Saturday, July 31, 2010

Mitchell Wins In First Round In Vegas; Fox Wins Pro Debut in PA!

Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell remained undefeated tonight at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas with a blistering first-round TKO over Derek "The One Man Riot" Bryant of Philadelphia, PA.

According to Fightnews.com's Andres Hale, Mitchell jumped on Bryant from the start with a barrage of left hooks to the body followed by stinging left uppercuts that forced the bout to be stopped at 1:45 of the first.

Mitchell improves to 18-0-1, 12 KO's while Bryant is now 20-6-1, 17 KO's.


In York, PA, Forestville, MD's Alantez "Tez" Fox made a successful pro debut at the Sovereign Bank Stadium, winning a four-round unanimous decision over Kevin Kibler of SC. According to Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com, Fox won handily against a tough opponent. Fox scored a shutout on all three judge's cards, 40-36 (twice) and 40-35. Kibler is 0-3.

Kohut also tells us that Dontre King of Cambridge, MD lost a tough four-round unanimous decision to undefeated Stevie Weimer of York, PA. Weimer is 5-0, two KO's while King is 2-8-2, one KO. Also, Ron "Teflon" Boyd of DC suffered a hand injury and had to retire from his bout against Terrence Crawford of Omaha, NB at 2:28 of the first.

Kohut talked to Fox shortly after his victory. Here's that interview.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #229 - Fox Discusses Pro Debut Victory!

Forestville, MD's Alantez "Tez" Fox talked to Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com shortly after winning his pro debut tonight at Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, PA.

Fox, Boyd, King Hit Scales in York!

Forestville, MD's Alantez Fox weighed in at 150 1/2 for his pro debut tonight at the Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, PA. His opponent, Kevin Kibler came in at 150.

Two other Beltway Boxers are on this card. Dontre King of Cambridge, MD (2-7-2, one KO) tipped the scales at 144 pounds for his scheduled four-round bout against undefeated hometown hero Stevie Weimer (4-0, two KO's), who came in at 140 pounds. Also, Ron "Teflon" Boyd of DC (6-10-1, two KO's) battles undefeated Terrence Crawford of Omaha, NE (11-0, eight KO's) in a scheduled six-rounder. Boyd weighed 140 1/2 while Crawford was 140 3/4.

Davis Stopped in Philadelphia!

Demetrius Davis of DC, a last-minute substitute, was stopped in the third round last night in Philadelphia by undefeated hometown boxer Farah Ennis. No details, but the bout was stopped at 27 seconds of the third.

Davis has lost three straight and is now 20-24-5, eight KO's. Ennis is now 15-0, nine KO's.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Weights From Around The Country!

A number of Beltway Boxers were slated to tip the scales for bouts around the country.

In Las Vegas, Seth Mitchell tipped the scales at 243 pounds for his bout tomorrow night against Derek Bryant. Bryant weighed in at 201.

In Philadelphia, PA, Demetrius Davis was a last-minute addition to tonight's card at The Arena and he will face Farah Ennis. Davis weighed 168 while Ennis came in at 169.

We are also expecting the scale watch for locals on the card at Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, PA. Alantez Fox makes his pro debut and Dontre King and Ron Boyd are also on the card.

Today -- BATB Begins Its Sixth Year!

Today is the anniversary of Boxing Along The Beltway! This blog was started five years and 2,596 posts ago on July 30, 2005. Thanks, once again to all of you who read and follow what I've been trying to do here. The support is more appreciated than you would ever know!


Let me take a brief moment to follow up a statement I made on a recent thread. This year of 2010 has been a unique year for us and not necessarily in a fully positive way. I answered one recent thread by saying that we are a boxers hotbed, but not a BOXING hotbed. Let me expound on that a little bit.

I will put the Beltway's young pro boxing talent such as Gary Russell, Jr., Dominic Wade, Seth Mitchell and others up against any other region's talent and more often than not, I would win. Our boxers are that talented.

The area's amateur talent has grown by leaps and bounds, forcing this very blog to realize that it is not called Pro Boxing Along The Beltway and raise the level of its amateur coverage.

However, what has happened in this area recently is that we are slowly losing our venues to showcase our boxers. Ballroom Boxing is cutting back on their number of shows. The two shows that Babie Girl Productions planned for July and September have been put on hold because Hogate's on the Waterfront in DC had to close its doors. And we all know the situation involving Rosecroft Raceway, which had some of the more popular shows of the last three years.

Even the published financial woes of TKO Promotions have an effect on this region because the company had (and maybe still do have) plans to become a promotional force in this area and possibly sign more of our young boxers.

This is mentioned not to put blame on anyone. The financial state in and out of boxing has a lot to do with this. Plus, especially in Ballroom Boxing's case, the stress of keeping a long-running promotion going can take its toll, as it has for other promoters here.

What would help this situation is if fans -- all of us -- support the promoters that ARE here like never before. I know there are a lot of people who read this blog who, for whatever reason, do not come out to the cards on a regular basis. If you can come, please do. This will spur the promoters to put on more cards and maybe get potential promoters into the mix.

This area is still one of the best boxing areas in the country. The mission of BATB has always been to showcase this region's boxing talent to those who live in the area as well as outside the area. We will continue to do that. But if we can become a stronger fan base, the rewards will surely come.

Once again, thanks for all the support and we will keep the train running!

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Seth Mitchell Receives Heavy Media Exposure!

Tomorrow night in Las Vegas, undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell will face Derek Bryant at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Mitchell is receiving a lot of press this week.

Comcast Sportsnet's Chick Hernandez puts together a nice profile. I can provide the link to CSNwashington.com's video page, but you will have to look for the Mitchell video, dated July 28. Here is the link:

"http://www.csnwashington.com/pages/video">

One other note: To have this story air as Comcast Sportsnet prepares for all types of Redskins coverage is a big deal and says a lot.

