UNCASVILLE, Conn. (October 10, 2019) – The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame (CBHOF) has announced its six-member Class of 2019 to be inducted during the 15th annual CBHOF Gala Induction Dinner on Saturday night, November 9, in the Uncas Ballroom at Mohegan Sun.

The new CBHOF inductees are boxers Arturo “Thunder” Gatti, “Bad” Chad Dawson, Delvin Rodriguez, Eddie Campo and Teddy “Redtop” Davis, as well as referee Arthur Mercante, Sr.

“Once again,” CBHOF president John Laudati said, “the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame has elected a great class of Inductees. The 2019 class includes giants of the sport such as Arturo Gatti and Arthur Mercante, Sr., modern era stars in Delvin Rodriguez and ‘Bad’ Chad Dawson and historically significant fighters Teddy “Red Top” Davis and Eddie Compo. We look forward to seeing all of our boxing fans, family and friends at our gala induction dinner at Mohegan Sun on November 9th. “

Not many remember the first time Hall of Famer Gatti fought in Connecticut. It was in August of 1998. Looking to snap a three-fight losing streak, Gatti took on the 21-3 Reyes Munoz. If you went for a hotdog you might have missed the first-round TKO for Gatti. The second appearance in Connecticut was far more memorable. It was the first in his trilogy with CBHOF member Micky Ward. The rousing affair at the Mohegan Sun Arena was the Fight of the Year in many publications. Ward won a majority decision, but the heart Gatti showed to withstand a brutal barrage in a scintillating Round 9 will forever stay in the minds of the fans who were there that night. Gatti would go on to win the next two fights with Ward. He also beat the 54-3-1 Tracy Harris Patterson to win the IBF super featherweight title. One of his successful title defenses came against the 44-3 Gabriel Ruelas. Gatti moved up to welterweight to take on Oscar De La Hoya, losing by TKO, but earning more respect for his grit. In 2005, Gatti beat Jesse James Leija to capture the WBC super lightweight title. Who did he lose it to? None other than the incomparable Floyd Mayweather Jr. in June of 2005. Gatti had a record of 40-9-0 before his tragic death at the age of 37 in July of 2009.

Dawson’s spectacular career of New Haven light heavyweight product Dawson was appropriately launched at the home for the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. After a sterling amateur career, Dawson made his pro debut on Aug. 18, 2001 at the Mohegan Sun Casino. He scored a second-round TKO over Steve Garrett. Six of his first 10 fights were at the Mohegan Sun. Twenty one of his 41 fights have been in Connecticut. It was a meteoric rise for Dawson, who began his career 29-0. After beating CBHOF member Eric Harding to capture the NABF light heavyweight title in 2006, Dawson was ready for the 31-0 WBC light heavyweight champion Tomasz Adamek. It was no contest. Dawson battered Adamek in winning the unanimous decision in 2007, hastening the talk of him being one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world at the age of 25. Dawson would go on to defeat some of sport’s heavy hitters. He twice made successful title defenses against Glenn Johnson. He twice beat Antonio Tarver for the IBF and IBO light heavyweight titles. He twice fought the legendary Bernard Hopkins. The first bout Dawson appeared to be winning easily, but it was ruled a no contest. He beat Hopkins easily in the rematch. Dawson was 32-1 when he decided to drop in weight to take on WBC and WBA super middleweight champ Andre Ward, losing by TKO. Dawson remains active with a 37-5 record.

If you look up the word action in the dictionary, don’t be surprised if you see a Rodriguez’ picture. The Danbury product always gave people their money’s worth in a career where he won 19 of his first 21 bouts, including a TKO of 21-2 Luis Hernandez in a bout in May of 2006 that gave Rodriguez the USBA welterweight title. He lost his first title defense against Jesse Feliciano but showed his resilience by beating the 26-2 Oscar Diaz in his hometown of San Antonio to regain the USBA welterweight crown. Not only did Rodriguez beat Diaz in his own backyard, he knocked Diaz out in the 11th round in July of 2008. In March of 2009, Rodriguez would make a successful defense of his title by defeating a 20-1 Shamone Alvarez at the Mohegan Sun Arena. Rodriguez would eventually fight for the WBA super welterweight title, losing a decision to the 24-0 Austin Trout in 2012. In 2013, Rodriguez got a shot at the rugged Miguel Cotto, losing by a TKO. Rodriguez, who also dabbles in broadcasting, finished his career in 2017 with a 29-9-4 record.

Eddie Campagnuolo, aka Eddie Campo, had more letters in his last name than he did defeats in an outstanding professional career. If the name Campagnuolo doesn’t ring a bell, that’s because the featherweight boxer who was born and lived most of his life in New Haven would change his name to Eddie Compo. He wasn’t known as a fearsome puncher with just 14 knockouts in an 11-year career, but his winning percentage is one of the best in boxing history. Compo was 75-10-4. Compo would beat CBHOF inductees Teddy “Redtop” Davis, Julie Kogon, and Chico Vejar in a career where he took on all comers. Compo won his first 25 professional fights, many at the New Haven Arena. There was plenty of buzz around Compo’s world featherweight title fight with CBHOF inductee Willie Pep at Municipal Stadium in Waterbury in September of 1949. That’s because Compo was 57-1-3. Pep was 141-2-1. It may have been the only bout in the history of boxing where the two combatants combined for just under 200 wins with a mere 3 defeats. Pep won with a 7th-round TKO. Compo retired in 1955 and lived to the age of 69 before passing away in 1998.

Born Murray Cain in South Carolina in 1923, Davis struggled at the beginning of his career as a featherweight in the Midwest. He won only one of his first nine professional bouts. But a shift to New England turned his career around. He first made a name for himself by taking the legendary Willie Pep the distance in back-to-back fights in Hartford in 1948. In 1953, Davis captured the USA New England Light title with a victory over the 49-3-1 George Araujo in Boston. Just one month later, Davis made a successful title defense against Araujo in Madison Square Garden. In 1954, Davis would make successful title defenses in Waterbury and New Haven. It wasn’t until 1958 that Davis lost a title fight, bowing to Steve Ward in a bout for the New England Super Light title in Hartford. Davis would also take on the likes of Sandy Saddler, Eddie Compo, and Tony DeMarco in a solid career that spanned 14 years. Davis may have hung on a bit too long. He went 4-22-1 in his final 27 fights, causing his career record to end up at 71-75-6. He was just 42 when he died in 1966.

After refereeing more than 140 world title fights in 47 years, Mercante Sr. retired at the age of 81 in 2001. He would stay around the sport, accompanying his son Arthur Jr. to a fight card in Connecticut in 2004. As related in a 2010 espn.com story by Wallace Matthews, Mercante Jr., also a referee, heard a thump on the floor while staying in a Connecticut hotel with his dad. Fearing the worst, Mercante Jr. scurried to see if his dad had fallen to the floor. “I looked over and he’s down there doing push-ups,” Mercante Jr. related. Mercante Sr. was 84 at the time but he had lost none of the toughness that made him what the New York Times called the “most prominent referee in of the past half century” after the elder Mercante passed away in 2010. Mercante Sr. is best known for being the referee in the first Muhammad Ali-Joe Frazier fight in New York in 1971, but he had New England roots. Mercante Sr. was born in Brockton, Mass., where he was a childhood friend of Rocky Marciano. Mercante was also in the Navy, where his commanding officer was Gene Tunney, a former heavyweight champion of the world and a member of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Mercante has also been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the CBHOF 15th annual Gala Induction Dinner, reasonably priced at $90.00, are on sale and available to purchase by calling Ann Murphy at Mohegan Sun (1.860.862.8846) or Sherman Cain at 1.860.212.9029. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET, followed by a full sit-down dinner at 7 p.m. ET.

Go online to www.ctboxinghof.org for additional information about the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame, its 15th annual Gala Inductee Dinner, event sponsorship opportunities, or past CBHOF inductees.

Former WBO Female Middleweight Champion Kali Reis fights against the very tough Ashleigh Curry (7-10-4, 1KO) in a special 6 round Jr. Middleweight Female match that highlights a sensational undercard to the Delvin Rodriguez – Courtney Pennington fight Thursday, May 11th, at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.

Reis won the WBO Title April 16, 2016, defeating Maricela Cornejo in New Zealand but lost it in her first defense as she traveled to Germany to take on Christina Hammer in her last fight on November 5th of last year. Reis is known for her all action style and always brings a large contingent of fans to her fights.

Curry has fought many of the top females in her division and the tough southpaw has given all of them hard fights. Curry was stopped in her pro debut, but since then has gone the distance in every fight. She has battled with the likes of Melissa St. Vil, Melissa Hernandez, and Mary McGee.

KALI REIS

Many local standouts will also be appearing on Thursday, May 11th, including undefeated Jr. Welterweight Danny Gonzalez (13-0-1, 5KO’s) Woodhaven, NY who faces the dangerous Bryne Green (7-10-1, 3KO’S) Vineland, NJ in an 8 round bout.

Recent Star Boxing® signee Anthony Laureano (3-0, 2KO’S) Hartford, CT takes on Sidney Maccow (4-5, 3KO’S) New York City, NY in a 6 round Jr. Welterweight fight.

Jose Rivera (2-1, 1KO) Hartford, CT returns to the Sun taking on Marcus Beckford, (3-6-3, 1KO) East Meadow, NY in a 6 round Jr. Middleweight match.

Richie Rivera (1-0, 1KO) Hartford, CT fights Marco Parente making his Pro Debut from Toronto, CN in a 4 round Light Heavyweight fight.

Two Pro Debut fighters meet in a 4 round Lightweight battle as Danbury’s Omar Bodoy meets Newark’s Jonathan Rojas.

