Thursday, September 30, 2010

Mackey-Rivera Highlights November 6 Card in Waldorf!

Yes, there are two cards slated for Saturday, November 6. This one will be a Bobby Magruder Promotion and will be at the Waldorf Jaycees in Waldorf, MD. The main event will be an eight-round middleweight contest between George "Wartime" Rivera of Charlottsville, VA and John "No Mercy" Mackey, now fighting out of Upper Marlboro, MD.

Mackey (12-5-2, five KO's) is coming off an eight-round majority decision win over previously undefeated Donald Orr on June 19 in Niagra Falls, NY. Rivera (11-5, four KO's) has not fought since losing a 10-round unanimous decision to James Stevenson on March 20 in Baltimore.

The co-feature is a six-round contest between undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson and Shannon Anderson of Philadelphia, PA> Johnson (9-0, three KO's) last fought on April 2 and won a six-round unanimous decision over William Gill in DC. Anderson (4-2, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision loss to Angel Concepcion on July 16 in Newark, NJ.

Anderson made his pro debut along the Beltway on this date (Sept. 30) in 2004 when he defeated Michael Gutrick by four-round unanimous decision in Glen Burnie, MD. Anderson also won a six-round unanimous decision over Jarell Mason Jackson in Millersville, MD in November of 2005.

Also slated to be on this card are Beltway Boxers Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez, Venroy July, Lenwood "Mr. Composure" Dozier, Abodurin Akinyanju and debuting boxers Thomas Williams, Jr. and Chris Warden.

Boxing Comes To DC's Northwest Masonic Temple October 30!

Babie Girl Productions is bringing a pro boxing card to the Northwest Masonic Temple, 1000 U Street, NW in DC on Saturday, October 30.

The two main event bouts are contests sanctioned by the Global Boxing Association, a sanctioning body based in England. In one contest, Columbia, MD junior middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter (9-2-1, eight KO's) will battle Jose Felix of Savannah, GA (10-9-2, three KO's) for the GBA Junior Middleweight title. Jeter is unbeaten in his last six bouts and has scored knockouts in four of those bouts. Felix is winless in his last seven and has been knocked out in all seven contests.

The other GBA bout is for the vacant super bantamweight title as 2000 Olympic bronze medalist Clarence "Untouchable" Vinson (17-2, seven KO's) takes on Steve Cannell of Santa Fe, NM (4-4-3). Vinson has been idle since his eight-round majority decision victory over Robert Da Luz in June of 2009 at the Washington Convention Center. Cannell is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over Hassan Wasswa on June 12 of this year in Nova Scotia.

Other locals on the card include Baltimore middleweight Devin Butcher (1-0) who will face Troy Nelson of Columbus, OH (0-5). Also, DC cruiserweight Andre Ward and Baltimore cruiser Walter Tyler will make their pro debuts against one another.

We're also scheduled to get a look at undefeated 18-year-old Vero Beach, FL junior middleweight prospect Bobby "The Prodigy" Bryant (8-0, six KO's). Bryant will take on veteran Rohan "The Beast" Nanton (7-25-1, six KO's) of Brooklyn, NY in a six-round contest. At least two more bouts are scheduled for the show.

Lange to Battle for NABA Junior Middleweight Title Nov. 6 at Patriot Center!

Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange returns to action on Saturday, November 6 at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Lange will battle for top 20 contender Joe Wyatt of Richmond, VA for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) Junior Middleweight title. The NABA is a division of the World Boxing Association (WBA).

Lange (33-4-2, 23 KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Mike McFail of Baltimore in August in Greensboro, NC. Lange will be headlining a Patriot Center show for the 11th time. Wyatt (23-1, 15 KO's) will return to the ring for the first time since suffering his only pro loss -- a seventh-round stoppage at the hands of Reda Zam Zam for the WBA Inter-Continental junior middleweight title on June 9, 2006 in Aarhus, Denmark.

Other details are starting to emerge about this card. Undefeated Fairfax, VA welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson (8-0, two KO's) is slated to participate in his first scheduled six-round contest.

Manassas, VA featherweight "The Bolivian Queen" Jennifer Salinas will make her fourth appearance at the Patriot Center against an opponent to be named later. Salinas (11-2, four KO's) will be trying to bounce back from her loss against Nathalie Forget at the last Patriot Center show in July.

Making his return to Fairfax, VA will be Martinsburg, WVA middleweight Perry Ballard, who participated on the very first Patriot Center card in September of 2005 in an exciting battle against Lange. Ballard (20-2-1, 15 KO's) fought to a draw in his last outing and lost to former world champion Hector Camacho, Sr. three years ago.

