Saturday, July 30, 2011

Beltway Amateurs Draw Opponents For First-Round Bouts At US Olympic Trials!

Even before the first-round of the Men's US Olympic Boxing Trials begin in Mobile, AL today, we already know that one of our seven Beltway amateurs will be heading into the challenger's bracket of the double-elimination tournament.

This is because two locals will meet in the 178-pound bracket's first round of competition. Jerry Odom of Bowie, MD will take on Capitol Heights, MD's Shaborn Ryals during the evening session.

The five other locals will be boxing in the afternoon session today. Here are their matchups:

108 Pounds: Gregory Outlaw, Glenarden, Md., vs. Santos Vasquez, Sparks, Nev.

141 Pounds: Michael Reed, Waldorf, Md., vs. Duran Caferro, Helena, Mont.

141 Pounds: Pedro Sosa, Bronx, N.Y. vs. Gary Allan Russell III, Capitol Heights, Md.

165 Pounds: D’Mitrius Ballard, Temple Hills, Md., vs. Martez Jackson, Valdosta, Ga.

165 Pounds: Antoine Douglas, Burke, Va., vs. Damarius Russell, Camp Lejeune, NC.

The great blog DC Amateur Boxing will be in Mobile for both the US Olympic Trials and the US Junior National Championships that begin on August 2. Any results you don't see here, you can get complete coverage on that site. The link can be found in the Links section.

Byarm, Harrison Win Unanimous Decisions in Mississippi!

Beltway Boxers Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm and Dusty Harrison won unanimous decisions tonight at the Fitzgerald Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS.

Byarm defeated Rodricka Ray of Jackson, TN by four-round unanimous decision. No official word on the scores. Byarm remains undefeated with a record of 12-0-1, eight KO's. Ray, who moved up from cruiserweight for this bout, falls to 3-5-1, one KO.

Harrison won a four-round unanimous decision over Trenton Titsworth of Omaha, NB. Harrison pitched a shutout on all three judges cards and is now 2-0. Titsworth is now 3-13-1, two KO's.

Byarm, Harrison Hit Scales in Tunica!

Maurice Byarm and Dusty Harrison weighed in for their bouts at the Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS.

Maurice Byarm 246 vs. Rodricka Ray 248

Dusty Harrison 147 vs. Trenton Titsworth 143

Nelson Wins WBC Female Middleweight Title!!

The Beltway has a new world champion! Ashburn, VA's Tori Nelson has captured the vacant WBC Female Middleweight title with a 10-round split decision over Lorissa Rivas at the Jean Pierre Coliseum in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago!

According to the Trinidad Guardian newspaper, Nelson won the bout 97-93 and 96-94 on two of the judges's scorecards while Rivas took one card, 97-93. A correspondent for the Women's Boxing website WBAN said Nelson took the fight to Rivas in a "Joe Frazier" style and gave her all throughout the bout. Considering Rivas (who was born in the US but has Trinidadian citizenship),had fought her last four bouts in Trinidad, Nelson had to have done a lot to win the title in Rivas's backyard. By the way, Rivas told local papers in Trinidad that she would knock out Nelson in two rounds.

So, after only five pro bouts, Tori Nelson (4-0-1) is now a world champion! Rivas's record falls to 4-2, three KO's. By the way, Nelson is the third female world champion the Beltway has had in the last 10 years, following in the footsteps of DC Boxing Hall of Famer "The Raging Beauty" Isra Girgrah Wynn and Lisa "Too Fierce" Foster Cohen.

Friday, July 29, 2011

Peterson Gains IBF Mandatory With 12th Round KO!

DC junior welterweight Lamont Peterson scored a 12th round knockout over Victor Cayo tonight at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas tonight, earning a mandatory title shot against champion Amir Khan.

It took almost the entire bout but Peterson eventually wore down the game Cayo with late-bout pressure resulting in the knockdown in the latter stages of the 12th round. Cayo could not beat referee Kenny Bayless's count and the bout was stopped at 2:46 of the round.

Peterson raises his record to 29-1-1, 15 KO's. Cayo suffers just the second loss of his career and he is now 26-2, 18 KO's.

Harrison Receives More Boxing Press!

There is definitely increased media coverage around DC welterweight Dusty Harrison There has been one local and one worldwide video package concerning Harrison as he prepares for his bout Saturday at Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS. By the way, Harrison's opponent for that four-rounder has changed. Harrison will now be facing Trenton Titsworth of Omaha, NB (3-12-1, two KO's.)

Here's a link to an NBC4 story reported this week by Darcy Spencer:

"http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/17-Year-Old_Boxing_Phenom_in_Prince_George_s_Washington_DC-126289233.html">

The second video story is the first of a series of videos produced by my good buddy Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com called "The Dusty Harrison Project." It's about 20 minutes long, but it's worth watching.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Peterson Weighs 140 for IBF Eliminator Bout!



Lamont Peterson (right) hit the Super Lightweight limit of 140 pounds for his 12-round IBF Elimination bout against Victor Cayo on Friday at the Cosmopolitan Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Cayo tipped the scales at 139 1/2.

The bout will be the main event on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights (which can also be seen on ESPN3.com on your computer.) The show is slated to begin at 9 PM ET.

Tori Nelson Profiled in Loudon Times, Leesburg Today!

There are two nice local articles on Ashburn, VA middleweight Tori Nelson as she prepares for her WBC Female Middleweight title bout Friday in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Jason S. Rufner of the Loudon Times put together this article:

"http://www.loudountimes.com/index.php/sports/article/local_school_bus_driver_gears_up_for_shot_at_world_boxing375/">

From Leesburg Today comes this article from Jeff Schneider:

"http://www.leesburg2day.com/more_a/loudoun_living/article_f5fd7054-b3b6-11e0-a76c-001cc4c03286.html">

Peterson and Cayo Surrounded by Legends at Press Conference!



