However, the last five months or so really have hit the Sweet Science hard. Very hard. Back in December, we had the controversial Amir Khan-Lamont Peterson fight, with the dodgy scoring, the debatable actions of the referee and the infamous “man in the hat” at ringside. This fight and it’s controversy refused to go away, and just a week or so ago it was revealed that Peterson had taken illegal stimulants going into the biggest win of his career. If that was not enough, Andre Berto, another star of the sport, also failed a drugs test this week.

People are now asking themselves the question, are all boxers cheats in one way or another? Two high-profile fighters testing positive for illegal stimulants in a matter of days really is a bad thing. Adding to boxing’s current dirty image is the fact that David Haye and Dereck Chisora – two men who brawled like thugs in Munich, Germany on Feb. 18th – have been rewarded, not punished, with a high-paying, WBA, WBO-approved bout set for the summer. Neither British heavyweight has shown the slightest amount of remorse over what happened in Germany a mere three months ago.

The great sport was given more bad press when superstar Manny Pacquiao no less, single-handedly insulted the entire gay world – whether his “all gays should be put to death” quote was genuine or not. Pac-Man, one of the good guys of the sport, had to do some serious back-pedalling, yet the damage had been done – both to the sport’s image and to Manny’s reputation as a humanitarian.

What we could really do with now is some good P.R for boxing. We cannot stand another cheat being revealed and we cannot stand more shenanigans taking place between Haye and Chisora (Haye has expressed his concerns about “Del Boy” doing something crazy in the run-up to the July 14th bout, an upcoming fight seen as disgusting by many).

To millions, boxing is already a dying sport. Any more disgrace and it really could be on its way out. 2012 has also seen a large amount of its top fights falling through for one reason or another. We need a great second half to the year, that’s for sure. Should a fight fan have to defend his love for the sport or the very existence of the sport itself? Just lately that’s been the case and then some.

With all the cheating, the bad behaviour, the disgraceful decisions (think Rios-Abril for one) and the continued non-appearance of the biggest fight there is that can be made (Pac-Man-Mayweather, obviously), the noble art is struggling to live up to its name like never before.

Article posted on 21.05.2012

Mathis-Holm II headlines “The Reckoning,” presented by Fresquez Productions, in a 10-round main event at Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

“I felt like I was fighting well but got a little over anxious,” the newly married Holm reflected. “I felt that I could land and wanted to follow-up, but I didn’t stick to my defensive game plan. I didn’t fully respect her power like I should have. It was definitely the toughest fight I’ve ever had. She’s a stubborn-minded fighter unlike fighters I’ve faced. She’s not cocky, or overconfident, just tough.

“She knows what I want to do but she’s not scared of me. She’s a good fighter who is confident of beating me. I’m confident I can beat her in this fight. I’ve evaluated a lot of things, taking what I did wrong, and making them right for this fight and beyond. I lost but I’ve learned the most from losing to make myself better for this fight.”

Mathis, who was fighting in the United States for the first time, snapped Holm’s seven-year, 24-fight unbeaten streak.

“I lost that fight, no excuses,” Holly added. “I just got beat. There’s no way around it. I had to be honest with myself to get better. It happened. Maybe it was good that it happened for me to get better at this stage of my career.

“I could have fought the rest of my career, never losing again, but I wanted to fight her. It was a rough fight for me and I’ve battled my demons over that night. If I didn’t believe in myself, I’ve already lost. Nobody is going in there fighting for me.”

During the course of her 10 ½ year professional career, has defeated many of the biggest names in women’s boxing from the 140 through 154-pound weight classes, including Christy Martin, Mary Jo Sanders, Mia St. John, Couch, Yankovich and Chevelle Hallback (twice).

Seven-time and reigning IBA/WBAN World Champion Mathis is riding a 25-fight win streak, dating back to 1995 when she lost her second pro fight. She has beaten world champions such as Holm, Myriam Lamare (twice), Jane Couch, Duda Yankovich, Ana Pascal and Nathalie Toro.

