Laurel, MD welterweight Norman "The Shadow" Allen lost by first-round stoppage tonight to unbeaten Ronald Cruz at the Soverign Center in Reading, PA.
Cruz pounded Allen against the ropes until the referee stopped the contest right at the end of the round.
Allen is now 6-2, three KO's while Allen is 5-0, three KO's.
"The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton of Stafford, VA lost a four-round unanimous decision to Craig Tomlinson in a heavyweight contest. All three judges scored the bout 40-36. Felton is now 6-15, five KO's while Tomlinson, who returned to the ring for the first time in five years, is now 24-15-1, 13 KO's.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Allen, Felton Hit the Scales in Reading, PA!
Beltway Boxers Norman "The Shadow" Allen and "The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton weighed in yesterday for tonight's "Pain on Penn Street" card in Reading, PA.
Allen tipped the scales at 141 pounds for his four-round contest against Ronald Cruz, who weighed in at 143 pounds.
Felton weighed in at 229 pounds for his six-round contest with Craig Tomlinson, who also weighed 229.
Allen tipped the scales at 141 pounds for his four-round contest against Ronald Cruz, who weighed in at 143 pounds.
Felton weighed in at 229 pounds for his six-round contest with Craig Tomlinson, who also weighed 229.
Cummings Stops Davis to Win Maryland Title!
Baltimore's Cory "Black Ice" Cummings overcame mounting adversity to score a ninth-round TKO and capture the Maryland State Super Middleweight title over Demetrius Davis of Clinton at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.
Cummings did not get a minute out of the first round before the two veteran warriors clashed heads, causing a gash over Cummings's right eye. In the eighth round the two clashed heads again, causing a cut on his left eye.
While the ringside physicians were closely examining the cut in the corner after almost every round, Davis was showing superb ring generalship, switching from conventional to southpaw and showing slick veteran tricks.
Sensing urgency, Cummings quickly picked up the pace and landed some hard shots in the last minute of the eighth round. Davis was still boxing well but Cummings was shortening the distance and Davis was starting to trade more with the powerful Cummings.
In the ninth, Cummings caught Davis coming in with a right hook that dropped him. Davis beat referee Gary Camponeschi's 10-count but was deemed unfit to continue. The bout was stopped at 1:45 of the ninth.
Cummings is now 17-4, 13 KO's while Davis falls t0 19-15-5, seven KO's.
In the co-feature, Baltimore's James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson went the distance in a bout for the first time in his pro career but managed to remain undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Manuel Guzman of Lancaster, PA.
Early on in the bout, Stevenson fought well at a distance and worked to give Guzman different angles. But the native of Puerto Rico managed to do well and, at times, draw Stevenson into a close quarter, phone-booth bout. Stevenson showed he was able to adapt during the bout and went on to victory in the only bout on the card that went the distance. Judge Gary Camponeschi said Stevenson pitched a shutout, 80-72. Judge Don Risher saw the bout 79-73 and Dave Greer matched the BATB scorecard at 78-74.
Stevenson is now 9-0, eight KO's while Guzman falls to 6-7-1, two KO's.
Other results:
Baltimore's Steve "The Show Stealer" Wheeler won by third round TKO over Winchester, VA's Dan Shullin a cruiserweight contest. The bout was stopped at 1:03 of the third. Wheeler is now 2-0, one KO while Shull is 1-6.
Heavyweight Maurice "The Freight Train" Byarm of DC scored a second-round TKO over Darius Whitson of Winston-Salem, NC. The bout was stopped at 2:55 of the second. Byarm rises to 2-0, two KO's while Whitson is now even at 1-1.
Barry Trotter of Columbia, MD won by TKO at the end of the first round over Baltimore's Justin Blackwell when Blackwell could not answer the bell for the second round due to a hand injury. Both men were making their pro debuts in the junior middleweight contest.
The promoter was Baltimore Pro Boxing. The matchmaker was Josh Hall.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show giving full coverage of this card.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #169 - Full Report on Maryland super Middleweight Title Clash!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I discuss the Baltimore Pro Boxing card from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, including the two title bouts. East Coast Junior Middleweight champ James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson joins us to discuss his title win.
And here is an extra interview with new Maryland State titleholder Cory Cummings.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #170 - Cummings Discusses Maryland Title Victory!
Newly-crowned Maryland State Super Middleweight titleholder Cory "Black Ice" Cummings talks to BATB about his thrilling ninth-round TKO title win over Demetrius Davis.
To see some great photos from the Cummings-Davis bout taken by Mike Greenhill, go to my Fightnews.com story here:
"http://www.fightnews.com/?p=12508#more-12508"
Cummings did not get a minute out of the first round before the two veteran warriors clashed heads, causing a gash over Cummings's right eye. In the eighth round the two clashed heads again, causing a cut on his left eye.
While the ringside physicians were closely examining the cut in the corner after almost every round, Davis was showing superb ring generalship, switching from conventional to southpaw and showing slick veteran tricks.
Sensing urgency, Cummings quickly picked up the pace and landed some hard shots in the last minute of the eighth round. Davis was still boxing well but Cummings was shortening the distance and Davis was starting to trade more with the powerful Cummings.
In the ninth, Cummings caught Davis coming in with a right hook that dropped him. Davis beat referee Gary Camponeschi's 10-count but was deemed unfit to continue. The bout was stopped at 1:45 of the ninth.
Cummings is now 17-4, 13 KO's while Davis falls t0 19-15-5, seven KO's.
In the co-feature, Baltimore's James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson went the distance in a bout for the first time in his pro career but managed to remain undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Manuel Guzman of Lancaster, PA.
Early on in the bout, Stevenson fought well at a distance and worked to give Guzman different angles. But the native of Puerto Rico managed to do well and, at times, draw Stevenson into a close quarter, phone-booth bout. Stevenson showed he was able to adapt during the bout and went on to victory in the only bout on the card that went the distance. Judge Gary Camponeschi said Stevenson pitched a shutout, 80-72. Judge Don Risher saw the bout 79-73 and Dave Greer matched the BATB scorecard at 78-74.
Stevenson is now 9-0, eight KO's while Guzman falls to 6-7-1, two KO's.
Other results:
Baltimore's Steve "The Show Stealer" Wheeler won by third round TKO over Winchester, VA's Dan Shullin a cruiserweight contest. The bout was stopped at 1:03 of the third. Wheeler is now 2-0, one KO while Shull is 1-6.
Heavyweight Maurice "The Freight Train" Byarm of DC scored a second-round TKO over Darius Whitson of Winston-Salem, NC. The bout was stopped at 2:55 of the second. Byarm rises to 2-0, two KO's while Whitson is now even at 1-1.
Barry Trotter of Columbia, MD won by TKO at the end of the first round over Baltimore's Justin Blackwell when Blackwell could not answer the bell for the second round due to a hand injury. Both men were making their pro debuts in the junior middleweight contest.
The promoter was Baltimore Pro Boxing. The matchmaker was Josh Hall.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show giving full coverage of this card.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #169 - Full Report on Maryland super Middleweight Title Clash!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I discuss the Baltimore Pro Boxing card from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, including the two title bouts. East Coast Junior Middleweight champ James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson joins us to discuss his title win.
And here is an extra interview with new Maryland State titleholder Cory Cummings.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #170 - Cummings Discusses Maryland Title Victory!
Newly-crowned Maryland State Super Middleweight titleholder Cory "Black Ice" Cummings talks to BATB about his thrilling ninth-round TKO title win over Demetrius Davis.
To see some great photos from the Cummings-Davis bout taken by Mike Greenhill, go to my Fightnews.com story here:
"http://www.fightnews.com/?p=12508#more-12508"
Friday, May 29, 2009
Rawlings Profiled in Washington Post!
More deserved recognition for DC-area boxing official Curtis Rawlings. The long-time timekeeper and inspector is the subject of a very nice article and video package by Les Carpenter of the Washington Post.
Please take a moment to read and watch this story, part of a Post series called "Our Lives Through Sport." Here's the link:
"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/29/AR2009052900035.html">
Please take a moment to read and watch this story, part of a Post series called "Our Lives Through Sport." Here's the link:
"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/29/AR2009052900035.html">
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Weights From Baltimore!
Here is the scale watch for tomorrow night's Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore:
Demetrius Davis 162 vs. Cory Cummings 166 1/2
James Stevenson 153 vs. Manuel Guzman 152 1/2
Steve Wheeler 183 vs. Dan Shull 182
Maurice Byarm 253 vs. Darius Whitson 198 1/2
Barry Trotter 157 vs. Justin Blackwell 155 1/2
The bout between Tim Coleman and Jason Thompson was cancelled after Thompson said he was too heavy to participate. Thompson was reportedly 18 pounds over the agreed contract weight.
Demetrius Davis 162 vs. Cory Cummings 166 1/2
James Stevenson 153 vs. Manuel Guzman 152 1/2
Steve Wheeler 183 vs. Dan Shull 182
Maurice Byarm 253 vs. Darius Whitson 198 1/2
Barry Trotter 157 vs. Justin Blackwell 155 1/2
The bout between Tim Coleman and Jason Thompson was cancelled after Thompson said he was too heavy to participate. Thompson was reportedly 18 pounds over the agreed contract weight.
Guerrero Bros. In Action June 19 in Salisbury!
Boxing action returns to the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD on Friday, June 19th and this Prize Fight Promotions card offers two Guerreros for the price of one.
Undefeated middleweight prospect Fernando Guerrero will participate in his first main event bout in his hometown as he will face Brian "The Assassin" Norman of Decatur, GA in a scheduled eight-round contest. Guerrero (13-0, 11 KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Gabriel Rosado on the last card in Salisbury on February 6. Norman (17-8, five KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Curtis Hinton in his last outing on March 6 in Columbus, MS.
Guerrero will be the third Beltway Boxer Norman has faced in his last four bouts. Norman was stopped in the ninth round by Henry Buchanan on June 25 in Beverly Hills, CA and lost an eight-round majority decision to Demetrius Davis on May 3, 2008 in District Heights, MD. Norman has lost to Buchanan twice in his career and has also lost to Beltway Boxer Reginald Taylor and defeated Carlos Jones.
The card also marks the pro debut of Guerrero's brother Alex, who will fight as a cruiserweight. Alex Guerrero will enter the pro ranks after a strong performance at the National Golden Gloves in Salt Lake City, UT where he won a bronze medal. No word yet on Alex Guerrero's opponent.
Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (2-0, two KO's) will also be on the card participating in a four-round contest against an opponent to be determined.
Unlike the last two cards in Salisbury, this will not be a nationally televised event. However, Prize Fight is making the card available on the internet at www.prizefighttv.com for $9.95. The card will begin at 8 PM ET.
Undefeated middleweight prospect Fernando Guerrero will participate in his first main event bout in his hometown as he will face Brian "The Assassin" Norman of Decatur, GA in a scheduled eight-round contest. Guerrero (13-0, 11 KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Gabriel Rosado on the last card in Salisbury on February 6. Norman (17-8, five KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Curtis Hinton in his last outing on March 6 in Columbus, MS.
Guerrero will be the third Beltway Boxer Norman has faced in his last four bouts. Norman was stopped in the ninth round by Henry Buchanan on June 25 in Beverly Hills, CA and lost an eight-round majority decision to Demetrius Davis on May 3, 2008 in District Heights, MD. Norman has lost to Buchanan twice in his career and has also lost to Beltway Boxer Reginald Taylor and defeated Carlos Jones.
The card also marks the pro debut of Guerrero's brother Alex, who will fight as a cruiserweight. Alex Guerrero will enter the pro ranks after a strong performance at the National Golden Gloves in Salt Lake City, UT where he won a bronze medal. No word yet on Alex Guerrero's opponent.
Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (2-0, two KO's) will also be on the card participating in a four-round contest against an opponent to be determined.
Unlike the last two cards in Salisbury, this will not be a nationally televised event. However, Prize Fight is making the card available on the internet at www.prizefighttv.com for $9.95. The card will begin at 8 PM ET.
