Long Island, NY, November 21, 2019

Fighters and media gathered at “The Main Event” in Farmingdale for Star Boxing’s official presser ahead of Saturday nights “Rockin’ Fights” card at The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island. A thrilling night of fights is around the corner as DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) puts his WBC FECARBOX and ABO Intercontinental Title’s on the line in a rematch with stablemate JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO).The co-feature WBC Continental America’s Cruiserweight bout is a throwback fight to the neighborhood battles of the past between Italian, SIMONE FEDERICI (Roma, Itlay, 15-2-1 7KO’s) and Albanian STIVENS BUJAJ (Shkoder, Albania 17-2-1 11KO’s). DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (Bronx, NY 2-0 1KO) and ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 4-0 1KO) put their undefeated records on the line in front of the expected sold out crowd. The full action packed six bout card can be seen LIVE and free via FightNight Live on the Star Boxing Facebook page, starting at 7:40PM.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA kicked off the presser, praising the hot bed for boxing that Huntington has become, “you cannot get the experience you get at The Paramount anywhere else. The fans, the loud noise, its truly unlike anywhere else.” DeGuardia continued, “on this card Saturday night, you’re going to see the next round of guys who are going to the top. We are going to see a neighborhood rivlary, like a throwback to the old days, and a rematch between two guys who really brought it back in September of 2018.”

Danny Gonzalez took to the mic first saying, “the energy last fight was crazy, I’m just excited to do it again. This time I am going to leave no doubt – I dont know why there was doubt the first time – but this time there will be no doubt. At the end of the night you will here, AND STILL…”

Johnny Hernandez promptly responded, “we both know that there was a lot left in the air, and its great that we can settle it with gloves. I am excited for a great show. I guarantee I am coming through with the win, and I guarantee I am bringing the fireworks.”

The co-feature bout is anticipated to be a an action packed championship fight. Both Federici and Bujaj kept it short and to the point, as both know what’s at stake come Saturday night. Bujaj said,
“I’m excited to put on a great performance Saturday. I’m very exited to win this title and move on.” Federici, who traveled from Italy for this potential career defining bout stated, “Thank you to Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing for this opportunity. I am 100% here to win.”

Dashaun Johns and Alex Vargas were both courtious to eachother, but the tension could be felt across the room. Johns spoke first, “I know his ‘0’ may be important to him, but this means much more to me than that, it is my legacy. I look foward to a great fight. I know he will be bringing his people, but don’t worry, I am bringing my people too.” Vargas then responded, “I have yet to fully show what I am capable of and I think this fight will be my time to show my full potential. I am looking foward to putting on a show, and I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader supported by an excellent six fight card. Doors open at 7:00PM and the event begins at 7:40PM.

New York, November 20, 2019

When the news dropped of a grudge title rematch between two of Long Island’s favorite fighters, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) and JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO), it is wihtout wonder that tickets began selling, and selling fast. All Skybar and Mezzanine seats have been SOLD OUT. Limited ringside, stage and loge seats have been added for this almost sold out event.

It was then announced that this much anticipated main event was to be accompanied by a thrilling undercard including a 10-round co-feature bout that spotlights two international rising cruiserweights, Italian, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (15-2-1 7KO’S) against Albanian, STIVENS “SUPERMAN” BUJAJ (17-2-1 11KO’s) for the WBC Continental America’s Title, as well as, a battle of undefeated New Yorker’s, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 4-0 1KO) and DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (Bronx, NY 2-0 1KO). Tickets began to move rapidly and have not slowed down.

“I am looking forward to another great night of Star Boxing’s Rockin’ Fights. We have a great card lined up and expect a capacity crowd,” said JOE DEGUARDIA, President and CEO of Star Boxing. “For those who can’t be there live, it’s great that fans across the globe can watch it on Star Boxing’s Facebook page and through the FIGHNTIGHT LIVE platform. What an excellent opportunity to show boxing fans around the world why the Paramount has become the hottest boxing venue.”

