thomas. "Pinky" put on a class performance that night. MORE

George “Monk” Foreman III

With the support of his father, the former heavyweight champion of the world, “Monk” Foreman will enter the ring September 26th, at the Coushatta Casino in Kinder, Louisiana, for his third boxing match as a professional prize fighter.

About two hours drive east of Houston, George Foreman III (2-0, 2 KOs) returns to the location where he made his boxing debut to attempt to score another knockout victory while making progress in a career that is on the fast track.

The building of a championship contender is a process, but building up the son of an icon is a delicate one.  After only one year of serious training, Monk has the simple goal of learning to execute in front of live fans, the training that he is learning in the gym.  Without any amateur experience, he is learning his craft in the pro ranks. MORE

Back with a Vengeance: Benitez Returns on VIP Boxing II

On September 30th Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will present its second installment of VIP Boxing at the beautiful Russo's On The Bay in Howard Beach, NY. Headlining the show will be Star Boxing's heavyweight prospect, the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team Captain, "Devastatin" Devin Vargas (17-1, 7KO) taking on Terrell "Baby Bull" Nelson (8-8, 5KO) in an eight round heavyweight attraction.

Fighting on the undercard in one of the co-feature bouts of the evening will be Star Boxing's highly touted super bantamweight prospect Roberto Benitez (5-0, 3KO). Benitez is scheduled to face off against Angel Paneto (4-5-2, 2KO). The bout is scheduled for six rounds in the super bantamweight divison. MORE

WBC Light Heavyweight Championship This Friday Highlights Five Big Shows This Weekend on GoFightLive

PLUS DAVID DIAZ TAKES ON JESUS CHAVEZ ON SATURDAY NIGHT

It will be a weekend of champions on www.gofightlive.tv as on Friday night Jean Pascal will defend the WBC Light Heavyweight championship against Silvio Branco from Montreal.  If that wasn't’t enough two former world champions will wage war in a cant Miss Fight of The Year Candidate as David Diaz and Jesus Chavez will get it on from Chicago. 

Fans can also witness a great show from Philadelphia featuring undefeated Jr. Welterweight “Hammering” Hank Lundy.  That fight card will be available Monday.  There also will be a taped show from The United States Virgin Islands featuring the Olympians Julius  and John Jackson.

Also available on Monday will Extreme Challenge Mixed Martial Arts. MORE

Jones Faces Gutierrez on GO FIGHT LIVE!

Unbeaten Mike Jones, of North Philadelphia, faces what could be the toughest test of his four-year career when he defends his North American Boxing Association (NABA) welterweight title against Richard Gutierrez, of Miami, FL, in the scheduled 10-round main event Saturday evening, Nov. 7, at Bally’s Atlantic City.

The seven-bout card, which begins at 7.30 pm, will be televised live by www.gofightlive.tv.

The 26-year-old Jones returns to the same ring where he earned a 10-round decision Aug. 8 over Lenin Arroyo, also of Miami, FL. A pro since December, 2005, Jones is 18-0, 15 K0s. He is ranked No. 7 by the World Boxing Association (WBA), No. 12 by the International Boxing Federation, No. 14 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), No. 25 by the World Boxing Council.

Jones won the vacant NABA title Aug. 29, 2008, scoring a sixth-round knockout over Juliano Ramos, of Boca Raton, FL, at the New Alhambra in South Philadelphia. He twice defended the belt, stopping Dairo Esalas, of Miami, in two rounds March 6 at the Blue Horizon in Philadelphia and defeating Arroyo last month. MORE

“Candyman” Blake Prevost returns Saturday at Coushatta Casino
in Kinder, Louisiana

Blake “Candyman” Prevost will return to the boxing ring on September 26th in Kinder, Louisiana, at the Coushatta Casino events pavilion in a show promoted by Real Fights, Inc , a promotional company owned by long time George Foreman advisor, Ron Weathers.  In June, following a two year layoff to recuperate from multiple injuries, the Lawtell, LA native improved his record to 11-1-1 with 4 knockouts by winning a four round decision victory over Moses Robinson of Tyler, Texas.

