There have been reports on some boxing websites that USBA Cruiserweight champion Emmanuel Nwodo of Baltimore is scheduled to take on undefeated NABO Cruiserweight titleholder Johnathan Banks on October 28 at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, MI.
I just got off the phone with Nwodo's promoter, Han Kim and he tells me that the bout is OFF! Kim was contacted for this bout just this week and felt the short notice was too short for his boxer to prepare for the bout. So the bout is off.
More on this as it becomes available.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Beltway Schedule Addition: December 9 at the Lincoln Theatre!
When I posted the fall Beltway Boxing schedule earlier this month, I said there are more cards being talked about.
I can now confirm one of those talked-about cards: Saturday, December 9 at the historic Lincoln Theatre in DC!
Babie Girl Promotions -- headed by Cassandra White -- will put on its second card at the Lincoln. You'll remember that White promoted the show in March headlined by Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan stopping Lloyd "Jabba" Bryan.
Not much is known at this time about the December 9 show, however, with her main event, White plans to answer one of the burning and most-asked questions along the Beltway: "Where is Clarence 'Untouchable' Vinson?" Yes, Vinson is slated to headline the December 9 show.
By the way, Vinson is now being trained by Beltway Boxing legend Darryl "Terrible T" Tyson. I plan to talk to both men between now and December 9.
I can now confirm one of those talked-about cards: Saturday, December 9 at the historic Lincoln Theatre in DC!
Babie Girl Promotions -- headed by Cassandra White -- will put on its second card at the Lincoln. You'll remember that White promoted the show in March headlined by Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan stopping Lloyd "Jabba" Bryan.
Not much is known at this time about the December 9 show, however, with her main event, White plans to answer one of the burning and most-asked questions along the Beltway: "Where is Clarence 'Untouchable' Vinson?" Yes, Vinson is slated to headline the December 9 show.
By the way, Vinson is now being trained by Beltway Boxing legend Darryl "Terrible T" Tyson. I plan to talk to both men between now and December 9.
Bizarre Night in the Ballroom!
Since the start of this blog in July 2005, we have had some landmark nights of Beltway Boxing.
Thursday, Sept. 28 would not be one of them.
During the premiere of Ballroom Boxing's 12th season at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD, one Beltway Boxer had a unintentionally short but successful night, another suffered a major setback while a third had the first learning experience of his pro career.
Let's start with the main event, the return of cruiserweight Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, now living in Takoma Park, MD. Wilson was able to break his four-bout losing streak with a sudden fourth-round TKO over Daniel Judah of Brooklyn, NY.
This was not one of Wilson's typical knockouts. The knockout came when Wilson threw a punch that landed on Judah's left shoulder. The sickening crack of glove against bone could be heard all throughout Michael's, as could Judah's scream of pain. Judah could not move his arm and referee Malik Waleed stopped the bout at 33 seconds of the third.
According to Judah's father Yoel, Judah (who had brother Zab -- sporting a short mohawk haircut -- in attendance) had surgery on that shoulder two years ago. Yoel Judah also said that the shoulder was dislocated this time.
For Wilson, who raised his record to 19-5-3, 16 KO's, it was a good performance, but he told me afterwards he wanted to do more.
"I wanted to show how fluid I can be in the later rounds," Wilson said. "I was warming up."
Overall, Wilson looked good in the just over six minutes he was in there. His trainer, 1976 Olympic silver medalist SGT. Charles Mooney, told me he liked how Wilson followed directions in the corner. Wilson went to the body well while facing an opponent who stayed in front of him the entire time.
Judah's record is now 21-2-3, 10 KO's.
Now folks, the rest of this report goes pretty much downhill from here.
In the co-feature, Baltimore junior middleweight Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin suffered the first loss of his pro career, dropping an eight-round majority decision to David Toribio of Miami, FL by way of the Dominican Republic.
Frankly, Arvin was very fortunate to get a draw from one of the scorecards. He was dropped by a left hook in the fourth round that sent him somersaulting backwards towards his own corner. Arvin told me afterwards that he never saw the punch.
Had Toribio not been deducted a point for holding in the fifth round, he would have won a unanimous decision. Judge Gary Camponeschi saw the draw, 75-75. Judge John Gradowski scored the bout 77-73 while Don Risher saw the contest 78-72. I had it close at 75-74 for Toribio.
But here's why this loss is an unsettling one for Arvin:
1. Arvin lost to a guy who had dropped his last five decisions, three by knockout.
2. Arvin looked EXTREMELY off balance; he was lunging and stumbling throughout the entire contest. In fact, I talked to a few people who know the technical aspect of this sport better than I do and there is fear for Arvin at this stage. I have seen most of Arvin's 16 previous bouts, and I can say without question that this was the worst I have seen him. Because of this, there are those who say that this was a LOT more than just a bad night.
This loss is a major blow for the Beltway Boxing community. Arvin was seen as one of our brightest prospects and he was just awful last night. In all honesty, he will have to do a lot to bounce back from this one. Arvin's record falls to 14-1-2, six KO's. Toribio is now 13-5, seven KO's.
Also on the card, Baltimore junior lightweight Tyrell Samuel remained undefeated with a six-round split decision over Carlos Vinan of Newark, NJ. This was a rematch of a bout Samuel won by majority decision earlier in his career.
Truthfully, this was a gift for Samuel, in my opinion. However, hopefully it will serve as a learning experience for him and there are some positives to be taken from it.
For the first time that I've seen in his nine-bout pro career, Samuel faced someone who can put on pressure and land good shots. One thing we didn't know was how good Samuel's chin was. I think we got an indication last night. Also, I think at times he was confused because Vinan took some of Samuel's best shots. However, I didn't see him overly frustrated during the bout. Vinan should be credited for having a good chin also as well as showing the ability to fight despite a bad cut along the left eye.
I scored the bout 58-56 for Vinan. That was the same score that Judge Don Risher had. Judges Kenny Chevalier and Malik Waleed saw the bout in favor of Samuel, 58-57 and 58-56 respectively.
I thought Samuel fought well. I just thought he didn't do enough to get the win.
In other bouts on the card, cruiserweight William "Thunder" Gill of Toms River, NJ broke a six-bout losing streak by scoring a second-round TKO over John "Jazz" Owens of Council Bluffs, IA. The win was Gill's first victory in the Beltway region in three tries. The other two bouts were losses to Mike Paschall. Gill's record is now 3-11, two KO's while Owens is 2-3, one KO. Also, New York City junior middleweight prospect Jose "Silver Boy" Rodriguez remained undefeated (8-0, one KO) with an easy six-round unanimous decision over Carlos Pena of Arroyo, Puerto Rico (2-7, two KO's.
A very solid and competitive card put on by promoter Scott Wagner and matchmaker Chris Middendorf. The locals were tested nicely tonight. Too bad they didn't all pass the test.
Among others in attendance last night were former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman,Beltway prospects Mike Ricasa and Jessie Nicklow as well as former Beltway heavyweight contender Thomas "Top Dog" Williams I thought I saw Dana Rucker as well, but I wasn't sure.
Also making the scene was one of the top welterweight contenders in the world, Paul "The Punisher" Williams of Augusta, GA. Williams has been training in the area periodically over the past few months.
Thursday, Sept. 28 would not be one of them.
During the premiere of Ballroom Boxing's 12th season at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD, one Beltway Boxer had a unintentionally short but successful night, another suffered a major setback while a third had the first learning experience of his pro career.
Let's start with the main event, the return of cruiserweight Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, now living in Takoma Park, MD. Wilson was able to break his four-bout losing streak with a sudden fourth-round TKO over Daniel Judah of Brooklyn, NY.
This was not one of Wilson's typical knockouts. The knockout came when Wilson threw a punch that landed on Judah's left shoulder. The sickening crack of glove against bone could be heard all throughout Michael's, as could Judah's scream of pain. Judah could not move his arm and referee Malik Waleed stopped the bout at 33 seconds of the third.
According to Judah's father Yoel, Judah (who had brother Zab -- sporting a short mohawk haircut -- in attendance) had surgery on that shoulder two years ago. Yoel Judah also said that the shoulder was dislocated this time.
For Wilson, who raised his record to 19-5-3, 16 KO's, it was a good performance, but he told me afterwards he wanted to do more.
"I wanted to show how fluid I can be in the later rounds," Wilson said. "I was warming up."
Overall, Wilson looked good in the just over six minutes he was in there. His trainer, 1976 Olympic silver medalist SGT. Charles Mooney, told me he liked how Wilson followed directions in the corner. Wilson went to the body well while facing an opponent who stayed in front of him the entire time.
Judah's record is now 21-2-3, 10 KO's.
Now folks, the rest of this report goes pretty much downhill from here.
In the co-feature, Baltimore junior middleweight Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin suffered the first loss of his pro career, dropping an eight-round majority decision to David Toribio of Miami, FL by way of the Dominican Republic.
Frankly, Arvin was very fortunate to get a draw from one of the scorecards. He was dropped by a left hook in the fourth round that sent him somersaulting backwards towards his own corner. Arvin told me afterwards that he never saw the punch.
Had Toribio not been deducted a point for holding in the fifth round, he would have won a unanimous decision. Judge Gary Camponeschi saw the draw, 75-75. Judge John Gradowski scored the bout 77-73 while Don Risher saw the contest 78-72. I had it close at 75-74 for Toribio.
But here's why this loss is an unsettling one for Arvin:
1. Arvin lost to a guy who had dropped his last five decisions, three by knockout.
2. Arvin looked EXTREMELY off balance; he was lunging and stumbling throughout the entire contest. In fact, I talked to a few people who know the technical aspect of this sport better than I do and there is fear for Arvin at this stage. I have seen most of Arvin's 16 previous bouts, and I can say without question that this was the worst I have seen him. Because of this, there are those who say that this was a LOT more than just a bad night.
This loss is a major blow for the Beltway Boxing community. Arvin was seen as one of our brightest prospects and he was just awful last night. In all honesty, he will have to do a lot to bounce back from this one. Arvin's record falls to 14-1-2, six KO's. Toribio is now 13-5, seven KO's.
Also on the card, Baltimore junior lightweight Tyrell Samuel remained undefeated with a six-round split decision over Carlos Vinan of Newark, NJ. This was a rematch of a bout Samuel won by majority decision earlier in his career.
Truthfully, this was a gift for Samuel, in my opinion. However, hopefully it will serve as a learning experience for him and there are some positives to be taken from it.
For the first time that I've seen in his nine-bout pro career, Samuel faced someone who can put on pressure and land good shots. One thing we didn't know was how good Samuel's chin was. I think we got an indication last night. Also, I think at times he was confused because Vinan took some of Samuel's best shots. However, I didn't see him overly frustrated during the bout. Vinan should be credited for having a good chin also as well as showing the ability to fight despite a bad cut along the left eye.
I scored the bout 58-56 for Vinan. That was the same score that Judge Don Risher had. Judges Kenny Chevalier and Malik Waleed saw the bout in favor of Samuel, 58-57 and 58-56 respectively.
I thought Samuel fought well. I just thought he didn't do enough to get the win.
In other bouts on the card, cruiserweight William "Thunder" Gill of Toms River, NJ broke a six-bout losing streak by scoring a second-round TKO over John "Jazz" Owens of Council Bluffs, IA. The win was Gill's first victory in the Beltway region in three tries. The other two bouts were losses to Mike Paschall. Gill's record is now 3-11, two KO's while Owens is 2-3, one KO. Also, New York City junior middleweight prospect Jose "Silver Boy" Rodriguez remained undefeated (8-0, one KO) with an easy six-round unanimous decision over Carlos Pena of Arroyo, Puerto Rico (2-7, two KO's.
A very solid and competitive card put on by promoter Scott Wagner and matchmaker Chris Middendorf. The locals were tested nicely tonight. Too bad they didn't all pass the test.
Among others in attendance last night were former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman,Beltway prospects Mike Ricasa and Jessie Nicklow as well as former Beltway heavyweight contender Thomas "Top Dog" Williams I thought I saw Dana Rucker as well, but I wasn't sure.
Also making the scene was one of the top welterweight contenders in the world, Paul "The Punisher" Williams of Augusta, GA. Williams has been training in the area periodically over the past few months.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Tyson to Battle Beltway Boxer in Exhibition!
ESPN.com's Dan Rafael is reporting that former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will begin his world exhibition tour on October 20th in Youngstown, Ohio.
The first opponent on "Mike Tyson's World Tour" (catchy name, isn't it?) will be his long-time sparring partner, DC's own Corey "T-Rex" Sanders. They will box in a four-round exhibition, according to Tyson's promoter, Sterling McPherson.
McPherson told ESPN.com that this will be the first of as many as 12 four-round exhibitions that Tyson has agreed to take place in.
Tyson, of course, finished his career right here in DC when he lost to Kevin McBride on June 11, 2005 at Verizon Center.
The 31-year-old, 6'6" Sanders finished his career (23-10, 15 KO's) in 2004 after repeated problems with an eye injury that originally took place in perhaps his most-remembered performance, a 10-round unanimous decision loss to Andrew Golota in Atlantic City on July 21, 1998.
Despite the injury, Sanders won seven straight bouts. That streak was capped by an eight-round technical knockout over current WBC Heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev on March 17, 2002.
