It is now official! Gary Russell, Jr. of Capitol Heights, MD is heading for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China!
In a bout that ended moments ago at the World Championships in Chicago, Russell qualified for the Olympics by defeating fellow 2005 World Championships bronze medalist Ali Hallab of France, 22-14. The victory places Russell among the top eight in his class at this year's world championships at the UIC Pavilion and places him officially in the Olympic tournament.
Russell will face Sergey Vodopyanov of Russia in the world championship quarterfinals Thursday evening.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Goossen-Tutor Signs William Joppy; New Promotions Group Opens in Beltway!
BoxingTalk.com is reporting that former two-time WBA Middleweight champion William Joppy has signed a promotional deal with Goossen Tutor Promotions of California. No formal announcement from Gossen Tutor head Dan Goossen yet but that should come later today.
Goossen Tutor also promotes the WBO's number one heavyweight contender Tony Thompson.
By the way, there is a new promotional company here along the Beltway. No word yet on it's name but the company will be led by long-time trainer Asim Hanif and boxer Joe Haggler. Hanif says the goal is to promote their first boxing card before the end of this year. More details on this as it becomes available.
UPDATE: The company will be called AfterShock Events and they will have their first card on Saturday, December 15 at the All Star Legacy Gym in Ashburn, VA.
Goossen Tutor also promotes the WBO's number one heavyweight contender Tony Thompson.
By the way, there is a new promotional company here along the Beltway. No word yet on it's name but the company will be led by long-time trainer Asim Hanif and boxer Joe Haggler. Hanif says the goal is to promote their first boxing card before the end of this year. More details on this as it becomes available.
UPDATE: The company will be called AfterShock Events and they will have their first card on Saturday, December 15 at the All Star Legacy Gym in Ashburn, VA.
Robert Martin Named to US Olympic Coaching Staff!
Folks inside the Beltway amateur scene have known this was coming but it was made official today.
Congratulations to DC's own Robert Martin, who has been named to the coaching staff for the United States Olympic Boxing team! Martin will serve as the offensive coach for the squad. Martin has been very instrumental in the development of 2008 Olympian Gary Russell, Jr. and the entire Russell Family.
Martin has been coaching at the national level since 1998 and has coached national events at every level over the past decade. Most recently, he served as a coach for both the 2006 Cadet World Championships and Cuba Olympiad Training Camp.
Martin will join Head Coach Dan Campbell and defensive coach William "Willy" Price on the coaching staff.
Congratulations to DC's own Robert Martin, who has been named to the coaching staff for the United States Olympic Boxing team! Martin will serve as the offensive coach for the squad. Martin has been very instrumental in the development of 2008 Olympian Gary Russell, Jr. and the entire Russell Family.
Martin has been coaching at the national level since 1998 and has coached national events at every level over the past decade. Most recently, he served as a coach for both the 2006 Cadet World Championships and Cuba Olympiad Training Camp.
Martin will join Head Coach Dan Campbell and defensive coach William "Willy" Price on the coaching staff.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
November 8 Fight Night Card Announced!
The boxing card for the 2007 Fight Night "Fight for Children" on Thursday, November 8 at the Washington Hilton and Towers Hotel is complete and for the first time in three years, there will be Beltway Boxers on the card!
The eight-round main event features Smithsburgh, MD lightweight Dean "Pitbull" White as he takes on Leo Martinez of Columbus, OH. White (14-8-1, seven KO's) will be trying to break a three-bout losing streak that includes an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Jamie Palma on September 15 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA. Martinez (11-9, five KO's) is riding a three-fight winning streak which includes a six-round majority decision win over Jorge Lara on September 14 in Chicago, IL. One of Martinez's biggest victories was a six-round split decision over future world champion Eric Aiken in October of 2005.
The co-feature bout will be the traditional "Fight for Children" Title bout and that contest will be an interesting Battle of the Beltway. Undefeated Arlington, VA junior welterweight Bayan Jargal will match up against DC's Reggie "The Mechanic" Holly in a six-round contest.
Jargal (3-0-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision win over Edward Anderson on October 6 at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner in McLean VA. This will be Jargal's first scheduled six-round contest. Holly (7-2, two KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Ken Humphreys in his last outing on June 23 at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium.
In other bouts on the card, undefeated Venezuelan heavyweight Wilmer Vasquez (3-0, two KO's) will take on Corey Winfield of Winston-Salem, North Carolina in a four-round bout. Also, Lancaster, PA super middleweight Nazyir Bell will make his pro debut in a scheduled six-round contest against Atlanta, GA's Breon Smiley (1-1, one KO).
The matchmaker for the card also has Beltway ties. His name is Eric Bottjer and he cut his boxing teeth as a promoter, matchmaker and writer throughout the area in the late 80's-early 90's. In the days before the internet, Bottjer created newsletters that covered the Beltway Boxing scene in much the same way as this blog. Bottjer moved on to work as matchmaker for many top-flight promoters including Don King and Cedric Kushner.
The boxers on this card will be performing in front of another sell-out crowd of movers and shakers as well as boxing legends that will include Hector Camacho, Jake LaMotta, Aaron Pryor, Ray Mancini and many others.
The eight-round main event features Smithsburgh, MD lightweight Dean "Pitbull" White as he takes on Leo Martinez of Columbus, OH. White (14-8-1, seven KO's) will be trying to break a three-bout losing streak that includes an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Jamie Palma on September 15 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA. Martinez (11-9, five KO's) is riding a three-fight winning streak which includes a six-round majority decision win over Jorge Lara on September 14 in Chicago, IL. One of Martinez's biggest victories was a six-round split decision over future world champion Eric Aiken in October of 2005.
The co-feature bout will be the traditional "Fight for Children" Title bout and that contest will be an interesting Battle of the Beltway. Undefeated Arlington, VA junior welterweight Bayan Jargal will match up against DC's Reggie "The Mechanic" Holly in a six-round contest.
Jargal (3-0-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision win over Edward Anderson on October 6 at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner in McLean VA. This will be Jargal's first scheduled six-round contest. Holly (7-2, two KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Ken Humphreys in his last outing on June 23 at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium.
In other bouts on the card, undefeated Venezuelan heavyweight Wilmer Vasquez (3-0, two KO's) will take on Corey Winfield of Winston-Salem, North Carolina in a four-round bout. Also, Lancaster, PA super middleweight Nazyir Bell will make his pro debut in a scheduled six-round contest against Atlanta, GA's Breon Smiley (1-1, one KO).
The matchmaker for the card also has Beltway ties. His name is Eric Bottjer and he cut his boxing teeth as a promoter, matchmaker and writer throughout the area in the late 80's-early 90's. In the days before the internet, Bottjer created newsletters that covered the Beltway Boxing scene in much the same way as this blog. Bottjer moved on to work as matchmaker for many top-flight promoters including Don King and Cedric Kushner.
The boxers on this card will be performing in front of another sell-out crowd of movers and shakers as well as boxing legends that will include Hector Camacho, Jake LaMotta, Aaron Pryor, Ray Mancini and many others.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
'Teflon' Boyd Stopped in the Fifth Round in California!
DC super featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd was stopped in the fifth round by undefeated Eloy Perez in a main event bout at the Monterey Conference Center in Monterey, CA.
According to Fightnews.com, Perez floored Boyd twice in the fifth with body shots, the second time for the count at the 58 second mark.
With the loss, Boyd falls to 5-3, two KO's. Perez is now 10-0-2, two KO's.
According to Fightnews.com, Perez floored Boyd twice in the fifth with body shots, the second time for the count at the 58 second mark.
With the loss, Boyd falls to 5-3, two KO's. Perez is now 10-0-2, two KO's.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Opponents Named for Peterson Brothers's November 17 Carribean Excursion!
Opponents have been scheduled for the undefeated Peterson Brothers when they jaunt to the Carribean island of Turks and Caicos on Saturday, November 17.
Anthony Peterson (24-0, 17 KO's) will fight an eight-round bout against veteran Oscar Leon of Colombia (27-6, 18 KO's). Peterson is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Marteze Logan on September 21 in Tunica, Mississippi. Leon has lost his last two bouts and has not fought since December 15, 2006 when he was stopped by Thomas Mashaba in the third round in South Africa.
(By the way, Mashaba faces former IBF Featherweight champ Eric Aiken on November 12 in Johannesburg, South Africa)
Lamont Peterson (22-0, 10 KO's) will battle Ramon "Gitano" Duran of the Dominican Republic (11-2-1, seven KO's) in another eight-round contest. Peterson is coming off a sixth-round TKO over Frankie Santos for the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight title on September 7 in Biloxi, MS. Duran will try to bounce back from a first-round knockout at the hands of Lucas Martin Matthysse on May 4 in Las Vegas.
This interesting note: During his weekly chat on ESPN.com, Dan Rafael was asked about whether the Petersons were getting ready for steps up in competition, Rafael answered by saying he talked to the head of the brothers's promotional company, Brian Young of Prize Fight Boxing of Memphis. Young said that both Petersons were ready to take stepup bouts and have them on either HBO or Showtime and that BOTH networks turned him down. Go figure.
Anthony Peterson (24-0, 17 KO's) will fight an eight-round bout against veteran Oscar Leon of Colombia (27-6, 18 KO's). Peterson is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Marteze Logan on September 21 in Tunica, Mississippi. Leon has lost his last two bouts and has not fought since December 15, 2006 when he was stopped by Thomas Mashaba in the third round in South Africa.
(By the way, Mashaba faces former IBF Featherweight champ Eric Aiken on November 12 in Johannesburg, South Africa)
Lamont Peterson (22-0, 10 KO's) will battle Ramon "Gitano" Duran of the Dominican Republic (11-2-1, seven KO's) in another eight-round contest. Peterson is coming off a sixth-round TKO over Frankie Santos for the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight title on September 7 in Biloxi, MS. Duran will try to bounce back from a first-round knockout at the hands of Lucas Martin Matthysse on May 4 in Las Vegas.
This interesting note: During his weekly chat on ESPN.com, Dan Rafael was asked about whether the Petersons were getting ready for steps up in competition, Rafael answered by saying he talked to the head of the brothers's promotional company, Brian Young of Prize Fight Boxing of Memphis. Young said that both Petersons were ready to take stepup bouts and have them on either HBO or Showtime and that BOTH networks turned him down. Go figure.
Russell Easily Advances Past Second Round Opponent at AIBA World Championships!
Gary Russell, Jr. needed just three minutes to stop Peter Moyshenzon of Israel in his second round bout at the AIBA World Championships in Chicago, IL.