A nice picture that was taken at the Lamont Peterson-Victor Cayo press conference showed up on Fightnews.com . Peterson (far left) and Cayo (far right) had two special visitors at their press conference -- Hall of famers Mike Tyson and Roberto Duran. Peterson faces Cayo Friday night, July 29 at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The bout will be on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Beltway Boxers Win Medals at Junior Golden Gloves!

Congratulations to two Beltway amateurs who won medals at the Junior Golden Gloves in Mesquite, NV this past weekend.

Lamont Roach, Jr. of Upper Marlboro, MD captured the gold medal in the 15-16, 125 pound division while Ronnel Jackson, also of Upper Marlboro, brought home a silver medal in the 13-14, 114 pound class.

Monday, July 25, 2011

Busy Weekend For Local Pros!!

If everything holds together, this will be a busy weekend for local pros across the country. Along with the bouts we have already mentioned (Lamont Peterson vs. Victor Cayo on Friday in Las Vegas, Tori Nelson on Friday in Trinidad for the WBC Female Middleweight title, Maurice Byarm and Dusty Harrison Saturday in Tunica, MS), other boxers are slated to be in action this weekend as well.

Two locals will be looking for their first pro wins on a card at the Asylum Arena in Philadelphia, PA on Friday, July 29. DC heavyweight Damian Richardson returns to action for the first time in almost two years when he faces Georgiy Guralnik of Pennsylvania in a four-round bout. Richardson (0-2) made his pro debut in DC in October of 2009 to Abodurin Akinyanju by first-round knockout. Richardson has yet to get out of the first round of any pro bout. Guralnik (1-0) made his pro debut in January of this year and won a four-round unanimous decision.


Another local heavyweight -- Alexandria, VA's Antonio Robertson -- will take on undefeated John Lennox in another four-round bout. Robertson (0-2-1) has yet to compete in the Beltway region and will make his second trip to Pennsylvania after battles in Rhode Island and California. His last bout was a four-round draw with Randy Eastman on May 21 in Reading, PA. Lennox (5-0, two KO's) is quickly coming back after a four-round TKO victory over Donnie Crawford on July 9 on the Erislandy Lara-Paul Williams card in Atlantic City, NJ.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Byarm, Harrison Have Opponents For Tunica July 30!

Two Beltway Boxers will be making appearances at the Fitzgerald's Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS on Saturday, July 30.

Undefeated DC heavyweight Maurice "Freight Train" Byarm will participate on the show in a six-round contest against veteran Anthony Moore of San Diego, CA. Byarm (11-0-1, eight KO's) battled to a six-round draw in his last outing against Homero Fonseca on June 17 in Austin, TX. Moore (8-21-2, six KO's) has fought only once since 2001 and will be trying to break an 11-bout losing streak.

DC welterweight Dusty Harrison will also be in Tunica in a four-round contest against Jamar Hampton of St. Louis, MO. Harrison (1-0) made an impressive pro debut against Alphonso Alexander on June 11 in Southhaven, MS. Hampton (1-4, one KO) has lost three straight and has not fought since October of 2010.

Cordaro Simpkins Killed in Virginia Beach Shooting!



Sad news just slightly out of the Beltway region, but because he has fought here as an amateur on some of the regional Golden Gloves teams, it deserves mention here.

Chesapeake, VA super featherweight Cordaro Simpkins died early Saturday morning as a result of gunshot wounds suffered during an altercation Friday night a resort in Virginia Beach, VA. Simpkins turned 22 years old earlier this month.

According to the Tampa Bay (FL) Examiner, Simpkins and his friends got into an altercation with several males ending with the boxer being shot. The unknown suspects fled the area on foot and the case remains under investigation by the department's Homicide Squad. Simpkins, who had fought most of his pro bouts in Tampa, was pronounced dead at one AM this morning.

Simpkins (5-1) was a top amateur in the Tidewater area of Virginia who participated in the Regional Golden Gloves held in Waldorf, MD numerous times. Simpkins turned pro in July of 2009 and won his first five bouts before losing his last outing by fifth round TKO in Charlotte, NC in October of 2010. Simpkins was trained and managed by former world champion Nate Campbell.

Simpkins is survived by his father Daniel Lamb, his mother Wanda Revels, Stepmother Deberrah Hart, Stepfather Reynard Revels, Brothers Daniel Lamb Jr., Christopher Lamb, David Lamb, and countless aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.


BATB sends its deepest condolences.

Russell Wins Unanimous Decision in Vegas!

Using what ESPN.com Boxing Writer Dan Rafael called in a tweet "insane hand speed," "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. won an eight-round unanimous decision over Eric "El Loco" Estrada tonight at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.

According to published reports, Russell dominated his opponent with extremely fast combinations throughout the contest, scoring a knockdown in the seventh round. Russell went on to win by shutout on all three judges cards, 80-71.

Russell remains undefeated at 17-0, 10 KO's. Estrada falls to 9-2, three KO's.

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Post Profiles Douglas Siblings!

Amy Shipley of the Washington Post has a nice profile of history in the Beltway Boxing scene. Antoine and Tyrieshia Douglas are the first brother-sister duo to participate in the Olympic Boxing trials -- this is the first time for women boxing in the Olympics.

But it is the backstory of the Douglas duo that makes this story so wonderful. Here's the link:

"http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/olympics/tyrieshia-and-antoine-douglas-hope-to-make-2012-olympics-a-shared-redemption-tale/2011/07/08/gIQA5kCMUI_story.html">

Russell Gets Press Prior To Vegas Bout!

Boxing writer Ryan Maquinana has written a nice story on "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. as he prepares for his bout tonight at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV. Here is the link:

"http://www.boxingscene.com/-gary-russell-jr-it-runs-family--41856">

Friday, July 22, 2011

Coleman Battles Paris August 5 in California!

USBA Junior Welterweight champion Tim "Pitbull" Coleman of Baltimore will take on undefeated Vernon "Iceman" Paris of Detroit, MI in a 10-round non-title bout on Friday, August 5 at the Chumash Resort and Casino in Santa Ynez, CA. The bout will be shown on ESPN2.

