One of the great aspects of the Beltway Boxing Community is the way a large number of Beltway Boxing legends are giving back to the community by passing along their knowledge of the sweet science.
A number of former Beltway greats are coaches and trainers and either work or own gyms that are designed for youth and adults to train and, in some cases, stay out of trouble.
The mainstream media continues to pick up on this aspect. The Voice of America's "American Life" program profiles former IBC Lightweight champ Keely Thompson for his continued work in his gym. That piece can be found here with a video attached:
"http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/american-life/Former-World-Lightweight-Champ-Tries-to-Give-Inner-City-Youth-Fighting-Chance-92399739.html">
Tonight on NewsChannel 8's "Sports Talk with Glenn Harris," former world featherweight contender Derrik Holmes will be the guest and talk about his personal redemption and his brand new gym in Capitol Heights. The show starts at 8 PM.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Former WBC Champ Holmes Battles Former IBF Champ Ouma May 29 in DC!
In an interesting battle of former world titlists, DC's Keith Holmes will take on Kassim "The Dream" Ouma in a co-feature bout on the Saturday, May 29 Titanium Promotions card at the DC Armory. The two will battle for the vacant Universal Boxing Organization International Middleweight title.
Former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Holmes (41-5,25 KO's) is fighting for the first time since winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett on June 6 at the Washington Convention Center. Holmes has won two of his last four bouts.
Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KO's) is a native of Uganda who now resides in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Ouma defeated Verno Phillips for the IBF Junior Middleweight title in October of 2004 and made one defense before losing the title to Roman Karmazin in July of 2005. Ouma also challenged Jermain Taylor for the WBC and WBO Middleweight crowns in December 2006 but lost a unanimous decision. Ouma has not fought since losing a controversial 10-round unanimous decision to Vanas Matirosyan for the NABO and NABF Middleweight crowns on January 16.
Former two-time WBC Middleweight champion Holmes (41-5,25 KO's) is fighting for the first time since winning an eight-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett on June 6 at the Washington Convention Center. Holmes has won two of his last four bouts.
Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KO's) is a native of Uganda who now resides in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Ouma defeated Verno Phillips for the IBF Junior Middleweight title in October of 2004 and made one defense before losing the title to Roman Karmazin in July of 2005. Ouma also challenged Jermain Taylor for the WBC and WBO Middleweight crowns in December 2006 but lost a unanimous decision. Ouma has not fought since losing a controversial 10-round unanimous decision to Vanas Matirosyan for the NABO and NABF Middleweight crowns on January 16.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
'ShadowBoxer' Provides Unique Take on 'Brown Bomber!'
As promised, here is a short review on the opera "Shadowboxer: An Opera Based on the Life of Joe Louis" performed this past week at the Clarice Smith Arts Center at the University of Maryland.
I am not by any means an opera devotee, so this review is written from a boxing fan's perspective. From that perspective, "Shadowboxer" is a fascinating and often riveting telling of the life of one of the great boxing champions of all time.
The opera plays out through the eyes and the mind of the older Joe Louis (portrayed wonderfully by Jarrod Lee), who is in the final moments of his life and in a wheelchair after a stroke. At this point in Louis's life, he was dealing with paranoia and was seeing visions and everyone seen and heard during the opera are flashbacks and products of his imagination.
All the major figures in Louis's life are here: Trainer Jack Blackburn (Vashawn Savoy McIlwain), managers John Roxborough (Benjamin Moore) and Julian Black (Robert King), his first wife, Marva Trotter (Adrienne Webster) and his mother, Lillie Brooks (Carmen Balthrop). Old Joe watches as his younger self (Duane A. Moody) weaves through the highs and lows of his life. Except for Old Joe, the cast wear masks on stage until their part in the performance.
The major boxing part of the opera is of the two bouts Louis had with Max Schmeling (Peter Joshua Burroughs). Prior to the first bout in 1936 (the bout Schmeling won), Schmeling is seen taunting Louis and calling him a "Shadowboxer." The first act ends with the cast showing how everyone in the country huddled around their radios listening to the rematch.
The second act delves deeper into Louis's financial problems with the Internal Revenue Service, his marital problems and his drug and mental issues. Louis is paranoid and hears voices. In one riveting scene, Louis imagines he sees Jack Johnson and Muhammad Ali talking to him. Johnson and Ali were portrayed, not by singers but by a saxaphone (Johnson) and a muted trumpet (Ali). Old Joe continues to sing while Johnson and Ali's responses were translated into words on the set, calling Louis words like "gutless" and "Uncle Tom."
As a boxing fan, I was pleased that the opera did justice to Louis's story. No one should expect any revelations in the Joe Louis Story, but all the pertinent facts were there and weaved very nicely through the direction of Leon Major, Frank Proto, the composer and the librettist, John Chenault. Mr. Chenault mentioned that one of the challenges was to give voice to the life of a man who did not talk a lot. Many of Louis's famous quotes like "we will win because we are on God's side" and "he can run but he can't hide" became lyrics in the score itself.
This was the last performance for this run of "Shadowboxer." Hopefully, it can be performed again. We are always looking for new ways to tell someone's life. This was a very fascinating retelling.
I am not by any means an opera devotee, so this review is written from a boxing fan's perspective. From that perspective, "Shadowboxer" is a fascinating and often riveting telling of the life of one of the great boxing champions of all time.
The opera plays out through the eyes and the mind of the older Joe Louis (portrayed wonderfully by Jarrod Lee), who is in the final moments of his life and in a wheelchair after a stroke. At this point in Louis's life, he was dealing with paranoia and was seeing visions and everyone seen and heard during the opera are flashbacks and products of his imagination.
All the major figures in Louis's life are here: Trainer Jack Blackburn (Vashawn Savoy McIlwain), managers John Roxborough (Benjamin Moore) and Julian Black (Robert King), his first wife, Marva Trotter (Adrienne Webster) and his mother, Lillie Brooks (Carmen Balthrop). Old Joe watches as his younger self (Duane A. Moody) weaves through the highs and lows of his life. Except for Old Joe, the cast wear masks on stage until their part in the performance.
The major boxing part of the opera is of the two bouts Louis had with Max Schmeling (Peter Joshua Burroughs). Prior to the first bout in 1936 (the bout Schmeling won), Schmeling is seen taunting Louis and calling him a "Shadowboxer." The first act ends with the cast showing how everyone in the country huddled around their radios listening to the rematch.
The second act delves deeper into Louis's financial problems with the Internal Revenue Service, his marital problems and his drug and mental issues. Louis is paranoid and hears voices. In one riveting scene, Louis imagines he sees Jack Johnson and Muhammad Ali talking to him. Johnson and Ali were portrayed, not by singers but by a saxaphone (Johnson) and a muted trumpet (Ali). Old Joe continues to sing while Johnson and Ali's responses were translated into words on the set, calling Louis words like "gutless" and "Uncle Tom."
As a boxing fan, I was pleased that the opera did justice to Louis's story. No one should expect any revelations in the Joe Louis Story, but all the pertinent facts were there and weaved very nicely through the direction of Leon Major, Frank Proto, the composer and the librettist, John Chenault. Mr. Chenault mentioned that one of the challenges was to give voice to the life of a man who did not talk a lot. Many of Louis's famous quotes like "we will win because we are on God's side" and "he can run but he can't hide" became lyrics in the score itself.
