Sunrise Fl, January 9 – The inaugural event of Golden Boy Promotions’ new boxing series at the BB&T Center in Sunrise, Fl. is just days away and in addition to the main event between Venezuela’s former World Champion Johan “El Terrible” Perez and former World Champion Steve “2Pound” Forbes, this Saturday’s FOX Sports Networks and FOX Deportes card will feature an eight-round light heavyweight co-main event between unbeaten Thomas Williams and Williamson, Kentucky’s Jason Smith as well as a four-round super middleweight fight between 2012 United States Olympian Terrell Gausha and Kenneth Schmitz of St. Joseph, Missouri. Plus, former Undisputed Heavyweight World Champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield will be in attendance at the BB&T Center.

The official weigh-in will take place this Friday, January 11 at 1:00 p.m. ET at theBB&T Center Food Court located at Section 130 (One Panther Parkway Sunrise, FL 33323) and is open to the public. For Friday’s weigh-in, please enter through Gate 5, park in Lot B16 and enter the building through the North Patio.

Perez vs. Forbes, a 10-round junior welterweight bout, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Sunrise Sports & Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET and the first bell rings at 7:00 p.m. The FOX Sports Networks and FOX Deportes bi-lingual simulcast will air live at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. FUEL TV will rebroadcast the fight on March 31 at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets priced at $195 (VIP Tables), $95, $45 and $20,not including applicable service charges and taxes, are on sale and available for purchase at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com or at the BB&T Center box office. Fight fans can also purchase annual subscriptions for all four events in the series inclusive of VIP seating and boxing legend meet and greets by calling 954-835-CLUB. In addition to the Jan. 12 event, Golden Boy and the BB&T Center will host additional live boxing events on June 1, 2013, Oct. 12, 2013 and Jan. 14, 2014.

Fighting out of Washington, DC, 25-year-old Thomas Williams (11-0, 8 KO’s) has emerged over the last two years as one of the top prospects in the light heavyweight division. Currently riding a four-fight knockout streak, Williams followed up three consecutive first round knockouts with a fifth round finish over Ricardo Campillo on December 8. This Saturday, he’ll look to get 2013 off to a knockout start against fellow prospect Smith.

A professional since 2005, Williamson, Kentucky’s Jason Smith (8-1, 6 KO’s) has the power and desire to make the best of the biggest opportunity of his career this Saturday. A knockout artist with dynamite in his gloves, Smith’s current five fight winning streak includes four consecutive knockouts, three in two rounds or less.

At the 2012 London Olympics, Cleveland’s Terrell Gausha (1-0, 1 KO) went 1-1 as a member of Team USA, finishing off his amateur career in style. Last November, the 25-year-old made his professional debut with an impressive second round knockout over Dustin Caplinger and he looks to go for two straight this Saturday against St. Joseph, Missouri’s Kenneth Schmitz (2-4, 1 KO).

Now making his home in Miami, 2004 Olympic Silver Medalist for Cuba Yudel Johnson (12-1, 8 KO’s) plans on bouncing back from the first professional loss of his career to Willie Nelson last May when he tackles an opponent to be named in an eight-round junior middleweight fight.

Plus, Hollywood, Florida super middleweight Tracy Rollins (2-0, 1 KO) will take on an opponent to be determined in a four-round fight and Chapel Hill, North Carolina welterweight Willie Jones will see action in a four-round bout against an opponent to be named. In the evening’s opening fight, also scheduled for four rounds, Fort Lauderdale’s own Larry Yanez (3-3-1) faces Miami’s John Wampash (1-7-1, 1 KO) in the lightweight division.

SUNRISE, Fla. – Golden Boy Promotions and Sunrise Sports & Entertainment announced today that the first BB&T Center Boxing Series event is set for Saturday, Jan. 12 and will feature a junior welterweight showdown between rising Venezuelan star and former World Champion Johan Perez and former World Champion Steve “Two Pounds” Forbes as well as a special guest appearance by former Heavyweight World Champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield. The event will be televised live on FOX Sports Networks and FOX Deportes.

Tickets for the Jan. 12 event, which is sponsored by Corona, go on sale on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 10 a.m. ET at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone (800-745-3000), at www.ticketmaster.com and on Dec. 3 at 9 a.m. ET at the BB&T Center box office.

In addition to the Jan. 12 event, the BB&T Center and Golden Boy will host additional live boxing events on June 1, 2013, Oct. 5, 2013 and Jan. 14, 2014. Fight fans can purchase annual subscriptions for all four events inclusive of VIP seating and boxing legend meet and greets by calling 954-835-CLUB.

“We are really excited about this new series in South Florida and for the first event we wanted to bring a world class fight and that is exactly what you have in Perez vs. Forbes,” said President of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “Fight fans will get to see two former world champions in a battle for what could lead to a world title shot later in 2013. That usually means fireworks in the ring, and I can’t wait to see it.”

“We are thrilled and honored to partner with an incredible athlete and entrepreneur such as Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions,” said SSE President Michael R. Yormark. “We believe that together we can take live professional boxing to the next level in South Florida beginning with the first incredible event on Jan. 12 featuring Johan Perez and Steve Forbes and an appearance from boxing legend Evander Holyfield.”

Nicknamed “El Terrible,” Johan Perez (15-1-1, 12 KO’s) is one of Venezuela’s brightest hopes for boxing superstardom and with his fight-ending power and aggressiveness, another world championship could be right around the corner. A professional since 2005 with an WBA Interim World title win to his name along with a host of regional titles, the 29-year-old Perez made waves in 2011 with his fourth round technical knockout win over Puerto Rico’s Kenny Galarza. Now looking to bounce back from his controversial decision loss to Pablo Cesar Cano in July, Perez has Steve Forbes in his sights.