“FIGHTNIGHT LIVE stays hot as the weather turns cool here in New York City,” said MARK FRATTO, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “We always love it when we can provide our hometown heroes with a global platform, and we especially love the heated opinions that always light up our comments section when New York fight fans are involved. We’re looking forward to nonstop action from bell-to-bell, in the ring and in the comments!”

If you miss out on the limited tickets left, you will be able to watch Saturday nights entire “Rockin’ Fights” card via FightNight Live on the Star Boxing facebook page: www.facebook.com/StarBoxing

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is set to take place this Saturday night (11/23) and is nearly sold out. Do not wait any longer to get inside The Paramount to see the action! A thrilling night of fights is right around the corner, and you will not want to miss out. Purchase tickets, HERE.

Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM and event begins at 7:30 PM. Follow us on social media for more information @StarBoxing and join the conversation by using #RockinFights.

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader.
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
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New York, November 18, 2019

Star Boxing has a thrilling card in place for its 37th edition of “Rockin’ Fights” at The Paramount, set to take place on Saturday, November 23. The main event is a much-anticipated grudge rematch as the WBC FECARBOX and ABO Intercontinental champion, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (18-2-1 7KO’s) puts his titles on the line against Huntington’s hometown hero, JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (10-4 1KO). The exciting main event is supported by a stellar international co-feature and a fantastic undercard.

The 10-round co-feature bout spotlights two international rising cruiserweights, Italian, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (15-2-1 7KO’S) against Albanian, STIVENS “SUPERMAN” BUJAJ (17-2-1 11KO’s) for the WBC Continental America’s Title. Federici, a former Italian National champion and IBF Mediterranean cruiserweight champion will be making his second appearance at The Paramount. Bujaj, who is no stranger to title fights, is a former WBC USNBC and USA New York State Cruiserweight champion. The winner will see a large increase in their cruiserweight world rankings as both fighters know a win will catapult them into a big fight in 2020.

The undercard features six undefeated fighters, in what is bound to kick off the show with flair. In a battle of the undefeated, 2013 New York Golden Gloves Champion and now undefeated professional, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (4-0 1KO)will take on Title Boxing National Champion, and undefeated professional, DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (2-0 1KO). Both Vargas and Johns have fought all of their professional bouts at The Paramount. This special attraction is a scheduled 6-round welterweight bout.

JUSTICE “LIL NASTY” BLAND (Brooklyn, NY 1-0) makes his return to The Paramount on November 23, when he takes on DASWSHAQUAN “THE DRAGON” THOMAS (Mt. Vernon, NY) who will be making his pro-debut. Bland earned his first professional victory at “Rockin’ Fights” 35 in July with a unanimous decision victory over Rafael Castillo. Opening the night will be Red Bank, NJ native, SALEEM “BAD DREAM” KELLY (2-0 1KO). A New Jersey amateur standout, Kelly has won the New Jersey state title, New Jersey Golden and Diamond Gloves and was ranked as high as 4th in the country. Kelly will be facing GEORGE GETHERS (Jersey City, NY 0-1) in a 4 round super welterweight bout.

Also on the undercard is JAHVEL JOSEPH (New York, NY 1-0) who faces off with CURL “KING CURL” AITCHESON (Mt. Vernon, NY, pro debut) in a 4 round super middleweight bout.

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the “Rockin’ Fights” card, “The Gonzalez-Hernandez rematch has a lot of buzz surrounding it, and with a great co-feature and undercard like this, fans are in for a real treat come November 23. We are pleased to add an international flair to “Rockin’ Fights” with Simone Federici and Stivens Bujaj fighting for the WBC Continental America’s title. Alex Vargas always brings a great crowd and will be in a real tough matchup with fellow, undefeated New York fighter, Dashaun Johns, who is also a fan favorite and ticket-seller. Overall, I foresee this as being a great card that you will not want to miss.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader.

Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM and event begins at 7:30 PM. Follow us on social media for more information @StarBoxing and join the conversation by using #RockinFights.
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
BUY TICKETS HERE!

New York, November 14, 2019

Unlike the glory years of boxing, these days it is not often that two young stars, with perfect records and future aspirations of world title contention, take the risk to fight one another so early in their respective careers. This statement is a testament to the desire of greatness for both ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 4-0 1KO) and DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (Bronx, NY 2-0 1KO). Vargas and Johns will battle to keep their undefeated records when they fight on Star Boxing’s show on November 23rd. The fight will be part of a great undercard to the championship (WBC and ABO), grudge rematch between DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven. NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) and JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO) at The Paramount in Huntington, NY as part of the “Rockin’ Fights” Series (#RF37).

Both Vargas and Johns are active in their communities and represent themselves with extreme character and authenticity. Both were decorated amateur fighters, Vargas a 2013 New York Golden Gloves Champion and Johns a Title National Champion. Both also have huge fan bases that will be competing on the noise meter at the Paramount. However, make no mistake, on November 23, chivalry will have no place in the ring; New York bragging rights as well as a perfect record are on the line. Both fighters have made it very clear that they know what is at stake as “someone’s 0 must go!”.

“I’m really excited for this and I’m ready for it” said Vargas. “Two undefeated fighters both from New York has a lot of bragging rights.” Alex Vargas has proven the ability to rise to the moment over his first four fights at The Paramount. His loud and colorful fan base continues to grow, and creates an entertaining atmosphere, fight after fight. As for what those fans can expect come November 23, “they can expect a very exciting, but smart fought fight. I won’t be the one taking my first loss.”

Vargas’ comments did not go unheard by Dashaun Johns. “Come fight night, he better keep that same energy,” said Johns. Returning to The Paramount for the third time, Johns is prepared to put on a show for his fans and knows a fight of this caliber, at this point in his career, could be a defining moment. “Champions are created inside and out of the gym,” said Johns. “To be the best you have to fight the best. This is my legacy! The time is now.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader.
JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing stated “This is what makes the Paramount so special. It is a throwback to the glory days of boxing, where fighters can develop in an atmosphere that prepares them for mega-fights since they become accustomed to pressure-cooker situations early in their career. Two warriors, under the lights in a packed house, fighting to keep their undefeated records. This is like a world championship fight for them and provides the experience needed for future success. They are both winners and will benefit from this experience, and I applaud them both for having the desire to succeed”.

Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM and event begins at 7:30 PM. Follow us on social media for more information @StarBoxing and join the conversation by using #RockinFights.
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
BUY TICKETS HERE!

New York, October 21, 2019

When The Paramount marquee lights up with Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” logo, boxing fans know they are in for a treat. However, come November 23, boxing fans are in for more than that when two hometown favorites in, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) and JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO) settle their bad blood in a rematch at the “Rockin’ Fights 37” main event.

In September of 2019, Hernandez and Gonzalez met for the first time at “Rockin’ Fights,” as both fighters took their chance at earning the ABO Intercontinental Super Lightweight Title. The 10-round bout was a back and forth battle that had fans on their feet from the opening bell. The sold-out crowd competed for sound-meter supremacy with alternating chants of “Danny” and “Johnny.” As intense as the crowd was, the fight inside the ring met the energy at every level. At the final bell, Danny Gonzalez took home the title by a majority decision.

The two Long Island boxers exchanged social media jousts post fight, but eventually went their separate ways. Gonzalez went on to challenge former world champion, and current world title contender, CHRIS ALGIERI (Huntington, NY 24-3 9KO’s) at Madison Square Garden for the WBO International Super Lightweight Title, in a tough battle of wills. Most recently, Gonzalez went to battle with JEROME CONQUEST in his second “Rockin’ Fights” main event, adding the WBC FECARBOX Super Lightweight Title to his collection of belts. Hernandez returned in February of 2019 and went toe to toe with MARQUISE HAWTHORNE at “Rockin’ Fights,” winning a decision victory.

