Tyson Fury to battle Ustinov on Saturday

Just two days after his original opponent Dereck Chisora bowed out with a fractured hand, Tyson Fury will now take on Ustinov this Saturday night in Manchester, England according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“The first thing is I’m happy to still be fighting this Saturday and that the fans will get what they paid for and see a good fight,” Fury said. “We’ve had a hard training camp and I’m in the [best] shape of my life, expecting to knock out Chisora. But now I’m going to have take it out on Ustinov and make sure he takes the full force of my anger.

“Chisora will now see what he was going to get on the night — knocked out. Strangely, I’m going to break the man who broke Chisora’s hand. Full credit for Ustinov for taking the fight. He’s a big lad. More importantly he’s a credible world-ranked opponent and he must fancy his chances. We’re two gladiators, but he’s going to feel what it is like against a world-class heavyweight like me.”

“Under the circumstances, Ustinov is a brilliant replacement for Chisora at this late stage,” said promoter Frank Warren. “He’s fit and ready after training and sparring for two weeks with Chisora at his gym, he’s got a great record, like Fury he’s giant of a man, and has got some serious knockout punch power. Ustinov is world-ranked inside the top 10 of two major governing bodies and didn’t hesitate about fighting Fury, which shows his confidence.

“Fury’s been preparing for a shorter man in Chisora and he’ll have to adjust his preparations, but with two huge men in the ring throwing big punches, anything can happen.”

VIDEO: DANIEL GEALE NYC MEDIA WORKOUT

Modell’s Sporting Goods Sponsoring Historic Broadcast of 200th episode of “SHOBOX: The New Generation,” This Friday at Turning Stone Resort Casino

Modell’s Sporting Goods, America’s oldest, family-owned and operated retailer of sporting goods, athletic footwear, active apparel and fan gear, is graciously serving as a sponsor of the landmark quadrupleheader of world-class professional boxing to celebrate the 200th episode of “SHOBOX: The New Generation,” this Friday, July 25, at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Upstate New York.

A chain of over 150 stores throughout New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading online retailer, Modell’s Sporting Goods is one of the most trusted names in the business.

Presented by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions, the quadrupleheader of world-class fights will air live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

“Modell’s is an all-American family-run business with an impeccable reputation for going above and beyond to serve their customers,” said Greg Cohen, President of Greg Cohen Promotions. “Vito Mielnicki, my partner from GH3, and I are proud to be working with them.”

Michael J. Pine, President of Talon Partnerships & Events, whose company brokered the deal, says Modell’s is perfectly placed as a sponsor of a high-end boxing event. “The collaboration of one of the country’s top retailers of athletic gear and apparel and an historic boxing event of this magnitude is absolutely perfect. Greg Cohen and Vito Mielnicki put on the kind of events that were once commonplace, back in the golden days of boxing, when Modell’s was just starting out.”

Modell’s level of commitment to excellence has been the cornerstone by which Modell’s Sporting Goods was founded and has grown. Much has changed at Modell’s Sporting Goods through 125 years of retail experience, but what has remained consistent has been their total dedication to complete customer satisfaction.

“At Modell’s, we are happy to be supporting an important event such as this,” said Deborah Fine, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Modell’s Sporting Goods. “The dedication, development of skill and tireless training done by these world-class athletes are key values of our company.”

In the historic night of boxing’s main event, undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas (14-0, 9 KOs), of Washington, D.C., will take a big step-up in opposition when he faces once-beaten, former world title challenger Michel Soro (23-1, 13 KOs), of France by way of Ivory Coast, in a 10-round bout.

The co-feature showcases a matchup of undefeated-yet-untested prospects, each taking an important step. Hard-hitting super middleweight prospect Jerry Odom (11-0, 10 KOs), of Washington, D.C., will take on Cuban amateur standout Vilier Quinonez (8-0, 5 KOs), of Miami by way of Cuba, in an eight-round match.

In another eight rounder undefeated welterweight Cecil McCalla (18-0, 6 KOs), of Randallstown, Md., will face Oscar Godoy (13-2, 6 KOs), of Watsonville, California. In the night’s opening televised bout, Canada’s Tony “The Lightning” Luis will take on undefeated Wanzell “Venom” Ellison (11-0-1, 5 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey, in a lightweight eight-rounder.

More About Modell’s Sporting Goods:

Website: http://www.modells.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/modells
Twitter: https://twitter.com/modells
Blog: http://www.modellsblog.com

BROADWAY BOXING RESULTS FROM B.B. KINGS

New York, NY (7/23/14) – Earlier tonight at NYC’s famed B.B. King Blues Club and Grill in midtown Manhattan, DiBella Entertainment returned for the latest installment of its popular Broadway Boxing series.

Headlining the card in his official DBE and NYC debut was Ireland’s former featherweight title challenger, Patrick “The Punisher” Hyland taking on Noel Echevarria.

It was the first time that Hyland had seen ring action in nearly two years, but the talented and exciting featherweight showed little ring rust, scoring an impressive fourth-round TKO over Echeverria.

The Irishman showed good poise and crisp combination punching from the outset as he controlled the action against the southpaw Echevarria. Hyland picked up the pace in each round and by the fourth round was really pouring it on. With Echevarria taking heavy punishment, the referee jumped in and called a halt to the contest at 0:45 seconds of the fourth round. With the win, Hyland improved to 28-1, 13KO’s, and looks to have found a home with DBE and NYC.

In the co-feature bout of the evening, top American heavyweight hopeful Charles Martin kept his undefeated record intact (18-0-1, 16KO’s) and successfully defended his NABO WBO heavyweight title with a third round TKO over former fringe contender Kertson Manswell. The former 2012 National PAL champion and 2012 National Golden Gloves runner-up, currently rated #7 in WBO and #15 in the IBF world ratings, controlled the action against the free-swinging Manswell, who did connect with a few haymakers that got Martin’s attention and brought cheers from the packed house in attendance. In the third, Martin dropped Manswell with a hard straight left hand from his southpaw stance and the follow-up barrage forced Manswell to take a knee¸ and the referee rightfully called a halt to the contest a 2:33 of the third round.

When Lou DiBella signed Sergey Derevyanchenko, the outspoken promoter confidently stated, “Sergey is one of the most decorated amateurs in the world and absolutely one of the best middleweight prospects in all of boxing. We feel that in one year’s time, he will be ready to fight on the highest levels in boxing.” While it is still early in his official professional career (Derevyanchenko was 23-1 in the World Series of Boxing), it would be hard to argue with DiBella after the Ukrainian’s debut.

A former 2008 Olympian for his native Ukraine, Derevyanchenko absolutely destroyed Cromwell Gordon, making Gordon quit after the 2nd round. Derevyanchenko stalked Gordon around the ring from the outset, cutting off the ring and firing off crisp combinations. In the 2nd, Derevyanchenko really picked up the pace and began landing some vicious left hooks to the body that visibly affected Gordon. Towards the end of the round, the Ukrainian landed a picture perfect right uppercut on the inside followed by another hard left hook to the body. Gordon looked as though he was ready to go, but fortunately for him the bell sounded to end the round. Looking completely dejected between rounds, Gordon’s corner wisely elected to not allow their fighter out for the third. It was an impressive showing for Derevyanchenko who improves to 1-0, 1KO, in his pro career. Look for Derevyanchenko, who compiled an outstanding 390-20 record as an amateur, to be back in action very soon and his climb up the middleweight ladder to be meteoric.

Long Island’s popular light heavyweight contender Joe Smith Jr. improved to 16-1, 13KO’s, stopping Tyrell Hendrix in the third round of their scheduled eight-rounder. Smith came out fast and never let off the gas, pressing the action and scoring with hard shots with both hands. Smith dropped Hendrix in the 2nd and was all over him the following round before the referee called a halt to the contest at 1:45 of the third round. Smith looked very impressive, showing great speed, power and fluidity, systematically breaking down Hendrix in the process.

One of the truly bright young stars on the DBE roster, Freeport, Long Island’s junior middleweight prospect Patrick Day kept his undefeated record intact scoring a devastating 2nd round TKO over Brad Jackson. The two had a wild first round with Day dropping Jackson hard with a huge overhand right. Jackson beat the count and as the round resumed Day jumped all over him looking to close the show. With Day coming in, a short shot on the inside from Jackson dropped Day for a flash knockdown. As the action resumed, Day, who looked to be more mad then hurt, began winging and landing monstrous shots that had Jackson holding on for dear life. Somehow he was able to make it to the end of the round, but the end was near. In the 2nd, Day came out and unleashed a huge overhand right that dropped Jackson in a heap. Somehow he again was able to rise to his feet, but this time was in no condition to continue as he stumbled all the way across the ring with only the ropes keeping him up. The referee rightfully called a halt to the contest at 15 seconds of the 2nd round. With the impressive victory, Day improved to 8-0-1, 5KO’s.

Former middleweight title challenger Avtandil Khurtsidze returned to the ring for the first time in nearly three years to dominate in spectacular fashion, jumping all over his opponent Allen Conyers, and beating him pillar to post before the referee called a halt to the contest at 1:23 of the very first round. With the win, Khurtsidze improved to 28-2-2, 17KO’s. Look for Khurtsidze to be back in action soon, as he looks to once again move into the world title picture.

Opening up the card in a rematch of their absolute war which resulted in a draw back in February of this year were welterweights Danny Gonzalez and Ray Velez. It was another exciting bout between the two Puerto Ricans with good two-way action, but this time Gonzalez controlled the action with his superior boxing ability. In the end, all three judges scored the bout in Gonzalez’ favor by tallies of 59-55, 59-55 and 58-56. With the win, Gonzalez improved to 6-0-1, 4KO.s

The next installment of Broadway Boxing will take place August 13th, back at B.B. King Blues Club and Grill.

