Ballroom Boxing Video Called a 'Web Gem'!

Interesting article from Maxboxing.com. Thomas Gerbasi listed some web gems for August and one included video from Ballroom Boxing. Promoter Scott Wagner recently released some of his video from past episodes to The Fight Network and the Canadian network has put these bouts on veoh.com.

Some of the bouts currently online include Beltway Boxers Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin, Jed "The Punisher" Phipps, Emmanuel "Chukwu" Nwodo and Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan.

Here is the link to the site:

"http://www.veoh.com/series/BallroomBoxing"

Ballroom Boxing begins its 14th season on Thursday, September 27 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Beltway Boxing Calendar Online!

In response to some requests to have a Beltway Boxing calendar placed online, I tried to create one. I was hoping to embed the link directly onto this site, but couldn't find one to do it to my liking.

Therefore, I've set up this link:

"http://www.localendar.com/public/digital25

Please feel free to use it at your leisure. Right now, I've just got September's events as a trial run.

Washington Post's Les Carpenter Reflects on Olympic Trials!

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #82 - Les Carpenter Provides Olympic Trial 'Post'-Script!

Washington Post Sportswriter Les Carpenter joins me to reflect on last week's action at the US Olympic Trials in Houston,TX -- including the exploits of Beltway Boxers Gary Russell, Jr., Dominic Wade and Fernando Guerrero.

Beltway News and Notes!

A few random items:

Woodbridge, VA light heavyweight Andre "Da Heat" Hemphill fought to a four-round draw with Simon Carr on Friday, August 24 in Philadelphia, PA. Many published accounts say that Hemphill was indeed robbed of a victory. Hemphill's record goes to 6-6-2, three KO's. Carr falls to 4-1-1, three KO's. The bout was a rematch of an October matchup in which Hemphill defeated Carr by unanimous decision.

Keely's District Boxing and Youth Center, run by former Beltway Boxer Keely Thompson, is having a festival in honor of a young man named Terry Cutchins on Saturday Sept. 1 beginning at noon. Cutchins was a 13-year-old who was training at Thompson's gym. However, prior to his first bout, Cutchins was struck down by gun violence earlier this year.

The boxing event will take place at 13th and Girard Streets, NW beginning at 2 PM. There will be food and refreshments and special guests, including a scheduled appearance by former world champion Evander Holyfield.

Boxing Along The Beltway sends its heartfelt condolences to JP Flaim of "The Junkies" on WJFK-FM. Flaim's father passed away earlier this week.

Of course you remember that Flaim fought Jay Watts in his only professional boxing card on the Lange-Cabell I undercard at the Patriot Center last December.

Gary Russell Jr. Nominated for 'Baller of the Week'!

If you listen to Sportstalk 980, you know that Rick "Doc" Walker has a section called "Baller of the Week" where they highlight top performances and ask fans to vote on the best performance.

This week, one of the nominees is indeed, US Olympic Boxer Gary Russell, Jr. His competition for the award consists of:

Brandon Carker (who hit the game-winning home run in the Little League World Series)

Tyson Gay (who won the 100 meters in the IAAF World Track and Field Championships)

Carmelo Anthony (who is playing great basketball for the US at the Tournament of the Americas)

Mike Mussina (who may be done as a legitimate starter for the New York Yankees)

To vote, go to Doc's page at this link:

"http://www.sportstalk980.com/pages/docwalker.html

Please give Gary Russell, Jr. your support!

Sept. 15 Card Update!

Here's an update on the Saturday, September 15 card at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.

The intriguing junior welterweight matchup between Dean "Pit Bull" White and Jaime "The Punisher" Palma is still on as the main event.

Also, the battle of the aged is still there as Willie "The Heat" Taylor comes out of retirement to face Derek Amos.

Other matchups include one that should also be interesting as undefeated junior middleweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson battles Edward "Nuckie" Anderson.

Also, Andre "Clockwork" Nichols will take on the debuting Travis Mallin. And the fighting Haggler Brothers from Woodbridge, VA will be on the card. Joe Haggler is scheduled to take on "The Polish Warrior" Drew Wion while Jonathan Haggler (17-1, 12 KO's) is still looking for an opponent.

Also slated to be on this card are Terry "T-Brick" Roy and the returning "Sparkplug" Tommy Neal.

By the way, many of the boxers slated for this card will be appearing at the grand opening festivities of a new gym in the Beltway -- The East-West Gym and Fitness Center located at 44710 Cape Court in Ashburn, VA.

The gym is run by Asim Hanif, a two-time world kickboxing champion and a certified instructor in the martial art of Aikido. Hanif is also the father of Andre Nichols and Nichols is scheduled to join Terry Roy and The Haggler Brothers, as well as Andrew "Doo Man" Farmer, "Cold Blood" Patrick Budd and "Dangerous" Dana Dunston in public workouts as part of the grand opening on Saturday, September 8. The doors open at 10:30 AM. The public boxing workout will begin at 12:30. There will be a kickboxing class at 11 AM and an Aikido session at 2 PM.

Robles-Bailey Highlights October 6 Benefit Card!

A cruiserweight crossroads battle will be the main event for the Diego Corrales Family Benefit boxing card on Saturday, October 6 at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner in McLean, VA.

Undefeated cruiserweight prospect "JC Superstar" Juan Carlos Robles of Waynesboro, VA will take on resurgent veteran William "The Storm" Bailey of Portsmouth, VA in a six-round contest.

Robles (9-0, four KO's) has not fought since his six-round unanimous decision victory over James Johnson on April 28 in Fisherville, VA. A few weeks after that win, Robles was involved in a motorcycle accident where he broke his forearm and injured his knee.

Robles also damaged his right pinky finger in the accident. Obviously, since boxers use their hands, the damaged pinky slowed down his recovery time. So, Robles took matters into his own hands and..took the pinky off himself -- without pain medication!

According to Robles's trainer/manager Bruce Frank, Robles put his finger on a sharp blade and hit it with a big block. The pinky came off with one shot. In fact, the amputation was so clean that when he did go to the emergency room, the doctor said that Robles actually did a nice job.

Robles later told Major League Boxing.com, "I may be missing a pinky, but I still have the whole fist."

Robles will need two strong fists to hold off the charge of Bailey, who has won his last two contests. Bailey's last bout was also on the April 28 Fisherville card. Bailey (7-12-2, four KO's) stopped Derek Amos in the second round. Prior to that win, Bailey gave Adam Seal his first pro loss, stopping him in the third round on the February 3 Fisherville card.

Three more bouts are slated for this benefit card, which is being promoted by Jimmy Lange Enterprises and Jackie Kallen's Ice Promotions.

Gary Russell, Jr. Celebrates Olympic Berth!

Just like the championship journey that earned him a berth on the US Olympic Boxing team, the celebration for Capitol Heights, MD's Gary Russell, Jr. was first class as well.

Russell and his family arrived at the DeLight Skating Rink in Temple Hills in a loooong stretch Hummer limo and got out on a red carpet to the front door. Russell greeted family and friends throughout the evening, took and signed pictures and answered questions from the media.

During the festivities, Team Russell sat down with me for this audio interview:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #81 - Gary Russell, Jr. Describes Olympian Week!

The Beltway's newest Olympian -- Gary Russell, Jr. -- along with his father, Gary Sr., coach Robert "Herb" Martin and conditioning coach "Pretty Boy" Floyd Seymour talk about their week in Houston for the US Olympic Trials and tell some incredible stories.

Welcome Home Celebration for Gary Russell, Jr. Tonight!

