Largo, MD's Dominic Wade scored a sixth-round TKO over Brian Norman of Atlanta, GA Saturday night at the Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS. Wade dominated Norman especially in the fourth and fifth rounds before stopping Norman in the sixth.
Wade's record is now 10-0, eighth KO's while Norman falls to 17-11, five KO's.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
CinchCast -- The New Home of the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show!
What you are seeing is the brand new home for the Boxing Along The Beltway Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show. Unfortunately, the Gabcast service I had been using for the past three years went out of business at the end of 2010. I know a couple of others that use CinchCast -- including Michael Amakor of FightKings.com and it comes recommended. So we will try this in the very near future and see what happens.
'The Reason' Grant Travels To West Virginia Friday!
Bowie, MD heavyweight Horace Ray "The Reason" Grant returns to action on Friday, February 4 in a 10-round contest for the vacant IBC Continental Heavyweight championship at the New Morgantown Event Center in Morgantown, WVA.
Grant (15-2, nine KO's) last fought on April 2 in DC and won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Felton . Grant's opponent will be Jason "Ironman" Bergman of Washington, PA (14-9-2, 10 KO's) Bergman is coming off a first-round knockout over Jason Freeman on December 17 in Monroeville, PA.
Neither man has gone the scheduled 10-round distance. Both man are the same height (6'2) and about the same weight. Should be interesting.
Grant (15-2, nine KO's) last fought on April 2 in DC and won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonathan Felton . Grant's opponent will be Jason "Ironman" Bergman of Washington, PA (14-9-2, 10 KO's) Bergman is coming off a first-round knockout over Jason Freeman on December 17 in Monroeville, PA.
Neither man has gone the scheduled 10-round distance. Both man are the same height (6'2) and about the same weight. Should be interesting.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Russell, Jr. Remains Undefeated in San Diego!
Capitol Heights, MD featherweight and 2008 US Olympian "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. remained undefeated with a seventh-round technical decision victory over Feider Viloria of Colombia in front of a nationally televised Telefutura audience at the Four Points Sheraton in San Diego, CA.
The bout was stopped in the seventh round when an accidental headbutt opened a cut over Viloria's right eye. Russell was in control of the bout throughout and dropped Viloria in the fifth round. Russell took the scorecards 70-62 (twice) and 69-63.
Russell is now 14-0, nine KO's while Viloria is 23-8-1, 16 KO's.
The bout was stopped in the seventh round when an accidental headbutt opened a cut over Viloria's right eye. Russell was in control of the bout throughout and dropped Viloria in the fifth round. Russell took the scorecards 70-62 (twice) and 69-63.
Russell is now 14-0, nine KO's while Viloria is 23-8-1, 16 KO's.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Wade Weighs 167 for Tunica Tussle!
Dominic Wade and his opponent, Brian Norman, both weighed in at 167 pounds for their six-round matchup tomorrow night at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS.
'Sugar Poo' Buchanan to be Vargas's Foe in Return Bout!
Capitol Heights, MD super middleweight Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan has been picked as the opponent for the returning former world champion "Ferocious" Fernando Vargas on April 16 at the Hard Rock Cafe in Las Vegas, NV.
Vargas (26-5, 22 KO's) is returning after a three-year hiatus. The 33-year-old from Oxnard, CA has not fought since losing a majority decision to Ricardo Mayorga in November of 2007.
Buchanan (20-2, 13 KO's) last fought on August 14 defeating Bobby Jordan, Jr. via ninth-round TKO in Norfolk, VA.
Vargas (26-5, 22 KO's) is returning after a three-year hiatus. The 33-year-old from Oxnard, CA has not fought since losing a majority decision to Ricardo Mayorga in November of 2007.
Buchanan (20-2, 13 KO's) last fought on August 14 defeating Bobby Jordan, Jr. via ninth-round TKO in Norfolk, VA.
Russell Jr. Weighs 127 for Telefutura Battle in San Diego!
"Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. and his opponent, Feider Viloria, weighed in at 127 for their eight-round contest tonight at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in San Diego, CA. The bout will open tonight's "Solo Boxeo" telecast on the Telefutura network tonight at 11:30 ET.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Lange Returns to Patriot Center March 12!
On the 12th of March, Great Falls, VA's Jimmy Lange will headline his 12th show at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
The opponent for Lange will be the "Fighting Schoolteacher" Jimmy Holmes of DeMotte, IN. The bout will be a scheduled 10-rounder that will be fought at 160 pounds.
Lange (34-4-2, 24 KO's) is coming off the 2010 Beltway Boxing Knockout of the Year -- a 10th round stoppage of Joe Wyatt November 6 at the Patriot Center. Lange won the NABA Junior Middleweight title with the win, but he will not be defending the title in this bout.
Holmes (19-1-2, one NC, 10 KO's) scored a first-round TKO over Joseph Harden on December 17 in Hammond, IN. Holmes is indeed a schoolteacher as he teaches physical education at an elementary school in Roselawn, IN.
The undercard is starting to take shape as well. Undefeated Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson will make his third straight appearance at the Patriot Center in a six-round encounter. According to Wilson's Facebook page, Wilson (9-0, three KO's) will take on veteran Dean "Pit Bull" White of Smithsburg, MD (15-10-2,seven KO's).
Wilson has scored knockouts in his last two bouts, including a third-round stoppage of Corey Goodwin at the last Patriot Center show in November. White has not fought since battling Verquan Kimbrough to a tough eight-round draw at the Washington Hilton Hotel and Towers on November 5, 2009.
In a battle of young local heavyweights, Ron "Heavy Duty" Gamble of Arnold, MD (1-0, one KO) will take on Abodurin "Bo" Akinyanju of Landover, MD (3-1, three KO's) in a four-round contest.
Gamble, a former four-year football starter at the University of Connecticut, made his pro boxing debut on November 10 at DC Star Nightclub in Washington and scored a second-round TKO over Vashawn Tomlin. Akinyanju is coming off his first pro loss, a four-round split decision to Kevin Howard on November 6 in Waldorf, MD.
The two men have met before in the amateurs with Gamble winning a decision in the 2009 Washington Golden Gloves semifinals.
Charlottsville, VA middleweight George "Wartime" Rivera also returns to action on this card as he faces Shakir "The Assassin" Ashanti of Greensboro, NC in a six-round encounter. Rivera (11-6, four KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak, dropping losing to John Mackey and James Stevenson. Ashanti (16-9, four KO's) has not fought since winning an eight-round split-decision over Alex Quiroga on July 25, 2009 at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Stevensville, MD middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter (10-2-1, nine KO's) will bring his eight-bout unbeaten streak to the Patriot Center against an opponent to be determined. Jeter has scored knockouts in four of his last five outings.
The opponent for Lange will be the "Fighting Schoolteacher" Jimmy Holmes of DeMotte, IN. The bout will be a scheduled 10-rounder that will be fought at 160 pounds.
Lange (34-4-2, 24 KO's) is coming off the 2010 Beltway Boxing Knockout of the Year -- a 10th round stoppage of Joe Wyatt November 6 at the Patriot Center. Lange won the NABA Junior Middleweight title with the win, but he will not be defending the title in this bout.
Holmes (19-1-2, one NC, 10 KO's) scored a first-round TKO over Joseph Harden on December 17 in Hammond, IN. Holmes is indeed a schoolteacher as he teaches physical education at an elementary school in Roselawn, IN.
The undercard is starting to take shape as well. Undefeated Alexandria, VA junior welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson will make his third straight appearance at the Patriot Center in a six-round encounter. According to Wilson's Facebook page, Wilson (9-0, three KO's) will take on veteran Dean "Pit Bull" White of Smithsburg, MD (15-10-2,seven KO's).
Wilson has scored knockouts in his last two bouts, including a third-round stoppage of Corey Goodwin at the last Patriot Center show in November. White has not fought since battling Verquan Kimbrough to a tough eight-round draw at the Washington Hilton Hotel and Towers on November 5, 2009.
In a battle of young local heavyweights, Ron "Heavy Duty" Gamble of Arnold, MD (1-0, one KO) will take on Abodurin "Bo" Akinyanju of Landover, MD (3-1, three KO's) in a four-round contest.
Gamble, a former four-year football starter at the University of Connecticut, made his pro boxing debut on November 10 at DC Star Nightclub in Washington and scored a second-round TKO over Vashawn Tomlin. Akinyanju is coming off his first pro loss, a four-round split decision to Kevin Howard on November 6 in Waldorf, MD.
The two men have met before in the amateurs with Gamble winning a decision in the 2009 Washington Golden Gloves semifinals.
Charlottsville, VA middleweight George "Wartime" Rivera also returns to action on this card as he faces Shakir "The Assassin" Ashanti of Greensboro, NC in a six-round encounter. Rivera (11-6, four KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak, dropping losing to John Mackey and James Stevenson. Ashanti (16-9, four KO's) has not fought since winning an eight-round split-decision over Alex Quiroga on July 25, 2009 at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Stevensville, MD middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter (10-2-1, nine KO's) will bring his eight-bout unbeaten streak to the Patriot Center against an opponent to be determined. Jeter has scored knockouts in four of his last five outings.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Amateur Boxing Returns to Millersville February 5!
Jeter Promotions is hosting an amateur boxing card on Saturday, February 5 at Club One Fitness, 1131 Benfield Boulevard, Suites M-Q, in Millersville, MD.