Since he completed his career, Sanders has been a well-known sparring partner for many throughout the sport, including Tyson who worked with Sanders for the McBride fight.
Just thought I'd let you know: McPherson told ESPN.com that this is apparently going to be a PAY-PER-VIEW "event" that you can buy for $29.95. The card will also feature sanctioned boxing matches, including the return of former lightweight champion Paul Spadafora.
The first opponent on "Mike Tyson's World Tour" (catchy name, isn't it?) will be his long-time sparring partner, DC's own Corey "T-Rex" Sanders. They will box in a four-round exhibition, according to Tyson's promoter, Sterling McPherson.
McPherson told ESPN.com that this will be the first of as many as 12 four-round exhibitions that Tyson has agreed to take place in.
Tyson, of course, finished his career right here in DC when he lost to Kevin McBride on June 11, 2005 at Verizon Center.
The 31-year-old, 6'6" Sanders finished his career (23-10, 15 KO's) in 2004 after repeated problems with an eye injury that originally took place in perhaps his most-remembered performance, a 10-round unanimous decision loss to Andrew Golota in Atlantic City on July 21, 1998.
Despite the injury, Sanders won seven straight bouts. That streak was capped by an eight-round technical knockout over current WBC Heavyweight champion Oleg Maskaev on March 17, 2002.
Since he completed his career, Sanders has been a well-known sparring partner for many throughout the sport, including Tyson who worked with Sanders for the McBride fight.
Just thought I'd let you know: McPherson told ESPN.com that this is apparently going to be a PAY-PER-VIEW "event" that you can buy for $29.95. The card will also feature sanctioned boxing matches, including the return of former lightweight champion Paul Spadafora.
Weights for Ballroom Boxing Tomorrow Night!
Here are some of the weights for tomorrow night's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD (Beltway Boxers in bold:)
Darnell Wilson 189 vs. Daniel Judah 187 1/2
Ishmail Arvin 155 3/4 vs. David Toribio 156
Tyrell Samuel 129 3/4 vs. Carlos Vinan 130
Jose Rodriguez 149 3/4 vs. Carlos Pena 149 1/4
John Owens vs. William Gill (both will weigh-in tomorrow)
Miguel Guzman vs. TBD
Darnell Wilson 189 vs. Daniel Judah 187 1/2
Ishmail Arvin 155 3/4 vs. David Toribio 156
Tyrell Samuel 129 3/4 vs. Carlos Vinan 130
Jose Rodriguez 149 3/4 vs. Carlos Pena 149 1/4
John Owens vs. William Gill (both will weigh-in tomorrow)
Miguel Guzman vs. TBD
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Johnson Explains His Future Goals!
In the final part of our talk with Mark Johnson, he lays out his future goals and has a message for his supporters..and his detractors.
Johnson Discusses The Importance of Venue!
In part three of my talk with Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, we discuss the importance of venue and whether he will step back into the ring again.
Johnson Talks More About Promoting Plans!
In part two of our interview with Mark Johnson, he expresses his goals of bringing boxing to a new level in the Nation's Capital.
'Too Sharp' Reveals Promoting Woes!
In a very revealing audio interview, former three-time world champion Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson talks about the obstacles he has faced in beginning his promotional career.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Washington Post Profiles Dominic Wade!
Today's Washington Post has a solid article on a young man getting a lot of notoriety in the amateur ranks here in the area, including on this blog.
16-year-old Dominic Wade of Largo, MD is the subject of the article "AT 16, Career on the Ropes" by Eli Saslow.
This is the link to the article:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/25/AR2006092501100.html
Please give your comments. Let me commend the Post, for this is the third article this year that has profiled a Beltway amateur champion. There have been previous articles on the Russell Family as well as Franchon Crews (who was also profiled by the Baltimore Sun).
16-year-old Dominic Wade of Largo, MD is the subject of the article "AT 16, Career on the Ropes" by Eli Saslow.
This is the link to the article:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/25/AR2006092501100.html
Please give your comments. Let me commend the Post, for this is the third article this year that has profiled a Beltway amateur champion. There have been previous articles on the Russell Family as well as Franchon Crews (who was also profiled by the Baltimore Sun).
'The Arsenal' Talks About His Career!
Undefeated Baltimore junior middleweight Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin talks about his career and his preparations for his co-feature bout against David Toribio on the Ballroom Boxing card on Thursday, September 28 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Rahman Waits; Reid Released!
A couple of Beltway Boxing Notes courtesy of ESPN.com's Dan Rafael:
It looks like former two-time heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will have to wait until 2007 to get back to fighting again. There was talk that the Baltimore native would fight Sinan Samil Sam in Germany later this year. According to Rafael, the bout will probably still happen, but the German TV calendar is full and there is no room for the bout.
Rahman's manager Steve Nelson told Rafael that there is a possibility that this contest may be a WBC title elimination bout and it could happen in January or February.
Meanwhile, Rafael reports that Adelphi, MD's Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid is looking for a new promoter. Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions has released Reid from his promotional contract. The former multi-time regional champion (23-8-2, 17 KO's) has not fared well in recent bouts going 1-3-1 in his last five bouts, losing to such competition as Kermit Cintron, Rodney Jones, and in his last bout, Verno Phillips.
It looks like former two-time heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will have to wait until 2007 to get back to fighting again. There was talk that the Baltimore native would fight Sinan Samil Sam in Germany later this year. According to Rafael, the bout will probably still happen, but the German TV calendar is full and there is no room for the bout.
Rahman's manager Steve Nelson told Rafael that there is a possibility that this contest may be a WBC title elimination bout and it could happen in January or February.
Meanwhile, Rafael reports that Adelphi, MD's Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid is looking for a new promoter. Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions has released Reid from his promotional contract. The former multi-time regional champion (23-8-2, 17 KO's) has not fared well in recent bouts going 1-3-1 in his last five bouts, losing to such competition as Kermit Cintron, Rodney Jones, and in his last bout, Verno Phillips.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Unique Announcement Concerning Ring Announcers and Oct. 7!
Please listen to this post for a special announcement connecting the "Voices of the Ring" Series you just heard and "The Beltway vs. The World" card on October 7 at the George Mason University Patriot Center.
Jones Talks About His First Night at MSG!
In this third segment, Henry "Discombobulating" Jones talks about his preparation and his Madison Square Garden debut.
Jones Says Preparation is the Key!
In the second part of this interview, Henry "Discombobulating" Jones talks about the racism he has had to endure.
Voices of the Ring: Henry "Discombobulating" Jones!
In the final installment of the series, I talk to the one and only Henry "Discombobulating" Jones. In this segment, Jones explained how he came up with his unique nickname.
Breaking News: Ballroom Boxing Will NOT Air on MASN!
I am just receiving word that Ballroom Boxing will NOT be a part of the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN).
I had been told by numerous sources that the show would begin airing on the network starting with the Sept. 28 card. However, I received copy of an official MASN document that says that will not be the case.
I apologize to MASN for any misunderstanding.
I had been told by numerous sources that the show would begin airing on the network starting with the Sept. 28 card. However, I received copy of an official MASN document that says that will not be the case.
I apologize to MASN for any misunderstanding.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Beltway Amateur Boxing Update!
Periodically, I will try to give you an update on the USA Boxing rankings as it pertains to our local amateurs. Again, let me say that although I can't be at every amateur show, I do want info from you on upcoming amateur boxing events.
I must also admit that I don't know where all the following boxers train, so I ask your assistance in telling me what gym these boxers train so the gyms can be recognized.
First, let's take a look at the Beltway Boxers that are ranked in USA Boxing's Second Quarter Rankings:
Bantamweight/119 pounds:
1. Gary Russell, Jr., Capitol Heights, MD
Welterweight/152 pounds:
6. Fernando Guerrero, Salisbury, MD
7. Jacey Thompson, Washington, DC
Middleweight/165 pounds:
5. Fernando Guerrero, Salisbury, MD
7. Jimson Adebusoye, Washington, DC
Light Heavyweight/178 pounds:
6. Marcus Henry, Cockeysville, MD
Heavyweight/201 pounds
3. Marcus Henry, Cockeysville, MD
6. Matt Steenhoek, Baltimore, MD
Super Heavyweight/+201 pounds
4. Lucas Runion, College Park, MD
Here are the Women's Third Quarter rankings:
Light Bantamweight/114 pounds
10. Gina D'Andrea, Maryland
Bantamweight/119 pounds
10. Tyrieshie Douglas, Washington, DC
Middleweight/165 pounds
1. Franchon Crews, Baltimore, MD
The most recent rankings available from USA Boxing's website for the Junior Olympics are for 2005. Here where the Beltway Boxers stand:
119 pounds:
9. Larry Recio, Lanham, MD
145 pounds:
Jermal Williams, Fort Washington, MD
165 pounds:
1. Dominic Wade, Largo, MD
Beltway Boxing Fans: These boxers and many others are the future of the sport in our area. Please give them your support!
I must also admit that I don't know where all the following boxers train, so I ask your assistance in telling me what gym these boxers train so the gyms can be recognized.
First, let's take a look at the Beltway Boxers that are ranked in USA Boxing's Second Quarter Rankings:
Bantamweight/119 pounds:
1. Gary Russell, Jr., Capitol Heights, MD
Welterweight/152 pounds:
6. Fernando Guerrero, Salisbury, MD
7. Jacey Thompson, Washington, DC
Middleweight/165 pounds:
5. Fernando Guerrero, Salisbury, MD
7. Jimson Adebusoye, Washington, DC
Light Heavyweight/178 pounds:
6. Marcus Henry, Cockeysville, MD
Heavyweight/201 pounds
3. Marcus Henry, Cockeysville, MD
6. Matt Steenhoek, Baltimore, MD
Super Heavyweight/+201 pounds
4. Lucas Runion, College Park, MD
Here are the Women's Third Quarter rankings:
Light Bantamweight/114 pounds
10. Gina D'Andrea, Maryland
Bantamweight/119 pounds
10. Tyrieshie Douglas, Washington, DC
Middleweight/165 pounds
1. Franchon Crews, Baltimore, MD
The most recent rankings available from USA Boxing's website for the Junior Olympics are for 2005. Here where the Beltway Boxers stand:
119 pounds:
9. Larry Recio, Lanham, MD
145 pounds:
Jermal Williams, Fort Washington, MD
165 pounds:
1. Dominic Wade, Largo, MD
Beltway Boxing Fans: These boxers and many others are the future of the sport in our area. Please give them your support!
'Digital' Mentioned in 'DC Sports Bog!'
I meant to put this up yesterday, but I was mentioned in a posting yesterday in the new Washington Post DC Sports Bog." Writer Dan Steinberg mentioned what I told you about Mike Sawyer donating his purse to the Save Darfur Coalition.
Steinberg then poked good fun with my name. It was very funny.
This is the link to the sports bog: http://blog.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/
Look for the posting that says "Dance Team Roster Set."
Steinberg then poked good fun with my name. It was very funny.
This is the link to the sports bog: http://blog.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/
Look for the posting that says "Dance Team Roster Set."
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
NOMIS Boxing Club Hosts Amateur Show Sept. 23!
The busy fall season of Beltway Amateur and Pro Boxing has a new start date. This Saturday, Sept. 23, there will be an amateur boxing card put on by the NOMIS Boxing Gym to support their non-profit NOMIS Youth Network.
This card is the NOMIS Boxing Invitational and it will be held at the Richard Englland Community Center located at 4103 Benning Road in Northeast, DC.
Among the featured boxers slated to participate are Gary A. Russell(known to everyone as Allen), the younger brother of world-ranked amateur bantamweight Gary Russell Jr. and David Grayton IV, who was voted the most outstanding boxer at this year's Mayor's Cup.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, contact Robert Simon at (202) 543-2207.
This card is the NOMIS Boxing Invitational and it will be held at the Richard Englland Community Center located at 4103 Benning Road in Northeast, DC.
Among the featured boxers slated to participate are Gary A. Russell(known to everyone as Allen), the younger brother of world-ranked amateur bantamweight Gary Russell Jr. and David Grayton IV, who was voted the most outstanding boxer at this year's Mayor's Cup.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more information, contact Robert Simon at (202) 543-2207.
O'Malley Shares Ballroom Boxing Virtues!
In the final part of our interview with Pat O'Malley, he discusses the mystique of the Ballroom Boxing promotion.
Pat O'Malley Relates Ring Announcing Memories!
In the second part of my interview with Pat O'Malley, the long-time voice of Ballroom Boxing reminisces about some great Beltway Boxing moments.
Voices of the Ring: Pat O'Malley!
The long-time voice of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD, Pat O'Malley talks about his 20-year career.
Wilson Predicts Victory on Sept. 28!
In the second part of my interview with Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, he talks confidently about his upcoming bout with Daniel Judah.
'Ding-A-Ling Man' Explains Recent Fortunes!
Silver Spring, MD's Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson speaks frankly about his recent ring fortunes as he gets ready for his Sept. 28 Ballroom Boxing bout against Daniel Judah.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Legendary Dundee Working Lange Corner Oct. 7!
