For those of you fortunate to get ESPN Classic, check it out tonight at 8 PM ET. Tonight's ESPN Classic bout features Beltway Boxer Reggie "Showtime" Green of Clinton, MD in his controversial October 1, 1999 10-round bout against "Irish" Mickey Ward in Salem, NH.
This bout took place almost six months after Green made an unsuccessful try for Sharmba Mitchell's WBA Junior Welterweight title in DC during the "Triple Jeopardy" card.
Green lost this bout by TKO in the 10th, despite being ahead on two of the three judges's cards. Green fought well until he let Ward come back in the final round. For Ward, this bout took place prior to his epic trilogy with Arturo Gatti.
Green finished his career two years later by losing to Zab Judah for the IBF title.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
'Ding-A-Ling Man' Wilson vs. 'Koncrete' Davis February 23 on ESPN2!
Fresh off his second-round TKO win over Dale Brown on January 19, Silver Spring, MD cruiserweight and Trans America champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson returns to action in what should be a great matchup against former IBF Cruiserweight champ Kelvin "Koncrete" Davis on February 23 at the Catholic Youth Center in Scranton, PA. The bout will be the featured bout on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights.
Both boxers are serious knockout artists. We know about Wilson (20-5-3, 17 KO's) but Davis also has a solid knockout record (24-4-2, 17 KO's). Davis won the vacant IBF title in May of 2004 defeating Ezra Sellers by eighth round TKO. Davis dropped Sellers three times before stopping him. Davis vacated the title in 2005.
Wilson's bout will be the second straight week a Beltway Boxer will be on national television. NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight champ Tony "The Tiger" Thompson will be on Fox Sports Net respectively on February 16. (UPDATE: Eric Aiken's bout that was scheduled for February 16 will not take place. Aiken has a scheduled bout sometime in March.)
By the end of February, Beltway Boxers will have appeared five times on national television (The Peterson Brothers and Teddy Reid made earlier appearances). That's six boxers in less than two months!!
Both boxers are serious knockout artists. We know about Wilson (20-5-3, 17 KO's) but Davis also has a solid knockout record (24-4-2, 17 KO's). Davis won the vacant IBF title in May of 2004 defeating Ezra Sellers by eighth round TKO. Davis dropped Sellers three times before stopping him. Davis vacated the title in 2005.
Wilson's bout will be the second straight week a Beltway Boxer will be on national television. NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight champ Tony "The Tiger" Thompson will be on Fox Sports Net respectively on February 16. (UPDATE: Eric Aiken's bout that was scheduled for February 16 will not take place. Aiken has a scheduled bout sometime in March.)
By the end of February, Beltway Boxers will have appeared five times on national television (The Peterson Brothers and Teddy Reid made earlier appearances). That's six boxers in less than two months!!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
DC in Running For Bout that May Not Take Place!
This is a very strange story. There was a purse bid held today for the WBO Welterweight title bout between champion Antonio Margarito and mandatory number one challenger Paul "The Punisher" Williams. Goossen Tutor won the purse bid with an offer of $1,506,250, outbidding Golden Boy Promotions at $1,444,444.
According to Fightnews.com, Washington, DC is in the running to host this bout, competing against Las Vegas and Los Angeles. A proposed date must take place "no sooner than 45 days after Antonio Margarito is medically cleared to fight and no later than 120 days after Margarito is medically cleared to fight."
Promoter Dan Goossen is scheduled to contact each fighter's manager and contracts have to be signed by Friday, February 2 at 7 PM ET.
But don't get your hopes up. It is widely thought that this bout will never take place, primarily because Margarito's promotional company, Top Rank, announced this week that Margarito plans to challenge Miguel Cotto for the WBA Welterweight title, should Cotto defeat Oktay Urkal on March 3.
Many of you know that Williams, who is from Aiken, SC, does a lot of his training in the DC area.
According to Fightnews.com, Washington, DC is in the running to host this bout, competing against Las Vegas and Los Angeles. A proposed date must take place "no sooner than 45 days after Antonio Margarito is medically cleared to fight and no later than 120 days after Margarito is medically cleared to fight."
Promoter Dan Goossen is scheduled to contact each fighter's manager and contracts have to be signed by Friday, February 2 at 7 PM ET.
But don't get your hopes up. It is widely thought that this bout will never take place, primarily because Margarito's promotional company, Top Rank, announced this week that Margarito plans to challenge Miguel Cotto for the WBA Welterweight title, should Cotto defeat Oktay Urkal on March 3.
Many of you know that Williams, who is from Aiken, SC, does a lot of his training in the DC area.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Rock and Box: Another Perspective!
Here's another view of last Saturday's Baltimore Pro Boxing "Rock and Box" card from my Fightnews.com colleague Julian Burgower:
Baltimore Boxing concluded with another successful show in the packed National Guard Armory in Pikesville, Maryland, as the “Rock and Box” billed Pro-Am show solidified the school of thought that Jake “The Snake” Smith is producing what is quickly becoming the most consistent venue for boxing in the Baltimore and Washington, DC beltway area.
The main event brought the fans a rematch in which undefeated Jesse “The Beast” Nicklow looked for a second win over James Shedrick in a middleweight contest in which Nicklow looked to gain a more dominant victory than in their first bout, which was fought to a fifth-round technical decision in September of last year.
After a slow first round, Nicklow, adorned in his customary red and white trunks, complete with socks bearing the crest of Poland, opened up the second round by landing hard right hooks to the body of Shedrick, 5-7 (2), who gamely fought back although being slightly outgunned.
The third would be the last for Shedrick, Philadelphia, PA, who halfway through the round had his mouthpiece blasted across the ring by a Nicklow right hand and shortly after found himself laying on his back in a neutral corner, compliments of another Nicklow right. Although he was able to rise before referee Kenny Chevalier reached the count of ten, he was in no condition to continue as Chevalier waved off the contest at 1:58 of the third round. Nicklow, Severn, MD, raises his record to 9-0 (3).
By far, the most popular fighter of the evening was female middleweight Shelley Seivert, of Severna Park, MD. Taking on Cimberly Harris, Gibsonton, FL, Seivert entered the ring to an unbelievable crowd reaction, looking for her second win as a paid professional. Seivert’s popularity was not enough however. Outgunned by Harris, a veteran of 12 fights, Seivert was cut on the hairline in round three and developed a nasty mouse on her left check bone in the fourth. Seivert fought back with heart and was able to force the judges to decide the result, in which all three turned in a verdict of 39-37 in favor of Harris. Harris improves to 4-9 (0), while Seivert evens out her record at 1-1 (0).
The most exciting fight of the evening was a junior middleweight bout as two Maryland fighters looked for hometown bragging rights over the other.
Undefeated Tim Coleman, Pikesville, MD, took on Jayson Champion, Suitland, MD, in a give and take contest that pitted two contrasting styles against each other.
The first punch in which Coleman threw almost floored Champion as he splayed across the ring off balance before regaining his composure and started to set up his southpaw jab. Coleman attempted to wade inside was successful in landing hard body shots as he came in underneath Champions punches.
Both fighters threw caution to the wind at the start of the second round as the went toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring, both staggering the other in landing punches meant to take out the other.
Coleman landed with a straight right hand in the third round which sent Champion to his backside that appeared to be more of a balance issue as Champion squared up to Coleman. Coleman was able to rise with no problems and was able fight on, using his jab to keep Coleman at bay.
At the end of six rounds, Champion’s jab was not enough to convince the judges that he was the more dominate fighter, as Coleman remained undefeated by scores of 58-55 (twice) and 58-56. Fightnews scored the bout 58-55.
Elias “The Golden Greek” Bouloubassis and Vinson Robbins’ super middleweight bout ended early but without any satisfaction from either fighters of the plethora of pro-“Boul” enthusiasts as the popular Greek has yet to register a professional win.
In his second professional outing, Bouloubassis, 0-0-2, was able to get inside on the ripped Robbins, 1-3-2 (1), jumping in and connecting early, although a head butt in the second round caused a nasty gash on Robbins’ left eye, which forced referee John Gradowski to call in the ringside physician as blood streamed down Robbins’ face. The injury was deemed too severe for Robbins to continue and the bout was ruled a technical draw, much to the dismay of both fighters.
In heavyweight action, Bowie, MD native Ray “Horace” Grant stopped Glenn Williams, of Palm Harbor, FL at 2:25 of the fifth round. Williams drops to 4-4-1 (4) and Grant improves to 3-1 (2).
Notables in the crowd included former three-time world champion Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, former IBF Featherweight Champion Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken, former WBO Cruiserweight Champion Boone Pultz and current USBA Cruiserweight Champion Emmanuel Nwodo. “Rock and Box” was promoted by Jake Smith’s Baltimore Boxing and concluded with a concert following the fight card.
There are photos from this bout courtesy of Beltway Boxing Photographer Linda Siadys by going to javascript:ol('http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/2329374%23125921517');
Baltimore Boxing concluded with another successful show in the packed National Guard Armory in Pikesville, Maryland, as the “Rock and Box” billed Pro-Am show solidified the school of thought that Jake “The Snake” Smith is producing what is quickly becoming the most consistent venue for boxing in the Baltimore and Washington, DC beltway area.
The main event brought the fans a rematch in which undefeated Jesse “The Beast” Nicklow looked for a second win over James Shedrick in a middleweight contest in which Nicklow looked to gain a more dominant victory than in their first bout, which was fought to a fifth-round technical decision in September of last year.
After a slow first round, Nicklow, adorned in his customary red and white trunks, complete with socks bearing the crest of Poland, opened up the second round by landing hard right hooks to the body of Shedrick, 5-7 (2), who gamely fought back although being slightly outgunned.
The third would be the last for Shedrick, Philadelphia, PA, who halfway through the round had his mouthpiece blasted across the ring by a Nicklow right hand and shortly after found himself laying on his back in a neutral corner, compliments of another Nicklow right. Although he was able to rise before referee Kenny Chevalier reached the count of ten, he was in no condition to continue as Chevalier waved off the contest at 1:58 of the third round. Nicklow, Severn, MD, raises his record to 9-0 (3).
By far, the most popular fighter of the evening was female middleweight Shelley Seivert, of Severna Park, MD. Taking on Cimberly Harris, Gibsonton, FL, Seivert entered the ring to an unbelievable crowd reaction, looking for her second win as a paid professional. Seivert’s popularity was not enough however. Outgunned by Harris, a veteran of 12 fights, Seivert was cut on the hairline in round three and developed a nasty mouse on her left check bone in the fourth. Seivert fought back with heart and was able to force the judges to decide the result, in which all three turned in a verdict of 39-37 in favor of Harris. Harris improves to 4-9 (0), while Seivert evens out her record at 1-1 (0).
The most exciting fight of the evening was a junior middleweight bout as two Maryland fighters looked for hometown bragging rights over the other.
Undefeated Tim Coleman, Pikesville, MD, took on Jayson Champion, Suitland, MD, in a give and take contest that pitted two contrasting styles against each other.
The first punch in which Coleman threw almost floored Champion as he splayed across the ring off balance before regaining his composure and started to set up his southpaw jab. Coleman attempted to wade inside was successful in landing hard body shots as he came in underneath Champions punches.
Both fighters threw caution to the wind at the start of the second round as the went toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring, both staggering the other in landing punches meant to take out the other.
Coleman landed with a straight right hand in the third round which sent Champion to his backside that appeared to be more of a balance issue as Champion squared up to Coleman. Coleman was able to rise with no problems and was able fight on, using his jab to keep Coleman at bay.
At the end of six rounds, Champion’s jab was not enough to convince the judges that he was the more dominate fighter, as Coleman remained undefeated by scores of 58-55 (twice) and 58-56. Fightnews scored the bout 58-55.
Elias “The Golden Greek” Bouloubassis and Vinson Robbins’ super middleweight bout ended early but without any satisfaction from either fighters of the plethora of pro-“Boul” enthusiasts as the popular Greek has yet to register a professional win.
