Beltway Amateurs Have Tough Time at PAL Championships!

Four Beltway amateur boxers lost opening-round contests yesterday at the National PAL Boxing Championships in Oxnard, CA.

In the 119-pound/15-16 age bracket, Shadeed Floyd of DC lost by walkover to Jesus Magdaleno of Las Vegas, NV.

In the 141-pound/Open bracket, Joel Young of Beltsville, MD lost to Donte Strayhorn of Cincinnati, OH, 3-2. In the same bracket, Gary Allen Russell of Capitol Heights, MD lost by a 3-2 decision to Michael Brooks of Oceanside, NY.

In the 152-pound/Open Bracket, Marquis Moore of Fort Washington, MD lost to Javontae Starks of Minneapolis, MN, 3-2.

Tonight, Thomas Williams. Jr. of Laurel, MD will take on Jeremiah Penny of Oxnard, CA in the Open/178-pound division.

'Great Shot' Siadys Brings Ballroom Atmosphere in Photos; Peay Gives Fans Article on Ballroom Atmosphere!

Two interesting observations on the most recent Ballroom Boxing card from two great sources.

Our very own Linda "Great Shot" Siadys continues her masterful work behind the lens and her photos can be found here:

"http://photodawg1.smugmug.com/gallery/6070284_MPK3z#382373164_7HNJu"

Meanwhile, Amir Peay of EastsideBoxing.com gives a nice report that focuses on the unique ambience that boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue provides. Here's that report:

"http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=17349&more=1">

By the way, this is the same Amir Peay who is the head of www.undisputedbrand.com, the sponsor of the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show.

Washington Times Lauds BATB!

Many, many thanks to Washington Times Columnist Thom Loverro, who gives kudos to Boxing Along The Beltway in his latest edition of his "Lovey Land" blog. Here's what Loverro said:

"I received a lot of feedback and reaction to my column last week about Juan Robles, the boxer, who amputated his own right pinky finger. It was a hot topic of conversation in Baltimore on ESPN 1300, as well as on the Internet. I had been hoping to do the Robles column for some time, but wanted to wait until he was in the area.

I found out he was fighting on a show in Milllersville in Anne Arundel County thanks to a great Web site for local boxing, www.boxingalongthebeltway.blogspot.com. It's operated by Gary "Digital" Williams, and is the place to go if you want to know about any upcoming show or results, from amateur to the pros, in Virginia, Maryland and the District. Check it out."

That's quite an honor from such a well-known columnist and I'm humbled by it. I also shared a column with thoughts about the Washington Redskins and Paul Newman (one of my favorite actors as well). That's good company!

MD Commission Lauded in Ring Column!

The latest issue of The Ring magazine has a column that focuses on the Maryland State Athletic Commission's study of Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury (CTBI) or what is known as dementia pugilistica.

The column, written by former Nevada ring physician Dr. Margaret Goodman, talks to award-winning Maryland physician Dr. John Stiller and commission Executive Director Patrick Pannella about a study that began in November of 2003 that seeks to answer whether boxers can be tested to see if they are at risk for CTBI and if there is an opportunity for signs and symptoms to be prevalent as indicators that a boxer should stop fighting. There are 225 boxers who are a part of the study and are followed on an annual basis.

Dr. Stiller (who is a neurologist) has been involved in boxing since the mid-1980's and has testified and supported boxing in front of Congress. He is well versed on this subject and has won numerous awards from the American Association of Ringside Physicians.

This is an interesting and very good read that shows that Maryland has been on the cutting edge of this part of the sport.

PERSONAL SIDENOTE: Dr. Goodman's column starts with an incident that I know too well: The last bout of former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway in 2001 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. Pettway was battered for six rounds by Luis Rosado before the bout was stopped. The Maryland commission later forced him to stop boxing. It was a tough night all the way around.

This was the first, and I hope the only time, that I admittedly overstepped my bounds as a reporter and looked a boxer in the face and told him he should quit. Others around me at that time did the same thing. I know it was not my place, but Pettway meant and still means a lot to me and to this area.

Am I glad I did it? Yes, because I looked past Pettway the boxer and focused on Pettway the man. Pettway's decision to comply with the Maryland Commission is to the benefit of a number of young boxers who want to be where Pettway has been and can use Pettway's boxing knowledge to guide them.

Darnell Wilson Joins 'The Contender!'

Takoma Park, MD cruiserweight Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson is one of 16 cruiserweights that will make up the fourth season of "The Contender" that has started taping in Singapore.

Wilson (23-7-3, 20 KO's) is one of only two participants on this year's cast that has had world title experience. Wilson lost by 12-round unanimous decision to now-former WBA Cruiserweight champ Firat Arslan on May 3 in Stuttgart, Germany.

The other world title challenger is Rico Hoye of Detroit, MI (20-2, 15 KO's) who lost a battle against Clinton Woods for the vacant IBF Light Heavyweight title in March of 2005.

Here is the rest of this year's "Contender" field:

Mike Alexander (Columbus, Ohio, 12-2, 8 KOs).

Felix Cora Jr. (Galveston, Texas, 18-2-2, 9 KOs).

Ryan Coyne (St. Louis, 9-0, 3 KOs).

Ehinomen "Hino" Ehikhamenor (Queens, N.Y., 12-3-0, 7 KOs).

Deon Elam (Van Nuys, Calif., 9-0-0, 5 KOs).

Alfredo Escalera Jr. (San Juan, Puerto Rico, 15-1-1, 11 KOs).

Tim Flamos (Brockton, Mass., 20-4-1, 8 KOs).

Richard Gingras (Claremont, N.H., 9-1-0, 5 KOs).

Joell Godfrey (East St. Louis, Ill., 9-0-1, 5 KOs).

Akinyemi "AK" Laleye (Las Vegas, 10-1, 5 KOs).

Troy Ross (Toronto, 17-1, 12 KOs).

Jon Schneider (Yonkers, N.Y., 7-2-1, 5 KOs).

Lawrence Tauasa (Sydney, Australia, 30-5-1, 17 KOs).

Erick Vega (Phoenix, 8-2-1, 6 KOs).


Felix Cora holds a victory over Wilson, defeating him by 10-round unanimous decision for the NABF Cruiserweight title on March 24, 2006 in Hollywood, FL. The only loss for Richard Gingras took place at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD when Gingras was stopped in the third round by Harvey Jolley on April 3 of this year.

Troy Ross is a two-time Canadian Olympian while Alfredo Escalera, Jr. is the son of the former lightweight champion of the world.

