Mightygloves - Boxing News, Women's Boxing

I can’t wait to get to town,” said Mayweather. “I get to witness the first time two African American coaches are in the Super Bowl and help plant the seed for our fight before we kick-off our own promotion February 20.”

De La Hoya and Mayweather will officially announce their fight through a planned 11-city media tour later this month.

In the most anticipated fight to hit the sport in decades, six-division world champion Oscar De La Hoya will meet unbeaten, four-division world champion Floyd Mayweather Saturday, May 5 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, the fight will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

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Bradley will box Garnica in an eight-round junior welterweight fight in the opening half of a twin bill promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, at Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, Calif.

The “ShoBox” card transpires a day before a “Super Saturday” world championship doubleheader on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast). In 12-round bouts, World Boxing Council (WBC) Light Heavyweight Champion Tomasz Adamek will defend his crown against No. 2 contender Chad Dawson, while Jesus Chavez will risk his International Boxing Federation (IBF) lightweight crown against IBF Interim 135-pound titleholder Julio Diaz.

Kirkland, of Austin, Texas, is an exciting banger from the Aaron Pryor school of boxing who looks to overwhelm opponents with brute force and tons of punches. The 22-year-old southpaw with dynamite in both mitts has won nine straight by knockout. The slugger has never gone past four rounds.

In his last start, Kirkland scored a fourth-round knockout over David Toribio on Dec. 1, 2006, at Chumash. He knocked Toribio down three times, including twice in the third with vicious shots to the head. After Toribio went down from a body shot in the fourth, the referee stopped the contest at 1:35.

Kirkland, who has been known to spar with two men at the same time, is headed toward becoming a success in life and in the ring. Personable and humble outside of the square circle, he speaks sincerely and respectfully with no hint of arrogance, makes zero excuses, and, has an incredible work ethic.

Make no mistake, however, as Kirkland is an enormously determined young man who is very confident of his overall talent and skills.

“I am on the right track,” Kirkland said. “I am an intelligent fighter. I know how to pick and pack, and pack and destroy. There is no man at 154 pounds that can beat me. I know my potential and will fight anybody to show that I am the best.

“The only way I lose is if I beat myself by not training or working hard. I look forward to fighting whoever’s at the top. Gary (Shaw) can move me any way he wants. Gary knows how to move fighters. He helped Winky Wright and Jeff Lacy. That’s why I signed with him. He’s super nice and cool. I like him.’’

Kirkland’s motivation stems from a desire to improve the lives of his family members. “A lot of stuff is going my way now,” Kirkland said. “I just want to make it so people like my mom don’t have to suffer any more. I am just trying to take care of business for my family.”

It is not surprising the five-foot-nine-inch Kirkland has always had a mean streak. For the longest time, Kirkland’s life was one continuous fight against poverty, the streets, temptation and desperation.
“(There were times) my mom was shopping pantry food (food and essentials provided free by charities to the neediest citizens),’’ said Kirkland, who never knew his father. “We were on food stamps and all that.’’

Kirkland became interested in boxing, which may have saved his life.

“James started with nothing,’’ said Ann Wolfe, who co-trains the boxer with Don Billingsley, who has been a father figure to the youngster for his entire life. Wolfe, one of the most talented women’s boxers in history, has been like a boxing parent. She has known Kirkland since he was 10.

“I watched Kirkland grow,’’ Wolfe said. “I saw him when he got into trouble. I was there for all of that. But if not for Billingsley, Kirkland would have nothing. We always knew he had a lot of potential, and that if he could stay calm outside of the ring and let life take its course, he could be a champion.”

Despite growing up in less than ideal conditions and getting into his share of trouble, Kirkland had a tremendous amateur career. En route to compiling a 134-12, he was a three-time Texas State champion (1998-2000) and was a silver medalist at the ‘01 National Golden Gloves. Additionally, he won the Silver Gloves championship four years in a row.

Shortly after losing in the finals of the Golden Gloves Nationals, Kirkland turned pro as a welterweight at age 17 with a third-round TKO over Maurice Chalmers on Aug. 25, 2001, in Austin. He won his other two starts in ’01, went 3-0 in ‘02 and 5-0 in ‘03.

But after improving to 11-0 in November 2003, a kid influenced by life on the streets participated in criminal behavior that resulted in his receiving six months of county jail time and six months house arrest.

“I was with the wrong crowd and already had a bad record,” Kirkland said. “I could not get a job and I was trying to get some money.”

Upon his release, Kirkland was beset with management and promotional problems. However, he is in good hands these days. He is managed by Cameron Dunkin and promoted by Gary Shaw Productions (GSP). This will be his seventh GSP start, which signed Kirkland to an exclusive promotional agreement in April 2006.

“Kirkland is a special kid. I’m glad he’s on my side,’’ said Shaw, who promised he would fight Kirkland often and keep him busy and done just that. “He has KO power in both hands. Before long, fans all over the world will know what Texas fans already know, and that is that Kirkland is fast on the draw and powerfully accurate. He is the future of the 154- and 160-pound divisions.”

On April 21, 2006, Kirkland made his debut for Shaw. In his first start in 30 months, or since he weighed 148 pounds and stopped Russell Jordan in the first round, Kirkland improved to 12-0 with a second-round knockout over Manuel Castillo in Mount Pleasant, S.C.

In his third comeback fight, Kirkland continued to look impressive by scoring a first-round knockout over Jeray Cunningham on June 3, 2006, in Las Vegas.

Wading in with Hagler-Hearns-like ferocity, Kirkland floored Cunningham twice in the opening round with wicked body shots before the referee waved the mismatch off at 1:16. “Marvin Hagler is my favorite fighter,’’ Kirkland said. “I took a lot of stuff from that man.’’

In addition to his mother, Kirkland has two brothers. The boxer sends his mom and those closest to him money to help with the bills.

Lyell, 22, of Warren, Ohio, is a strong, aggressive-minded, combination puncher who makes for good scraps. After a six-fight winning streak ended two outings ago, he won his last start by outpointing Jarome Ellis across eight rounds on Nov. 2, 2006, in Washington, D.C.

Although it was not exactly capital punishment, Lyell did enough to win the main event of a boxing charity event by unanimous decision and capture the “Fight for Children” championship.

Known for exceptional hand and foot speed, and the ability to take a punch, Lyell is a proven winner on the road. Always capable of a surprise, he traveled to Pikesville, Md., and registered an easy, eight-round upset decision (80-72 twice and 78-74) over previously undefeated local favorite Anthony Cygan on Jan. 20, 2006.

Lyell is 7-1 in his last eight starts. The lone defeat came against another huge hometown favorite, Charles Whittaker, on Sept. 30, 2006, in the Cayman Islands. In a competitive bout for the NBA 154-pound title, Lyell lost by fourth-round TKO.

Bradley, of Palm Springs, Calif., will make his second consecutive “ShoBox” and Chumash appearances. In his network debut on Dec. 1, 2006, the WBC No. 10 contender came away from an action-packed affair with an eight-round technical decision over Jaime Rangel at Chumash.

The then-23-year-old Bradley was ahead 79-73 on all three scorecards when it was stopped after an accidental clash of heads opened a deep cut over the former world title challenger's right eye.

Bradley, who appeared tight, was awarded the victory in by far his greatest challenge after the referee halted matters at 1:54 of the round.

“They say ‘ShoBox’ has some of the hardest fights,” said Bradley in a pre-fight interview, “better than any other network. They say you’re going fight when you fight on ‘ShoBox’.”

A winner in the vast majority of his 145 amateur fights, Bradley was a two-time National Champion and won titles at the P.A.L. National Tournament, the Under-19 National Tournament and the Junior Golden Gloves Championship. In his bid, however, to make the 2004 United States Olympic team, he was upset by Vanes Martirosyan in the U.S. Western Trials. Martirosyan went on to make the team.

Bradley was 20 years old when he made his pro debut nine days before his 21st birthday on Aug. 20, 2004.

Garnica, 32, of Guadalajara, is coming off of a hotly disputed 10-round decision loss to world-ranked Juan Lazcano on Oct. 21, 2006, in El Paso, Texas.

Reporting for Fightnews.com, Chris Cozzone called the result “perhaps the worst decision seen in El Paso in this century’’ and an “early Christmas gift win’’ for Lazcano.

When asked if Lazcano deserved a decision, his trainer, the brutally honest Freddie Roach, said, “No. (Juan) couldn’t get untracked and he (Garnica) out hustled us.”

The five-foot-seven-inch Garnica used an awkward, stick-and-move style to frustrate, confuse and consistently pot-shot Lazcano.’’ Yet, at the finish, the judges scored it 97-93, 98-92 for Lazcano and 96-94 for Garnica.

During his career, Garnica has been competitive against quality opposition, including former world champions John-John Molina and Gabriel Ruelas. He lost a 10-round decision to Molina and fought to a 10-round majority draw against Ruelas.

In the outing before last, Garnica captured the WBC Latino 140-pound crown with a 12-round unanimous decision (117-111, 116-112 and 115-113) over former world champion Carlos Maussa on Aug. 25, 2006, in Miami.

Nick Charles and Farhood will call the action from ringside. The executive producer of “ShoBox” is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing.

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Buddy, however didn’t want his son be a boxer. In fact, he didn’t train James until he turned pro in 2004. “I did everything in my power to steer him away,” Buddy explained. “I know how this game is and some of the people in it. But when he decided to turn pro, I said let’s do it right, together. I didn’t want to trust his life and career to somebody else.”

Growing up in Brentwood, New York, James used his natural athletic ability to play basketball, a sport he believes he’d be playing professionally somewhere today if he hadn’t given it up to box. McGirt was a good enough guard to earn a hoop scholarship to St. Petersburg Junior College. Off the hardcourt and into the four-cornered ring, James had a solid 44-4 amateur record, including gold medal performances in the Sunshine State Games and Southeast Regional, in addition to reaching the quarterfinals of the U.S. Championships twice and semifinals of the National PALs.

