Boxing returns to the Coppermine Du Burns Arena in Baltimore, MD on Saturday, November 12. This will be a Shawstyle Promotions/Shabazz Brothers card.
Headlining the card will be Baltimore, MD light heavyweight Travis "Seveer" Reeves who will be competing for the vacant IBO Light Heavyweight title against an opponent to be determined. Reeves (12-2-2, six KO's) has been on a roll as of late, winning nine in a row, his last three by knockout. In his last outing, Reeves stopped Larry Pryor in the eighth round to win the Maryland State Cruiserweight title on May 14 in Timonium, MD.
In bouts already signed for this card, there will be an all-Maryland, four-round light heavyweight contest matching Germantown's Eric Govan and Baltimore's Devin Butcher. Govan (5-1, three KO's) is riding a three-bout winning streak that includes a fourth-round TKO over Travis Davidson on February 6 in Salem, VA. Butcher (5-1, three KO's) will look to bounce back from his first pro loss-- a six-round split decision defeat to Taneal Goyco on the May 14 Timonium card.
Owings Mills, MD heavyweight Colby Madison returns to action in a four-round contest against Solomon Maye of New Haven, CT. Madison (3-0, two KO's) is coming off a first-round TKO over Bryson Haubrick on August 19 in Crystal City, VA. Maye (3-6-2, three KO's) has won his last two contests including a second-round TKO victory over Mike Barrase on October 8 in Scranton, PA. On April 29, Maye lost a four-round split decision to Luther Smith in Atlantic City, NJ.
Baltimore, MD super middleweight Stephon "The Surgeon" Morris will face the debuting Gregory Clark of Washington, DC in a four-rounder. Morris (3-0, three KO's) last fought on June 11 and scored a first-round TKO over David Rohn in Springfield, VA. Clark is a former DC Novice Golden Gloves Champion, winning the 165-pound title in 2013.
Columbia, MD cruiserweight Kwame "Rambo Time" Ritter will be in a four-round contest against Marcus Key of Newport News, VA. Ritter is coming off a first-round TKO over Nathaniel Edge on July 16 in Norfolk, VA. Key (1-3, one KO) lost a four-round unanimous decision to Margarito Espinoza on September 18 in Austin, TX.
There will also be a battle of debuting middleweights as Taylor Paige of Las Vegas, NV takes on Ismael Austin of Belle Glade, FL.
Other Beltway Boxers slated to be on this card are super lightweight Eric "El Torito" Hernandez (8-0, five KO's, Leesburg, VA), super featherweight Glenn Dezurn (7-0, five KO's, Baltimore, MD), middleweight Jeffrey "Gladiator" McCalla (3-0, three KO's, Randallstown, MD), welterweight Matthew Abregu (3-0, three KO's, Washington, DC), super middleweight Sharif "C3" Rahman (1-0, one KO, Baltimore/Las Vegas), super featherweight Mack Allison, IV (6-0, six KO's, Baltimore) and featherweight Marq "Monster" Johns (7-1-1, six KO's, Fort Washington, MD).
Monday, October 31, 2016
Saturday, October 29, 2016
Late Results From Winchester And Raleigh!
Apologies for the tardiness in these results. We just received full (or close to full) details on these bouts. Our thanks to Boxrec.com for posting these results for us to get information from.
On October 22 at the Body Renew Fitness in Winchester, VA, there was an upset in the main event of the Left Hook Promotions card. Somner "Magic Man" Martin of Martinsville, VA scored a fifth-round TKO over Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer of Front Royal, VA. There, reportedly, was some controversy surrounding the bout. Some fans said that Farmer hurt his ankle and took a knee because of the pain. The Martin camp claims Martin's punch sent Farmer to one knee and he was counted out.
The bout ended at 2:55 of the fifth. Martin's victory breaks a two-bout losing streak as Martin lost previous bouts to Mykal Fox and Kareem Martin prior to this win. Martin's record is 6-3, four KO's. Farmer's record drops to 19-4, seven KO's.
Baltimore, MD welterweight Joey "Bazooka Joe" Veazey made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Alberto Delgado of Roanoke, VA. Delgado falls to 0-1-1.
In another minor upset, Front Royal cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy lost a four-round decision to Damion Reed of Danville, VA. Roy has now lost two straight and his record falls to 8-4-2, seven KO's. Reed is now 3-14-1, one KO.
Also, former Beltway amateur standout Joe Jones III scored a first-round TKO over Borngod Washington of Queens, NY. Jones, who now fights out of Jersey City, NJ, stopped Washington in 1:18. Jones is now 8-0, six KO's.
Other results from the card: Matthew "Boogieman" Bowling (3-0, three KO's, Fort Valley, VA) TKO 1 over Nathan "The Heat" Petty (1-32-1, Louisville, KY). Bout was stopped at 1:16.
Craig Callan (2-1, two KO's, VA) TKO 1 over Brian Otey (0-6, Lansing, MI). Bout stopped at 1:15.
Damani Rock (5-0, four KO's, Philadelphia, PA) TKO 3 over John Orr (1-9, Kansas City, MO). Time of the stoppage: 2:03.
Joe Cusumano (10-1, eight KO's, Richmond, VA) TKO 1 over Jason "The Mason" Pauley (5-21, one KO, Cabin Creek, WVA) Bout stopped at 2:04.
Jairo Fernandez Vargas (6-1, five KO's, Mechanicsville, VA) TKO 1 over Tony Wilson (0-1) Bout stopped at 2:14.
Meanwhile at the Abundant Life Christian Center in Raleigh, NC on October 22, Baltimore, MD super lightweight Mack Allison, IV stopped the debuting Terrence Moore of Wilson, NC in the second round. The knockout came at 53 seconds of the second round. Allison has already competed six times in his rookie year and is now 6-0, six KO's.
On October 22 at the Body Renew Fitness in Winchester, VA, there was an upset in the main event of the Left Hook Promotions card. Somner "Magic Man" Martin of Martinsville, VA scored a fifth-round TKO over Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer of Front Royal, VA. There, reportedly, was some controversy surrounding the bout. Some fans said that Farmer hurt his ankle and took a knee because of the pain. The Martin camp claims Martin's punch sent Farmer to one knee and he was counted out.