This was the last performance for this run of "Shadowboxer." Hopefully, it can be performed again. We are always looking for new ways to tell someone's life. This was a very fascinating retelling.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Opponent Named For 'Mayhem' Mitchell's May 7 ESPN2 Bout!
Undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell has an opponent for his Friday, May 7 ESPN2 battle at the Don Haskins Convention Center in El Paso, TX. Mitchell (16-0-1, 10 KO's) will take on "Lethal" Johnnie White of St. Martinsville, LA (22-1, 18 KO's) in a scheduled 10-round affair.
Mitchell is coming off a third-round technical knockout over Ryan Thompson on April 2 at the Washington Convention Center. Mitchell has knocked out three of his last four opponents. That string began with Mitchell's first ESPN2 appearance on August 14 when he stopped Andrae Carthron in the first round in Tucson, AZ.
White won an eight-round unanimous decision over Arron Lyons in his last outing on September 26 in Kinder, LA. White's only loss came against former world title contender Dominick Guinn in April of last year. White was stopped in the first round.
Mitchell is coming off a third-round technical knockout over Ryan Thompson on April 2 at the Washington Convention Center. Mitchell has knocked out three of his last four opponents. That string began with Mitchell's first ESPN2 appearance on August 14 when he stopped Andrae Carthron in the first round in Tucson, AZ.
White won an eight-round unanimous decision over Arron Lyons in his last outing on September 26 in Kinder, LA. White's only loss came against former world title contender Dominick Guinn in April of last year. White was stopped in the first round.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Tucker Comments on DiBella Signing!
An official press release has come out on Mark "TNT" Tucker's signing with DiBella Entertainment. It's safe to say Tucker has high hopes for his future.
“I want to stay undefeated, get a bigger fan base, and appear on television more,” said Tucker. "I believe DBE can get me there.”
“I’ve done all I can do for him,” said Mark Tucker, Sr. “We’ve built him up with a fan base locally. Now it’s time for him to get national exposure and national TV fights and we believe Lou DiBella is the right man for the job.” Tucker, Sr. will remain on board as his son's head trainer and manager.
The DBE stable of unbeaten prospects is an impressive one, including heavyweight Tor Hamer, light heavyweight Isiah Thomas, super middleweights Marcus Johnson and Edwin Rodriguez, middleweights Aleem Whitfield and Willie Monroe, Jr., and super featherweight Luis Del Valle.
One more note: Mark "TNT" Tucker is now in fact Tucker's legal name.
“I want to stay undefeated, get a bigger fan base, and appear on television more,” said Tucker. "I believe DBE can get me there.”
“I’ve done all I can do for him,” said Mark Tucker, Sr. “We’ve built him up with a fan base locally. Now it’s time for him to get national exposure and national TV fights and we believe Lou DiBella is the right man for the job.” Tucker, Sr. will remain on board as his son's head trainer and manager.
The DBE stable of unbeaten prospects is an impressive one, including heavyweight Tor Hamer, light heavyweight Isiah Thomas, super middleweights Marcus Johnson and Edwin Rodriguez, middleweights Aleem Whitfield and Willie Monroe, Jr., and super featherweight Luis Del Valle.
One more note: Mark "TNT" Tucker is now in fact Tucker's legal name.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Corley Gets New Opponent for May 29 Bout in DC!
The opponent has changed for DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley on the Titanium Promotions card on Saturday, May 29 at the DC Armory. The former WBO Junior Welterweight champion will now face veteran Jermaine "Too Sweet" White of Las Vegas, NV by way of Gary, IN in his bout for the vacant UBO Junior Welterweight title.
White (17-4, nine KO's) replaces Verquan Kimbrough, who is off the card for unspecified reasons. White has fought a number of talented opponents in his career. Three of his four losses have come to Anthony Peterson, Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. and Paul Spadafora.
White (17-4, nine KO's) replaces Verquan Kimbrough, who is off the card for unspecified reasons. White has fought a number of talented opponents in his career. Three of his four losses have come to Anthony Peterson, Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. and Paul Spadafora.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Cast of 'ShadowBoxer' Gets Taste of Sweet Science!
The Opera "Shadowboxer", based on the life of Joe Louis, started its run at the University of Maryland's Clarice Smith Arts Center yesterday. The show will continue until Sunday, April 25.
In preparation for their roles, members of the Shadowboxer cast worked out with the Terps Boxing Team at the University of Maryland. As you will see in this video, some of the cast members found a new respect for "The Sweet Science."
By the way, some posters asked for a review and I will be attending the last show which will be April 25 at 3 PM, so a review is forthcoming.
In preparation for their roles, members of the Shadowboxer cast worked out with the Terps Boxing Team at the University of Maryland. As you will see in this video, some of the cast members found a new respect for "The Sweet Science."
By the way, some posters asked for a review and I will be attending the last show which will be April 25 at 3 PM, so a review is forthcoming.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Beltway Boxers Continue Travels!
Some local boxers will be making trips in the next few weeks. Laurel, MD junior middleweight Norman "The Shadow" Allen (6-3, three KO's) will be at The Arena in Philadelphia, PA on Friday, April 30 for a six-round contest against Philly boxer Ardrick Butler (4-1, one KO). This will be the first scheduled six-rounder for both boxers. Allen has lost his last two and has not fought since dropping a four-round majority decision to William Jackson on September 5 in Cincinnati, OH.
On Thursday, May 6, there is about in Little Rock, AR that even I think is a little strange. Normally, I don't say a lot about prospective bouts but this one..
Arlington, VA cruiserweight Justin Ridgway makes just his second appearance in a pro ring while his opponent is indeed a veteran -- Dumfries, VA's Derek Amos. Frankly, I don't think this says a lot about Arkansas's commission when they allow a boxer who is 1-0 against another who is 15-28, nine KO's. Granted, Amos is well past his prime and has fought a who's who in the cruiser and heavyweight divisions, but this could be a major risk on either side.
Say what you want about the commissions in the Beltway, but I can say with some certainity that Maryland would not allow this bout to take place. I'd like to think that DC and Virginia would feel the same way.
On Saturday, May 22 two Beltway Boxers will appear on a card at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA. Charlottsville, VA junior middleweight George "War Time" Rivera will challenge York, PA's Keenan Collins in an eight-round contest for the vacant WBF All-Americas Junior Middleweight title.
Rivera (11-5, four KO's) is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision loss to James Stevenson on March 20th at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. Collins (12-5-2, eight KO's) is winless in his last five bouts, but has fought the likes of Delvin Rodriguez, Jose Angel Rodriguez, Doel Carrasquillo and Clarence Taylor.
Also on the Reading card, undefeated DC heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm (6-0, four KO's) is slated to take on Kevin Howard of Montgomery, AL (1-3-1) in a four-round encounter. Ironically, both boxers's last appearance in a ring were in separate bouts on a January 31 card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. Byarm knocked out Maurice Winslow in the first round while Howard lost by fourth-round TKO to Abodurin Akinyanju .
There are cards coming to Baltimore, MD and Lynchburg, VA on Saturday, May 8. We hope to have details soon.
On Thursday, May 6, there is about in Little Rock, AR that even I think is a little strange. Normally, I don't say a lot about prospective bouts but this one..