15Rounds.com Talks to Beltway Legend!
Kudos to 15Rounds.com reporter Matt Yanofsky for a nice interview he conducted with former three-time world champion, Beltway legend and future hall of famer Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson. The two discuss Johnson's great career and his current and future plans. Here's the interview:
"http://www.15rounds.com/mark-%e2%80%9ctoo-sharp%e2%80%9d-johnson-reflecting-on-a-sensational-career-and-looking-to-the-next-level-052709/">
By the way, Yanofsky will become a familiar face around the Beltway. He is handling the public relations for Baltimore Pro Boxing Promotions and is also covering the area for 15Rounds.com.
"http://www.15rounds.com/mark-%e2%80%9ctoo-sharp%e2%80%9d-johnson-reflecting-on-a-sensational-career-and-looking-to-the-next-level-052709/">
By the way, Yanofsky will become a familiar face around the Beltway. He is handling the public relations for Baltimore Pro Boxing Promotions and is also covering the area for 15Rounds.com.
Davis Discusses Title Bout And Two Careers!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #168 - Davis Discusses Maryland Super Middleweight Title Clash!
Demetrius Davis of Bladensburg, MD talks about his Maryland State Super Middleweight Title bout against Cory "Black Ice" Cummings Friday, May 29 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.
I am trying to interview Cummings to get his thoughts as well. Hopefully that can get done tomorrow.
Demetrius Davis of Bladensburg, MD talks about his Maryland State Super Middleweight Title bout against Cory "Black Ice" Cummings Friday, May 29 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.
I am trying to interview Cummings to get his thoughts as well. Hopefully that can get done tomorrow.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
'Keep 'Em Sleepin' Stevenson Becomes Talk of Boxing World!
As undefeated Baltimore welterweight James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson (8-0, eight KO's) prepares for his eight-round contest against Manuel Guzman this Friday at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, he has become a highly-talked about prospect in the internet boxing press.
Stevenson has been the subject of two interview profiles this week. Here is an interview with 15Rounds.com's Anson Wainwright:
"http://www.15rounds.com/james-stevenson-now-it%e2%80%99s-my-time-052309/#more-8954">
Also, Stevenson was the subject of this profile written by Ryan Burton of Boxingtalk.com.:
"http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=17805">
Stevenson has been the subject of two interview profiles this week. Here is an interview with 15Rounds.com's Anson Wainwright:
"http://www.15rounds.com/james-stevenson-now-it%e2%80%99s-my-time-052309/#more-8954">
Also, Stevenson was the subject of this profile written by Ryan Burton of Boxingtalk.com.:
"http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=17805">
Ballard Falls in AIBA Youth World Championships!
D'Mitrius Ballard lost his quarterfinal bout today at the AIBA Youth World Championships in Yerevan, Armenia.
The Temple Hills, MD middleweight lost to Germany's Roman Fress by a 5-1 decision.
The Temple Hills, MD middleweight lost to Germany's Roman Fress by a 5-1 decision.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Ballard Wins First-Round Bout at AIBA Junior World Championships!
Temple Hills, MD middleweight D'Mitrius Ballard has won his first-round contest at the AIBA Junior World Championships in Yerevan, Armenia.
Ballard defeated Benjamin Babaei of Iran by decision, 16-4 in a bout that just concluded in the middleweight division. Ballard will face Germany's Roman Fress in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, May 27. Fress defeated Patrick Szigeti of Hungary, 6-0.
Ballard defeated Benjamin Babaei of Iran by decision, 16-4 in a bout that just concluded in the middleweight division. Ballard will face Germany's Roman Fress in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, May 27. Fress defeated Patrick Szigeti of Hungary, 6-0.
Allen, Felton Travel to Reading, PA May 30!
(Photo by Linda "Great Shot" Siadys)
Two Beltway Boxers will be participating on a card at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA on Saturday, May 30.
Laurel, MD junior middleweight Norman "The Shadow" Allen (pictured above, 6-1, three KO's) will take on undefeated Ronald Cruz of Bethlehem, PA (4-0, two KO's) in a four-round contest.
Also on the card, Stafford, VA heavyweight "The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton (6-14, five KO's) will try to win his second straight bout as he faces Reading veteran Craig Tomlinson (23-15-1, 13 KO's)in a six-round contest. Tomlinson is returning to the ring after a four-year absence and will be looking to break a six-bout losing streak that came against the likes of Owen Beck, Kevin McBride, Eddie Chambers and Oleg Maskaev.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Ballard Begins World Junior Title Quest; Update on May 29th Card and June Boxing Outlook!
There will be some potentially great Beltway Boxing cards coming in the next few weeks. Here's the info we know.
Temple Hills. MD's D'Mitrius Ballard begins his quest for a world title in the AIBA World Junior Boxing Championships on Monday, May 25 in Yerevan, Armenia. Ballard's first-round opponent in the 75 KG (Middleweight) division will be Benjamin Babaei of Iran.
Everything is pretty much set for the Friday, May 29th Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. The co-feature bouts remain the same -- Demetrius Davis vs. Corey Cummings for the Maryland State Super Middleweight title and James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson vs. Manuel Guzman for the East Coast Junior Middleweight championship.
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman (15-1-1, four KO's) will take on Jason Thompson of New York (5-3, four KO's) in a six-round contest. Also, Baltimore cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler (1-0) will take on Dan Shull of Front Royal, VA (1-5) in a four-round contest.
Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor and Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm are also slated for the card and rookie middleweights Barry Trotter of Waldorf and Justin Blackwell of Baltimore, who were originally scheduled in separate bouts, will now make their pro debuts
against one another.
This card will make a nice segway into our June schedule which will be a jam-packed one. Here's what we know so far:
The action gets underway on Friday, June 5 with a TNT Promotions card at the Shipley Arena in Westminster, MD. So far, all we know about that card is that undefeated Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker is slated to headline.
We have already talked about the Saturday, June 6 card at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in DC. That's the Madness Connection card slated to feature former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes in the main event against former WBA Junior Middleweight champ Carl Daniels.
We also know a little about the Major League Boxing promotions card at the Virginia Sports Complex in Ruther Glen, VA on Friday, June 12. We know that Fluvanna, VA middleweight George "Wartime" Rivera (10-4, three KO's) will take on Contender: Season One star Jonathan "Reid Dawg" Reid in a six-round contest. However, that is not the main event. The featured bout has Caroline County's own Adam "The Real Deal" Seal (6-1, five KO's) taking on veteran "Dynamite" Dan Sheehan (11-36, five KO's) in a scheduled six-rounder.
A number of Beltway prospects are slated to be on the undercard including heavyweight "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae, Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A" Samuel and possibly Thomas "KO" Snow, should he decide not to take his scheduled bout on June 5 in Minnesota.
Ballroom Boxing will return on Thursday, June 18 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Slated to be on this Ballroom Boxing/TKO Promotions card will be locals Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow, Julius Kennedy and, possibly James Stevenson. As of right now, Nicklow is not slated to face Kennedy, but that could easily change.
I haven't heard a lot of words on this card, but there is a card slated for Friday, June 19 at the Wicomico Youth And Civic Center in Salisbury, MD. The card is slated to feature undefeated Fernando Guerrero.
Then on Saturday, June 20, there is a pretty unique amateur card coming to Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD This will be an all-female amateur card put together by WIST (Women in Sports Together), the group led by "Fightlady" Wanda Bruce. We'll give you more details as the date draws nearer.
Also, we have a number of boxers going to the 2009 USA Boxing National Championships, June 8-13 at the Denver Coliseum in Denver, CO. These boxers are slated to represent the Beltway area:
119 - Marcus Gaddis, Landover, MD
125 - Kevin Rivers, Landover, MD
132 - Elvis Medrano, Washington, DC
141 - Gary Allen Russell, Capitol Heights, MD
165 - Travis Peterkin, Edgewood, MD
178 - Thomas Williams, Fort Washington, MD
201 - Charles Johnson, Upper Marlboro, MD
Temple Hills. MD's D'Mitrius Ballard begins his quest for a world title in the AIBA World Junior Boxing Championships on Monday, May 25 in Yerevan, Armenia. Ballard's first-round opponent in the 75 KG (Middleweight) division will be Benjamin Babaei of Iran.
Everything is pretty much set for the Friday, May 29th Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. The co-feature bouts remain the same -- Demetrius Davis vs. Corey Cummings for the Maryland State Super Middleweight title and James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson vs. Manuel Guzman for the East Coast Junior Middleweight championship.
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman (15-1-1, four KO's) will take on Jason Thompson of New York (5-3, four KO's) in a six-round contest. Also, Baltimore cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler (1-0) will take on Dan Shull of Front Royal, VA (1-5) in a four-round contest.
Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor and Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm are also slated for the card and rookie middleweights Barry Trotter of Waldorf and Justin Blackwell of Baltimore, who were originally scheduled in separate bouts, will now make their pro debuts
against one another.
This card will make a nice segway into our June schedule which will be a jam-packed one. Here's what we know so far:
The action gets underway on Friday, June 5 with a TNT Promotions card at the Shipley Arena in Westminster, MD. So far, all we know about that card is that undefeated Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker is slated to headline.
We have already talked about the Saturday, June 6 card at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in DC. That's the Madness Connection card slated to feature former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes in the main event against former WBA Junior Middleweight champ Carl Daniels.
We also know a little about the Major League Boxing promotions card at the Virginia Sports Complex in Ruther Glen, VA on Friday, June 12. We know that Fluvanna, VA middleweight George "Wartime" Rivera (10-4, three KO's) will take on Contender: Season One star Jonathan "Reid Dawg" Reid in a six-round contest. However, that is not the main event. The featured bout has Caroline County's own Adam "The Real Deal" Seal (6-1, five KO's) taking on veteran "Dynamite" Dan Sheehan (11-36, five KO's) in a scheduled six-rounder.
A number of Beltway prospects are slated to be on the undercard including heavyweight "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae, Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A" Samuel and possibly Thomas "KO" Snow, should he decide not to take his scheduled bout on June 5 in Minnesota.
Ballroom Boxing will return on Thursday, June 18 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Slated to be on this Ballroom Boxing/TKO Promotions card will be locals Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow, Julius Kennedy and, possibly James Stevenson. As of right now, Nicklow is not slated to face Kennedy, but that could easily change.
I haven't heard a lot of words on this card, but there is a card slated for Friday, June 19 at the Wicomico Youth And Civic Center in Salisbury, MD. The card is slated to feature undefeated Fernando Guerrero.
Then on Saturday, June 20, there is a pretty unique amateur card coming to Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD This will be an all-female amateur card put together by WIST (Women in Sports Together), the group led by "Fightlady" Wanda Bruce. We'll give you more details as the date draws nearer.
Also, we have a number of boxers going to the 2009 USA Boxing National Championships, June 8-13 at the Denver Coliseum in Denver, CO. These boxers are slated to represent the Beltway area:
119 - Marcus Gaddis, Landover, MD
125 - Kevin Rivers, Landover, MD
132 - Elvis Medrano, Washington, DC
141 - Gary Allen Russell, Capitol Heights, MD
165 - Travis Peterkin, Edgewood, MD
178 - Thomas Williams, Fort Washington, MD
201 - Charles Johnson, Upper Marlboro, MD
Boyd Loses Six-Round Decision in Wilkes-Barre!
DC super featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd has just lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Antonio Espinosa tonight at the Woodlands Resort and Spa in Wilkes-Barre, PA.
According to Boxing Digest writer JR Jowett (who I thank for sending me the result), Espinosa forced the action throughout the contest, scoring what Jowett called a "fluke" knockdown in the fourth round. Boyd was not hurt, but spent a lot of time looking for one good shot. The scores were 60-53 (twice) and 58-56.
Boyd now falls under .500 with a record of 6-7, two KO's. Espinosa is now 11-0, one KO.
According to Boxing Digest writer JR Jowett (who I thank for sending me the result), Espinosa forced the action throughout the contest, scoring what Jowett called a "fluke" knockdown in the fourth round. Boyd was not hurt, but spent a lot of time looking for one good shot. The scores were 60-53 (twice) and 58-56.