According to USABoxing.org, Russell took control immediately, showcasing his patented speed and power, and dropping Moyshenzon to the canvas with a hook only 30 seconds into the bout. Russell kept the pressure on his moving opponent; giving him a second standing eight count late in the first. He took a commanding 11-1 edge into the second round of action. The 19-year-old peppered Moyshenzon with left hands throughout the first minute of the second round, building up a 21-1 advantage at the 1:03 mark to take the stoppage victory.
Russell’s victory sets up a third round bout with fellow 2005 bronze medalist Ali Hallab of France on Tuesday, October 30.
According to USABoxing.org, Russell took control immediately, showcasing his patented speed and power, and dropping Moyshenzon to the canvas with a hook only 30 seconds into the bout. Russell kept the pressure on his moving opponent; giving him a second standing eight count late in the first. He took a commanding 11-1 edge into the second round of action. The 19-year-old peppered Moyshenzon with left hands throughout the first minute of the second round, building up a 21-1 advantage at the 1:03 mark to take the stoppage victory.
Russell’s victory sets up a third round bout with fellow 2005 bronze medalist Ali Hallab of France on Tuesday, October 30.
Rahman Faces New November 15 Opponent; 'Ding-a-Ling Man' Title Hopes Dashed!
A couple of breaking news stories:
Former WBO Heavyweight champ Ray Mercer has reportedly backed out of his November 15 nationally televised (Versus Network) matchup with former world champ Hasim Rahman. No word on why Mercer backed out.
Rahman's new opponent will be veteran Sherman "The Tank" Williams of Vero Beach, FL by way of The Bahamas. Williams is 33-10-2, 19 KO's and has won his last eight bouts against non-descript competition. His last win was a first-round knockout over Wade Lewis on April 18 in Nassau.
Meanwhile, any hopes of USBA Cruiserweight champ Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson getting a shot at WBO Cruiserweight titleholder Enzo Maccarinelli seems to have been put away. A news source in Wales is reporting that Maccarinelli will be defending his title against undefeated Mohamed Azzaoui of New Zealand by way of Algeria. Azzaoui is 22-0-2 with eight KO's and just fought October 13 in Moscow, Russia where he stopped Henry Saenz in the eighth round on the Sultan Ibragimov-Evander Holyfield undercard. Azzaoui holds the IBF Pan Pacific Cruiserweight title.
The matchup between Maccarinelli and Azzaoui will be November 3 in Wales on the Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler undercard.
Former WBO Heavyweight champ Ray Mercer has reportedly backed out of his November 15 nationally televised (Versus Network) matchup with former world champ Hasim Rahman. No word on why Mercer backed out.
Rahman's new opponent will be veteran Sherman "The Tank" Williams of Vero Beach, FL by way of The Bahamas. Williams is 33-10-2, 19 KO's and has won his last eight bouts against non-descript competition. His last win was a first-round knockout over Wade Lewis on April 18 in Nassau.
Meanwhile, any hopes of USBA Cruiserweight champ Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson getting a shot at WBO Cruiserweight titleholder Enzo Maccarinelli seems to have been put away. A news source in Wales is reporting that Maccarinelli will be defending his title against undefeated Mohamed Azzaoui of New Zealand by way of Algeria. Azzaoui is 22-0-2 with eight KO's and just fought October 13 in Moscow, Russia where he stopped Henry Saenz in the eighth round on the Sultan Ibragimov-Evander Holyfield undercard. Azzaoui holds the IBF Pan Pacific Cruiserweight title.
The matchup between Maccarinelli and Azzaoui will be November 3 in Wales on the Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler undercard.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Undefeated Beltway Prospects Headline Jonathan Odgen Foundation Card November 1!
Undefeated Beltway prospects Tim "Pitbull" Coleman and Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow will headline the boxing card to benefit the Jonathan Odgen Foundation on Thursday, November 1 at the brand new Martin's Valley Mansion in Hunt Valley, MD.
Coleman (13-0, two KO's) will fight for the eighth time this year as he takes on Scott Ball of Rochester, MN (8-5, six KO's). Coleman, a native of Baltimore, is coming off a real solid performance, winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Doel Carrasquillo on October 12 at Du Burns Arena. Ball lost a eight-round unanimous decision to Michael Stewart on June 15 in Harrington, DE. Prior to that loss, Ball lost a six-round majority decision to Durrell Richardson on May 31 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Nicklow (13-0-1, five KO's) is still awaiting an opponent for this card. Nicklow, from Severn, MD, is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Anthony Little on August 25 in Ocean City, MD.
Other bouts scheduled for this card include a rematch between Baltimore light heavyweight Willie "For Real" Williams (7-2, two KO's) and Ray Ruiz of Passaic, NJ (6-7-3, four KO's). Williams won the first matchup, a four-round majority decision on October 12 at Du Burns.
Undefeated Reisterstown, MD super middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis will take on DC's Jessie Horton. Bouloubassis (2-0-3, two KO's) scored a third-round TKO over Rakeem Carter on the October 12 Du Burns card. Horton (0-1) has not fought since June of 2006 when he was stopped in the first round by Nicklow at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Cheverly, MD super middleweight Ron "The Rock" Reaves (2-1, one KO) will try to get back on the winning track by facing undefeated Jeremy Lubash of Pennsylvania (2-0, one KO.) Reaves lost a four-round unanimous decision to Charles Norwood on October 6 in McLean, VA. Lubash won a four-round unanimous decision over Heath Harris on September 22 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Also, Hagerstown, MD middleweight Henry Goss will take on the debuting Mike Dendy of Baltimore. Goss (1-2-1, one KO) lost a four-round unanimous decision to Todd Wilson on July 14 in Winchester, VA. Goss took that fight on just three hours notice.
The card benefits the Jonathan Ogden Foundation -- named for the all-pro offensive lineman from the Baltimore Ravens (who played his high school football at St. Albans in DC) -- an organization that benefits students in inner-city schools achieve their full potential through education and athletics.
Coleman (13-0, two KO's) will fight for the eighth time this year as he takes on Scott Ball of Rochester, MN (8-5, six KO's). Coleman, a native of Baltimore, is coming off a real solid performance, winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Doel Carrasquillo on October 12 at Du Burns Arena. Ball lost a eight-round unanimous decision to Michael Stewart on June 15 in Harrington, DE. Prior to that loss, Ball lost a six-round majority decision to Durrell Richardson on May 31 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Nicklow (13-0-1, five KO's) is still awaiting an opponent for this card. Nicklow, from Severn, MD, is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Anthony Little on August 25 in Ocean City, MD.
Other bouts scheduled for this card include a rematch between Baltimore light heavyweight Willie "For Real" Williams (7-2, two KO's) and Ray Ruiz of Passaic, NJ (6-7-3, four KO's). Williams won the first matchup, a four-round majority decision on October 12 at Du Burns.
Undefeated Reisterstown, MD super middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis will take on DC's Jessie Horton. Bouloubassis (2-0-3, two KO's) scored a third-round TKO over Rakeem Carter on the October 12 Du Burns card. Horton (0-1) has not fought since June of 2006 when he was stopped in the first round by Nicklow at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Cheverly, MD super middleweight Ron "The Rock" Reaves (2-1, one KO) will try to get back on the winning track by facing undefeated Jeremy Lubash of Pennsylvania (2-0, one KO.) Reaves lost a four-round unanimous decision to Charles Norwood on October 6 in McLean, VA. Lubash won a four-round unanimous decision over Heath Harris on September 22 in Pittsburgh, PA.
Also, Hagerstown, MD middleweight Henry Goss will take on the debuting Mike Dendy of Baltimore. Goss (1-2-1, one KO) lost a four-round unanimous decision to Todd Wilson on July 14 in Winchester, VA. Goss took that fight on just three hours notice.
The card benefits the Jonathan Ogden Foundation -- named for the all-pro offensive lineman from the Baltimore Ravens (who played his high school football at St. Albans in DC) -- an organization that benefits students in inner-city schools achieve their full potential through education and athletics.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Russell Jr. Opens AIBA Tournament With a Victory!
Capitol Heights, MD's Gary Russell, Jr. won his first round match in the 2007 AIBA World Championships at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, IL.
Russell fought in the very first bout of the tournament, defeating Rudolf Dydi of Slovakia, 13-6. According to USABoxing.org, Russell took a 3-1 lead after the first round, but Dydi began to engage more in the second. Dydi pulled the bout to a 5-4 lead at the halfway mark, but that is as close as he would get. Russell enjoyed a strong third round of action, holding Dydi scoreless while nearly doubling his point total to go into the final stanza with a 9-4 edge. Russell held Dydi at bay through the final two minutes to move out to a 13-6 final victory, and grab the first win of the tournament for both he and the United States team.
Russell will face Israel’s Peter Moyshenzon in second round action on Friday, October 26.
Russell fought in the very first bout of the tournament, defeating Rudolf Dydi of Slovakia, 13-6. According to USABoxing.org, Russell took a 3-1 lead after the first round, but Dydi began to engage more in the second. Dydi pulled the bout to a 5-4 lead at the halfway mark, but that is as close as he would get. Russell enjoyed a strong third round of action, holding Dydi scoreless while nearly doubling his point total to go into the final stanza with a 9-4 edge. Russell held Dydi at bay through the final two minutes to move out to a 13-6 final victory, and grab the first win of the tournament for both he and the United States team.
Russell will face Israel’s Peter Moyshenzon in second round action on Friday, October 26.
Barry Hunter Named WBO Trainer of the Year; Rahman to Take On Mercer Nov. 15!
Boxingtalk.com has put out two major scoops concerning Beltway Boxing personnel.
First, Boxingtalk is reporting that the WBO will name Barry Hunter its Trainer of the Year! Hunter works with two boxers (lightweight Anthony Peterson and heavyweight Tony Thompson) who are the number one ranked boxers in their respective weight classes in the WBO.
Boxingtalk's Brad Cooney has an interview with Hunter that can be found here:
="http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article13859.html"
Meanwhile, Boxingtalk is also reporting that former heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will return to the ring on Thursday, November 15 to take on another former world champion, "Merciless" Ray Mercer. The bout is scheduled to be held in Reading, PA and will be shown on the Versus Network. The report also says that if Rahman beats Mercer, a date with IBF Heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitchsko could be in his future.
First, Boxingtalk is reporting that the WBO will name Barry Hunter its Trainer of the Year! Hunter works with two boxers (lightweight Anthony Peterson and heavyweight Tony Thompson) who are the number one ranked boxers in their respective weight classes in the WBO.