There will be a good number of bouts on tap, including a Maryland State amateur championship bout between Cody Denton of Black Belt Academy and Paul Yohn of Ground Control.
You can call Club One at 443-802-6101 for details on how to purchase tickets.
There will be a good number of bouts on tap, including a Maryland State amateur championship bout between Cody Denton of Black Belt Academy and Paul Yohn of Ground Control.
You can call Club One at 443-802-6101 for details on how to purchase tickets.
'Dis-Com-Bob-u-lating' Jones Tells Story To Boxingtalk.com!
DC Boxing Hall of Famer Henry "Dis-Com-Bob-u-lating" Jones has had a strong story to tell over the past 20-plus years. Much of the story involves, quite frankly, the racist attitudes that some have had against African-American ring announcers.
Jones recently told his story to Boxingtalk.com and got an interesting response.
Here's the original story:
"http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=21143">
Brad Jacobs responded this way to Jones's comments:
"I don't want to address any of the baseless comments made by Mr. Jones. However, I will say that at the USA network, we chose to you use the consistent services of Mark Beiro at that time, just like our counterparts at HBO and Showtime would have the choice to use who they wanted to announce their fights. This was no slight against Mr Jones or any of the other dozen ring announcers who would have liked to have that platform at the time."
Jones's response to Jacobs can be found here:
I read the response from Brad Jacobs regarding my allegations of his unfair practice against me back in the day. It's a curious thing...how some people CHOOSE NOT to remember things...while others like me CAN'T FORGET the wrongs done against them! I can only FORGIVE, and that olive branch goes to you too Brad. SHALOM! However, the fact of the matter in this case was how he kept bringing in Ed Derian from Philly over me for the televised bouts, while giving me kudos for my wonderful announcing of the undercard. It was always Ed Derian, not my friend Mark Beiro from Florida, when the USA network came to DC to showcase our fighters Sharmba Mitchell, Derrell Coley, Daryll Tyson, and Reggie Green back in the '90's. Now, I don't want anyone to get it twisted either- I may call myself "Dis-com-bob-ulating" Jones, in homage to the late, great, loquacious one Howard Cosell- but I am very coherent at all times, and being a Masters Social Worker for 28 yrs you can bet your last I have documents and can easily obtain sworn affadavits to back what I say.
Baseless you say Brad. I don't think so. That's why they call the informative film version we are creating ...a Documentary.
Breadman, I've given 21 straight yrs to our not always so Sweet Science, taken great pride in always doing a professional job on the mic, gotten better each time out and helped many. I guess I was naive to think the bigwigs in the sport I loved would show me some love back but that has been far and few between. Over the years the stress and strain has affected my health and even cost me my marriage. No one has really ever thought about it but WHY HASN'T THERE EVER BEEN A BLACK RING ANNOUNCER on tv on a consistent basis like my Caucasian colleagues Buffer, Lennon Jr and Derian, all of whom have had this position on lock for the past 30 or so yrs! I've met my modern day contemporaries Lupe Contreras, Joe Martinez, Joe Antonnacci and give them kudos for their mic skills but what all of them have in common is that Promoters intervened on their behalf with the networks to get them their televised gigs. No one except DC fighter Mark "2Sharp"Johnson was willing to stand up to the networks for me, when he put it in his contract for me to announce his Championship bout on ESPN in DC against Arthur "Flash"Johnson back in February '98. Afterwards, Promoter Cedric Kushner lauded my performance and took me on the road with he and Mark to Trump Taj Mahal. Where are you Ced? We can help each other again good buddy!
No disrespect to any of the present ring announcers...but truth be known....I'm the best Ring Announcer most fans have never seen (or heard!). Ali said "it ain't braggin' when you can back it up!" Just as we rank our fighters Pound-for-Pound....I'm willing, ready and able to put myself up against any of my fellow ring announcers and let the fans decide who is best..."SOUND-4-SOUND!" Any challengers?
Breadman, I've also been announcing MMA bouts for the past 4 yrs and those fans and fighters seem to appreciate my creativity and personalized ring intros even more. If UFC honchos Dana White, and my old buddy from boxing Marc Ratner, are the astute businessman I think them to be, they will dust off the package I put in Marc's hands and bring me on board to capitalize on getting the different demographic base Dana and Rampage Jackson said is needed. Who better to draw young black fans to mma than having me on the mic? Black can turn to GREEN real quick with a little vision and daring!
I'm not going to belabor this dispute of wrongdoing with Brad or anyone else Breadman but thank you for letting me vent a little in this forum. I've been holding it in all my career, now I can let it go...and let GOD. It's just that I am not the type of person to go along to get along when someone urinates on me and wants me to think it's rain! Feel me? I know you do. Ok good brother, take care, and may the Power of your pen always be mightier than any sword used against you. Peace......
Jones recently told his story to Boxingtalk.com and got an interesting response.
Here's the original story:
"http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=21143">
Brad Jacobs responded this way to Jones's comments:
"I don't want to address any of the baseless comments made by Mr. Jones. However, I will say that at the USA network, we chose to you use the consistent services of Mark Beiro at that time, just like our counterparts at HBO and Showtime would have the choice to use who they wanted to announce their fights. This was no slight against Mr Jones or any of the other dozen ring announcers who would have liked to have that platform at the time."
Jones's response to Jacobs can be found here:
I read the response from Brad Jacobs regarding my allegations of his unfair practice against me back in the day. It's a curious thing...how some people CHOOSE NOT to remember things...while others like me CAN'T FORGET the wrongs done against them! I can only FORGIVE, and that olive branch goes to you too Brad. SHALOM! However, the fact of the matter in this case was how he kept bringing in Ed Derian from Philly over me for the televised bouts, while giving me kudos for my wonderful announcing of the undercard. It was always Ed Derian, not my friend Mark Beiro from Florida, when the USA network came to DC to showcase our fighters Sharmba Mitchell, Derrell Coley, Daryll Tyson, and Reggie Green back in the '90's. Now, I don't want anyone to get it twisted either- I may call myself "Dis-com-bob-ulating" Jones, in homage to the late, great, loquacious one Howard Cosell- but I am very coherent at all times, and being a Masters Social Worker for 28 yrs you can bet your last I have documents and can easily obtain sworn affadavits to back what I say.
Baseless you say Brad. I don't think so. That's why they call the informative film version we are creating ...a Documentary.
Breadman, I've given 21 straight yrs to our not always so Sweet Science, taken great pride in always doing a professional job on the mic, gotten better each time out and helped many. I guess I was naive to think the bigwigs in the sport I loved would show me some love back but that has been far and few between. Over the years the stress and strain has affected my health and even cost me my marriage. No one has really ever thought about it but WHY HASN'T THERE EVER BEEN A BLACK RING ANNOUNCER on tv on a consistent basis like my Caucasian colleagues Buffer, Lennon Jr and Derian, all of whom have had this position on lock for the past 30 or so yrs! I've met my modern day contemporaries Lupe Contreras, Joe Martinez, Joe Antonnacci and give them kudos for their mic skills but what all of them have in common is that Promoters intervened on their behalf with the networks to get them their televised gigs. No one except DC fighter Mark "2Sharp"Johnson was willing to stand up to the networks for me, when he put it in his contract for me to announce his Championship bout on ESPN in DC against Arthur "Flash"Johnson back in February '98. Afterwards, Promoter Cedric Kushner lauded my performance and took me on the road with he and Mark to Trump Taj Mahal. Where are you Ced? We can help each other again good buddy!
No disrespect to any of the present ring announcers...but truth be known....I'm the best Ring Announcer most fans have never seen (or heard!). Ali said "it ain't braggin' when you can back it up!" Just as we rank our fighters Pound-for-Pound....I'm willing, ready and able to put myself up against any of my fellow ring announcers and let the fans decide who is best..."SOUND-4-SOUND!" Any challengers?
Breadman, I've also been announcing MMA bouts for the past 4 yrs and those fans and fighters seem to appreciate my creativity and personalized ring intros even more. If UFC honchos Dana White, and my old buddy from boxing Marc Ratner, are the astute businessman I think them to be, they will dust off the package I put in Marc's hands and bring me on board to capitalize on getting the different demographic base Dana and Rampage Jackson said is needed. Who better to draw young black fans to mma than having me on the mic? Black can turn to GREEN real quick with a little vision and daring!
I'm not going to belabor this dispute of wrongdoing with Brad or anyone else Breadman but thank you for letting me vent a little in this forum. I've been holding it in all my career, now I can let it go...and let GOD. It's just that I am not the type of person to go along to get along when someone urinates on me and wants me to think it's rain! Feel me? I know you do. Ok good brother, take care, and may the Power of your pen always be mightier than any sword used against you. Peace......
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Russell Jr. Travels To San Diego For Televised Bout!
The Beltway area's 2010 Co-Prospect of the Year, "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. , returns to action this Friday night, January 28, when he takes on Feider Viloria of Colombia at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in San Diego, CA. The eight-round bout will open this Friday's Solo Boxeo telecast on the Telefutura Network at 11:30 PM ET.
Russell (13-0, nine KO's) has scored knockouts in seven of his last eight bouts. Russell's last outing was a six-round unanimous decision win over Guadalupe DeLeon on October 28 in Los Angeles. This will be Russell's first scheduled eight-round contest.