HEAVYWEIGHTS HITS EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

New York City (July 22, 2014) Undefeated heavyweights BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ stopped traffic today at they headed to the world-famous Empire State Building for a media photo opportunity on the 86th Floor Observation Deck. With a huge crowd of onlookers and supporters watching their every step, the fighters posed for photos and signed autographs for the well-wishers.

Co-featured on the“G4” professional boxing event set for Saturday, July 26th at The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden will be the WBC World Heavyweight Title Eliminator between undefeated and top rated heavyweights BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS, 18-0-0 (10KO’s), of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ, 20-0-1 (12KO’s) of Cork, Ireland and LIVE on HBO World Championship Boxing ® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

The winner of JENNINGS VS. PEREZ will become the mandatory challenger to WBC Heavyweight Champion BERMANE STIVERNE.

Headlining “G4” is Boxing’s fastest rising star, WBA/IBO Middleweight World Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN who will defend his titles against two-time world champion DANIEL “The Real Deale” GEALE.

“Road to Golovkin/Geale” replays on HBO include: July 22 (12:00 p.m. & 2:55 a.m.), 25 (5:30 p.m. & 1:00 a.m.), and 26 (8:45 a.m.). All times are ET/PT.

Golovkin currently has sixteen knockouts in a row and the highest knockout ratio (89%) among all active champions. Additionally, with his extraordinary growth in viewership on HBO, Golovkin has become a must-see attraction in the international sporting world.

In 2013, Golovkin, 29-0-0 (26KO’s) scored four knockouts, three of which were telecast on HBO to outstanding viewership earning him plaudits for both Fighter of the Year and Knockout of the Year among many media members.

Previously holder of the (‘IBF’) International Boxing Federation Middleweight Title and WBA “Super” Middleweight Title, Geale brings a distinguished record of 30-2-0 (16KO’s) into the world title challenge with Golovkin. Geale is currently ranked # 3 by the World Boxing Association.

JENNINGS VS. PEREZ is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

Advance tickets priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $50 and $25 are available at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com

For fight updates on JENNINGS VS. PEREZ via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, Bryant Jennings on Twitter at @BYJennings, Tom Loeffler/K2 Promotions at @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions at @GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #JenningsPerez to join the conversation on Twitter.

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, in addition to on Twitter at Gennady Golovkin/@GGGBoxing, Daniel Geale/@RealDealGeale, Tom Loeffler – K2 Promotions/ @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions/@GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #GolovkinGeale to join the conversation on Twitter.

Miranda replaces injured Nemkov vs. Puetz in M-1 Challenge Light Heavyweight title fight

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (July 22 2014) – Former M-1 Challenge light heavyweight champion Victor Nemkov has pulled out of a rematch against current holder Stephan Puetz (10-1-0, 4 KO/TKO, 3 SUB) in the main event on a special M-1 Global anniversary show, M-1 Challenge 50: Battle on Neva,” outdoors Friday, August 15 in the St. Petersburg city center open area.

Nemkov, who lost a hard-fought decision to Puetz last March in their M-1 Challenge 46 championship match, recently suffered torn ligaments in his hand that will sideline him for several months. Exciting Brazilian light heavyweight Luis Fernando “Hulk” Miranda (12-1-0, 4 KO/TKO, 7 SUB) will now challenge Puetz for the coveted title.

Luis Fernando Miranda (gold and black trunks) connects with straight right

A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Miranda is the Monster Black Combat and King of Combat champion back home in Brazil.

“The fight against Nemkov is not going to happen on August 15th and I wish him a quick recovery,” Puetz said. “I will focus on Miranda and my objective hasn’t changed a bit. I want to keep my belt and bring it back to Germany.

“I am not upset (with the change of opponent) at all. It would have been bad if I didn’t have an opponent at all. It is great M-1 came up with an immediate replacement. I believe Miranda is a worthy opponent and a big challenge, too. The change of opponent hasn’t changed by training at all.”

The co-feature showcases two dangerous Polish heavyweights, M-1 Challenge champion Damian “Polish Pitbull” Grabowski (19-1-0, 6 KO/TKO, 6 SUB) and undefeated No. 1 contender Marcin “Tybur” Tybura (10-0-0, 4 KO/TKO, 4 SUB).

Scheduled to fight on the undercard in Super Fights is Slovenian featherweight Ivan “Buki” Buchinger (26-4-0, 6 KO/TKO, 16 SUB) vs. Russian veteran Mikhail Malyutin (26-12-0, 5 KO/TKO, 8 SUB), Spanish welterweight Daniel “The Gladiator” Tabera (17-5-3, 4 KO/TKO, 6 SUB) vs. unbeaten Russian prospect Ilya Doderkin (5-0-0, 5 SUB), Germany’s Saba Bolaghi (1-0-0, 1 SUB) vs. Russian lightweight Zulfikar Usmanov 6-3-0, 1 KO/TKO, 4 SUB), and Polish featherweight Kamil Maron (5-1-0, 0 KO/SUB, 2 SUB) vs. Russia’s Nikita Chistyakov (1-1-0, 1 SUB).

The M-1 Challenge series has traditionally introduced a new wave of potential MMA stars, showcasing elite athletes from Russia and across Europe. M-1 Global is the No. 1 European MMA organization, as well as one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1998. Superstar Fedor Emelianenko, considered by many to be the greatest fighter in MMA history, has been the face of M-1 Global around the combat sports world for the past decade.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Go to www.M-1Global.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/M-1-Global/145250878842244for more information about M-1 Global and M-1 Challenge 50.

ABOUT M-1 GLOBAL: Founded in 1998, M-1 Global has established itself in the realm of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as the premiere entity for discovering and developing the world’s next-generation of superstar fighters. With offices in St Petersburg, Amsterdam and Los Angeles and affiliates in Seoul, Tokyo and Paris, the M-1 brand has staged more than 150 events worldwide, including the M-1 Selection, M-1 Challenge and M-1 Gobal and M-1 Global HWGP events, in addition to co-promoting Strikeforce events and M-1 Global on the Showtime network in the United States. Captivating live, television and broadband audiences with its superior production values and matchups, M-1 Global events have featured some of the sport’s top names, including Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Aleksander Emelianenko, Gegard Mousasi, Alistair Overeem, Keith Jardine, Ben Rothwell, Melvin Manhoef, Roman Zentsov, Yushin Okami, Mike Pyle, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Amar Suloev, Chalid Arrab and Stephan Struve. 2014 promises to be another sensational year of world-class competition with a full calendar of Challenge events fueled by a talent-rich contention system ranking M-1 Global’s Champions amongst the greatest in the sport. M-1 Global’s greatest asset is renowned heavyweight fighter, Fedor Emelianenko.

“World Series of Fighting 12: Palomino vs. Gonzalez” adds Bryson Hansen vs. Matt Sayles

LAS VEGAS (July 22) – World Series of Fighting’s return to Las Vegas now features five main-card matchups, as bantamweights Bryson Hansen (7-1) and Matt “Robo” Sayles (2-0) will kick off World Series of Fighting’s NBCSN-televised main card.

Featuring a lightweight headliner between exciting Peruvian veteran Luis “Baboon” Palomino (22-9) and undefeated Californian “Lethal” Lewis Gonzalez (9-0), “World Series of Fighting 12: Palomino vs. Gonzalez” takes place Aug. 9 at Las Vegas’ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

In addition to the headliner, the newly announced Hansen vs. Sayles contest joins previously announced matchups of Brazilian brawler Ronny Markes (14-3) vs. undefeated submission machine Kelvin “The Mama’s Boy” Tiller (6-0), Bosnian-born Elvis “The King” Mutapcic (13-3) vs. undefeated Bulgarian-born standout Krasimir Mladenov (11-0) and ageless Olympian Alexis Vila (13-4) vs. Brandon “Hot Rod” Hempleman (9-2).

“Bryson Hansen looked fantastic in his World Series of Fighting debut, so we’re excited to have him back in the decagon so quickly and see if he can turn in another performance like that,” World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo said. “On the other side of the cage is Matt Sayles, who has been absolutely destroying his competition early on in his career and already looks prepared for a step up in quality. This fight should kick off our broadcast with real fireworks.”

Tickets for “World Series of Fighting 12: Palomino vs. Gonzalez” start at just $39 and are on sale now at AXS.com. The evening’s main card airs live on NBCSN. The broadcast begins on Saturday, Aug. 9, at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT local time). Preliminary contests will be announced shortly and will stream live on NBCSN.com.

Originally from Hawaii, Bryson Hansen made his World Series of Fighting debut in March and needed just 46 seconds to score a TKO win over Sean Cantor. Hansen now trains at Las Vegas’ Xtreme Couture, and five of his seven career wins have come by way of knockout, including four victories that came in the first round.

Meanwhile, Matt Sayles turned pro in January and has already registered two victories, needing just 121 seconds to earn first-round stoppages of Dylan Stanfield and Chris Floyd. Those wins came after a successful amateur career that saw “Robo” stop three different opponents. A San Diego resident, Sayles is currently a member of top California academy Alliance MMA.

About “World Series of Fighting” (WSOF)

“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF) is a world wide premier professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering the best action-packed fights for fight fans by producing the best possible match-ups between elite fighters from around the world. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow “World Series of Fighting” on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and “World Series of Fighting” President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo.

About NBC Sports Network

NBC Sports Network, part of the NBC Sports Group, is dedicated to serving passionate sports fans. Now in more than 80 million homes, the network is the cable television home of the Summer and Winter Olympics, National Hockey League (NHL), Major League Soccer (MLS), IZOD IndyCar Series, Tour de France and the 34th America’s Cup, and beginning in 2013, the Premier League and Formula One. In addition, NBC Sports Network features college football, college basketball, college hockey, outdoor programming, horse racing surrounding the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup, Fight Night boxing, Ironman, the Dew Action Sports Tour and USA Sevens Rugby. The network is also home to original programs such as Costas Tonight, The Crossover, NFL Turning Point, Pro Football Talk and The Dan Patrick Show. NBC Sports Network is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.

About Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is Las Vegas’ off-strip playground, just minutes and less than three miles from McCarran International Airport. The premier destination entertainment resort is owned by Brookfield Real Estate Finance Fund II and managed by WG-Harmon, LLC, a subsidiary of Warner Gaming, LLC. Built in 1995, the property completed a $750 million expansion in 2010. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers an energetic entertainment and gaming experience with the services and amenities associated with a boutique luxury resort hotel. The property is known for its innovative nightlife and music scene where acts such as The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, Paul McCartney, Incubus, Foo Fighters, Carlos Santana, Mötley Crüe and Guns N’ Roses have all performed. Features of the property include an 11-story Casino Tower with 640 guest rooms, 17-story Paradise Tower with 490 rooms and suites and the all-suite HRH Tower with 359 suites, eight spa villas and seven penthouse suites; 72,000 square feet of casino space featuring Peacock High-Limit gaming and Asian gaming amenities; 80,000 square feet of flexible meeting and convention space; more than $4 million in rare music memorabilia; Body English Nightclub; Reliquary Water Sanctuary, Spa & Salon; 4.5 acres of tropical pool paradise housing world-famous pool parties REHAB Sunday and RELAX Monday; live music/entertainment venues The Joint and Vinyl; Hart & Huntington Tattoo Co.; restaurants Culinary Dropout, Nobu, The Ainsworth, 35 Steaks + Martinis, Pink Taco, Mr. Lucky’s Café and ?Fú; a state-of-the-art fitness center and trendsetting retailers John Varvatos, Affliction, Love Jones, Rocks The Jewelers and Rock Paper Photo. For room availability and additional information call 800.HRD.ROCK (800.473.7625) or visit hardrockhotel.com. Follow Hard Rock Hotel & Casino on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news and updates.

FURY TO FIGHT THIS WEEKEND DESPITE CHISORA CANCELLATION

MANCHESTER (July 22) – Heavyweight star Tyson Fury will be fighting this weekend despite the cancellation of his world title eliminator with Dereck Chisora.

After enduring yet another major setback following the cancellation of the Chisora bout, due to the Londoner fracturing his left hand, Fury is actively in the process of finding a replacement alongside Hennessy Sports and Queensberry Promotions to ensure that he competes on Saturday night’s show at the Phones4U Arena in Manchester.

Discussions are also underway to reschedule the fight with Chisora later this year in September.

Fury has been through a very difficult 18 months, with the cancellation of two fights with David Haye, before Chisora pulled out with injury on Monday.

“It’s very frustrating for me that another of my major fights has been cancelled with my opponent pulling out injured,” said Fury. “I have been training for months to get ready for this fight and am in the best condition of my life so for this to happen again – for the third time in such a short space of time – is a big blow. Nevertheless, I will be fighting this weekend and my team will find an adequate replacement. Believe me, whoever I face on Saturday they will be in big big trouble and I will take out my frustrations on them.”

Dusty Hernandez-Harrison Returns to Madison Square Garden July 26

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 22, 2014)- On July 26, Dusty Hernandez-Harrison will return to the “Mecca of Boxing,” Madison Square Garden, and put his undefeated record on the line when he faces off against hard hitting Wilfredo Acuna (15-14, 12KOs) of Nicaragua. The welterweight bout will take place on the undercard of the “G4” mega event between Gennady Golovkin and Daniel Geale for the WBA “Super Championship” title and IBO Middleweight World Championship live on HBO World Championship Boxing.??

Hernandez-Harrison (22-0, 12KOs), the WBC Youth Welterweight Champion who is currently rated WBO No. 15 and WBC No. 21, will be making his second appearance at the famed arena, which may seem like a hometown fight for the Washington, D.C., fighter.??

“We sold a lot of tickets to my fans in Washington, D.C. We have a few buses to bring them to New York. And then with Jeff (Promoter, Jeff Fried of All In Entertainment) from Coney Island and all, it adds a lot of excitement to the fight,” Hernandez-Harrison said. “This is a huge card to be a part of and I will do my best to put on a good performance for everyone in attendance.”??

“Acuna is tough, strong and keeps coming; no question about it. We are preparing for the full eight rounds,” said Buddy Harrison, the young fighter’s trainer and father. “These are the kinds of fighters my son needs to face: rough and busy fighters.”??

The southpaw, Acuna, went seven rounds with WBO junior welterweight champion, Chris Algieri, in September of 2013 before being stopped due to an eye injury. ??
??
This will be the fourth fight of 2014 for the 20-year-old Hernandez-Harrison. Remaining active and being exposed to different looks from a variety of fighters has all been part of Fried’s plan since he started working with the amateur standout in 2012. Hernandez-Harrison has fought all over the country and has been everything from the main event to the opening bout — intentionally designed to give him a range of distinct, in-ring experiences.??

“It’s a big stage and the perfect setting for Dusty to showcase his skills and show why he is widely viewed as the best young welterweight prospect in the world,” Fried said. “Facing fighters like Acuna, who is a rugged southpaw and active in the ring is part of developing a future World Champion,” he added.??

“I just want to thank Jeff Fried, Tom Loeffler, Antonio Leonard and Gary Shaw for allowing me to be part of this historical event,” Hernandez-Harrison added.

Training Camp Notes: Caparello

Australia: As all eyes are on Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (24-0-1, 22 KOs) and the possibility of a unification fight with Bernard “Alien” Hopkins later this year, Blake “Il Capo” Caparello (19-0-1, 6 KOs) sees everyone in the boxing community forgetting about the undefeated southpaw from Australia who is challenging Kovalev for his WBO Light Heavyweight World Title August 2 at Revel in Atlantic City, NJ.

Fans and the media alike are mesmerized by Kovalev’s ability to knockout the majority of his opponents, but Caparello has the ability to go the distance and that could prove troublesome for Krusher, who has never gone more than 8 rounds (and has only done that once in his career: against Darnell Boone on Oct. 9, 2010). Blake is no stranger to lasting deep into the later rounds of a fight, with 14 of his 20 career professional bouts going the distance. He has four complete 12-round fights and five complete 10-round fights. According to Lou DiBella, Blake’s promoter, “Blake is very confident in his ability. He is a gifted boxer and very athletic. For Blake to be successful in this fight, he will need to use his boxing ability and not stand in front of Sergey. He will need to get Sergey’s respect and then look to take him into the later rounds. It is an interesting match-up and I believe it’s going to be a heck of a fight.”

“Il Capo”
Photo Courtesy of: DiBella Entertainment
Ed Diller
With all the hype surrounding a possible unification fight between Kovalev and Hopkins, Caparello is hoping Sergey is also looking past him. He does not feel any additional pressure about returning to the United States for only the second time in his career or about fighting on HBO. He said, “There’s no pressure for me. All the hype is about Sergey, so the pressure is on him. I don’t read into anything too much. I’m focused on my job and that is to win the WBO title.” Many fighters are unwilling to get in the ring with “Krusher” – not Caparello. When asked about whether or not he hesitated about accepting the fight he said, “I accepted immediately. We pushed hard for this fight. We love challenging ourselves.”

DiBella feels this fight is a win-win for Caparello, “There is a great advantage to fighting Kovalev: if you manage to hang in there with him, you are going to earn the respect of fans. There are a lot of guys who are afraid of Kovalev, but Blake isn’t. Blake is going to go out there and do his best to win. This is the fight he always wanted.” DiBella also provided this assessment of his fighter, “I knew Blake was a natural. His instincts are excellent. He does a lot of things right. I expect a great performance whether he wins or loses.”

About Kovalev vs. Caparello:

The WBO Light Heavyweight World Championship between Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, (24-0-1, 22 KOs) and Blake “Il Capo” Caparello (19-0-1, 6 KOs) is on Saturday, August 2nd at Revel Casino Hotel in Atlantic, City, NJ. The fight will be telecast as part of a split-site triple-header on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 PM ET/PT. The event is presented by Main Events in association with DiBella Entertainment. Tickets prices are $55, $80, $160 and $250. They are available at ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000. Doors open at 6:30 PM and the HBO Boxing After Dark special triple header split site telecast begins at 9:45 PM.

About Revel

Revel Casino Hotel is Atlantic City’s newest and most spacious casino resort and convention destination. Located on Atlantic City’s world-famous boardwalk, the ocean front hotel is designed to offer endless views of the Atlantic at every turn. The casino resort offers 130,000 square feet of world class gaming, with 2,400 slots, 130 table games, electronic tables and players’ lounges, along with the high-limit table game Ultra Lounge. A member of the American Express Gold Hotel Collection, Revel features 1,399 ocean view rooms. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, cabanas, gardens, lounges, a 32,000-square-foot spa, 13 restaurants that offer a range of fine dining to deliciously affordable menu options, a collection of boutiques, nightclubs, a dayclub, and live entertainment at The Social and showroom headliners at Ovation Hall. While taking in all the casino has to offer, guests can earn points as they play, dine, shop and relax with the Revel Card loyalty program. For additional information and updates, and for complete details and rules of all promotions, customers can visit the Revel Card desk or visit www.revelcasino.com and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/revel and follow @revelresorts on Twitter and @revelcasino on Instagram.

New Jersey Veteran Jorge Diaz Returns to Top ShoBox Quadrupleheader Undercard at Turning Stone, This Friday, July 25

The three-fight undercard has been announced for this Friday’s blockbuster nationally televised quadrupleheader of world-class professional boxing in celebration of the landmark 200th episode of “SHOBOX: The New Generation,” live from Event Center at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Upstate New York.