The bout ended at 2:55 of the fifth. Martin's victory breaks a two-bout losing streak as Martin lost previous bouts to Mykal Fox and Kareem Martin prior to this win. Martin's record is 6-3, four KO's. Farmer's record drops to 19-4, seven KO's.
Baltimore, MD welterweight Joey "Bazooka Joe" Veazey made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Alberto Delgado of Roanoke, VA. Delgado falls to 0-1-1.
In another minor upset, Front Royal cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy lost a four-round decision to Damion Reed of Danville, VA. Roy has now lost two straight and his record falls to 8-4-2, seven KO's. Reed is now 3-14-1, one KO.
Also, former Beltway amateur standout Joe Jones III scored a first-round TKO over Borngod Washington of Queens, NY. Jones, who now fights out of Jersey City, NJ, stopped Washington in 1:18. Jones is now 8-0, six KO's.
Other results from the card: Matthew "Boogieman" Bowling (3-0, three KO's, Fort Valley, VA) TKO 1 over Nathan "The Heat" Petty (1-32-1, Louisville, KY). Bout was stopped at 1:16.
Craig Callan (2-1, two KO's, VA) TKO 1 over Brian Otey (0-6, Lansing, MI). Bout stopped at 1:15.
Damani Rock (5-0, four KO's, Philadelphia, PA) TKO 3 over John Orr (1-9, Kansas City, MO). Time of the stoppage: 2:03.
Joe Cusumano (10-1, eight KO's, Richmond, VA) TKO 1 over Jason "The Mason" Pauley (5-21, one KO, Cabin Creek, WVA) Bout stopped at 2:04.
Jairo Fernandez Vargas (6-1, five KO's, Mechanicsville, VA) TKO 1 over Tony Wilson (0-1) Bout stopped at 2:14.
Meanwhile at the Abundant Life Christian Center in Raleigh, NC on October 22, Baltimore, MD super lightweight Mack Allison, IV stopped the debuting Terrence Moore of Wilson, NC in the second round. The knockout came at 53 seconds of the second round. Allison has already competed six times in his rookie year and is now 6-0, six KO's.
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
Fox-Rodriguez Headlines November 5 Card At Rosecroft!
An all-Beltway super lightweight contest is the featured attraction on the Kings Promotions card that will be held on Saturday, November 5 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD.
Undefeated Kings Promotions signee Mykal "The Professor" Fox of Forestville, MD will battle Haymarket, VA's Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez in an eight-round contest. Fox (11-0, three KO's) is coming off a third-round TKO over Somner Martin on August 19 in Crystal City, VA. Rodriguez (6-5-1, five KO's) has lost three in a row including a six-round unanimous decision loss to Anthony Young on April 29 in Atlantic City, NJ.
The co-feature will be a six-round cruiserweight contest between Bowie, MD's Luther "Lights Out" Smith and undefeated Mike Marshall of the Bronx, NY. Smith (5-1, four KO's) drops down from the heavyweight division for the first time after his second-round TKO loss to Mike Balogun on the August 19th card in Crystal City. Marshall (3-0, three KO's) takes a step up in competition record-wise as he faces an opponent with a winning record for the first time in his young career.
In another six-round contest, DC super bantamweight Jordan "Shortdog" White will battle Jose Elizondo of San Antonio, TX by way of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. After just three pro bouts, the 19-year-old White (3-0, three KO's) steps into six-rounders for the first time. White is coming off a second-round stoppage of Sergio Aguilar on August 19th in Crystal City. Elizondo (2-1) last fought on August 27 and won a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Keithlan Franklin on August 27 in Lafayette, LA. This will also be Elizondo's first scheduled six-round contest.
Another Kings Promotions signee -- Marcus "Dreamcatcher" Bates of Washington, DC will be in a six-round super bantamweight contest against Francisco "Cisco" Muro of Tucson, AZ. Bates (4-0-1, four KO's) makes his fourth appearance at Rosecroft Raceway after his first-round knockout of Daniel Hernandez in his last outing on August 19 in Crystal City. Muro (3-4, one KO) will try to bounce back from his four-round unanimous decision loss to Antonio Santa Cruz on September 13 in Nice, CA.
Rookie Edgewood, MD middleweight Patrick Rivera will face Hakeem Atkinson of Atlanta, GA in a four-round encounter. Rivera (1-0, one KO) made his pro debut on the August 19th Crystal City card and scored a fourth-round TKO over Dustin Caplinger. Atkinson (2-5, one KO) will be trying to break a four-bout losing streak.
Two locals will make pro debuts on this card. Bowie, MD super lightweight Greg "The Money Man" Outlaw, Jr. will take on Lamont White of Waldorf, MD. Outlaw was a multi-time Golden Gloves champion on the junior, novice and regional open level, starting at 106 pounds. White (0-4) last fought on September 16 and lost a four-round unanimous decision to Adrian Sosa in Lincoln, RI.
Also, the card will mark the debut of Accokeek, MD super welterweight "Slick" Justin Hurd, the younger brother of world-rated super welterweight Jarrett Hurd. Justin Hurd will face off against Hector Mercado of Veracruz, Mexico in another four-rounder. Hurd won a Junior Golden Gloves title in 2012 and competed in the Open division in 2016. Mercado (2-8) will try to recover from losing a four-round unanimous decision to Hector Reyes on September 24 in Pharr, TX.
Also on the card, undefeated St. Louis, MO super lightweight Kent Cruz will take on fellow undefeated boxer Darius "I Am King" Ervin of Los Angeles, CA in a six-round contest. Cruz (11-0, six KO's) won an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Rickey Edwards on September 3 in San Antonio, TX. Ervin (3-0) won a four-round majority decision over Diego Padilla on August 8 in Indio, CA.
