Mike Tyson was the youngest heavyweight champion of all time and in 1987 voted, “World’s Most Popular Athlete.” Now he joins a select list of legendary fighters who became boxing promoters.

Jack Dempsey
Jack Dempsey, the “Manasa Mauler,” stopped boxing after this fight against Gene Tunney. He promoted a few bouts before entering show business as an actor.

Joe Louis
Joe Louis, the “Brown Bomber” is considered by many historians as the greatest heavyweight champion of all time. He retired briefly in 1948 and one of his first promotions was the Ezzard Charles – Jersey Joe Walcott fight for title Louis’ vacated.

Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali, known simply as, “The Greatest,” is certainly one of the most famous people of all time. After his final bout in 1981against future champ Trevor Berbick he entered the promotional business under the banner “MAPS,” Muhammad Ali Professional Sports.

Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson and business partner Garry Jonas formed Iron Mike Productions in 2013. Their motto: the best interest of the fighter comes first in any decision making. Mike will be in Minneapolis to see his IBF Champion Argenis Menedez defend his crown on ESPN Friday Night Fights January 3 at Target Center.

Some other prominent fighters who also became promoters include Roy Jones, Jr., Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins, and Floyd Mayweather.

Video Release
https://www.hightail.com/download/elNJck84Q1BlM1FVV01UQw

Print Release
https://www.hightail.com/download/elNJck84NDJ6NE4zZU5Vag

ABOUT IRON MIKE PRODUCTIONS (IMP): Previously known as Acquinity Sports, Iron Mike Productions is a full-service boxing promotion company co-founded and led by CEO Garry Jonas. In partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson, IMP is committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes, inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or follow Iron Mike Productions on Twitter @IronMikeProd.

ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra will return for its 17th season Friday, Jan. 3, at 9 p.m. ET live on ESPN2, WatchESPN and broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+ with a 12-round IBF title bout between Junior Lightweight titlist Argenis Méndez (21-2-1, 11 KOs) and undefeated Rances Barthelemy (19-0, 12 KOs). The 10-round co-feature will include up and coming Middleweight contender Caleb Truax (23-1, 4 KOs). ESPN Deportes – which will re-brand its coverage as Noche de Combates (formerly Viernes de Combates) with some telecasts on Saturdays – will air the bouts on Saturday, Jan. 4, at 9 p.m.
https://library.espnimages.com/filestore/2/0/1/2/9/6_416647e26b91e6d/201296scr_4833a044b1c8c41.jpg?v=2013-08-19+22%3A42%3A05
The first of 2014’s 26 telecasts, from the Target Center in Minneapolis, is co-promoted by former Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and his promotional company Iron Mike Productions. Tyson made his promotional debut in August to close out the 2013 Friday Night Fights season in a night that featured Méndez in the world title main event.

“We are eagerly anticipating the upcoming season of Friday Night Fights and Noche de Combates,” said Brian Kweder, ESPN senior director of programming and acquisitions. “We start the season just as we finished last season with a world title fight co-promoted by Mike Tyson’s Iron Mike Productions. The biggest change for 2014 is that we are assigning dates to promoters with as much advance notice as possible to allow for even better fights and bigger crowds. We’ve partnered with a group of promoters who have always delivered in the past and are committed to upping the ante even further for 2014. Having a world title fight and names like Kendall Holt, Zsolt Erdei and Arash Usmanee early this season show that the strategy is already paying dividends.”

ESPN2 Commentators/Studio:
Blow-by-blow commentator Joe Tessitore and ringside analyst Teddy Atlas will return to describe the action for ESPN2. Both are recipients of the prestigious Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism presented by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA): Atlas (2001), Tessitore (2010). Studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN), who will fill-in ringside for Tessitore during the season opener, will return for his second season providing all the latest boxing news and highlights. Bilingual reporter Bernardo Osuna (@osunaespn), who last year became the series’ first-ever on-site reporter, will contribute to Friday Night Fights in English, and Noche de Combates (Fight Night) in Spanish.

ESPN Deportes Commentators/Studio:
Delvin Rodríguez will call the fights with Pablo Viruega for Noche de Combates on both ESPN Deportes and ESPN Deportes+, while Leopoldo González and Claudia Trejos will anchor the studio. Hall of Fame referee Joe Cortez will join Trejos and González in studio throughout the season, with Osuna providing reports and interviews each week.

ESPN Deportes’ weekly 60-minute boxing news and analysis show Golpe a Golpe will be co-hosted by Juan Manuel Márquez and Jorge Eduardo Sánchez. A Los Golpes (7:30 p.m. Mondays) will provide the latest boxing news and analysis with co-hosts Osuna, David Faitelson and analyst Julio César Chávez Sr.

New Technology:
Friday Night Fights telecasts will include alternate point of view cameras mounted in different locations capturing the atmosphere of the venues and fights. Friday Night Fights will also feature more live audio during fights to give viewers more access to the fighters and trainers.

Ultra-Mo:
Every Friday Night Fights telecast will continue to implement an ultra slo-mo camera, providing some of the most dramatic and amazing replays of a fight’s biggest punches.

WatchESPN and ESPN3:
Every Friday Night Fights card will be available on WatchESPN, ESPN’s online destination that delivers live access to ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, ESPN3 and ESPN Buzzer Beater/Goal Line on computers, smartphones and tablets. Replays of Friday Night Fights cards will be available on ESPN3, ESPN’s multiscreen network accessible online at WatchESPN.com, on smartphones and tablets via the WatchESPN app and streamed on televisions through ESPN on Xbox LIVE to Gold members, Roku and Apple TV.

ESPN.com:
Making the Rounds, ESPN.com’s original boxing show with Jim Basquil, Brian Campbell and Kieran Mulvaney, will discuss boxing’s top stories each week and include analysis of Friday Night Fights cards. Dan Rafael (@danrafaelespn) will continue to write features and provide analysis for ESPN.com.

Social Media:
Friday Night Fights social media presence in 2014 will continue 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. Osuna (@osunaespn) and Nigel Collins (@ESPNFNF), ESPN boxing analyst/former Editor-in-Chief of The Ring magazine, will live tweet during every show.

Upcoming Schedule:
Friday Night Fights will total 26 dates in 2014. Upcoming schedule:

Date
Time (ET)
Main Event
Location
Networks
Fri, Jan 3
9 p.m.
Argenis Méndez (21-2-1, 11 KOs) vs. Rances Barthelemy (19-0, 12 KOs) —12-rounds, IBF Junior Lightweight Title
Target Center, Minneapolis, Minn.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN
Fri, Jan 10
9 p.m.
Arash Usmanee (20-1-1, 10 KOs) vs. Juan Antonio Rodríguez (25-4, 23 KOs) — Junior Lightweights
Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino, Tacoma Wash.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN
Fri, Jan 24
9 p.m.
Javier Molina (14-1, 6 KOs) vs. Kendall Holt (28-6, 16 KOs) —10-rounds, Junior Welterweights
Little Creek Casino, Shelton Wash.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN
Fri, Jan 31
9 p.m.
Zsolt Erdei (33-1, 18 KOs) vs. Elvir Muriqi (40-5, 24 KOs) —10-rounds, Light Heavyweights
Codey Arena, West Orange, N.J.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN

One of boxing’s biggest names, Mike Tyson, returns to HBO this Saturday with the network debut of HBO FILMS’ MIKE TYSON: UNDISPUTED TRUTH, the one-man stage show directed by legendary filmmaker Spike Lee. The riveting and compelling film premieres SATURDAY, NOV. 16 (8:00 – 9:30 p.m. ET/PT), followed by an all-new episode of 24/7 PACQUIAO/RIOS and a World Championship Boxing® super middleweight title showdown.

In addition to starring in his eponymous special, Tyson will also serve as co-host with HBO broadcaster Jim Lampley for the network’s slate of entertainment and boxing programming on Saturday night. The pair will introduce the evening’s programming lineup, with Tyson providing his inimitable candor.

Immediately following MIKE TYSON: UNDISPUTED TRUTH will be the premiere of episode two of the HBO Sports’ all-access reality series 24/7 PACQUIAO/RIOS (9:30 p.m. ET/PT). Then stay tuned for a stellar showdown when WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING: ANDRE WARD VS. EDWIN RODRIGUEZ is seen at 10:00 p.m. (ET/PT) from Citizens Bank Arena in Ontario, Cal.

Andre Ward (26-0, 14 KOs), one of the sport’s premier fighters, returns to the ring after more than a year versus fast-rising super middleweight challenger Edwin Rodriguez (24-0, 16 KOs), 28, of Worcester, Mass. Lampley will be joined ringside by Max Kellerman and Roy Jones Jr. to call the bout, while Tyson will join with a guest interview appearance.

Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.

MIKE TYSON: UNDISPUTED TRUTH is executive produced by Spike Lee, Mike Tyson, Kiki Tyson, Jon Kilik and James
Nederlander; directed by Spike Lee; written by Kiki Tyson.

® WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (October 18, 2013) – The World Boxing Council (WBC) has announced its World Cup Tournament has been postponed, resulting in the cancellation of the entire Iron Mike Productions-presented show scheduled on November 15, 2013 at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The postponement is out of respect to WBC president and World Cup founder, Jose Sulaiman, who is recovering from recent heart surgery. The event will not be rescheduled and refunds are available at point of purchase.

The main event and co-feature fights, slated to be part of the World Cup’s opening round, were going to air live on Fox Sports I.

The WBC issue the following statement:

The WBC has asked the promoters and participants of the WBC World Cup Tournament, which has been the dream of our President Jose Sulaiman, to postpone the inauguration of the tournament as a sign of respect and solidarity for his current medical condition as he recovers from his recent heart surgery.

Jose Sulaiman worked tirelessly for several years to put together the formidable World Cup, which is a tournament between all WBC affiliated federations champions to determine the best of the division, with the winner to become a challenger of the reigning champion.

The postponement would allow our President to be involved in all the activities which he had so passionately dedicated toward its implementation, with the support of the WBC 19s 10 Continental federations.

All our efforts in the WBC will be concentrated in the successful recuperation of Jose Sulaimán, who is presently recovering at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.