In his second professional outing, Bouloubassis, 0-0-2, was able to get inside on the ripped Robbins, 1-3-2 (1), jumping in and connecting early, although a head butt in the second round caused a nasty gash on Robbins’ left eye, which forced referee John Gradowski to call in the ringside physician as blood streamed down Robbins’ face. The injury was deemed too severe for Robbins to continue and the bout was ruled a technical draw, much to the dismay of both fighters.
In heavyweight action, Bowie, MD native Ray “Horace” Grant stopped Glenn Williams, of Palm Harbor, FL at 2:25 of the fifth round. Williams drops to 4-4-1 (4) and Grant improves to 3-1 (2).
Notables in the crowd included former three-time world champion Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, former IBF Featherweight Champion Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken, former WBO Cruiserweight Champion Boone Pultz and current USBA Cruiserweight Champion Emmanuel Nwodo. “Rock and Box” was promoted by Jake Smith’s Baltimore Boxing and concluded with a concert following the fight card.
There are photos from this bout courtesy of Beltway Boxing Photographer Linda Siadys by going to javascript:ol('http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/2329374%23125921517');
Rahman May Fight In Turkey Against Sam!
The Associated Press is reporting that two-time former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman may fight in Istanbul, Turkey sometime in May.
The AP says Rahman is very close to completing a deal that would pit Rahman against tough contender Sinan Samil San in a bout that would pit two of the division's top four heavyweight contenders against one another.
"We're in serious negotiations and expect to complete them by next week some time," Rahman's manager, Steve Nelson told the AP.
Rahman is currently ranked fourth in the world by the WBC and has not fought since losing his WBC title to Oleg Maskaev last August. Sam is the WBC International champion and is ranked third in the world by the WBC. Sam has won three in a row, including a 12-round unanimous decision against Bob Mirovic last November.
The AP says Rahman is very close to completing a deal that would pit Rahman against tough contender Sinan Samil San in a bout that would pit two of the division's top four heavyweight contenders against one another.
"We're in serious negotiations and expect to complete them by next week some time," Rahman's manager, Steve Nelson told the AP.
Rahman is currently ranked fourth in the world by the WBC and has not fought since losing his WBC title to Oleg Maskaev last August. Sam is the WBC International champion and is ranked third in the world by the WBC. Sam has won three in a row, including a 12-round unanimous decision against Bob Mirovic last November.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Post-Fight Wrap-up from Pikesville!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #31 - Post-Fight Show from Pikesville, MD!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I break down the results of last night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory.
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I break down the results of last night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory.
Nicklow Devastates Shedrick in Pikesville!
Severn, MD junior middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow scored a devastating third-round knockout over "The Mighty Burner" James Shedrick in front of a packed house at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD.
Nicklow turned what was a close two-round bout into a quick finish by landing a brutal overhand right that dropped Shedrick quickly to the canvas. Shedrick barely beat referee Kenny Chevalier's 10-count but was on shaky legs and Chevalier stopped the bout at 1:58 of the third. The win marked the second time Nicklow defeated Shedrick in his career, the first time was on September 14 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Nicklow is now 9-0, three KO's while Shedrick falls to 4-7, two KO's.
The co-feature saw Pikesville welterweight Tim Coleman remain undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jayson Champion of Suitland. Coleman was accidently thumbed in the eye in the second round but recovered in the third and dropped Champion with a counter right hand. Champion started to come on late in the bout but it was too late.
Coleman raises his record to 7-0, two KO's while Champion's record falls to 3-3, two KO's.
Other results on the card: Bowie, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant scored a fifth-round TKO over Catonsville, MD's "Irish" Glenn Williams. Grant is now 3-1, three KO's while Williams falls to 4-4-1, four KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD and Vincent Robbins of York, SC fought to a technical draw. The bout was stopped in the second round because an accidental headbutt caused Robbins to suffer blurred vision. Because half the bout was not completed, the technical draw was ruled. Boulbassis is now 0-0-2 while Robbins is 1-3-2, one KO.
Severna Park middleweight Shelly Sivert lost a four-round unanimous decision to Cimberly Harris of Tampa, FL. Sivert is now 1-1 while the more experienced Harris is 4-9.
Full report at the top of the page in the post-fight show with myself and "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears.
Nicklow turned what was a close two-round bout into a quick finish by landing a brutal overhand right that dropped Shedrick quickly to the canvas. Shedrick barely beat referee Kenny Chevalier's 10-count but was on shaky legs and Chevalier stopped the bout at 1:58 of the third. The win marked the second time Nicklow defeated Shedrick in his career, the first time was on September 14 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Nicklow is now 9-0, three KO's while Shedrick falls to 4-7, two KO's.
The co-feature saw Pikesville welterweight Tim Coleman remain undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jayson Champion of Suitland. Coleman was accidently thumbed in the eye in the second round but recovered in the third and dropped Champion with a counter right hand. Champion started to come on late in the bout but it was too late.
Coleman raises his record to 7-0, two KO's while Champion's record falls to 3-3, two KO's.
Other results on the card: Bowie, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant scored a fifth-round TKO over Catonsville, MD's "Irish" Glenn Williams. Grant is now 3-1, three KO's while Williams falls to 4-4-1, four KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD and Vincent Robbins of York, SC fought to a technical draw. The bout was stopped in the second round because an accidental headbutt caused Robbins to suffer blurred vision. Because half the bout was not completed, the technical draw was ruled. Boulbassis is now 0-0-2 while Robbins is 1-3-2, one KO.
Severna Park middleweight Shelly Sivert lost a four-round unanimous decision to Cimberly Harris of Tampa, FL. Sivert is now 1-1 while the more experienced Harris is 4-9.
Full report at the top of the page in the post-fight show with myself and "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Scale Watch for Pikesville, MD Tonight!
Here are the weights for tonight's "Rock and Box" Baltimore Pro Boxing card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD: (Beltway Boxers in Bold)
Jessie Nicklow 155 3/4 vs. James Shedrick 155
Demetrius Davis 175 vs. Jameel Wilson 173
Tim Coleman 151 1/4 vs. Jason Champion 148
Elias Boulbassis 165 1/4 vs. Vincent Robbins 163 3/4
Glenn Williams 200 vs. Horace Grant 249 1/2
Shelly Seivert 160 1/4 vs. Cimberly Harris 157 1/4
Richard Stewart 180 vs. Darin Johnson 187
Jessie Nicklow 155 3/4 vs. James Shedrick 155
Demetrius Davis 175 vs. Jameel Wilson 173
Tim Coleman 151 1/4 vs. Jason Champion 148
Elias Boulbassis 165 1/4 vs. Vincent Robbins 163 3/4
Glenn Williams 200 vs. Horace Grant 249 1/2
Shelly Seivert 160 1/4 vs. Cimberly Harris 157 1/4
Richard Stewart 180 vs. Darin Johnson 187
Reid Knocked out in Fourth!
Adelphi, MD junior middleweight Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid was knocked out in the fourth round by Colombian-born contender Richard Gutierrez in front of a nationally televised ESPN2 audience last night at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT.
Reid, quite frankly, was never really in the contest as Gutierrez seemed to batter the veteran at will. Reid's heart kept him in the contest until the fourth when Gutierrez landed a body shot near Reid's left hip. Reid complained of a low blow and went to the canvas. He could not beat the referee's count.
Reid's record falls now to 23-9-2, 17 KO's while Gutierrez is 22-1, 14 KO's.
In other Beltway Boxing results, Temple Hills, MD light heavyweight Jarell Mason Jackson scored a fourth-round TKO over Derrick Holsinger of Portsmouth, OH on a card in Morgantown, WVA. Jackson (7-4-1, three KO's) is 4-0-1, 1 NC in his last six bouts.
On that same card, DC super middleweight Larry "The Gladiator" Brothers lost a four-round unanimous decision to undefeated Tommy Karpency of Adah, PA. Brothers is now 6-23-3, four KO's. He has lost eight in a row and is winless in his last 10. Karpency is 4-0, one KO.
Reid, quite frankly, was never really in the contest as Gutierrez seemed to batter the veteran at will. Reid's heart kept him in the contest until the fourth when Gutierrez landed a body shot near Reid's left hip. Reid complained of a low blow and went to the canvas. He could not beat the referee's count.
Reid's record falls now to 23-9-2, 17 KO's while Gutierrez is 22-1, 14 KO's.
In other Beltway Boxing results, Temple Hills, MD light heavyweight Jarell Mason Jackson scored a fourth-round TKO over Derrick Holsinger of Portsmouth, OH on a card in Morgantown, WVA. Jackson (7-4-1, three KO's) is 4-0-1, 1 NC in his last six bouts.
On that same card, DC super middleweight Larry "The Gladiator" Brothers lost a four-round unanimous decision to undefeated Tommy Karpency of Adah, PA. Brothers is now 6-23-3, four KO's. He has lost eight in a row and is winless in his last 10. Karpency is 4-0, one KO.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Teddy Reid is 'Boxing's Grinch' says ESPN Announcer!
Interesting article on ESPN.com from Friday Night Fights blow-by-blow announcer Joe Tessitore. He previews Adelphi' MD's Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid's bout tomorrow night against Richard Gutierrez. Despite the title, this is actually a pretty positive article about Reid.
Here's the link:
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/columns/story?columnist=tessitore_joe&id=2726950
Here's the link:
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/columns/story?columnist=tessitore_joe&id=2726950
'Mighty Mouse' Aiken Returns in February!
Former IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken has told me he will return to action on Friday, February 16 in an ESPN2-televised bout from Las Vegas, NV. Aiken said he did not know who his opponent will be, but the bout is slated to be an elimination bout. Should Aiken win, he will get another shot at the IBF title, which is currently vacant. Aiken is currently ranked number 6 by the IBF. The bout was originally slated to take place in March, but Aiken's trainer, Adrian Davis said the bout was moved up a month.
By the way, if this bout holds up, that means there will be two Beltway Boxers participating on two television networks on February 16. Heavyweight Tony "The Tiger" Thompson will headline the Fox Sports "Best Damn Sports Show" Boxing special against Timor Ibragimov from the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills, CA on that same evening.
By the way, if this bout holds up, that means there will be two Beltway Boxers participating on two television networks on February 16. Heavyweight Tony "The Tiger" Thompson will headline the Fox Sports "Best Damn Sports Show" Boxing special against Timor Ibragimov from the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills, CA on that same evening.
Shelly Seivert Article in Annapolis Capital!
Thanks to Beltway Boxing photographer Linda Siadys for the info on this one.
There is a nice article on rookie female pro boxer Shelly Seivert of Severna Park in the January 23 edition of The Capital newspaper of Annapolis.
The article "Severna Park's Seivert Gives Boxing a Whack," written by Sean Jones can be found online by going to this link:
http://www.capitalonline.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/01_23-47/SPO
Seivert will face Sharmain Pouncy on the January 27 Baltimore Pro Boxing card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory.
There is a nice article on rookie female pro boxer Shelly Seivert of Severna Park in the January 23 edition of The Capital newspaper of Annapolis.
The article "Severna Park's Seivert Gives Boxing a Whack," written by Sean Jones can be found online by going to this link:
http://www.capitalonline.com/cgi-bin/read/2007/01_23-47/SPO
Seivert will face Sharmain Pouncy on the January 27 Baltimore Pro Boxing card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Rahman-Mercer Fight Off; Nwodo Avoided Again!
A couple of items from Fightnews.com:
The scheduled February 22 bout between former world champion Hasim Rahman and Ray Mercer is off. According to Fightnews, the bout was never really on because Mercer was suddenly not available for the bout, although another Fightnews story said Rahman pulled out of the matchup. Rahman's next contest will be rescheduled.
Also, another highly-touted fighter seems to be avoiding USBA Cruiserweight champ Emmanuel Nwodo. Nwodo's promoter, Han Kim, had been in negotiations for a bout with NABO champ Jonathan Banks of Detroit for a number of weeks. However, Fightnews is reporting that Banks and his manager Emmanuel Steward have decided to take a non-title contest against journeyman Zach Page tomorrow night in Las Vegas. Banks is 13-0, 10 KO's. Page is 12-9-1, four KO's.