Las Vegas’ Steve Forbes (35-11, 11 KO’s) earned his reputation in the fight game the hard way, taking on the best competition available night in and night out. A former IBF Junior Lightweight World Champion, the 35-year-old Forbes has been in the ring with some of the greats in boxing including Oscar De La Hoya, Andre Berto, Cornelius “K9” Bundrage and Francisco “Panchito” Bojado, impressing fans with his slick style and unyielding determination to win. Now returning to 140 pounds after stints at welterweight and junior middleweight, Forbes feels that he’s back in championship form.

Sunrise Sports & Entertainment is the premier company of its kind in South Florida. Florida Panthers social media is powered by Ford. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook . Home to the Florida Panthers Hockey Club and internationally recognized concerts and events, the Broward County-owned BB&T Center is one of the top ranked venues of its kind in the world.

Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by Oscar de la Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. In 2007, in its fifth year of promoting, Golden Boy Promotions set a record by selling over 2.5 million in pay-per-view homes in a single night. Also in 2007, Golden Boy Promotions established the record for highest grossing pay-per-view homes in a single year with more than 4 million total. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the United States on networks such as HBO, SHOWTIME, TeleFutura, FOX Sports Networks and FOX Deportes. For more information on Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.comfollow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

Happy Birthday, Evander Holyfield.

A couple of lifetimes have been jammed into your half-century of heavyweight titles, improbable comebacks, surprises and disappointments. You lost your money and even a piece of your ear, but never your defiant pride.

You lost in a classic to Riddick Bowe and you were there as an eye witness on the night that the Fan Man dropped into the ring like the 82nd Airborne Division on the night of the rematch at Las Vegas’ Caesars Palace.

You saw Mike Tyson for the bully he was and then slayed the beast when few thought anybody could. Tyson’s only counter was to tear off a piece of your ear in a rematch that spawned chaos throughout the MGM Grand and the streets surrounding the Vegas casino.

You were fearless, yet flawed.

Within the ropes, your mix of tactical skill and instinctive poise was often brilliant.

Outside of the ropes, your contradictions as a preacher with many wives and children were exasperating.

The critics gathered, calling you a hypocrite and then demanding that you retire. But you stood up to all of it, just as you stood up to Tyson, in your characteristically quiet manner. That’s why I say Happy Birthday. Few live life on their own terms, but at 50 you have, no matter how terrible the cost.

I’m not sure you’ll stay retired. Every time you have to pay alimony — $3,000 a month — and a reported $500,000 in child support, there will be the temptation to step through ropes one more time for a bout that will allow some shameless promoter to cash in on your name. My wish is that you stay retired. I hope it is yours as well. But that’s your business.

In retirement, it will be left to history to decide where you belong among the great heavyweights. About that, I have no doubts. As a four-time heavyweight champ and – for now – America’s last great heavyweight, you belong in the all-time top 10.

Here’s an informal list that will always be subject to debate and revision. Over the years, however, I suspect Holyfield will be always be there for the tenacity, technical proficiency and resiliency that have yet to be fully appreciated.

1. – Joe Louis. Great speed, power and furious combinations created the heavyweight who has been transformed into a historical figure for his rematch victory over Germany’s Max Schmeling in a 1938 bout symbolic of an imminent world war.

2. – Muhammad Ali. Few have ever possessed better foot work, which was matched by fast hands and a mouth that has roared down through decades since he changed his name and a lot minds during the 1960s and early 70s.

3. – Jack Johnson. The early 1900s were a very different time, but Johnson’s defense and some modern training would have made him the equal of anyone in any time. He went unbeaten for a decade. His place in history is secure. Without him, there would have been no “Great White Hope.’’

4. – George Foreman. He won a heavyweight title in 1994 when he was 45, in part because of the skills and sheer power he possessed as a younger man. He lost to Ali in the famed “Rumble in the Jungle.’’ But there were very few who could withstand the concussive force he had in both hands.

5. – Joe Frazier. His relentless pressure made him dangerous for anybody who dared stand in front of him, including Ali, who lost the first fight in a series that has become the standard for any great rivalry.

6. — Lennox Lewis. Size, speed and power made him virtually unbeatable and when he was on top of his game throughout the 1990s and during the first few years in the new millennium. Sometimes, however, his focus seemed to wander. When it did, he left his vulnerable chin open to a knockout shot.

7. – Evander Holyfield.

8. – Jack Dempsey. He would relentlessly attack and was quick to capitalize on any weakness he exposed during the 1920s. In a modern parallel, Dempsey has been compared to Roberto Duran, who was inexhaustible and unstoppable during his days as perhaps the greatest lightweight of all time.

9. – Larry Holmes. He was as great a tactician in the 1970s as there has ever been in the heavyweight division. His jab serves as a model.

10.– Rocky Marciano. He swarmed opponents in the 1950s with a brawling style hard to beat. Or in his case, impossible to beat. There’s a debate about whether his unbeaten record (49-0) was compiled against fighters past their prime. It also eliminates a key yardstick: How would he have responded to a loss? In a sport built on adversity, that’s a key. It helps us judge Holyfield, who came back from defeat more than once. Still, it keeps Marciano on this list.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT CARD
Atlantic City, NJ (May 23, 2012)– Dee Lee Promotions, LLC. in association with the Tropicana Casino and Resort presents hard hitting Dennis “The Assassin” Hasson (13-0-0/5 ko’s) vs George “The Rooster” Armenta (14-8-0/11 ko’s) in a 10 round super middleweight “Summer Super Brawl” on Friday, June 1, 2012. This 10 Round main event is part of Atlantic City’s first ever Multi-Cultural Heritage Festival which includes an All Star Boxing Legends Gala the following night. With legendary names like Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield and “Joltin” Jeff Chandler floating around town, Mr. Hasson will have the perfect setting to show case his crowd pleasing brawling boxing skills. Mr. Hasson better not underestimate the hard hitting Mr. Armenta or he could find himself on the wrong end of a big right hand. Mr. Armenta has 11 ko’s in his 14 victories so anything can happen!!