Finally, Hartford’s Carlos Perez makes his Pro Debut against Jr. Welterweight Dan Murray (1-1) Lakota Park, NJ in a 4 round Lightweight contest.

The first fight begins at 7:30 p.m. ET! Tickets are available by going to our website at www.StarBoxing.com, the Mohegan Sun Box Office at (888) 226-7711 (press #4), calling Ticketmaster at 1(800) 745-3000, or going to their website at Ticketmaster.com

Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing put on a terrific 5 bout card last night as former 2 time world championship challenger Delvin Rodriguez (29-8-4 16KO Danbury, CT) had all he could handle from Iraqi War veteran Shawn Cameron (10-2 5KO Brooklyn, NY) as the two warriors fought at a fever pace over the 10 round distance in a Jr. Middleweight battle in the main event at “Slugfest at the Sun” at The Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT last night.

The action was fast and furious right from the start with both fighters landing hard punches on each other. Rodriguez tried to use his vast edge in experience landing several clean counterpunches but the ever so tough Cameron kept coming forward, throwing bombs throughout the fight.

There was plenty of ebb and flow in this battle of attrition as the action was heated in every round. As the bell sounded for the 10th and final round ringside observers thought the fight was up for grabs and the two combatants fought as if they felt the same way. The final thirty seconds had the crowd of 2,600 plus in a frenzy as Rodriguez and Cameron stood toe to toe trading shots. As the final bell sounded, both fighters were given a well deserved standing ovation by the fans as Rodriguez came away with the close unanimous win 96-94 on two cards and 97-93 on the third.

The semi final bout saw a minor upset as previously undefeated Light Heavyweight Joel De La Paz (7-1 4KO Atlantic City, NJ) was hammered midway through the first round by Naim Terbunja (9-1 1KO E. Moriches, NY) in a bout scheduled for 6 rounds. Terbunja landed a crushing overhand right to the chin of De La Paz sending the New Jersey fighter flat on his face as the referee correctly called off the fight immediately.

The reminder of the undercard saw Michael McLaughlin (12-1-1 5KO Boston, MA) capture the vacant New England Welterweight title with a unanimous 8 round victory over veteran Shakha Moore (12-22-3 2KO Norwalk, CT), Brooklyn’s Scott “Bang Bang” Burrell (12-2 8KO) had too much firepower for a game Joseph “Chip” Perez (12-4-2 3KO Hartford, CT) winning a 6 round decision in the Jr. Welterweight division, and Jose “Rated R” Rivera (1-01KO Hartford, CT) made his pro debut a successful one as he stopped winless Saul Almeida (0-8 Boston, MA) in the 3rd round of a schedule 4 round Middleweight fight.

The show opened with 2 Amateur bouts provided by USA Boxing of CT.

Promoter Joe DeGuardia had this to say about the evening’s fights “Every one of these kids fought their heart out tonight and the main event was spectacular as Delvin Rodriguez turned back the clock and waged war as we are accustomed to seeing him do so many times in the past. His opponent Shawn Cameron should hold his head up high as he stood in there with a guy who had much more experience than he did and almost pulled off a stunning upset. I’m very proud to have had all these fighters fight the way they did tonight and the crowd at The Sun was so supportive of each and every one of them”.

The night’s action was aired live on Go Fight Live.

From MGM Las Vegas:
Star Boxing also had action the same night in Las Vegas as George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah fought Ryota Murata on the undercard of the Crawford Postol junior welterweight unification on HBO PPV. Murata was victorious with a first round stoppage.

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Uncasville, CT — The weigh-in for Saturday’s Slugfest at The Sun, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing fight card headlined by the return of former USBA Welterweight Champion and world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez 153.25 lbs. (28-8-4 16 KOs/Danbury, CT) vs. Iraqi war veteran Shawn Cameron 153.5 lbs. (10-1 5 KOs/Brooklyn, NY) took place this afternoon (Friday, July 22) at The Cabaret Theatre in the Sky Casino at Mohegan Sun.

All of the boxers stepped on the scale for their showdowns on the action-packed card set for tomorrow night (Saturday night, July 23) at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Rodriguez last fought in June 2015 when he challenged Erislandy Lara for the WBA World Jr. Middleweight title. Danbury’s favorite son dropped a 12-round decision to the champion, but continues his career.

Rodriguez has fought a who’s who over the course of his long career including such elite boxers as Miguel Cotto, the aforementioned Lara, and Austin Trout, but may be best remembered for his scintillating battle with Pawel Wolak on July 15, 2011, which garnered “Fight of the Year” award.

Rodriguez has challenged for the world championship on three different occasions and feels he still has something left to prove taking on the hungry and tough, Shawn Cameron.

Cameron, who has just 11 fights under his belt, sees this as the opportunity he has been waiting for. Cameron served two tours of duty in Iraq and knows a win over a well-known contender like Delvin Rodriguez will do wonders for his career.

Along with the 10-round middleweight main event featuring the return to the ring of Rodriguez after a year-long hiatus, matchmaker Ron Katz has finalized Boston’s Michael McLaughlin 147.5 lbs. (11-1-1, 5 KOs) to do battle with Shaka Moore 147.5 lbs. (12-21-3, 2 KOs) of Norwalk, CT. in an eight-round affair for the vacant New England Welterweight title and home turf bragging rights as the Slugfest at The Sun co-feature.

New Jersey meets New York in a six-round battle of light heavyweights when Atlantic City’s Joel De La Paz (175 lbs, 7-0, 4 KOs) puts his unblemished record on the line against Naim Terbunja 175 lbs. (8-1) of Medford.

Super Lightweights clash in a six-round contest when Scott Burrell 137.75 lbs. (11-2, 8 KO’s) of Brooklyn squares off against Hartford’s Chip Perez 137.75 lbs. (12-3-2, 4 KOs).

In a four-round battle, Hartford’s Jose Rivera 163 lbs makes his professional debut against Saul Almeida 162.5 lbs of Boston in a Super Welterweight bout.

Tickets are priced at $150.00, $95.00 & $45.00 and $30.00 and are on sale now at the Mohegan Sun Box Office and through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com or call Ticketmaster’s national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000.

July 19, Uncasville, CT- Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has put together its customary, competitive undercard to accompany the Mohegan Sun Arena main event featuring the return of former USBA Welterweight Champion and world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (28-8-4 16KO Danbury, CT) against Iraqi war veteran Shawn Cameron (10-1 5 KOs) of the Brooklyn, NY in a 10-round Junior Middleweight contest on Saturday night, July 23.

The action packed evening begins at 7:30 pm with three exciting bouts featuring some of Connecticut’s best up-and-coming fighters to open the show.

Matchmaker Ron Katz has finalized Boston’s Michael McLaughlin (11-1-1, 5 KOs) to do battle with Shaka Moore (12-21-3, 2 KOs) of Norwalk, CT. in an eight-round affair for the vacant New England Welterweight title and home turf bragging rights as the Slugfest at The Sun co-feature.

New Jersey meets New York in a six-round battle of light heavyweights when Atlantic City’s Joel De La Paz (7-0, 4 KOs) puts his unblemished record on the line against Naim Terbunja (8-1) of Medford.

Super Lightweights clash in a six-round contest when Scott Burrell (11-2, 8 KO’s) of Brooklyn squares off against Hartford’s Chip Perez (12-3-2, 4 KOs).

In a four-round battle, Hartford’s Jose Rivera makes his professional debut against Saul Almeida of Boston in a Super Welterweight bout.

Tickets are priced at $150.00, $95.00 & $45.00 and $30.00 and are on sale now at the Mohegan Sun Box Office and through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com or call Ticketmaster’s national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000.

Back to Rodriguez, who last fought in June 2015 when he challenged Erislandy Lara for the WBA World Jr. Middleweight title, dropping a 12-round decision to the champion, has refused to call it quits.

“At this point in my career I want to prove to myself and the world that I can still compete with the best,” said the Danbury native. “I stayed in training because it’s great exercise and part of my life. I want to try to get a couple of wins and get back into the ratings.

“I’m back with my original trainer, Lou Fusco, who gave me a great foundation to start me off, with an aggressive style and strong foundation.”

Rodriguez has fought a who’s who over the course of his long career including such elite boxers as Miguel Cotto, the aforementioned Lara, and Austin Trout, but may be best remembered for his scintillating battle with Pawel Wolak on July 15, 2011, which garnered “Fight of the Year” award.

Rodriguez has challenged for the world championship on three different occasions and feels he still has something left to prove taking on the hungry and tough, Shawn Cameron.

Cameron, who has just 11 fights under his belt, sees this as the opportunity he has been waiting for. Cameron served two tours of duty in Iraq and knows a win over a well-known contender like Delvin Rodriguez will do wonders for his career.

“Once again Delvin Rodriguez returns to familiar settings, The Mohegan Sun, where he has fought many times,” says DeGuardia. “Delvin knows at this point of his career he cannot afford any slip ups and is taking on a dangerous, younger opponent in Shawn Cameron who knows a win over a name like Delvin will land him bigger fights. I expect another exciting fight which is the norm for Delvin and I’m very happy to be back at The Sun.”

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New York, July13- Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing returns to Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT on, Saturday, July 23rd for the highly anticipated return of Connecticut’s favorite son at the Sun. The summer bash, Slugfest at the Sun, will feature an exciting night of action beginning at 7:30pm.

Former USBA Welterweight Champion and multi world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (28-8-4 16KO Danbury, CT), returns to the ring taking on Iraqi war veteran Shawn Cameron (10-1 5KO Bronx, NY) in a 10 round Jr. Middleweight contest.

Rodriguez, who last fought in June 2015, challenged Erislandy Lara for the WBA World Jr. Middleweight title that night, dropping a 12 round decision to the champion.