Viloria (23-7-1, 16 KO's) has lost three of his last four to competition with great records. Viloria lost a 10-round unanimous decision to Irving Berry for the WBA International Featherweight title. Viloria has also fought twice for world featherweight and superfeatherweight crowns in his career.
Russell (13-0, nine KO's) has scored knockouts in seven of his last eight bouts. Russell's last outing was a six-round unanimous decision win over Guadalupe DeLeon on October 28 in Los Angeles. This will be Russell's first scheduled eight-round contest.
Viloria (23-7-1, 16 KO's) has lost three of his last four to competition with great records. Viloria lost a 10-round unanimous decision to Irving Berry for the WBA International Featherweight title. Viloria has also fought twice for world featherweight and superfeatherweight crowns in his career.
Washington Golden Gloves Registration Begins Saturday!
Registration and physical examinations for the 2011 Washington Golden Gloves will be held on Saturday, January 29th and Saturday, February 5 at the Hillcrest Heights Bingo Hall located at 4104 23rd Parkway in Hillcrest Heights, MD. Registration is from 9 AM to noon on both days.
The drawing and pairings for the first round will be on Saturday, February 12 at 10 AM at the Hillcrest Heights Bingo Hall.
The Golden Gloves Tournament will begin on Saturday February 19 at 7:30 PM at the Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center in Palmer Park, MD and will continue every Saturday evening through March 19.
The Washington Golden Gloves Championships will be held on Friday, March 25 at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center in Waldorf, MD. That will be followed by the Regional Championships that will be held on Friday, April 15 in Waldorf.
The drawing and pairings for the first round will be on Saturday, February 12 at 10 AM at the Hillcrest Heights Bingo Hall.
The Golden Gloves Tournament will begin on Saturday February 19 at 7:30 PM at the Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center in Palmer Park, MD and will continue every Saturday evening through March 19.
The Washington Golden Gloves Championships will be held on Friday, March 25 at the Waldorf Jaycees Community Center in Waldorf, MD. That will be followed by the Regional Championships that will be held on Friday, April 15 in Waldorf.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Amateur Boxing in Southeast DC January 29!
An amateur boxing tournament sponsored by the Potomac Valley Association of USA Boxing and DC Boxing Hall of Famer Juice Gatling will take place on Saturday, January 29 at Tony's Gym, 2201 Shannon Place in Southeast DC. The doors will open at 6 PM. .
For more information, call Candy Jacobs at 301-675-2003 or Juice Gatling at 240-353-0564. (Sorry for the confusion, the bout sheet I put on here was not the right one.)
The weigh-in will be at Tony's Gym on Saturday afternoon beginning at noon.
For more information, call Candy Jacobs at 301-675-2003 or Juice Gatling at 240-353-0564. (Sorry for the confusion, the bout sheet I put on here was not the right one.)
The weigh-in will be at Tony's Gym on Saturday afternoon beginning at noon.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Corley Stopped in Eighth in Argentina!
DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley suffered eight knockdowns at the hands of Lucas Matthysee before being stopped in the eighth round tonight in Mendoza, Argentina.
Matthysee was in control from the very beginning though Corley held his own. Corley was down eight times in the fight including three times in the final round where the referee rightfully waved the fight off after the last knockdown. Corley to his credit beat the count rather easily each time but was a lot worse for wear after the knockdowns in round eight. Matthysee picked up the vacant WBO Intercontinental super lightweight title with the win. Golden Boy Promotions and Aranobox promoted the event.
Corley is now 36-16-1, 22 KO's while Matthysee, a native of Argentina, is now 28-1, 26 KO's.
Matthysee was in control from the very beginning though Corley held his own. Corley was down eight times in the fight including three times in the final round where the referee rightfully waved the fight off after the last knockdown. Corley to his credit beat the count rather easily each time but was a lot worse for wear after the knockdowns in round eight. Matthysee picked up the vacant WBO Intercontinental super lightweight title with the win. Golden Boy Promotions and Aranobox promoted the event.
Corley is now 36-16-1, 22 KO's while Matthysee, a native of Argentina, is now 28-1, 26 KO's.
Friday, January 21, 2011
'The Mouthpiece' Profiles Boxer/Attorney Venroy July!
In the middle of 2010, I met a very talented young writer out of Philadelphia -- George Headley Hanson, Jr. Hanson writes a column called "The Mouthpiece" in which he profiles boxers -- past and present.
Hanson's most recent column is on undefeated cruiserweight prospect Venroy July of Suitland, MD by way of St. Catherine, Jamaica. Hanson is also originally from Jamaica and this gives a special turn on this competitor.
Hanson's columns appear on my buddy Michael Amakor's site www.fightkings.com and on www.boxingcommunity.org.
Here is the link to the article:
"http://www.fightkings.com/boxing/featured-article/in-living-color%e2%80%94venroy-%e2%80%9cso-special%e2%80%9d-july/"
Hanson's most recent column is on undefeated cruiserweight prospect Venroy July of Suitland, MD by way of St. Catherine, Jamaica. Hanson is also originally from Jamaica and this gives a special turn on this competitor.
Hanson's columns appear on my buddy Michael Amakor's site www.fightkings.com and on www.boxingcommunity.org.
Here is the link to the article:
"http://www.fightkings.com/boxing/featured-article/in-living-color%e2%80%94venroy-%e2%80%9cso-special%e2%80%9d-july/"
Beltway Boxers --Where Are They Ranked in the World?
Earlier this week we looked at Beltway Boxers and where they are ranked among the nation's best. Now we take a look at Beltway Boxers rank in the four major world governing bodies (WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO).
World Boxing Council
Heavyweight
#9: Tony Thompson
#39: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight
#38: Mark Tucker
Middleweight
#6: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Welterweight
#15: Tim Coleman
#20: Lamont Peterson
Lightweight
#34: Daniel Attah
World Boxing Association
Light Heavyweight
#13: William Joppy
Middleweight
#8: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Welterweight
#6: Lamont Peterson
#14: Tim Coleman
International Boxing Federation
Heavyweight
#11: Tony Thompson
Junior Welterweight
#6: Lamont Peterson
#7: Tim Coleman
World Boxing Organization
Junior Welterweight
#7: Lamont Peterson
Middleweight
#2: Fernando Guerrero
Light Heavyweight
#7: Mark Tucker
World Boxing Council
Heavyweight
#9: Tony Thompson
#39: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight
#38: Mark Tucker
Middleweight
#6: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Welterweight
#15: Tim Coleman
#20: Lamont Peterson
Lightweight
#34: Daniel Attah
World Boxing Association
Light Heavyweight
#13: William Joppy
Middleweight
#8: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Welterweight
#6: Lamont Peterson
#14: Tim Coleman
International Boxing Federation
Heavyweight
#11: Tony Thompson
Junior Welterweight
#6: Lamont Peterson
#7: Tim Coleman
World Boxing Organization
Junior Welterweight
#7: Lamont Peterson
Middleweight
#2: Fernando Guerrero
Light Heavyweight
#7: Mark Tucker
Corley Tips Scales in Argentina; Coleman, Peterson Bouts May Be Off!
Former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley and his opponent, Lucas Matthysse, weighed in at 139 pounds for tonight's contest for the vacant WBO Intercontinental Super Lightweight title at El Polideportivo Vicente Polimeni de Las Heras in Mendoza, Argentina. The bout will be televised on Telefutura and HBO Plus beginning at 11:30 PM ET.
BATB is hearing that USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman is out of his January 29th contest against Vernon Paris. Coleman announced on his Facebook page that he suffered an injury in training that knocks him out of the contest. Update: The injury was to his right shoulder.
Also, there is word that Lamont Peterson may not be involved in the title bout with Amir Khan in April. Some published reports say that Peterson may have priced himself out of the running for the bout.
BATB is hearing that USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman is out of his January 29th contest against Vernon Paris. Coleman announced on his Facebook page that he suffered an injury in training that knocks him out of the contest. Update: The injury was to his right shoulder.
Also, there is word that Lamont Peterson may not be involved in the title bout with Amir Khan in April. Some published reports say that Peterson may have priced himself out of the running for the bout.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Doghouse Boxing Profiles E. Taylor and Byarm!
Long-time boxing scribe Ken Hissner of DoghouseBoxing.com has written two nice recent profiles on young Beltway prospects.
Here is one on undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor
"http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Ken/Hissner011111.htm">
And here's one on undefeated DC-based heavyweight Maurice "The Freight Train" Byarm
"http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Ken/Hissner011211.htm">
Here is one on undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor
"http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Ken/Hissner011111.htm">
And here's one on undefeated DC-based heavyweight Maurice "The Freight Train" Byarm
"http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Ken/Hissner011211.htm">
Fox 5 Profiles 'Mayhem' Mitchell!
WTTG-TV Channel 5's Dave Ross has a nice profile on the Beltway's 2010 Co-Prospect of the Year Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and his quest to "bring a belt back to the Beltway."
Seth 'Mayhem' Mitchell Trying To Bring The Belt Back To The Beltway: MyFoxDC.com
Beltway Boxing Looking Into 2011!
A poster asked who are the people to watch out for in 2011 along the Beltway? I started to answer until I received some regional rankings for January 2011. This information showed that a number of Beltway Boxers could be in position to do some great things this year.