The 8 round co-main event on this “Summer Super Brawl” fight card features Philadelphia’s super bantamweight “Pretty Boy” Coy Evans (10-1-1/2 ko’s). Mr. Evans has shown a lot of early promise and his skills have been steadily sharpened but finding quality opponents in that weight class will be a real challenge for matchmaker Nick Tiberi. There will also be an all time show stopping WIBC 3 minute -10 round Title Fight featuring Lisa Noel Garland (9-6-0/5 ko’s) of York, SC vs Kita Watkins (7-8-0/1 ko’s) of Camden, AR . This will surely be an amazing fight, so do not miss it!!

The exciting undercard will be filled with action packed fighters led by heavyweight Joey “The Polish Thunder” Dawejko (6-0-1/2 ko’s) vs. Edwin Ranquillo (2-1/1 ko’s). At 5’10 – 235 pounds, the 21 year old Mr. Dawejko presents big problems for any opponent and any ring looks small when he steps through the ropes, however do not be so quick to judge this fight. Even though it appears Mr. Ranquillo does not have the ring experience, he does have the experience of serving our country. This card also sees the return of light heavyweight Frankie “The Freight Train” Filippone (9-2-0/2 ko’s) vs Keandre Leatherwood (9-1-0/6 ko’s). With such close records, both men are hungry to pick up another “W” at the Trop no matter what it takes!!!

The remainder of this very promising undercard features Isiah Seldon (6-0-0/3 ko’s) vs Lekan Byfield (2-1), with Big Dog Mr. Seldon in town Isiah will be sure to put on a good show! Saud “Kid Grady” Clark vs Flavio Augusto Reyes both making their Pro-Debut’s, Anthony “The Bull” Smith (13-0/10 ko’s), Delaware’s Mike Tiberi (19-1-0/7 ko’s), Two young local fighters, Atlantic City Native super middleweight Antwyan Aikens (4-0-0/1 ko’s) vs Kenneth Schmitz (2-1/1 ko’s) and Millville featherweight Joshua Reyes (1-0-0) vs David Rogriquez (0-1) round out this entertaining fight card.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m., with the first bout slated for 8:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $40, $55, $65 and $100 and can be purchased at the Tropicana Box Office, by calling Ticketmaster at 1.800.745.3000 or Dee Lee Promotions, LLC. at 856.692.1206.

About Dee Lee Promotions, LLC.
Dee Lee Promotions, LLC. is owned and operated by New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame promoter Diane Fischer of Vineland, NJ. Fischer has earned a reputation not only as a premier matchmaker who has presented some of the most memorable and entertaining boxing contests in the country, but as woman who has been innovative and overcome gender barriers in an industry dominated by men. Her industry awards and distinctions include:??New Jersey Promoter of The Year; Undercard Fight of the Year; Best Girl Fight of The Year; The First Time Six World Title Belts [Pay Per View] appeared on one card (Atlantic City); The First All Girl Fight on the East Coast; The first woman ever to promote an all girl fight card in Baton Rouge Louisiana; The first woman promoter ever to promote a World Title Fight in Panama City; The first male or female promoter to present a title fight in Delaware; The first woman promoter to promote/co-promote a Heavyweight Championship Fight on HBO, Ray Mercer, and Wladimir Klitschko on June 29, 2002; the fight also was aired on PPV in Germany and was the first Heavyweight Championship promoted by a female in that country.?To contact?Dee Lee Promotions LLC., call 856.692.1206.

About Tropicana Casino and Resort
Tropicana Entertainment Inc. (“Tropicana Entertainment”) owns and operates 8 casinos and resorts in Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, and New Jersey. In addition, the Company owns a development property in Aruba. Tropicana Entertainment properties collectively have 5,750 rooms, 8,300 slot positions and 240 table games

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com is reporting that former four-time Heavyweight champion, Evander Holyfield will now take on Danish star Brian Nielson in May 7th instead of March 5th after Holyfield suffered a cut around his left eye in his January 22nd bout with Sherman Williams.

“I had hoped to be fully fit to fight Brian on March 5 but after another close examination this week the doctor said I could not do sparring until the end of the month,” said Holyfield, who is due to earn $500,000 against Nielsen. “My good physical shape and my meticulous preparation have been my biggest advantages throughout my career, and I will not enter the ring against a determined opponent like Nielsen when I am not 100 percent prepared.

“I take Nielsen very seriously. I need a convincing victory to put myself back in line for another shot at the world title, so I will give the cut enough time to heal before resuming practice. I will be in top shape on May 7 and defeat Brian Nielsen.”

“Always look on the bright side of life,” Nielsen said. “The more training I get, the stronger I will become. I would have been ready to give Evander a great fight on March 5. I have worked my butt off in practice where [trainer] Karsten Rower has been torturing me twice a day.

“Although I am not exactly thrilled to be in his German training hell for two more months, every single practice session will only make me better,” he added. “I will make sure Evander gets a nice souvenir from his trip to Copenhagen. I will cut his other eye, too. He will be good friends with the doctor he has been seeing.”