Also slated to appera on this card will be Alexandria, VA's Brandon Quarles (2-0) who will face Lawrence Jones of Chantilly, VA (3-2-2, one KO) in a four-round, all-Virginia matchup. Quarles made his pro debut on the July Patriot Center card and won a tough four-round unanimous decision over Vincent Batteast.. Jones clashed heads with Tony Jeter on that same show and their bout was stopped in the first round. Undefeated Annandale, VA middleweight Zain "Tiger" Shah (3-0, two KO's) is also scheduled to be part of the card.

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Beltway Boxers Score Knockouts in Tunica!

Three undefeated Beltway Boxers registered early knockouts during a card at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS last night.

Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade scored a second-round knockout over Freddie Montoya of Montebello, CA. Wade is now 9-0, seven KO's while Montoya is 3-2, two KO's.

Capitol Heights, MD super featherweight "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. registered his seventh straight knockout, stopping Willie Villanueva of Albuquerque, NM in the first round. Russell is now 12-0, nine KO's while Villanueva is now 9-3, two KO's.

Salisbury, MD cruiserweight Alex Guerrero also scored a second-round knockout, defeating Dustin Schnakenburg of Grain Valley, MO. Guerrero is now 4-0-1, two KO's. Schnakenburg falls to 4-3, three KO's.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Jeter Promotions Has Amateur Card October 2!

There will be an amateur card put together by Jeter Promotions on Saturday night, October 2 at Club One Fitness 1131 Benfield Boulevard, Suites M-Q in Millersville, MD. The card will begin at 7:30 PM. Call them at 410-729-3900 for ticket information. Yours truly will serve as ring announcer.

Wade, Russell, Guerrero Hit Scales in Tunica!

Beltway Boxers hit the scales last night for their appearances at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS.

Dominic Wade hit the scales at 162 for his six-round contest against Freddie Montoya. Montoya came in at 158.

Gary Russell, Jr. tipped the scales at 126 for his six-round bout against Willie Villanueva, who tipped the scales at 125 1/2.

Alex Guerrero hit the scales at 194 1/2 for his four-round matchup against Dustin Schnakenberg, who weighed in at 199.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Saturday Beltway Trifecta in Tunica Leads to Huge October!

I mentioned some of this news on a recent BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up show but did not post this info on the blog. This coming Saturday, September 25 in Tunica, MS, three undefeated Beltway Boxers will be in some of the big bouts on the card at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino.

Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (8-0, six KO's) headlines the show in a six-round contest against Freddie Montoya of Montebello, CA (3-1, two KO's). Wade is coming off a first-round knockout over Troy Lowry on July 17 in New Town, ND. Montoya will be trying to bounce back from his first pro loss which took place on October 24, 2009 to Fernando Calleros in Acoma, NM.

Capitol Heights, MD super featherweight "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. (11-0, eight KO's')will be in one of the six-round co-feature bouts as he takes on Willie Villanueva of Albuquerque, NM (9-2, two KO's). Russell will be looking for his seventh straight knockout after stopping veteran and former world champion Mauricio Pastrana on July 22 in Los Angeles. Villanueva will be looking to break a two-bout losing streak. In his last outing, Villanueva was stopped by Randy Arrelin on May 7 in Albuquerque.

In a four-round encounter, Salisbury, MD cruiserweight Alex Guerrero (3-0-1, one KO) will look to continue his winning ways as he faces Dustin Schnakenburg of Grain Valley, MO. (4-2, three KO's) Guerrero will try to bounce back from his first pro draw on April 16 in Salisbury. Schnakenburg is on a two-bout winning streak, capturing a four-round unanimous decision over Mario Munoz on March 26 in Kansas City, MO.

This card sets us up for what will be a very busy October with a number of Beltway Boxers participating in important bouts on the road. We will also be busy at home with three local cards in a nine-day period. Here's a chronological look of what is slated to take place in October:

On Friday, October 1, USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman of Baltimore makes the first defense of his USBA Junior Welterweight title against two-time Venezuelan Olympian Patrick "El Elegante" Lopez at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, CA. The bout will be the main event on ShoBox: The New Generation on Showtime. Coleman (17-1-1, four KO's) is coming off a 12-round decision win against former world title challenger and hometown favorite Mike Arnaoutis in New York in his last fight on Dec. 3, 2009. He has won three fights in a row since his only loss in October, 2008. Coleman is currently ranked No. 15 in the IBF and No. 18 in the WBC. Lopez is 20-2, 12 KO's.