There will be a welcome home celebration for the Beltway's newest Olympian boxer -- Gary Russell, Jr. -- tonight at the Delight Skating Rink (that's the Crystal Skating Rink for you old-time area folks) located at 3132 Branch Avenue in Temple Hills, MD. The event begins at 8 PM and all are welcome.

If you would like to meet Gary's plane, it is scheduled to come in to Reagan National Airport at 1:50 PM.

Congratulations also go to Robert "Herb" Martin, who will serve as one of the coaches for the US Olympic Boxing team in Beijing, China!

By the way, Gary Russell, Jr. joins an impressive list of Beltway Boxers who have represented the United States in the Olympics:

Norvell Lee -- Gold medalist in 1952.

Sugar Ray Leonard -- Gold medalist in 1976

Charles Mooney -- Silver medalist in 1976

Louis "Heidi" Curtis -- 1976 Olympic Team member

Andrew Maynard -- Gold medalist in 1988

Clarence Vinson -- Bronze medalist in 2000.

Anthony Peterson In Action September 1; Lamont Peterson Defends Title on Sept 7!

The Undefeated Peterson Brothers are slated to be back in action in early September.

Anthony Peterson, the WBO's number one ranked lightweight contender (23-0, 17 KO's), will take on veteran Marteze Logan of Covington, TN (25-28-2, six KO's) in an eight-round matchup on Saturday, September 1 in Tunica, MS.

Meanwhile, Lamont Peterson is scheduled to defend his WBC US Junior Welterweight title against Ricky Quiles (39-8-3, eight KO's) of Ponce, Puerto Rico on Friday, September 7 in Southhaven, MS. That bout is slated to be on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights.

Gary Russell Jr. --- US OLYMPIAN!!!

Gary Russell Jr. has done it!!

The 19-year-old from Capitol Heights, MD has accomplished his dream -- he has made the United States Olympic Boxing Team!!

Today in Houston, TX, Russell defeated Roberto Marraquin of Dallas, TX 18-14 to win the berth on the team, becoming the first Beltway amateur to make the US Olympic team since Clarence Vinson in 2000. Vinson won a bronze medal in Barcelona, Spain.

According to USABoxing.org, Russell came out strong and took a 7-2 lead at the end of the first. Each boxer scored four points in the second, allowing Russell, Jr. to maintain his five point lead. Russell was up 16-9 going into the last round and although he scored only two points to Marroquin’s five, he held on to win.

Russell was the only boxer in the tournament who won a spot on the Olympic team by boxing out of the Challenger's Bracket.

So ladies and gentlemen, this is your 2008 United States Olympic Team (photo by Scott Foster):




Light Flyweight: Luis Yanez (Duncanville, Texas)

Flyweight: Rau'shee Warren (Cincinnati, Ohio)

Bantamweight: Gary Russell, Jr. (Capitol Heights, Md.)

Featherweight: Raynell Williams (Cleveland, Ohio)

Lightweight: Sadam Ali (Brooklyn, N.Y.)

Light Welterweight: Javier Molina (Commerce, Calif.)

Welterweight: Demetrius Andrade (Providence, R.I.)

Middleweight: Shawn Estrada (Downey, Calif.)

Light Heavyweight: Christopher Downs (Fort Carson, Colo.)

Heavyweight: Deontay Wilder (Tuscaloosa, Ala.)

Super Heavyweight: Michael Hunter (Las Vegas, Nev.)

Congratulations to all!!

Gary Russell Jr. One Win Away from Olympic Berth!

It all comes down to tonight for Gary Russell Jr.

If he defeats Roberto Marraquin tonight in Houston, TX, the 19-year old from Capitol Heights, MD will be a member of the United States Olympic Boxing Team, completing an improbable run of six wins over six days of competion.

Last night, Russell evened the score with Marraquin by winning at 25-13 decision. Whoever wins tonight gets the berth.

We'll keep you posted!

Results from Springfield and Ocean City!

Here are the quick results from the August 25 cards.

Robert E. Lee High School, Springfield, VA:

Cruiserweight Bobby Gunn (18-3, 15 KO's) of Culpepper, VA wins by second round TKO over Benito Fernandez of Spartansburg, SC (19-15, six KO's).

Junior middleweight "War Time" George Rivera of Charlottsville, VA (4-1, two KO's) won a four-round unanimous decision over Lawrence Jones of DC (2-1, one KO) 40-36 (twice), 39-37.

Junior middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey (6-0, two KO's)of Montgomery, AL by way of DC won a four-round unanimous decision over Damon Antoine (6-16-1, three KO's) of Akron, OH, scoring at least six knockdowns in the contest.

Heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant of Riverdale, MD (7-1, four KO's) won by knockout over George Jacobs (1-2, one KO.)

Heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan of DC (2-0, two KO) won by first-round knockout over Justin Reid (0-1). The time was 25 seconds of the first round.

Cruiserweight Willis Lockett of Takoma Park, MD (8-4-4, three KO's scored a TKO over Gaithersburg, MD's Calvin Riley. (1-1, one KO).

My thanks to Major League Boxing's Joe Hensley for providing this complete Post-Fight Wrap-Up show from Springfield, VA:


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #79 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Springfield!

Major League Boxing's Joe Hensley provides this Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA.




Now the results from the Ocean City Convention Center in Ocean City, MD:

Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall of Baltimore, fighting at super middleweight, (13-0-1, two KO's) won by eight-round unanimous decision over New Castle, DE's Richard Stewart (13-4-1, eight KO's) to win the "East Coast Championship."

Junior middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow of Severn, MD (13-0-1, five KO's) won by eight-round unanimous decision over Anthony "Quick" Little.

Welterweight Tim "The Pitbull" Coleman of Baltimore (12-0, two KO's won by eight-round unanimous decision over Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall of Rocky Mount, NC (10-18-2, six KO's).

Heavyweight and former WBO Cruiserweight Champion Boone Pultz of DC (25-1, 15 KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Jerry "Ruffhouse" Simpson of Tallahassee, FL (2-9-1, two KO's).

Lightweight Ryan Belasco of Wilmington, DE (5-1-2, one KO) won a four-round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Torres of Albany, NY (4-12-2, two KO's)

First, here is an interview with Tim Coleman about his victory.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #78 - Coleman Describes Eight-Round Victory!

Undlefeated Baltimore welterweight TIm "The Pit Bull" Coleman talks about his eight-round victory over Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall as well as his new-found corner and confidence.




Now, here is the complete Post-Fight Wrap-Up show. Fightnews.com reporters Kurt Wolfheimer and Tom Luffman join me in recapping the action.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #80 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Ocean City!

Fightnews.com reporters Kurt Wolfheimer and Tom Luffman join me to recap the action from the Ocean City Convention Center in Ocean City, MD.




A couple of other notes about the Ocean City card:

Many folks performed double duty during this card. Most notably, ring announcer "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley, who displayed his auctioneering skills throughout the card, performing a live auction of sports memorabilia between bouts. There was also a silent auction during the card.

Also, ring card girl Athena Passos should be mentioned. First, she was the only ring card girl that showed up for the show. Then, she wowed the crowd with a wonderful rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner prior to the main event bout.

Also, this card brought former Maryland State Athletic Commission referee and judge Bill Holmes back into action. Holmes, who retired from the MSAC last year, worked as a judge for most of the pro bouts. Also, long-time commissioner Ben Alperstein was in attendance at ringside.

Gary Russell Jr. Advances to Olympic Trials Championships!!

Gary Russell, Jr. is almost there!

The 119-pounder from Capitol Heights, MD has fought his way through the Challenger's Bracket of the US Olympic Trials and now stands two wins away from an Olympic berth.

