As part of this year's induction ceremonies at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, NY, there will be a 30th anniversary reunion of perhaps the greatest United States Olympic Boxing team of all-time: The 1976 US Olympic Boxing team.
This team had a definite Beltway Boxing presence as three of its members lived in the Washington, DC area. Of course, we all know about gold medalist and hall of famer Sugar Ray Leonard, but other members from DC included silver medalist Sgt. Charles Mooney and Louis "Heidi" Curtis.
According to IBHOF Executive Director Ed Brophy, Leonard, Mooney and Curtis are among eight members of the team that have confirmed their attendance at the hall's induction ceremony on June 11. Also slated to attend are fellow gold medalists Leon Spinks, Howard Davis Jr. and Leo Randolph. along with team members Chuck Walker and Davey Armstrong.
Led by Leonard and Leon and Michael Spinks, the 1976 squad captured five gold medals, one silver and a bronze during the Games in Montreal.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
One Rumor Confirmed!
I can now confirm that Smithsburg, MD's Dean "Pit Bull" White WILL be on the undercard of the Diego Corrales-Jose Luis Castillo this Saturday night in Las Vegas. White will face undefeated Nick "Hands of Gold" Casal of Niagra Falls, NY in this contest.
That should be an interesting matchup. White has the capabilities of giving Casal some difficulty.
That should be an interesting matchup. White has the capabilities of giving Casal some difficulty.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Beltway Rumor Mill...
There are a couple of rumors floating around the Beltway that deserve some mention.
There is talk that former WBA Super Lightweight champion Sharmba Mitchell will be involved in a welterweight title bout on August 12 in Las Vegas. Mitchell may be facing WBO Welterweight titleholder Antonio Margarito on the undercard of the WBC Heavyweight title bout between champion Hasim Rahman and Oleg Maskaev.
I've read reports that say the choice comes down to either Mitchell or former WBO Junior Welterweight champ Felix Flores. This may end up being an easy choice in Mitchell's favor because Flores has a bout scheduled for this Friday, June 2. If Flores doesn't come out of this bout well, Mitchell may end up getting the shot.
The other rumor involves Smithsburg, MD super featherweight Dean "Pit Bull" White. I'm hearing that White will be on this Saturday's Diego Corrales-Jose Luis Castillo undercard in Las Vegas. White will be moving to 140 pounds to face undefeated Nick "Hands of Gold" Casal of Niagra Falls, NY.
White (13-4, six KO's) has not fought since February 23 when he evened the score with Mike Ricasa at Martin's West, winning an eight-round decision. In Casal, however, White faces one of the rising star prospects in the junior welterweight division. Casal (14-0, 12 KO's, one NC) impressed many folks along the Beltway when he fought Martinus Clay and stopped him in the first round in June 2005 at Michael's Eighth Avenue. After that bout, however, Casal tested positive for cocaine and the result was changed to a no-contest.
Casal was suspended for six months and did not return to the ring until January of this year. He has won three straight bouts since the suspension, two by knockout.
If this bout comes to pass and White wins, it will be one of the biggest upsets in 2006. I will keep you posted on both rumors.
There is talk that former WBA Super Lightweight champion Sharmba Mitchell will be involved in a welterweight title bout on August 12 in Las Vegas. Mitchell may be facing WBO Welterweight titleholder Antonio Margarito on the undercard of the WBC Heavyweight title bout between champion Hasim Rahman and Oleg Maskaev.
I've read reports that say the choice comes down to either Mitchell or former WBO Junior Welterweight champ Felix Flores. This may end up being an easy choice in Mitchell's favor because Flores has a bout scheduled for this Friday, June 2. If Flores doesn't come out of this bout well, Mitchell may end up getting the shot.
The other rumor involves Smithsburg, MD super featherweight Dean "Pit Bull" White. I'm hearing that White will be on this Saturday's Diego Corrales-Jose Luis Castillo undercard in Las Vegas. White will be moving to 140 pounds to face undefeated Nick "Hands of Gold" Casal of Niagra Falls, NY.
White (13-4, six KO's) has not fought since February 23 when he evened the score with Mike Ricasa at Martin's West, winning an eight-round decision. In Casal, however, White faces one of the rising star prospects in the junior welterweight division. Casal (14-0, 12 KO's, one NC) impressed many folks along the Beltway when he fought Martinus Clay and stopped him in the first round in June 2005 at Michael's Eighth Avenue. After that bout, however, Casal tested positive for cocaine and the result was changed to a no-contest.
Casal was suspended for six months and did not return to the ring until January of this year. He has won three straight bouts since the suspension, two by knockout.
If this bout comes to pass and White wins, it will be one of the biggest upsets in 2006. I will keep you posted on both rumors.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Amateurs Deliver Incredible Show in Woodlawn!
If you'll remember, the last thing Jake "The Snake" Smith said in my interview with him was "support the amateurs." Hundreds of people took that advice to heart last night at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
An estimated crowd of 900 packed the house to witness a card that probably set a new standard for amateur boxing along the Beltway.
In one of the featured bouts of the evening, Gary A. Russell (Allen to his family and friends)of Enigma Boxing in DC, won by decision over Charm City Boxing's Emmanuel Taylor in a 136-pound bout. Both young men showed exceptional skills during the contest, demonstrating why they are both highly ranked in their weight class.
Both also showed that their boxing bloodlines remain strong. Russell is the younger brother of Gary Russell, Jr., the number one ranked bantamweight in the United States and third-ranked in the world. Taylor is the younger brother of pro junior middleweight Maxell "The General" Taylor. By the way, Emmanuel Taylor participated in his 180th amateur bout last night; at the age of 15.
Last night was also the amateur swan song for 165-pounder Elias Boulabassis of the Baltimore Boxing Club. Boulabassis went out in grand style, knocking down Daniel Ankers of the Lincoln Way Club of York, PA three times before the contest was stopped in the second round.
Boulabassis, who will carry the nickname "The Golden Greek," is scheduled to make his pro debut on August 12 in Ocean City, MD.
But the bout that everyone will be talking about was the only women's bout on the card. Heather Monroe won a decision over her Baltimore Boxing Club compatriot Tanisha Kemp in one of the most exciting slugfests seen in recent memory.
Kemp was in control of the action in the first round, pummeling Monroe enough to gain two standing eight-counts. However, Monroe fought back bravely and earned a standing eight-count of her own.
The third round was a two-minute give-and-take slugfest that had fans out of their seats throughout Martin's West. Monroe did just enough to earn the win.
In other bouts on the card:
185-pound Novice: Glenn Carey of Baltimore Boxing won a decision over fellow club member Jason Saddler.
182-Novice: Lloyd Thomas of Upton Boxing forced the referee to stop the contest in the first round against Baltimore Boxing's Darryl Wirtz.
178-Novice: Eric Ward of Baltimore Boxing won by retirement in the third round against compatriot Michael Snowden.