“I have known Mr. Jose Sulaiman since I was a teenager,” Iron Mike Productions president Mike Tyson said. “His recovery is of great importance to me and I am sending my prayers to the Sulaiman’s and the WBC Family. Professionally, we look forward to being a part of the WBC Cup tournament when it is reinstated. In the interim we will continue getting our fighters exciting fights.”

For additional information about Iron Mike Productions please visit www.IronMikeProductions.comor follow on Twitter @IronMikeProd.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (October 15, 2013) – Iron Mike Productions (IMP) is bringing big-time boxing back to Florida, presenting opening-round action in the World Boxing Council’s (WBC) World Cup of Boxing, on Friday night, November 15, 2013 at 7 p.m. at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Former two-divisional world champion Joan “Little Tyson” Guzman (33-1-1, 20 KOs) has moved up to fight as a welterweight in the WBC World Cup of Boxing. The Dominican Republic native, who was world champion as a super featherweight and super bantamweight, takes on undefeated WBC CABOFE champion Simeon “Candyman” Hardy (10-0, 7 KOs) in the 10-round World Cup main event.

In the other World Cup fight, Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-1, 11 KOs) faces WBC Unites States (USNBC) featherweight champion Romulo Koasicha (20-3, 12 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature. Marrero, also from the Dominican Republic, is coming off his lone loss as a professional this past August, by way of a 12-round decision to Jesus Cuellar for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim featherweight title.

The two WBC World Cup of Boxing fights will air live on Fox Sports1.

In a 10-round Special Super Bantamweight Attraction, undefeated Alexei “The Mexican-Cuban” Collado (17-0, 16 KOs) puts his perfect record on the line against an opponent to be determined. Collado has stopped 16 of his 17 victims. The powerful Cuban is world rated at No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Also fighting on the undercard are three hot prospects in separate four-round bouts. Multi-talented featherweight Albert “Prince” Bell (2-0, 1 KO), a 2011 National PAL and 2012 National Golden Gloves champion, returns to the ring on the undercard. Newly-signed IMP fighters, 18-year-old welterweight Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and 20-year-old featherweight Dennis Galarza, will make their much-anticipated pro debuts on the November 15th card. Lubin was a 2012 National Golden Gloves champion.

“We’re looking forward to being at the Seminole Hard Rock to promote our second show,” IMP president and Hall of Famer “Iron” Mike Tyson said. “The World Cup of Boxing celebrates the WBC’s 50th anniversary and we’re very proud to be hosting its second event on November 15th. Our two fighters in the World Cup, Joan Guzman and Claudio Marrero, are both forces to be reckoned with throughout the tournament. Another one of our future world champions, undefeated Alexei Collado, will be in action. We’ll also be showcasing three of the top prospects in boxing, Albert Bell, and newly signed former U.S. amateur standouts Erickson Lubin and Dennis Galarza.”

Opponents will soon be announced, in addition to a seventh fight, for Collado, Bell, Lubin and Galarza. All of the aforementioned boxers, in addition to Guzman and Marrero, are fighting out of Miami.

Tickets cost $79, $59 and $39*; all seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets online at www.myhrl.com, ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open 30-minutes prior to show start time. *Additional fees may apply.

For additional information about the November 15th “WBC World Cup of Boxing” event please visit www.IronMikeProductions.comor follow on Twitter @IronMikeProd.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Oct. 5, 2013)- In a now well publicized open letter to USA Boxing, the youngest man to ever win the Heavyweight Championship of the World, Mike Tyson, praised the success of Washington, D.C., welterweight phenom Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (17-0, 10 KOs) as an example of accomplishment for young boxers. The twitter account associated with the polarizing former World Champion also gave high admiration to Hernandez-Harrison, stating he is an, “inspiration to young amateurs looking to turn pro.”

Hernandez-Harrison, 19 years of age and ranked No. 19 by the NABF and No. 40 by the WBC, is preparing for his first World Championship opportunity when he faces Josh Torres (12-2, 5 KOs) for the WBC Youth World Welterweight Championship on November 2, 2013 at Madison Square Garden Theater as a featured undercard bout of the HBO televised middleweight championship between Gennady Golovkin and Curtis Stevens.

Hernandez-Harrison turned professional at the age of 17, and has garnered National attention with 17 straight wins while carrying himself with the poise and confidence of an athlete well beyond his years.

“Dusty is honored by the compliment given to him by one of the most exciting and dynamic Heavyweight Champions in history,” said Hernandez-Harrison’s promoter Jeff Fried of All-In Entertainment. “Dusty continues to maintain the focus, work ethic and sacrifice that is necessary to succeed to the highest level in any sport, and certainly in boxing. Dusty is passionate about learning and continuing to develop as a professional boxer.”

“There is great respect for the history and tradition of USA Boxing,” Fried added. “When you walk through the Colorado Springs complex it is surreal viewing photos of some of the greatest Champions in the history of boxing and who likewise represented our country in the Olympics.”

In addition to being a professional boxer, the Southeast Washington, D.C., native is continuing his education at the University of the District of Columbia while taking Spanish lessons from a tutor. Hernandez-Harrison is an active member in his community, regularly speaking at area schools and recreation centers about the importance of hard work and education.

“Each situation is different for these young boxers. Jeff and I place as much focus on Dusty’s development outside the ring as we do in furthering his career as a professional boxer,” said Buddy Harrison, the welterweight’s father and trainer. “We have a team around Dusty that is not only guiding his career, but really cares about what happens for my son after his boxing career is over.”

Not only is Dusty’s talent continuing to develop, but so is his popularity. Through the joint effort of Hernandez-Harrison, All In Entertainment and his many supporters in the Washington, D.C., region, a fleet of buses has been arranged to transport fans to New York for the November 2 Championship matchup. Over the past year Hernandez-Harrison’s supporters have come out in groves to support the young fighter up and down the East Coast: a testament to this young man’s humbleness, Family values and a desire to perform his craft on a Champion class

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (September 18, 2013) — Since the much-anticipated launching of Iron Mike Productions last month, Hall of Famer and living legend “Iron” Mike Tyson has had a string of major media appearances, granting interviews to Fox Sports Live, Extra, the Today Show, and Conan O’Brien, where he spoke about his upcoming show, “Being Mike Tyson,” as well as the current state of boxing. His recent return to the ring as a boxing promoter with Iron Mike Productions has also given him a lot to talk about, like the National Football League and which teams he believes are heading to the Super Bowl.

Most boxing fans also enjoy watching football because of the inherent action and physicality of the two sports. They may remember the stencil art done by artist Joe Lurato a few years back of Peyton Manning and Tom Brady for a segment titled, “Quarterbacks of the Decade.” Lurato’s artwork has been featured on NFL broadcasts and Tyson has kept his eyes out for it because, in addition to being passionate about sports, Mike and his Iron Mike Productions business partner, Garry Jonas, are also passionate about art.

“Not only is this unique artwork beautiful,” Tyson said, “it is also inspirational for our fighters as they train in the Iron Mike gym. Our goal is to give all our fighters everything they need to be their very best, physically and mentally, and this serves as another example of Iron Mike Productions’ commitment to excellence on their behalf.”

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Tyson and Jonas, CEO of Iron Mike Productions, immediately thought of Lurato when they were building their state-of-the-art training facility in Deerfield Beach, Florida. They commissioned both Lurato and fellow New York stencil artist, Logan Hicks, to create amazing, larger-than life wall murals to inspire and provoke their fighters, capturing the range of emotions that happen inside the ring.

“The photo-realistic images have depth and move with the eye,” Jonas explained. “They follow the fighters throughout the space, inspiring them and reminding them of why they are here and what they are training for.”

Using layers of hand-cut paper, spray paint and stencils, both artists worked round-the-clock over one weekend to create an energized series of mixed-medium murals that echo the raw dynamism of the Iron Mike gym and capture the hope, struggle and desire that are at the heart of every fighter here.

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The artists deliberately incorporated elements of urban street art to make the murals both visceral and refined to directly reflect the raw, gritty talent each of the fighters started with as they work to refine their skills and transform themselves into champions.

Lurato’s work has also been featured on ESPN as part of the “Art of Basketball” project, created by Billi Kid and Public Works Department, an organization that promotes street and graffiti artists and their work. Licensed by the NBA, the organization features a growing collection of NBA-themed original street artwork that tours the country. Lurato’s contribution focused on the 2012 championship-winning Miami Heat.

To learn more about Joe Lurato and Logan Hicks, check out their work at joeiurato.com and loganhicks.com.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com.

VERONA, N.Y. (August 23, 2013) – International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2-1, 11 KOs) retained his title after battling challenger Arash Usmanee (20-1-1, 10 KOs) to an exciting 12-round majority draw in tonight’s “Tyson Is Back!” event, live on the ESPN Friday Night Fights 2013 season finale, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

“Tyson Is Back!” was promoted by Iron Mike Productions in association with Greg Cohen Productions.

Neither fighter hit the canvas in the main event as the momentum switched back and forth throughout the fight. The crowd was on its collective feet in the second-half of the bout as Mendez displayed superior hand speed and powerful counter punching, while IBF No. 13-rated Usmanee was the aggressor and doggedly determined

“I’m very grateful,” promoter Mike Tyson said about his company’s first promotional event. “We had two sensational championship fights. We got a bad break in the co-feature but it as an exciting fight and good for boxing. I thought my fighter (Mendez) won his fight. It was a sensational fight, good for boxing, but horrible for my boxer. He’s a great boxer. We’d like to get (Roman) Martinez of (Yuriorkis) Gamboa next for him.”

A media poll heavily favored Mendez in scoring.

mendez vs. usmanee
L-R: Mendez and Usmanee

“I’m really disappointed in the decision,” Mendez remarked. “I’m the champion and I thought I won.”

“It was a very close fight,” Usmanee commented. “It depends on how you judge a fight. I was the aggressor. It could have gone either way.”

In the co-feature, Argentinean Jesus Andres Cueller (23-1, 18 KOs) won a hard fought 12-round decision (116-111, 115-112, 114-113) over previously undefeated Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-1, 11 KOs) in a back-and-forth action fight for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim Featherweight Championship.

cueler celebrates
Jesus Andres Cueller celebrates

The Robert Garcia-trained Cueller dropped the 24-year-old Marrero in the sixth round and the seventh was a Round of the Year candidate. “I’m very happy to be champion,” an emotional Cueller said after the fight. “It was a very hard fight. I’ll rest and then go back to train.”