“I didn’t coach James when he was an amateur but he’d send me his workout tapes,” Buddy noted. “He had been watching my old tapes and was fighting like me. I told him I

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was a 10-round fighter (pro) and he needed to score points. I was in Vegas with Johnny
Tapia when he called to say he was going to the Sunshine State Games. I thought he was playing basketball, maybe even track, but never boxing. There wasn’t much I could do but he called me the day before Father’s Day to say he was in the final and was going to win a gold medal for my present. He did.”

The son of Buddy drew natural ring comparisons, as unfair as it may have been for James, right from the start. As boxers, though, James and his father are nothing alike other than their heart, work ethic and determination. James is a 6-1 southpaw, 6 ½ inches taller and fighting 13 pounds heavier than his orthodox stance, welterweight father. “His style is more like Marvin Hagler’s than his father’s,” James’ manager Dennis Witherow added. “They are well conditioned, left-handed middleweights who hurt opponents with greats jabs before throwing the big rights. James is very skilled, very quick and he has a lot of ability to do a lot of different things. And like Hagler he’s not a big one-punch fighter.

“James is improving with each fight. He’s a smart kid who really comprehends. He has the ability and now he’s working, one thing at a time, to master moves. He was raised in the game and wants to fight. James has been exposed every day to the best fighters in the industry – Tarver, Gatti, Adamek, Brewster, McCline, Adams, Mitchell, Guthrie, Malignaggi, Powell – the list is almost endless. He is learning from the best, all of world champions at Buddy’s gym. He’s won almost every round he’s boxed as a pro. James has world champion potential.”

Hagler is one of James’ boxing idols, somebody he welcomes comparisons to in any way, shape or form. “I love Hagler,” he noted. “I watch his fights to this day. I see some reasons for comparisons. We’re balls-to-the-wall fighters and smart in the ring. A lot of guys find out in the ring I’m faster and stronger than I look.”

While his surname has opened many doors in boxing for James, McGirt has also added pressures and often-high expectations. “My last name is a big part of me and my career,” James remarked. “I’m Buddy’s son. It’s in the genes. He was a great fighter and he’s one of the hottest trainers in boxing today. I’ve gained a lot of experience just being his son. The pressure is always going to be there because of who I am. I’ve been around this sport a long time and I know expectations are high. I expect that, but, if I mess up in the first round, I deal with it and don’t get caught up in what people say. Win, lose or draw, I just want to give my best, please myself, the fans and make my father proud. I’m trying to get to his level and I am taking it one fight at a time working to become a world champion. I’m going to get there.”

Witherow believes the media and fans will soon realize the talent behind his fighter. “James has won just about every round he has fought so far,” he added. “I believe everyone will soon start to look at this young man and recognize how good a boxer he is. We have

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targeted bigger names but we want to take reasonable steps to get there.

“James is willing to take on anyone at his level right now. We have a plan that will take him to a world championship and we will follow the plan. We have the right combination; great promoter (Lou DiBella), great trainer, and a great fighter. The fans and media just have to watch and enjoy the ride there.”

Buddy warned his son about the aforementioned comparisons, as well as impending questions about their father-son, trainer-fighter relationship. “No disrespect to any other father-son combinations,” Buddy commented, “but a lot of fathers try to live their dream through their son. I’ve been there (world title) and know what it’s like. I told my son that, people are going to compare him to me, but he is not his father. I also told him that whomever he fights would step it up because of his last name. Fighters who are 0-10 will fight my son like they’re 20-0. They’re going to bring their best show. James doesn’t fight like me; he has his own style.”

James has been developing in sparring sessions with many of the fighters who train at the Buddy McGirt Gym in Vero Beach, including WBC light heavyweight champion Tomasz Adamek as he prepared for Saturday night’s title defense against lefty Chad Dawson.

McGirt, whose most notable victories to date have been eight-round decisions against Stephan Pryor (10-1), son of another great champion Aaron Pryor, and Dennis Sharpe in his last outing (Dec. 14), is scheduled to fight February 17 on the Paulie Malignaggi-Edner Cherry undercard at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.

For James McGirt, Jr., although grateful for having Buddy in his corner, he is working to establishing his own identity in boxing, and making his own mark in boxing history.

-JM-

CONTACT:
Bob Trieger
Full Court Press
978.207.0165

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Pre-camp workouts have already begun for De La Hoya, with his training camp to officially kick off in Puerto Rico on March 1st.

Roach, the BWAA’s Trainer of The Year in 2003, is a former pro fighter who shared the ring with former world champions Bobby Chacon, Hector Camacho, and Greg Haugen over the course of an eight year pro career. After retiring in 1986, Roach carried on the teachings of the legendary Eddie Futch, and began molding champions as a trainer. Since then, he has trained 18 world champions, including Manny Pacquiao, James Toney, Mike Tyson, Virgil Hill, Israel Vazquez, and Wayne McCullough, and is respected throughout the boxing community as one of the last true teachers in the sport.

De La Hoya (38-4, 30 KOs) is coming off a stirring sixth round TKO of Ricardo Mayorga last May to win the WBC super welterweight crown. In the most highly-anticipated bout of this era, De La Hoya will defend his title against Mayweather in what is expected to be one of the biggest boxing events of all-time.

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"This is a huge success right out of the gate, unparalleled in boxing and underscores the importance and magnitude of this sporting event," said Richard Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer of Golden Boy Promotions. "We are now in the process of setting up a record number of closed circuit locations and seats in Las Vegas to ensure that any and all boxing fans can be part of this" Super Fight Weekend. I urge fans to make their reservations now to be in Las Vegas on May 5."

In the most anticpated fight to hit the sport in decades, six-division world champion, De La Hoya will meet unbeaten, four-division world champion Mayweather Saturday, May 5 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, the fight will be televised live on HBO Pay-Per-View at 9 p.m. EST/6 p.m. PST

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Lee, who is gaining popularity rapidly, promises to be the next superstar in the middleweight division and his aggressiveness and tremendous natural boxing ability makes him a very exciting boxer. Besides his natural talent, Lee’s focus and dedication to his sport is one of the key ingredients in his rise to the top.

Don’t be surprised to see this future champion at the top of more than one weight class before it is all over.

Story by Kathleen Holland
Photos by Chris McGee

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I'm excited," California born and bred St. John commented about fighting in New England. "I've fought in Madison Square Garden and like the East Coast. This is going to be my 54th fight and I still get excited about fighting. I've done everything I set out to do. I've won two world titles. I signed with Don King and Bob Arum. I opened for Oscar De La Hoya and Roy Jones. I fought Christy Martin. It feels great to have accomplished my goals. I love boxing or I would have given up fighting a long time ago. I take risky fights like this. Jaime is a great fighter who has a lot of skills. She's fought in some tough fights. Both of us have. It's going to be an exciting fight."

Clampitt, born in Canada and now fighting out of Narragansett, Rhode Island, is grateful for the opportunity to finally fight St. John. "I have to thank Jimmy Burchfield (promoter) for believing in me, putting me in the main event for a world title again, and supporting female boxing" she explained. "It's hard enough for females to even get on shows. I first started wanting to fight Mia when I first turned pro in Canada. Mia is very marketable and one of the best pound-for-pound women fighters in the world. That's why I wanted to fight her; she's one of the best. I'm excited to have her fighting in Providence. I think she'll be surprised at the boxing fans here. We both wanted to fight each other and fighting her for a world title is unbelievable. It's going to be a really big fight for boxing, women's boxing, and CES."

"Hearts Of Fire" is dedicated to the memory of Enrique Palau, the unbeaten boxer who was killed last month in a car accident. Donations will be collected for Palau's family.

A donation of $2.00 per each sold ticket will be donated to the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation (GGBCRF) and a portion of proceeds from VIP table sales will go to GGBCRF. CES has called for a "Pink Out" to be shown on the broadcasts with sales from "Pink T-Shirts" on sale at the event also going to GGBCRF. The main event fighters will show their support by wearing pink gloves.

Also scheduled to fight on "Hearts of Fire," in separate bouts, are former Commonwealth light middleweight champion Ossie Duran (22-5-1, 9 KOs) in an 8-round co-feature, undefeated Pawtucket (RI) light welterweight Eddie "The Puerto Rican Sensation" Soto (7-0, 4 KOs), Iraqi War veteran Chris Traietti (5-0, 3 KOs), the popular super middleweight out of Quincy (MA); popular Providence middleweight Richard "Bobo" Starnino (7-1-1, 1 KO). A trio of newly CES signed young fighters slated to be in action are Johnston (RI) super middleweight Angel Camacho, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs) and, making their pro debut, Brockton's (MA) light heavyweight Manuel Antonio Lopes and Stoughton (MA) super middleweight Mical Weisberg, who is a senior at Bridgewater State College. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Four exciting amateur matches are also scheduled.

Tickets for "Hearts Of Fire" are now on sale for $20.00 (students), $37.00 (Bronze Reserved), $60.00 (Silver Reserved), $105.00 (Gold Ringside Reserved) and $155.00 (limited Jimmy's VIP Platinum Club). To purchase tickets or for more information call CES (401.724.2253/2254) or go to www.cesboxing.com), Rhode Island Convention Center (401.458.6000), Rhode Island Boxing Gym in Warwick (866.588.3957), Manfredo's Gym in Pawtucket (401.723.1354), Box A Round Boxing Club in Stoughton (781.367.6385), Bishop's Boxing & Fitness (W. Bridgewater), Petronelli Brothers Gym in Brockton (508.588.3238) and 401 Gym in Cranston (401.261.9800/3436). Doors open at 6 PM, first bout at 6:30 PM.

Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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Question: Jesus, this is your first fight in 16 months. How are you doing?

Chavez: I am feeling pretty good. I am pretty psyched to get back into the ring. I know it has been a long journey for me, both mentally and physically, but I think that I have done a pretty good recovery on those issues. I have never really fought any easy opponents. I think taking on and getting ready to fight Diaz in my first outing after 16 months is quite a task for me. I have done it before. I had a break just as long after my fight with Eric Morales and I took on Carlos Hernandez. So I have been in this situation before. I am looking forward to boxing again with Diaz and regaining and maintaining the world championship status.

Question: Julio, what are your thoughts fighting a great champion like Jesus Chavez?