142-Novice: Eric Lowe of Loch Raven won a decision over Mpoyi Mukankol of Washington, DC Boxing and Fitness.
165-Novice: Richard Lin of Baltimore Boxing won by decision over teammate Zeke Crane.
190 Pound: Robert Reed of DC Boxing and Fitness scored the stoppage of the night, dropping Joel Edwards of The Next Level gym in Baltimore with a crushing right hand in the second round.
152 Pound: Lenwood Dozier of BXF Gym in Millersville, MD won by decision over Ricky Johnson of Keystone Boxing Gym in Marlow Heights, MD.
201+ Pound: Dorsett Barnwell of Enigma won when Mark Orendorff of Baltimore Boxing retired in the third.
201+ Pound: Tavon Sol of The Next Level wins by decision over Zakki Scott of DC Boxing and Fitness.
This was a tremendous amateur show that in many ways had the feel of a pro show. There were some great bouts, you had devastating stoppages and a very enthusiastic crowd.
This card was the best amateur show I have seen in person since the 2001 Platinum Gloves. Just an incredible card!
An estimated crowd of 900 packed the house to witness a card that probably set a new standard for amateur boxing along the Beltway.
In one of the featured bouts of the evening, Gary A. Russell (Allen to his family and friends)of Enigma Boxing in DC, won by decision over Charm City Boxing's Emmanuel Taylor in a 136-pound bout. Both young men showed exceptional skills during the contest, demonstrating why they are both highly ranked in their weight class.
Both also showed that their boxing bloodlines remain strong. Russell is the younger brother of Gary Russell, Jr., the number one ranked bantamweight in the United States and third-ranked in the world. Taylor is the younger brother of pro junior middleweight Maxell "The General" Taylor. By the way, Emmanuel Taylor participated in his 180th amateur bout last night; at the age of 15.
Last night was also the amateur swan song for 165-pounder Elias Boulabassis of the Baltimore Boxing Club. Boulabassis went out in grand style, knocking down Daniel Ankers of the Lincoln Way Club of York, PA three times before the contest was stopped in the second round.
Boulabassis, who will carry the nickname "The Golden Greek," is scheduled to make his pro debut on August 12 in Ocean City, MD.
But the bout that everyone will be talking about was the only women's bout on the card. Heather Monroe won a decision over her Baltimore Boxing Club compatriot Tanisha Kemp in one of the most exciting slugfests seen in recent memory.
Kemp was in control of the action in the first round, pummeling Monroe enough to gain two standing eight-counts. However, Monroe fought back bravely and earned a standing eight-count of her own.
The third round was a two-minute give-and-take slugfest that had fans out of their seats throughout Martin's West. Monroe did just enough to earn the win.
In other bouts on the card:
185-pound Novice: Glenn Carey of Baltimore Boxing won a decision over fellow club member Jason Saddler.
182-Novice: Lloyd Thomas of Upton Boxing forced the referee to stop the contest in the first round against Baltimore Boxing's Darryl Wirtz.
178-Novice: Eric Ward of Baltimore Boxing won by retirement in the third round against compatriot Michael Snowden.
142-Novice: Eric Lowe of Loch Raven won a decision over Mpoyi Mukankol of Washington, DC Boxing and Fitness.
165-Novice: Richard Lin of Baltimore Boxing won by decision over teammate Zeke Crane.
190 Pound: Robert Reed of DC Boxing and Fitness scored the stoppage of the night, dropping Joel Edwards of The Next Level gym in Baltimore with a crushing right hand in the second round.
152 Pound: Lenwood Dozier of BXF Gym in Millersville, MD won by decision over Ricky Johnson of Keystone Boxing Gym in Marlow Heights, MD.
201+ Pound: Dorsett Barnwell of Enigma won when Mark Orendorff of Baltimore Boxing retired in the third.
201+ Pound: Tavon Sol of The Next Level wins by decision over Zakki Scott of DC Boxing and Fitness.
This was a tremendous amateur show that in many ways had the feel of a pro show. There were some great bouts, you had devastating stoppages and a very enthusiastic crowd.
This card was the best amateur show I have seen in person since the 2001 Platinum Gloves. Just an incredible card!
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Warrick Talks About His 'Too Sharp' Relationship!
In the second part of my interview with Michael Warrick, he continues talking about his managerial relationship with former three-time world champion Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson.
Michael Warrick Discusses June 7 Bout!
Landover, MD junior welterweight Michael Warrick talks about his June 7 ESPN2 bout against Demetrius Hopkins in Atlantic City.
Breaking News: Anthony Peterson Battles for NABO Lightweight Crown June 17!
Undefeated DC lightweight Anthony Peterson will try for his first regional pro title when he takes on Adan Hernandez of El Paso, Texas for the NABO Lightweight title on Saturday, June 17 at the Fed Ex Forum in Memphis, TN. The bout will be on the Jermain Taylor-Winky Wright undercard.
Peterson (17-0, 13 KO's) is ranked seventh in the latest NABO rankings and is coming off a third-round stoppage of Jermaine White in front of a nationally televised ShoBox audience on April 28 in New Town, ND.
Hernandez (14-4, five KO's) has not fought since losing a 10-round unanimous decision to Carlos Contreras in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in February 2005.
A Peterson win would put him in the WBO top 10, helping position him for a world title shot. A win would also mean that both Peterson Brothers would currently hold regional titles. Lamont Peterson (17-0, seven KO's) holds the WBC United States Junior Welterweight title and is currently ranked number 20 in the May WBC rankings.
Peterson (17-0, 13 KO's) is ranked seventh in the latest NABO rankings and is coming off a third-round stoppage of Jermaine White in front of a nationally televised ShoBox audience on April 28 in New Town, ND.
Hernandez (14-4, five KO's) has not fought since losing a 10-round unanimous decision to Carlos Contreras in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in February 2005.
A Peterson win would put him in the WBO top 10, helping position him for a world title shot. A win would also mean that both Peterson Brothers would currently hold regional titles. Lamont Peterson (17-0, seven KO's) holds the WBC United States Junior Welterweight title and is currently ranked number 20 in the May WBC rankings.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Aiken, Corley Guest on 'Fight to the Finish!'
Tonight at 11 pm Eastern time, you have an opportunity to hear two Beltway Boxers guest on a worldwide internet radio show.
Newly-crowned IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken and former WBO Junior Welterweight titleholder DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley will be guests on the groundbreaking internet boxing talk show "Fight to the Finish" with host Macke Roberts. The show is a mixture of boxing and hip-hop music that is very exciting and can get uncensored.
The show can be heard by going to www.fantalklive.com and will run from 11 pm to midnight ET.
Newly-crowned IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken and former WBO Junior Welterweight titleholder DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley will be guests on the groundbreaking internet boxing talk show "Fight to the Finish" with host Macke Roberts. The show is a mixture of boxing and hip-hop music that is very exciting and can get uncensored.