Here's what ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood says about the matchup:

“Coleman-Lopez is a good boxer-puncher matchup, and it’s coming at the right time. “Coleman is on the rise. This fight has real meaning as a crossroads matchup and the winner is going to be in commanding position to take the next step.”

On Saturday, October 2, Laurel, MD junior welterweight Ikem "The Warrior" Orji (6-3, two KO's) will be in an eight-round co-feature bout against undefeated Brian Miller of Schenectady, NY (8-0-4, three KO's) at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY. Orji is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Rod Salka on June 30 in Pittsburgh, PA. Miller was in an eight-round draw in his last outing on September 11 in Albany, NY. Miller battled with Floriano Pagliara for the WBF All-Americas Lightweight title. Miller is the defending champion but is not scheduled to defend his title against Orji.

Wednesday, October 6 finds undefeated Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight and USBO/NABO Youth champion Mark TNT Tucker in a non-title eight-round contest against an opponent to be named at BB King's Blues Club and Grill in New York City. Tucker (14-0, seven KO's) had a tough win in his last outing -- an eight-round unanimous decision over Billy Bailey on June 19 in Oakland, CA.

The very next night -- Thursday, October 7 -- will have a former Tucker opponent -- George "El Gallo" Armenta of Silver Spring, MD. Armenta (13-6, 11 KO's) will try to break a two-bout losing streak as he faces James "Buddy" McGirt, Jr. (22-2-1, 11 KO's) of Vero Beach, FL in an eight-round contest at the Pensacola Civic Center in Pensacola, FL on the Roy Jones-Danny Santiago card. Armenta was stopped in his last outing in the first round by Edwin Rodriguez on March 19 in Durant, OK. McGirt is coming off a second-round knockout of John Mackey on April 3 in Las Vegas.

On Friday, October 15, undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell (18-0-1, 12 KO's) will try to keep his knockout string going as he looks for four-in-a-row at the Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio, CA. No word on his opponent, but the bout is slated to be Mitchell's first scheduled 10-round bout.

Then we head home for the first of our three local cards. This will be the Jonathan Ogden Foundation card on Thursday, October 21 at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD. Scheduled to appear on this TKO Promotions card will be The Taylor Brothers (Emmanuel and Maxell) as well as undefeated heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm of DC and the Beltway debut of Capitol Heights, MD junior welterweight Alantez Fox .

Two nights later -- Saturday, October 23 -- the action switches to the Pikesville National Guard Armory in Pikesville, MD. Scheduled to appear on this card is multi-belt champion James "Keep Em Sleepin' Stevenson as well as Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler.

Then on Saturday, October 30, there will be a card at the Masonic Temple, 1000 U Street, NW in DC. The Babie Girl Productions card is slated to include Tony "Mo Better" Jeter fighting for a regional title as well as the return of 2000 Olympian Clarence "Untouchable" Vinson.

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Get Well Wishes For 'Rock' Simms!

BATB has learned that longtime Beltway-area trainer Marvin "Rock" Simms is in poor health and is in the intensive care unit at Greater Laurel Hospital.

Mr. Simms has been a well-known trainer who has worked with world champions like William Joppy and Sharmba Mitchell and has worked at numerous local gyms including Laurel Boys and Girls Club, Round One and the Charles Mooney Academy of Boxing.

We ask you join us in sending prayers to Rock Simms and his family.

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Sims, Kisner Victorious in Hampton!

BATB has learned that Baltimore boxers Omar "The Machine" Sims and "The American Child" Nick Kisner scored knockout victories tonight at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton, VA.

Sims registered his second straight knockout victory stopping Frankie "The Freight Train" Filippone of Norfolk, VA 14 seconds into the fourth round. Sims is now 5-2-3, three KO's. Filippone is 6-2, two KO's.

Kisner stopped Robert Hunt of Alexandria, VA at 12 seconds of the second round. Kisner remains undefeated at 5-0, three KO's. Hunt is now 1-14, one KO.

Weights from Hampton, VA!

Interesting situation for the card that will be held tonight at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton, VA. Weight issues have caused changes in the bouts featuring Beltway Boxers. DC heavyweight Kareem Wilson is not particpating on the card. Wilson was slated to take on Ferndale, MD's Nick Kisner. Dale Robeson-El will also sit out this card, because his scheduled opponent, Robert Hunt of Alexandria, VA, came in at 203 pounds.

What this means is Kisner, who weighed in at 202, will now face Hunt. The other bout that features a Beltway Boxer is intact -- Omar Sims of Baltimore will face Frankie Fillipone of Norfolk, VA. Sims weighed 167 pounds while Fillipone came in at 171.