Coleman (19-1-1, five KO's) is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over Sergio Rivera on April 29 in Las Vegas. Coleman returns to the Chumash Casino where he successfully defended his USBA title with a third-round knockout over Patrick Lopez in front of a nationally televised Showtime audience in October of 2010.

Paris (24-0, 14 KO's) last fought on January 29 and won an eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Emmanuel Augustus at the Silverdome in Pontiac, MI. Some might remember Paris competing at the DC Armory in April of 2007 and scoring a seventh-round TKO over Alain Hernandez.

Russell Jr. Weighs 126 For Las Vegas Battle!

Gary Russell, Jr. weighed in at 126 pounds for his eight-round bout against Eric Estrada tomorrow night at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Estrada tipped the scales at 128.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Russell's Opponent Changes For Saturday Night in Vegas!

The opponent for "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. for Saturday, July 23 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas has changed. The undefeated 2008 Olympian will now face Eric "El Loco" Estrada of Chicago, IL in what is now going to be an eight-round contest that may or may not be televised by HBO.

Estrada (9-1, three KO's) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over James Lester on March 25 in River Grove, IL. Estrada's only loss was to undefeated Luis Cruz via sixth-round knockout in June of 2010.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Tori Nelson Shows Appreciation For WBC Title Shot!

Something you don't always see -- a fighter giving thanks for a title shot. In this video, Tori Nelson has a message for her fans as well as thanks for the WBC title shot she gets at the end of the month.

Beltway Amateurs Head to Junior Championships in Mobile!

The seven Beltway Boxers heading to the Olympic Trials won't be the only local amateurs going to Mobile, AL. The city is also hosting the US Junior National Championships from August 2-August 5 and the Beltway will be well-represented for that event as well.

Here's the list of Beltway Boxers that are slated to participate:

110 Pounds:

Malik Jackson, Washington, DC

114 Pounds:

Gary Antuanne Russell, Capitol Heights, MD

125 Pounds:

Lamont Roach, Jr., Upper Marlboro, MD
Gervonta Davis, Baltimore, MD

145 Pounds:

Kareem Martin, Clinton, MD

176 Pounds:

Daquan Johnson, Capitol Heights, MD

114 Pounds (female):

Raynesia O'Neal, Washington, DC

154 Pounds (female)

Kiera Bell, Washington, DC


Best wishes to all!

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Tori Nelson Battles For Vacant WBC Female Title July 29 in Trinidad and Tobago!




Unlike the men's division of boxing, it doesn't always take a large number of bouts before women fight for pro world titles. This is why after only four pro bouts, undefeated Ashburn, VA middleweight Tori Nelson (in the top photo) will be challenging for the vacant WBC Female middleweight championship on Friday, July 29 at the Jean Pierre Sports Complex in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Nelson (3-0-1) will take on Lorissa "The Cheetah" Rivas of Las Vegas, NV (4-1, three KO's -- in the bottom photo) in this scheduled 10-round bout. Nelson is coming off a four-round unanimous decision win over Rachel Clark on June 25 in Virginia Beach, VA. Rivas makes her fourth straight trip to Trinidad and Tobago. Last time out, Rivas won the WBC Caribbean Light Heavyweight title by first-round knockout over Pauline London on March 19, despite giving up nine pounds in weight (164 to 173.) This will be the first time Rivas faces someone with a winning record and the first time either woman has gone 10 rounds.

Monday, July 18, 2011

Amateur Boxing Returns to Michael's Eighth Avenue July 22!

There will be an amateur boxing show coming to Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD on Friday, July 22 at 7:30 PM. The Baltimore Boxing Club is putting on a nine-bout card featuring a number of Baltimore-area amateurs from Baltimore Boxing, Club One and the Reisterstown Fight Club as well as boxers from Salisbury, MD, Fredrick, MD and North Carolina.

Tickets can be purchased by going to www.baltimoreboxing.com. VIP tickets are $50 and General Admission are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

Russell Jr. Has Opponent for HBO Bout July 23!

Undefeated Capitol Heights, MD featherweight "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. has a confirmed opponent for his first 10-round bout on Saturday, July 23 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The bout will open the HBO telecast that will feature the main event junior welterweight title unification between Zab Judah and Amir Khan.

The opponent for Russell (16-0, 10 KO's) will be Paul "Trussy" Truscott of Middlesborough, Yorkshire, United Kingdom (17-2, two KO's) who will be making his first trip to the United States as a pro boxer.

Russell, the 2008 US Olympian, is coming off a fourth-round knockout of Antonio Meza on June 17 in Hidalgo, TX. Truscott won a six-round decision over Zsolt Nagy on March 5 in Huddlesfield, Yorkshire, United Kingdom.

The telecast is slated to begin at 10 PM ET.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Amateur Boxing Tournament Returns to Sugar Ray Leonard Center July 22-23!

There will be a two-day amateur boxing tournament coming up on Friday and Saturday, July 22 and 23 at the Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center located at 7700 Barlowe Road in Palmer Park, MD.

The tournament is being put on by DC Boxing Hall of Famer Julius "Juice" Gatling. Yours truly will serve as ring announcer. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door for adults. Children 10 and under are $5. Friday night's action begins at 7 PM and Saturday's card starts at 6 PM. For more information, contact Juice at 240-353-0564.

Sigmon Loses Majority Decision in Greensboro!

Jefferson, VA super middleweight Scott "Cujo" Sigmon lost a 10-round majority decision last night to undefeated Chris "The Irish Ghost" Fitzpatrick of Cleveland, OH last night at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC. One judge saw the draw at 95-95, but two judges scored the bout for Fitzpatrick at 97-93.

Sigmon's record falls to 16-3, eight KO's while Fitzpatrick remains spotless at 14-0, five KO's. There is talk that Sigmon might be a part of the Patriot Center card in Fairfax, VA slated for September 10.