World-rated welterweight Eddie “The Lion” Paredes (34-3-1, 22 KOs) rolled to his12th consecutive victory, winning nine of 10 rounds on all three judges’ scorecards to earn 10-round unanimous decision over Mexican-invader Noe “Platnanito” Bolanos (24-9-1, 16 KOs). Paredes is one of only two 147-pounders rated among the top 15 in the four major governing bodies, as high as No. 3 in the World Boxing Council (WBC) and WBA.

Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Mexican-Cuban” Collado (17-0, 16 KOs) kept his perfect record intact as he broke-down junior lightweight Guillermo Sanchez (13-10-1, 5 KOs) and finished off the game Puerto-Rican fighter in the fifth round. Collado is rated No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the IBF.

Heavyweight Dorsett Barnwell (10-0, 5 KOs) remained unbeaten, stopping Marlon Hayes (23-13, 11 KOs) in the third round. Undefeated Antoine Douglas (9-0, 6 KOs) won all six rounds against super middleweight Edgar Perez (5-6, 3 KOs) for a win by unanimous decision.

Complete Results
(winners listed first)

HEAVYWEIGHTS
DORSETT BARNWELL
(10-0, 5 KOs), Newport News, VA WTKO3 (2:48)

MARLON HAYES
(23-13, 11 KOs), Newark, NJ

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS:
ANTOINE DOUGLAS
(9-0, 6 KOs), Burke, VAWDEC6 (60-53, 60-54, 60-54)

EDGAR PEREZ
(5-6, 3 KOs), Chicago, IL

WELTERWEIGHTS:
ED PAREDES
(34-3-1, 22 KOs), Hollywood, FLWDEC10 (99-91, 99-91, 99-91)

NOE BOLANOS
(24-9-1, 16 KOs), Ciudad Obregon, Mexico

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS:
ARGENIS MENDEZ
(21-2-1, 11 KOs), Champion, Miami, FL via Dominican Republic D12 (113-115, 114-114, 114-114)

ARASH USMANEE
(20-1-1, 10 KOs), Challenger, Edmonton, Canada via Afghanistan (Mendez retains IBF Junior Lightweight title)

ALEXEI COLLADO
(17-0, 16 KOs), Miami, FL via CubaWTKO5 (2:25)

GUILLERMO SANCHEZ
(13-10-1, 5 KOs), Buffalo, NY via Puerto Rico

FEATHERWEIGHTS:
JESUS ANDRES CUELLER
(23-1, 18 KOs), Buenos Aires, Argentina WDEC12 (116-111, 115-112, 114-113)

CLAUDIO MARRERO
(14-1, 11 KOs), Miami, FL via Dominican Republic (Cueller won vacant WBA Interim Featherweight title)

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, recently partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

Main Event – IBF Junior Lightweight Championship (12) — ESPN
ARGENIS MENDEZ (21-2, 11 KOs), Champion, Miami, FL via Dominican Republic 130 lbs.
vs.
ARASH USMANEE (20-1, 10 KOs), Challenger, Edmonton, Canada via Afghanistan 129 lbs.

Marrero and Cueller L-R – Claudio Marrero, Mike Tyson and Jesus Andres Cueller
(photo by Tom Casino / Iron Mike Productions)

Co-Feature – Vacant WBA Featherweight Championship (10) — ESPN
CLAUDIO MARRERO (14-0, 11 KOs), Miami, FL via Dominican Republic 126 lbs.
vs.
JESUS ANDRES CUELLER (22-1, 18 KOs), Buenos Aires, Argentina 126 lbs.

Collado and Sanchez
L-R – Alexei Collado, Mike Tyson and Guillermo Sanchez
(photo by Rey Sanchez – Iron Mike Productions)

Super Featherweights (10)
ALEXEI COLLADO (16-0, 15 KOs), Miami, FL via Cuba 131 lbs.
vs.
GUILLERMO SANCHEZ (13-9-1, 5 KOs), Buffalo, NY via Puerto Rico 132 ¼ lbs.

Welterweights (10)
ED PAREDES (33-3-1, 22 KOs), Hollywood, FL 149 lbs.
vs.
NOE BOLANOS (24-8-1, 16 KOs), Ciudad Obregon, Mexico 149 lbs.

Super Middleweights (6)
ANTOINE DOUGLAS (8-0, 6 KOs), Burke, VA 161 ¼ lbs.
vs.
EDGAR PEREZ (5-5, 3 KOs), Chicago, IL 167 lbs.

Heavyweights (6)
DORSETT BARNWELL (9-0, 4 KOs), Newport News, VA 248 lbs.
vs.
MARLON HAYES (23-12, 11 KOs), Newark, NJ 219 lbs.

Junior Lightweghts (4) — ESPN SWING
ALBERT BELL (1-0, 1 KO), Miami, FL 129 lbs.
vs.
LEONEL GARCIA (pro debut), Hartford, CT 125 ¾ lbs.

VERONA, N.Y. (August 21, 2013) – The final press conference for Iron Mike Productions’ inaugural event this Friday evening – “Tyson Is Back!” – was held today at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, recently partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

“Tyson Is Back!” features a World Championship doubleheader on ESPN Friday Night Fights, headlined by International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) making his first world title defense, in the 12-round main event against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs). Unbeaten Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, meets WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

Providing chief support are a pair of 10-round fights featuring Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Mexican-Cuban” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) against Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while welterweight Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs) faces another tough Mexican fighter, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard is unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY), in a six-round bout.

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action former World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight champion Mauricio “Cry Baby” Martinez (36-14-1, 24 KOs) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Mike Tyson: “It is my privilege and an honor to be at Turning Stone for my first show. I’m privileged to have the champion, Argenis Mendez, who is going against Arash Usmanee. We also have ‘The Matrix,’ Claudio Marrero fighting Jesus Andres Cuellar. I’m really excited about this show.”

“I have such an affinity for this place (upstate N.Y.). I won the state championship in Syracuse. A lot of my childhood friends will be at the fights.”

“I think fans should vote for who they want to fight. Should the winner of this fight (Mendez vs. Usmanee) fight (Yuriorkis) Gamboa?”

“I never want to be back in the ring. I understand what these guys are going through. We want to be known for being worthy but most fighters are shy.”

“In most fights you know who is going to win before the fight. It’s not going to be that way with us. We want the best fighting the best.”

“I’m going to watch them (IMP fighters), as a fan, and be so happy I’m not in there.”

Argenis Mendez: “In my opinion, he (Usmanee) did win that fight (controversial loss by 12-round decision to Rances Barthelemy in their IBF title eliminator to determine Mendez’ mandatory challenger), and that’s one of the main reasons I chose him to defend my world title.

“I understand how to train properly for a fight, what it entails, and I expect a great fight from him and me. I want to thank Iron Mike Productions – Garry Jonas, Henry Rivalta and Mike Tyson – and my trainer, Lee Beard, for such an intense camp. I also want to thank Garry Jonas and my manager, Jose Nunez, for being there through the good times and bad times. Jose has been a stable person in my career.

“When I became champ, I didn’t lose my hungry. I’m aware of hunger. I’m sure Arash is hungry but I’m even hungrier than I was before. Friday night, you (Usmanee) will have to go through the storm, Argenis Mendez.”

(L-R) — IBF junior lightweight champion Argenis Mendez, Mike Tyson, and challenger Arash Usmanee

Arash Usmanee: “I’ve worked so hard for so many years, it feels surreal to be here. I’m not going to let this opportunity pass. I want to thank my team – promoter (Greg Cohen), manager (Paul Keefe) and trainer (Eddie Mustafa Muhammad) – my sponsors and Mendez for giving me this opportunity. I had a good camp, I’m sure did too. We’ll have a good war and then, hopefully, we can do it again.”

Claudio Marrero: “I’m in excellent condition. I want to thank my fans for their support. I’m glad he (Cuellar) he had a great camp. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if he trained with Rambo and The Rock. On Friday night it’s going to be me and hi; no managers or trainer fighting. He’s going to fight ‘Matrix’ Friday night.”

(L-R) Claudio Marrero, Mike Tyson, and Jesus Andres Cueller

Jesus Andres Cuellar: “I want to thank Mike Tyson for me being on his show. I also want to thank my manager, Sebastian Contursi. I had a great camp. I’m ready to win and take the title back to Argentina. I also want to thank my team and sponsors. Without you this wouldn’t be possible.”

Ed Paredes: “I’m honored to be fighting on Iron Mike’s first show. I grew-up watching Mike fight. He was a big puncher. I have power, too, and can punch with both hands. I’m looking for an explosion. Don’t blink! I’m putting on a great show and knockout.”

Alexei Collado: “I want to thank my promoters for giving me an opportunity to fight on his first show. I’m waiting for my opponent (Hugo Partida). He must be scared because he’s not here. I will be an angry man in the ring. I love fighting.”

Albert Bell: “I’m here to put my work in. I let my hands do my talking.”

(L-R) Albert Bell, Mike Tyson, Ed Paredes and Argenis Mendez

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit Ticketmaster.com

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

VERONA, N.Y. (August 21, 2013) – The final press conference forIron Mike Productions’ inaugural event this Friday evening – “Tyson Is Back!” – was held today at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, recently partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

“Tyson Is Back!” features a World Championship doubleheader on ESPN Friday Night Fights, headlined by International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) making his first world title defense, in the 12-round main event against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs). Unbeaten Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, meets WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

Providing chief support are a pair of 10-round fights featuring Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Mexican-Cuban” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) against Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while welterweight Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs) faces another tough Mexican fighter, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard is unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY), in a six-round bout.

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action former World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight champion Mauricio “Cry Baby” Martinez (36-14-1, 24 KOs) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Mike Tyson: “It is my privilege and an honor to be at Turning Stone for my first show. I’m privileged to have the champion, Argenis Mendez, who is going against Arash Usmanee. We also have ‘The Matrix,’ Claudio Marrero fighting Jesus Andres Cuellar. I’m really excited about this show.”