Rodriguez has fought a who’s who over the course of his long career including such elite fighters as Miguel Cotto, the aforementioned Lara, and Austin Trout, but may be best remembered for his scintillating battle with Pawel Wolak on July 15, 2011, which garnered ‘Fight of the Year” award.

Rodriguez has challenged for the world championship on 3 different occasions and feels he still has something left to prove taking on the hungry and tough, Shawn Cameron.

Cameron, who has just 11 fights under his belt, sees this as the opportunity he has been waiting for. Cameron served 2 tours of duty in Iraq and knows a win over a well-known contender like Delvin Rodriguez will do wonders for his career.

Promoter Joe DeGuardia had this to say about the fight “Once again Delvin Rodriguez returns to familiar settings, The Mohegan Sun, where he has fought many times. Delvin knows at this point of his career he cannot afford any slip ups and is taking on a dangerous, younger opponent in Shawn Cameron who knows a win over a name like Delvin will land him bigger fights. I expect another exciting fight which is the norm for Delvin and I’m very happy to be back at The Sun”.

Tickets are $150.00, $95.00 & $45.00 and $30.00 and are on sale now at the Mohegan Sun Box Office and through Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster customers may log on to ticketmaster.com or call Ticketmaster’s national toll free Charge By Phone number 1.800.745.3000.

Erislandy Lara won an easy 12-round unanimous decision over Delvin Rodriguez to retain the WBA Super Welterweight title at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

Lara was never in danger and boxed at a measured pace and landing thudding lefts and right hooks throughout the contest. Lara scored a knockdown in round six from a straight left.

Lara, 153 3/4 lbs of Cuba won by shutout scores of 120-107 on all cards and is now 21-2-2. Rodriguez, 153 1/2 lbs of Danbury, CT is now 28-8-4.

Artur Beterbiev scored a 7th round stoppage over Alexander Johnson in a scheduled 10-round Light Heavyweight bout and kept his perfect knockout record in tact.

In round five, Beterbiev dropped Johnson with a jab. Beterbiev landed a big right on the ropes that was ruled a knockdown as the ropes held Johnson up. Johnson was bleeding from the nose continued to take a pummeling at the end of the frame.

In round seven, a short right hand put Johnson down for a 3rd time. Seconds later a hard right sent Johnson to the canvas just as referee Mark Nelson was stopping the fight at 1:38.

Beterbiev, 175 lbs of Montreal is now 9-0 with 9 knockouts. Johnson, 174 1/4 lbs is now 16-3.

Follow all the action from the UIC Pavilion as Erslandy Lara defends the WBA Super Welterweight championship against Delvin Rodriguez. The action begins at 9 PM eastern with a Light Heavyweight fight between Artur Beterbiev and Alexander Johnson

12 ROUNDS–WBA SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP–ERISLANDY LARA (20-2-2, 12 KO’S) VS DELVIN RODRIGUEZ (28-7-4, 16 KO’S)

Round 1 Lara drilling Rodriguez with left hands…10-9 Lara

Round 2 Lara lands a left…Jab…20-18 Lara

Round 3 Lara lands a right hook..right..snapping right and left..2 hard lefts..30-27 Lara

Round 4 Lara pounding with both hands...40-36 Lara

Round 5 More Lara domination…50-45 Lara

Round 6 STRAIGHT LEFT HAND AND DOWN GOES RODRIGUEZ…60-53 LARA

ROUND 7 Lara continuing to box well…70-62 Lara

Round 8 Hard left makes Rodriguez stumble…..80-71 Lara

Round 9

10 ROUNDS–LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS–ARTUR BETERBIEV (8-0, 8 KO’S) VS ALEXANDER JOHNSON (16-2, 7 KO’S)

Round 1 Not much…10-10

Round 2 Beterbiev lands 2 left and an uppercut..20-19 Beterbiev

Round 3 Johnson lands a left..29-29

Round 4 Beterbiev lands a hard combination..Good body combination...39-38 Beterbiev

Round 5 Beterbiev lands a left..LEFT AND DOWN GOES JOHNSON…HARD RIGHT ON THE ROPES FOR A 2ND KNOCKDOWN…Big flurry at the end of round...49-45 Beterbiev

Round 6 Beterbiev controlling…59-54 Beterbiev

Round 7 RIGHT AND DOWN GOES JOHNSON…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES JOHNSON AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

THE BOXERS WEIGHED IN TODAY FOR THE FRIDAY NIGHT, JUNE 12 BOUT

Delvin Rodriguez
153.4 lb

Erislandy Lara
153.6 lb

Delvin Rodriguez (28-7-4, 16 KOs) will square off against WBA World Super Welterweight Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (20-2-2, 12 KOs) in a 12-round title affair at UIC Pavilion in Chicago on Friday night, June 12. SPIKE TV will televise on its Premiere Boxing Champions series at 9:00 PM.

During a 39-fight career, Rodriguez has faced off against such champions as Miguel Cotto and Austin Trout, while notching victories against top-caliber fighters like Mike Arnaoutis, Shamone Alvarez and Pawel Wolak.

Lara has wins over Freddy Hernandez, Alfredo Angulo and Austin Trout. The 32-year-old Cuban champion has recently won his 20th match, defeating former world champion Ishe Smith.

For more information visit official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook.com/StarBoxing.

CHICAGO (June 9, 2015) – Cuban boxing star, Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (20-2-2, 12 KOs), has arrived in Chicago for his upcoming bout with Delvin Rodriguez (28-7-4, 16 KOs) as Premier Boxing Champions returns to Spike this Friday June 12, 2015.

This edition of PBC on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET. Doors at UIC Pavilion open at 5 p.m. CT with the first fight set for 5:30 p.m. CT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing in association with Group Yvon Michel (GYM) and Star Boxing, are priced at $151, $101, $51, and $31, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @DRodriguez1980, @WarriorsBoxProm and @SpikeTV and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromoand www.Facebook.com/Spike.

CHICAGO (May 12, 2015) – Cuban boxing sensation Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (20-2-2, 12 KOs) returns to the ring on Friday, June 12 to face veteran Delvin Rodriguez (28-7-4, 16 KOs) as Premier Boxing Champions heads back to Spike.

Additionally, Russian knockout artist Artur Beterbiev (8-0, 8 KOs) is set to square off against the ring-savvy Doudou Ngumbu (34-6, 13 KOs) of Haute-Garonne, France.

This edition of PBC on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET. Doors at UIC Pavilion open at 5 p.m. CT with the first fight set for 5:30 p.m. CT.

“I’m very excited to be fighting on Spike TV on June 12th in Chicago.” said Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara. “Delvin Rodriguez is a tough veteran fighter who I respect. He has a lot of heart and determination. But once the bell rings I’m looking for the knockout!”

“On June 12, I am going to change everyone’s mind about me and show that I can beat Lara,” said Rodriguez.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing in association with Group Yvon Michel (GYM), are priced at $151, $101, $51, and $31, not including applicable service charges, and are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or UIC Pavilion Box Office at (312) 413-5740. Tickets are also available at www.ticketmaster.com or by visiting the UIC Pavilion Box Office (Thursday or Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.).

The 32-year-old Lara is a slick boxer with the ability to deliver punishment while taking very little of it in return. Lara has notched victories over Alfredo Angulo, Austin Trout and Freddy Hernandez throughout his career. As an amateur, Lara won numerous titles including a national championship at welterweight and also participated in the 2007 Pan-Am games. The fighter originally from Guantanamo, Cuba but fighting out of Houston most recently defeated former world champion Ishe Smith on his way to his 20th professional victory.

Already deep into an accomplished career, the 35-year-old Rodriguez looks to give Lara a stiff test and entertain the crowd at UIC Pavilion on June 12. Having battled the likes of Miguel Cotto and Austin Trout, Rodriguez has also picked up victories over Mike Arnaoutis, Pawel Wolak and Shamone Alvarez throughout his accomplished career. Born in Santiago de le Caballeros, Dominican Republic but fighting out of Danbury, Connecticut, Rodriguez will look to improve on his last outing, a draw against Joachim Alcine in May 2014.

Having floored every opponent he’s faced professionally, the now 30-year-old former amateur standout Beterbiev will be seeking to keep his knockout streak alive in Chicago. Having notched impressive wins over Tavoris Cloud in 2014 and Gabriel Campillo earlier this year, the heavy-fisted Russian knows he’ll be tested with an experienced opponent on June 12.

Following a hard-fought loss to Andrzej Fonfara in November 2014, France’s Ngumbu rebounded nicely with a knockout win in January of this year. The battle-tested 33-year-old veteran will look to use his wealth of professional experience at UIC Pavilion in order to emerge victorious.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaraBoxing, @DRodriguez1980, @WarriorsBoxProm and @SpikeTV and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromoand www.Facebook.com/Spike.

This is my twelfth year as a professional boxer. I’ve shared the ring with some accomplished boxers in that time; world champions Danny Garcia and DeMarcus Corley, world title challengers Delvin Rodriguez and Pablo Cesar Cano, European champion Jason Cook and British champion Lenny Daws. Anyone would say, some of the best of my era.
Fighting and winning in five different countries. St Lucia, USA, Germany, Luxembourg and England. It’s easily said, but believe me, seriously hard to accomplish. Many might say that these achievements are worthy of recognition, and some might even applaud.