Arlington, VA cruiserweight Justin Ridgway makes just his second appearance in a pro ring while his opponent is indeed a veteran -- Dumfries, VA's Derek Amos. Frankly, I don't think this says a lot about Arkansas's commission when they allow a boxer who is 1-0 against another who is 15-28, nine KO's. Granted, Amos is well past his prime and has fought a who's who in the cruiser and heavyweight divisions, but this could be a major risk on either side.
Say what you want about the commissions in the Beltway, but I can say with some certainity that Maryland would not allow this bout to take place. I'd like to think that DC and Virginia would feel the same way.
On Saturday, May 22 two Beltway Boxers will appear on a card at the Sovereign Center in Reading, PA. Charlottsville, VA junior middleweight George "War Time" Rivera will challenge York, PA's Keenan Collins in an eight-round contest for the vacant WBF All-Americas Junior Middleweight title.
Rivera (11-5, four KO's) is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision loss to James Stevenson on March 20th at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. Collins (12-5-2, eight KO's) is winless in his last five bouts, but has fought the likes of Delvin Rodriguez, Jose Angel Rodriguez, Doel Carrasquillo and Clarence Taylor.
Also on the Reading card, undefeated DC heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm (6-0, four KO's) is slated to take on Kevin Howard of Montgomery, AL (1-3-1) in a four-round encounter. Ironically, both boxers's last appearance in a ring were in separate bouts on a January 31 card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. Byarm knocked out Maurice Winslow in the first round while Howard lost by fourth-round TKO to Abodurin Akinyanju .
There are cards coming to Baltimore, MD and Lynchburg, VA on Saturday, May 8. We hope to have details soon.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Snyder Loses Eight-Round Decision in Atlantic City!
"The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder lost a tough eight-round unanimous decision to undefeated middleweight and 2008 Russian Olympian Matt Korobov tonight at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ on the Kelly Pavlik-Sergio Martinez undercard.
Here's how Matt Yanofsky of Garden State Fight Scene.com saw the contest: Korobov fought at a high speed pace early before eventually slowing down and earning decision over tougher than advertised Snyder. Korobov had difficulties in a few of the middle rounds, tiring a bit in addition to getting hit with flush right hands, but did enough throughout the eight round contest to win a unanimous but far from impressive decision.
Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice. Korobov, of Orotukan Russia, raises his record to 11-0, eight KO's. Snyder, of Berlin, MD, slips to 8-5-1, three KO's.
Here's how Matt Yanofsky of Garden State Fight Scene.com saw the contest: Korobov fought at a high speed pace early before eventually slowing down and earning decision over tougher than advertised Snyder. Korobov had difficulties in a few of the middle rounds, tiring a bit in addition to getting hit with flush right hands, but did enough throughout the eight round contest to win a unanimous but far from impressive decision.
Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice. Korobov, of Orotukan Russia, raises his record to 11-0, eight KO's. Snyder, of Berlin, MD, slips to 8-5-1, three KO's.
Interviews and Analysis From Waldorf and Salisbury!
We have a lot of post-bout interviews and analysis for you concerning the Regional Golden Gloves in Waldorf and the big pro card in Salisbury.
First, from the Waldorf Jaycees:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #210 - Kevin Ottley Discusses Novice Title Victory!
Baltimore boxer Kevin Ottley, who trains in Salisbury, MD, talks about winning the 152-pound Novice Title tonight at the Regional Golden Gloves in Waldorf, MD!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #211 - Kevin Rivers, Jr. Discusses Open Victory at Regional Golden Gloves!
Landover, MD 132-pounder Kevin Rivers, Jr. talks about his Golden Gloves Regional victory and looks toward the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #213 - Shadeed Floyd Talks About Open Title and Outstanding Boxer Award!
DC 123-pounder Shadeed Floyd talks to BATB about winning the open title in his weight class and being named the Outstanding Boxer of the tournament! Floyd's coach, Beltway Boxing legend Darryll "Terrible T" Tyson joins in the conversation.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #214 - Post-Fight from Waldorf, MD!
Terron Hampton of the Prince George's County Gazette-Star Newspapers joins me to recap the Regional Golden Gloves and forecast how the Beltway's nine open champions will fare next month at the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Little Rock, AK May 3-9!
Now from the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #212 - Fernando Guerrero Discusses Latest Victory!
Alec Kohut of Max Boxing.com talks to Fernando Guerrero from Salisbury, MD moments after his second-round TKO over Michael Walker.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #217 - Post-Fight From Salisbury!
MaxBoxing.com's Alec Kohut recaps the rest of the action from the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD!
My thanks to Alec Kohut and Terron Hampton for their assistance in covering what was a huge and very successful night for the Beltway Boxing community!
First, from the Waldorf Jaycees:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #210 - Kevin Ottley Discusses Novice Title Victory!
Baltimore boxer Kevin Ottley, who trains in Salisbury, MD, talks about winning the 152-pound Novice Title tonight at the Regional Golden Gloves in Waldorf, MD!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #211 - Kevin Rivers, Jr. Discusses Open Victory at Regional Golden Gloves!
Landover, MD 132-pounder Kevin Rivers, Jr. talks about his Golden Gloves Regional victory and looks toward the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions!
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #213 - Shadeed Floyd Talks About Open Title and Outstanding Boxer Award!
DC 123-pounder Shadeed Floyd talks to BATB about winning the open title in his weight class and being named the Outstanding Boxer of the tournament! Floyd's coach, Beltway Boxing legend Darryll "Terrible T" Tyson joins in the conversation.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #214 - Post-Fight from Waldorf, MD!
Terron Hampton of the Prince George's County Gazette-Star Newspapers joins me to recap the Regional Golden Gloves and forecast how the Beltway's nine open champions will fare next month at the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Little Rock, AK May 3-9!
Now from the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #212 - Fernando Guerrero Discusses Latest Victory!
Alec Kohut of Max Boxing.com talks to Fernando Guerrero from Salisbury, MD moments after his second-round TKO over Michael Walker.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #217 - Post-Fight From Salisbury!
MaxBoxing.com's Alec Kohut recaps the rest of the action from the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD!
My thanks to Alec Kohut and Terron Hampton for their assistance in covering what was a huge and very successful night for the Beltway Boxing community!
Friday, April 16, 2010
BATB's Coverage of a Big Night!
In case you haven't put it all together, tomorrow night is going to be a big Beltway Boxing night with three events in three different locations. Since I haven't figured out how to clone myself yet, I will only be at one event. Barring technology issues, here's how BATB plans to cover this big night.
I will be blogging live from the Regional Golden Gloves at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center in Waldorf, MD. I will also be keeping tabs on Tony Thompson's bout against Owen Beck on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights from Memphis, TN. That program will begin at 10 PM ET. If I get a result from that bout or the non-televised undercard bout that features Gary Russell, Jr. I will pass that along as I blog from Waldorf.
Meanwhile, Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com has generously consented to report from the card at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD that will feature Fernando and Alex Guerrero, Dominic Wade and Ty Barnett. Fernando Guerrero's bout against Michael Walker will headline the ShoBox telecast on Showtime that is scheduled to begin at 11 PM ET. I should be able to get the early undercard results from Alec and be able to post those while in Waldorf. Alec will also do a BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Salisbury following that card.