Boxingtalk's Brad Cooney has an interview with Hunter that can be found here:
="http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article13859.html"
Meanwhile, Boxingtalk is also reporting that former heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will return to the ring on Thursday, November 15 to take on another former world champion, "Merciless" Ray Mercer. The bout is scheduled to be held in Reading, PA and will be shown on the Versus Network. The report also says that if Rahman beats Mercer, a date with IBF Heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitchsko could be in his future.
Washington Times Continues Gary Russell Series!
In another installment in its "Gary's Quest" series, Washington Times reporter Mike Jones writes that there are issues between Gary Russell, Jr. and the Olympic way of doing things.
Jones reports that Russell has dealt with homesickness as well as some nagging injuries as Russell and the rest of the US Olympic Team get ready for the AIBA World Championships that start today in Chicago.
Please read this article carefully. This, in my opinion, is a very fair article that gives both sides of this story. However, there are some things mentioned that could rub some people the wrong way. The story can be found here:
"http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20071023/SPORTS/110230083/1005"
Jones reports that Russell has dealt with homesickness as well as some nagging injuries as Russell and the rest of the US Olympic Team get ready for the AIBA World Championships that start today in Chicago.
Please read this article carefully. This, in my opinion, is a very fair article that gives both sides of this story. However, there are some things mentioned that could rub some people the wrong way. The story can be found here:
"http://www.washingtontimes.com/article/20071023/SPORTS/110230083/1005"
Ringside Report Talks to 'The Tiger!'
The website Ringside Report, headed by my good friend "Bad" Brad Berkwitt, has a nice interview with the WBO's number one heavyweight contender, Tony "The Tiger" Thompson.
The interview was conducted by RSR's lead interviewer, Dan Hernandez and can be found by going to this link:
"http://ringsidereport.com/rsr/news.php?readmore=1982"
The interview was conducted by RSR's lead interviewer, Dan Hernandez and can be found by going to this link:
"http://ringsidereport.com/rsr/news.php?readmore=1982"
Beltway News and Notes!
A couple of items to pass along:
DC super featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd will try once again to win in California. Boyd (5-2, two KO's) will take on undefeated Eloy Perez (9-0-2, one KO) of Salinas, CA in an eight-round contest on Friday, October 26 in Monterey, CA. The bout will be Boyd's first scheduled eight-round contest.
The last time on the west coast, Boyd was stopped in the first round by John Molina on August 18 in San Jacinto, CA. The stoppage came shortly after Boyd dropped Molina in the early stages of the round.
The 2007 AIBA (Amateur International Boxing Association) World Championships begin tomorrow afternoon at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, IL. We will be following the progress of our very own Gary Russell, Jr. as he tries to cement his trip to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.
Remember, although Russell is a member of the US Olympic Team, he has to finish in the top eight in his weight class in one of the next three major international events in order to actually compete in the Olympic Tournament. Russell won a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships. Russell and two-time Olympic team member Rau'shee Warren are the only two members of the US team who have previously competed in the senior world championships.
We also have this interesting rumor: There seems to be a holdup in the proposed WBO Cruiserweight championship match between champion Enzo Maccarinelli and challenger Ezra Sellers. According to published reports, the WBO approved the matchup, however, the boxing commission in the country of Wales did NOT. This bout was scheduled to take place as the co-feature to Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler super middleweight unification bout on November 3.
Could this mean that USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson might get a world title shot after all? Possibly, but I doubt it. If the bout was being held in the United States, I would think it would be more feasible. But given the time and, especially, the travel involved, it would be a major risk to take this bout at this time, just a little over two weeks away.
If I'm wrong, you'll be the first to know.
DC super featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd will try once again to win in California. Boyd (5-2, two KO's) will take on undefeated Eloy Perez (9-0-2, one KO) of Salinas, CA in an eight-round contest on Friday, October 26 in Monterey, CA. The bout will be Boyd's first scheduled eight-round contest.
The last time on the west coast, Boyd was stopped in the first round by John Molina on August 18 in San Jacinto, CA. The stoppage came shortly after Boyd dropped Molina in the early stages of the round.
The 2007 AIBA (Amateur International Boxing Association) World Championships begin tomorrow afternoon at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, IL. We will be following the progress of our very own Gary Russell, Jr. as he tries to cement his trip to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China.
Remember, although Russell is a member of the US Olympic Team, he has to finish in the top eight in his weight class in one of the next three major international events in order to actually compete in the Olympic Tournament. Russell won a bronze medal at the 2005 World Championships. Russell and two-time Olympic team member Rau'shee Warren are the only two members of the US team who have previously competed in the senior world championships.
We also have this interesting rumor: There seems to be a holdup in the proposed WBO Cruiserweight championship match between champion Enzo Maccarinelli and challenger Ezra Sellers. According to published reports, the WBO approved the matchup, however, the boxing commission in the country of Wales did NOT. This bout was scheduled to take place as the co-feature to Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler super middleweight unification bout on November 3.
Could this mean that USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson might get a world title shot after all? Possibly, but I doubt it. If the bout was being held in the United States, I would think it would be more feasible. But given the time and, especially, the travel involved, it would be a major risk to take this bout at this time, just a little over two weeks away.
If I'm wrong, you'll be the first to know.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Barnette Scores Third Round Knockout in Mississippi!
Undefeated DC junior welterweight Ty Barnette scored a third-round KO over Donnell Logan this past Saturday in a main event bout in Tunica, Mississippi. The time of the knockout was 2:59 of the round.
Barnette is now 11-0-1, eight KO's. Logan falls to 9-13-2, four KO's.
Barnette is now 11-0-1, eight KO's. Logan falls to 9-13-2, four KO's.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Washington Informer Profiles Dusty Harrison!
Washington Informer Assistant Sports Editor and Columnist Carla Peay uses her "From Press Row" column to profile 13-year-old amateur boxing champion Dusty Harrison.
It's a nice profile that can be found by going to this link:
"http://www.washingtoninformer.com/SPCarlaPeay2007Oct18.html"
It's a nice profile that can be found by going to this link:
"http://www.washingtoninformer.com/SPCarlaPeay2007Oct18.html"
Sugar Ray Leonard Movie In Works!
The LA Daily News is reporting that plans are being made for a feature film based on the life story on perhaps the greatest Beltway Boxer of all time -- Sugar Ray Leonard.
The movie is scheduled to be written by acclaimed author H.G. "Buzz" Bissinger, who wrote one of the greatest sports books of all time -- the Texas high school football odyssey Friday Night Lights.
Bissinger plans to conduct interviews with Leonard's friends, family, associates and opponents over the next six months. The movie is scheduled to be produced by Red Bird Cinema, whose founders include actor Kevin Pollack and St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. Production on the movie is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2008.
The movie is scheduled to be written by acclaimed author H.G. "Buzz" Bissinger, who wrote one of the greatest sports books of all time -- the Texas high school football odyssey Friday Night Lights.
Bissinger plans to conduct interviews with Leonard's friends, family, associates and opponents over the next six months. The movie is scheduled to be produced by Red Bird Cinema, whose founders include actor Kevin Pollack and St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa. Production on the movie is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2008.
Buchanan Wins Eight-Round Unanimous Decision in El Cajon!
Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan scored a relatively easy eight-round unanimous decision over Ted Muller last night at the Sycuan Casino Showcase Theater in El Cajon, CA.
Buchanan dropped Muller in the first round with a left hook to the body. Muller managed to hang in the bout, but could not give much of an offense. All three judges scored the bout 79-71.
Buchanan is now 15-1, 11 KO's while Muller falls to 19-13-2, nine KO's.
The following is an excerpt from a ringside report on the Buchanan bout from Jerry Magee of the San Diego Union-Tribune Newspaper:
Henry Buchanan came into the ring at the Sycuan Resort and Casino last night as Shawne Merriman's uncle. He left it having established something of an identity of his own.
Buchanan, a super middleweight known as “Sugar Poo,” can fight. He impressed this point on Teddy Muller, a 35-year-old campaigner from Moline, Ill., and a crowd that could be counted in the hundreds by belaboring Muller and coming away with an emphatic 8-round decision.
All three judges – Fritz Werner, Alejandro Rochin and Tony Crebs – had Buchanan a 79-71 winner.
What Buchanan did satisfied Merriman, the Chargers linebacker whom Buchanan identified as his inspiration. Buchanan wears Merriman's Chargers number, 56, on his trunks.
“For a guy who hadn't fought in nine months, that was a helluva fight against a guy who has a chin,” said Merriman. “He just beat him to a pulp.”
Willie Tucker, a Sycuan executive, said that Buchanan showed enough promise that Sycuan is desirous of bringing him back again soon.
“He's good,” Tucker said. “He's got a lot of potential. He's young, he's strong and he's got a good uppercut.”
How soon Buchanan can box again, however, must be questioned. He said he suffered an injury to his right hand in the opening round. The injury, however, did not prevent Buchanan from scoring the evening's only knockdown in this round with a cutting left hook to the body.
At the end of this round, Muller was wincing visibly, but the Illinois veteran who has the letters “Warrior” tattooed diagonally on his back demonstrated that he is indeed a Warrior.
He took some severe punishment from the winner in almost every round, but he was still there at the finish.
“We can do it again in an hour if he wants,” Muller said. Muller said he did not wish to take anything away from Buchanan, but he would not place him on the same level as a couple of his recent opponents, Peter Manfredo Jr. and Librado Andrade.
“He doesn't have the same energy as Manfredo and he definitely is not on Andrade's level,” Muller said. “But don't let me take anything away from the man. If your mouth wins fights, he's undefeated, but I've fought better.”
Buchanan, 29, now is 15-1 with 11 KOs. Muller is 19-13-2 with 9 KOs.
Buchanan dropped Muller in the first round with a left hook to the body. Muller managed to hang in the bout, but could not give much of an offense. All three judges scored the bout 79-71.
Buchanan is now 15-1, 11 KO's while Muller falls to 19-13-2, nine KO's.
The following is an excerpt from a ringside report on the Buchanan bout from Jerry Magee of the San Diego Union-Tribune Newspaper:
Henry Buchanan came into the ring at the Sycuan Resort and Casino last night as Shawne Merriman's uncle. He left it having established something of an identity of his own.
Buchanan, a super middleweight known as “Sugar Poo,” can fight. He impressed this point on Teddy Muller, a 35-year-old campaigner from Moline, Ill., and a crowd that could be counted in the hundreds by belaboring Muller and coming away with an emphatic 8-round decision.
All three judges – Fritz Werner, Alejandro Rochin and Tony Crebs – had Buchanan a 79-71 winner.
What Buchanan did satisfied Merriman, the Chargers linebacker whom Buchanan identified as his inspiration. Buchanan wears Merriman's Chargers number, 56, on his trunks.