The show can be heard by going to www.fantalklive.com and will run from 11 pm to midnight ET.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
USBA Cruiserweight Title Bout in Virginia July 1!
I mentioned last week that there was a USBA Cruiserweight title bout possibly scheduled for this summer in the area. Well, according to promoter Han Kim, the bout is a done deal.
Baltimore-based Emmanuel Nwodo will take on Chris "Cold Steel" Thomas of Chicago, IL for the vacant USBA title on Saturday, July 1 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.
Nwodo, a native of Nigeria, raised his record to 19-4, 15 KO's with an easy first-round TKO over Ron Krull on April 29 at the ABC Complex. Nwodo is ranked sixth in the latest USBA rankings. This will be just Nwodo's second bout under Kim's promotional banner.
Thomas (16-4-2, 14 KO's) is fourth in the USBA rankings and will be making his first appearance in 2006. In his last outing, Thomas battled Billy Willis to an eight-round draw in December 2005 in Harvey, IL.
Kim also said that the card will feature Virginia boxers "Money" Mike Sawyer and Zain and Ali Shah along with Gaithersburg, MD heavyweight Calvin Riley. Also scheduled on the card will be the return of Fort Washington, MD heavyweight Derek "Hollywood" Amos.
Kim added that he will be expanding the ABC Sports Complex to hold 1200-1500 fans.
Baltimore-based Emmanuel Nwodo will take on Chris "Cold Steel" Thomas of Chicago, IL for the vacant USBA title on Saturday, July 1 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.
Nwodo, a native of Nigeria, raised his record to 19-4, 15 KO's with an easy first-round TKO over Ron Krull on April 29 at the ABC Complex. Nwodo is ranked sixth in the latest USBA rankings. This will be just Nwodo's second bout under Kim's promotional banner.
Thomas (16-4-2, 14 KO's) is fourth in the USBA rankings and will be making his first appearance in 2006. In his last outing, Thomas battled Billy Willis to an eight-round draw in December 2005 in Harvey, IL.
Kim also said that the card will feature Virginia boxers "Money" Mike Sawyer and Zain and Ali Shah along with Gaithersburg, MD heavyweight Calvin Riley. Also scheduled on the card will be the return of Fort Washington, MD heavyweight Derek "Hollywood" Amos.
Kim added that he will be expanding the ABC Sports Complex to hold 1200-1500 fans.
Hill Loses Decision in Florida!
The winning streak is over for Reisterstown, MD's "Diamond" Matt Hill. The always-game junior middleweight lost a four-round unanimous decision to Hollywood, FL welterweight Ed Paredes (7-1, three KO’s) this past Friday in Pompano Beach, FL. According to Fightnews.com, Paredes was simply too tall, too strong and too talented for Hill (8-29-2, four KO’s). Paredes scored at will with effective combinations and solid right hands to the head in the four-rounder. There were no knockdowns in the bout, but Hill was wobbled a few times.
Hill was carrying a two-bout winning streak coming into the contest.
Hill was carrying a two-bout winning streak coming into the contest.
Friday, May 19, 2006
'Diamond' Hill Goes For Third Straight Win Tonight in Florida!
Last night when I did my interview with Jake Smith, I mentioned that he was in Florida. However, I didn't mention why he was there.
Tonight in Pompano Beach, Reisterstown, MD junior middleweight "Diamond" Matt Hill will take on Ed Paredes in a scheduled four-round encounter. Hill (8-28-2, four KO's) will try for his third consecutive victory coming off two four-round unanimous decision wins in Pikesville in March and April.
Paredes, who fights out of Hollywood, FL, is 6-1, three KO's.
This bout will be on the undercard of the ESPN2 card that features the IBF Super Middleweight title elimination bout between Yusef Mack and Alejandro Berrio.
Tonight in Pompano Beach, Reisterstown, MD junior middleweight "Diamond" Matt Hill will take on Ed Paredes in a scheduled four-round encounter. Hill (8-28-2, four KO's) will try for his third consecutive victory coming off two four-round unanimous decision wins in Pikesville in March and April.
Paredes, who fights out of Hollywood, FL, is 6-1, three KO's.
This bout will be on the undercard of the ESPN2 card that features the IBF Super Middleweight title elimination bout between Yusef Mack and Alejandro Berrio.
Amateur Boxing Event in Alexandria on Saturday!
The Alexandria Boxing Club is having an amateur show tomorrow afternoon beginning at 5:30 pm. It will be at the Alexandria Boxing Club gym on 901 Wythe Avenue, off of Route 1 in Old Town.
As Jake Smith said in his audio interview, boxing fans should make a team effort to continue to support our amateur programs. While I can't come to every amateur show, the least I can do is to help publicize the card.
So, if you have an AMATEUR show coming up in the near future, let me know by sending me an email to digital_fightnews@hotmail.com. Please make sure you have all the details you want about your show.
This is for AMATEUR BOXING SHOW PROMOTERS ONLY. Thanks.
As Jake Smith said in his audio interview, boxing fans should make a team effort to continue to support our amateur programs. While I can't come to every amateur show, the least I can do is to help publicize the card.
So, if you have an AMATEUR show coming up in the near future, let me know by sending me an email to digital_fightnews@hotmail.com. Please make sure you have all the details you want about your show.
This is for AMATEUR BOXING SHOW PROMOTERS ONLY. Thanks.
Smith Says: 'Support the Amateurs!'
As we continue our talk with Jake Smith, he discusses how we must all support amateur boxing.
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Jake Smith Updates Info on Upcoming Cards!
Promoter Jake "The Snake" Smith discusses his two upcoming cards; the May 24 amateur show and his June 21 pro-am show both at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Beltway News and Notes!
Two-time US Middleweight champion Franchon Crews of Baltimore will be one of 10 women representing the United States at the Pan American Amateur Boxing Tournament in Buenos Aires, Argentina May 30-June 8.
Crews, who trains out of the UMAR Gym in Baltimore, is ranked number one in the country for her weight class.
Don't forget about the big amateur show put together by Jake "The Snake" Smith on Wednesday, May 24 at Martin's West in Woodlawn. I'm arranging for an audio interview with Smith either later today or tomorrow.
I have not received any update on the condition of Boxing Information Center founder Nat Williams, who suffered a stroke hours prior to the start of the Capitol Gloves last Saturday. At last word, Williams was recovering but was suffering some memory loss. I'll keep you posted.
On the pro side, two Beltway Boxers suffered setbacks in recent bouts. New Carrollton, MD junior middleweight Shawn "The Heat" Garnett returned to the ring after an almost two-year absence. His return was not successful, unfortunately as he lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Jo Jo Dan of Toronto, CA on May 16 in Montreal. Garnett is now 10-3-1, three KO's. Dan is 14-0 with seven KO's.
Earlier this month, light heavyweight Andre "Da Heat" Hemphill of Woodbridge, VA was stopped in the third round by veteran James Lubwama in Philadelphia. The loss evens Hemphill's record at 4-4 with two KO's.