Hope you are looking forward to this big night!
I will be blogging live from the Regional Golden Gloves at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center in Waldorf, MD. I will also be keeping tabs on Tony Thompson's bout against Owen Beck on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights from Memphis, TN. That program will begin at 10 PM ET. If I get a result from that bout or the non-televised undercard bout that features Gary Russell, Jr. I will pass that along as I blog from Waldorf.
Meanwhile, Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com has generously consented to report from the card at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD that will feature Fernando and Alex Guerrero, Dominic Wade and Ty Barnett. Fernando Guerrero's bout against Michael Walker will headline the ShoBox telecast on Showtime that is scheduled to begin at 11 PM ET. I should be able to get the early undercard results from Alec and be able to post those while in Waldorf. Alec will also do a BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Salisbury following that card.
Hope you are looking forward to this big night!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Alexander Johnson Speaks To High School Students!
This item is partly personal. Many Beltway Boxers do a lot of volunteer and charity work in their communities whether it's hosting charity drives at their events or speaking to young people. Many times, I haven't been able to publicize those events either because I haven't heard about it or they don't want it publicized.
This case, I feel I have to publicize because I'm periphally involved in this. Earlier today, undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson gave a rousing speech at the third quarter honor roll awards assembly at Booker T. Washington Public Charter School in the District.
A moment of full disclosure: I am a teacher at Booker T., however, I was not the one who originally invited him -- that was done by a colleague.
To say Johnson was a hit with the students is an understatement. The students were extremely attentive as he spoke on a number of topics while advising the students to "Respect God, respect yourself and respect your friends." Johnson stayed long after his speech to talk with students, sign autographs and pose for pictures.
My personal thanks to Alex for giving his time and knowledge and being an inspiration to his community.
This case, I feel I have to publicize because I'm periphally involved in this. Earlier today, undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson gave a rousing speech at the third quarter honor roll awards assembly at Booker T. Washington Public Charter School in the District.
A moment of full disclosure: I am a teacher at Booker T., however, I was not the one who originally invited him -- that was done by a colleague.
To say Johnson was a hit with the students is an understatement. The students were extremely attentive as he spoke on a number of topics while advising the students to "Respect God, respect yourself and respect your friends." Johnson stayed long after his speech to talk with students, sign autographs and pose for pictures.
My personal thanks to Alex for giving his time and knowledge and being an inspiration to his community.
Guerrero Getting Press As Showtime Date Draws Near!
Undefeated Salisbury, MD middleweight Fernando Guerrero is getting ready for his Showtime appearance Friday night at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, and the press is taking note.
SBYNews.com, a blog that covers everything Salisbury, has footage from yesterday's final press conference. The link to that is here:
"http://sbynews.blogspot.com/2010/04/fernando-guerrero-press-conference.html">
Also, for the second straight outing, MaxBoxing.com's Alec Kohut features a Beltway Boxer in his "Next In Line" column with his feature on Guerrero that can be found here:
"http://www.maxboxing.com/news/promo-lead/next-in-line-fernando-guerrero
SBYNews.com, a blog that covers everything Salisbury, has footage from yesterday's final press conference. The link to that is here:
"http://sbynews.blogspot.com/2010/04/fernando-guerrero-press-conference.html">
Also, for the second straight outing, MaxBoxing.com's Alec Kohut features a Beltway Boxer in his "Next In Line" column with his feature on Guerrero that can be found here:
"http://www.maxboxing.com/news/promo-lead/next-in-line-fernando-guerrero
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
'TNT' Tucker Signs With DiBella Promotions!
BoxingScene.com is reporting that undefeated USBO Light Heavyweight champion Mark "TNT" Tucker (13-0, seven KO's) has signed a promotional contract with Lou DiBella.
Mr. DiBella has not made an official statementon the signing, however, he confirmed the signing to Rick Reeno of BoxingScene.com with the following quote:
"I don't know how you got the scoop, but I'm very proud of signing Mark Tucker. I first saw him when he was 17 years old and immediately knew he was a talented fighter...The kid has a bright future."
Tucker's bout that was slated for April 23rd in Westminster, MD has been postponed, possibly until June.
Mr. DiBella has not made an official statementon the signing, however, he confirmed the signing to Rick Reeno of BoxingScene.com with the following quote:
"I don't know how you got the scoop, but I'm very proud of signing Mark Tucker. I first saw him when he was 17 years old and immediately knew he was a talented fighter...The kid has a bright future."
Tucker's bout that was slated for April 23rd in Westminster, MD has been postponed, possibly until June.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Taylor Scores Third-Round TKO in Charlotte!
This past Saturday, Edgewood, MD welterweight Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor scored a third-round TKO over veteran Chris Cook of York, SC in Charlotte, NC. Taylor stopped Cook at 1:42 of the round.
Taylor remains undefeated at 7-0, six KO's while Cook falls to 3-20-2, one KO. Taylor is scheduled to be back in action on May 7 in Huntington, NY.
Taylor remains undefeated at 7-0, six KO's while Cook falls to 3-20-2, one KO. Taylor is scheduled to be back in action on May 7 in Huntington, NY.
Monday, April 12, 2010
A Reminder About 'Shadowboxer!'
We talked about this a while back, but the University of Maryland Performing Arts Center is hosting an opera based on the life of hall of fame boxer Joe Louis entitled "Shadowboxer". The opera that focuses as much on what happened to Louis after he retired as it does his storied career, begins on Saturday, April 17 at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center and runs through April 25.
Members of the cast trained with members of the University of Maryland Boxing Club in preparations for roles in the opera. Go to www.shadowboxer.umd.edu for more details.
Members of the cast trained with members of the University of Maryland Boxing Club in preparations for roles in the opera. Go to www.shadowboxer.umd.edu for more details.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
L. Peterson Scores Seventh-Round Stoppage In Vegas!
Lamont Peterson got back on the winning track with a seventh-round TKO over Damian Fuller last night at the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas.
Details are sketchy, but Peterson stopped Fuller at 1:10 of the seventh. Peterson's record is now 28-1, 14 KO's. Fuller falls to 30-7-1, 14 KO's.
Details are sketchy, but Peterson stopped Fuller at 1:10 of the seventh. Peterson's record is now 28-1, 14 KO's. Fuller falls to 30-7-1, 14 KO's.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Legendary Referee Arthur Mercante Passes!
Word has come that perhaps the greatest referee boxing has ever seen has passed. Arthur Mercante, Sr. has died at the age of 90.
Mr. Mercante refereed more than 120 world title bouts during a six-decade career from 1956-2001. He is perhaps best known for being the third man in the ring in one of the most famous battles in the sport's history -- "The Fight of the Century" -- the first bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier on March 8, 1971 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. There were other memorable title bouts as well -- Ali-Ken Norton III (September 28, 1976, Yankee Stadium, New York) Alexis Arguello-Jim Watt (June 20, 1981, London England), Dwight Muhammad Qawi-Matthew Saad Muhammad (December 19, 1981, Atlantic City) and so many more.
The list of notable boxers in which Mr. Mercante shared a ring with is a true who's who of this sport -- Emile Griffith, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Thomas Hearns, Carlos Palomino, Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson and dozens more.