“For a guy who hadn't fought in nine months, that was a helluva fight against a guy who has a chin,” said Merriman. “He just beat him to a pulp.”
Willie Tucker, a Sycuan executive, said that Buchanan showed enough promise that Sycuan is desirous of bringing him back again soon.
“He's good,” Tucker said. “He's got a lot of potential. He's young, he's strong and he's got a good uppercut.”
How soon Buchanan can box again, however, must be questioned. He said he suffered an injury to his right hand in the opening round. The injury, however, did not prevent Buchanan from scoring the evening's only knockdown in this round with a cutting left hook to the body.
At the end of this round, Muller was wincing visibly, but the Illinois veteran who has the letters “Warrior” tattooed diagonally on his back demonstrated that he is indeed a Warrior.
He took some severe punishment from the winner in almost every round, but he was still there at the finish.
“We can do it again in an hour if he wants,” Muller said. Muller said he did not wish to take anything away from Buchanan, but he would not place him on the same level as a couple of his recent opponents, Peter Manfredo Jr. and Librado Andrade.
“He doesn't have the same energy as Manfredo and he definitely is not on Andrade's level,” Muller said. “But don't let me take anything away from the man. If your mouth wins fights, he's undefeated, but I've fought better.”
Buchanan, 29, now is 15-1 with 11 KOs. Muller is 19-13-2 with 9 KOs.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Buchanan Weighs 170 for Tonight's California Bout!
Capitol Heights, MD super middleweight Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan weighed in at 170 pounds for tonight's 10-round main event bout against Ted Muller at the Sycuan Resort and Casino in El Cajon, CA. Muller also came in at 170.
Both boxers will wear pink gloves tonight in observation of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Both boxers will wear pink gloves tonight in observation of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Rahman Wins in First Round; Sanders Loses Eight-Round Decision!
Former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman made short work of Cerrone Fox by scoring a first round TKO last night in Sault Ste. Marie, MI.
According to Fightnews.com, Rahman wobbled Fox with his first right hand and then proceeded to land an extensive series of them until Fox went down in a heap in his own corner.
Referee Dale Grable didn’t bother counting and waved it off at 2:27.
Rahman's record is 44-6-2, 35 KO's. Fox falls to 8-7, eight KO's.
Meanwhile, Corey "T-Rex" Sanders lost an eight-round decision to undefeated Steffan Kretschmann in Berlin, Germany tonight. Sanders has now lost five in a row over a five-year period and is now 23-12, 15 KO's. Kretschmann goes the distance for the first time in his career and is now 10-0, nine KO's.
According to Fightnews.com, Rahman wobbled Fox with his first right hand and then proceeded to land an extensive series of them until Fox went down in a heap in his own corner.
Referee Dale Grable didn’t bother counting and waved it off at 2:27.
Rahman's record is 44-6-2, 35 KO's. Fox falls to 8-7, eight KO's.
Meanwhile, Corey "T-Rex" Sanders lost an eight-round decision to undefeated Steffan Kretschmann in Berlin, Germany tonight. Sanders has now lost five in a row over a five-year period and is now 23-12, 15 KO's. Kretschmann goes the distance for the first time in his career and is now 10-0, nine KO's.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Sanders Tips Scales at 358.5 for German Bout!
When he's announcing heavyweights, Beltway ring announcer "The Auctioneer" Brad Dudley likes to say that a boxer "tips the Toledos" when announcing his weight.
If Dudley was announcing tonight's Corey "T-Rex" Sanders bout in Berlin, Germany, he probably would say "tips the Toledos..over..at 358 1/2 pounds!
That was Sanders's weight as he steps into the ring against undefeated Steffan Kretschmann tonight. Kretschmann weighed in at 234 pounds.
You all know my feelings towards this bout. The weight issue only increases the foolishness.
If Dudley was announcing tonight's Corey "T-Rex" Sanders bout in Berlin, Germany, he probably would say "tips the Toledos..over..at 358 1/2 pounds!
That was Sanders's weight as he steps into the ring against undefeated Steffan Kretschmann tonight. Kretschmann weighed in at 234 pounds.
You all know my feelings towards this bout. The weight issue only increases the foolishness.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Ty Barnette Headlines Mississippi Card October 20!
Undefeated DC junior welterweight Ty Barnette will headline the latest "Fights at the Fitz" card on Saturday, October 20 at the Fitz Casino and Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi.
Barnette (10-0-1, seven KO's) will take on veteran Donnell Logan (9-12-2, four KO's) of Covington, TN in an eight-round bout. This will be Barnette's first scheduled eight-round contest.
Barnette is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Armando Cordoba on May 25 at the DC Armory. Logan broke a 12-bout winless streak by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Heath Nichols on July 14 in Kinder, LA.
Barnette (10-0-1, seven KO's) will take on veteran Donnell Logan (9-12-2, four KO's) of Covington, TN in an eight-round bout. This will be Barnette's first scheduled eight-round contest.
Barnette is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Armando Cordoba on May 25 at the DC Armory. Logan broke a 12-bout winless streak by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Heath Nichols on July 14 in Kinder, LA.
Rahman Weighs 240 for Tonight's Card in Michigan!
If his weight is any indication, it looks like former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman is working hard to make a serious run at another world title.
The Baltimore, MD native weighed in at 240 pounds for his bout against Cerrone Fox tonight at the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste Marie, MI. The weight is very significant considering Rahman weighed 261 against Taurus Sykes on June 14 and 250 against Dicky Ryan on September 7.
On the surface, however, the bout looks like nothing more than a tuneup for Rahman. Fox, a native of Benton Harbor, MI, has only had 14 pro fights and has a record of 8-6, eight KO's. Fox was stopped in the second round by David Tua on the same Sept. 7 card that Rahman was on in Mount Pleasant, MI.
The Baltimore, MD native weighed in at 240 pounds for his bout against Cerrone Fox tonight at the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste Marie, MI. The weight is very significant considering Rahman weighed 261 against Taurus Sykes on June 14 and 250 against Dicky Ryan on September 7.
On the surface, however, the bout looks like nothing more than a tuneup for Rahman. Fox, a native of Benton Harbor, MI, has only had 14 pro fights and has a record of 8-6, eight KO's. Fox was stopped in the second round by David Tua on the same Sept. 7 card that Rahman was on in Mount Pleasant, MI.
Buchanan Discusses Past and Future!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #88 - 'Sugar Poo' Buchanan Talks About His Present and Future!
Capitol Heights, MD's Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan discusses his bout this weekend in California as well as the REAL reason why he left "The Contender."
Capitol Heights, MD's Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan discusses his bout this weekend in California as well as the REAL reason why he left "The Contender."
The Foolishness Continues! Corey 'T-Rex' Sanders Scheduled to Fight October 19 in Germany!
Thanks to this tip from a poster. Believe it or not, heavyweight Corey "T-Rex" Sanders is slated to be involved in a sanctioned bout on Friday, October 19 in Berlin, Germany!
Sanders (23-11, 15 KO's) is scheduled to fight undefeated German prospect Steffen Kretschmann (9-0, nine KO's) on the undercard of the rematch between Oliver McCall and Juan Carlos Gomez. You'll remember that Sanders fought in Trinidad one year ago against Kerston Manswell. This was the week before his exhibition bout against Mike Tyson and the fight took place despite Sanders looking like this:
Just prior to this post, I sent an email to Ahmet Oner, the manager of Steffen Kretschmann, imploring him to not go through with this bout. My suggestion is that you do the same at boxing@arenaboxpromotion.com.
Sanders (23-11, 15 KO's) is scheduled to fight undefeated German prospect Steffen Kretschmann (9-0, nine KO's) on the undercard of the rematch between Oliver McCall and Juan Carlos Gomez. You'll remember that Sanders fought in Trinidad one year ago against Kerston Manswell. This was the week before his exhibition bout against Mike Tyson and the fight took place despite Sanders looking like this:
Just prior to this post, I sent an email to Ahmet Oner, the manager of Steffen Kretschmann, imploring him to not go through with this bout. My suggestion is that you do the same at boxing@arenaboxpromotion.com.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Buchanan, Attah In Action This Weekend!
As I mentioned in the most recent BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show, Capitol Heights, MD super middleweight Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan returns to action on Saturday, October 20 at the Sycuan Casino Showcase Theatre in El Cajon, CA.
Buchanan (14-1, 11 KO's) will battle Moline, IL's Ted Muller (19-12-2, nine KO's) in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds.
According to one report, Buchanan recently moved to the west coast and is staying close to his nephew, San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. Merriman is scheduled to be in attendance on Saturday.
Meanwhile, former featherweight contender Daniel "The Prophet" Attah of DC will challenge Ricardo "Piolo" Castillo for the vacant WBC Caribbean super bantamweight title on Friday, October 19 in Cabazon, CA.
The Nigerian native Attah (24-4-1, eight KO's) has not fought since losing by ninth-round technical knockout to Mario Santiago on March 10 in Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Castillo (32-4, 22 KO's) is the younger brother of former two-division world champion Jose Luis Castillo and is coming off a loss by disqualification to Celestino Caballero for the WBA Super Bantamweight title on March 16 in Hollywood, FL.
Buchanan (14-1, 11 KO's) will battle Moline, IL's Ted Muller (19-12-2, nine KO's) in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds.
According to one report, Buchanan recently moved to the west coast and is staying close to his nephew, San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. Merriman is scheduled to be in attendance on Saturday.
Meanwhile, former featherweight contender Daniel "The Prophet" Attah of DC will challenge Ricardo "Piolo" Castillo for the vacant WBC Caribbean super bantamweight title on Friday, October 19 in Cabazon, CA.
The Nigerian native Attah (24-4-1, eight KO's) has not fought since losing by ninth-round technical knockout to Mario Santiago on March 10 in Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Castillo (32-4, 22 KO's) is the younger brother of former two-division world champion Jose Luis Castillo and is coming off a loss by disqualification to Celestino Caballero for the WBA Super Bantamweight title on March 16 in Hollywood, FL.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Results From DuBurns Arena!
Here are the results from the Baltimore Boxing card at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore:
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman won an eight-round unanimous decision over Lancaster, PA's Doel Carrasquillo. Coleman scored a knockdown in the fifth round which led to the relatively easy decision. Coleman is now 13-0, two KO's while Carrasquillo is 10-6-1, eight KO's.
Former WBO Cruiserweight champ Boone Pultz of Odenton, MD lost a six-round unanimous decision to Darryl "Shotgun" Holly of Atlantic City, NJ. Pultz lost for just the second time in a 14-year period and now has a record of 26-2, 15 KO's. Holly is now 6-5, two KO's.