Now, many people don't put a lot of stock on rankings from governing bodies. What the info does do is at least give the boxing public some ideas on who to look out for to see if they deserve that ranking.
A number of Beltway Boxers are listed through the regional and world rankings. Today we look at the regionals (NABF, USBA and NABO) to see where Beltway Boxers are. Later in the week, we will take a look at the world rankings.
NABF Rankings
Heavyweight: #1: Tony Thompson
#10: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #14: Mark Tucker
Super Middleweight: #6: Henry Buchanan
#15: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: NABF Champion: Fernando Guerrero
Super Lightweight: #4: Tim Coleman
#9: Ty Barnett
Lightweight: #11. Daniel Attah
USBA Rankings
Heavyweight: #3: Tony Thompson
#11: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #10: Mark Tucker
Super Middleweight: #8: Henry Buchanan
#9: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: #6: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Middleweight: #12: Ishmail Arvin
Junior Welterweight: USBA Champion: Tim Coleman
#4: Lamont Peterson
Lightweight: #5: Anthony Peterson
NABO Rankings
Heavyweight: #2: Tony Thompson
#5: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #10: Mark Tucker (NABO Youth Champion)
Super Middleweight: #15: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: #11: Dominic Wade
Welterweight: #14: James Stevenson
Junior Welterweight: #2: Tim Coleman
Lightweight: #4: Ty Barnett
Featherweight: #2: Gary Russell, Jr.
Now, many people don't put a lot of stock on rankings from governing bodies. What the info does do is at least give the boxing public some ideas on who to look out for to see if they deserve that ranking.
A number of Beltway Boxers are listed through the regional and world rankings. Today we look at the regionals (NABF, USBA and NABO) to see where Beltway Boxers are. Later in the week, we will take a look at the world rankings.
NABF Rankings
Heavyweight: #1: Tony Thompson
#10: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #14: Mark Tucker
Super Middleweight: #6: Henry Buchanan
#15: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: NABF Champion: Fernando Guerrero
Super Lightweight: #4: Tim Coleman
#9: Ty Barnett
Lightweight: #11. Daniel Attah
USBA Rankings
Heavyweight: #3: Tony Thompson
#11: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #10: Mark Tucker
Super Middleweight: #8: Henry Buchanan
#9: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: #6: Fernando Guerrero
Junior Middleweight: #12: Ishmail Arvin
Junior Welterweight: USBA Champion: Tim Coleman
#4: Lamont Peterson
Lightweight: #5: Anthony Peterson
NABO Rankings
Heavyweight: #2: Tony Thompson
#5: Seth Mitchell
Light Heavyweight: #10: Mark Tucker (NABO Youth Champion)
Super Middleweight: #15: Mike Paschall
Middleweight: #11: Dominic Wade
Welterweight: #14: James Stevenson
Junior Welterweight: #2: Tim Coleman
Lightweight: #4: Ty Barnett
Featherweight: #2: Gary Russell, Jr.
L. Peterson Slated For WBA Title Tilt in April, Says Manchester Paper!
The Manchester (England) Evening News is reporting that DC junior welterweight Lamont Peterson will challenge for the WBA Junior Welterweight title against champion Amir Khan on April 16 at the M.E.N. Arena in Manchester.
If this comes to fruition, this will be the second world title bout for Peterson (28-1-1, 14 KO's), who lost a tough unanimous decision to WBO champ Timothy Bradley in December of 2009 in Rancho Mirage, CA. Since that bout, Peterson has fought twice scoring a seventh-round TKO over Damian Fuller and fighting Victor Ortiz to a 10-round draw.
Khan (24-1, 17 KO's) will be making the fourth defense of his title that he won at the M.E.N. Arena in July of 2009.
If this comes to fruition, this will be the second world title bout for Peterson (28-1-1, 14 KO's), who lost a tough unanimous decision to WBO champ Timothy Bradley in December of 2009 in Rancho Mirage, CA. Since that bout, Peterson has fought twice scoring a seventh-round TKO over Damian Fuller and fighting Victor Ortiz to a 10-round draw.
Khan (24-1, 17 KO's) will be making the fourth defense of his title that he won at the M.E.N. Arena in July of 2009.
Beltway Promoters Host 'The Future' February 11!
A joint promotion between Ballroom Boxing and Baltimore Boxing will bring Beltway Boxing fans a night of Olympic-Style amateur boxing on Friday, February 11 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. The card will be known simply as "The Future."
Combined, Scott Wagner of Ballroom Boxing and Jake Smith of Baltimore Boxing have promoted more than 150 cards in the Baltimore area. In a recent press release, both men said they are looking forward to working together on this amateur card.
“Scott and I have always been close and I have the utmost respect for him,” said Smith. “He built a franchise at Michael’s with the Ballroom Boxing series and I’ve also promoted all of my cards in the area, so together I really think we are going to make a major impact.”
“They always said two heads are better than one," Wagner said. We have completely different methods of promotion which is a thing of beauty because there are so many different angles we can approach. It’s definitely going to be exciting to see what we’ll come up with collectively.”
Doors will open at 6:30 with the first bout slated for 8 PM. Ticket prices start at $30 with VIP tables of 10 going for $350. Call 410-766-7474 for details.
Combined, Scott Wagner of Ballroom Boxing and Jake Smith of Baltimore Boxing have promoted more than 150 cards in the Baltimore area. In a recent press release, both men said they are looking forward to working together on this amateur card.
“Scott and I have always been close and I have the utmost respect for him,” said Smith. “He built a franchise at Michael’s with the Ballroom Boxing series and I’ve also promoted all of my cards in the area, so together I really think we are going to make a major impact.”
“They always said two heads are better than one," Wagner said. We have completely different methods of promotion which is a thing of beauty because there are so many different angles we can approach. It’s definitely going to be exciting to see what we’ll come up with collectively.”
Doors will open at 6:30 with the first bout slated for 8 PM. Ticket prices start at $30 with VIP tables of 10 going for $350. Call 410-766-7474 for details.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Beltway Boxers Begin 2011 Campaigns!
A number of Beltway Boxers start their 2011 campaigns in the next couple of weeks. Here's a rundown:
Reston, VA super middleweight Lawrence Jones travels to the Crowne Plaza in Albany, NY on Saturday, January 22 for a six-round contest against Schenectady, NY's Markus Williams. Jones (3-3-2, one KO) last fought on November 6 and lost a four-round unanimous decision to Brandon Quarles at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Williams (6-1, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision win over Deferson Legrand on November 13 in Albany.
On Friday, January 28, undefeated Suitland, MD cruiserweight Venroy July (5-0-1, two KO's) will take on Pedro Martinez (5-4, three KO's) in a six-round encounter at the National Guard Armory in Philadelphia. July is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over DeLeon Tinsley on June 10 in Johnstown, PA. Martinez last fought on October 16 and lost a four-round decision to Elvin Sanchez in Union City, NJ.
We've already mentioned that USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman will be facing undefeated Vernon Paris in a catchweight bout at 143 pounds on Saturday, January 29 at the Pontiac Silverdome in Pontiac, MI. That bout will be the co-feature contest on the Devon Alexander-Timothy Bradley card, however, the bout will NOT be televised.
Also on January 29th, Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade returns to the Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino for a six-round contest against veteran Brian "The Assassin" Norman of Atlanta, GA. Wade (9-0, seven KO's) is coming off a second-round TKO over Freddie Montoya at the Fitz on September 25. Norman (17-10, five KO's) has faced a number of Beltway Boxers during his career including Henry Buchanan (twice), Demetrius Davis, Fernando Guerrero, Reginald Taylor and Carlos Jones. Norman has lost his last two and hasn't fought since November of 2009.
Reston, VA super middleweight Lawrence Jones travels to the Crowne Plaza in Albany, NY on Saturday, January 22 for a six-round contest against Schenectady, NY's Markus Williams. Jones (3-3-2, one KO) last fought on November 6 and lost a four-round unanimous decision to Brandon Quarles at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Williams (6-1, one KO) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision win over Deferson Legrand on November 13 in Albany.
On Friday, January 28, undefeated Suitland, MD cruiserweight Venroy July (5-0-1, two KO's) will take on Pedro Martinez (5-4, three KO's) in a six-round encounter at the National Guard Armory in Philadelphia. July is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over DeLeon Tinsley on June 10 in Johnstown, PA. Martinez last fought on October 16 and lost a four-round decision to Elvin Sanchez in Union City, NJ.
We've already mentioned that USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman will be facing undefeated Vernon Paris in a catchweight bout at 143 pounds on Saturday, January 29 at the Pontiac Silverdome in Pontiac, MI. That bout will be the co-feature contest on the Devon Alexander-Timothy Bradley card, however, the bout will NOT be televised.
Also on January 29th, Undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade returns to the Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino for a six-round contest against veteran Brian "The Assassin" Norman of Atlanta, GA. Wade (9-0, seven KO's) is coming off a second-round TKO over Freddie Montoya at the Fitz on September 25. Norman (17-10, five KO's) has faced a number of Beltway Boxers during his career including Henry Buchanan (twice), Demetrius Davis, Fernando Guerrero, Reginald Taylor and Carlos Jones. Norman has lost his last two and hasn't fought since November of 2009.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Beltway Boxer of The Year -- 2010!