Then, there is Ringside Report.com, the site run by my good friend "Bad" Brad Berkwitt. Reporters Jeff Stoyanoff and Mike Zepeda have a lengthy interview with Mitchell that can be found here:

"http://ringsidereport.com/?p=3962">

There's even a nice story and video package from Mitchell's alma mater, Michigan State University as they profile the former linebacker. Here's the link to that interview and the story:

"http://www.msuspartans.com/allaccess/index.html?media=183527">

"http://www.msuspartans.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/072410aaa.html">

US-Mexican Boxing-Themed Film Debuts in DC Friday!




There will be a boxing-themed movie that will come to DC's Landmark E Street Theater (555 11th ST, NW) tomorrow (Friday). The film is called Chamaco (The Kid) and it is described as "a timeless story of redemption and hope, struggle and triumph, told in the gritty world of boxing." The film tells the story of a father and son who overcome their differences to rescue a young Mexican teenager with big boxing dreams off the hard streets of Mexico City.

Starring in this US-Mexican production is Martin Sheen (The West Wing) and Michael Madsen (Donnie Brasco), with a special appearance by four-time world champion Marco Antonio Barrera, who plays himself. A number of the boxing scenes were shot in Barrera's gym in Mexico City.


The film will play in DC until August 5. My thanks to Kirk Harris (who is also in the film) for the information.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Beltway Amateurs Compete at Ohio State Fair!

One of the more well-known amateur boxing tournaments in the country is the prestigious Ohio State Fair tournament in Columbus, OH this week.

The 43rd annual tournament, now named after former world heavyweight champion and Columbus native James "Buster" Douglas, has long been a launching pad for the careers of many, including here in the Beltway.

This year, a number of locals will participate in the event, including nine from the Sugar Ray Leonard and and Kentland Boxing Gyms. Here is their list.

Steve Clark 11yrs 101 lbs SRL
Ameer Brown 11yrs 85lbs SRL
Demetrius Young 13yrs 90lbs SRL
Kashif Brown 12yrs 119lbs SRL
Andre Sherriod 15yrs 138lbs SRL
Chris Forbes 15yrs 125lbs SRL
Nardo Johnson 11yrs 95lbs Kentland Boxing
Daquan Johnson 14yrs 165lbs Kentland Boxing

Monday, July 26, 2010

Roach Wins Junior Golden Gloves Title in Mesquite, NV!

Congratulations to Lamont Roach, Jr. of No Xcuse Boxing, who captured the 125 pound, 13-14 Year Old championship at the National Junior Golden Gloves championships in Mesquite, NV. Roach fought all three nights and defeated Eric Ocampo of Washington in the finals.

Also, Jalonte Cole of No Xcuse reached the semifinals before falling to Kenneth Davis of Nevada.

July 31 Is A Busy Day For Beltway Boxers!

A number of Beltway Boxers are slated to be in action across the country on Saturday, July 31. Here's the scheduled rundown.

Undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell is on the undercard of the Juan Manuel Marquez-Juan Diaz card at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV. Mitchell (17-0-1, 11 KO's) will take on veteran Derek Bryant of Philadelphia, PA (20-5-1, 17 KO's) in a scheduled eight-round encounter.

Scott "Cujo" Sigmon of Bedford, VA is slated to be part of a card at the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte, NC. Sigmon (9-2, three KO's) will battle Anthony Cannon of Saginaw, MI (4-14, one KO) at a catch weight of 172. The bout is scheduled for six rounds. Cannon was stopped by Dominic Wade in the second round in June of 2009.

There is also word that undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor (8-0, seven KO's) will also be on the Charlotte card.

And Forestville, MD welter Alantez "Tez" Fox is slated to make his pro debut at the Sovereign Bank Stadium in York, PA. Fox's opponent will be Kevin Kibler of South Carolina (0-2). Kibler's last bout was in Baltimore, MD on May 8 when he lost a four-round unanimous decision to Elias Bouloubassis at DuBurns Arena on May 8.

Tyrell Samuel of Baltimore was slated to be in the main event of the York, PA card against Carney Bowman, but that bout will not happen. Samuel is reportedly getting surgery for a recent injury. No word on the particulars of the surgery.

August 7 Rosecroft Pro Show Has Been Cancelled!

The Saturday, August 7 Keystone Boxing pro card scheduled for Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD has been cancelled. No official word for the cancellation was given but it does not have to do with Rosecroft's recent closing.

Representatives for Keystone Boxing plan to host an amateur show on August 7 at another location and then come back in September with their scheduled pro card.

The July 31 amateur show at Rosecroft is still on and will begin at noon!

Barnett Wins With Broken Hand in Tunica!

Just receiving the official details on this one, but indeed, DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Tyrese Hendrix of Atlanta, GA this past Saturday in Tunica, MS. But the win will put Barnett on the sidelines for a little while as he did indeed suffer a broken hand during the bout.

The judges scorecards saw the bout 80-72 and 79-73 (twice). Barnett is now 18-1-1, 12 KO's while Hendrix falls to 18-2-1, seven KO's.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Barnett Weighs 138 For Tunica Tussle!

Ty Barnett and his opponent Tyrese Hendrix both weighed in at 138 pounds for their main event battle tonight at the Fitzgerald's Casino in Tunica, MS. The bout will be shown on www.prizefighttv.com.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Russell Wins With Another First-Round KO!

Capitol Heights, MD featherweight "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. remained undefeated with a first-round TKO over former world champion Mauricio Pastrana last night at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, CA.

Russell was in complete control of the contest, hammering Pastrana until referee Lou Moret stopped the contest at 1:46 of the round.

Russell is now 11-0, eight KO's. Pastrana falls to 35-15-2, 24 KO's.