Diaz: I am really excited. We have been working very hard and have been waiting anxiously for this opportunity (for Chavez to be is ready). Now we are here and a week away and we are excited and ready to go. It will be a tough fight and a great fight for all the fans. I think everyone will enjoy it. We know Chavez is not a guy to take lightly. So it will be a very action-packed fight and I am very excited and looking forward to it.

Question: Tomasz, what are your thoughts about fighting on U.S. television?

Adamek: I am very happy to be on American TV and on SHOWTIME. I am a hard fighter and I will fight to the end. You will be happy watching me.

Question: Chad, what are your opening thoughts?

Dawson: I want to thank Tomasz for giving me the opportunity to fight for the world title and want to thank Gary Shaw and Don King Promotions for putting on the fight. I am looking forward to a big fight. I know it is the toughest fight of my career. I am prepared and ready.

Question: Jesus, you have had so many problems. Are you healthy or do you feel you will have to fight with a certain amount of pain and injuries for the rest of your career?

Chavez: I am not sure. I am ready to fight. Obviously, there are some aches and pains every once in awhile, but nothing that should stop me from competing at my level.

Question: What is the biggest challenge you will face against Diaz given the time off?

Chavez: I am not sure exactly what it will be until I am in the fight. Right now, I am just concentrating and preparing for the fight. We have had a phenomenal training camp and we are as ready as can be.

Question: Jesus, how difficult is it for you to mentally overcome and get into the fight after having been through the tragedy that you have been through?

Chavez: I think in this matter: I have been blessed with the Levander Johnson family. They have been very supportive of me and of my continuation of my boxing career. I have managed to conduct myself well and I do not know about it taking a toll or it is going to hinder me in any way in the fight. But then again, I will not know until I am in the fight again.

Question: Chad, why did you leave Dan Birmingham and join Floyd Mayweather, Sr.

Dawson: The split between Dan and I was nothing personal. It was just I thought I would be better with a trainer like Floyd where I could work on my punches together more. Dan is a great trainer and so is Floyd, but I think I fit in better with Floyd.

Question: Jesus, can you detail the specifics of your injury?

Chavez: I injured my left shoulder. I think it has been wear and tear because it just started to hurt and it continued to hurt. I did not really regard the pain. I thought it was my left hand just having some swelling. But after awhile, it just started hurting and I went and got it checked out and it turned out that I had a torn rotator cuff. So I had to have surgery from that and go from there.

Question: Jesus, was it just the shoulder or did you also have an elbow problem?

Chavez: No, just the shoulder.

Question: And how is it feeling now? Have you had any setbacks after the surgery?

Chavez: No. I have a pretty good doctor. I have been with him through two other surgeries before and the team that he hooked me up for rehab did a wonderful job and had me ready to go.

Question: Jesus, did you have two other surgeries on that arm?

Chavez: No, separate arms. I have had both of my shoulders surgically fixed. So they better watch out. I have got two brand new arms.

Question: At some point between then and now, did you also have your appendix taken out?

Chavez: Yes, I did. That happened about two months ago.

Question: And how are you doing since then?

Chavez: I am doing well. It is unfortunate I have had all these medical setbacks and have had some stop and go’s in my training. But right after that surgery, I was in the gym the next day. I was not working out, but I was in there walking around and watching everybody work out. Sitting on the sidelines for a year and a half had me starting to feel like a benchwarmer. The way I look at it, it is time to get off my rear and take care of business.

Question: Do you feel hungry to fight again?

Chavez: Hunger like I have not experienced before. Wanting to succeed, dedication and all that. I am indeed the champion in this situation, but I consider myself the underdog based on everything that has happened to me. I know there are a lot of questions directed to me right now and most of them are whether I am physically and mentally going to be ready because of what happened. But I think I am going to answer everybody’s questions on Feb. 3 and leave it up to that. My hard work is going to pay off. I am hungry, I am mean as I can be and I have two brand new arms. Do not be surprised if even the referee goes on this one.

Question: Jesus, when was your second surgery on your other shoulder?

Chavez: In 2003.

Question: Julio, do you feel you could be lulled to sleep thinking Jesus is not 100 percent?

Diaz: I do not think that is an issue. I saw him get injured with Morales and that did not back him up at all. It did not affect him. So, no I am not using that as an advantage. I am not even thinking about it. I am thinking about how he is a strong fighter. That is all I am ready for.

Question: Julio, can you talk about how you said one should not be fooled by how well spoken and nice Jesus is and how he is such a great sportsman?

Diaz: You cannot be fooled by that. You can be a best friend, but in the ring it is different and it is a sport. Outside the ring, I think he is a classy and well-educated person. But we are fighters and in the ring, you have to be as mean as a dog.

Question: Chad, what do you see in Adamek that you think you can exploit that Paul Briggs was not able to do in 24 rounds?

Dawson: Briggs and I are totally different fighters. I am more of a boxer. I do not go in to burrow.

Question: Is it true Mayweather was training you for the fact he would not be in your corner?

Dawson: Mayweather will be there.

Question: Julio, did you learn anything from the (Jose Luis) Castillo fight that you can apply in this fight?

Diaz: Definitely. I became a stronger fighter physically. That is an advantage for me. I have been a strong fighter even as a kid, but now I have developed and feel strong as ever. I know he is all pressure, but that does not bother me. Almost all my career, I have always been the boxer and the faster they go forward, the easier it is for me. I am usually the one going back until I see my opening and then it is over. Pressure will not affect me at all. In fact, that is what I am expecting and hoping for.

Question: Julio, you stated you did not think Jesus had enough power. His sparring partner says he thinks Chavez has the power to compete up to 140. Do you believe otherwise?

Diaz: Well, of course, if you ask all my sparring partners, they are going to think I can knock out Mike Tyson. That is just everybody’s job. I respect if his team hypes it up and my team has the best things to say about me. But I guess there is only one way to find out – Saturday, Feb. 3. I am the only one that is going to witness and feel that power and he is the only one that will feel my power. We will just go from there. That is all that matters.

Question: Tomasz, is it frustrating or is it hard to keep focused since you have fought just twice in the U.S. and have been unable to showcase your talents as you might like?

Adamek: I have only fought twice in America and all America saw me. I was the best fighter in 2006. I was good, and I am going to be good, and I am going to show (everybody) again.

Question: Tomasz, Mayweather Sr. says all his fighter has to do is just out jab you and the rest will come easy. Do you think Mayweather is giving Dawson false hope?

Adamek: You will see everything on Feb. 3. You will see who is better and you will see how good I am.

Question: Do you think any boxer could beat you with just their jab?

Adamek: I am the champion. I am the best one right now and I am going to be here for a long time.

Question: Tomasz, when was the last time you fought a southpaw?

Adamek: I believe three years ago.

Question: Chad, expectations have always been very high for you. Are you ready to meet those expectations?

Dawson: Yes, I am. This is what I have been working for my whole career.

Question: Did you think this opportunity would be so soon?

Dawson: I have been patient and it is here.

Question: Jesus, you went through something very traumatic with the Levander Johnson situation. Did you seek professional help to help deal with the emotional toll that it took on you? Or did you talk to fighters who have had an opponent die after a fight?

Chavez: I did get a little bit of professional help briefly. I was not in there too long. For some reason, I did not think it was helping me much. I think that I am a lot stronger mentally to sustain the therapy work that I was working on. So I opted to stop getting that kind of help. Like I said before, the biggest challenge is going through the situation. I think my biggest encouragement was my family, friends and the Levander Johnson family helped me through. There is no other better way to go about that. It was worth every cent.

Question: How long were you in the therapy?

Chavez: A month or so. I would go in once a week. So maybe (I had) four sessions and decided that it was not for me.

Question: Was that in Austin, Tex.?

Chavez: Yeah, it was in Austin.

Question: How much personal contact have you had with the Johnson family since?

Chavez: Briefly, sporadically I have talked to Craig Johnson. Actually, he is the only person I have talked to. He seems to be the Levander Johnson representative. When I was in New Jersey for the funeral, I got a chance to meet the family, friends and public officials from New Jersey. It was a beautiful ceremony. I just felt so welcome and I felt like a warm embrace. There were no hard feelings for what had happened. I think that was probably the biggest breakthrough that I have had.

Question: Have you talked to Craig since then?

Chavez: Yes, I have talked to him last week as a matter of fact. Actually about two weeks ago.

Question: What has he told you about the situation in terms of you coming to terms with it?

Chavez: Well, recently, we just asked about each other’s families and is everything OK. We do not touch the subject as far as grieving or anything like that. It’s a procedure that I think we are all trying overcome at some point and we probably do not want to touch it.

Question: Would you have preferred taking a tune-up fight against a lesser opponent?

Chavez: Sure, but that is not what has happened. The IBF required that I fought the No. 1 contender and here I am. I am doing everything possible and everything I can in myself, both mentally and physically. Like I said, I do not appreciate taking any slack in my career. I never have and I will not stop doing that now. I take on the biggest and baddest contenders out there.

Chavez: Jesus, what is the best advice you have gotten during these last 16 months?

Chavez: There has been so much that I could not point to any one particular thing out. I have friends and a loving community surrounding me. There is not one specific comment that I would pick out in this matter. They are all good.

Question: Jesus, with regard to your physical problems, can you talk a little about your initial disappointment when the injury first occurred?

Chavez: The opponent then is no more or less than the one I have in front of me now. I never have and I never will discredit any one of my opponents by name or gender or character. I prepare for each one of my fights 100 percent and to the best of my ability. It was a little discomforting to give up a big fight. The only difference in this matter was the payday.

Question: During the injury and sabbatical, was there ever a time you considered retiring?

Chavez: No, that is nothing that came to mind. I am a warrior and that seems to be the story of my life. I am an overcomer, an overachiever and I am going to have to prove that once again.

Question: What do you know about Julio Diaz?

Chavez: I know Julio well from watching his family, his brothers on television and watching some of his fights. I am a big fan of their boxing style. As a matter of fact, Julio Diaz and I shared a dressing room once in Las Vegas. There is nothing but respect. I think the respect is mutual. Like he said earlier, nice and tender outside the ring, but that is outside. Inside he will show his true colors and I am going to show mine.