Mr. Mercante has a link to some notable bouts and names along the Beltway. He was the referee when Sugar Ray Leonard uncorked a devastating right hand and knocked out Davey Boy Green in the fourth round on March 31, 1980 at the old Capital Centre in Landover, MD. Also, Mr. Mercante was the third man for two successful Keith Holmes title defenses of the WBC Middleweight championship and both were local bouts. The first was a 12th round TKO over Richie Woodhall at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD on October 19, 1996. The second was Holmes's second meeting against Andrew Council on September 24, 1999 at the MCI (now Verizon) Center in DC. Holmes won a 12th round unanimous decision.
Mr. Mercante was also the referee when Reggie Green challenged Zab Judah for the IBF Junior Welterweight title on January 13, 2001 in Uncasville, CT, and also refereed bouts including Derrell Coley and Floyd Favors.
The Judah-Green bout was Mr. Mercante's second-to-last bout. I was privileged to witness his final appearance in the ring as a referee -- September 29, 2001 in Madison Square Garden. The bout was an IBF Junior Flyweight title bout between champion Ricardo Lopez and Zolani Peleto. I felt honored to be there to witness a legend at work.
I had the honor of meeting Mr. Mercante first at the Holmes-Woodhall bout and then doing an interview with him in 1997 at the Fight Night charity boxing event in DC. One of the great moments of my journalistic life was when, after a conversation about one of his great highlights, Mr. Mercante said to me, "you really know your boxing."
Arthur Mercante was a true treasure for this business and he was a truly great man!
Peterson, Fuller Weigh 143 For Tonight's Hard Rock Battle!
Both Lamont Peterson and Damian Fuller weighed in at 143 pounds for their 10-round battle tonight at the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas, NV. The bout is scheduled to air on Fox Sports en Espanol tonight.
Friday, April 09, 2010
Beltway Boxers On The Move!
The next couple of weeks will have Beltway Boxers competing in many places around the US.
We're still awaiting the weights for tomorrow's card at the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas where Lamont Peterson is slated to take on Damian Fuller. The bout is slated to air on Fox Sports en Espanol tomorrow night.
Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor is scheduled to participate on a card at the Bette Rae Thomas Rec Center in Charlotte, NC tomorrow night. Taylor (6-0, five KO's) will face Chris Cook of York, SC (3-19-2, one KO) in a four-round bout.
Undefeated Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Gary Russell, Jr. has been added to the Friday, April 16 card at the Omni New Daisy Theatre in Memphis, TN. Russell (8-0, five KO's) is slated to take on veteran Carlos "Bam Bam" Diaz of Dorado, Puerto Rico (10-22-4, seven KO's) in a six-round contest. This is the same card where Tony Thompson is facing Owen Beck on ESPN2.
Berlin, MD middleweight "The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder is slated to appear on the undercard of the Kelly Pavlik-Sergio Martinez card on Saturday, April 17 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Snyder (8-4-1, three KO's) is scheduled to take on undefeated Matt Korobov of St. Petersburg, FL by way of Russia (10-0, eight KO's) in a six-round encounter.
We're still awaiting the weights for tomorrow's card at the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas where Lamont Peterson is slated to take on Damian Fuller. The bout is slated to air on Fox Sports en Espanol tomorrow night.
Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Transformer" Taylor is scheduled to participate on a card at the Bette Rae Thomas Rec Center in Charlotte, NC tomorrow night. Taylor (6-0, five KO's) will face Chris Cook of York, SC (3-19-2, one KO) in a four-round bout.
Undefeated Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Gary Russell, Jr. has been added to the Friday, April 16 card at the Omni New Daisy Theatre in Memphis, TN. Russell (8-0, five KO's) is slated to take on veteran Carlos "Bam Bam" Diaz of Dorado, Puerto Rico (10-22-4, seven KO's) in a six-round contest. This is the same card where Tony Thompson is facing Owen Beck on ESPN2.
Berlin, MD middleweight "The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder is slated to appear on the undercard of the Kelly Pavlik-Sergio Martinez card on Saturday, April 17 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Snyder (8-4-1, three KO's) is scheduled to take on undefeated Matt Korobov of St. Petersburg, FL by way of Russia (10-0, eight KO's) in a six-round encounter.
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Arvin Now Off May 29 DC Card!
BATB has learned that Baltimore's Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin will not be on the May 29 Titanium Promotions card at the DC Armory.
Arvin was scheduled to face Kassim Ouma in a bout for the UBO Junior middleweight title, however, contract negotiations broke down and Arvin's camp could not come to an agreement.
Arvin was scheduled to face Kassim Ouma in a bout for the UBO Junior middleweight title, however, contract negotiations broke down and Arvin's camp could not come to an agreement.
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Derrik Holmes Featured on Fox 5!
Former world title contender Derrik Holmes is the subject of a nice feature that can be seen on Fox 5. Reporter Lyndsay Murphy travels to Holmes's new gym -- New Revival Boxing and Fitness -- in Capitol Heights, MD where Holmes tells his story of triumph, tragedy and redemption.
As I type this, the segment just aired on the Five PM news but is slated to reair tonight during the 10 O'Clock News. You can also probably catch the segment on www.myfoxdc.com.
As I type this, the segment just aired on the Five PM news but is slated to reair tonight during the 10 O'Clock News. You can also probably catch the segment on www.myfoxdc.com.
Regional Golden Gloves Bout Sheet Announced!
The bout sheet for the 2010 Regional Golden Gloves Championships has been announced. The Regional Golden Gloves will be held on Friday, April 16 at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center in Waldorf, MD and will match the winners from DC/MD against the champions from Virginia/North Carolina as well as boxers from the US Naval Academy and Camp Lejeune, NC.
There are 17 bouts scheduled for the championship night. Here are the slated bouts:
Novice Division:
125 pounds: De'Queone Oates (DC) vs. Raheem Robinson II (Garner/Raleigh, NC)
132 pounds: Jonathan Baxter (DC) vs. Carlos Olmeda (Knightdale, NC)
141 pounds: Courtland Perkins (Baltimore, MD) vs. Jose Garcia (Raleigh, NC)
152 pounds: Kevin Ottley (Baltimore, MD) vs. Sean Simmons (Barboursville, VA)
165 pounds: Danny Cannaday (Baltimore, MD) vs. Michael Garrison (Roanoke, VA)
178 pounds: Brevan Woydzain (Thurmont, MD) vs. Zebulun Proctor (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
201 pounds: Kevin DeLao (Silver Spring, MD) vs. Deonta Winstead (Norfolk, VA)
201+ pounds: Jeremy Williams (Washington, DC) vs. Jose Saenz (US Navy, Virginia Beach, VA.