Headlining the un-televised portion of the historic evening will be Brunswick, New Jersey’s tough “King” Jorge Diaz (17-3, 10 KOs), who will be looking to return to the win column after a couple of setbacks against top-level opposition. The popular Diaz will face Philadelphia’s Ramone Ellis (4-11-2, 2 KOs) in a featherweight six-rounder.

Diaz vs. Ellis will serve as the chief supporting bout to four world-class matchups featuring eight fighters with a combined record of 115-5-1. Presented by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions and sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, the quadrupleheader will air live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets are priced at $60, $35, and $25 (subject to additional fees) are on sale now at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or through www.Ticketmaster.com. The live telecast will begin at 10:00 p.m. eastern, with undercard bouts getting underway at 8:00 p.m. On fight night, doors will open at 7:00 p.m.

In the night’s main event, undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas (14-0, 9 KOs), of Washington, D.C., will take a big step-up in opposition when he faces once-beaten, former world title challenger Michel Soro (23-1, 13 KOs), of France by way of Ivory Coast, in a 10-round bout.

A pair of four-rounders will top off the action as Philadelphia’s undefeated Sam Teah (4-0, 2 KOs) will face also undefeated Lavisas Williams (4-0-1, 3 KOs) of Rochester New York; and featherweight Glenn Durzum (3-0, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland, will take on Nycedric Ellis (0-1) of Raleigh, North Carolina.

26-year-old Diaz lost just one of his first 18 fights before running into Dominican bomber Yenifel Vicente (TKOBY 6) in June and undefeated Luis Rosa (L8) in January of this year. Once thought of as one of boxing’s hottest young prospects, Diaz will be looking to regain some of his once surging momentum against Ellis.

Visit Modell’s Sporting Goods at modells.com.
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Professional media requesting credentials must contact Oneida Nation Public Affairs Manager Brett Stagnitti at (315) 829-8310 or bstagnitti@oneida-nation.org for consideration.

About Turning Stone Resort Casino
A premier four-season, destination resort in Upstate New York, the Oneida Indian Nation’s Turning Stone Resort Casino is conveniently located about 30 miles east of Syracuse at NYS Thruway exit 33. Turning Stone was named “Most Excellent Golf Resort” in 2010 by Condé Nast Johansens. The Academy of Country Music named Turning Stone “Casino of the Year” in 2009. The resort offers world-class gaming, golf, entertainment, accommodations and spa facilities, and has earned AAA Four Diamond ratings for The Lodge, The Tower Hotel, and Wildflowers restaurant. For more information and reservations, call (315) 361-7711 or (800) 771-7711. Visit the web site at TurningStone.com.

GGG HITS TIMES SQUARE!!!

New York City (July 21, 2014) First stop for World Middleweight Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN on Monday afternoon when he arrived in New York City was to check out the massive billboard in Times Square for his highly anticipated World Middleweight Championship against two-time world champion DANIEL “The Real Deal” GEALE, this Saturday, July 26 at The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden and LIVE on HBO World Championship Boxing ® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Amidst a huge crowd of fans and supporters, Golovkin took photos and signed autographs before heading to his headquarters for fight week.

Boxing’s fastest rising star, WBA/IBO Middleweight World Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN will defend his titles against two-time world champion DANIEL “The Real Deale” GEALE on Saturday, July 26 at Madison Square Garden and LIVE on HBO World Championship Boxing ® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

“Road to Golovkin/Geale” replays on HBO include: July 22 (12:00 p.m. & 2:55 a.m.), 25 (5:30 p.m. & 1:00 a.m.), and 26 (8:45 a.m.). All times are ET/PT.

Co-featured on “G4” is the WBC World Heavyweight Title Eliminator between undefeated and top rated heavyweights BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS, 18-0-0 (10KO’s), of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ, 20-0-1 (12KO’s) of Cork, Ireland.

The winner of JENNINGS VS. PEREZ will become the mandatory challenger to WBC Heavyweight Champion BERMANE STIVERNE.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

JENNINGS VS. PEREZ is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions.

Douglas Targets World title in Fall!

Baltimore, MD (July 21, 2014) – Blue chip prospect Tyrieshia “Lady Tiga” Douglas has her sights set on capturing a world title before the end of 2014.

At 5-0 with 1 win by knockout, the Baltimore-based Washington DC native’s set a lofty goal for herself. As an amateur, she won multiple Golden Gloves and National PAL titles while making Team USA twice. According to industry insiders, if Douglas wins a title in her sixth pro fight, she’d have the third fewest bouts before winning a major world title. The current record holder is Canada’s Jeannie Garside, who captured a belt in her fourth professional bout. Douglas’ Ponytail Promotions stablemate Tori “Sho Nuff” Nelson won the WBC title after only five.

A 2012 Olympic Trials participant, Douglas and her brother Antoine are the first siblings to compete at the trials during the same year. Of all the American fighters who participated in the trials or made the Olympics, Tyrieshia would be the first to compete for a major title.

Regarded amongst the best young female fighters in the world, Douglas is brimming with confidence leading up to a quantum leap in competition.

“I’ve felt ready for a title shot since I turned pro because I’m that confident in my ability,” said the supremely skilled Douglas. “I’m a fighter and the biggest competition is myself. Nobody can beat me but myself and I’m excited for a title fight. I’ve been boxing for awhile and my goal is to the this first belt then many more after that.”

Even though most fighters are maneuvered carefully for a number of years before competing for any kind of title, Douglas’ promoter believes she’s already a championship level fighter.

“Tyrieshia Douglas is a special talent,” said James Hogan, CEO of Ponytail Promotions. “The way she boxes is beautiful and I’ve seen very few fighters at her age male or female that has Tyrieshia’s level of skills, poise and maturity. I’m working on a title fight for her this fall and within a year, expect she’ll be on the pound for pound list alongside Tori Nelson.

Information on Ponytail Promotions’ next card, which is scheduled for early fall, and Douglas’ title bout will be available shortly.

Founded in 2014 by respected Baltimore-based boxing businessman James Hogan, Ponytail Promotions envisions becoming one of the top promotional firms in the United States. With a keen interest in both male and female fighters, Ponytail Promotions will run a total of 10-12 shows per year in Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC and North Carolina. For more information, go to Ponytailpromotions.com.

PATRICK HYLAND MEET AND GREET QUOTES

New York, NY (7/21/14) – Earlier this evening, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) held a meet and greet for newly signed top-rated featherweight contender and former world title challenger Patrick “The Punisher” Hyland (27-1, 12KO’s), of Ireland, at Mercury Bar East in East midtown Manhattan. The exciting featherweight will be making his official NYC debut when he headlines DBE’s upcoming Broadway Boxing card at NYC’s famed B.B. King Blues Club and Grill in midtown Manhattan on Wednesday night. In addition to it being Hyland’s NYC debut, it will also mark his long-awaited return to the ring, after a near two-year hiatus due to promotional issues with his previous promoter. Below are quotes from the colorful Hyland.

PATRICK HYLAND:

“This training camp has been great working with my dad and brother Eddie getting ready back home in Dublin. We have been having great sparring with lightweight Stephen Ormond, who is ranked #7 by the WBO, so camp went very well.”

Regarding the long layoff, Hyland stated,”Yes, it was very frustrating being on the sidelines for so long after fighting on the big stage. I wanted more, but the promotional problems kept me out. Things happen though and I stayed in the gym and kept working hard. I knew I’d get it sorted out and would be back fighting eventually.”

“I’m very excited to be a part of team DBE now. I know Lou is one of the top promoters out there and will get me the fights that I want and get me back fighting for titles soon enough. He’s a very honest guy and fun to be around, which is good for an Irish lad who loves a good laugh, haha. I can’t wait to work with him and become another one of his world champions.”

“I am very excited to be fighting here in NYC. I flew in on Thursday and I’ve just been walking around the city and, man, I really do love this city. Now getting to actually fight here, it truly is a dream come true. The big dream for me is to ultimately fight for a title at MSG, so I’m hoping Lou will tie that down in the future, but no pressure boss!”

In regard to building a name for himself here in NYC, Hyland is very confident that the Irish boxing community will take a quick likening to him and his style.

“Well that’s the plan. There are a lot of Irish folks based in NYC and they’ve been looking for another crazy Irishman to light up the fights seen over here just like John Duddy did, so I’m hoping that my style of fighting can excite them and I can build my fan-base here.”

Regarding his future, Hyland wants to stay as busy as possible and get himself back into title contention by early next year. “I’d like to have three or four fights before Christmas to get busy again and then hopefully early in the New Year get a shot at a title. St. Paddy’s Day would be great!”

“I would like to thank Lou and everyone at DBE for bringing me back and all of the fight fans who will be at the show on Wednesday night. I can’t wait to get back in there and I promise that I will be bringing some punishment with me!”

Tickets for the Broadway Boxing event on July 23, sponsored by Manfredi Auto Group, are priced at $125, $100, $75 and $55. Tables are also available for purchase for this event, with VIP tables going for $1,000 per table (5 seats at $200 per seat), Ringside tables for $500 (5 seats at $100), and $375 tables (5 seats at $75). Tickets are available for purchase by calling the DiBella Entertainment office at (212) 947-2577. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7:00 p.m.

Daughter of two-time world champion Steve “USS” Cunningham continues to fight and is put on Heart Transplant List

Philadelphia (July 21, 2014)– America was introduced to Kennedy Cunningham when her father first fought on NBC back in December of 2012 when he faced Tomasz Adamek in that epic battle, we learned that she suffered from a severed heart condition called HLHS.

In April when Steve fought Amir Mansour on NBC Sports, the family had just received heart breaking news when they we told that Kennedy was not a candidate for heart transplant as they had hoped.