The scheduled February 22 bout between former world champion Hasim Rahman and Ray Mercer is off. According to Fightnews, the bout was never really on because Mercer was suddenly not available for the bout, although another Fightnews story said Rahman pulled out of the matchup. Rahman's next contest will be rescheduled.
Also, another highly-touted fighter seems to be avoiding USBA Cruiserweight champ Emmanuel Nwodo. Nwodo's promoter, Han Kim, had been in negotiations for a bout with NABO champ Jonathan Banks of Detroit for a number of weeks. However, Fightnews is reporting that Banks and his manager Emmanuel Steward have decided to take a non-title contest against journeyman Zach Page tomorrow night in Las Vegas. Banks is 13-0, 10 KO's. Page is 12-9-1, four KO's.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Jessie Nicklow Talks About Jan. 27 in Pikesville!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #30 - Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow Discusses Jan. 27 Bout!
Undefeated Severn, MD middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow assesses his 2006 rookie year and talks about his January 27 headline bout against James Shedrick in Pikesville, MD.
Undefeated Severn, MD middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow assesses his 2006 rookie year and talks about his January 27 headline bout against James Shedrick in Pikesville, MD.
Darnell Wilson Talks About Big Canadian Win!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #29 - Darnell Wilson Talks About Big Canadian Win!
Newly-crowned Trans-America Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson discusses his big win over Dale Brown last Saturday in Edmonton, Alberta, CAN as well as his thoughts on a possible showdown with USBA Cruiserweight champ Emmanuel Nwodo.
Newly-crowned Trans-America Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson discusses his big win over Dale Brown last Saturday in Edmonton, Alberta, CAN as well as his thoughts on a possible showdown with USBA Cruiserweight champ Emmanuel Nwodo.
Updates to January 27th Pikesville Card!
Here are some updates and changes to the January 27th Baltimore Pro Boxing "Rock and Box" card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory: This info comes from Baltimoreboxing.com
Ray (also known as Horace) "The Reason" Grant (2-1, two KO's) will now take on Catonsville, MD's "Irish" Glenn Williams (4-3-1, four KO's) in a four-round bout.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Boulbassis of Baltimore (0-0-1) will face South Carolina's Vincent Robbins (1-2, one KO).
There is also an opponent for New Castle, DE cruiserweight Richard Stewart (11-2-1, six KO's). Stewart will battle Darin "Kool-Aid" Johnson of Louisville, KY (4-9, four KO's).
THIS JUST IN: Baltimore welterweight Tim Coleman has an opponent and it is a tough one. Coleman (6-0, two KO's) will face Temple Hills, MD's Jason Champion (3-2, two KO's) in a four-round bout. Champion gave Jessie Nicklow all he could handle in his last bout on December 7 in Pikesville, narrowily losing a six-round decision.
Ray (also known as Horace) "The Reason" Grant (2-1, two KO's) will now take on Catonsville, MD's "Irish" Glenn Williams (4-3-1, four KO's) in a four-round bout.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Boulbassis of Baltimore (0-0-1) will face South Carolina's Vincent Robbins (1-2, one KO).
There is also an opponent for New Castle, DE cruiserweight Richard Stewart (11-2-1, six KO's). Stewart will battle Darin "Kool-Aid" Johnson of Louisville, KY (4-9, four KO's).
THIS JUST IN: Baltimore welterweight Tim Coleman has an opponent and it is a tough one. Coleman (6-0, two KO's) will face Temple Hills, MD's Jason Champion (3-2, two KO's) in a four-round bout. Champion gave Jessie Nicklow all he could handle in his last bout on December 7 in Pikesville, narrowily losing a six-round decision.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
'Ding-A-Ling Man' Stops Brown in Canada!
A huge win for one of our Beltway Boxers. Silver Spring, MD cruiserweight Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson scored a second round TKO over Canadian Dale Brown last night in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
According to Fightnews Canada's Sean Roth, Wilson dropped Brown in the first round and stopped him 21 seconds into round two. With the win, Wilson captures the Trans America Cruiserweight title and raises his record to 20-5-3, 17 KO's. Wilson also became the first person to beat Brown on Canadian soil. Brown's record falls to 35-6-1, 22 KO's.
According to Fightnews Canada's Sean Roth, Wilson dropped Brown in the first round and stopped him 21 seconds into round two. With the win, Wilson captures the Trans America Cruiserweight title and raises his record to 20-5-3, 17 KO's. Wilson also became the first person to beat Brown on Canadian soil. Brown's record falls to 35-6-1, 22 KO's.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Rahman Decides: February 22 vs. Ray Mercer!
According to ESPN.com's Dan Rafael, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman has decided to take the February 22 bout against former WBO champ "Merciless" Ray Mercer at the Mountaineer Race Track in Huntington, WVA. This bout will be televised on the Versus Network.
Rahman and his promoter, Bob Arum, had been mulling over an offer from a German promoter to face Luan Krasniqi in Germany in March. But Arum told Rafael the trip to Germany could happen later in the spring if Rahman beats Mercer.
Rahman and his promoter, Bob Arum, had been mulling over an offer from a German promoter to face Luan Krasniqi in Germany in March. But Arum told Rafael the trip to Germany could happen later in the spring if Rahman beats Mercer.
Beltway Boxing Comes to Suitland High School February 17!
I have just been told that there will be a boxing card coming to Suitland Senior High School on Saturday, February 17. The card will be promoted by Keystone Boxing and is scheduled to feature Beltway Boxers Tyrell Samuel, Tim Coleman, Jarell Mason Jackson, Wayne "Hammerhead" Hampton, Horace "The Reason" Grant and Reginald Taylor.
Taylor, by the way, is coming off a recent four-round unanimous decision win over Joseph Smith on January 5 on the undercard of the Anthony and Lamont Peterson show in Biloxi, MS. Taylor (a light heavyweight) is now 4-0, two KO's.
Suitland High School is located at 5200 Silver Hill Road in Forestville, MD. More on this card as it develops.
Taylor, by the way, is coming off a recent four-round unanimous decision win over Joseph Smith on January 5 on the undercard of the Anthony and Lamont Peterson show in Biloxi, MS. Taylor (a light heavyweight) is now 4-0, two KO's.
Suitland High School is located at 5200 Silver Hill Road in Forestville, MD. More on this card as it develops.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Its Official: Warrick-Bailey Cancelled!
Just received word that the bout between Landover, MD's Michael Warrick and Randall Bailey has been cancelled. Apparently, Warriors Boxing, the co-promoters of the bout were not going to risk Warrick's health with a specialist and decided to cancel the bout.
The bout was slated for ESPN2 this Friday. Next week's ESPN2 bout featuring Adelphi's Teddy Reid is still on.
The bout was slated for ESPN2 this Friday. Next week's ESPN2 bout featuring Adelphi's Teddy Reid is still on.
'Too Sharp' Discusses the Business of Boxing!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #27 - "Too Sharp" Discusses the Business of Boxing!
Former three-time world champion Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson comes aboard to update us on the Michael Warrick situation as well as discuss the business side of the sport.
Former three-time world champion Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson comes aboard to update us on the Michael Warrick situation as well as discuss the business side of the sport.
New Poll: What Beltway Bout do YOU Want to See in 2007?
This new poll question is based on an unofficial award. There was a lot of feedback on this, so I decided to make it a question unto itself.
Which bout do YOU want to see along the Beltway in 2007? There were a number of interesting selections and I added a few of my own. If you choose "other" in the poll, please tell us what bout you would like to see.
Here are the results of the last poll question:
2007 is the 30th anniversary year of Sugar Ray Leonard's pro debut. In your opinion, what was the greatest moment in Leonard's boxing career?
1976 -- Winning the Olympic Gold Medal (6) 10%
November 30, 1979 -- winning his first world championship against Wilfredo Benitez (0) 0%
November 25, 1980 -- regaining the WBC Welterweight title by stopping Roberto Duran (6) 10%
June 25, 1981 -- Winning the WBA Junior Middleweight title over Ayub Kalule (0) 0%
September 16, 1981 -- Defeating Thomas Hearns for the WBA and WBC Welterweight titles (21) 36%
April 6, 1987 -- Defeating Marvelous Marvin Hagler for the WBC Middleweight title (22) 37%
November 7, 1988 -- Defeating Donny Lalonde for the WBC Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight crowns (0) 0%
June 12, 1989 -- Draw in rematch with Thomas Hearns (0) 0%
December 7, 1989 -- His final victory -- unanimous decision in third bout with Roberto Duran (0) 0%
Other (4) 7%
Total Votes: 59 Thanks for participating.
I plan to start my year-long 30th anniversary retrospective of Sugar Ray Leonard within the next couple of weeks.
Which bout do YOU want to see along the Beltway in 2007? There were a number of interesting selections and I added a few of my own. If you choose "other" in the poll, please tell us what bout you would like to see.
Here are the results of the last poll question:
2007 is the 30th anniversary year of Sugar Ray Leonard's pro debut. In your opinion, what was the greatest moment in Leonard's boxing career?
1976 -- Winning the Olympic Gold Medal (6) 10%
November 30, 1979 -- winning his first world championship against Wilfredo Benitez (0) 0%
November 25, 1980 -- regaining the WBC Welterweight title by stopping Roberto Duran (6) 10%
June 25, 1981 -- Winning the WBA Junior Middleweight title over Ayub Kalule (0) 0%
September 16, 1981 -- Defeating Thomas Hearns for the WBA and WBC Welterweight titles (21) 36%
April 6, 1987 -- Defeating Marvelous Marvin Hagler for the WBC Middleweight title (22) 37%
November 7, 1988 -- Defeating Donny Lalonde for the WBC Super Middleweight and Light Heavyweight crowns (0) 0%
June 12, 1989 -- Draw in rematch with Thomas Hearns (0) 0%
December 7, 1989 -- His final victory -- unanimous decision in third bout with Roberto Duran (0) 0%
Other (4) 7%
Total Votes: 59 Thanks for participating.
I plan to start my year-long 30th anniversary retrospective of Sugar Ray Leonard within the next couple of weeks.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Michael Warrick Bout in Jeopardy?
I have heard from informed sources that Michael Warrick's nationally televised bout against Randall Bailey scheduled for this Friday night in Key West, FL could be in serious jeopardy.
The unnamed source tells me that Warrick failed his eye test and doctors found a hole in the retina of one of his eyes (the source did not know which one). The source says that Warriors Boxing, who is promoting the contest, plan to send Warrick to a specialist to get another opinion.
If this comes to pass, this will not only mean the cancellation of this bout, but most likely the end of Warrick's career.
I'll keep you posted with any developments.
The unnamed source tells me that Warrick failed his eye test and doctors found a hole in the retina of one of his eyes (the source did not know which one). The source says that Warriors Boxing, who is promoting the contest, plan to send Warrick to a specialist to get another opinion.
If this comes to pass, this will not only mean the cancellation of this bout, but most likely the end of Warrick's career.
I'll keep you posted with any developments.
Gary Russell Jr. Featured in Washington Times!
The Washington Times has jumped on the amateur Beltway Boxing bandwagon with a nice story on top-ranked amateur Gary Russell Jr. in today's edition. The article, written by Mike Jones, is entitled "Dreams of Gold in Gloves" and the paper says it will be one of an occasional series on Russell as he tries to make the 2008 US Olympic Team.
As you probably know, Russell is ranked number one in the country at bantamweight.
In 2006, The Washington Post wrote a number of articles on some of the Beltway's finest amateur boxers including Russell, Franchon Crews, Dominic Wade and, most recently, Luke Runion.
Here is the link you can copy to the article:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/sports/20070116-124017-3291r.htm
As you probably know, Russell is ranked number one in the country at bantamweight.
In 2006, The Washington Post wrote a number of articles on some of the Beltway's finest amateur boxers including Russell, Franchon Crews, Dominic Wade and, most recently, Luke Runion.