Undefeated Kings Promotions signee Mykal "The Professor" Fox of Forestville, MD will battle Haymarket, VA's Juan "The Savior" Rodriguez in an eight-round contest. Fox (11-0, three KO's) is coming off a third-round TKO over Somner Martin on August 19 in Crystal City, VA. Rodriguez (6-5-1, five KO's) has lost three in a row including a six-round unanimous decision loss to Anthony Young on April 29 in Atlantic City, NJ.
The co-feature will be a six-round cruiserweight contest between Bowie, MD's Luther "Lights Out" Smith and undefeated Mike Marshall of the Bronx, NY. Smith (5-1, four KO's) drops down from the heavyweight division for the first time after his second-round TKO loss to Mike Balogun on the August 19th card in Crystal City. Marshall (3-0, three KO's) takes a step up in competition record-wise as he faces an opponent with a winning record for the first time in his young career.
In another six-round contest, DC super bantamweight Jordan "Shortdog" White will battle Jose Elizondo of San Antonio, TX by way of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. After just three pro bouts, the 19-year-old White (3-0, three KO's) steps into six-rounders for the first time. White is coming off a second-round stoppage of Sergio Aguilar on August 19th in Crystal City. Elizondo (2-1) last fought on August 27 and won a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Keithlan Franklin on August 27 in Lafayette, LA. This will also be Elizondo's first scheduled six-round contest.
Another Kings Promotions signee -- Marcus "Dreamcatcher" Bates of Washington, DC will be in a six-round super bantamweight contest against Francisco "Cisco" Muro of Tucson, AZ. Bates (4-0-1, four KO's) makes his fourth appearance at Rosecroft Raceway after his first-round knockout of Daniel Hernandez in his last outing on August 19 in Crystal City. Muro (3-4, one KO) will try to bounce back from his four-round unanimous decision loss to Antonio Santa Cruz on September 13 in Nice, CA.
Rookie Edgewood, MD middleweight Patrick Rivera will face Hakeem Atkinson of Atlanta, GA in a four-round encounter. Rivera (1-0, one KO) made his pro debut on the August 19th Crystal City card and scored a fourth-round TKO over Dustin Caplinger. Atkinson (2-5, one KO) will be trying to break a four-bout losing streak.
Two locals will make pro debuts on this card. Bowie, MD super lightweight Greg "The Money Man" Outlaw, Jr. will take on Lamont White of Waldorf, MD. Outlaw was a multi-time Golden Gloves champion on the junior, novice and regional open level, starting at 106 pounds. White (0-4) last fought on September 16 and lost a four-round unanimous decision to Adrian Sosa in Lincoln, RI.
Also, the card will mark the debut of Accokeek, MD super welterweight "Slick" Justin Hurd, the younger brother of world-rated super welterweight Jarrett Hurd. Justin Hurd will face off against Hector Mercado of Veracruz, Mexico in another four-rounder. Hurd won a Junior Golden Gloves title in 2012 and competed in the Open division in 2016. Mercado (2-8) will try to recover from losing a four-round unanimous decision to Hector Reyes on September 24 in Pharr, TX.
Also on the card, undefeated St. Louis, MO super lightweight Kent Cruz will take on fellow undefeated boxer Darius "I Am King" Ervin of Los Angeles, CA in a six-round contest. Cruz (11-0, six KO's) won an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Rickey Edwards on September 3 in San Antonio, TX. Ervin (3-0) won a four-round majority decision over Diego Padilla on August 8 in Indio, CA.
Saturday, October 22, 2016
Ballard Scores Dominant Second-Round TKO In Montreal!
Temple Hills, MD super middleweight D'Mitrius "Big Meech" Ballard scored a dominant second-round TKO over an overwhelmed Geuro Horvath of Budapest, Hungary tonight at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada.
Ballard landed solid body shots in the first round of the bout and those blows led to an impressive second round where he knocked down Horvath three times. Ballard landed a right to the head, left to the body to drop Horvath down early in the second and then used a body shot and a straight right hand to the head to send Horvath to the canvas two more times before the bout was stopped at 1:20.
Ballard has knocked out his last four opponents and remains undefeated with a record of 15-0, 11 KO's. Horvath falls to 9-2-1, five KO's.
Ballard landed solid body shots in the first round of the bout and those blows led to an impressive second round where he knocked down Horvath three times. Ballard landed a right to the head, left to the body to drop Horvath down early in the second and then used a body shot and a straight right hand to the head to send Horvath to the canvas two more times before the bout was stopped at 1:20.
Ballard has knocked out his last four opponents and remains undefeated with a record of 15-0, 11 KO's. Horvath falls to 9-2-1, five KO's.
Weights From Winchester!
We gave you the weights for Joey Veazey's bout at Body Renew Fitness in Winchester, VA. Here is the scale watch for the rest of the Left Hook Promotions card:
Andrew Farmer 152 vs. Somner Martin 148
Darmani Rock 244 vs. John Orr 331
Terry Roy 200 1/2 vs. Damian Reed 214
Joe Jones 192 vs. Borngod Washington 187
Matthew Bowling 137 vs. Nathan Petty 138 1/2
Jairo Vargas 134 vs. Tony Wilson 142
Joseph Cusmano 231 vs. Jason Pauley (will weigh in later today)
Craig Callen 143 1/2 vs. Brian Otey (will weigh in later today)
Andrew Farmer 152 vs. Somner Martin 148
Darmani Rock 244 vs. John Orr 331
Terry Roy 200 1/2 vs. Damian Reed 214
Joe Jones 192 vs. Borngod Washington 187
Matthew Bowling 137 vs. Nathan Petty 138 1/2
Jairo Vargas 134 vs. Tony Wilson 142
Joseph Cusmano 231 vs. Jason Pauley (will weigh in later today)
Craig Callen 143 1/2 vs. Brian Otey (will weigh in later today)
Ballard Tips Scales In Montreal; Veazey Weighs In Winchester!
D'Mitrius Ballard weighed in at 169 pounds for his eight-round contest against Geuro Horvath tonight at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Horvath tipped the scales at 166 pounds.