Nicklow, Kennedy Battle to Spirited Majority Draw!

In a bout that is the clubhouse leader for Beltway Boxing Bout of the Year, Baltimore boxers Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and "Vicious" Julius Kennedy battled to a tremendously close 10-round majority draw. Neither boxer will hold the WBF All-Americas or Maryland State Middleweight titles.

I will go into detail at length later today, but suffice it to say that this was one of the closest contests that I have seen in quite some time.

Also on the card, Baltimore heavyweight Jed "The Punisher" Phipps was stopped by Theron Johnson of Chicago, IL at 37 seconds of the first round. Baltimore cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler remained undefeated with a first-round stoppage of Winchester, VA's debuting Donald Crawford. The time was 2:07. Also, Maxell "The General" Taylor made a successful return to action with a six-round unanimous decision over Francois Ambang.

Here are my thoughts on the card.

The Julius Kennedy-Jessie Nicklow bout may not go down in history as the greatest bout in Baltimore Boxing history, but as of right now, it is the best Beltway bout of 2010. A member of the Maryland State Athletic Commission had the best description of the bout when he said that the two boxers were "mirror images of each other." That is what made this bout so fascinating. Sometimes the two would throw the same sequence of punches at exactly the same time. The two sparred with one another, but this bout did not resemble a sparring session in any way.

I told that same MSAC representative after the fourth round of the contest that I didn't think either boxer was leaving with the belts tonight. That's what happened. Both men deserved to win the bout and neither man deserved to lose. Both men fought with passion and both men looked as good as I have seen them in a while. Judges John Gradowski and Dave Braslow scored the bout 95-95 while Don Risher saw it 98-92 for Nicklow. Nicklow is now 20-2-3, seven KO's while Kennedy is 7-1-1, three KO's.

About the co-feature: The conventional wisdom would probably be to say to Jed Phipps to hang it up. Phipps lost in 37 seconds to a boxer who scored his first knockout of his pro career in Theron Johnson. From the outside, it did look like he didn't take punches very well. However, Phipps is a heavyweight who I thought deserved a little bit more time to gather himself. Phipps never went down in that time. Talking to him after the bout, I saw a renewed passion in Phipps. He did say he wanted to make sure that never happens again. We'll wait and see. For now, Phipps is now 18-8, 11 KO's while Johnson is 4-3, one KO.

In 2009, I said that Steve Wheeler was the sleeper of the rookie class. He is doing nothing to prove me wrong. Yes, Wheeler did face a guy that was making his pro debut, but you have to like how Wheeler is taking people who don't have the talent he has out. Wheeler has solid power and good boxing skill and is truly, yet quietly cultivating a following in the area. No need to rush this guy because it will be very interesting to see how he develops. Wheeler is now 6-0, five KO's.

As far as Maxell Taylor, it is really nice to see this guy back in the business again. Taylor, who originally fought as a junior middleweight, looks like he will now be a super middleweight and he will bring some solid talent to that division. Give Taylor and his camp credit for coming back for his first bout in five years in a six-round contest against a tough guy like Francois Ambang, one of those boxers that if he could stop taking bouts on short notice, would have a much better career. Taylor looked prepared, using a solid jab. The big question will be if Taylor has the punching power to bang with boxers at 168 pounds. One thing is for sure: we have another solid boxing brother combination in the area in Maxell and Emmanuel Taylor.

There were some interesting luminaries in the crowd: Former world champion Vinny Paz was in attendance as was noted trainer Kevin Rooney. We were also honored by the presence of the Mayor of Baltimore, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, who unlike most public officials, didn't just make an appearance to show everyone she was there and then leave. Mrs. Rawlings-Blake stayed for the entire card and willingly posed for pictures with other fans. Hopefully, she will not be a stranger to us. Also joining us was 1970's era heavyweight and Baltimore legend Larry Middleton along with one of the best amateurs to come out of this era, Warren "Chico" Thompson (whom I did not introduce to the crowd last night and I do apologize).

Finally, let me just say that I had a unique experience with this card. As many of you know, I served as the WBF supervisor for the title bout. This position allowed me to learn this business from a different perspective. I get to talk to boxers and I get to sit close to the action as a reporter. However, I am not always privy to the true inner workings of this business. I was closer to that aspect of the business last night than I have ever been before. I was involved in being a part of and even conducting rules meetings, witnessing a drug test, sitting among commission members during the bout and seeing how they operate and being a part of the behind-the-scenes operation of a card. These and many other situations are parts of the business that I know operate but to actually be a part of it was a definite learning experience, one that I will truly cherish. My thanks to the World Boxing Foundation as well as the Maryland State Athletic Commission for the opportunity.