Unopposed Champions:
112 pounds: Jeremy Moralest (Norfolk, VA)
119 pounds: Herman Reynolds (Accokeek, MD)
Open Division (Winners will advance to the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Little Rock, AK May 2-9):
108 pounds: Jesus Aguilera (US Naval Academy) vs. Rafael Vasquez (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
123 pounds: Shadeed Floyd (DC) vs. Michael Daniels (Virginia Beach, VA)
132 pounds: Kevin Rivers (Landover, MD) vs. Tommy Roque (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
141 pounds: Gary Allen Russell (Capitol Heights, MD) vs. Willie Jones (Burlington, NC)
152 pounds: David Grayton (DC) vs. Moshea Aleem (Richmond, VA)
165 pounds: Dimitrius Ballard (Temple Hills, MD) vs. Damaris Russell (USMC, Camp Lejeune, MD)
178 pounds: Jerry Odom (Upper Marlboro, MD) vs. Rodney Giandalia (Virginia Beach, VA)
201 pounds: Charles Johnson, Jr. (Upper Marlboro, MD) vs. Keith Roberton (Virginia Beach, VA)
201+ pounds: Danny Kelly (DC) vs. Jerry Forest (Newport News, VA)
Unopposed champion:
114 pounds: Gary Antonio Russell (Capitol Heights, MD)
There are 17 bouts scheduled for the championship night. Here are the slated bouts:
Novice Division:
125 pounds: De'Queone Oates (DC) vs. Raheem Robinson II (Garner/Raleigh, NC)
132 pounds: Jonathan Baxter (DC) vs. Carlos Olmeda (Knightdale, NC)
141 pounds: Courtland Perkins (Baltimore, MD) vs. Jose Garcia (Raleigh, NC)
152 pounds: Kevin Ottley (Baltimore, MD) vs. Sean Simmons (Barboursville, VA)
165 pounds: Danny Cannaday (Baltimore, MD) vs. Michael Garrison (Roanoke, VA)
178 pounds: Brevan Woydzain (Thurmont, MD) vs. Zebulun Proctor (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
201 pounds: Kevin DeLao (Silver Spring, MD) vs. Deonta Winstead (Norfolk, VA)
201+ pounds: Jeremy Williams (Washington, DC) vs. Jose Saenz (US Navy, Virginia Beach, VA.
Unopposed Champions:
112 pounds: Jeremy Moralest (Norfolk, VA)
119 pounds: Herman Reynolds (Accokeek, MD)
Open Division (Winners will advance to the National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions in Little Rock, AK May 2-9):
108 pounds: Jesus Aguilera (US Naval Academy) vs. Rafael Vasquez (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
123 pounds: Shadeed Floyd (DC) vs. Michael Daniels (Virginia Beach, VA)
132 pounds: Kevin Rivers (Landover, MD) vs. Tommy Roque (USMC, Camp Lejeune, NC)
141 pounds: Gary Allen Russell (Capitol Heights, MD) vs. Willie Jones (Burlington, NC)
152 pounds: David Grayton (DC) vs. Moshea Aleem (Richmond, VA)
165 pounds: Dimitrius Ballard (Temple Hills, MD) vs. Damaris Russell (USMC, Camp Lejeune, MD)
178 pounds: Jerry Odom (Upper Marlboro, MD) vs. Rodney Giandalia (Virginia Beach, VA)
201 pounds: Charles Johnson, Jr. (Upper Marlboro, MD) vs. Keith Roberton (Virginia Beach, VA)
201+ pounds: Danny Kelly (DC) vs. Jerry Forest (Newport News, VA)
Unopposed champion:
114 pounds: Gary Antonio Russell (Capitol Heights, MD)
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Holmes, Corley, Arvin in UBO Title Bouts May 29 At DC Armory!
Two Beltway Boxing Legends and one Baltimore fan favorite will be involved in championship bouts on a Titanium Promotions card on Saturday, May 29 at the DC Armory in Washington DC.
The title matchups will be sanctioned by the Universal Boxing Organization (UBO), whose president resides in Germany. One of those title bouts will be for the vacant UBO International junior middleweight title and will feature former WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes. Holmes (41-5, 25 KO's) hasn't fought since June 6 when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett at the Washington Convention Center. No word yet on who Holmes's opponent will be.
Another title bout will include former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley (36-13-1, 21 KO's) who will face Verquan "The Show" Kimbrough of Pittsburgh, PA (21-3-3, seven KO's) in a bout for the UBO Junior Welterweight crown. Corley has lost his last two bouts, including being stopped in the fifth round by Freddy Hernandez on February 9 in Santa Ynez, CA. Kimbrough, is no stranger to Beltway competition, having fought Dean White twice during his career, winning a six-round majority decision in West Virginia in February of 2007 and battling to an eight-round draw in November of last year at the Washington Hilton and Towers in DC. That draw is part of a three-bout winless streak that Kimbrough will be looking to break against Corley.
The third UBO title bout will pit Baltimore's Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin against Kassim "The Dream" Ouma of Palm Beach Gardens, FL by way of Uganda for the world junior middleweight title. Arvin (15-2-4, seven KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Pawel Wolak on January 23 at Madison Square Garden. Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KO's) has a record of 1-5 in his last six bouts, but the losses have come against the likes of Jermain Taylor, Cornelius Bundrage and, in his last outing, Vanas Matirosyan, whom Ouma lost a 10-round unanimous decision.
Titanium Promotions is a new local promotional group run by Garcia Staley,Sr. We'll hear more from them in the weeks to come.
The title matchups will be sanctioned by the Universal Boxing Organization (UBO), whose president resides in Germany. One of those title bouts will be for the vacant UBO International junior middleweight title and will feature former WBC Middleweight champion Keith Holmes. Holmes (41-5, 25 KO's) hasn't fought since June 6 when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett at the Washington Convention Center. No word yet on who Holmes's opponent will be.
Another title bout will include former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley (36-13-1, 21 KO's) who will face Verquan "The Show" Kimbrough of Pittsburgh, PA (21-3-3, seven KO's) in a bout for the UBO Junior Welterweight crown. Corley has lost his last two bouts, including being stopped in the fifth round by Freddy Hernandez on February 9 in Santa Ynez, CA. Kimbrough, is no stranger to Beltway competition, having fought Dean White twice during his career, winning a six-round majority decision in West Virginia in February of 2007 and battling to an eight-round draw in November of last year at the Washington Hilton and Towers in DC. That draw is part of a three-bout winless streak that Kimbrough will be looking to break against Corley.
The third UBO title bout will pit Baltimore's Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin against Kassim "The Dream" Ouma of Palm Beach Gardens, FL by way of Uganda for the world junior middleweight title. Arvin (15-2-4, seven KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Pawel Wolak on January 23 at Madison Square Garden. Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KO's) has a record of 1-5 in his last six bouts, but the losses have come against the likes of Jermain Taylor, Cornelius Bundrage and, in his last outing, Vanas Matirosyan, whom Ouma lost a 10-round unanimous decision.
Titanium Promotions is a new local promotional group run by Garcia Staley,Sr. We'll hear more from them in the weeks to come.
Monday, April 05, 2010
Opponents Named for April 16 Showtime and ESPN Cards!
The opponents have been announced for the Beltway Boxers who will appear on two national TV cards on Friday, April 16.
Undefeated middleweight Fernando Guerrero will headline a card in his hometown of Salisbury, MD at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center that will be shown on Showtime's "ShoBox" series. Guerrero (17-0, 14 KO's, ranked #12 by the WBO) will take on "The Midnight Stalker" Michael Walker of Chicago, IL (19-3-2, 12 KO's) in a 10-round bout.
This is Guerrero's first bout since his fourth-round TKO of Jessie Nicklow on December 18 in Hinkley, MN. Walker was 18-0-2 in his first 20 bouts but has lost three of his last four as he has stepped up in competition, dropping decisions to Derrick Findley and Daniel Jacobs in his last two bouts.