“I have such an affinity for this place (upstate N.Y.). I won the state championship in Syracuse. A lot of my childhood friends will be at the fights.”

“I think fans should vote for who they want to fight. Should the winner of this fight (Mendez vs. Usmanee) fight (Yuriorkis) Gamboa?”

“I never want to be back in the ring. I understand what these guys are going through. We want to be known for being worthy but most fighters are shy.”

“In most fights you know who is going to win before the fight. It’s not going to be that way with us. We want the best fighting the best.”

“I’m going to watch them (IMP fighters), as a fan, and be so happy I’m not in there.”

Argenis Mendez: “In my opinion, he (Usmanee) did win that fight (controversial loss by 12-round decision to Rances Barthelemy in their IBF title eliminator to determine Mendez’ mandatory challenger), and that’s one of the main reasons I chose him to defend my world title.

“I understand how to train properly for a fight, what it entails, and I expect a great fight from him and me. I want to thank Iron Mike Productions – Garry Jonas, Henry Rivalta and Mike Tyson – and my trainer, Lee Beard, for such an intense camp. I also want to thank Garry Jonas and my manager, Jose Nunez, for being there through the good times and bad times. Jose has been a stableperson in my career.

“When I became champ, I didn’t lose my hungry. I’m aware of hunger. I’m sure Arash is hungry but I’m even hungrier than I was before. Friday night, you (Usmanee) will have to go through the storm, Argenis Mendez.”

Mendez & Usmanee

(L-R) — IBF junior lightweight champion Argenis Mendez, Mike Tyson, and challenger Arash Usmanee

Arash Usmanee: “I’ve worked so hard for so many years, it feels surreal to be here. I’m not going to let this opportunity pass. I want to thank my team – promoter (Greg Cohen), manager (Paul Keefe) and trainer (Eddie Mustafa Muhammad) – my sponsors and Mendez for giving me this opportunity. I had a good camp, I’m sure did too. We’ll have a good war and then, hopefully, we can do it again.”

Claudio Marrero: “I’m in excellent condition. I want to thank my fans for their support. I’m glad he (Cuellar) he had a great camp. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if he trained with Rambo and The Rock. On Friday night it’s going to be me and hi; no managers or trainer fighting. He’s going to fight ‘Matrix’ Friday night.”

Marrero & Cueller
(L-R) Claudio Marrero, Mike Tyson, and Jesus Andres Cueller

Jesus Andres Cuellar: “I want to thank Mike Tyson for me being on his show. I also want to thank my manager, Sebastian Contursi. I had a great camp. I’m ready to win and take the title back to Argentina. I also want to thank my team and sponsors. Withoutyou uys this wouldn’t be possible.”

Ed Paredes: “I’m honored to be fighting on Iron Mike’s first show. I grew-up watching Mike fight. He was a big puncher. I have power, too, and can punch with both hands. I’m looking for an explosion. Don’t blink! I’m putting on a great show and knockout.”

Alexei Collado: “I want to thank my promoters for giving me an opportunity to fight on his first show. I’m waiting for my opponent (Hugo Partida). He must be scared because he’s not here. I will be an angry man in the ring. I love fighting.”

Albert Bell: “I’m her eto put my work in. I let my hands do my talking.”

Bell & Paredes
(L-R) Albert Bell, Mike Tyson, Ed Paredes and Argenis Mendez

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

Former Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will make his debut as a professional boxing promoter with a world title doubleheader August 23 from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y., on the season finale of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra. Friday’s show, promoted by Tyson’s Iron Mike Productions, will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, WatchESPN and broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+. ESPN Deportes will televise Friday’s fights on Saturday, August 24, at 7 p.m.

The 12-round main event will feature an IBF title fight between Junior Lightweight titlist Argenis “La Tormenta” Méndez (21-2, 11 KOs) and Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs). Friday’s co-feature will be a 12-round WBA interim title fight between undefeated Featherweight Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs) and Jesús Cuellar (22-1, 18 KOs).

New Picture (13)
Watch Teddy Atlas and Joe Tessitore preview Friday’s fights

Commentators:
Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas will be ringside describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will be at Turning Stone Resort Casino presenting all the latest boxing news and highlights. Delvin Rodriguez, will call the fights with Pablo Viruega for ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates (Friday Night Fights) on both ESPN Deportes+ and ESPN Deportes, while Leopoldo Gonzalez and Claudia Trejos will anchor the studio.

Studio Interviews:
Grisham will interview Tyson for ESPN2’s studio show. Retired boxing referee Joe Cortez will be in studio for ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates and will discuss the challenges of officiating major fights. Cortez will also score Friday’s fights.

Main Event:
New York’s Méndez won the IBF Junior Lightweight title in his last fight with a fourth-round knockout win over defending titlist Juan Carlos Salgado, while Las Vegas’ Usmanee is looking to rebound from a 12-round decision loss to Rances Barthelemy.

“I think Usmanee’s a good fighter and throws a lot of punches,” Méndez’s trainer Lee Beard said. “I believe that Méndez is a much better fighter, much more talented. He has speed and power in both hands. As long as he does what he’s supposed to do, there’s only one person that’s going to win this fight, and that’s Mendez.”

Usmanee said of Friday’s fight, “Mendez is a great boxer. He is very talented and has good speed and power. He’s a well-rounded fighter and I’m preparing for the best 130-pounder on this planet.”

Co-Feature:
Miami’s Marrero is looking to continue his winning ways after a fourth-round TKO win over former Bantamweight titlist Mauricio Martinez, while Argentina’s Cuellar scored a first-round TKO win over Gustavo Gonzalez in his last fight.

Follow ESPN’s Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook. Follow ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo. Also 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.

DEERFIELD, Fla. (August 16, 2013) – When amateur boxing star Albert “Prince” Bell signed a promotional contract with Acquinity Sports this past April, the 20-year-old from Toledo, Ohio, had no idea that, only four months later, he’d be promoted by Hall of Famer “Iron” Mike Tyson.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, recently partnered with Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting its first event on August 23, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, “Tyson Is Back!”

“Tyson Is Back” features a World Championship doubleheader, airing on ESPN Friday Night Fights,live from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) headlines in his first world title defense against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

In the 12-round co-feature, undefeated Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, takes on WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

Bell (1-0, 1 KO) will be showcased on “Tyson Is Back!” in a four-round bout against former World Boxing Organization (WBO bantamweight champion Mauricio “Cry Baby” Martinez (36-14-1, 24 KOs).

“We have high hopes for Albert Bell,” Tyson remarked. “He was an outstanding amateur boxer who has very good skills. We plan to help cultivate him into a world champion.”

A gold-medal winner as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament, Bell defeated several amateur boxers who, like Bell, are also solid pro prospects: Toka Kahn-Clary (6-0, 5 KOs), Kendo Castaneda (4-0, 1 KOs) and Pedro Duran (2-0, 2 KOs).

“Bell joined a talented group of young fighters and now he has the great Mike Tyson as his promoter,” Iron Mike Productions COO Henry Rivalta said. “It doesn’t get much better then that for a 20-year-old prospect. We’re developing our young warriors like Albert into sensational fighters. Garry (Jonas) and I are working tirelessly to build a stable of fighters who will be in major fights for years to come.”

Providing chief support are a pair of 10-round fights featuring Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Mexican-Cuban” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) against Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while welterweight Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs) faces another tough Mexican fighter, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs).

Collado, now fighting out of Miami, is rated No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the IBF, and Paredes is one of only two welterweights in the world currently ranked among the top 15 in all four major sanctioning bodies: World Boxing Council (WBC) & WBA No. 3, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 11, and IBF No. 13.

Also fighting on the undercard in a six-round bout is undefeated Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs), squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY).

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (August 15, 2013) — Trainers working at Iron Mike Boxing Gym recently discussed the progress of their fighters in terms of how training camp has developed for Iron Mike Productions’ first event – “Tyson is Back!” – August 23 at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), Alexei “The Cuban-Mexican” Collado and Albert “Prince” Bell are three fighters training at Iron Mike Boxing GYM who will be in action Aug. 23.

Team Iron Mike Boxing co-head trainers are veteran corner-man Herman Caicedo, who was recently joined by two-time world champion John David Jackson.

Anybody who loves boxing knows about “Irish” Micky Ward. The epic Gatti-Ward battles are always mentioned by experts, analysts and boxing fans as one of greatest trilogies in boxing history. Now, as a supervisor at the Iron Mike Boxing Gym, Ward is seen early every day, passing on his valuable experience to all the boxers that train under the direction of Caicedo.

Ward & marrero
(L-R) — “Irish” Micky Ward & Claudio Marrero

Marrero, Juan Carlos Payano, Lenin Castillo and Felix Diaz had great amateur boxing experience and these days, as professionals, they’re proving their tremendous successes in international tournaments was not a fluke. Marrero has all the tools to become one of the most exciting fighters in the world at 126-pounds, mixing a rare combination of outstanding speed and strength.

Marrero faces dangerous Argentinian southpaw Jesus Andres Cuellar in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association featherweight championship. Marrero-Cuellar is half of a World Championship “Tyson Is Back!” doubleheader, airing live on ESPN Friday Night Fights. Marrero’s stable-mate, International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs), makes his first world title defense in the 12-round main event against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs).

Claudio Lamothe, a former amateur boxer in Cuba who has a college degree in Physical Education, has applied all his experience and knowledge of Cuban boxing as Caideo’s assistant with fighters such as Collado, Humberto Savigne, Yudel Jhonson and Robert Alfonso. Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) meets Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round bout on Aug. 23.

Collado & lamothe
Claudio Lamothe (forefront) & Alexei Collado (gloved)

Lamothe is convinced that Collado’s will keep his unbeaten record intact. “In every fight we learn something,” Lamothe said, “but when work in the GYM is well planned, the margin of mistake decreases, and that’s what we try to achieve with all our fighters. Alexei Collado has an impressive record and our work is focused on improving him, getting him in great shape and learning the best technique. Coming to U.S. was a dream comes true, now we must keep our goals in mind, and I know that Collado will do a great job in this fight.”