Prevost is quickly nearing the form he had held while establishing himself as one of the top light heavyweights in the region.“I’m so happy to be fighting again. For a while, I couldn’t even watch any boxing because it was tearing me up not being able to get in there,” he recalled. MORE

Boxing Event Coming to SE Houston!

We are two weeks away from Aztec Empire Promotions professional boxing event “The New Generation / La Nueva Generacion”. September 17, 2009, at El Portal Club in southeast Houston, Texas, will be the site for the inaugural show. Squaring up in the main event for the Texas Super Featherweight Title is unbeaten boxer-puncher Eleazar “Pelon” Renteria going up against power punching Angel Rodriguez. This matchup promises to be an exciting fight between two Houston cross-town rivals. The co-main event and undercard will feature many local favorites, dangerous Angel “El Gallo” Herrera, Nelson Ramos, Uko Isidien, Rodrigo Villarreal, Jonathan Jones, pro debut Rafael “El Pipiripau” Munoz and Rosenberg’s Fernando Castaneda, these local and area young up-and-coming prospects are sure to provide a night of explosive boxing. Tickets are priced at $20 general admission and $65 VIP ringside or a complete table of 8 VIP Ringside seats with your name or business name for $520. VIP Ringside tickets are expected to sell out well in advance. Location to purchase tickets will be at Aztec Empire Boxing Gym, 201 Adams Street, Houston, TX 77011. Or by calling 832-206-4984 / 832-744-5001, tickets will also be available the day of the event.

Larry Hernandez, who is the owner of the Aztec Empire Boxing Gym and Founder of Aztec Empire Promotions, said, “I’ve done all of the legwork regarding the local boxing market and I know that the time is right to launch our promotional company.  Boxing fans love great, tough, action packed fights and that is what AEP will give the fans without exception.”

Hernandez continued, “I truly believe that Houston possess some of the world’s most talented young fighters and boxing’s best fans. AEP will harness the two in order to create a strong base for our local talent to be ready to move to the next levels in boxing.  I’m very proud and excited about September 17 and look forward to giving back to my community and the great city of Houston and want to thank everyone for their continued support.”

In Rusty’s Corner

Rusty Rubin is a veteran boxing writer

The World Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on October 24th at the LAX Marriott. Further information will be passed along as it becomes available.

Among those being inducted and expected to be on hand are ex-champion Brian Mitchell, Rafael Herrera, Orlando Canizales and popular long-time boxing commentator Al Bernstein. An event to look forward to, as always.***

How much did Floyd Mayweather’s easy win over Juan Manuel Marquez surprise me? I must admit that he did it with more ease than I expected, coming off a two year layoff. But an even bigger payday looms for “Money” if Manny Pacquiao does as expected and beats Miguel Cotto later on this year.

This Saturday, in Los Angeles, Vitali Klitschko takes on Cristobal Arreola in a major heavyweight fight. MORE

Boxing Promoters Association Holds Second Meeting

Monday September 14th marked the second meeting of the much anticipated formation of the Boxing Promoters Association (BPA). Progress continued to be made in this historic venture, as once again close to thirty of the United States top promoters met together at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City.

After an all-day meeting, the promoters established and elected a Board of Directors, three Officers, as well as created eight working committees that will report recommendations to the Association.

The Association's board of directors was voted on by all the members in attendance. After the voting was tallied, it was determined that the Board would be made up of Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing, Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment, Art Pelullo of Banner Promotions, Jimmy Burchfield of Classic Entertainment and Sports, and Don Chargin of Don Chargin Productions. MORE

Main Events Drama: 3 Events Set the Stage for Promoters Action Packed Weekend

Main Events is gearing up for a weekend jam-packed with non-stop boxing excitement, including a world title fight. Kathy Duva, Main Events CEO said “This weekend will be our most exciting ‘production’ in quite sometime. It’s certain to be two nights of action-packed boxing drama.”