Here is the link you can copy to the article:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/sports/20070116-124017-3291r.htm
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Hunter, A. Peterson Video Interviews on 'Ringside Report'!
My good friend "Bad" Brad Berkwitt, the owner of Ringsidereport.com, has two video interviews that Beltway Boxing fans might be very interested in. RSR's Brad Cooney talked to the NABO Lightweight champion, DC's own Anthony Peterson and his trainer, Barry Hunter. These are two solid interviews that took place shortly after Anthony and Lamont Peterson won their recent bouts in Biloxi, MS.
There is a link to Ringsidereport.com on this site.
There is a link to Ringsidereport.com on this site.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Beltway Boxers on ESPN's Next Two Telecasts!
I've already mentioned that Adelphi, MD junior middleweight Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid will be on ESPN2 on Friday, January 26 as he takes on Richard Gutierrez at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT. However, another Beltway Boxer will be on ESPN2 on Friday, January 19.
Landover, MD junior welterweight Michael Warrick returns to action when he faces former WBO and WBA Junior Welterweight champion "The Knock-Out King" Randall Bailey on January 19 from Mallory Square in Key West, FL. This will be Warrick's first action since his devastating ninth-round knockout loss to Demetrius Hopkins in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience on June 7 in Atlantic City. Warrick comes into the bout with Bailey with a record of 18-4, 11 KO's.
Bailey (34-5, 31 KO's) is a native of Miami, FL who won the WBO world title in 1999 and held the WBA crown in 2002. He once challenged DeMarcus Corley for Corley's WBO strap at the DC Armory on January 4, 2003. Bailey currently holds the IBA Intercontinental Junior Welterweight crown and will defend it in this bout against Warrick. Bailey won the IBA title in his last outing, an eighth-round TKO over Shawn Gallegos on October 13 in Hollywood, FL.
Landover, MD junior welterweight Michael Warrick returns to action when he faces former WBO and WBA Junior Welterweight champion "The Knock-Out King" Randall Bailey on January 19 from Mallory Square in Key West, FL. This will be Warrick's first action since his devastating ninth-round knockout loss to Demetrius Hopkins in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience on June 7 in Atlantic City. Warrick comes into the bout with Bailey with a record of 18-4, 11 KO's.
Bailey (34-5, 31 KO's) is a native of Miami, FL who won the WBO world title in 1999 and held the WBA crown in 2002. He once challenged DeMarcus Corley for Corley's WBO strap at the DC Armory on January 4, 2003. Bailey currently holds the IBA Intercontinental Junior Welterweight crown and will defend it in this bout against Warrick. Bailey won the IBA title in his last outing, an eighth-round TKO over Shawn Gallegos on October 13 in Hollywood, FL.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Nicklow-Shedrick II Headlines Jan. 27 'Rock and Box' in Pikesville!
Information is coming in about the first Beltway Boxing card of 2007. That card takes place on Saturday, January 27 at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD. The card will be Baltimore Pro Boxing's first "Rock and Box" card. The show will feature live music immediately following the boxing action.
The main event is a scheduled six-round middleweight rematch between undefeated Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow of Severn, MD and veteran James Shedrick of Philadelphia. Nicklow won the first bout on September 14 at Martin's West by fifth-round technical decision. Both men suffered cuts during the contest but Shedrick suffered a bad cut above his left eye that forced the bout to be stopped.
Nicklow (8-0,two KO's) is coming off a tough six-round unanimous decision over Temple Hills, MD's Jason Champion on the last Pikesville card on December 7. Shedrick (4-6, two KO's) defeated DC veteran Larry Brothers in his last bout on November 9 at Michael's Eighth Avenue by six-round unanimous decision.
In another rematch, Baltimore rookie middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Boulbassis will take on York, SC's Chris Cook in a four-round bout. The two met on the Dec. 7 show in Pikesville and fought to a four-round draw. That bout was Boulbassis's pro debut. Cook will come in with a record on 1-4-1, one KO.
Also slated for the card is the returning Demetrius Davis, who is now fighting as a light heavyweight. Davis (17-11-4, seven KO's) appeared in an exhibition bout on the December 9 card at the Lincoln Theatre in DC, but he is scheduled to face Philadelphia veteran Jameel "Black Gold" Wilson (13-10-2, eight KO's) in a six-round matchup.
Undefeated Baltimore welterweight prospect Tim Coleman is also scheduled to be on this card. Coleman (6-0, two KO's) impressed many in his last outing, scoring a first-round TKO over John Campbell on November 9 at Michael's Eighth Avenue. Coleman is slated to face DC's Pernell Jackson in a four-round bout. Jackson (1-1-1, one KO) has not fought since suffering his first loss against Julio DeJesus by second-round TKO on May 5 in Philadelphia.
Also scheduled to return to action will be female boxer Shelly Sivert of Severna Park, MD. Sivert is coming off a successful pro debut, winning a four-round unanimous decision over Kita Watkins on December 7 in Pikesville. Sivert is scheduled to face undefeated Sharmain Pouncy of Hamlet, NC. Pouncy was also successful in her pro debut, winning a four-round unanimous decision over Annette Joyner on August 19 in Greenville, NC.
Other boxers scheduled to be on the card are Bowie, MD heavyweight Ray (Horace) "The Reason" Grant (2-1, two KO's) and New Castle, DE cruiserweight Richard Stewart, the older brother of "Contender: Season 2" star Michael Stewart. Their opponents are to be determined.
More on this card as it develops.
The main event is a scheduled six-round middleweight rematch between undefeated Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow of Severn, MD and veteran James Shedrick of Philadelphia. Nicklow won the first bout on September 14 at Martin's West by fifth-round technical decision. Both men suffered cuts during the contest but Shedrick suffered a bad cut above his left eye that forced the bout to be stopped.
Nicklow (8-0,two KO's) is coming off a tough six-round unanimous decision over Temple Hills, MD's Jason Champion on the last Pikesville card on December 7. Shedrick (4-6, two KO's) defeated DC veteran Larry Brothers in his last bout on November 9 at Michael's Eighth Avenue by six-round unanimous decision.
In another rematch, Baltimore rookie middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Boulbassis will take on York, SC's Chris Cook in a four-round bout. The two met on the Dec. 7 show in Pikesville and fought to a four-round draw. That bout was Boulbassis's pro debut. Cook will come in with a record on 1-4-1, one KO.
Also slated for the card is the returning Demetrius Davis, who is now fighting as a light heavyweight. Davis (17-11-4, seven KO's) appeared in an exhibition bout on the December 9 card at the Lincoln Theatre in DC, but he is scheduled to face Philadelphia veteran Jameel "Black Gold" Wilson (13-10-2, eight KO's) in a six-round matchup.
Undefeated Baltimore welterweight prospect Tim Coleman is also scheduled to be on this card. Coleman (6-0, two KO's) impressed many in his last outing, scoring a first-round TKO over John Campbell on November 9 at Michael's Eighth Avenue. Coleman is slated to face DC's Pernell Jackson in a four-round bout. Jackson (1-1-1, one KO) has not fought since suffering his first loss against Julio DeJesus by second-round TKO on May 5 in Philadelphia.
Also scheduled to return to action will be female boxer Shelly Sivert of Severna Park, MD. Sivert is coming off a successful pro debut, winning a four-round unanimous decision over Kita Watkins on December 7 in Pikesville. Sivert is scheduled to face undefeated Sharmain Pouncy of Hamlet, NC. Pouncy was also successful in her pro debut, winning a four-round unanimous decision over Annette Joyner on August 19 in Greenville, NC.
Other boxers scheduled to be on the card are Bowie, MD heavyweight Ray (Horace) "The Reason" Grant (2-1, two KO's) and New Castle, DE cruiserweight Richard Stewart, the older brother of "Contender: Season 2" star Michael Stewart. Their opponents are to be determined.
More on this card as it develops.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Tony Thompson Looks for Championship Gold!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #25 - Tony Thompson Looks for Championship Gold!
The Fans's choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year, DC's Tony "The Tiger" Thompson, reflects on a great 2006 and tells us what's in store for 2007!
UPDATE: The February 16 bout that Thompson referenced is against Timor Ibragimov at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills, CA. This bout will be the main event on a Fox SportsNet "Best Damn Sports Show Period Boxing Special."
The Fans's choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year, DC's Tony "The Tiger" Thompson, reflects on a great 2006 and tells us what's in store for 2007!
UPDATE: The February 16 bout that Thompson referenced is against Timor Ibragimov at the Playboy Mansion in Beverly Hills, CA. This bout will be the main event on a Fox SportsNet "Best Damn Sports Show Period Boxing Special."
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
The BATB 'Digital's Choice' Awards!
Here are my personal choices in the Boxing Along The Beltway Year-End Excellence Awards!
Digital’s choice for Rookie of the Year is…
Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow
The 19-year old middleweight from Severn, MD had an outstanding rookie campaign going 8-0, three KO’s. Nicklow registered good performances in wins over veterans like Anthony Osbourne (a six-round unanimous decision on October 20 and solid prospects like his last performance against Jason Champion (another six-round unanimous decision on December 7). Despite my thought that Nicklow lost the bout against Champion, he showed good improvement, as he did throughout every bout. “Discombobulating” Jones describes Nicklow as having an “old soul” when it comes to his boxing ability. Nicklow seems to show boxing skill that belies his age. He will be one to watch.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Thomas “KO” Snow -- The featherweight from Capitol Heights, MD could be a major player by the end of 2007. Snow has scored knockouts in his last four bouts but has been facing guys who are also at rookie level except in his last outing against 2-9 Mike Salyers. Will need to step up his competition.
Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer – Another 19-year-old who has solid skills. The junior welterweight from Front Royal, VA has good power which helped him in his first four bouts. His first loss in his most recent contest (December 9 against Ken Humphreys) was a minor setback, but with more preparation he can become a major player.
Digital’s choice for Prospect of the Year is…
Tyrell Samuel
One of the most underrated prospects along the Beltway, the 24-year-old featherweight from Baltimore is one of the most exciting boxers in the area. Trained by former world champion Vincent Pettway, Samuel has shown solid knockout power scoring KO’s in five of his last six bouts. His last win (a six-round split decision in a second bout against Carlos Vinan on Sept. 28) was a tough contest against a guy who knew him well. Samuel’s ability to survive that contest showed growth in his career. If he can get some more bouts, look for Samuel to challenge for a regional title in 2007.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tim Coleman – One of the better young pure boxers in the area, the 22-year-old junior middleweight from Baltimore is only a good power shot away from being a major player in his division by the end of the year. Coleman’s boxing skills will take him far. He scored two solid unanimous decision victories over tough prospects Marquis McConnell and Mushin Correbrey which allowed fans to see what kind of heart he has.
Thomas Snow – See rookie information
Digital’s choice for Performance of the Year is…
Tony Thompson wins NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight championships with unanimous decision over Dominic Guinn on June 28.
No heavyweight prospect made a bigger move to contender rankings than the 35-year-old from Silver Spring, MD. On June 28, Thompson became a solid player by totally dominating a boxer considered at that time as the best American heavyweight prospect. Dominic Guinn lost that distinction by succumbing to a better boxer’s overall skills. Unfortunately, Thompson’s victory has made him a feared man in the heavyweight division. Hopefully, someone will step up to the plate and face "The Tiger" in 2007.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Emmanuel Nwodo wins USBA Cruiserweight championship with third-round TKO over Chris Thomas on July 1 – Nwodo became a household name in the cruiserweight division with his solid knockout performance over Thomas at the ABC Sports Complex. Like Thompson, the win put Nwodo in the top 10 among the major governing bodies, but has also made him a feared man.
Eric Aiken defeats former IBF Bantamweight champion Tim Austin by six-round TKO on April 1 – Aiken became a household name bouncing back from a tough loss to beat a formidable name in Austin, once regarded as one of the best champions in the world. The win helped Aiken prepare for his eventual world title shot.
