This coming week will be a fascinating one for Beltway Boxers, because a number of our fighters will be taking interesting trips.
On Monday, November 12, former IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD (16-5-1, 12 KO's) will be in Gauteng, South Africa as he challenges Thomas "The Rock" Mashaba (19-2-4, 11 KO's)for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) Featherweight title.
On Thursday, November 15, former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman (44-6-2, 35 KO's) will take on veteran Sherman "The Tank" Williams (33-10-2, 19 KO's) at the Soverign Center in Reading, PA. This will be a nationally televised matchup on the Versus Network.
Friday, November 16 marks the return of former WBA Middleweight champ William Joppy (38-4-1, 29 KO's). Joppy travels to the island of St. Lucia to face Etienne "ET" Whitaker (32-27-2, 21 KO's). This will be Joppy's first bout under the Goossen-Tutor banner.
Then on Saturday, November 17, the undefeated Peterson Brothers will be back in action on the isle of Turks and Caicos. Anthony Peterson (24-0, 17 KO's) will battle Oscar Leon in an eight-round contest. Lamont Peterson (22-0, 10 KO's) will take on Humberto "Bam Baby" Toledo (32-4, 19 KO's) in another eight-round contest.
Also appearing on this card will be undefeated DC light heavyweight Reginald Taylor (7-0, four KO's). This looks like Taylor's biggest step to date as he faces undefeated Alexander Santana of the Dominican Republic (6-0, three KO's). The bout will also be Taylor's first scheduled eight-round contest.
On December 8, undefeated DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett (11-0-1, eight KO's) will be headlining a card in Tunica, MS.
Also on December 8, Baltimore junior middleweight Ishmail "The Arsenal" Arvin (14-1-2, six KO's) makes his return as he takes on undefeated Jose Angel "Silver Boy" Rodriguez (12-0, two KO's) of New York at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas on the Floyd Mayweather-Ricky Hatton undercard. This will be Arvin's first bout since losing a majority decision to David Toribio on September 28, 2006 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. That was Arvin's 12th appearance in the Ballroom. Rodriguez made three appearances (all decision victories) at Michael's during his career, most notably winning a six-round majority decision over Orazio Robinson on March 9, 2006.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Notes from Rosecroft!
In lieu of the audio post-fight wrap-up, here's my take on last night's card at Rosecroft Raceway:
Horace "The Reason" Grant, in my opinion, got a gift last night in the main event against "Big" Mike Rhoades. Rhoades came in at 336 pounds -- 91 pounds heavier than Grant (245 1/2) -- and he used that weight and leaned on Grant throughout. Grant had his moments, especially in the third round, but Grant could not find a jab to save his life and it almost cost him the bout. Grant couldn't keep the big man Rhoades off of him.
This was not the same Horace Grant who dismantled Mike Sheppard earlier this year. Hopefully the win will be a learning experience for Grant, who is slated to have a tough bout coming up on November 29 against Ryan Thompson at Michael's Eighth Avenue.
The Alexander Johnson-Kelvin Sutton bout almost didn't happen. Sutton had some issues with medicals, but thanks to some quick movement from Rosecroft officials, Sutton was able to get medicals done that evening and salvage the fight.
Johnson, however, made sure the bout didn't last long. Sutton looked somewhat intimidated and Johnson landed some vicious combinations that dropped Sutton for the count. Johnson is very talented and definitely one to keep an eye on.
One of the better and more overlooked stories along the Beltway has been Scott "Duke" Buchanan. Like Danny Kisner on the Baltimore-area side of Maryland, Buchanan has a solid reputation as a great trainer in the DC-PG County side of the Beltway. Now that Buchanan is also an active boxer, he has been devastating with three first-round knockouts. Jamal Terry had no chance against Buchanan. Whispers started around Rosecroft about a 2008 matchup between Buchanan and Grant. That would be interesting.
The draw between Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker and "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley was one of the best bouts of the year. The fourth and final round of the bout was a true round of the year candidate. Both guys gave and took throughout. In the third, Walker walked into a big right hand from Harsley that truly helped Harsley get the draw. I thought Walker did enough to win the bout, but I am not upset about the draw at all and look forward to a rematch.
Nice pro debut from Laurel, MD's Ikem Orji. The guy is very strong and wore down Jamal Tribbett of Philadelphia en route to the second round TKO. Orji's debut comes too late to go into the 2007 rookie of the year conversation, but he could be strongly considered for 2008's rookie discussion.
The Carlos Battle-Raul Rivera matchup was a spirited exhibition. Battle also seems to be starting his career with a strong fan base.
The amateur card was exceptional with some very strong performances. I was very impressed with Elvis Medrano of LA Boxing, as well as Rock Warden from Old School Boxing. Warden, by the way, showed a lot of guts by coming into a ring wearing Dallas Cowboys colors especially when former Redskins offensive lineman Ron Saul was sitting at ringside.
The Warden-Russell Gaskins bout seemed to be the one everybody was looking forward to seeing because it was a rematch from a recent card. Both guys did not disappoint. It was a great contest.
As usual, Old School's Dusty Harrison looked steady but he was challenged by Shawn Simpson of Chicago, IL. Harrison was pressured at times but maintained his composure. Harrison is going to be one of the leaders along the Beltway amateurs as we look towards 2012.
All the boxers on the amateur show performed very well and the crowd truly enjoyed both sides of the event at Rosecroft Raceway.
Which leads to a quick note I must pass on to you. The State of Maryland has become a trend setter across the country as far as putting on Pro-Am Boxing cards. Maryland will have 17 pro cards this year (for the fourth year in a row) and 13 of them have been or will be Pro-Am shows.