She had her first open heart surgery at 2 days old and the second six months later. She was hospitalized for the first year of her life and suffered many set backs along the way, including a stroke, many blood infections and also required a trach and vent for several years when she was younger. The doctors that cared for her back then all say that she is a miracle, they saw everything she went through and never thought she would live to be 8 years old! Now, almost 9 years later she continues to show us how tough she is!

Most children with HLHS undergo a third repair which can allow them to live into adulthood, however it was determined that Kennedy was not a candidate due to the anatomy of her heart and the extent of its defects (small pulmonary arteries and tricuspid valve regurgitation). It was then that we were advised that she would have to have a heart transplant. She went through the entire transplant evaluation in our hometown of Philadelphia at the Children’s Hospital there and in March our world was shattered when we were told by the Heart Failure team at CHOP that Kennedy was not a candidate for transplant or any other surgery. We were told, “no matter what, Kennedy is going to die far to soon”. They told Steve and his wife Livvy that the best they could do was give her medicine to help her heart function but that there would come a time when her heart would give out and there would be nothing they could do.

“I was so completely heart broken the day her doctor sat me down and gave me the news,” said Livvy. “My world collapsed. I cried for 3 days straight while I tried to wrap my head around the news and tried to figure out how to live without the hope of a beautiful future for our beautiful daughter, tried to picture our lives without her. I just couldn’t, it was impossible”

The Cunninghams are a faithful, fighting family and decided ‘they were not going to give up on their daughter and just watch her fade away. They chose to seek a second opinion. The Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh agreed to evaluate her and on June 25th, 2014, Kennedy was accepted into their program and listed for a heart transplant! Receiving a heart transplant is giving her a fighting chance to live the full, energy filled life that every child deserves.

“I’ll never forget the day I got the call from my wife with the news, I broke down like never before, I lost it. I was in the middle of my training camp for a must win fight. People close to me told me I should pull out of the fight, that it was too much for me. But I knew that I had to fight for Kennedy, she has been through so many battles in her life and has never once given up and I was not going to let her see her father quit. I turned my sadness and fear into determination and on fight night, I had to dig deep but it was that determination that got me up off the canvas twice to win. We will never give up on Kennedy and are so blessed and excited that The Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh has agreed to take her on and list her”, said Steve Cunningham

Now that Kennedy is listed in Pittsburgh, The Cunninghams’ have to travel there 1-2 times per month for appointments and have to be ready at any time to jump on the road when they get “the call” that she has her new heart waiting for her. Once that call comes in, they will have 4 hours to get her to Pittsburgh and right now, they live 4.5 hours away. Additionally, They will have to remain in the Pittsburgh area for at least 6 months post-op so housing must also be arranged.

After Steve’s thrilling win on April 4, fans and the boxing community reached out to Steve and Livvy asking how they could help.

The Cunningham’s have set up a fund where donations will help this family cover the out of pocket expenses that come along with this amazing opportunity. Traveling to and from Pittsburgh as well as securing and maintaining a “home away from home” while Kennedy awaits her new heart and recovers from surgery.

TO DONATE TO THE KENNEDY CUNNINGHAM TRANSPLANT FUNDRAISER, PLEASE CLICK ON

http://www.heartbyfaith.com/

Undefeated Cecil McCalla looks to make statement this Friday night against Godoy on SHO BOX

Nutley, NJ (July 21, 2014)–This Friday night at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York, undefeated Welterweight Cecil McCalla will look to transition his name from prospect to contender when he takes on Oscar Godoy as part of the 200th Episode of SHO BOX: The New Generation.

The show, which is promoted by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions is sponsered by Modell’s Sporting Goods and will be broadcast beginning at 10 PM ET.

McCalla of Randallstown, Maryland has a record of 18-0 with six knockouts.

He had a 92-fight amateur career and turned professional in 2008..

When asked about his preparation, the 29-year old McCalla said, “I feel good and confident. I have been in camp since mid May and divided it between Las Vegas and Miami.”

In Godoy, he will be facing a fighter who has been tested as he has a record of 13-2 with six knockouts.

“Godoy has some skill. He is tough but it is nothing that I haven’t seen before and it should not be a problem.”

McCalla is looking forward to being showcased on national television which he believes will facilitate his career to the next level.

“I am excited about being on television. This will be my first of my career. I was helping out in the corner with (Former IBF Jr. Lightweight champion) Argenis Mendez a couple weeks ago, so I got to see some of what goes into a higher level fight so I know that experience will help me as I progress.”

“I know that being on SHO BOX is always a good thing and many fighters have gone on to fight and win world titles so hopefully that will be me in the next year.”

“I am excited to get in there and will work hard and plan on putting on a good show”, finished McCalla.

The card is packed top to bottom as in the main event, undefeated Antoine Douglas (14-0, 9 KO’s) of Burke, VA will take on former world title challenger Michele Soro (23-1, 13 KO’s) of France in a 10-round fight for the WBA International title.

Jerry Odom (11-0, 10 KO’s) of Bowie, MD battle Vilier Quinoez (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Miami, FL for the Interim WBC FECARBOX Super Middleweight title scheduled for 8-rounds.

Wanzell Ellison (11-0-1, 5 KO’s) of Newark, NJ will fight Tony Luis (17-2, 7 KO’s) of Cornwall, Ontario, Canada in a 8-round Lightweight bout.

OFF-TV will see Super Featherweight Jorge Diaz (17-3, 10 KO’s) of New Brunswick, NJ take on an opponent to be named in a 6-round bout.

Samuel Teah (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will fight Lavisas Williams (4-0-1, 3 KO’s) of Rochester, NY in a 4-round Super Featherweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

Featherweight Glenn Durzum of Maryland will make his pro debut against NyCedric Ellis (0-1) of Ohio in a 4-round Featherweight bout.

Dereck Chisora – Tyson Fury rematch POSTPONED

San Diego, CA – July, 21, 2014 -Due to a fractured hand injury suffered by Dereck Chisora, This Saturday’s Heavyweight elimination bout between Chisora and Tyson Fury has been postponed.

The conference call that was scheduled for this Wednesday has also been cancelled.

The card, which was to be televised by AWE- A Wealth of Entertainment, will not be shown.

“We are truly disappointed that the fight will not happen on Saturday””, Said AWE President Robert Herring.

“Ever since we made the announcement of the fight last week, we had received tremendous feedback and response and we know we would have had a large audience watching on AWE. We hope to have an announcement very shortly concerning the re-schedule date.”

Please check www.awetv.com for boxing updates and the next big card of boxing on AWE-A Wealth of Entertainment will be announced shortly.

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE Live Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, AWE has earned multiple Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for “Fight of the Year” and has featured over thirty world class boxing events. In 2013, AWE showcased all live bouts featuring heavyweight David Price. AWE aired live the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, along with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew cards, who fought each other for the Light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale. AWE brought boxing fans two of the most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran and the debatable stoppage that saw Carl Froch retain his title against George Groves. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment

A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyle and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 116 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

Super-Bantamweight Phenom Mario Barrios Returns This Friday July 25

SAN ANTONIO (July 20, 2014) – Making his way back to the ring this Friday July, 25, 2014 , is San Antonio’s undefeated super bantamweight phenom, Mario Barrios (4-0, 1 KO). The standout fighter, Barrios, will put his undefeated record on the line against, Salvador Perez (2-4-2, 1 KO). The 4-round bout will take place at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio, California.

Barrios, who stand 6’0 feet tall, is rapidly gaining recognition as one of the top boxing prospects in the sport. With a tremendous height and reach advantage, Barrios will look to box his way to victory, but vows to throw big shots.

“Perez is an opponent I’m not taking lightly,” said Barrios. “I’m going to stick to the game plan and give a crowd pleasing fight to the fans. I feel I’m getting better with each fight and my jab is looking great. I’ll be thrilled if I get the KO, but will be ready to go the distance if I have too. I’m going to be throwing a lot of hard shots in this fight, so we’ll see what happens.”

“I really like the way Barrios is developing,” said advisor Luis DeCubas Jr. “He’s starting to put it all together and we like what we see. Perez is a durable opponent who comes to fight. This is a good step of for Barrios. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action this Friday.”

Mario Barrios is managed by Al Haymon.

Notre Dame’s Mike Lee Eager for Fistic Homecoming on ESPN Friday Night Fights This Friday, July 25, at UIC Pavilion in Chicago

The standard playbook for boxing up-and-comers with just 12 professional fights under their belt is to hone their craft anonymously on various regional undercards, waiting for a chance at a high-profile showcase.

But with his athletic skills and undefeated record, matinee idol looks, tireless charitable work and Finance degree from The University of Notre Dame, as well as the almost unheard of accompanying level of national attention he brings to a sport that desperately needs it, Mike Lee is in no way your average, every day boxing prospect.

A humble and clean-living Subway national spokesperson who donates most of his fight purses to worthy charitable causes such as the Children’s Memorial Hospital and the Ara Parseghian Medical Research Foundation, Lee (12-0, 7 KOs) will take on Paul Gonsalves (7-3, 3 KOs) of Hyannis, Massachusetts, to open the worldwide ESPN Friday Night Fights telecast this Friday, July 25, in front of a huge crowd of his fans in his hometown of Chicago at the UIC Pavilion.

“I’m beyond excited,” said Lee of his upcoming fight. “My last fight in Philly, I was excited to be back in the ring, but to come back home to fight. It’s so special to me. I fight better when there’s more pressure and fans and more attention and that’s what this will be. A national TV fight in my hometown. I’m very grateful.”

Presented by Warriors Boxing, 8 Count Productions, Seconds Out Promotions and Marines Promotions, the night of world-class professional boxing entitled “Conquerors”, will also feature rejuvenated welterweight contender Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia (35-3, 23 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas, taking on hard-hitting and dangerous Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (27-5, 20 KOs) of Miami, via Barranquilla, Colombia in the night’s 10-round main event.