There are notable changes to the show. Because of scheduling conflicts, hall of famer Sugar Ray Leonard will not appear this year. Leonard has been replaced by TV star and former pro boxer Tony Danza. There will also be new trainers as Tommy Brooks and John Bray will step in for Pepe Correa and Buddy McGirt.

The first of the 11 scheduled episodes will air in December on the Versus network. The two-hour live finale will be on February 19.

Results From 'Fight For Life' in College Park!

Here are the results for the "Fight for Life" amateur boxing card that took place tonight at the Herbert Wells Rink in the Ellen Linson Recreation Center in College Park, MD:

50 Pounds -- eight years old -- Malcolm Lowery (Benning Park) decisioned Travieon Carpenter (Team Norfolk, Norfolk, VA)

60 Pounds -- 10 years old -- Dwayne Holmes (Keystone) dec. Nicholas Sullivan (Team Norfolk)

60 Pounds -- 9/11 years old -- Demetrius Young (Sugar Ray Leonard) dec. Keshawn Davis (Team Norfolk)

74 Pounds -- Melvin Bibbitt (Benning Park) dec. Manzo Conde (Laurel Boxing)

85 Pounds -- Carlton Gray (Dream Team) dec. Traveiar Carpenter (Team Norfolk)

95 Pounds -- 10/11 years old -- Kashif Brown (Laurel Boxing) dec. Tommy Avelar (Sugar Ray Leonard)

165 Pounds -- Brian Holland (Team Norfolk) dec. Lonnie Hayes (LA Boxing)

132 Pounds -- Daniel Carrington (Team Norfolk) dec. Malcolm Dumas (Tony's Boxing Gym)

95 Pounds -- 12/13 years old -- Jalonte Cole (Headbangers) dec. Vernon Spriggs (Benning Park)

119 Pounds -- Kashif El-Amin (Port City Boxing Club, Wilmington, NC) dec. Ceasar Rojas (Round One)

101 Pounds -- Brandon Patterson (Laurel Boxing) dec. Tavon Owens (Tony's Boxing Gym)

150 Pounds -- Chris Alexander (Team Norfolk) dec. Johnathan Williams (Benning Park)

156 Pounds -- Printice Roberts (Spartan Olympics, Richmond, VA) RSC-1 Marquette Taylor (Tony's Boxing Gym)

165 Pounds -- Robert Taylor (Tony's Boxing Gym) RSC-1 Melvin Miller (Team Norfolk)

152 Pounds -- Jimmy Romano (Annandale Boxing Club) dec. John Johnson (Laurel Boxing Club)

80 Pounds -- Greg Outlaw (Sugar Ray Leonard) dec. Lawrence Singh (Head Bangers)

Super Heavyweight -- Danny Kelly (Benning Park) dec. Kenneth Campbell (Books N Boxing, Rockville, MD)

152 Pounds -- Willie Nelson (Spartan Olympics) dec. Kenneth Brown (Keely's)

141 Pounds -- Edwin Reyes (Round One) dec. Hugh Hines (Keely's)

Congratulations to event organizer Tamara McKinney and matchmaker Julius "Juice" Gatling for a great show that raised money to fight against breast cancer. It was an honor to serve as the ring announcer for this event.

Felton Falls in Philly; Shah-Cook Added to October 18 Card in Springfield!

Stafford, VA heavyweight "The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton lost a four-round unanimous decision to Philadelphia's Anthony Gatt last night at the National Guard Armory in Philadelphia. The judge's scorecards were 38-37 (twice) and 39-37.

The loss is Felton's fourth in his last five bouts (the other was the no-contest against Askia Snyder in Glen Burnie in January) and drops his record to 5-12, five KO's. Gatt's record is 7-1-1, four KO's.

Another bout has been added to the Sugar Han Promotions/After Shock Events card on Saturday, October 18 at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA.
Centerville, VA middleweight Zain Shah will take on debuting Roy Cook of Gaithersburg in a four-round bout. Shah (1-0, one KO) has not fought since making his pro debut on February 4, 2006 at ABC. Shah scored a second-round TKO over Leo Edwards in that bout.

Jargal Wins National TV Debut in California!

Undefeated Arlington, VA welterweight Bayan Jargal won his first national TV bout as he stopped Francisco Rios Gil of Phoenix, AZ in the second round at the Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, CA.

The bout was shown on the Versus Network on the undercard of the Paul Williams-Andy Kolle bout in which Williams won by first-round KO. Jargal stopped Gil at 1:16 of the second round.

Jargal is now 8-0-1, five KO's. Gil is 12-8, nine KO's.

(Thanks to "ACW" for the tip on this one)

Samuel Edges Boyd in Ballroom Featherweight Clash!

Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A" Samuel survived a first-round knockdown to win a razor-thin, six-round split decision over DC's Ron "Teflon" Boyd in the main event of the Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Boyd dropped Samuel with a short, vicious right hand in the first minute of the first round. It also looked like Boyd knocked down Samuel with another right hand, but referee Kenny Chevalier called it a slip.

In the second half of the fight, Samuel became more aggressive, trapping Boyd in the corners, doing enough to get the close victory.

Judges John Gradowski and Malik Waleed scored the bout 57-56 for Samuel while Judge Don Risher scored it 57-56 for Boyd.

Samuel, who fought for the first time since August of 2007, raises his record to 10-2, five KO's. Boyd, who fought a full six-rounds for the first time in his pro career, fell to 5-4, two KO's.

In other bouts on the card, Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell remained undefeated with a workmanlike, six-round unanimous decision over Mike "The Millionaire" Miller of Akron, OH. This was a rematch of Mitchell's pro debut back in January and this bout showed that Mitchell has learned his craft along the way. Mitchell showed a solid jab, good conditioning and the ability to not let the crafty Miller tie him up.

Mitchell is now 6-0-1, four KO's while Miller is 5-13-2, three KO's.

Two Beltway Boxers made successful pro debuts on the card. DC middleweight Antonio Walls scored a blistering second-round TKO over Calvin "Shotgun" Aughtrey of DC. Walls landed a crushing right hand, dropping Aughtrey. Aughtrey beat the count but was in no condition to continue and the bout was stopped at 1:55 of the second round. Aughtrey is now 0-4.

Baltimore junior middleweight Cecil McCalla won a four-round unanimous decision in his pro debut over a very tough Ivan "The Iron Lion" Ziglar of Virginia Beach, VA. McCalla hit Ziglar with seemingly every combination in the book but could not put the game Ziglar away. McCalla won a 39-37 decision on all three of the judge's scorecards. Ziglar is 1-1-1, one KO.