This was NOT the special announcement I was talking about, although this is big news. Here is part of the official press release:
Legendary Angelo Dundee Joins Jimmy Lange’s Corner
Johnny Lange, father and manager of top middleweight contender Jimmy Lange, announced today that boxing legend Angelo Dundee will serve in Jimmy’s corner for his 10-round Main Event bout against Tommy Wilt on Saturday, October 7 at the Patriot Center.
“I’m extremely honored that one of the true legends in the sport will be in my corner on October 7th,” said Lange (26-3-1, 18 KOs), who trains in Vero Beach, FL with highly-regarded former champion Buddy McGirt. “It means a tremendous amount to me to have a man of Mr. Dundee’s stature and talent, offering me guidance and advice on one of the most important nights of my career.”
"I am pleased to work with Jimmy Lange and once again travel to the DC area,” said Dundee. “It is always exciting for me to work with young, upcoming talent. I expect a solid performance from Lange and an impressive win."
The highly-respected International Boxing Hall of Fame member Dundee has worked with many of the world’s greatest fighters including Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, “Sugar” Ray Leonard and Carmen Basilio. Known as a master motivator, Dundee recently trained Russell Crowe for Crowe's characterization of James J. Braddock in "The Cinderella Man."
Legendary Angelo Dundee Joins Jimmy Lange’s Corner
Johnny Lange, father and manager of top middleweight contender Jimmy Lange, announced today that boxing legend Angelo Dundee will serve in Jimmy’s corner for his 10-round Main Event bout against Tommy Wilt on Saturday, October 7 at the Patriot Center.
“I’m extremely honored that one of the true legends in the sport will be in my corner on October 7th,” said Lange (26-3-1, 18 KOs), who trains in Vero Beach, FL with highly-regarded former champion Buddy McGirt. “It means a tremendous amount to me to have a man of Mr. Dundee’s stature and talent, offering me guidance and advice on one of the most important nights of my career.”
"I am pleased to work with Jimmy Lange and once again travel to the DC area,” said Dundee. “It is always exciting for me to work with young, upcoming talent. I expect a solid performance from Lange and an impressive win."
The highly-respected International Boxing Hall of Fame member Dundee has worked with many of the world’s greatest fighters including Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, “Sugar” Ray Leonard and Carmen Basilio. Known as a master motivator, Dundee recently trained Russell Crowe for Crowe's characterization of James J. Braddock in "The Cinderella Man."
Full Fall Beltway Boxing Schedule!
The Sept. 28 Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue kicks off a very full Beltway Boxing Schedule that will take us through the rest of the year.
These are the eight other pro dates that I can confirm at this time:
Saturday, October 7 -- George Mason University Patriot Center
A couple of notes on this show: undefeated Front Royal, VA welterweight Andrew Farmer will not appear on this card because he suffered an injury in training.
Also, Falls Church, VA junior middleweight "Money" Mike Sawyer will be fighting for no money because he will donate his entire purse to the Save Darfur Coalition. If you know or have read anything about the absolute genocide that is going on in that region of Africa, you know that it is just unbelievable. You have to applaud what Sawyer is doing.
By the way, I will have a special announcement of my own concerning this card in the next few days.
The rest of the calendar looks like this:
Friday, October 20 -- Pikesville Armory -- Baltimore Pro Boxing
Monday, October 23 -- Martin's West -- Charity Boxing card to benefit the Jonathan Ogden Foundation.
Thursday, November 2 -- Washington Hilton and Towers -- Annual "Fight Night" Fight for Children charity card.
Thursday, November 9 -- Ballroom Boxing -- Michael's Eighth Avenue -- Final Ballroom show of 2006.
Saturday, November 18 -- ABC Sports Center, Springfield, VA -- Scott Farmer promotion.
Friday, December 7 -- Pikesville Armory -- Baltimore Pro Boxing's last show of the year.
Saturday, December 9 -- Patriot Center -- Joe Hensley's Major League Boxing returns to Fairfax.
These are the shows that I have confirmed. I can tell you that there are other shows in the area being talked about.
There are also two amateur shows being promoted by area promoters.
Thursday, October 5 -- DuBurns Arena, Baltimore -- Benefits the Mr. Mack Lewis Foundation.
Saturday, October 7 -- Ocean City Convention Center -- Baltimore Pro Boxing's final amateur show of the year.
Beltway Boxing fans: you now have no excuse. The schedule has been laid out with possibly more to come. Go out and support our Beltway Boxers!!
These are the eight other pro dates that I can confirm at this time:
Saturday, October 7 -- George Mason University Patriot Center
A couple of notes on this show: undefeated Front Royal, VA welterweight Andrew Farmer will not appear on this card because he suffered an injury in training.
Also, Falls Church, VA junior middleweight "Money" Mike Sawyer will be fighting for no money because he will donate his entire purse to the Save Darfur Coalition. If you know or have read anything about the absolute genocide that is going on in that region of Africa, you know that it is just unbelievable. You have to applaud what Sawyer is doing.
By the way, I will have a special announcement of my own concerning this card in the next few days.
The rest of the calendar looks like this:
Friday, October 20 -- Pikesville Armory -- Baltimore Pro Boxing
Monday, October 23 -- Martin's West -- Charity Boxing card to benefit the Jonathan Ogden Foundation.
Thursday, November 2 -- Washington Hilton and Towers -- Annual "Fight Night" Fight for Children charity card.
Thursday, November 9 -- Ballroom Boxing -- Michael's Eighth Avenue -- Final Ballroom show of 2006.
Saturday, November 18 -- ABC Sports Center, Springfield, VA -- Scott Farmer promotion.
Friday, December 7 -- Pikesville Armory -- Baltimore Pro Boxing's last show of the year.
Saturday, December 9 -- Patriot Center -- Joe Hensley's Major League Boxing returns to Fairfax.
These are the shows that I have confirmed. I can tell you that there are other shows in the area being talked about.
There are also two amateur shows being promoted by area promoters.
Thursday, October 5 -- DuBurns Arena, Baltimore -- Benefits the Mr. Mack Lewis Foundation.
Saturday, October 7 -- Ocean City Convention Center -- Baltimore Pro Boxing's final amateur show of the year.
Beltway Boxing fans: you now have no excuse. The schedule has been laid out with possibly more to come. Go out and support our Beltway Boxers!!
Monday, September 18, 2006
Ballroom Boxing Returns Sept. 28!
Ballroom Boxing at Michael’s Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD kicks off its 12th season on Thursday, September 28 with an interesting cruiserweight main event.
Ballroom favorite Darnell “The Ding-A-Ling” Man Wilson of Silver Spring, MD returns to take on Daniel Judah of Brooklyn, NY in a 10-round encounter.
Wilson (18-5-3, 15 KO’s) comes into this contest needing a win badly. After winning 15 bouts in a row, Wilson is 2-4-2 in his last eight contests; the four losses coming in his last four bouts, where he faced opponents (Vadim Tokarev, Owen Beck, Felix Cora, Jr. and Andre Purlette) who have a combined won-loss record of 98-4-3 with 77 knockouts. The Beck bout was fought at heavyweight.
A return to the Ballroom may be the medicine Wilson needs, as he is undefeated in Glen Burnie with a record of 11-0-2 with 10 KO’s.
But Wilson will be tested again by Judah, the older brother of former world junior welterweight and welterweight champion Zab Judah. Daniel Judah (21-1-3, 10 KO’s) started his career unbeaten in his first 23 bouts (20-0-3, 10 KO’s) before suffering his first defeat, a 12-round unanimous decision loss to Eric Harding for the NABF Light Heavyweight title in October of 2005. In his last contest, Judah won an eight-round unanimous decision over Dennis McKinney on March 31.
Three of the undercard bouts feature highly-regarded and undefeated Beltway prospects. In an eight-round junior middleweight bout, Baltimore’s Ishmail “The Arsenal” Arvin takes on David Toribio of the Dominican Republic.
Arvin (14-0-2, six KO’s) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over David Estrada on June 15 in Glen Burnie. This will be Arvin’s 13th appearance in the Ballroom.
Toribio (12-6, seven KO’s) is trying to turn his boxing fortunes around. After winning his first 12 bouts, Toribio, who now fights out of Miami, FL, has lost his last six contests including a six-round unanimous decision to Harry Joe Yorgey on September 11 in Philadelphia.
Another Baltimore prospect, featherweight Tyrell Samuel, is also scheduled for action as he takes on Jorge Ruiz of Miami, FL in a six-round bout.
Samuel (7-0, five KO’s) is coming off a second-round KO over Margarito Lopez on June 15 in Glen Burnie. Samuel, who is trained by former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent Pettway, has scored knockouts in his last five fights.
In his last bout, Ruiz (4-1-1) fought to a four-round draw with Kermit Gonzalez on August 25 in Tampa, FL.
In a six-round welterweight bout, Tim Coleman of Laurel, MD will take on Carlos Pena of Lowell, MA.
Coleman (5-0, 1 KO) won a six-round unanimous decision over Muhsin Corbbrey in his last outing on June 15 in Glen Burnie. Pena (2-5, two KO’s) broke a five-bout losing streak by scoring a second-round TKO over Steven Garcia on August 19 in Ponce, Puerto Rico. The win was a measure of revenge for Pena, who was stopped by Garcia in the first round in April of this year.
This card will also feature the pro debut of decorated Baltimore amateur champion Dalemanik Roberson-El. Roberson-El was ranked fifth in the country at light-heavyweight as an amateur. In his first pro outing, Roberson-El will face Corey Washington of Lexington, KY in a four-round bout. Washington won his pro debut by a third-round technical decision over Brandon Ikner on June 30 in Indianapolis, IN.
In another bout on the card, undefeated New York junior middleweight prospect Jose “Silver Boy” Rodriguez will take on veteran Richard “Tiger” Lee Hall of Rocky Mount, NC in a six-round encounter.
Rodriguez (7-0, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Jesse Orta on June 17 in Memphis, TN.
This bout will be the fourth straight undefeated fighter that Hall has faced. Hall (10-16-1, six KO’s) lost by fourth-round TKO to Derek Ennis on April 21 in Mount Pleasant, SC and is trying to break a three-bout losing streak.
With this card, Ballroom Boxing returns to television as the card will be taped to air on the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN). Calling the action will be Larry Michael (who also serves as the radio play-by-play voice of the Washington Redskins), USA Today columnist Jon Saraceno and noted boxing and horse racing writer John Scheinman.
Ballroom favorite Darnell “The Ding-A-Ling” Man Wilson of Silver Spring, MD returns to take on Daniel Judah of Brooklyn, NY in a 10-round encounter.
Wilson (18-5-3, 15 KO’s) comes into this contest needing a win badly. After winning 15 bouts in a row, Wilson is 2-4-2 in his last eight contests; the four losses coming in his last four bouts, where he faced opponents (Vadim Tokarev, Owen Beck, Felix Cora, Jr. and Andre Purlette) who have a combined won-loss record of 98-4-3 with 77 knockouts. The Beck bout was fought at heavyweight.
A return to the Ballroom may be the medicine Wilson needs, as he is undefeated in Glen Burnie with a record of 11-0-2 with 10 KO’s.
But Wilson will be tested again by Judah, the older brother of former world junior welterweight and welterweight champion Zab Judah. Daniel Judah (21-1-3, 10 KO’s) started his career unbeaten in his first 23 bouts (20-0-3, 10 KO’s) before suffering his first defeat, a 12-round unanimous decision loss to Eric Harding for the NABF Light Heavyweight title in October of 2005. In his last contest, Judah won an eight-round unanimous decision over Dennis McKinney on March 31.
Three of the undercard bouts feature highly-regarded and undefeated Beltway prospects. In an eight-round junior middleweight bout, Baltimore’s Ishmail “The Arsenal” Arvin takes on David Toribio of the Dominican Republic.
Arvin (14-0-2, six KO’s) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over David Estrada on June 15 in Glen Burnie. This will be Arvin’s 13th appearance in the Ballroom.
Toribio (12-6, seven KO’s) is trying to turn his boxing fortunes around. After winning his first 12 bouts, Toribio, who now fights out of Miami, FL, has lost his last six contests including a six-round unanimous decision to Harry Joe Yorgey on September 11 in Philadelphia.
Another Baltimore prospect, featherweight Tyrell Samuel, is also scheduled for action as he takes on Jorge Ruiz of Miami, FL in a six-round bout.
Samuel (7-0, five KO’s) is coming off a second-round KO over Margarito Lopez on June 15 in Glen Burnie. Samuel, who is trained by former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent Pettway, has scored knockouts in his last five fights.
In his last bout, Ruiz (4-1-1) fought to a four-round draw with Kermit Gonzalez on August 25 in Tampa, FL.
In a six-round welterweight bout, Tim Coleman of Laurel, MD will take on Carlos Pena of Lowell, MA.
Coleman (5-0, 1 KO) won a six-round unanimous decision over Muhsin Corbbrey in his last outing on June 15 in Glen Burnie. Pena (2-5, two KO’s) broke a five-bout losing streak by scoring a second-round TKO over Steven Garcia on August 19 in Ponce, Puerto Rico. The win was a measure of revenge for Pena, who was stopped by Garcia in the first round in April of this year.
This card will also feature the pro debut of decorated Baltimore amateur champion Dalemanik Roberson-El. Roberson-El was ranked fifth in the country at light-heavyweight as an amateur. In his first pro outing, Roberson-El will face Corey Washington of Lexington, KY in a four-round bout. Washington won his pro debut by a third-round technical decision over Brandon Ikner on June 30 in Indianapolis, IN.