Middle River, MD's Tony "Cyclone" Cygan scored a sixth-round technical knockout over Baltimore's Henry "Hurricane" Mayes in a great battle that saw both men acquit themselves nicely throughout. Cygan is now 12-1, seven KO's while Mayes is 6-4, four KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Pikesville, MD won by third-round TKO over Rakeem Carter of Albany, NY. Bouloubassis is 2-0-3, two KO's while Carter is 0-2-2.
Baltimore's Willie "For Real" Williams bounced back from a recent loss to win a four-round majority decision over Ray Ruiz of Philadelphia, PA. Williams also survived a first-round knockdown to win the bout and raise his record to 7-2, two KO's while Ruiz (who was a late substitution) falls to 6-7-3, four KO's.
For the details on the card, listen to the newest BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #87 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up From DuBurns Arena!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap an interesting Baltimore Boxing card from DuBurns Arena in Baltimore!
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman won an eight-round unanimous decision over Lancaster, PA's Doel Carrasquillo. Coleman scored a knockdown in the fifth round which led to the relatively easy decision. Coleman is now 13-0, two KO's while Carrasquillo is 10-6-1, eight KO's.
Former WBO Cruiserweight champ Boone Pultz of Odenton, MD lost a six-round unanimous decision to Darryl "Shotgun" Holly of Atlantic City, NJ. Pultz lost for just the second time in a 14-year period and now has a record of 26-2, 15 KO's. Holly is now 6-5, two KO's.
Middle River, MD's Tony "Cyclone" Cygan scored a sixth-round technical knockout over Baltimore's Henry "Hurricane" Mayes in a great battle that saw both men acquit themselves nicely throughout. Cygan is now 12-1, seven KO's while Mayes is 6-4, four KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Pikesville, MD won by third-round TKO over Rakeem Carter of Albany, NY. Bouloubassis is 2-0-3, two KO's while Carter is 0-2-2.
Baltimore's Willie "For Real" Williams bounced back from a recent loss to win a four-round majority decision over Ray Ruiz of Philadelphia, PA. Williams also survived a first-round knockdown to win the bout and raise his record to 7-2, two KO's while Ruiz (who was a late substitution) falls to 6-7-3, four KO's.
For the details on the card, listen to the newest BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #87 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up From DuBurns Arena!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap an interesting Baltimore Boxing card from DuBurns Arena in Baltimore!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Wilson Passed Over for WBO Title Shot!
It's official: Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson will not get a world title shot against WBO Cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli.
Reports are that Wilson is being passed over in favor of a boxer who, apparently is also from DC, although he has never fought in the area before.
His name is Ezra Sellers, he is 37-years old, and he has had two previous world title shots, losing to former champs Kelvin Davis and Johnny Nelson. Back in 2004, Sellers also lost a IBF elimination bout to former champ O'Neil Bell.
Sellers's biggest win was back in November 2001 when he stopped Carl Thompson in the fourth round for the IBO Cruiserweight title.
The Sellers-Maccarinelli bout will be Saturday, November 3 in Cardiff, Wales on the Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler card.
Reports are that Wilson is being passed over in favor of a boxer who, apparently is also from DC, although he has never fought in the area before.
His name is Ezra Sellers, he is 37-years old, and he has had two previous world title shots, losing to former champs Kelvin Davis and Johnny Nelson. Back in 2004, Sellers also lost a IBF elimination bout to former champ O'Neil Bell.
Sellers's biggest win was back in November 2001 when he stopped Carl Thompson in the fourth round for the IBO Cruiserweight title.
The Sellers-Maccarinelli bout will be Saturday, November 3 in Cardiff, Wales on the Joe Calzaghe-Mikkel Kessler card.
Early Info on November Cards!
There is some information trickling about two of the five cards slated for the month of November along the Beltway.
The Saturday, November 17 Left Hook Boxing card at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA has three bouts already made. Undefeated Front Royal, VA cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy (6-0-1, five KO's) is slated to take on his most accomplished foe to date in veteran Fort Washington, MD cruiserweight George Holder (8-7, seven KO's)in a four-round matchup. Roy is coming off his third straight first-round TKO, stopping Levi Jackson on September 15 at the ABC Sports Complex. Holder has not fought since August 31, 2001 when he was stopped in the third round by Russ Shifflett at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore.
Dumfries, VA cruiser Derek "D-Mos" Amos also returns to action against Arlington's Jonathan Haggler in a six-round encounter. Amos (15-25, nine KO's) broke a three-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision over Willie "The Heat" Taylor on September 15 at ABC. Haggler (18-1, 13 KO's) was also on the September 15 show and stopped Alonzo Cutchins in the first round.
And in what should be a solid matchup, two transplanted DC boxers will battle in a six-round middleweight matchup; Montgomery, AL's John "No Mercy" Mackey (6-0, three KO's) will take on Roanoke, VA's Charles "Murdock" Norwood (3-1, one KO). Both men are originally from the Nation's Capital.
Also slated to be on this card are Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer, Jaime "The Punisher" Palma, Tommy "Sparkplug" Neal and Travis "O.T.T." Mallin. Promoter Scott Farmer is working with matchmaker Joe Hensley on this card.
Meanwhile, There's also preliminary information on the Ballroom Boxing card slated for Thursday, November 29 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. No matchups have been signed but promoter Scott Wagner is reporting that Carson McCourry, Danny Kisner, Horace "The Reason" Grant and Alexander "The Great" Johnson are all slated to be on the card along with the first Ballroom Boxing appearance as a pro for the undefeated Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall. According to Wagner, Paschall has fought at the Ballroom many times as an amateur, but this will be his first time as a pro.
Speaking of the amateur part of the card, heavyweight Nick Kisner will be back in the Ballroom on November 29.
We'll have more info on all our November cards as it becomes available.
The Saturday, November 17 Left Hook Boxing card at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA has three bouts already made. Undefeated Front Royal, VA cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy (6-0-1, five KO's) is slated to take on his most accomplished foe to date in veteran Fort Washington, MD cruiserweight George Holder (8-7, seven KO's)in a four-round matchup. Roy is coming off his third straight first-round TKO, stopping Levi Jackson on September 15 at the ABC Sports Complex. Holder has not fought since August 31, 2001 when he was stopped in the third round by Russ Shifflett at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore.
Dumfries, VA cruiser Derek "D-Mos" Amos also returns to action against Arlington's Jonathan Haggler in a six-round encounter. Amos (15-25, nine KO's) broke a three-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision over Willie "The Heat" Taylor on September 15 at ABC. Haggler (18-1, 13 KO's) was also on the September 15 show and stopped Alonzo Cutchins in the first round.
And in what should be a solid matchup, two transplanted DC boxers will battle in a six-round middleweight matchup; Montgomery, AL's John "No Mercy" Mackey (6-0, three KO's) will take on Roanoke, VA's Charles "Murdock" Norwood (3-1, one KO). Both men are originally from the Nation's Capital.
Also slated to be on this card are Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer, Jaime "The Punisher" Palma, Tommy "Sparkplug" Neal and Travis "O.T.T." Mallin. Promoter Scott Farmer is working with matchmaker Joe Hensley on this card.
Meanwhile, There's also preliminary information on the Ballroom Boxing card slated for Thursday, November 29 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. No matchups have been signed but promoter Scott Wagner is reporting that Carson McCourry, Danny Kisner, Horace "The Reason" Grant and Alexander "The Great" Johnson are all slated to be on the card along with the first Ballroom Boxing appearance as a pro for the undefeated Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall. According to Wagner, Paschall has fought at the Ballroom many times as an amateur, but this will be his first time as a pro.
Speaking of the amateur part of the card, heavyweight Nick Kisner will be back in the Ballroom on November 29.
We'll have more info on all our November cards as it becomes available.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
'Mighty Mouse' Aiken to Fight for IBO Title in South Africa November 12!
Apparently, the fact that Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken resigned with Banner Promotions has paid immediate dividends. The Forestville, MD resident will challenge Thomas "The Rock" Mashaba of South Africa for Mashaba's International Boxing Organization Featherweight title on Monday, November 12 at Emperor's Palace Casino in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Aiken (16-5-1, 12 KO's) has not fought since his March 16 draw against Cruz Carvajal in Salem, NH. Aiken faces a formidable foe in Mashaba (19-2-4, 11 KO's), who is making the fifth defense of his IBO title that he took from former IBF Super Bantamweight champion Vuyani Bungu in June of 2005. However, Mashaba has not fought since December 15, 2006 when he scored a third round knockout over Oscar Leon in Western Cape, South Africa.
Aiken (16-5-1, 12 KO's) has not fought since his March 16 draw against Cruz Carvajal in Salem, NH. Aiken faces a formidable foe in Mashaba (19-2-4, 11 KO's), who is making the fifth defense of his IBO title that he took from former IBF Super Bantamweight champion Vuyani Bungu in June of 2005. However, Mashaba has not fought since December 15, 2006 when he scored a third round knockout over Oscar Leon in Western Cape, South Africa.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Crews Wins Second Consecutive Pan Am Gold Medal!
Congratulations to Baltimore's Franchon Crews. For the second straight year, Crews captured a gold medal at the Pan American Female Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
Crews stopped Amber Konikon of Canada in the first round of the championship bout. Crews, along with Odenton, MD's Anne Gibbon and Tyler Lord-Wilder of Lansing, MI captured gold medals for the United States.
Crews stopped Amber Konikon of Canada in the first round of the championship bout. Crews, along with Odenton, MD's Anne Gibbon and Tyler Lord-Wilder of Lansing, MI captured gold medals for the United States.
Former World Champions Make Career Moves!
Two former world champions from the Beltway have made individual moves designed to get themselves back to championship contention.
Former IBF Featherweight champ Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD has signed a new promotional contract with Banner Promotions of Philadelphia, PA. In a press release, Company President Art Pelullo said he was excited to continue working with Aiken.
"We’re very happy to continue working with Eric Aiken," Pelullo said. "We’ve seen him beat two top-level opponents in fights that he took on short notice, and we’re confident that he has the ability to become a world champion again."
The 27-year-old Aiken (16-5-1, 12 knockouts) is currently ranked No. 12 by the IBF.
Meanwhile, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will be fighting on Thursday, October 18 at Kewedin Casino in Sault Ste Marie, MI. Rahman is substituting for David Tua, who had to pull out of the card because of a death in his family. No word yet on whom Rahman will battle on this card.
Former IBF Featherweight champ Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD has signed a new promotional contract with Banner Promotions of Philadelphia, PA. In a press release, Company President Art Pelullo said he was excited to continue working with Aiken.