Act One

On Friday, September 18, Main Events Welterweight, Henry Crawford, 22-0-1, 9 KO’s, of Paterson, NJ, will take on Antwone Smith, 16-1-1. 8 KO’s, of Miami, FL, on Showtime’s “The New Generation Series” at Chumash Casino, Santa Ynez, CA. Crawford is undefeated and it will be his first  Showtime appearance. He jumped at the opportunity to fight even though it only left him with 18 days to prepare. He didn’t even quibble about money. “For me it’s all about exposure and showing everyone who Henry Crawford is,” said Crawford. Main Events is looking forward to a win which will surely open doors to future televised matches. MORE

Rooney’s Boxing Gym
Presents Judgment Day

No, I’m not predicting yet another crisis within the banking and financial services industry, well I hope I’m not. This particular Judgment Day, which will be held at the recently opened Cable Club London on the 30th September ‘09, is in fact a rather interesting, or should that be intriguing, White Collar Boxing event being organized by Rooney’s Boxing Gym.

What makes ‘Judgment Day’ different from other White Collar Boxing shows isn’t that this event is a truly international affair, having already attracted weekend warriors from Brazil, Israel and Australia sign up to take part, or that it has an all female bout on the card or even that Great Britain’s most successful Olympic coach ever, Terry Edwards MBE, is training some of those taking part, any of which, under normal circumstances, would be a headline attraction. The main reason ‘Judgment Day’ will go down in the annuls of history is that it will be the very first White Collar event to feature a Mixed Martial Arts White Collar bout.

Gianluca (Rio) Di Caro, publicist for Rooney’s Boxing Gym, spoke about the upcoming ‘Judgment Day’ event and what prompted the decision to include Mixed Martial Arts, ôWe are all very excited to be showcasing ‘Judgment Day’ White Collar event at the superb Cable Club, on the 30th September, as it is without doubt one of the finest venues in London. We envisage this to be justthe first of many events we will be holding at this first class facility. MORE

Jermain Taylor Takes his Training Camp to Houston, Texas, for Showtime Sports Super Six World Boxing Classic against 
Arthur Abraham October 17,
in Berlin, Germany at O2 World

"For this fight it's about stepping up to the plate and delivering. I have to dictate and control this fight."...Jermain Taylor

"It would be a huge mistake to think Jermain does not have anything left in the tank.".....Ozell Nelson/trainer

"We’re looking forward to coming to Berlin and disappointing some of the greatest boxing fans in the world.".....Lou DiBella/promoter

Former middleweight champion Jermain Taylor knows what it takes to win – finish strong. And now Taylor has changed his training camp from Miami, Florida, to prepare for his explosive October 17th fight with Arthur Abraham in Berlin, Germany at o2 World. Taylor is going through a grueling 10-week training camp at former heavyweight champion George Foreman's gym in Houston, Texas, the George Foreman Youth Center.

The Taylor-Abraham fight is the start of the historic inaugural Super Six World Boxing Classic round-robin six fighter tournament, featuring the class of the Super Middleweight division from home and abroad. Five of the world's top boxing promoters have collaborated with SHOWTIME Sports to facilitate this epic tournament. Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment, Dan Goossen of Goossen Tutor Promotions, Mick Hennessy of Hennessy Sports, Gary Shaw of Gary Shaw Productions LLC and Wilfried and Kalle Sauerland of Sauerland Event will promote the tournament which begins October 17th and runs through spring 2011. MORE

Professional Boxing Event Coming
to SE Houston!