Boyd now falls under .500 with a record of 6-7, two KO's. Espinosa is now 11-0, one KO.
Boyd Weighs 136 For Tonight in Wilkes-Barre!
Ron "Teflon" Boyd weighed in at 136 pounds for tonight's bout at The Woodlands Resport in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Boyd's opponent, Antonio Espinosa, tipped the scales at 131.
Lockett Wins Unanimous Decision in Rhode Island!
Takoma Park, MD light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett scored a six-round unanimous decision over local fan favorite "Irish" Joe McCreedy of Lowell, MA last night in Lincoln, RI.
According to Fightnews.com's Scott Ploof,all three judges scored the bout 58-56 in favor of Lockett. McCreedy looked like he had Lockett all but knocked out during the first two rounds. It was apparent after the beginning of round four that McCreedy was running out of gas quickly as Lockett was now the aggressor while his opponent was looking for a rest. Both fighters continued to trade, however all of the power that McCreedy had possessed in the first two rounds was all but gone, and with Lockett continued to win the later rounds to capture the eventual decision.
Lockett raises his record to 12-7-5, five KO's while McCreedy falls to 10-3-1, five KO's. This is McCreedy's second loss to a Beltway Boxer. Henry Mayes defeated McCreedy last year.
According to Fightnews.com's Scott Ploof,all three judges scored the bout 58-56 in favor of Lockett. McCreedy looked like he had Lockett all but knocked out during the first two rounds. It was apparent after the beginning of round four that McCreedy was running out of gas quickly as Lockett was now the aggressor while his opponent was looking for a rest. Both fighters continued to trade, however all of the power that McCreedy had possessed in the first two rounds was all but gone, and with Lockett continued to win the later rounds to capture the eventual decision.
Lockett raises his record to 12-7-5, five KO's while McCreedy falls to 10-3-1, five KO's. This is McCreedy's second loss to a Beltway Boxer. Henry Mayes defeated McCreedy last year.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Lockett Weighs 168 For Rhode Island Rumble Tonight!
Willis "The Prophet" Lockett tipped the scales at the super middleweight limit of 168 for tonight's co-feature bout against Joe McCreedy at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island. McCreedy weighed in at 167.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Boxing Returns to DC Saturday, June 6!
Washington, DC will host its first boxing card of 2009 on Saturday, June 6 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and three legendary names will be involved in the card.
One legendary name is the name of the promotional company handling the card. This card will mark the return of Madness Connection to the boxing scene. In the 1990's, Madness, led by Tyrone Johnson, was the preeminent promotions group in the Nation's Capitol, putting on cards that featured a who's who of Beltway talent.
The second name is the boxer in the main event -- former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes, who returns to ring after an almost two-year absence to face former WBA Junior Middleweight champ Carl "The Squirrel" Daniels. Holmes (40-5, 25 KO's) has not fought since losing an eight-round unanimous decision to Tito Mendoza on August 16, 2007 for the WBA Fedalatin Light Heavyweight title in Panama. Daniels (50-17-1, 32 KO's), meanwhile, just fought on May 15, losing a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Chuck Mussachio in Atlantic City, NJ.
The third legendary name seeks to carry on a family tradition. He is known as "The Next Generation," Louis "Li'l Heidi" Curtis who is the namesake of 1976 Olympian Louis "Heidi" Curtis. The younger Curtis started his pro career in March 1998, winning by second-round TKO over Gregory Bryant in DC, but he hasn't fought since.
Also slated to be on the card will be 2000 Olympic Bronze medalist Clarence "Untouchable" Vinson (16-2, seven KO's) who will take on super featherweight Terrence "T-Brick" Roy of Covington, TN (9-29, one KO). Three local boxers are also slated to make their pro debuts on this card -- John "Nature Boy" Chavis, Tim "Brass Knuckles" Bolding and Jamal "Hit Man" Chalo. Three amateur bouts are also slated for the event.
One legendary name is the name of the promotional company handling the card. This card will mark the return of Madness Connection to the boxing scene. In the 1990's, Madness, led by Tyrone Johnson, was the preeminent promotions group in the Nation's Capitol, putting on cards that featured a who's who of Beltway talent.
The second name is the boxer in the main event -- former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes, who returns to ring after an almost two-year absence to face former WBA Junior Middleweight champ Carl "The Squirrel" Daniels. Holmes (40-5, 25 KO's) has not fought since losing an eight-round unanimous decision to Tito Mendoza on August 16, 2007 for the WBA Fedalatin Light Heavyweight title in Panama. Daniels (50-17-1, 32 KO's), meanwhile, just fought on May 15, losing a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Chuck Mussachio in Atlantic City, NJ.
The third legendary name seeks to carry on a family tradition. He is known as "The Next Generation," Louis "Li'l Heidi" Curtis who is the namesake of 1976 Olympian Louis "Heidi" Curtis. The younger Curtis started his pro career in March 1998, winning by second-round TKO over Gregory Bryant in DC, but he hasn't fought since.
Also slated to be on the card will be 2000 Olympic Bronze medalist Clarence "Untouchable" Vinson (16-2, seven KO's) who will take on super featherweight Terrence "T-Brick" Roy of Covington, TN (9-29, one KO). Three local boxers are also slated to make their pro debuts on this card -- John "Nature Boy" Chavis, Tim "Brass Knuckles" Bolding and Jamal "Hit Man" Chalo. Three amateur bouts are also slated for the event.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
'Teflon' Boyd Battles in Wilkes-Barre This Saturday!
DC super featherweight Ron "Teflon" Boyd returns to action in a six-round co-feature bout on Saturday, May 23 at the Woodlands Resort in Wilkes-Barre, PA. Boyd has a record of 6-6, two KO's, but five of those losses have come in his last six bouts, including a six-round unanimous decision loss to Ikem Orji on April 24 in Westminster, MD.
Boyd will try to turn his fortunes around against undefeated Antonio Espinosa of West New York, NJ. Espinosa (10-0, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Darrell Martin on April 11 at The Woodlands.
Boyd will try to turn his fortunes around against undefeated Antonio Espinosa of West New York, NJ. Espinosa (10-0, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Darrell Martin on April 11 at The Woodlands.
Rawlings Named Outstanding Timekeeper at National Golden Gloves!
One more award for the Beltway Boxing scene came out of the recent National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Salt Lake City, UT. This one went to a local official who really deserves his praise.
His name is Curtis Rawlings and recently he was named one of the Outstanding Official in the Timekeeper division. Rawlings was one of only three named from across the country.
Those of you familiar with the Beltway Boxing scene (especially on the amateur side) are familiar with Mr. Rawlings. He has been a part of the scene for many, many years. He has been associated with the Potomac Valley Association of USA Boxing and has been an official with the Washington, DC Boxing Hall of Fame. He has also mentored many folks on the amateur and pro side of the sport in this area. I include myself in that category.
His name is Curtis Rawlings and recently he was named one of the Outstanding Official in the Timekeeper division. Rawlings was one of only three named from across the country.
Those of you familiar with the Beltway Boxing scene (especially on the amateur side) are familiar with Mr. Rawlings. He has been a part of the scene for many, many years. He has been associated with the Potomac Valley Association of USA Boxing and has been an official with the Washington, DC Boxing Hall of Fame. He has also mentored many folks on the amateur and pro side of the sport in this area. I include myself in that category.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Lockett Battles McCreedy in Rhode Island This Friday!
Takoma Park, MD light heavyweight Willis "The Prophet" Lockett returns to the road to take on "Irish" Joe McCreedy of Lowell, MA in a six-round contest on Friday, May 22 at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, RI.
Lockett (11-7-5, five KO's, two NC) is coming off a third-round stoppage of Larry Marks on April 24 in Dover, DE. By the way, Lockett lost one of his recent wins as his four-round unanimous decision over Dante Craig on March 14 in Cincinnati was declared a no-contest, according to Boxrec.com. No reason was given for the change in decision.
McCreedy (10-2-1, five KO's) won an eight-round majority decision over Richard Stamino on February 6 in Lincoln. This will be McCreedy's seventh straight appearance in Lincoln. Two of those bouts came against Henry Mayes in the spring of 2008. Mayes won the first outing in April via six-round split decision and reportedly caused a mini-riot after the announcement. McCreedy came back in May and won a six-round split decision.
By the way, Lockett faced Mayes in November of 2008 in DC and the bout was declared a no-contest after two rounds because Lockett was given a standing eight count, which is against DC rules.
Lockett (11-7-5, five KO's, two NC) is coming off a third-round stoppage of Larry Marks on April 24 in Dover, DE. By the way, Lockett lost one of his recent wins as his four-round unanimous decision over Dante Craig on March 14 in Cincinnati was declared a no-contest, according to Boxrec.com. No reason was given for the change in decision.
McCreedy (10-2-1, five KO's) won an eight-round majority decision over Richard Stamino on February 6 in Lincoln. This will be McCreedy's seventh straight appearance in Lincoln. Two of those bouts came against Henry Mayes in the spring of 2008. Mayes won the first outing in April via six-round split decision and reportedly caused a mini-riot after the announcement. McCreedy came back in May and won a six-round split decision.
By the way, Lockett faced Mayes in November of 2008 in DC and the bout was declared a no-contest after two rounds because Lockett was given a standing eight count, which is against DC rules.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Martin, Batteast Lose in Philadelphia!
Tonight at the Legendary Blue Horizon two Beltway Boxers suffered shutout losses to rising prospects.
Baltimore super featherweight Darrell Martin lost by six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Joselito Collado. All three judges had Collado winning 60-54. Martin has lost three straight and is now 4-9, one KO. Collado is now 8-0, two KO's.
Also, Baltimore junior middleweight Vincent Batteast lost a four-round unanimous decision to debuting Israeli Achmad Tuba. Batteast lost by scores of 40-36 and now has a record of 0-1-1.
Baltimore super featherweight Darrell Martin lost by six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Joselito Collado. All three judges had Collado winning 60-54. Martin has lost three straight and is now 4-9, one KO. Collado is now 8-0, two KO's.
Also, Baltimore junior middleweight Vincent Batteast lost a four-round unanimous decision to debuting Israeli Achmad Tuba. Batteast lost by scores of 40-36 and now has a record of 0-1-1.
A Quick Note:
To those who have the ability to reach me by cell phone...well, right now, you can't. It seems my five-year-old daughter decided my phone needed a wash and she put it in the sink. Right now, I can only receive messages.
So the best way to reach me until further notice is by email at beltwayboxing@hotmail.com. Please leave your number and I will get back in touch with you. Thanks.
So the best way to reach me until further notice is by email at beltwayboxing@hotmail.com. Please leave your number and I will get back in touch with you. Thanks.
Martin, Batteast, Participate in Philadelphia Card Tonight!
Two Beltway Boxers will be involved on a card at the Legendary Blue Horizon in Philadelphia, PA tonight.
Baltimore super featherweight Darrell Martin (4-8, one KO) will take on undefeated Joselito Collado of Jamaica, Queens, NY (7-0, two KO's) in a six-round contest. Martin has lost his last two bouts, but his last victory came at the Blue Horizon on December 5 when he stopped Jules Blackwell in the third round. Collado will be the third straight undefeated boxer that Martin has faced.
Also, Silver Spring, MD junior middleweight Vincent Batteast (0-0-1) will take on the debuting Achmad Tuba of Israel in a four-round encounter. The card can be seen live on www.gofightlive.tv for $5.99, beginning at 7:30 PM ET.
Baltimore super featherweight Darrell Martin (4-8, one KO) will take on undefeated Joselito Collado of Jamaica, Queens, NY (7-0, two KO's) in a six-round contest. Martin has lost his last two bouts, but his last victory came at the Blue Horizon on December 5 when he stopped Jules Blackwell in the third round. Collado will be the third straight undefeated boxer that Martin has faced.