It is a sad fact that very few British fighters come to America and hold their own, they tend to drown! The Americans don’t yet respect British fighters, but I’m one of a select few that has won their very hard earned respect.
Most fighters prefer the comforts of staying at home. I’ve found out that by going out to alien territory, with none of my fans in the arena, has brought the best out of me. Behind enemy lines!
When I started boxing in 1988 my dream was always to fight in America.
To fight the very best and to be at my best. As an 8 year old kid my dream was unthinkable. How was I going to do this? I’m from a poor and neglected part of London, CRIME filled, with low ambitions and opportunities very few and far between.
I’m living my childhood dream now. The number one fighter in the world is my boss.
Very few people set a goal and actually achieve it. THROUGH THE YEARS the dream has gotten bigger and bolder. At first the naysayers laughed at me but now many cheer me, and to my surprise and pleasure, some even take the time to inform me “just how great I am doing and how far I’ve come”.
I have to say that I’ve done nothing in my life that has surprised me, as I’ve always pushed myself despite the lack of financial backing, I’ve found a way.
A kid from Paddington, England witnessing greatness on a day to day basis. The brilliant private workouts I get to witness AND I get to see Floyd Mayweather at work. I get to pound the streets of Las Vegas with him. He gives me advice and tells me he’s got my back.
The years of sacrifice, determination and hard work have got me here. Don’t ever tell me I can’t do something. I’ve already made the impossible possible, and HERE WE GO AGAIN.
It still amazes me just how many people appear to ‘dislike’ Floyd Mayweather, it’s usually because they do not know him, and they will never know him because they dislike him.

Delvin Rodriguez and former world champion Joachim Alcine battled to a 10-round draw in a Jr. Middleweight bout at the Olympic Stadium in Montreal.

It seemed like Rodriguez controlled the bout from the outside but Alcine made it close with his inside work..

Rodriguez, 158.8 lbs of the Dominican Republic won a card 97-93. Alcine, 153 lbs of Canada won a card 96-94 while a 3rd card read even at 95-95.

Rodriguez is now 28-7-4. Alcine is 35-7-1.

Derric Rossy scored a 10 round majority decision over Joe Hanks in a Heavyweight bout.

Rossy won by scores of 98-92, 97-92 and 95 95 and is now 29-8.

Montreal, Canada (May 15, 2014) The fighter weighed in today for tomorrow nights ESPN’s Friday Night Fights from the famed Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada. Former world title challenger DELVIN “EL Peligro” RODRIGUEZ takes on JOACHIM Alcine and heavyweight contender JOE “The Future” HANKS faces DERRIC “The Shaolin Fist” ROSSY. Pictures and weights below.

10 Round Jr. Middleweight
Delvin Rodriguez 153.8
Joachim Alcine 153.

10 Round Hvy Weight
Derric Rossey 234.7
Joe Hanks 232.8

6 Round LtWeight
Christian Uruzquiea 134.5
Mario Perez 135.

6 Round Super Middleweight
Frank Miville 169.6
Walid Smichet 172.5

6 Round Jr. Lightweight
Kevin Lavalee 130.8
James Owens 131

Tickets are available through the Admission network www.admission.com 1-855-790-1245
Tickets: $54 Stands/ $110 Floor/$195 VIP with beverage service

Montreal, Canada (May 13, 2014) Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing heads north-of-the-border this week with ESPN’s Friday Night Fights in tow as former world title challenger DELVIN “EL Peligro” RODRIGUEZ and heavyweight contender JOE “The Future” HANKS will appear in featured bouts on Friday, May 16th from the famed Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada.

“It’s an outstanding opportunity for both Delvin and Joe to fight in such a legendary building and on ESPN Friday Night Fights” said DeGuardia. “Both guys are in tough, solid fights and each are ready to meet the challenge ahead of them with bigger opportunities on the horizon.”

Olympic Stadium is best known among boxing fans as site of the first bout between Roberto Duran and “Sugar” Ray Leonard on June 20, 1980. Leonard also won Olympic Gold there for the United States in the 1976 Summer Games.

Telecast LIVE across North America (9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT), main eventer Rodriguez, 28-7-3 (16KO’s), will be making his 17th appearance on the acclaimed ESPN Friday Night Fights series as he battles former world champion JOACHIM ALCINE, 35-7-1 (21KO’s), in the 10-round headliner.

The 34-year-old Rodriguez is looking to head back to the win column after challenging boxing legend Miguel Cotto in October of 2013. Prior to the Cotto loss, Rodriguez had stopped junior middleweight contenders Freddy Hernandez and George “Comache Boy” Tahdooahnippah in previous bouts last year.

Fresh out of a San Diego training camp with world ranked heavyweight Chris Arreola, the 31-year-old Hanks, 21-1-0 (14KO’s), will clash with veteran DERRIC “The Shaolin Fist” ROSSY 28-8-0 (14KO’s), in the 10-round co-featured bout.
Joey Hanks, Joe DeGuardia Alexander Choko & Derric Rossy

Inspired by fighting in the hometown of newly minted World Boxing Council Heavyweight Champion, Bermane Stiverne, Hanks looks to restart his title path after suffering the first loss of his career to Andy Ruiz last October in Macau, China.

Tickets are available through the Admission network www.admission.com 1-855-790-1245
Tickets: $54 Stands/ $110 Floor/$195 VIP with beverage service

The May 16 edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra and ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates presentado por Corona Extra will feature former Jr. Middleweight and Welterweight world title challenger Delvin Rodríguez (28-7-3, 16 KOs) meeting former Jr. Middleweight titlist Joachim “Ti-Joa” Alcine (35-7-1, 21 KOs) in the 10-round Jr. Middleweight main event.

Friday’s show, from Olympic Stadium in Montreal, will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and WatchESPN. The card is promoted by Star Boxing.

Commentators:
Blow-by-blow commentator Joe Tessitore will be ringside with analyst Teddy Atlas describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will present all the latest boxing news and highlights. Pablo Viruega and Alex Pombo, filling in for Delvin Rodríguez, will call the fights for Noche de Combates (Fight Night) on ESPN Deportes, while Leopoldo González and Claudia Trejos will anchor the studio.

Main Event:
Connecticut’s Rodríguez, who doubles as an ESPN Deportes boxing analyst, is fighting on Friday Night Fights for the 17th time. His 2011 bout with Pawel Wolak —a 10-round draw—was named 2011 “Fight of the Year” by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA). In the rematch later that year, Rodríguez defeated Wolak setting him up for a 2012 WBA Jr. Middleweight title shot against then titlist Austin Trout. Rodríguez, who also fought Isaac Hlatshwayo for the IBF Welterweight title in 2009, is looking to get back to his winning ways following a third-round TKO loss in his last fight to former Jr. Welterweight, Welterweight, and Junior Middleweight titlist Miguel Cotto.

“At this stage in my career, I don’t take anybody lightly. He’s (Alcine) looking to redeem himself, get back into the game, get back into the mix, just like I’m trying to do,” Rodríguez said. “We’re training really hard and doing our own thing…We’ve been around for a long time. I know when I’m ready. You’ve just got to stay focused and confident – and that, I always am.”

Alcine, who hails from California, and won the WBA Jr. Middleweight world title in 2007 by defeating then-defending titlist Travis Simms by 12-round unanimous decision, has won his last two fights, including a third-round KO win over Jovan Ramirez in his last bout.

“This fight, I’m going in to give my best, ’cause I don’t think it is over for me yet,” Alcine said. “A lot of people think I’m finished, I’m done, but it’s over only when God says it’s over.”

Co-Feature:
Friday’s 10-round co-feature will pit Heavyweights Derric “El León” Rossy (28-8, 14 KOs) of New York against New Jersey’s Joe “The Future” Hanks (21-1, 14 KOs). Rossy is looking to rebound from an eight-round, split-decision loss to Joey Dawejko, while Hanks is looking to score a victory following a fourth-round TKO loss to Andy Ruiz.

Boxcino 2014 Finals Next Week on Friday Night Fights and Noche de Combates:
On Friday, May 23 (9 p.m., ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN), from Turning Stone Casino in Verona, N.Y, the Boxcino 2014 Finals sponsored by 1800 Tequila will be held. The 10-round Lightweight final will feature Petr Petrov (34-4-2, 15 KOs) vs. Fernando Cárcamo (17-5, 13 KOs) and the 10-round Middleweight final will feature Brandon Adams (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Willie Monroe Jr. (17-1, 6 KOs).

Upcoming ESPN Boxing Schedule:

Date

Time (ET)

Main Event

Location

Networks

Fri, May 16

9 p.m.

Delvin Rodríguez (28-7-3, 16 KOs) vs. Joachim Alcine (35-7-1, 21 KOs)—10 rounds, Jr. Middleweight

Olympic Stadium, Montreal, Canada

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, May 23

9 p.m.

Boxcino 2014 Finals sponsored by 1800 Tequila

Petr Petrov (34-4-2, 15 KOs) vs. Fernando Cárcamo (17-5, 13 KOs)—10 rounds, Lightweights

Brandon Adams (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Willie Monroe Jr. (17-1, 6 KOs)—10 rounds, Middleweights

Turning Stone Casino, Verona, NY

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

Fri, June 6

10:30 p.m.

Yudel Jhonson (15-1, 9 KOS) vs. Norberto González ( 20-3, 13 KOs)—10 rounds, Jr. Middleweights

Turning Stone Casino, Verona, NY

ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN

*Schedule subject to change

Friday Night Fights and Noche de Combates Social Media:

· Follow ESPN Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook.

· Score the fights round-by-round with the “Live Friday Night Fights Facebook Voting App,” an application on the ESPN FNF Facebook page that allows viewers to score the fight round-by-round.

· Follow ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo.

· For the latest ESPN.com boxing news and analysis follow @ESPNBoxing.

Star Boxing & Choko Boxing are proud to announce the live broadcast of
the highly acclaimed TV program with Delvin RODRIGUEZ vs Joachim “Ti-Joa” Alcine

On May 16th – Five professional fights at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium
This Starlight Children’s Foundation Charity Event exclusively for 1500 fans will be a home run!

Montreal, April 29th 2014 -Star Boxing and Co-Promoter Choko Boxing are please to bring one of the year’s most unique events in the boxing world to Montreal. On Friday May 16, ESPN’s celebrated Friday Night Fights television program will be broadcasted live from the most incredible venue in town, the legendary Olympic Stadium.