“We fully understand Evander’s decision. It is the right thing to do,” promoter Kalle Sauerland said. “We have stressed from the very beginning that we would never let a fighter inside the ring if he is not 100 percent ready, and that includes a perfect preparation. As we have learned from Brian, let’s look at the bright side. Two more months of professional boxing training and sparring will make him even better.”

Evander Holyfield had just finished working out at New York City’s Church Street gym Tuesday morning when he sat on the ringside steps and answered questions from the media. When asked about his toughest victory, without hesitation Holyfield replied “Dwight Muhammad Qawi.”

“That was a fifteen round fight,” Holyfield said. “It was like somebody blindfolded you and threw you into the ocean. Then you look and you don’t know which direction to go, but you know if you stop you’re going to drown.”

He then went on to explain how he weighed fifteen pounds less at the final bell than he did at the start of the fight. Then he spoke about never giving up; he talked about resisting the urge to quit.

“I rather die before I quit, because I won’t know if I quit if I die. I just don’t want to remember quitting.”

In many ways, Holyfield’s (43-10-2, 28 KO) own words about quitting represent the forty-eight year old’s legendary career.

“The Real Deal” is the only five-time heavyweight champion in the sport’s storied history. Conversely, he is also the only boxer to ever lose his heavyweight title on five different occasions.

But each time Holyfield has lost his title in the past, he has come back to get it, he never quit. However, since losing his last championship belt to John Ruiz in 2001, the championship titles have eluded him.

Just over two years ago, Holyfield was on the losing end of a controversial split decision against Nikolai Valuev, which undoubtedly left “The Real Deal” with a bitter taste in his mouth, knowing just how close he came to reclaiming his crown.

He’ll continue his journey back to the top on Saturday night in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, where he’ll square off against thirty-eight year old veteran, Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KO).

With a win over Williams, Holyfield hopes to turn his attention to Denmark’s Brian Nielson (64-2, 43 KO), for an early March bout. If all goes according to plan in Copenhagen, “The Real Deal” said he’ll look to fight once more in 2011.

While Holyfield’s financial troubles have come into public view over the last few years, specifically his woes with regards to his estate and child support payments, “The Real Deal” insists his reasons for being in the ring are centered more on recapturing a title rather than earning a paycheck.

“The big thing is performance. If you love to perform, money will come,” Holyfield said. “I know what I’m doing and if I didn’t want to box, I’d say ‘Okay, I don’t want to do it anymore.’”

If he gets by Williams, Nielson, and his third opponent this calendar year, Holyfield hopes to get a crack at a Klitschko brother or David Haye in 2012. While he noted that he has no preference as to which champion he’d rather face, in answering one reporter’s question, he did agree that a bout between he and Haye would make for an interesting fight, given their similar stature as smaller heavyweights.

“It [a fight with Haye] would be good. We both came up from cruiserweight and he’s a skillful fighter,” said Holyfield. “You find that the young guy brings something, but the older guy brings something too. I’d have to outthink him.”

But first, with three fights his goal for 2011, Holyfield will need to find the same fountain from which the forty-six year old Bernard Hopkins drinks. You know, the one that disguises the skills of a world class fighter inside an aging man’s body.

“When I was younger, they said I was too young and now that I’m older, they say I’m too old,” Holyfield said. “But I was able to do it then…You may not get it when you want it but you may still get it if you don’t quit.”

For a man whose practiced this violent trade professionally for over twenty six years, the sport is Holyfield’s ocean. He didn’t quit against Qawi in ’86 and he was rewarded by winning the WBA cruiserweight title via split decision. Now, the resilient Holyfield is refusing to quit his quest to capture a sixth world heavyweight championship. He’s not hanging it up his gloves just yet, he’s not ready to drown.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
CHARLOTTE, NC (January 15, 2011) – Former world title challenger Monte “Two Gunz” Barrett is involved in a crossroads fight every time he steps into the ring. His next action is scheduled for January 22nd against Charles Davis in one of four pay-per-view fights on the “Redemption In America: The Journey Begins Now” card, headlined by living legend Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs) defending his World Boxing Federation heavyweight title against challenger Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KOs), live from America’s resort — The Greenbrier’s Colonial Hall — in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“Redemption” will fuse world class boxing and entertainment; showcasing a production that includes high-energy music presented by Broadway performers, along with dancers and aerial artists. World-renowned saxophone player Clarence Clemons will also headline a live band between rounds and throughout the night.

Competitive, entertaining undercard fights will set the stage for the main event showcasing Holyfield on his journey to become the first heavyweight champion to regain the coveted world title four different times.

Holyfield Open Workouts Monday & Tuesday in New York City

Holyfield will hold back-to-back open workouts – media and public welcome – this coming Monday and Tuesday (Jan. 17 & 18), starting at 10 AM/ET in the Church St. Boxing Gym, 25 Park Plaza.

Barrett (34-9, 20 KOs) takes on Davis (19-21-2, 4 KOs), the former WBC Latino Heavyweight Champion, in a 10-rounder. Barrett was supposed to retire after his July 17th draw with WBO No. 2 rated David Tua, but an HBO job was put on hold due to economics. “I figured I had 3-4 good fights left in me but I was prepared to retire and work in the business side of boxing,” Monte explained, “It didn’t work out, at least for now, and I’m back doing what I do best – box! I was training with some MMA guys and it got the fire in me back, so I took the Tua fight and as a 14-1 underdog I got a draw. Does that tell you who really won that fight?