Here's a nice recap by my Fightnews.com colleague Francisco Salazar:

Former Olympian and unbeaten featherweight Gary Russell is slowly convincing the boxing world that he could be a force to be reckoned with in the future. Based on his performance against a former world champion, that future might be sooner rather than later. Russell scored a first round stoppage over faded world champion Mauricio Pastrana in the first round of a scheduled six round bout at Club Nokia at L.A. Live in Los Angeles, CA. The bout headlined a five-bout “Fight Night Club” card, presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Russell, who fought for the United States in 2008 in Beijing, was coming off a second round knockout over Rodrigo Aranda last month at the same venue. However, Russell was facing Pastrana, who would pose on paper as a significant step up in class. Although Pastrana is not the fighter he once was, he is still a dangerous puncher. That was evident three and a half years ago against Antonio Escalante, whom he knocked out despite being down on the scorecards. Prior to the his fight against Russell, Pastrana had lost seven of his previous eight bouts.

From the opening bell, Russell utilized his speed, easily landing to Pastrana’s body and head. Pastrana attempted to time Russell coming in, hoping to land counter right hands to the head.

A right uppercut to the head hurt Pastrana, backing him up to a corner. Russell let his hands, landing blistering punches to the head of Pastrana, who began to slump down against the corner. Referee Dr. Lou Moret began to administer a standing-eight count as he felt that the ropes and/or corner were holding Pastrana up. After the count of eight, Moret decided to call the fight at 1:46 as he decided that Pastrana was too hurt to continue.

“I felt really good and strong in the ring,” said Russell, who has now won his last six bouts in a row by knockout or stoppage. “I was expecting tougher competition. I knew that he came with his “A” game. However, I knew I hurt him with the right hook. God has my back and since that is the case, the sky is the limit.”

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Gary Russell Jr. Weighs 126 For Six-Round LA Encounter!

After fighting just a little under a month ago, undefeated Capitol Heights, MD "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. returns to Club Nokia in Los Angeles tonight for the second consecutive time for a scheduled six-round encounter against veteran Mauricio Pastrana of Miami, FL by way of Colombia.

Russell (10-0, seven KO's) has scored five straight knockouts -- all in three rounds or less. This includes a second-round knockout over Rodrigo Aranda on June 24 at Club Nokia.

But Russell faces a true veteran in "Indio Boy" Pastrana (35-14-2, 23 KO's) who once held the IBF Light Flyweight title, defeating hall of famer Michael Carbajal by 12-round split decision in January of 1997. Pastrana also has held the interim WBA Flyweight title and unsuccessfully challenged for the IBF Super Flyweight and Bantamweight titles. Pastrana is on a losing skid, dropping his last four and seven of his last eight.

Russell weighed in at 126 pounds while Pastrana tipped the scales at 128. The bout will be shown on Fox Sports Net.

Barnett Headlines 'Fights At The Fitz' July 24 in Mississippi!

DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett has an important main event bout on Saturday, July 24 at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS. Barnett (17-1-1, 12 KO's) will face off against Tyrese Hendrix of Atlanta, GA (18-1-1, seven KO's) in a scheduled eight-round contest that according to one of the promotional outlets for the card -- Prize Fight Boxing -- could have future title implications.

"This is probably the most competitive and compelling main event we have ever brought to the Fitz. It is an intriguing match up between the great boxer and the great puncher. Everything is on the line. The winner goes on to regional title fights and the loser has to climb the ladder again. I can't wait!", stated promoter Russ Young of Prize Fight Boxing in a press release.

Barnett last fought on April 16 at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD and stopped Broderick Antoine in the seventh round. Hendrix will try to bounce back from suffering his first pro loss -- a 10-round unanimous decision to Hank Lundy for the NABO Lightweight title on April 16 in Memphis, TN.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Alexandria Times Reviews Quarles Pro Debut!

Thanks to those who alerted me to this article on debuting Alexandria, VA middleweight Brandon Quarles Austin Danforth of the Alexandria Times reviews Quarles's tough pro debut victory over Vincent Batteast on July 10 at the Patriot Center.

Here is the article:

"http://www.alextimes.com/news/2010/jul/15/punching-like-a-pro/">

Monday, July 19, 2010

Old School Boxing Hosts Final Amateur Day at Rosecroft!

The Old School Boxing Gym will be leaving Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD very soon and they will be leaving on a high note with a marathon amateur boxing card on Saturday, July 31 that will begin at noon and end at midnight.

According to the gym's proprietor, Buddy Harrison,, 68 boxers have already asked to competer and there will be locals as well as boxers from out of state.

Admission is $10 and the parking is free.

Although Old School is leaving Rosecroft Raceway, there will be a pro boxing card at that location the very next Saturday, August 7. So far slated to be on that card are local heavyweights Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm and "The Big Ticket" Dwayne McRae. We hope to get more details on the Keystone Boxing-promoted card later this week.

Rahman, Buchanan, Kisner Travel To Norfolk August 14!

A number of Beltway Boxers will be a part of a pro card coming to the Norfolk Scope in Norfolk, VA on Saturday, August 14.

Headlining the card will be former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman taking on journeyman Damon Reed in a scheduled 10-round encounter. Rahman (47-7-2, 38 KO's) will be fighting for the third time this year. On June 19, Rahman scored a fourth-round TKO over Shannon Miller in Niagra Falls, NY.

Reed (45-13, 32 KO's) is a veteran who has fought the likes of Kali Meehan and Monte Barrett. Reed has not fought since November 13 when he stopped Jim Franklin in the third round in Kansas City, MO.

The co-feature is a rematch between Capitol Heights, MD's Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan and long-time nemesis and Norfolk's own Bobby Jordan, Jr. Buchanan (19-2, 12 KO's) will be defending his World Boxing Foundation All-Americas Super Middleweight title. Buchanan last fought on April 2 at the Washington Convention Center and won an eight-round unanimous decision over Julius Fogle. Jordan (8-2-1, four KO's) has won his last two bouts at the Scope, scoring back-to-back fourth-round TKO's.

Buchanan and Jordan have fought a total of seven previous times -- six in the amateurs (Buchanan has the advantage, 5-1) and once as pros (Buchanan won an eight-round unanimous decision in DC on October 24).