By the way, I reported earlier this month that Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange would be returning in a bout slated for tonight in New York. Well, that will not happen. Lange told me this week that promoters for that card could not find an opponent for him. Lange said he is hoping to return in either June or July.
However, I am getting word of a most interesting comeback slated for the very near future. Because I can't verify the person, I won't give his name. All I will tell you is the following:
1. He's a former world champion.
2. He was one of the most popular boxers the Beltway has ever seen.
As soon as I can confirm this comeback, you will be the first to know.
Crews, who trains out of the UMAR Gym in Baltimore, is ranked number one in the country for her weight class.
Don't forget about the big amateur show put together by Jake "The Snake" Smith on Wednesday, May 24 at Martin's West in Woodlawn. I'm arranging for an audio interview with Smith either later today or tomorrow.
I have not received any update on the condition of Boxing Information Center founder Nat Williams, who suffered a stroke hours prior to the start of the Capitol Gloves last Saturday. At last word, Williams was recovering but was suffering some memory loss. I'll keep you posted.
On the pro side, two Beltway Boxers suffered setbacks in recent bouts. New Carrollton, MD junior middleweight Shawn "The Heat" Garnett returned to the ring after an almost two-year absence. His return was not successful, unfortunately as he lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Jo Jo Dan of Toronto, CA on May 16 in Montreal. Garnett is now 10-3-1, three KO's. Dan is 14-0 with seven KO's.
Earlier this month, light heavyweight Andre "Da Heat" Hemphill of Woodbridge, VA was stopped in the third round by veteran James Lubwama in Philadelphia. The loss evens Hemphill's record at 4-4 with two KO's.
By the way, I reported earlier this month that Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange would be returning in a bout slated for tonight in New York. Well, that will not happen. Lange told me this week that promoters for that card could not find an opponent for him. Lange said he is hoping to return in either June or July.
However, I am getting word of a most interesting comeback slated for the very near future. Because I can't verify the person, I won't give his name. All I will tell you is the following:
1. He's a former world champion.
2. He was one of the most popular boxers the Beltway has ever seen.
As soon as I can confirm this comeback, you will be the first to know.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Attah, Nwodo in Important Bouts!
Two Nigerian-born Beltway Boxers are scheduled to be in important bouts in the near future.
Featherweight Daniel "The Prophet" Attah, who is based in DC, will face Terdsak Jandaeng of Thailand in a WBO title elimination bout on Saturday, June 10 in Atlantic City on the undercard of the Bernard Hopkins-Antonio Tarver card.
Ironically, this was the same bout that was originally offered to newly-crowned IBF Featherweight champion Eric Aiken.
Attah (23-3-1, eight KO's) has not fought since February 18 on the "Clash of the Contenders" card at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Attah won a eight-round majority decision over Isidro Granados. Jandaeng, who is ranked number two by the WBO, is 24-1, 15 KO's and holds the WBO Asia Pacific Featherweight championship and defended his title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Pedro Malco on May 10.
Also, promoter Han Kim tells me that cruiserweight Emmanuel Nwodo of Baltimore will be participating in a USBA title match against an opponent to be named. Kim says the bout will be sometime this summer and may take place either in Virginia or Maryland. Nwodo is 19-4, 15 KO's.
Featherweight Daniel "The Prophet" Attah, who is based in DC, will face Terdsak Jandaeng of Thailand in a WBO title elimination bout on Saturday, June 10 in Atlantic City on the undercard of the Bernard Hopkins-Antonio Tarver card.
Ironically, this was the same bout that was originally offered to newly-crowned IBF Featherweight champion Eric Aiken.
Attah (23-3-1, eight KO's) has not fought since February 18 on the "Clash of the Contenders" card at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Attah won a eight-round majority decision over Isidro Granados. Jandaeng, who is ranked number two by the WBO, is 24-1, 15 KO's and holds the WBO Asia Pacific Featherweight championship and defended his title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Pedro Malco on May 10.
Also, promoter Han Kim tells me that cruiserweight Emmanuel Nwodo of Baltimore will be participating in a USBA title match against an opponent to be named. Kim says the bout will be sometime this summer and may take place either in Virginia or Maryland. Nwodo is 19-4, 15 KO's.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
AIKEN WINS IBF FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE!!
Photo by: Emily Harney, Fightnews.comThis just in from Boston:
Forestville, MD's Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken is the new IBF Featherweight Champion! This from Fightnews.com:
Aiken (16-4, 12 KOs) shockingly won the IBF featherweight championship via eighth round disqualification over Valdemir Pereira (23-1, 15 KOs) Saturday night at the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, Mass. Aiken, who took the fight on ten days notice, dropped the champion in round four with a left hook to the head and again in the fifth with a left hook to the body. Pereira was deducted points in rounds six and seven for low blows and after another shot below the belt in the eighth, referee Charlie Dwyer disqualified the Brazilian, crowning Aiken as the new IBF featherweight champion. Time was 1:37.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
N. Williams Suffers Stroke!
Sad news from today's Capitol Gloves Amateur Tournament at the DC Armory.
Boxing Information Center Founder Nat Williams suffered a stroke two hours before the event. No word on his condition at this time.
Of course, you heard from Mr. Williams earlier this week right here concerning this event.
I hope to have more information on Mr. Williams's condition as well as results from the Capitol Gloves at some point tomorrow.
Boxing Information Center Founder Nat Williams suffered a stroke two hours before the event. No word on his condition at this time.
Of course, you heard from Mr. Williams earlier this week right here concerning this event.
I hope to have more information on Mr. Williams's condition as well as results from the Capitol Gloves at some point tomorrow.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Rahman Heads Preakness Parade!
WBC Heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman returns home to Baltimore tomorrow as he will be the grand marshal at Saturday's Preakness Celebration Parade. Rahman will head the parade of high school marching bands, drill teams, colorful floats and equestrian units. The parade will launch a week-long celebration of the 131st annual running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico on May 20.
Rahman defends his WBC Heavyweight title against Oleg Maskaev on Saturday, August 12 in Las Vegas.
Rahman defends his WBC Heavyweight title against Oleg Maskaev on Saturday, August 12 in Las Vegas.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Floyd Patterson: 1935-2006!
You may have heard this news already but I just wanted to mention that former heavyweight champion Floyd Patterson passed away today in New York at the age of 71 from prostate cancer and Alzheimer's Disease.
Patterson won an Olympic Gold medal in 1952 and was Ring Magazine's fighter of the year in 1956 and 1960, the two years Patterson won the heavyweight title.
When Patterson defeated Archie Moore to win the world heavyweight title on November 30, 1956, he was 21 years old and the youngest at the time to win the title.
Patterson became the first man to regain the world heavyweight title when he defeated Ingemar Johannson on June 6, 1960 in the second bout of the legendary trilogy of bouts between the two. The second bout was named Ring Magazine's Fight of the Year.