Ballard (14-0, 10 KO's) is coming off a first-round knockout of Ernesto Berrospe on June 11 in Salt Lake City, UT. Horvath (9-1-1, five KO's) is a native of Budapest, Hungary who last fought on September 28 and knocked out the debuting Szabolcs Fenyvesi in Budapest.
In Winchester, VA, Joey Veazey weighed 150 pounds for his pro debut Saturday at Body Renew Fitness. Veazey's opponent, Alberto Delgado, tipped the scales at 152 pounds.
Ballard (14-0, 10 KO's) is coming off a first-round knockout of Ernesto Berrospe on June 11 in Salt Lake City, UT. Horvath (9-1-1, five KO's) is a native of Budapest, Hungary who last fought on September 28 and knocked out the debuting Szabolcs Fenyvesi in Budapest.
In Winchester, VA, Joey Veazey weighed 150 pounds for his pro debut Saturday at Body Renew Fitness. Veazey's opponent, Alberto Delgado, tipped the scales at 152 pounds.
Friday, October 21, 2016
Beltway Boxers Are Successful In Charlotte!
Two Beltway Boxers were victorious on a card at the Grady Cole Center in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, October 19.
Greenbelt, MD cruiserweight "The Vanilla Gorilla" Sam Crossed made his first road trip a successful one with a second-round TKO over Michael Tillery of Wilson, NC. The bout was stopped at 1:22. Crossed remains undefeated at 5-0, three KO's.
Also, Frederick, MD cruiserweight Larry "Hitman" Pryor broke a five-bout losing streak with a six-round unanimous decision over veteran Berry "Killer Bee" Butler of Greenville, SC. Pryor won by scores of 59-54 and 58-55 (twice). Pryor is now 10-14, five KO's. Butler, who has fought numerous Beltway Boxers throughout his career including Beethavean Scotland, Jake Smith and Courtney Butler, is now 25-14-1, 20 KO's.
Greenbelt, MD cruiserweight "The Vanilla Gorilla" Sam Crossed made his first road trip a successful one with a second-round TKO over Michael Tillery of Wilson, NC. The bout was stopped at 1:22. Crossed remains undefeated at 5-0, three KO's.
Also, Frederick, MD cruiserweight Larry "Hitman" Pryor broke a five-bout losing streak with a six-round unanimous decision over veteran Berry "Killer Bee" Butler of Greenville, SC. Pryor won by scores of 59-54 and 58-55 (twice). Pryor is now 10-14, five KO's. Butler, who has fought numerous Beltway Boxers throughout his career including Beethavean Scotland, Jake Smith and Courtney Butler, is now 25-14-1, 20 KO's.
Balogun Scores First-Round Knockout In Special DC Card!
Upper Marlboro, MD heavyweight Mike "Silverback" Balogun remained undefeated with a first-round knockout over Branden "The Iron Lion" Hinkle Thursday night at a card at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, DC. This was the annual Alarm.com card that is closed to the media and to fans.
With the win, Balogun raised his record to 9-0, eight KO's. Hinkle loses for the second straight time and he is now 6-2, five KO's. Balogun was the only Beltway Boxer on the card.
With the win, Balogun raised his record to 9-0, eight KO's. Hinkle loses for the second straight time and he is now 6-2, five KO's. Balogun was the only Beltway Boxer on the card.
Thursday, October 20, 2016
Celebrating 20 Years Of...What Might Have Been!
This week, BATB celebrates a somewhat bittersweet anniversary. One that would have been a grand anniversary if the event actually accomplished what it was intended to.
Twenty years ago, on October 19, 1996, a major card took place at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD that was supposed to lead to an eventual unification in the middleweight division. The card had a double main event that was televised nationally by Showtime as both Beltway Middleweight champions -- WBA titleholder William Joppy and WBC kingpin Keith Holmes -- made the first defenses of their titles that they won earlier in the year. Joppy would face Ray McElroy of Long Beach, CA while Holmes took on undefeated Richie Woodhall of the United Kingdom.
The undercard would feature two future world champions,one former world titleholder and a two-time world title contender. Sharmba Mitchell was two years away from winning the WBA Super Lightweight title and DeMarcus Corley participated in just the fifth fight of his career that would eventually lead him to the WBO Super Lightweight championship in 2000. Also, former IBF Super Welterweight champion Paul Vaden was on the card. Vaden won the title from Vincent Pettway in August of 1995 but would drop the belt to Terry Norris four months later. The world title contender was Andrew Council who would eventually challenge Holmes and Bernard Hopkins for middleweight championships.
The focus, however, was on Joppy and Holmes as the Don King-promoted card was put together to showcase the two future Beltway legends and gain momentum towards a unification bout in 1997. In fact, during the week, there was as much talk about their days as sparring partners as there was about their opponents.
Everything worked according to plan in the ring for the Beltway contingent. Joppy would score a seventh-round TKO over McElroy. Holmes would have a little tougher time but would eventually stop Woodhall in the 12th. Council knocked out fellow Beltway Boxer Allen Watts in the first round. Corley won a four-round decision over Antonio Pressley. Also, Vaden who was from San Diego, CA won a 10-round unanimous decision over Bernice Barber. So, everything was in alignment for a big unification bout between our two Beltway champions that would set the local boxing scene on its ear.
So, what happened? Where did it all go wrong? Well, initially, money reported played an issue as the two camps could not agree. Both Holmes and Joppy would lose and regain their titles. The talk started a second time but money once again was a problem. Joppy was in a car accident in 1998 but would comeback strong and hold on to his title.
The last opportunity came in 2001 as both Holmes and Joppy joined Hopkins and Felix Trinidad in Don King's Middleweight Championship Series. King promised that, win or lose, the two Beltway legends would face each other during the series. Holmes would lose a 12-round unanimous decision to Hopkins in April and Joppy would be knocked out by Trinidad in the fifth round in May. Hopkins met Trinidad in late September but, for whatever reason, Holmes and Joppy did not meet in the co-feature.