This will be a memorable event since the “Big O” hasn’t hosted any professional boxing for almost 35 years. The last fight was the famous Roberto Duran vs Sugar Ray Leonard in June of 1980, an event that became one of the greatest boxing confrontation in History.

The two hour live ESPN broadcast that will take place on Friday May 16 will showcase the Light Middleweight 10 round Main Event between STAR BOXING fighter Delvin RODRIGUEZ (28-7-1-21Ko) vs Montrealer & former WBA World Champion Joachim “Ti-Joa” ALCINE (35-7-1-21Ko).

We can expect Alcine’s fight to be full of excitement – Ti Joa won his two last fights by TKO and is in great shape. After brilliant confrontations against Québécois David Lemieux and Stéphane Ouellet, the crowd should be pleased to see him perform at home once again.

Delvin Rodriguez is one of ESPN’s most recognized fighters his famous FIGHT OF THE YEAR battle against Pawel Wolak still electrifies fans! Rodriguez’ last fight was against future Hall of Famer Miguel COTTO.

Alexandre Choko of Choko Boxing stated, “Following my 5 year journey to interview some of the greatest boxing legends of all time and write my book The Future of Boxing, it is with great pride that my first comeback professional boxing event will be televised in America in such a prestigious outlet. ESPN’s Friday Night Fights being the equivalent of Monday Night Football to boxing fans, it’s an honor to be part of such an exciting production”.

Choko recently teamed with Joe DeGuardia, Star Boxing CEO and currently President of the Boxing Promoters Association. This is a first collaboration between the two promoters, who met when Choko was preparing his book The Future of Boxing and Joe DeGuardia was just elected President of the Boxing Promoters Association.

Star Boxing and Choko Boxing expect to bring the local fans, Haitian and Dominican community together to cheer for Joachim Alcine and Rodriguez.

An affordable experience priced at only $45.00. Set as a special intimate format, only 1500 tickets will be released including 500 floor seats. Tickets will be available through the Admission network May 2nd 2014.

Main Event: Delvin RODRIGUEZ vs Joachim “Ti-Joa” ALCINE
Co-feature: Heavyweight Joe Hanks vs opponent TBA
Tickets: $45.00 Stands /$100.00 floor / $175.00 VIP with beverage service www.admission.com 1-855-790-1245.

Follow all the action as three division champion Miguel Cotto takes on Delvin Rodriguez in a 12 round Jr. Middleweight bout from the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. The action kicks off at 9:45 eastern with a Lightweight bout of undefeated fighters Terrence Crawford and Andrey Klimov.

12 ROUNDS–JR. MIDDLEWEIGHTS–MIGUEL COTTO (37-4, 30 KO’S) VS DELVIN RODRIGUEZ (28-6-3, 16 KO’S)

Round 1 Cotto lands a body shot..Body shot..good jab..left to the body..hard body shot..and another..Rodriguez lands an uppercut on the inside...10-9 Cotto Cotto landed 13 body shots in round

Round 2 Cotto lands a right to the head..2 rights to the body..good left to the head..Rodriguez lands a shot…uppercut and a left to the head...20-18 Cotto

Round 3HUGE LEFT AND DOWN GOES RODRIGUEZ AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

MIGUEL COTTO WINNER BY TKO 3 AT 18 SECONDS

10 ROUNDS LIGHTWEIGHTS–TERRENCE CRAWFORD (21-0, 16 KO’S) VS ANDREY KLIMOV (16-0, 8 KO’S)

Round 1 Crawford lands a right that knocks Klimov off balance…Body shots…good combinations…10-9 Crawford

Round 2 Crowd booing as Crawford switches southpaw…Klimov lands a right…19-19

Round 3 Crawford lands a combination to the body…29-28 Crawford

Round 4 Good right hook from Crawford knocks Klimov back…39-37 Crawford

Round 5 Crawford lands a left hook..Good left…49-46 Crawford…Crawford outlanding Klimov 97-22

Round 6 Crawford jabbing..59-55 Crawford

Round 7 Crawford coming out more agreesive…Good body shot…another good body shot..69-64 Crawford

Round 8 Left hook from Klimov..Crawford lands a good body shot…79-74 Crawford

Round 9 Crawford throwing nice right jabs…More jabs..2 jabs and a straight left…89-83 Crawford…Crawford outlanding Klimov 170-45

Round 10 Big body shot and big right from Crawford at the bell…99-92 Crawford

SCORES ALL 100-90 FOR CRAWFORD

Miguel Cotto brought back memories of the past as he knocked out Delvin Rodriguez in round three of their scheduled twelve round Jr. Middleweight bout at the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida.

Cotto came out in round one by focusing his left to the body. Cotto continued his sharp shooting in round two and he finished the frame with a huge right and left to the chin.

In round three, it took just one left hook to the jaw that sent Rodriguez down in front of the ropes and referee Frank Santore stopped the fight immediately at 18 seconds of round three.

Cotto, 153.25 lbs of Caguas, PR will now seek a big fight with a record of 38-4 with 31 knockouts. Rodriguez, 154 lbs of Danbury, CT is now 28-7-3

Terrence Crawford scored a lack luster ten round unanimous decision over Andery Klimov in a fight that featured two undefeated Lightweights.

Crawford boxed from the pocket and switched to southpaw in round two. Crawford stayed there for the rest of the fight and was content on jabbing and landing an occasional straight left. Klimov did a little more then stick out the jab and never really threw any punches with purpose. Neither guy was ever in any type of danger. The fight was void of action until the final bell when the two engaged for the last ten seconds that saw Crawford land a hard left to the body and right to the head.

Crawford, 134 1/2 lbs of Omaha, NE won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 22-0. Klimov, 134 1/2 lbs of Russia is now 16-1.

Super Prospect Felix Verdejo scored a second round stoppage over Gary Eyer in a scheduled six round Super featherweight bout.

Verdejo wobbled Eyer a couple of times in round one. Verdejo landed ripping shots in round two that started Eyer’s nose to leak blood. After the doctor looked at Eyer’s nose, Verdejo opened up couple of rights and two wicked left hooks that forced referee Tellis Asselminios to stop the bout at 2:52 of round two.

Verdejo, 133 1/2 lbs of San Juan, PR is now 8-0 with six knockouts. Eyer, 132 1/2 lbs of Duluth, MN is now 11-4-1.

Moises Carrasquillo Jr. scored a four round unanimous decision over Steven Chadwick in a Middleweight bout.

Carrasquillio dominated the bout and bloodied the nose of Chadwick in round two.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Carrisquillo, 161 1/2 lbs of Orlando and is now 4-0. Chadwick, 160 1/2 lbs of Jacksonville, FL is 2-5.

Ricky Tomlinson and Lamar Charalton battled to a four round draw in a Featherweight bout.

Each fighter won a card at 39-37 while a third card read even at 38-38.

Tomlinson, 124 3/4 lbs of Thonosissia, FL is 1-0-1. Charlton, 124 3/4 lbs of Ocala, FL is now 1-4-2

Photos by Chris Farina / Top Rank

Miguel Cotto 153.2 – Delvin Rodriguez 154

Orlando, FL, (October 4, 2013) Two-time world title challenger and top rated junior middleweight Delvin Rodriguez and Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia attended the Final Press Conference yesterday in Orlando, Florida just two days ahead of Rodriguez’s battle with three-division world champion Miguel Cotto set for this Saturday, October 5 at the Amway Center and broadcast Live on HBO®.

Delvin Rodriguez:

“I’m just enjoying every second of this because this is an opportunity that I earned. I got to this opportunity the hard way. After so many years of hard work, one bad decision after the other, tough fights, I’m just thankful to God that I’m here. There was a time when I said forget about boxing, forget this, this isn’t for me anymore, but I said I’m not going to throw so many years of my life away after so much hard work. So I’m glad I stuck with it and thanks to God I’m here.”

“This is my time, my turn to win. I have enjoyed every second of this promotion. Every fighter has a defining moment in his career. For me, my career takes a big turn for greatness on Saturday night, I will beat Cotto.”

Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing:

“Throughout his entire career Delvin has been a warrior, always battling in the ring. Along with the sensational battles with Wolak that everyone knows about, he’s also fought numerous times overseas and on the road where he’s been the victim of hometown scoring in some very close battles.”

“Come Saturday night the fans in this beautiful city of Orlando and those watching on HBO are going to see a tremendous fight. Delvin is in terrific shape and ready for the biggest fight of his career.”

The Miguel Cotto/Delvin Rodriguez 12 round super welterweight battle will be seen in over 180 counties across the globe.

Cotto and Rodriguez boast a combined record of 65-10-3 (46 KOs) — a winning percentage of over 83% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%.

Photo Credit : Chris Farina – Top Rank copyright 2013

Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez are priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25 and can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit Amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

Watch the weigh-in today live CLICK HERE.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

Saturday night in Orlando, Florida, world rated contender Delvin Rodriguez, 28-6-1 16KO’s, Danbury, CT steps into the ring with future Hall of Famer and three time World Champion Miguel Cotto, 37-4 30KO’s, Caguas, PR in a bout that will be televised live on HBO. While Delvin has had many opportunities in his long career including two world title fights, multiple title eliminator’s, and numerous ESPN appearances, this opportunity presents Delvin’s biggest yet, against a legend as the main event on the ‘legend of boxing networks’, HBO.

Many have credited Star Boxing’s relentless efforts on behalf of its fighters as a reason for Delvin’s consistent ability to participate in so many high profile bouts and be the recipient of so many opportunities. Star Boxing, unlike many other sports entities, as a knack for rebuilding its talent. In Delvin’s instance, Star Boxing has continually provided National TV fights for Delvin, and has stood behind him where many others might have given up.