DC welterweight Ty Barnett leads the non-televised portion of the undercard as he looks to bounce back from his first pro loss. Barnett (16-1-1, 11 KO's) was stopped in the first round of his bout with Juan Santiago on October 10 at Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. Barnett will face Broderick Antoine of Troy, NY (10-8-1, five KO's) in an eight-round bout. Antoine has won five in a row.
Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (5-0, five KO's) will take on veteran Robert Kliewer of Maplewood, MN (10-9-2, five KO's) in a four-round encounter. Wade knocked out Bradley Thompson in Tunica, MS in the first round on November 21. Kliewer lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Michael Oliveira on September 11 in Pompano Beach, FL.
Also, Salisbury cruiserweight Alex Guerrero (3-0, one KO) will take on another undefeated boxer -- Jabir "The Bear" Abdul Basit of Cleveland, OH -- (3-0-1, three KO's) in a four-round bout. Guerrero, the older brother of Fernando, scored his first pro knockout in his last outing, stopping Johnny Fields in the first round on January 29 in Glen Burnie, MD. Basit fought to a four-round draw against Clinton Hester on July 3 in Atlanta, Ga.
Meanwhile, DC heavyweight Tony "The Tiger" Thompson headlines an ESPN2 card from the Omni New Daisy Theatre in Memphis, TN. Thompson's opponent will be former heavyweight contender Owen "What The Heck" Beck of Nashville, TN by way of Jamaica. Since his title loss to Wladimir Klitschko on December 5, Thompson (33-2, 21 KO's) has scored knockouts over Adnan Serin and Chazz Witherspoon in his last two bouts. Beck (29-4, 20 KO's) fought Nikolai Valuev for the WBA Heavyweight title in June of 2006, but was stopped in the third round. Since that bout, Beck won four in a row, but in his last outing, Beck was stopped in the 10th round on January 9 in Germany.
Undefeated middleweight Fernando Guerrero will headline a card in his hometown of Salisbury, MD at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center that will be shown on Showtime's "ShoBox" series. Guerrero (17-0, 14 KO's, ranked #12 by the WBO) will take on "The Midnight Stalker" Michael Walker of Chicago, IL (19-3-2, 12 KO's) in a 10-round bout.
This is Guerrero's first bout since his fourth-round TKO of Jessie Nicklow on December 18 in Hinkley, MN. Walker was 18-0-2 in his first 20 bouts but has lost three of his last four as he has stepped up in competition, dropping decisions to Derrick Findley and Daniel Jacobs in his last two bouts.
DC welterweight Ty Barnett leads the non-televised portion of the undercard as he looks to bounce back from his first pro loss. Barnett (16-1-1, 11 KO's) was stopped in the first round of his bout with Juan Santiago on October 10 at Perdue Stadium in Salisbury. Barnett will face Broderick Antoine of Troy, NY (10-8-1, five KO's) in an eight-round bout. Antoine has won five in a row.
Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (5-0, five KO's) will take on veteran Robert Kliewer of Maplewood, MN (10-9-2, five KO's) in a four-round encounter. Wade knocked out Bradley Thompson in Tunica, MS in the first round on November 21. Kliewer lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Michael Oliveira on September 11 in Pompano Beach, FL.
Also, Salisbury cruiserweight Alex Guerrero (3-0, one KO) will take on another undefeated boxer -- Jabir "The Bear" Abdul Basit of Cleveland, OH -- (3-0-1, three KO's) in a four-round bout. Guerrero, the older brother of Fernando, scored his first pro knockout in his last outing, stopping Johnny Fields in the first round on January 29 in Glen Burnie, MD. Basit fought to a four-round draw against Clinton Hester on July 3 in Atlanta, Ga.
Meanwhile, DC heavyweight Tony "The Tiger" Thompson headlines an ESPN2 card from the Omni New Daisy Theatre in Memphis, TN. Thompson's opponent will be former heavyweight contender Owen "What The Heck" Beck of Nashville, TN by way of Jamaica. Since his title loss to Wladimir Klitschko on December 5, Thompson (33-2, 21 KO's) has scored knockouts over Adnan Serin and Chazz Witherspoon in his last two bouts. Beck (29-4, 20 KO's) fought Nikolai Valuev for the WBA Heavyweight title in June of 2006, but was stopped in the third round. Since that bout, Beck won four in a row, but in his last outing, Beck was stopped in the 10th round on January 9 in Germany.
Babie Girl Productions Card Gets Solid Press!
The Babie Girl Productions card received a lot of internet press before and after the event. Here are three reports on the card:
"Bad" Brad Berkwitt and Valarie Murphy of RingsideReport.com filed this report with great photos by Eric Fleming. Here is the link:
"http://www.ringsidereport.com/?p=1930">
Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com gave us this report, focusing on the performance of Seth Mitchell which can be located here:
"http://www.maxboxing.com/news/promo-lead/alec-kohuts-next-in-line-update-mitchell-tkos-thompson-for-16th-win">
Also, Tri Nguyen of SecondsOut.com put together this report with photos:
"http://www.secondsout.com/usa-boxing-news/usa-boxing-news/mitchell-tkos-thompson-full-report">
"Bad" Brad Berkwitt and Valarie Murphy of RingsideReport.com filed this report with great photos by Eric Fleming. Here is the link:
"http://www.ringsidereport.com/?p=1930">
Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com gave us this report, focusing on the performance of Seth Mitchell which can be located here:
"http://www.maxboxing.com/news/promo-lead/alec-kohuts-next-in-line-update-mitchell-tkos-thompson-for-16th-win">
Also, Tri Nguyen of SecondsOut.com put together this report with photos:
"http://www.secondsout.com/usa-boxing-news/usa-boxing-news/mitchell-tkos-thompson-full-report">
Sunday, April 04, 2010
Samuel Loses 10-Round Decision in Norfolk!
Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A Samuel lost a 10-round unanimous decision to Dorin Spivey last night at the Scope in Norfolk, VA. As most of you have surmised, Spivey was stripped of his NABA Lightweight title hours prior to the bout.
According to sources in and around the bout, the bout almost did not happen. Apparently, Spivey had numerous opportunities to get to the 135 pound lightweight limit. Instead, when Spivey walked into the ring, he was closer to the 147 pound welterweight light.
Reports said Samuel gave a good account of himself and the judges scores (100-90 [twice] and 98-92) did not reflect that.
Samuel's record falls to 14-4, six KO's. Spivey is now 37-6, 29 KO's.
According to sources in and around the bout, the bout almost did not happen. Apparently, Spivey had numerous opportunities to get to the 135 pound lightweight limit. Instead, when Spivey walked into the ring, he was closer to the 147 pound welterweight light.
Reports said Samuel gave a good account of himself and the judges scores (100-90 [twice] and 98-92) did not reflect that.
Samuel's record falls to 14-4, six KO's. Spivey is now 37-6, 29 KO's.
Saturday, April 03, 2010
Samuel Weighs 130 1/2: Spivey Has Weight Issues!
Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock'A" Samuel weighed in at 130 1/2 pounds for his NABA Lightweight title challenge against defending champion Dorin Spivey tonight at the Scope in Norfolk, VA. However, Fightnews.com's Chris Perry is reporting that Spivey weighed in at 137, two pounds over the lightweight limit. Spivey hit the scales again an hour later and came in at 136 1/2.