"We’re very happy to continue working with Eric Aiken," Pelullo said. "We’ve seen him beat two top-level opponents in fights that he took on short notice, and we’re confident that he has the ability to become a world champion again."
The 27-year-old Aiken (16-5-1, 12 knockouts) is currently ranked No. 12 by the IBF.
Meanwhile, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman will be fighting on Thursday, October 18 at Kewedin Casino in Sault Ste Marie, MI. Rahman is substituting for David Tua, who had to pull out of the card because of a death in his family. No word yet on whom Rahman will battle on this card.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
October 12 DuBurns Card Coming Together!
The Baltimore Boxing Pro-Am card scheduled for Friday, October 12 at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore is coming together.
The co-main event bouts for the card will be a scheduled six-round contest between Baltimore's Henry "Hurricane" Mayes and Middle River's Tony "Cyclone" Cygan. Mayes (6-3, four KO's) recently broke a three-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision over Jacob Rodriquez on June 22 at DuBurns. Cygan is making his first appearance since August 12, 2006 when he defeated David "Weezil" Estrada in the fifth round in Ocean City, MD.
The other main event will be a very interesting bout between undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman and Doel Carrasquillo of Lancaster, PA. This bout was originally scheduled for eight rounds but may be changed to a 10-round bout. Coleman (12-0, two KO's) is boxing for the seventh time this year and he is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall on August 25 in Ocean City. Carrasquillo (10-5-1, eight KO's) was stopped in the second round of his last outing against undefeated Mike Torres on July 20 in Philadelphia.
Also on the pro card will be "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD (1-0-3, one KO) as he matches up in a rematch against Rakeem Carter. The two men fought on May 11 at Duburns and lasted only one round when Bouloubassis was cut by an accidental headbutt.
Former WBO Cruiserweight champ Boone Pultz will be battling Darryl Holley of Brigantine, NJ. Pultz (25-1, 15 KO's) has won seven straight bouts over a period of 14 years. Holley (5-5, one KO) is looking to break a five-bout losing streak.
And Baltimore super middleweight Willie "For Real" Williams returns to take on veteran Corey "The Boss Man" Budd of Lima, OH. Williams (6-2, two KO's) is coming off a tough six-round majority decision loss to Willis Lockett on September 27 in Glen Burnie. Budd (8-16, seven KO's) broke a 10-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision victory over 10-1 Marty Flynn on September 13 in Dickson City, PA.
The amateur card features Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and a matchup between Baltimore's Steve Wheeler and Salisbury's Alex Guerrero, the older brother of Olympic Trial participant Fernando Guerrero.
The co-main event bouts for the card will be a scheduled six-round contest between Baltimore's Henry "Hurricane" Mayes and Middle River's Tony "Cyclone" Cygan. Mayes (6-3, four KO's) recently broke a three-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision over Jacob Rodriquez on June 22 at DuBurns. Cygan is making his first appearance since August 12, 2006 when he defeated David "Weezil" Estrada in the fifth round in Ocean City, MD.
The other main event will be a very interesting bout between undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman and Doel Carrasquillo of Lancaster, PA. This bout was originally scheduled for eight rounds but may be changed to a 10-round bout. Coleman (12-0, two KO's) is boxing for the seventh time this year and he is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall on August 25 in Ocean City. Carrasquillo (10-5-1, eight KO's) was stopped in the second round of his last outing against undefeated Mike Torres on July 20 in Philadelphia.
Also on the pro card will be "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD (1-0-3, one KO) as he matches up in a rematch against Rakeem Carter. The two men fought on May 11 at Duburns and lasted only one round when Bouloubassis was cut by an accidental headbutt.
Former WBO Cruiserweight champ Boone Pultz will be battling Darryl Holley of Brigantine, NJ. Pultz (25-1, 15 KO's) has won seven straight bouts over a period of 14 years. Holley (5-5, one KO) is looking to break a five-bout losing streak.
And Baltimore super middleweight Willie "For Real" Williams returns to take on veteran Corey "The Boss Man" Budd of Lima, OH. Williams (6-2, two KO's) is coming off a tough six-round majority decision loss to Willis Lockett on September 27 in Glen Burnie. Budd (8-16, seven KO's) broke a 10-bout losing streak with a four-round majority decision victory over 10-1 Marty Flynn on September 13 in Dickson City, PA.
The amateur card features Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and a matchup between Baltimore's Steve Wheeler and Salisbury's Alex Guerrero, the older brother of Olympic Trial participant Fernando Guerrero.
Rosecroft Show Postponed Until November 9!
The Keystone Boxing show slated for Friday, October 19 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD has been postponed until Friday, November 9. No word given for the postponment.
This makes November a VERY busy month with five pro cards scheduled for the month. The Jonathan Odgen Foundation benefit card at the Martin's Hunt Valley Mansion will be on Thursday, November 1. Fight Night at the Washington Hilton and Towers will be on Thursday, November 8. Then the Rosecroft show on November 9 followed by a Left Hook Boxing card on Saturday, November 17 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA. The month ends with a Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD on Thursday, November 29.
This makes November a VERY busy month with five pro cards scheduled for the month. The Jonathan Odgen Foundation benefit card at the Martin's Hunt Valley Mansion will be on Thursday, November 1. Fight Night at the Washington Hilton and Towers will be on Thursday, November 8. Then the Rosecroft show on November 9 followed by a Left Hook Boxing card on Saturday, November 17 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA. The month ends with a Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD on Thursday, November 29.
War of Words Increases Between Wilson and Maccarinelli!
Let the verbiage continue. After Duva Boxing put out a press release for their boxer, USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, to challenge WBO champion Enzo Maccarinelli, they finally heard from the titleholder.
In a recent article in the South Wales Evening Post, Maccarinelli didn't accept nor refuse Wilson's challenge but said that Wilson was "one-dimensional."
The following comes from an article written by Chris Barney of the South Wales Evening Post:
Wbo cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli has responded to loudmouth Darnell Wilson's criticism by labelling the American one dimensional and one-paced.Wilson, known as the Ding-a-Ling Man, launched a tirade of abuse at Maccarinelli this week as he hopes to challenge for his belt in under a month's time.
The 33-year-old USBA champion said he would inflict a beating on Maccarinelli while his co-promoters Dino Duva and Sal Musumeci claims their fighter will knock the Swansea star out.
Tough words, but Maccarinelli is hardly trembling at the thought of taking on someone who has lost five and drawn three out of his 30 fights.
Nevertheless, the champion is neither ruling out the fight nor admitting it will go ahead.
With just under a month until Welsh boxing's biggest night, which sees Joe Calazaghe top the bill at the Millennium Stadium on November 3, Maccarinelli remains calm on his next opponent.
"Darnell is not as good as he makes out to be," said Maccarinelli. "He is one dimensional and comes straight at you.
"He is one-paced and will throw five or six punches to land on.
"But he is a decent fighter. Don't get me wrong, he is no mug or bum.
"But we will wait to see what happens with him.
"I know my promoters were looking at someone before he came along.
"I'm not sure if he is ranked highly enough anyway.
"But Frank Warren knows I will fight anyone."
Wilson has lost four of his last eight fights and struggled to win his last bout against Nigerian Emmanuel Nwodo.
He is ranked seventh in the WBO ratings and is hoping to seal the biggest fight of his career.
But Maccarinelli may have bigger fish to fry. Although, if that doesn't happen, Wilson would then emerge as the likely candidate.
The 27-year-old, whose last appearance was a 12-round decision over former champion Wayne Braithwaite in July, is preparing for his big night as per usual even though he is still waiting for confirmation of his opponent.
"It doesn't bother me who I fight," admitted Maccarinelli.
"I am fit and ready to go. I have the best sparring partner in the world in Joe Calzaghe - we have done 60 rounds already."
In another press release, Dino Duva of Duva Boxing sent another volley of criticism towards the Maccarinelli camp.
Who the hell has he ever beaten? Outside of a decision over Wayne Braithwaite, his opponent list is like a graveyard. The “Ding-a-Ling Man” is one of the top challengers in the world. He’s fought and beaten many of the world’s best 200-lb fighters and always in spectacular fashion. Maccarinelli has a lot of proving left to do before he can start talking about who is worthy of facing him. Darnell Wilson would be going into this fight as one of the hottest fighters in the entire sport. If Maccarinelli thinks he deserves to be called champion, he should agree to face Darnell immediately and stop posturing in his local paper.”
“He (Maccarinelli) has said in the past that he’s looking to fight the best. Well, the Ding-a-Ling Man is calling him out right now. Is he going to act like a champion or continue the silly talk while avoiding him? Just getting in the ring with Darnell takes courage, so let’s see if this guy can back up the talking he’s doing and make this fight happen.”
In a recent article in the South Wales Evening Post, Maccarinelli didn't accept nor refuse Wilson's challenge but said that Wilson was "one-dimensional."
The following comes from an article written by Chris Barney of the South Wales Evening Post:
Wbo cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli has responded to loudmouth Darnell Wilson's criticism by labelling the American one dimensional and one-paced.Wilson, known as the Ding-a-Ling Man, launched a tirade of abuse at Maccarinelli this week as he hopes to challenge for his belt in under a month's time.
The 33-year-old USBA champion said he would inflict a beating on Maccarinelli while his co-promoters Dino Duva and Sal Musumeci claims their fighter will knock the Swansea star out.
Tough words, but Maccarinelli is hardly trembling at the thought of taking on someone who has lost five and drawn three out of his 30 fights.
Nevertheless, the champion is neither ruling out the fight nor admitting it will go ahead.
With just under a month until Welsh boxing's biggest night, which sees Joe Calazaghe top the bill at the Millennium Stadium on November 3, Maccarinelli remains calm on his next opponent.
"Darnell is not as good as he makes out to be," said Maccarinelli. "He is one dimensional and comes straight at you.
"He is one-paced and will throw five or six punches to land on.
"But he is a decent fighter. Don't get me wrong, he is no mug or bum.
"But we will wait to see what happens with him.
"I know my promoters were looking at someone before he came along.
"I'm not sure if he is ranked highly enough anyway.
"But Frank Warren knows I will fight anyone."
Wilson has lost four of his last eight fights and struggled to win his last bout against Nigerian Emmanuel Nwodo.
He is ranked seventh in the WBO ratings and is hoping to seal the biggest fight of his career.
But Maccarinelli may have bigger fish to fry. Although, if that doesn't happen, Wilson would then emerge as the likely candidate.
The 27-year-old, whose last appearance was a 12-round decision over former champion Wayne Braithwaite in July, is preparing for his big night as per usual even though he is still waiting for confirmation of his opponent.
"It doesn't bother me who I fight," admitted Maccarinelli.
