April 1st, No Jokes Here
Brawlroom Action All Night Long

Fight Fans in attendance on April 1st will witness some of the best local talent California has to offer, as The Battle in the Ballroom Fight Series is set to take its show to new heights. MMA and Boxing enthusiasts will not only be treated to an action packed, 7-bout card consisting of 6 Boxing bouts and 2 MMA fights, all attendees will also enjoy a free VIP-pass to our after-party at Sutra Lounge (a $20 value) with any ticket purchase.

Ballroom fight fans will have the pleasure of seeing two explosive MMA bouts. Our featured MMA bout of the night is set at 136lbs and features 5-4 Tyler Weathers taking on 4-4-1 Anthony Figueroa fighting out of Gilroy CA. This bout will not disappoint! Tyler Weathers is a submission artist coming out of Sub Fighter Lake Forest. Weathers has been a Ballroom favorite from prior shows and is sure to bring a show when he steps into the ring. Figueroa on the other hand is no rookie to MMA with a 4-4-1 record Figueroa is on a mission to bring a show to the Ballroom fans. MORE

Holyfield-Botha Headlines
“The Legend Returns” PPV

April 10 at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas

Living legend and 5-time world heavyweight champion, Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield, challenges World Boxing Federation heavyweight title-holder Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha in the 12-round main event April 10, headlining “The Legend Returns” pay-per-view event, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

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

The 47-year-old Holyfield (42-10-2, 27 KOs), fighting out of Atlanta, is coming off of a controversial 12-round majority decision loss December 20, 2008 to then World Boxing Association champion Nicolai Valuev, in which most observers felt Holyfield deserved the victory in Switzerland. MORE

Boxing Promoters Association
Announces Distribution Agreement
With Round1 Magazine

In yet another meanigful development by the Boxing Promoters Association, the organization has announced that they have entered into a longterm distribution agreement with Round1 Magazine. Beginning this summer, Round1 will be distributed directly and for free, to boxing fans at events promoted by members of the Boxing Promoters Association. Steve Farhood, boxing analyst for Showtime and winner of the 2008 Boxing Writers Association of America's James J. Walker Award for Long and Meritorious Services, will serve as the Editor-at-Large, supplying featured content to the publication, while world renowned boxing photographer, Howard Schatz's has been named the magazine's cover photographer.

"We are very excited about our agreement we have entered into with Round1 magazine, especially that it gives us the opportunity to give something back to each and every fan that attends one of our events," stated Joe DeGuardia, President of the BPA. "They have really put together an all-star team with Farhood and Schatz, two of the best in the business, and we know the product's quality will speak for itself." MORE

Rodriguez Defends USBA Belt Against Arnaoutis On ESPN April 2 at Mohegan Sun

On Friday, April 2, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing returns to the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT with what promises to be yet another action packed night of boxing. The card, broadcast live on ESPN's ever popular "Friday Night Fight" series, is headlined by an exciting and meaningful welterweight crossroads battle between current USBA welterweight champion (IBF #5 world rated) Delvin Rodriguez (24-4-2, 14KO) and former USBA light welterweight champion, "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis (22-4-2, 10KO). The bout is scheduled for twelve rounds and will be for Rodriguez's USBA championship.

"We are thrilled to be bringing this sensational card to the Mohegan Sun," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO of Star Boxing. "We had great success with our shows at Mohegan Sun in 2009 and we are looking to build off that and continue to provide boxing fans throughout the whole northeast area with exciting world class fights and entertainment." MORE

Bob Arum, Pacquiao, Clottey and Jerry Jones Create a Boxing Frenzy

Friday, September 15th , 1978 was a day I remember like it happened last week. I sat ringside for the re-match between Muhammad Ali and Leon Spinks in my home state of Louisiana. The fight was billed as the BATTLE OF NEW ORLEANS and staged in the magnificent Superdome in New Orleans.  The place was packed. I don’t remember the numbers but would guess the audience was 70,000 strong. Celebrities were in attendance from around the world. It was typical  New Orleans.  Party time! This was 32 years ago. Boxing was flourishing all across the United States and other parts of the world. Fights were staged in venues in different cities across the United States. Boxing was the event to attend for all sports fans.
Saturday, March 13th , 2010 we are seeing a resurgence of boxing into its old days of bringing the fights to the ‘real boxing fans’ in their hometowns. The new place to be is the $1.2 billion Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. MORE

Henry finally gets shot at Garay
in WBA light heavyweight eliminator

Erik Morales headlines “The Champion Returns” PPV Mar. 27

Light heavyweight contender Chris “Hard Hittin’” Henry has patiently waited an extra month to get a shot at former 2-time WBA light heavyweight champion Hugo Hernan “Pigu” Garay in their March 27th WBA Light Heavyweight eliminator.