Question: Jesus, with your fighting style so grueling and relentless, have you ever thought about what is going to happen when you get to a point where you do see another fighter injured? Are you going to be able to pour it on like you used to before the injury?

Chavez: I think that is something that we are going to have to come to terms with. That is a pretty natural and normal question as far as whether I am going to be the same fighter after what happened. None of us really knows exactly how you are going to perform the next fight out because sometimes they say the fighters are made for each other and sometimes there are fighters for another. So it is difficult to say. If I have someone hurt, do you expect me to take it easy? I do not think anybody on my team expects me to soften up because I think something tragic is going to happen. I think that is for God to decide.

Question: Tomasz, compare your two performances against Briggs? Were you happy with your last win?

Adamek: Definitely, the second fight I was healed and did not have any injuries. Definitely, the second fight was much better for me.

Question: Who do you think is the best light heavyweight in the world apart from you?

Adamek: I do not worry about anybody. I can fight anybody. I am ready for everybody and I want to fight everybody.

Question: Have you seen much of Chad Dawson? What are you expecting in this fight?

Adamek: I believe in my power and believing can make miracles. I will see what he can show in the ring and I will adjust to it.

Question: Chad, did you think Briggs fought the wrong fight and you have to bring something different to this fight?

Dawson: I would not say that Briggs was the wrong fight. That is his fight. As I said, we are totally different fighters. I believe in my boxing ability. May the best man win on Feb. 3. I am up for it and it sounds like he is up for it. So everybody should look forward to a good fight.

Question: Chad, do you see Tomasz as the best light heavyweight in the world?

Dawson: I have to go into the fight thinking he is the best light heavyweight in the world. I am not going to look past him. I think he probably is the best. He is a champion.

Question: Chad, how do you think you are ready for a fighter like Tomasz at this point?

Dawson: Now is the time to step up the competition. I believe in my ability in this fight and it will show in the ring.

Question: Tomasz, do you think Dawson is ready for you at this point?

Adamek: I believe that if he is the (No. 1) contender, he is ready to fight.

Question: Julio, how do you think the tragedy with Levander has affected Jesus? Do you think we are going to see a different Jesus Chavez in the ring?

Diaz: No, I do not think so. I think I am going to see the same person. In fact, a little more motivated since he has been out of the game for a little bit. I think it will be exciting for him to get the feel of fighting again in the ring. I am pretty sure he will be fine once the lights are on him and he is on the stage.

Question: Julio, you are promoted by Sycuan Ringside Promotions. They have only been in business a couple of years yet have had a lot of world champion. You could become their latest (fourth) if you win, which is a big deal for Sycuan and, of course, you. Your last fight on SHOWTIME was against Castillo. Although you lost, what did you get out of the fight and how did you come out of it mentally and emotionally?

Diaz: Well, I think mentally I came out a lot better. I fought as a baby with Castillo. That is the reason I took that fight. I wanted to get spanked and learn my lesson. I kind of had that mentality and everything went good. I was never knocked out. I was never in the ropes in trouble. My eyes frustrated me. I could not see because of cuts. I am not used to getting beat up like that. So it was more out of frustration. But right after that, I was never hurt. I came back and got another knockout after that and I have been on a streak since and got even better. I have matured and I have been a destroyer ever since. I am more excited now.

Question: So in other words, the kid became a man after that fight?

Diaz: Right, because I needed it. If I had to do that fight again, honestly, believe it or not, I would prefer it go just the way it went. I do not have any regrets on making that decision of the fight.

Question: Jesus, do you feel frustrated because you did not fight Marc Antonio Barrera?

Chavez: No, I think I have pretty much answered that question already. I am just as excited to fight Julio Diaz as I would have been Marc Antonio Barrera.

Question: Chad, what do you think Mayweather has brought to the table as far as improving your performance as a fighter?

Dawson: I am throwing punches right now, throwing harder punches, going to the body more. He is working on my head movement and not staying in front of a fighter and moving.

Question: Tomasz, would you ever entertain the thought of going to a catch weight or moving down a weight class and taking on Joe Calzaghe?

Adamek: Light heavyweight is the perfect weight for me and I am going to stay in the same category. I never have talked of changing my weight.

Question: Tomasz, have you ever been knocked down in your professional career?

Adamek: No.

Begin Closing Comments.

Adamek: I do not have anything more to say. Everything will be OK and I will see you all at the conference in Orlando.

Dawson: Good luck to all the fighters on Feb. 3.

Chavez: I am just excited to be on the card. Glad to have been on this conference call with the media. Looking forward to Feb. 3. You have to take chances and do what you have to do. I am glad to take the chance and be in the ring with Julio Diaz and it is going to be a great fight for both him and me. We have great expectations of each other and we are going to show that. The winners of this fight will not either of us, but the viewers.

Diaz: We are excited and will see you guys next week. Do not blink because it will be an exciting fight.

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Tickets for De La Hoya vs. Mayweather are priced at $2000, $1,500, $1,000, $750, $350 and $150 and will be available at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office. Ticket sales at $2000, $1,500, $1,000 and $750 are limited to six (6) per person and ticket sales at $350 and $150 are limited to two (2) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com. For MGM Grand room availability and event ticket information, call (800) 929-1111 or (702) 891-7777 or visit www.mgmgrand.com.

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Irish middleweight phenomenon, undefeated Andy Lee (7-0, 4 KOs), defeated the more experienced Arturo Ortega (12-3-3, 7 KOs) by TKO at 32 seconds of round 6 in a scheduled six round bout. Lee dominated the bout pretty much hitting Ortega at will. Ortega landed a few good body shots but Lee clearly was the aggressor, systematically controlling all aspects of the fight.

Fighting out of the Kronk Gym in Detroit, undefeated NABO Cruiserweight champion, Johnathon Banks (14-0, 11 KOs) defeated Zack Page (11-10-1, 3 KOs) by unanimous decision in an 8 round bout. Page ran from Banks the entire 8 rounds, frustrating Banks, but Banks was clearly the better and more aggressive boxer.

Ryan Ulell (1-0) made has professional debut in a super exciting 4 round super lightweight bout when he took on, and defeated, Martin Vierra (2-1, 1 KO) by unanimous decision. Both fighters received a $200.00 bonus from Top Rank for their action-packed performances.

Jorge Solis (32-0-2, 23 KOs) scored a TKO over Omar Lizarraga (16-4, 12 KOs) at 1:10 of the 5th round in a 10 round featherweight bout.

In a six round ladies bantamweight bout, undefeated Melinda Cooper (18-0, 10 KOs) defeated Delia Hoppe (3-5-1, 1 KO) by TKO at the end of the 1st round.

Story by Kathleen Holland
Photos by Chris McGee

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The card also features two of Emanuel Steward’s undefeated top prospects, Andy Lee of Limerick, Ireland and NABO Cruiserweight champion, Johnathon Banks of Detroit, MI. Lee (6-0, 3 KOs) will take on Arturo Ortega (12-2-3, 7 KOs) in a 6 round middleweight bout and Banks (13-0, 10 KOs) squares off with Zack Page (11-9-1, 3 KOs) in an 8 round Cruiserweight match-up.

Also on the card will be Omar Lizarraga (16-3, 12 KOs) meeting Jorge Solis (31-0-2, 22 KOs) in a 10 round featherweight bout, Delia Hoppe (3-4-1, 1 KO) taking on Melinda Cooper (17-0, 9 KOs) in a 6 round bantamweight bout and Martin Vierra (2-0, 1 KO) will match-up with Ryan Ulell who will be making his pro debut, in a 4 round super lightweight bout.

Tickets are on sale and may be purchased at The Orleans Hotel and Casino Box Office.

Weights for Thursday’s bouts

Ortega 160
Lee 161

Releford 229
Fields 270

Grigsby 108
U Solis 107

Lizarraga 127
J Solis 125

Page 199
Banks 201

Hoppe 122
Cooper 122.5

Vierra 144
Ulell 144

Story by Kathleen Holland, Photos by Chris McGee

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IBO Intercontinental middleweight title-holder Aaron “Homicide” Mitchell (25-1-1, 20 KOs) fights Jose “Seek & Destroy” Spearman (27-12-4, 11 KOs) for his championship belt as well as the vacant NABA title.

Former NABF super featherweight champion Fernando “El Pillo” Trejo (27-12-4, 17 KOs) meets Sean “Pit Bull” Plessis (17-3, 4 KOs) for the vacant IBO Intercontinental super featherweight crown.

Also on the undercard in 4/6 rounds matches are unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Alfredo Escalera (12-0, 10 KOs), son of the great Puerto Rican world champion Alfredo Escalera, against Darryl Holley (5-2, 1 KO) and Ft. Lauderdale heavyweight favorite Richard Brown (4-0, 2 KOs) versus TBA.

Tickets, priced at $25.00 and $65.00, are available by calling Destiny’s (407.531.9803) or Ron Remus Productions (407.333.3051).

Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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Lisa Broch (Bonsante’s trainer): “I’m privileged and honored to be here. Few females are in this position. I’ve been with Anthony Bonsante for seven years. He works hard and we’re looking forward to this fight.”

Maureen Shea: “I’m taking care of business. I’m truly blessed and honored to be fighting on an Irish Ropes show for the second year in a row at The Garden and on a John Duddy undercard. It’s my dad’s 66th birthday and, God willing, I’ll give him another win (as a present). I’m looking forward to putting on a great performance.”

Event: “Erin Go Brawl”

Date & Venue: March 16 @ The Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York, NY

Promoter: Irish Ropes Promotions

Television: Broadcast live in North America on cable and satellite pay-per-view starting at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT. The event is being produced and distributed for pay-per-view by Integrated Sports and will be available in more than 50-million homes in North America via iN Demand, TVN, DirecTV and Dish Network in the USA, as well as Viewer’s Choice in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $24.95.

Main Event: “Ireland’s” John Duddy (18-0, 15 KOs), Queens, NY via Derry, N. Ireland vs. Anthony “Bullet” Bonsante (29-8-3, 17 KOs), Shakopee, MN, 12 rounds, IBA World & WBC Continenal Americas Middleweight Championships. Co-Feature: TBA, 10 rounds.