“My options are to fight Tua again. I’m 39 but with science and technology, being 39 today is like 30. Boxing is a very physical sport and the modern wonders of technology have helped boxers the most of all. We just don’t eat anything like Ali did in his day. There are strict diets and supplements. We’re experiencing the challenge of the body and mind. When I’m fully focused I can be my best and beat Tua. I’m going to stay busy until he mans-up and signs a contract to fight me in New Zealand. ”

The vastly experienced Barrett has defeated the likes of Greg Page, Tye Fields, Owen Beck and Dominick Guinn and fought world champions Wladimir Klitschko, Hasim Rahman for the Interim WBC title, Nikolay Valuev for the WBA World Heavyweight Championship, and David Haye.

Joining Holyfield-Williams and Barrett-Davis on PPV is World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion Travis “GW Hope” Kauffman (21-1 (16 KOs) versus 7’ 2” Julius “Towering Inferno” Long (15-14, 13 KOs) in an 8-round match, as well as an interesting opening bout between Lithuania-native Donatas Boundoravas (10-1-1, 3 KOs) and undefeated Willie Fortune (9-0, 5 KOs), of Detroit, in a 6-round bout.

Fighting on the non-PPV segment of “Redemption” is NABA Heavyweight Champion Cedric “The Bos” Boswell (32-1, 25 KOs), rated No. 19 by the WBC, defending his title against Dominique “Diamond” Alexander (19-9, 9 KOs) a 10-rounder. Also on the undercard are a pair of 8-round bouts featuring unbeaten Detroit middleweight Domonique Dolton (9-0, 7 KOs) against Venezuelan veteran Marcos “The Terminator” Primera (20-22-2, 13 KOs), and 2008 US National AAU lightweight champion, Cleveland junior welterweight Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez (12-2, 11 KOs), meets 31-fight veteran Ramon “Che” Guevara.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT.

For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com, www.AmericanBoxingLeague.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
WHAT: Open Workout – Media & Public Welcome

WHO: EVANDER “The Real Deal” HOLYFIELD

4-Time World Heavyweight Champion

Atlanta, GA

43-10-2 (28 KOs)

WHEN: Monday & Tuesday, January 17 & 18, 2011 – 10 AM/ET

WHERE: Church St. Boxing Gym

25 Park Place,

New York, NY.

212.571.1333

WHY: To promote the “Redemption in America” PPV pro boxing show, featuring living legend Evander Holyfield against veteran Sherman “Tank” Williams, January 22 at Colonial Hall, The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT. For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.AmericanBoxingLeague.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
CHARLOTTE, NC (January 14, 2011) – Future Hall of Famer Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield is an old-school fighter who has gone new wave in terms training.

The 48-year-old, ultra fit Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs) defends World Boxing Federation heavyweight title against challenger Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KOs), headlining the January 22nd “Redemption In America: The Journey Begins Now” Pay-Per-View Event, live from America’s resort — The Greenbrier’s Colonial Hall — in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“Redemption” will fuse world class boxing and entertainment; showcasing a production that includes high-energy music presented by Broadway performers, along with dancers and aerial artists. World-renowned saxophone player Clarence Clemons will also headline a live band between rounds and throughout the night.

Holyfield has accomplished as much as nearly any prize fighter in history during his illustrious 26-year career, defeating a Who’s Who list of the heavyweights and cruiserweights such as world champions such as Mike Tyson (twice), George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Riddick Bowe, Michael Moorer, James “Buster” Douglas, John Ruiz (twice), Hasim Rahman, Chris Byrd, Pinklon Thomas, Michael Dokes, Dwight Muhammad Qawi (twice), and Carlos De Leon. Holyfield’s last fight was a win by eighth-round technical knockout against Frans Botha (47-4-3) last April for the vacant World Boxing Federation crown.

Competitive, entertaining undercard fights will set the stage for the main event showcasing Holyfield on his journey to become the first heavyweight champion to regain the coveted world title four different times. If today’s 50 is yesterday’s 40, Evander still has a lot left in tank, largely because of the foundation for success and longevity he established many, many years ago.

“With me,” he explained, “I’ve always had a plan to live a long time. I plan to be heavyweight champion again, too. To live a long life I have had to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Every kid eats what he wants. Once I made the Olympic Team I developed a habit of eating right and there was no sense changing.

“I’ve been an athlete since I was eight and started trying to be successful back then. At some point I reached my goal and have since maintained my conditioning. My training and conditioning has evolved from the start. I go back to the past for some things because there are no reasons to change from a good base foundation. But if something new has proven to work, I do that, too. There’s no sense riding a horse when you have a car. For weight training today there are so many different people, different ways and different equipment. It’s easier using machines (as opposed to free weights) because you don’t need a spotter. I have different machines at home and they’re much safer with kids around.”

Holyfield’s opponent, Williams, is a rugged, durable veteran who has been stopped only once (by Robert Davis in 1999) in 47 pro fights. He has beaten former world champion Alfred “Ice” Cole, fought a draw with multiple world title challenger Jameel McCline, and took former world heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev the full distance in their 2005 fight.

“Fighters take a chance every time they get into the ring,” Holyfield concluded. “I’m not upset with Williams. He’s just taking a chance to make it by fighting me. At 48, I’m going to prove to him that I can still go.”

NABA Heavyweight Champion Cedric “The Bos” Boswell (32-1, 25 KOs) defends his title against Dominique “Diamond” Alexander (19-9, 9 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature, while

former world heavyweight title challenger Monte “Two Gunz” Barrett (34-9, 20 KOs), coming off of an impressive draw with WBO No. 2 rated David Tua, faces former WBC Latino Heavyweight Champion Charles Davis in a 10-rounder.

World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Heavyweight Champion Travis “GW Hope” Kauffman (21-1 (16 KOs) takes on 7’ 2” Julius “Towering Inferno” Long (15-14, 13 KOs) in an 8-round match.