In another bout on the card, undefeated New York junior middleweight prospect Jose “Silver Boy” Rodriguez will take on veteran Richard “Tiger” Lee Hall of Rocky Mount, NC in a six-round encounter.
Rodriguez (7-0, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Jesse Orta on June 17 in Memphis, TN.
This bout will be the fourth straight undefeated fighter that Hall has faced. Hall (10-16-1, six KO’s) lost by fourth-round TKO to Derek Ennis on April 21 in Mount Pleasant, SC and is trying to break a three-bout losing streak.
With this card, Ballroom Boxing returns to television as the card will be taped to air on the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN). Calling the action will be Larry Michael (who also serves as the radio play-by-play voice of the Washington Redskins), USA Today columnist Jon Saraceno and noted boxing and horse racing writer John Scheinman.
'Jabba' Bryan Loses in Wisconsin!
Former super middleweight title contender Lloyd "Jabba" Bryan of Capitol Heights, MD lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Zach "Jungle Boy" Walters on September 15 in Superior, WI.
The Jamaican-born Bryan, who once fought for the IBF Super Middleweight title, was knocked down twice during the bout. Bryan lost on scores of 79-68, 80-69 and 80-70.
Bryan told my Fightnews.com colleague Jesse Kelley on his Minnesotaboxing.com site that he suffered the worst beating of his pro career.
"I have fought world champions and I have never been beaten up in a fight like I was tonight," Bryan told Kelley. "I fought my heart out but he was the better man tonight."
Bryan's record is now 22-14 with 10 KO's. Walters is now 15-1, 11 KO's.
The Jamaican-born Bryan, who once fought for the IBF Super Middleweight title, was knocked down twice during the bout. Bryan lost on scores of 79-68, 80-69 and 80-70.
Bryan told my Fightnews.com colleague Jesse Kelley on his Minnesotaboxing.com site that he suffered the worst beating of his pro career.
"I have fought world champions and I have never been beaten up in a fight like I was tonight," Bryan told Kelley. "I fought my heart out but he was the better man tonight."
Bryan's record is now 22-14 with 10 KO's. Walters is now 15-1, 11 KO's.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Vincent Pettway Leads 2006 Maryland Boxing Hall of Fame Class!
Former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway headlines the newest inductees into the Maryland Boxing Hall of Fame.
Pettway started his pro career in 1984 with a third round knockout over Ali Saad Muhammad in Atlantic City. The Baltimore native fought more than 25 times in and around his hometown throughout his career. Pettway won his first title, the USBA Junior Middleweight title in February of 1992 with a 12-round split decision over Gilbert Baptist in Pikesville. Two years later, Pettway made his first bid at a world title, challenging IBF Junior Middleweight champ Gianfranco Rosi. However, Pettway got involved in a foulfest and the bout was ruled a technical draw after six rounds.
Pettway realized his dream of holding a world title 12 years ago TODAY when he stopped Rosi in the fourth round. Pettway became Baltimore's first world champion in more than 80 years.
Pettway's only successful title defense was a classic when, on April 29, 1995, Pettway scored a vicious sixth-round knockout over fellow Beltway Boxer Simon Brown at the "Beltway Brawl" at the USAir Arena.
Pettway lost his title in August of 1995 to Paul Vaden and fell short in another title quest against Terry Norris. Pettway's record was 43-7-1, 32 KO's.
Joining Pettway in the pro category of the hall of fame selection will be Laurel, MD middleweight Percy "No Mercy" Harris. As an amateur, Harris won the 1984 National AAU Middleweight championship. As a pro, Harris had a relatively brief four-year career (1989-1992), but included in that career were bouts against two former world champions who will be first-ballot hall of famers.
On August 5, 1980, Harris challenged a young Bernard Hopkins and lost a six-round unanimous decision in Atlantic City. The loss was Harris first in his pro career.
Harris finished his career on December 5, 1992 being stopped in the fourth round by a rising star named Roy Jones, Jr.
Harris scored his biggest victory on December 4, 1991 defeating former perennial title contender Thomas Tate in San Pellegrino, Italy for the IBF Inter-Continental Middleweight title.
Harris's final record was 15-4, nine KO's.
Inducted in the amateur classification will be Warren "Chico" Thompson. The Baltimore native has been called the best super heavyweight to ever come out of the state by veteran Maryland amateur observers. Thompson won the National AAU Super Heavyweight championship in 1984 and traveled all over the world.
Thompson's pro career wasn't as successful, but it did include bouts against former WBA Heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon and former title contender Henry Akinwande.
Being inducted for his contributions to Maryland Boxing will be boxer turned promoter Jake "The Snake" Smith. The former Maryland State Light Heavyweight champion has taken on the daunting task of promoting amateur and professional boxing cards at the same time. Smith does this with incredible enthusiasm and has received high praise for the quality of his cards.
One of the non-participant inductees will be Earl Savage, a long-time inspector with the Maryland State Athletic Commission. Savage has been a quiet yet stern presence at Maryland boxing cards and is a very nice man.
The other non-participant inductee will be Marty Resnick. That name may not mean a lot to you but without him, the Beltway would be hard-pressed to find venues to hold boxing. Resnick is the owner of the successful Martin's Caterers locations all over the area and his support of local boxing has earned him this honor.
Two of the Martin's Caterers locations -- Martin's West in Woodlawn and Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt -- have been legendary Beltway Boxing locations for many years.
The Maryland Boxing Hall of Fame ceremony will be November 5 at Martin's East, 6000 Pulaski Highway in Baltimore.
Pettway started his pro career in 1984 with a third round knockout over Ali Saad Muhammad in Atlantic City. The Baltimore native fought more than 25 times in and around his hometown throughout his career. Pettway won his first title, the USBA Junior Middleweight title in February of 1992 with a 12-round split decision over Gilbert Baptist in Pikesville. Two years later, Pettway made his first bid at a world title, challenging IBF Junior Middleweight champ Gianfranco Rosi. However, Pettway got involved in a foulfest and the bout was ruled a technical draw after six rounds.
Pettway realized his dream of holding a world title 12 years ago TODAY when he stopped Rosi in the fourth round. Pettway became Baltimore's first world champion in more than 80 years.
Pettway's only successful title defense was a classic when, on April 29, 1995, Pettway scored a vicious sixth-round knockout over fellow Beltway Boxer Simon Brown at the "Beltway Brawl" at the USAir Arena.
Pettway lost his title in August of 1995 to Paul Vaden and fell short in another title quest against Terry Norris. Pettway's record was 43-7-1, 32 KO's.
Joining Pettway in the pro category of the hall of fame selection will be Laurel, MD middleweight Percy "No Mercy" Harris. As an amateur, Harris won the 1984 National AAU Middleweight championship. As a pro, Harris had a relatively brief four-year career (1989-1992), but included in that career were bouts against two former world champions who will be first-ballot hall of famers.
On August 5, 1980, Harris challenged a young Bernard Hopkins and lost a six-round unanimous decision in Atlantic City. The loss was Harris first in his pro career.
Harris finished his career on December 5, 1992 being stopped in the fourth round by a rising star named Roy Jones, Jr.
Harris scored his biggest victory on December 4, 1991 defeating former perennial title contender Thomas Tate in San Pellegrino, Italy for the IBF Inter-Continental Middleweight title.
Harris's final record was 15-4, nine KO's.
Inducted in the amateur classification will be Warren "Chico" Thompson. The Baltimore native has been called the best super heavyweight to ever come out of the state by veteran Maryland amateur observers. Thompson won the National AAU Super Heavyweight championship in 1984 and traveled all over the world.
Thompson's pro career wasn't as successful, but it did include bouts against former WBA Heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon and former title contender Henry Akinwande.
Being inducted for his contributions to Maryland Boxing will be boxer turned promoter Jake "The Snake" Smith. The former Maryland State Light Heavyweight champion has taken on the daunting task of promoting amateur and professional boxing cards at the same time. Smith does this with incredible enthusiasm and has received high praise for the quality of his cards.
One of the non-participant inductees will be Earl Savage, a long-time inspector with the Maryland State Athletic Commission. Savage has been a quiet yet stern presence at Maryland boxing cards and is a very nice man.
The other non-participant inductee will be Marty Resnick. That name may not mean a lot to you but without him, the Beltway would be hard-pressed to find venues to hold boxing. Resnick is the owner of the successful Martin's Caterers locations all over the area and his support of local boxing has earned him this honor.
Two of the Martin's Caterers locations -- Martin's West in Woodlawn and Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt -- have been legendary Beltway Boxing locations for many years.
The Maryland Boxing Hall of Fame ceremony will be November 5 at Martin's East, 6000 Pulaski Highway in Baltimore.
New Poll: Who is/was the Best Beltway Boxer in the Post-Leonard Era?
I'm expecting a lot of debate for this new poll question. As I said in the previous post, the success of Sugar Ray Leonard spawned and continues to spawn great boxers along the Beltway. So the question is: Who is/was the best Beltway Boxer of the post-Sugar Ray Leonard era?
The post-Leonard era, in my opinion, goes from 1985 to the present. Even though Leonard did win two world titles after 1985 (against Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Don Lalonde), fought Thomas Hearns to a draw in their rematch in 1989 and continue to battle off and on until 1997, he was somewhat inactive at many times during his career and some of the great Beltway Boxers that would follow him started to emerge in 1985. Leonard himself should not be considered for this poll.
I am really interested in reading your opinions on this one. You can either place them here or on the comments section on the poll itself. If you vote "Other" in the poll, please tell us your choice and why. I have only 10 fields to post names and I always want to put an "other" category in to represent those names I couldn't put on the list.
Here are the results of the last poll:
What was the most important Beltway Boxing victory of the summer?
Tony Thompson winning NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight titles (21) 34%
Emmanuel Nwodo captures USBA Cruiserweight title (15) 24%
Henry Buchanan Advances to semifinals of ShoBox Super Middleweight Tournament (14) 23%
Anthony Peterson wins NABO Lightweight title (7) 11%
Franchon Crews wins Pan American Gold Medal and Golden Gloves championship (1) 2%
Dominic Wade wins Junior Olympic Gold Medal (1) 2%
Other (3) 5%
Total Votes: 62 Thank you for participating.
The post-Leonard era, in my opinion, goes from 1985 to the present. Even though Leonard did win two world titles after 1985 (against Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Don Lalonde), fought Thomas Hearns to a draw in their rematch in 1989 and continue to battle off and on until 1997, he was somewhat inactive at many times during his career and some of the great Beltway Boxers that would follow him started to emerge in 1985. Leonard himself should not be considered for this poll.
I am really interested in reading your opinions on this one. You can either place them here or on the comments section on the poll itself. If you vote "Other" in the poll, please tell us your choice and why. I have only 10 fields to post names and I always want to put an "other" category in to represent those names I couldn't put on the list.
Here are the results of the last poll:
What was the most important Beltway Boxing victory of the summer?
Tony Thompson winning NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight titles (21) 34%
Emmanuel Nwodo captures USBA Cruiserweight title (15) 24%
Henry Buchanan Advances to semifinals of ShoBox Super Middleweight Tournament (14) 23%
Anthony Peterson wins NABO Lightweight title (7) 11%
Franchon Crews wins Pan American Gold Medal and Golden Gloves championship (1) 2%
Dominic Wade wins Junior Olympic Gold Medal (1) 2%
Other (3) 5%
Total Votes: 62 Thank you for participating.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
The Silver Anniversary of 'The Showdown'!
Today, the boxing world celebrates one of the truly great moments of its history. Twenty-five years ago -- September 16, 1981 -- Sugar Ray Leonard faced Thomas "Hitman" Hearns at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas in a bout that would TRULY live up to its nickname --"The Showdown."
This was the bout everyone wanted to see at that time; two guys in the absolute prime of their careers. Both men, of course, had stellar careers leading up to their contest; Leonard was 30-1 with 20 knockouts and had won the WBC Welterweight title twice --first stopping Wilfredo Benitez and then exchanging the title with Roberto Duran. Leonard also defended his first WBC title at the Capital Centre on March 31, 1980 against Davey "Boy" Green scoring one of the greatest knockouts I have ever seen in the fourth round of that contest.
Here's a somewhat overlooked fact: Three months prior to the first bout against Hearns, Leonard also won the WBA Junior Middleweight title with a ninth-round TKO over Ayub Kalule.
Hearns, meanwhile, was undefeated going into the contest with a record of 32-0 with 30 KO's. Included in that string was the devastating second-round knockout over Pipino Cuevas on August 2, 1980 to win the WBA Welterweight title.
There was no pay-per-view at that time, so if you wanted to see this fight, you had to go to a closed-circuit location near you. If memory serves me correct, that meant either the Capital Centre, maybe the DC Armory and, in Baltimore, the Baltimore Civic Center.
The details of the bout have been widely discussed over the years -- Hearns's ability to control the action through most of the bout, Leonard's trainer, Angelo Dundee telling Leonard "You're blowing it, Kid" after the 13th round and then Leonard digging deep to stop Hearns in the 14th round. It was just an epic struggle in which Hearns may have lost in the ring, but both men won in the hearts and minds of true boxing fans worldwide.