Undercard Fighters: super featherweight Maureen “The Real Million Dollar Baby” Shea (8-0, 4 KOs, Bronx, NY; middleweight Andy Lee (6-0, 3 KOs), Detroit, MI via Limerick, Ireland; heavyweight James Clancy (9-0, 1 KO), Boston, MA via Clare, Ireland; cruiserweight Mark Clancy (6-0-1, 1 KO), Boston, MA via Clare, Ireland; welterweight Henry Coyle (pro debut), Chicago via Mayo, Ireland.

Tickets: $400.00, $300.00, $200.00, $150.00, $100.00, $75.00 and $50.00 at the Garden Box Office, thegarden.com, or by calling TicketMaster at 212.307.7171. All tickets include a $4.50 facility fee and TicketMaster orders are subject to TicketMaster service charge.

Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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IBO Intercontinental middleweight title-holder Aaron “Homicide” Mitchell takes on always-tough Jose “Seek & Destroy” Spearman (27-12-4, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBF and NABA belts in a 12-round bout. Mitchell (25-1-1, 20 KOs) hasn’t been beaten in more than 13 years (23-0-1, 17 KOs).

In another 12-round title fight, former NABF super featherweight champion Fernando “El Pillo” Trejo battles Sean “Pit Bull” Plessis (17-3, 4 KOs) for the vacant IBO Intercontinental

(More…..)
2 – “Blood, Sweat & Guts” in Orlando

super featherweight belt. Mexican warrior Trejo (27-12-4, 17 KOs) holds impressive victories against the likes of Jose Armando Santa Cruz, Luis Antonio Arceo, and Jose Leonardo Cruz.

Also on the undercard in separate 4/6 rounds matches are unbeaten cruiserweight prospect Alfredo Escalera (12-0, 10 KOs), son of the great Puerto Rican world champion Alfredo Escalera, and Ft. Lauderdale heavyweight favorite Richard Brown (4-0, 2 KOs).

Tickets, priced at $25.00 and $65.00, are available by calling Destiny’s (407.531.9803) or Ron Remus Productions (407.333.3051).

Courtesy Bob Triegar Full Court Press

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An entertaining boxer-puncher known to fight fans as ‘The Hispanic Causin’ Panic’, El Paso’s Juan Lazcano (37-3-1, 27 KOs) is always a crowd pleaser and never afraid of a good scrap. A former IBA and NABF lightweight champion, Lazcano moved to the 140-pound weight class in 2005 and has been impressive in putting together a four fight win streak that includes wins over solid contenders Ben Tackie and Courtney Burton. In his last fight, on October 21st, Lazcano pounded out a hard-fought ten round decision over Manuel Garnica.

A native of Guyana who now makes his home in Brooklyn, New York, hard-hitting Vivian Harris (27-2-1, 18 KOs) has long been one of boxing’s most avoided practitioners. A pro since 1997, Harris finally got his break in 2002, when he fought and knocked out Diosbelys Hurtado to win the WBA junior welterweight championship. He defended the crown three times before an upset loss to Carlos Maussa in 2005, but with back to back comeback wins over Marteze Logan and Stevie Johnston, ‘Vicious’ Vivian is ready to challenge for the crown once again.

Tickets to “Battle At The Bay” are priced at $300, $200, $100 and $50 and are on sale now. Tickets will be sold at any Mandalay Bay box office and all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (Smith’s Food and Drug Centers, Macy’s stores and Ritmo Latino). To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Mandalay Bay box office at (702) 632-7580 or Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Posted by mightygloves.com at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Their first meeting included a sensational round seven that Dan Rafael at ESPN.com said was “an exhausting round just to watch,” that he recognized as a candidate for Round of the Year.

Bell (26-1-1, 24 KOs), originally from Jamaica and now a longtime resident of Atlanta, entered the first fight as the International Boxing Federation cruiserweight world champion while Mormeck (32-3, 22 KOs) from Point-a-Pitre, Guadalupe, France, now residing in Rosny-sous-Bois, France, was the unified cruiserweight world champion with both the WBA and WBC belts.

Mormeck started strong and had Bell in serious trouble on several occasions. Bell persevered, avoiding being knocked down during a withering assault by the Frenchman in the early rounds. Bell survived and miraculously found a second wind in the middle rounds.

The two combatants traded power shots at will in the epic, seesaw seventh round, leaving the Garden crowd on its feet when the bell sounded.

Going into round 10, Mormeck still held the lead on one of the judges’ scorecards (86-85) but had expended so much energy in the early rounds building his lead that he appeared ready to founder. One of the two fighters had to succumb, and it was Mormeck who lost the war of attrition. In the waning seconds, after a relentless assault from Bell, Mormeck finally hit the deck. Referee Wayne Kelley counted him out with just 10 seconds left in round 10.

Bell became the first undisputed cruiserweight world champion since Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield held that distinction in 1988. His subsequent inactivity led to the loss of his IBF crown, but he still retains the WBC and WBA straps.

With all of the accolades being showered upon the first fight, Bell vs. Mormeck II will be the biggest world championship boxing match staged in France in years. The bout will be televised on the Canal + network in France.

The France press conference concludes a whirlwind weeklong tour of Europe for the indefatigable King. He co-promoted and attended the WBA heavyweight championship featuring Nikolai “Giant Russian” Valuev vs. Jameel “Big Time” McCline in Basel, Switzerland on Saturday.

On Tuesday, the 75-year-old promoter was in Mannheim, Germany, for a press conference announcing IBF heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko will make his next title defense there on March 10 against Don King Productions-promoted IBF mandatory challenger Ray “The Rainman” Austin.

DKP has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including the top four: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.95 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995; and Bruno vs. Tyson, 1.4 million buys, March 1996.

DKP has promoted or co-promoted 16 of the top 25 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also highest live-gate gross for any event in the history of the world.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995; De La Hoya vs. Trinidad, paid attendance: 11,184, gross: $12,949,500 (Also garnered the most pay-per-view buys for a non-heavyweight fight at 1.4 million).

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“It’s going to be a barnburner of an event,” Irish Ropes president Eddie McLouglin said. “It’s an Irish show, the night before St. Patrick’s Day, in Madison Square Garden. Duddy is more known and better respected after his great fight with ‘Yory Boy’ Campas. People all over the world know Bonsante from The Contender and he earned this shot against Duddy by beating (Matt) Vanda. The interest in this show is unbelievable and that’s why we decided to do a pay-per-view event. I’ve already been inundated with ticket requests. We have people coming from across the United States, Ireland, Canada and even 16 I know of all the way from Australia.”

Duddy (18-0, 15 KOs), rated No. 7 by the WBO and No. 9 by the WBA, captured the vacant IBA championship September 29, 2006 by 12-round decision in a brutal fight with former world champion Campas before a sellout crowd in The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The charismatic, handsome Duddy is a budding star.

Vanda was supposed to be Duddy’s opponent but Bonsante (29-8-3, 17 KOs) turned in a career-defining performance January 12 against his Minnesota archrival, winning a one-sided 10-round decision in Minneapolis for the Minnesota State and IBA Americas middleweight titles, as well as his March 16th title shot against Duddy.

Also fighters scheduled to fight on “Erin Go Brawl” card include 2004 Irish Olympian middleweight Andy Lee (6-0, 3 KOs), world-rated super featherweight Maureen “The Real Million Dollar Baby” Shea (8-0, 4 KOs), the unbeaten Clancy brothers – heavyweight James (9-0, 1 KO) and cruiserweight Mark (6-0-1, 1 KO) – from Clare, Ireland and now fighting out of Boston, and 2004 Irish National Senior amateur champion Henry Coyle in his pro debut. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $400.00, $300.00, $200.00, $150.00, $100.00, $75.00 and $50.00, may be purchased at the Garden Box Office, thegarden.com, or by calling TicketMaster at 212.307.7171. All tickets include a $4.50 facility fee and TicketMaster orders are subject to TicketMaster service charge. For more information about “Erin Go Brawl” call Irish Ropes Promotions at 212.835.1582 or going on line to www.irishropes.com.

Boston Press Conference Quotes

John Duddy: “New York City and Boston have been like second homes for me. I’ve been here (Boston) a few times to visit friends and it’s a good place for me to relax. I look forward to fighting at The Garden, but I’m not just the only one fighting, it’s the whole package with guys like the Clancys fighting, too. It’s going to be a big Irish night and I hope to carry the flag again. I’m looking forward to fighting Anthony Bonsante. I leave next week for training camp in Florida so Harry (Keitt, his head trainer) can beat me up some more.

“I can’t believe the reception I’ve received on the East Coast in New York and Boston. I never thought it would be like this. My Irish and Irish-American fans keep me going. I’ll be in even better shape, mentally and physically, for this fight, even better than I was for the (Yory Boy) Campas fight. Hopefully this is going to be a year of big things for us. “

Anthony Bonsante: (By Phone) “I’ve always dreamed of fighting at The Garden. I’m excited as hell. It’s a big opportunity for me. I’m getting better and better. I’ll be training my butt off. There are implications for a really big fight if and when I win (March 16). He can box and punch, but I’m coming to win. I’m taking nothing away from Duddy; he’s a great puncher. We’re going to devise and work hard on a plan for him. I realize it’s an uphill battle for me fighting in Madison Square Garden, the night before St. Patrick’s Day against a fighter like Duddy with all of the Irish there. But, in my heart, I have a good shot to win.”

James Clancy: “I’m honored to be fighting for Irish Ropes on March 16 again and being on John Duddy’s undercard.”

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I’m excited to begin the next phase of my career with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Juarez. “Oscar knows what it takes to get to that next level in this game, and I’m ready to do what it takes to not only get there, but stay there.”

Shelly Finkel, Juarez’ manager since his pro debut in 2001 said, “I believe that you are a product of your environment. With all the champions Golden Boy has surrounding Rocky, how can he do anything but become a champion himself”.