They were originally supposed to square-off February 27 but that show was cancelled, moving Garay-Henry back four weeks to March 27 as the 12-round co-feature on “The Champion Returns” pay-per-view event, featuring the return of 3-division world champion Erik “El Terrible” Morales, live from Monterrey, Mexico. MORE

Alvarez, Maddalone Score Impressive Stoppages in Atlantic City

On Saturday night, at the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing presented a thrilling, action-packed night of professional boxing, that had the packed house in attendance asking for more. The five bout card was headlined by Atlantic City's own, Shamone "The Truth" Alvarez taking on hard hitting Alexis Camacho.
Alvarez and Camacho wasted no time getting acquainted, as they both came out in the first firing.

In the 2nd, the southpaw Alvarez began finding the range for his left hand, landing two short overhand lefts that rocked Camacho.

As the fight progressed from each round to the next, Alvarez got stronger and stronger. To Camacho's credit, he showed guts, and a very good chin, as he continued to press forward as Alvarez's punches found their mark time and time again.

In the 7th Camacho seemed to be tiring and Alvarez began pouring it on. Just when it looked as though Camacho might be getting back into the fight, landing some vicious punches to the body of Alvarez, a huge straight left hand from Alvarez sent Camacho flat on his back. The referee began his count, but the ringside doctor had seen enough and climbed through the ropes, halting the contest at 1:30 of the 7th round.

It was a very impressive showing for Alvarez as he looks to get himself back into title contention. With the win Alvarez improves to 21-2, 12KO while Camacho drops to 17-3, 16KO. MORE

April 1st Battle in the Ballroom

Fight fans mark your calendars and tell your friends, April 1st is one night of action you don’t want to miss!  The Battle in the Ballroom Fight Series is set to deliver an evening of unparalleled entertainment with five highly-anticipated Professional boxing bouts and two hotly-contested MMA fights. Some of the best young heavyweight prospects in the country will be on display as they place their undefeated records on the line and seek to continue their dominance of the division. Heavyweight fighters scheduled to appear include Joe Hanks 11-0 (7ko), Scott Alexander 5-0 (3ko) and the return of knockout-specialist Natu Visiana 2-0 (2ko).

Joe Hanks will headline the evening’s action in the Main Event, when he takes on top-contender and New York heavyweight Shannon Miller 16-4 (9ko) in a 6-round, championship-level bout.  Miller is currently ranked 56th in the U.S. heavyweight division, and will undoubtedly present Joe Hanks (ranked 37th) with his toughest challenge to date.
In other boxing action, young welterweight prospect Hugo Centeno Jr., fighting out of Ventura County, returns to the Ballroom after a one-year absence to attempt to improve his record to a perfect 3-0. MORE

In Rusty’s Corner

A boxing writer/maven named Mike Silver was kind enough to send me his new book, “The Arc of Boxing”. This book pulls no punches and clearly explains why boxers in the past were better than fighters in recent times. And, that’s something I absolutely agree with.

Boxers in the past were ‘hungry’ and would take a fight on a moments notice. They learned best because they faced the best. They stayed in shape because they had to survive in tough economic times. Times are also tough now, but you don’t see a lot of young people turning to the ring for a livelihood.

Today there are a rash of title’s to go around. There has been a crossover to mixed martial arts, which I personally do not enjoy watching. But there are enough paying customers willing to accept it, so MMA will keep going for at least while longer.