"I am fit and ready to go. I have the best sparring partner in the world in Joe Calzaghe - we have done 60 rounds already."
In another press release, Dino Duva of Duva Boxing sent another volley of criticism towards the Maccarinelli camp.
Who the hell has he ever beaten? Outside of a decision over Wayne Braithwaite, his opponent list is like a graveyard. The “Ding-a-Ling Man” is one of the top challengers in the world. He’s fought and beaten many of the world’s best 200-lb fighters and always in spectacular fashion. Maccarinelli has a lot of proving left to do before he can start talking about who is worthy of facing him. Darnell Wilson would be going into this fight as one of the hottest fighters in the entire sport. If Maccarinelli thinks he deserves to be called champion, he should agree to face Darnell immediately and stop posturing in his local paper.”
“He (Maccarinelli) has said in the past that he’s looking to fight the best. Well, the Ding-a-Ling Man is calling him out right now. Is he going to act like a champion or continue the silly talk while avoiding him? Just getting in the ring with Darnell takes courage, so let’s see if this guy can back up the talking he’s doing and make this fight happen.”
Monday, October 08, 2007
Crews Advances in Pan Am Games; Gibbon Wins Unopposed!
Baltimore middleweight Franchon Crews is one win away from winning her second straight Pan American Games gold medal. Crews will participate in tonight's final joining three other US members in championship competition in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
One championship has already been decided. Heavyweight Anne Gibbon of Odenton, MD has won the heavyweight championship, as she was unopposed in her weight class. Gibbon adds a Pan American championship to the US title she won earlier this year.
One championship has already been decided. Heavyweight Anne Gibbon of Odenton, MD has won the heavyweight championship, as she was unopposed in her weight class. Gibbon adds a Pan American championship to the US title she won earlier this year.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Results From McLean, VA!
Here are the results from last night's Diego Corrales Benefit boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner Hotel in McLean, VA:
DC's Luther "Sugarman" Smith lost by fifth-round technical knockout to Jesse Williams of Youngstown, OH. The time was 1:18 of the round. Smith is 22-6, 12 KO's. Williams evens his record at 4-4, two KO's.
George "War Time" Rivera of Charlottesville, VA won a four-round unanimous decision over Portsmouth, VA's John "JT" Terry. Rivera has now won four in a row and is now 5-1, two KO's. Terry has lost his last six and is 2-7, one KO.
Arlington, VA's Bayan Jargal (Bayanmunkh Bayanjargal) won a four-round unanimous decision over Edward "Nuckie" Anderson of Richmond, VA. Jargal remains undefeated at 3-0-1, two KO's while Anderson is now 4-10, three KO's.
In a rematch, Takoma Park, MD's Willis "The Prophet" Lockett scored another third-round TKO over Olney, MD's Calvin Riley. The time of the knockout was 1:05 of the third. Lockett has now won three in a row and is 10-4-4, four KO's. Riley has lost two straight (both to Lockett) and is 1-2, one KO.
Cheverly, MD's Ron Reaves lost a four-round unanimous decision to Charles "Murdock" Norwood of Roanoke, VA. Norwood dropped Reaves three times during the bout. Norwood is now 3-1, one KO. Reaves loses for the first time as a pro and he is 2-1, one KO.
The event was co-promoted by Jimmy Lange Enterprises and Jackie Kallen's Ice Promotions. The matchmaker was Joe Hensley.
For the full recap, listen now to the BATB Post Fight Wrap-Up Show:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #86 - Post-Fight From McLean, VA!
Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and I recap the results from the Diego Corrales Benefit boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner Hotel in McLean, VA.
DC's Luther "Sugarman" Smith lost by fifth-round technical knockout to Jesse Williams of Youngstown, OH. The time was 1:18 of the round. Smith is 22-6, 12 KO's. Williams evens his record at 4-4, two KO's.
George "War Time" Rivera of Charlottesville, VA won a four-round unanimous decision over Portsmouth, VA's John "JT" Terry. Rivera has now won four in a row and is now 5-1, two KO's. Terry has lost his last six and is 2-7, one KO.
Arlington, VA's Bayan Jargal (Bayanmunkh Bayanjargal) won a four-round unanimous decision over Edward "Nuckie" Anderson of Richmond, VA. Jargal remains undefeated at 3-0-1, two KO's while Anderson is now 4-10, three KO's.
In a rematch, Takoma Park, MD's Willis "The Prophet" Lockett scored another third-round TKO over Olney, MD's Calvin Riley. The time of the knockout was 1:05 of the third. Lockett has now won three in a row and is 10-4-4, four KO's. Riley has lost two straight (both to Lockett) and is 1-2, one KO.
Cheverly, MD's Ron Reaves lost a four-round unanimous decision to Charles "Murdock" Norwood of Roanoke, VA. Norwood dropped Reaves three times during the bout. Norwood is now 3-1, one KO. Reaves loses for the first time as a pro and he is 2-1, one KO.
The event was co-promoted by Jimmy Lange Enterprises and Jackie Kallen's Ice Promotions. The matchmaker was Joe Hensley.
For the full recap, listen now to the BATB Post Fight Wrap-Up Show:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #86 - Post-Fight From McLean, VA!
Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and I recap the results from the Diego Corrales Benefit boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner Hotel in McLean, VA.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Davis Loses Split Decision in Philadelphia!
Another seemingly tough loss for Demetrius Davis. The DC super middleweight lost a six-round split decision to Omar "Pitbull" Pittman in Pittman's hometown of Philadelphia last night.
I hope to provide an account from Fightnews.com later today. The loss is Davis's third in a row (second loss to Pittman) and drops his record to 17-14-4, seven KO's. Pittman's record rises to 15-3-1, eight KO's.
The following account of the bout comes from Kurt Wolfheimer of Fightnews.com:
Super middleweights Omar “The Pit Bull” Pittman and Demetrius Davis brawled it out for six back and fourth rounds, but it was Pittman who was able to squeeze out a controversial split decision victory in the rematch.
Pittman of North Philadelphia, won their first bout by split decision, cut Davis over the left eye early in round one with several hard right hands. Davis countered well though with lighter combinations as the round ended.
Round two was close until Pittman 168.5lbs.caught Davis with a short right that sent him to the canvas. Davis 168.75lbs.immediately jumped to his feet and fought back with several light combinations and movement to avoid any further shots. An accidental head butt opened a bad cut over the right eye of Pittman. Both fighters bled heavily throughout the remaining rounds.
Davis stepped up the pace in the middle rounds with several sharp two and three punch combinations while avoiding heavy right hands from Omar. The cut appeared to change the strategy of Pittman who slowed his heavy right hands. Pittman did stun Davis at the end of round three just as the bell sounded with a two-punch combination on the chin while against the ropes.
The fight appeared in the balance as both fighters had their moment in the sixth and final round. Davis appeared to land cleaner combinations to take the final round.
Judge Alan Rubenstein had it 57-56 in favor of Davis but was overruled by judges Dave Greer and Richard Hopkins who had it 58-56 and 59-54 in favor of Pittman.
Davis dropped to his knees in disgust after the fight.
“I knew I was going to get some hometown cooking here.” A disgusted Davis said afterwards. “I felt I clearly won the fight,” Davis continued. “I want a rematch in my hometown of Washington DC if he thinks he truly beat me.”
Pittman ups his record to 15-3-1, 8KOs while Davis slips to 17-14-4, 7KOs.
I hope to provide an account from Fightnews.com later today. The loss is Davis's third in a row (second loss to Pittman) and drops his record to 17-14-4, seven KO's. Pittman's record rises to 15-3-1, eight KO's.
The following account of the bout comes from Kurt Wolfheimer of Fightnews.com:
Super middleweights Omar “The Pit Bull” Pittman and Demetrius Davis brawled it out for six back and fourth rounds, but it was Pittman who was able to squeeze out a controversial split decision victory in the rematch.
Pittman of North Philadelphia, won their first bout by split decision, cut Davis over the left eye early in round one with several hard right hands. Davis countered well though with lighter combinations as the round ended.
Round two was close until Pittman 168.5lbs.caught Davis with a short right that sent him to the canvas. Davis 168.75lbs.immediately jumped to his feet and fought back with several light combinations and movement to avoid any further shots. An accidental head butt opened a bad cut over the right eye of Pittman. Both fighters bled heavily throughout the remaining rounds.
Davis stepped up the pace in the middle rounds with several sharp two and three punch combinations while avoiding heavy right hands from Omar. The cut appeared to change the strategy of Pittman who slowed his heavy right hands. Pittman did stun Davis at the end of round three just as the bell sounded with a two-punch combination on the chin while against the ropes.
The fight appeared in the balance as both fighters had their moment in the sixth and final round. Davis appeared to land cleaner combinations to take the final round.
Judge Alan Rubenstein had it 57-56 in favor of Davis but was overruled by judges Dave Greer and Richard Hopkins who had it 58-56 and 59-54 in favor of Pittman.
Davis dropped to his knees in disgust after the fight.
“I knew I was going to get some hometown cooking here.” A disgusted Davis said afterwards. “I felt I clearly won the fight,” Davis continued. “I want a rematch in my hometown of Washington DC if he thinks he truly beat me.”
Pittman ups his record to 15-3-1, 8KOs while Davis slips to 17-14-4, 7KOs.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Davis Weighs 165 3/4 for Pittman Rematch in Philly!
DC's Demetrius Davis weighed in at 165 3/4 pounds for his rematch tonight against Omar "Pitbull" Pittman at the New Alhambra in Philadelphia, PA. Pittman came in at 168 1/2 pounds.
I've been informed that the card will be shown on a delayed basis on CN8 on Saturday, October 6 at 9:30 PM. No word yet whether the Davis-Pittman bout will be part of the telecast.
I've been informed that the card will be shown on a delayed basis on CN8 on Saturday, October 6 at 9:30 PM. No word yet whether the Davis-Pittman bout will be part of the telecast.
Crews, Gibbon Participate in Pan Am Female Championships!
(Photos from USAboxing.org)
Two female Beltway amateurs will be participating in the Pan American Female Boxing Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The competition begins today and runs through October 9.
Two-time national middleweight champion Franchon Crews of Baltimore (top picture) will be trying to capture her second straight Pan American championship. Odenton, MD heavyweight Anne Gibbon will be participating in her first major international event. Originally from Tacoma, WA, Gibbon is a military officer who got involved in boxing through classes at the Naval Academy.
The two ladies are part of the 12-member US Pan American team that went through a two-week training period before leaving for Ecuador on October 2.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Demetrius Davis Rematches 'Pitbull' Pittman Friday in Philadelphia!