Full Recap From DC Star!

Here is the full recap from Saturday's United Boxers card at DC Star Nightclub in DC:

Oxon Hill, MD super middleweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson remained undefeated with a fourth-round TKO over "Neon" Keon Johnson of Indianapolis, IN. Alexander Johnson dropped his opponent three times before the Keon Johnson corner requested the bout be stopped at 1:47 of the fourth. Alexander Johnson is now 12-0, five KO's while Keon Johnson falls to 8-6, four KO's.

Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor scored a workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over veteran Jose Angel "Lucky" Roman of St. Augustine's, FL. Taylor was in complete control over an always game and enjoyable to watch Roman, keeping him outside through most of the contest with a good jab. Judges David Jordan and Wayne Smith saw a shutout for Taylor at 60-54 while Paul Wallace scored the bout, 59-55. Taylor raises his record to 13-0, nine KO's. Roman is now 11-32-5, five KO's.

Suitland, MD cruiserweight Venroy "Hard Work" July won a six-round unanimous decision over Rayshawn Myers of Cleveland, OH. July, a native of St. Catherine's, Jamaica, put continuous pressure on Myers who tried to get July off his game by talking to him and having a running dialogue with fans in attendance. All three judges (Smith, Jordan and Wallace) scored a shutout for July at 60-54. The win keeps July undefeated at 7-0, two KO's. Myers's record drops to 4-9, three KO's.

Forestville, MD junior middleweight Alantez "Tez" Fox won a four-round unanimous decision over "Strictly Business" Mike Denby of Felton, DE. Fox showed great hand speed and used his vast height to his advantage enroute to a relatively easy win. All three judges (Jordan, Wallace and Smith) saw a shutout at 40-36 for Fox, who is now 5-0, three KO's. Denby falls to 3-11-4, two KO's.

Recent Alexandria, VA transplant Jerren Cochran made his Beltway-area debut a success with a first-round knockout over Desi Williams of Wilson, NC. The bout took all of 1:27 when Cochran, a native of Houston, TX, dropped Williams with a right hand. Williams could not beat the count and the bout was stopped. Cochran is now 3-0, three KO's. Williams is 0-3.

Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Thomas "KO" Snow used good ring generalship to win a six-round unanimous decision over Robert "Don't Lose" DaLuz of Providence, RI. Snow used his quickness well, keeping DaLuz at bay with his right jab throughout the bout. Judges Jordan and Wallace scored the bout 60-54 while Judge Smith saw the contest, 59-55. Snow is now 15-1, nine KO's while DaLuz falls to 13-38-3, nine KO's.

In the curtain-raising contest, DC middleweight Jacey Thompson made his pro debut a successful one with a first round TKO over Tevin "Killer" Parker of Raleigh, NC. Thompson landed some brutal body shots to drop Parker, who couldn't beat the count. The bout ended at 1:48 of the first. Parker is now 0-3.

United Boxers in association with Gene Molovinsky of Keystone Boxing, promoted the card. Chris Middendorf served as matchmaker.

We also credit the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission, who hasn't always received the best of press in this space. Commission members did an outstanding job in keeping things in decency and in order during the evening. The commission had everything under control and helped make the night go very smooth.

Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up with Alec Kohut of MaxBoxing.com and Michael Amakor of FightKings.com. Thomas Snow joins us for an interview.



I also had an opportunity to interview three of the locals heading to Mobile, AL for the US Olympic Trials later this month -- Greg Outlaw, Mike Reed and Antoine Douglas

Saturday, July 16, 2011

After three knockdowns, Alexander Johnson scores fourth round TKO over Keon Johnson! Alex is now 12-0 five KO's. Keon is 8-6, four KO's. Good night from DC!
Main event -- Alexander "The Great" Johnson vs. "Neon" Keon Johnson in the ring!
The honoring of Sharmba Mitchell and Mark Johnson is getting underway. Sharmba is out of town on music business!
Taylor wins workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over Roman. Two judges scored the bout 60-54 while one scored it 59-55. Taylor is now 13-0, nine KO's.
Co-feature being introduced in the ring -- Emmanuel Taylor vs Jose Angel Roman. Six rounds, welterweight.
July wins a shutout on all three cards, 60-54. He remains undefeated at 7-0, two KO's. Myers is 4-9, three KO's. July brought a nice crowd with him tonight!
Tomorrow morning I hope to post a brief interview I did with Greg Outlaw, Mike Reed and Antoine Douglas, three of the seven who are going to the Olympic trials!
Back to action at DC Star! Venroy July vs. Rayshawn Myers six round cruiserweights!
We now have a brief intermission!!
Fox wins shutout 40-36 and goes to 5-0, three KO's with a nice performance! Denby is now 3-11-4, two KO's.
Alantez Fox vs. Mike Denby in the ring -- four rounds!
Cochran wins by third round KO 1:27. He is now 3-0, three KO's. Williams, who is from Wilson, NC, is 0-3.
Snow is now 15-1, nine KO's. Da Luz is13-38-3, nine KO's. Now in the ring: Jerren Cochran vs. Desi Williams -- four rounds featherweight.
Snow wins six-round unanimous decision over Tevin Parker. Two judges have a shutout 60-54 while one scores it 59-55.
Quick correction: Now it is a six-round bout between Snow and Da Luz!
Bout #2: Thomas Snow vs. Robert Da Luz -- four rounds at featherweight!
Jacey Thompson's pro debut takes 1:48 before he stops Tevin Parker! Heavy body shots do the damage! Parker is 0-3. Thompson is son of trainer Zeke Thompson!
Boxing action getting ready to begin at DC Star! Jacey Thompson of DC making his pro debut against Tevin Parker of Raleigh, NC! Four rounds at jr. Middle!
We are..NOT underway from the DC Star in DC. Running late as usual! Hearing we may start around 8:15 ET! If you have any questions tonight, ask away!