Just an aside history lesson here to the younger fans who may be reading: This was maybe the last time in boxing in which five tremendous competitors (Leonard, Hearns, Duran, Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Wilfredo Benitez) came along at the same time, in and around the same weight classes (welterweight, junior middleweight and middleweight) and they all FOUGHT EACH OTHER!! Leonard fought all four of his rivals. So did Duran and Hearns. The only ones Hagler and Benitez didn't fight were each other. The battles between these gentlemen rank among the top bouts in any weight class in the history of the sport. It is a time that will never be duplicated in the sport.
Leonard, Hagler and Benitez are all in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Duran is finally eligible this year. Hearns will get in on his first year of eligiblity, five years after he stops fighting, whenever that will be.
Yes, it does make me feel a little old to realize it has been 25 years since this glorious bout. And when I realize that 2007 will mark the 30th year of Sugar Ray Leonard's professional debut, I feel even longer in the tooth.
But I feel very blessed to have come along at a time when boxing was this good. We know that battles like this helped Sugar Ray Leonard -- the greatest Beltway Boxer of all-time -- forge a legacy that has spawned fantastic boxing in this area ever since.
This was the bout everyone wanted to see at that time; two guys in the absolute prime of their careers. Both men, of course, had stellar careers leading up to their contest; Leonard was 30-1 with 20 knockouts and had won the WBC Welterweight title twice --first stopping Wilfredo Benitez and then exchanging the title with Roberto Duran. Leonard also defended his first WBC title at the Capital Centre on March 31, 1980 against Davey "Boy" Green scoring one of the greatest knockouts I have ever seen in the fourth round of that contest.
Here's a somewhat overlooked fact: Three months prior to the first bout against Hearns, Leonard also won the WBA Junior Middleweight title with a ninth-round TKO over Ayub Kalule.
Hearns, meanwhile, was undefeated going into the contest with a record of 32-0 with 30 KO's. Included in that string was the devastating second-round knockout over Pipino Cuevas on August 2, 1980 to win the WBA Welterweight title.
There was no pay-per-view at that time, so if you wanted to see this fight, you had to go to a closed-circuit location near you. If memory serves me correct, that meant either the Capital Centre, maybe the DC Armory and, in Baltimore, the Baltimore Civic Center.
The details of the bout have been widely discussed over the years -- Hearns's ability to control the action through most of the bout, Leonard's trainer, Angelo Dundee telling Leonard "You're blowing it, Kid" after the 13th round and then Leonard digging deep to stop Hearns in the 14th round. It was just an epic struggle in which Hearns may have lost in the ring, but both men won in the hearts and minds of true boxing fans worldwide.
Just an aside history lesson here to the younger fans who may be reading: This was maybe the last time in boxing in which five tremendous competitors (Leonard, Hearns, Duran, Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Wilfredo Benitez) came along at the same time, in and around the same weight classes (welterweight, junior middleweight and middleweight) and they all FOUGHT EACH OTHER!! Leonard fought all four of his rivals. So did Duran and Hearns. The only ones Hagler and Benitez didn't fight were each other. The battles between these gentlemen rank among the top bouts in any weight class in the history of the sport. It is a time that will never be duplicated in the sport.
Leonard, Hagler and Benitez are all in the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Duran is finally eligible this year. Hearns will get in on his first year of eligiblity, five years after he stops fighting, whenever that will be.
Yes, it does make me feel a little old to realize it has been 25 years since this glorious bout. And when I realize that 2007 will mark the 30th year of Sugar Ray Leonard's professional debut, I feel even longer in the tooth.
But I feel very blessed to have come along at a time when boxing was this good. We know that battles like this helped Sugar Ray Leonard -- the greatest Beltway Boxer of all-time -- forge a legacy that has spawned fantastic boxing in this area ever since.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Corley Loses Bid for WBC Junior Welterweight Title!
DC's DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley has lost his bid for a second world title as he dropped a 12-round unanimous decision to Junior Witter tonight at the Alexandra Palace in London, England.
According to Boxrec.com, the judge's scores were 117-111, 118-112 and 116-113. Corley's record is now 31-5-1, 17 KO's. This is his third straight loss in a world title bout (The other two were to Zab Judah and Miguel Cotto. The Floyd Mayweather bout was a WBC title elimination bout.)
Corley told the BBC that he thought he won the bout on a split decision and he pulled out the bout in the last two rounds. When asked where would he go from here, the former WBO champion was noncommittal, saying that he would have retired if Witter had knocked him out, but now he says he would have to talk to his management and family before making a decision.
According to Boxrec.com, the judge's scores were 117-111, 118-112 and 116-113. Corley's record is now 31-5-1, 17 KO's. This is his third straight loss in a world title bout (The other two were to Zab Judah and Miguel Cotto. The Floyd Mayweather bout was a WBC title elimination bout.)
Corley told the BBC that he thought he won the bout on a split decision and he pulled out the bout in the last two rounds. When asked where would he go from here, the former WBO champion was noncommittal, saying that he would have retired if Witter had knocked him out, but now he says he would have to talk to his management and family before making a decision.
Random Observations From Woodlawn!
First, a few informational notes about last night's card at Martin's West:
There were two amateur bouts on the card. Shante Jordan of Nomis Boxing Gym in DC (the former Finley's Gym) defeated Samantha Dolesky of the Baltimore Boxing Club by decision.
Also, Daniel Anchor of the Lincoln Way Gym in York, PA defeated Davon Roe of Baltimore's Upton Boxing Club by decision.
(I hope I spelled the names right because I didn't get any printed info on the amateur bouts.)
Baltimore's Golden Glove and Pan American female amateur champion Franchon Crews was scheduled to box last night, but her opponent had medical issues (blood pressure) and she couldn't fight. Crews, who tried out for the first season of American Idol, did deliver a wonderful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner to kick off the pro portion of the card.
Speaking of the pro card: If there is such a thing as "a good loss" then Cory Cummings got one last night. Personally, I thought he won the bout and won it handily. I thought the power shots were there and I thought he pressured Butler nicely. Having said that, Barry Butler's comments to me have serious merit. Cummings may have been frustrated by Butler's ability to take Cummings's best shots and still be there.
I think Cummings explained nicely in the previous post why this was a good loss for him. He needs to fight more often. I know he has difficulty finding bouts. This loss may open the door for him to get some bouts.
Let me also applaud Cory's attitude after the bout. I have to share this scene with you. I walk back to the dressing room with Cory and his handlers and people in his camp were naturally down because of the loss. Cory came in and he told everyone there to pick their heads up. His attitude was superb and I believe he will turn this "negative" into a positive for his career.
And before you start blaming ring announcer "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley for getting everyone's hopes up, DON'T! Every ring announcer -- From Michael Buffer to Jimmy Lennon and everyone in between -- has made this type of mistake. Sometimes you can't read the scorekeeper's handwriting. Sometimes an announcer is just excited because he has seen a good contest (which this one was). A ring announcer doesn't WANT it to happen, but it does. It was a MISTAKE! Get over it!!
As far as the co-feature: The one thing I came away with after watching Mike Paschall defeat William Gill was this: Mike Paschall is going to have difficulties against guys who possess power.
It sounded to me that the fans were a little disappointed in Paschall's performance. I've noticed that he hasn't been the rumbling pressure fighter that he was in his pro debut. He has learned patience and that's a good thing.
However, when you are facing a guy that's 3-10 (which was Gill's actual record going into last night) and you are facing him for the SECOND time, I think a dominant performance was in order. Yes, on one scorecard (as well as mine) he pitched a shutout, but Gill is not a powerful fighter by any means. It will be interesting to see what happens once he gets tested.
Nice performance by Willie Williams against Andre Hemphill. Williams seems to have learned a lot from his loss to Bobby Jordan back in April in Pikesville. In that bout, he was tentative and allowed Jordan to dictate the bout.
Last night, Williams never allowed Hemphill to totally get into the bout. I've seen Hemphill at his best when he stopped Alan Snyder in April in Springfield in the first round. Hemphill took a step up in class against Williams, however. Williams's solid body shots took a toll on Hemphill, who was a game fighter throughout. But Williams was solid last night.
As was Jessie Nicklow who faced his toughest opponent to date in James Shedrick. Nicklow showed a solid chin because he did take some good shots from Shedrick, who can punch a little bit. One aspect of the bout that was overlooked was Nicklow was facing a guy more than TWICE his age. Shedrick is 42, Nicklow is 19.
Also what people might have missed is that while Shedrick had the cut over his left eye, Nicklow suffered a cut on the back of his head. Hopefully, it won't keep him out of action long.
Johnathan Felton got a good win last night over the debuting Dalante Marshall. Felton bounced back from a unanimous decision loss in August in Springfield, a bout Felton thought he won. Felton faced very little resistance from the inexperienced Marshall who had very little amateur experience, I was told.
A weird thing happened after the Felton bout: Former Baltimore cruiserweight and heavyweight prospect Courtney "The RunStopper" Bridget came in the ring and challenged Felton to a bout. Bridget, who fought in the mid-90's has been a noted trainer in the Baltimore area as of late. Why this is happening, I do not know.
Among the notable sightings last night: Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, Ishmail Arvin, Tyrell Samuel, Tim Coleman, Gary Russell, Jr.,Eddie Otts, Tony Cygan and Mike Ricasa. Don't forget: Arvin, Samuel and Coleman are all slated to be on the Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie on Sept. 28.
Beltway Boxing legend sightings included: Courtney "Pound-For-Pound" Butler, Kenny "Phone Booth" Blackston, Ed Griffin, Ed Saurhoff, Boone Pultz and a guy I hadn't heard from in years -- "The Baltimore Express" Butch Bartlett. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to talk to him but he had a brief career during the 90's and was a very exciting fighter.
With the exception of Saurhoff, I saw every one of those guys just listed and they provided many, MANY fond memories.
Another solid card promoted by Jake Smith with Josh Hall serving as matchmaker. Baltimore Pro Boxing will have an amateur show on Oct. 7 in Ocean City followed by a pro show on October 20 at the Pikesville Armory.
There were two amateur bouts on the card. Shante Jordan of Nomis Boxing Gym in DC (the former Finley's Gym) defeated Samantha Dolesky of the Baltimore Boxing Club by decision.
Also, Daniel Anchor of the Lincoln Way Gym in York, PA defeated Davon Roe of Baltimore's Upton Boxing Club by decision.
(I hope I spelled the names right because I didn't get any printed info on the amateur bouts.)
Baltimore's Golden Glove and Pan American female amateur champion Franchon Crews was scheduled to box last night, but her opponent had medical issues (blood pressure) and she couldn't fight. Crews, who tried out for the first season of American Idol, did deliver a wonderful rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner to kick off the pro portion of the card.
Speaking of the pro card: If there is such a thing as "a good loss" then Cory Cummings got one last night. Personally, I thought he won the bout and won it handily. I thought the power shots were there and I thought he pressured Butler nicely. Having said that, Barry Butler's comments to me have serious merit. Cummings may have been frustrated by Butler's ability to take Cummings's best shots and still be there.
I think Cummings explained nicely in the previous post why this was a good loss for him. He needs to fight more often. I know he has difficulty finding bouts. This loss may open the door for him to get some bouts.
Let me also applaud Cory's attitude after the bout. I have to share this scene with you. I walk back to the dressing room with Cory and his handlers and people in his camp were naturally down because of the loss. Cory came in and he told everyone there to pick their heads up. His attitude was superb and I believe he will turn this "negative" into a positive for his career.
And before you start blaming ring announcer "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley for getting everyone's hopes up, DON'T! Every ring announcer -- From Michael Buffer to Jimmy Lennon and everyone in between -- has made this type of mistake. Sometimes you can't read the scorekeeper's handwriting. Sometimes an announcer is just excited because he has seen a good contest (which this one was). A ring announcer doesn't WANT it to happen, but it does. It was a MISTAKE! Get over it!!
As far as the co-feature: The one thing I came away with after watching Mike Paschall defeat William Gill was this: Mike Paschall is going to have difficulties against guys who possess power.
It sounded to me that the fans were a little disappointed in Paschall's performance. I've noticed that he hasn't been the rumbling pressure fighter that he was in his pro debut. He has learned patience and that's a good thing.
However, when you are facing a guy that's 3-10 (which was Gill's actual record going into last night) and you are facing him for the SECOND time, I think a dominant performance was in order. Yes, on one scorecard (as well as mine) he pitched a shutout, but Gill is not a powerful fighter by any means. It will be interesting to see what happens once he gets tested.
Nice performance by Willie Williams against Andre Hemphill. Williams seems to have learned a lot from his loss to Bobby Jordan back in April in Pikesville. In that bout, he was tentative and allowed Jordan to dictate the bout.
Last night, Williams never allowed Hemphill to totally get into the bout. I've seen Hemphill at his best when he stopped Alan Snyder in April in Springfield in the first round. Hemphill took a step up in class against Williams, however. Williams's solid body shots took a toll on Hemphill, who was a game fighter throughout. But Williams was solid last night.
As was Jessie Nicklow who faced his toughest opponent to date in James Shedrick. Nicklow showed a solid chin because he did take some good shots from Shedrick, who can punch a little bit. One aspect of the bout that was overlooked was Nicklow was facing a guy more than TWICE his age. Shedrick is 42, Nicklow is 19.