Gonzalez and Hernandez are now set to return to The Paramount on November 23. No twitter fingers, no talk, just two men in a ring, settling their differences once and for all. The winner will claim, unofficial King of the Paramount bragging rights, two titles and a world level fight in 2020.

Danny Gonzalez had this to say about the rematch, “There are levels to this sport, and I will show the fans the difference between a full-time commitment to boxing as opposed to a part time boxer. On November 23, I will most definitely stop Hernandez, not only from running for his life, but also stop his mouth from spewing negative comments when he loses. We respect every fighter and never degrade anyone, but in the last fight he went overboard. With this fight, we will answer back not verbally as he does, but physically and with my hand raised.”

Johnny Hernandez said this about what fans can expect in the rematch, “I am thankful to be able to showcase my hard work again in front of my hometown friends and family. Last time I guaranteed fireworks, this time I plan on ending the show.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA said this about the “Rockin’ Fights” main event, “Both Danny and Johnny were developed right here at The Paramount. Both of them have large and vocal fan bases out here and the last time they met in the ring it was electric. We are expecting no difference come November 23, so be sure to get your tickets, because this is a rematch you will not want to miss.”

New York, February 24, 2019

Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” series had its 34th event Friday night at the Paramount in Long Island, New York. The night included six compelling bouts that included the return of Huntington’s own JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ who went to battle with Texas native MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE. In the international co-main event, JOEL “BIG JOE” DJEKO and SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI settled their differences in the squared circle. On the undercard, TERELL “THE PROBLEM CHILD” BOSTIC. DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS. ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS and JEFFREY GONZALEZ took care of business in worthy fashion.

JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (now 10-4 1KO) and MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE found themselves in a tactical battle over the scheduled 8-round bout. From the first round on, both fighters continued to make in ring adjustments, seemingly trading rounds between in a good scrap. Hernandez found success using his speed and footwork to score on Hawthorne, however as the fight went on, Hawthorne (6-10 1KO), used his length to subdue Hernandez’s attack, in an effort to get to him first. At the finish of the competitive 8-round, contest, the judges’ scorecards read, 76-76, 77-75 (x2) as Hernandez outpointed the game Hawthorne by close majority decision.

Cruiserweights, JOEL “BIG JOE” DJEKO (now 15-2-1 7KO’s) and SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI (now 14-2-1 6KO’s) finally had the chance to glove up, and settle their differences in the ring, after Djeko pushed Federici at Thursday’s weigh-in. Federici came out of the gate strong, working effectively on the inside, landing a strong, short, combination that unsteadied the big Belgium. Djeko later returned the favor, with a vicious body attack on the Italian. The two continued to trade over the full 10-rounds in a fight that seemed very close. Upon the final bell the Italian jumped on the ring ropes assuming he won with his aggression. Ultimately the scorecards were read and the judges scored in favor of Djeko unanimously (97-93 (x2), 99-91). The fans in attendance voiced displeasure with the decision, but the commentators on Facebook seemingly thought Djeko had edged out the victory.

TERELL “THE PROBLEM CHILD” BOSTIC (now 4-1 1KO) of Wyandanch, Long Island took on JAVIER MARTINEZ (now 4-6 3KO’s) of Laredo, Texas. Bostic returned last night to The Paramount in search of vengeance for his first professional loss, by close split decision, at the last “Rockin’ Fights”. The two super lightweights waged war for the scheduled 6-round bout, as Bostic picked his spots, landing to both the body and the head of Martinez. Martinez however was not backing down, as he spent most of the bout coming forward in attempt to create openings. In the end, Bostic earned the unanimous decision victory by scores of 60-54 (x2) and 59-55.