One personal note: This was my first time covering a card alongside a large contingent of the British boxing press who were there to cover Woodhall, who was an undefeated rising star. I got to meet legendary writers like Graham Houston and Colin Hart. They were fired up about Woodhall but, after the card was over, Carl and Deborah King, who were holding down the fort for their father, got the press almost incensed about another King Promotions boxer, Tom Johnson and a possible bout against future world champion Naseem Hamed. The post-fight press conference was almost as interesting as the card itself.
Both Joppy and Holmes, have gone on to be successful in their post-boxing lives. However, every now and then, the urge hits them. I'll just leave it at that.
Twenty years ago, on October 19, 1996, a major card took place at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD that was supposed to lead to an eventual unification in the middleweight division. The card had a double main event that was televised nationally by Showtime as both Beltway Middleweight champions -- WBA titleholder William Joppy and WBC kingpin Keith Holmes -- made the first defenses of their titles that they won earlier in the year. Joppy would face Ray McElroy of Long Beach, CA while Holmes took on undefeated Richie Woodhall of the United Kingdom.
The undercard would feature two future world champions,one former world titleholder and a two-time world title contender. Sharmba Mitchell was two years away from winning the WBA Super Lightweight title and DeMarcus Corley participated in just the fifth fight of his career that would eventually lead him to the WBO Super Lightweight championship in 2000. Also, former IBF Super Welterweight champion Paul Vaden was on the card. Vaden won the title from Vincent Pettway in August of 1995 but would drop the belt to Terry Norris four months later. The world title contender was Andrew Council who would eventually challenge Holmes and Bernard Hopkins for middleweight championships.
The focus, however, was on Joppy and Holmes as the Don King-promoted card was put together to showcase the two future Beltway legends and gain momentum towards a unification bout in 1997. In fact, during the week, there was as much talk about their days as sparring partners as there was about their opponents.
Everything worked according to plan in the ring for the Beltway contingent. Joppy would score a seventh-round TKO over McElroy. Holmes would have a little tougher time but would eventually stop Woodhall in the 12th. Council knocked out fellow Beltway Boxer Allen Watts in the first round. Corley won a four-round decision over Antonio Pressley. Also, Vaden who was from San Diego, CA won a 10-round unanimous decision over Bernice Barber. So, everything was in alignment for a big unification bout between our two Beltway champions that would set the local boxing scene on its ear.
So, what happened? Where did it all go wrong? Well, initially, money reported played an issue as the two camps could not agree. Both Holmes and Joppy would lose and regain their titles. The talk started a second time but money once again was a problem. Joppy was in a car accident in 1998 but would comeback strong and hold on to his title.
The last opportunity came in 2001 as both Holmes and Joppy joined Hopkins and Felix Trinidad in Don King's Middleweight Championship Series. King promised that, win or lose, the two Beltway legends would face each other during the series. Holmes would lose a 12-round unanimous decision to Hopkins in April and Joppy would be knocked out by Trinidad in the fifth round in May. Hopkins met Trinidad in late September but, for whatever reason, Holmes and Joppy did not meet in the co-feature.
One personal note: This was my first time covering a card alongside a large contingent of the British boxing press who were there to cover Woodhall, who was an undefeated rising star. I got to meet legendary writers like Graham Houston and Colin Hart. They were fired up about Woodhall but, after the card was over, Carl and Deborah King, who were holding down the fort for their father, got the press almost incensed about another King Promotions boxer, Tom Johnson and a possible bout against future world champion Naseem Hamed. The post-fight press conference was almost as interesting as the card itself.
Both Joppy and Holmes, have gone on to be successful in their post-boxing lives. However, every now and then, the urge hits them. I'll just leave it at that.
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
'Bazooka' Joe Veazey To Make Pro Debut October 22 in Winchester!
From giving exhibitions as a small child through 100 amateur fights, 18-year-old Joey "Bazooka" Joe" Veazey of Baltimore, MD has been a fixture in the Beltway for a number of years. On Saturday, October 22, Veazey will take the next step in his boxing career when he makes his professional debut at Body Renew Fitness in Winchester, VA.
Veazey, who graduated with honors from Northeast High School, won a number of local and national Silver Gloves titles throughout his amateur career and now looks to life as a pro boxer.
"It's a dream come true," Veazey said in a press release. "I've been looking forward to this since my first amateur bout. I'm excited to go out there and follow my dream. The amateurs were fun but my dream has always been to go pro and win world titles. I want to become a household name one day so now is the time to get on track."
Veazey will take on Alberto Delgado of Roanoke, VA (0-0-1) who has not fought since earning a draw against Jason Wahr in Lynchburg, VA in April of 2013.
The bout is part of the Left Hook Promotions card that is scheduled to feature Front Royal, VA welterweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer (19-3, seven KO's)
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
'Rock' Simms, Legendary Beltway Trainer Passes!
You may have heard by now that legendary Beltway trainer Marvin "Rock" Simms passed away on October 11th. Simms trained numerous boxers in the area including former world champions William Joppy and Sharmba Mitchell.
The service for Mr. Simms will be held on Tuesday, October 25 2016 at Pope Funeral Home located at 5538 Marlboro Pike in District Heights, MD.
The viewing begins at 10 AM followed by the service at 11 AM.
BATB sends its deepest condolences to the family of this wonderful man.
The service for Mr. Simms will be held on Tuesday, October 25 2016 at Pope Funeral Home located at 5538 Marlboro Pike in District Heights, MD.
The viewing begins at 10 AM followed by the service at 11 AM.
BATB sends its deepest condolences to the family of this wonderful man.
Sunday, October 16, 2016
PVA Hosts Awards Banquet In DC November 4!
The Potomac Valley Association of USA Boxing (PVA) will be having its annual awards banquet on Friday, November 4 at the ARC, located at 1001 Mississippi Ave in Southeast Washington, DC.
The PVA will honor its numerous amateur champions and also give special recognition to International Boxing Hall of Famer and former world champion Mark "Too Sharp" Johnson for his continued work with future generations of local boxers. Tickets are $30 for non-PVA members and the event begins with dinner at 5:30.