Other bouts on the card: Bobby Jordan, Jr. of Norfolk, VA wins a six-round unanimous decision over William Jeter of Brooklyn, NY. Scores were 58-56, 59-54 and 58-55. Jeter lost one point in the final round for holding. Jordan remains undefeated at 6-0-1, two KO's. Jeter loses for the first time in his pro career and he is now 3-1, two KO's.

Detroit cruiserweight Harvey Jolley won a six-round unanimous decision over Portsmouth, VA's William "The Storm" Bailey. Jolley dropped Bailey twice in the third round and once in the sixth to earn the victory. Scores were 60-51 (twice) and 59-52. Jolley evens his record at 9-9-1, five KO's. Bailey falls to 9-15-2, five KO's.

York, PA junior welterweight Stevie Weimer needed just 30 seconds to knock out Juan Thompson of Norfolk. Weimer dropped Thompson with the very first right hand he threw and quickly finished the bout. Weimer is now 2-0, two KO's. Thompson, who fought for the first time since June of 2001, falls to 0-4.

Here is the full recap on the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #130 - Results from Featherweight Clash and More in Glen Burnie!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap a close decision in a Beltway Featherweight clash as well as the rest of the events in the latest Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD!

Washington Times Profiles 'El Guerro' Robles!

In today's Washington Times, noted columnist Thom Loverro has a very nice profile of Waynesboro, VA cruiserweight "El Guerro" Juan Carlos Robles.

If you know the backstory of Robles, then you know why the column is called "Just Hanging On By a Thread." If not, read the column, which can be found here:

"http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2008/sep/25/just-hanging-on-by-a-thread/">

Weights for Glen Burnie!

Here is the scale watch for tomorrow's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD:

Ron Boyd 131 1/2 vs. Tyrell Samuel 131 1/2

Seth Mitchell 243 vs. Mike Miller (will weigh-in tomorrow)

Antonio Walls 158 1/4 vs. Calvin Aughtrey 161 1/4

Cecil McCalla 156 1/2 vs. Ivan Zigler 155

Steve Weimer 138 3/4 vs. Juan Thompson 142 1/4

William Bailey 189 3/4 vs. Harvey Jolley 195 1/2

Bobby Jordan 171 3/4 vs. William Jeter 173 1/4

Miller is a last-minute replacement for Leo Bercier. Miller, a native of Akron, OH (5-12-2, three KO's), fought Mitchell in Mitchell's pro debut back on January 18 in Pikesville, MD and lost a four-round unanimous decision. Miller is coming off a first-round knockout of previously undefeated David Long on August 30 in Cincinnati, OH.

This card will mark the long-awaited pro debut of McCalla, a junior middleweight from Baltimore.

'The Reason' Grant Faces Veteran Wheeler November 7 in Upper Marlboro!

Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant returns to action on the Bobby Magruder Promotions card on Friday, November 7 at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD.

Grant (12-2, seven KO's) will take on veteran Maurice Wheeler of Philadelphia, PA (10-12-1, one KO) in a scheduled eight-round contest. Grant is coming off a tough eight-round unanimous decision loss to Kevin Burnett in front of a nationally-televised ESPN2 audience on June 20 in Las Vegas, NV.

Wheeler is in desperate need of a win, having dropped his last eight in a row, a streak that started with a fourth-round TKO loss to Tony Thompson in March of 2006. Wheeler has also faced tough heavyweight contenders David Tua and DaVarryl Williamson during this streak.

Derrik Holmes, Leonard Langley, 'Discombobulating' Jones Inducted Into DC Boxing Hall Of Fame!

During last night's card at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD, there was an announcement of the newest inductees into the District of Columbia Boxing Hall of Fame. There were a number of names mentioned but three caught my ear.

Former super bantamweight contender Derrik Holmes, a solid boxer in the late seventies and early eighties, who defeated former world champion Wilfredo Gomez as an amateur and unsuccessfully challenged Gomez for the WBC Super Bantamweight title on August 22, 1980. Holmes is now a trainer in the DC area who works with Shelley Seivert, among others.

Boxer and trainer Leonard Langley, who had a short in-ring career in the late seventies that included posting a draw on former world champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi in Qawi’s first pro fight. Langley became a very popular trainer who worked with some of the best Beltway-talent in the eighties and nineties, including former welterweight title contender Derrell “Too Sweet” Coley and junior welterweight contender Reggie “Showtime” Green.

Also going into the DC Boxing Hall of fame is noted ring announcer Henry “Discombobulating” Jones. A native of Rochester, NY, Jones has worked the cards in the DC, Maryland and Virginia areas for more than 20 years, becoming the very first continuously-working African-American ring announcer in the country. Jones has branched out from the Beltway scene working a number of cards around the nation and has appeared on all major TV networks where boxing has been a staple. Jones was the hand-picked ring announcer for HBO’s “KO Nation” and also worked the Thunderbox “Fistful of Dollars” heavyweight pay-per-view card.

Congratulations to all the honorees who will be celebrated during a banquet on Friday, November 21 at Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD.

Lockett Draws in Delaware!

Takoma Park, MD light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett fought to an eight-round majority draw with undefeated Chuck "The Professor" Mussachio last night at the PAL Center in Hockessin, DE. No word yet on the scores of the bout.

The draw is Lockett's fifth of his career to go with 10 wins (four by knockout) and six losses. Mussachio is 12-0-2, five KO's.

Also on the card, former Woodbridge, VA based light heavyweight Andre Hemphill, now fighting out of Philadelphia, PA, scored a third-round TKO over Richard Stewart.

Results From Maryland Sportsplex!

Here are the results from the maiden voyage Better Promotions Card in Millersville, MD:

In the main event, middleweight Shelly Seivert of Severna Park, MD survived a first-round knockdown to win a close, four-round split decision over Carinne "The Punisher" Hamlett of Mount Vernon, NY. Seivert won by scores of 38-37, 38-37, 37-38. Seivert is now 3-1, one KO while Hamlett is 0-3-1.

The co-feature saw Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker go into the fourth round for the first time in his pro career, but he was able to keep his perfect record intact with a fourth-round TKO over Carlos "The Headbanger" Jones of DC. Tucker dropped Jones in the first round, but Jones used his crafty maneuvers to hang in the bout. Finally, Tucker trapped Jones in his own corner, forcing referee Kenny Chevalier to stop the bout at 2:40 of the round. Tucker is now 5-0, five KO's while Jones falls to 6-13, four KO's.