Go online to www.FresquezProductions.com or www.rt66casino.com for more information about “The Reckoning.”

Article posted on 21.05.2012

The EPIX Sports broadcast team — NBC’s Bruce Beck, five-division world champion and Hall of Fame inductee Sugar Ray Leonard, ESPN.com’s Dan Rafael and Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix — will be ringside calling every second of this potential Fight of the Year. The telecast will also feature Hall of Fame-elect trainer Freddie Roach presenting the Keys to Victory for this mega fight.

As has become the custom, EPIX will once again present the closed-captioned simulcast of this world championship rumble on the jumbotron in Times Square in New York City (Broadway between 44th and 45th).

Bute (30-0, 24 KOs), will be making his 10th world title defense. A newly-minted Canadian Citizen, Bute is a native of Galat, Romania who now fights out of Montréal, Québec, Canada. When he travels to Froch’s (28-2, 20 KOs), backyard in Nottingham it will be the first time Bute has not fought on Canadian or Romanian soil since 2004. These two gladiators boast a combined record of 59-2 (44 KOs) – a 97% winning percentage and a 75% victory by knockout ratio.

Q: It’s quite unusual for Lucian Bute to actually leave Canadian soil to take a world championship fight, but he’s doing it and he’s going to your backyard. What are your thoughts on your upcoming title challenge?

Carl Froch: Well, to comment on him leaving his hometown I think he’s had to do that now. He’s been in the position (inaudible). I think they’ve all been in Canada or North America. So, he’s never really traveled away. I think he fought in his native Romania early on in his career.

But he’s never been on the road and defended his title like champions are supposed to do. And again you know move out of their hometown, their comfort zone and box away. So, I think he’s in an important position where he’s had to do that.

And you know let’s give him credit. It’s not easy to come away from home. He’s flying over the Atlantic and he’s coming to my backyard. So, give him credit where credit’s due. He’s taking a big chance and a big gamble. But he’s obviously very confident.

And let’s not forget he’s got the taste in there of the rematch clause in the back of his mind what it might be, might not be. I don’t know well enough to say what he’s thinking. But he’s probably got the comfort of knowing that – you know the safety net of knowing that if he gets beat he’s got the rematch back in his hometown Montreal. So, he’s got that in the back of his mind as well.

So, he’s in a good position from that point of view. But I’m sure he’s going to be coming over here to defend his title. And it becomes the toughest fight of his life against you know the best fighter, as far as I’m concerned, to ever box.

Yes, I’ve been beat. I lost my last fight. And he might be thinking that as well he’s coming of the back of a loss. But that was against a very good Andre Ward, very tricky sport in the top five, three Andre Ward. (Inaudible) Andre. I’m not here to give him any credit that may stick, but it’s hard to beat Ward. And you know I got beat by someone who’s very, very good. So, I’m not taking too much negativity in terms of a confidence block into this fight between me and Bute.

This is a great match-up. It’s a great fight. And anybody can win it. I feel I’m going to win the fight, I really do. I promise that I’m going to beat Bute. He’s not mixed with my sort of level before and (inaudible) to fight me in my hometown and all of the pressure of who’s going to be on. He’s traveled over I think last week. I think he’s two weeks over. I just think he’s got a mountain to climb. He might shock everybody. You never know. But I’m very, very confident.

He’s coming over here; he’s going to get beat. I’m going to be IBF champ. I’m going to do everything I can to make sure I win that belt.

I’ll settle down so you can ask the next question. Sorry about that.

Q: Ray, since you will be ringside as part of the EPIX broadcast team, how do you analyze this fight between these two great champions?

Ray Leonard: Well, it’s a very intriguing match-up. You have Carl Froch, who if you listen to him he has no confidence (laughing). I mean, that’s what it takes first and foremost. You have to believe in yourself, believe in your ability.