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Olympic Gold Medalist Maynard Leads 2016 DC Boxing Hall Of Fame Class!
An Olympic Gold medalist will lead the 2016 class of the Washington, DC Boxing Hall of Fame.
"Boxing" Andrew Maynard, who took gold at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, will highlight this year's class. The light heavyweight, who fought out of Laurel, MD (26-13-1, 21 KO's) had a solid pro career winning the NABF Light Heavyweight title in 1990. Maynard also challenged for the Cruiserweight title, dropping a 12-round unanimous decision to WBC champion Anaclet Wamba in October of 1992 in Paris, France.
Also inducted in the pro category will be Capitol Heights, MD super featherweight James Baker and Laurel middleweight Percy "No Mercy" Harris.
Baker (13-7-3, four KO's) fought from 1997-2005 and was a fan favorite as he took on noted opponents like Monty Meza Clay, Nate Campbell and Daniel Attah.
Harris (15-4, nine KO's) only fought for three years as a pro (1989-1992) but fought quality opponents throughout his career. Harris won the IBF Inter-Continental Middleweight title with a decision over previously undefeated Thomas Tate in December of 1991 in Lombardia, Italy. Harris also fought future International Boxing Hall of Famers Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones, Jr during his career.
Inducted into the amateur category are Sean Johnson and Alfonzo Hatcher. Johnson was a well-known boxer at 106 pounds in the nineties, participating in the 1996 Olympic Trials. Hatcher is now known as a prominent trainer in the Beltway.
The Contributors section is star-studded with a prominent trainer, two well-known media figures and two members of the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission who will be inducted posthumously.
Legendary trainer Barry Hunter heads to the hall. Hunter, who leads the Headbangers camp out of the Bald Eagle Boxing Gym in Southeast DC, has trained numerous amateur and professional champions, most notably former IBF Super Lightweight champion Lamont Peterson. Hunter was named the WBO Trainer of the Year in 2007.
Washington Times sports columnist Thom Loverro will enter the hall. Loverro has been a sportswriter at the Times since 1992 and covered boxing throughout, both on the pro and college scene. Loverro is a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and has won numerous awards from that organization. Loverro also is the host of his own podcast "Cigars and Curveballs" which can be downloaded for free on Itunes.
Recently-retired Beltway sportscasting legend Glenn Harris has also been chosen. Harris worked in the DC area for more than 40 years and has interviewed a who's who of local, national and international boxing and sports figures. Harris has also been a fixture as an announcer at the local and regional Golden Gloves tournaments for many years.
(photo by Linda Chubbs)
The late DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission chair Dr. Arnold W. McKnight (top) and the late Deputy Commissioner Alfred Grant have also been chosen. Dr. McKnight joined the commission in 1991 and was the longest-tenured chair of the commission, serving from 1993 until his passing in July of 2007. Mr. Grant was also with the commission in the 1990's until his passing in February of 2015.
Undefeated super featherweight prospect Lamont Roach, Jr. of Upper Marlboro, MD will receive the James Balukevich Outstanding Boxer Award for 2016. Roach (12-0, four KO's) last fought on September 2 and scored a third-round knockout of Mario Antonio Macias in Los Angeles, CA.
The inductees will be honored at a banquet on Friday, November 11 at Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD.
"Boxing" Andrew Maynard, who took gold at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, will highlight this year's class. The light heavyweight, who fought out of Laurel, MD (26-13-1, 21 KO's) had a solid pro career winning the NABF Light Heavyweight title in 1990. Maynard also challenged for the Cruiserweight title, dropping a 12-round unanimous decision to WBC champion Anaclet Wamba in October of 1992 in Paris, France.
Also inducted in the pro category will be Capitol Heights, MD super featherweight James Baker and Laurel middleweight Percy "No Mercy" Harris.
Baker (13-7-3, four KO's) fought from 1997-2005 and was a fan favorite as he took on noted opponents like Monty Meza Clay, Nate Campbell and Daniel Attah.
Harris (15-4, nine KO's) only fought for three years as a pro (1989-1992) but fought quality opponents throughout his career. Harris won the IBF Inter-Continental Middleweight title with a decision over previously undefeated Thomas Tate in December of 1991 in Lombardia, Italy. Harris also fought future International Boxing Hall of Famers Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones, Jr during his career.
Inducted into the amateur category are Sean Johnson and Alfonzo Hatcher. Johnson was a well-known boxer at 106 pounds in the nineties, participating in the 1996 Olympic Trials. Hatcher is now known as a prominent trainer in the Beltway.
The Contributors section is star-studded with a prominent trainer, two well-known media figures and two members of the DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission who will be inducted posthumously.
Legendary trainer Barry Hunter heads to the hall. Hunter, who leads the Headbangers camp out of the Bald Eagle Boxing Gym in Southeast DC, has trained numerous amateur and professional champions, most notably former IBF Super Lightweight champion Lamont Peterson. Hunter was named the WBO Trainer of the Year in 2007.
Washington Times sports columnist Thom Loverro will enter the hall. Loverro has been a sportswriter at the Times since 1992 and covered boxing throughout, both on the pro and college scene. Loverro is a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and has won numerous awards from that organization. Loverro also is the host of his own podcast "Cigars and Curveballs" which can be downloaded for free on Itunes.
Recently-retired Beltway sportscasting legend Glenn Harris has also been chosen. Harris worked in the DC area for more than 40 years and has interviewed a who's who of local, national and international boxing and sports figures. Harris has also been a fixture as an announcer at the local and regional Golden Gloves tournaments for many years.
(photo by Linda Chubbs)
The late DC Boxing and Wrestling Commission chair Dr. Arnold W. McKnight (top) and the late Deputy Commissioner Alfred Grant have also been chosen. Dr. McKnight joined the commission in 1991 and was the longest-tenured chair of the commission, serving from 1993 until his passing in July of 2007. Mr. Grant was also with the commission in the 1990's until his passing in February of 2015.