As I was writing this, I was able to recover last night's BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up so I will post it so you can hear "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears's comments on the card. This report does cut out too soon, but the complete analysis of the card is on here.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #233 - Another Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Du Burns Arena!

Once again, "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap action from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. This week, it's the Baltimore Boxing card.



Also, here's the interview with Maxell "The General" Taylor

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #231 - 'The General' Talks About His Return!

Baltimore super middleweight Maxell "The General" Taylor talks to BATB about his victorious return to boxing.

Friday, September 17, 2010

The titles belong to..no one!! Nicklow and Kennedy fight to a tremendous Beltway fight of the year majority draw!!! Complete details on the Post Fight Wrap up
The Nicklow-Kennedy bout entering the ring.
Johnson is 4-3, one KO.
The Jed Phipps--Theron Johnson bout is underway -- and it is over. Johnson stops Phipps at 37 seconds of the first round. Phipps is 18-8, 11 KO's.
Wheeler makes short work of Crawford, dropping him with solid left hand. Crawford doesn't get up. Wheeler is now 6-0, five KO's
Steve Wheeler-Donald Crawford in the ring. Crawford making his pro debut.
Maxell Taylor wins for the first time since 2005. Taylor wins a six-round unanimous decision over Francois Ambang. Taylor is 14-2-1, five KO's. Ambang 2-7-1.
The pro portion is getting ready to begin. The first bout is Maxell Taylor vs. Francois Ambang.
Good Evening once again from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. The amateur portion of the card is underway. I will return when the pro portion begins.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Beltway Boxers Heading to Hampton!

Five Beltway Boxers will participate on a card at the Boo Williams Sportsplex in Hampton, VA on Saturday, September 18.

Fresh off his four-round unanimous decision win over Dan Shull last Friday at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, undefeated Baltimore light heavyweight Dale Robeson-El (4-0, two KO's) returns to take on Robert Hunt of Alexandria, VA (1-13, one KO) in a four-round contest. Hunt recently returned to boxing after a nine-year hiatus. Hunt's career started in 1996 and he lost his first 13 bouts, facing the likes of Beltway Boxers Rufat Baku, Sammy Retta, Vincent "Boojay" White and he was the pro debut opponent for Jimmy Lange.

Upon his return, Hunt cracked the win column for the first time, stopping Rod Jacobs (1-10) on June 18 in Winston-Salem, NC.

In what should be a very interesting bout, Baltimore junior middleweight Omar "The Machine" Sims will take on Frankie "The Freight Train' Fillipone of Norfolk, VA in a six-round contest. Both guys are staying busy and fought on the same card on August 28 in Virginia Beach, VA. Sims (4-2-3, two KO's) is coming off a third-round TKO win over Kenneth Moody while Fillipone (6-1, two KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Willie Williams.

In a four-round bout, Baltimore's "The American Child" Nick Kisner will try to remain undefeated (4-0, two KO's) will battle DC's Kareem Wilson (0-5), who is looking for his first victory.

Weights From Du Burns! Again!

For the second consecutive week, we have weights from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore. This time, it's a Baltimore Pro Boxing card.

Jesse Nicklow 159 vs. Julius Kennedy 158.5 (WBF All-Americas and Maryland State Middleweight Championship Bout)

Jed Phipps 218.5 vs. Theron Johnson 227

Steve Wheeler 199 vs. Donald Crawford 206

Maxell Taylor 177 vs. Francois Ambang 183

Thomas Snow is not on this card. He was also slated to fight Saturday in Hampton, VA, but that bout has fallen through as well. There will be three amateur bouts on the card as well. BATB will post live from Du Burns.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Nicklow Visits Boxing Scene and Calls Fight 'Biggest in Baltimore History!"

Boxing Scene.com's Ryan Burton sat down with Baltimore middleweight Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow to talk about his WBF All-Americas/Maryland State Middleweight title bout against fellow Baltimore-area boxer "Vicious" Julius Kennedy on Friday, September 17 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, MD.

Not to give too much of this interview away, but Nicklow says this bout could be the Biggest in Baltimore history. Here's the link:

"http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=30966"

'Show Stealer' Wheeler Gets Introduction Feature at SecondsOut.com!

Undefeated Catonsville, MD cruiserweight Steve "Show Stealer" Wheeler is the subject of an introduction feature by Andrew Wake of SecondsOut.com.

Wheeler is slated to be a part of the Baltimore Pro Boxing card this Friday night, September 17 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.