We are two weeks away from Aztec Empire Promotions professional boxing event “The New Generation / La Nueva Generacion”. September 17, 2009, at El Portal Club in southeast Houston, Texas, will be the site for the inaugural show. Squaring up in the main event for the Texas Super Featherweight Title is unbeaten boxer-puncher Eleazar “Pelon” Renteria going up against power punching Angel Rodriguez. This matchup promises to be an exciting fight between two Houston cross-town rivals. The co-main event and undercard will feature many local favorites, dangerous Angel “El Gallo” Herrera, Nelson Ramos, Uko Isidien, Rodrigo Villarreal, Jonathan Jones, pro debut Rafael “El Pipiripau” Munoz and Rosenberg’s Fernando Castaneda, these local and area young up-and-coming prospects are sure to provide a night of explosive boxing. Tickets are priced at $20 general admission and $65 VIP ringside or a complete table of 8 VIP Ringside seats with your name or business name for $520. VIP Ringside tickets are expected to sell out well in advance. Location to purchase tickets will be at Aztec Empire Boxing Gym, 201 Adams Street, Houston, TX 77011. Or by calling 832-206-4984 / 832-744-5001, tickets will also be available the day of the event.

Larry Hernandez, who is the owner of the Aztec Empire Boxing Gym and Founder of Aztec Empire Promotions, said, “I’ve done all of the legwork regarding the local boxing market and I know that the time is right to launch our promotional company.  Boxing fans love great, tough, action packed fights and that is what AEP will give the fans without exception.”

Hernandez continued, “I truly believe that Houston possess some of the world’s most talented young fighters and boxing’s best fans. AEP will harness the two in order to create a strong base for our local talent to be ready to move to the next levels in boxing.  I’m very proud and excited about September 17 and look forward to giving back to my community and the great city of Houston and want to thank everyone for their continued support.”

Where is he Now?
Brett Summers had over 400 Fights!

From 1975 to 1985 the golden hair kid from the state of Washington was on the tube. After all when you fight over 400 fights sooner or later you will be seen, right? Brett Summers was a United States National Amateur champion at 16 in 1976. He was sandwiched in between two other top amateurs from the great North West state of Washington at 106 pounds. In 1972 it was Olympians Davey Armstrong (125 in 1976) and in 1980 Robert Shannon.

“I lost to Armstrong around 1979 and was at the Muhammad Ali camp with Robert Shannon in 1979-80. My dad brought our team the Everett Firefighters Club to fight Ali’s team and I stayed for two months”, said Summers. “We’re having our second reunion in September which will include Shannon. He was quite a puncher,” added Summers. “I fought for Brett’s dad. Brett was a great amateur. I think he was bad timing when he became a professional since there were so many good fighters out there,” said Shannon. MORE

Aztec Empire Boxing Launches Promotional Company!

On September 17, 2009, El Portal Club in southeast Houston, Texas, will be the site for Aztec Empire Promotion’s professional boxing inaugural show.  The event, which is billed as “The New Generation/La Nueva Generacion”, will be headlined for the vacant Texas Super Featherweight Title by one of Houston’s most promising young fighters in recent memory: Eleazar Renteria (8-0) going up against tough Angel Rodriguez (3-3-2).  The co-main event and undercard will feature local favorites Adrian “The Wizard” Lopez (9-3), dangerous Angel “El Gallo” Herrera (5-3), Nelson Ramos (2-0), Uko Isidien (1-0), pro debut Rafael “El Pipiripau” Munoz and San Antonio’s Jairo Martinez (3-0), these local and area young up-and-coming prospects are sure to provide a night of explosive boxing. Tickets are priced at $20 general admission and $65 VIP ringside. Location to purchase tickets will be at Aztec Empire Boxing Gym, 201 Adams Street, Houston, TX 77011 or by calling 832-206-4984. MORE

World Champion to Attend
Fight Promoter U‏

The Show Will Go On! 

In spite of what you have been reading over the past week, Orange County WILL have a solid Mixed Martial Arts pro show in August, it just won't be at the Honda center, but in the Grand Ballroom of the Irvine Marriott.

Don't miss SummerFist 3 on Saturday night, August 15th, as Roy Englebrecht Events delivers an exciting seven bout mma card, live DJ, a mini MMA Expo, the $1,000 Knockout Promotion, a free $20 Cover Charge Ticket to the After Party at Sutra Lounge in Newport Beach, and two great Special Offers.