I’ve seen Carl fight a number of times. I think one of the most impressive fights was when he fought Jermain Taylor. You know if my memory serves me correctly Carl came back and knocked him out.

And I was very impressed with that because that showed intestinal fortitude. You can’t teach that. That is within. A lot of fighters tell you what they’re going to do, this and that; and that’s just the art of verbal confrontation. But when you prove it like Carl has in the past, you know what? This fight should be pretty exciting.

Q: Carl you mentioned in your opening remarks, or when you answered the first question there about – you mentioned you’re coming off the loss to Andre Ward giving him a lot of credit for being a tricky guy to fight.

I just wonder, when that Super Six ended it had been a long road to get to that final. I know you were very disappointed with the way that fight unfolded and the result. Can you talk about just the mental aspect of you know moving past that and getting over that, and now – and all of a sudden finding yourself with another great opportunity to win one of the other titles?

Carl Froch: Yes. Following on the Ward loss, which was obviously a devastating defeat for me and my career. And my mentality and where I am, I’m a winner. I like to win fights.

I know I lost the very first decision to Mikkel Kessler, but that was – I guess from Mikkel Kessler’s advantage point that was (inaudible). And it was a close fight because he had a couple of problems leading up to that, one of them being the kind of cash cloud that they let me fly by week or 10 days, which wasn’t a hard deal.

But no excuses, I got beat by a guy who’s fit, tough and strong, and that’s (inaudible). But I feel that (inaudible) not only would I have been (inaudible) instead of (inaudible), I would’ve also – the confidence would’ve been higher and (inaudible) this sport (inaudible) top level. And even that performance in Kessler enough Ward enough to win.

But the fact that it would’ve been after him I wouldn’t have flown in and took a bit of weight off and you know flown in the next cloud very late two days before the fight; so, no excuses past that fight. You know that’s what happened there, and I’m mentally well over that.

The Ward loss was very frustrating. It was one fight that was on the buildup I knew it was going to be a hard night’s work. I knew it was tricky. I knew it was a spoiler. I know what he does. What he does, he does well. He’s fast and he was catching me with left hooks and I was pulling out, pulling out, you know, just trying to (inaudible).

I know where I went wrong. But again, it wasn’t a loss where I go back to the drawing board and say I don’t belong at this level, I’m not good enough. You know I’m not a very good fighter, it’s time to retire. It wasn’t one of those losses.

It’s a loss where two of the judges, whether it’s right or wrong, it was 115-113, and I’m sure there’s a scorecard the American and the Canadian very close. And because of my up close game Ward actually probably a lot more shots go in close quarters, small leaning on me that has had on me. And he was holding this and doing what he does very well for a few more points and relax a little bit. Mayweather was up close, get a left shoulder and the elbow and just fake a couple of body shots and you know roll and different move.

The fight could’ve been even closer. I could’ve won the fight. I mean, would’ve, should’ve and could’ve — and I got beat fair and square by the better guy on the night. But what I’m saying is it wasn’t meant for me and you know didn’t kill my confidence, it really didn’t. I look to Ward what a great fighter he is and I came very close to anyone else has come to beating him. It was a close fight.

So you know I need to be at world title level fights, league level fights. So, I’m jumping out straight in with a world champion. (If I don’t beat) the world champion, so I don’t think Bute is as good as Ward and I’m not sure if he’s as good as Kessler or Andre Dirrell or Jermain Taylor. I really don’t because he’s only fought Brian McCain, Glen Johnson.

So, it’s a sort of try and work out what it is. It’s hard levels and styles that make fights. But when you look at his record and his resume then tune in to find out the net of two names. And I’ve beat both the same fight (inaudible) myself seven years ago. I broke my hand in Round 2 and I knocked him out.

So you know mentally – mentally I’m confident. I’m switched on. I’m ready. And I’m not licking my wounds. I’m not sulking. I’m not feeling sorry for myself because I lost my last fight. I’m really not. I’m taking confidence from that loss. I know where I went wrong and I know what I need to do to put it right. And I can beat Lucian Bute I’m going to be a three-time world champion. That’s the kind of stuff legends are made of.