Anyone wishing to debate Mr. Silver’s conclusions should first pick up and read this book. He makes a very strong case for the good old days, and is backed up by noted boxing trainers, writers and historians. MORE

The Square Ring

Like many things that may not be good for you or easy to understand this column comes with a reader warning. With the Olympics in full swing the last two weeks along with a couple to follow for boxing is a vast wasteland. Where the first weekend of the month usually brings a plethora of name boxers and bouts none have appeared. The one exception is Vic “The Wild” Darchinyan (33-2-1) who defends his WBC super flyweight title against Rodrigo Guerrero (13-1-1) at the Auga Caliente Casino in California on March 6. As a previous column noted Agua Caliente means “hot water” which is where the inexperienced Guerrero will find himself at the opening bell. Darchinyan is a boxer, boxer used as a relative term, who comes at opponents from all angles and directions very often with no rhyme or reason.  Smooth and stylish would not be terms used to describe Darchinyan.   His movements in the ring would remind Yanks of the old big league pitcher Bob Perky who use to be nicknamed “Herky Jerky Bob Perky”. That term is not used for Darchinyan mainly because it doesn’t rhyme. So be warned. This column is like Darchinyan it’ll come at you from all angles, it won’t be smooth while many will find no rhyme or reason for it except a deadline. MORE

Jimmy Ellis: A Champion Unsung

Author's note: Upon hearing of Jimmy's next great battle against Pugilistic Dementia, I would like to re-release this article about him.

It's too bad that the cruiserweight division was not around in the 60's and 70's. Many fine boxers scaled under 190 pounds and gave creditable performances against bigger men. Doug Jones is an example as he came close to upsetting Cassius Clay in 1963. Doug had lost in 1962 to Harold Johnson for the light heavyweight title. In 1965, he lost to Ernie Terrell for WBA Heavyweight crown. Back then there was no middle ground. If you weighed over 175 pounds, you fought heavyweights, period.
    
Bob Foster, who was one of the greatest light heavyweights of all time, had trouble moving up to heavyweight. Jones, Terrell, and Zora Foley soundly beat him in heavyweight bouts. After winning the light heavyweight crown in 1968, he failed in attempts to beat Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali. How would he have fared at 190 pounds? MORE

Scott Finds a Home Inside the Ring

They make them big in Texas, even their mortgage professionals. Just ask once-beaten heavyweight prospect Herman “Skip” Scott.

And if you’re wondering how a 6’ 8” 255-pound destroyer with a heavy right hand can find the mild temperament to spend his days filling out home buyers’ paperwork and the aggressive temperament to spend his nights pulverizing opponents, you need look no further than the old real estate axiom: it’s all about location, location, location.

Skip Scott is a gentleman in business and a monster in the ring. MORE

Erick 'The Eagle' Ochieng Swoops Into Belgium To Spar
'Sugar Jackson' Osei Bonsu

Rising Light Middleweight star Erick 'The Eagle' Ochieng (3-0) has left his home in London to travel to Belgium to assist former IBC and European Welterweight Champion 'Sugar Jackson' Osei Bonsu prepare for his IBF welterweight eliminator against Randall Bailey on the 19th March.

Ochieng, who is proving to be quite a sensational discovery by veteran trainer manager Brian Lawrence, is already being tipped as a star of the future even though he has only had three professional fights.

On his debut 'The Eagle' convincingly dominated the proceedings against the vastly experienced Matt Scriven (13-54-0) winning every single round. His second fight, which he took with just over 24 hours notice, against the debuting Prince David Davis was a slightly closer affair, but still a very convincing win on his opponents home turf. MORE

Guerrero Vacates Junior Lightweight Title as His Wife Battles Cancer

Division World Champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, the current IBF Junior Lightweight World Title holder, announced today that he is relinquishing his title in order to care for his wife Casey, who is currently battling leukemia.

"It is with great regret that I am relinquishing the junior lightweight championship of the world that I, along with my team, worked so hard to capture," said the 26-year old Guerrero. "I feel that it is in the best interest of the sport and the fans that I care so deeply for to give someone else a chance to fulfill their dream of becoming a World Champion.  I am now focused on the love of my life, my wife Casey, as undoubtedly we face the greatest opponent of our life, cancer.  Whatever the outcome, our faith in Jesus Christ will get us through.  Thank you for the prayers and support.  God bless."

Casey Guerrero, who was stricken with leukemia in 2007, is currently recovering from a bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy treatment.  Within the next two to three weeks it will be known whether her latest treatment was a success or not. MORE

Ronnie Shields - Hall of Fame Trainer Now Working with Scypion Jr.

No one has a better pedigree in boxing than Texas-based Ronnie Shields.

Before becoming one of boxing's most sought-after trainers, Shields was a three-time national golden gloves champ, won the National Junior Olympics and lost to the great Sugar Ray Leonard at the Olympic trials in 1976. As a professional, he was a two-time world title challenger, ranked in the top 10 for five consecutive years, who retired with a record of 26-6-1, 19 KOs.