According to Chris Perry of Fightnews.com, Buchanan had some interesting words to say about his rival at a recent press conference in Norfolk.

“We do have a great history when it comes to boxing,” said Buchanan. Looking at his rival at the press conference he continued, “You are a very tough guy, a sharp guy with a lot of heart. You have beautiful parents who care a lot about you. As I hear you speak, I’m touched by the situation. But, what do you want me to do? I’ve got to hurt you. I don’t want to, but I’ve got no other choice. I have to hurt you and you know I will because I’ve done it in the past. This time, I’ve got to put something on you to make you never speak my name again unless it’s in church when your asking God to protect you from me.”

Jordan simply responded, “When we fight, we’re gonna fight like we always do,” responded Jordan. “And, yes, I’m going to try and hurt you as you will try and hurt me. That’s part of the game. I appreciate the opportunity again. I’ll see you on the 14th.”

Also on the card will be undefeated Glen Burnie, MD cruiser "The American Child" Nick Kisner (4-0, two KO's) taking on Kenneth Farr of Rocky Mount, NC (0-3) and super featherweight Darrell "The Project" Martin of Baltimore (4-12, one KO) will battle Norfolk's Stephan Alexander (4-2, four KO's).

NBC 4 Profiles Cutman Extraordinare Jimmy Glenn!

Tonight on News 4 on WRC, sports reporter Dan Hellie does a profile on one of the best cutmen in the history of the business -- Jimmy Glenn.

Glenn has worked with the likes of Floyd Patterson, Terrence Alli and Howard Davis, Jr. and currently is in the corner of the Beltway's own Jimmy Lange. Glenn took over the role as trainer in preparation for Lange's last bout, the victory over Jimmy LeBlanc on July 10 at the Patriot Center.

For those who didn't catch the segment, it can be found here:

"http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/Talented_Boxer_Coaxes_Jimmy_Glenn_Back_Into_Training_Washington_DC.html">

Amateur Boxing Comes To District Heights July 24!

The D-Block Boxing Gym is hosting a night of amateur boxing on Saturday, July 24 at the District Heights Recreation Center located at 2000 Marbury Drive in District Heights, MD.

The action will begin at 6 PM and admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. If you know someone who would like to be a part of the action on this card, call 410-474-1265.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Beltway Amateurs Leave Without a Title at USA Nationals!

The Beltway region will not have a USA National champion this year. The four remaining finalists were unable to come away with a title this year in Colorado Springs.

In the 141-pound championship, Michael Reed of Waldorf, MD lost a close decision to Pedro Sosa of Bronx, NY 13-11. In the 201+ division title bout, Danny Kelly of DC lost to Lenroy Thompson, 8-5.

In the women's 112-pound championship, Tyrieshia Douglas of Baltimore dropped a 15-7 decision to Marlen Esparza of Houston, TX.

In the women's 178+-pound class, the Naval Academy's Anne Gibbon fell to Denis Rico of Los Angeles, CA 22-4.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Jargal Musters Draw in Atlantic City!

On a night full of surprises at the Tropicana Resort and Casino in Atlantic City, "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal of Arlington, VA could only manage an eight-round draw against Rock Hill, SC's James Hope. No details on the bout but all three judges scored the contest 76-76.

Jargal remains undefeated at 15-0-3, 10 KO's but all three draws have come to journeyman boxers (Jaime Rodriguez, Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall and Hope) Hope is now 6-5-1, four KO's.

The bout was on the undercard of the David Tua-Monte Barrett bout that ended in a 10-round draw, with Tua being knocked down for the first time in his career. Also on this card, Carlos Vinan, a journeyman boxer who battles out of Newark, NJ, scored an upset eighth-round TKO over the IBF's number four-ranked boxer Anthony Mezaache. Vinan lost two battles against Baltimore's Tyrell Samuel and won a split decision over then-undefeated Eric Hunter, who later went on to beat Samuel on a Showtime card in 2007.

Guerrero Wins NABF Title With Unanimous Decision Over Smith!

Salisbury, MD middleweight Fernando Guerrero captured the vacant NABF Middleweight title with a hard-fought, 10-round unanimous decision over a very game Ishe "Sugar Shay" Smith of Las Vegas, NV tonight at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, MS.

Both men gave a clinic on how to go to the body throughout the contest, but a few of Smith's body shots went below Guerrero's belt and referee Randy Phillips took a point away from Smith in the sixth round.

Smith did manage to drop Guerrero in the eighth round, but that was not enough to sway the judges scorecards, who saw the bout for Guerrero at 96-93, 95-93 and an unbelievable 97-91.

Guerrero remains undefeated at 19-0, 15 KO's while Smith falls to 21-5, nine KO's.

I have to give this opinion. NO commission should EVER let one referee work an entire card, especially a nationally televised card. Referee Phillips worked 28 rounds of boxing on TV alone and worked the entire undercard. That should never happen. You could hear it in his voice by the time of the main event. Phillips was tired. It is just plain bush league and the Association of Boxing Commissioners needs to look into stopping that from ever happening again.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Jargal Weighs 138 For New Jersey Battle!

"The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal weighed in at 138 pounds for his eight-round contest at the Tropicana Resort and Casino in Atlantic City, NJ. His opponent, James Hope, tipped the scales at 137 1/2.

Reed, Kelly, Douglas Advance to USA National Finals!

The Beltway will have four boxers competing in the finals of the USA Boxing National Championships on Saturday.

Michael Reed of Waldorf, MD won his semi-final bout in the 141 pound class, defeating Abel Ramos of Eloy, AZ 19-8. Reed will face Pedro Sosa of Bronx, NY in the finals.

In the 201+ class, Danny Kelly of DC advanced to the finals by defeating Juan Goode of Canton, MI, 24-12. Kelly will battle Lenexa, KS's Lenroy Thompson in the finals.