WBA #15, IBF #13, and WBO #11-rated Caleb “Golden” Truax (23-1-2, 14 KOs) of Osseo, Minnesota, will take on former USBA Junior Middleweight Champion Derek “Pooh” Ennis (24-4-1, 13 KOs) in the televised co-main event.

Tickets for “Conquerors” are priced at VIP $151, VIP Ringside $101, Mezzanine $51 and General Admission $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices: 312-622-7668 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740.More information will be available shortly at 8CountProductions.com.

It’s already been a wild ride in boxing for 27-year-old Lee. The immensely popular breakthrough fighter has fought on the undercards of some of boxing’s most prestigious events. The showdown against Gonsalves will be just his second in his hometown. He turned professional at the UIC Pavilion in 2010.

“Training went well,” continued Lee. “I’ve got my rhythm back from my last big win in April (a sixth-round stoppage of then-undefeated Peter Lewison). I’m healthy and feeling sharp. I’m in San Diego training with (former heavyweight champion) Chris Byrd. This will be our second fight together and we’ve been working together since February.”

Lee says working with a world-class technician like Byrd, one of the smartest in-ring boxers to ever lace up the gloves, has given him a sweeter approach to the science.

“Chris is a phenomenal trainer and his resume speaks for itself. He’s teaching me how to hit and not get hit. I’m becoming more of a boxer and I sit on my back foot a bit more now. I don’t need to take a punch to land three. He’s taught me a lot about counterpunching and moving. Chris is all about movement and changing up the rhythm. He’s really teaching me how to get to that next level.”

Lee is expecting a challenge from Gonsalves, but having access to a boxing mind as sharp as Byrd’s has its advantages.

“I think Gonsalves is a tough guy. He’s a good boxer and he’s beat a bunch of guys. You can’t take anybody lightly, but Chris is a master of styles and we’ve studied him and we’re working on both his strengths and weaknesses and my perceived strength and weaknesses. We’ll be ready when the bell rings. I want to keep beating better and better fighters and keep winning and working my way up the ranks. I want to win a world title. That’s been my goal since I turned pro.”

Lee says there is no timetable for his ascent up the light heavyweight ranks and he will take each fight one at a time.

“We’re taking our time. I didn’t have a big amateur career, but I’ve been getting better and better every fight and sparring with some of the top fighters in the world. I’m certainly a lot better now than I was when I turned pro. As long as I keep getting better and wining my fights, that’s all I ask of myself. There’s been a lot of spotlight on my career with the commercials and the Notre Dame background, but like any other fighter, I will do it when I’m ready. You get offers to fight people, but you want to take each step one at a time. I’ll just keep building and keep fighting tougher guys.”

You have to admire Mike Lee. He could be sitting in an office right now raking in money. But a fighter fights and that’s what’s in his blood. Lee spends countless hours training and a great deal of the rest doing charitable work for various causes. When the lights dim this Friday night, a huge crowd of supporters will go crazy while Lee enters the ring.

Deservedly so. Mike Lee is an above average guy.

“I love it. That’s the main reason why I look forward to coming home. I have incredible support, coast to coast, but especially in Chicago. Not a day goes by that I don’t get mail or a text from friends or family wishing me good luck and telling me they’ll be there. They’re helping me sell tickets. It means the most to me. People support me and seem to like the person I am. I have been very involved in Chicago children’s charities since I turned pro and they respect that and want to support me. Portions of this fight’s purse are going to charity as well. That’s something I’ve always felt strongly about and I’m proud to be part of it.”

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About Warriors Boxing

Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

With a series of successful Pay-Per-View shows and packed houses to its credit, the Warriors business model is working wonders in a sport that was sorely in need of the innovation and energy that the company brings to the table.

When it comes down to it though, a promotional company is only as good as the fighters and fights it promotes. Warriors Boxing has delivered on all fronts, with outstanding bouts such as Lara-Molina, Cayo-Peterson, Abraham-Miranda I and II, Miranda-Pavlik, Miranda-Green, Ibragimov-Briggs, Ibragimov-Klitschko, Urango-Hatton, Urango-Bailey, Cayo-Maidana and Ibragimov-Holyfield.

For more information on Warriors Boxing, visit their website at www.WarriorsBoxing.com.

About 8 Count Productions

Founded in 1997 by Dominic Pesoli, 8 Count Productions is the Home Of The Best In Chicago Boxing. 8 Count Productions has consistently presented the highest-quality professional boxing events in greater Chicago and is the home of top-10, world-rated light heavyweight Andrzej Fonfara.

For more information on 8 Count Productions, please visit 8CountProductions.com, Facebook.com/8CountWarriors,
Twitter.com/8CountBoxing and Instagram.com/8CountBoxing.

About Seconds Out Promotions

When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for the sport was something he couldn’t deny. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions.

By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out Promotions found instant success.

Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out Promotions strives to become a leading fight promotional company in the world, by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering our fans the highest quality programming available.

Seconds Out Promotions was created to bring the very best fights to all fans and participants worldwide. Seconds Out Promotions is committed to the recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission. Seconds Out Promotions continues to expand its web and television presence, and is establishing itself as one of the fastest-rising fight promotions in the world.

For more information on Seconds Out Promotions, visit their website at: www.SoBoxing.comor their Twitter: @soboxing.

Video: ShoBox 200 Feature

Macklin to face Heiland in Middleweight elimination bout

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Matthew Macklin is set to take part in a Middleweight title elimination bout on August 30 again Jorge Sabstien Heiland in Dublin, Ireland.

“It’s great to have an eliminator to put me straight back in the frame for another world title fight,” Macklin said. “I’m sure [Heiland] will be coming to Ireland with his own world title ambitions. It’s a must-win fight for me, and it doesn’t matter what he brings to the ring on Aug. 30, he won’t be beating me.

“For the last few years now all my fights have been in the U.S., and while it’s been great having big fights in New York and Las Vegas, I’ve definitely missed fighting at home,” Macklin said. “There’s a huge appetite among boxing fans to see big-time boxing back in Dublin, and there’s no atmosphere in the world like an Irish fight night. I know that Eddie can deliver the big fights for me in Dublin, so it’s a very exciting time for me.”

“I can’t wait for our first show in Dublin. The fans are in for a real treat,” said Macklin co=promoter Eddie Hearn . “It’s a stacked card with Matthew in a hugely important fight that puts him in a great position to challenge for another world title.

“We’ve seen Matthew denied of what I believe was a victory in Germany against Sturm and a great performance against Sergio Martinez. The Cotto fight would be a great event. He is straight back in at the deep end against Heiland, but let’s be honest — he wouldn’t want it any other way.”

IRON MIKE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS “The Pride of Pittsburgh”

Pittsburgh, PA. (July 21, 2014) Boxing legend MIKE TYSON and Iron Mike Productions Presents “The Pride of Pittsburgh” onFriday, August 8th at CONSOL Energy Center and telecast LIVE onFOX Sports 1, headlined by the Steel City’s favorite son, SAMMY “The Who Can Mexican” VASQUEZ.

Advance tickets for “The Pride of Pittsburgh”, starting at $50 are available through the Dick’s Sporting Goods Box Office at CONSOL Energy Center, Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets or charge by phone at 800-745-3000. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30 p.m. with the first bell at 7:00 p.m.

Fighting in the hottest division in boxing, Vasquez will face off against fellow undefeated Baltimore, Maryland native JAMES “Keep ‘em Sleepin” STEVENSON in the 10-round main event contested for theIBF/USBA Welterweight Title.

Returning home following two outstanding nationally televised knockouts this year that validated his future star status in the sport, the 28-year-old Vasquez boasts an unblemished record of 15-0-0 with eleven knockouts.

The busy Vasquez will be making the fifth start of his 2014 campaign, all four of his previous fights this year ending by stoppage.

Most recently, Vasquez defeated Jay Krupp with a show stopping third round knockout on June 6 in a bout telecast LIVE on ESPN Friday Night Fights from Verona, New York.

Fighting for the first time at the Turning Stone Casino, Vasquez had the crowd on their feet, dropping Krupp in each of the three rounds.

Prior to that outstanding performance, the Pittsburgh native stunned the huge crowd in Monroeville, PA on April 18 with a first round stoppage of then undefeated prospect Juan Rodriguez Jr. which was broadcast on SHOWTIME.

Vasquez dropped Rodriguez three times in the initial stanza, forcing referee Phil Rogers to halt the carnage.

Known as one of he toughest fighters on the Eastern Seaboard, the 31-year-old Stevenson has compiled a record of 21-0-0 (14KO’s), since turning professional five years ago.

Co-featured at “The Pride of Pittsburgh” is an eight round lightweight clash between the highly popular, local fan favorite, MONTY MEZACLAY and Nicaraguan battler RENE “Super Chirizo” GONZALEZ.

With a record of 35-3-0 (21KO’s), Clay is riding a seven bout-winning streak, capped by an eight round unanimous decision over Adolfo Landeros on May 17 in Chester, West Virginia.

The 30-year-old Gonzalez, 31-6-1 (23KO’s), will be making his United States debut, most recently competing for the Interim WBA Junior Lightweight Title against Bryan Vasquez on October 26th in San Jose, Costa Rica in a bout declared a technical decision after Gonzalez suffered a bad cut over his left eyebrow in the fifth round.

In a special attraction six round middleweight battle, 2012 Ukrainian Olympian IEVGEN “The Ukrainian Lion” KHYTROV will face off against tough Detroit veteran WILLIE FORTUNE “500”.

With five show stopping knockouts to start off his professional career Khytrov, 5-0-0 (5KO’s), has become a must see attraction since relocating to Brooklyn, New York.

Looking to stay busy, the sure-fire 2014 “Prospect of the Year” candidate will be making the fifth start of this year.