Working out of his home base for the past 20+ years, the Savannah Boxing Club in Houston, Shields has trained a huge list of world champions and top contenders including Mike Tyson, Vernon Forrest, Juan Diaz, Kassim Ouma, Pernell Whitaker, David Tua, Evander Holyfield and Arturo Gatti.

Recently the super trainer has recently taken on promising new student -- his cousin, Wilford Scypion Jr. (7-1, 7 KOs), the hard-punching son of boxing legend Wilford Scypion Sr. MORE

Grano out to avenge only career loss in “Brace For Impact” headliner 

March 12 at Foxwoods

Popular heavyweight prospect Tony “TNT” Grano values avenging his lone pro loss more than money and fame, which is precisely why he desperately wanted a rematch against Mark “Oak Tree” Brown, headlining the March 12th “Brace For Impact” card, presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc. (CES), in Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn.

Grano (16-1-1, 13 KOs), a 2005 U.S. National Championships winner and National Golden Gloves Tournament runner-up, has won two in a row since losing to Brown (15-2, 7 KOs), who overcame two knockdowns to stop Grano in the eighth round of their WBF All-Americas title bout Sept. 27, 2008. MORE

Joey “POLISH THUNDER” Dawejko
Joins THE EMPIRE

Every empire needs strong leaders for today, but it must also prepare its future emperors of tomorrow.

In 2010, Heavyweight Champions Shannon Briggs and Hasim Rahman, as well as soon-to-be middleweight king “Mean” Joe Greene sit atop boxing’s new promotional powerhouse The Empire Sports and Entertainment as its marquee warriors.

But with an eye to future years, The Empire proudly announces the signing of undefeated heavyweight punisher Joey "Polish Thunder" Dawejko to a promotional contract.

Since enjoying a stellar amateur career that included winning the 2008 Junior World Championships at super heavyweight, the red-hot, 19-year-old Philadelphian has already notched two impressive wins as a professional (2-0, 1 KO). “Joey is a future heavyweight champion of the world and we’re extremely proud to have signed him to a promotional agreement,” said Empire Founder and CEO, Greg Cohen. “He’s another in a long line of proud Polish-American heavyweights with an all-action style that fans will surely fall in love with.” MORE

Erik “El Terrible” Morales “The Champion Returns” PPV March 27
Cristian Mijares in Co-Feature

Integrated Sports Media, North America’s undisputed leader pay-per-view distribution of major boxing events, is  teaming-up with KO Entertainment to bring American fans the ring return of Mexican great Erik “El Terrible” Morales, who headlines the March 27th “The Champion Returns” pay-per-view event live from Monterrey, Mexico.

“We’re excited to bring U.S. boxing fans the return of Erik Morales, one of boxing’s all-time greats, and the last man to defeat Manny Pacquaio,” Integrated Sports Media president Doug Jacobs said. “He is a living legend who has beaten many, many world champions. The entire card is stacked from top to bottom with world champions, top contenders, and hot prospects.”

“The Champion Returns,” presented by KO Entertainment, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV and DISH Network, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95. MORE

Keeppunching with Kerry Daigle

Champions of the World: The New Orleans Saints

They weren’t supposed to win. After all, the New Orleans Saints were a 5 point underdog (or more…depending on who you spoke to).  The media had latched on to what they claimed was the greatest quarterback of all time in Peyton Manning, a New Orleans native playing for the Indianapolis Colts. The problem was the media forgot that ‘Super Bowls’ are won by teams and not by one person. New Orleans had the better team.

“Oh, wait a minute, you might say, the better team was the Colts.” Or at least that’s what the media said. So, you bought the story. A lesson to learn is that teams win championships, not just one person.

“Build for your team a feeling of oneness, of dependence upon one another, and of strength to be derived from unity.”  VINCE LOMBARDI

Someone once said that winning is not as important as ‘playing the game’ and having fun. Sure, having fun is one thing but winning is everything. Especially in this case. MORE

Happy 50th To Glen Johnson

“The Road Warrior” Hits Half-Century Mark In Wins, Looks Forward To 2010 Title Shot

It’s one of modern boxing’s most coveted milestones, and on Friday, February 5th, former world light heavyweight champion Glen Johnson his 50 wins in spectacular fashion, stopping fellow contender Yusaf Mack in six rounds at the NSU Arena in Fort Lauderdale to improve to 50-13-2 with 34 knockouts as a professional.