And now -- Finally -- The Beltway Boxer of the Year for 2010. Normally, the boxer who gets this award usually has a long body of work during the year. Usually, they have a number of bouts during the year. However, those bouts should allow them to make a firm impact on the entire boxing scene. One man along the Beltway made a major impact on the boxing scene throughout the country as well as along the Beltway. And it only took one bout for him to do it.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is:
Tim Coleman, welterweight, 18-1-1, five KO's, Baltimore, MD. It does help when your one bout is in front of a nationally televised ShoBox audience, but Coleman answered a lot of questions about himself to the general boxing public. Coleman's third-round knockout of Patrick Lopez on October 1 would have been the runaway Knockout of the Year in the area if it had happened along the Beltway. The punch did make a number of knockout of the year polls around the sport and for a guy with only five knockouts, that says a lot.
The win also said that Coleman's USBA Welterweight title win over Mike Arnaoutis in 2009 was not a fluke, Many in the sport said that Coleman did not deserve that victory, but Coleman ascended into true contender status on that night. Against Lopez, Coleman cemented that status.
Coleman also continued to prove that he can win with the bright lights on. The win over Lopez was Coleman's second straight on national television, helping to exorcise Coleman's only loss -- a ShoBox scrap against James De La Rosa in 2007.
Tim Coleman did the best job in preparing himself for the Championship level. He already has a nice bout coming up against undefeated Vernon Paris on January 29 in Pontiac, MI. The bout will be at a catchweight at 143 pounds. A great way to start the new year, indeed. Coleman's perfomance in 2010 could lead to a fabulous 2011.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxer of the Year is:
Tim Coleman, welterweight, 18-1-1, five KO's, Baltimore, MD. It does help when your one bout is in front of a nationally televised ShoBox audience, but Coleman answered a lot of questions about himself to the general boxing public. Coleman's third-round knockout of Patrick Lopez on October 1 would have been the runaway Knockout of the Year in the area if it had happened along the Beltway. The punch did make a number of knockout of the year polls around the sport and for a guy with only five knockouts, that says a lot.
The win also said that Coleman's USBA Welterweight title win over Mike Arnaoutis in 2009 was not a fluke, Many in the sport said that Coleman did not deserve that victory, but Coleman ascended into true contender status on that night. Against Lopez, Coleman cemented that status.
Coleman also continued to prove that he can win with the bright lights on. The win over Lopez was Coleman's second straight on national television, helping to exorcise Coleman's only loss -- a ShoBox scrap against James De La Rosa in 2007.
Tim Coleman did the best job in preparing himself for the Championship level. He already has a nice bout coming up against undefeated Vernon Paris on January 29 in Pontiac, MI. The bout will be at a catchweight at 143 pounds. A great way to start the new year, indeed. Coleman's perfomance in 2010 could lead to a fabulous 2011.
Monday, January 10, 2011
DC Wins Silver Gloves Regional Team Title in North Carolina!
A team of DC-area amateurs have won the regional Silver Gloves Championships in Wilmington, NC over the weekend.
Eight area boxers won titles during the event and a few more won unopposed. Here is the list courtesy of the blog DC Amateur Boxing:
65lbs. Travian Carpenter (VA) def. Maliek Warren (DC)
70lbs. Mike Guerrier (FL) def. Kavon Robertson (VA)
75lbs. Keshawn Davis (VA) def. Mike Williams (NC)
80lbs. Ameer Brown (DC) def. Khalid Johnson (SC)
85lbs. Gregory Burton (DC) def. Sema'j Young (NC)
90lbs. Danardo Johnson (DC) def. Frank Prado (VA)
110lbs. Steve Clark (DC) def. Dalton Bodie (SC)
12/13 year-old division
90lbs. Troy Isley (VA) def. Talon Caravalho (NC)
95lbs. Zimmie Dickinson (DC) def. Sebastian Fundura (FL)
100lbs. Rayvon Drayton (DC) def. Teofino Lopez (FL)
106lbs. Antonio Williams (FL) def. Mack Allison (DC)
125lbs. Tyshawn Wilson (Va) def. Brandon Sinex (SC)
125lbs. Kaylyn Price (SC) def. Brook Perry (NC)
14/15 year-old division
95lbs. Jonathan Santana (VA) def. Jose Santana (FL)
100lbs. Kelvin Davis (VA) def. Demetrius Lewis (DC)
106lbs. Ronnell Jackson (DC) def. Dazzel Middleton (SC) via DQ
112lbs. Antonio Vargas (FL) def.Carlton Gray (DC)
119lbs. Neslan Machado (FL) def. Jalonte Cole (DC)
125lbs. Lamont Roach Jr. (DC) def. Timothy Hunter (SC)
132lbs. Erickson Lubin (FL) def. Tra-Kwon Pettis (GA)
139lbs. Laquan Smith (GA) def. Samuel Paulay (DC)
147lbs. Mark Reyes (FL) def. Demetrius Martin (DC)
201lbs. Alberto Fundura (FL) def. Calvin Countess (DC)
Eight area boxers won titles during the event and a few more won unopposed. Here is the list courtesy of the blog DC Amateur Boxing:
65lbs. Travian Carpenter (VA) def. Maliek Warren (DC)
70lbs. Mike Guerrier (FL) def. Kavon Robertson (VA)
75lbs. Keshawn Davis (VA) def. Mike Williams (NC)
80lbs. Ameer Brown (DC) def. Khalid Johnson (SC)
85lbs. Gregory Burton (DC) def. Sema'j Young (NC)
90lbs. Danardo Johnson (DC) def. Frank Prado (VA)
110lbs. Steve Clark (DC) def. Dalton Bodie (SC)
12/13 year-old division
90lbs. Troy Isley (VA) def. Talon Caravalho (NC)
95lbs. Zimmie Dickinson (DC) def. Sebastian Fundura (FL)
100lbs. Rayvon Drayton (DC) def. Teofino Lopez (FL)
106lbs. Antonio Williams (FL) def. Mack Allison (DC)
125lbs. Tyshawn Wilson (Va) def. Brandon Sinex (SC)
125lbs. Kaylyn Price (SC) def. Brook Perry (NC)
14/15 year-old division
95lbs. Jonathan Santana (VA) def. Jose Santana (FL)
100lbs. Kelvin Davis (VA) def. Demetrius Lewis (DC)
106lbs. Ronnell Jackson (DC) def. Dazzel Middleton (SC) via DQ
112lbs. Antonio Vargas (FL) def.Carlton Gray (DC)
119lbs. Neslan Machado (FL) def. Jalonte Cole (DC)
125lbs. Lamont Roach Jr. (DC) def. Timothy Hunter (SC)
132lbs. Erickson Lubin (FL) def. Tra-Kwon Pettis (GA)
139lbs. Laquan Smith (GA) def. Samuel Paulay (DC)
147lbs. Mark Reyes (FL) def. Demetrius Martin (DC)
201lbs. Alberto Fundura (FL) def. Calvin Countess (DC)
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Beltway Boxing Knockout of The Year!
The 2010 Beltway Boxing Knockout of the Year was an interesting one. It was a one-punch knockout that came late in a bout. But it was one of those surprising ones that took a lot of heart for one boxer to stay in the contest long enough to uncork the one punch.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxing Knockout of the Year is:
Jimmy Lange KO 10 Joe Wyatt, November 6, George Mason University Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA.
The native of Great Falls, VA had reached a crossroads in this contest against the Richmond, VA-based Wyatt. Despite two earlier knockdowns, Lange still seemed to be a step behind Wyatt when it came to aggression. By the time the bout reached the 10th round, two judges had the bout even on the scorecards. Both boxers were cut along the face. Both boxers dug deep. But with about a minute to go, Lange went just a little bit deeper and found the strength to land a right hand that dropped Wyatt for the count. This was an amazing victory that may have been the best Lange has had in his career.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxing Knockout of the Year is:
Jimmy Lange KO 10 Joe Wyatt, November 6, George Mason University Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA.
The native of Great Falls, VA had reached a crossroads in this contest against the Richmond, VA-based Wyatt. Despite two earlier knockdowns, Lange still seemed to be a step behind Wyatt when it came to aggression. By the time the bout reached the 10th round, two judges had the bout even on the scorecards. Both boxers were cut along the face. Both boxers dug deep. But with about a minute to go, Lange went just a little bit deeper and found the strength to land a right hand that dropped Wyatt for the count. This was an amazing victory that may have been the best Lange has had in his career.
Beltway Boxing Bout(s) of the Year -- 2010!
There were a number of exciting bouts that took place during 2010 along the Beltway, but this area had a unique trilogy that involved three area boxers. The bouts so equally exciting that I really couldn't choose one over the other. So:
Digital's Choices for Beltway Boxing Bouts of the Year are: The Nicklow-Sigmon-Kennedy Trilogy
Bout Number 1: Jessie Nicklow UD 10 over Scott Sigmon, March 20, Du Burns Arena, Baltimore, MD. Out of the three bouts, this one probably had the most buildup. Both boxers and their fan bases hurled barbs for two months before the bout took place. This very blog became a home base for the thoughts of the two warriors and their fans.