Waynesboro, VA cruiserweight "El Guerro" Juan Carlos Robles broke a two-bout losing streak by stopping Tommy Washington, Jr. of Lansing, MI at the end of the third round. Robles improved round-by-round and pummeled Washington until Washington retired on his stool after the third round. Robles is now 10-2, five KO's while Washington is 3-6, two KO's.

Undefeated junior welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson of Fairfax, VA put on a gutsy performance in winning his first six-round contest by unanimous decision over an equally tough "Strictly Business" Mike Denby of Felton, DE. After the first four rounds, it was Wilson who finished extremely strong, picking up the pace in the final two rounds to earn the decision. All three judges scored the bout, 59-55. Wilson is now 5-0, one KO while Denby is 2-2-2, two KO's.

Columbia, MD middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter shook off the rigors of a dual role of promoter/fighter as well as a flu that landed him in a local emergency room two days before the card to win a four-round unanimous decision over Chris Cook of York, SC. Jeter was able to out-duel the very game Cook to win a shutout on two of the judges's cards. Jeter is now 6-2, five KO's. Cook falls to 3-18-1, one KO.

Bedford, VA light heavyweight Scott "Cujo" Sigmon spoiled the return of Glen Burnie, MD's Billy "The Kid" Johnson by winning a four-round majority decision. Sigmon's unorthodox style proved to be successful, especially in the middle of the bout. Sigmon is now 3-1, one KO. Johnson's record evens at 3-3, one KO.

In the opening bout, undefeated Laurel, MD lightweight Ikem "The Warrior" Orji won a tough, four-round unanimous decision over the debuting Raymondo Elliott of Baltimore. Although, Orji earned a shutout on all three judges's cards, Elliott made his presence known throughout the contest as both men traded blow-for-blow for four rounds. Orji is now 4-0, one KO.

A number of Beltway Boxers were in attendance, most of whom have bouts coming up in the near future. Both Tyrell Samuel and Ron Boyd -- who will face each other this coming Thursday night (September 25) at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie -- were at the card, as were Laurel heavyweight "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae, who is scheduled to be a part of Fight Night on Thursday, November 6 at the Washington Hilton and Towers in DC.

Also at the show were Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman, who headlines the October 3 nationally televised show at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD, DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan, who is scheduled to be on both the October 18 card at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA and the November 7 card at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD, Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall, who not only is scheduled to be a part of the next Ballroom Boxing card on November 20, but also is promoting an amateur card at the Maryland Sportsplex on Saturday, October 11, and Baltimore light heavyweight Willie "For Real" Williams, who might take a bout in Chicago in the next month.

But the highlight of the intermission was the dual appearances of George "War Time" Rivera and Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow who used an in-ring staredown to publicize their November 1 rematch at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.

A great maiden voyage for Better Promotions, who teamed with matchmaker Joe Hensley to put together a solid show that drew a good crowd.


Here is the full BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up on this card:


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #129 - Results From Millersville, MD!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap a competitive Better Promotions card from the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD!

Weights From Millersville!

Here is the scale watch for tomorrow's Better Promotions card at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD:

Todd Wilson 140 vs. Mike Denby 142

Mark Tucker 176 3/4 vs. Carlos Jones 178 1/4

Shelley Seivert 161 vs. Carinne Hamlett 156 1/2

Ikem Orji 134 1/2 vs. Raymondo Elliott 133 1/4

Tony Jeter 163 1/4 vs. Chris Cook 157

Billy Johnson 174 1/4 vs. Scott Sigmon 175

Juan Carlos Robles 197 3/4 vs. Tommy Washington, Jr. 214

Nicklow-Rivera Rematch Set for November 1 in Fairfax, VA!

After weeks of negotiations, the rematch between Baltimore, MD middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and Charlottsville, VA's George "Wartime" Rivera has been signed!

The bout will take place as an eight-round co-feature on the ICE Promotions (headed by Jackie Kallen) card on Saturday, November 1 at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.

Nicklow won a controversial eight-round unanimous decision over Rivera in the first bout on September 5 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. The victory came despite Rivera knocking down Nicklow twice in the final round.

This bout joins a card that is shaping up to be a good one with the return of Jimmy Lange and another rematch between Jaime Palma and Dean White.

Ballroom Card Complete for Sept. 25!

The card for the 15th season premiere of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD on Thursday, September 25 is complete.

In addition to the already announced six-round matchups between Beltway featherweights Ron "Teflon" Boyd and Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A" Samuel and out-of-town cruiserweights Harvey "Candy Man" Jolly and William "The Storm" Bailey, there are six more bouts scheduled.

There is now an opponent for undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell's (5-0-1, four KO's) first six-round contest. His name is Leo Bercier of Great Falls, MT (5-7-1, four KO's.) Bercier is coming off a four-round majority decision loss to Jamiah Williamson on September 13 in Tacoma, WA.

DC middleweight Antonio Walls will make his pro debut against fellow DC boxer Calvin "Shotgun" Aughtrey (0-2) in a four-rounder. Aughtrey fought on the September 5 card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore and lost a four-round unanimous decision to Keith Gross.

Windsor Mill, MD middleweight Julius Kennedy will take on Virginia Beach, VA's Ivan Ziglar in a four-round encounter. Kennedy (2-1, one KO) won a four-round unanimous decision over Inka Laleye on July 26 in York, PA. Ziglar (1-0-1, one KO) is coming off a first-round TKO over Shelton Barnes on March 14 in Norfolk, VA.

In what should be a nice out-of-town matchup of young undefeated light heavyweights, Bobby Jordan, Jr. of Norfolk, VA will battle William Jeter of Brooklyn, NY in a six-round contest. Jordan (5-0-1, two KO's) won an eight-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett on August 16 in Portsmouth, VA. Jeter (3-0, two KO's) is coming off a third-round TKO over Pete Guthy on September 12 in Philadelphia, PA.

There will also be a matchup of debuting fighters as Christian Martinez of Brooklyn takes on John Locklear of North Carolina. Also Stevie Weimer of York, PA (1-0-1, one KO) participates in a welterweight matchup against Juan Thompson of Norfolk, VA (0-3).

Wilson, Tucker, Robles, Jeter All Have Opponents for Friday Night in Millersville!

Opponents have been found for four of the top boxers on the Better Promotions card on Friday, September 19 at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD.

In one of the six-round feature bouts, undefeated Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson (4-0, one KO) will battle Mike Denby of Felton, DE (2-1-2, two KO's).

Another six-round bout matches undefeated light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker of Eldersburg, MD (4-0, four first-round KO's) against veteran Carlos "Headbanger" Jones of DC (6-12, four KO's).