Russell defeated Ronny Rios of Santa Ana, CA, 22-19 tonight in Houston to advance to the finals. There, he'll meet up once again with Roberto Marroquin of Dallas, TX. Because Marroquin has not lost in the double-elimination tournament, Russell will have to beat him twice in order to win the berth.

Loaded Fall Beltway Boxing Schedule!

As we enter the fall months, we will enter into a boatload of Beltway Boxing action!

As of today, here is the fall schedule (starting after the August 25 pro shows in Ocean City and Springfield and the amateur card at Sugar Ray Leonard Gym in Palmer Park, MD):

PRO BOXING:

Saturday, September 15 -- Left Hook Boxing (Scott Farmer) at ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.

Thursday, September 27 -- Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Saturday, October 6 -- Diego Corrales Family benefit card at the Hilton Tyson's Corner in McLean, VA -- show promoted by Jimmy Lange Enterprises and Ice Promotions (Jackie Kallen).

Friday, October 12 -- Baltimore Pro Boxing at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore, MD.

Friday, October 19 -- Keystone Boxing at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD.

Thursday, November 1 -- Jonathan Odgen Foundation benefit card at the new Martin's Valley Mansion in Hunt Valley, MD -- Baltimore Pro Boxing serving as promoter.

Thursday, November 8 -- "Fight Night -- Fight For Children" benefit card at the Washington Hilton and Towers, Washington, DC.

Thursday, November 29 -- Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Friday, December 7 -- Baltimore Pro Boxing at the Pikesville National Guard Armory, Pikesville, MD.

Saturday, December 8 (tentative) -- Boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA.


AMATEUR BOXING:

Friday, August 31 -- Potomac Valley Association and Keystone Productions at Old School Boxing Gym, 7466 Old Alexander Ferry Road, Clinton, MD.

Saturday, September 8-- Old School Boxing in collaboration with ROOTS, Inc. -- outdoor show at 16th and Bangor Streets, SE.

Saturday, September 22 -- DC Parks and Recreation at Benning Park Recreation Center 51 and Fitch Streets, NE.

Saturday, September 29 -- Baltimore Boxing at the Pikesville National Guard Armory, Pikesville, MD.

Saturday, November 10 -- Baltimore Boxing at the Pikesville National Guard Armory.

Saturday, November 17 -- DC Parks and Recreation Thanksgiving Boxing Classic -- Bald Eagle Boxing Gym, 100 Joliet Street, SW, Washington, DC.


I'm sure there will be additions to this schedule and as soon as I get them, I will pass them along!

Wade Eliminated from Olympic Trials by Disqualification!

Largo, MD 165-pounder Dominic Wade has been eliminated from the US Olympic Trials. Wade was disqualified in his Challenger's Bracket match against Shawn Porter of Cuyahoga Falls, OH.

UPDATE: For an account on what happened during Wade's bout, click on Les Carpenter's article in today's Washington Post:

"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/23/AR2007082302353.html

By the way, kudos to Les Carpenter for outstanding work in his coverage of the locals at the Olympic Trials!

Russell Jr. Continues March to Olympic Berth!

Capitol Heights, MD's Gary Russell, Jr. is definitely on the march toward the 119-pound Olympic berth.

Russell stopped Sergio Perales of Los Fresnos, TX at 1:36 of the second round tonight in Houston, TX in the Challenger's Bracket.

UPDATE: Russell will now face Ronny Rios of Santa Ana, CA tonight in the finals of the Challenger's Bracket. Should Russell win, he would get a rematch with Roberto Marraquin tomorrow. Again, Russell will have to beat Marraquin twice to win the berth.

Wade Advances, Guerrero is Eliminated in Olympic Trials!

The Beltway Olympic Brigade is now down to just two.

Largo's Dominic Wade won his first bout in the 165-pound Challenger's Bracket of the US Olympic Trials, stopping Zach Hardrick of Fort Carson, CO at 45 seconds of the third round.

However, for Salisbury's Fernando Guerrero, the Olympic dream is over. Guerrero lost a 22-19 decision to Shawn Porter of Cuyahoga Falls, OH in the other 165-pound Challengers Bracket bout. Guerrero now has two losses and has been eliminated from the competition. The win is a measure of revenge for Porter, who lost to Guerrero in the finals of the US Championships earlier this year.

Wade, along with Capitol Heights's Gary Russell, Jr. will compete tomorrow evening after 6 PM Central Time. Wade is scheduled to take on Porter while Russell is slated to battle Sergio Perales of Los Fresnos, TX. Russell defeated Perales in the finals of the 2005 Golden Gloves.

Russell, Jr. Wins Via Walkover!

Gary Russell, Jr. continued his march through the 119-pound Challenger's Bracket of the US Olympic Boxing Trials in Houston, TX by virtue of a walkover when Sammy DiPace of Las Cruces, NM bowed out of the tournament. No reason was given why DiPace did not compete against Russell in this bout.

In the Winner's Bracket final, Roberto Marraquin of Dallas, TX defeated Ronny Rios of Santa Ana, CA, 30-27. That means Russell's immediate goal is to win the Challenger's Bracket, so he can face Marraquin to avenge Monday's loss. However, Russell will have to beat Marraquin twice over the weekend to win the Olympic berth.

Joppy Bout on August 24 Postponed!

Former two-time WBA Middleweight champion William Joppy was scheduled to fight on Friday, August 24 in Binghamton, NY. However, the bout has been postponed until September 7.

Joppy's scheduled opponent, Emilio Cayetano of the Dominican Republic, has visa problems and that, coupled with the cancellation of another high-profile bout on the card, forced promoter Cedric Kushner to postpone the card.

Guerrero, Wade Lose Second-Round Contests!

It will be a hard road for all three Beltway Olympic hopefuls to win berths on the Olympic team.

Tonight in Houston, TX, both Fernando Guerrero and Dominic Wade lost their second-round bouts at the Olympic Trials and now are in the Challenger's Bracket of the 165-pound division.

Guerrero lost to Downey, CA's Shawn Estrada by decision, 20-12. Wade fell to Daniel Jacobs of Brooklyn, NY also by decision, 18-10.

Estrada and Jacobs will meet in tomorrow's Winner's Bracket championship. Guerrero and Wade join Shawn Porter of Cuyahoga Falls, OH and Zach Hardrick of Fort Carson, CO in the Challenger's Bracket. Newark, NJ's Angel Santos and Jonathan Nelson of Little Rock, AR have been eliminated because they have two losses.

It's Official: Tony Thompson is WBO's Number One Ranked Contender!

The August WBO rankings have come out and DC heavyweight and NABO Heavyweight champion Tony "The Tiger" Thompson is officially the number one contender for champion Sultan Ibragimov's title.

We all know that Ibragimov is slated to defend his title against former world champion Evander Holyfield on October 14. However, I received the following email from WBO President Francisco Valcarcel:

Dear Gary:

Tony Thompson is #1 and he could be the Mandatory Challenger for Sultan in
March 2008.

Thanks and Regards,

Francisco Valcarcel


We'll see what happens.

By the way, Thompson is the second Beltway Boxer ranked number one by the WBO. NABO Lightweight champion Anthony Peterson is ranked number one at lightweight.

Russell Rebounds In Olympic Trials!

The long road through the Challenger's Bracket has begun for Capitol Heights, MD 119-pounder Gary Russell, Jr. Russell won his first bout in the bracket, defeating David Clark of San Diego, CA, 25-7. Clark has been eliminated from the competition with two losses. Alexis Ramos of Fort Carson, CO has also been eliminated from the competition.