Digital’s Choice for Card of the Year is…
December 9 at the Patriot Center
No card had as much buzz before, during and after than the Major League Boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. The card had four legitimate drawing cards in Jimmy Lange, Andrew Farmer, Boone Pultz and, yes, JP Flaim of the Junkies. Add three more growing fan favorites in Dean White, Juan Carlos Robles and Jaime Palma as well as two of the better bouts of the year in Lange-Fontaine Cabell and White-Dorin Spivey and you have a card that was truly unmatched this year.
One other note that has been overlooked when people talk about this card: Promoter Joe Hensley learned from the curfew mistake made on the October 7 card. The December 9 card moved swiftly through the night and that helped many people get home at a decent hour.
Others Deserving Consideration:
September 28 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue – This Ballroom Boxing card was a major challenge to Beltway Boxers with three solid matchups; Darnell Wilson vs. Daniel Judah, Ishmail Arvin against David Toribio and the rematch of Tyrell Samuel and Carlos Vinan. Wilson’s bout ended with Judah suffering a separated shoulder, Arvin lost badly to Toribio and Samuel just got past Vinan. There was a lot of drama on this card, the best overall card for Ballroom Boxing in 2006.
September 14 at Martin’s West – Another challenging card for Beltway Boxers. This Baltimore Pro Boxing card included a good matchup between Corey Cummings and Barry Butler that resulted in Cummings’s first loss. Also on the card was the rematch between Mike Paschall and William Gill as well as Jessie Nicklow taking on veteran James Shedrick. Good bouts throughout the card.
August 19 at ABC Sports Complex – This Scott Farmer card had solid Virginia prospects on hand including Farmer’s son Andrew, Terry Roy and Jaime Palma. The fans enjoyed this card extremely well.
Digital’s choices for Promoter/Matchmaker of the Year are:
Jake Smith/Josh Hall (Baltimore Pro Boxing) and Joe Hensley/Nick Tiberi (Major League Boxing)
Both promoting companies gave the Beltway a lot of action in 2006. Baltimore Pro Boxing was able to use two area facilities and one outside location (Ocean City) to put together exceptional cards and showcase outstanding Maryland prospects. Smith and Hall were consistent and prepared their boxers well throughout the year.
Major League Boxing didn’t promote as many cards as their Baltimore counterparts but they should be credited for bringing sustained excitement and local star power to their cards, plus the October 7 and December 9 card brought the biggest crowds in the area.
Both promotional companies plan to be active in 2007 and that is good for the area.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Han Kim (SugarHan Productions) – Not too many promotions could bring a major regional title bout to a boys and girls club location, but Kim did that in 2006 with Emmanuel Nwodo. Kim could be a solid force in 2007.
Gene Molovinsky/Chris Middendorf (Keystone Boxing) – Yes they only promoted one card in 2006 but the February 18 card at the Patriot Center helped keep the growth in Virginia boxing growing. Keystone was the first promotional group to see the value of the Patriot Center (with the Lange-Ballard bout in 2005) and the Lange-Gilbert bout set the tone for the rest of the year in the Commonwealth.
Scott Farmer – This Virginia promoter deserves an A for effort. No promoter worked harder to put on cards than Farmer, sometimes to his detriment. However, Farmer should be credited for giving us a lot of possible Virginia prospects.
Digital’s choice for Rising Contender of the Year is…
Anthony Peterson
This choice was made before Peterson’s most recent performance because he solidified this selection when he won the NABO Lightweight title on June 16 against Adan Hernandez. The undefeated Peterson has already been tabbed as one of the top prospects of the last two years, but this predictor says 2007 is the year he brings a world title home. The power is there, the skill is there. Now it seems to be only a matter of time.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tony Thompson – The WBO has him ranked third in their rankings. Hopefully this will force the champions or top contenders to look his way.
Lamont Peterson – Possibly has more boxing skill than his brother, but power may be an issue in the junior welterweight division.
Emmanuel Nwodo – Can make a major impact in the cruiserweight division, if he can get an opportunity.
Digital’s choice for Knockout of the Year is…
Jed Phipps KO 1 over David Cleage – January 20 at the Pikesville Armory
Unfortunately, Phipps’s career will be marked for being the recipient of big knockouts more than delivering them, but his last victory was his most dramatic. Phipps landed a classic right hand that dropped Cleage violently to the canvas and brought the Pikesville Armory crowd to his fight faster and louder than any knockout this year. It was a beautiful shot.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Derek Amos TKO 1 over Jason Waller – July 1 at ABC Sports Complex
A true “blink and you missed it” knockout, many people were at the concession stands when this one took place. Everyone felt these two long-time veterans would plod through a six-rounder but Amos made short work of Waller with a solid right hand that Waller did not get up from.
Emmanuel Nwodo TKO 3 over Chris Thomas – July 1 at ABC Sports Complex
Nwodo started this knockout with a picture-perfect right hand that sent Thomas down in the first round. If Thomas had stayed down, this probably would have been the knockout of the year. However, Thomas showed heart and it took two more rounds before another right hand sent Thomas to the canvas for good.
Tyrell Samuel KO 1 over Fred Fleming – May 4 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue
Samuel showed the best use of a double left hook seen all year as he crumpled Fleming in the first round with shots to the head and body.
Digital’s choice for Bout of the Year is…
Maxell Taylor vs. Derek Ennis (six-round draw) – March 9 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue
With all the great bouts that did take place later in 2006, many may have forgotten a bout earlier in the year that many people (myself included) think was the best bout in Ballroom Boxing’s 12-year history. In what was a dangerous bout from its signing, Baltimore’s Taylor matched up with Ennis, an undefeated prospect from Philadelphia, and went six hard rounds with him. Both men were knocked down; Taylor in the third, Ennis TWICE in the fourth. Ennis showed tremendous heart fighting back to get the draw. They say a draw is like kissing your sister, but no one complained about the draw on that night.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Dean White vs. Dorin Spivey (White wins eight-round unanimous decision) – December 9 at the George Mason University Patriot Center
This was a bout that many people are STILL talking about and debating weeks after its conclusion. It was the bout that took a lot of the thunder from the main event and made Dean White a household name in this area. Add the fact that it was a rematch that White wanted badly and the drama was there. The bout lived up to everything people thought it would be.
Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos (Robles wins four-round unanimous decision) – October 7 at the Patriot Center
Yes, it was the opening bout on the card, but not too many bouts started a card better than this one between a solid rookie and a tough veteran. Many didn’t think Amos stood a chance against the highly regarded youngster Robles, especially after having just one round of action in four years. But the tough Amos fought hard and gave Robles everything he had, only to come up short.
Corey Cummings vs. Barry Butler (Butler wins 10-round split decision) – September 14 at Martin’s West
This was a very interesting cruiserweight matchup between a highly-touted local and a resurgent outsider. Cummings was just getting back into the swing of his career and was undefeated at the time of this matchup, but Butler, who has been a major thorn in the sides of Beltway Boxers for many years, kept Cummings off-balance and didn’t give him a chance to unleash the power he was famous for. Many people thought Cummings won the bout, but Butler deserved the decision.
Digital’s choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is….
Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken
The year that just past did not end the way Aiken wanted, but the featherweight from Forestville, MD had one of the most unique years of any boxer in Beltway Boxing history. In 2006, Aiken went from prospect to also-ran to contender to world champion in a span of just five months.
Aiken started his year on an up note with a seventh-round TKO over Darby Smart on January 20 for the NABA Featherweight title. A non-title loss to Johnnie Edwards in March was a major setback that could have been tough for Aiken to recover, but his stoppage of former world champion Tim Austin on April 1 helped prepare him for what was to come. Because of another boxer’s injury, Aiken was able to gain a world title shot against Valdemir Pereira on May 13 in Boston. Aiken surprised the boxing world by dropping Pereira twice and forcing him to get himself disqualified in the eighth round to win the IBF Featherweight title, becoming the 14th Beltway Boxer to win a world title since 1986.
Although Aiken lost his title to Robert Guerrero on September 2, his accomplishments and the short span of time in which he accomplished them makes him the choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tony Thompson – Winning two regional titles marked a great year.
Anthony Peterson – Has decimated all opponents and holds the NABO Lightweight title.
Emmanuel Nwodo – One of the rising cruiserweight prospects and holds the USBA title.
And those are the Digital’s Choice Awards!
Digital’s choice for Rookie of the Year is…
Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow
The 19-year old middleweight from Severn, MD had an outstanding rookie campaign going 8-0, three KO’s. Nicklow registered good performances in wins over veterans like Anthony Osbourne (a six-round unanimous decision on October 20 and solid prospects like his last performance against Jason Champion (another six-round unanimous decision on December 7). Despite my thought that Nicklow lost the bout against Champion, he showed good improvement, as he did throughout every bout. “Discombobulating” Jones describes Nicklow as having an “old soul” when it comes to his boxing ability. Nicklow seems to show boxing skill that belies his age. He will be one to watch.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Thomas “KO” Snow -- The featherweight from Capitol Heights, MD could be a major player by the end of 2007. Snow has scored knockouts in his last four bouts but has been facing guys who are also at rookie level except in his last outing against 2-9 Mike Salyers. Will need to step up his competition.
Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer – Another 19-year-old who has solid skills. The junior welterweight from Front Royal, VA has good power which helped him in his first four bouts. His first loss in his most recent contest (December 9 against Ken Humphreys) was a minor setback, but with more preparation he can become a major player.
Digital’s choice for Prospect of the Year is…
Tyrell Samuel
One of the most underrated prospects along the Beltway, the 24-year-old featherweight from Baltimore is one of the most exciting boxers in the area. Trained by former world champion Vincent Pettway, Samuel has shown solid knockout power scoring KO’s in five of his last six bouts. His last win (a six-round split decision in a second bout against Carlos Vinan on Sept. 28) was a tough contest against a guy who knew him well. Samuel’s ability to survive that contest showed growth in his career. If he can get some more bouts, look for Samuel to challenge for a regional title in 2007.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tim Coleman – One of the better young pure boxers in the area, the 22-year-old junior middleweight from Baltimore is only a good power shot away from being a major player in his division by the end of the year. Coleman’s boxing skills will take him far. He scored two solid unanimous decision victories over tough prospects Marquis McConnell and Mushin Correbrey which allowed fans to see what kind of heart he has.
Thomas Snow – See rookie information
Digital’s choice for Performance of the Year is…
Tony Thompson wins NABO and WBC Continental Americas Heavyweight championships with unanimous decision over Dominic Guinn on June 28.
No heavyweight prospect made a bigger move to contender rankings than the 35-year-old from Silver Spring, MD. On June 28, Thompson became a solid player by totally dominating a boxer considered at that time as the best American heavyweight prospect. Dominic Guinn lost that distinction by succumbing to a better boxer’s overall skills. Unfortunately, Thompson’s victory has made him a feared man in the heavyweight division. Hopefully, someone will step up to the plate and face "The Tiger" in 2007.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Emmanuel Nwodo wins USBA Cruiserweight championship with third-round TKO over Chris Thomas on July 1 – Nwodo became a household name in the cruiserweight division with his solid knockout performance over Thomas at the ABC Sports Complex. Like Thompson, the win put Nwodo in the top 10 among the major governing bodies, but has also made him a feared man.
Eric Aiken defeats former IBF Bantamweight champion Tim Austin by six-round TKO on April 1 – Aiken became a household name bouncing back from a tough loss to beat a formidable name in Austin, once regarded as one of the best champions in the world. The win helped Aiken prepare for his eventual world title shot.
Digital’s Choice for Card of the Year is…
December 9 at the Patriot Center
No card had as much buzz before, during and after than the Major League Boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. The card had four legitimate drawing cards in Jimmy Lange, Andrew Farmer, Boone Pultz and, yes, JP Flaim of the Junkies. Add three more growing fan favorites in Dean White, Juan Carlos Robles and Jaime Palma as well as two of the better bouts of the year in Lange-Fontaine Cabell and White-Dorin Spivey and you have a card that was truly unmatched this year.