Undefeated super featherweight prospect Lamont Roach, Jr. of Upper Marlboro, MD will receive the James Balukevich Outstanding Boxer Award for 2016. Roach (12-0, four KO's) last fought on September 2 and scored a third-round knockout of Mario Antonio Macias in Los Angeles, CA.
The inductees will be honored at a banquet on Friday, November 11 at Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt, MD.
Reed Scores Sixth-Round TKO In Philadelphia!
(Photos by Kent Green)
Waldorf, MD super lightweight Mike "Yes, Indeed" Reed remained undefeated with a sixth-round TKO over Aaron Herrera of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico Friday Night at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.
Reed dropped Herrera in the sixth round with a body shot and Herrera's corner stopped the bout at the end of the round. Reed is now 20-0, 12 KO's while Herrera falls to 29-6-1, 18 KO's.
Also on the card, Baltimore, MD's Kevin "The Scarecrow" Womack, Jr. lost a four-round unanimous decision to Hasan Young of Philadelphia. Womack lost by scores of 40-36 (twice) and 39-37. Womack has now lost eight bouts in a row and his record drops to 7-13-3, five KO's. Young is now 6-1-1, two KO's.
Friday, October 14, 2016
Reed Weighs 141.9 For Eight-Rounder In Philadelphia!
Mike Reed weighed in at 141.9 for his eight-round main event bout tonight at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. Reed's opponent, Aaron Herrera, weighed in at 145 pounds.
Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Beltway Boxing Legends Participate in Anti-Bullying Video!
Featured in the video are former world champions Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway and DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley as well as legends Darryll "Terrible T" Tyson and Derrell "Too Sweet" Coley. Also in the video is DC Boxing Hall of Fame ring announcer Henry "Discombobulating" Jones.
Here is a link to see the video.
https://drive.google.com/a/richardwrightpcs.org/file/d/0B8O2GNnQR1fBM3RCNVlaU2dsaEk/view?usp=sharing
Monday, October 10, 2016
Aaron "The Hawk" Pryor, 1955-2016!
By now, you have heard of the Sunday passing of one of the legendary boxers of the 1980's, Aaron "The Hawk" Pryor. A native of Cincinnati, OH, Pryor was regarded as the greatest super lightweight of the 20th century by the Associated Press.
After falling short on a bid to make the 1976 Olympic Team (Pryor was defeated by Howard Davis, Jr.), Pryor (39-1, 35 KO's) turned pro in November of 1976 and scored a second-round TKO against Larry Smith in his hometown of Cincinnati.
On August 2, 1980, Pryor won his first world title, knocking out Antonio Cervantes in the fourth round for the WBA Super Lightweight title at Riverfront Coliseum in Cincinnati.
Pryor would make five title defenses before the first of his two legendary encounters with Alexis Arguello on November 12, 1982 in the Orange Bowl in Miami, FL. Pryor was originally scheduled to face Sugar Ray Leonard for the welterweight title but Leonard had suffered a detached retina and retired. Arguello was the betting favorite in the bout but Pryor was able to gain a knockout in the 14th round. The ending was controversial as there were claims that Pryor's trainer, Panama Lewis used a tainted water bottle that helped revive Pryor after the 13th round. The bout was named the Fight of the Decade by The Ring in 1990 and the 8th greatest title bout of all time by The Ring in 1996.
After the bout, Pryor would wage a battle outside of the ring against drugs.
Pryor and Arguello would meet again on September 9, 1983 at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas, NV. Pryor would have an easier time, stopping Arguello in the 10th round.
Pryor would also capture the IBF crown and defend it once, winning a narrow 15-round split decision over Gary Hinton in March of 1985 in Atlantic City. Pryor would retire after that bout but come back two years later, only to suffer his only pro loss -- a seventh-round TKO-- to Bobby Joe Young on August 8, 1987 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Pryor would win three more bouts before retiring for good in 1990. Pryor would be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1996.
Pryor was a constant attendee at the annual Fight Night charity boxing event at the Washington Hilton Hotel in DC in November. This year's event will be on Thursday, November 10th. It will be strange not seeing "The Hawk" in the ring. Pryor is survived by his wife, Frankie, and children Aaron, Jr., Antwan, Stephan and Elizabeth. Aaron, Jr. and Stephan continue their father's legacy in the ring.
Thursday, October 06, 2016
Reed Returns To Philadelphia For Eight-Round Contest October 14!
Undefeated Waldorf, MD super lightweight Mike "Yes, Indeed" Reed returns to action in an eight-round feature contest against Aaron "La Joya" Herrera of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico on Friday, October 14 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA.
Reed (19-0, 11 KO's) last fought on June 11 and scored a sixth-round TKO over Abraham Cordero at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This will be Reed's second trip to the 2300 Arena in his last three contests. Reed won a six-round unanimous decision over Samuel Amoako on March 18.
Herrera (29-5-1, 18 KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak. Herrera was stopped in the first round by Regis Prograis on March 25 in Miami, OK.
In another bout on the card, Baltimore, MD welterweight Kevin "The Scarecrow" Womack, Jr. will be in a four-round contest against Hasan Young of Philadelphia. Womack (7-12-3, five KO's) has lost seven in a row including a first-round knockout loss to Alexander Besputin on August 6 in Tuscon, AZ. Young (5-1-1, two KO's) competes for the first time since January of 2014 when he won a six-round unanimous decision to Justin Johnson in Atlantic City, NJ.
Reed (19-0, 11 KO's) last fought on June 11 and scored a sixth-round TKO over Abraham Cordero at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This will be Reed's second trip to the 2300 Arena in his last three contests. Reed won a six-round unanimous decision over Samuel Amoako on March 18.
Herrera (29-5-1, 18 KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak. Herrera was stopped in the first round by Regis Prograis on March 25 in Miami, OK.