When the bout finally took place, there was a strong presence for Sigmon as hundreds of fans made the trip from the Lynchburg area. In the contest, Nicklow took the early lead with some solid accurate shots. Sigmon came back strong through the middle rounds before Nicklow caught his second wind and went on to win the bout. Two judges saw a close bout at 97-93 and 96-94. One judge saw the bout 97-91. Two great situations took place after the bout. Nicklow proposed marriage to his girl friend, Beth (who accepted) and Nicklow and Sigmon patched up whatever differences they had. In fact, in a very classy move, Nicklow asked this reporter to take down his audio interview from the blog (which I did) because he thought he might had taken this anger too far.
Bout Number 2: Jessie Nicklow D 10 Julius Kennedy, September 17, Du Burns Arena
Nicklow's win over Sigmon led to a bout that was more than a year in the making. Kennedy actually called Nicklow out after a victory in June of 2009. Kennedy finally got his wish in what was one of the closest bouts I have ever witnessed.
As a point of full disclosure, reporting the bout was secondary for me. I worked that bout as the supervisor for the World Boxing Foundation, as this was a bout for the WBF All-Americas Middleweight title as well as the Maryland State Middleweight title. It was an incredible honor for me personally.
What I said about the bout is still probably the best way to describe the contest: "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."
One other item that should be noted: Nicklow prepared for this bout by sparring with Sigmon. That served as a very unique transition for the final bout in the trilogy.
Bout Number 3: Scott Sigmon UD 10 over Julius Kennedy, December 11, National Guard Armory, Pikesville, MD
The Maryland State Athletic Commission was extremely prepared for this one.This one had the possibility of getting out of hand going in. There wasn't as much pre-fight vitrol before the bout, but there was the opportunity for this one to get out of hand.
Let me say that any of the great referees in the state could have handled this bout. However there was a perception of bias from one side. Therefore (either by accident or by design) the MSAC removed any doubt of bias in the ring by bringing in a great out-of-town referee -- Bill Clancy -- to handle that bout.
I was doing the interview that you may have seen on the site about women's boxing and actually missed the first round. As I rushed to my seat to see round two, I passed by Nicklow, who was sitting ringside in a neutral corner wearing a "Cujo" t-shirt. I asked him (since he fought both boxers) who would win the bout. Nicklow said Sigmon would win because he would put too much pressure on Kennedy.
That is pretty much what happened. During the contest, Sigmon looked more in control than ever before as he moved forward with purpose and landed good shots from awkward angles. Kennedy hit Sigmon with some hard shots but Sigmon seemed to walk through them. Kennedy lost two points courtesy of referee Clancy because of low blows and fought most of the bout with a right eye that was closing throughout the contest.
However, the bout was marred by a melee between supporters of both camps, reportedly including Nicklow. Sitting in front of Sigmon supporters, I must say I was appalled by some of the racist and quite ignorant comments by some of them. Honestly, I don't know if the same was said on the other side of the room, but I know a reporter (who will remain nameless) who wanted to use the martial arts training that the reporter has on one of those fans.
Despite this, the bout put a wonderful bow on what was an unique group of moments in recent Beltway Boxing history.
Other bouts deserving consideration:
James Stevenson UD 10 over George Rivera, March 20, Du Burns Arena, Baltimore
On a card where emotions ran high throughout the evening, this main event contest sent the crowd over the edge. Two young veterans fought very well during the bout. Stevenson dominated the first five rounds but got a little cocky during the sixth. That opened the door for Rivera to battle back by putting on the pressure.
Then came the eighth round where Rivera received an accidental low blow. Moments later, supporters from both camps battled outside the ring. Both boxers showed extreme class in trying to stop their followers from battling. Stevenson closed the show in fine fashion.
Unfortunately, the win was the only highlight in a tough year for Stevenson, who lost his father later in 2010.
Jimmy Lange KO 10 Joe Wyatt, November 6, George Mason University Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA
This was another great story in heart. Lange and Wyatt showed tremendous heart throughout the contest. In fact, Wyatt was the main aggressor in the contest but was knocked down twice by Lange's counter right hands. Both men suffered tough cuts before Lange landed a crushing right hand that sent Wyatt out for the count. This is the reason why Jimmy Lange has the fan base that he does. It's that simple. It may not make him a full-fledged contender, but it will keep his fan base growing.
Digital's Choices for Beltway Boxing Bouts of the Year are: The Nicklow-Sigmon-Kennedy Trilogy
Bout Number 1: Jessie Nicklow UD 10 over Scott Sigmon, March 20, Du Burns Arena, Baltimore, MD. Out of the three bouts, this one probably had the most buildup. Both boxers and their fan bases hurled barbs for two months before the bout took place. This very blog became a home base for the thoughts of the two warriors and their fans.
When the bout finally took place, there was a strong presence for Sigmon as hundreds of fans made the trip from the Lynchburg area. In the contest, Nicklow took the early lead with some solid accurate shots. Sigmon came back strong through the middle rounds before Nicklow caught his second wind and went on to win the bout. Two judges saw a close bout at 97-93 and 96-94. One judge saw the bout 97-91. Two great situations took place after the bout. Nicklow proposed marriage to his girl friend, Beth (who accepted) and Nicklow and Sigmon patched up whatever differences they had. In fact, in a very classy move, Nicklow asked this reporter to take down his audio interview from the blog (which I did) because he thought he might had taken this anger too far.
Bout Number 2: Jessie Nicklow D 10 Julius Kennedy, September 17, Du Burns Arena
Nicklow's win over Sigmon led to a bout that was more than a year in the making. Kennedy actually called Nicklow out after a victory in June of 2009. Kennedy finally got his wish in what was one of the closest bouts I have ever witnessed.
As a point of full disclosure, reporting the bout was secondary for me. I worked that bout as the supervisor for the World Boxing Foundation, as this was a bout for the WBF All-Americas Middleweight title as well as the Maryland State Middleweight title. It was an incredible honor for me personally.
What I said about the bout is still probably the best way to describe the contest: "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."
One other item that should be noted: Nicklow prepared for this bout by sparring with Sigmon. That served as a very unique transition for the final bout in the trilogy.
Bout Number 3: Scott Sigmon UD 10 over Julius Kennedy, December 11, National Guard Armory, Pikesville, MD
The Maryland State Athletic Commission was extremely prepared for this one.This one had the possibility of getting out of hand going in. There wasn't as much pre-fight vitrol before the bout, but there was the opportunity for this one to get out of hand.
Let me say that any of the great referees in the state could have handled this bout. However there was a perception of bias from one side. Therefore (either by accident or by design) the MSAC removed any doubt of bias in the ring by bringing in a great out-of-town referee -- Bill Clancy -- to handle that bout.
I was doing the interview that you may have seen on the site about women's boxing and actually missed the first round. As I rushed to my seat to see round two, I passed by Nicklow, who was sitting ringside in a neutral corner wearing a "Cujo" t-shirt. I asked him (since he fought both boxers) who would win the bout. Nicklow said Sigmon would win because he would put too much pressure on Kennedy.
That is pretty much what happened. During the contest, Sigmon looked more in control than ever before as he moved forward with purpose and landed good shots from awkward angles. Kennedy hit Sigmon with some hard shots but Sigmon seemed to walk through them. Kennedy lost two points courtesy of referee Clancy because of low blows and fought most of the bout with a right eye that was closing throughout the contest.
However, the bout was marred by a melee between supporters of both camps, reportedly including Nicklow. Sitting in front of Sigmon supporters, I must say I was appalled by some of the racist and quite ignorant comments by some of them. Honestly, I don't know if the same was said on the other side of the room, but I know a reporter (who will remain nameless) who wanted to use the martial arts training that the reporter has on one of those fans.
Despite this, the bout put a wonderful bow on what was an unique group of moments in recent Beltway Boxing history.
Other bouts deserving consideration:
James Stevenson UD 10 over George Rivera, March 20, Du Burns Arena, Baltimore
On a card where emotions ran high throughout the evening, this main event contest sent the crowd over the edge. Two young veterans fought very well during the bout. Stevenson dominated the first five rounds but got a little cocky during the sixth. That opened the door for Rivera to battle back by putting on the pressure.
Then came the eighth round where Rivera received an accidental low blow. Moments later, supporters from both camps battled outside the ring. Both boxers showed extreme class in trying to stop their followers from battling. Stevenson closed the show in fine fashion.
Unfortunately, the win was the only highlight in a tough year for Stevenson, who lost his father later in 2010.
Jimmy Lange KO 10 Joe Wyatt, November 6, George Mason University Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA
This was another great story in heart. Lange and Wyatt showed tremendous heart throughout the contest. In fact, Wyatt was the main aggressor in the contest but was knocked down twice by Lange's counter right hands. Both men suffered tough cuts before Lange landed a crushing right hand that sent Wyatt out for the count. This is the reason why Jimmy Lange has the fan base that he does. It's that simple. It may not make him a full-fledged contender, but it will keep his fan base growing.
Joppy Stopped in Sixth in Championship Bout!
Former three-time world champion William Joppy was stopped in the sixth round last night in his bid for the WBA Light Heavyweight title against champion Beibut Shumenov at the Ice Mansion in Shyment, Kazakhstan.
The former Kazakhstan Olympian, now fighting out of Las Vegas, floored Joppy in the fifth round with a powerful right and seconds into the sixth round, he fired a vicious left hook to Joppy’s body that resulted in him taking a knee and being 10-counted out.
Joppy's record is now 39-6-2, 30 KO's. Shumenov is now 11-1, seven KO's.