DASHAUN “TOOSWEEET” JOHNS (now 2-0 1KO) showed extreme fortitude in his bout against DERON “KING” LAWSON. Lawson came on strong in the first round, getting the best of Johns, causing the Bronx native to be on unsteady legs for most of the three minutes. However, to Johns credit, he resisted the onslaught, and managed to finish out the round. A clear game plan change from John’s corner heading into the second round paid major dividends, managing to out box Lawson (now 0-3) for the remainder of the four rounds to a win a tough unanimous decision. All three judges scored the fight the same, 39-37.

ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (now 3-0 1KO), made his third straight appearance at The Paramount, against Ghana native, BENJAMIN BORTEYE (now 4-5 4KO’s) and did not waste any time. Vargas effectively cut off the ring, pinning Borteye in the corner, and landed a straight right, dropping Borteye early in the first round. Vargas continued the onslaught, dropping Borteye a second time in the second round. Vargas earned a TKO victory 3 seconds into the third, remaining undefeated in his young professional career, as well as at The Paramount.

In the opening bout of the evening, JEFFREY GONZALEZ (Pro-Debut) took on EARL HENRY (0-0-1) of Florida in a scheduled 4-round super middleweight bout. The crowd was filled with oh’s and ah’s as both fighters traded freely and fiercely at the center of the ring landing at will. After the full four rounds, Gonzalez notched his first professional win by scores of 40-36 (x3).

Star Boxing head, JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about Friday’s entire “Rockin’ Fights” event, “It was another fun night at the Paramount and the fighters once again gave fans a thrilling action-packed night. We look forward to our next stop-March 9th when Joe Smith Jr., another Paramount favorite, gets his World Championship title fight vs Dmitry Bivol at Turning Stone Casino.”

Rockin’ Fights 34 was promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

New York, February 15, 2019

Having previously announced the dual main events of the February 22nd “Rockin’ Fights” of Belgium’s, JOEL “BIG JOE” DJEKO vs Italian SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI and local Huntington favorite, JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ against tough Texan MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE,
STAR BOXING announced a true New York centric undercard today.

In a scheduled 6-round welterweight bout, Wyandanch, Long Island’s own TERELL “THE PROBLEM CHILD” BOSTIC (3-1 1KO) returns to The Paramount in search of vengeance against Hartford, Connecticut’s ANUEL ROSA (1-0 1KO). Bostic was last seen at “Rockin’ Fights” 33 in a thrilling, action packed bout with undefeated OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (then 6-0 2KO’s). Getting up, off the canvas in the 3rd round, Bostic fought his way back into the fight, finishing the final two rounds by trading freely at the center of the ring, behind deafening cheers booming from the sold-out crowd. Dropping a split decision, Bostic eyes Figueroa as his next tally in the win column. Rosa, who made his pro-debut this past June 16 in Hartford, Connecticut, will be seeing the famed Paramount for the first time and hopes to remain undefeated attempting to defeat Bostic in his hometown venue.

Also returning to The Paramount, in his second professional bout, DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS (1-0 1KO) is set to take on hard-hitting tough Philadelphian DERRON LAWSON in a 4-round welterweight bout. Hailing from the Bronx, amateur standout Dashuan Johns made his pro-debut at “Rockin’ Fights” 33 against Devon Grant and left no doubt in his first round TKO victory. Dashuan, a personal trainer in Westchester County, had the ringside crowd jumping as his clients packed the ringside seats to watch their personal trainer in action. Lawson is also no stranger to The Paramount, having fought twice at the venue, dropping hard fought, close decisions to undefeated prospects Johnathan Arroyo, and Alex “El Torro” Vargas. Dashaun looks to make it two in a row in his young professional career, while Lawson plans to ruin his undefeated record on February 22nd.

Also in action will be Bellport, Long Island’s, ALEX “EL TORRO” VARGAS (2-0) against BENJAMIN BORTEYE in a scheduled 4-round welterweight bout. Vargas, a former New York Golden Gloves champion, returns to The Paramount for his third appearance, looking to remain undefeated taking on Borteye (4-4 4KO’S), of Silver Spring, MD, by way of Ghana. Borteye who last fought amateur standout and undefeated professional Reshat Mati at Madison Square Garden on January 18th. Vargas will look to continue his undefeated streak at The Paramount.