As I write this, Maryland State Athletic Commission Executive Director Patrick Pannella is heading to Mesquite, TX for the USA Boxing Annual Convention. Pannella will give a presentation that will in part talk about how the Maryland State Athletic Commission works successfully hand-in-hand with the Potomac Valley Association and the South Atlantic Association of USA Boxing in putting together Pro-Am shows. This is a great honor for the state!
So if you see or hear about more pro-am shows throughout the country, you can truly say it started along the Beltway!
Horace "The Reason" Grant, in my opinion, got a gift last night in the main event against "Big" Mike Rhoades. Rhoades came in at 336 pounds -- 91 pounds heavier than Grant (245 1/2) -- and he used that weight and leaned on Grant throughout. Grant had his moments, especially in the third round, but Grant could not find a jab to save his life and it almost cost him the bout. Grant couldn't keep the big man Rhoades off of him.
This was not the same Horace Grant who dismantled Mike Sheppard earlier this year. Hopefully the win will be a learning experience for Grant, who is slated to have a tough bout coming up on November 29 against Ryan Thompson at Michael's Eighth Avenue.
The Alexander Johnson-Kelvin Sutton bout almost didn't happen. Sutton had some issues with medicals, but thanks to some quick movement from Rosecroft officials, Sutton was able to get medicals done that evening and salvage the fight.
Johnson, however, made sure the bout didn't last long. Sutton looked somewhat intimidated and Johnson landed some vicious combinations that dropped Sutton for the count. Johnson is very talented and definitely one to keep an eye on.
One of the better and more overlooked stories along the Beltway has been Scott "Duke" Buchanan. Like Danny Kisner on the Baltimore-area side of Maryland, Buchanan has a solid reputation as a great trainer in the DC-PG County side of the Beltway. Now that Buchanan is also an active boxer, he has been devastating with three first-round knockouts. Jamal Terry had no chance against Buchanan. Whispers started around Rosecroft about a 2008 matchup between Buchanan and Grant. That would be interesting.
The draw between Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker and "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley was one of the best bouts of the year. The fourth and final round of the bout was a true round of the year candidate. Both guys gave and took throughout. In the third, Walker walked into a big right hand from Harsley that truly helped Harsley get the draw. I thought Walker did enough to win the bout, but I am not upset about the draw at all and look forward to a rematch.
Nice pro debut from Laurel, MD's Ikem Orji. The guy is very strong and wore down Jamal Tribbett of Philadelphia en route to the second round TKO. Orji's debut comes too late to go into the 2007 rookie of the year conversation, but he could be strongly considered for 2008's rookie discussion.
The Carlos Battle-Raul Rivera matchup was a spirited exhibition. Battle also seems to be starting his career with a strong fan base.
The amateur card was exceptional with some very strong performances. I was very impressed with Elvis Medrano of LA Boxing, as well as Rock Warden from Old School Boxing. Warden, by the way, showed a lot of guts by coming into a ring wearing Dallas Cowboys colors especially when former Redskins offensive lineman Ron Saul was sitting at ringside.
The Warden-Russell Gaskins bout seemed to be the one everybody was looking forward to seeing because it was a rematch from a recent card. Both guys did not disappoint. It was a great contest.
As usual, Old School's Dusty Harrison looked steady but he was challenged by Shawn Simpson of Chicago, IL. Harrison was pressured at times but maintained his composure. Harrison is going to be one of the leaders along the Beltway amateurs as we look towards 2012.
All the boxers on the amateur show performed very well and the crowd truly enjoyed both sides of the event at Rosecroft Raceway.
Which leads to a quick note I must pass on to you. The State of Maryland has become a trend setter across the country as far as putting on Pro-Am Boxing cards. Maryland will have 17 pro cards this year (for the fourth year in a row) and 13 of them have been or will be Pro-Am shows.
As I write this, Maryland State Athletic Commission Executive Director Patrick Pannella is heading to Mesquite, TX for the USA Boxing Annual Convention. Pannella will give a presentation that will in part talk about how the Maryland State Athletic Commission works successfully hand-in-hand with the Potomac Valley Association and the South Atlantic Association of USA Boxing in putting together Pro-Am shows. This is a great honor for the state!
So if you see or hear about more pro-am shows throughout the country, you can truly say it started along the Beltway!
Results From Rosecroft!
Here are the results from the Keystone Boxing Pro-Am Boxing card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD:
Pro Bouts:
Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant won his eighth straight bout with a close, controversial six-round split decision over Michael Rhoades of Philadelphia, PA. Grant is now 9-1, six KO's. Rhodes fell to 3-2-3, one KO.
Light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson of Oxon Hill, MD scored a devastating first-round TKO over Kelvin Sutton of Wilson, NC. Johnson is 3-0, three KO's, Sutton is 0-2.
DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan remained undefeated with a first-round TKO over Jamal Terry of Wilmington, DE. Buchanan is 3-0, three KO's while Terry is 3-8, two KO's.
DC welterweights Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker and "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley battled to a spirited four-round draw. Walker is now 0-1-1 while Harsley is now 1-4-2.
Laurel, MD lightweight Ikem Orji made his pro debut a successful one as he scored a second-round TKO over the debuting Jamal Tribbett of Philadephia.
The featherweight bout between Carlos Battle of Silver Spring, MD and Philadelphia's Raul Rivera became an exhibition bout because both boxers had difficulty with weight.
Amateur bouts:
138 pounds: Rock Warden (Old School Boxing) defeated Russell Gaskins (Hillcrest Boxing)
95 pounds: Dusty Harrison (Old School Boxing) defeated Shawn Simpson of Chicago, IL.