While Star Boxing President/CEO Joe DeGuardia acknowledges his efforts on behalf of Delvin, he credits Delvin. “Delvin shows up like a true professional every time and gives his best each time out. This has endeared him to boxing fans throughout the world. In addition, he is unfortunately received the short end of the stick on 4 of his 6 defeats. Those majority and split hometown decision losses in Poland and South Africa are disappointing, but did not break him. His record could just as easily be 33-2, and he deserves these opportunities. I am just pleased that we have been able to provide them for him.”

Most fans will remember the Star Boxing promoted “Fight of the Year” between Delvin and Pawel Wolak. The fight was widely seen on ESPN “Friday Night Fights” series and it is still talked about two years later. Through the efforts of Star Boxing, Delvin has appeared on ESPN more than any other fighter in the last few years.

The uniqueness of the relationship between Delvin and Star Boxing has enabled Delvin to get all these opportunities. Delvin puts complete, unconditional trust and faith in Star’s ability to move his career in the right direction. Star’s faith in Delvin is unwavering and founder Joe DeGuardia hopes lighting strikes again when he took a virtually unwanted fighter in Antonio Tarver and maneuvered him into multi million dollar fights and boxing stardom.

The fight with Cotto promises to be a slugfest as are most of Delvin’s fights and the real winners will be the fans who tune into HBO this Saturday night. The trend lately has been for fighters comparable to Delvin, who step into the ring as an underdog against a well known fighter, and come out either victorious in the ring or victorious with the fans and many hope and expect the same from the likable Delvin Rodriguez.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ORLANDO (September 30, 2013) — Fandemonium has broken out in Orlando as former three-division world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico MIGUEL COTTO has arrived in Orlando to begin his Fight Week activities leading up to his Florida debut as a professional fighter. With all the higher-priced tickets having sold out in advance and fan demand still not sated, the promoters of the event opened up more sections of $25 seats by rearranging television camera set ups. Cotto will be going mano a mano with two-time world title challenger and Top-Five contender Delvin Rodriguez in a 12-round super welterweight battle This Saturday! October 5, at the home of the Orlando Magic — Amway Center. It will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing®, beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

“We are thrilled with the support Miguel’s fans have shown for this event and we want to do everything we can to make it accessible to them,” said Héctor Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions. “A big thank you from Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank goes to HBO and Amway Center for working with us in opening more sections. The atmosphere on Saturday night will be electric.”

Fight Week will officially begin Tomorrow! Tuesday, October 1, with Media Workouts at the Don Miguel Boxing Gym (8620 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, Fla. 32809). Rodriguez (28-6-3, 16 KOs), of the Dominican Republic, will have his workout at Noon ET, followed by Cotto (37-4, 30 KOs), of Caguas, Puerto Rico, at 2:00 p.m. ET. Both fighters and their trainers will be available for interviews.

Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, remaining tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez, priced at $25, can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com www.hbo.com/boxing and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo and facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, twitter.com/hboboxing or twitter.com/realmiguelcotto.

Danbury, Connecticut (September 26, 2013) Former world title challenger and perennial contender Delvin Rodriguez is
winding down preparations for his junior middleweight clash with legendary and former three time World Champion Puerto Rican fighter Miguel Cotto set for Saturday, October 5 the Amway Center
in Orlando, Florida and Live on HBO ®

Relaxing after an early evening training session in his hometown of Danbury, Connecticut, Rodriguez spoke about his preparations for the fight.

“We spent the first two weeks of camp in the Dominican Republic working on strength and conditioning, especially running in the mountains. For the last six weeks we’ve been in Danbury doing the actual training and sparring.”

“The two weeks in the Dominican Republic were great for my body and it’s always nice to train at home as I have for this portion of the camp” continued Rodriguez, who has compiled a record of 28-6-3 (16KO’s) over his fourteen year career.

Rodriguez is currently world ranked #4 by the WBA, #9 by the WBO and #11 by the IBF and WBC and is coming off two sensational stoppages, a sixth round knockout of George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah on February 15 and an eighth round stoppage of Freddy Hernandez on May 24, both of which were televised on ESPN Friday Night Fights from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing®

Rodriguez longtime promoter; “The two wins Delvin had earlier this year along with the wealth of world class experience he’s fought over his outstanding career has truly prepared him for this opportunity to fight Miguel Cotto. This will be his sixth fight in the junior middleweight division and he’s very comfortable at 154. He’s prepared very well for Miguel Cotto and I’m confident he will put on a terrific performance.”

Speaking about his game plan, Rodriguez stated, “I’m taller so it works for me to stay on the outside and keep Cotto on the end of my punches. I’ve got a longer reach which I intend to use.”

“It’s also important for me to use combinations in an effective manner. Keep the pressure, stay aggressive for the entire round and that’s where my conditioning will play a big role.”

“I’ve got nothing but respect for Miguel, our paths have crossed a number of times over the years and he’s always been a gentleman. He’s a certain Hall of Famer who earned everything he’s gotten, nothing was handed to him, it’s the perfect test for me.”

About being perceived as the underdog with talk of upcoming plans for Cotto’s future fights, Rodriguez was dismissive, “That plays no role at all, and I don’t pay attention to what the experts say about who will win. Just me and him in the ring, just the way we both like it.”

Rodriguez will be accompanied to the ring on the night of the fight by popular Dominican singer, EL Jeffrey, who will also sing the Dominican national anthem prior to the fight.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

Former three-division world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico Miguel Cotto (37-4, 30 KOs), of Caguas, Puerto Rico, is in his final weeks of training with Hall of Famer Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, Calif. Cotto is preparing for his 12-round super welterweight battle with Top-10 contender and two-time world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (28-6-3, 16 KOs), of the Dominican Republic. Cotto vs. Rodriguez will take place Saturday, October 5, at the home of the Orlando Magic, Amway Center, in Orlando, Fla. Cotto’s Florida debut will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing®, beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

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TODD duBOEF: Thanks, everybody, this is a wonderful day. We are only a couple weeks away from the fight and it is great to be promoting once again with Miguel’s promotional company Miguel Cotto Promotions on October 5th at the Amway Center in Orlando. Obviously the reunion between the two of us has been terrific and the show we have put together has been absolutely fantastic from top to bottom using a combination of Miguel’s fighters and Top Rank fighters. The way the tickets have sold and the interest in the fight – the fans have come out – from the press conference where the Mayor was such an advocate of the show – we have seen unprecedented support from the Coty of Orlando which hasn’t really had a fight in many, many years, especially of this caliber. I could talk more about the show but I am sure you want to hear from Freddie and Miguel and how that combination is going.

FREDDIE ROACH: We have had a great training camp so far and Miguel is a great student. His work ethic is unbelievable and we are working really hard here at the Wild Card. Sparring is going really well – we did nine rounds yesterday. I am really happy with the way things are coming. Strength coach Kevin MacMillan is doing a very good job with Gavin [MacMillan] and they work very well together. We have a really good team and I am excited for the fight coming up. I am looking forward to Miguel fighting with us for the first time. His progress is great and his punching power is coming back to where it once was. Miguel has been one of the best students I have ever had.

MIGUEL COTTO: We have had a great training camp. We are committed to doing so good and to look amazing at the fight. We are working together to get the best out of me and that’s all I can really say about it.

Why the long break in between fights?

MIGUEL COTTO: I have had a lot of fights over my career and we thought it would be good to take a break. I feel good now with all of the training sessions we have had in LA and things are very good right now.

Do you put pressure on yourself since you have lost two fights in a row?

MIGUEL COTTO: I am just thinking about being in the best shape possible and we have no doubt that we will prepare the best.

Freddie, can you talk about the pressure of a ‘must win’ fight?

FREDDIE ROACH: We are in a must-win situation for sure. That’s why we are working so hard and we are working well together. We start conditioning work every morning at 5 AM and that ends at 8 AM. That leaves Miguel a little time to rest then we come back to the gym at 2 PM and from 2-4 we are sparring or working with the mitts. We do about nine rounds every day. We are working real hard and we know what the situation is.

Did you feel there was anything you needed to change in Miguel?

FREDDIE ROACH: I watched the Trout fight and we talked about why he thought he lost that fight. He thought he wasn’t busy enough and I want to bring back that work to the body – his bread and butter. That’s what got him to where he is today. I am not going to change him of course because he is a great fighter as he is. We just need a reminder of the fundamentals of boxing.

How do you feel you can still compete against the elite of the sport?

MIGUEL COTTO: I feel that I can fight against the best at any time. I just made the fight with Mayweather last year. I made that fight. I fought that fight and then I fight the next fight.

Freddie, do you think the body attack will be back?

FREDDIE ROACH: I think that’s a big part of what we have been working on. When you think of Miguel Cotto, you think of great bodywork. Lefts to the body we have been working on quite a bit and we have also been working on a lot of new moves and it’s been working out really well. Again is work ethic.

How do you feel about fighting in Orlando in front of all the Puerto Rico fans?

MIGUEL COTTO: Fighting in front of that whole Puerto Rican community is going to be amazing to me.

How did you decide to be trained by Freddie Roach?

MIGUEL COTTO: At this point in my career I realized that I want my career to finish with Freddie on my side.

How do you go about training someone that knows so much?

FREDDEIE ROACH: The thing is, I am not going to change people. I don’t believe in changing people. We are what we are and it’s pretty much, when he was at his best it was the fundamentals of boxing which he excelled at and he had gotten away from the body attack a little bit and we got that back in line. He’s been getting a little older and so-forth so we cut back in the roadwork and do more conditioning because running every day for six days a week your whole life is hard on your body. So we cut back on that a little bit and added a few things to replace it. It’s going really well and I can’t wait for him to get in the ring for the first time with me in the corner.