Also fighting on the undercard in 8-round bouts are unbeaten Detroit middleweight Domonique Dolton (9-0, 7 KOs) versus Venezuelan veteran Marcos “The Terminator” Primera (20-22-2, 13 KOs), as well as 2008 US National AAU lightweight champion, Cleveland junior welterweight Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez (12-2, 11 KOs) against 31-fight veteran Ramon “Che” Guevara.

Lithuania-native Donatas Boundoravas (10-1-1, 3 KOs) tangles with undefeated Willie Fortune (9-0, 5 KOs), of Detroit, in a 6-round fight to round-out the card. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT.

For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com, www.AmericanBoxingLeague.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

CLICK TO ORDER THE FIGHT
CHARLOTTE, NC (January 13, 2011) – ARK Promotions president Rick Lazes today announced a strong, supportive undercard for the January 22nd “Redemption In America: The Journey Begins Now” Pay-Per-View Event, headlined by living legend Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs) defending his World Boxing Federation heavyweight title against challenger Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KOs), live from America’s resort — The Greenbrier’s Colonial Hall — in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“Redemption” will fuse world class boxing and entertainment; showcasing a production that includes high-energy music presented by Broadway performers, along with dancers and aerial artists. World-renowned saxophone player Clarence Clemons will also headline a live band between rounds and throughout the night.

Competitive, entertaining undercard fights will set the stage for the main event featuring Holyfield on his journey to become the first heavyweight champion to regain the coveted world title four different times.

The 10-round co-feature pits NABA Heavyweight Champion Cedric “The Bos” Boswell (32-1, 25 KOs) defending his title against Dominique “Diamiond” Alexander (19-9, 9 KOs). Boswell, a Detroit native now fighting out of Atlanta, captured the NABA crown in his last fight, stopping Owen Beck in the ninth round of their December 7 fight. Alexander has been in the ring with former world champion Shannon Briggs and top contenders Odlanier Solis, Kali Meehan and Fres Oquendo.

Former world heavyweight title challenger Monte “Two Gunz” Barrett (34-9, 20 KOs), coming off of an impressive draw by WBO No. 2 rated David Tua, takes on former WBC Latino Heavyweight Champion Charles Davis in a 10-round bout.

In an intriguing match-up, World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Heavyweight champion Marshall “GW Hope” Kauffman (21-1 (16 KOs) is matched against 7’ 2” Julius “Towering Inferno” Long (15-14, 13 KOs) in an 8-round bout.

Also fighting on the under in 8-rounders are unbeaten Detroit middleweight Domonique Dolton (9-0, 7 KOs) versus Venezuelan veteran Marcos “The Terminator” Primera (20-22-2, 13 KOs), as well as 2008 US National AAU lightweight champion, Cleveland junior welterweight Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez (12-2, 11 KOs) against 31-fight veteran Ramon “Che” Guevara.

Rounding-out the card is a 6-round middleweight clash between Lithuania-native Donatas Boundoravas (10-1-1, 3 KOs) and undefeated Willie Fortune (9-0, 5 KOs), of Detroit. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT.

For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com, www.AmericanBoxingLeague.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

LAS VEGAS (April 10, 2010) – Hall of Fame-bound Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield added the World Boxing Federation heavyweight title belt to his overcrowded trophy case, stopping defending champion Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha in the 8th round last night in the main event on “The Legend Returns” card, promoted by Crown Boxing, at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Botha (47-5-3, 28 KOs) came out throwing bombs for the first five rounds, buzzing Holyfield (43-10-2, 27 KOs) a few times. Holyfield came on strong at the end of the fifth, taking full control of the fight in the sixth and seventh by throwing letting his hands go and throwing effective combinations.

In the eighth round, Holyfield dropped Botha with a right hand and when a damaged Botha got to his feet, Evander overwhelmed his South African opponent until referee Russell Mora called an end to the fight.

“He is a very good defensive fighter,” Holyfield said after the fight. “He’s a smart fighter, too. His right hand had a lot of power and he’s also a very quick big man. I gave myself a 7. I can get better. I’d been off a long time and I know I can get better. I want to come back very soon.”

“Evander is a great fighter,” Botha remarked. “He capitalized on my mistakes. I thought I had him going early. I have to go home and sit down with my team. Who knows (about his future plans)? We’ll see how he goes forward.”:

In the co-feature, hometown favorite Henry Namauu, 2006 National Collegiate champion at UNLV, stopped a game Rayford Johnson in the seventh round of their back-and-forth battle of tough cruiserweights. Referee Tony Weeks halted the action when Namauu unleashed a series of unanswered, power-packed punches.

Former IBF cruiserweight champion “King” Arthur Williams recorded his 47th career victory, winning a unanimous 6-round decision against previously unbeaten Valente Tinajero (8-1).

Complete Results

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Evander Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs), Atlanta, GA WTKO8 (2:05) Frans Botha (47-5-3, 28 KOs), Newport Beach, CA

(Holyfield wins World Boxing Federation title)

CRUISERWEIGHTS

Henry Namauu (6-3, 4 KOs), Las Vegas, NV WTKO7 (2:43) Rayford Johnson (5-5, 3 KOs), Longview, TX

Arthur Williams (47-16-1, 30 KOs), Pensacola, FL WDEC6 (59-55, 59-55, 59-55) Valente Tinajero (8-1, 4 KOs), Roy UT

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Lawrence Hughes (4-0, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV DC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37) Juan Alcolea (2-2, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, NV

FEMALE SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS

Jennifer Han (1-1-1), Tucson, AZ WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36) Crystal Hoy (3-21-2, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV

FEATHERWEIGHTS

Rocco Santomauro (4-0, 0 KOs), Las Vegas, NV WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-26) Karl Hammer (1-3, 0 KOs), Clearfield, UT

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS

Alexis Santiago (3-0-1, 1 KO), Phoenix, AZ WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36) Brice Yeniki (0-5), Las Vegas, NV

Post Fight Press Conference Quotes

Evander Holyfield: “People talk and you act like it doesn’t bother you when they call you old and senile. I’ve been telling people since 1992 when I lost to Riddick Bowe that I was going to be undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. I won 2 but not the third. It’s never been about money. I was brought up poor and never had anything. I was taught to have goals and to never quit.