Star Boxing promoter, JOE DEGUARDIA, said this about the undercard bouts set for next Friday night, “It is truly rewarding that the Paramount has become one of the best boxing venues in the country. I am looking forward to another exciting night of “Rockin’ Fights” on February 22.”

A sensational night of thrilling fights has formed, as Star Boxing, once again, brings phenomenal action-packed professional boxing to Long Island. This exciting undercard brings an added punch to the all-world cruiserweight main event between Belgium’s Djeko vs Italy’s Federici and the local favorite Johnny Hernandez fighting the ‘on a roll’ Marquis Hawthorne. Fans are buzzing with the return of Long Island prospects, Terrell Bostic, Alex Vargas and Dashaun Johns. All three bring in vocal support to The Paramount and fans are anxiously awaiting February 22nd.

“Rockin’ Fights” 34 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Bouts subject to change
GET YOUR TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” 34 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, 2019
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
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MEDIA:
MAIN EVENT PROMO: DJEKO vs FEDERICI

INFO:
STAR BOXING is excited to return to its renown Long Island venue, The Paramount, on February 22nd, for another thrilling night of “Rockin’ Fights.” The 34th edition of the acclaimed fight series brings extreme boxing talent from across the world, right to Huntington’s, The Paramount. The main event is a real toss-up between the ‘big boys’ in a truly international fight between European champs. Giant Belgium JOEL “BIG JOE” DJEKO will take on Italian challenger, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI in an intriguing 10-round cruiserweight bout. The co-main event will feature the return of Huntington’s own JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ who will be taking on upset minded, MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE
PAST RELEASES:
“Rockin’ Fights” 34 Co-Main Events Announced
“Rockin’ Fights” 34 Media Credential Application
FACTS:
ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 34 is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. “Rockin Fights” is sponsored by Modell’s Sporting Goods, The Inn At Fox Hollow, Camelot Limousine and The Tudor Advisory Group.

STAR BOXING is excited to return to its renown Long Island venue, The Paramount, on February 22nd, for another thrilling night of “Rockin’ Fights.” The 34th edition of the acclaimed fight series brings extreme boxing talent from across the world, right to Huntington’s, The Paramount. The main event is a real toss-up between the ‘big boys’ in a truly international fight between European champs. Giant Belgium JOEL “BIG JOE” DJEKO will take on Italian challenger, SIMONE “TYSON” FEDERICI in an intriguing 10-round cruiserweight bout. The co-main event will feature the return of Huntington’s own JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ who will be taking on upset minded, MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE.

The main event features two international cruiserweight prospects who will travel a combined 7,873 miles to meet in the squared circle, in front of the expected packed crowd at The Paramount. Belgium’s Djeko (14-2-1 7KO’s), an IBO Champion, stands at a towering 6’5″ and breaks the will of his opponents by fighting behind his jab, followed by devastating power in both hands. Djeko’s marquee win came against then undefeated MARIANO ANGEL GUDINO (then 12-0 7KO’s), when he defeated the Argentinian by wide unanimous decision, dominating for the full ten-rounds, to secure the IBO Continental Cruiserweight Title. Djeko has fought in America only once before, but intends to begin laying roots state side, for an eventual shot at a cruiserweight world title. Djeko’s only 2 losses were on the road and by majority and split decision against undefeated prospects.

Djeko had this to say about fighting in America, “I am excited to make my first fight in New York, a city that saw the birth of great champions. But, I also come to fulfill my mission, that of leaving with a victory by knockout.”