“This is a great moment for me and it came with a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Johnson. “What made it even better for me was that I was able to get this win in front of my family and friends in South Florida, the people who have been in my corner all these years." MORE

Introducing Ismayl Sillak
"He's got a very smooth boxing style, but he can knock you out with either hand."

Undefeated light heavyweight Ismayl Silakh (10-0, 9 KOs), who hails from the Zaporozhye, Ukraine, but lives in California, already has one important believer in his quest for a world championship - manager Ivaylo Gotzev.

Renowned for his ability to spot young talent, Gotzev says Sillakh is already a threat to any of the world light heavyweight champions. "The phenomenal thing about him is he is blessed with amazing talent," he explains. "He's got a very smooth boxing style, but he can knock you out with either hand. He has enormous punching power. He's shared the gym with some champions and top contenders and when they watch him spar he sends chills down their spines. They won't spar with him." MORE

Fuselier: Boxer of the Year!
Brent Milam, Man of the Year!

2009 was a sensational year for heavyweight boxer, Wilfred "Wil the Thrill"Fuselier, Jr., and he was rewarded at the sold out Ragin' Cajun Amateur Boxing Club's annual awards banquet with the Boxer of the Year trophy. The standing room crowd at Alesi's Italian Restaurant gave Fuselier, who won the Louisiana Golden Gloves, USA Boxing Southern Association Tournament and the Louisiana Governors Games in 2009 a huge ovation. "Our club had a great year in 2009 and I am surprised and honored to win this trophy. All the hard work and sacrifice over the years paid off and I hope to bring home a national championship for our club", said a smiling Fuselier. MORE

Don “Da’ Bomb” George: Continues
Super-Middleweight Climb,
Destroys Williams in 3!

Last Friday night at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago , Illinois , fight fans were treated to another great night of boxing as Chicago ’s native son, Cestus Management Fighter Donovan George, scored another jaw dropping win.  “DA BOMB” (19-0-0 w/17 Kos ) completely dominated and destroyed Phil “The Drill” Williams knocking him out in 2:43 of the 3rd round.  In the 3 rounds that the fight lasted George showed that he is starting to evolve into a formidable fighter as his speed, boxing aptitude and shocking power all came together as he executed the big punching Williams with brutal efficiency.  “DA BOMB’s” sharp jab, power combination's and balanced footwork were just too much for “The Drill” to handle. MORE

Brinkley Defeats Stevens on ESPN

On Friday night, in front of a sold out arena at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, NV, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and Let's Get It On Promotions put together an action packed card on ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" headlined by Curtis "Showtime" Stevens, taking on Jesse Brinkley in an Official IBF eliminator for the number two ranking in the super middleweight division.

Both fighters prior to the fight promised fireworks, and that's exactly what the audience got, as Stevens came out fast and hard in the first, landing vicious left hooks that immediately caught the attention of Brinkley. A left hook near the end of the first caught Brinkley flush on the cheek and created a nasty welt under his right eye. MORE

Quotes From Stevens-Brinkley
Final Press Conference

The final press conference for the upcoming showdown between Curtis "Showtime" Stevens (21-2, 15KO) and Jesse Brinkley (34-5, 22KO) was held today at the Extreme Sports Bar in the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada. The fight, taking place Friday night, is promoted by Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing and Let's Get It On Promotions. The bout, scheduled for twelve rounds in the super middleweight division, is an Official IBF super middleweight eliminator for the number two ranking, and will also be for Brinkley's USNBC super middleweight belt. ESPN's popular "Friday Night Fight" series will broadcast the event live, Friday January 29th, starting at 10PM ET.