“Botha gave me an opportunity. People talk about my legacy. It’s about who you’ve fought. They can’t deny me; I fight the best. I always want to fight somebody to get a little credit if I beat ‘em. When I decided to comeback it wasn’t because I’m the type that says he’s one of the best. This is a new era and I didn’t think I’d be in this era. I was laughing a little when I fought George Foreman. He was 42 and I was 29. I rally didn’t want to fight him. He didn’t beat me but he did become world champion again. What I learned from that fight was George said it wasn’t about age but that I will give my all.

“You can’t let people tell you what you can do. I fight because I want to. I wouldn’t be the person I am without opportunities.”

Frans Botha: “I’m honored to fight in Las Vegas and to fight a great champion. Evander Holyfield is the real deal, a true champion and warrior. I can’t feel ashamed to lose to a great champion. I think he’s going to rule again. He has the skill, power and determination, everything to get that title again.”

Boxing fans are ecstatic as Frank Luca’s Crown Boxing presents THE LEGEND RETURNS. The one and only Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield returns to the ring after 16 months to battle Francois “The White Buffalo” Botha in the main event, Saturday, April 10th in Las Vegas.

Holyfield’s pro career spans a staggering 27 years and he holds a record of 42-10-2 with 27 KOs. He’ll be facing one of his toughest opponents to date in Botha, 47-4-3, with 28 KOs. Botha’s boxing 20 year boxing career has taken him to the top, fighting for the Heavyweight title on 3 occasions.

Holyfield will be more determined than ever as he looks to climb the ranks back to the top. At the press conference for the event, Holyfield reiterated that he won’t give up until he is the champion of the world.

Knockout fans be ready and make no mistake, both men are more than capable of knocking out the other. With so much on the line for each man’s career, there’s no doubt the fireworks could come early in this main event! You DO NOT want to miss this event. The undercard will also be filled with heavy hitting, rising stars in the boxing world. For more information about the event and to find out who’s on the fight card, CLICK HERE or visit www.GoFightLive.tv and preorder the live stream to watch THE LEGEND RETURNS, a night of knockouts!

NOTE: This event is not available on GFL in the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, or Canada

LAS VEGAS (Apr. 6, 2010) – Boxing fans all over the world will be watching Saturday night’s “The Legend Returns” pay-per-view event, headlined by 4-time world heavyweight champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield challenging World Boxing Federation heavyweight title-holder Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha, live from the Thomas & Mack center in Las Vegas.

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

It also will be shown in more than 20 countries, including live broadcasts in Brazil, Mexico, China and the United Kingdom (channel 480 on Sky, streaming on www.primetimelive.co.uk). The card is available on www.gofightlive.tv PPV outside of the U.S., Canada, Brazil, United Kingdom, China and Mexico.

Holyfield (42-10-2, 27 KOs), coming off of a controversial 12-round majority decision loss December 20, 2008 in Switzerland to then World Boxing Association champion Nicolai Valuev, takes on Botha (47-4-3, 28 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

In the 10-round co-feature, Las Vegas cruiserweight Henry Namauu (5-3, 3 KOs), the former UNLV boxer and 2006 National Collegiate Cruiserweight Champion, faces dangerous Texan Rayford Johnson (5-4, 3 KOs). Former IBF cruiserweight champion “King” Arthur Williams (46-16-1, 30 KOs) tests unbeaten Utah prospect Valente Tinajero (8-0, 4 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts is Las Vegas featherweight Rocco Santomauro (3-0) vs. Karl Hammer (1-2), Las Vegas super featherweight Crystal Hoy (3-1-2, 2 KOs) vs. Jennifer Han (0-1-1), Detroit lightweight Joel Flores (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, St. Louis welterweight Lawrence Hughes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Las Vegas’ Juan Alcolea (2-1, 0 KOs), Las Vegas lightweight Jesus Gutierez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Jonathan Garcia, and Phoenix super bantamweight Alexis Santiago (2-0-1, 1 KO) vs. Brice Yeniki (0-4). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $25.00, $75.00, $150.00 and $250.00, are available to purchase at www.UNLVtickets.com or by calling 702.739.3267.

Doors open at 4 PM/PT, first bout 4:30 PM/PT, and first PPV bout 6:00 PM/PT (9:00 PM/ET). Go on line to www.crown-boxing-inc.com or www.worldboxingfederation.net for additional information

Evander Holyfield: “I’m happy to have the opportunity to fight in Las Vegas again. Everything that’s happened to me has been here – in 1984 I had to win Saturday and Sunday to make the Olympic team. In 1990, 1993, 1996 and 2000 I won the heavyweight title here. Las Vegas has been the place that’s given me the opportunity to be the person I am. I’m thankful for Botha giving me an opportunity to fight for a title again. My goal has simply been to be undisputed heavyweight champion. I’m a person – I think my attitude is good when people tell me I can’t do something — I’m driven by what people say I can’t do to prove I can. I’m not disappointed by decisions. I felt I beat Valuev. I won’t quit seeking to do my best and Saturday night you’ll see me give my all. If not enough, I’ll make adjustments.