Did you see anything from the Pacquiao-Cotto fight you would fix?

FREDDIE ROACH: When I trained Manny for that fight the biggest thing was to stay off the ropes because if you go on the ropes, Miguel is going to hit you with the left hook to the body and that was something we had to stay away from. That was the biggest thing we worked on in camp. Miguel would sometimes get a little lazy with his punches. He has great speed with his punches so we have been working on that and it’s been working quite well.

Have you had a fighter you worked against then worked with him?

FREDDIE ROACH: I have been in this situation before. I trained Donny LaLonde against Virgil Hill and Virgil was one of my first world champions so it was just once before in my life so getting the call from Miguel asking me to help him made me feel really good. I know he’s a great fighter and if I can make someone a better fighter, I’m here. I just want to bring back the best of Miguel Cotto – lefts to the body then to the head and efficient combinations and breaking his opponent down– that’s where we want to get to. We’ve had some good sparring partners so far and it’s worked out really well.

FREDDIE ROACH: I’m not really bringing things back, I am just trying to remind him of what worked best and to use it more. He knows how to do it he had just gotten away from it a little bit so it is really just a reminder of what works best. It is there naturally. It is part of his mechanics. It’s just fundamentals – how to cut the ring off and how to control the ring a little bit better. We are working really well together, we have had a great training camp and we have a couple more weeks to go and I look forward to going to Florida soon.

How do you see the future of Miguel Cotto?

FREDDIE ROACH: There is a good future and that’s why we are working so hard to win this fight. We know we are in a must-win situation but a win here will put us in position for a lot of good things. I want Miguel to win a word title again and I look forward to being a part of that.

MIGUEL COTTO: There are no possibilities beyond this fight to think about. The only possibility I have right now is to fight Delvin Rodriguez on October 5 in Orlando. Then after Delvin we can talk about what is next in my career. Right now I ham very happy with Freddie and the way we are training here and looking for good things to happen when I get inn the ring at Amway Center.

Todd, tell us about his popularity in Orlando.

TODD duBOEF: Miguel is an icon within the Latin community and I wouldn’t designate a specific territory. Throughout Latin America, Puerto Rico, Mexico – everywhere. Obviously the connectivity to his home base, which are people of Puerto Rican descent, they look at him as one of them. So if they are in New York, Orlando, Caguas or San Juan, they are the same fan. We looked at other facilities in other places and Amway Center was one that Miguel’s team wanted and we worked together with his team in establishing this venue and the response has been incredible. We keep having to open up sections and adding seats and we look for an electric night. His popularity is way beyond regional – he is an icon within the whole Latin community.

Do you see a sellout?

TODD duBOEF: Relatively speaking, yes. We keep opening up new sections. If the demand stays strong, we are going to be totally sold out.

You have a common opponent in Trout; does it help in preparing for Rodriguez?

FREDDIE ROACH: Delvin has a whole different style than Miguel does and styles make fights. We have studied the fights of those tapes and picked up things here and there. Overall, watching, not just because they both fought Trout and he is a common opponent, No.

MIGUEL COTTO: I didn’t see the fight between Trout and Delvin Rodriguez but we just create out strategy here in training camp and that’s what we are going to follow the day of the fight.

Do you feel camaraderie with Miguel?

FREDDIE ROACH: Yes, my whole team does. Everyone loves him in the gym and he gets along with everyone. Everything is working out very well and he seems comfortable here in LA. I’ve been over to his house a couple of times. We watched the Mayweather fight together. It’s a good situation because we are all on the same team. His family is kind and we are going to have a lot of big fights after this.

MIGUEL COTTO: The way things are going makes me feel like I am going to finish my career with him here. I feel I can do the best I can with Freddie.

Do you think you did the best against Mayweather?

MIGUEL COTTO: That is a different fight and I don’t want to talk about Canelo. He had his own strategy and he made his own fight and I made mine. I tried my way against Floyd and he tried his. That’s all I have to say about it.

FREDDIE ROACH: I definitely thought Miguel had a better fight with Floyd and everyone in the world knows that. It just wasn’t Canelo’s night. I don’t know what it was – making the weight or being in there with a very experienced guy with him being a young guy coming up. Miguel has a lot more experience and experience is something you have to earn. I’m sure Canelo did the best he could but it wasn’t nearly good enough.

Do you feel like you can take Miguel to the highest level?

FREDDIE ROACH: I feel like I can, yes. We work hard for each other and we are a good team and I think this is just the beginning.

You have faded towards the end of your last two losses – are you trying to fix that?

MIGUEL COTTO: Just train the best way and follow every instruction that Freddie gives to me. And I follow the strength coach, Kevin, and do what he tells me to do. Sometimes you need changes and I feel completely comfortable with Freddie in my corner and everybody is going to see it on October 5.

How long will your career go?

MIGUEL COTTO: I don’t know. A couple more fights then it will be over.

Do you retain any hard feelings regarding the Margarito situation?

MIGUEL COTTO: I don’t have any hard feelings for anyone. I am just trying to continue my career and the Margarito chapter in my life is over.

Freddie, what would you do if Pacquiao were to fight Cotto?

FREDDIE ROACH: I talked to Manny about it a little bit because Manny asked me if he could watch Miguel work out and I said ‘of course you can.’ So Manny came to watch. They shook hands and they are friends. Manny and Miguel will never fight each other. They have had their fight and it’s over. Miguel is a 154-pounder and Manny is 147. They are friends now and once Manny becomes friends with someone he will never fight them. They won’t fight and I guarantee you that.

I see Cotto’s weight is very low, how do you feel about that?

FREDDIE ROACH: Yes, I was a little concerned about the weight getting down too low. But we are controlling the weight and he is eating very healthy. It’s a very good diet he is on right now. His mom is cooking for him every night so it is a great situation. We are not trying to make weight here. What we are doing is training for the fight. The weight is coming off naturally so that is a good thing. He is right where I want him to be – a couple pounds off the weight class. Some nights I tell him to have a good steak and to eat a little bit more. It’s a good situation to be in – not struggling to make weight and he’s eating as much as he can.

Does your weight now make you think about going to 147?

MIGUEL COTTO: I am not interested at all in coming down to 147. I feel great at 154. I am doing what I need to do at 154. I had problems when I was at 147 and everyone knows how difficult it was for me and I don’t ever want that to happen again.

What’s the big difference you have seen since being with Freddie?

MIGUEL COTTO: I feel very comfortable with Freddie. Everyone does their job here, everyone is working hard and it makes me feel good. Everyone is doing the best he can every day. Freddie is doing his best and I am doing my best every day and that makes me a better fighter.

What is your plan? Would you like to retire as a champion?

MIGUEL COTTO: I am not thinking about a championship or defending titles or staying longer than I have to. I have an idea what I want to do but everything will be decided after this fight.

Do you feel stronger going into this fight compared to training on the east coast?

MIGUEL COTTO: At this moment, for this fight, I feel good. And I know next week I am going to feel better. And I am going to feel good in victory against Delvin Rodriguez. I am doing my best here in training camp and I am going to do my best when I get in the ring.

Where are you with Miguel Cotto Promotions?

MIGUEL COTTO: We are just a small company. The talent makes the company. We have to acquire talent then we can one day become a big company.

What does Freddie Roach bring to the table that other trainers did not?

MIGUEL COTTO: All I know is he comes prepared to work every day to get the best out of me every day in camp. I give him the best that I have and it’s been a great combination.

Do you feel pressure of putting Puerto Rico boxing back on the top?

MIGUEL COTTO: I train as hard as I can to do the best that I can when I get in the ring to win it and hopefully for Puerto Rico to enjoy it.

MIGUEL COTTO: I don’t look forward to fighting anyone at 147. I don’t think Manny is looking forward to fighting anyone at 154. I think we both have our own careers and that’s the way it will stay.

TODD duBOEF: This fight will be televised live on HBO [9:45 p.m. ET/PT] and Miguel Cotto has been one of the ratings leaders over his whole career. On the undercard from Miguel Cotto Promotions is up-and-coming featherweight, Jayson Vélez, and super welterweight contender Jorge Meléndez; and in the semi-final we have Terence Crawford in a really good lightweight fight, and young star from Puerto Rico Felix Verdejo.

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Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, remaining tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez, priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/hboboxing, and facebook.com/trboxeo, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, twitter.com/hboboxing. or twitter.com/warcotto.

Orlando, FL, (July 23, 2013) Two-time world title challenger and top rated junior middleweight Delvin Rodriguez and Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia were in Orlando, Florida this afternoon for the
Kick-Off Press Conference to announce Rodriguez’s fight with three-division world champion Miguel Cotto set for Saturday, October 5 at the Amway Center and broadcast LIVE on HBO.

“I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity” said Rodriguez. “I know it takes so much to make a fight like this happen, I’m also very thankful to my promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing, Top Rank, HBO and Miguel Cotto Promotions.”

“This fight motivates me more than ever to face a true champion, true warrior, this fight will really show what I have and bring out the best in me. For me it’s now or never. I’m a warrior that comes forward.”

“I admire Cotto as a fighter and respect him as a person but on fight night that goes out the door, I don’t care if he’s my brother or another person” continued Rodriguez.

Said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing, “We’re very thankful to Miguel Cotto Promotions, Top Rank and HBO for this opportunity.”

“Both Delvin and Miguel are warriors. This fight truly brings together two styles that I firmly believe will result in a war and a great fight for the fans.”

“As many of you know Delvin was involved in the 2011 Fight of the Year against Pawel Wolak. He’s always fought anyone we’ve put in front of him, he personifies what a warrior is in boxing.”

The Miguel Cotto/Delvin Rodriguez 12 round super welterweight battle will be seen in over 180 counties across the globe.