Kicking off the press conference was Terry Lane of Let's Get It On Promotions, who thanked everyone for coming and showing their support for what has shaped up to be a huge fight. "We are very excited we were able to put this fight together," stated Terry. "This is a huge fight for Jesse, a huge fight for Reno, and a huge fight for boxing. This is going to be exciting fight. You have two big punchers, who are going to come forward and leave everything they have in the ring come Friday night."
Next to the podium was Terry's brother Tommy. "We have been trying to put this fight together for a few years now and finally it's here," said Tommy. "This is a very intriguing fight because both of these guys are the gatekeepers to each other's future. The winner of this fight will be in line for a world title opportunity, while the loser will have to take a hard look at their future in the sport of boxing. With both Jesse and Curtis' power you just know there is going to be fireworks come the 29th." MORE

Battle In The Ballroom Kicks Off
26th Season With New Wrinkle
Great Boxing Action With
A Punch From Mixed Martial Arts

Opening Night Is Wednesday, February 10 Irvine Marriott

Tickets go on sale today for Opening Night of the 26th season of Battle In The Ballroom shows at the Irvine Marriott, so make plans now to be at the Marriott on Wednesday, February 10th for a great night of boxing with a little mixed martial arts thrown in. Besides the over 800 season seat holders who have renewed for 2010, and the three new sponsors who have come on board this season, join the tens of thousands of sports fans who know that in Orange County on six nights a year, the Battle In The Ballroom fights are the most unique and exciting place to entertain clients and friends!

The large crowd expected for the Wednesday, February 10th will not be disappointed. Undefeated heavyweight 10-0 Joe Hanks returns to continue his climb into the heavyweight rankings, meeting 16-4 Shannon Miller in his toughest test to date. After a Ballroom battle that saw over $200 tossed into the ring, Chika Nakamura returns to meet Jennifer Barber in a female fight that is as evenly matched as possible. Nakamura is 8-1 and Barber is 9-1, and fans should not miss this fight. Santa Ana’s Jimmy Garcia returns to the ring facing 2-0 Manuel Delcid. Plus, another heavyweight match up see’s Hollywood’s Chris Davis meeting Kourtney Boden out of Henderson, NV. MORE

Notes from Jason Estrada Training Camp

As he prepares for his February 6 showdown in Newark against former world light heavyweight and cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek, 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada’s nose is out of place and it doesn’t have anything to do with sparring sessions gone wrong.

Estrada (15-2, 3 KOs) feels disrespected by Team Adamek but not, surprisingly, for   Adamek looking past him to a reported April 24 fight against Chris Arreola, rather their apparent belief that Adamek (39-1, 27 KOs) has faster hands than Estrada, whose lightning-like hand speed for a 240-pound heavyweight has been his calling card.

“Looking past me towards Arreola doesn’t really bother me,” Estrada said. “I think it’s silly and they’ll hear about it after the fight. I never talk too much but I’m going to talk like never before after this fight. I hope they keep thinking about fighting somebody else. I’m keeping track of everything and got names of people to talk about after I beat Adamek. I’m going to shutdown his plans. MORE

World Boxing Foundation Newsletter

Hammond, Indiana’s Horseshoe Casino hosts  the WBF Intercontinental Heavyweight Title on February 20th when “Fast” Fres Oquendo (31-5,20KO) steps into the ring with Lance Whitaker (34-6, 28KO). “Mount” Whitaker returns after a controversial decision lose to Oliver McCall in October and Oquendo has two wins since his split decision loss in 2008 at the hands of James Toney.

“Superman” Bronco McKart (51-9-1, 31KO) faces “Bam Bam” Jose Rodriquez Berrio (20-3, 12KO) Feb.27, for the WBF Intercontinental Middleweight Title in Monroe, Michigan. McKart returns to action with an eye towards rejuvenating a career that put him in possession of several titles in both the light middleweight and middleweight divisions. Berrio solidly stands in the way of that journey with the Columbian native packing destructive knockout power.

Rising Gold Coast boxing star Les “Lock & Load” Sherrington (25-5, 16 knockouts) makes the first defense of his WBF interim world super middleweight championship when he defends against former time IBF and WBA world title challenger Antwun “Kid Dynamite” Echols (34-12-4, 29 KO) from the United States. Venue for this much anticipated shootout is the Convention Center, Broadbeach, Australia . Saturday night March 6th.

Former Contender star Sam Soliman (37-11, 15KO) battles  Shannon McMahon (16-5, 6KO) on 13th March for the WBF World Middleweight Title in Racecourse Reception Center, Moonee Valley, Victoria, Australia

In All-America’s Light Heavyweight title action on January 22, in Pittsburg Pennsylvania at the Hilton Hotel, Rayco Saunders goes to war with Demetrius Davis.

Stevens Has Sights on Super Middleweight Crown

"It might be your city, but don't be mistaken this is my coming out party."