“To be perfect is to reach my goal. I thought I did it in 1999 against Lennox (Lewis). Here, in 2010, and it’s going to be a great fight. I’m telling you, Saturday night, I’ll look better than I used to be.”

Frans Botha: “I’m defending my title against one of the greatest legends of all-time. This will make my resume perfect. I’ve fought some of the best and Evander is one of the best. Saturday night, I’m prepared for this. Evander had talent and experience. I’m getting in there knowing it’s going to be a tough fight. ‘The White Buffalo’ is roaming the prairie. I’m going to end your career, make you retire. The Buffalo is charging.

“I’m very grateful to be here. Me and Evander would have fought 10 years ago. I was No. 1 and he was champion. It didn’t work out. You’re a legend. You’ve fought some of the greatest, but I have to stop that. Saturday night you’re going to see a helluva fight.”

Henry Namauu: “I’m going to take advantage of what has been given to me. I’m not much for words; I just show up to fight.”

Rayford Johnson: “I’m guaranteeing Saturday night that I’ll win. My losses are losses, but I’m coming to fight and win.”

Arthur Williams: “I’m honored to be on a card with Evander Holyfield and Frans Botha. It’s a big card. I’m excited and ready to fight. My last fight I had a tragedy in my family. No excuse, I thought the referee stopped the fight prematurely, and I was winning. I’m ready to get it on. When all the smoke and dust clear, I’ll be standing.”

FACT SHEET

WORLD BOXING FEDERATION HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

MAIN EVENT – 12 ROUNDS – PPV
EVANDER “The Real Deal” HOLYFIELD FRANS “The White Buffalo” BOTHA
4-Time World Heavyweight Champion World Boxing Federation Champion
Atlanta, GA Newport Beach, CA by way of South Africa
42-10-2 (27 KOs) 47-4-3 (28 KOs)
CO-FEATURE
10 ROUNDS – CRUISERWEIGHTS
HENRY NAMAUU RAYFORD JOHNSON
2006 National Collegiate Cruiserweight Champion Dangerous Opponent
Las Vegas, NV Austin, TX
5-3 (3 KOs) 5-4 (3 KOs)
6 ROUNDS – CRUISERWEIGHTS

“King” ARTHUR WILLIAMS VALENTE TINAJERO

Former IBF Cruiserweight Champion Unbeaten Prospect

Pensacola, FL Roy, UT

46-16-1 (30 KOs) 8-0 (4 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – FEATHERWEIGHTS
ROCCO SANTOMAURO KARL HAMMER
Las Vegas, NV Clearfield, UT
3-0 (0 KOs) 1-2 (0 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – FEMALE SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS
CRYSTAL HOY JENNIFER HAN
Las Vegas, NV Tucson, AZ
3-1-2 (2 KOs) 0-1-1
4 ROUNDS – LIGHTWEIGHTS
JOEL FLORES TBA
Detroit, MI
3-0 (3 KOs)
4 ROUNDS – WELTERWEIGHTS
LAWRENCE HUGHES JUAN ALCOLEA
St. Louis, MO Las Vegas, NV
3-0 (3 KOs) 2-1 (0 KOs)
4 ROUNDS — LIGHTWEIGHTS

JESUS GUTIEREZ JONATHAN GARCIA

Las Vegas, NV Watsonville, CA

1-0 (1 KO) 1-0 (1 KO)

4 ROUNDS – SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS
ALEXIS SANTIAGO BRICE YENIKI
Phoenix, AZ Las Vegas, NV
2-0-1 (1 KO) 0-4

(All Fights and Fighters subject to change)

WHAT: “The Legend Returns” PPV

WHEN: Saturday, April 10, 2010 – 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT

WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada

PROMOTER: Crown Boxing

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, The historic heavyweight bout between former undisputed Heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield and Francois Botha slated for Uganda has been postponed and may be revived in the United States.

Holyfield’s Feb. 20 fight against Francois Botha in Kampala, Uganda, is off and plans are in the works to reschedule it, the former heavyweight champion told ESPN.com on Wednesday.

Holyfield was scheduled to face South Africa’s Botha in a 12-round bout at Nelson Mandela Stadium, where organizers predicted a crowd of 80,000. However, Holyfield said the promoter failed to make a scheduled payment, forcing him to scrap the idea of going to Africa.

“I’m not going over,” Holyfield said. “We’re moving the fight to the States, but they haven’t got a site yet. But I’m still supposed to fight Botha.”

Ken Sanders, Holyfield’s manager, told ESPN.com that Miami was a possible location for the fight. He also said that besides trying to reschedule the Botha bout, Holyfield would also fight April 24 in Las Vegas.

“But the guy never did come up with the money,” Holyfield said. “They were supposed to pay us before we went over there, put the money in an escrow account. And they missed the payment. Three months we been waiting and we never did get it. So we made the decision.”

“We sat down and had a good conversation and I asked Evander if he wanted to do this and he said he did,” Sanders said. “I asked his trainer, Tommy Brooks, the same thing and he said he’ll have no problem, that Evander just needed two or three weeks after the first fight and he’ll be ready to go for the second one. He’s already in great shape.”

Between Holyfield’s age — 47 — and the number of rounds he’s boxed professionally, it could be difficult for him to get a license in Nevada, where the commission has rigorous standards. However, Sanders said he was not worried about it.

“He’ll pass all the tests,” Sanders said. “I’m not concerned.”

Holyfield said he was looking forward to fighting in Uganda.

“I was kind of excited about it when they talked about 80,000 people,” he said. “The point is to be able to go to different parts of the world. The U.S. is a great place to fight, but it’s not the world.”

“There are so many places that want to have the fight,” he said. “We’re trying to find out the best place.”