Among Patterson's other opponents were Sonny Liston, Jimmy Ellis, George Chuvalo, Jerry Quarry and a young Muhammad Ali. Patterson finished his career with a record of 55-8-1 with 40 KO's.
Patterson fought once in DC, on March 30, 1954 when he scored a second round TKO against Sammy Brown. No word on where in DC that bout took place.
In later years, Patterson served as head of the New York State Athletic Commission. He also was a frequent visitor to DC for the annual Fight Night charity boxing event at the Washington Hilton.
It was at the 1995 Fight Night event where I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Patterson. Of course, we talked about the famous three bouts with Johannson, but he also mentioned a very interesting point about his career that he used as a teaching tool for young people.
Patterson told me that out of all the heavyweight champions, he has been knocked down the most. By the record I've checked, Patterson was knocked down 19 times in his career, including seven times in the first Johannson bout. However, when a bout ended, he was always on his feet.
The lesson: Once you get knocked down, you can always get up!
Indeed, words to live by!!
Patterson won an Olympic Gold medal in 1952 and was Ring Magazine's fighter of the year in 1956 and 1960, the two years Patterson won the heavyweight title.
When Patterson defeated Archie Moore to win the world heavyweight title on November 30, 1956, he was 21 years old and the youngest at the time to win the title.
Patterson became the first man to regain the world heavyweight title when he defeated Ingemar Johannson on June 6, 1960 in the second bout of the legendary trilogy of bouts between the two. The second bout was named Ring Magazine's Fight of the Year.
Among Patterson's other opponents were Sonny Liston, Jimmy Ellis, George Chuvalo, Jerry Quarry and a young Muhammad Ali. Patterson finished his career with a record of 55-8-1 with 40 KO's.
Patterson fought once in DC, on March 30, 1954 when he scored a second round TKO against Sammy Brown. No word on where in DC that bout took place.
In later years, Patterson served as head of the New York State Athletic Commission. He also was a frequent visitor to DC for the annual Fight Night charity boxing event at the Washington Hilton.
It was at the 1995 Fight Night event where I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Patterson. Of course, we talked about the famous three bouts with Johannson, but he also mentioned a very interesting point about his career that he used as a teaching tool for young people.
Patterson told me that out of all the heavyweight champions, he has been knocked down the most. By the record I've checked, Patterson was knocked down 19 times in his career, including seven times in the first Johannson bout. However, when a bout ended, he was always on his feet.
The lesson: Once you get knocked down, you can always get up!
Indeed, words to live by!!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
What is the Boxing Information Center?
In the final part of our interview with Boxing Information Center founder Nat Williams, he explains the function of this organization.-
What is the State of DC-Area Amateur Boxing?
In the second part of our interview with Nat Williams, he talks about the state of the amateur program in the DC area.
Capitol Gloves May 13 at the DC Armory!
The Capitol Gloves are taking place this Saturday, May 13 at the DC Armory. In this interview, Nat Williams, the founder of the Boxing Information Center, talks about this event.
Jarrell M. Jackson on Riddick Bowe Card June 3!
Temple Hills, MD light heavyweight Jarell Mason Jackson is slated to appear on a June 3 card in Lincoln City, OR. Jackson (6-4-1, two KO's) is scheduled to face Marcus Pernell (11-1, six KO's) of Portland, OR.
Jackson is undefeated in his last four bouts (3-0-1) and is coming off knockout wins in his last two bouts, including a second-round TKO over Henry Mayes on April 21 in Pikesville, MD.
The main event features the return of former undisputed heavyweight champion Riddick "Big Daddy" Bowe (42-1, 33 KOs). Bowe is stated to face recent Joe Mesi foe Ron Bellamy (14-5-4, 9 KOs).
In an interesting twist, the card, which is billed as "Commotion at the Ocean VII," is limited to ages 21 and over.
By the way, there is a debate over whether Bowe should be considered a Beltway Boxer. I have never considered him one because, even though he has a home in Fort Washington, MD, he has always listed his ring hometown as Brooklyn, NY.
In all honesty, I thought, maybe hoped, that Bowe would retire and this wouldn't be an issue, but since he is back, I'll leave the choice up to the fans. Should Riddick Bowe be considered a Beltway Boxer? I'll tabulate the results a week from today.
Jackson is undefeated in his last four bouts (3-0-1) and is coming off knockout wins in his last two bouts, including a second-round TKO over Henry Mayes on April 21 in Pikesville, MD.
The main event features the return of former undisputed heavyweight champion Riddick "Big Daddy" Bowe (42-1, 33 KOs). Bowe is stated to face recent Joe Mesi foe Ron Bellamy (14-5-4, 9 KOs).
In an interesting twist, the card, which is billed as "Commotion at the Ocean VII," is limited to ages 21 and over.
By the way, there is a debate over whether Bowe should be considered a Beltway Boxer. I have never considered him one because, even though he has a home in Fort Washington, MD, he has always listed his ring hometown as Brooklyn, NY.
In all honesty, I thought, maybe hoped, that Bowe would retire and this wouldn't be an issue, but since he is back, I'll leave the choice up to the fans. Should Riddick Bowe be considered a Beltway Boxer? I'll tabulate the results a week from today.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
I'd Like Your Opinion to This...
The following is a column written by Thom Loverro of the Washington Times. It talks about the state of boxing with the starting point of the column being a press conference concerning the Capitol Gloves Amateur Boxing Tournament this Saturday at the DC Armory. Unfortunately, due to prior commitments, I was unable to attend the conference.
The column is not an indictment of boxing in this area, but I'm still just curious to see how Beltway Boxing fans feel about what Loverro says here. This is the column.
They stood in a room yesterday at RFK Stadium, these longtime keepers of the dying flame, still trying to fight the good fight.
Nat Williams, president of the Boxing Information Center, presided over a press conference to announce another effort to keep amateur boxing alive in Washington. Williams was promoting a new tournament, the Capitol Gloves Amateur Boxing Invitation Tournament, that will take place Saturday at the D.C. Armory.
"We're like farmers trying to plant the seeds for a new generation of boxing," Williams said.
But the famine may be too great to overcome. Boxing continues to fall further down the ladder of niche sports in America as a generation of youth turn to other sports and attractions.
"Yes, it's a hard sell today," Williams said. "But hopefully we can bring it back with more programs like the Capitol Gloves. That's the only way we can do it, and it's important. It can give kids something to work for."
To keep American kids interested enough to be competitive amateur boxers, the sport needs to stay on the radar screen. Oscar De La Hoya can put all the beatings he wants on the likes of Ricardo Mayorga, as he did Saturday night. But if he does it on pay-per-view, he might as well be fighting on Mars for all the interest it will register among younger sports fans today.
Mixed martial arts is a different story. Boxing has been taking a beating in the city in which it has been king from a form of mixed martial arts called Ultimate Fighting.
Ultimate Fighting Championship -- one company that features mixed martial arts -- is selling out shows at venues like Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, putting on lucrative pay-per-view events and producing one of the most popular shows on Spike TV.