Also what people might have missed is that while Shedrick had the cut over his left eye, Nicklow suffered a cut on the back of his head. Hopefully, it won't keep him out of action long.
Johnathan Felton got a good win last night over the debuting Dalante Marshall. Felton bounced back from a unanimous decision loss in August in Springfield, a bout Felton thought he won. Felton faced very little resistance from the inexperienced Marshall who had very little amateur experience, I was told.
A weird thing happened after the Felton bout: Former Baltimore cruiserweight and heavyweight prospect Courtney "The RunStopper" Bridget came in the ring and challenged Felton to a bout. Bridget, who fought in the mid-90's has been a noted trainer in the Baltimore area as of late. Why this is happening, I do not know.
Among the notable sightings last night: Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, Ishmail Arvin, Tyrell Samuel, Tim Coleman, Gary Russell, Jr.,Eddie Otts, Tony Cygan and Mike Ricasa. Don't forget: Arvin, Samuel and Coleman are all slated to be on the Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie on Sept. 28.
Beltway Boxing legend sightings included: Courtney "Pound-For-Pound" Butler, Kenny "Phone Booth" Blackston, Ed Griffin, Ed Saurhoff, Boone Pultz and a guy I hadn't heard from in years -- "The Baltimore Express" Butch Bartlett. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to talk to him but he had a brief career during the 90's and was a very exciting fighter.
With the exception of Saurhoff, I saw every one of those guys just listed and they provided many, MANY fond memories.
Another solid card promoted by Jake Smith with Josh Hall serving as matchmaker. Baltimore Pro Boxing will have an amateur show on Oct. 7 in Ocean City followed by a pro show on October 20 at the Pikesville Armory.
Cummings Upset in Woodlawn!
At one point in his 14-year career, Greenville, SC light heavyweight Barry “Killa Bee” Butler had a record of four wins and seven losses. Those days seem to be long gone.
At Martin’s West in Woodlawn, MD, Butler notched one of the biggest wins of his career defeating previously undefeated Cory “Black Ice” Cummings of Baltimore via 10-round split decision. The win was Butler’s ninth straight.
Cummings, who came into the bout ranked number 10 by the WBO, initiated the action using a powerful right hand to back Butler up. In the second round, the pressure put on by Cummings made Butler stumble and almost fall out of the ring.
But in the fourth round, Butler used a very experienced jab to keep Cummings at bay. At the midway point of the contest, Cummings tried to pressure and land shots inside, but Butler showed a strong chin.
Butler’s chin might have turned the battle in his favor because although Cummings landed solid shots towards the end of the battle, Butler took them well and returned solid body shots of his own.
“I think I discouraged him because I was taking his best shots,” Butler said. “He was loading up so I had to box. I boxed okay.”
Judge Kenny Chevalier scored the bout 97-93 for Cummings, but Judges Don Risher and John Gradowski saw the bout for Butler, 96-94.
“This may actually be good for me. Maybe I can get some fights,” said Cummings who fought for just the second time in 11 months. “Maybe when people see this loss, I may actually get people to fight me.”
Both fighters had eight-bout knockout streaks stopped in this contest. With the win, Butler raises his record to 21-12, 18 KO’s while Cummings falls to 15-1, 12 KO’s.
In the co-feature, undefeated Pasadena, MD light heavyweight Mike “The Persecutor” Paschall won a six-round unanimous decision over William “The Thunder” Gill of Newark, NJ.
Paschall showed patience as he waited to land his shots. As the bout progressed, Paschall used his feet and danced around the ring waiting for his opponent to strike. In the fourth round, Paschall landed a left hand that staggered Gill but he didn’t fall and Paschall didn’t take advantage. By the time Gill started to really fight, it was the sixth round and too late for Gill to grab a decision victory.
Judge Malik Waleed said Paschall pitched a shutout at 60-54, the same as Fightnews. Judge Gradowski saw the bout 59-55 while Judge Gary Camponeshi scored the contest 59-56.
Paschall’s record is now 10-0, two KO’s while Gill is 3-11, two KO’s. The bout was a rematch of a June 21 contest won by Paschall by six-round majority decision.
In other bouts on the card, light heavyweight Willie “For Real” Williams of Baltimore scored a workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over Andre “The Heat” Hemphill of Philadelphia.
Williams landed some solid body shows throughout the contest. The shots took their toll on Hemphill and by the end of the contest, Hemphill looked tired. He still tried to land shots despite pressure put on by Williams.
Williams is now 4-1, one KO while Hemphill is now under .500 at 4-5, two KO’s.
Undefeated Pasadena, MD middleweight Jesse “The Beast” Nicklow won a fifth-round technical decision over James “The Mighty Burner” Shedrick of Philadelphia, PA.
Nicklow landed some power shots early in the first round, but Shedrick, who is trained by his father, former 1970’s Philadelphia lightweight product Jimmy Shedrick, came back with good activity in the third round. Nicklow regained the advantage by round five before the two bumped heads, creating a nasty cut around his eye. Nicklow was also bleeding from a cut on the back of his head. Dr Doug Frankel of the Maryland State Athletic Commission took a look at Shedrick’s eye and decided he couldn’t continue.
Nicklow’s win makes him 6-0, three KO’s. Shedrick falls to 3-6, two KO’s,
In the curtain-raising contest, “The People’s Champion” Johnathan Felton stopped the debuting Dalante Marshall of DC in the second round. Felton is now 2-4, one KO.
The promoter was Jake Smith (Baltimore Pro Boxing). The matchmaker is Josh Hall.
I'll be back later today with some random thoughts on this card.
At Martin’s West in Woodlawn, MD, Butler notched one of the biggest wins of his career defeating previously undefeated Cory “Black Ice” Cummings of Baltimore via 10-round split decision. The win was Butler’s ninth straight.
Cummings, who came into the bout ranked number 10 by the WBO, initiated the action using a powerful right hand to back Butler up. In the second round, the pressure put on by Cummings made Butler stumble and almost fall out of the ring.
But in the fourth round, Butler used a very experienced jab to keep Cummings at bay. At the midway point of the contest, Cummings tried to pressure and land shots inside, but Butler showed a strong chin.
Butler’s chin might have turned the battle in his favor because although Cummings landed solid shots towards the end of the battle, Butler took them well and returned solid body shots of his own.
“I think I discouraged him because I was taking his best shots,” Butler said. “He was loading up so I had to box. I boxed okay.”
Judge Kenny Chevalier scored the bout 97-93 for Cummings, but Judges Don Risher and John Gradowski saw the bout for Butler, 96-94.
“This may actually be good for me. Maybe I can get some fights,” said Cummings who fought for just the second time in 11 months. “Maybe when people see this loss, I may actually get people to fight me.”
Both fighters had eight-bout knockout streaks stopped in this contest. With the win, Butler raises his record to 21-12, 18 KO’s while Cummings falls to 15-1, 12 KO’s.
In the co-feature, undefeated Pasadena, MD light heavyweight Mike “The Persecutor” Paschall won a six-round unanimous decision over William “The Thunder” Gill of Newark, NJ.
Paschall showed patience as he waited to land his shots. As the bout progressed, Paschall used his feet and danced around the ring waiting for his opponent to strike. In the fourth round, Paschall landed a left hand that staggered Gill but he didn’t fall and Paschall didn’t take advantage. By the time Gill started to really fight, it was the sixth round and too late for Gill to grab a decision victory.
Judge Malik Waleed said Paschall pitched a shutout at 60-54, the same as Fightnews. Judge Gradowski saw the bout 59-55 while Judge Gary Camponeshi scored the contest 59-56.
Paschall’s record is now 10-0, two KO’s while Gill is 3-11, two KO’s. The bout was a rematch of a June 21 contest won by Paschall by six-round majority decision.
In other bouts on the card, light heavyweight Willie “For Real” Williams of Baltimore scored a workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over Andre “The Heat” Hemphill of Philadelphia.
Williams landed some solid body shows throughout the contest. The shots took their toll on Hemphill and by the end of the contest, Hemphill looked tired. He still tried to land shots despite pressure put on by Williams.
Williams is now 4-1, one KO while Hemphill is now under .500 at 4-5, two KO’s.
Undefeated Pasadena, MD middleweight Jesse “The Beast” Nicklow won a fifth-round technical decision over James “The Mighty Burner” Shedrick of Philadelphia, PA.
Nicklow landed some power shots early in the first round, but Shedrick, who is trained by his father, former 1970’s Philadelphia lightweight product Jimmy Shedrick, came back with good activity in the third round. Nicklow regained the advantage by round five before the two bumped heads, creating a nasty cut around his eye. Nicklow was also bleeding from a cut on the back of his head. Dr Doug Frankel of the Maryland State Athletic Commission took a look at Shedrick’s eye and decided he couldn’t continue.
Nicklow’s win makes him 6-0, three KO’s. Shedrick falls to 3-6, two KO’s,
In the curtain-raising contest, “The People’s Champion” Johnathan Felton stopped the debuting Dalante Marshall of DC in the second round. Felton is now 2-4, one KO.
The promoter was Jake Smith (Baltimore Pro Boxing). The matchmaker is Josh Hall.
I'll be back later today with some random thoughts on this card.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Washington Post Gets to Know 'Money' Mike Sawyer!
In the Washington Post's new DC Sports Bog, writer Dan Steinberg gets to know Virginia boxer "Money" Mike Sawyer. There are some interesting questions to say the least in the segment.
Here is the link you can copy to the Bog (yes he calls it a "Bog"):
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/
Here is the link you can copy to the Bog (yes he calls it a "Bog"):
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/dcsportsbog/
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Scale Watch for Woodlawn, MD Tomorrow Night!
Here are the weights for tomorrow's card at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD
Corey Cummings 175 1/2 vs. Barry Butler 175 1/4
Mike Paschall 172 1/2 vs. William Gill (will weigh-in tomorrow)
Willie Williams 175 vs. Edward Hemphill 176 1/4
Jesse Nicklow 155 vs. James Shedrick 154 1/4
Lance Delante Marshall 246 3/4 vs. Johnathan Felton 229
Corey Cummings 175 1/2 vs. Barry Butler 175 1/4
Mike Paschall 172 1/2 vs. William Gill (will weigh-in tomorrow)
Willie Williams 175 vs. Edward Hemphill 176 1/4
Jesse Nicklow 155 vs. James Shedrick 154 1/4
Lance Delante Marshall 246 3/4 vs. Johnathan Felton 229
MaxBoxing.com Article Celebrates Beltway Boxing History!
This Saturday marks the 25th anniversary of one of the most notable title bouts in recent boxing history --"The Showdown"-- the first battle between Sugar Ray Leonard and Thomas Hearns. I will commemorate that glorious day on Saturday.
However, I found a very interesting article by Lee Groves on MaxBoxing.com. In the article, Groves gives his opinion on the 10 best welterweight fights SINCE Leonard-Hearns I in 1981. I bring this to your attention because two of the bouts featured Beltway Boxers.
Number six on the list is the tremendous unification matchup between IBF champion Simon Brown and his friend WBC titleholder Maurice Blocker. The bout took place on March 18, 1991 in Las Vegas. I will never understand why the bout didn't take place here, but it was an incredible war won by Brown in the 10th round. Fortunately, the friendship stayed intact after the bout.
The number one bout on the list also featured Brown. This was when he won the vacant IBF title with a 14th round TKO over Tyrone Trice. This bout was on April 23, 1988 in Berck-Sur-Mur, France. This was an INCREDIBLE bout! Brown was dropped in the second round but by the end of the fight dominated Trice and showed why Brown was one of the premier welterweights of his time.
There was a rematch and it took place at the DC Armory on April 1, 1990. I was at that bout and it almost was as good at the first, except Brown dominated from the opening bell and stopped Trice in the 10th round.
Once again, Brown proved why I pick him as the best Beltway Boxer of the post-Sugar Ray Leonard era (slightly over Mark Johnson because Brown won his titles in marquee divisions) and why Brown should be in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
To read the rest of Lee Groves's list, please copy this link:
http://www.maxboxing.com/Groves/Groves091306.asp
However, I found a very interesting article by Lee Groves on MaxBoxing.com. In the article, Groves gives his opinion on the 10 best welterweight fights SINCE Leonard-Hearns I in 1981. I bring this to your attention because two of the bouts featured Beltway Boxers.
Number six on the list is the tremendous unification matchup between IBF champion Simon Brown and his friend WBC titleholder Maurice Blocker. The bout took place on March 18, 1991 in Las Vegas. I will never understand why the bout didn't take place here, but it was an incredible war won by Brown in the 10th round. Fortunately, the friendship stayed intact after the bout.
The number one bout on the list also featured Brown. This was when he won the vacant IBF title with a 14th round TKO over Tyrone Trice. This bout was on April 23, 1988 in Berck-Sur-Mur, France. This was an INCREDIBLE bout! Brown was dropped in the second round but by the end of the fight dominated Trice and showed why Brown was one of the premier welterweights of his time.
There was a rematch and it took place at the DC Armory on April 1, 1990. I was at that bout and it almost was as good at the first, except Brown dominated from the opening bell and stopped Trice in the 10th round.