Those were the harsh words of wisdom Curtis "Showtime" Stevens had for Jesse Brinkley when asked about their upcoming showdown on Friday January 29th at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, NV. The bout, scheduled for 12 rounds, is IBF Super Middleweight Eliminator for the #2 ranking (Stevens is currently rated #10, while Brinkley is rated #6) and will be shown live as the main event on that evening's ESPN "Friday Night Fights" telecast.

The 24-year-old Stevens (21-2, 15KO) is currently riding a four bout streak since joining Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing stable of promoted fighters, including a career best victory in his last bout when he scored a third round TKO over previously unbeaten Piotr Wilczewski (22-0) in July of 2009. Coincidently, the fight against Wilczewski, which was on the undercard of fellow Polish native Tomaz Adamek defending his cruiserweight championship, also saw Stevens; as he will do against the Nevada native Brinkley, enter into very hostile territory. MORE

FPU VII Session Announced
Will Also Offer First Ever FPU
Netcast to The World

With the next Fight Promoter University less than three months away, FPU founder Roy Englebrecht announced the date for FPU VII. It is set to begin Tuesday, March 30th and run thru Friday, April 2nd at the Irvine Marriott Hotel in Irvine, California.  Englebrecht also announced that the entire four day FPU VII session will be made available live on the internet with the first ever FPU Netcast. FPU VII will be held in conjunction with the April 1st Battle In The Ballroom boxing and mixed martial arts show, now in its 26th year at the Irvine Marriott.

"We have a great line up of guest speakers for FPU VII," said Englebrecht, "and now being able to make all FPU sessions available to anyone in the world thru our live streaming netcast, will open a future as a fight promoter to an unlimited audience. We are partnering with Pathfinder Digital TV to insure the most state-of-the-art production and quality netcast possible." MORE

Southeast Texas Regional Golden Gloves

Texas’s top amateur boxers are currently preparing for the 74th annual Houston area Southeast Texas Regional Golden Gloves competition held at the Denver Harbor Multi Service Center, 6402 Market St., Houston, Texas 77020, January 27th thru January 31st, 2010 and will attract an array of spectators, some of Houston elite professional boxers and boxing promoters keeping tabs on the next crop of upcoming talent.

There will be two boxing rings used and approximately 25 bouts in each ring per night. The unique event provides an opportunity for male, female and junior boxers as young as 8 to compete in one tournament. The 2010 event is on track to boast one of the largest turnouts in the history of the event with over 400 boxers currently pre-registered for the tournament.

The Southeast Texas Region has won the team title six consecutive years at the Texas state tournament. Returning champions in this year’s field will include Eric Fowler (Lightweight from Cardio Boxing Gym in Spring) seeking his fourth title, Mercedes Manriquez (Featherweight fighting Unattached) going for his fifth title. Daniel Ybarra (Flyweight from Elite Boxing Club in East Houston), Juan Leija (Flyweight from Santa Fe Boxing Club), Damazo Tello (Middleweight from Savannah’s Boxing Club in SW Houston) and Zavier Combs (Light Welterweight also from Savannah’s Boxing Club) will be seeking their second titles. MORE

Florida Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2010 Inductees Announced

The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame has announced the class of 2010 inductees.  Living inductees include: former heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali, former top contenders Gomeo Brennan, and Frankie Otero, women’s pioneer Barbara Buttrick, trainer/managers Dan Birmingham and Al Bonanni, promoters Phil Alessi and Don King, historian Enrique Encinosa, commissioner Don Hazelton, and in the non-participant category, Bob Alexander, and James “Smitty” Smith. The Florida Boxing Hall of Fame also released the names of the posthumous inductees: world champion Willie Pep, contenders Yama Bahama, Bobby Dykes, Tommy Gomez, and Elmer Ray, and 1932 Olympic Gold medallist Eddie Flynn, and  in the non-participant category, Jay Edson and Lou Viscusi.

The induction weekend is set for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, June 25, 26, 27, 2010, in Tampa.  All living inductees are expected to be in attendance, along with the inductees from the Class of 2009, as well as Ramiro Ortiz and Steve Yerrid, who will be receiving special awards.  A special award will also be given in honor of the late Mike Birmingham.  Living Inductees will receive a Hall of Fame Ring, Certificate, and Plaque, and be on hand to participate in the many weekend activities with the public. MORE

The Maxwell Football Club Honors The Best Professional Football Player With The 51st Annual Bert Bell Award

This year's winner is quarterback Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints  

Here are some updates on the NFL's top performances from Wild Card Weekend and a look ahead at this week's Divisional Playoff Round.
 