Andy Bell is the father and coach of his son, super featherweight Albert Bell (1-0, 1 KO), the 2011 PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament gold medalist. Bell, who takes on former World Boxing Organization (WBO bantamweight champion Mauricio “Cry Baby” Martinez (36-14-1, 24 KOs), of Panama, in a four-round bout, made his successful professional debut June 28, defeating Harold Torres by technical knockout in four rounds. “Training with these talented guys is a privilege for us,” Andy remarked. “Little by little, Albert is gaining experience, something we knew we wouldn’t have in a single day. We are happy to be part of the Iron Mike Productions team and in this fight. We go into it looking for another win and more experience.”

The Bells
(L-R) — Albert & Andy Bell

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

DEERFIELD, Fla. (August 9, 2013) – One of the most avoided welterweights in the world, Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs) returns to the ring August 23 on the “Iron Mike Returns!” card, representing the debut promotional event for Iron Mike Productions, formerly Acquinity Sports, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

“Tyson Is Back” features a World Championship doubleheader on ESPN Friday Night Fights, headlined by International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) making his initial world title defense, in the 12-round main event against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs).

Undefeated Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, meets WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

After his impressive win against former world champion Vivian Harris by TKO in July 2012 in Florida, Paredes has since registered two more victories, the first against Hector Munoz by unanimous decision on November 30, along with a third-round knockout of Basilio Silva on April 13 in the Dominican Republic.

The 28-year-old Paredes is one of only two welterweights in the world who is currently ranked among the top 15 in all four major sanctioning bodies: World Boxing Council (WBC) & WBA #3, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 11, and IBF No. 13. Paredes will also be participating in the WBC World Cup, organized by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and its President, Mr. Mauricio Sulaiman.

The hard-hitting Paredes is scheduled to fight Mexican invader Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs) on Aug. 23rd in a 10-round bout. “We are now very close to a title shot,” Paredes said from his Miami training camp. “I need to stay near the top in the rankings to achieve that world title fight. I’m determined to look good and impressive on August 23rd. I’m excited to be fighting on this card and can’t wait to get in the ring. I’d also like to thank the WBC for allowing me to compete in the World Cup.”

Paredes logo

‘We have an amazing schedule for the second half of 2013 in which we anticipate having the world title fight that Ed Paredes is looking for,” Iron Mike Productions COO Henry Rivalta said. “We are making our debut under the Iron Mike Productions banner, but our fighters are experienced and ready, and Ed Paredes will be better prepared to face the best welterweights in the world after his August 23rd fight.”

Also scheduled to fight in the “Tyson Is Back!” card is Cuban KO specialist Alexei “The Hurricane” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs), who will meet Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round bout.

Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are undefeated Bahamian light heavyweight Ryan “Big Youth” McKenzie (13-0, 11 KOs), now residing in Canastota, New York against an opponent to be determined, and unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY).

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action against New York City super featherweight Angel Siguenza (0-1) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

EERFIELD, Fla. (August 8, 2013) – Unbeaten Dominican featherweight contender Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs) will face Argentina’s Jesus Andres Cuellar (22-1-0, 23 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim world title on August 23rd at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

This will mark the first event promoted by Iron Mike Productions, formerly Acquinity Sports, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, and it will be broadcast live on ESPN Friday Night Fights. Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions.

Marrero’s stable-mate, International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) makes his first world title defense against IBF No. 13-rated challenger Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

Marrero understood that this fight be a tough test and he has trained accordingly for the most significant fight of his young professional career. “I understand that Jesus Cuellar is an aggressive fighter who has a high percentage of knockouts,” Marrero said. “However, we believe that he is not invincible, and we will defeat him. We have two different styles. I am sure I have the skills to win, either by unanimous decision or by KO.”

Marrero posed

Iron Mike Productions COO Henry Rivalta added, “He (Marrero) is training for the fight of his life. Argentina has great fighters like Lucas Matthysee, Sergio Martinez and Marcos Maidana, who have all proven themselves. In the Marrero-Cuellar fight, we will see the rise of a new star, Claudio Marrero”

Marrero, the WBA’s top-ranked featherweight at No. 2 (No. 1 unrated), is a stylish southpaw from the Dominican Republic, while the WBA No. 4-ranked Cuellar will be fighting out his native country for the first time as a professional.

Providing chief support are two 10-rounders showcasing Cuban KO king, featherweight lightweight Alexei “The Hurricane” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) and world welterweight contender Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs). Collado, now fighting out of Miami, takes on Mexican veteran Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while Paredes faces another tough Mexican, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs). Collado is rated No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the IBF. Paredes is one of only two welterweights in the world who is currently ranked among the top 15 in all four major sanctioning bodies: World Boxing Council (WBC) & WBA #3, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 11, and IBF No. 13.

Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are undefeated Bahamian light heavyweight Ryan “Big Youth” McKenzie (13-0, 11 KOs), now residing in Canastota, New York against an opponent to be determined, and unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY).

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action against New York City super featherweight Angel Siguenza (0-1) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

DEERFIELD, Fla. (August 7, 2013) – International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) has been training in England for his first world title defense on August 23, airing live on ESPN Friday Night Fights, against challenger Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs), from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Mendez vs. Usmanee represents the main event on the intitial event promoted by Iron Mike Productions, “Tyson Is Back!”, a scheduled 12-round war between the 2004 Dominican Republic Olympian (Mendez) and Afghanistan-native (Usmanee) who lives in Montreal.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

Mendez, rated No. 2 in the world by The Ring Magazine, fights for the first time since he captured his IBF belt this past March, dismantling defending champion Juan Carlos Salgado (26-1-1) in a rematch that ended with a sensational knockout in the fourth round.

IBF No. 13-rated Usmanee is a five-time Canadian National amateur champion who is a former North American Boxing Association (NABA) super featherweight and World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas lightweight champion.

Mendez lives in Miami but trains in England with his head trainer, Lee Beard. Mendez checked in last week from training camp, to report, “We’re in the final stage of training camp. I had a strenuous workout last Saturday in the mountains. Working out there is so tough. I need to go past my regular training limits to defend my title. Only weeks remain for me to get ready to fight for my country, Dominican Republic.”

“We are almost ready for August 23rd. My speed will be a big problem for Usmanee. I’m the best Dominican fighter and as world champion I must be 100-percent ready for this and all my fights. I’m the best super featherweight on this planet.”

“I know how to get the best out of people and Mendez came out like a caged beast in his last fight to win the world title,” Iron Mike Productions CEO Garry Jonas said. “Argenis is the best fighter in the world at 130 pounds, hands down. He leads an incredible team we have here for years to come.”

“We have no doubt in our company that Argenis Mendez is the best super featherweight out there at this time,” Iron Mike Productions COO Henry Rivalta added. “We are witnessing an athlete who has all the elements to become an elite boxer and future pound-for- pound fighter. Fans at Turning Stone, or those watching on ESPN, will see an exceptional fighter in Argenis Mendez.”

The 12-round co-feature on “Tyson Is Back” matches undefeated Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, against WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

Providing chief support are a pair of 10-round fights featuring Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Hurricane” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) and welterweight Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs). Collado, now fighting out of Miami, takes on Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while Paredes faces another tough Mexican, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs). Collado is rated No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the IBF. Paredes is one of only two welterweights in the world who is currently ranked among the top 15 in all four major sanctioning bodies: World Boxing Council (WBC) & WBA #3, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 11, and IBF No. 13.

Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are undefeated Bahamian light heavyweight Ryan “Big Youth” McKenzie (13-0, 11 KOs), now residing in Canastota, New York against an opponent to be determined, and unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY).

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action against New York City super featherweight Angel Siguenza (0-1) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

DEERFIELD, Fla. (August 6, 2013) – A stacked undercard showcasing world-class boxers, promising prospects and local favorites has been announced by Iron Mike Productions for its inaugural event on August 23, “Tyson Is Back!”, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which is presenting “Tyson Is Back!” in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

“Tyson Is Back” features a World Championship doubleheader, airing live on ESPN Friday Night Fights, and headlined by International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) in his first world title defense against IBF No. 13-rated Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

Unbeaten Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs), rated No. 2 by the WBA, against WBA No. 4 Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature for the Interim World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight championship.

Providing chief support are a pair of 10-round fights featuring Cuban knockout artist Alexei “The Hurricane” Collado (16-0, 15 KOs) and welterweight Ed “The Lion” Paredes (33-3-1, 22 KOs). Collado, now fighting out of Miami, takes on Mexican featherweight Hugo “Guerrero” Partida (19-4-2, 15 KOs), while Paredes faces another tough Mexican, Noe “Platanito” Bolanos (24-8-1, 16 KOs). Collado is rated No. 14 by the WBA and No. 15 by the IBF. Paredes is one of only two welterweights in the world who is currently ranked among the top 15 in all four major sanctioning bodies: World Boxing Council (WBC) & WBA #3, World Boxing Organization (WBO) No. 11, and IBF No. 13.

“The quality of our undercard is spectacular,” Iron Mike Productions COO Henry Rivalta said. “On any other ESPN Friday Night Fights card, Ed Paredes and Alexi Collado would be fighting in the main event and co-feature. This is the debut show for Iron Mike Productions, so we wanted to load-up the card from top to bottom. Paredes is No. 3 in the world and one of the most avoided welterweights. The fact Carlos Burgos turned down a fight against Collado gives everyone and idea of what top opponents feel about Alexei.”

Also fighting on the undercard in six-round bouts are undefeated Bahamian light heavyweight Ryan “Big Youth” McKenzie (13-0, 11 KOs), now residing in Canastota, New York against an opponent to be determined, and unbeaten Virginian middleweight Antoine Douglas (8-0, 6 KOs) squares-off against Russell “Spiderman” Jordan (15-10, 10 KOs), of Rochester (NY).

Former Toledo-Ohio-based amateur star, Albert “Prince” Bell (1-0, 1 KO), is back in action against New York City super featherweight Angel Siguenza (0-1) in a four-round match. The 20-year-old Bell captured gold medals as an amateur at the 2011 National PAL Championships and 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Mendez, Marrero, Collado, Paredes and Bell were promoted by Acquinity Sports and are now fighting under the Iron Mike Productions banner.

Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 are on sale and available to purchase at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m. ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

DEERFIELD, Fla. (August 5`, 2013) – Acquinity Sports, under CEO Garry Jonas, has partnered with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson to form Iron Mike Productions, which makes its promotional debut August 23 with the presentation of the “Tyson Is Back!” event, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

“Tyson Is Back” will feature a World Championship doubleheader, airing live on the 2013 season ESPN Friday Night Fights finale.

International Boxing Federation (IBF) super featherweight champion Argenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) headlines in his first world title defense against Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event.

In the 12-round co-feature, undefeated Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs) takes on Jesus Cueller (22-1, 18 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim featherweight title.

“This is something I never anticipated,” Tyson said about promoting. “I’m very excited and looking forward to catering to the public. It’s really all about insuring a good night of boxing. I’m grateful to (Acquinity Sports CEO) Garry Jonas and Vice President of Boxing Operations) Henry Rivalta for welcoming me into the boxing promotions business with open arms.

“I’m am thrilled, bringing my first fight as Iron Mike Productions to the Turning Stone Casino for ESPN2. Upstate New York is very special to me and brings back nostalgic memories when I was a determined amateur on the rise. I want to be there and guide my fighters as they take these same stepping stones in their quest for greatness. We plan to put on an exciting and entertaining fight on August 23rd.”

“We are very excited about partnering with Mike Tyson,” Iron Mike Promotions CEO Garry Jonas said. “He brings so much to the table. We are promoters; Mike’s already the best boxing promoter in the business because, when Mike talks, boxing people listen. Mike can bring more attention and exposure to a fighter than anyone else out there. With his continued success and rise as an entertainer, Mike’s progression into being a very successful promoter made a lot of sense.

“I appreciate very much that Mike, his wife Kiki, and brother-in-law Azim, chose us to partner with. It validates the things we’ve been doing in boxing for the past two years, as well as the plans that we have. We plan on doing things differently. I think boxing fans and sports fans in general will appreciate what’s to come.

“I wanted to thank Brian Kweder and ESPN for going out of their way to get Iron Mike’s debut event on air. ESPN being in 115 million homes allows all of Mike’s fans to tune in, giving our fighters maximum exposure. Mike started his boxing career on ESPN, so I think it’s fitting he starts his promotional career there as well.”

Dominican Republic native Mendez, rated No. 2 in the world by The Ring Magazine, fights for the first time since he captured his IBF belt this past March, when he destroyed Juan Carlos Salgado (26-1-1) in a rematch culminating with a sensational knockout in the fourth round. Mendez now fights out of Miami.

IBF No. 13-rated Usmanee, a native of Afghanistan who fights out of Montreal, is a five-time Canadian National amateur champion. The Greg Cohen-promoted challenger is a former North American Boxing association super featherweight and World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas lightweight champion.

Marrero, the WBA’s top-ranked featherweight at No. 2 (No. 1 unrated), is a stylish southpaw from the Dominican Republic who has defeated Emmanuel Lucero (DEC10), Fernando Wary Beltran (TKO3) and Mauricio Martinez (TKO4) in his last three fights.

Argentine-invader Cuellar will be fighting out his native country for the first time as a professional. The 26-year-old, rated No. 4 by the WBA, is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Latino, Interim Fedalatin and Argentine featherweight champion.

“This show is a great way to close out the 2013 season on ESPN Friday Night Fights,” added Henry Rivalta, COO Iron Mike Promotions. “I want to thank Brian Kweder (ESPN FNF programming director) for giving us this tremendous opportunity, as well as Turning Stone for hosting our new company’s first event. We’re going to put on an action-packed card, featuring some of the best up-and-coming talent in the world, who will be fighting in competitive, entertaining fights.

“I’m very happy to be part of this team of individuals, led by Gary (Jonas) and Mike (Tyson), and running our stable of great, young fighters. Mendez and Marrero are prime examples of the type fighters Iron Mike Productions, as Acquinity Sports, developed during the last two years. There is only one Mike Tyson and his presence and input insures that we will be a force in boxing for years to come. Our goal is to give loyal boxing fans what they really want and August 23rd is going to be the start of something very special for all of us.”

Undercard fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets priced at $150, $95, $55 and $45 go on sale today, Monday, August 5 at the Turning Stone box office, by calling (315) 361-7469, or visit www.Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Event Center at 6:00 p.m. ET, Friday, August 23. The first undercard bout starts at 7:00 p.m ET. The live ESPN2 telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Iron Mike Productions, previously Acquinity Sports, is a boxing promotion company co-founded and led by Acquinity Interactive CEO Garry Jonas. It is a partnership with Hall of Famer Mike Tyson committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.TurningStone.com.

LAS VEGAS, July 26, 2013 — Former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, who went from reform school to become known as “the baddest man on the planet,” has announced that he will attend the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame’s inaugural induction gala on Saturday, August 10 at the Monte Carlo Resort in Las Vegas.

A member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Tyson is one of three Nevada resident boxers who make up the NVBHOF’s initial class of 19. The others are Mike McCallum, who will attend the ceremony, and the late Diego “Chico” Corrales. Corrales’ wife, Michelle, will accept the award in his memory.

Tyson knocked out Trevor Berbick in the second round at the Las Vegas Hilton on Nov. 22, 1986, to become, at 20, the youngest heavyweight champion in history. “Iron” Mike fought many of his most significant bouts in the Silver State and went 13-2 with nine knockouts in Nevada.

In his legendary career, Tyson was 50-6 with 44 KOs.

“I am truly honored by this induction,” said Tyson, a resident of Henderson, Nev. “It’s an extraordinary feeling to be recognized for my accomplishments by the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame. It’s very nostalgic at this stage of my life to look back with dignity on my career and how much the state of Nevada has contributed to my legacy.”

McCallum, who is also a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, was 6-1 in seven fights in Nevada. The signature win over his career was a devastating, one-punch knockout of Donald Curry at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas in 1987.

McCallum turned pro in Las Vegas, defeating Rigoberto Lopez with a fourth-round knockout in 1981.

Corrales, who died tragically in a motor vehicle accident in 2007, was one of boxing’s top action fighters of the late 1990s and early 2000s. He knocked out Jose Luis Castillo in the 10th around of a lightweight title fight at Mandalay Bay in 2005 that is regarded by many who saw it as one of the greatest bouts in boxing history.

Corrales was knocked down twice in the 10th round of that fight, and seemed to be on the verge of being stopped, when he arose and hit Castillo with a big right that hurt the Mexican star. Corrales, one of the game’s best finishers, put an end to the bout with a brutal display of power punching.

He ended his career with a 40-5 record and 33 knockouts.

Tyson, McCallum and Corrales are among 19 inductees in eight categories who will be honored at the much anticipated gala dinner.

Other notable fighters who plan to attend include ex-heavyweight champion Larry Holmes and former multi-division world champion Julio César Chávez Sr. Both men were chosen in the non-Nevada resident category.

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is an IRS 501-c-3 non-profit organization that was founded in 2012 by noted broadcaster Rich Marotta. Tickets for the gala and donations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.

Tickets in the $250 category are sold out, but tickets at $150 and $50 are still available. The $150 tickets include dinner, but the $50 tickets do not.

For more information on the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame and its mission, visit its website at http://www.nvbhof.com. The Hall also has a social media presence on Twitter at @nvbhof and on Facebook at Facebook.com/nvbhof.

For more information on the dinner or any of the Hall’s activities, phone 775-384-1903.

Mike Tyson has thrown his name into the promotional ring and will promote the season Finale of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights on August 23rd at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

Junior lightweight world titleholder Argenis Mendez (21-2, 11 KOs) will make his first title defense when he faces Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs) in the main event. In the co-feature, Claudio Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs) will face Jesus Andres Cuellar (22-1, 18 KOs) for a vacant interim featherweight title.

“We are thrilled to be finishing off the ‘Friday Night Fights’ season with Mike Tyson’s first-ever fight card as a promoter,” said ESPN senior director of programming and acquisitions Brian Kweder, who programs boxing for the network. “The quality of the card that he and his team have put together for boxing fans is fantastic.”

“I think Marrero is a stud,” Iron Mike Productions promoter Garry Jonas said. “I expect him to handle Cuellar and show his skills on national TV. And Mendez-Usmanee will be an entertaining fight. Usmanee is a go forward guy and Mendez loves guys who come forward. We knew he had an optional defense we could make before we’d have to fight Barthelemy, so we figured let’s give Usmanee the shot because we thought he beat Barthelemy.”

“We’ve been around going on two years and we have a champion [Mendez], some ranked fighters and a lot of good talent, but we weren’t getting the TV dates,” Jonas said. “There’s not enough to go around from HBO, Showtime, ESPN and the others. We had to do something to bring notoriety and attention and Mike was the perfect fit.

“We brought Mike down to see what we were doing at Acquinity Sports. We have our fighters live and train with us in Florida. We give them a really disciplined environment. We really wanted to put more organization in it, make it like a team. When Mike saw what we were doing he said it reminded him of what it was like when he was with [late trainer and adoptive father] Cus D’Amato when he was young. Hopefully, he will bring us some of the attention we need. But besides that he will help us with the young fighters, work with them, help recruit them. We hope to do some interesting things.”

Said Henry Rivalta, who heads boxing operations for the company, “Mike sees how we are a mentor for the fighters, a situation that he had with Cus. He was happy with what he saw from us and he said he is going all in.”

AS VEGAS, NEV. (June 7, 2013) — Legends MIKE TYSON, SUGAR RAY LEONARD and OSCAR DE LA HOYA head up the list to be feted at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

The star-studded inaugural class of the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame will be officially inducted in a gala dinner on Saturday, August 10, at the Monte Carlo Resort & Casino.

Tickets for the event, ranging from $50 to $250, will go on sale on This Monday! June 10, at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT at the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame website at http://nvbhof.com.

The 19 inductees represent some of the best in the sport’s glorious history in Nevada and includes 12 who are already in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

The Hall’s board of directors selected the 19 enshrinees in eight categories: Nevada resident boxers; Non-Nevada resident boxers; Officials; Trainers; Promoters; Media; Executives; and Special Contributors.

“A true Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame has been long overdue, considering this state’s rich tradition in the sport,” NVBHOF founder and CEO Rich Marotta said. “The NVBHOF is ready to honor the significant contributors to boxing in Nevada. Our board of directors has been pointing to this night and is planning a gala, Las Vegas-worthy event. The Nevada boxing community comes together August 10.”