Once again, Brown proved why I pick him as the best Beltway Boxer of the post-Sugar Ray Leonard era (slightly over Mark Johnson because Brown won his titles in marquee divisions) and why Brown should be in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
To read the rest of Lee Groves's list, please copy this link:
http://www.maxboxing.com/Groves/Groves091306.asp
Additions to Local Boxing Cards!
A couple of notes to pass on about some upcoming cards:
Tomorrow night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn will be a pro-am show. Highlighting the amateur portion of the card will be the number one ranked female middleweight in the world -- Golden Glove champ and Pan American gold medalist Franchon Crews of Baltimore.
There are also a change to the October 7th show at the Patriot Center in Fairfax. As he did mention here, Baltimore heavyweight Jed "The Punisher" Phipps will take on the returning Rowyan Wallace of DC. Phipps tries to bounce back from his loss last month in Florida for the USBO title. Wallace hasn't fought in about five years. This will be a scheduled six-round bout.
Tomorrow night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn will be a pro-am show. Highlighting the amateur portion of the card will be the number one ranked female middleweight in the world -- Golden Glove champ and Pan American gold medalist Franchon Crews of Baltimore.
There are also a change to the October 7th show at the Patriot Center in Fairfax. As he did mention here, Baltimore heavyweight Jed "The Punisher" Phipps will take on the returning Rowyan Wallace of DC. Phipps tries to bounce back from his loss last month in Florida for the USBO title. Wallace hasn't fought in about five years. This will be a scheduled six-round bout.
Monday, September 11, 2006
'Digital' Featured in ESPN.com Article on 9/11!
As the nation -- and indeed the world -- commemorates the fifth anniversary of the attacks of 9/11, noted writer Kieran Mulvaney has an article on ESPN.com on how DC and Las Vegas were affected by that tragic day.
I was honored to be quoted for this article which can be found by copying this link:
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=2576109
Let me know what you think of the article.
I was honored to be quoted for this article which can be found by copying this link:
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=2576109
Let me know what you think of the article.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Brad Dudley Discusses Preparation!
In the second part of our talk with ring announcer "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley, he talks about how he prepares for a card.
Voices of the Ring: "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley!
In the second part of the "Voices of the Ring" series, I talk to the voice of the Baltimore Pro Boxing promotion, "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley.
'The Prophet' Wins in Louisville!
Veteran super featherweight contender Daniel "The Prophet" Attah registered an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Alejandro Ramirez last night at the Louisville Gardens in Louisville, KY.
The win was the third straight for the Nigerian-born, DC-based Attah, who now has a record of 24-3-1, eight KO's.
The win was the third straight for the Nigerian-born, DC-based Attah, who now has a record of 24-3-1, eight KO's.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
October 7th Patriot Center Card Taking Shape!
The boxing card scheduled for Saturday, October 7 at the George Mason University Patriot Center is starting to really take shape. The card, promoted by Joe Hensley of Major League Boxing.com, is now called “The Beltway vs.the World.”
Here is the card as it currently stands (Beltway Boxers in Bold):
MAIN EVENT: Jimmy Lange (26-3-1, 18 KO’s) vs. Thomas Wilt (20-5, four KO’s) 10 rounds
CO-FEATURE: Purcell “Hard Rock” Miller (22-4-1, 18 KO’s) vs. Larry “Laser” Marks (28-8, 16 KO’s) 8 rounds
CO-FEATURE: Dorin Spivey (32-4, 23 KO’s) vs. Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (37-25-2, 32 KO’s) 8 rounds
SPECIAL ATTRACTION: Anthony Bonsante (from “The Contender: Season 1” 26-8-3, 15 KO’s) vs. Larry “The Gladiator” Brothers 6-19-3, four KO’s) 6 rounds
UNDERCARD (all four-round bouts): Ray Grant (1-0, one KO) vs. Jonathan Felton (1-4, one KO)
“Money” Mike Sawyer (2-1, one KO) vs. Randy McCrory (0-1)
Derek Amos (14-22, nine KO’s) vs. Juan Robles (3-0, two KO’s)
Andrew Farmer (3-0, three KO’s) vs. TBD
Check back next week when I will have a full detailed preview on this card.
Here is the card as it currently stands (Beltway Boxers in Bold):
MAIN EVENT: Jimmy Lange (26-3-1, 18 KO’s) vs. Thomas Wilt (20-5, four KO’s) 10 rounds
CO-FEATURE: Purcell “Hard Rock” Miller (22-4-1, 18 KO’s) vs. Larry “Laser” Marks (28-8, 16 KO’s) 8 rounds
CO-FEATURE: Dorin Spivey (32-4, 23 KO’s) vs. Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (37-25-2, 32 KO’s) 8 rounds
SPECIAL ATTRACTION: Anthony Bonsante (from “The Contender: Season 1” 26-8-3, 15 KO’s) vs. Larry “The Gladiator” Brothers 6-19-3, four KO’s) 6 rounds
UNDERCARD (all four-round bouts): Ray Grant (1-0, one KO) vs. Jonathan Felton (1-4, one KO)
“Money” Mike Sawyer (2-1, one KO) vs. Randy McCrory (0-1)
Derek Amos (14-22, nine KO’s) vs. Juan Robles (3-0, two KO’s)
Andrew Farmer (3-0, three KO’s) vs. TBD
Check back next week when I will have a full detailed preview on this card.
Rahman May Return in 2006 After All!
After earlier reports that former two-time heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman would not return to the ring until early 2007, ESPN.com's Dan Rafael is reporting that Rahman may have had a change of heart and may return by the end of the year.
According to Rafael, Rahman (41-6-2, 33 KOs) has decided he wants to come back sooner than later and could wind up headed for Germany before the end of the year to face Sinan Samil Sam (26-3, 15 KOs), a fringe contender with a high ranking in one of the sanctioning organizations.
"Now, 'Rock' tells me that he'd like to get back in the ring as quickly as possible, November or December if possible," co-manager Steve Nelson told ESPN.com. "We've asked our promoter, Top Rank, to see if they can make a fight with Sam. 'Rock' made it very clear to me and to Top Rank that he has no problem going to Germany for the fight. We have no problem with that."
Rafael added that Top Rank this week began talking to the Sam camp about the fight. Sam has won two in a row since November, when Maskaev outpointed him in a title elimination fight to get the shot at Rahman.
"He very much wants to become a three-time heavyweight champion," Nelson said. "He feels he has the ability. He feels the 'Rock' that fought Maskaev wasn't the best he could be and he wants to redeem himself once again."
Rahman, at first, figured to wait until next year before taking an easy, confidence-building fight but changed his mind.
"He wants to fight some type of contender next and then look to pick it up and keep picking it up until we get another title shot," Nelson said.
Rafael noted that it is possible a potential Rahman-Sam fight could be sanctioned as a WBC eliminator given that Rahman dropped to only third in the organization's ratings following his loss to Maskaev; Sam is fourth. Nos. 1 and 2 -- Samuel Peter and James Toney -- just fought an eliminator, clearing the way for Rahman and Sam to fight the next one.
"I think there's one more run for 'Rock' at this point of his career, but he cannot afford another misstep," Nelson said. "He has to do everything correctly. If he does, he can become a three-time heavyweight champion of the world."
According to Rafael, Rahman (41-6-2, 33 KOs) has decided he wants to come back sooner than later and could wind up headed for Germany before the end of the year to face Sinan Samil Sam (26-3, 15 KOs), a fringe contender with a high ranking in one of the sanctioning organizations.
"Now, 'Rock' tells me that he'd like to get back in the ring as quickly as possible, November or December if possible," co-manager Steve Nelson told ESPN.com. "We've asked our promoter, Top Rank, to see if they can make a fight with Sam. 'Rock' made it very clear to me and to Top Rank that he has no problem going to Germany for the fight. We have no problem with that."
Rafael added that Top Rank this week began talking to the Sam camp about the fight. Sam has won two in a row since November, when Maskaev outpointed him in a title elimination fight to get the shot at Rahman.
"He very much wants to become a three-time heavyweight champion," Nelson said. "He feels he has the ability. He feels the 'Rock' that fought Maskaev wasn't the best he could be and he wants to redeem himself once again."
Rahman, at first, figured to wait until next year before taking an easy, confidence-building fight but changed his mind.
"He wants to fight some type of contender next and then look to pick it up and keep picking it up until we get another title shot," Nelson said.
Rafael noted that it is possible a potential Rahman-Sam fight could be sanctioned as a WBC eliminator given that Rahman dropped to only third in the organization's ratings following his loss to Maskaev; Sam is fourth. Nos. 1 and 2 -- Samuel Peter and James Toney -- just fought an eliminator, clearing the way for Rahman and Sam to fight the next one.
"I think there's one more run for 'Rock' at this point of his career, but he cannot afford another misstep," Nelson said. "He has to do everything correctly. If he does, he can become a three-time heavyweight champion of the world."
Snow Wins Sixth Straight!
This late result from Greensboro, NC: Capitol Heights, MD lightweight Thomas "KO' Snow remained undefeated with a first-round knockout over Ronnie Lucas on August 26. Snow stopped Lucas at 1:56 of the round. Snow raises his record to 6-0, four KO's.
On the same card, veteran Baltimore middleweight Mike McFail was stopped in the fifth round by prospect Brad Austin. McFail is now winless in his last nine bouts and his record is 12-33-2, four KO's.
On the same card, veteran Baltimore middleweight Mike McFail was stopped in the fifth round by prospect Brad Austin. McFail is now winless in his last nine bouts and his record is 12-33-2, four KO's.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Terrence Crawford Discusses Ring Announcing Fundamentals!
In the second part of our interview with Virginia ring announcer Terrence "TNT" Crawford, he discusses the nuts and bolts of ring announcing.
Voices of the Ring: Terrence "TNT" Crawford!
In the first segment of "Voices of the Ring," we talk to the voice of Virginia boxing, ring announcer Terrence "TNT" Crawford.
Former DC Boxer May Be Accused of Murder!
Earlier this week, the Washington Post reported on a fatal stabbing in Southeast, DC. The man accused of the stabbing and charged with first-degree murder was identified as 37-year-old Michael Tidline.
I am trying to check to see if this is the same Michael Tidline that fought here in DC in the 1990's. Tidline (also known as Tidline-El) fought from 1993-2003 and had a record of 10-18-3 with three KO's. He fought the likes of Beltway Boxers DeMarcus Corley, Teddy Reid and Anthony Suggs as well as noted boxers Tracy Harris Patterson, Dorin Spivey and "Contender:Season 2" participant Michael Stewart.
If someone else has any info on this, please let me and the fans know.
I am trying to check to see if this is the same Michael Tidline that fought here in DC in the 1990's. Tidline (also known as Tidline-El) fought from 1993-2003 and had a record of 10-18-3 with three KO's. He fought the likes of Beltway Boxers DeMarcus Corley, Teddy Reid and Anthony Suggs as well as noted boxers Tracy Harris Patterson, Dorin Spivey and "Contender:Season 2" participant Michael Stewart.
If someone else has any info on this, please let me and the fans know.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Former DC Boxing Commissioner Drops Out of Mayoral Race!
The Washington Post is reporting that Michael Brown, the former vice chair of the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission, has announced he will discontinue his bid to become the city's mayor.
The Post reports that Brown will endorse DC City Council chair Linda Cropp, a longtime family friend, in her bid for the city's top post.
The 41-year-old Brown told The Post this morning that he will announce his decision at a news conference this afternoon. Cropp has been lagging in polls behind Ward 4 council member Adrian Fenty and is struggling to catch him before the September 12th Democratic primary, the contest that will likely determine the next mayor of this overwhelmingly Democratic city.
"Rarely do politicians in D.C. put aside their egos for the betterment of the city," Brown told the Post. He said he was dropping out "because I think Cropp will make a better mayor [than Fenty]. Until today, I thought it was me."
Brown served on the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission from 1996 until April of 2005, when current DC Mayor Anthony Williams decided not to reappoint him to the position.
Brown became the most visible figure on the commission, especially during the city's attempts to give a boxing license to Mike Tyson in 2003 and to bring the Tyson-Lennox Lewis bout to DC in 2003. Brown's efforts helped land Tyson in DC in June of 2005 when Tyson lost to Kevin McBride.
Brown was not the only former DC boxing commissioner running for public office in the Nation's Capital. Rae Zapata is vying for the Ward 5 seat on the DC City Council.
The Post reports that Brown will endorse DC City Council chair Linda Cropp, a longtime family friend, in her bid for the city's top post.
The 41-year-old Brown told The Post this morning that he will announce his decision at a news conference this afternoon. Cropp has been lagging in polls behind Ward 4 council member Adrian Fenty and is struggling to catch him before the September 12th Democratic primary, the contest that will likely determine the next mayor of this overwhelmingly Democratic city.
"Rarely do politicians in D.C. put aside their egos for the betterment of the city," Brown told the Post. He said he was dropping out "because I think Cropp will make a better mayor [than Fenty]. Until today, I thought it was me."
Brown served on the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission from 1996 until April of 2005, when current DC Mayor Anthony Williams decided not to reappoint him to the position.