125 pounds: Elvis Medrano (LA Boxing) over Angelo Goldstein (Keystone Boxing)
132 pounds: Mark Johns (Old School Boxing) over Glen Dezurn (UMAR)
132 pounds: Nate Davis (Old School Boxing) defeated Josh Davis (Laurel Boxing)
75 pounds: Brady Sensibaugh (Old School Boxing) defeated Greg Outlaw (Sugar Ray Leonard Center)
Due to technical difficulties, I am unable to put together a post-fight wrap-up for this card. I will be back later today with a full recap of the card and some interesting Beltway news.
Pro Bouts:
Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant won his eighth straight bout with a close, controversial six-round split decision over Michael Rhoades of Philadelphia, PA. Grant is now 9-1, six KO's. Rhodes fell to 3-2-3, one KO.
Light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson of Oxon Hill, MD scored a devastating first-round TKO over Kelvin Sutton of Wilson, NC. Johnson is 3-0, three KO's, Sutton is 0-2.
DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan remained undefeated with a first-round TKO over Jamal Terry of Wilmington, DE. Buchanan is 3-0, three KO's while Terry is 3-8, two KO's.
DC welterweights Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker and "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley battled to a spirited four-round draw. Walker is now 0-1-1 while Harsley is now 1-4-2.
Laurel, MD lightweight Ikem Orji made his pro debut a successful one as he scored a second-round TKO over the debuting Jamal Tribbett of Philadephia.
The featherweight bout between Carlos Battle of Silver Spring, MD and Philadelphia's Raul Rivera became an exhibition bout because both boxers had difficulty with weight.
Amateur bouts:
138 pounds: Rock Warden (Old School Boxing) defeated Russell Gaskins (Hillcrest Boxing)
95 pounds: Dusty Harrison (Old School Boxing) defeated Shawn Simpson of Chicago, IL.
125 pounds: Elvis Medrano (LA Boxing) over Angelo Goldstein (Keystone Boxing)
132 pounds: Mark Johns (Old School Boxing) over Glen Dezurn (UMAR)
132 pounds: Nate Davis (Old School Boxing) defeated Josh Davis (Laurel Boxing)
75 pounds: Brady Sensibaugh (Old School Boxing) defeated Greg Outlaw (Sugar Ray Leonard Center)
Due to technical difficulties, I am unable to put together a post-fight wrap-up for this card. I will be back later today with a full recap of the card and some interesting Beltway news.
Friday, November 09, 2007
Weights for Rosecroft!
Here is the scale watch for tonight's Keystone Boxing card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD:
Horace (Ray) Grant 245 1/2 vs. Michael Rhoades 336
Alexander Johnson 172 vs. Kelvin Sutton 166 1/4
Kendrick Walker 148 vs. Spencer Harsley 152 3/4
Harold (Ekem) Orji 136 vs. Jamal Tribbett 132 3/4
Carlos Battle 124 1/4 vs. Raul Rivera 125 1/2
Scott Buchanan 218 1/2 vs. Jamal Terry (will weigh-in today)
Horace (Ray) Grant 245 1/2 vs. Michael Rhoades 336
Alexander Johnson 172 vs. Kelvin Sutton 166 1/4
Kendrick Walker 148 vs. Spencer Harsley 152 3/4
Harold (Ekem) Orji 136 vs. Jamal Tribbett 132 3/4
Carlos Battle 124 1/4 vs. Raul Rivera 125 1/2
Scott Buchanan 218 1/2 vs. Jamal Terry (will weigh-in today)
Results From Fight Night!
Here are the results from the Fight Night "Fight for Children" event at the Washington Hilton and Towers Hotel in Washington, DC:
Leo "The Lion" Martinez of Columbus, OH registered an eight-round unanimous decision over Smithsburg, MD's Dean "Pitbull" White. Judges Tammye Jenkins and Wendy Richardson scored the bout 79-73 while Judge Steve Rados had the bout, 78-74. The win was the fourth straight for Martinez, who is now 12-9, five KO's. The loss is the fourth in a row for White, who falls to 14-9-1, seven KO's.
Arlington, VA's Bayan Jargal won the "Fight For Children Title" bout with a workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over DC's Reggie "The Mechanic" Holly. Jargal dropped Holly in the first round with a solid right hand and went on to the relatively easy decision in his first professional six-round bout. Judge Richardson saw the bout, 58-54. Judge Rados scored it 59-54 while Judge Jenkins witnessed a 59-53 bout. Jargal remains undefeated at 4-0-1, two KO's. Holly is now 7-3, two KO's. Jargal was also named the fighter of the night and earned an extra 500 dollars.
In a non-beltway heavyweight bout, Florida heavyweight Wilmer Vasquez remained undefeated with a six-round majority decision over Winston-Salem, NC's Corey Winfield. Vasquez dropped Winfield twice in the contest. Despite the two knockdows, however, Judge Richardson mysteriously scored the bout a draw, 57-57. Judge Jenkins saw the bout 59-53 while Judge Rados said Vasquez pitched a shutout at 60-54. Vasquez is now 4-0, two KO's while Winfield is 2-3, two KO's.
Due to time constraints, the bout between Larry "The Gladiator" Brothers and Breon Smiley did not take place.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show for this event:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #90 - Post Fight From Fight Night!
Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and noted boxing and horse racing writer John Scheinman of the Washington Post join me to recap the boxing card at the Fight Night "Fight For Children" event from the Washington Hilton and Towers in Washington, DC.