The 26-year old Juarez (25-3, 18 KOs) burst on the pro scene in 2001 after a stellar amateur career which was capped off by a Silver medal-winning performance in the 2000 Olympic Games. And though many believe he was robbed of a Gold medal by the judges, Houston’s Juarez (who was named after the legendary Rocky Marciano) brought his own judges into the pro ranks in the form of his fists, and he compiled a 23-0 record before an upset loss to Humberto Soto in 2005. Refusing to be discouraged, Juarez got back into the ring, won two fights by knockout and then challenged Barrera twice for the WBC super featherweight title in 2006. And though Juarez would fall short against the Mexican legend, his performances in both bouts proved that he was just a step away from becoming a world champion.

In 2007, Golden Boy Promotions hopes to bring Juarez to that goal.

Juarez’ first bout under the Golden Boy Promotions banner will be against Emmanuel Lucero on February 9, 2007 at the Diamond Desert Casino in Tucson, AZ.

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B.J. “El Pelogroso” Flores (18-0-1, 12 KOs), rated No. 26 by the WBC, won an exciting 12-round decision (116-112, 116-111, 116-111) against Chris “Cold Steel” Thomas (16-7-2, 14 KOs) for the vacant WBF and NBA super cruiserweight titles.

Sherman “The Caribbean Tank” Williams (32-10-2, 18 KOs) successfully defended his NBA title and also won the vacant WBF Intercontinental heavyweight crown by stopping Ralph “Wild, Wild” West (17-10-1, 14 KOs) in the third round.

Prince Badi Ajamu (26-3-1, 15 KOs), rated No. 11 by the IBF and No. 13 by the WBO, added the vacant NBA and WBF light heavyweight championships to his collection of titles when former world title challenger Craig Cummings (53-7-1, 43 KOs) was unable to answer the bell for the third round.

Silverhawk Boxing presents “Blood, Sweat & Guts” on Friday, January 26 at Destiny Nightclub in Orlando, Florida: 12 round title fights -- Leo Nolan-Hector Ferreyro (USBO Heavyweight), Stevie Johnston-Tyrone Harris (IBA Lightweight), Aaron Mitchell-Jose Spearman (NABA & IBO Intercontinental Middleweight), Fernando Trejo-Sean Plessis (IBO Intercontinental Featherweight), William Guthrie-TBA (NBA Cruiserweight).

Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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In the co-feature, Jose Luis Castillo (55-7-1, 47 KOs) won a split decision over Hermann Ngoudjo (15-1, 9 KOs) in a twelve round jr. welterweight matchup which was a final eliminator bout to determine the WBC’s number one ranked mandatory challenger at 140 pounds. Jose Luis Castillo will take on Ricky Hatton in June for the WBC and IBF Jr. welterweight championship of the world.

On the undercard Matthew Hatton (30-3-1, 12 KOs) scored a fourth round TKO over Frank Houghtaling (19-13-5, 4 KOs) in a 12 round IBF International Welterweight championship bout. Jonathan Ibbotson (8-0-1, 4 KOs) defeated Shannon Anderson (3-1, 1 KO) by TKO at 1:35 of round one in a scheduled six round super middleweight bout.

Story by Kathleen Holland
Photos by Chris McGee

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Promoted by Art Pelullo of Banner Promotions and Dennis Hobson of Fight Academy, in association with Top Rank, Inc., the main event and co-feature will be televised live on HBO Championship Boxing beginning at 9:45 P.M. ET

Some tickets are still available and can be purchased at the Paris Las Vegas Box Office.

Story by Kathleen Holland
Photos by Chris McGee

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WBF All-Americas champion Flores (17-0-1, 12 KOs) is rated No. 26 by the WBC, as well as No. 3 by the NABF and No. 5 by the IBA. “I feel fantastic,” two-time U.S. Nationals amateur heavyweight champion Flores said. “I’m in great shape. We’ve been rotating three or four guys sparring. We had some misfortune (his brother-in-law died in a car crash pushing the fight back a week) but my mind is alright now and I’m really looking forward to this fight against Thomas. I haven’t had a chance to meet and work with my Silverhawk stablemates and it’s nice to fight on the same card with Sherman and Prince. I’m hoping we all do well.”

Thomas (16-6-2, 14 KOs), fighting out of Chicago, has been in tough against the likes of former world champion Kelvin Davis twice, Emmanuel Nwodo and Felix Coro, Jr.

WBC CABOFE title-holder Williams (31-10-2, 17 KOs) defends his NBA belt and fights for the vacant WBF Intercontinental crown against dangerous Ralph “Wild, Wild” West (17-9-1, 14 KOs). Williams was preparing to headline a January 27 show in his native Bahamas that has been postponed.

Sherman is riding a six-fight win streak, including devastating knockouts in two of his last three fights. “I’m excited to get back in the ring January 20th,” Williams remarked in his delightful Caribbean accent. “I don’t know too much about Ralph West other than he’s a big guy, around 6-5. I’ll have to come in with a good strategy to get inside and throw punches. I was training for the fight in back home The Bahamas but it was pushed back. I’m not too disappointed because it’ll happen in March or April when they can facilitate the casino. But I’ve got this fight in front of me.

“I’m looking forward to do what I do – punch! I’ve always been a decent puncher since the beginning, but I changed my style, until the last three fights back to the Tank Williams style of boxing. I’m more serious about my training and conditioning, keeping my arms and shoulders strong. I’m sitting down, picking my punches. I establish my jab, get inside and let my punches go. If I connect with my left hook and right cross, it’s almost assured they’re going to sleep.”

Prince Badi (25-3-1, 14 KOs), rated No. 11 by the IBF and No. 13 by the WBO, plans on adding another title belt to his collection that has included the Pennsylvania State, IBC Intercontinental, WBC Continental Americas, WBC CABOFE and NABO championships. The Prince, who extended the great Roy Jones, Jr. 12 rounds in his last fight (July 29), faces veteran Craig Cummings (53-6-1, 43 KOs) for the vacant NBA light heavyweight title.

“I’m excited as always and looking forward to having some fun and taking care of business,” the popular Prince spoke about his fight against Cummings. “I know my opponent has had a lot of fights and after watching me fight Roy Jones, I’m sure he thinks he can beat me. But this is a new beginning for me and I’m going to fight my fight. I want to get back to having a shot at IBF champion Clinton Woods. What I learned from the Jones fight was that, even facing adversity, I find a way to keep coming. I’m all heart.”

For more information about Flores (www.myspace.com/dangerboy29) or Silverhawk Boxing go to www.silverhawkboxing.com.

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“BAD BLOOD”

Date: Friday, Jan. 12, 2007

Venue: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN

Promoter: Seconds Out Promotions

Matchmaker: John Beninati

Tickets: $25.00, $50.00 and $100.00

Information: 612.673,1600 or www.targetcenter.com

Broadcast: Live radio www.minnesotascore.com, AM 660, 1570 KYCR starting at 9:30 PM/CT

Story Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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WHAT: Irish Ropes Promotions press conferences

WHO: “Ireland’s” John Duddy
Queens, NY via Derry, N. Ireland
18-0, 15 KOs
IBA World Middleweight Champion
Rated WBO #7 & WBA #9

Also in Boston Also In New York City
James Clancy Maureen “The Real Million Dollar Baby” Shea
Boston, MA via Clare, Ireland Bronx, NY
9-0, 1 KO 8-0, 4 KOs
5-Time Irish National Amateur Champion Rated WBA #5 & WBC #6

Mark Clancy
Boston, MA via Clare, Ireland
6-0-1, 1 KO
4-Time Irish National Amateur Finalist

WHEN: Monday, January 22, 2007 – Boston – 1:30 PM
Wednesday, January 24, 2007 – New York City – 12:30 PM

WHERE: The Kells of Boston, 161 Brighton Ave., Allston, MA 617.782.9082
Jack Demsey’s Bar & Restaurant, 36 W. 33rd St., New York, NY 212.629.9899

WHY: To formally announce Irish Ropes Promotions’ March 16th pro boxing show, which will be broadcast live all over the world, including on pay-per-view in North America, from The Theatre in Madison Square Garden.

Story Courtesy Bob Triegar
Full Court Press

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“Bad Blood,” presented by former Minnesota boxer Tony Grygelko’s Seconds Out Promotions, in association with the Target Center, cannot break the state record for attendance at a boxing show – 13,789 for Scott LeDoux (chairman of the new Minnesota Boxing Commission) vs. Duane Bobick, June 26, 1976 at the Metropolitan Sports Arena in Bloomington – because the Target Center has been scaled down to approximately 10,000 seats. It could, however, exceed attendance for the heavyweight title fight between champion Larry Holmes and LeDoux (nearly 10,000 on July 7, 1980) and LeDoux-Rodney Bobick (9,122 on April 24, 1973), both at the Old Met.

(More…..)

2 – Bonstante-Vanda winner in line for Duddy title shot

Bonsante-Vanda is the draw. Minnesota boxing fans have been waiting most of the 21st century for this showdown to finally become a reality. The Contender Season One star Bonsante (28-3-3, 17 KOs), of Shakopee and IBA Americas light middleweight title-holder Vanda (35-2, 21 KOs), fighting out of St. Paul, have both expressed interest in fighting Duddy.

“After I beat Vanda,” Bonsante said, “I’ll be the IBA Americas champ. John Duddy’s the IBA World middleweight champion. He doesn’t have an opponent for his March 16th fight in New York City. Duddy and me is a natural match.”

“I don’t think there’s anything special about Duddy,” Vanda remarked. “He’s a tough dude. I had a bad fight in New York City and he said I was schooled. But he didn’t see the real ‘Predator’ that fight.”

On the Minnesota all-star card, expertly put together by nationally known matchmaker John Beninati, heavyweight prospect Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell (9-1, 9 KOs) fights Larry White (3-2, 2 KOs) and Rochester’s talented Raphael Butler (23-3, 19 KOs), 2004 National Golden Gloves champion, takes on former CAM heavyweight champ Louis “The Facelifter” Monaco (15-34-4, 7 KOs), in a pair of six-round bouts.

Minnesota State featherweight champion Allen “The American Boy” Litzau (11-2, 6 KOs), of St. Paul, meets Elvis “El Burrito” Martinez (10-19-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round, non-title match. St. Louis Park’s undefeated featherweight Wilton Hilario (6-0, 6 KOs) steps up against former world champion Juan Polo Perez (46-44-4, 23 KOs) in another six rounder.