Weights From Washington, DC!

Here is the scale watch for tonight's United Boxers card at the DC Star Nightclub in DC:

Alexander Johnson 169 vs. Keon Johnson 168

Emmanuel Taylor 145 1/4 vs. Jose Angel Roman 153

Alantez Fox 151 vs. Mike Denby 151

Venroy July 198 1/4 vs. Rayshawn Myers 187

Thomas Snow 123 vs. Robert Da Luz 124

Jerren Cochran 128 vs. Desi Williams

Jacey Thompson 156 vs. Tevin Parker

Williams and Parker will weigh-in later this morning. We will provide results of the bouts here on the blog right after they happen and answer any questions you may have followed by a full BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up show.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Sigmon, Rivera on GoFightLive.TV Saturday Night!

For 10 dollars, you can see the bouts featuring Scott "Cujo" Sigmon and George "Wartime" Rivera on GoFightLive.tv. The bouts are coming from the Greensboro Coliseum Special Events Center in Greensboro, NC. All the bouts on the card will be shown on the webcast.

Sigmon is in the main event against undefeated Chris Fitzpatrick while Rivera battles Lamar Russ in one of the co-features. Here is the link:

"http://www.gfl.tv/Events/Fight/Boxing/Saturday_Night__Championship_Boxing/1105">

Thursday, July 14, 2011

NBC4 Profiles 'Mayhem' Mitchell!

Once again, undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell receives some major publicity in the local mainstream media Dan Hellie of NBC 4 profiles Mitchell and also talks to his head trainer Andre Hunter.

"http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/Football_Injuries_Turned_Seth_Mitchell_Into_a_Heavyweight_Contender_Washington_DC-125602973.html">

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Full Card Announced For Saturday At DC Star!

Here's the entire lineup for the United Boxers card on Saturday, July 16 at DC Star Night Club in Northeast DC:

Undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson will be in the six-round main event against "Neon" Keon Johnson of Indianapolis, IN.

Alexander Johnson (11-0, four KO's) is coming off his biggest career win to date -- a 10-round majority decision over previously undefeated Farah Ennis on April 2 in Atlantic City, NJ. Keon Johnson (8-5, four KO's) will be trying to break a three-bout losing streak where he has been knocked out in all three bouts.

The co-feature will have undefeated Baltimore welterweight Emmanuel "Tranzformer" Taylor in another six-round contest against veteran Jose Angel "Lucky" Roman of St. Augustine, FL. Taylor (12-0, nine KO's) won a six-round unanimous decision over Marcus Brashers on May 21 in Millersville, MD. Roman (11-31-5, five KO's) makes his second straight trip to the Beltway, losing a six-round unanimous decision to James Stevenson on April 15 in Millersville.

Undefeated Suitland, MD cruiserweight Venroy July returns to the Beltway region in another scheduled six-round bout against Cleveland, OH's Rayshawn Myers.

July (6-0-2, two KO's) will try to bounce back from a six-round majority draw against Paul Jennette on April 23 in Winston-Salem, NC. Myers (4-8, three KO's) will be battling against his sixth undefeated opponent in his last seven bouts. Myers lost a four-round unanimous decision to Alex Guerrero on February 18 in Salisbury, MD.

Undefeated lightweight Jerren Cochran, now fighting out of Alexandria, VA will battle DC's Hugh Hinds in a four-round contest.

Cochran, a native of Houston, TX (2-0, two KO's), will make his Beltway-area debut on this card having scored two first-round knockouts in Galveston and Humble, TX. Hinds (0-1) has not fought since losing his pro debut to Tyrone Wright by unanimous decision in Salisbury, MD in June of 2009.

An interesting bout should be the four-round contest between Forestville, MD junior middleweight Alantez "Tez" Fox and veteran "Strictly Business" Mike Denby of Felton, DE.

Fox (4-0, three KO's) scored a third-round knockout over Warren Snapp on May 13 in Primm, NV. Denby (3-10-4, two KO's) is winless in his last three bouts but has given tough battles to other Beltway Boxers including Todd Wilson and Lenwood Dozier.

There will also be another four-round contest featuring debuting DC middleweight Jacey Thompson as he takes on Tevin Parker of North Carolina (0-2).

Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Thomas "KO" Snow (14-1, nine KO's) is also slated to be on the card against an opponent to be named.

I'll be discussing this card and other boxing news on the Maxboxing.com East Coast Boxing Report with Alec Kohut tonight at 9 PM ET on www.blogtalkradio.com. You can call in with your views at 424-258-9273. You may win an autographed item from Pawel Wolak who is fighting on Friday in New York City.

Saturday, July 09, 2011

Quarles Wins Split Decision in Atlantic City!

Alexandria, VA middleweight Brandon Quarles won a four-round split decision over Corey Preston of North Carolina tonight at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ on the undercard of Paul Williams-Erislandy Lara.

Quarles won on two cards 40-36 and 39-37. Preston took one card, 39-37.

Quarles remains undefeated at 6-0, two KO's. Preston falls to 1-6.

Beltway Sends Seven to US Olympic Trials!

The Beltway will send seven to the Men's US Olympic Trials in Mobile, Alabama, July 31-August 6. Here is the list:

112 pounds: Greg Outlaw, Glenarden, MD

141 pounds: Michael Reed, Waldorf, MD; Gary Allen Russell, Capitol Heights, MD

165 pounds: D'Mitrius Ballard, Temple Hills, MD; Antoine Douglas, Burke, VA

178 pounds: Jerry Odom, Bowie, MD; Shaborn Ryals, Capitol Heights, MD


Best wishes to all!

Friday, July 08, 2011

Shaborn Ryals Heads to US Olympic Trials!

Congratulations to Capitol Heights, MD's Shaborn Ryals who will be heading to the US Olympic Trials in Mobile, AL later this month.