Leo "The Lion" Martinez of Columbus, OH registered an eight-round unanimous decision over Smithsburg, MD's Dean "Pitbull" White. Judges Tammye Jenkins and Wendy Richardson scored the bout 79-73 while Judge Steve Rados had the bout, 78-74. The win was the fourth straight for Martinez, who is now 12-9, five KO's. The loss is the fourth in a row for White, who falls to 14-9-1, seven KO's.
Arlington, VA's Bayan Jargal won the "Fight For Children Title" bout with a workmanlike six-round unanimous decision over DC's Reggie "The Mechanic" Holly. Jargal dropped Holly in the first round with a solid right hand and went on to the relatively easy decision in his first professional six-round bout. Judge Richardson saw the bout, 58-54. Judge Rados scored it 59-54 while Judge Jenkins witnessed a 59-53 bout. Jargal remains undefeated at 4-0-1, two KO's. Holly is now 7-3, two KO's. Jargal was also named the fighter of the night and earned an extra 500 dollars.
In a non-beltway heavyweight bout, Florida heavyweight Wilmer Vasquez remained undefeated with a six-round majority decision over Winston-Salem, NC's Corey Winfield. Vasquez dropped Winfield twice in the contest. Despite the two knockdows, however, Judge Richardson mysteriously scored the bout a draw, 57-57. Judge Jenkins saw the bout 59-53 while Judge Rados said Vasquez pitched a shutout at 60-54. Vasquez is now 4-0, two KO's while Winfield is 2-3, two KO's.
Due to time constraints, the bout between Larry "The Gladiator" Brothers and Breon Smiley did not take place.
Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show for this event:
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #90 - Post Fight From Fight Night!
Henry "Discombobulating" Jones and noted boxing and horse racing writer John Scheinman of the Washington Post join me to recap the boxing card at the Fight Night "Fight For Children" event from the Washington Hilton and Towers in Washington, DC.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Ernest 'Sonny Boy' Williams: 1935-2007!
They say bad news comes in threes. This is an example.
Former DC lightweight boxer Ernest "Sonny Boy" Williams passed away on Thursday, November 1 at the age of 71. No cause of death was given.
Williams was a lightweight boxer from 1954-1959 with his bouts taking place either here in DC or in the state of New York. His record was 21-8-1 with 11 KO's.
The viewing for Mr. Williams will be on Friday, November 9, 6 to 9 p.m. at Stewart Funeral Home, 4001 Benning Rd., NE Washington, DC. The Homegoing service will be on Saturday, November 10 with the viewing at 9 a.m. and the service at 10 a.m.., St. Paul Christian Community Church, 414 Tennessee Ave NE.
My condolences to the Williams Family.
Former DC lightweight boxer Ernest "Sonny Boy" Williams passed away on Thursday, November 1 at the age of 71. No cause of death was given.
Williams was a lightweight boxer from 1954-1959 with his bouts taking place either here in DC or in the state of New York. His record was 21-8-1 with 11 KO's.
The viewing for Mr. Williams will be on Friday, November 9, 6 to 9 p.m. at Stewart Funeral Home, 4001 Benning Rd., NE Washington, DC. The Homegoing service will be on Saturday, November 10 with the viewing at 9 a.m. and the service at 10 a.m.., St. Paul Christian Community Church, 414 Tennessee Ave NE.
My condolences to the Williams Family.
Weights for Fight Night!
Here is the Scale Watch for tonight's Fight Night "Fight For Children" card at the Washington Hilton and Towers Hotel:
Dean White 133.8 vs. Leo Martinez 134.8
Bayan Jargal 140.2 vs. Reggie Holly 140.6
Larry Brothers 162.2 vs. Breon Smiley 165.2
Wilmer Vasquez 290.6 vs. Corey Winfield 276.6
Larry Brothers was a late addition to the card replacing Nazyir Bell of Philadelphia.
Dean White 133.8 vs. Leo Martinez 134.8
Bayan Jargal 140.2 vs. Reggie Holly 140.6
Larry Brothers 162.2 vs. Breon Smiley 165.2
Wilmer Vasquez 290.6 vs. Corey Winfield 276.6
Larry Brothers was a late addition to the card replacing Nazyir Bell of Philadelphia.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Goossen Comments on Joppy and Thompson!
In an interview with Boxingtalk.com, Goossen-Tutor Promotions President Dan Goossen, talked about the up-to-date movements of two Beltway Boxers he has under contract -- former WBA Middleweight champion William Joppy and the WBO's number one heavyweight contender Tony "The Tiger" Thompson.
Here is what Goossen told reporter Greg Leon:
GL: You recently signed William Joppy, when will he be making his GTP debut?
DG: "Joppy was added to the St. Lucia event (Friday, November 16), just making it bigger and better for the fans in St. Lucia, since it will be an off-TV bout. As I mentioned earlier, we really believe that in the super middleweight division there's plenty of opportunities for a 3-time world champion. From Middleweight to Lightheavyweight, big things are happening. With a good mix of world champions and the young, fast rising stars of tomorrow such as Andre Ward, William Joppy fits perfectly to jump right into the equation. He's got a lot of fight left in him. I expect this to be a new lease on his boxing life, giving him the ability to make one last stand trying to become a four time world champion. We're really happy to be working with William and our old friend, JD Brown."
GL: What's the story with the Tony Thompson's mandatory?