Spivey is slated to hit the scales again this morning. No official word on what the consequences will be if Spivey does not hit the lightweight mark.
Spivey is slated to hit the scales again this morning. No official word on what the consequences will be if Spivey does not hit the lightweight mark.
Final Thoughts from DC!
In lieu of a post-fight wrap-up, I wanted to give some comments on tonight's card at the Washington Convention Center.
A lot of the fans did not appreciate Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan's performance. Those same fans did not know that Buchanan broke his right hand during the contest. I'm speculating around the third round. Where this win takes him, I don't know, but it was a gutsy performance.
We do know where Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell's win takes him -- down in the west Texas town of El Paso for a May 7 Friday Night Fights date on ESPN2. I truly believe he is ready for this one. Mitchell is improving with every contest. His body work was solid. Tonight's bout probably should have been stopped a lot sooner than it was. Ryan Thompson is normally a tough guy, but Mitchell handled him with relative ease.
Horace Grant looked a little rusty since it was his first bout in more than a year but he did handed the ultimate survivor, Jonathan Felton. The walks to the ring were very entertaining.
Alexander "The Great" Johnson was tested nicely by William Gill. Johnson had a great third round but couldn't finish Gill off, which isn't all that surprising. Gill usually has a solid chin, but Johnson could use some more power.
Tony "Mo Better" Jeter suffered a knockdown in the first round of his bout with Vincent Robbins, but recovered nicely to get the second round knockdown. Did a punch land after Robbins took a knee? Yes, yes it did. However, I don't think Jeter could have stopped his momentum after trying to finish Robbins off. It was a tough call for referee Joe Cooper.
The women's bout was the best-contested bout of the evening. Both Adelita Irizarry and Molly McConnell fought at very close quarters all evening and Irizarry deserved the very close win. I would love to see a rematch of this one.
Coming up over the next few days on the blog:
A schedule update that will include the next date for pro boxing in DC.
I hope to have a talk with "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears about the card in Glen Burnie.
Also, we'll have a discussion about a concept DC plans to implement.
Thanks to Jerome Spears again for sending me updates. Also, I found out that JR Jowett of Boxing Digest was emailing me updates and I thank him as well.
One non-boxing note: I am working as the Public Address Announcer for the finals of the ESPN Rise National High School Invitational Basketball tournament Saturday at Coppin State University.
The Girls final will be between Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA) and The Peddie School (Hightstown, NJ) and will be shown on ESPN2 at 11:30 AM ET.
The Boys final matches the top two seeded teams in the tourney -- Montverde High of Montverde, FL and Findlay Prep of Henderson, NV and will be shown on ESPN at 1:30 PM ET. Hope you can either come to Coppin or watch the games.
A lot of the fans did not appreciate Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan's performance. Those same fans did not know that Buchanan broke his right hand during the contest. I'm speculating around the third round. Where this win takes him, I don't know, but it was a gutsy performance.
We do know where Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell's win takes him -- down in the west Texas town of El Paso for a May 7 Friday Night Fights date on ESPN2. I truly believe he is ready for this one. Mitchell is improving with every contest. His body work was solid. Tonight's bout probably should have been stopped a lot sooner than it was. Ryan Thompson is normally a tough guy, but Mitchell handled him with relative ease.
Horace Grant looked a little rusty since it was his first bout in more than a year but he did handed the ultimate survivor, Jonathan Felton. The walks to the ring were very entertaining.
Alexander "The Great" Johnson was tested nicely by William Gill. Johnson had a great third round but couldn't finish Gill off, which isn't all that surprising. Gill usually has a solid chin, but Johnson could use some more power.
Tony "Mo Better" Jeter suffered a knockdown in the first round of his bout with Vincent Robbins, but recovered nicely to get the second round knockdown. Did a punch land after Robbins took a knee? Yes, yes it did. However, I don't think Jeter could have stopped his momentum after trying to finish Robbins off. It was a tough call for referee Joe Cooper.
The women's bout was the best-contested bout of the evening. Both Adelita Irizarry and Molly McConnell fought at very close quarters all evening and Irizarry deserved the very close win. I would love to see a rematch of this one.
Coming up over the next few days on the blog:
A schedule update that will include the next date for pro boxing in DC.
I hope to have a talk with "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears about the card in Glen Burnie.
Also, we'll have a discussion about a concept DC plans to implement.
Thanks to Jerome Spears again for sending me updates. Also, I found out that JR Jowett of Boxing Digest was emailing me updates and I thank him as well.
One non-boxing note: I am working as the Public Address Announcer for the finals of the ESPN Rise National High School Invitational Basketball tournament Saturday at Coppin State University.
The Girls final will be between Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA) and The Peddie School (Hightstown, NJ) and will be shown on ESPN2 at 11:30 AM ET.
The Boys final matches the top two seeded teams in the tourney -- Montverde High of Montverde, FL and Findlay Prep of Henderson, NV and will be shown on ESPN at 1:30 PM ET. Hope you can either come to Coppin or watch the games.
Friday, April 02, 2010
Weights From Glen Burnie AND DC!
Here are the weights for the card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie and the Washington Convention Center in DC:
For Glen Burnie:
Vinroy July 198 1/2 vs. Fred McClinton 192 1/2
Lenwood Dozier 142 vs. Julius Edmonds 142 1/2
Nick Kisner 201 vs. Octavius Davis 236 1/2
Robert McConnell 197 vs. Daniel Kooji 195 1/2
Dwayne McRae 254 vs. Corey Winfield 301
Hugh Hinds 133 vs. Tyrone Wright 127 (Originally supposed to be a rematch, now will be an exhibition because of the weight difference)
Now for DC:
Henry Buchanan 166 vs. Julius Fogle 167
Seth Mitchell 243 vs. Ryan Thompson 263
Tony Jeter 167 vs. Vincent Robbins 162
Alexander Johnson 177 vs. William Gill 174
Horace Grant 258 vs. Jonathan Felton 218
Molly McConnell 147 vs. Adelita Irizarry 147
The exhibition with Paul Williams and Otganbayer Daivii will also take place tonight.
I'll be blogging live from the card in DC and hope to get updates from Glen Burnie!
For Glen Burnie:
Vinroy July 198 1/2 vs. Fred McClinton 192 1/2
Lenwood Dozier 142 vs. Julius Edmonds 142 1/2
Nick Kisner 201 vs. Octavius Davis 236 1/2
Robert McConnell 197 vs. Daniel Kooji 195 1/2
Dwayne McRae 254 vs. Corey Winfield 301
Hugh Hinds 133 vs. Tyrone Wright 127 (Originally supposed to be a rematch, now will be an exhibition because of the weight difference)
Now for DC:
Henry Buchanan 166 vs. Julius Fogle 167
Seth Mitchell 243 vs. Ryan Thompson 263
Tony Jeter 167 vs. Vincent Robbins 162
Alexander Johnson 177 vs. William Gill 174
Horace Grant 258 vs. Jonathan Felton 218
Molly McConnell 147 vs. Adelita Irizarry 147
The exhibition with Paul Williams and Otganbayer Daivii will also take place tonight.
I'll be blogging live from the card in DC and hope to get updates from Glen Burnie!
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