Ryals, who is making his return to boxing this year, seemingly came out of nowhere to win this tournament in the 178-pound division. Ryals defeated 2009 national champion Robert Brant of Oakdale, MN in a tiebraker 23-23 (113-107 in total punches).

What makes this win so incredible was where the 18-year-old Ryals was less than six years ago. In December of 2005, Ryals was the subject of a feature article in the Washington Post Magazine. The Michael Leahy article chronicled Ryals and how boxing kept him safe but the lures of the street were still there. I'm posting the link to remind some of this situation. It may help you understand why this win is so remarkable.

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The two other remaining Beltway amateurs lost their bids for the Olympic Trials. In the 132-pound division, Kevin Rivers, Jr. of Landover, MD lost by disqualification in the third round to 2008 Olympian Raynell Williams of Cleveland, OH. Laurel, MD's Demond Nicholson lost in the 165-pound semifinal to Kenton Sippio-Cook of Round Rock, TX by a 46-32 decision.

Thursday, July 07, 2011

Rivers, Ryals Enter Last Chance Finals; Nicholson Moves Into Semifinals!

Two Beltway amateurs have moved into the final round of the Last Chance Qualifier tournament while another goes into the semis of a loaded bracket.

Landover, MD's Kevin Rivers, Jr. advanced to the championship of the 132-pound bracket via disqualification over Lavias Williams of Rochester, NY. Rivers, the national champion in 2009, will now face 2008 Olympian Raynell Williams of Cleveland, OH in what should be one of the marquee bouts of the final night. Williams moved into the final with a 37-14 win over Baltimore's Glen Dezurn.

Shaborn Ryals of Capitol Heights, MD will compete in the finals of the 178-pound division. Ryals advanced with a 22-14 decision over Malcolm Jones of Indianapolis, IN. Ryals will now face 2009 National champ Robert Brant of Oakdale, MN for the chance to go to the Olympic Trials.

Demond Nicholson of Laurel, MD moved into the semifinals of the 165-pound bracket with a 13-11 victory over Kenneth McNeil of Birmingham, AL. Nicholson will now take on Kenton Sippio-Cook of Round Rock, TX in the semis.

Lawrence Singh of Riverdale, MD lost his 108-pound semi-final via a 28-12 decision to Erros Correa of San Jose, CA. David Grayton of DC fell in his 152-pound quarterfinal bout to Patrick Day of Freeport, NY, 20-11.

Thompson May Face Chambers in IBF Heavyweight Eliminator!

There is talk that DC heavyweight contender Tony "The Tiger" Thompson will be facing "Fast" Eddie Chambers of Philadelphia, PA in an IBF Heavyweight elimination bout sometime in August.

Most folks in the boxing world would probably frown on this situation because the winner would, of course, get Wladimir Klitschko -- who has fought and stopped both men in previous bouts. Thompson in the 11th round in 2008 and Chambers brutally in the 12th round in 2009.

From the Thompson standpoint, this might be an interesting situation for two reasons:

1. Thompson held his own with Klitschko during the early stages of the bout and many people (myself included) believe that only a torn meniscus kept Thompson from making that bout very competitive.

2. Since that bout, Thompson has sparred with both Klitschkos and probably picked up some extra tips.

As far as the actual bout between Thompson (36-2, 24 KO's) and Chambers (36-2, 18 KO's). Thompson has won five straight bouts by knockout since the loss to Klitschko, including a third-round stoppage of Maurice Harris on May 27 in Reno, NV. Chambers, however, has only fought once since his loss to Klitschko and that was a 12-round unanimous decision loss to Derric Rossy on February 11 in Atlantic City, NJ.

If this bout is finalized, we will let you know.

Post Profiles 'Mayhem' Mitchell!

The Washington Post has a nice profile on "America's Number One Heavyweight Prospect," undefeated Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell of Brandywine, MD. Shemar Woods talks to the former Gwynn Park High School football All-Met as he prepares for his HBO bout on Saturday, August 27.

Here's the link:

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Wednesday, July 06, 2011

'Cujo' Sigmon Preparing for 'Irish Ghost' Fitzpatrick July 16!

There is an interesting article by Pattie Mak who writes for my buddy Michael Amakor's Fightkings.com website. The article is an interview with Bedford, VA super middleweight Scott "Cujo" Sigmon who is preparing for his July 16th 10-round contest against the undefeated "Irish Ghost" Chris Fitzpatrick of Columbia, SC at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC.

The article speaks for itself so here's the link:

"http://www.fightkings.com/boxing/featured-article/interview-with-super-middleweight-scott-%E2%80%9Ccujo%E2%80%9D-sigmon-16-2-0-8-kos/">


UPDATE: Both Sigmon and Fitzpatrick will be Michael Amakor's guests on Fightkings radio on Sunday, July 10 at 4 PM ET. Go to www.fightkings.com for more details.

Six Beltway Amateurs Move Into Last-Chance Semis During Afternoon Session!

Great session for Beltway amateurs at the Last-Chance Qualifier Tournament in Cincinnati, OH. Nine competed today, with six advancing to the semifinals.

The first bout for 108-pounder Lawrence Singh of Riverdale, MD was a quick one as he scored an RSC-1 over Jeremy Morales of Norfolk, VA.

The two remaining local 132-pounders both advanced as Kevin Rivers of Landover, MD won a 21-8 decision over Ryan Martin of Chattanooga, TN and Baltimore's Glen Dezurn decisioned Albert Bell of Toledo, OH, 15-8.

David Grayton of DC moved into the final four of the 152-pound bracket with a 14-10 decision over Shakor Jackson of Newark, NJ. Laurel, MD's Demond Nicholson is in the semis of the 165-pound bracket, winning an 18-16 decision over Russell Lamour, Jr. of Portland, ME.

Shaborn Ryals of Capitol Heights, MD moved into the semis of the 178-pound division winning a 20-7 decision over David McGordon of Indianapolis, IN.