Waynesboro, VA cruiserweight "El Guerro" Juan Carlos Robles has been placed back on the show. Robles (9-2, four KO's) will take on Tommy Washington, Jr. of Lansing, MI (3-5, two KO's) in yet another six-rounder.

Also on the show will be Columbia, MD middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter (5-2, five KO's) who will take on Chris "Short Order" Cook of York, SC (3-14-1, one KO) in a four-round contest.

Undefeated Laurel, MD lightweight Ikem "The Warrior" Orji (3-0, one KO) will take on the debuting Raymondo Elliott of Maryland.

As mentioned earlier, Severna Park, MD middleweight Shelly Seivert (2-1, one KO will go up against Carinne Hamlett of Mount Vernon, NY (0-2-1) in a four-round contest. And Billy Johnson, a middleweight from Baltimore (3-2, one KO) will return from an almost four-year absence to face Scott "Cujo" Sigmon of Bedford, VA (2-1, one KO).

'Pit Bull' Sturm Elected to Anne Arundel Sports Hall of Fame!

Congratulations to Glen Burnie, MD resident Chuck "Pit Bull" Sturm -- one of the newest inductees into the Anne Arundel County Sports Hall of Fame.

Before Sturm became a pro boxer, he made his name as a wrestler while at Old Mill High School in Millersville, MD. Sturm won two state championships and had a record of 103-9-2.

Sturm was 68-9 as an amateur boxer before turning pro in 1985 at the age of 21 as a lightweight, junior welterweight and welterweight. Sturm became one of the more popular boxers on the Baltimore side of the Beltway, compiling a record of 33-5-2, 11KO's from 1985-1998. Sturm fought for the IBO lightweight title in 1993, losing by 11th round KO to Anthony Boyle in Aspen, CO.

The hall of fame induction ceremony will be on Wednesday, October 15 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie -- a city where Sturm was undefeated as a pro (13-0-1, two KO's).

Kay Koroma Wins in China!

Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Kay Koroma remained undefeated with a second-round TKO over Bai Hang in Chengdu, China yesterday. The bout was stopped at 2:32 of the second.

The win raises Koroma's record to 4-0, three KO's.

After starting his career in Virginia, Koroma is becoming a world traveler. His next bout is scheduled to be a 12-round contest against John Chibuta (8-2, one KO) in Chibuta's home country of Zambia on October 4. The bout is for the Global Boxing Union middleweight title, which means Koroma will come up in weight for the contest.

Historic Amateur Footage Shown on DCAmateurBoxing.blogspot.com!

The best site I know of to see vintage footage of Beltway and internationally-known amateur boxers is on the website DC Amateur Boxing at www.dcboxing.blogspot.com.

Right now, the website is showing bouts from the 2001 and 2002 Platinum Gloves Tournament that was held at the old Washington Convention Center. There are some great bouts featuring boxers who are either top-flight amateurs or young pros today.

One bout in particular was a 2001 bout between Gary Russell, Jr. and Sadam Ali in the 12/13 age bracket and the 80-pound division.

Seven years later, Russell and Ali would be teammates on the 2008 United States Olympic Team.

I had the honor of calling the action on most of these videos with "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway doing the color commentary.

ShoBox Card in Salisbury A Done Deal in October!

It is now official. There will be a nationally-televised card coming to the Wicomico Youth And Civic Center in Salisbury, MD on Friday, October 3. The two televised bouts will feature all undefeated boxers.

The card will be a ShoBox card on the Showtime Network. In fact, the card is called "It's Showtime in Salisbury." The card is a tri-promotion with Prize Fight Boxing, Duva Boxing and Baltimore Pro Boxing.

The main event features the return of Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman who will take on James "The King" De La Rosa of Harligen, TX in a 10-round matchup. Coleman (14-0-1, three KO's) has not fought since December 7, 2007 when he battled Martinus Clay to a 10-round draw at the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD. De La Rosa (17-0, 12 KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision win over Troy Wilson on June 13 in Scranton, PA. De La Rosa is the younger brother of "The Contender -- Season 1" participant Juan De La Rosa.

The co-feature marks the first pro appearance for Salisbury resident Fernando Guerrero, who will try to keep his perfect record (9-0, nine KO's) in an eight-round contest against Tyrone "T.T" Watson of Pittsburgh, PA (7-0, three KO's. Guerrero stopped Fernando Barajas in the fourth-round on July 26 in Tunica, MS. Watson won by fourth-round TKO over Ken Johnson on July 20th in Greensboro. Prior to that win, Watson defeated previously undefeated Dyah Davis by sixth-round majority decision. Davis was 9-0 at the time of the loss.

Good step-up bout for both men because neither man has fought in a scheduled eight-round contest.

Normally, I don't talk a lot about ticket prices, but I think this is a rare and a good deal. From now until midnight on Sunday (early Monday morning), the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center is offering an internet-only presale for the card. Here's what you do:

Go on to the web site for the civic center (Wicomicociviccenter.org)

Click on "Tickets"

Type in the pre-sale code "BoxingO8"

And then purchase your tickets at 20 percent off the regular price before the tickets officially go on sale Monday at the box office.

Also if you have a high school or college student ID or a Veterans ID, tickets are 20 percent off no matter when you purchase your tickets.


The card will begin at 8 PM.

Update On October 18 Springfield, VA Card!

The Saturday, October 18 card co-promoted by Sugar Han Promotions and After Shock Events at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA is starting to take shape.

The main event will be a battle for the NABC United States Middleweight title between John "No Mercy" Mackey of Montgomery, AL (10-1, four KO's) and Jesse Williams of Youngstown, OH (4-7-1, two KO's).

In a co-feature bout, Woodbridge, VA super bantamweight Andre "Clockwork" Nichols (3-3, two KO's) will take on Baltimore's Darrell Martin (2-6) in a six-round bout. Nichols was slated to fight on the September 27 card in Norfolk, VA, but that card has been postponed. (Our condolences to promoter Al Mills, who suffered losses in his family).

By the way, Martin saw his losing streak go to five in a row tonight in Philadelphia, PA as he lost a four-round unanimous decision to debuting hometown boxer Derek Bivins at the Legendary Blue Horizon. All three judges said Bivins pitched a shutout, 40-36.

Also participating in the Springfield show will be rookie junior middleweight Lenwood "Mr. Composure" Dozier of Glen Burnie, MD. The undefeated Dozier (2-0-1, two KO's) will take on the returning Pernell Jackson of DC (1-3-1, one KO) in a four-round contest. Jackson has not fought since July of 2007 when he was stopped in Reno, Nevada by Mike Peralta in the second round.