DG: "(Wladimir) Klitschko and (Sultan) Ibragimov are of course trying to put the unification bout together. If that doesn't happen, we have a commitment from Ibragimov's promoter that they will fight Tony next. To me, it would be a much smarter move for Ibragimov to fight Tony Thompson first because obviously if he beats Thompson, his negotiating leverage goes up tremendously with Klitschko. Ibragimov not having beaten anyone the ilk of Thompson gives Klitschko all the negotiating shots. Sultan needs that one defining fight against a respected challenger to show that he has to be considered at the same level of Klitschko, and Tony can give that to him if Sultan was successful. The money from what I understand is not a great deal for Ibragimov's end, especially to fight someone as dangerous as Klitschko. You beat Thompson, and all of a sudden you have an even playing field with Klitschko on the negotiating table. We'll just have to wait and see where it all goes."
GL: Wouldn't it be better for Tony to wait for the winner?
DG: "The sooner we fight for the heavyweight championship of the world, the better it is for everyone. Tony Thompson is ready to show the world who he is."
Here is what Goossen told reporter Greg Leon:
GL: You recently signed William Joppy, when will he be making his GTP debut?
DG: "Joppy was added to the St. Lucia event (Friday, November 16), just making it bigger and better for the fans in St. Lucia, since it will be an off-TV bout. As I mentioned earlier, we really believe that in the super middleweight division there's plenty of opportunities for a 3-time world champion. From Middleweight to Lightheavyweight, big things are happening. With a good mix of world champions and the young, fast rising stars of tomorrow such as Andre Ward, William Joppy fits perfectly to jump right into the equation. He's got a lot of fight left in him. I expect this to be a new lease on his boxing life, giving him the ability to make one last stand trying to become a four time world champion. We're really happy to be working with William and our old friend, JD Brown."
GL: What's the story with the Tony Thompson's mandatory?
DG: "(Wladimir) Klitschko and (Sultan) Ibragimov are of course trying to put the unification bout together. If that doesn't happen, we have a commitment from Ibragimov's promoter that they will fight Tony next. To me, it would be a much smarter move for Ibragimov to fight Tony Thompson first because obviously if he beats Thompson, his negotiating leverage goes up tremendously with Klitschko. Ibragimov not having beaten anyone the ilk of Thompson gives Klitschko all the negotiating shots. Sultan needs that one defining fight against a respected challenger to show that he has to be considered at the same level of Klitschko, and Tony can give that to him if Sultan was successful. The money from what I understand is not a great deal for Ibragimov's end, especially to fight someone as dangerous as Klitschko. You beat Thompson, and all of a sudden you have an even playing field with Klitschko on the negotiating table. We'll just have to wait and see where it all goes."
GL: Wouldn't it be better for Tony to wait for the winner?
DG: "The sooner we fight for the heavyweight championship of the world, the better it is for everyone. Tony Thompson is ready to show the world who he is."
Memorial Service for Jeffrey Arnold, Brother of Derrell Coley, November 10!
The memorial service for Jeffrey Arnold, the brother of Derrell "Too Sweet" Coley will be held on Saturday, November 10 at New Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church, 4417 Douglas Street, NE in DC. The viewing begins at 9 AM, the service starts at 11 AM.
The guest book for Jeffrey Arnold can be found here:
"http://www.legacy.com/washingtonpost/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=97462527">
The guest book for Jeffrey Arnold can be found here:
"http://www.legacy.com/washingtonpost/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=97462527">
Beltway Trainer Correa Leads Bika to Contender Title!
Another champion of sorts for Beltway trainer Jose "Pepe" Correa. Correa guided Cameroon's Sakio Bika to an eighth-round TKO victory over Queens, New York's Jaidon Codrington to win the "Contender" title tonight in Boston, MA. Bika captured $750,000 with the victory.
In what was an incredible bout, both fighters traded knockdowns in the very first round and went on to exchange power shots throughout the contest before Bika finally wore down Codrington and stopped him at 2:18 of the eighth round.
Throughout the nationwide telecast, Correa repeatedly said that Bika trained in the area at the Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center in Palmer Park, MD.
Bika's record is now 25-3-2, 15 KO's. Codrington falls to 18-2, 14 KO's.
In what was an incredible bout, both fighters traded knockdowns in the very first round and went on to exchange power shots throughout the contest before Bika finally wore down Codrington and stopped him at 2:18 of the eighth round.
Throughout the nationwide telecast, Correa repeatedly said that Bika trained in the area at the Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center in Palmer Park, MD.
Bika's record is now 25-3-2, 15 KO's. Codrington falls to 18-2, 14 KO's.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
November 9 Rosecroft Card Coming Together!
The Keystone Boxing card taking place on Friday, November 9 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD is taking shape.
Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant will headline the card, participating in a six-round contest against Michael Rhodes of Philadelphia, PA.
Grant (8-1, six KO's) has won his last seven bouts and is coming off an explosive second-round knockout over Mike Sheppard on September 27 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Rhodes (3-1-3, one KO) is fighting for the first time in almost exactly a year. Rhodes lost a six-round unanimous decision to Kevin Johnson on November 10, 2006 in Whippany, NJ.
Undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson will head the undercard in a four-round bout against Philadelphia's Charles Kirby. Johnson (2-0, two KO's) last fought on the Sept. 27 Michael's card and scored a fourth-round knockout over Brandon Singleton. Kirby (1-2) is fighting for the first time since October of 2005 when he was stopped by Andre Hemphill in Philadelphia.
Also on the card will be undefeated DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan who will take on the debuting James Holder of Indiana. Buchanan (2-0, two KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Justin Reid on August 25 at Lee High School in Springfield, VA.