You’ve got the legend himself, Sugar Ray Leonard on the call. And it’s an absolute honor to have Sugar Ray Leonard. It’s unbelievable actually he’s on the call listening to me. And I’m not talking to him because I watched him when I was even a boxing amateur when I was (four years ago) and I got back into the amateur at the age of 19.

And I was watching Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns and Roberto Duran and just mesmerized and amazed. And you know this legend; this guy on the phone now is in this conversation. And that’s what I want to do. I want to secure my legacy by beating Lucian Bute.

I’ll never be as good as Sugar Ray Leonard. I’ll never look like him because he is just phenomenal. But I’m a step closer towards securing that legacy. And that’s what I want. So, I’m taking this fight so serious. I’m so confident and I need to be at my best to win. And what an opportunity to my hometown fans in Nottingham; it’s pretty much all on my terms in being in Nottingham, England. They probably altered it (inaudible) he thinks he’s defending his title in England, all I’m saying.

And people can think what they like on the Ward loss, and they can think OK I lost a close spot to Kessler, can he finish (inaudible). People can say what they want. All I know is I’ve been training hard, hard. I’m fit, I’m strong and I’m ready for this fight. I’m looking forward to it and I cannot wait.

Q: One thing that’s a lot different between Ward and the opponent you’ll face in Lucian Bute, he’s a southpaw. I wonder just your general thoughts about facing a lefty, which I don’t think you’ve done a lot of. You have in your career, but not a lot.

Carl Froch: No, but nobody has. Nobody’s fought a southpaw…

Q: No, I’m just saying how does that play into your – the way you’ve trained or your mental preparation or your physical preparation for this fight to be facing a guy that can be (inaudible) because of that.

Carl Froch: Mentally there’s no difference at all. You know I do my hard work, my fitness, my grasp. I get that done so I’m super fit. And physically I obviously spar left-handed fighters. I’m sparring with southpaws. So, every single southpaw I’ve every boxed in my whole career I’ve beat.

You know I think there’s an exception with the world championship amateur final or semifinal. I lost to a southpaw Andre Dirrell. But it’s (inaudible) around boxer moving and kept (inaudible) in the last round.

I box southpaws (inaudible) amateurs, all southpaw fighters. So to avoid seeing southpaw you know Lucian Bute went tall grounds to (inaudible). I got him in two rounds. I was too big and strong and I knocked him out in the second or third round I think it was.

(Inaudible) southpaw. Andre Dirrell, I mean he fought most of the fight southpaw. And you know who wants to fight Dirrell? Let’s be honest. What a skillful, great fighter he is.

I know Sugar Ray Leonard – we’ve got Sugar Ray on the phone, and fast hands, skillful, moves well. So, I don’t think he’s got that mental demeanor which you know Sugar Ray Leonard’s got. You know you can’t compare him on that side of things.

But you need so many different attributes within a complete fighter to be a legend. You don’t just need speed and skill and movement. You also need the heart and the courage and the guts. And I just think Dirrell maybe – maybe needs to build that and try and work on that a little bit, some confidence because I don’t know. He was scared when he fought me that night. He (inaudible) fought all night (inaudible). But yes, very tall range of skillful southpaw and I cope with him no problem.

Q: How have you changed as a boxer since beating Jean Pascal in 2008? What sort of a boxer are we going to see?

Carl Froch: If you look at the Jean Pascal fight then look at me when I boxed I don’t know, Jermain Taylor, I got put down for the first time in my career in Round 3. And then I got up in Round 3 and then boxed through Round 4 to Round 10, just boxing down the type of movement until I saw the – I saw my legs go, Taylor caught a good right hand.