The much more experienced Fortune enters the ring against Khytrov with a record of 17-1-0 (8KO’s), having won an eight round shut out unanimous decision on October 17, 2013 against Angel Rios in front of his Motor City faithful.

As has become custom at all Iron Mike Productions events around the country, a sensational undercard will be announced shortly.
CONSOL Energy Center is located at 1001 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219. Further information can be located at their website, www.consolenerycenter.com

For additional information on Iron Mike Productions visitwww.IronMikeProductions, follow on Twitter at @IronMikeProd and on Facebook at IronMikeProductionsOfficial.

“2 Days: Sergey Kovalev” Premieres Saturday, July 26 on HBO

HBO Sports® debuts an all-new installment of “2 Days” when the feature segment returns Saturday, July 26 at 11:45 p.m. (ET/PT) immediately following the live World Championship Boxing®card from New York with a behind-the-scenes look at world light heavyweight title-holder Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, one of boxing’s fastest rising stars.

“2 Days” is a revealing and intimate look at a 48-hour span in the life of a boxer in the lead-up to one of his fights and the next edition will focus on Russian native Sergey Kovalev. HBO cameras followed the 31-year-old powerhouse puncher — who has ended 22 of his 24 wins in knockout fashion -prior to his first fight of 2014 when he met Cedric Agnew on March 29 in Atlantic City. Kovalev now calls Ft. Lauderdale home.

HBO air times include:July 26 (11:45 p.m.), 27 (12:00 p.m.), 29 (4:45 p.m. & 3:15 a.m.), 30 (12:30 p.m.), 31 (9:45 p.m. & 3:05 a.m.) and August 1 (11:15 a.m. & 5:45 p.m.) and 2 (11:15 a.m.).

HBO2 air times include: July 28 (7:15 p.m. & 1:15 a.m.), 29 (9:15 p.m.), 30 (12:35 a.m.), 31 (11:00 a.m.) and August 1 (8:15 p.m.).

All times are ET/PT.

Kovalev is slated to return to the ring on Saturday, Aug. 2 when he defends his 175-pound title vs. Blake Caparello live on HBO at 9:45 p.m. (ET/PT) from Revel Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ. It is part of a live split site tripleheader.

“2 Days” will also be available on the HBO On Demand®service, HBO GO® and at www.hbo.com/boxing as well as various other new media platforms that distribute the series.

About Kovalev vs. Caparello:

About Revel

MIKE TYSON TO PRESENT EVANDER HOLYFIELD FOR INDUCTION TO NEVADA BOXING HALL OF FAME FORMER FIERCE RIVALS TOGETHER ON STAGE AT THE NEW TROPICANA, LAS VEGAS AUGUST 9

In what is surely the culmination of one of the unlikeliest reconciliations in boxing history, former Heayvweight Champion Mike Tyson will deliver the presenting speech for former Heavyweight Champ Evander Holyfield’s induction into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. Tyson will present Holyfield, and then following Holyfield’s speech, will personally hand the NVBHOF Trophy to Holyfield in a “photo-op” for the ages. The memorable moment will take place Saturday night, August 9, in the beautiful Cohiba Ballroom of The New Tropicana, Las Vegas.

Holyfield and Tyson engaged in two fierce battles at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in 1996-’97. The “Real Deal” won both, first by an 11th-Rd TKO, and the rematch by 3rd-RD disqualification in the famous ear-bite fight. Despite the ferocity of both bouts, the two’s feelings have softened toward each other in recent years, appearing in features and even a commercial together.

Tyson called the opportunity to present Holyfield a “privilege and high-honor.” Evander’s response was quick and to the point: “That is great!” NVBHOF President and Founder Rich Marotta said “This is the kind of thing we showed is possible in boxing last year at our Inaugural Induction Ceremony. Former and even current rivals coming together under the same roof to celebrate boxing. Everyone checks those rivalries at the door. Tyson presenting Holyfield is sheer magic.”

Holyfield was selected for induction in the “Non-Nevada Resident” category along with George Foreman and Roberto Duran by the 35-member voting panel of the NVBHOF. Tyson was an Inaugural Inductee last year in the “Nevada Resident” Class.

Remaining tickets for the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner are available on-line at: nvbhof.com
Tax-deductible tickets are $300 Gold Level, and $175 Silver Level. the $75 Bronze Level tickets are sold-out.
The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is an IRS 501(c)3, non-profit charity organization which donates to boxing-related and
Nevada causes.

VIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE FOR GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE

New York City (July 21, 2014) Just days away from the highly anticipated World Middleweight Championship between GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN and two-time world champion DANIEL “The Real Deal” GEALE, Madison Square Garden is still offering a limited number of Golovkin vs. Geale VIP Package’s for the event.

The Golovkin vs. Geale VIP Package, encompassing the true fan experience for fight week, includes;

One (1) Ringside Ticket (First Five Rows)
One (1) Gennady Golovkin Signed Glove
Access to the following events
—Media Workout, Tuesday July 22
—Media Press Conference, Wednesday, July 23
(Photo Opportunity with Gennady Golovkin included)
—Official Weigh-In, Friday, July 25

Priced at $2,000, the Golovkin vs. Geale VIP Package can be purchased through the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com

“Road to Golovkin/Geale” replays on HBO include: July 22 (12:00 p.m. & 2:55 a.m.), 25 (5:30 p.m. & 1:00 a.m.), and 26 (8:45 a.m.). All times are ET/PT.

The winner of JENNINGS VS. PEREZ will become the mandatory challenger to WBC Heavyweight Champion BERMANE STIVERNE.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

JENNINGS VS. PEREZ is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions.

The Soviets are coming

By Bart Barry-

Saturday begins an eight-day Soviet-boxing siege on HBO.

No, you’re right, “siege” is more than a bit over the top, and the Soviet Union survives today only in the American minds of Cold Warriors and millionaire defense-contracting executives, and what politicians and media outlets they employ, but those clicks count much as others in online-traffic ratings, so let’s let it roll. This siege, in the form of warmongering by Kazakhstani middleweight titlist Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and Russian light heavyweight titlist Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev, will be conducted in Manhattan and Atlantic City, respectively, and will mark an act of belligerence perpetrated not on America but our Australian allies, in the form of New South Wales middleweight Daniel Geale and Victoria light heavyweight Blake Caparello. HBO will be promoting, er, reporting, from the front.

Far as manias go, this Russian invasion of our sport is a bit short of maniacal. More frustrating still, it does not appear either its participants’ faults, exactly, that our current era produces so little in the way of meaningful opponents for network-anointed lions to feast upon. Spotchecking the records of the Aussie dishes undergoing preparations for Golovkin and Kovalev, one finds bland fare not to be improved with spice or garnish. This is their time, Geale and Caparello, which sounds like a name for a tandem of hardhitting talkshow hosts more than hard hitters, and while they are not prepared for GGG and Krusher, they are ready as they’ll ever be – that inane little cliché anxiety drives persons to use just before they confront an obstacle fated to be insurmountable: When you ask someone’s fitness for a task and he says he is “ready as I’ll ever be,” hedge your bets, because the only acceptable answer is “yes.”

That’s the answer you’d draw from Golovkin or Kovalev, in part because the word accounts for no less than 10 percent their working English vocabularies, which is a refreshing twist that ought delight their comrades in the former Soviet Union much the way Julio Cesar Chavez and Felix Trinidad delighted their Spanish-language followers by sticking to the mother tongue, regardless how it enkindled publicists and whatever mousy-faced retread anticipated Showtime’s Jim Gray. The pressure is ever on athletes who ply their craft in the United States to speak English, a nearsighted demand that misses the point nearly every time it’s made, since these men are not interested in assimilation – they aren’t allowed in this country for it, either – but rather performance; they are here to provide a spectacle experts assert an American could not. That is particularly true of Golovkin and Kovalev, two men whom American Andre Ward would beat if he still fought, but since he no longer does, P1 visas are granted the former Soviets because, in a twist Chavez fans can appreciate, they are willing to do the sort of work Americans won’t.

The plea for more words in English is trite and misplaced because having a man speak to you in sounds connected to no moral force for him or you is just noise better communicated with Golovkin’s disarming smile or Kovalev’s menacing everything. Let that remind us, too, ever and again, the only thing one should value of a fighter as an individual is what he does between the ropes and bells. If you are flummoxed by an athlete not speaking your language because you think he’d make a great role model for your son if only your son might feel a native-language connection, your perspective is wanting.

These men, to paraphrase Charles Barkley, whose 1993 Nike commercial set a candor standard never since approached, are paid to bludgeon with their fists half-naked men to unconsciousness; some of that dwells in all of us, yes, being as we are the descendants of those willing to brain man or beast for food, but we’re all better served by keeping such impulses in vicariousness’ fantastic arena. The profession of hurting other men chooses and is chosen by a special sort of athlete, a neanderthal type better captured by Kovalev’s resting posture, still coiled, than Golovkin’s goodnatured grin, the sort of man a father instinctively knows will protect his daughter as a wife till the day she needs protection from him, and no amount of heuristics or memorized English phrases will bring aficionados any nearer the reality of a man like that than what that man does during 36 minutes of sanctioned violence thrice a year.

Or has the last decade of Manny Pacquiao saying “happy” helped you cultivate a deep, meaningful connection with the Filipino’s soul?

On paper, Geale looks the better, more tested sacrifice, he hasn’t taken an opponent’s consciousness in four years but still, and Caparello looks like Kovalev’s least-hopeful HBO opponent yet. Kovalev’s fights are no longer about anything meaningful as anticipating the next match bound to anticipate the next anticipatory match for an anticipation-filled match with the guy who left HBO, but they’re nigh tolerable as Golovkin’s because, for reasons that might reduce to simple publicity, Kovalev’s prizefighting image floats upon a hyperbolic cloud fractionally puffy as Golovkin’s. Not in recent memory, or distant, has a fighter won so many hypothetical battles in the minds of experts while winning so few actual ones.