Also on the card will be undefeated DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan (4-0, three KO's) who will face Front Royal, VA's Robert Monroe (0-3) in another four-rounder.

Caroline, VA cruiserweight Adam "The Real Deal" Seal also will appear on this card. Seal (3-1, two KO's) takes on Shawn "The Gentleman" Dismuke (0-4) of Oklahoma City, OK in a four-round contest.

Other bouts will include Norman "The Shadow" Allen of Laurel, MD (4-1, three KO's) battling Tolan "The Technician" Tascoe of Newark, NJ (1-1) in a four-rounder. Also Tracey Brewer of Arlington, VA (2-0, one KO) is slated to be on the card.

Beltway Boxers Head to Norfolk September 27!

Boxing returns to the Norfolk Masonic Lodge in Norfolk, VA on Saturday, November 27 and a few Beltway Boxers as well as others familiar to the area will be involved.

Woodbridge, VA super bantamweight Andre "Clockwork" Nichols (3-3, two KO's) will be in the co-feature bout, taking on Ernest Scott of Norfolk (0-6) in the six-round co-feature.

Maryland bantamweight Benjamin Borteye (1-0) will battle James Franks of Newport News, VA (2-5-1, two KO's) in a four-round contest.

Baltimore rookie junior middleweight James Stevenson (1-0, one KO) is scheduled to take on David Novia of Roanoke in a four-round bout, just eight days after he is slated to appear on the card at the Maryland Sportplex in Millersville.

The main event will be a six-round contest between "The Pride of Portsmouth" Dorin Spivey (35-5, 28 KO's) vs. Joseph Figueroa (9-49-5, three KO's) of Brooklyn, NY.

The bout of the night could be the four-round contest between Edward "Nuckie" Anderson of Richmond, VA (4-13, three KO's) and Doel Carrasquillo of Lancaster, PA (12-8-1, 10 KO's). Both of these boxers are tough guys.

The card is promoted by Pick Your Fight Promotions of Norfolk, VA. The matchmaker is Asim Hanif.

Thompson Appeal Denied by DC Commission; Arvin Victory Upheld!

The District of Columbia Boxing and Wrestling Commission has denied the appeal of Anthony "The Messenger" Thompson of Philadelphia in his August 15 nationally-televised bout against Baltimore's Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin that took place at Ibiza Nightclub in DC.

Citing the evidence shown through the ESPN2 Friday Night Fights cameras, Thompson's cut over his left eye was the result of an accidental headbutt and not a punch, the Thompson camp claimed the bout should have gone to the scorecards, which would have meant a victory for their fighter.

The DC Commission saw it differently and upheld Arvin's victory, deferring to the International Boxing Organization (IBO) because that sanctioning body oversaw the USBO Junior Middleweight title bout.

The IBO recently acknowledged Arvin's victory, but would not give him the title that goes with it.

Barnett Scores Sixth-Round TKO in San Jose!

DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett remained undefeated with a sixth-round TKO over Jose Leonardo Cruz last night in the main event at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA.

According to Aron Glatzer of the San Jose Mercury News, Barnett got off to a slow start but picked things up in the fourth round, using jabs and body shots.

Barnett (15-0-1, 11 KOs) finally reaped the rewards of his assault on the body. Midway through the sixth round he brought Cruz (12-4-2, eight KO's) in close before landing a right-upper cut followed by a left hook. Barnett, 25, knocked Cruz down with a similar combination moments later.

Barnett pounded Cruz on the ropes before the fight was called. Cruz simply couldn't withstand the pounding.

Barnett Back On Card in San Jose Tonight!

Apparently, undefeated junior welterweight Ty Barnett will indeed headline tonight's card at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA.

Barnett (14-0-1, 10 KO's) will take on Jose Leonardo Cruz of Barranquilla, Colombia (12-3-2, eight KO's) in an eight-round contest.

Lange Faces 'Wiley' Veteran November 1 at the Patriot Center!

Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange will battle veteran Grover Wiley of Omaha, Nebraska in a scheduled 10-round main event at the George Mason University Patriot Center on Saturday, November 1.

Lange (28-3-2, 20 KO's) is coming off the eight-round technical knockout win over Fontaine Cabell on May 12, 2007 at the Patriot Center. Wiley (30-11-1, 14 KO's) has lost his last five and six of his last seven against opponents with a combined record of 249-13-4. Wiley's best known for ending the career of the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez. Wiley stopped Chavez in the fifth round on September 17, 2005 in Phoenix, AZ. Ironically, one of Wiley's six recent losses came at the hands of Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr., who stopped his father's conqueror in the third round on June 9, 2007 in New York City.

Another bout signed for this card matches two former Lange opponents. The aforementioned Fontaine "The Flame" Cabell of Orlando, FL will take on Chad "Taz" Greenleaf of Parkesburg, WVA in an eight-round contest.

Cabell (22-8-2, 17 KO's) is coming off a fourth-round technical knockout loss to Freddy Curiel on October 16 in Carson, CA. Greenleaf (10-10-1, four KO's) suffered a third-round knockout loss to Jessie Nicklow in his last outing on April 18 in Pikesville, MD.

Both men suffered losses to Lange during their careers. Cabell drew with Lange in a 12-round bout for the WBC Continental Americas Junior Middleweight title on December 9, 2006 at the Patriot Center, then lost the rematch. Greenleaf lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Lange on May 10, 2003 at the DC Armory.

As mentioned first on BATB, the rematch between Alexandria's Jaime "The Punisher" Palma and Dean "Pit Bull" White of Smithsburg, MD will also be part of this card.

Samuel-Boyd Highlights Ballroom Card September 25!

An interesting Beltway matchup of featherweights will be the main event on the 15th season premiere of Ballroom Boxing on Thursday, September 25 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock 'A" Samuel will battle DC's Ron "Teflon" Boyd in a scheduled six-round encounter. Samuel (9-2, five KO's) has not fought since August 3, 2007 when he lost a nationally televised bout to Eric Hunter by eight-round unanimous decision. Samuel has had some health issues which apparently have been cleared up. Boyd (5-3, two KO's) last fought on October 26, 2007 when he was stopped in the third round by Eloy Perez in Monterey, CA.

The card will also feature the first scheduled six-round contest in the career of Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell (5-0-1, four KO's). No word yet on who Mitchell's opponent will be.

Also, DC middleweight Antonio Walls will make his pro debut.

There will also be an interesting out-of-town matchup featuring two guys who have won impressive bouts against Beltway Boxers in recent times. Harvey "Candy Man" Jolley of Adrian, MI will take on William "The Storm" Bailey of Portsmouth, VA in a scheduled six-rounder. Jolley (8-9-1, five KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Jonathan Felton in his last appearance at Michael's on May 29. Bailey's last outing was a six-round unanimous decision victory over Juan Carlos Robles on August 16 in Portsmouth.