Some of boxing’s greatest champions and most well known names are among those who will be honored at the Monte Carlo.

Former undisputed heavyweight champion “Iron” Mike Tyson, former three-division world champion Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum and two-division world champion Diego “Chico” Corrales were chosen in the Nevada resident category.

The non-Nevada resident category is comprised of nothing but members of the International Boxing Hall of Fame: Former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes; 1976 Olympic gold medalist and multiple division world champion Sugar Ray Leonard; Julio César Chávez, México’s greatest boxer; and Oscar De La Hoya, boxing’s biggest pay-per-view star and a world title-holder in six weight classes.

The legendary Eddie Futch and Freddie Roach were chosen in the Trainers category. In the Officials category, open to both referees and judges, voters selected Mills Lane and Joe “Fair But Firm” Cortez.

Long-time Showtime and ESPN broadcaster Al Bernstein and former Las Vegas Review-Journal boxing writer Royce Feour are the inductees in Media.

Bob Arum of Top Rank and Don King of Don King Productions, arguably the two greatest promoters in the sport’s history, are going in together in the Promoters’ division.

Two long-time contributors to the Nevada Athletic Commission, former executive director Marc Ratner and ex-commissioner Dr. James Nave, were the picks in the Executives division.

And in the Special Contributors class, chosen were MGM Grand owner Kirk Kerkorian and Las Vegas power broker Sig Rogich.

In addition to inducting its first class, the NVBHOF will announce selections for male and female professional Fighter of the Year from Nevada; its Nevada Fight of the Year; as well as its Nevada Prospect and Amateur of the Year.

Gold Circle Ringside VIP tickets are $250 apiece or $2,500 for a table of 10. The ticket includes dinner, preferred seating and other amenities to be announced shortly. Ringside tickets are $150 per ticket or $1,500 for a table of 10. It includes dinner and a seat for the gala. A limited number of $50 General Admission tickets that do not include dinner but will allow access to the gala, will also be available.

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit charity organization committed to helping boxing-related causes. In keeping with its mission, the NVBHOF will award its donations to several groups, organizations, clubs and schools working hard to promote the positive aspects of boxing.

You can “like” NVBHOF on Facebook (facebook.com/nvbhof) and follow it on Twitter (@nvbhof). For more information on the Hall of Fame, the induction ceremony or the Hall’s mission, phone 775-384-1903 or visit its website at http://nvbhof.com.

The May 24 edition of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra will feature former Junior Middleweight and Welterweight title challenger Delvin Rodriguez (27-6-3, 15 KOs) and former Welterweight title challenger Freddy “El Riel” Hernandez (30-4, 1 ND, 20 KOs) in the 10-round Junior Middleweight main event. Friday’s show from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., will air live at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2 HD, ESPN Deportes and WatchESPN. Friday’s card is promoted by Star Boxing.

Commentators:
Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas will be ringside describing the action for ESPN2 HD, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will be on site presenting all the latest boxing news and highlights. Pablo Viruega and Leopoldo Gonzalez will call this week’s fights ringside for ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates (Friday Night Fights) with Claudia Trejos anchoring the studio on site. Bilingual reporter Bernardo Osuna (@osunaespn) will present live interviews and reports for both shows.

Main Event:
Connecticut’s Rodriguez, who also doubles as a boxing analyst for ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates, is making his 16th fighting appearance on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights. Rodriguez has had impressive wins throughout his career, including wins over Mike Arnaoutis (W12), Shamone Alvarez (W12), Oscar Diaz (TKO11) and a 10-round unanimous decision win in a rematch over Pawel Wolak, which led to a Junior Middleweight title shot against defending titlist Austin Trout. Rodriguez’s first match against Wolak–a 10-round draw televised on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights–was named “2011 Fight of the Year” by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA). In his last fight in February, Rodriguez scored a sixth-round TKO win over George Tahdooahnippah.

After the fight, ESPN.com boxing writer Dan Rafael (@danrafaelespn) wrote: “Rodriguez, with his home-state fans loudly behind him, simply pummeled Tahdooahnippah, who had nothing but heart and a good chin. Rodriguez nearly stopped him late in the second round as he teed off with flush right hands over and over. Rodriguez opened a cut on the bridge of Tahdooahnippah’s nose in the third and continued to pound him relentlessly, round after round. This was a strong performance from Rodriguez against an utterly overmatched but game foe.”

California’s Hernandez, who challenged former titlist Andre Berto for his WBC Welterweight belt in 2010, enters Friday’s fight with wins over former world titlists Luis Callazo (W10), Mike Anchondo (TKO4) and DeMarcus Corley (KO5). Hernandez is looking to get back to his winning ways following a 10-round unanimous decision loss to 2008 Olympian Demetrius Andrade in his last fight in January.

“He (Hernandez) needs to get a ‘W’ now to get some more opportunities, and he’s fighting a guy who’s going to give him that opportunity,” advisor Nigel Burns said. “That’s not a knock on Rodriguez, but Rodriguez is more of a fighter than a boxer. I think it should be a good fight. Rodriguez is a good fighter and has fought some good people, and I expect him to actually stand in the pocket and trade with us.”

Co-Feature:
Friday’s 10-round co-feature will pit undefeated Junior Welterweight Issouf “Volcano” Kinda (16-0, 6 KOs) against Chris “Hurricane” Howard (15-2-1, 7 KOs). Kinda scored a second-round knockout win over Javier Loya in his last fight, while Howard is coming off an upset third-round TKO win over Bayan Jargal.

Friday Night Fights-Best KOs & Mike Tyson’s Greatest Hits to Air Before Friday’s Show:
ESPN2 and WatchESPN will air the best KOs of Friday Night Fights at 9 p.m. and Mike Tyson’s Greatest Hits at 9:30 p.m. prior to Friday’s live show at 10 p.m.

Follow ESPN’s Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook. Follow ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo. Also 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.

Makeup hid the facial tattoo, but there’s no disguise for Mike Tyson.

Never will be.

Tyson’s guest appearance Wednesday night on Law & Order: SVU has been called competent by television critics, who know a lot more about the performing arts than anybody in a ringside seat. Tyson plays Reggie Rhodes, a death-row inmate and victim of multiple child rapes.

Tyson’s role is complicated and controversial, mostly because of his rape conviction in 1992. From this ringside seat, there’s nothing new about that. He’s always been complicated and controversial, regardless of whether that role has him between the ropes, on stage, or in prison.

Like boxing promoters, that’s what Law & Order: SVU was selling. Complications and controversy attract an audience. No secret in that formula. Tyson wears both better than ever. Like the Maori tattoo he got in 2003, they look as if they’ve always been there

When NBC announced the episode a few months ago, there were predictable condemnations and a Change.org petition with more than 15,000 signatures demanding that Tyson be removed from the cast. No chance of that. Promoters and producers, alike, understand the value of publicity, controversial or not.

No matter what you believe about Tyson, his new found life on stage is as fascinating as his former one was in the ring. It’s also another contradiction among many in a personality that is predator, prey and everything in between. Tyson can’t act. He just plays himself. Few do it so well. It’s the genuine in him, I think, that makes him so compelling.

In the Rhodes role, Tyson appears in the prison garb he has worn and looks out from behind the bars he has seen. Early in the show, the predator’s anger flashes when he tells detective Fin Tutuola, played by Ice-T, to get the hell away from him. The prey’s vulnerability is there when he tells an attorney and detective about growing up as an abused kid. In the end, he hugs the attorney and a detective who saved him from the executioner’s needle. Within an hour, it’s Tyson in a shot glass, 180 proof.

There are some subtle touches. The Rhodes character is an inmate in an Ohio prison, which is the state where Tyson’s former promoter, Don King, served almost four years on a manslaughter charge committed in Cleveland during the 1960s. The Rhodes character was convicted for a murder in Cleveland, King’s hometown.

Since Tyson’s release in 1995 after three years in an Indiana prison for rape, he has always said he was innocent of the crime. Believe what you want about his conviction. I have no way of knowing what happened on that night in Indianapolis with Desiree Washington.

I do know this: As a writer for The Arizona Republic, I reported in 2001 that Tyson underwent a polygraph in Phoenix that showed he was being truthful when he said he did not commit rape. At the time, he was being investigated for sexual assault in Big Bear, Calif., where he had been training for a victory over Brian Nielsen in Denmark.

According to a transcript of a polygraph conducted on Aug. 8 of 2001, Tyson answered four key questions. Three asked whether the alleged victim was forced into sex, whether she was harmed and whether she was restrained. Tyson answered no to each. In the fourth question, he was asked whether the sex was consensual. Yes, he said.

On the polygraph chart, Tyson scored +24. According to a scale devised at the University of Utah, he needed a +6 to be truthful. A -6 would have judged him a liar.

About 10 days after the polygraph, the San Bernardino (Calif.) County Attorney’s Office dropped the investigation of an incident alleged to have happened in Big Bear in mid-July.

Then, there is Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz, who cast doubt on Tyson’s 1992 conviction in his 2004 book, America On Trial, Inside The Legal Battles That Transformed Our Nation.

Dershowitz writes that evidence was withheld from the jury. Meanwhile, the jury also heard evidence that Dershowitz says was false. The professor also writes that three witnesses were not allowed to testify. He argues that their testimony would have kept Tyson out of a jail.

If this sounds familiar, it is. Wednesday’s fictional plot includes withheld evidence and altered evidence in a rigged process that resulted in the death penalty for Tyson’s character.

Coincidence? Maybe.

But Tyson’s life has always imitated art.