The “most feared” label is by nature fraudulent – right, Erislandy? – and most commonly evinces a promoter unwilling to pay opponents a fair wage. Odds would say every Floyd Mayweather opponent hospitably entertains the high probability he will lose to Mayweather, and yet never do we hear Mayweather called “most feared” because opponents win career-best paydays by losing to him.

Either HBO’s parsimony is impeding Golovkin and Kovalev’s fighting appropriate opponents, or else neither man is interested in climbing weight classes till he comes to someone who wrongly views him as a sure-thing. Regardless, both men, victims of circumstance perhaps, now make haste solely for footnote status in the Manny & Money Era.

Bart Barry can be reached at bart.barrys.email (at) gmail.com

Mike Keta new EPBC middleweight champion Keta knocks out Mikheil Khutsishvili in Munich

German middleweight contender Mike Keta stopped Mikheil Khutsishvili from Georgia in seven rounds on Saturday in Munich to claim the vacant EPBC middleweight championship. 1,000 fans at sold out Kickboxen-Deutschland-Gym saw an all-action fight from the opening bell in which both fighters had their moments.

Keta had the better start putting a lot of pressure on Khutsishvili connecting with hard right hooks. But the 25-year-old Georgian didn’t back up and kept on fighting back landing some good shots of his own throughout the fight.

Both guys went toe to toe exchanging hard hands. In the third round Keta dropped Khutsishvili with a nice combination. But the Georgian beat the count and came back strong. Keta seemed to run a little out of gas in the six round and Khutsishvili landed some hard hands. But the 31-year-old German came back in the seventh and floored his opponent with a hard hook to the liver. Khutsishvili tried to beat the count again but was unable to continue.

“It was a great fight by two great warriors”, said promoter Jonny Keta after the bout. “It was an epic battle. Mike did a great job and deserved the win. But his opponent was very strong, too, and definitely wanted to take the belt home to Georgia.”

With this victory Keta crowned himself the first ever EPBC middleweight champion. The Eurasian Pacific Boxing Council has been founded this year to strengthen the cooperation between Europe, Asia and the Pacific region. The regional federation is officially affiliated with the WBC.

Arthur Abraham to defend WBO Super Middleweight title against Paul Smith on September 27 in Kiel, Germany

”King” Arthur Abraham (40-4, 28 KOs) will defend his WBO World Super Middleweight crown against Paul Smith (35-3, 20 KOs) on September 27 at the Sparkassen-Arena in Kiel, Germany.

Following a unanimous points victory over Nikola Sjekola in May, Abraham will be making a second defence of the WBO title he regained in a thrilling third encounter with Robert Stieglitz, and the reigning champion is relishing a return to Kiel having previously enjoyed success at the Sparkassen-Arena.

”This will be my fourth ring appearance in Kiel,” said Abraham. ”I have won here three times before, two of them by knockout. My fight on September 27 will be the first time I’ve defended my WBO Super Middleweight belt here and there is no way I am going to lose. I will retain my World Championship and continue my winning streak at the Sparkassen-Arena.”

Looking to end Abraham’s streak is former British Champion Paul Smith. The 31 year-old has impressed at domestic level and risen up the WBO rankings to earn his first World title shot.

”I am thrilled that the fight with Arthur Abraham has been confirmed,” said Smith. ”Arthur is a great champion, a real gentleman and a brilliant ambassador for the sport. I do believe that our styles will make for a great fight, but I just think that I am getting him at the right time. I know I can beat him and have seen things in him that I can capitalise on. I am sure it will be a spectacular show and I’m proud to be fighting for a World title over in Germany.”

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ”We are delighted to announce this World Championship fight between ”King” Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith. There is a lot on the line for both men and I am sure this will make for a great spectacle on September 27. Smith has been waiting a long time for this opportunity and I fully expect him to do everything he possibly can to cause an upset. However he is facing a dangerous Abraham, a hungry, in form Abraham who is looking to cement his position, alongside the very best, at the top of the Super Middleweight division.”

Smith’s promoter Eddie Hearn shares Sauerland’s enthusiasm for the Super Middleweight clash and calls upon his fighter’s travelling fan base to support their man in Kiel.

”This is a huge opportunity for Paul and one that he and his trainer Joe Gallagher asked me to deliver for them,” said Hearn. ”The two styles blend well, it’s going to be a cracking fight and UK fans should head to Kiel on September 27 with a number of other Matchroom fighters on the bill. Domestically the Super Middleweight division is red hot right now and Paul has the chance to gatecrash the World scene in Germany.”

Tickets for the WBO World Super Middleweight Championship fight between Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith go on sale tomorrow (Monday July 21) and are available via eventim.de.

Ellison ready for Prime Time against Luis on July 25 on Sho Box

Nutley, NJ (July 19, 2014)–Undefeated Jr. Lightweight Wanzell Ellison will be moving up in weight to take on Tony Luis (17-2, 7 KO’s) as part of a televised quadrupleheader next Friday night at the Turning Stone Casino Resort in Verona, New York in a bout that will be televised live on Sho Box: The New Generation.

The show is promoted by GH3 Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions and is sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods.

The special telecast will be the 200th anniversary show

Ellison of Newark, New Jersey will risk his undefeated mark that reads 11-0-1 with five knockouts. Not only will be Ellison be moving up in weight but he will be making his national television debut against an opponent that he does not know much about.

“All I know he is from Canada,” said Ellison. “He had a good amateur career but I don’t care to watch much tape. I am ready, in shape, comfortable and confident.”

Ellison is looking forward to being able to showcase his talents in front of a national television audience.

“I am excited about being on television. The world will be to see who I am but I am calm and composed and in the fight I know I have to take my time.”

Ellison was very eager for the opportunity that he moved up in weight but he says this maybe only a one-time thing as a Lightweight.

“I am just fighting at 135 lbs. for this fight. It is not a big deal for me as I spar bigger guys anyway.”

Ellison is not concerned that Luis has faced tough competition as the 25-year old believes in his own skills.

“I have to go in there and I can adjust to anything he shows. I have a lot of amateur fights and I know I am in shape. I have been boxing since I was 11-years old, so this is nothing new to me. I am going to show the world something spectacular.”

Not known as a huge puncher, Ellison is very confident that he can get Luis out before the final bell.

“I am not looking for the knockout but I am predicting one. It will come naturally because I am not looking for it.”, finished Ellison.

Jerry Odom (11-0, 10 KO’s) of Bowie, MD battle Vilier Quinoez (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Miami, FL for the Interim WBC FECARBOX Super Middleweight title scheduled for 8-rounds.

Cecil McCalla (18-0, 6 KO’s) of Randallstown, MD will fight Oscar Godoy (13-2, 6 KO’s) of Watsonville, CA in a 8-round Welterweight bout.

OFF-TV will see Super Featherweight Jorge Diaz (17-3, 10 KO’s) of New Brunswick, NJ take on an opponent to be named in a 6-round bout.

Samuel Teah (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will fight Lavisas Williams (4-0-1, 3 KO’s) of Rochester, NY in a 4-round Super Featherweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

Featherweight Glenn Durzum of Maryland will make his pro debut against NyCedric Ellis (0-1) of Ohio in a 4-round Featherweight bout.

Sergio ‘Maravilla’ Martinez Decides to Continue Boxing Career

After lengthy discussions with members of his team, now-former WBC Middleweight Champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez has decided to continue his boxing career.

Determined to return and erase the terrible memory of what happened against fellow-great Miguel Cotto in June, 39-year-old Martinez will next face a top-10 contender with the goal of recapturing his world title.

“Miguel De Pablos (Business Manager) and I met with Sergio at his home in Madrid and he says he is 100% healthy and ready to do what it takes to return to the very top of boxing,” said Martinez advisor Sampson Lewkowicz.

Lewkowicz says Martinez will first undergo a full battery of head-to-toe testing from top specialists in New York, but pending full medical clearance, the former champion will be returning to the ring on a mission.

“Against Cotto, Sergio was badly hurt in the opening round from the first left hook that landed,” continued Lewkowicz, “after that, he remembers only pieces and had very little control of his body and especially his legs. He fought entirely on instinct. It was the worst night of his entire career and he is coming back to prove he is a superstar fighter who just had a bad night.”

Martinez (51-3-2, 28 KOs) had been favored to defeat the smaller Cotto when the pair met last month at Madison Square Garden. But one monstrous Cotto left hook a minute into the fight led to three first-round knockdowns and an eventual 10-round stoppage loss.

While many speculated that Martinez’s previously injured knee had affected the southpaw’s normally cat-like agility in the fight, Lewkowicz says it was not the case.

“He got caught with an unexpected punch and it disconnected his body. It happens in boxing, especially against a puncher like Miguel Cotto. If you look at the tape of the fight, look how slow his hands were. A bad knee doesn’t cause your hands to slow. It was clear it was not the real Sergio in the ring that night.”

Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment, who will continue as Martinez’s promoter, says a great fighter like Martinez deserves the benefit of the doubt if he still feels he can compete at an elite level.

“Obviously June 7 was a terrible night in the ring for Sergio Martinez,” said the always outspoken DiBella. “But he says he can still do it and that he’s totally committed to winning back his title, so I stand behind him. He’s already come back to do great things after a stoppage loss to Antonio Margarito earlier in his career and he’s positive he can do it again. So we’re going to put him in with someone who can get him in line for a title shot and see what he can do. If he doesn’t look to be the same fighter anymore, I will be the first to admit it, but he deserves the chance to prove it was just an off-night in an otherwise stellar career.”

No opponent or return date have yet been finalized, but an announcement will be made in the near future.

ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.