Brown became the most visible figure on the commission, especially during the city's attempts to give a boxing license to Mike Tyson in 2003 and to bring the Tyson-Lennox Lewis bout to DC in 2003. Brown's efforts helped land Tyson in DC in June of 2005 when Tyson lost to Kevin McBride.
Brown was not the only former DC boxing commissioner running for public office in the Nation's Capital. Rae Zapata is vying for the Ward 5 seat on the DC City Council.
Undercard Announced for Sept. 14!
Some of the bouts on the undercard for the September 14 Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn have been announced.
The co-feature is a rematch of a June 21st Martin's West bout as undefeated light heavyweight Mike “The Persecutor” Paschall of Baltimore takes on William Gill of Toms River, NJ. In the first contest, Paschall won a six-round majority decision. This contest is also scheduled for six rounds.
Since the June 21st bout, Paschall (9-0, two KO’s) captured another six-round majority decision over Ronald Boddie on August 12 in Ocean City. Gill (3-10, two KO’s) lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Max Alexander on August 4 in Philadelphia. Seven of Gill’s last eight opponents have been undefeated at the time Gill faced them.
Undefeated Severn, MD middleweight prospect Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow (5-0, two KO’s) is also scheduled for the card. Nicklow will participate in a six-round contest against James Shedrick of Philadelphia. This was a bout originally scheduled for the Ocean City show last month.
Nicklow is coming off a first round TKO over Jessie Horton on June 21st in Woodlawn. Shedrick, the son of 1970’s Philadelphia lightweight prospect Jimmy Shedrick, lost his last encounter, a four-round unanimous decision to Derrick Findley on May 26 in East Chicago, IN. This will be Shedrick’s first six-round bout. You may remember the last time Shedrick was in this area, he knocked out Tony Jeter in the fourth round at BXF Gym in Millersville in December of 2005.
In an interesting Beltway tussle, Baltimore light heavyweight prospect Willie “For Real” Williams will face veteran Carlos “The Headbanger” Jones of Landover, MD. Williams is looking for his third straight victory. In his last outing, Williams (3-1, one KO) won a six-round majority decision over Richard Stewart on August 12 in Ocean City. Jones (5-10, three KO’s) will be trying to break a three-bout losing streak. Jones was stopped in the first round by John Vargas on May 12 in Reading, PA.
Three other bouts are scheduled to be included on the card.
The co-feature is a rematch of a June 21st Martin's West bout as undefeated light heavyweight Mike “The Persecutor” Paschall of Baltimore takes on William Gill of Toms River, NJ. In the first contest, Paschall won a six-round majority decision. This contest is also scheduled for six rounds.
Since the June 21st bout, Paschall (9-0, two KO’s) captured another six-round majority decision over Ronald Boddie on August 12 in Ocean City. Gill (3-10, two KO’s) lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Max Alexander on August 4 in Philadelphia. Seven of Gill’s last eight opponents have been undefeated at the time Gill faced them.
Undefeated Severn, MD middleweight prospect Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow (5-0, two KO’s) is also scheduled for the card. Nicklow will participate in a six-round contest against James Shedrick of Philadelphia. This was a bout originally scheduled for the Ocean City show last month.
Nicklow is coming off a first round TKO over Jessie Horton on June 21st in Woodlawn. Shedrick, the son of 1970’s Philadelphia lightweight prospect Jimmy Shedrick, lost his last encounter, a four-round unanimous decision to Derrick Findley on May 26 in East Chicago, IN. This will be Shedrick’s first six-round bout. You may remember the last time Shedrick was in this area, he knocked out Tony Jeter in the fourth round at BXF Gym in Millersville in December of 2005.
In an interesting Beltway tussle, Baltimore light heavyweight prospect Willie “For Real” Williams will face veteran Carlos “The Headbanger” Jones of Landover, MD. Williams is looking for his third straight victory. In his last outing, Williams (3-1, one KO) won a six-round majority decision over Richard Stewart on August 12 in Ocean City. Jones (5-10, three KO’s) will be trying to break a three-bout losing streak. Jones was stopped in the first round by John Vargas on May 12 in Reading, PA.
Three other bouts are scheduled to be included on the card.
Monday, September 04, 2006
New Poll: What Was the Most Important Win of the Summer?
There is a new poll question for you: We had some big wins this summer in amateur and pro boxing along the Beltway, but in your opinion, what was the most important win of the summer months?
Keep in mind, Eric Aiken's IBF title win took place in April, during the spring.
You can place your comments either here on this post or in the comment section of the poll.
The results of the last poll: Who would be the Beltway Boxer most likely to be a contender by August 2007?
Mike Paschall -- 19 votes
Mike Sawyer -- 10 votes
Tyrell Samuel -- 8 votes
Willie Williams -- 7 votes
Jessie Nicklow -- 6 votes
Ty Barnette -- 5 votes
Tony Cygan -- 3 votes
Thomas Snow --2 votes
Other boxers received 11 votes.
71 votes were recorded. Thanks for participating!
Keep in mind, Eric Aiken's IBF title win took place in April, during the spring.
You can place your comments either here on this post or in the comment section of the poll.
The results of the last poll: Who would be the Beltway Boxer most likely to be a contender by August 2007?
Mike Paschall -- 19 votes
Mike Sawyer -- 10 votes
Tyrell Samuel -- 8 votes
Willie Williams -- 7 votes
Jessie Nicklow -- 6 votes
Ty Barnette -- 5 votes
Tony Cygan -- 3 votes
Thomas Snow --2 votes
Other boxers received 11 votes.
71 votes were recorded. Thanks for participating!
Billy Banks Interview on Ringside Report!
I invite you to visit the website Ringside Report. Three years ago, my good friend "Bad" Brad Berkwitt did a great interview with Billy Banks about the golden days of boxing in DC. Since Banks passed on August 31, Brad has posted the interview on his website. Just wanted to let you know about the interview, because it should be read over and over.
Ringside Report is a part of my links section.
Ringside Report is a part of my links section.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Aiken Loses IBF Title in Los Angeles!
Forestville, MD featherweight Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken was stopped in the eighth round and lost his IBF Featherweight title to Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero last night at Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Guerrero took the fight directly to Aiken from the opening bell and never let up. By the fourth round, Guerrero was in complete control. At the end of the eighth round, Aiken went back to his corner and told his trainer, Adrian Davis, he did not want to continue. Davis told referee Tony Crebs that Aiken had a broken right hand.
Guerrero is the real deal and deserved the victory over Aiken. He fought an outstanding bout. Aiken tried to fight inside, but Guerrero seemed to overpower him at times during the bout.
Aiken's record now falls to 16-5 with 12 knockouts. It is the first time Aiken has been stopped in a bout.
Guerrero took the fight directly to Aiken from the opening bell and never let up. By the fourth round, Guerrero was in complete control. At the end of the eighth round, Aiken went back to his corner and told his trainer, Adrian Davis, he did not want to continue. Davis told referee Tony Crebs that Aiken had a broken right hand.
Guerrero is the real deal and deserved the victory over Aiken. He fought an outstanding bout. Aiken tried to fight inside, but Guerrero seemed to overpower him at times during the bout.
Aiken's record now falls to 16-5 with 12 knockouts. It is the first time Aiken has been stopped in a bout.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Billy Banks Passes!
D.C. Boxer Billy Banks, a featherweight who was a popular fixture in the DC Boxing scene in the 1940's, passed away on August 31 at Washington Hospital Center. He was 85 years old.
Banks was famous for a particular bout at Griffith Stadium in DC on June 12, 1940. Banks faced "Baltimore" Joe Sole on this night and it made history in the city. The bout was the first time that DC boxing fans would see a black man (Banks) trade punches with a white man (Sole). Banks won the bout with a sixth-round TKO. Banks fought from 1938-1949 and had a record of 51-32-3 with 15 KO's.
There is a nice obituary written by Joe Holley of the Washington Post that appears in today's edition. Here is the link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/01/AR2006090101644.html
Banks was famous for a particular bout at Griffith Stadium in DC on June 12, 1940. Banks faced "Baltimore" Joe Sole on this night and it made history in the city. The bout was the first time that DC boxing fans would see a black man (Banks) trade punches with a white man (Sole). Banks won the bout with a sixth-round TKO. Banks fought from 1938-1949 and had a record of 51-32-3 with 15 KO's.
There is a nice obituary written by Joe Holley of the Washington Post that appears in today's edition. Here is the link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/01/AR2006090101644.html
Weights for Aiken-Guerrero!
Here is the scale watch for tonight's IBF Featherweight matchup between champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken and challenger Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero.
Eric Aiken 125 -- Robert Guerrero 124.5
The bout, from Staples Center in Los Angeles, will be telecast live on Showtime at 10 PM ET as the co-feature to the heavyweight elimination bout between James Toney and Samuel Peter.
Eric Aiken 125 -- Robert Guerrero 124.5
The bout, from Staples Center in Los Angeles, will be telecast live on Showtime at 10 PM ET as the co-feature to the heavyweight elimination bout between James Toney and Samuel Peter.
Petersons Remain Undefeated in Illinois!
The Peterson Brothers kept their undefeated records intact with convinicing victories last night at the Par-A-Dice Casino in Peoria, IL.
In the main event, Lamont Peterson scored a seventh-round TKO over Omar Bernal of Mexico. According to Fightnews.com, Bernal landed good body shots early, but Lamont's speed and movement ultimately proved too much. Peterson mixed his attack well and worked the angles against the forward moving Bernal, ending the fight in the 7th round with a brutal single left hook to the body that crumpled the Mexican to the canvas for the count. Lamont raised his record to 18-0, eight KO's.
In the co-feature, Anthony Peterson stayed behind his guard and worked off his sharp jab, opening up the attack in the later rounds and easily controlling a defensive minded Armando Cordoba to take a unanimous 6 round decision. With the win, Anthony lifts his record to 20-0, 15 KO's.
In the main event, Lamont Peterson scored a seventh-round TKO over Omar Bernal of Mexico. According to Fightnews.com, Bernal landed good body shots early, but Lamont's speed and movement ultimately proved too much. Peterson mixed his attack well and worked the angles against the forward moving Bernal, ending the fight in the 7th round with a brutal single left hook to the body that crumpled the Mexican to the canvas for the count. Lamont raised his record to 18-0, eight KO's.
In the co-feature, Anthony Peterson stayed behind his guard and worked off his sharp jab, opening up the attack in the later rounds and easily controlling a defensive minded Armando Cordoba to take a unanimous 6 round decision. With the win, Anthony lifts his record to 20-0, 15 KO's.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Petersons in Action Tonight in Illinois!
The undefeated Peterson Brothers will be in action tonight as they headline a five-bout card at the Par-A-Dice Casino in Peoria, IL.
Junior lightweight Lamont Peterson (17-0, seven KO's) will take on Omar Bernal (25-8-3, 19 KO's) in the eight-round main event. Bernal is winless in his last five (0-5-1). This includes bouts against two members of "The Contender: Season Two -- Michael Stewart (a first-round loss) and Norberto Bravo (a draw).
Lightweight Anthony Peterson (19-0, 15 KO's, ranked #5 by the WBO, #13 by the WBA) will battle Armando Cordoba (21-26-2, 16 KO's)in the six-round co-feature. Cordoba is winless in his last nine bouts (0-8-1), with four of those losses against undefeated opponents.
Here are the weights for the two bouts:
Lamont Peterson 141 vs Omar Bernal 140
Anthony Peterson 136 vs Armando Cordoba 135
This card will not be televised.
Let me add this as well. Joe Tessitore of ESPN's Wednesday and Friday Night Fights named Anthony Peterson the Friday Night Fights "Prospect of the Year." Here are his comments on both Peterson Brothers taken from his article on ESPN.com:
"Anthony separated himself from the pack this year with two wins on FNF, including his first ever 12-round fight and a monstrous second-round KO win. The power-punching younger brother of Lamont Peterson is on a collision course for a world title and will be a star in this sport. Lamont is right there also, a little slicker, a little more patient, but still in line for future success."
Junior lightweight Lamont Peterson (17-0, seven KO's) will take on Omar Bernal (25-8-3, 19 KO's) in the eight-round main event. Bernal is winless in his last five (0-5-1). This includes bouts against two members of "The Contender: Season Two -- Michael Stewart (a first-round loss) and Norberto Bravo (a draw).
Lightweight Anthony Peterson (19-0, 15 KO's, ranked #5 by the WBO, #13 by the WBA) will battle Armando Cordoba (21-26-2, 16 KO's)in the six-round co-feature. Cordoba is winless in his last nine bouts (0-8-1), with four of those losses against undefeated opponents.
Here are the weights for the two bouts:
Lamont Peterson 141 vs Omar Bernal 140
Anthony Peterson 136 vs Armando Cordoba 135
This card will not be televised.
Let me add this as well. Joe Tessitore of ESPN's Wednesday and Friday Night Fights named Anthony Peterson the Friday Night Fights "Prospect of the Year." Here are his comments on both Peterson Brothers taken from his article on ESPN.com:
"Anthony separated himself from the pack this year with two wins on FNF, including his first ever 12-round fight and a monstrous second-round KO win. The power-punching younger brother of Lamont Peterson is on a collision course for a world title and will be a star in this sport. Lamont is right there also, a little slicker, a little more patient, but still in line for future success."
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