Roberto Marroquin of Dallas, TX (who beat Russell in the first round yesterday) and Ronny Rios of Santa Ana, CA will be in the winner's bracket championship tomorrow. Both have two victories. Russell has been joined in the challenger's bracket by Sammy DiPace of Las Cruces, NM, Sergio Perales of Los Fresnos, TX and Jessy Cruz of Miami, FL. I have been told that Russell will take on DiPace in the next round.

Guerrero, Wade Advance to Second Round of Olympic Trials!

Salisbury, MD's Fernando Guerrero and Largo, MD's Dominic Wade have advanced to the second round of the 165-Pound Division of the US Olympic Trials in Houston, TX.

Guerrero defeated Angel Santos of Newark, NJ, 19-5 in the first-round bout this evening. Wade won by decision over Jonathan Nelson of Little Rock, AR, 26-8.

According to the bracket, Guerrero will take on Shawn Estrada of Downey, CA in the second round of the winner's bracket on Tuesday. Estrada stopped Fort Carson, CO's Zacchaeus Hardrick at 1:05 of the third round. Wade will take on Daniel Jacobs of Brooklyn, NY. Jacobs won by decision over Shawn Porter of Cuyahoga Falls, OH 30-18.

If Guerrero and Wade win their bouts Tuesday, they are scheduled to meet each other in the third round on Wednesday, August 22. The winner of that matchup would be the champion of the winner's bracket and would advance to the final round on Friday, August 25 where they would face the winner of the challenger's bracket.

Russell Jr. Loses in Opening-Round Olympic Trial Bout!

Capitol Heights, MD 119-pounder Gary Russell Jr. lost his opening-round contest at the US Olympic Trials in Houston, TX. According to USABoxing.org, the bout was a nail-biter with Russell losing to Roberto Marraquin of Dallas, TX, 18-17.

Russell was leading the bout 8-2 going into the second round, but Marraquin came back to hold a one-point lead heading into the fourth and final round. Marraquin was able to hold on to the victory.

Russell now will compete through the challenger's bracket in order to receive an Olympic berth.

First-Round Matchups Set for Area Olympic Hopefuls!

The first-round draw has been announced for the US Olympic Boxing Trials that start today in Houston, TX.

Capitol Heights, MD 119-pounder Gary Russell, Jr. will be in action during the afternoon session. Russell's first-round opponent will be Roberto Marroquin of Dallas, TX.

Both Dominic Wade of Largo, MD and Fernando Guerrero of Salisbury, MD will participate in the evening session, both in the 165-pound division. Wade's opponent will be Jonathan Nelson of Little Rock, AR while Guerrero will battle Angel Santos of Newark, NJ.

The winners will advance to the second round of the winner's bracket of the tournament. Remember, this is a double-elimination tourney. As soon as I can get info on the progress of the locals, I will pass it along.

Fernando Guerrero Profiled in Washington Post!

Monday's editions of the Washington Post will have a nice profile of Salisbury, MD's Fernando Guerrero.

Reporter Katie Carrera chronicles the 20-year-old US 165-pound champion's path from his birthplace in the Dominican Republic through Salisbury to the US Olympic Trials that begin Monday in Houston, TX.

The article can be found online here:

"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/19/AR2007081901363.html

When you go to the article online, check out the nice photo gallery by Jonathan Newton of the Post.

Boyd Stopped in San Jacinto!

DC featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd was stopped in the first round by undefeated John Molina last night in San Jacinto, CA.

Boyd got off to a good start in the round, knocking down Molina. It was the first time Molina had been knocked down in his career. However, Molina rallied and forced referee Tony Crebs to stop the contest at 2:28 of the round.

Boyd had his five-bout winning streak snapped with the loss and now has a record of 5-2, two KO's. Molina is now 8-0, six KO's.

'Teflon' Boyd Takes On Undefeated Boxer in San Jacinto!

DC featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd will make his first west coast appearance when he takes on undefeated John Molina of Covina, CA tonight at the Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, CA.

Boyd (5-1, two KO's) has won five straight bouts, but has looked particularly impressive in his last three. However, Boyd hasn't fought since March 8 when he stopped Jorge Lara in the second round at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Molina (7-0, five KO's) last fought on June 22 when he won a six-round unanimous decision over Marcus Brashers.

Boyd weighed in at 133 1/2 pounds while Molina came in at 133.

Beltway Boxing in the News!

There are a number of online articles that focus on the Beltway Boxing scene.

RingsideReport.com, the site created by "Bad" Brad Berkwitt, has a nice piece on NABO Heavyweight champion Tony "The Tiger" Thompson written by Daniel "Tex" Cohen. Here is the link:

"http://ringsidereport.com/rsr/news.php?readmore%3d1754"


The other two articles actually quote me in them.

John Buhl, a former Fightnews colleague of mine, now writes for insidefighting.com, a site that does cover boxing, but its main focus is mixed martial arts. Buhl writes a nice piece on the late Dr. Arnold McKnight. The link is here: although it doesn't seem to be working at the moment (their fault, not mine)

"http://www.insidefighting.com/betweenRoundsDisp.aspx?uid=3857"


Then, there's Carla Peay, the assistant sports editor for the Washington Informer. She debuts her general sports column for the paper with a look at the Beltway Boxing scene. This is the link:

"http://www.washingtoninformer.com/SPCarlaPeay2007Aug16.html>

Holmes Loses Decision in Panama!

Former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Tito "El Musil" Mendoza in Panama during the WBA "KO Drugs" festival.

According to Fightnews.com's Boxing Bob Newman, the bout was a snoozer as both men posed and clutched for the entire bout.

Holmes's record drops to 40-5, 25 KO's while Mendoza's record rises to 36-7, 29 KO's.

Baltimore Sun Reports on Darnell Wilson --'Cyberspace Celebrity!'

I'm a little late on this one, but kudos to The Baltimore Sun on a nice article earlier this week about the growing popularity of newly-crowned USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The-Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson since his explosive 11th-round knockout over Emmanuel "Chukwu" Nwodo on June 28 in Staten Island, NY.

Reporter Kevin Van Valkenburg describes the increase in Wilson's popularity due to the posting of the knockout all over the internet.

Here's the link:

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/boxing/bal-sp.wilson13aug13,0,740631.story


By the way, kudos to one of the best fight photographers in the business -- The Beltway's own Mike Greenhill -- whose photo was used for the article.

Holmes Tips Scales at 167 for Panama Battle!

Former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes weighed in at 167 pounds for his bout with Tito "El Misil" Mendoza today during the WBA "KO Drugs" Festival in Panama City, Panama.

Despite the fact that Mendoza tipped the scales at 175 pounds, both men will battle for the vacant FEDALATIN Super Middleweight title.

This will be an interesting card. Former world champion Evander Holyfield will box a three-round exhibition with the president of the WBA, Gilberto Jesus Mendoza. Another former world champ, Michael Moorer, is also on the card in a sanctioned bout.

And they will also have the semi-final bouts of the Panamanian version of "The Contender" called "El Primer Guerrero."

Wade & Guerrero Talk About the Olympic Experience!

Beltway Olympic Trial participants Dominic Wade and Fernando Guerrero talk about their trip to the US Olympic Trials in Houston, TX -- and the possibility of having to face each other during the competition.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #76 - Beltway OIympic Showcase: Dominic Wade!

Largo, MD 165-pounder Dominic Wade talks about his preparations for the US Olympic Trials in Houston, TX.



Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #77 - Beltway Olympic Showcase: Fernando Guerrero!

Salisbury, MD 165-pounder Fernando Guerrero talks about his upcoming trip to the US Olympic Trials in Houston, TX.



Still trying to catch up to Gary Russell, Jr. Hope to talk to him before he leaves for Houston.