DC super middleweight Demetrius Davis will try to break his recent three-bout losing streak when he takes on Omar "Pit Bull" Pittman of Philadelphia, PA in a six-round rematch on Friday, October 5 at the New Alhambra in Philadelphia.
The last time these two met was on May 31 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Pittman won a six-round split decision. Since that bout, Davis (17-13-4, seven KO's) lost a six-round unanimous decision to James Countryman on August 31 in Detroit, MI. Pittman (14-3-1, eight KO's) has not fought since the first contest between the two men.
The card is slated to be videotaped for a future showing on Comcast's CN8 channel, a channel that can be seen in Prince George's County and other parts of the area.
The last time these two met was on May 31 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Pittman won a six-round split decision. Since that bout, Davis (17-13-4, seven KO's) lost a six-round unanimous decision to James Countryman on August 31 in Detroit, MI. Pittman (14-3-1, eight KO's) has not fought since the first contest between the two men.
The card is slated to be videotaped for a future showing on Comcast's CN8 channel, a channel that can be seen in Prince George's County and other parts of the area.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
'Sugarman' on Sports Talk Tonight!
DC junior middleweight Luther "Sugarman" Smith will be on SportsTalk with Glenn Harris tonight at 8 PM on NewsChannel 8. Smith will be talking about his October 6 bout in McLean, VA.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Thompson Waiting for Championship Opportunity!
Darnell Wilson is not the only Beltway Boxer on the precipice of a world championship. Following his second-round victory over Cliff Couser last Thursday at the Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino in Lemoore, California, Tony "The Tiger" Thompson (31-1, 19 KOs) has declared himself ready for his WBO world heavyweight championship challenge early in 2008.
"I'm looking forward to the winner of (Sultan) Ibragimov and (Evander) Holyfield taking on his mandatory fight with me," said Thompson in a recent press release. Thompson gives the undefeated Russian (21-0-1, 17 KO) a slight edge to retain his WBO title against the former undisputed champion in Moscow on October 13. "I'm eager to prove I'm the best in the world, and with a victory over the winner, I will have earned my right as the preeminent belt holder."
Thompson, has knocked out five of his last seven opponents and has won 27 consecutive fights dating back to 2000. "The fans want to see the best heavyweights fighting the biggest challenges, and I'm the biggest challenge for any heavyweight," Thompson said.
Thompson's promoter, Dan Goossen, has been involved in discussions with representatives of the current champion to finalize the Thompson-Ibragimov WBO championship bout providing Ibragimov is successful against Holyfield. "I've had many discussions with Ibragimov's team and they have been very keen in moving immediately forward with the mandatory fight with a victory," Goossen acknowledged. "Leon (Margules) and Sampson (Lewkowicz) have always been honorable gentlemen in our past dealings. Of course, Holyfield could change everything with a performance of a lifetime. We'll just have to wait and see who wins."
"I'm looking forward to the winner of (Sultan) Ibragimov and (Evander) Holyfield taking on his mandatory fight with me," said Thompson in a recent press release. Thompson gives the undefeated Russian (21-0-1, 17 KO) a slight edge to retain his WBO title against the former undisputed champion in Moscow on October 13. "I'm eager to prove I'm the best in the world, and with a victory over the winner, I will have earned my right as the preeminent belt holder."
Thompson, has knocked out five of his last seven opponents and has won 27 consecutive fights dating back to 2000. "The fans want to see the best heavyweights fighting the biggest challenges, and I'm the biggest challenge for any heavyweight," Thompson said.
Thompson's promoter, Dan Goossen, has been involved in discussions with representatives of the current champion to finalize the Thompson-Ibragimov WBO championship bout providing Ibragimov is successful against Holyfield. "I've had many discussions with Ibragimov's team and they have been very keen in moving immediately forward with the mandatory fight with a victory," Goossen acknowledged. "Leon (Margules) and Sampson (Lewkowicz) have always been honorable gentlemen in our past dealings. Of course, Holyfield could change everything with a performance of a lifetime. We'll just have to wait and see who wins."
More Changes for October 6: Mackey Bout Off; Lockett-Riley Rematch Added!
Sometimes, my job here is to keep up with the changes.
Undefeated middleweight prospect John "No Mercy" Mackey suffered an injury in training and he will not appear on the Saturday, October 6 benefit boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner.
Mackey's bout will be replaced by an interesting four-round rematch between Takoma Park light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett and Gaithersburg's Calvin Riley. The two men just fought each other on August 25 at Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA and Lockett won by third-round TKO. Reports from fans who attended the bout say the Lockett win was somewhat controversial and that Riley was accidently thumbed in the eye and that led to the stoppage. For Riley (1-1, one KO) the loss was the first in his pro career.
Lockett (9-4-4, three KO's) just fought last Thursday, September 27 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie and won a six-round majority decision over Willie "For Real" Williams. Lockett is currently riding a three-bout winning streak.
Undefeated middleweight prospect John "No Mercy" Mackey suffered an injury in training and he will not appear on the Saturday, October 6 benefit boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner.
Mackey's bout will be replaced by an interesting four-round rematch between Takoma Park light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett and Gaithersburg's Calvin Riley. The two men just fought each other on August 25 at Robert E. Lee High School in Springfield, VA and Lockett won by third-round TKO. Reports from fans who attended the bout say the Lockett win was somewhat controversial and that Riley was accidently thumbed in the eye and that led to the stoppage. For Riley (1-1, one KO) the loss was the first in his pro career.
Lockett (9-4-4, three KO's) just fought last Thursday, September 27 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie and won a six-round majority decision over Willie "For Real" Williams. Lockett is currently riding a three-bout winning streak.
Wilson Issues Challenge to WBO Cruiser Champion!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I briefly talked about this on the last Post-Fight Wrap-Up show and now we have more information.
USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, along with his co-promoters Dino Duva of Duva Boxing and Sal Musumeci of Final Forum, have issued a formal challenge to WBO Cruiserweight titleholder Enzo Maccarinelli to defend his title against Wilson on the November 3 card at Millenium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. The bout would be a co-feature to the highly-anticipated super middleweight championship showdown between Joe Calzaghe and Mikkel Kessler.
"The 'Ding-A-Ling Man' is the most exciting fighter in the division and one of the most exciting in all of boxing," said Duva in a press release. "If Enzo Maccarinelli is looking to make a worldwide name for himself on the Calzaghe vs. Kessler undercard, let him face the number-one challenger in the world on a high-profile stage."
In actuality, Wilson is currently ranked seventh by the WBO. However, number one contender David Haye is scheduled to challenge for Jean-Marc Mormeck's WBC title while number two challenger Marco Huck is next in line to face IBF titleholder Steve Cunningham. The next four names (Johnathan Banks, Vincenzo Cantatore, Gregory Drozd and Giacobbe Fragomeni) all raise a loud "WHO?" among the majority of the boxing community. Currently, Wilson is arguably the best-known of the cruiserweight contenders, especially with the recognition received from his explosive, nationally-televised 11th round knockout over Emmanuel Nwodo earlier this year.
Wilson said he is ready to realize his dream. "It's going to be a giant and rowdy crowd, but it boils down to just him and I in the ring. Whether it's there or in my backyard, or wherever, he's going to sustain the same type of beating, no matter where it is. I'm so hungry for the title I can taste it!"
"Enzo said in an interview that he's in it mostly for the glory; well this is his chance," Wilson continued. "I'm a highly revered cruiserweight with some big wins. He's talking about fighting some old washed-up guys; fight the hungry, strong fighter. That'll be a true fight for the glory."
"Darnell knows he'll knock this guy out, regardless of where they fight, so we'll fight him anywhere," Duva added. "Darnell is a true warrior who will fight anyone. He's been clamoring for a title shot for a very long time and now we have a champion looking for an opponent. Who better than Darnell? He's been a human highlight reel his entire career and now he's the most legitimate challenger to any of the belt holders."
USBA Cruiserweight champion Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson, along with his co-promoters Dino Duva of Duva Boxing and Sal Musumeci of Final Forum, have issued a formal challenge to WBO Cruiserweight titleholder Enzo Maccarinelli to defend his title against Wilson on the November 3 card at Millenium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. The bout would be a co-feature to the highly-anticipated super middleweight championship showdown between Joe Calzaghe and Mikkel Kessler.
"The 'Ding-A-Ling Man' is the most exciting fighter in the division and one of the most exciting in all of boxing," said Duva in a press release. "If Enzo Maccarinelli is looking to make a worldwide name for himself on the Calzaghe vs. Kessler undercard, let him face the number-one challenger in the world on a high-profile stage."
In actuality, Wilson is currently ranked seventh by the WBO. However, number one contender David Haye is scheduled to challenge for Jean-Marc Mormeck's WBC title while number two challenger Marco Huck is next in line to face IBF titleholder Steve Cunningham. The next four names (Johnathan Banks, Vincenzo Cantatore, Gregory Drozd and Giacobbe Fragomeni) all raise a loud "WHO?" among the majority of the boxing community. Currently, Wilson is arguably the best-known of the cruiserweight contenders, especially with the recognition received from his explosive, nationally-televised 11th round knockout over Emmanuel Nwodo earlier this year.
Wilson said he is ready to realize his dream. "It's going to be a giant and rowdy crowd, but it boils down to just him and I in the ring. Whether it's there or in my backyard, or wherever, he's going to sustain the same type of beating, no matter where it is. I'm so hungry for the title I can taste it!"
"Enzo said in an interview that he's in it mostly for the glory; well this is his chance," Wilson continued. "I'm a highly revered cruiserweight with some big wins. He's talking about fighting some old washed-up guys; fight the hungry, strong fighter. That'll be a true fight for the glory."
"Darnell knows he'll knock this guy out, regardless of where they fight, so we'll fight him anywhere," Duva added. "Darnell is a true warrior who will fight anyone. He's been clamoring for a title shot for a very long time and now we have a champion looking for an opponent. Who better than Darnell? He's been a human highlight reel his entire career and now he's the most legitimate challenger to any of the belt holders."
Monday, October 01, 2007
Mackey Faces Horton October 6!
There is now an opponent for undefeated middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey (6-0, three KO's)for the October 6 card at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner in McLean, VA.
The DC-born boxer now fighting out of Montgomery, AL, will take on DC's Jessie Horton (0-1) in a four-round encounter.
Horton has not fought since June 21, 2006 when he lost by first-round TKO to Jessie Nicklow at Martin's West.
The DC-born boxer now fighting out of Montgomery, AL, will take on DC's Jessie Horton (0-1) in a four-round encounter.
Horton has not fought since June 21, 2006 when he lost by first-round TKO to Jessie Nicklow at Martin's West.
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