The ones who did not move into the semis were Patrick Harris of Capitol Heights, MD did not advance to the semis, falling in the quarterfinals of the 123-pound bracket to Issac Torres of Mission, TX, 20-17. Also, both 201+ pounders fell in the quarters -- Danny Kelly of DC lost a 28-20 decision to Shawn Seymore of Cincinnati while Hasim Rahman, Jr. lost to Trevor Bryan, Jr. of Albany, NY, 26-20.

Beltway Amateurs Move Into Last-Chance Quarterfinals!

Nine Beltway Boxers remain heading into the Last Chance Qualifier tournament quarterfinals at the Taft Center in Cincinnati, OH after the second day of competition.

Two of the four remaining locals in the 132-pound division moved into the quarters --Kevin Rivers, Jr. of Landover, MD won a 34-9 decision over David Craddock of Columbus, OH while Baltimore's Glen Dezurn defeated Cincinnati's Mikal Jones, 19-16.

However, Antonio Magruder of Suitland, MD lost to Raynell Williams of Cleveland, 34-29 and Joshua Davis of Catonsville, MD lost by walkover to Albert Bell of Toledo, OH.

In the 165-pound division, Demond Nicholson of Laurel, MD won a close 20-20 (102-94) verdict over Jamey Swanson of Las Vegas, NV. Reginald Lucas of Baltimore lost his second-round contest to Quantavious Cash of Atlanta, GA, 19-16.

At 178 pounds, Shaborn Ryals of Capitol Heights, MD advanced with a 23-9 decision over Ken Johnson of Illinois. Sean Dews of Landover lost his bid to advance as he suffered an RSC-2 against Malcolm Jones of Indianapolis, IN.

In the 201+ pound bracket, Danny Kelly of DC scored an RSC-2 over Emin Perry of Tampa, FL while Hasim Rahman, Jr. also moved into the quarterfinals with a close 14-14 (85-78) decision over Owen Minor of Worcester, MA.

During yesterday's morning session, Patrick Harris of Capitol Heights, MD won a 27-23 decision over Kiun Evans of Little Rock, AK in the 123-pound bracket while Baltimore's Corry Perkins lost in the 141-pound division by a 22-8 decision to Tevin Alieu of Providence, RI.

And in the all-Beltway bout at 152-pounds, David Grayton of DC defeated Kevin Ottley of Salisbury, MD, 28-5.

Lawrence Singh of Riverdale, MD begins his quest to enter the US Olympic Trials today as action in the 108-pound bracket gets underway. There are just eight competitors in the 108-pound division.

Monday, July 04, 2011

Eight Beltway Amateurs Advance in Last Chance Qualifier!

During the first day of competition in the Last Chance Qualifier tournament at the Taft Center in Cincinnati, OH, eight locals advance to the next round while four saw their Olympic dreams go by the wayside.

Six of the 23 Beltway amateurs who are in Cincinnati this week are competing in the 132-pound division and during the evening session tonight, four of those boxers moved into the second round. Antonio Magruder of Suitland, MD won a 20-9 decision over Meduardo Zurita, Jr. of Beaverton, OR. Glen Dezurn of Baltimore won by RSC-2 over Charles Williams of Petersburg, VA. Catonsville, MD's Joshua Davis defeated Edwin White of Riverdale, GA, 29-19 while Kevin Rivers, Jr. of Landover, MD won a 14-11 decision over Tyrome Jones of South Bend, IN.

DC's Jonathan Baxter lost by walkover to Mikal Jones of Cincinnati while Baltimore's Roger Blackburn dropped a 29-9 decision to Lavias Williams of Rochester, NY.

Also during the evening session, Shaborn Ryals of Capitol Heights, MD moved into the second round of the 178-pound bracket with a 24-10 decision over Joseph Merrill of Jacksonville Beach, FL. Hasim Rahman, Jr. of Las Vegas by way of Baltimore, advanced in the 201+ bracket with a 33-21 decision over Danny Calhoun of Cincinnati while Acokeek, MD 165-pounder Jarrett Hurd lost in the first round of the 165-pound bracket via a close 8-7 decision to Austin Omeben of Stuart, FL.

Today's afternoon session saw two of our three 123-pounders get eliminated. Gary Antonio Russell of Capitol Heights lost a close, 24-22 decision to Julian Ramirez of Los Angeles, CA while Shadeed Floyd of DC fell to Julien Wyant of Ellenwood, GA, 19-13. This leaves just Patrick Harris of Maryland in this division. Harris received a bye into the second round and will face Kiun Evans of Little Rock, AK in the second round. Evans won his bout by walkover.

Corry Perkins of Baltimore advanced into the second-round of the 141-pound bracket with a 24-14 decision over George Borges of Newark, NJ.

Also, 2010 National Golden Gloves champion David Grayton of DC won his first-round contest in the 152-pound bracket defeating Cristino Ceballo of Brooklyn, NY, 28-21. Grayton will face Salisbury, MD's Kevin Ottley in the second-round.

Last-Chance Qualifying Begins Today in Cincinnati, OH!

The Last-Chance Qualifier tournament for the US Olympic Trials begins today in Cincinnati, OH. Here are the Beltway Boxers and their matchups for the first day of competition:

123 Pounds: Shadeed Floyd , Washington, DC vs. Julian Wyant, Ellenwood, GA

123 Pounds: Gary Antonio Russell, Capitol Heights, MD vs. Julian Ramirez, Alhambra, CA

141 Pounds: Corry Perkins, Baltimore, MD vs. George Borges, Newark, NJ

152 Pounds: David Grayton, Washington, DC vs. Cristino Ceballo, Brooklyn, NY. Should Grayton win this bout, he would face Salibury, MD's Kevin Ottley in the second round. Ottley received a first-round bye.