DC welterweight Kendrick Walker returns to action when he takes on another DC product, "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley in a four-round contest. Walker (0-1) will try to bounce back from losing to Norman Allen by four-round unanimous decision in his pro debut on the last Rosecroft show on August 3. Harsley has not fought since September 17, 2005 when he was stopped by Tim Coleman in the third round at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
There will also be two bouts feature debuting Beltway Boxers. DC featherweight Carlos Battle will make his pro debut against Chicago, IL's Raul Rivera (0-2). This will be Rivera's first outing since January 26, 2006 when he was stopped in the fourth-round by Tyrell Samuel at Michael's Eighth Avenue. Also, Maryland featherweight Ekem Orki will make his pro debut against another debuting fighter, Jemal Tribbets of Philadelphia.
There will also be amateur bouts on this card.
Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant will headline the card, participating in a six-round contest against Michael Rhodes of Philadelphia, PA.
Grant (8-1, six KO's) has won his last seven bouts and is coming off an explosive second-round knockout over Mike Sheppard on September 27 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Rhodes (3-1-3, one KO) is fighting for the first time in almost exactly a year. Rhodes lost a six-round unanimous decision to Kevin Johnson on November 10, 2006 in Whippany, NJ.
Undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson will head the undercard in a four-round bout against Philadelphia's Charles Kirby. Johnson (2-0, two KO's) last fought on the Sept. 27 Michael's card and scored a fourth-round knockout over Brandon Singleton. Kirby (1-2) is fighting for the first time since October of 2005 when he was stopped by Andre Hemphill in Philadelphia.
Also on the card will be undefeated DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan who will take on the debuting James Holder of Indiana. Buchanan (2-0, two KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Justin Reid on August 25 at Lee High School in Springfield, VA.
DC welterweight Kendrick Walker returns to action when he takes on another DC product, "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley in a four-round contest. Walker (0-1) will try to bounce back from losing to Norman Allen by four-round unanimous decision in his pro debut on the last Rosecroft show on August 3. Harsley has not fought since September 17, 2005 when he was stopped by Tim Coleman in the third round at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA.
There will also be two bouts feature debuting Beltway Boxers. DC featherweight Carlos Battle will make his pro debut against Chicago, IL's Raul Rivera (0-2). This will be Rivera's first outing since January 26, 2006 when he was stopped in the fourth-round by Tyrell Samuel at Michael's Eighth Avenue. Also, Maryland featherweight Ekem Orki will make his pro debut against another debuting fighter, Jemal Tribbets of Philadelphia.
There will also be amateur bouts on this card.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Alton Rice Memorial Service on November 7!
The memorial service for Alton Rice will be held on Wednesday, November 7 at 11 AM at Henry S. Washington Funeral Home located at 4925 Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, NE in DC. The interment after the service will be private.
The Washington Post has set up a guest book where you can leave your condolences and tributes for the Rice Family. The link is here:
"http://www.legacy.com/washingtonpost/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=97236809">
The Washington Post has set up a guest book where you can leave your condolences and tributes for the Rice Family. The link is here:
"http://www.legacy.com/washingtonpost/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=97236809">
Sunday, November 04, 2007
'WarTime' Rivera, 'Real Deal' Seal Return in Harrisonburg, VA November 17!
Two popular Virginia boxers will be part of a boxing/mixed martial arts card put on by Squared Circle Promotions on Saturday, November 17 at the Rockingham Fairgrounds in Harrisonburg, VA.
Charlottesville, VA junior middleweight George "War Time" Rivera returns to action in a four-round bout against Nathan Ward of West Portsmouth, OH. Rivera (5-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision victory over John "JT" Terry on October 6 in McLean, VA. Ward (1-0) won his pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Jason Bragg on July 21 in Cowen, WVA.
Also scheduled to appear will be Caroline, VA cruiserweight Adam "The Real Deal" Seal who will take on Portsmouth, OH's Derrick Holsinger in another four-round bout. Seal (2-1, one KO) has not fought since being stopped in the third round by William Bailey on February 3 in Fisherville, VA. Holsinger (3-9) is coming off a second-round stoppage loss to Richard Gingras on August 10 in Lincoln, RI.
The card will also feature the pro debut of Staunton, VA light heavyweight Bruce "The Hammer" Frank as he faces winless (0-8) Ken Carey of Wildwood, NJ.
Charlottesville, VA junior middleweight George "War Time" Rivera returns to action in a four-round bout against Nathan Ward of West Portsmouth, OH. Rivera (5-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision victory over John "JT" Terry on October 6 in McLean, VA. Ward (1-0) won his pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Jason Bragg on July 21 in Cowen, WVA.
Also scheduled to appear will be Caroline, VA cruiserweight Adam "The Real Deal" Seal who will take on Portsmouth, OH's Derrick Holsinger in another four-round bout. Seal (2-1, one KO) has not fought since being stopped in the third round by William Bailey on February 3 in Fisherville, VA. Holsinger (3-9) is coming off a second-round stoppage loss to Richard Gingras on August 10 in Lincoln, RI.
The card will also feature the pro debut of Staunton, VA light heavyweight Bruce "The Hammer" Frank as he faces winless (0-8) Ken Carey of Wildwood, NJ.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Washington Informer Profiles 'Mayhem' Mitchell!
The Washington Informer has a profile of Brandywine, MD amateur heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell. Mitchell discusses his current amateur career and his plans to turn pro next year.
Also, read carefully for a quote from one of boxing's living legends as he discusses Mitchell's potential.
The article can be found here:
"http://www.washingtoninformer.com/SPSethFight2007Nov1.html">
Also, read carefully for a quote from one of boxing's living legends as he discusses Mitchell's potential.
The article can be found here:
"http://www.washingtoninformer.com/SPSethFight2007Nov1.html">
Friday, November 02, 2007
Russell Jr. Drops Quarterfinal Bout at World Championships!