One other note that has been overlooked when people talk about this card: Promoter Joe Hensley learned from the curfew mistake made on the October 7 card. The December 9 card moved swiftly through the night and that helped many people get home at a decent hour.
Others Deserving Consideration:
September 28 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue – This Ballroom Boxing card was a major challenge to Beltway Boxers with three solid matchups; Darnell Wilson vs. Daniel Judah, Ishmail Arvin against David Toribio and the rematch of Tyrell Samuel and Carlos Vinan. Wilson’s bout ended with Judah suffering a separated shoulder, Arvin lost badly to Toribio and Samuel just got past Vinan. There was a lot of drama on this card, the best overall card for Ballroom Boxing in 2006.
September 14 at Martin’s West – Another challenging card for Beltway Boxers. This Baltimore Pro Boxing card included a good matchup between Corey Cummings and Barry Butler that resulted in Cummings’s first loss. Also on the card was the rematch between Mike Paschall and William Gill as well as Jessie Nicklow taking on veteran James Shedrick. Good bouts throughout the card.
August 19 at ABC Sports Complex – This Scott Farmer card had solid Virginia prospects on hand including Farmer’s son Andrew, Terry Roy and Jaime Palma. The fans enjoyed this card extremely well.
Digital’s choices for Promoter/Matchmaker of the Year are:
Jake Smith/Josh Hall (Baltimore Pro Boxing) and Joe Hensley/Nick Tiberi (Major League Boxing)
Both promoting companies gave the Beltway a lot of action in 2006. Baltimore Pro Boxing was able to use two area facilities and one outside location (Ocean City) to put together exceptional cards and showcase outstanding Maryland prospects. Smith and Hall were consistent and prepared their boxers well throughout the year.
Major League Boxing didn’t promote as many cards as their Baltimore counterparts but they should be credited for bringing sustained excitement and local star power to their cards, plus the October 7 and December 9 card brought the biggest crowds in the area.
Both promotional companies plan to be active in 2007 and that is good for the area.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Han Kim (SugarHan Productions) – Not too many promotions could bring a major regional title bout to a boys and girls club location, but Kim did that in 2006 with Emmanuel Nwodo. Kim could be a solid force in 2007.
Gene Molovinsky/Chris Middendorf (Keystone Boxing) – Yes they only promoted one card in 2006 but the February 18 card at the Patriot Center helped keep the growth in Virginia boxing growing. Keystone was the first promotional group to see the value of the Patriot Center (with the Lange-Ballard bout in 2005) and the Lange-Gilbert bout set the tone for the rest of the year in the Commonwealth.
Scott Farmer – This Virginia promoter deserves an A for effort. No promoter worked harder to put on cards than Farmer, sometimes to his detriment. However, Farmer should be credited for giving us a lot of possible Virginia prospects.
Digital’s choice for Rising Contender of the Year is…
Anthony Peterson
This choice was made before Peterson’s most recent performance because he solidified this selection when he won the NABO Lightweight title on June 16 against Adan Hernandez. The undefeated Peterson has already been tabbed as one of the top prospects of the last two years, but this predictor says 2007 is the year he brings a world title home. The power is there, the skill is there. Now it seems to be only a matter of time.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tony Thompson – The WBO has him ranked third in their rankings. Hopefully this will force the champions or top contenders to look his way.
Lamont Peterson – Possibly has more boxing skill than his brother, but power may be an issue in the junior welterweight division.
Emmanuel Nwodo – Can make a major impact in the cruiserweight division, if he can get an opportunity.
Digital’s choice for Knockout of the Year is…
Jed Phipps KO 1 over David Cleage – January 20 at the Pikesville Armory
Unfortunately, Phipps’s career will be marked for being the recipient of big knockouts more than delivering them, but his last victory was his most dramatic. Phipps landed a classic right hand that dropped Cleage violently to the canvas and brought the Pikesville Armory crowd to his fight faster and louder than any knockout this year. It was a beautiful shot.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Derek Amos TKO 1 over Jason Waller – July 1 at ABC Sports Complex
A true “blink and you missed it” knockout, many people were at the concession stands when this one took place. Everyone felt these two long-time veterans would plod through a six-rounder but Amos made short work of Waller with a solid right hand that Waller did not get up from.
Emmanuel Nwodo TKO 3 over Chris Thomas – July 1 at ABC Sports Complex
Nwodo started this knockout with a picture-perfect right hand that sent Thomas down in the first round. If Thomas had stayed down, this probably would have been the knockout of the year. However, Thomas showed heart and it took two more rounds before another right hand sent Thomas to the canvas for good.
Tyrell Samuel KO 1 over Fred Fleming – May 4 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue
Samuel showed the best use of a double left hook seen all year as he crumpled Fleming in the first round with shots to the head and body.
Digital’s choice for Bout of the Year is…
Maxell Taylor vs. Derek Ennis (six-round draw) – March 9 at Michael’s Eighth Avenue
With all the great bouts that did take place later in 2006, many may have forgotten a bout earlier in the year that many people (myself included) think was the best bout in Ballroom Boxing’s 12-year history. In what was a dangerous bout from its signing, Baltimore’s Taylor matched up with Ennis, an undefeated prospect from Philadelphia, and went six hard rounds with him. Both men were knocked down; Taylor in the third, Ennis TWICE in the fourth. Ennis showed tremendous heart fighting back to get the draw. They say a draw is like kissing your sister, but no one complained about the draw on that night.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Dean White vs. Dorin Spivey (White wins eight-round unanimous decision) – December 9 at the George Mason University Patriot Center
This was a bout that many people are STILL talking about and debating weeks after its conclusion. It was the bout that took a lot of the thunder from the main event and made Dean White a household name in this area. Add the fact that it was a rematch that White wanted badly and the drama was there. The bout lived up to everything people thought it would be.
Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos (Robles wins four-round unanimous decision) – October 7 at the Patriot Center
Yes, it was the opening bout on the card, but not too many bouts started a card better than this one between a solid rookie and a tough veteran. Many didn’t think Amos stood a chance against the highly regarded youngster Robles, especially after having just one round of action in four years. But the tough Amos fought hard and gave Robles everything he had, only to come up short.
Corey Cummings vs. Barry Butler (Butler wins 10-round split decision) – September 14 at Martin’s West
This was a very interesting cruiserweight matchup between a highly-touted local and a resurgent outsider. Cummings was just getting back into the swing of his career and was undefeated at the time of this matchup, but Butler, who has been a major thorn in the sides of Beltway Boxers for many years, kept Cummings off-balance and didn’t give him a chance to unleash the power he was famous for. Many people thought Cummings won the bout, but Butler deserved the decision.
Digital’s choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is….
Eric “Mighty Mouse” Aiken
The year that just past did not end the way Aiken wanted, but the featherweight from Forestville, MD had one of the most unique years of any boxer in Beltway Boxing history. In 2006, Aiken went from prospect to also-ran to contender to world champion in a span of just five months.
Aiken started his year on an up note with a seventh-round TKO over Darby Smart on January 20 for the NABA Featherweight title. A non-title loss to Johnnie Edwards in March was a major setback that could have been tough for Aiken to recover, but his stoppage of former world champion Tim Austin on April 1 helped prepare him for what was to come. Because of another boxer’s injury, Aiken was able to gain a world title shot against Valdemir Pereira on May 13 in Boston. Aiken surprised the boxing world by dropping Pereira twice and forcing him to get himself disqualified in the eighth round to win the IBF Featherweight title, becoming the 14th Beltway Boxer to win a world title since 1986.
Although Aiken lost his title to Robert Guerrero on September 2, his accomplishments and the short span of time in which he accomplished them makes him the choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Tony Thompson – Winning two regional titles marked a great year.
Anthony Peterson – Has decimated all opponents and holds the NABO Lightweight title.
Emmanuel Nwodo – One of the rising cruiserweight prospects and holds the USBA title.
And those are the Digital’s Choice Awards!
Monday, January 08, 2007
More 'Unofficial Official' Awards!
Here are more of your "Unofficial Official" Awards!
Best looking boxer before and after the fight – Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer
Boxer with the biggest fan base: Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer
Most exciting final round of a fight: Lange vs. Wilt 10/7
Best Boxing Commission in the Beltway – Virginia!
Best Haircut among Beltway Area Boxers – Emmanuel Nwodo and Juan Carlos Robles!
Best promoted shows on an ongoing basis – Jake “The Snake” Smith
Eddie Futch Boxing Humanitarian Award -- “Mr. Mack” Mack Lewis
Most controversial figure on the Beltway Boxing scene -- Chris Middendorf
Amateur Beltway Boxer of the Year-- Gary Russell, Jr.
Bouts I would like to see involving Beltway Boxers -- Dorin Spivey vs. Either Peterson Brother, Dorin Spivey vs. Too Sharp, Tony The Tiger vs. The Rock, Nwodo vs. Ding A Ling Man, Jimmy Lange vs. Derrell Coley, Jimmy Lange vs. Sharmba Mitchell, Jimmy Lange vs. Ishmail Arvin
The What Could Have Been Award – Mike Dietrich and Russ Shiflett
Best Nicknames: Gary “Digital” Williams, Henry “Discombobulating” Jones, “The Resident Physician of Pugilism of Boxing Along The Beltway, The Fight Doctor” Jerome Spears
Best announcing line: The Fight Dr. Jerome Spears when providing commentary on the Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos fight when Robles stood up between rounds and the effect that must have on Amos, “That must be psychologically debilitating!”
Boxing Announcer that I would like to have my back in a street fight – Terrence “TNT” Crawford! That’s a big dude there!
Best Chin among those in a Beltway area fight: Dorin Spivey, Dean White, Darnell Wilson, Jimmy Lange
Greatest Beltway Boxer of All Time, Sugar Ray Leonard
Best looking boxer before and after the fight – Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer
Boxer with the biggest fan base: Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer
Most exciting final round of a fight: Lange vs. Wilt 10/7
Best Boxing Commission in the Beltway – Virginia!
Best Haircut among Beltway Area Boxers – Emmanuel Nwodo and Juan Carlos Robles!
Best promoted shows on an ongoing basis – Jake “The Snake” Smith
Eddie Futch Boxing Humanitarian Award -- “Mr. Mack” Mack Lewis
Most controversial figure on the Beltway Boxing scene -- Chris Middendorf
Amateur Beltway Boxer of the Year-- Gary Russell, Jr.
Bouts I would like to see involving Beltway Boxers -- Dorin Spivey vs. Either Peterson Brother, Dorin Spivey vs. Too Sharp, Tony The Tiger vs. The Rock, Nwodo vs. Ding A Ling Man, Jimmy Lange vs. Derrell Coley, Jimmy Lange vs. Sharmba Mitchell, Jimmy Lange vs. Ishmail Arvin
The What Could Have Been Award – Mike Dietrich and Russ Shiflett
Best Nicknames: Gary “Digital” Williams, Henry “Discombobulating” Jones, “The Resident Physician of Pugilism of Boxing Along The Beltway, The Fight Doctor” Jerome Spears
Best announcing line: The Fight Dr. Jerome Spears when providing commentary on the Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos fight when Robles stood up between rounds and the effect that must have on Amos, “That must be psychologically debilitating!”
Boxing Announcer that I would like to have my back in a street fight – Terrence “TNT” Crawford! That’s a big dude there!
Best Chin among those in a Beltway area fight: Dorin Spivey, Dean White, Darnell Wilson, Jimmy Lange
Greatest Beltway Boxer of All Time, Sugar Ray Leonard
BATB 'Unofficial Official' Awards!
These were a lot of the "Unofficial Official" Awards that many of you sent in. I'm glad that you had fun with these.
Best ring entrance -- JP Flaim December 9th
Goodwill Gesture of the Year- Joe Hensley for paying full purses on Oct. 7th to the fighters who were caught on the wrong side of the Patriot Center curfew, and to the one whose opponent flunked his physical....And a close runner up would be Mike Sawyer for donating his entire purse that evening to Darfur relief.