And then I did sort of get the amazing stoppage, a dramatic stoppage in the last round, which I needed by the way on my scorecards because obviously it was doing me no favors out there. But you know I showed boxing ability there. But I think after the defeat with Kessler where I took him on (inaudible) and that fight took place almost to 12 rounds.

After that loss I then boxed Arthur Abraham and just totally outfoxed him. The smallest victory, me just boxing the move in and putting five and six-points combinations together and then moving, not staying in range, not giving him a chance to hit me back, slip and sliding, (inaudible), nice defend, boxing master class.

So, that came from – from the fight I had prior to that. And obviously since then I’ve boxed Johnson. I’ve boxed – and I’ve boxed Andre Ward. So you know I learn a lot every single time. So you’re going to see a more complete round of fighter in this fight.

I’m learning now and I’ve learned how to box, been more composed and been a bit more patient with what I’m doing. And when the time’s there, if I catch Lucian you know I’ll step into range and I’ll let some big shots go. But I won’t be looking for big shots in Round 1.

I won’t be loading – I won’t be showing him stuff, what to lead with. Especially by a skillful southpaw who’s got range. You know if I load up and try to bang him out early I’m just going to walk into counterpunches all night long, and he’d absolutely love that. So, I’ve learned how to box, be patient and you know I’ve – I’ve improved my boxing ability and my overall ring crust. So, you’re going to see that and solid maintenance after that.

Q: And when we asked Stephan Larouche [Bute’s trainer] last week what he liked about you he said it was your strong, granite chin, you can take a punch.

Carl Froch: I’m not the kind of fighter that gets hit with a lot of shots. I don’t get hit that much. I got hit by Glen Johnson more than what he hit Lucian Bute. And probably what I did I got a couple rounds off Glen Johnson. And if I got hit with a couple balls, maybe 10 balls; and I may have fell over.

You know the best chin in the business is the one that doesn’t get hit. And the majority you’re not getting hit that’s the next one, whether it’s made of granite or not. Because obviously eventually it can break and you can find yourself on the floor like Jermain Taylor. But Lucian Bute’s not going to hit me any more than any other previous skillful, top-level, elite-level fighters and above.

So, I’m not worried about him accumulatively handling shots on me. I don’t get hit with that many shots. I get hit with silly shots now and again, shots I shouldn’t get hit with. I’m not concerned about what Lucian Bute’s thought about doing or whether who said it or he said it.

At the end of the day it’s my job not to get hit and I’m working on my boxing ability and my defense, and I’ve learned a lot in my last two or three years as a pro. So, I’m not worried. I’m really not.

Q: Carl, when you look at other guys in your category, the guys that have fought in the Super Six or guys that have been in the top two these last couple years. When you guys talk about Lucian Bute, I’m talking maybe Andre Ward or Mikkel Kessler or Jermain Taylor. What do you guys say about Lucian Bute? Has he earned your respect? Or do you guys still feel like – do you believe the hype? Do you feel like this fight here is his first chance to really put himself on the map if he goes head-to-head with you and has a good performance? What are your thoughts on that?

Carl Froch: Yes, the latter, the latter. I agree with what you just said, that this is his chance now to go you know go into the lion’s den to fight somebody who’s proven at world level because I am proven at world level. I beat Jean Pascal who went onto beat Chad Dawson. I know it’s on paper. I beat the man who beat the man. You know Chad Dawson’s a great fighter. I think he’s fighting Andre Ward next as well. But we’re not here to talk about that.

You know I’ve been there with Pascal, Jermain Taylor, Andre Dirrell, who is a great fighter, Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham. I don’t need to reel them off, but very top level, elite level fighters.

You can’t name the names of you know – look at Bute’s resume and some the same. He hasn’t. And that doesn’t mean he’s not a great fighter and he’s not good enough to do that and go in there and beat them. But what it does mean is we don’t know. We just don’t know.

So, yes, you’re right. We’re going to find out aren’t we? We’re going to find out next Saturday if he has got enough to mix it at this level. And that’s basically I think answers your question.