Federici (14-1-1 6KO’s), a 25-year-old Italian who resides in Roma, Italy, will be making his debut on American soil on the February 22nd Paramount show. Federici had an impressive amateur record of 35-1-1. As a professional, Federici defeated FRANCESCO CATALDO in a thrilling battle earning the Italian Cruiserweight Title. Since then, Federici has successfully defended his title twice, most recently defeating the dangerous Georgian, ZURA MEKERESHVILLE by unanimous decision to add the IBF Mediterranean Cruiserweight Title to his pedigree. Federici has his eyes set an a massive victory on February 22nd main event. Federici and Djeko both have their eyes set on victory in the February 22nd main event and both know a top rankings in the cruiserweight division are at stake.

Federici said this about his American debut, “I thank America for the wonderful opportunity that has offered me! I hope to better meet American expectations.
I can’t wait to get in the ring.”

In the co-main event, fans will see Johnny “Hitman” Hernandez (9-4 1KO), a familiar face at The Paramount having fought eleven of his thirteen professional fights at the venue. Hernandez who is known for his footwork and great conditioning, always seems to get stronger as the fight carries on. This will be Hernandez second main event at The Paramount. He was last seen in an absolute thriller with fellow Star Boxing stablemate DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (then 16-1-1 7KO’s). Over the ten-round main event, Hernandez and Gonzalez exchanged blow after blow at the center of the ring, as the crowd seemed to be on their feet throughout the fight with consistent and vocal support for both fighters. While the judges scored the bout in favor of Gonzalez by majority decision, Hernandez proved to the rowdy sold out crowd that he has the skill to fight the upper echelon of the 140 lb. division. Gonzalez went on to fight fellow Paramount alumni CHRIS ALGIERI at Madison Square Garden a few weeks ago. Hernandez promises to return with vengeance on February 22nd in his Paramount hometown.

Hernandez is ready for his opportunity on February 22nd, and is prepared to leave his mark. “There are no secrets to success,” said Johnny, “it is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failures.”

Hernandez will be facing the very tough Texan, Marquis Hawthorne, who will be making his second appearance at The Paramount. Over his twelve-fight career, Hawthorne has fought ten undefeated prospects, with an opponent combined record of 81-23-3. Most recently, Hawthorne (6-9 1KO) won in a shocking upset at Mohegan Sun on January 26th over amateur standout and undefeated professional, from Detroit, Michigan RONNIE “TEFLON RON” AUSTION (then 10-0 7KO’s). Over the 6-round bout, Hawthorne commanded the action, using his long reach and height advantage to maintain his distance, landing grueling right hands to the body and the head of Austion. At the final bell, the scorecards read 57-56, 58-55 and 59-54, earning a massive upset victory for Hawthorne over the previously undefeated Austion.

Hawthorne has is eyes set on one thing only come February 22nd. “I am coming off a big win over a great prospect,” said Hawthorne, “the game plan is to continue to trust the plan my coaches have set before me, resulting in victory.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the main and co-main event, “We have put together a very intriguing international fight for Long Island’s dedicated boxing fans. Belgium’s, Big Joel Djeko, is an imposing figure, and carries knockout power in both hands. Federici has proven his ability to win big fights in his home country of Italy. The winner has a bright future. ” Regarding the co-main, DeGuardia stated, “this fight is a perfect example of the allure of our ‘Rockin’ Fights’ series. Both Johnny and Marquis have earned the right to be in this fight. In his last fight Johnny showed grit and we will always support our fighters, win or lose, when they perform like he did. That’s what the Paramount series is all about, action and heart. Similarly, Marquis Hawthorne earned the right to this fight with his victory over our undefeated prospect Ronnie Austion in a huge upset. Johnny and Marquis always show up in phenomenal shape with great energy on fight night, and I expect a thrilling fight on February 22nd.”

The main event between European cruiserweight champions in Djeko and Federici is destined to excite. The co-main event will see Hernandez in front of his hometown fans while Hawthorne will look for a second consecutive upset. Undercard to be announced soon. Tickets are now on sale for “Rockin Fights 34 and can be purchased below.

“Rockin’ Fights 34” card is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
*Bouts Subject to Change*