This other note: In a USABoxing press release, Guerrero and Russell were mentioned among the top ten storylines leading into the trials. Here is what USABoxing had to say:

FERNANDO GUERRERO – Guerrero, a 2007 middleweight national champion, has been patiently waiting for his time at the top since starting to box in 2001. Born in the Dominican Republic, Guerrero didn’t obtain his United States citizenship until October and therefore couldn’t compete in national championship events. Although he knew that he had the talent and determination to reach the top, Guerrero had to wait his 18th birthday and is now making up for lost time. He won his first national championship at the 2007 U.S. Championships in June, and hopes to win his second title in Houston.

GARY RUSSELL, JR. – Russell, a two-time bantamweight national champion, has remained undefeated in contested action in the United States since entering the senior division at only 16-years-old in 2005. He has won every major national championship and his success extends to the international scene where he won a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships at 17. His success isn’t surprising considering that Russell has been around the sport since he was in diapers. He has memories of going to the gym in early childhood to watch his older brothers work out. Trained by his father, Gary Russell, Sr., he comes from a true boxing family with his father having competed as a heavyweight and four brothers also competing as boxers. Russell and his five younger brothers are all named Gary Russell after their father, but Gary Jr., is the only child to go by his given name with the younger five all being called by their middle names.

Beltway Boxers Have Opponents for Upcoming Cards!

Let's start close to home where the opponent for Culpepper, VA cruiserweight Bobby Gunn's appearance at Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA on Saturday, August 25 has changed.

Gunn reportedly will now face Chris Mills of Scranton, PA. Mills comes in with a record of 26-3-1, 22 KO's. Mills is winless in his last two bouts, losing by first-round knockout to Cullen Rogers on February 23 in Scranton in his last outing on the undercard of Darnell Wilson-Kelvin Davis.

An opponent has also been found for former world heavyweight champ Hasim Rahman for his bout on September 7 in Mount Pleasant, MI. Rahman will take on veteran "The Raging Bull" Dicky Ryan of Omaha, NE.

Ryan (55-9, 44 KO's) is a 20-year veteran of the fight game, beginning his career in 1987. Rahman is the fifth former world heavyweight champion that Ryan has fought during his boxing tenure, joining the likes of James "Buster" Douglas, Vitali Klitschko, Nikolai Valuev and, in his last bout, Shannon Briggs who stopped Ryan in the fourth round on March 18, 2006 in Fort Smith, AK. This 10-round bout will be televised on the Versus network.

August is the Month for Amateur Boxing!

Just found out there are two more amateur shows in the area this month.

The Mayor's Cup -- a long-standing tradition in DC -- will be on Friday and Saturday, August 17 and 18 at Kennedy Playground located at 7th and P Streets, NW. This is an all-day event.

DC Boxing Hall of Famer Juice Gatling will be hosting a two-day amateur show at The Sugar Ray Leonard Center on Friday and Saturday, August 24-25. The action begins at 7 PM each evening.

Looking towards September, Old School Boxing will follow up its August 31st show with an outdoor show on Saturday, September 8 at 16th and Bangor Streets in Southeast DC. The community group ROOTS, Inc. is collaborating with OSB on this show and it is FREE to the public. The card begins at 2 PM.

The DC Parks and Recreation Department will have a Fall Boxing Showcase on Saturday, Sept. 22 at the Benning Parks Recreation Center, 51st and Fitch Streets, NE, also beginning at 2 PM.

Amateur Boxing At Old School Gym August 31!

The Potomac Valley Association and Keystone Productions are hosting an amateur boxing show at the Old School Boxing Gym, 7466 Old Alexander Ferry Road in Clinton, MD, on Friday, August 31.

Amateurs from around the Beltway will face off against boxers from Florida, New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia.

Admission will be 10 dollars for adults and five dollars for children 12 and under.

On another amateur note, I'm trying to get audio interviews with the three Beltway Boxers heading to the Olympic Trials in Houston -- Gary Russell Jr., Dominic Wade and Fernando Guerrero. Hope to have those by the end of the week.

Boxing Returns to ABC Sports Complex September 15!

After the Sughan Promotions card on Saturday, August 25 at Robert E. Lee High School, Beltway Boxing fans in Northern Virginia will not have to wait long for another quality card.

Left Hook Boxing Promotions has a card coming to the ABC Sports Complex on Saturday, September 15. Right now, promoter Scott Farmer is working on 10 bouts and the proposed main event should be a barnburner -- an eight round all-Beltway junior welterweight matchup between Alexandria, VA's Jaime "The Punisher" Palma and Smithsburg, MD's Dean "Pitbull" White.

There will be a number of four-round contests on the card. One of them will be a cruiserweight matchup between Fredricksburg, VA's Adam "The Real Deal" Seal and "Cold Blood" Patrick Budd of Front Royal, VA.

And there will be a battle of the aged that may be interesting as Virginia boxing legend Willie "The Heat" Taylor takes on Derek Amos. Apparently there has been some harsh words expressed between the two within Virginia boxing circles and they want to settle it here. I know it sounds crazy but...

Also on the card will be Arlington, VA's Todd "White Lightning" Wilson and the celebrated return of Tommy "Sparkplug" Neal. This is the same Tommy Neal who had a serious accident with a forklift.

I'll have more on this card as it develops.

Homegoing Services for Lorado Williams!

Here is information for the homegoing services for Lorado Williams:

The viewings will be on Friday, August 10 from 3-5 PM and 7-9 PM at Zannino's Funeral Home on 263 South Conkling Street in Baltimore.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 11 at Holy Rosary Cemetery, 7305 German Hill Road in Dundalk. I could not get the exact time, but the service will be held in the morning.

Update on August 25 Card in Springfield!

The Sughan Productions card on Saturday, August 25 at Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA is starting to come together.

The main event features Culpepper, VA-born cruiserweight Bobby Gunn taking on Randy Pogue of Norristown, PA in a scheduled 10-round contest.

Gunn (17-3, 14 KO's) scored a first-round TKO over Elija Dickens on June 9 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield when Dickens suffered an injury and could not come out for the second round. That contest was Gunn's first since losing a bout for the WBO Cruiserweight title when he was stopped in the first round by champion Enzo Maccarinelli on April 7 in Wales.

As reported earlier, Gunn is donating a portion of his purse from this bout to former world champion Iran "The Blade" Barkley.

Pogue (8-7-2, two KO's) is winless in his last four bouts, but his last outing was a four-round draw with Rafael Jastrzebski on June 27 in New York City. This will be Pogue's first scheduled 10-round bout. Pogue lost an eight-round contest to Mike Alvarez in November of 2000.

Also on the card is a bout that was actually made right here on Boxing Along The Beltway. Undefeated DC junior middleweight Lawrence Jones will take on Charlottsville, VA's "War Time" George Rivera in a scheduled four-rounder.

Jones (2-0, one KO) registered his first professional knockout in his last outing -- a first-round KO over Denny Lundy on June 16 in Martinsburg, WVA. Rivera (3-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision over Montez Wilson on July 14 at the Winchester Sportsplex in Winchester, VA.

In another four-rounder, undefeated middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey will take on veteran Vance Garvey of Indianapolis, IN.

Mackey, who was born in DC but now lives in Montgomery, AL, is fresh off a second-round TKO over Kenny Keaton on June 9 in Springfield. Mackey (5-0, three KO's) will face a wily boxer in the Bronx, NY-born Garvey (7-26-5, two KO's), who is coming off a sixth-round TKO victory over previously undefeated (23-0-1) Chase Shields on April 27 in Houston, TX. The victory broke a two-year, 15-bout winless streak for Garvey.