The former Kazakhstan Olympian, now fighting out of Las Vegas, floored Joppy in the fifth round with a powerful right and seconds into the sixth round, he fired a vicious left hook to Joppy’s body that resulted in him taking a knee and being 10-counted out.
Joppy's record is now 39-6-2, 30 KO's. Shumenov is now 11-1, seven KO's.
Saturday, January 08, 2011
Joppy Weighs 174 1/2 for WBA Title Bout!
William Joppy weighed in at 174 1/2 for his WBA Light Heavyweight title bout against Beibut Shumenov later today in Kazakhstan. Joppy said the following about his opportunity:
“I felt welcomed here when I first walked off the plane. We’ve been on a roller-coaster ride with the changing of opponents. Me and Beibut have in common that we both trained for totally different style fighters. Beibut is a great fighter. I’ve watched some of his fights but there’s not something I haven’t seen before. And he’s fought orthodox fighters before. I’m here to give a great, memorable fight like sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns in their first fight. I came here to fight Gayrat Ahmedov and fell into a world title fight. Wow! It’s going to be a barn-burner.”
“I felt welcomed here when I first walked off the plane. We’ve been on a roller-coaster ride with the changing of opponents. Me and Beibut have in common that we both trained for totally different style fighters. Beibut is a great fighter. I’ve watched some of his fights but there’s not something I haven’t seen before. And he’s fought orthodox fighters before. I’m here to give a great, memorable fight like sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns in their first fight. I came here to fight Gayrat Ahmedov and fell into a world title fight. Wow! It’s going to be a barn-burner.”
Friday, January 07, 2011
Salisbury Hosts First ESPN 3-D Boxing Telecast; Guerrero, Wade on Card!
The Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, MD will be the site for a historic boxing telecast on Friday, Feb. 18. ESPN Friday Night Fights will televise bouts on the card in 3-D for the very first time.
The main event on the card will be hometown hero and NABF Middleweight champion Fernando Guerrero (20-0, 16 KO's) defending his title against Saul Roman (33-8, 28 KO's) of Mexico. Also on the card will be undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (9-0, seven KO's) who will face Grover Young of Tennessee (4-0, two KO's) in a six-round contest. If time permits, the Wade bout will also be shown in 3-D.
The main event on the card will be hometown hero and NABF Middleweight champion Fernando Guerrero (20-0, 16 KO's) defending his title against Saul Roman (33-8, 28 KO's) of Mexico. Also on the card will be undefeated Largo, MD middleweight Dominic Wade (9-0, seven KO's) who will face Grover Young of Tennessee (4-0, two KO's) in a six-round contest. If time permits, the Wade bout will also be shown in 3-D.
Joppy Contends for WBA Light Heavyweight Title Saturday..We Think!!
Former three-time WBA Middleweight champion William Joppy will contend for the WBA Light Heavyweight championship this Saturday against Beibut Shumenov in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.
Joppy was already slated to be on the undercard, however, when Shumenov's unification bout with WBO titleholder Juergen Brahmer fell out, promoters sought for and got WBA approval for Shumenov to defend against Joppy. Shumenov is 10-1, six KO's. Joppy is 39-6-2, 30 KO's and is coming off a 10-round draw with Cory Cummings last November at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
Now we say "we think" because rumors continue to swirl that the card will or has been cancelled. No word on that yet but we will continue to check.
We will also have the rest of the BATB Awards this weekend.
Joppy was already slated to be on the undercard, however, when Shumenov's unification bout with WBO titleholder Juergen Brahmer fell out, promoters sought for and got WBA approval for Shumenov to defend against Joppy. Shumenov is 10-1, six KO's. Joppy is 39-6-2, 30 KO's and is coming off a 10-round draw with Cory Cummings last November at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
Now we say "we think" because rumors continue to swirl that the card will or has been cancelled. No word on that yet but we will continue to check.
We will also have the rest of the BATB Awards this weekend.
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Guerrero, Mitchell, Wade, Russell Make ESPN Best Prospects List!
Four Beltway Boxers made Dan Rafael's ESPN.com list of the top 25 prospects in the world. Rafael selected the two Beltway Boxing Prospects of the Year -- Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell and "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. -- along with Dominic Wade and Fernando Guerrero.
We'll let Mr. Rafael tell the reason for his choices.
Seth Mitchell (28, heavyweight, Golden Boy, 20-0-1, 14 KOs):
In the desert, it's nice to find an oasis. In the land of American heavyweight prospects, it's nice to find Mitchell, one of the few bona-fide, up-and-coming big men. Although he's 28, he started boxing late because he was busy playing college football at Michigan State before a knee injury derailed his NFL hopes. He has come a long way in his two-year career and is clearly the best American heavyweight prospect. The 6-foot-2, 243-pound Brandywine, Md., fighter is fundamentally sound and has shown improvement fight after fight. He's a hard worker with a good attitude and just needs rounds and experience. In 2010, he won all five of his bouts by knockout while facing experienced opponents such as Derek Bryant and Taurus Sykes.
Gary Russell Jr. (22, featherweight, Golden Boy, 13-0, 9 KOs):
Russell was a phenomenal amateur and the 2008 U.S. Olympic team bantamweight, but he didn't box in Beijing because he passed out on the eve of his first bout trying to make weight and was disqualified from the tournament. It was a bitter disappointment that he's trying to make up for as a pro featherweight. So far, so good. Russell has dynamic talent, perhaps the fastest set of hands in the sport and sound defense. The Capitol Heights, Md., southpaw went 7-0 in 2010 and probably would have had at least one more win, but it's hard to find opponents for him. (One fight fell out at the last minute.) It wouldn't be a surprise to see him on the pound-for-pound list in a few years.
Fernando Guerrero (24, middleweight, Prize Fight, 20-0, 16 KOs):
Guerrero is a blue-chip prospect with strong amateur credentials that include junior Golden Gloves, international Junior Olympics, National Golden Gloves and U.S. national titles. And that's not all: He has charisma, power and is a big ticket seller in Salisbury, Md., where he has lived since childhood after moving from the Dominican Republic. With a growing fan base and improving skills, he could someday be a serious factor. He has gotten good gym work as a sparring partner for Paul Williams. A hand injury early in the year limited Guerrero to just three fights in 2010, but he won each, including the best win of his career: a decision against experienced Ishe Smith. He opens his 2011 campaign in Salisbury on Feb. 18 as the headliner on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights."
Dominic Wade (20, super middleweight, Prize Fight, 9-0, 7 KOs):
Wade, who turned pro in March 2009, was a standout amateur, having won four consecutive Silver Gloves national titles. He has all the tools, especially an exciting style and outstanding power that he has used to turn out the lights on opponents. The Largo, Md., product took up boxing at age 9 and is one of those prospects who managers and promoters talk about wishing they could work with, which says something in a sport in which competitors rarely give somebody else's fighter credit. The only knock on Wade has been a bit of immaturity and a work ethic that hasn't always been stellar. If he can button that down, the sky's the limit.
We'll let Mr. Rafael tell the reason for his choices.
Seth Mitchell (28, heavyweight, Golden Boy, 20-0-1, 14 KOs):
In the desert, it's nice to find an oasis. In the land of American heavyweight prospects, it's nice to find Mitchell, one of the few bona-fide, up-and-coming big men. Although he's 28, he started boxing late because he was busy playing college football at Michigan State before a knee injury derailed his NFL hopes. He has come a long way in his two-year career and is clearly the best American heavyweight prospect. The 6-foot-2, 243-pound Brandywine, Md., fighter is fundamentally sound and has shown improvement fight after fight. He's a hard worker with a good attitude and just needs rounds and experience. In 2010, he won all five of his bouts by knockout while facing experienced opponents such as Derek Bryant and Taurus Sykes.
Gary Russell Jr. (22, featherweight, Golden Boy, 13-0, 9 KOs):
Russell was a phenomenal amateur and the 2008 U.S. Olympic team bantamweight, but he didn't box in Beijing because he passed out on the eve of his first bout trying to make weight and was disqualified from the tournament. It was a bitter disappointment that he's trying to make up for as a pro featherweight. So far, so good. Russell has dynamic talent, perhaps the fastest set of hands in the sport and sound defense. The Capitol Heights, Md., southpaw went 7-0 in 2010 and probably would have had at least one more win, but it's hard to find opponents for him. (One fight fell out at the last minute.) It wouldn't be a surprise to see him on the pound-for-pound list in a few years.
Fernando Guerrero (24, middleweight, Prize Fight, 20-0, 16 KOs):
Guerrero is a blue-chip prospect with strong amateur credentials that include junior Golden Gloves, international Junior Olympics, National Golden Gloves and U.S. national titles. And that's not all: He has charisma, power and is a big ticket seller in Salisbury, Md., where he has lived since childhood after moving from the Dominican Republic. With a growing fan base and improving skills, he could someday be a serious factor. He has gotten good gym work as a sparring partner for Paul Williams. A hand injury early in the year limited Guerrero to just three fights in 2010, but he won each, including the best win of his career: a decision against experienced Ishe Smith. He opens his 2011 campaign in Salisbury on Feb. 18 as the headliner on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights."