Four more bouts are scheduled for the card.

'Untouchable' Vinson Slated For Return in Connecticut September 27!

Olympic bronze medalist Clarence "Untouchable" Vinson of DC is slated for a return to action on Saturday, September 27 at the Harbor Yard Arena in Bridgeport, CT.

Vinson (16-2, seven KO's) has not fought since winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Robert Da Luz on June 23, 2007 at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium in DC. The bout was for a regional title, but Vinson came in over the bantamweight limit and could not claim the belt.

Vinson is scheduled to fight as a super bantamweight for this six-round encounter against an opponent to be named.

'The Prophet' Lockett Faces 'The Professor' Mussachio in Delaware September 19!

Takoma Park, MD light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett will try to stop the undefeated streak of Wildwood, NJ's Chuck "The Professor" Mussachio in a scheduled eight-round contest on Friday, September 19 at the PAL Center in Hockessin, DE.

Lockett (10-6-4, four KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak, including an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Bobby Jordan on August 16 in Portsmouth, VA. Mussachio (12-0-1, five KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Richard Stewart on July 18 in Philadelphia.

Major Beltway Schedule Update!

Over the last 12 hours, I have been bombarded with news about the fall Beltway Boxing Schedule. There are a number of changes and additions to the schedule which means we will be VERY busy in the next few months.

Here is where we stand at this moment:


First, a couple of out-of-town situations:

Undefeated DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett apparently is no longer on the September 11 card at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA. Barnett (14-0-1, 10 KO's) does not appear on Boxrec's listing for this bout.

Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant is off the Nate Campbell-Joan Guzman undercard in Biloxi, MS on Saturday, September 13. Monetary issues were the reasons given to me as to why Grant (12-2, seven KO's) is off the card.

Baltimore lightweight Darrell Martin is slated to be on a card on Friday, September 12 at the Legendary Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, PA. Martin (2-5) will take on the debuting Derek Bivins of Philadelphia in a four-round contest.


Our next Beltway stop will be the maiden voyage for Better Promotions on Friday, September 19 at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD. There are some interesting changes to this card.

It looks like "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal may not be on this card after all for a combination of reasons. Sources have told me that the undefeated junior welterweight from Arlington has been working in the training camp of WBO Welterweight champ Paul "The Punisher" Williams. Jargal has been so impressive in camp that the trainers won't let him leave! Jargal apparently has been compensated very well for his work down there also. The other aspect has been a disagreement with the length of the bout with Carlos Cisneros as to whether it should be a six- or eight-round contest. So, barring any last-minute changes, Jargal will probably not be on this card.

I can also now tell you the reason why Waynesboro, VA cruiserweight Juan Carlos Robles will not be on the card. Robles, as some of you probably surmised, was in the running for the new season of "The Contender." Robles was in the semi-final 18 that went to Los Angeles for the final interview. Unfortunately, Robles did not make the final cut of 16 to go to Singapore for the start of the season four taping.

As to those who will be on the card: Tony "Mo Better" Jeter, Shelly Seivert and Mark "TNT" Tucker.

Ballroom Boxing returns for its 15th season on Thursday, September 25th at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. No word yet as to who will be on the card.

There is also slated to be a Major Heavy Hitters-promoted card slated for either Wednesday, September 17 or Wednesday, September 24. The card will be back at the Ibiza Nightclub in DC.

Now let's move to October. I was not originally going to talk about this card, but since it has already been mentioned on some boxing websites, I will tell you what I know.

There is a card slated for Friday, October 3 at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD. Reports have told me that this will be a tri-promotion between Prize Fight Boxing, Duva Boxing and Baltimore Pro Boxing. Let me emphasize that the card has NOT been etched in stone yet. There are still some details to work out with the Maryland State Athletic Commission.

If everything holds together, this will be a nationally televised (ShoBox) card that will feature the return of undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman as well as undefeated rookie middleweight Fernando Guerrero, who will be fighting in his hometown for the first time as a pro.

Once again, however, this card is not a done deal yet.

Northern Virginia gets back into the mix with a card at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA on Saturday, October 18. This is a co-promotion with Sugar Han Promotions and After Shock Events. Scheduled to be on this card are Andre "Clockwork" Nichols, Tracey Brewer, Norman "The Shadow" Allen and Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker. Also John "No Mercy" Mackey will headline the card, fighting in a North American Boxing Council middleweight title bout.

Then on Thursday, October 30, it's the benefit boxing card for the Jonathan Ogden Foundation at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD. No word yet as to who will be on the card.

Now we move to November, where there are already some interesting fights lined up.

We already know that Saturday, November 1 will mark the return of Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange to the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. No word yet as to whom the opponent will be for Lange.

However, one bout has been signed for this card. This will be a lightweight rematch between Alexandria, VA's Jaime "The Punisher" Palma and Dean "Pitbull" White of Smithsburg, MD. Palma defeated White by eight-round unanimous decision on September 15, 2007 in Springfield, VA for the Virginia State Lightweight title. Neither man has won since. Palma (13-12-1, three KO's) has lost two in a row while White (14-9-1, seven KO's) lost his last bout at Fight Night in DC in November of 2007.

Speaking of Fight Night, the benefit Fight For Children card will be on Thursday, November 6 at the Washington Hilton and Towers in DC.. I have been told that there is one bout already signed for this card and it, too, will be a rematch. "The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder will battle John "No Mercy" Mackey. The last time these two met was in front of a nationally televised ESPN2 bout on June 13 in Scranton, PA. Snyder (7-3, three KO's)won a four-round majority decision, knocking Mackey (10-1, four KO's) down in the final round and giving Mackey his first pro loss.

The very next night -- Friday, November 7 -- marks the return of boxing to the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD. This will be a card promoted by the "Don King of Southern Maryland," Bobby Magruder. No word yet on who will be on the card.

Four more cards are slated for November, but the only ones that have definite dates are the Better Promotions card on Friday, November 14 at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville and the Baltimore Pro Boxing card on Wednesday, November 26 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. Ballroom Boxing has a card slated for November as does Babie Girl Productions at the DC Armory, which is slated to be a "Triple Threat" card featuring pro and amateur boxing as well as mixed martial arts.

Get ready for a busy fall!

Brown Wins; Attah Gets Stopped!

Baltimore heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown broke a three-bout losing streak by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Plainfield, NJ's Terrell Nelson last night at Bally's Event Center in Atlantic City, NJ.