First, if you purchased tickets to the cancelled Affliction Trilogy show, you are eldgible for tickets to SummerFist 3 at HALF PRICE! Roy Englebrecht Events wants to help those Affliction Trilogy fans get over their disappointment by giving them a great night, at a great price, to SummerFist 3. If you have your Trilogy ticket or ticket receipt, just contact Drew at fightpromotions@gmail.com or 949 760-3131 to take advantage of this Half Price Ticket Offer. MORE

Friday Night Fights Closes Season with Championship Doubleheader
Urango vs. Bailey/Woods vs. Cloud

Tickets on Sale Now! 

Another exciting season of ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights will come to a close on Friday, August 28th, and Seminole Warriors Boxing has made sure that the best has been saved for last, as it presents a championship doubleheader at Hollywood’s Hard Rock Live featuring the IBF junior welterweight title bout between champion Juan Urango and challenger Randall Bailey, and the vacant IBF light heavyweight title matchup pitting former champion Clinton Woods against unbeaten banger Tavoris Cloud.

Tickets for this event, priced at $52, $102, $152, and $202, are now on sale, and may be purchased at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or by going online at www.TicketMaster.com. MORE

Main Events Arturo Gatti Statement 

With all due respect to the Brazilian authorities, we knew Arturo Gatti and we do not believe that he took his own life.  Members of Arturo’s family, along with his boxing manager Pat Lynch, are conducting their own investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.  We believe that once the results of that investigation are revealed, the truth will come to light and justice will be done.

1984 Olympic Boxing 25th
Anniversary Reunion

Doghouse Boxing    

The 1984 Olympic Boxing team will celebrate their reunion at Atlanta’s Marriott Century Center August 15th. It will be the first time each member will be together at one time.

There is also an effort being made by the Olympians themselves to promote dignity in boxing after “the last rounds” of a fighter’s career. Many of the Olympians on this team have felt the pressures of exploitation in the ring beyond their prime. In an effort to bring light onto this tragedy, each Olympian is donating personal items to Alex Ramos’ Retired Boxers Foundation which shall be auctioned at a silent auction prior to the evening’s events with 100% of the proceeds going to the Foundation. They believe in the Retired Boxers Foundation, and some personally know former boxers and champions who have benefited from their work. Alex Ramos, having suffered the physical effects of boxing himself, has donated his life to developing dignity in retired boxers and aiding them in the tragedy of what is left beyond their boxing careers in a sport that quickly forgets them. MORE

Vernon Forrest Shot Dead

Former three time world champion Vernon Forrest has been killed.

WSB News (WSB Radio)

Former boxing champion and U.S. Olympian Vernon Forrest was shot and killed in an attempted car jacking in Northwest Atlanta, a police spokesperson said. Lt. Keith Meadows with the Atlanta police department told WSB Radio, Forrest was putting air in the tires of his Jaguar around 11 p.m. Saturday at a gas station on White Hall St. at McDaniel Blvd. Investigators said at least two men jumped out of a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo and tried to steal Forrest's car.

The boxer had a gun and started running after the suspects. "The victim and suspect became involved in a brief foot chase," Lt. Meadows said. "At some point, gunfire was exchanged between the two of them. The victim was shot at least once in the head."

Investigators said they are talking to several witness. "At this point we have a general description of at least two black males driving a red Monte Carlo." Lt. Meadows said. Police don't think the suspects knew Forrest was a professional boxer.

His girlfriend's young son was in the car at the time of the shooting. Family members are flying in from Texas to pick up the child, Lt. Meadows said.

Forrest, who lived in Atlanta, was a member of the 1992 U.S. Olympic team in Barcelona, Spain. He was a three-time champion with two WBC welterweight wins against Sugar Shane Mosley in 2002. Forrest, nicknamed the viper, beat Sergio Mora for the WBC junior middleweight title in September. The Augusta, Ga. native was stripped of his WBC belt in May because of a rib injury. He was supposed to fight Sergio Martinez on August 1.

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