Cotto and Rodriguez boast a combined record of 65-10-3 (46 KOs) — a winning percentage of over 83% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%. Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez will go on sale, Tuesday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. ET. Priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, tickets can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com.

All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ORLANDO, FLA (July 23, 2013) — Twelve years after making his professional debut, three-division world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico MIGUEL COTTO will make his Florida debut when he faces two-time world title challenger and current Top-Five contender DELVIN RODRIGUEZ in a 12-round super welterweight battle. Cotto vs. Rodriguez will take place Saturday, October 5, at the home of the Orlando Magic, Amway Center in Orlando, Fla., which is hosting its first-ever professional boxing event.

Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez will go on sale, Tuesday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. ET. Priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, tickets can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

Cotto and Rodriguez boast a combined record of 65-10-3 (46 KOs) — a winning percentage of over 83% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%.

“I am very happy to be back on October 5 and fighting in front of all the great fans of Orlando, Florida,” said Cotto.

“I’m going to go for the knockout,” said Rodriguez. “I will take advantage of the biggest opportunity of my life.”

“Miguel Cotto has participated in some of boxing’s biggest events over the past 10 years,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank. “His return to the ring on October 5 will be another electrifying night for the fans watching it live in Orlando and the boxing fans throughout the world. Top Rank is thrilled to work with him and his promotional team on this event.”

“When Miguel Cotto is in the ring it is always exciting to watch. For us it is a great pleasure to present the return of one of boxing’s biggest stars to our great Puerto Rican community in Orlando and all the Latino fans of Florida. October 5th will be a great night for boxing,” said Héctor Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions.

“As Delvin’s promoter, it is an honor to have our boxer fight against Miguel Cotto, a true boxing legend,” said Joe DeGuardia, president of Star Boxing. “As a boxing aficionado, I am excited to see this fight, which is one that real boxing fans are enthusiastic about. I expect a thrilling battle of will and skill between these two veteran warriors and look forward to October 5.”

“Landing another high-profile event like this is a knockout for the City of Orlando in terms of entertainment and economic impact,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Whether it’s Wrestlemania, the NBA All-Star game or NCAA Championship games, Orlando has proven that we have what it takes to host top-tier sporting events. We look forward to hosting what will be a thrilling fight and once again showcasing Orlando to a worldwide audience.”

“Today’s announcement is particularly exciting because it is our first professional boxing match and an internationally televised one,” said Orlando Venues Executive Director Allen Johnson. “This is yet another milestone for Amway Center and illustrates our commitment to host diverse events that cater to the greater Central Florida community and beyond.”

Cotto (37-4, 30 KOs), from Caguas, Puerto Rico, has sold more fight tickets at the “Mecca of Boxing,” Madison Square Garden, than any other fighter in this millennium. He held a world title every year from 2004 to 2012 while winning 17 of the 21 world championship bouts he has fought. Puerto Rico’s most exciting fighter and one of its greatest, Cotto held the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight crown from 2004-2006, successfully defending it six times before vacating it to capture the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight title at the end of 2006, a title he held for nearly as long. After losing the WBA title to three-time world champion Antonio Margarito, arguably the fight of the year, in July 2008, Cotto won his second welterweight belt in February 2009, knocking out Michael Jennings in the fifth round to become the WBO welterweight champion. He lost the title in his second defense, November 2009, to Manny Pacquiao. Cotto captured the WBA super welterweight title June 5, 2010, in the first fight ever held at the new Yankee Stadium, by stopping undefeated defending champion Yuri Foreman. He successfully defended that title twice in 2011, knocking out former world champion Ricardo Mayorga and Margarito in the 12th and 10th rounds, respectively. He lost his world championship belt on May 5, 2012, losing an exciting and close decision to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a title unification bout in what many consider one of the toughest fights of Mayweather’s career. In his last fight, on December 1, Cotto unsuccessfully challenged WBA super welterweight champion Austin Trout, losing a 12-round decision. Notable scalps on Cotto’s belt include world champions, ”Sugar” Shane Mosley, Zab Judah, Joshua Clottey, Paulie Malignaggi and Demarcus Corley.

Rodriguez (28-6-3, 16 KOs), a native of the Dominican Republic, now fighting out of Danbury, Conn., first came into prominence by knocking out Luis Hernandez (20-2, 13 KOs) in the third round of their 2006 fight to capture the USBA welterweight title. Victories over Oscar Diaz (26-2, 12 KOs) and Shamone Alvarez (20-1, 11 KOs), led to Rodriguez’s first title shot, against Isaac Hlatshwayo, for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) welterweight crown in 2009, where Rodriguez lost a close split decision. Rodriguez’s debut in the super welterweight division was in 2011’s “Fight of Year,” a Draw against Pawel Wolak (29-1, 19 KOs) that had fans on their feet as the two gladiators went toe-to-toe for 12 brutally exquisite rounds. After the winning the rematch against Wolak at the end of that same year, Rodriguez unsuccessfully challenged undefeated WBA super welterweight champion Austin Trout in 2012, losing a 12-round decision. He enters this fight having knocked out previously undefeated George Tahdooahnippah (31-0, 23 KOs) and Freddy Hernandez (30-4, 20 KOs) in the sixth and eighth rounds, in February and May of this year, respectively. He is currently world-rated No. 4 by the WBO.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing and facebook.com/trboxeo, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo or twitter.com/warcotto.

ORLANDO, FLA. (July 21, 2013) — Three-division and four-time world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico MIGUEL COTTO and two-time world title challenger and current Top-Five contender DELVIN RODRIGUEZ will host a news conference, open to the public, announcing their upcoming 12-round super welterweight battle, Tomorrow! Tuesday, July 23 in the Disney Atrium at the Amway Center (400 West Church St., Orlando, Fla. 32801). The news conference will begin at 2:00 p.m. ET.

Joining Cotto and Rodriguez will be The Honorable Buddy Dyer, Mayor of Orlando, Allen Johnson, Executive Director of Amway Center, Héctor Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions, and Todd duBoef, President of Top Rank.

Cotto (37-4, 30 KOs), of Caguas, Puerto Rico, making his Florida debut, and Rodriguez (28-6-3, 16 KOs), of Santiago, Dominican Republic , will headline the Amway Center’s first-ever professional boxing event, Saturday, October 5. The Cotto vs. Rodriguez super welterweight event will be promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank®, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing and facebook.com/trboxeo, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, or twitter.com/warcotto.

DANBURY, CT (June 28, 2013)—AJ Galante’s professional boxing management company Elite Boxing Enterprises is proud to announce the re-signing of former Super Welterweight title challenger Delvin Rodriguez, to an extension of Galante’s managerial contract.

The deal was reached earlier this week with Galante happy about the future.

“I’m very excited that Delvin and I have come to terms to continue our business relationship.” Said Galante

“We’ve formed a very young and hungry team, and we’ve made great strides in just two years. We still have our work cut out for us, in regards to reaching our goal of becoming a World Champion. I know Delvin has it in him to become world champion, and that is why I have continued working with him and have dedicated so much time and effort into him. Myself, along with our promoter Joe DeGuardia of STAR Boxing, have a great plan for the coming year, and I feel as long as Delvin continues to win, we will be champion sooner than later.”

Rodriguez of Danbury, Connecticut has a record of 28-6-3 with sixteen knockouts. He competed for the WBA Super Welterweight title on June 2nd, 2012 when he came up short and dropped a unanimous decision to Austin Trout.

Rodriguez competed in the 2011 Fight of The Year when he and Pawel Wolak fought to a draw on July 15, 2011 in New York City. Rodriguez subsequently won the rematch on December 3rd, 2011 by winning a unanimous decision. The match was part of the Miguel Cotto – Antonio Margarito rematch undercard that seen worldwide on HBO Pay Per View.

The 33 year-old Rodriguez is coming off a eighth round stoppage over former world title challenger Freddy Hernandez on May 24th in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Galante also manages undefeated Jr. Middleweight prospect Frank Galarza (10-0-2, 6 KO’s) of Brooklyn, New York

Delvin Rodriguez scored an eighth round stoppage over Freddy Hernandez in what was a scheduled ten round Jr. Middleweight bout at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut

In round two, Hernandez started getting through with the left hook. Rodriguez started to bleed over his right eye as early as round three from a headbutt. Rodriguez did well in spurts while Hernandez landed the cleaner blows. Those Rodriguez landed a hard right hand that opened up nasty gash above the left eye of Hernandez but the referee ruled a headbutt and the fight was stopped.

It was a close fight as one judge ruled it even at 76-76 while two judges ruled in favor of Rodriguez by scores of 78-74 and 77-75. The stoppage was originally ruled from a headbutt but later changed to a stoppage for Rodriguez

Rodriguez, 154 lbs of Danbury, CT is now 28-6-3 with 16 knockouts. Hernandez, 154 lbs is 30-5

Chris Howard scored a technical decision over previously undefeated Issouf Kinda in an aborted ten round Jr. Welterweight bout.

It was a close fight that saw Howard work the body early but Kinda came on in the later rounds with effective right hands. Swelling started around the left eye of Howard in the fifth round due to an accidental headbutt.

Howard was unable to come out for round seven and they went to the scorecards which read 58-56 on two cards for Howard while a third card read 59-55 for Kinda.

Howard, 140 lbs of Crossville, TN is now 16-2-1. Kinda, 139 1/4 lbs of Bronx, NY is now 16-1.

Canstantin Bejenaru and Excell Holmes fought to a no decision as a headbutt in round two forced a bad cut on the forehead of Bejenaru.

Benjearu had what looked liked a sure win taken away from him as he dropped Holmes in round two and was all over him with a barrage of punches before the headbutt stopped the bout.