Brown won 58-56 on all three judge's scorecards. The win raises his record to 6-4-2, three KO's. Nelson falls to 8-6, five KO's.

In Albuquerque, NM, veteran DC super featherweight Daniel "The Prophet" Attah was stopped in the fourth round by undefeated prospect Urbano Antillon at the Isleta Casino. According to Fightnews.com, Attah took a knee in the third and fourth round, staying down in the fourth. The bout was stopped at 1:13 of the round. Attah is now 24-5-1, eight KO's while Antillon remained undefeated at 24-0, 17 KO's.

Nicklow Wins Wild Unanimous Decision Over Rivera in Baltimore!

In a bout that featured a final-round that will go down as one of the most incredible in recent Beltway Boxing history, Baltimore junior middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow captured an eight-round unanimous decision over George "War Time" Rivera at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.

Prior to the final round, this was a dominating performance by Nicklow. The undefeated 21-year-old was in complete control of the contest, using very effective inside work to break Rivera down. Nicklow scored a knockdown in the fourth with a beautiful uppercut to the body. Nicklow's continued good work inside forced Rivera to grab and hold, which led to referee Kenny Chevalier taking a point away from Rivera in the sixth round.

As the eighth round began, Chevalier sent both men back to their corners to get a fair start. The bell rang but Rivera was still heading to his corner and had his back partially turned to Nicklow. Nicklow ran across and clocked Rivera, knocking him down. Chevalier did not rule an official knockdown, but the hit seemed to wake up Rivera and set off a small melee that caused arena security to rush in.

Once security cleared the ring, the bout resumed, but it was Rivera that did the charging, catching Nicklow with solid shots that dropped him to the canvas, not once but twice. After the second knockdown, Chevalier halted the action, and after a long period of time, found that Rivera's mouthpiece had been missing. The bout was stopped again later in the round because of a cut in the middle of Rivera's forehead. After the round resumed, Nicklow hung on for the victory.

Judges John Gradowski and Malik Waleed scored the bout 75-73 while Judge Joe Ware saw the bout 77-72. The BATB score saw Nicklow winning, 76-73.

With the victory, Nicklow is now 19-0-1, seven KO's. Rivera loses his second straight and falls to 8-2, three KO's.

The co-feature saw Baltimore welterweight James Stephenson make his pro debut a successful one with a third-round KO over Cambridge, MD's Dontre King. Stephenson kept King on his bicycle all throughout the bout before landing two body shots that dropped King to one knee after each shot. King could not beat referee Waleed's 10-count and the bout was stopped at 1:45 of the third. King's record falls to 1-2.

Debuting Beltway heavyweights "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae of Laurel, MD and Hannibal Otey of Baltimore met in a solid clash where both men took and gave good shots. In the end, it was McRae who was able to overpower Otey and stop him at 2:42 of the fourth round.

In a rematch of a June bout at Du Burns, cruiserweight Robert "Mac Attack" McConnell of Ellicott City, MD lost a four-round unanimous decision to Octavius Davis of Wilson, NC. Davis dropped McConnell twice en route to the revenge victory. McConnell is now 1-2 while Davis is 2-1-1, one KO.

The opening bout saw Lusby, MD rookie middleweight Keith Gross win a four-round unanimous decision over Calvin "Shotgun" Aughtry of DC. Gross is 2-0, one KO while Aughtry is 0-2.

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I was unable to put together a Post-Fight Wrap-Up show. So, here are my thoughts.

While the clocking of George Rivera by Jessie Nicklow while Rivera's back was turned was not the most sportsmanlike thing to do, Nicklow was within his rights to do it. The bell did ring. Referee Kenny Chevalier called the boxers to box. Why Rivera was still headed to his corner at that point was beyond me.

As far as the delay after the second time Nicklow was dropped..I have no answer for that. I don't know what happened. It was a very inordinate amount of time between the knockdown and the restart of the bout. That is something that needs to be reviewed post haste.

Both men deserve a lot of credit. Nicklow, for putting on one of his most dominating performances for six rounds. Rivera, for surviving the onslaught and almost pulling out a victory. A rematch is probably in order, although it should ONLY happen in front of a national television audience with something even bigger on the line.

Solid pro debuts tonight from James Stephenson, Dwayne McRae and, in defeat, Hannibal Otey. There is some solid promise from all of them and they will be heard from in the future.

Robert McConnell had a boatload of chances to put away Octavius Davis and just couldn't get it done. Davis was extremely awkward but unlike the first bout in June, Davis was able to use that awkwardness to his advantage.

Keith Gross looked very nice against a very game Calvin Aughtry.

Very competitive card put on by Baltimore Pro Boxing.


Look for a MAJOR schedule update on Saturday which will lay out what will be a very busy and prominent fall Beltway Boxing season.

Weights from Albuquerque & Atlantic City!

DC-based super featherweight Daniel "The Prophet" Attah weighed in at 130 pounds for the his nationally televised (Telefutura) 12-round bout against undefeated Urbano Antillon tomorrow night at the Isleta Casino in Albuquerque, NM.

Antillon had a very difficult time hitting the 130-pound weight limit, coming in as high as 132 pounds. After three tries, Antillon came in in at 129 3/4.

The bout will be for both the NABF and NABO Super Featherweight titles. The telecast begins at 8 PM ET.

In Atlantic City, Baltimore heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown weighed in at 259 pounds for his six-round contest against Terrell Nelson at Bally's Event Center. Nelson came in at an even-heftier 263 pounds.

This bout will be shown on www.gofightlive.tv. The card begins at 8 PM ET.

Weights From Baltimore!

Here is the scale watch for tomorrow night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore:

George Rivera 152 ¾ vs. Jesse Nicklow 155

Dwayne McRae 243 1/2 vs. Hannibal Otey 214 ¾

Keith Gross 163 vs. Calvin Aughtry 163

Robert McConnell 200 1/2 vs. Octavius Davis 201

James Stevenson 145 ¼ vs. Dontre King (will weigh in Friday)

Brown in Action in September!

A Baltimore heavyweight will be trying to change his fortune tomorrow night in Atlantic City.

Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown will take on Terrell "Baby Bull" Nelson of Plainfield, NJ in a scheduled six-round contest at the Bally's Event Center.

After losing only once in his first eight bouts, Brown (5-4-2, three KO's) has lost his last three. Nelson (8-5, five KO's) will be participating in his fourth bout since returning to the ring after a 10-year absence.

The bout -- as well as the entire card -- will be broadcast live and free on www.gofightlive.tv.