St. Paul welterweight Raul “The Matador” Gracia (6-0, 2 KOs) faces LaMont Ingram (2-1-1, 1 KO) in another six-round fight. Also fighting on the undercard is Minnesota middleweight Kenny “K.O.” Kost (10-2, 6 KOs), of Centerville, against Jason Quick (4-3-1, 3 KOs) in a four-round match. St. Paul junior middleweight Jon Laboda is scheduled to make his pro debut against an opponent to be determined. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $50.00 and $100.00, are available at the Target Center box office, all TicketMaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 651.989.5151. VIP tables also are available for $200.00 and $250.00.

Doors open at 6 PM, first bout at 7 PM. For more information call 612.673,1600 or go to www.targetcenter.com.

Story Courtesy Bob Trieger
Full Court Press

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Boswell makes his Silverhawk debut Friday night (Jan. 12) against Robert Kooser (9-6, 8 KOs)
In the 10-round co-feature on “Fight Night at the Palace” in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

The 6’ 6” Green (8-0, 6 KOs), who lives in Clover, South Carolina, is only 19 years old. Green knocked out his last two opponents Anthony Culp (1st round) and Leo Hayes (2nd round) in his last two fights. He is scheduled to face Doug Phillips (6-5, 4 KOs) in a four-round bout Friday night in Tampa.

“I always mange to dig deep inside and find a way to win,” Green explained. “That’s why I’m so successful this early in boxing. I drive myself to become the best. This passion to win makes be even better. My favorite fighter is Arturo Gatti because of his heart but my style is like Muhammad Ali’s because I’ve watched him fight so much (on tape). I just love to fight and want to succeed.”

Silverhawk Boxing’s growing stable of world-caliber fighters also includes two-time world lightweight champion Stevie “Lil’ But Bad” Johnston, WBC Americas & CABOFE cruiserweight champ Prince Badi “The Boxing Prince” Ajamu, IBF International cruiserweight champ William “KO King” Guthrie, NBA World & CABOFE heavyweight champion Sherman “The Caribbean Tank” Williams, USBO heavyweight title-holder Leo “Paco” Nolan, NBA super middleweight champ Rubin “Hollywood” Williams, IBO International middleweight champion Aaron “Homicide” Mitchell, NBA Intercontinental junior

middleweight title-holder Eric “Murder” Mitchell, WBF All-American cruiserweight champion BJ “El Peligroso” Flores, former world title challenger Corey “Primetime” Johnson, former WBO junior welterweight title challenger Manual “Shotgun” Gomez, ex-NABF super featherweight title-holder Fernando “El Pillo” Trejo, heavyweights Gerald “The Jedi” Nobles and Robert “The Saint” Davis, as well as top prospects such as cruiserweight Brandon “The Havoc” Harris, welterweight Alexis Camacho, cruiserweight Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield, super featherweight Jaime “Super Fly” Sandoval, and light middleweight “Classy” Chris Gray.

For more information about Boswell, Green, or Silverhawk Boxing go to www.silverhawkboxing.com.

Courtesy Bob Trieger
Full Court Press

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Echols (31-6-2, 27 KOs) is a former NABF, NABA, and USBA super middleweight champion. “Kid Dynamite” has beaten former world champion Charles “The Hatchet” Brewer (36-7), world title challengers Ross “The Boss” Thompson (26-8-2) and Kabary “Egyptian Magician” Salem (16-1), and Brian “The Bull” Barbosa (23-3). Echols has also fought the great Bernard Hopkins twice for the IBF crown, extending him 12 rounds in their first meeting.

“I’m not going to let Kid Dynamite detonate,” Williams promised. “I’m going to pick him apart; he ain’t going off. Echols is a strong, aggressive fighter who always comes to fight. I’m looking forward to it. Fans are going to see the explosiveness of Hollywood. My jab’s going to explode, my hook’s going to explode, and my body punches are going to explode on him.

“I’m happy to be fighting at home. It’s going to be a great fight. My job is to box but we’ll be mixing it up a little. I can’t look past a dangerous guy like Echols. I’m focused on him 100-percent. After I get past him, though, I’m looking for some big opportunities this year.”

Also fighting on the “Fight Night at The Palace” card is Silverhawk Boxing’s newest team member, once-beaten heavyweight hopeful Cedric “The Bos” Boswell (22-1, 17 KOs),

who is matched in the 10-round co-feature against Robert Kooser (9-6, 8 KOs).

WIBA light middleweight champion Mary Jo Sanders (22-0, 6 KOs), daughter of former Detroit Lions superstar running back Barry Sanders, also is on the card in front of her hometown fans against Gina Nichols (11-5-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round bout.

Tickets are priced at $50.00 (VIP), $25.00 (reserved) and $15.00 (general admission.

For more information about Williams or Silverhawk Boxing go to www.silverhawkboxing.com.

Story Courtesy Bob Trieger
Full Court Press

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Despite the setback, the Hatton camp is taking things in stride. "Ricky has learned to live with this sort of thing, and it never plays on his mind, because the minute you start doing that, you start looking for every ache and pain you get," said Ray. "We've had all these problems before; you don't go through 41 fights without having bumps along the way.

"This isn't ideal but I can look back and say that the only preparation that went absolutely perfect for Ricky was when he fought Kostya Tszyu. We're very confident going into the Urango fight. I don't think Urango has been in with anyone who punches as hard as Ricky and I think it will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a few back. We know that this is going to be a great TV fight and we're really looking forward to fighting Urango."

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Colorado-native Mora (17-0-1, 9 KOs) is riding a Rocky Mountain high, highlighted by a unanimous 10-round decision against former NABF lightweight champion Steve “The Mongoose” Quinonez (30-7-1) in his most notable victory. Drake (11-3, 9 KOs), fighting out of Kansas City (KS), has been in against the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. and Nick Casal.

Former IBF light heavyweight champion Guthrie (35-3-2, 28 KOs), on a mission for another major world title fight, is unbeaten in his comeback having won seven fights with two draws after being idle 2 ½ years.

Powerful puncher Gerald “The Jedi” Nobles battles veteran Andy “Sandman” Sample in a 10-round heavyweight war. Nobles (25-1, 20 KOs) was once rated as high as No. 9 in the world and he plans on getting into the heavyweight title mix in 2007, starting Friday night against Sample (34-14-2. 22 KOs), who remains a serious threat after 53 pro fights.

One of the hottest, most exciting young fighters in North America, two-time Mexican National amateur champion Alexis Camacho (13-0, 12 KOs), puts his unbeaten record on the line attempting to extend his knockout streak to 13 against dangerous Tyler Ziolkowski (9-4, 6 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight bout.

Lightweight Jaime “Superfly” Sandoval (13-1, 11 KOs), the younger brother of current IBF lightweight champion Jesus “El Matador” Chavez (43-3, 30 KOs), meets upset-minded Ken Humphreys (4-2, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Also on the undercard in 4/6 round fights are a pair of undefeated South Carolina boxers, light heavyweight Shane “The Irish Hitman” Benfield and 6’ 6”, 19-year-old cruiserweight Josh Green (8-0, 6 KOs), facing Karl Willis (25-24-1, 17 KOs) and Doug Philips (6-5, 4 KOs), respectively.

Tickets are priced at $25.00 and $65.00. Doors open at 6 PM with the first bout scheduled for 6:30 PM.

Story Courtesy Bob Trieger
Full Court Press

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The night was promoted by Duva Boxing, Goossen Tutor Promotions, Warriors Boxing Promotions, and Don King Productions and televised live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. A star-studded, capacity crowd filled the Hard Rock Live, a 5,000 seat arena. Among those in attendance were Shaquille O’Neal, model and actress Anna Nicole Smith, wrestling and television star Hulk Hogan, actor Mickey Rourke and professional fighters Bernard Hopkins, Cruiserweight World Champion O’Neil Bell, Glen Johnson, Steve Cunningham and others. In a rare treat, fans in attendance and those watching on SHOWTIME listened as the Star Spangled Banner was performed live by the late James Brown’s band, The Soul Generals.

As with their first match, Peter-Toney 2 featured thunderous exchanges and nearly non-stop action.

In the first round, Peter stunned Toney with an overhand right and the Nigerian followed up with a flurry of punches and caught Toney on the back of the head, drawing an early warning from referee Jorge Alonso.

In the second Peter sent Toney to the canvas with a short jab that landed squarely on the chin of an out-of-balance Toney. It was the first time Toney had been down in nearly 13 years and just the second time in his professional career. It was clear from that point that Peter intended to carve out a clear and decisive victory.

In the middle rounds, Toney seemed to shake off the slow start and began landing patented counter left hands and combinations. But nothing seemed to hurt the bigger and more powerful Peter as he continued to win round after round.

“Sam Peter just can’t be hurt by James Toney,” said Al Bernstein in the telecast.

“Every time we see him, he adds more to his arsenal,” said Steve Albert. “Tonight, Peter has the upper cut and is working the jab very effectively.”

At the final bell, Peter danced in a wide circle in celebration, knowing there was no chance he would be denied the points victory.

The first meeting between Peter and Toney on Sept. 2, 2006 was another action-packed affair that ended in controversial split decision. As a result, the WBC Board of Governors voted 21 to 10 on Sept. 26 in favor of an immediate re-match.

“I fought my best fight and I thank God for this night,” said Peter, who improves to 27-1, 22 KOs. “I trained very hard for four months for this fight. I have never run in my life, but I ran hard for this fight.

“I am not the best in the heavyweight division,” a humble Peter told reporter Jim Gray in the ring. “I am not the best, but I will be. The champions with the belts right now are the best. When I take the belt, I will be the best.”

Toney, who drops to 69-6-3, 43 KOs, said that he’d continue to fight all comers. “I have done what no one has ever done in boxing. With Dan (Goossen, Toney’s promoter), I will be back.”

Rivera, in his first WBA super welterweight title defense, was outclassed by Simms, a swift and strong southpaw.

Both having grown up in New England—Rivera of Worcester, Mass., and Simms of Norwalk, Conn.,—the fighters had known each other from the amateurs but had never met.

Simms was coming off a layoff of more than two years and wasted no time in jumping on the champion.