The card will also mark the return of Takoma Park, MD cruiserweight Willis Lockett. Lockett (7-4-4, two KO's) has not fought since winning by second-round TKO over Elija Dickens at the ABC Sports Complex on February 4, 2006.

Lockett will be involved in an all-Beltway four-rounder against Gaithersburg, MD's Calvin Riley. Riley (1-0, one KO) has not fought since winning his pro debut on April 29, 2006 at ABC against Mike Needling. Riley stopped Needling in the first round.

Undefeated Arlington, VA welterweight Bayan Jargal (Bayanmunkh Bayanjargal) will take on Akron, OH's Jason Jordan in another four-round contest. Jargal (2-0-1, one KO) is coming off a four-round draw against Jaime Rodriguez on May 31 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Jordan (3-12-2) has lost seven in a row, including a six-round split decision to Joey Myers on August 3 in Charleston, WVA. Another one of the losses in this streak took place on May 12 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA when Jordan lost a six-round decision to Lenny DeVictoria.

In heavyweight action, noted Beltway trainer Scott "Duke" Buchanan of DC returns to action inside the ring when he faces Akron's George Jacobs in a four-round bout. Buchanan (1-0, one KO) has not fought since making his long-awaited pro debut on March 3, 2006 at the Lincoln Theatre in DC. Buchanan stopped Felton Worrell in the first round. Jacobs (1-1, one KO) is coming off his first pro victory, a first-round TKO over Earl Briggs on May 12 in Lansing, MI.

Also slated for action on this card will be Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant (6-1, four KO's), fresh off his a four-round unanimous decision over Mujaheed Moore on August 3 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. Grant's opponent is to be determined.

The first bout on this card is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM.

Lange Involved in Fundraiser for Two-Year-Old Cancer Patient!

There will be a discussion and a silent auction to raise money for Taylor Nicole Love, a two-year old from our area who is suffering from a rare, high-risk form of cancer called Neuroblastoma, a cancer with no known cure.

The event will be on Saturday, August 18 and will have a boxing theme with special guest Jimmy Lange. Part of the event will be a viewing of Lange's WBC Continental Americas Junior Middleweight title victory over Fontaine Cabell on May 12 at the George Mason University Patriot Center. Between rounds, Lange will answer audience questions about the contest.

The free event will begin with a silent auction at 3 PM. There will be numerous items available for bidding including:

There will also be a Silent Auction featuring many great items, including:

*Framed photo of Jimmy Lange and Angelo Dundee signed by Jimmy and Mr. Dundee!

*Framed photo of Bobby Orr and 6 collector cards of Bobby during different stages of his career - each card is autographed!

*2 tickets to 2007 Redskins home game vs. Dallas (December 30, 2007 - great seats - lower level end zone!)

*Dinner for 2 with Jimmy Lange and his wife Katie at the Alpine Restaurant

*1 year individual membership to Sport & Health club of your choice (excludes Hilton location and current members - $2,000 value!)

* 2 tickets to 2007 Redskins preseason home game vs. Baltimore (August 25, 2007 - great seats - lower level end zone!)

*Pair of boxing gloves signed and personalized by Jimmy Lange

*Hockey stick signed by 2006-2007 Washington Capitals (entire team!)

*2 tickets to 2008 Orioles home game of your choice (6th row 3rd base side!)

*2 tickets to Orioles/Red Sox game Saturday, September 8, 2007 (6th row 3rd base side!)

*2 tickets to Orioles/Yankees game Saturday, September 29, 2007 (6th row 3rd base side!)

There will be an autograph session at 5 PM and the viewing of the fight video begins at 7:30 PM.

The event will be held at the home of Michael, Adriane and Elizabeth Whalen located at:

8715 Mount Vernon Highway
Alexandria, Virginia 22309

For more information call 703-799-0282.

Mr. Whalen has invited me to attend this function and my plan is to be there. Hopefully, you'll join me!

Can We Make a Supercard? MAYBE!

It's strange how things work. When the discussion first came up about a Beltway Boxing Supercard, little did we realize that there were other people thinking about this.

There were reporters like John Scheinman of the Washington Post (who set this discussion in motion here on the blog), matchmakers like Chris Middendorf and other promoters who gave quality information. And, of course, the many fans who expressed their sentiments about the subject here.

Meanwhile, over in Germany, the PMG/Headbangers group had the very same idea during Tony Thompson's bout with Luan Krasnigi, with the same people involved as we mentioned on the post dated July 24, 2007 -- Thompson, The Peterson Brothers, Jimmy Lange, Reginald Taylor, Darnell Wilson, Ty Barnett and others. The thought even came up (especially in the wake of the rousing success of the Keystone Boxing pro-am card at Rosecroft Raceway on August 3) to make this event an all-day boxing festival featuring amateur and pro bouts.

To make this even more interesting, members of the DC Boxing And Wrestling Commission have had their wheels turning about the very same idea. Both the commission and PMG/Headbangers told me separately that would like to put together a supercard in the memory of Dr. Arnold McKnight.

To even come close to doing this, there would need to be a conglomerate of promoters and matchmakers that would have to check their egos at the door. Maybe it could be a full Beltway card with Maryland and Virginia involved. That would mean the commissioners would also have to leave their egos behind.

I mention this only to let you know that the powers that be in boxing in this area are listening to you. They want to see this event happen.

I will say this much: With the boxing talent we do have in this area, we are more prepared to do this than we have been in at least a decade! Let's see what we can do!

Ocean City Show Has Changes, Additions!

There will now be three eight-round bouts on the Baltimore Pro Boxing card on Saturday, August 25 at the Ocean City Convention Center in Ocean City, MD.

The main event continues to be an eight-round cruiser battle between Baltimore's undefeated Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall and Richard Stewart of New Castle, DE. The bout will be for the "East Coast Championship."

The opponent for Severn, MD undefeated middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow has changed. Nicklow will now face Anthony Little of Akron, OH in an eight-round contest. Little's record is 7-7, one KO but most of those losses have come against talented and undefeated boxers including Andre Berto, Durrell Richardson, James McGirt, Jr. and Pawel Wolak.

Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim Coleman will be in the other eight-round encounter, facing veteran Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall of Rocky Mount, NC. Hall (10-18-2, six KO's) is winless in his last six bouts over a three-year period, but four of those losses were to undefeated boxers.

Former WBO Cruiserweight champion Boone Pultz of Waldorf has been added to the card. Pultz (24-1, 15 KO's) has only fought once since his return after an 11-year hiatus. That was the six-round unanimous decision over Alonzo Cutchins on December 9 at the Patriot Center. In this six-rounder, Pultz will take on Jerry "Ruffhouse" Simpson of Tallahassee, FL (2-8-1, one KO) who was stopped by Mike Dietrich on July 20 at DuBurns Arena.

Undefeated Reisterstown, MD super middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis will battle Rakeem Carter of Albany, NY in a four-round rematch of a bout held on May 11 at DuBurns. In that bout, an accidental headbutt opened a gash on Bouloubassis's forehead stopping the bout in the first round.

The two men have interesting won-loss records. Bouloubassis is 1-0-3, one KO while Carter is 0-0-2.

The six-round bout between Front Royal, VA lightweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer and Wilmington, DE's Ryan Belasco is still on the card.

Memorial Service Honors McKnight as 'Role Model's Role Model!'

I don't know too many people that have enough influence, respect and love to bring two mayors, three city councilmembers, faculty members from at least two prestigious historically black universities and one of the most powerful men in the sport of boxing together.

Dr. Arnold W. McKnight was one of those people.