Gary Russell Jr.'s trip through the World Championships is over. Russell dropped a 16-6 decision to Sergei Vodopyanov of Russia yesterday at UIC Pavilion.
According to USABoxing.org, Russell fell behind by a four point deficit early, with Vodopyanov moving out to a 4-0 lead after the first round. Russell came out swinging in the second, but the result was the same as Vodopyanov took a 9-4 lead at the midway point. The trend continued in the third round with Russell connecting with clean punches but not denting Vodopyanov’s advantage as the Russian boxer began to circle the ring. Russell stalked the moving Vodopyanov in the fourth round, even sending him to the canvas but the scoreboard didn’t change and he lost the final decision. Russell claimed a spot in the 2008 Olympic Games with his top eight finish.
UPDATE: Russell was one of five US boxers to qualify for the 2008 Olympics from this tournament. Flyweight Rau'shee Warren and welterweight Demetrius Andrade became the first Americans since 1999 to win a gold medal at the World Championships. Warren also becomes the first American boxer to qualify for two straight Olympiads since Davey Armstrong accomplished the feat in 1972 and 1976. Light flyweight Luis Yanez and featherweight Raynell Williams also joined Russell in qualifying for the Beijing games.
According to USABoxing.org, Russell fell behind by a four point deficit early, with Vodopyanov moving out to a 4-0 lead after the first round. Russell came out swinging in the second, but the result was the same as Vodopyanov took a 9-4 lead at the midway point. The trend continued in the third round with Russell connecting with clean punches but not denting Vodopyanov’s advantage as the Russian boxer began to circle the ring. Russell stalked the moving Vodopyanov in the fourth round, even sending him to the canvas but the scoreboard didn’t change and he lost the final decision. Russell claimed a spot in the 2008 Olympic Games with his top eight finish.
UPDATE: Russell was one of five US boxers to qualify for the 2008 Olympics from this tournament. Flyweight Rau'shee Warren and welterweight Demetrius Andrade became the first Americans since 1999 to win a gold medal at the World Championships. Warren also becomes the first American boxer to qualify for two straight Olympiads since Davey Armstrong accomplished the feat in 1972 and 1976. Light flyweight Luis Yanez and featherweight Raynell Williams also joined Russell in qualifying for the Beijing games.
Alton Rice: 1963 -2007!
On the heels on what has happened to the brother of Derrell Coley (please listen to the Post-Fight Wrap-Up from Martin's Valley Mansion), comes word that former DC super middleweight Alton Rice has died at the age of 44.
On October 27, a CVS store in Seat Pleasant, MD was closed when workers found a body in the store's air conditioning duct. The body was later identified as Rice.
Rice had a relatively short boxing career, fighting sporadically between 1990 and 2005. Rice's record was 3-4, one KO and one no contest.
The no contest was originally thought of as his best performance when he knocked out Henry Mayes in the first round on May 24, 2005 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. The result was later changed to a no contest because Rice tested positive for a banned substance.
But Rice was well known in gyms in the area, helping train young boxers. I had wonderful conversations with him at times including one very nice conversation at the Mayor's Cup a few weeks after the bout with Mayes.
My condolences to the family of Alton Rice.
On October 27, a CVS store in Seat Pleasant, MD was closed when workers found a body in the store's air conditioning duct. The body was later identified as Rice.
Rice had a relatively short boxing career, fighting sporadically between 1990 and 2005. Rice's record was 3-4, one KO and one no contest.
The no contest was originally thought of as his best performance when he knocked out Henry Mayes in the first round on May 24, 2005 at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD. The result was later changed to a no contest because Rice tested positive for a banned substance.
But Rice was well known in gyms in the area, helping train young boxers. I had wonderful conversations with him at times including one very nice conversation at the Mayor's Cup a few weeks after the bout with Mayes.
My condolences to the family of Alton Rice.
Results From Cockeysville!
Here are the results from the Jonathan Ogden Foundation benefit boxing card at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD.
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman remained undefeated with a first-round knockout over Scott Ball of Rochester, MN. Coleman dropped Ball twice with explosive left hands before referee Malik Waleed stopped the contest at 2:20 of the first. Coleman is now 14-0, three KO's. Ball is 8-6, six KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD also stayed undefeated with a second-round knockout over Jessie Horton of DC. Bouloubassis dropped Horton with a left hand in the first round, then put him away with a vicious right hand at 11 seconds of the second round. Bouloubassis is 3-0-3, three KO's while Horton is 0-2.
Baltimore light heavyweight Willie "For Real" Williams scored a four-round unanimous decision over Ray Ruiz of Philadelphia. This was the second time in a row that Williams has defeated Ruiz, this time a little more convincingly. Williams is now 8-2, two KO's while Ruiz falls to 6-8-3, four KO's.
DC heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown made his return after a nine-year absence a successful one as he scored a third-round TKO over Jerry "Ruffhouse" Simpson, now fighting out of Cedar Rapids, IA. Brown raised his record to 4-1-2, two KO's. Simpson is 2-11-1, one KO.
In a strange bout, Annapolis, MD super middleweight Steve Garrett was stopped at 55 seconds of the first round by undefeated Pittsburgh, PA prospect Jeremy Lubash. Garrett fell back after Lubash threw a punch, but many folks around ringside had differing opinions on where the punch actually landed. Some said the punch landed on the top or on the back of Garrett's head. Wherever it landed, it caused Garrett to fall backwards violently, causing a stoppage of the bout. Garrett was able to leave under his own power. Garrett is 2-6, one KO while Lubash is 3-0, two KO's.