In another bout on the card, Baltimore, MD welterweight Kevin "The Scarecrow" Womack, Jr. will be in a four-round contest against Hasan Young of Philadelphia. Womack (7-12-3, five KO's) has lost seven in a row including a first-round knockout loss to Alexander Besputin on August 6 in Tuscon, AZ. Young (5-1-1, two KO's) competes for the first time since January of 2014 when he won a six-round unanimous decision to Justin Johnson in Atlantic City, NJ.
Wednesday, October 05, 2016
PBC Goes '12 Rounds' With Gary Russell, Jr.!
The Premier Boxing Champions website has a nice "12 Rounds" feature with WBC Featherweight champion "Mr." Gary Russell, Jr. The story is written by Lem Satterfield.
Here is the link: http://www.premierboxingchampions.com/news/12-rounds-gary-russell-jr
Here is the link: http://www.premierboxingchampions.com/news/12-rounds-gary-russell-jr
Saturday, October 01, 2016
Fox Stops Montes In Two In Chicago!
Forestville, MD middleweight Alantez "SlyAza" Fox scored an impressive second-round TKO over Ronald Montes of Barranquilla, Colombia in front of a nationally-televised audience (CBS Sports Network) Friday at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago, IL.
Fox crumpled Montes with a brutal left hand to the body near the end of the round and the bout was over. The time was 2:59. Fox remains undefeated with a record of 21-0-1, 10 KO's while Montes drops to 17-4, 15 KO's.
Fox crumpled Montes with a brutal left hand to the body near the end of the round and the bout was over. The time was 2:59. Fox remains undefeated with a record of 21-0-1, 10 KO's while Montes drops to 17-4, 15 KO's.
Harris Leads Knockout Parade In DC!
Undefeated Landover, MD featherweight Patrick Harris scored a third-round TKO over Sean Lockhart of Greenwood, SC in the main event of the DC Fight Night Promotions card at the Sphinx Club in Washington, DC.
Harris dropped Lockhart with a left hand late in the first round. Lockhart survived the knockdown. Harris dominated the contest throughout, eventually putting Lockhart away with a right uppercut in the third round. The bout was stopped at 42 seconds of the round. With the win, Harris is now 10-0, seven KO's while Lockhart falls to 5-27-2, two KO's.
The main event was the only bout on the card that went past the first round. The six other bouts featured the Beltway versus boxers from Wilson, NC and it was a clean sweep for the Beltway.
In the co-feature, DC featherweight Antonio "Teflon" Magruder stopped debuting Ronnie Watson at 1:34. Magruder landed solid left hands to the head and body to stop the debuting Watson. Magruder is now 5-0, four KO's.
Three Beltway Boxers made successful pro debuts. Featherweight "The Dark Menace" Tiara Brown of Bladensburg, MD scored a knockout over debuting Khadija Sanders. Brown landed a crushing body shot to stop Sanders at 1:13. Brown, a two-time participant at the US Women's Olympic Trials, had some great teammates supporting her at ringside including two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields and multi-time amateur champion Franchon Crews.
DC lightweight Tyrek "I.G.B. (I Get Busy)" Irby won his bout over Marquis Johnson. Irby used a crushing left hand to knock the equally debuting Johnson out at 1:08.
DC bantamweight Malik Jackson used a lot of pressure to overwhelm Javonta Cherry before the bout was stopped at 1:55. Cherry falls to 0-2.
In other bouts on the card, Upper Marlboro, MD heavyweight Mike "Silverback" Balogun knocked out Demonte Cherry with body shots to win his bout at 1:43. Balogun is now 8-0, seven KO's while Cherry is 1-2. Also, Renardo "Misunderstood" Gaines of DC won his lightweight bout over Isaiah Stubbs at 1:51 despite having two points taken away from him. Gaines knocked Stubbs down with a solid left hand but continued to batter Stubbs while he was down. Referee Kenny Chevalier took away two points from Gaines but Gaines kept the pressure on, forcing Stubbs to quit the contest. Gaines is now 8-2, five KO's while Stubbs loses his pro debut.
Harris dropped Lockhart with a left hand late in the first round. Lockhart survived the knockdown. Harris dominated the contest throughout, eventually putting Lockhart away with a right uppercut in the third round. The bout was stopped at 42 seconds of the round. With the win, Harris is now 10-0, seven KO's while Lockhart falls to 5-27-2, two KO's.
The main event was the only bout on the card that went past the first round. The six other bouts featured the Beltway versus boxers from Wilson, NC and it was a clean sweep for the Beltway.
In the co-feature, DC featherweight Antonio "Teflon" Magruder stopped debuting Ronnie Watson at 1:34. Magruder landed solid left hands to the head and body to stop the debuting Watson. Magruder is now 5-0, four KO's.
Three Beltway Boxers made successful pro debuts. Featherweight "The Dark Menace" Tiara Brown of Bladensburg, MD scored a knockout over debuting Khadija Sanders. Brown landed a crushing body shot to stop Sanders at 1:13. Brown, a two-time participant at the US Women's Olympic Trials, had some great teammates supporting her at ringside including two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields and multi-time amateur champion Franchon Crews.
DC lightweight Tyrek "I.G.B. (I Get Busy)" Irby won his bout over Marquis Johnson. Irby used a crushing left hand to knock the equally debuting Johnson out at 1:08.
DC bantamweight Malik Jackson used a lot of pressure to overwhelm Javonta Cherry before the bout was stopped at 1:55. Cherry falls to 0-2.
In other bouts on the card, Upper Marlboro, MD heavyweight Mike "Silverback" Balogun knocked out Demonte Cherry with body shots to win his bout at 1:43. Balogun is now 8-0, seven KO's while Cherry is 1-2. Also, Renardo "Misunderstood" Gaines of DC won his lightweight bout over Isaiah Stubbs at 1:51 despite having two points taken away from him. Gaines knocked Stubbs down with a solid left hand but continued to batter Stubbs while he was down. Referee Kenny Chevalier took away two points from Gaines but Gaines kept the pressure on, forcing Stubbs to quit the contest. Gaines is now 8-2, five KO's while Stubbs loses his pro debut.
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