The sport has been cleaned up since its brutal early days. A sign of that -- and it's one that shook the boxing industry -- is the departure of one of the most influential figures in boxing to the UFC.
Marc Ratner, executive director of the Nevada Athletic Commission since 1992 and one of the most respected figures in the industry, is leaving his job Saturday to take a position with UFC, which is run by Lorenzo Fertitta, a former commission member.
Ratner said the opportunity was too good to pass up and that he was "amazed" at what has been happening with UFC.
Ratner looked at the future and saw an octagon -- the forum in which Ultimate Fighting takes place -- not a boxing ring.
"We know that the UFC is something that will have to be reckoned with," said Marubian Affinii, the national program director for the District-based Boxing Information Center, a nonprofit organization that helps promote amateur boxing. "But we are offering more than just sport. We are incorporating life skills courses and homework programs."
Again, it is a good fight, but you have to get them in the church to convert them.
That's hard to do when the force that drives boxing -- the heavyweight division -- is dominated by fighters from the former Soviet Union. That might create a lot of interest in Ukraine, but it means nothing on the streets of the District and other cities in America.
Three of the four generally recognized heavyweight title belts -- the fact that there are four different heavyweight title holders is itself a problem -- are held by former Soviet fighters: Wladimir Klitschko of Ukraine, who just beat Chris Byrd for the International Boxing Federation title; Sergei Lyahkovich of Belarus, who holds the World Boxing Organization belt; and Nicolai Valuev of Russia, the World Boxing Association heavyweight champion.
The lone American heavyweight champion is World Boxing Council title holder Hasim Rahman. Tomorrow, it will be announced that Rahman will defend his title against Oleg Maskaev of Uzbekistan, who knocked Rahman out of the ring in Atlantic City in November 1999. "I'm the great black hope," Rahman says, joking.
But it's not joke. White or black, America needs a new heavyweight icon to capture the attention of the country.
Maybe one will emerge at the Armory on Saturday. Brenda Davis, the matchmaker for the tournament, who, along with her husband, trainer Adrian Davis, has been involved in boxing in the area for more than 30 years, knows that is the challenge.
"We have to produce some new heavyweights," she said.
They are facing the ultimate fight to do so.
The column is not an indictment of boxing in this area, but I'm still just curious to see how Beltway Boxing fans feel about what Loverro says here. This is the column.
They stood in a room yesterday at RFK Stadium, these longtime keepers of the dying flame, still trying to fight the good fight.
Nat Williams, president of the Boxing Information Center, presided over a press conference to announce another effort to keep amateur boxing alive in Washington. Williams was promoting a new tournament, the Capitol Gloves Amateur Boxing Invitation Tournament, that will take place Saturday at the D.C. Armory.
"We're like farmers trying to plant the seeds for a new generation of boxing," Williams said.
But the famine may be too great to overcome. Boxing continues to fall further down the ladder of niche sports in America as a generation of youth turn to other sports and attractions.
"Yes, it's a hard sell today," Williams said. "But hopefully we can bring it back with more programs like the Capitol Gloves. That's the only way we can do it, and it's important. It can give kids something to work for."
To keep American kids interested enough to be competitive amateur boxers, the sport needs to stay on the radar screen. Oscar De La Hoya can put all the beatings he wants on the likes of Ricardo Mayorga, as he did Saturday night. But if he does it on pay-per-view, he might as well be fighting on Mars for all the interest it will register among younger sports fans today.
Mixed martial arts is a different story. Boxing has been taking a beating in the city in which it has been king from a form of mixed martial arts called Ultimate Fighting.
Ultimate Fighting Championship -- one company that features mixed martial arts -- is selling out shows at venues like Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, putting on lucrative pay-per-view events and producing one of the most popular shows on Spike TV.
The sport has been cleaned up since its brutal early days. A sign of that -- and it's one that shook the boxing industry -- is the departure of one of the most influential figures in boxing to the UFC.
Marc Ratner, executive director of the Nevada Athletic Commission since 1992 and one of the most respected figures in the industry, is leaving his job Saturday to take a position with UFC, which is run by Lorenzo Fertitta, a former commission member.
Ratner said the opportunity was too good to pass up and that he was "amazed" at what has been happening with UFC.
Ratner looked at the future and saw an octagon -- the forum in which Ultimate Fighting takes place -- not a boxing ring.
"We know that the UFC is something that will have to be reckoned with," said Marubian Affinii, the national program director for the District-based Boxing Information Center, a nonprofit organization that helps promote amateur boxing. "But we are offering more than just sport. We are incorporating life skills courses and homework programs."
Again, it is a good fight, but you have to get them in the church to convert them.
That's hard to do when the force that drives boxing -- the heavyweight division -- is dominated by fighters from the former Soviet Union. That might create a lot of interest in Ukraine, but it means nothing on the streets of the District and other cities in America.
Three of the four generally recognized heavyweight title belts -- the fact that there are four different heavyweight title holders is itself a problem -- are held by former Soviet fighters: Wladimir Klitschko of Ukraine, who just beat Chris Byrd for the International Boxing Federation title; Sergei Lyahkovich of Belarus, who holds the World Boxing Organization belt; and Nicolai Valuev of Russia, the World Boxing Association heavyweight champion.
The lone American heavyweight champion is World Boxing Council title holder Hasim Rahman. Tomorrow, it will be announced that Rahman will defend his title against Oleg Maskaev of Uzbekistan, who knocked Rahman out of the ring in Atlantic City in November 1999. "I'm the great black hope," Rahman says, joking.
But it's not joke. White or black, America needs a new heavyweight icon to capture the attention of the country.
Maybe one will emerge at the Armory on Saturday. Brenda Davis, the matchmaker for the tournament, who, along with her husband, trainer Adrian Davis, has been involved in boxing in the area for more than 30 years, knows that is the challenge.
"We have to produce some new heavyweights," she said.
They are facing the ultimate fight to do so.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Samuel Crushes Fleming in the Ballroom!
Undefeated junior lightweight Tyrell Samuel of Baltimore scored a devastating first-round knockout over Fred Fleming of Cincinnati during the Ballroom Boxing show last night at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Samuel used a double left hook, first to the head then to the body, to send Fleming crumpling to the canvas. Referee Gary Camponeschi counted to 10 and the fight was over at 1:30 of the round.
Samuel, who is trained by former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway, is now 6-0 with four KO's. Those four knockouts have come in Samuel's last four bouts. Fleming is 0-3.
It was also wonderful to see the legendary Mack Lewis in attendance watching Samuel from a distance. He has passed down his training skills to folks like Pettway, Kenny Blackston and Ed Griffin, who are now helping the next wave of Baltimore-area prospects.
Samuel was the only Beltway Boxer on the card. I will give a quick synopsis of the rest of the card. For a full report, visit Fightnews.com later today and check out the report from my colleague "Priceless" Steve Price.