Here is the link:

"http://www.secondsout.com/news/main-news/introducingsteve-wheeler">

Monday, September 13, 2010

Former IBF Champ Aiken Return Postponed!

Former IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken will NOT make his return to the ring after a more than two-year absence on Friday, September 17 in an outdoor ring adjacent to the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Apparently, Aiken has been dropped from the card. No official reason was given.

Aiken (16-7-1, 12 KO's) has not fought since a stoppage loss to Monty Meza-Clay in February 2008 in Monroeville, PA. Aiken won the IBF title by disqualification over Valdemir Pereira on May 13, 2006 in Boston, MA. Aiken lost the belt to Robert Guerrero by eighth-round stoppage on September 2, 2006 in Los Angeles.

Aiken's opponent was scheduled be undefeated Luis Ramos, Jr. of Santa Ana, CA (16-0, eight KO's). Aiken has been replaced by John Figueroa.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

New Poll: When Should Weigh-ins be held?

Last night's Anthony Peterson-Brandon Rios bout may rekindle a debate within boxing on when a weigh-in should be held. Should they be held the day BEFORE a card or the day OF a card?

Whether you believe it made a difference in the bout, the fact remains that after Rios weighed in at the lightweight limit of 135 pounds on the day before the bout, he came in the ring weighing 152 pounds, closer to the junior middleweight limit of 154. Peterson weighed in at 134 pounds at the weigh-in, but only put on five pounds afterwards. Some would argue that, if the weigh-in were held on the same day as the bout, there wouldn't have been that big of a weight disparity. Others believe that fighters risk a danger in being unable to properly rehydrate if a weigh-in is done on the same day as a boxing card.

Along the Beltway, only Virginia has had weigh-ins on the same day as a card, but that is not a set rule. Some promoters in the Commonwealth have also had weigh-ins on the day before a card.

Please send your thoughts on the new poll. This should provide interesting debate.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Peterson Loses World Title Opportunity by Disqualification!

Anthony Peterson picked the wrong time to fight the worst bout of his pro career. Peterson was knocked down once and had four points taken away from him for low blows en route to a seventh-round loss to Brandon Rios in a WBA Title Elimination bout at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

Rios started to take control of the bout in the third round after a spirited second round where both men traded punches with great vigor.

In the fifth round, Rios landed a left hand that dropped Peterson for the first time in his boxing career. From there, Peterson landed a series of low blows that caused referee Russell Mora to take numerous points away. In the seventh round, Peterson hit Rios with a second remaining that caused Mora to disqualify Peterson.

The loss was the first of Peterson's career and his record is 30-1, 20 KO's. Rios is now 25-0-1, 17 KO's.

Coleman Makes First Defense of USBA Title October 1 on Showtime!

USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman of Baltimore will make the first defense of his title on Friday, October 1 at the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, CA. The bout will be televised on Showtime's Shobox: The New Generation.

The opponent for Coleman (17-1-1, four KO's) will be Patrick Lopez of Venezuela (20-2, 12 KO's). According to reports, Coleman is training in Las Vegas with Roger Mayweather for this bout.

A. Peterson Weighs 134 For WBA Title Eliminator!

Anthony Peterson weighed in at 134 pounds for his nationally televised WBA title elimination bout against Brandon Rios tonight at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas. Rios came in at 135 pounds.

The bout will be shown on HBO's Boxing After Dark tonight at 10 PM ET.

Full Results from Du Burns!

In the first of two straight Friday night boxing cards at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, MD, here are the results from the Bang Time Boxing promotion:

"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis and Newberry, SC's Kelvin Kibler fought to a four-round majority draw. Bouloubassis has the rather unique won-loss record of 5-0-5, four KO's. Kibler is 0-4-2.

"The Persecutor" Mike Paschall won a six-round majority decision over Ariel "Iron" Espinal of Brooklyn, NY. Paschall is now 21-2-1, four KO's while Espinal falls to 8-15-3, three KO's.

Russ "The Hammer" Shiflett scored the only knockout of the night, stopping Justin "Rage" Riegle of Massillon, OH at 1:10 of the first round. Shiflett remains undefeated at 9-0-1, five KO's while Riegle is under .500 at 3-4-1, one KO.

Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm won a four-round unanimous decision over "King" Kevin Howard of Montgomery, AL. Byarm also remains undefeated with a record of 9-0, six KO's. Howard is 1-4-1.

"The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae won a six-round unanimous decision over Mike "The Millionaire" Miller of Akron, OH. McRae is 8-2, four KO's. Miller is 6-18-2, three KO's.