On the women's side, Tyrieshia Douglas of Baltimore won an 8-5 decision over Alex Love of Monroe, WA. Douglas will take on Marlen Esparaza in the final.

Anne Gibbon of the Naval Academy will be in the finals of the 201 pound class.

D'Mitrius Ballard of Temple Hills, MD lost his semi-final bout to Luis Arias of Milwaukee, WI 18-7. Ballard will compete in a third-place bout today against Daquan Arnett of Orlando, FL.

Guerrero Weighs 159 For NABF ShoBox Scrap!



(Photo by Tom Casino/Showtime)

Fernando Guerrero weighed in at 159 for tonight's nationally televised battle at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, MS. Guerrero's opponent, Ishe Smith, tipped the scales at 158 pounds.

The bout will air on Showtime as part of a tripleheader that will begin at 11 PM ET.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Corley To Face Maidana for Interim WBA Title!

Fresh off his solid victory this past Saturday at the Patriot Center, former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley is slated to travel to Buenos Aires, Argentina to challenge Marcos Maidana for the interim WBA Junior Welterweight title on August 28.

To say this doesn't look like an easy one for Corley (37-13-1, 22 KO's) is an understatement. Maidana (28-1, 27 KO's) is a native of Argentina and is making the third defense of the interim WBA title. The full WBA titleholder is Amir Khan.

Ballard, Reed, Kelly, Douglas Advance; Floyd, Rivers, Grayton, Odom, Shen, Stevenson Eliminated from Nationals!

It was a tough session for the locals at the USA Boxing Nationals in Colorado Springs, CO today. Four Beltway Boxers advanced but six locals have finished their runs to the national title.

In the 141-pound division, Michael Reed of Waldorf, MD advanced to the semi-finals with a close 11-10 decision over Thomas Duquette of Waltlan, MA.

D'Mitrius Ballard of Temple Hills, MD won his 165-pound contest by a 12-3 decision over Anthony Gangemi of Dover, NJ.

Danny Kelly of DC moved on in the 201+ division with a 23-13 decision over Adrienne Farmer of Pocatello, ID.

On the female side, 112-pounder Tyrieshia Douglas, fighting out of Baltimore, MD advanced to the next round with a 15-5 win over Amy Sowers of Broman, MT.


Due to some erroneous information received yesterday, BATB mistakenly said that Shadeed Floyd won his 123-pound bout over Roman Morales of San Ando, CA. I have been told by two sources in Colorado Springs that he in fact, lost his bout by third-round stoppage. My apologies for the confusion.

We know that six Beltway amateurs were eliminated from competition yesterday. One of them was 132-pound defending national champion Kevin Rivers of Landover, MD who lost a rematch to Tommy Roques of Camp Lejeune, NC by a 12-7 decision. Rivers defeated Roques at the regional Golden Gloves.

In the 152-pound class, David Grayton of DC fell to Newark, NJ's Shakor Jackson, 10-5. Also, fresh off his come-from-behind victory yesterday, 178-pounder Jerry Odom of Bowie, MD lost a close 12-11 decision to Jeffrey Spencer of Fountain, CO.

On the women's side, Dara Shen of Alexandria, VA lost her bout in the 165-pound class to Tara Wood of Florida.

In the evening session last night, Gary Antonio Russell of Capitol Heights, MD was eliminated in the 114-pound class by two-time Olympian Rau'shee Warren of Cincinnati, OH 28-18.

Also, Asia Stevenson of DC lost to the defending champion at 132 pounds, Patricia Manuel of Gardena, CA, 33-16.

All the remaining locals will compete tonight. Ballard will face former US National champ Luis Arias of Milwaukee, WI. Reed takes on Abel Ramos of Eloy, AZ. Kelly battles Juan Goode of Canton, MI and Douglas will compete against Alex Love of Monroe, WA.

Front Page Boxing Highlights Odom Victory!

Jonathan Thyng, who is doing an outstanding job covering the USA Boxing Nationals for his site Front Page Boxing and for Examiner.com, goes into detail about the come-from-behind victory that Bowie, MD's Jerry Odom accomplished last night. This also includes video of the bout.

Here is the link:

"http://www.examiner.com/x-45859-Amateur-Boxing-Examiner~y2010m7d14-A-dramatic-finish-to-a-busy-afternoon-at-the-US-Open-National-Amateur-Boxing-Championships">

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Floyd, Odom, Russell, Reed, Ballard and Stevenson Advance at USA Nationals!

DC's Shadeed Floyd and Jerry Odom of Bowie, MD moved into the next round of action at the USA Boxing National Championships today in Colorado Springs, CO.

Floyd, the outstanding boxer at the Regional Golden Gloves in Waldorf, MD, won his 123-pound bout by medical disqualification when his opponent, Jesus Magdeleno of Las Vegas, NV did not make weight.

Odom won his 178-pound bout by stoppage in the third round over Cymone Kearney of Hayward, CA.

In the evening session, Gary Antonio Russell of Capitol Heights, MD won his first bout in the 114-pound division over Gilbert Mendoza of Modesto, CA by medical disqualification.

Michael Reed of Waldorf, MD decisioned Joshua Conley of San Bernadino, CA in a 141-pound bout, 12-9.

D'Mitrius Ballard of Temple Hills, MD won his 165-pound bout with a 23-10 decision over David Barragan of San Diego, CA.

On the women's side, Asia Stevenson of DC won her 132-pound bout by decision over Deidra Rhodes, 15-6.

According to the bout sheets slated for today, the marquee matchup for a Beltway Boxer will take place in the evening session where Russell will have a rematch against two-time US Olympian Rau'shee Warren of Cincinnati, OH. Russell lost to Warren in the finals of the National Golden Gloves earlier this year.

'Black Ice' Cummings Travels to Brooklyn to Face 'Showtime' Stevens August 7!

Maryland State Super Middleweight champion Cory "Black Ice" Cummings of Baltimore returns to action on Saturday, August 7 at the Aviator Sports Complex in Brooklyn, NY.