Monday night at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (where Dr. McKnight was director since its inception in 2001), a memorial service for Dr. McKnight brought together those people and many, many others from the boxing, education and tennis world who were truly touched by Dr. McKnight, who passed away on July 31.

Among the speakers at the service were current DC Mayor Adrian Fenty, former DC Mayor and current Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry, Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander, Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr. along with NewsChannel 8 sportscaster Glenn Harris, boxing promoter Rock Newman and New Jersey State Athletic Director Larry Hazzard, Sr., who drove down from New Jersey to be at the service.

Reverend Willie Wilson of Union Temple Baptist Church presided over the service and a traditional boxing 10-count was given by members of the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission, trainer Adrian Davis and ring announcer Henry "Discombobulating" Jones.

McKnight was honored by many people in the community who are considered role models as the person who taught them how to be role models. The number of young people who were wearing black t-shirts honoring Dr. McKnight and were acting in such a professional manner as they greeted visitors coming into the facility was a reminder that the lessons taught by Dr. McKnight, Dr. Cora Masters Barry and those who work at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center fell on fertile ground.

However, there were two notable groups of people who were notably absent:

1. Where were the boxers? I understand if you are a currently active boxer and you train in the evening, I can understand you not being there. But if you are active and not training for a bout or if you are a retired boxer who has fought in DC, there was no reason for you not being there.

Many of you would not be able to box in your own hometown if it were not for Dr. McKnight. The commission he ran since 1993 and was a part of since 1991 allowed you to practice the craft you love. You owed them enough courtesy to show your support for the memory of this man as he was one who showed you support in your great moments.

2. Where was the mainstream media? We should not be overly surprised at this group not being there because they have missed the Metro on this story all week long. I have never seen a city GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL receive so little press in my entire life. There were only two very brief mentions in the Washington Post and NOTHING in the Washington Times or the Washington Examiner.

I had to practically pull teeth to get Dr. McKnight's passing mentioned on Sportstalk 980 and nothing was mentioned on Triple X ESPN radio or any other local station that I know off.

That basically leaves two people who will be able to tell the story of this man through anything called "media" -- Carla Peay of the Washington Informer and James Wright of the Washington Afro-American.

That was just unfair. Had this been a man full of scandal, the press would be all over this. But this was a great man who embodied everything you wanted in a person and very little was recorded.

But enough of my rant. I was honored to know Dr. Arnold W. McKnight and I was very thankful to be at his service to honor him.

There is a series of photos from the memorial service courtesy of Linda Siadys: at this link.

http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/3246169

Baltimore Amateur Killed in Robbery Attempt!

This sad note comes from people in the Beltway Boxing community:

Baltimore amateur boxer Lorado "Rado" Williams was shot and killed over the weekend when someone tried to rob him and two friends.

Reports say that Williams was shot in the head twice this past Friday and passed away on Saturday. There was a candlelight vigil for Williams in the Highlandtown neighborhood where he lived.

Williams was regarded as a talented boxer who worked out of a number of gyms in Baltimore including UMAR, Charm City and Baltimore Boxing. He was training in Mixed Martial Arts over at the gym on Boston Street at the time of his passing.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Lorado Williams. I'll keep you posted on any information on services.

Rosecroft Photos Online!

Beltway Boxing photographer Linda Siadys has a wonderful photo gallery from the August 3 Keystone Boxing card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD.

Here is the link:

http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/3244404

Holmes, Rahman Return to Action!

Two former world champions from the Beltway return to action in bouts over the next two months.

Former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes will take on Tito Mendoza in a light heavyweight bout on Thursday, August 16 in Panama City, Panama as part of the World Boxing Association's "KO Drugs" Festival.

Holmes (40-4, 25 KO's) has not fought since winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Baltimore's Cory Cummings last October 7 in Chicago, IL.

Mendoza (35-7, 28 KO's) is a native of Panama and a former NABO Super Middleweight champ. In his last bout, Mendoza scored a 10th round TKO over Sean Corbin on April 25 in Panama City.

On September 7, former two-time world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will headline a card at the Soaring Eagle Casino in Mount Pleasant, MI. No word yet on who Rahman's opponent will be. Rahman (42-6-2, 33 KO's) is coming off a rather ugly 10-round unanimous decision over Taurus Sykes on June 14 in Rochester, NY.

'Sugar Poo' Buchanan Appearing on New 'Contender' Season!

In this photo of the cast of "The Contender -- Season 3" taken by Tommy Baynard, Sugar Ray Leonard is in front, Jose "Pepe" Correa stands to the left, Buddy McGirt is to the right and Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan is in the second row, third from the left.


For the second time in three seasons, the boxing reality TV series "The Contender" will have a Beltway flavor.

The newest season of the ESPN show will feature super middleweights and one of them will be Capitol Heights, MD's Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan. This will be the second straight time that the 28-year-old Buchanan (14-1, 11 KO's) has been involved with an event on a national level. His last appearance was in Showtime's Super Middleweight tournament last year. Buchanan lost in the semi-finals.

ESPN released the names of this year's contender field and, in my opinion, this is the most notable field in the short history of the show. There are many names that should be familiar to hardcore boxing fans. This is Buchanan's opposition:

Max Alexander (26, Camden, N.J., 14-1, 2 KOs).
David Banks (24, Portland, Ore., 14-2-1, 2 KOs).
Sakio Bika (28, Sydney, Australia, via Cameroon, 22-3-2, 14 KOs).
LaFarrell Bunting (27, Las Vegas, 16-3-1, 16 KOs).
Jaidon Codrington (23, New York, 16-1, 12 KOs).
Miguel Hernandez (32, Chicago, 20-5, 10 KOs).
Wayne Johnson (29, Lyndhurst, N.J., 16-1, 9 KOs).
Donny McCrary (24, St. Joseph, Mo., 23-5-2, 13 KOs).
Les Ralston (25, Buffalo, N.Y., 16-2, 9 KOs).
Danny Santiago (34, Ocala, Fla., 29-3-1, 19 KOs).
Paul Smith (24, Liverpool, England, 20-0, 12 KOs).
Sam Soliman (33, Melbourne, Australia, 33-9, 13 KOs).
Brian Vera (26, Austin, Texas, 14-0, 9 KOs).
Rhoshii Wells (30, Las Vegas, 18-2-2, 10 KOs).
Rubin Williams (31, Detroit, 29-2-1, 16 KOs).

This is indeed an accomplished field. Bika, Soliman, Santiago, Williams and Wells have all fought for world titles. Bika was also a 2000 Olympian for Cameroon and Wells a 1996 U.S. Olympian. Codrington and Smith are notable prospects.

There are some notable changes in the training staff as well and those changes have a Beltway flavor as well. Hall of Famer and Beltway Boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard remains as host, however Tommy Gallagher and Jeremy Williams are out as trainers. They have been replaced by the Beltway's own Jose "Pepe" Correa. Correa worked with Leonard early in his career and also worked with former world champion Simon Brown and many, many other Beltway Boxers as well as former world champion Lennox Lewis during his 40-year career. Also joining the staff will be James "Buddy" McGirt, who has worked with many world champions.

Ironically, Correa and McGirt share at least one boxer in common: both men have worked with Jimmy Lange throughout his career. Lange, of course, was on the first season of "The Contender" when the show was on NBC. McGirt is Lange's current trainer, Correa's was Lange's first trainer.

According to Dan Rafael's column on ESPN.com, more of the bouts will be shown this year during the actual telecast and every bout will be shown in its entirety, probably on ESPN2.

Production began on the show last week with interviews, physicals and background checks. The taping for the bouts begin next week. The new season begins airing on ESPN on Sept. 4 at 10 PM ET and will air every Tuesday night. The live finale will be on November 6 at the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, MA. The winner of the tourney receives $750,000.