Dale Robeson-El won a four-round unanimous decision over Dan Shull of Winchester, VA. Robeson-El is 4-0, two KO's while Shull falls to 2-11-1, one KO.

Andre "Da Heat" Hemphill of Philadelphia won a six-round unanimous decision over Frank Armstrong of Garner, NC. Hemphill is now 10-16-2, five KO's. Armstrong is 4-15-3, three KO's.

Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #230 - Post-Fight Recap from Du Burns!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap the first part of the Du Burns Doubleheader -- The Bang Time Boxing Card.

Bouloubassis and Kibler fight to a four-round majority draw. Bouloubassis is now 5-0-5, four KO's. Kibler is now 0-4-2. Post-fight wrap up coming soon.
Main event-- Elias Bouloubassis-Kevin Kibler heading to the ring.
Paschall wins by six-round majority decision. Paschall is 21-2-1, four KO's. Espinal is now 8-15-3, three KO's.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Co-feature: Mike Paschall-Ariel Espinal in the ring.
Shiflett makes short work of Riegle, stopping him at 1:10 of the first. Shiflett is 9-0-1, five KO's. Riegle is 3-4, one KO's.
Russ Shiflett-Justin Riegle coming to the ring.
Byarm wins sluggish four-round unanimous decision to remain undefeated at 9-0, six KO's. Howard is now 1-4-1.
Maurice Byarm-Kevin Howard in the ring.
McRae wins by six-round unanimous decision. McRae is now 8-2, four KO's. Miller is 6-18-2, three KO's.
Dwayne McRae vs. Mike Miller -- heavyweights in the ring.
Hemphill wins by unanimous decision raising his record to 10-16-2, five KO's. Armstrong is 4-14-3, three KO's.
Andre Hemphill-Frank Armstrong heading to the ring.
Robeson-El wins by unanimous decision. Robeson-El is now 4-0, two KO's. Shull is now 2-11-1, one KO's.
Pro card underway from Baltimore. Dale Robeson-El vs. Dan Shull is the first bout.
Pro portion of the card slated to begin in 10 minutes. Tonight's audio post-fight will also include a loaded schedule of Beltway boxers in action.
Good Evening from Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, MD! The Bang Time Boxing card is underway with amateur boxing. I will return when the pro portion gets underway

Thursday, September 09, 2010

Weights From Du Burns!

Here are the weights for the Bang Time Boxing card tomorrow night at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore:

Mike Paschall 168 vs. Ariel Espinal 173

Russ Shiflett 187 vs. Justin Riegel 186 1/2

Maurice Byarm 253 vs. Kevin Howard 267

Elias Bouloubassis 152 1/2 vs. Kevin Kibler 154

Dwayne McRae 260 vs. Mike Miller 272

Dale Robeson-El 180 vs. Dan Shull 178 (Robeson-El had to lose two and a half pounds to get close to agreed weight of 180)

Andre Hemphill 172 1/2 vs. Frank Armstrong 171

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

Peterson-Rios Officials Announced!

The referee and judges have been announced for Saturday's WBA Lightweight elimination bout between DC's Anthony Peterson and Brandon "Bam Bam" Rios of Oxnard, CA at the Palms in Las Vegas.

The referee will be Russell Mora and the judges will be Duane Ford, Dave Moretti and CJ Ross. The bout between the two undefeated boxers will be shown on HBO's Boxing After Dark.

Saturday, September 04, 2010

Beltway Amateurs Participating in USA-China Dual Meet!

Three local boxers will be a part of the USA team that will battle China in the "Empires Collide" dual meet on Friday, October 1 at the Capitale in New York City. This event is being promoted by Dino Duva and his father, the legendary trainer, Lou, is the special consultant to the Chinese team.

Mike Reed (140 pounds), Danny Kelly (201 pounds) and Tyreshia Douglas (114 pounds) make up the Beltway contingent that will be participating. Best wishes to all three locals.

UPDATE: BATB has learned that one of the trainers for the Chinese team will be Sgt. Charles Mooney, who has trained a number of boxers in the Beltway and is a silver medallist on the 1976 US Olympic Team.

Friday, September 03, 2010

Anthony Peterson Steps 'Through The Ropes'! -- At least he did LAST NIGHT!

My apologies! I misread the story on Anthony Peterson. He actually appeared on Marc Lichtenfeld's show last night. I do apologize. Peterson is preparing for his September 11th title eliminator bout against Brandon Rios in Las Vegas.

Thursday, September 02, 2010

Nicklow-Kennedy Bout For WBF All-Americas Middleweight Title!