You know if you’re going to ask me if I think he’s good enough personally, I don’t 100 percent know if he’s good enough to mix it, but again, I’m going to find out. But before this fight I would say he’s not fought anybody. He doesn’t deserve to be ranked number one or number two for the boxing (inaudible).

He doesn’t deserve this ranking (inaudible) body (inaudible) ranked in the top – you know the highest level ranking. But it’s on a point system, some rankings. So, sometimes you see some ridiculous markings for people that really have not boxed anybody. And this is one of them.

You know Lucian Bute on paper is overrated. He’s an unbeaten fighter and he’s answered every question that’s been asked of him so far. Although you do have to remember that he got absolutely knocked out by Librado Andrade and saved by the bell, saved by the referee or whoever saved him in that last round because he was done, finished and even in final points. Let’s be honest, he lost the fight, by knockout.

Q: Carl, you talked about Lucian coming to your town. Could you talk about the comforts of home, being with your son? Why is that better? And obviously you had a rough time going over to fight Kessler. But how is that helping you as opposed to you know a lot of guys like to get away from all that, that animal mentality. But you don’t seem to need that.

Carl Froch: No, it’s not so much being at home and being with my son right now. That’s really got nothing to do with it because one, I spent 97 percent of the time in (Chatfield) and I live in Nottingham. So, I’m in a hotel. And when I am at home I’m evicted to the guest room. I’m not even sleeping in the same bed as my partner. And you know I don’t get disturbed in the morning because I’ve been going to sleep past 1:00, 2:00 AM and getting up at 10:00 with eye patch and earplugs. And I’ve been saving my body for a flight a little bit later on (inaudible) 12:00.

It’s the very fact that I haven’t had to pack my suitcase and fly over the Atlantic and check into a new hotel or apartment. And you know for the last two fights I spent it in Manhattan in New York and I was flagging down yellow cabs every day for three weeks to get to and from the gym. And it’s quite mentally draining.

You know you get back to your apartment and then you’ve got sort of Whole Foods and get some food and then get up in the morning, walking down the blocks and blocks to get to Central Park. Then you do your run and you know it’s strange territory. You’re in the gym, you don’t know anybody so you do what training you can. But that familiarity’s gone and you don’t know where you are and what you’re doing.

For the Ward fight it was the second time I’ve done it. And I’ve done the whole New York, Manhattan thing in May and June for the fight in June with Johnson. And then I did it again in November/December for the fight in December with Ward. And come December when I fought Ward it was like Groundhog Day.

I was stuck in Manhattan, flagging cabs, back to the same gym. And the Trinity gym was fabulous and it was great there. But it was like I said, Groundhog Day. And it was mentally draining and I had enough.

I almost just wanted it over. I wanted it finished with and I wanted to get back and have Christmas with my beautiful family, my little boy who’s not even two years old yet. And I was – you know by the time the Ward fight came around, fight night I’m talking about, I was looking forward to plane the next day and getting home and relaxing and having a good Christmas.

I wasn’t thinking to myself it’s time to go to work; it’s time to taste the blood or get in there and go to war and go to that dark, lonely place in the trenches if necessary. You know I wasn’t really prepared for that. My own fault, nobody else’s; it’s just where I was mentally with it.

For this fight I’m at home, training fantastic. I’m hitting all my runs. I know what I’m doing in the gym, sparring. I mean, I’m getting ready to spar now. I’ve come up with my brother from Nottingham; he drove me up. But (inaudible) afternoon in shopping center. I’ve put my feet up and I relax (inaudible) some energy food. And I’m going to go and spar now and there’s going to be a lot of time.

I’m doing a 12-round spar, and I’m taking it like I’m fighting this evening. And I’m switched on and ready. And I’m really looking forward to it. And I’ll do the same again tomorrow and Saturday, which is a week before the fight.