Samuel Loses in Georgia!

Baltimore featherweight Tyrell "Da Show Shock A" Samuel lost his second straight bout, dropping an eight-round unanimous decision to Eric "The Outlaw" Hunter of Philadelphia in front of a nationally televised ShoBox audience at the Far West Rodeo in Doraville, GA.

According to published reports, Hunter used strong bodywork to earn the victory. The judge's scorecards were 79-73 (twice) and 78-74.

Samuel is now 9-2, five KO's while Hunter rises to 8-1, three KO's.

Results From Rosecroft!

Here are the pro AND amateur results from an outstanding night of boxing in front of a raucous, sellout, standing-room-only crowd of more than 800 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD.

Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant won by four-round unanimous decision over Mujaheed Moore of Cleveland, OH. Grant knocked down Moore in the first round but struggled down the stretch. Moore lost a point in the third round for holding. Grant is 6-1, four KO's. Moore is 4-2-1, three, KO's.

Seven-foot tall heavyweight Samson "Zeus" Mazyck of DC scored a crushing second-round knockout over Wilmington, DE's Jamal Terry. In the first round, Mazyck hit Terry with the very first punch he threw (a left hand) and dropped him. Terry fought back gamely, but the bout ended early in the second round when Mazyck landed a brutal left hand that put Terry away at 19 seconds of the round.

Mazyck is 6-0, four KO's while Terry is 3-7, two KO's.

Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Thomas "KO" Snow remained undefeated by making short work of Markel Muhammad of Columbus, OH. Snow knocked Muhammad down three times en route to a first-round TKO at 1:30. Snow is now 9-0, seven KO's. Muhammad is 2-5.

In a Beltway Fight of the Year candidate, Marlow Heights, MD welterweight Norman Allen won a four-round unanimous decision over Kendrik Walker of DC. Both men were making their pro debuts and they battled tooth and nail for the entire bout. The second round of this contest may be the best single round fought in the entire area this year.

In the first bout on the pro portion of the card, Oxon Hill, MD light heavy Alexander Johnson won by first-round TKO over Ed Edwards of Wilson, NC. The knockout was a controversial one because some ringside observers thought Johnson hit Edwards with either a headbutt or an elbow. The Maryland State Athletic Commission saw a video replay of the bout from a camera belonging to a relative of Johnson's that showed it was indeed a punch that landed. Give credit to the commission for taking time to make sure the correct call was made. Edwards's record is now 0-2.

On the amateur side of the card, DC heavyweight "The African Warrior" Abodurin Akinyanju of the Sugar Ray Leonard Gym scored a decision win over Brandywine, MD's Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell of Old School Boxing Gym.

Akinyanju, who is ranked second in the country by USA Boxing, scored a standing eight count on Mitchell in the second round. Momentum seemed to shift at that point and Akinyanju went on to victory. Akinyanju will now prepare for the Olympic Trials later this month in Houston, TX.

Old School's Dusty Harrison, fresh off his National Junior Golden Gloves victory in Nevada, won a convincing decision over Joseph Leon of the Bronx, NY. All the amateur winners won belts presented by Tony "The Tiger" Thompson. In the classiest move of the night, Harrison gave his belt to Leon after their match.

Also on the amateur card, Gary Antonio Russell -- the youngest of the Russell Family -- won by decision over Keystone Boxing's Roland Moss. Joshua Davis of Laurel Boxing won by decision over Old School's Rock Warden and Tyquan Mims of Hillcrest Boxing defeated Keystone's Gregory Ross .

There is a lot of audio for this card.

Here's an interview with Thomas "KO" Snow:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #73 - Thomas Snow Talks About His KO!

Undefeated featherweight Thomas "KO" Snow discusses his first-round knockout over Markel Muhammad at Rosecroft Raceway.




Here's an interview with Samson "Zeus" Mazyck:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #74 - 'Zeus' Mazyck Talks Knockouts and Transition!

The newest heavyweight on the Beltway Boxing scene -- Samson "Zeus" Mazyck -- talks about his second-round knockout over Jamal Terry and why the seven-footer chose boxing over basketball. Mazyck's manager, Lovell Long weighs in.




And Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and I bring you the complete Post-Fight Wrap-Up:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #75 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up From Rosecroft Raceway!

Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and I discuss an exciting night of boxing from Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. We also reflect about the passing of DC Boxing and Wrestling Chair Dr. Arnold McKnight.

Scale Watch from Doraville, GA!

Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock A" Samuel weighed in at 126 for his nationally televised bout against Eric "The Outlaw" Hunter in Doraville, GA.

The eight-round contest will kick off tonight's ShoBox telecast on Showtime at 11 PM ET.

Weights from Rosecroft!

Here are the weights for tomorrow night's pro portion of the Keystone Boxing card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD (Beltway Boxers in Bold):

Horace Grant 243 1/4 vs. Mujaheed Moore 219 1/4

Thomas Snow 125 3/4 vs. Markel Muhammad 126 1/2

Norman Allen 147 3/4 vs. Kendrick Walker 149 1/4

Alexander Johnson 172 vs Ed Edwards 172 1/4

Samson Mazyck 323 vs. Jamal Terry 306

Jason Champion 148 3/4 vs. Damon Antoine (will weigh in tomorrow)

Note: Samson (formerly known as Ernest) Mazyck is originally from Columbia, SC but is now living in DC.

McKnight Memorial Service Announced!

There will be a local memorial service for DC Boxing and Wrestling Chair Dr. Arnold McKnight on Monday, August 6 at 7 PM at the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center.

The center is located at 701 Mississippi Avenue, SE in DC. Dr. McKnight was the director of the center since its opening in 2001.

Tony Thompson Robbed of World Title Opportunity!

The headline and the following article is written with more emotion than usual.

The recently announced heavyweight unification battle between WBO champ Sultan Ibragimov and WBA titleholder Ruslan Chagaev slated for October 13th in Moscow has been called off. Chagaev had to drop out of the bout because of a "painful but non-life threatning illness."

Apparently, however, the word "mandatory" means very little to the WBO because DC's Tony Thompson (the current NABO champion and ranked fourth in the world by the WBO) who is the MANDATORY challenger has been passed over in favor of....

Evander Holyfield!

Yes, Holyfield will try for his fifth world title despite being ranked 13th in the world by the WBO and coming off opponents that have been substandard at best!

This is a prime example of bad politics and one of the reasons boxing is in the condition it is in.

McKnight Tribute Photo Gallery!

Beltway Boxing photographer Linda Siadys has put up a photo gallery in tribute to DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission Chair Dr. Arnold McKnight, who passed away on July 31.

These pictures really show Dr. McKnight's spirit as well as his enthusiasm for what he was involved with.

The link is here:

http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/3246169

DC Boxing and Wrestling Chair Arnold McKnight Passes!

Dr. Arnold W. McKnight, the chair of the District of Columbia Boxing and Wrestling Commission, has died.

According to the Washington Post, Dr. McKnight passed away yesterday in a hospital in Gastonia, NC after a month-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Dr. McKnight was 68 years old.

Dr. McKnight joined the commission in 1991 and served as chair of the commission since 1993. As chair, Dr. McKnight presided over a number of big boxing cards in DC including the "Triple Jeopardy" card in 1999 and the Kevin McBride-Mike Tyson card in 2005. Dr. McKnight was also influential in bringing Mixed Martial Arts to the Nation's Capital.

Dr. McKnight also was a professor at Bowie State University and was the director of the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center since 2001.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Dr. McKnight's family and I'll have more to say about this great man later today.