The opening contest had Baltimore, MD's Henry Goss and Felton, DE's Michael Denby fight to a spirited four-round draw. Goss is now 1-2-2, one KO, while Denby draws in his pro debut.
Here is the full (and I do mean FULL) BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show. Please stay tuned for the news segment because there are some items that "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I talk about that I have not posted yet.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #89 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up From Martin's Valley Mansion!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap an explosive benefit boxing card to raise money for the Jonathan Ogden Foundation. Included are interviews with Baltimore Pro Boxing Promoter Jake Smith and undefeated Baltimore Welterweight Tim Coleman.
Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pitbull" Coleman remained undefeated with a first-round knockout over Scott Ball of Rochester, MN. Coleman dropped Ball twice with explosive left hands before referee Malik Waleed stopped the contest at 2:20 of the first. Coleman is now 14-0, three KO's. Ball is 8-6, six KO's.
"The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD also stayed undefeated with a second-round knockout over Jessie Horton of DC. Bouloubassis dropped Horton with a left hand in the first round, then put him away with a vicious right hand at 11 seconds of the second round. Bouloubassis is 3-0-3, three KO's while Horton is 0-2.
Baltimore light heavyweight Willie "For Real" Williams scored a four-round unanimous decision over Ray Ruiz of Philadelphia. This was the second time in a row that Williams has defeated Ruiz, this time a little more convincingly. Williams is now 8-2, two KO's while Ruiz falls to 6-8-3, four KO's.
DC heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown made his return after a nine-year absence a successful one as he scored a third-round TKO over Jerry "Ruffhouse" Simpson, now fighting out of Cedar Rapids, IA. Brown raised his record to 4-1-2, two KO's. Simpson is 2-11-1, one KO.
In a strange bout, Annapolis, MD super middleweight Steve Garrett was stopped at 55 seconds of the first round by undefeated Pittsburgh, PA prospect Jeremy Lubash. Garrett fell back after Lubash threw a punch, but many folks around ringside had differing opinions on where the punch actually landed. Some said the punch landed on the top or on the back of Garrett's head. Wherever it landed, it caused Garrett to fall backwards violently, causing a stoppage of the bout. Garrett was able to leave under his own power. Garrett is 2-6, one KO while Lubash is 3-0, two KO's.
The opening contest had Baltimore, MD's Henry Goss and Felton, DE's Michael Denby fight to a spirited four-round draw. Goss is now 1-2-2, one KO, while Denby draws in his pro debut.
Here is the full (and I do mean FULL) BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show. Please stay tuned for the news segment because there are some items that "The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I talk about that I have not posted yet.
Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #89 - Post-Fight Wrap-Up From Martin's Valley Mansion!
"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap an explosive benefit boxing card to raise money for the Jonathan Ogden Foundation. Included are interviews with Baltimore Pro Boxing Promoter Jake Smith and undefeated Baltimore Welterweight Tim Coleman.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
'Digital' Visits 'The Sports Groove' Tonight!
I will be a guest on "The Sports Groove" with Mark Gray tonight on WOL-AM 1450 in DC and WOLB-AM 1010 in Baltimore.
We'll be talking about Gary Russell, Jr. qualifying for the Olympics and I'll preview tonight's card in Hunt Valley as well as the Fight Night card in DC next Thursday.
The segment is slated to air about 9 PM Eastern Time. You can hear it online by going to this link:
"http://www.wolam.com/home.asp"
We'll be talking about Gary Russell, Jr. qualifying for the Olympics and I'll preview tonight's card in Hunt Valley as well as the Fight Night card in DC next Thursday.
The segment is slated to air about 9 PM Eastern Time. You can hear it online by going to this link:
"http://www.wolam.com/home.asp"
Weights For Tonight in Hunt Valley!
Here is the scale watch for tonight's Jonathan Odgen Foundation benefit card at Martin's Valley Mansion in Hunt Valley, MD:
Tim Coleman 148 vs. Scott Ball 151
Willie Williams 175 3/4 vs. Ray Ruiz 177
Elias Bouloubassis 160 vs. Jessie Horton 163
Steve Garrett 174 vs. Jeremy Lubash 168 3/4
Henry Goss 138 vs. Mike Denby 138
Bernard Brown 243 vs. Jerry Simpson 226
Jessie Nicklow will not be appearing on the card. No opponent could be found.
Tim Coleman 148 vs. Scott Ball 151
Willie Williams 175 3/4 vs. Ray Ruiz 177
Elias Bouloubassis 160 vs. Jessie Horton 163
Steve Garrett 174 vs. Jeremy Lubash 168 3/4
Henry Goss 138 vs. Mike Denby 138
Bernard Brown 243 vs. Jerry Simpson 226
Jessie Nicklow will not be appearing on the card. No opponent could be found.
Baltimore Sun Profiles Nick Kisner!
This story was actually in yesterday's print editions of the Baltimore Sun, but reporter Stefan Lovelace has a nice interview with 16-year-old amateur boxing champion Nick Kisner.
It is better to actually get the story online at www.baltimoresun.com, because there is also a nice video interview with Kisner as well as footage from one of his recent battles, the Sept. 27 matchup against Dashawn Lucas at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Here is the link to the story:
"http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/boxing/bal-va.kisner31oct31,0,3572463.story"
It is better to actually get the story online at www.baltimoresun.com, because there is also a nice video interview with Kisner as well as footage from one of his recent battles, the Sept. 27 matchup against Dashawn Lucas at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.
Here is the link to the story:
"http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/boxing/bal-va.kisner31oct31,0,3572463.story"
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