Also, Silver Spring, MD junior middleweight Vincent Batteast (0-0-1) will take on the debuting Achmad Tuba of Israel in a four-round encounter. The card can be seen live on www.gofightlive.tv for $5.99, beginning at 7:30 PM ET.
Is Lange-Rivera Matchup a Possibility?
The great thing about the Beltway Boxing scene is that there are many potential matchups are available. The ideal scenario would be if the bouts took place with something, say a title, were on the line.
Such probably would be the case if two of our 154/160 pounders would meet in the ring. I thank Chris Nicholson, a great writer of boxing and other subjects, for looking into a potential matchup between Jimmy Lange and George Rivera.
Is “Jimmy Lange Vs. George Rivera” On The Horizon?
By Christopher P. Nicholson
It seems like whenever there is a full boxing card, there is an undercard bout that generates nearly as much discussion as the main event. Jimmy Lange’s fight against Grover Wiley at George Mason University’s Patriot Center last November was one of these. As expected, Lange prevailed with a unanimous decision over Wiley, after a rough and tumble battle. But what wasn’t expected and is still being discussed was George Rivera’s victory over Jessie Nicklow.
Just two months prior, Nicklow won a unanimous decision over Rivera in Baltimore, and the smart money was predicting a repeat. Most recently, Rivera won a unanimous decision over Ike Ezeji in Fluvanna, Va., raising Rivera’s record to 10-4, with 3 KO’s.
Then this month, Lange stopped Frank Houghtaling in the fifth round of another Patriot Center main event, winning the WBC USNBC Light Middleweight Title and raising his record to 30-3-2, with 21 KO’s. Ever since, speculation has revolved around a possible Lange-Rivera light middleweight match-up.
But given the technology and tone of the times, much of this speculation has been online, often anonymous as well as personal and, at times, borderline abusive. For every step forward that the Internet has given to the freedom of speech, it has taken two steps back on the freedom to face one’s accusers. And nowhere has this been more evident in the local boxing scene than this “Boxing Along The Beltway” (BATB) blog.
“It is a fine line on which I have tried very hard to balance,” said BATB blogmeister Gary “Digital” Williams. “For a brief time I tried blocking all anonymous postings, but all that achieved was a drastic reduction in comment participation, and a screeching halt to just about any discussion with any spirit.”
Johnny Lange, Jimmy Lange’s father and manager concurs. “While I don’t begrudge anybody’s right to state his or her opinion, it sure is hard to respond to attacks from people hiding behind their anonymous postings. A prime example was the barrage of comments suggesting that we were afraid of George Rivera and were ducking a fight with him. The truth is that I discussed it in depth with Rivera’s camp, shortly after the Nicklow rematch.”
Joe Hensley, head of Major League Boxing and promoter for Rivera, confirms these discussions. “We talked for a while, but the bottom line was that the timing wasn’t right for either of us, and we never got into specifics. But now, George is at his prime and I’d go as far as saying he could take any fighter, not just in the Virginia/Maryland/D.C. area, but in the whole Mid-Atlantic region.
“We would love to meet Jimmy Lange in a Patriot Center bout,” Hensley continued. And there lies the rub. While I.C.E. Promotions has a Jimmy Lange card scheduled at the Patriot Center on September 26th, Lange’s camp would like a possible Lange-Rivera match-up to be earlier.
“We could be ready as early as mid-June,” said Johnny Lange. “Joe [Hensley] has been putting on some super shows in the Greater Charlottesville area, and we’d welcome being part of one of those.”
From Hensley’s perspective, the barrier is purely business. “If it were cost-effective to host Jimmy down here, I’d jump on it in a heartbeat. But I just can’t see that matching up Jimmy and George in a 1,000-seat venue would make financial sense or serve the best interests of either fighter.
“I’ve promoted two shows with the Langes,” continued Hensley. “I made good money both times and have nothing but good things to say about that experience. I would be eager to work with them again if we could make it work from a business perspective, which would probably have to be a larger, Northern Virginia venue like the Patriot Center.”
While Johnny Lange declined to get specific about what would preclude a Jimmy Lange/George Rivera main event on the next Patriot Center card, conventional wisdom centers on two factors. First, those arena shows have been slowly adding national sponsors, which would be more difficult to recruit for a card headed by two local fighters.
But perhaps more significantly, the September 26th card would almost certainly have to be a title defense with a WBC-approved contender. Lange’s Houghtaling win moved his ranking up to number 11. Lange lost his WBC Continental Americas Title Belt due to inactivity, when he had shoulder surgery in 2007. And the chances would be nil of him risking that same fate by taking on a non-title fight in September.
Hensley disputes that WBC sanctioning would be an obstacle for Rivera. “Look, George has gone eight rounds twice, and has had victories over two impressive fighters, Jessie Nicklow and Clarence ‘Sonny Bono’ Taylor. If and when Jonathan Reid gets added to George’s list of quality wins [on June 12th] WBC sanctioning of a Lange/Rivera title fight should be a non-issue.”
As far as Rivera is concerned, he’ll take a closer step toward contender status, literally, with the Reid fight on June 12th in Caroline, Va. Reid was featured with Lange on Season I of The Contender on NBC.
So, back to the question, “Is a Lange vs. Rivera fight on the horizon?” It’s been said that whenever a headline takes the form of a question, you can be sure that the article will not actually answer the question. So the qualified non-answer here would be, “Yes, it’s likely on the horizon, but don’t expect that horizon to appear before June 12th, and probably not before Sept. 26th.”
Chris Nicholson is a full-time independent writer based in Sterling, Va. He can be reached at cpnich@aol.com
Such probably would be the case if two of our 154/160 pounders would meet in the ring. I thank Chris Nicholson, a great writer of boxing and other subjects, for looking into a potential matchup between Jimmy Lange and George Rivera.
Is “Jimmy Lange Vs. George Rivera” On The Horizon?
By Christopher P. Nicholson
It seems like whenever there is a full boxing card, there is an undercard bout that generates nearly as much discussion as the main event. Jimmy Lange’s fight against Grover Wiley at George Mason University’s Patriot Center last November was one of these. As expected, Lange prevailed with a unanimous decision over Wiley, after a rough and tumble battle. But what wasn’t expected and is still being discussed was George Rivera’s victory over Jessie Nicklow.
Just two months prior, Nicklow won a unanimous decision over Rivera in Baltimore, and the smart money was predicting a repeat. Most recently, Rivera won a unanimous decision over Ike Ezeji in Fluvanna, Va., raising Rivera’s record to 10-4, with 3 KO’s.
Then this month, Lange stopped Frank Houghtaling in the fifth round of another Patriot Center main event, winning the WBC USNBC Light Middleweight Title and raising his record to 30-3-2, with 21 KO’s. Ever since, speculation has revolved around a possible Lange-Rivera light middleweight match-up.
But given the technology and tone of the times, much of this speculation has been online, often anonymous as well as personal and, at times, borderline abusive. For every step forward that the Internet has given to the freedom of speech, it has taken two steps back on the freedom to face one’s accusers. And nowhere has this been more evident in the local boxing scene than this “Boxing Along The Beltway” (BATB) blog.
“It is a fine line on which I have tried very hard to balance,” said BATB blogmeister Gary “Digital” Williams. “For a brief time I tried blocking all anonymous postings, but all that achieved was a drastic reduction in comment participation, and a screeching halt to just about any discussion with any spirit.”
Johnny Lange, Jimmy Lange’s father and manager concurs. “While I don’t begrudge anybody’s right to state his or her opinion, it sure is hard to respond to attacks from people hiding behind their anonymous postings. A prime example was the barrage of comments suggesting that we were afraid of George Rivera and were ducking a fight with him. The truth is that I discussed it in depth with Rivera’s camp, shortly after the Nicklow rematch.”
Joe Hensley, head of Major League Boxing and promoter for Rivera, confirms these discussions. “We talked for a while, but the bottom line was that the timing wasn’t right for either of us, and we never got into specifics. But now, George is at his prime and I’d go as far as saying he could take any fighter, not just in the Virginia/Maryland/D.C. area, but in the whole Mid-Atlantic region.
“We would love to meet Jimmy Lange in a Patriot Center bout,” Hensley continued. And there lies the rub. While I.C.E. Promotions has a Jimmy Lange card scheduled at the Patriot Center on September 26th, Lange’s camp would like a possible Lange-Rivera match-up to be earlier.
“We could be ready as early as mid-June,” said Johnny Lange. “Joe [Hensley] has been putting on some super shows in the Greater Charlottesville area, and we’d welcome being part of one of those.”
From Hensley’s perspective, the barrier is purely business. “If it were cost-effective to host Jimmy down here, I’d jump on it in a heartbeat. But I just can’t see that matching up Jimmy and George in a 1,000-seat venue would make financial sense or serve the best interests of either fighter.
“I’ve promoted two shows with the Langes,” continued Hensley. “I made good money both times and have nothing but good things to say about that experience. I would be eager to work with them again if we could make it work from a business perspective, which would probably have to be a larger, Northern Virginia venue like the Patriot Center.”
While Johnny Lange declined to get specific about what would preclude a Jimmy Lange/George Rivera main event on the next Patriot Center card, conventional wisdom centers on two factors. First, those arena shows have been slowly adding national sponsors, which would be more difficult to recruit for a card headed by two local fighters.
But perhaps more significantly, the September 26th card would almost certainly have to be a title defense with a WBC-approved contender. Lange’s Houghtaling win moved his ranking up to number 11. Lange lost his WBC Continental Americas Title Belt due to inactivity, when he had shoulder surgery in 2007. And the chances would be nil of him risking that same fate by taking on a non-title fight in September.
Hensley disputes that WBC sanctioning would be an obstacle for Rivera. “Look, George has gone eight rounds twice, and has had victories over two impressive fighters, Jessie Nicklow and Clarence ‘Sonny Bono’ Taylor. If and when Jonathan Reid gets added to George’s list of quality wins [on June 12th] WBC sanctioning of a Lange/Rivera title fight should be a non-issue.”
As far as Rivera is concerned, he’ll take a closer step toward contender status, literally, with the Reid fight on June 12th in Caroline, Va. Reid was featured with Lange on Season I of The Contender on NBC.
So, back to the question, “Is a Lange vs. Rivera fight on the horizon?” It’s been said that whenever a headline takes the form of a question, you can be sure that the article will not actually answer the question. So the qualified non-answer here would be, “Yes, it’s likely on the horizon, but don’t expect that horizon to appear before June 12th, and probably not before Sept. 26th.”
Chris Nicholson is a full-time independent writer based in Sterling, Va. He can be reached at cpnich@aol.com
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Palma Says Farewell to Boxing!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #167 - Palma Gives Final Boxing-Related Interview!
Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Jaime "The Punisher" Palma suffered an eye injury in a bout on May 9 in Winchester, VA. Doctors have told him that his boxing career is now over. Palma says his farewell exclusively on BATB!
Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Jaime "The Punisher" Palma suffered an eye injury in a bout on May 9 in Winchester, VA. Doctors have told him that his boxing career is now over. Palma says his farewell exclusively on BATB!
Stevenson Goes For East Coast Title May 29 in Woodlawn!
Undefeated Baltimore prospect James "Keep 'Em Sleepin" Stevenson has an opponent for his eight-round co-feature bout at Du Burns Arena on Friday, May 29.
Stevenson (8-0, eight KO's) will battle Manuel Guzman of Lancaster, PA (6-6-1, two KO's) for the East Coast junior middleweight title. Stevenson is coming off a second-round TKO over previously undefeated Dwayne Shelton on April 30 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Guzman's even record is somewhat misleading because he has fought and gone the distance with some solid prospects including Latif Mundy, Aaron Torres (Contender: Season two) and Bayan Jargal, who defeated Guzman by six-round unanimous decision on July 26 in York, PA. Guzman also gave then-undefeated Tommy Rainone (11-0) his first loss by four-round split decision on June 4.