The "Putting Your Mouth Where Your Money Is" Award- JP Flaim
Best Lighting -- The Patriot Center
Best Ring Announcer Discombobulating Jones
Worst chin for those involved in a Beltway area fight: Henry Mayes, Jed Phipps
Best looking ring card girl-- Psycho Kara of the Junkettes on October 7th and December 9th
Worst decision of the year-- Lange-Cabell Draw Dec.9; should have been UD Lange
Best Beltway Referee -- Malik Waleed
Best Beltway Photographer Linda Siadys
Best ring entrance music, Jimmy Lange (a mix of Johnny Cash and Metallica)
Comeback fighter of the year: Dean White
More of your awards later this week!
Best ring entrance -- JP Flaim December 9th
Goodwill Gesture of the Year- Joe Hensley for paying full purses on Oct. 7th to the fighters who were caught on the wrong side of the Patriot Center curfew, and to the one whose opponent flunked his physical....And a close runner up would be Mike Sawyer for donating his entire purse that evening to Darfur relief.
The "Putting Your Mouth Where Your Money Is" Award- JP Flaim
Best Lighting -- The Patriot Center
Best Ring Announcer Discombobulating Jones
Worst chin for those involved in a Beltway area fight: Henry Mayes, Jed Phipps
Best looking ring card girl-- Psycho Kara of the Junkettes on October 7th and December 9th
Worst decision of the year-- Lange-Cabell Draw Dec.9; should have been UD Lange
Best Beltway Referee -- Malik Waleed
Best Beltway Photographer Linda Siadys
Best ring entrance music, Jimmy Lange (a mix of Johnny Cash and Metallica)
Comeback fighter of the year: Dean White
More of your awards later this week!
Sunday, January 07, 2007
More BATB Awards!
Here are the rest of the Boxing Along the Beltway Year-End Excellence Awards!
The Choice for Promoter/Matchmaker of the year is…
Joe Hensley/Nick Tiberi [Major League Boxing] (49 votes)
This Richmond, VA based company has planted roots along the Beltway and has become one of the major reasons why boxing has taken off in Northern Virginia. Promoter Joe Hensley put on two big shows on October 7 and December 9 which combined brought close to 10,000 fans to the Patriot Center. Hensley, along with Delaware-based matchmaker Nick Tiberi have put quality shows featuring the boxers the fans want to see.
Runners-up: Scott Farmer (19 votes); Jake Smith/Josh Hall [Baltimore Pro Boxing] (six votes)
The choice for Rising Contender of the Year is…
Jimmy Lange (39 votes)
The native of Great Falls, VA had an interesting year with a tough win on December 7 over Thomas Wilt and an even tougher draw on December 9 against Fontaine Cabell. This will probably be the most controversial selection this year because Beltway Boxing Fans seem to be split over how Lange is progressing. Despite the fact that Lange has failed to win two major regional belts, many fans still believe that he is a future contender for a world title.
Runners-up: Andrew Farmer (17 votes); Tony Thompson (10 votes)
The choice for Knockout of the Year is…
Jimmy Lange TKO 10 over Thomas Wilt – October 7 (27 votes)
This was not the classic one-punch knockout that normally wins a vote like this. This was a knockout of attrition. Lange was in a tough bout with the game Wilt. There were many fans that even thought Wilt may have been slightly ahead on points going into this bout. But Lange was able to eventually wear down Wilt and drop him twice in the 10th, the second knockdown coming from solid left hands by the popular Lange.
Runners-up: Derek Amos KO 1 over Jason Waller (19 votes); Andrew Farmer KO 1 over Grant Messer (18 votes)
The choice for Bout of the Year is…
Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos October 7, the Patriot Center
It wasn’t supposed to be a major bout. It was just supposed to be a four-round bout to open a card. However, the heavyweight matchup between rookie Robles and the veteran Amos turned out to be a tremendous back and forth matchup that tested both men’s mettle. Despite only having one round of action in four years, Amos did not lay down to the powerful Robles. He fought as well as ever during this bout. Robles made some adjustments that belied his lack of experience and enabled him to win the match. The bout brought fans at the Patriot Center to their feet early on the card.
Runners up: Dean White vs. Dorin Spivey, December 9, the Patriot Center/Jimmy Lange vs. Thomas Wilt, October 7 (five votes each)
The Choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is…
Tony Thompson (46 years)
“The Tiger” had a remarkable year in 2006 winning three titles. Thompson won the Maryland State Heavyweight title in February with a second-round TKO over Brandon Cabell. But it will be his June 28 performance against Dominic Guinn that everybody will remember. Thompson has put himself in a position to make a move in 2007, if anyone wants to take a chance on facing him.
Tomorrow: Your "Unofficial Official" Awards, followed by my personal selections in the year-end categories.
The Choice for Promoter/Matchmaker of the year is…
Joe Hensley/Nick Tiberi [Major League Boxing] (49 votes)
This Richmond, VA based company has planted roots along the Beltway and has become one of the major reasons why boxing has taken off in Northern Virginia. Promoter Joe Hensley put on two big shows on October 7 and December 9 which combined brought close to 10,000 fans to the Patriot Center. Hensley, along with Delaware-based matchmaker Nick Tiberi have put quality shows featuring the boxers the fans want to see.
Runners-up: Scott Farmer (19 votes); Jake Smith/Josh Hall [Baltimore Pro Boxing] (six votes)
The choice for Rising Contender of the Year is…
Jimmy Lange (39 votes)
The native of Great Falls, VA had an interesting year with a tough win on December 7 over Thomas Wilt and an even tougher draw on December 9 against Fontaine Cabell. This will probably be the most controversial selection this year because Beltway Boxing Fans seem to be split over how Lange is progressing. Despite the fact that Lange has failed to win two major regional belts, many fans still believe that he is a future contender for a world title.
Runners-up: Andrew Farmer (17 votes); Tony Thompson (10 votes)
The choice for Knockout of the Year is…
Jimmy Lange TKO 10 over Thomas Wilt – October 7 (27 votes)
This was not the classic one-punch knockout that normally wins a vote like this. This was a knockout of attrition. Lange was in a tough bout with the game Wilt. There were many fans that even thought Wilt may have been slightly ahead on points going into this bout. But Lange was able to eventually wear down Wilt and drop him twice in the 10th, the second knockdown coming from solid left hands by the popular Lange.
Runners-up: Derek Amos KO 1 over Jason Waller (19 votes); Andrew Farmer KO 1 over Grant Messer (18 votes)
The choice for Bout of the Year is…
Juan Carlos Robles vs. Derek Amos October 7, the Patriot Center
It wasn’t supposed to be a major bout. It was just supposed to be a four-round bout to open a card. However, the heavyweight matchup between rookie Robles and the veteran Amos turned out to be a tremendous back and forth matchup that tested both men’s mettle. Despite only having one round of action in four years, Amos did not lay down to the powerful Robles. He fought as well as ever during this bout. Robles made some adjustments that belied his lack of experience and enabled him to win the match. The bout brought fans at the Patriot Center to their feet early on the card.
Runners up: Dean White vs. Dorin Spivey, December 9, the Patriot Center/Jimmy Lange vs. Thomas Wilt, October 7 (five votes each)
The Choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is…
Tony Thompson (46 years)
“The Tiger” had a remarkable year in 2006 winning three titles. Thompson won the Maryland State Heavyweight title in February with a second-round TKO over Brandon Cabell. But it will be his June 28 performance against Dominic Guinn that everybody will remember. Thompson has put himself in a position to make a move in 2007, if anyone wants to take a chance on facing him.
Tomorrow: Your "Unofficial Official" Awards, followed by my personal selections in the year-end categories.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Petersons Impress in Biloxi!
DC's undefeated Peterson Brothers continued their winning ways last night in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience by scoring impressive victories in Biloxi, MS.
Anthony Peterson scored a great win, successfully defending his NABO Lightweight championship with a fourth round knockout over Juan Humberto Garza.Peterson couldn't miss all night and finally floored the game Garza for the count with a right hand. Time was 1:37. A. Peterson is now 22-0, 16 KO's.
Lamont Peterson was also impressive, winning by eight-round unanimous decision over a game Joaquin Gallardo. L. Peterson's record is now 20-0, eight KO's.
Anthony Peterson scored a great win, successfully defending his NABO Lightweight championship with a fourth round knockout over Juan Humberto Garza.Peterson couldn't miss all night and finally floored the game Garza for the count with a right hand. Time was 1:37. A. Peterson is now 22-0, 16 KO's.
Lamont Peterson was also impressive, winning by eight-round unanimous decision over a game Joaquin Gallardo. L. Peterson's record is now 20-0, eight KO's.
Friday, January 05, 2007
Rahman and Reid Update!
ESPN.com's Dan Rafael is reporting that the Feb. 22 televised bout featuring former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman may be scratched. It has been reported by Boxrec.com and Rafael that Rahman was scheduled to take on veteran Ray Mercer on the Feb. 22 card at the Mountaineer Race Track in Chester, WVA.
However, Rafael reports that Rahman's promoter, Bob Arum, is mulling over a more lucrative offer from the German promotional company, Universum to have Rahman fight Luan Krasniqi in Germany in March. Arum told Rafael that the remaining obstacle to finalizing the deal is for the Germans to agree to use neutral officials, which is probably a good idea considering how notoriously difficult it is for a foreign boxer to win a decision in Germany.
Ironically, this is the same Krasniqi who turned down an offer from his OWN company a few months ago to fight Tony Thompson in Germany.
Rafael also says that Rahman will enter his next bout -- whoever it is against -- with a new trainer. Reading, PA's Marshall Kauffman will replace Thell Torrance.
Kauffman has been known for his work with Kermit Cintron and is the father of undefeated heavyweight prospect Travis Kauffman, who made his pro debut at Michael's Eighth Avenue last January.
"Rock is no longer with Thell. This last run to the title is going to be with Marshall," Rahman's co-manager Steve Nelson told ESPN.com. "For the last run, it was decided to go with a fresh start. Marshall was in the camp helping us get ready for the Maskaev fight, and he and Rock developed a relationship. We think there is chemistry there."
Another Beltway Boxer returning to action -- according to Rafael -- will be Adelphi, MD junior middleweight Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid. Reid (23-8-2, 17 KO's) will face Richard Gutierrez (19-1,12 KO's) in a 10-round main event on Friday, January 26 from the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT. The bout will be televised by ESPN2.
Reid is hoping for better fortune at this Connecticut resort than he had at the Foxwoods Resort in Mashantucket. Reid suffered a loss to Rodney Jones and a draw against J.C. Candelo in his last two outings.
One other interesting note: the Boxing Writers Association of America has passed out their ballots for the 2006 "Barney" Awards. Voting goes on until February 12. Two Beltway Boxers – Anthony and Lamont Peterson – are finalists for the Pat Putnam Award for Perseverance. By now, everyone should know that the Peterson Brothers came from homelessness to contenders for world titles. The award was named after one of the great boxing writers of all-time, Sports Illustrated's Pat Putnam, who survived 17 months in a Korean prisoner of war camp. Putnam died in 2005 after a lengthy illness.
The Petersons don’t have easy competition for this award. Among the other finalists are prospect Jason Litzau, referee Joe Cortez and Muhammad Ali.
However, Rafael reports that Rahman's promoter, Bob Arum, is mulling over a more lucrative offer from the German promotional company, Universum to have Rahman fight Luan Krasniqi in Germany in March. Arum told Rafael that the remaining obstacle to finalizing the deal is for the Germans to agree to use neutral officials, which is probably a good idea considering how notoriously difficult it is for a foreign boxer to win a decision in Germany.
Ironically, this is the same Krasniqi who turned down an offer from his OWN company a few months ago to fight Tony Thompson in Germany.
Rafael also says that Rahman will enter his next bout -- whoever it is against -- with a new trainer. Reading, PA's Marshall Kauffman will replace Thell Torrance.
Kauffman has been known for his work with Kermit Cintron and is the father of undefeated heavyweight prospect Travis Kauffman, who made his pro debut at Michael's Eighth Avenue last January.