Cummings (17-4, 13 KO's) will be in action for the first time since winning the Maryland Super Middleweight Title with a ninth-round TKO over Demetrius Davis in the 2009 Beltway Boxing Bout of the Year on May 29, 2009 at Du Burns Arena in Baltimore.

The opponent for Cummings in this scheduled 10-round bout will be Curtis "Showtime" Stevens of Brownsville, NY. Stevens (21-3, 15 KO's) is a veteran who has fought some top-flight competition including former world champion Carl Daniels, Andre Dirrell and Jesse Brinkley, whom Stevens lost to by 12-round unanimous decision for the WBC USNBC Super Middleweight title in his last outing on January 29.

Guerrero, Smith Now Battle For NABF Middleweight Title!

The North American Boxing Federation (NABF) has sanctioned the Friday, July 16 ShoBox battle between undefeated Fernando Guerrero of Salisbury, MD and Ishe Smith of Las Vegas, NV as a bout for the vacant NABF Middleweight title.

The bout will headline a ShoBox tripleheader that will take place at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, MS. The telecast begins on the Showtime network at 11 PM ET.

Guerrero, a former interim NABO Middleweight champ (18-0, 15 KO's), is ranked number five by the WBO and last fought on April 16 in Salisbury, MD on a ShoBox telecast and scored a second-round TKO over Michael Walker.

This will be Guerrero's fourth appearance on ShoBox and commentators Steve Farhood and former world champion Antonio Tarver say they are impressed and looking forward to this step-up bout for Guerrero.

“Fernando Guerrero has unmistakable star appeal, and in taking on Ishe Smith, he’s ready to prove he has the class to match the flash,” Farhood said in a Showtime press release. “Smith will be Guerrero’s toughest test to date. It’s a critical step for Guerrero, who’s ready to move from prospect to top-20 contender.”

“It’s been nice watching him develop because he seems to have all the tools to become a contender,” Tarver said. “We just want to seem him step up the competition and we think Smith is that step for him. He was under matched in his last fight and he had a nice win in front of his hometown, but it wasn’t the best indication of what his potential is. The Smith fight should be that indicator. He has all the natural, God-given talent and ability, but the mark of a champion is how he fights under pressure and under adversity. If he loses a round or two, will he be able to dig deep and bring out something special?”


Smith, a cast member of season one of "The Contender," (21-4, nine KO's) knows his experience could give him the opportunity to push the hard-hitting Guerrero to the brink.

“It’s going to be very interesting to see what the young man can handle,” Smith said in a press release. “When we get into swimming and get into the deep, deep waters, it will be interesting to see if he still needs those floaties. My job is to take the young man into deep waters and cut those floaties off and see if he’ll sink or swim.”

“I’ve fought some big names: (Joel) Julio, (Daniel) Jacobs, (Sechew) Powell, (Sergio) Mora. I’ve been here, I’ve done that. The question isn’t what I’m going to do; the question is what he’s going to do. We will take off those floaties. There’s no question about that, but we’ll see if he sinks or swims.”

Jargal Travels To Atlantic City July 17!




We have more information on what we briefly mentioned during the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up show from the Patriot Center. Undefeated Arlington, VA junior welterweight "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal returns to action this Saturday, July 17 at the Tropicana Casino and Resort in Atlantic City, NJ.

Jargal (15-0-2, 10 KO's) will be making his debut with Star Boxing (he is also promoted by Let's Get It On Promotions) when he faces James Hope of Rock Hill, SC (6-5, four KO's) in a scheduled eight-round contest on the undercard of the David Tua-Monte Barrett bout. The card is on pay-per-view but no official word on whether Jargal's bout will make the telecast.

Jargal is coming off a first-round TKO over Louie Leija on March 6 at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Hope lost his last bout by fourth-round knockout to Bryan Abraham on May 7 in Huntington, NY.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Rivers, Grayton, Kelly Win in First Session of USA Nationals!

Landover, MD's Kevin Rivers and DC's David Grayton won their opening round bouts during the first session of bouts at the USA Boxing National Championships in Colorado Springs, CO today.

Rivers, the defending champion at 132 pounds, decisioned Gregory Wilkerson of Pittsburgh, PA, 8-5. Grayton, fresh off his National Golden Gloves victory earlier this year, stopped Tyler Canning of Lander, WY in the first round of his 152-pound bout.

In the evening session, Danny Kelly of DC won his first bout in the 201+ division by decision over Trevor Bryant 47-42 in a level 1 tiebreaker.

Special Boxing Show Honors Dr. Hammonds!



There will be a very special community boxing show that will be held on Friday, July 16 at Turkey Thicket Recreation Center, 1100 Michigan Avenue, NE in DC.

The show will be very special because it will be held in tribute to one of the greatest and beloved people to have ever been a part of the Beltway Boxing Community -- Dr. Karl Hammonds. Dr. Hammonds passed away on July 7, 2009 and his contributions to our young people and to boxing as a whole in this area have been and will continue to be sorely missed.

The card is free to the public and hopefully we can get a strong turnout. The boxing begins at 7 PM.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Local Amateurs Begin Quest for Championships at USA Nationals!

Eleven Beltway amateurs are slated to begin competing in the USA Boxing National Championships this week in Colorado Springs, CO. The locals make up the majority of the East Central Region team. Here is that entire squad:

Male
108 lbs: Donald Smith, Philadelphia, Pa.
114 lbs: Gary Antonio Russell, Capitol Heights, Md.
123 lbs: Shadeed Floyd, Washington DC
132 lbs: Gregory Wilkerson, Pittsburgh, Pa.
141 lbs: Michael Reed, Waldorf, Md.
152 lbs: David Grayton, Washington DC
165 lbs: Rashad Brown, Lansdowne, Pa.
178 lbs: Jerry Odom, Bowie, Md.
201 lbs: Tyrell Colston, Philadelphia, Pa.
201+ lbs: Danny Kelly, Washington DC



Female
112 lbs: Tyriesha Douglas, Baltimore, Md.
132 lbs: Jessie Owens, Virginia Beach, Va.
141 lbs: Samantha Griffith, Pittsburgh, Pa.
165 lbs: Dara Shen, Alexandria, Va.