In the main event, welterweight Arturo Morales of Pittsburg, CA scored an eight-round unanimous decision over "Magnificent" Martinus Clay of Wilson, NC. Morales remains undefeated at 16-0-1, five KO's while Clay drops to 11-12-1 four KO's.
The co-feature saw Brooklyn, NY light heavyweight Jameson Bostic win a six-round majority decision over Dhafir "No Fear" Smith of Philadelphia, PA. Bostic raised his record to 6-3, four KO's. Smith is 13-14, three KO's.
In another light heavyweight bout, Farah Ennis of Philadelphia won a four-round unanimous decision over the debuting Michael Ciccone of New Brunswick, New Jersey. Ennis (2-0, one KO) is the younger brother of Derek Ennis who fought the magnificent draw with Baltimore's Maxell Taylor at the Ballroom back in March.
The opening bout was an absolute dud as Kiel Shuler of Rocky Mount, NC easily scored a first-round TKO over an unwilling Elijah Harris of Wilson, NC. Shuler is 1-2, one KO while Harris is 0-3.
Samuel used a double left hook, first to the head then to the body, to send Fleming crumpling to the canvas. Referee Gary Camponeschi counted to 10 and the fight was over at 1:30 of the round.
Samuel, who is trained by former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway, is now 6-0 with four KO's. Those four knockouts have come in Samuel's last four bouts. Fleming is 0-3.
It was also wonderful to see the legendary Mack Lewis in attendance watching Samuel from a distance. He has passed down his training skills to folks like Pettway, Kenny Blackston and Ed Griffin, who are now helping the next wave of Baltimore-area prospects.
Samuel was the only Beltway Boxer on the card. I will give a quick synopsis of the rest of the card. For a full report, visit Fightnews.com later today and check out the report from my colleague "Priceless" Steve Price.
In the main event, welterweight Arturo Morales of Pittsburg, CA scored an eight-round unanimous decision over "Magnificent" Martinus Clay of Wilson, NC. Morales remains undefeated at 16-0-1, five KO's while Clay drops to 11-12-1 four KO's.
The co-feature saw Brooklyn, NY light heavyweight Jameson Bostic win a six-round majority decision over Dhafir "No Fear" Smith of Philadelphia, PA. Bostic raised his record to 6-3, four KO's. Smith is 13-14, three KO's.
In another light heavyweight bout, Farah Ennis of Philadelphia won a four-round unanimous decision over the debuting Michael Ciccone of New Brunswick, New Jersey. Ennis (2-0, one KO) is the younger brother of Derek Ennis who fought the magnificent draw with Baltimore's Maxell Taylor at the Ballroom back in March.
The opening bout was an absolute dud as Kiel Shuler of Rocky Mount, NC easily scored a first-round TKO over an unwilling Elijah Harris of Wilson, NC. Shuler is 1-2, one KO while Harris is 0-3.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Pearson Bout Date Changed to June 28!
I've just been told that Lamont "Bay" Pearson's IBF Super Featherweight title elimination bout will be on Wednesday, June 28 and will be televised on ESPN2. Pearson will face former world champion Robbie "The Bomber" Peden. I'll have more on this bout in the weeks to come.
Weights for Ballroom Boxing Tonight!
Here are SOME of the weights for tonight's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie. Apparently, there was a major traffic accident on I-95 last night and it kept a few of the boxers from attending the weigh-in so far.
Here's what we know so far (Beltway Boxers in bold:)
Arturo Morales 143 vs. Martinus Clay 149 1/2
Keil Shuler 133 1/4 vs. Elijah Harris 129 3/4
Farah Ennis 167 1/4 vs. Michael Ciccone 176
Derek Ennis 151 3/4 vs. (still looking for an opponent)
Dhafir Smith 171 vs. Sam Reese (did not make weigh-in)
Tyrell Samuel 133 3/4 vs. Fred Fleming (did not make weigh-in)
Jameson Bostic 170 3/4 vs. Jarell Mason Jackson (did not make weigh in)
Thanks to Darryl "Bear" McKenzie for acquiring the weights.
Here's what we know so far (Beltway Boxers in bold:)
Arturo Morales 143 vs. Martinus Clay 149 1/2
Keil Shuler 133 1/4 vs. Elijah Harris 129 3/4
Farah Ennis 167 1/4 vs. Michael Ciccone 176
Derek Ennis 151 3/4 vs. (still looking for an opponent)
Dhafir Smith 171 vs. Sam Reese (did not make weigh-in)
Tyrell Samuel 133 3/4 vs. Fred Fleming (did not make weigh-in)
Jameson Bostic 170 3/4 vs. Jarell Mason Jackson (did not make weigh in)
Thanks to Darryl "Bear" McKenzie for acquiring the weights.
Mitchell Wins Unanimous Decision in California!
Sharmba Mitchell's quest for 60 wins continues. The two-time former WBA Super Lightweight champion from Takoma Park, MD won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Cruz in an nationally televised bout from Cathedral City, CA.
The judges scorecards read 97-93, 97-93 and 96-94. Mitchell raises his record to 57-5 with 30 KO's and gives Cruz just his second loss, dropping his record to 31-2-2, 26 KO's.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS: I had some trepidations about this bout going into it. Talking to Mitchell here on the blog, I didn't hear the confidence, almost cockiness that I normally hear from him when I interview him. There were rumors floating around that Mitchell was using this bout as a "retirement party" and his mind wasn't really into this bout.
Obviously by his performance, my fears and the rumors were all laid to rest. Overall, Mitchell looked good. He was in control most of the way and he even played Cruz's game of power throughout the contest. It was a good win at this stage of his career.
One other note: How about that all-star lineup of trainers Mitchell had in his corner! Longtime Mitchell trainer Marvin "Rock" Simms was joined by Barry Hunter and SGT. Charles Mooney! I'm also very happy that ESPN2 announcers Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas saw a significance in that and made note of the corner. That shows some serious Beltway loyalty!!
The judges scorecards read 97-93, 97-93 and 96-94. Mitchell raises his record to 57-5 with 30 KO's and gives Cruz just his second loss, dropping his record to 31-2-2, 26 KO's.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS: I had some trepidations about this bout going into it. Talking to Mitchell here on the blog, I didn't hear the confidence, almost cockiness that I normally hear from him when I interview him. There were rumors floating around that Mitchell was using this bout as a "retirement party" and his mind wasn't really into this bout.
Obviously by his performance, my fears and the rumors were all laid to rest. Overall, Mitchell looked good. He was in control most of the way and he even played Cruz's game of power throughout the contest. It was a good win at this stage of his career.
One other note: How about that all-star lineup of trainers Mitchell had in his corner! Longtime Mitchell trainer Marvin "Rock" Simms was joined by Barry Hunter and SGT. Charles Mooney! I'm also very happy that ESPN2 announcers Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas saw a significance in that and made note of the corner. That shows some serious Beltway loyalty!!