Other bouts slated for the card include DC rookie heavyweight Maurice Byarm (1-0, one KO) who will take on James Whitson of Charleston, SC (1-0) in a four-round contest. There will also be two Beltway pro debuts on the card as Baltimore middleweight Justin Blackwell takes on veteran John "The Baptist" Terry of Portsmouth, VA and Waldorf, MD's Barry Trotter will battle Johnny DeJesus of York, PA (1-0) in a welterweight contest.
Baltimore rookies Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler and Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor may also appear on the card.
Stevenson (8-0, eight KO's) will battle Manuel Guzman of Lancaster, PA (6-6-1, two KO's) for the East Coast junior middleweight title. Stevenson is coming off a second-round TKO over previously undefeated Dwayne Shelton on April 30 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
Guzman's even record is somewhat misleading because he has fought and gone the distance with some solid prospects including Latif Mundy, Aaron Torres (Contender: Season two) and Bayan Jargal, who defeated Guzman by six-round unanimous decision on July 26 in York, PA. Guzman also gave then-undefeated Tommy Rainone (11-0) his first loss by four-round split decision on June 4.
Other bouts slated for the card include DC rookie heavyweight Maurice Byarm (1-0, one KO) who will take on James Whitson of Charleston, SC (1-0) in a four-round contest. There will also be two Beltway pro debuts on the card as Baltimore middleweight Justin Blackwell takes on veteran John "The Baptist" Terry of Portsmouth, VA and Waldorf, MD's Barry Trotter will battle Johnny DeJesus of York, PA (1-0) in a welterweight contest.
Baltimore rookies Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler and Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor may also appear on the card.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Cummings, Davis Battle for Maryland Super Middleweight Title May 29 in Baltimore!
Two veteran Beltway super middleweights will battle for the Maryland Super Middleweight championship on the next Baltimore Pro Boxing card on Friday, May 29 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. Baltimore's Corey "Black Ice" Cummings will take on Bladensburg, MD's Demetrius Davis in the scheduled 10-round main event.
Cummings has a record of 16-4, 12 knockouts, but all four losses have come in his last five bouts, over a three-year period. Cummings lost a tough 12-round split decision to Berry Butler in September of 2006 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. Cummings also lost distance bouts to former world champions Keith Holmes and Montell Griffin before losing his last outing, a 12-round unanimous decision to Chris Henry for the NABF Light Heavyweight title in November of 2008 in Dallas, TX.
Davis (19-14-5, seven KO's) will be in his seventh bout since his comeback began in May of 2007 after a nine-year hiatus from the sport. Davis lost his first three bouts of the comeback in 2007 by close decisions, but he is currently unbeaten in his last three bouts, including a six-round unanimous decision over Rowland Bryant on January 17 in Kissimmee, FL.
Also slated for the card will be undefeated Baltimore welterweight James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson (8-0, eight KO's), DC heavyweight Maurice Byarm and Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman.
Cummings has a record of 16-4, 12 knockouts, but all four losses have come in his last five bouts, over a three-year period. Cummings lost a tough 12-round split decision to Berry Butler in September of 2006 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. Cummings also lost distance bouts to former world champions Keith Holmes and Montell Griffin before losing his last outing, a 12-round unanimous decision to Chris Henry for the NABF Light Heavyweight title in November of 2008 in Dallas, TX.
Davis (19-14-5, seven KO's) will be in his seventh bout since his comeback began in May of 2007 after a nine-year hiatus from the sport. Davis lost his first three bouts of the comeback in 2007 by close decisions, but he is currently unbeaten in his last three bouts, including a six-round unanimous decision over Rowland Bryant on January 17 in Kissimmee, FL.
Also slated for the card will be undefeated Baltimore welterweight James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson (8-0, eight KO's), DC heavyweight Maurice Byarm and Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman.
Rivers, Guerrero Earn Sportsmanship Awards at National Golden Gloves!
Kevin Rivers and Alexis Guerrero, who both reached the semi-finals of the National Golden Gloves in Salt Lake City, UT this past week, won the Sportsmanship Award for their respective weight classes.
For Rivers, this was the second straight year he has won this award, capturing it at 119 pounds last year and 125 pounds this year. Rivers has been in the final four the last two years.
Guerrero had an outstanding tournament reaching the semi-finals of the 201-pound division for the first time in his amateur career.
For Rivers, this was the second straight year he has won this award, capturing it at 119 pounds last year and 125 pounds this year. Rivers has been in the final four the last two years.
Guerrero had an outstanding tournament reaching the semi-finals of the 201-pound division for the first time in his amateur career.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Farmer, Jargal, Palma Victorious in Winchester!
Thanks to my Fightnews.com colleague Joe Gradowski for the results from tonight's card at the Winchester Sportsplex in Winchester, VA.
Front Royal, VA junior welterweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer won an eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Marty "Too Sweet" Robbins of Crossville, TN. Judging by the judge's scores, Farmer seemed to be in control throughout. Farner earned a shutout on one judge's card, 80-72. The other scores were 78-73 and 78-75.
Farmer is now 12-1, seven KO's while Robbins falls to 22-43-1, 15 KO's.
The co-feature saw Arlington, VA lightweight "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal remain undefeated by first-round disqualification over Brian "The Lion" Carden of St. Joseph, MO. Carden was disqualified with seven seconds remaining in the round when his cornermen jumped up onto the ring apron in protest.
Jargal is now 12-0-1, eight KO's while Carden is now 8-8, seven KO's.
Alexandria, VA lightweight Jaime "The Punisher" Palma got back on the winning track with a six-round unanimous decision over Salisbury, MD's Randolph Scott. Palma won by scores of 57-56 (twice) and 58-55. Palma is now 14-13-1, three KO's while Scott is 0-3.
Also on the card, Winchester heavyweight Scott "The Body Snatcher" Hossaflook won a four-round split decision over Derek "D-Mos" Amos of Dumfries, VA. Two judges scored it 39-37 for Hossaflook while one judge saw it 39-37 for Amos. Hossaflook is now 2-3 while Amos is 15-28, nine KO's.
I should have a more detailed report from Joe later today. By the way, this is indeed the same Joe Gradowski that serves as the timekeeper for the bouts in Maryland. Because he serves in that capacity, Joe does not write about any of the cards in Maryland. Joe is helping me cover cards in Virginia and DC only.
Front Royal, VA junior welterweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer won an eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Marty "Too Sweet" Robbins of Crossville, TN. Judging by the judge's scores, Farmer seemed to be in control throughout. Farner earned a shutout on one judge's card, 80-72. The other scores were 78-73 and 78-75.
Farmer is now 12-1, seven KO's while Robbins falls to 22-43-1, 15 KO's.
The co-feature saw Arlington, VA lightweight "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal remain undefeated by first-round disqualification over Brian "The Lion" Carden of St. Joseph, MO. Carden was disqualified with seven seconds remaining in the round when his cornermen jumped up onto the ring apron in protest.
Jargal is now 12-0-1, eight KO's while Carden is now 8-8, seven KO's.
Alexandria, VA lightweight Jaime "The Punisher" Palma got back on the winning track with a six-round unanimous decision over Salisbury, MD's Randolph Scott. Palma won by scores of 57-56 (twice) and 58-55. Palma is now 14-13-1, three KO's while Scott is 0-3.
Also on the card, Winchester heavyweight Scott "The Body Snatcher" Hossaflook won a four-round split decision over Derek "D-Mos" Amos of Dumfries, VA. Two judges scored it 39-37 for Hossaflook while one judge saw it 39-37 for Amos. Hossaflook is now 2-3 while Amos is 15-28, nine KO's.
I should have a more detailed report from Joe later today. By the way, this is indeed the same Joe Gradowski that serves as the timekeeper for the bouts in Maryland. Because he serves in that capacity, Joe does not write about any of the cards in Maryland. Joe is helping me cover cards in Virginia and DC only.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Corley Wins By TKO in Kazakhstan!
The interesting turnaround of DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley continues. Today in Chimkent, Kazakhstan, the former WBO Junior Welterweight champion scored an eighth-round TKO over Sidney Siqueira of Brazil. The bout was stopped with two seconds left in the final round.
According to Fightnews.com,, Corley floored his foe with a huge right to the head with ten seconds remaining in the fight. Siqueira barely beat the count but the bout was stopped moments later after another huge assault.
Corley has won three of his last four and now has a record of 34-11-1, 20 KO's. Sigueira is now 12-4-1, seven KO's.
According to Fightnews.com,, Corley floored his foe with a huge right to the head with ten seconds remaining in the fight. Siqueira barely beat the count but the bout was stopped moments later after another huge assault.
Corley has won three of his last four and now has a record of 34-11-1, 20 KO's. Sigueira is now 12-4-1, seven KO's.
Rivers, Guerrero Fall at National Golden Gloves!
Both of the remaining DC Region Boxers -- Kevin Rivers and Alexis Guerrero -- lost their semi-final bouts last night at the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Salt Lake City, UT.
In the 125-pound bracket, Rivers fell to Robert Rodriguez of the Colorado-New Mexico squad, 5-0 while Guerrero lost a 3-2 decision to Lamar Fenner of Chicago in the 201-pound class.
Congratulations to all of region boxers for performing well during this tournament.
In the 125-pound bracket, Rivers fell to Robert Rodriguez of the Colorado-New Mexico squad, 5-0 while Guerrero lost a 3-2 decision to Lamar Fenner of Chicago in the 201-pound class.
Congratulations to all of region boxers for performing well during this tournament.
Orji Loses By Split Decision in Philadelphia!
Laurel, MD super featherweight Ikem "The Warrior" Orji lost a six-round split decision to undefeated Issac Suarez of Lancaster, PA tonight at the Arena in Philadelphia, PA.
No details on the bout except for the judge's scorecards. Judge Al Dorsey scored the bout for Orji, 57-56 but judges Frank Cappuccino and Steve Weisfeld saw the bout in favor of Suarez, 58-55 and 58-56 respectively.
With the loss, Orji falls to 5-2, one KO while Suarez remains undefeated at 7-0, three KO's.
UPDATE: Sources have told me that this decision was a very controversial one. Orji scored a knockdown in the second-round but the round was scored a 10-9 round rather than a 10-8 round. No word on when the knockdown took place in the round. Representatives from Orji's camp have informed me that they plan to protest this decision.
Here is an on-site report from JR Jowett who writes for Boxing Digest. As some know, Jowett pulls no punches in his descriptions of bouts.
Isaac Suarez, 134, Lanc., sp. dec. Iken Orji, 135 ¼, Laurel, MD, 6.
NO fight!!! Great match on paper produces nothing in ring! They paw with jabs, not landing, and look and pose and look and pose and look and pose… In 3rd, Orji, who has been switching between southpaw and ortho, is back to southpaw, waves a few pawing jabs and then fires straight left, drops IS. But nothing happens afterward, and nothing for the rest of the bout. Dorsey scores for Orji, 57-56, Capp
58-55 & Weis 58-56 for Suarez.
No details on the bout except for the judge's scorecards. Judge Al Dorsey scored the bout for Orji, 57-56 but judges Frank Cappuccino and Steve Weisfeld saw the bout in favor of Suarez, 58-55 and 58-56 respectively.
With the loss, Orji falls to 5-2, one KO while Suarez remains undefeated at 7-0, three KO's.
UPDATE: Sources have told me that this decision was a very controversial one. Orji scored a knockdown in the second-round but the round was scored a 10-9 round rather than a 10-8 round. No word on when the knockdown took place in the round. Representatives from Orji's camp have informed me that they plan to protest this decision.
Here is an on-site report from JR Jowett who writes for Boxing Digest. As some know, Jowett pulls no punches in his descriptions of bouts.
Isaac Suarez, 134, Lanc., sp. dec. Iken Orji, 135 ¼, Laurel, MD, 6.
NO fight!!! Great match on paper produces nothing in ring! They paw with jabs, not landing, and look and pose and look and pose and look and pose… In 3rd, Orji, who has been switching between southpaw and ortho, is back to southpaw, waves a few pawing jabs and then fires straight left, drops IS. But nothing happens afterward, and nothing for the rest of the bout. Dorsey scores for Orji, 57-56, Capp
58-55 & Weis 58-56 for Suarez.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Orji Headlines in Philadelphia Tonight!