Here's an updated list of the rest of the Beltway Boxers participating in this tournament:

108 Pounds: Lawrence Singh

123 Pounds: Patrick Harris (received first-round bye)

132 Pounds: Antonio Magruder, Jonathan Baxter, Glen Dezurn, Joshua Davis, Roger Blackburn, Kevin Rivers, Jr.

165 Pounds: Demond Nicholson (received first-round bye), Sulleman Harrington, Reginald Lucas, Jarrett Hurd

178 Pounds: Shaborn Ryals, Sean Dews (received first-round bye)

201 Pounds: Bryan Townsel (received first-round bye)

201+ Pounds: Jerrell Reeves, Danny Kelly, Hasim Rahman, Jr.

Saturday, July 02, 2011

Video of Dusty Harrison's Pro Debut!

I received this link of the pro debut of DC's Dusty Harrison at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southhaven, MS on June 11.

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Sims Loses Six-Round Unanimous Decision in Pennsylvania!

Baltimore middleweight Omar "The Machine" Sims lost a six-round unanimous decision to undefeated Philadelphia boxer Rashad Brown last night at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA. Sims was dropped once in the second round but managed to make it to the six-round distance.

Judges Dave Greer, Jack Castellani and Steve Weisfeld scored the bout a shutout at 60-53. Sims is now 5-4-3, three KO's. Brown remains unblemished with a record of 5-0, two KO's.

DC Boxer Stevenson Subject of Local Documentary!

There is a nice, short documentary called "One Punch At A Time" that is on YouTube. The film, by Lawrence Dortch, chronicles local 132-pound amateur Asia Stevenson as she bids to make the first Women's US Olympic team. The film follows Stevenson as she heads to the regionals in Hampton, VA.

Here it is in its entirety:

Friday, July 01, 2011

Russell, Jr., Mitchell Possibly On HBO Telecasts During Summer!

ESPN.com's Dan Rafael is reporting that the 2010 BATB Co-Prospects of the Year -- "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. and Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell will be opening HBO Boxing telecasts in July and August.

Russell, an undefeated featherweight (16-0, 10 KO's)from Capitol Heights, MD is slated to be the opening bout on the telecast of the Saturday, July 23 card at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. That card is headlined by the Amir Khan - Zab Judah unification junior welterweight title bout.

Meanwhile, Mitchell, the undefeated heavyweight from Brandywine, MD who is regarded by many as the top American heavyweight prospect (22-0-1, 16 KO's), is being penciled in to open the Saturday, August 27 telecast from the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA. That card has the title bout between Marcos Maidana and Robert Guerrero as its main event.

Golden Boy Promotions -- who are involved in both cards -- is going over possible opponents for both Beltway Boxers with HBO executives. There has been preliminary talk about Chazz Witherspoon as a possible opponent for Mitchell.

UPDATE: BATB has learned that Mitchell's opponent in a 10-round bout will be Mike Mollo of Oak Lawn, IL (20-3-1, 12 KO's).

Beltway Boxers Begin Busy Time in July!

There is a lot slated to take place for the Beltway Boxing scene as we head into July. A number of boxers are scheduled for bouts around the country and we have two scheduled amateur and two scheduled pro cards in this area.

Here's how things look as of this moment (events scheduled to change without notice):

Friday, July 1 -- Omar Sims vs. Rashad Brown at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA.

Saturday, July 2 -- Amateur boxing card at the Ocean City Convention Center, Ocean City, MD.

Monday, July 4-Friday, July 8 -- A number of Beltway amateurs will compete in the Last Chance Qualifier tournament at the Taft Masonic Center in Cincinnati, OH for the 2012 USA Men's Olympic Boxing trials. Among the locals slated to participate: Gary Antonio Russell, Shadeed Floyd, Kevin Rivers, Jr., Glen Dezurn, Demond Nicholson, Shaborn Ryals and Danny Kelly, whom I originally thought had earned a spot for the trials.

Saturday, July 9 -- Brandon Quarles vs. TBA in four-round bout at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, NJ on Paul Williams-Erislandy Lara card. Trainer George Peterson trains both Williams and Quarles.

Saturday, July 9 -- Amateur boxing card at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD.

Saturday, July 16 -- United Boxers pro boxing card at the DC Star Night Club in Washington, DC.

Saturday, July 16 -- Scott Sigmon and George Rivera on card at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC. Sigmon (16-2, eight KO's) will take on undefeated Chris Kirpatrick of Cleveland, OH (13-0, five KO's) in a 10-round main event contest. Rivera (12-6, four KO's) will battle undefeated Lamar Russ of Hartford, CT (7-0, five KO's) in an eight-round co-feature.

Saturday, July 16 -- Lenwood Dozier (6-2-1, two KO's) competes in eight-round contest at the JFK High School in Paterson, NJ. Dozier will take on undefeated Juan Zegarra of North Bergen, NJ (7-0, seven KO's).

Saturday, July 23 -- Bayan Jargal (15-2-3, 10 KO's) competes in bout at the Hunts Point Produce Market (that's what it said) in the Bronx, NY. Jargal will take on undefeated Issouf Kinda of Burkina Faso (10-0, five KO's) in a bout that is listed on Boxrec as being for the vacant New York State Junior Welterweight title.

Friday, July 29 -- Lamont Peterson vs. Victor Cayo in IBF Junior Welterweight eliminator bout from the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. ESPN2 televises.

Saturday, July 30 -- Boxing Along The Beltway celebrates six-year anniversary.

Saturday, July 30 -- Dusty Harrison scheduled to participate in four-round bout while Maurice Byarm will be in a six-round contest at the Fitzgerald Hotel and Casino in Tunica, MS.

July 31-August 6 -- Beltway amateurs compete in USA Olympic Trials in Mobile, AL.

Sims Weighs In For Bethlehem Bout!

Baltimore middleweight Omar "The Machine" Sims (5-3-3) tipped the scales at 166 pounds for his scheduled six-round encounter with undefeated Rashad Brown of Philadelphia (4-0, two KO's) tonight at the Sands Casino in Bethlehem, PA.
Brown weighed in at 164 1/4.