D'Mitrius Ballard of Temple Hills, MD is also participating as an at-large competitor at 165 pounds. Also, Landover, MD 132-pounder Kevin Rivers returns to the Nationals as a defending champion and DC female 132-pounder Asia Stevenson is also competing unattached.

Best wishes to the locals!

Old School Boxing Is Subject of NBC 4 Story!

The recent woes of Old School Boxing in Fort Washington, MD was the subject of a story on Channel 4 in DC yesterday. Reporter Darcy Spencer profiles the seemingly imminent closing of the gym. Here's the link:

"http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local-beat/Old_Boxing_School_Closing_Washington_DC.html">

Recap From The Patriot Center!

Here is a recap of the results from the "No Excuses" card at the George Mason University Patriot Center:

Jimmy Lange stops Jimmy LeBlanc at 1:31 of the second round. Lange is 32-4-2, 23 KO's while LeBlanc is 12-17-4, four KO's.

DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley wins by fourth-round TKO over Damian Fuller. Time of the stoppage: 2:49 of the round. Corley is 37-13-1, 22 KO's. Fuller falls to 30-8-1, 14 KO's.

The Tony "Mo Better" Jeter-Lawrence "Bad to the Bone" Jones bout was stopped late in the first after a vicious clash of heads. Jeter was cut along the right eye and the blood could not be stopped. Jeter is now 9-2-1, eight KO's. Jones is 3-2-2, one KO.

The bout between Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez and Dontre "Pound For Pound" King ended in a six-round majority draw. Two judges saw the bout 57-57 while one judge scored it 59-55 for King. BATB saw the bout the same way for King, who is now 2-7-2, one KO. Rodriguez goes the distance for the first time in his young pro career and is now 4-0-1, four KO's.

Todd "White Lightning" Wilson scored a first-round knockout over Calvin "Pekoe" Faggins at 1:07. Wilson is 8-0, two KO's. Faggins is 3-5-1, one KO.

Jennifer "The Bolivian Queen" Salinas lost a six-round majority decision to Nathalie Forget. Salinas is 11-2, four KO's. Forget is 3-1.

Zain "Tiger" Shah won a four-round unanimous decision over John "The Baptist" Terry. All three judges scored the bout 40-36. Shah is 3-0, two KO's. Terry, who took the bout on VERY short notice, is 3-17-1, one KO.

Brandon Quarles won a tough pro debut over a game Vincent "The Beast" Batteast. All three judges scored the bout 39-37. Batteast is 1-3-1.

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

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #225 - Recap From The Patriot Center!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap the exciting "No Excuses" card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA!

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Lange stops LeBlanc at 1:31 of the second! Full post-fight coming up!
Lange-LeBlanc ready to hit the ring.
Intermission time.
DeMarcus Corley scores a fourth round TKO over Damian Fuller 2:49 of the round. Corley 37-13-1, 22 KO's. Fuller 30-8-1, 14 KO's.
DeMarcus Corley-Damian Fuller now in the ring.
A nasty clash of heads stops the bout between Jeter and Jones late in the first round. The bout is a technical draw.
Tony Jeter- Lawrence Jones in the ring.
Rodriguez and King fight to a six-round majority draw. Thought King should have won. King is 2-7-2, one KO. Rodriguez is 4-0-1, four KO's.
Juan Rodriguez-Dontre King in the ring.
Wilson knocks out Faggins at 1:07 of the first. Big right hand. Wilson 8-0, two KO's. Faggins 3-5-1, one KO.
Todd Wilson-Calvin Faggins in the ring.
Forget upsets Salinas in a tremendous bout. Forget wins majority decision 58-56 twice, 57-57. Forget is now 3-1, Salinas is 11-2, four KO's.
Great bout from Salinas and Forget! To answer a question: No webcast.
Jennifer Salinas vs. Nathalie Forget in the ring.
Shah wins by unanimous decision. All three judges: 40-36. Shah is 3-0, two KO's. Terry is 3-17-3, one KO.
Zain Shah vs John Terry now underway.
Brandon Quarles wins by unanimous decision. Vincent Batteast is now 1-3-1. All judges score 39-37.
Fantastic opening bout! Phone-booth style throughout, especially the final round. Decision coming up and it will be close!
First bout is in the ring. Taking your questions and comments throughout the evening.
Opening bout is Vincent Batteast vs the debuting Brandon Quarles.
Good Evening from the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Action slated to get underway very shortly.

Fox Debut Called Off in Chambersburg!

The debut for Forestville, MD's Alantez "Tez" Fox was called off on Friday in Chambersburg,PA when Fox's scheduled opponent, Najee Harris, did not show for the bout.

So, Fox will make his debut on Saturday, July 31 in York, PA against Stanley Harvey of Virginia Beach, VA (0-1).

'No Excuses' Update -- Walls Out, Terry In!

BATB has learned that Antonio Walls did not weigh in for his bout against Zain Shah. So Walls is out and Portsmouth, VA's John Terry is in. Terry (3-16-3, one KO) is coming off a four-round split decision win over Jason Wahr on May 28 in Norfolk, VA.

Terry has fought in the Beltway a number of times and has faced the likes of George Rivera and Henry Mayes. Terry is scheduled to weigh in at noon today.

Friday, July 09, 2010

'No Excuses' Weights!