So, I think the whole build up in the fight and I know where I am, what time I’m there, what I’m doing, my food’s correct. I know what I’m eating and when I’m eating it. And you know I just got – I’m surrounded by my family and friends and I can feel the love and the warmth.

And I know it’s my town in Nottingham and all the crowd’s going to be cheering for me. And that’s a big difference when it’s across (Chatfield) and you know we let these shots go and (inaudible) as opposed to letting these shots go. And silently you can hear a pin drop in Denmark. It lifts you – it lifts you to the next level if you do that.

It might motivate – it might motivate Bute to be away from home. It depends on what kind of person you are and what your personality is. And I’ve proven I’m good on the road. I’m well-traveled. I can always perform on the road.

But I don’t care who you are or what you say or what your mentality is or what your personality is, I just think it’s better to be around familiarity and around comfort so you can relax and you have faith and you’re confident and you succeed in life, including boxing. But that’s my opinion. You know I may or may not be wrong. But hopefully that’s answered your question.

Q: You spoke about the atmosphere. Bute, from what I’m told, is trying to emulate the noise and the frenetic atmosphere that you probably will have in your favor. And I’m told right down to the voice of your wife. I don’t know if you’ve heard that they have a soundtrack. They’re emulating everything right down to the voice of your – of Rachel. Has your wife heard that?

Carl Froch: I’ve heard that. I’ve seen it on YouTube. You know that might be some psychology (inaudible) what you do in playing that, this will help you, this will get you ready. There’s only (inaudible) Rachel screaming (inaudible) isn’t going to prepare him for 9,000 people in the Nottingham arena.

Q: Is it going to prepare him for Rachel?

Carl Froch: It’s not just the noise. It’s the feelings, the vibrations. You can feel the noise. You can’t just hear it. It’s deafening in the arena. I mean I know he’s fighting in front of 17,000 or whatever it is in the Bell Centre, but the very reserved crowd that sort of sit there and behave and don’t make much noise. The atmosphere in the Nottingham arena, he’s not going to be ready for that. And you know playing the tapes and making noise, it may or may not help him.

I don’t – I don’t know if it’s going to or not. I think he’s very comical if you want an honest answer. It’s quite funny that he’s doing that. But other than – other than laughing about it I don’t really have anything else to say, to be honest. It can only be worse with Rachel screaming while I’m trying to train, bloody hell.

Q: Ray, I know you fought in a lot of different cities and ended up at the latter part of your career fighting in Las Vegas. How big a factor is it for Bute who has fought so many fights in Canada or Romania, his home, his native country, respectively, to be going across the pond to defend his title for the first time not just in another land, but in the opponent’s hometown?

Ray Leonard: I didn’t realize that he fought the majority of his fights in Canada. It could be culture shock. It could be something he’s not used to. But for some reason I think he will rise to the occasion.

Q: How your training is going and how – how is it acclimating to England? I understanding you’re over there in England now finishing your training.

Lucian Bute: I feel really good. The time zone is getting good for me. I’m getting acclimated right now, and I will get anything we need here. Nice hotel, nice gym, all the facilities. It’s a little chilly in terms of temperature, but that’s part of the game. So far, so good.

Q: This fight you have taken in Nottingham in Carl Froch’s hometown after many – all of your fights either in Canada, one in Romania as far as being a champion. And I just wanted to hear your thoughts about what was it that prompted you to make the decision to go overseas and take a very dangerous fight in your opponent’s hometown, which is not something that a lot of – a lot of fighters do.

Lucian Bute: I was in line to fight the winner of the Super Six for a different reason than Ward receives to fight me and I kind of respect his decision. So, I made a choice. I said I’m going to fight Carl Froch.

So, we made him an offer to come to Montreal. He turned it down. And maybe he was right saying that he was away from home for a while. He wanted to fight at home. So, we just told his promoter make us an offer. We’re going to go defend the belt in your place and we’ll prove everybody wrong that I’m only fighting in Montreal. So, I asked to go out to prove myself.