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Breaking News: Eric Aiken to Fight for IBF Featherweight Title!!
The news keeps getting bigger and bigger along the Beltway. In this Boxing Along the Beltway exclusive, NABA Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken announces that he will be off the June 10 Hopkins-Tarver card.
Then Aiken announces something that you are hearing FIRST right here!! That announcement is his involvement in the biggest bout of his career; a world title bout versus IBF Featherweight champion Valdemir Pireirra on Saturday, May 13 in Boston, MA. Hear the announcement from Aiken himself here.
Then Aiken announces something that you are hearing FIRST right here!! That announcement is his involvement in the biggest bout of his career; a world title bout versus IBF Featherweight champion Valdemir Pireirra on Saturday, May 13 in Boston, MA. Hear the announcement from Aiken himself here.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Beltway Boxers in Major June Bouts!
Okay folks, here's the announcement I promised you. Remember when I did my "Postscripts from Pikesville" post, I said that there were some developments that I couldn't get into at that point? Well, this info exceeded what I originally had in mind.
As I said, there will be three major bouts in June involving Beltway Boxers and these bouts will make June 2006 one of the most important months in recent Beltway Boxing history. According to the people involved, these bouts are signed and ready to go.
Now, here are those bouts.
1. Wednesday, June 7 at the Borgata Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, NJ. Landover, MD junior welterweight Michael Warrick (18-3, 11 KO's) will be back in action as he faces undefeated Demetrius Hopkins (23-0-1, nine KO's). This bout will be on ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights.
2. Saturday, June 10 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. NABA Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD (15-4, 12 KO's) will take on Terdsak Jandereng of Thailand (23-1, 15 KO's) in a WBA title elimination match. This bout is scheduled to be a co-feature bout on the Bernard Hopkins-Antonio Tarver card.
3. Sunday, June 18 in California. Lamont "Bay" Pearson of Capitol Heights, MD (23-3-1, 12 KO's) faces former IBF Super Featherweight champion Robbie "Bomber" Peden (25-3, 14 KO's) in an IBF title elimination match. This bout will be a rematch of an August 2003 contest for the USBA Super Featherweight title. Peden stopped Pearson in the seventh round of that contest. That's one of the bouts where Pearson's hand troubles started.
I'm not sure where in California this bout will take place yet.
Of course, anything can happen to change these bouts, but if they take place it will make or break this year for boxing along the Beltway. For the past 10 months, I have said that boxing in this area is in a transitional state. These three bouts will decide how far we have to go to get out of this transition.
Of course, you will hear from all three of the boxers involved in the very near future in exclusive audio interviews.
There is one other teasing bit of news in the area. I won't go into detail, but there is some exciting news concerning Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson. Later this week, Johnson will be breaking the news to you exclusively here, but I will say that he is currently managing Michael Warrick and that is just a small part of the news. But there is much more to this story and I want him to be the one to tell you!!
As I said at the beginning of the year, we are in for some busy and some exciting times along the Beltway. Make sure you're along for the ride!!
As I said, there will be three major bouts in June involving Beltway Boxers and these bouts will make June 2006 one of the most important months in recent Beltway Boxing history. According to the people involved, these bouts are signed and ready to go.
Now, here are those bouts.
1. Wednesday, June 7 at the Borgata Hotel and Casino, Atlantic City, NJ. Landover, MD junior welterweight Michael Warrick (18-3, 11 KO's) will be back in action as he faces undefeated Demetrius Hopkins (23-0-1, nine KO's). This bout will be on ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights.
2. Saturday, June 10 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ. NABA Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD (15-4, 12 KO's) will take on Terdsak Jandereng of Thailand (23-1, 15 KO's) in a WBA title elimination match. This bout is scheduled to be a co-feature bout on the Bernard Hopkins-Antonio Tarver card.
3. Sunday, June 18 in California. Lamont "Bay" Pearson of Capitol Heights, MD (23-3-1, 12 KO's) faces former IBF Super Featherweight champion Robbie "Bomber" Peden (25-3, 14 KO's) in an IBF title elimination match. This bout will be a rematch of an August 2003 contest for the USBA Super Featherweight title. Peden stopped Pearson in the seventh round of that contest. That's one of the bouts where Pearson's hand troubles started.
I'm not sure where in California this bout will take place yet.
Of course, anything can happen to change these bouts, but if they take place it will make or break this year for boxing along the Beltway. For the past 10 months, I have said that boxing in this area is in a transitional state. These three bouts will decide how far we have to go to get out of this transition.
Of course, you will hear from all three of the boxers involved in the very near future in exclusive audio interviews.
There is one other teasing bit of news in the area. I won't go into detail, but there is some exciting news concerning Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson. Later this week, Johnson will be breaking the news to you exclusively here, but I will say that he is currently managing Michael Warrick and that is just a small part of the news. But there is much more to this story and I want him to be the one to tell you!!
As I said at the beginning of the year, we are in for some busy and some exciting times along the Beltway. Make sure you're along for the ride!!
Monday, May 01, 2006
May 13 Temple Hills Card Postponed!
I've just received word that the Keystone Boxing card slated for Saturday, May 13 has been postponed. The card was scheduled to be at the D Light Skating Rink in Temple Hills, MD and was slated to feature Lamont "Bay" Pearson and Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan in co-feature bouts. Promoter Gene Molovinsky told me there will be a card there sometime this summer.
This means that right now, May will be a very light month along the Beltway with just Sharmba Mitchell's ESPN date on May 3 and the Ballroom Boxing show in Glen Burnie on May 4. There will also be two big amateur shows coming up; The Capitol Gloves on May 13 and Jake Smith's show on May 24.
The fact that it won't be as busy around this area in May is probably a good thing because June will be a major month for this area.
And that leads me to the following announcement:
Join me later today (hopefully between 8-9 PM ET) because I will announce three MAJOR bouts involving Beltway Boxers that will take place in June. All I will tell you at this time is that all three bouts will take place within an 11-day period and at least two (I think all three actually) will be televised. I have been told by all three boxers that the bouts are signed and sealed. With these bouts, June of 2006 will be one of the most important months in recent Beltway Boxing history.
Come back later for this announcement.
This means that right now, May will be a very light month along the Beltway with just Sharmba Mitchell's ESPN date on May 3 and the Ballroom Boxing show in Glen Burnie on May 4. There will also be two big amateur shows coming up; The Capitol Gloves on May 13 and Jake Smith's show on May 24.
The fact that it won't be as busy around this area in May is probably a good thing because June will be a major month for this area.
And that leads me to the following announcement:
Join me later today (hopefully between 8-9 PM ET) because I will announce three MAJOR bouts involving Beltway Boxers that will take place in June. All I will tell you at this time is that all three bouts will take place within an 11-day period and at least two (I think all three actually) will be televised. I have been told by all three boxers that the bouts are signed and sealed. With these bouts, June of 2006 will be one of the most important months in recent Beltway Boxing history.
Come back later for this announcement.