In the second, Simms rocked Rivera with a powerful straight left hand that bloodied Rivera’s nose and eventually lead to the fight’s first knockdown. When Rivera got up, Simms switched his stance to right-handed in order to utilize his effective left hook as he attempted to finish the fight early. But Rivera showed tremendous heart and weathered a relentless attack.

As the fight wore on, Rivera was troubled by the bloody nose and Simms’ effective movement. Simms utilized distance well and kept the champion, an inside fighter, at bay.

In the ninth, another solid left from Simms caught Rivera flush and he went down for the second time. When Rivera got up, referee Frank Santore, Jr., warned him that he’d have to fight or it would be over.

Rivera subsequently absorbed five or six punishing blows to the head and Santore stopped the contest at 2:00 of the round.

“I knew he was tough,” said Simms. “We have a history from the amateur days. I relied on my speed and, tonight, that left hook just came to me.”

Through eight rounds, the three judges collectively gave just one round to Rivera.

“I persevered,” said Simms of his long layoff. “I stayed in the gym, worked hard. I was determined. Don’t ever doubt my determination.

“I am looking at the top guys now,” said Simms, who at 35 years old is 25-0, 19 KOs. “Mayweather, De La Hoya, Spinks.”

The 33-year-old Rivera drops to 38-5-1, 24 KOs and will return to his ‘day job’ as a court officer for Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING’s Steve Albert and Al Bernstein called the action from ringside with Jim Gray serving as roving reporter and Karyn Bryant as special correspondent. The executive producer of the SHOWTIME telecast was David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.

For more information on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and “ShoBox: The New Generation” including complete fighter bios and records, related stories and more, please visit www.SHO.com.

Always at the forefront of boxing, SHOWTIME has set itself apart by televising “great fights, no rights” on the first Saturday of every month. SHOWTIME is the first network to regularly deliver live boxing in High Definition. In addition, SHOWTIME continues to be a pioneer in sports television with a number of interactive features across multiple platforms making SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecasts the most enjoyable, immersive viewing experience for the boxing audience.

Story Courtesy of Showtime

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FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Samuel Peter:
"I will beat James Toney, hands down. I am going to beat him so bad. I am going to shut James Toney's lights off for good. I am going to knock him out. I doesn't matter what round. I want to fight for the heavyweight championship and James Toney cannot stop me. I am going to shut his lights off forever."

At the podium: "James Toney, I am telling you ..." then Peter said something in Nigerian but wouldn't translate it. He told a writer, "I will translate it for you tomorrow." Then Don King said: "I heard ALI BUMBAYAH, but have no idea what he said!"

James Toney
"I am the greatest fighter from 112 to 200 plus, bar none. I am the best in the world. Everybody's talking about what they are going to do, and how they are going to do it. I am from the Show Me State, and I will do that in the ring. I'll be there."

Peter's Promoter Dino Duva:
"There has been enough talk here this afternoon; the real fireworks will be in the ring on Saturday night. Samuel Peter has trained harder than he's ever trained, and he is more mentally prepared than he has ever been. He is the best heavyweight in the world."

Peter's Manager Ivaylo Gotzev
"Everybody is talking about calories. But there is going to be nothing but beef in the ring on Saturday. Sam is going to bring it onto James Toney."

Hall Of Fame Trainer Lou Duva
"Sam Peter can punch; he can do it all. It's going to be a good fight, a tough fight, but James Toney doesn't have enough to compete with Sam Peter. Sam is going to knock him out."

Toney's Promoter Dan Goossen
"James Toney has been eating lima beans, vegetables, and even fish! He is doing this to be the greatest heavyweight in the world, and you are going to see that on Saturday night. James Toney will emerge victorious and knock Samuel Peter out."

Promoter Don King
"Everybody dreams of the great, green (WBC) belt. This is truly a world championship fight. The champ (Oleg Maskaev) is from Russia. Get ready Vladimir Putin. One of these men will beat the champion.The Russian cannot beat either of these two men. This spells world championship. The buzz is here."

Jose Antonio Rivera
"It's a great opportunity to showcase my skills on SHOWTIME. I am looking forward to putting on a great performance. It's going to be a war. I have prepared very hard for this fight, and there is no way I am going to give an inch. He is not prepared for what he is going to see on Saturday night."

Travis Simms
"Saturday is going to be a special night. I am looking forward to showing Mr. Rivera what a true super welterweight is about. I am looking forward to remaining undefeated. That's what it's all about."

Images Courtesy Tom Casino/Showtime

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Images Courtesy Tom Casino/Showtime

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In the telecast's co-feature, making his first start since winning the title in a bout against Levander Johnson that ended in tragedy 16 months ago, Jesus Chavez (43-3, 30 KOs) of Austin, Tex., will defend his IBF lightweight crown against IBF interim 135-pound champ Julio Diaz (33-3, 24 KOs) of Coachella, Calif.

SHOWTIME will televise the twin bill promoted by Don King Productions and Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). Tickets, priced at $504, $354, $204, $129, $104, $79, $54 and $29, are on sale and can be purchased by phone at (305) 358-5885 or by logging on to Ticketmaster's website (http://www.ticketmaster.com).

Also featured on the spectacular fight card will be IBF junior middleweight champion Cory "Next Generation" Spinks defending his crown against mandatory challenger, No. 1-ranked "Smooth" Rodney Jones.

A full feature news release is forthcoming. Thank you for your consideration.

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In separate fights on November 17 at The Target Center, Vanda and Bonsante were both impressive winners in Seconds Out Promotions’ first show, which served as a prelude to the much-anticipated Minnesota dream fight Jan. 12 between these two acknowledged bitter enemies.

“I’m going to out-box and probably KO him in the late rounds,” Vanda said about his fight against Bonsante. “We hate each other and I’m sure a lot of people are going to be there watching our fight. I’m a way better boxer. He’s a tough dude but I’m not going to stand and

slug with him. Bonsante’s nothing special. He’s a bum – three jabs, a right hand and uppercut. And he drops his right hand.

“I’m 28 with 37 pro fights and 10-round experience. I think I’m reaching my prime; this is the best I’ve ever felt. I’ve had a lot of ups and down. I’m going to kick everybody’s ass who is in my way in the middleweight division.”

Two Minnesota heavyweights prospects, Minneapolis’ dangerous Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell (9-1, 9 KOs) and Rochester’s gifted Raphael Butler (23-3, 19 KOs), fight Larry White (3-2, 2 KOs) Josh “The Griz” Gutcher (18-6, 13 KOs), respectively, in six-round bouts.

In a six-round, non-title match, Minnesota State featherweight champion Allen “The American Boy” Litzau (11-2, 6 KOs), of St. Paul, takes on Elvis “El Burrito” Martinez (10-19-2, 4 KOs), while undefeated featherweight Wilton Hilario (6-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of St. Louis Park (MN), tangles with former world champion Juan Polo Perez (46-44-4, 23 KOs) in a six-round bout.

St. Paul welterweight Raul “The Matador” Gracia (6-0, 2 KOs) meets LaMont Ingram (2-1-1, 1 KO) in yet another six-rounder. Also fighting on the undercard are Minnesota middleweights Kenny “K.O.” Kost (10-2, 6 KOs), of Centerville, and Maplewood’s Robert Kliewer (1-1-1, 1 KO) in a four-round bout, plus St. Paul junior middleweight Jon Laboda makes his pro debut against an opponent to be determined. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $50.00 and $100.00, are available at the Target Center box office, all TicketMaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 651.989.5151. VIP tables also are available for $200.00 and $250.00.

Doors open at 6 PM, first bout at 7 PM. For more information call 612.673,1600 or go to www.targetcenter.com.

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Bonsante won the vacant Minnesota middleweight title on a November 17 show at The Target Center in Minneapolis, stopping St. Paul veteran Troy Lowry (27-6) in the eighth round, while Vanda comes off an impressive victory by unanimous 10-round decision against Dillon Carew on the same card, setting the stage for the long awaited, much-anticipated Minnesota dream fight Jan. 12 between these familiar adversaries.

“I’ve been trying to make this fight for years,” Bonsante said. “When I first turned pro, Vanda was the guy everybody talked about around here. The still are but more are talking about me, especially after being on The Contender (first season). He calls himself ‘The Predator’ but I call

him, ‘The Pretender.’ It’s The Contender versus The Pretender. I’ll fight him like I fight all of my fights. He’s a little faster but he doesn’t have my heart and determination. The only thing I’m concerned about is Vanda showing up January 12th to get his beating.

“I’m 36 and have a lot more to fight for than he does – pride! Like they said in The Cinderella Man, I know what I’m fighting for, my two children and new fiancé. You know, Vanda isn’t that bright, or he wouldn’t need his name tattooed on him to know how to spell it.”

In a pair of six-round bouts featuring Minnesota heavyweights prospects, Minneapolis KO specialist Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell (9-1, 9 KOs) takes on Larry White (3-2, 2 KOs), while Rochester’s talented Raphael Butler (23-3, 19 KOs) fights battle tested Josh “The Griz” Gutcher (18-6, 13 KOs).

Minnesota State featherweight champion Allen “The American Boy” Litzau (11-2, 6 KOs), of St. Paul, faces Elvis “El Burrito” Martinez (10-19-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round, non-title match.

Unbeaten featherweight sensation Wilton Hilario (6-0, 6 KOs), fighting out of St. Louis Park (MN), steps up in class against former world champion Juan Polo Perez (46-44-4, 23 KOs) in a six-round bout.

Also on the undercard is St. Paul welterweight Raul “The Matador” Gracia (6-0, 2 KOs) versus David Hernandez (4-4-2, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder; Minnesota middleweights Kenny “K.O.” Kost (10-2, 6 KOs), of Centerville, and Maplewood’s Robert Kliewer (1-1-1, 1 KO) square-off in a four-round bout, St. Paul junior middleweight Jon Laboda makes his pro debut against an opponent to be determined. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, reasonably priced at $25.00, $50.00 and $100.00, are available at the Target Center box office, all TicketMaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 651.989.5151. VIP tables also are available for $200.00 and $250.00.

Doors open at 6 PM, first bout at 7 PM. For more information call 612.673,1600 or go to www.targetcenter.com.

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