Laurel, MD super featherweight Ikem "The Warrior" Orji participates in the main event of a card at the Arena in Philadelphia, PA tonight.
Orji (5-1, one KO) will be in the six-round main event against undefeated Issac Suarez of Lancaster, PA (6-0, three KO's). The weigh-in is taking place today.
Orji (5-1, one KO) will be in the six-round main event against undefeated Issac Suarez of Lancaster, PA (6-0, three KO's). The weigh-in is taking place today.
Two DC Region Boxers Remain at National Golden Gloves!
Two DC Region boxers advanced to the semi-finals of the National Golden Gloves in Salt Lake City, UT last night.
Kevin Rivers advanced to the 125-pound semi-finals with a 5-0 victory over Enrique Rodriguez of Texas. Also, Alexis Guerrero moved into the final four of the 201-pound class with a 3-2 decision over David Imoestri of Nevada.
In the 119-pound division, Antonio Magruder lost a 5-0 decision to Ernesto Garza of Michigan. Also, Thomas Williams lost by a 5-0 decision to Jeffrey Spencer of the Colorado-New Mexico team in the 178-pound division.
Kevin Rivers advanced to the 125-pound semi-finals with a 5-0 victory over Enrique Rodriguez of Texas. Also, Alexis Guerrero moved into the final four of the 201-pound class with a 3-2 decision over David Imoestri of Nevada.
In the 119-pound division, Antonio Magruder lost a 5-0 decision to Ernesto Garza of Michigan. Also, Thomas Williams lost by a 5-0 decision to Jeffrey Spencer of the Colorado-New Mexico team in the 178-pound division.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Rivera May 30th Bout Called Off!
Major League Boxing.com is reporting that the Saturday, May 30th bout featuring George "Wartime" Rivera and Keenan Collins in Reading, PA has been called off due to a hand injury Collins suffered in training.
There is a possibility that Rivera may remain on the card against another opponent. We'll keep you posted.
There is a possibility that Rivera may remain on the card against another opponent. We'll keep you posted.
Mixed Results For DC Region Boxers at Golden Gloves!
On the third day of competition at the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Salt Lake City, UT, DC Region Boxers had mixed success resulting in four area boxers remaining in the tournament.
DC's Antonio Magruder advanced to the quarterfinals of the 119-pound division with a decision over Shane Tenney of Florida.
Salisbury's Alexis Guerrero also won his second-round bout in the 201-pound class defeating Dustin Powell of Wisconsin.
Also advancing to the quarterfinals were two area boxers who saw their first action last night. Kevin Rivers of DC moved along in the 125-pound division by defeating Canton Miller, Jr. of Missouri. Also, Thomas Williams won his first bout of the tournament by decisioning Lisando Tupete of New Jersey in the 178-pound class.
Four boxers lost second-round bouts yesterday. Erick Cruz lost to Emmanuel Folly of Pennsylvania in the 112-pound division. Todd Dekinderen of the Marine Corps lost in the 132-pound bracket to Raeese Aleem of Michigan. In the 152-pound division, David Grayton fell to Errol Spence of Texas and Jerry Forrest of Virginia lost to Shaun Seymore of Cincinnati, OH in the 201+ division.
DC's Antonio Magruder advanced to the quarterfinals of the 119-pound division with a decision over Shane Tenney of Florida.
Salisbury's Alexis Guerrero also won his second-round bout in the 201-pound class defeating Dustin Powell of Wisconsin.
Also advancing to the quarterfinals were two area boxers who saw their first action last night. Kevin Rivers of DC moved along in the 125-pound division by defeating Canton Miller, Jr. of Missouri. Also, Thomas Williams won his first bout of the tournament by decisioning Lisando Tupete of New Jersey in the 178-pound class.
Four boxers lost second-round bouts yesterday. Erick Cruz lost to Emmanuel Folly of Pennsylvania in the 112-pound division. Todd Dekinderen of the Marine Corps lost in the 132-pound bracket to Raeese Aleem of Michigan. In the 152-pound division, David Grayton fell to Errol Spence of Texas and Jerry Forrest of Virginia lost to Shaun Seymore of Cincinnati, OH in the 201+ division.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
DC Region Amateurs Advance at Golden Gloves!
Three DC Region Boxers have advanced to the second round of the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Salt Lake City, UT.
In the 119 Pound bracket, Antonio Magruder defeated Gabriel Montoya of the Rocky Mountain team by decision.
At 132 pounds, Todd DeKinderen of the United States Marine Corps won over Divante Jones of Knoxville, TN.
And at 201+ pounds, Jerry Forrest of Virginia defeated John Smith, Jr of the Tri-State team.
In the 119 Pound bracket, Antonio Magruder defeated Gabriel Montoya of the Rocky Mountain team by decision.
At 132 pounds, Todd DeKinderen of the United States Marine Corps won over Divante Jones of Knoxville, TN.
And at 201+ pounds, Jerry Forrest of Virginia defeated John Smith, Jr of the Tri-State team.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Amateur Boxing Comes to Gardens Ice House May 23!
There will be an amateur boxing card coming to the Gardens Ice House in Laurel, MD on Saturday, May 23. Tony "Mo Better" Jeter and trainer Robert Crawford are co-promoting the card.
One of the scheduled featured bouts on this card will be a 201+ pound rematch from the semifinals of the Washington Golden Gloves. Abodurin Akinyanju of Sugar Ray Leonard Gym will look to even the score with Club One's Ron Gamble. Also, Nick Kisner is slated to make his return to action after suffering a broken jaw.
The Gardens Ice House is located at 13800 Old Gunpowder Road in Laurel. The card begins at 7:30 PM.
One of the scheduled featured bouts on this card will be a 201+ pound rematch from the semifinals of the Washington Golden Gloves. Abodurin Akinyanju of Sugar Ray Leonard Gym will look to even the score with Club One's Ron Gamble. Also, Nick Kisner is slated to make his return to action after suffering a broken jaw.
The Gardens Ice House is located at 13800 Old Gunpowder Road in Laurel. The card begins at 7:30 PM.
Jargal Profiled on Queensberry Rules!
There is a nice and timely profile of undefeated Arlington, VA lightweight "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal on the blog Queensberry Rules. Writer Tim Starks talks to Jargal as well as his trainer Willie "The Heat" Taylor and legendary manager JD Brown.
Here is a link to the article:
http://queensberry-rules.com/2009/05/an-interview-with-dc-area-boxing-prospect-bayan-jargal-and-his-team.html"
Jargal will be in the co-feature bout against Brian Carden on Saturday, May 9 at the Winchester Sportsplex in Winchester, VA.
The entire Queensberry Rules blog can be found in the links section.
Here is a link to the article:
http://queensberry-rules.com/2009/05/an-interview-with-dc-area-boxing-prospect-bayan-jargal-and-his-team.html"
Jargal will be in the co-feature bout against Brian Carden on Saturday, May 9 at the Winchester Sportsplex in Winchester, VA.
The entire Queensberry Rules blog can be found in the links section.
'Smooth' Ridgway Heads to Atlantic City and ESPN May 15!
After just one bout, Arlington, VA light heavyweight Justin "Too Smooth" Ridgway will make his national television debut on Friday, May 15 when he opens up ESPN2's Friday Night Fights telecast from Harrah's Marina Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, NJ.
Ridgway (1-0) will take on Joe Njau of Perth Amboy, NJ by way of Nigeria (0-3) in a four-round bout. Ridgway made his pro debut against Calvin Aughtrey and won a four-round unanimous decision on March 14 in Winchester, VA.
This means that Beltway Boxers will appear on ESPN2 on back-to-back weeks. Jessie Nicklow will take on Erislandy Lara in an eight-round co-feature on May 22 in Miami Beach, FL.
Ridgway (1-0) will take on Joe Njau of Perth Amboy, NJ by way of Nigeria (0-3) in a four-round bout. Ridgway made his pro debut against Calvin Aughtrey and won a four-round unanimous decision on March 14 in Winchester, VA.
This means that Beltway Boxers will appear on ESPN2 on back-to-back weeks. Jessie Nicklow will take on Erislandy Lara in an eight-round co-feature on May 22 in Miami Beach, FL.
Guerrero Advances; Peterkin and Jones Fall at Golden Gloves!
Three DC Regional champions competed on Day 1 of the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, UT yesterday.
Alexis Guerrero of Salisbury advanced to the second round of the 201-pound division defeating Joseph White IV of Florida.
Two of the DC Region boxers faced tough draws in the first round and were eliminated from competition. Baltimore's Travis Peterkin lost to Luis Arias of Wisconsin in the 165-pound bracket. Arias won the US Future Stars championship in 2008, 2009 US Under-19 champ and placed third in the AIBA Youth World Championships last year.
Also, Willie Jones of North Carolina was eliminated by Johnny Garcia of Michigan in the 141-pound bracket. Garcia advanced to the second round last year and lost to the eventual champion, Dan O'Connor.
Alexis Guerrero of Salisbury advanced to the second round of the 201-pound division defeating Joseph White IV of Florida.
Two of the DC Region boxers faced tough draws in the first round and were eliminated from competition. Baltimore's Travis Peterkin lost to Luis Arias of Wisconsin in the 165-pound bracket. Arias won the US Future Stars championship in 2008, 2009 US Under-19 champ and placed third in the AIBA Youth World Championships last year.
Also, Willie Jones of North Carolina was eliminated by Johnny Garcia of Michigan in the 141-pound bracket. Garcia advanced to the second round last year and lost to the eventual champion, Dan O'Connor.
Monday, May 04, 2009
This Word on Golden Gloves Results!
As it was last year, results from the National Golden Gloves are very difficult to come by. The event doesn't seem to have a public relations person that works with the media to give results out. I'm trying every source I can find to get info and as soon as I get word, you will know. But it is much harder than most tournaments.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Nicklow, Rivera Participate in Step-Up Bouts in May!
In 2008, two Beltway middleweights provided fans with two of the most talked-about contests in recent local history. Now, we get a chance to see if they learned enough from those battles to progress to the next level.
Baltimore's Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and George "Wartime" Rivera of Fluvanna, VA, who exchanged victories against one another, will be involved in important road bouts later this month.
Nicklow (19-1-1, seven KO's) will take on undefeated Cuban sensation Erislandy Lara on Friday, May 22 at the Fontainbleau Hotel in Miami, FL. The bout will be an eight-round televised co-feature on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights. It will be Nicklow's national TV debut and the first time he will battle outside the Beltway area. It will also be the first contest with new trainer David Sewell.
Nicklow has not fought since losing the second Rivera bout by eight-round unanimous decision on November 1 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Lara (5-0, three KO's) fought yesterday on the Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton undercard in Las Vegas and scored a four-round unanimous decision over Chris Gray. Lara, who lives in Germany, has never gone past four rounds in his young pro career.
On Saturday, May 30, Rivera (10-4, three KO's) will take on Keenan Collins of York, PA (12-5-2, eight KO's) in a six-round contest at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA. Rivera has fought twice since the two Nicklow bouts, losing a split decision to Rodney Green in January and winning a unanimous decision over Ike Ezeji in March.
Collins was considered a rising prospect until he lost an eight-round split decision to Jose Angel Rodriguez in July of 2007. Collins is winless in his last five bouts (0-4-1) including a first-round stoppage by veteran Doel Carrasquillo during that stretch. Collins fought twice in the Beltway area in two tough bouts against Martinus Clay at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD in 2005. The two fought to a six-round draw in the first bout and Collins won the second by eight-round split decision.
Baltimore's Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and George "Wartime" Rivera of Fluvanna, VA, who exchanged victories against one another, will be involved in important road bouts later this month.
Nicklow (19-1-1, seven KO's) will take on undefeated Cuban sensation Erislandy Lara on Friday, May 22 at the Fontainbleau Hotel in Miami, FL. The bout will be an eight-round televised co-feature on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights. It will be Nicklow's national TV debut and the first time he will battle outside the Beltway area. It will also be the first contest with new trainer David Sewell.