"Rock is no longer with Thell. This last run to the title is going to be with Marshall," Rahman's co-manager Steve Nelson told ESPN.com. "For the last run, it was decided to go with a fresh start. Marshall was in the camp helping us get ready for the Maskaev fight, and he and Rock developed a relationship. We think there is chemistry there."
Another Beltway Boxer returning to action -- according to Rafael -- will be Adelphi, MD junior middleweight Teddy "Two-Gun" Reid. Reid (23-8-2, 17 KO's) will face Richard Gutierrez (19-1,12 KO's) in a 10-round main event on Friday, January 26 from the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT. The bout will be televised by ESPN2.
Reid is hoping for better fortune at this Connecticut resort than he had at the Foxwoods Resort in Mashantucket. Reid suffered a loss to Rodney Jones and a draw against J.C. Candelo in his last two outings.
One other interesting note: the Boxing Writers Association of America has passed out their ballots for the 2006 "Barney" Awards. Voting goes on until February 12. Two Beltway Boxers – Anthony and Lamont Peterson – are finalists for the Pat Putnam Award for Perseverance. By now, everyone should know that the Peterson Brothers came from homelessness to contenders for world titles. The award was named after one of the great boxing writers of all-time, Sports Illustrated's Pat Putnam, who survived 17 months in a Korean prisoner of war camp. Putnam died in 2005 after a lengthy illness.
The Petersons don’t have easy competition for this award. Among the other finalists are prospect Jason Litzau, referee Joe Cortez and Muhammad Ali.
Results of BATB Year-End Awards!
Today, we start our look at the results from the Boxing Along the Beltway Year-End Excellence Awards as voted by you,
the Beltway Boxing Community! These are the results of the first four categories.
I will look at the first two categories in tandem because the results came out in exactly the same order.
The choice for Rookie of the Year and Prospect of the Year is…
Juan Carlos Robles (46 votes for Rookie of the Year, and 39 for Prospect of the Year)
The heavyweight from just inside the Beltway in Waynesboro, VA proved to be the perfect boxer to open cards. After beginning his career in West Virginia with two knockout wins, Robles (5-0, three KO’s) adjusted to slightly tougher competition in the Beltway by surviving two unanimous decisions against Jonathan Felton and Derek Amos. His exciting win against Amos to start the October 7 Patriot Center card had many people talking afterwards, so much so that there will be a rematch that will be the main event of the Rising Stars Card on February 3. His choice as Prospect of the Year was a write-in choice.
Runners-up: Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer (22 votes for Rookie, 23 for Prospect); Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow (four votes in each category)
The choice for Performance of the Year is…
Tony Thompson wins WBC Continental Americas and NABO Heavyweight titles over Dominic Guinn on June 28 (23 votes)
This was a scintillating performance as Tony “The Tiger” Thompson completely dominated a boxer that was considered to be America’s best hope for a world title in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience. Thompson almost had Guinn out late in the bout. Thompson’s performance elevated Thompson to high rankings in the major governing bodies. However, it looks like the performance has scared many a heavyweight because no one seems to want to step forward and challenge this 6-5, southpaw heavyweight.
Runners-up: Eric Aiken defeats former IBF Bantamweight champion Tim Austin by sixth-round TKO April 1 (19 votes); Aiken wins IBF Featherweight championship via eighth-round DQ over Valdemir Pereira on May 13/Juan Carlos Robles wins four-round unanimous decision over Derek Amos, October 7 (six votes—Robles-Amos was write-in vote)
The choice for Card of the Year is…
The October 7 card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA (46 votes)
This Major League Boxing card had one of the better main events in 2006 as Jimmy Lange returned after his loss to Joey Gilbert to take on Thomas Wilt. Also Dorin Spivey fought a solid bout against Roberto Valenzuela and Juan Carlos Robles fought one of the best bouts of the year against Derek Amos. Despite the fact that a number of boxers did not get a chance to participate because of the curfew, many fans still thought highly of this card.
Runners-up: December 9 at the Patriot Center (41 votes); August 19 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA (22 votes)
Later this weekend, the results in Promoter/Matchmaker, Rising Contender, Knockout, Bout and Beltway Boxer of the Year along with your “Unofficial Official” Awards!
the Beltway Boxing Community! These are the results of the first four categories.
I will look at the first two categories in tandem because the results came out in exactly the same order.
The choice for Rookie of the Year and Prospect of the Year is…
Juan Carlos Robles (46 votes for Rookie of the Year, and 39 for Prospect of the Year)
The heavyweight from just inside the Beltway in Waynesboro, VA proved to be the perfect boxer to open cards. After beginning his career in West Virginia with two knockout wins, Robles (5-0, three KO’s) adjusted to slightly tougher competition in the Beltway by surviving two unanimous decisions against Jonathan Felton and Derek Amos. His exciting win against Amos to start the October 7 Patriot Center card had many people talking afterwards, so much so that there will be a rematch that will be the main event of the Rising Stars Card on February 3. His choice as Prospect of the Year was a write-in choice.
Runners-up: Andrew “Doo Man” Farmer (22 votes for Rookie, 23 for Prospect); Jessie “The Beast” Nicklow (four votes in each category)
The choice for Performance of the Year is…
Tony Thompson wins WBC Continental Americas and NABO Heavyweight titles over Dominic Guinn on June 28 (23 votes)
This was a scintillating performance as Tony “The Tiger” Thompson completely dominated a boxer that was considered to be America’s best hope for a world title in front of a nationally televised ESPN audience. Thompson almost had Guinn out late in the bout. Thompson’s performance elevated Thompson to high rankings in the major governing bodies. However, it looks like the performance has scared many a heavyweight because no one seems to want to step forward and challenge this 6-5, southpaw heavyweight.
Runners-up: Eric Aiken defeats former IBF Bantamweight champion Tim Austin by sixth-round TKO April 1 (19 votes); Aiken wins IBF Featherweight championship via eighth-round DQ over Valdemir Pereira on May 13/Juan Carlos Robles wins four-round unanimous decision over Derek Amos, October 7 (six votes—Robles-Amos was write-in vote)
The choice for Card of the Year is…
The October 7 card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA (46 votes)
This Major League Boxing card had one of the better main events in 2006 as Jimmy Lange returned after his loss to Joey Gilbert to take on Thomas Wilt. Also Dorin Spivey fought a solid bout against Roberto Valenzuela and Juan Carlos Robles fought one of the best bouts of the year against Derek Amos. Despite the fact that a number of boxers did not get a chance to participate because of the curfew, many fans still thought highly of this card.
Runners-up: December 9 at the Patriot Center (41 votes); August 19 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA (22 votes)
Later this weekend, the results in Promoter/Matchmaker, Rising Contender, Knockout, Bout and Beltway Boxer of the Year along with your “Unofficial Official” Awards!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
White-Spivey Video Now Online!
There was a lot of talk and debate about this bout after it was over. Now, you can see it for yourself.
The tremendous eight-round super lightweight bout between Dean "Pit Bull" White and the "Pride of Portsmouth" Dorin Spivey from the December 9 Major League Boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA is now uploaded to Google and Blogger. The video features play-by-play commentary by yours truly and expert analysis from "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears.
You can watch this video by going to http://video.google.com/ and search for Major League Boxing or you can visit www.MajorLeagueBoxing.Blogspot.com and watch the fight on Major League Boxing's Blogger site.
Also available online are the bouts featuring Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer and Juan Carlos Robles from the December 9 card.
The tremendous eight-round super lightweight bout between Dean "Pit Bull" White and the "Pride of Portsmouth" Dorin Spivey from the December 9 Major League Boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA is now uploaded to Google and Blogger. The video features play-by-play commentary by yours truly and expert analysis from "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears.
You can watch this video by going to http://video.google.com/ and search for Major League Boxing or you can visit www.MajorLeagueBoxing.Blogspot.com and watch the fight on Major League Boxing's Blogger site.
Also available online are the bouts featuring Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer and Juan Carlos Robles from the December 9 card.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Beltway Boxing Schedule Begins Friday, January 5!
First, I hope you and yours had a very happy holiday season and will have a happy and prosperous new year!!
The 2007 Beltway Boxing season will kick off this Friday on ESPN2 as Anthony and Lamont Peterson will start ESPN's Friday Night Fights 2007 schedule from the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.
Anthony Peterson (21-0, 16 KO's) will be in the main event defending his NABO Lightweight championship against Mexican Lightweight champion Juan Humberto "Ringo" Garza of Cardereyta, MX (28-2, 23 KO's).
A. Peterson, who was named Prospect of the Year by Friday Night Fights's Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas, is currently ranked number four by the WBO and number eight by the WBA. A win on January 5 could lead to a world title shot.
In the co-feature, Lamont Peterson, the WBC US Jr. Welterweight champ (19-0, eight KO's), will fight a non-title eight-round encounter against Juaquin "Killer" Gallardo of San Leandro, CA (17-5-1, six KO's). Peterson is ranked number eight by the WBA.
The first local cards will be held on Saturday, January 27th. Jake Smith's Baltimore Pro Boxing will hold a card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD. Tentatively slated to appear on that show will be Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and the official pro return of Demetrius Davis.
Also on January 27, Han "Sugar" Kim will hold an amateur show at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.
A number of Beltway Boxing prospects will appear outside the Beltway on Joe Hensley's Rising Stars show on Saturday, February 3 at the Augusta Expoland in Fisherville, VA. Included on that card is the rematch between Juan Carlos Robles and Derek Amos, as well as Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer.
On February 22, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman returns on a nationally televised card from West Virginia.
Thursday, March 8 will be the 2007 debut of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. The original date of January 25 was dropped because of a scheduling conflict at Michael's. To make up for the loss of the January show, promoter Scott Wagner will schedule a card in June, which is normally a vacation month.
Saturday, March 10, back at the Pikesville Armory.
That's what I know so far, but there is talk about other promoters doing shows in the first quarter of this year. I'll keep you posted.
Also, I plan to have results of the Year-End Excellence Awards as well as my personal choices in those categories within the next two weeks.
The 2007 Beltway Boxing season will kick off this Friday on ESPN2 as Anthony and Lamont Peterson will start ESPN's Friday Night Fights 2007 schedule from the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.
Anthony Peterson (21-0, 16 KO's) will be in the main event defending his NABO Lightweight championship against Mexican Lightweight champion Juan Humberto "Ringo" Garza of Cardereyta, MX (28-2, 23 KO's).
A. Peterson, who was named Prospect of the Year by Friday Night Fights's Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas, is currently ranked number four by the WBO and number eight by the WBA. A win on January 5 could lead to a world title shot.
In the co-feature, Lamont Peterson, the WBC US Jr. Welterweight champ (19-0, eight KO's), will fight a non-title eight-round encounter against Juaquin "Killer" Gallardo of San Leandro, CA (17-5-1, six KO's). Peterson is ranked number eight by the WBA.
The first local cards will be held on Saturday, January 27th. Jake Smith's Baltimore Pro Boxing will hold a card at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD. Tentatively slated to appear on that show will be Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and the official pro return of Demetrius Davis.
Also on January 27, Han "Sugar" Kim will hold an amateur show at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.
A number of Beltway Boxing prospects will appear outside the Beltway on Joe Hensley's Rising Stars show on Saturday, February 3 at the Augusta Expoland in Fisherville, VA. Included on that card is the rematch between Juan Carlos Robles and Derek Amos, as well as Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer.
On February 22, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman returns on a nationally televised card from West Virginia.
Thursday, March 8 will be the 2007 debut of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. The original date of January 25 was dropped because of a scheduling conflict at Michael's. To make up for the loss of the January show, promoter Scott Wagner will schedule a card in June, which is normally a vacation month.
Saturday, March 10, back at the Pikesville Armory.
That's what I know so far, but there is talk about other promoters doing shows in the first quarter of this year. I'll keep you posted.
Also, I plan to have results of the Year-End Excellence Awards as well as my personal choices in those categories within the next two weeks.
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