NORTH LAS VEGAS, NEV. (December 19, 2012) — Rich Marotta, founder and CEO of the newly-established Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame (NVBHOF), announced the NVBHOF’s historic inaugural class of inductees at a news conference today, which was held at the Richard Steele Boxing Club in North Las Vegas. Induction will take place in 2013. Details on the ceremony will be released in the coming months. Voting for the inaugural class of the NVBHOF was conducted by its officers and its Board of Directors. The results are as follows:

NEVADA RESIDENT BOXER:

· MIKE TYSON (50-6, 44 KOs). The former undisputed heavyweight champion was also the youngest man to wear the heavyweight crown during his first of three title reigns. He was renowned for his punching power and became boxing’s biggest draw. Tyson is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

· MIKE McCALLUM (49-5-1, 36 KOs). Held the WBA super welterweight, WBA middleweight and WBC light heavyweight titles. McCallum is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

· DIEGO CORRALES (40-5, 33 KOs). Held the IBF junior lightweight title and unified the WBO and WBC lightweight belts with a knockout victory over Jose Luis Castillo in arguably the greatest fight of his era.

NON-NEVADA RESIDENT BOXER

· JULIO CÉSAR CHÁVEZ (107-6-2, 88 KOs). México’s greatest fighter, this three-division world champion was unbeaten in his first 90 bouts. Made his Nevada debut in 1985, knocking out Roger Mayweather in the second round to retain his WBC lightweight title. Nevada record was 21-4.(12 KOs). Chavez is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

· LARRY HOLMES (69-6, 44 KOs). Known as ‘The Easton Assassin,’ Holmes had one of the great jabs in boxing history. He won the title from Ken Norton in an epic bout in 1978 and held it until 1985. A member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Holmes was 18-3 in fights in Nevada.

· OSCAR DE LA HOYA (39-6, 30 KOs). The ‘Golden Boy’ won 10 world titles in six weight classes. He was the biggest pay-per-view star of his time and his bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007 set the record with 2.5 million buys. He’s now the president of Golden Boy Promotions.

· SUGAR RAY LEONARD (36-3-1, 25 KOs). A 1976 Olympic gold medalist, Leonard was boxing’s top star of the 1980s. His wins over Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns and Roberto Duran remain among the most significant in the sport’s history. Leonard was 11-0-1 in 12 Nevada fights.

TRAINERS

· EDDIE FUTCH. The legendary Futch, a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, is regarded by many as the best trainer in boxing history. He trained greats such as Joe Frazier, Riddick Bowe, Michael Spinks and Alexis Arguello. He also mentored several great trainers and taught Freddie Roach the business.

· FREDDIE ROACH. The International Boxing Hall of Fame member is most known for his work with Manny Pacquiao, but he trained a series of great fighters, including the late Johnny Tapia and Mike Tyson. Roach is a five-time trainer of the year.

OFFICIALS

· MILLS LANE. Lane became arguably the top referee of his time with a fair but no-nonsense style that commanded the respect of the fighters he worked with. A former pro boxer with a 10-1 record, Lane worked many big fights, including Mike Tyson-Evander Holyfield II, Pernell Whitaker-Oscar De La Hoya and Riddick Bowe-Evander Holyfield II. Lane was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame and will be inducted in June.

· JOE CORTEZ. Nicknamed “Fair but Firm” for not only his familiar catchphrase but also his style, Cortez was one of boxing’s great referees during his 32-year career. Cortez worked many of the big fights of his era, including Floyd Mayweather-Ricky Hatton, Shane Mosley-Fernando Vargas, Erik Morales-Manny Pacquiao and Lennox Lewis-Hasim Rahman. Cortez is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

MEDIA

· AL BERNSTEIN. A familiar voice for more than 30 years as an analyst and play-by-play man on boxing broadcast, the affable Bernstein is best known for his work at ESPN and Showtime. He also served as the boxing analyst for NBC’s coverage of the Olympics in both 1992 and 1996. He is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

· ROYCE FEOUR. Feour covered boxing in Nevada for more than 40 years, the last 37 at the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He was ringside for all of the big fights as Nevada earned its label as the boxing capital of the world. His first major fight was Sonny Liston-Floyd Patterson in 1963, and he covered all of the big stars of the five decades.

PROMOTERS

· BOB ARUM. A one-time U.S. attorney in the Kennedy Administration, Arum became perhaps the most significant promoter in history. He promoted more than 20 fights involved Muhammad Ali and was also the promoter of stars such as Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, among many others. Arum’s Top Rank Inc. is based in Las Vegas and put on many of Nevada’s biggest events. Arum is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

· DON KING. King was a numbers runner in Cleveland whose quick wit and indomitable work ethic led him to become one of boxing’s greatest promoters. He led the careers of dozens of stars, including Mike Tyson, Felix Trinidad and Larry Holmes. He is a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

EXECUTIVES

· MARC RATNER. Ratner was the executive director of the Nevada Athletic Commission from 1992 through 2006, earning a reputation for honesty and fairness, as well as the top regulator in the sport. Prior to becoming executive director, Ratner was the chief inspector for the commission and worked closely with his predecessor, Chuck Minker. Ratner is now the vice president of regulatory affairs for the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

· JAMES NAVE. A local veterinarian, Nave was a member of the Nevada Athletic Commission for 11 years, from 1988 through 1999, and served two terms as its chairman. He was considered one of the sport’s top regulators and was a fierce advocate for fighter health and safety. Nevada made major strides in enforcing safety regulations during his tenure.

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

· SIG ROGICH. Rogich served on the Nevada Athletic Commission for 12 years, from 1974 through 1986, including several stints as chairman. For many years after his term on the commission ended, Rogich worked closely with major promoters to help bring major boxing shows to Nevada. The president of the Rogich Communications Group, Rogich was a confidante and advisor to Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush.

· KIRK KERKORIAN. A one-time amateur boxer of some note who was known as “Rifle Right Kerkorian,” Kerkorian helped bring big-time boxing to Nevada. He helped usher Las Vegas into the mega-resort age and his MGM Grand played host to some of the biggest fights in boxing history.

A non-profit corporation operated exclusively for charitable purposes, the NVBHOF will be dedicated to honoring boxers and those who have contributed significantly to the sport in Nevada. The other equally important part of the Hall’s mission will be to help those from the sport of boxing in need of financial assistance, as well as to help other boxing-related organizations which do the same. It will also support youth and amateur boxing programs, including the club boxing programs at the University of Nevada, Reno and UNLV.

“States such as California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Florida, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and most recently New York have their own Boxing Halls of Fame. I was astounded to learn that Nevada, with its rich boxing history, passionate fan base and the reputation as the Boxing Capital of the World, did not have its own Hall of Fame — a place to honor those who helped build its rich history in the sport,” Marotta said. “So we set out last summer to establish the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame as a non-profit, charitable organization to give back to the sport and its fans. In addition to an annual gala Induction Ceremony and Dinner, the NVBHOF will conduct other fund-raising events throughout the year to stay active within the state.”

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is an IRS 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization. Donations to the NV BHOF are tax-deductible, as are tickets purchased to NVBHOF-sponsored events. Donations can be made by visiting the NVBHOF website: www.nvbhof.com. You can “like” NVBHOF on Facebook (facebook.com/nvbhof) and follow it on Twitter (@nvbhof).

Mike Tyson talked Monday about life in the ring, life on the stage and about how surprised he is to be alive at all.

“Hey, I didn’t think I’d make it to 25,’’ Tyson, now 46, said during a conference call for a national tour of his Broadway show, “Mike Tyson: Undisputed Truth.”

It will stop in 36 cities, starting on Feb. 12 in Indianapolis where Tyson was convicted on a rape charge and including Feb. 24 in Phoenix where his daughter died.

In a wide-ranging interview with fight writers and the entertainment press, Tyson was relaxed and philosophical. The Spike-Lee directed show, he said, allows him to talk about circumstances and pressures that led to crazy headlines generated throughout his heavyweight reign. Through the years, he said, he has matured, finding fulfillment through acting and charity work that he never had in boxing.

“I really learned a lot about myself,’’ he said. “I learned I’m an interesting guy. I’m a guy who wants to fit in. I’m not sure where that came from.’’

Boxing is like acting in one way.

“The doubt and the fear of being a failure is there,’’ Tyson said.

But there is a difference.

“You don’t have to go to the hospital afterwards,’’ he said.

True to the show’s title, Tyson says little is out-of-bounds. The 80-minute script includes the pain of losing 4-year-old Exodus, who died in 2009 after a freak accident on a tread mill in Phoenix where Tyson had lived and trained for a few years following his release from prison in 1995.

“I talk about my daughter at the end of the show,’’ said Tyson, whose stop in Phoenix is scheduled for Comerica Theatre, just a few blocks of roadwork from where he trained at Central Boxing. “That’s not a pretty sight.’’

Tyson’s time in Arizona was a snapshot of who he was and how he is remembered.

In 1999, he was handcuffed by law enforcement authorities at Central and returned to jail for a road-rage incident in Maryland.

In 2001, he underwent a polygraph in Phoenix. He has always said he was not guilty of rape in Indianapolis. According to results acquired by The Arizona Republic, Tyson was truthful when he said he did not rape Desiree Washington.

A few years later, he was questioned about his relationship with Dale Hausner, who is currently sitting on death row for a series of murders committed between 2005 and 2006. Tyson said law enforcement came into the gym. They said they asked about Hausner, who had worked as a ringside photographer at Phoenix bouts.

“I was in a picture on his website,’’ Tyson said. “Turns out, the guy was going out and sniping people.’’

Today, Tyson says, he thinks of himself when he hears about the deaths of Hector Camacho, Johnny Tapia and Arturo Gatti.

“All the time, my friend, all the time,’’ he said. “They weren’t as reckless as I was. Reckless out in the open, if you know what I mean. I thought it could be me if I hadn’t made these changes in my life.’’

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 TMZ.com, former undisputed Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will be inducted in the WWE Hall of Fame.

Tyson will be inducted during the ceremony at American Airlines Arena in Miami, FL on March 31. As has become tradition, WrestleMania XXVIII takes place the following day.

Iron Mike tells TMZ, “I am honored to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. I was the youngest heavyweight champion of all time, but the most fun I ever had in the ring was with WWE.”

Tyson’s history with the WWE goes back to 1998 when, after a confrontation with Stone Cold Steve Austin on Monday Night Raw, Tyson served as special enforcer for the main event at WrestleMania XIV between Austin and Shawn Michaels (see above).

Tyson made his return to the WWE last year, when he hosted Monday Night Raw.

Other non-wrestlers in the WWE Hall of Fame include Drew Carey, Pete Rose and William “The Refrigerator” Perry.