Dominic Wade (20, super middleweight, Prize Fight, 9-0, 7 KOs):
Wade, who turned pro in March 2009, was a standout amateur, having won four consecutive Silver Gloves national titles. He has all the tools, especially an exciting style and outstanding power that he has used to turn out the lights on opponents. The Largo, Md., product took up boxing at age 9 and is one of those prospects who managers and promoters talk about wishing they could work with, which says something in a sport in which competitors rarely give somebody else's fighter credit. The only knock on Wade has been a bit of immaturity and a work ethic that hasn't always been stellar. If he can button that down, the sky's the limit.
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
BATB Prospect(s) of The Year -- 2010!
Now for the Prospect of the Year for 2010! If there was one aspect of Beltway Boxing that made solid strides it was among our prospects. A number of prospects made nice strides on their way to possible contendership in 2011. Two of those prospects made the best strides towards a world ranking.
Digital's Choices for Beltway Boxing Prospects of the Year are:
Gary Russell, Jr. (13-0, nine KO's), featherweight, Capitol Heights, MD and Seth Mitchell (20-0-1, 14 KO's), heavyweight, Brandywine, MD.
Russell had an outstanding 2010. Reminiscent of three-time world champion and Beltway legend Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, Russell spent half of the year applying his trade on the west coast where he became a fixture on the Club Nokia shows in Los Angeles. Six of his seven bouts ended in knockouts no later than the second round. The most notable win for the 2008 US Olympian was his first-round stoppage of former world champion Mauricio Pastrana in July.
Heavyweight Mitchell really stepped his game up in 2010 as he went five-for-five -- five wins, five knockouts. Also notable is that all five of Mitchell's victories came against boxers with .500 or better records. Four of Mitchell's five wins came on the west coast against the likes of Johnnie White, Derek Bryant and Taurus Sykes and put him in full view of the bigwigs of his promotional company, Golden Boy Promotions. 2011 could be a very big year for the former Michigan State linebacker, who has moved seamlessly into the eight and 10-round bouts.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Emmanuel Taylor, (10-0, eight KO's) welterweight, Baltimore, MD. One of the busier prospects in 2010, Taylor was 6-0, four KO's and made a nice jump to six-round contests. Taylor's most notable win came against formerly 15-1 Ayi Bruce on May 7 in Huntington, NY. Taylor stopped Bruce in the third round. Three of his wins came against shop-worn veterans Doel Carrasquillo, Chris Cook and Joey Ortega.
Dominic Wade (9-0, seven KO's), middleweight, Largo, MD. The 2009 Beltway Boxing Rookie of the Year fought four times in 2010 against over-.500 competition and knockouts were a little harder to come by. However, Wade did begin his ascent into the six-rounds where the knockouts came back. Wade stopped both his foes in his six-round contests.
Maurice Byarm (10-0, seven KO's), heavyweight, Washington, DC Byarm made solid strides in 2010 with five victories, three by knockout. Two of his wins (against Jason Freeman and Winston Thorpe) were against young undefeated boxers. Started moving into the six-round bout, but two of his bouts were against late substitutions that cut the bouts to four rounds. A very likable prospect who is steadily building a fan base.
Digital's Choices for Beltway Boxing Prospects of the Year are:
Gary Russell, Jr. (13-0, nine KO's), featherweight, Capitol Heights, MD and Seth Mitchell (20-0-1, 14 KO's), heavyweight, Brandywine, MD.
Russell had an outstanding 2010. Reminiscent of three-time world champion and Beltway legend Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson, Russell spent half of the year applying his trade on the west coast where he became a fixture on the Club Nokia shows in Los Angeles. Six of his seven bouts ended in knockouts no later than the second round. The most notable win for the 2008 US Olympian was his first-round stoppage of former world champion Mauricio Pastrana in July.
Heavyweight Mitchell really stepped his game up in 2010 as he went five-for-five -- five wins, five knockouts. Also notable is that all five of Mitchell's victories came against boxers with .500 or better records. Four of Mitchell's five wins came on the west coast against the likes of Johnnie White, Derek Bryant and Taurus Sykes and put him in full view of the bigwigs of his promotional company, Golden Boy Promotions. 2011 could be a very big year for the former Michigan State linebacker, who has moved seamlessly into the eight and 10-round bouts.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Emmanuel Taylor, (10-0, eight KO's) welterweight, Baltimore, MD. One of the busier prospects in 2010, Taylor was 6-0, four KO's and made a nice jump to six-round contests. Taylor's most notable win came against formerly 15-1 Ayi Bruce on May 7 in Huntington, NY. Taylor stopped Bruce in the third round. Three of his wins came against shop-worn veterans Doel Carrasquillo, Chris Cook and Joey Ortega.
Dominic Wade (9-0, seven KO's), middleweight, Largo, MD. The 2009 Beltway Boxing Rookie of the Year fought four times in 2010 against over-.500 competition and knockouts were a little harder to come by. However, Wade did begin his ascent into the six-rounds where the knockouts came back. Wade stopped both his foes in his six-round contests.
Maurice Byarm (10-0, seven KO's), heavyweight, Washington, DC Byarm made solid strides in 2010 with five victories, three by knockout. Two of his wins (against Jason Freeman and Winston Thorpe) were against young undefeated boxers. Started moving into the six-round bout, but two of his bouts were against late substitutions that cut the bouts to four rounds. A very likable prospect who is steadily building a fan base.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
BATB Rookie of the Year -- 2010!
We start our look back at 2010 with the Rookie of the Year. Unlike 2009, where we had a solid class of 24 rookies, 2010 saw only 10 make appearances for the first time as pros, and most of them only had one bout. What was good for this year was that the four top rookies would probably have challenged for this designation in just about any year.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxing Rookie of the Year is:
Nick Kisner (6-0, four KO's), heavyweight, Ferndale, MD. The 19-year-old's much anticipated first year as a pro lived up to expectations as the highly-touted amateur rocketed to six wins against tough competition. Kisner started his year with a four-round majority decision over Francois Ambang on January 11 in Fort Washington, MD. That was Kisner's only bout at cruiserweight. The rest of 2010 saw Kisner compete at heavyweight where he scored knockouts in four of his remaining five bouts. One of the interesting questions of 2011 is where will Kisner finally find his optimum weight class. Some pundits outside the Beltway say Kisner may be the best at light heavyweight. One thing is for sure, the talent Kisner has will be comparable no matter what weight class he competes in.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Brandon Quarles (3-0, one KO), middleweight, Alexandria, VA. The 24-year-old middleweight is quickly becoming a fan favorite by winning two close unanimous decisions against Vincent Batteast and Lawrence Jones. A very exciting boxer who will be fun to watch in 2011.
Tori Nelson (2-0-1), middleweight, Ashburn, VA. We don't know how long Nelson will be a pro, but she will be exciting to watch. After a successful amateur career, Nelson has won two bouts over middleweight prospects Shelly Seivert and Rachel Clark. One of the new breed of female boxers who have actually trained as an amateur in the sport and that training is already paying dividends.
Alantez Fox (3-0, two KO's), welterweight, Fort Washington, MD. Already signed by TKO Promotions, the 18-year-old Fox has only boxed six rounds in his short pro career, but the tall welterweight has definitely shown promise. It will be interesting to see how his career goes in 2011.
Digital's Choice for Beltway Boxing Rookie of the Year is:
Nick Kisner (6-0, four KO's), heavyweight, Ferndale, MD. The 19-year-old's much anticipated first year as a pro lived up to expectations as the highly-touted amateur rocketed to six wins against tough competition. Kisner started his year with a four-round majority decision over Francois Ambang on January 11 in Fort Washington, MD. That was Kisner's only bout at cruiserweight. The rest of 2010 saw Kisner compete at heavyweight where he scored knockouts in four of his remaining five bouts. One of the interesting questions of 2011 is where will Kisner finally find his optimum weight class. Some pundits outside the Beltway say Kisner may be the best at light heavyweight. One thing is for sure, the talent Kisner has will be comparable no matter what weight class he competes in.
Others Deserving Consideration:
Brandon Quarles (3-0, one KO), middleweight, Alexandria, VA. The 24-year-old middleweight is quickly becoming a fan favorite by winning two close unanimous decisions against Vincent Batteast and Lawrence Jones. A very exciting boxer who will be fun to watch in 2011.
Tori Nelson (2-0-1), middleweight, Ashburn, VA. We don't know how long Nelson will be a pro, but she will be exciting to watch. After a successful amateur career, Nelson has won two bouts over middleweight prospects Shelly Seivert and Rachel Clark. One of the new breed of female boxers who have actually trained as an amateur in the sport and that training is already paying dividends.
Alantez Fox (3-0, two KO's), welterweight, Fort Washington, MD. Already signed by TKO Promotions, the 18-year-old Fox has only boxed six rounds in his short pro career, but the tall welterweight has definitely shown promise. It will be interesting to see how his career goes in 2011.
Coleman Makes 'New Faces' Column in Ring!
USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman received more publicity to end 2010. Coleman made the "New Faces" column in "The Bible of Boxing,"Ring Magazine.
Also in the February 2011 issue of the Ring there is an obituary on Baltimore trainer Mack Lewis compiled from different sources, including yours truly.
By the way, the BATB Year-End awards were delayed because my youngest daughter had foot surgery. I look to bring the awards to you this week.
Also in the February 2011 issue of the Ring there is an obituary on Baltimore trainer Mack Lewis compiled from different sources, including yours truly.
By the way, the BATB Year-End awards were delayed because my youngest daughter had foot surgery. I look to bring the awards to you this week.
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