Who's Hot:
 
High Desert Drama. 51-45, no not the score of a high school or college basketball game, but the result of the Arizona Cardinals defeating the Green Bay Packers in overtime of a NFC wild card game for the ages.  The combined 96 points and 1,024 total net yards are both NFL post season records.  Kurt Warner, who is contemplating retirement after the season, completed 29 of 33 passes for 379 yards and five touchdowns. A triumvirate of receivers had outstanding performances for the Cardinals.  Early Doucet had six receptions for 77 yards and two touchdowns, Larry Fitzgerald hauled in six passes for 82 yards and two touchdowns and Steve Breaston caught seven passes for 125 yards and a score. Green Bay was no less prolific through the air. The Packers' Aaron Rodgers connected on 28 of 42 passes for 422 yards and four touchdowns. Tight end Jermichael Finley caught six passes for 159 yards, while receiver Greg Jennings latched on to eight throws for 130 yards and a one handed touchdown catch that is bound for postseason highlight films for the next ten years. Ironically, the end of the game came as a result of the defense when Cardinals defensive back Michael Adams stripped Rodgers of the ball.  The pigskin caromed off Rodgers' foot and into the waiting arms of linebacker Karlos Dansby who ran 17 yards into the end zone before being mobbed by his teammates. MORE

Star Boxing – 2009 in Review

In what can only be termed as a wildly crazy, unpredictable and sometimes disappointing year, 2009 will surely not be soon forgotten by Star Boxing Founder and CEO Joe DeGuardia.

Notable Events/Fighter Highlights

Star Boxing promoted and was in association with numerous successful events throughout the year, starting in February at New York City's Roseland Ballroom.

Robinson Shines On Friday Night Fights

The show, which was held on Friday the 13th and broadcast on the ever popular ESNP2 "Friday Night Fight" series, saw Star Boxing's jr. welterweight prospect, "The New" Ray Robinson pick up his most impressive victory to date. In his first nationally televised co-feature, Robinson stopped fellow previously undefeated prospect Darnell Jiles (8-0-1, 3KO) in the third round of their scheduled six round contest. In a very impressive showing, Robinson continuously beat Jiles to the punch and was in command throughout until Jiles failed to answer the bell to start the fourth. The victory improved Robinson's record to 10- 0, 4KO.

Star Fighters Pick Up A Clean Sweep On FNF

On March 6 at the Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino in Uncasville, CT, Star Boxing packed the house, and picked up a clean sweep with Delvin Rodriguez, Raymond Serrano and Demetrius Andrade all scoring impressive victories. The card, which again was part of ESPN's "Friday Night Fight" series, was headlined by Rodriguez taking on fellow Star Boxing stable-mate Shamone Alvarez in an official IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator.

In what was a very close and highly entertaining battle, that brought the fans in attendance to a standing ovation multiple times throughout the twelve round contest, Rodriguez overcame an injured right hand and rallied down the stretch, dropping Alvarez in the 11th, to go on to win a unanimous decision. MORE

“Candyman” Prevost Makes
Compost of McNabb!

Blake Prevost , Lafayette, Louisiana (182 lbs), was sensational last night in Texarkana, Arkansas, scoring a devastating KO over hometown hopeful, Danny McNabb (184 lbs). Blake dropped the aggressive McNabb with a straight left, high on the head after about 45 seconds. Danny arose from the mandatory eight count, determined to get even. Prevost used his ring skills to evade McNabb's charge and then landed a right hook from his southpaw stance that left McNabb in heap on the canvas, unable to beat the 10 count. One minute and twelve seconds (1:12) of round one and the bout was over!

After a hand injury in 2006 Prevost was inactive for nearly a year. About two weeks after receiving medical clearance to resume training Blake broke his ankle. This forced him out of the ring until June of 2009. Two winning bouts in 2009 and a terrific start to 2010 for Prevost. This former Louisiana Golden Gloves and U.S. Marine champion is on the right track and his trainer (former Undisputed Women's Featherweight Champion), Deirdre Gogarty sees great things in Blake's future. Manager Kerry Daigle of Keeppunching Promotions (www.keeppunching.com) has Prevost on track for 4 more quick bouts including a main event against a notable contender. MORE