Nicklow has not fought since losing the second Rivera bout by eight-round unanimous decision on November 1 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Lara (5-0, three KO's) fought yesterday on the Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton undercard in Las Vegas and scored a four-round unanimous decision over Chris Gray. Lara, who lives in Germany, has never gone past four rounds in his young pro career.
On Saturday, May 30, Rivera (10-4, three KO's) will take on Keenan Collins of York, PA (12-5-2, eight KO's) in a six-round contest at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA. Rivera has fought twice since the two Nicklow bouts, losing a split decision to Rodney Green in January and winning a unanimous decision over Ike Ezeji in March.
Collins was considered a rising prospect until he lost an eight-round split decision to Jose Angel Rodriguez in July of 2007. Collins is winless in his last five bouts (0-4-1) including a first-round stoppage by veteran Doel Carrasquillo during that stretch. Collins fought twice in the Beltway area in two tough bouts against Martinus Clay at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD in 2005. The two fought to a six-round draw in the first bout and Collins won the second by eight-round split decision.
May 9 Winchester Card Taking Shape!
The latest addition of Left Hook Boxing's "Tomorrow's Champions" card taking place on Saturday, May 9 at the Winchester Sportsplex in Winchester, VA is coming together.
The main event features Front Royal, VA junior welterweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer taking on a true veteran in Marty "Too Sweet" Robbins of Crossville, TN in a scheduled eight-round contest.
Because of injuries to himself and prospective opponents, Farmer (11-1, seven KO's) hasn't been in the ring since winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Cesar Vega on August 9 in Salem, VA.
Robbins presents Farmer's most experienced foe to date, having participated in 65 pro bouts (22-42-1, 15 KO's). Robbins has fought the likes of Verquan Kimbrough, Michael Clark, Monty Meza-Clay and the Beltway's own Dean White, who won a six-round split decision over Robbins in January of 2006 in Pikesville, MD.
Speaking of White, the "Pitbull" was slated to be in the eight-round co-feature on this card against the undefeated "Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal. However, White suffered an injury in training.
Therefore, Jargal (11-0-1, eight KO's) will face Brian "The Lion" Carden of Saint Joseph, MO (8-7, seven KO's) in the co-feature. Jargal fought on the last Winchester card on March 9 and scored a third-round knockout over Reggie Nash. Jargal has knocked out his last five opponents.
Carden will try to avoid being knocked out for the third straight time. Carden has suffered first-round knockouts in his last two bouts.
Also slated to be on the card are Jaime "The Punisher" Palma, Scott "The Body Snatcher" Hossaflook and "Dangerous" Dwayne Davis.
The main event features Front Royal, VA junior welterweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer taking on a true veteran in Marty "Too Sweet" Robbins of Crossville, TN in a scheduled eight-round contest.
Because of injuries to himself and prospective opponents, Farmer (11-1, seven KO's) hasn't been in the ring since winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Cesar Vega on August 9 in Salem, VA.
Robbins presents Farmer's most experienced foe to date, having participated in 65 pro bouts (22-42-1, 15 KO's). Robbins has fought the likes of Verquan Kimbrough, Michael Clark, Monty Meza-Clay and the Beltway's own Dean White, who won a six-round split decision over Robbins in January of 2006 in Pikesville, MD.
Speaking of White, the "Pitbull" was slated to be in the eight-round co-feature on this card against the undefeated "Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal. However, White suffered an injury in training.
Therefore, Jargal (11-0-1, eight KO's) will face Brian "The Lion" Carden of Saint Joseph, MO (8-7, seven KO's) in the co-feature. Jargal fought on the last Winchester card on March 9 and scored a third-round knockout over Reggie Nash. Jargal has knocked out his last five opponents.
Carden will try to avoid being knocked out for the third straight time. Carden has suffered first-round knockouts in his last two bouts.
Also slated to be on the card are Jaime "The Punisher" Palma, Scott "The Body Snatcher" Hossaflook and "Dangerous" Dwayne Davis.
Lange Wins WBC USNBC Title With Fifth-Round TKO!
Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange won the second regional title of his career, stopping Frank Houghtaling of Albany, NY at the end of the fifth round to win the WBC USNBC Junior Middleweight title at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
Lange came out more aggressively, firing very strong in the first round and dropping Houghtaling with strong body shots. Lange maintained his domination with a crisp jab, eventually causing a cut around Houghtaling's eye that bothered him to the point that he couldn't come out for the sixth round.
Lange's record rises to 30-3-2, 21 KO's while Houghtaling, who announced his retirement after the bout, falls to 19-16-5, four KO's.
The co-feature saw returning DC middleweight Purcell "Hard Rock" Miller win an eight-round unanimous decision over Thomas Wilt of Altoona, PA.
Miller came out firing with solid shots to Wilt's head and body, eventually dropping Wilt with a body shot in the fifth round. Wilt showed a lot of guts coming back into the bout and made it closer, but Miller won the bout by a score of 77-74 on all three judge's cards.
With the win, Miller is now 23-5-1, 18 KO's while Wilt is 21-7, four KO's.
Also on the card, featherweight Jennifer "The Bolivian" Salinas of Manassas, VA made an impressive Patriot Center debut with a crushing third-round TKO over Christina "CT Too Sweet" Leadbeater of Philadelphia, PA.
Salinas showed solid skills in her first bout back in two years mixing bobbing and weaving and crushing combinations. A solid right hand dropped Leadbeater midway through the third. Leadbeater beat referee Michelle Hall's count but Hall deemed Leadbeater unfit to continue at 2:50 of the round.
Salinas is now 10-1, four KO's while Leadbeater is 2-3.
Yieta "King" Johnson of Woodbridge, VA defeated Centreville, VA's "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell for the second straight time, this time a first-round TKO at 58 seconds of the first round. Johnson came out very strong landing hard hooks and dropping Mitchell within the first 20 seconds of the round. Mitchell had no defense for Johnson who scored two knockdowns before the bout was stopped.
Johnson is now 2-2, two KO's while Mitchell is 0-2 and reportedly will not box again.
Other results on the card:
Haymarket, VA welterweight Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez won by first-round TKO when his opponent -- Dwartney Wortham of Atlanta, GA -- hurt his right hand and could not continue. Rodriguez is now 3-0, three KO's while Wortham is 0-2.
Arlington, VA light heavyweight Otgonbayer Daivii won a four-round split decision over "The African Warrior" Francois Ambang of Richmond, VA in a rematch of a bout in February. The bout was very, very close. Daivii is now 3-2, one KO while Ambang is now 2-3.
DC middleweight Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker won a very competitive four-round split decision over Taurean "Bulldog" Edward of Richmond. Both men landed crushing bouts throughout the contest. Originally, the bout was declared a draw, but officials retabulated the scores and Walker won by split decision.
Walker is now even at 2-2, one KO. Edwards loses his second straight split decision and falls to 0-2.
The opening bout saw the debuting Andrew "The Giant" Jackson score a brutal second-round TKO over fellow DC boxer Delonte Marshall in a heavyweight bout. Jackson, who outweighed Marshall 291 to 265, used every bit of his weight to land powerful shots to Marshall, who crumpled at the 1:55 mark of the second. Marshall is yet to get past the second round and is now 0-3.
ICE Promotions handled the promotion for the card. The matchmaker was JD Brown and the attendance was 4,132.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show for the card. This broadcast features a couple of heavy-duty figures.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #166 - Post Fight From The Patriot Center!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I host a star-studded Post-Fight Wrap-Up show from the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. We have interviews with legendary trainers Angelo Dundee and Don Turner as well as Purcell Miller and his brother/co-trainer Butch!
Lange came out more aggressively, firing very strong in the first round and dropping Houghtaling with strong body shots. Lange maintained his domination with a crisp jab, eventually causing a cut around Houghtaling's eye that bothered him to the point that he couldn't come out for the sixth round.
Lange's record rises to 30-3-2, 21 KO's while Houghtaling, who announced his retirement after the bout, falls to 19-16-5, four KO's.
The co-feature saw returning DC middleweight Purcell "Hard Rock" Miller win an eight-round unanimous decision over Thomas Wilt of Altoona, PA.
Miller came out firing with solid shots to Wilt's head and body, eventually dropping Wilt with a body shot in the fifth round. Wilt showed a lot of guts coming back into the bout and made it closer, but Miller won the bout by a score of 77-74 on all three judge's cards.
With the win, Miller is now 23-5-1, 18 KO's while Wilt is 21-7, four KO's.
Also on the card, featherweight Jennifer "The Bolivian" Salinas of Manassas, VA made an impressive Patriot Center debut with a crushing third-round TKO over Christina "CT Too Sweet" Leadbeater of Philadelphia, PA.
Salinas showed solid skills in her first bout back in two years mixing bobbing and weaving and crushing combinations. A solid right hand dropped Leadbeater midway through the third. Leadbeater beat referee Michelle Hall's count but Hall deemed Leadbeater unfit to continue at 2:50 of the round.
Salinas is now 10-1, four KO's while Leadbeater is 2-3.
Yieta "King" Johnson of Woodbridge, VA defeated Centreville, VA's "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell for the second straight time, this time a first-round TKO at 58 seconds of the first round. Johnson came out very strong landing hard hooks and dropping Mitchell within the first 20 seconds of the round. Mitchell had no defense for Johnson who scored two knockdowns before the bout was stopped.
Johnson is now 2-2, two KO's while Mitchell is 0-2 and reportedly will not box again.
Other results on the card:
Haymarket, VA welterweight Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez won by first-round TKO when his opponent -- Dwartney Wortham of Atlanta, GA -- hurt his right hand and could not continue. Rodriguez is now 3-0, three KO's while Wortham is 0-2.
Arlington, VA light heavyweight Otgonbayer Daivii won a four-round split decision over "The African Warrior" Francois Ambang of Richmond, VA in a rematch of a bout in February. The bout was very, very close. Daivii is now 3-2, one KO while Ambang is now 2-3.
DC middleweight Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker won a very competitive four-round split decision over Taurean "Bulldog" Edward of Richmond. Both men landed crushing bouts throughout the contest. Originally, the bout was declared a draw, but officials retabulated the scores and Walker won by split decision.
Walker is now even at 2-2, one KO. Edwards loses his second straight split decision and falls to 0-2.
The opening bout saw the debuting Andrew "The Giant" Jackson score a brutal second-round TKO over fellow DC boxer Delonte Marshall in a heavyweight bout. Jackson, who outweighed Marshall 291 to 265, used every bit of his weight to land powerful shots to Marshall, who crumpled at the 1:55 mark of the second. Marshall is yet to get past the second round and is now 0-3.
ICE Promotions handled the promotion for the card. The matchmaker was JD Brown and the attendance was 4,132.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show for the card. This broadcast features a couple of heavy-duty figures.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #166 - Post Fight From The Patriot Center!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I host a star-studded Post-Fight Wrap-Up show from the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. We have interviews with legendary trainers Angelo Dundee and Don Turner as well as Purcell Miller and his brother/co-trainer Butch!
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Weights For Fairfax!
Here is the scale watch for tonight's card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA:
Jimmy Lange 152 vs. Frank Houghtaling 150
Purcell Miller 159 vs. Thomas Wilt 156 1/2
Juan Rodriguez 149 vs. Dwartney Wortham 151
Jennifer Salinas 122 1/4 vs. Christina Leadbeater 124
Otgonbayer Daivii 178 1/2 vs. Francois Ambang 179 1/4
Tom Mitchell 124 vs. Yieta Johnson 122
Kendrick Walker 149 vs. Taurean Edwards 152
Andrew Jackson 291 vs. Delonte Marshall 265
Jimmy Lange 152 vs. Frank Houghtaling 150
Purcell Miller 159 vs. Thomas Wilt 156 1/2
Juan Rodriguez 149 vs. Dwartney Wortham 151
Jennifer Salinas 122 1/4 vs. Christina Leadbeater 124
Otgonbayer Daivii 178 1/2 vs. Francois Ambang 179 1/4
Tom Mitchell 124 vs. Yieta Johnson 122
Kendrick Walker 149 vs. Taurean Edwards 152
Andrew Jackson 291 vs. Delonte Marshall 265
Friday, May 01, 2009
Russell Jr. Wins By Unanimous Decision in California!
Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Gary Russell, Jr. remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Alvaro Muro in Santa Ynez, CA tonight.
Russell scored a knockdown in the third round and went on to the relatively easy victory. All three judges scored the bout 40-35, a shutout.
Russell is now 3-0, one KO. Muro falls to 6-14, five KO's.
Russell scored a knockdown in the third round and went on to the relatively easy victory. All three judges scored the bout 40-35, a shutout.
Russell is now 3-0, one KO. Muro falls to 6-14, five KO's.
Corley Returns to Action May 9..in Kazakhstan!
After a controversial loss in his last outing on national television, former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley gets right back in the ring on Saturday, May 9.
15Rounds.com's Marc Abrams is reporting
that Corley (33-11-1, 19 KO's) will travel to Chimket, Kazakhstan to face former Brazilian Lightweight champion Sidney Siqueira (12-3-1, seven KO's) in a scheduled eight-round bout.
On April 10 in Tuscon, AZ, Corley lost a controversial eight-round unanimous decision over underfeated Hector Sanchez in front of a nationally-televised ESPN2 audience. Many people believed that Corley won the contest handily.
“It was a great fight,” Corley told Abrams. “I won but I lost. Everybody who saw it knew I won that fight. My head was down until I spoke to the promoter, Oscar (De La Hoya), who told me I really won the fight and he didn’t know what the judges were looking at. I felt better after that. We knew going in that I had to knockout my opponent to win. I tried to do that and hurt him, but he kept coming. Fans will be watching the rebirth of ‘Chop Chop’ on May 9th. I’m a different fighter today – much more aggressive. The Shumenovs are great promoters. They run clean shows, no delays. I’m looking forward to fighting on their show in Kazakhstan. I’m confident of a win and we’ll pick-up from there because I really want another world title shot. Right now, though, I’m trying to get somebody to translate ‘Chop Chop’ into Russian for me.”
15Rounds.com's Marc Abrams is reporting
that Corley (33-11-1, 19 KO's) will travel to Chimket, Kazakhstan to face former Brazilian Lightweight champion Sidney Siqueira (12-3-1, seven KO's) in a scheduled eight-round bout.
On April 10 in Tuscon, AZ, Corley lost a controversial eight-round unanimous decision over underfeated Hector Sanchez in front of a nationally-televised ESPN2 audience. Many people believed that Corley won the contest handily.
“It was a great fight,” Corley told Abrams. “I won but I lost. Everybody who saw it knew I won that fight. My head was down until I spoke to the promoter, Oscar (De La Hoya), who told me I really won the fight and he didn’t know what the judges were looking at. I felt better after that. We knew going in that I had to knockout my opponent to win. I tried to do that and hurt him, but he kept coming. Fans will be watching the rebirth of ‘Chop Chop’ on May 9th. I’m a different fighter today – much more aggressive. The Shumenovs are great promoters. They run clean shows, no delays. I’m looking forward to fighting on their show in Kazakhstan. I’m confident of a win and we’ll pick-up from there because I really want another world title shot. Right now, though, I’m trying to get somebody to translate ‘Chop Chop’ into Russian for me.”
Beltway Boxers Blitz Mainstream Media!
On a big sports weekend that includes the Capitals-Penguins playoff series, the NBA Playoffs, The Kentucky Derby and the major bout between Manny Pacquiao and and Ricky Hatton, the Beltway Boxing scene is making its presence felt in the mainstream media with a number of articles and video presentations.
Last night on NBC4, sportscaster Dan Hellie profiled Centreville, VA featherweight "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell as he prepares for his rematch against Yieta Johnson tomorrow night at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. You can watch the feature here.
http://www.nbcwashington.com/sports/more/Tattoo_Tom_Fights_Cancer_in_the_Ring_Washington_DC.html">
Tonight on Showtime's ShoBox, highlights of Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Gary Russell, Jr.'s four-round bout against Alvaro Muro in Santa Ynez, CA will be shown between the two featured bouts and Russell will be the subject of an interview feature.
Also, there are two more newspaper articles concerning the Patriot Center card Saturday night. Kevin Dunleavy of the Washington Examiner writes about Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange's switch in trainers from Buddy McGirt to Don Turner in preparation for his 12-round WBC USNBC Junior Middleweight title bout against Frank Houghtaling. That article can be seen here:
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/Boxing--New-trainer-has-Lange-ready-for-match-44100332.html">
And Thom Loverro of the Washington Times talks about Jimmy Lange -- the franchise -- and what he has brought to the Beltway Boxing scene. This article includes quotes from yours truly.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/may/01/face-of-the-franchise/">
Last night on NBC4, sportscaster Dan Hellie profiled Centreville, VA featherweight "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell as he prepares for his rematch against Yieta Johnson tomorrow night at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. You can watch the feature here.
http://www.nbcwashington.com/sports/more/Tattoo_Tom_Fights_Cancer_in_the_Ring_Washington_DC.html">
Tonight on Showtime's ShoBox, highlights of Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Gary Russell, Jr.'s four-round bout against Alvaro Muro in Santa Ynez, CA will be shown between the two featured bouts and Russell will be the subject of an interview feature.
Also, there are two more newspaper articles concerning the Patriot Center card Saturday night. Kevin Dunleavy of the Washington Examiner writes about Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange's switch in trainers from Buddy McGirt to Don Turner in preparation for his 12-round WBC USNBC Junior Middleweight title bout against Frank Houghtaling. That article can be seen here:
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/sports/Boxing--New-trainer-has-Lange-ready-for-match-44100332.html">
And Thom Loverro of the Washington Times talks about Jimmy Lange -- the franchise -- and what he has brought to the Beltway Boxing scene. This article includes quotes from yours truly.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/may/01/face-of-the-franchise/">
McCalla, Stevenson Victorious in Woodlawn!
Two undefeated Baltimore Boxers remained undefeated with victories tonight on the Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD.
In the main event, middleweight Cecil "AK-47" McCalla scored an eight-round majority decision over a very tough John "No Mercy" Mackey of Montgomery, AL by way of Washington, DC. McCalla stayed in motion on the outside and landed punches. Mackey tried to come forward and was successful at times with his aggression, but didn't seem to be forceful enough. Judge Don Risher saw the draw at 76-76, but judges Kenny Chevalier and John Gradowski scored the bout for McCalla at 78-75 and 78-74 respectively. BATB scored the bout 77-75 for McCalla.
McCalla is now 7-0, two KO's while Mackey falls to 10-3-1, five KO's.
The co-feature saw welterweight James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson keep his perfect record intact with an impressive second-round TKO over Dwayne "Diesel" Shelton of Bumpass, VA. Stevenson was all over Shelton from the opening bell as his offense was solid. In the second round, Stevenson dropped Shelton with a left hand and finished him off shortly after that. The bout was stopped at 2:33 of the second round.
Stevenson rises to 8-0, eight KO's while Shelton loses for the first time in his pro career and he is 2-1.
Two Beltway Boxers made successful pro debuts on this card. Baltimore cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler won by second-round disqualification over Kareem "The Dream" Wilson (0-3) of DC. Early in the second, Wheeler and Wilson got into a clinch and Wilson started raining rabbit punches on the back of Wheeler's neck. Without a previous warning, referee John Gradowski stopped the bout and disqualified Wilson at 18 seconds of the round.
Also Maurice Byarm, now fighting out of DC, made an impressive pro debut stopping Baltimore's Hanibal Otey at 2:02 of the third round. Byarm showed power with both hands as he dominated Otey throughout the contest. Otey is 1-2.
By the way, Byarm, a native of Philadelphia, PA, is the son of 1980's cruiserweight Lionel "The Boiler" Byarm who was the opponent for Evander Holyfield in Holyfield's pro debut at Madison Square Garden in New York in November of 1984. Holyfield won by six-round unanimous decision.
In the opening bout, Kevin "The Journeyman" Johnson of Baltimore won by third-round TKO over Ellicott City, MD's Robert "Mack Attack" McConnell. Johnson didn't land a lot of punches but he threw a solid right hand that dropped McConnell. After McConnell beat the count, referee Gradowski thought McConnell could not continue. The bout was stopped at 40 seconds of the third.
Johnson is now 3-1, two KO's while McConnell falls to 4-3, two KO's.
Here is an interview with Cecil McCalla:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #165 - 'AK-47' McCalla Talks About His Victory in Woodlawn!
Undefeated Baltimore middleweight Cecil "AK-47" McCalla talks about his tough victory over John "No Mercy" Mackey in Woodlawn.
Now here is the complete BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #164 - Post-fight from Martin's West!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap the 100th boxing card that BATB has covered --the Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. James "Keep Em' Sleepin'" Stevenson and promoter Jake Smith are our guests.
In the main event, middleweight Cecil "AK-47" McCalla scored an eight-round majority decision over a very tough John "No Mercy" Mackey of Montgomery, AL by way of Washington, DC. McCalla stayed in motion on the outside and landed punches. Mackey tried to come forward and was successful at times with his aggression, but didn't seem to be forceful enough. Judge Don Risher saw the draw at 76-76, but judges Kenny Chevalier and John Gradowski scored the bout for McCalla at 78-75 and 78-74 respectively. BATB scored the bout 77-75 for McCalla.
McCalla is now 7-0, two KO's while Mackey falls to 10-3-1, five KO's.
The co-feature saw welterweight James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson keep his perfect record intact with an impressive second-round TKO over Dwayne "Diesel" Shelton of Bumpass, VA. Stevenson was all over Shelton from the opening bell as his offense was solid. In the second round, Stevenson dropped Shelton with a left hand and finished him off shortly after that. The bout was stopped at 2:33 of the second round.
Stevenson rises to 8-0, eight KO's while Shelton loses for the first time in his pro career and he is 2-1.
Two Beltway Boxers made successful pro debuts on this card. Baltimore cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler won by second-round disqualification over Kareem "The Dream" Wilson (0-3) of DC. Early in the second, Wheeler and Wilson got into a clinch and Wilson started raining rabbit punches on the back of Wheeler's neck. Without a previous warning, referee John Gradowski stopped the bout and disqualified Wilson at 18 seconds of the round.
Also Maurice Byarm, now fighting out of DC, made an impressive pro debut stopping Baltimore's Hanibal Otey at 2:02 of the third round. Byarm showed power with both hands as he dominated Otey throughout the contest. Otey is 1-2.
By the way, Byarm, a native of Philadelphia, PA, is the son of 1980's cruiserweight Lionel "The Boiler" Byarm who was the opponent for Evander Holyfield in Holyfield's pro debut at Madison Square Garden in New York in November of 1984. Holyfield won by six-round unanimous decision.
In the opening bout, Kevin "The Journeyman" Johnson of Baltimore won by third-round TKO over Ellicott City, MD's Robert "Mack Attack" McConnell. Johnson didn't land a lot of punches but he threw a solid right hand that dropped McConnell. After McConnell beat the count, referee Gradowski thought McConnell could not continue. The bout was stopped at 40 seconds of the third.
Johnson is now 3-1, two KO's while McConnell falls to 4-3, two KO's.
Here is an interview with Cecil McCalla:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #165 - 'AK-47' McCalla Talks About His Victory in Woodlawn!
Undefeated Baltimore middleweight Cecil "AK-47" McCalla talks about his tough victory over John "No Mercy" Mackey in Woodlawn.
Now here is the complete BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #164 - Post-fight from Martin's West!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap the 100th boxing card that BATB has covered --the Baltimore Pro Boxing card at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. James "Keep Em' Sleepin'" Stevenson and promoter Jake Smith are our guests.
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