Here is the scale watch for the ICE Promotions "No Excuses" card tomorrow night at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA:

Jimmy Lange 154 vs. Jimmy LeBlanc 154

DeMarcus Corley 141 vs. Damian Fuller 143

Tony Jeter 154 vs. Lawrence Jones 153

Juan Rodriguez 143 vs. Dontre King 144 1/2

Jennifer Salinas 122 vs. Nathalie Forget 119

Brandon Quarles 154 vs. Vincent Batteast 153

Todd Wilson 140 vs. Calvin Faggins 139

Zain Shah 158 vs. Antonio Walls (will weigh-in later tonight)

We'll be blogging live from the Patriot Center and have a full BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up as well.

'No Excuses' Weigh-in Open to Public Today at Tysons Corner Center!

The weigh-in for tomorrow's "No Excuses" card will be held today at noon at La Sandia, located in Tysons Corner Center in McLean VA. Tickets will be on sale for tomorrow's card at the George Mason University Patriot Center.

Enter the mall by Barnes and Noble if you are attending.

Thursday, July 08, 2010

Alantez Fox Debut is Friday Instead of July 31; Russell Bout Changes Dates!



(photo courtesy of TKO Promotions)

Forestville, MD welterweight Alantez Fox will be making his pro debut this Friday in Chambersburg, PA instead of July 31 in York, PA. Fox will be taking on Najee Hayes of Toledo, OH at Orchard's Restaurant and Lounge in Chambersburg. Fox is also scheduled to be on the July 31 card in York, PA.

Meanwhile, the next bout for undefeated Capitol Heights, MD featherweight "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. will now be on Friday, July 23 at the Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, CA. The bout is scheduled for six rounds against an opponent to be determined.

Gazette Profiles Old School Boxing's Challenges!

More Beltway Boxing press. Jason Policastro, in a special article to The Gazette Newspapers, chronicles the trials and success stories of the Old School Boxing gym in Fort Washington, MD. Old School is located at Rosecroft Raceway, the race track that recently shut down. Policastro wrote an article about this situation on his own blog and this is another nice article.

Here's the link:
"http://www.gazette.net/stories/07082010/clinnew170402_32549.php">

Wednesday, July 07, 2010

Fairfax Times Profiles Multi-Talented Shah!

Undefeated Chantilly, VA middleweight Zain "Tiger" Shah is the subject of a nice profile in the Fairfax Times by Reed S. Albers. The story shows he is more than just a boxing talent.

Shah will take on DC's Antonio Walls on the Saturday, July 10 "No Excuses" boxing card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.

Here's the link: "http://www.fairfaxtimes.com/cms/story.php?id=1779">

Undefeated Beltway Heavyweights Step Up During Summer Months!

Two local, undefeated Beltway heavyweight prospects are slated to move up in competition in separate bouts during the next two months.

Brandywine, MD's Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell (17-0-1, 11 KO's) has reportedly been added to the Juan Manuel Marquez-Juan Diaz card on Saturday, July 31 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV. Mitchell is scheduled to take on "The One Man Riot" Derek Bryant of Philadelphia, PA (20-5-1, 17 KO's) in an eight-round bout.

Mitchell is coming off a second-round TKO over Johnnie White in front of a nationally-televised ESPN2 audience on May 2 in Albuquerque, NM. Bryant has not fought since losing an eight-round unanimous decision to Jason Estrada in November of 2008 in Lincoln, RI.

On Friday, August 13 at the Arena in Philadelphia, PA, DC heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm is slated to headline the card and participate in his first scheduled eight-rounder. Byarm (7-0, five KO's) was born in Philadelphia and is fighting there for the first time in his young pro career. No word yet on his opponent. Byarm has scored first-round knockouts in his last two bouts.

Tuesday, July 06, 2010

Post Profiles Junior National Outstanding Boxer Malik Jackson!

Really nice story from Jorge Castillo of the Washington Post that profiles 110-pound USA Junior National Champion Malik Jackson of DC.

Here's the link:

"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/05/AR2010070502582.html">

Sunday, July 04, 2010

Father of James Stevenson Passes!

Sad news to report on this holiday weekend. James "J. Woody" Stevenson, the father of undefeated Baltimore boxer James "Keep 'Em Sleepin'" Stevenson passed away suddenly of a heart attack on June 30.

The family has also learned that Mr. Stevenson's life insurance policy does not cover his funeral arrangements, so they are going to need help. As a former counselor at a cemetery, I have worked with families who have been in this situation and it is really tough. The family is paying for the arrangements out of pocket and we do have information on the local arrangements.

The viewing will be on Thursday, July 8 at Parker Funeral Home, 3512 Frederick Avenue in Baltimore from 3-7 PM.

Mr. Stevenson was from North Carolina and the funeral will be held there. We are trying to get information on that for readers in that area.

BATB has been asked to give information on where to make donations or send condolences to the family, should you be led to do so.

Please contact:

Ms. Bonita Woodard
6607 Hilltop Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21206

(443) 844-8416

bonitawoodard@comcast.net


BATB sends its deepest condolences to the Stevenson Family.

Friday, July 02, 2010

Max Boxing Gives Lange A 'Post-Reality Check!'

Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com recently talked to Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange as he gets ready for his Saturday, July 10 bout against Jimmy LeBlanc at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.

The interview comes as Lange tries to bounce back from his loss to Chase Shields earlier this year.

The link is here: "http://www.maxboxing.com/news/other-boxing-news/jimmy-langes-post-reality-check">

UPDATE: The Larry Brothers-Jonathan Reid bout is off the card. The Virginia Commission would not sanction the bout.

Russell Jr. Video From Last Bout!

Here is video from "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr.'s most recent bout -- a second-round TKO over Rodrigo Aranda on June 24 in Los Angeles. It was shown on Fox Sports Net.

Thursday, July 01, 2010

Amateur Boxing Shines in July!

July has the Beltway area hosting two amateur events. Paschall Promotions will have a 15-bout card on Saturday, July 17 at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD. The card begins at 7:30 PM.

On Saturday, July 31, Babie Girl Productions will have their second "Boxing Not Bullets" card at Hogate's on the Waterfront in Southwest Washington, DC starting at 3 PM. This card features boxers from DC versus boxers from Philadelphia and New York.