The Friday, September 17 bout between Baltimore middleweights Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow and "Vicious" Julius Kennedy at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore will not only be for the Maryland State Middleweight title but will now also be for the vacant World Boxing Foundation (WBF) All-Americas title.

In a related story, I have the honor of being asked to serve as the WBF Supervisor in attendance for the championship bout. I will be presenting the belt to the winner after the contest.

'Keep 'Em Sleepin' Stevenson Named Prospect of the Month by BadLeftHook.com!

My buddy, Ted "The Bull" Sares of BadLeftHook.com has a great column called the "Scotch and Cigar Club." The column mixes boxing knowledge and videos of some great music and it is a must read.

In this edition, Sares named undefeated Baltimore welterweight prospect James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson as the Prospect of the Month. Here's what Sares said about Stevenson:

At 13-0 (10 KO), James is beginning to get some attention among the lower tier welterweights. While is opposition leaves something to be desired, he did stop one Dwayne Shelton. No big deal except Shelton is the same guy who gave streaking Mike Tiberi (recognize the name?) his only loss. Mike is currently at 14-1. These are Beltway guys and they don't usually get the kind of publicity that Philly fighters warrant, but many a fine fighter has emerged from that region.

Stevenson is slated to be a part of the Baltimore Pro Boxing card on Friday, September 17 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Full Card Announced For Sept. 10 at Du Burns!

The Friday, September 10 Bang Time Boxing Card at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore is now full.

Headlining the show will be "The Persecutor" Mike Paschall who will be in a six-round super middleweight bout against veteran Ariel "Iron" Espinal of Brooklyn, NY. Paschall (20-2-1, four KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision over Mickey Scarborough on June 17 at Du Burns. Espinal (8-14-3, four KO's) was knocked out by Steve Wheeler in the second round on May 8 at Du Burns.

Undefeated Baltimore cruiserweight Russ "The Hammer" Shiflett will take on Justin "Rage" Riegle of Orrville, OH in a four-round contest. Shiflett (8-0-1, four KO's) won a four-round unanimous decision over Andre Hemphill on the June 17 Du Burns card. Riegle (3-3, one KO) won his last bout, a four-round unanimous decision over Brian Cook on February 19 in Cleveland, OH.

Hemphill, who fights out of Philadelphia, PA, will return to Du Burns and face Frank Armstrong of Winston-Salem, NC. Hemphill (9-16-2, five KO's) won his last outing, a six-round unanimous decision over Anthony Pietrantonio on July 30 in Philadelphia. Armstrong (4-14-3, three KO's) has lost his last two.

Capitol Heights, MD super bantamweight Thomas "KO" Snow returns to action with a scheduled four-round contest against tough Philadelphian Gustavo Dailey. Snow (12-1, eight KO's) last fought on January 29 and won a tough and controversial six-round split decision over Jason Rorie at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Meanwhile, Dailey (4-9, one KO) has not fared well since his July 2009 upset of Tyrell Samuel at the Shipley Arena in Westminster, MD. Dailey has lost four straight bouts, including the two rematch losses to Samuel and has been stopped in his last two bouts.

Undefeated DC heavyweight Maurice "The Freight Train" Byarm makes a quick return to action on this card. Byarm (8-0, six KO's) fought on August 28th in Virginia Beach, VA and stopped Ramon Hayes in the third round. Byarm will take on Kevin Howard of Montgomery, AL (1-3-1). Howard last fought on January 31 at Rosecroft Raceway and was stopped in the fourth round by Abodurin Akinyanju.

Laurel, MD heavyweight "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae returns to action with a scheduled six-round contest against crafty veteran Mike Miller of Akron, OH. McRae (7-2, four KO's) is coming off a fourth-round TKO of Corey Winfield on April 2 in Glen Burnie. Miller has lost three straight but went the distance with Byarm, Harold Sconiers and, in his last outing, Travis Kaufmann.

There will be a rematch on the card as undefeated Baltimore super middleweight "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis will take on Kevin Kibler of Columbia, SC in a four-round bout. Bouloubassis (5-0-4, four KO's) won a four-round unanimous decision over Kibler on the May 8 Du Burns card. Kibler (0-3-1) has fought since then, losing to Alantez Fox by four-round unanimous decision on July 31 in York, PA.

Rounding out the card will be undefeated Baltimore light heavyweight Dale Robeson-El (3-0, two KO's) who will face Winchester, VA's Dan Shull (2-10-1, one KO). Both men are coming off third-round TKO victories.

This will be the first of two cards on back-to-back weekends at Du Burns. Baltimore Pro Boxing will have a card on Friday, September 17.