Q: One of the things that Carl said in his portion of this call was that maybe in the back of Lucian’s mind is the fact that he would take this fight in Nottingham because he has a rematch clause that would call for that second fight to take place in Montreal kind of in his back pocket.

So, even though he’ll of course go in there and try and win and do his best you know he’s got that sort of cushion to fall back on if the worst happens and he were to lose the fight. Is there anything to that in your mind?

Lucian Bute:

ENTHUSIASTIC CROWD IN ALBANY, NEW YORK SEES SENSATIONAL FRIDAY NIGHT OF BOXING

ALBANY, NY (May 19, 2012) Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing returned to the Times Union Center in Albany, New York last night with a sensational ESPN Friday Night Fights card.

In front of an enthusiastic crowd of Capital Region boxing fans, Philadelphia’s Raymond “Tito” Serrano and defending NABO junior welterweight champion Karim “Hard Hitta” Mayfield headlined in a scheduled ten round battle.

Throwing bombs with bad intentions from the opening round, Serrano and Mayfield engaged in a terrific clash that had the local fans on their feet throughout.

Towards the end of the third round Serrano was knocked down and suffered a cut on his forehead.

Valiantly fighting on against the aggressive Mayfield, Serrano opened up a cut near the title holder’s left eye in the fourth round but was knocked down for the second time as the bell rang to end the stanza.

Continuing to fight as the bell rang for the fifth round, Serrano was knocked down again from a Mayfield right hand and referee Eddie Claudio stopped the bout at the time of 0:47.

The loss was the first of the 22-year-old Serrano’s career moving his record to 18-1-0 (8KO’s) while Mayfield stayed undefeated at 16-0-1 (10KO’s).

In the super middleweight co-main Jason “Monstruo” Escalera of Union City, New Jersey and Geneva, New York’s Nick Brinson put on a sensational eight round war for the Times Union Center crowd.

The undefeated Escalera spent most of the fight stalking the once beaten Brinson, with vicious hooks to the body of the counterpuncher.

Escalera had Brinson badly hurt in the seventh round, but the bout continued with the Geneva, New York resident hanging on for the duration of the final round.

Scores at end of the terrific clash were 76-75 (Escalera), 76-75 (Brinson) and 76-76. Escalera’s record moved to 13-0-1 (12KO’s) while Brinson went to 9-1-2 (5KO’s).

In the ESPN Friday Night Fights opening bout, Kevin “KID” Rooney Jr. was upset by Newark’s Anthony Jones in their fast packed four round middleweight bout.

Rooney Jr. suffered a controversially called knockdown in the first but was dropped in the third, which proved to be the difference in the scores, which were 39-35 and 38-36 (twice) for Jones who improved to 2-0-1 while Rooney Jr. moved to 4-2-0 (2KO’s).

Come backing former world title challenger David Telesco of Port Chester, New York, was stopped in the fifth round of his scheduled eight round tilt against fast rising local cruiserweight prospect Vincent Miranda.

After four rounds of spirited action, Miranda dropped Telesco with a left hook to the chin halting the bout. With the win Miranda improved to

15-1-0 (9KO”s) while Telesco went to 30-8-1 (25KO’s).

In a scheduled six round welterweight bout Rochester, New York’s Kenny Abril, 12-5-1 (7KO’s) stopped popular local fighter Bryan Abraham, 6-12-2 (6KO’s) of Schenectady, New York in the fourth round, time was 2:45.

In the final bout of the evening Tony Brinson of Geneva NY and Lekan Byfield Atlanta GA both added a draw to their records moving to 2-1-1.

Spina predicts knockout

Confident, trim Spina predicts knockout against Biosse in Thursday night showdown

LINCOLN, R.I. (May 19, 2012) – He worked the mitts flawlessly, each punch sending a message. Showing off his lean, muscular physique, Providence’s own Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina turned heads at Saturday’s open workout at the Twin River Casino while promising to finish his opponent, Vladine Biosse, in grand fashion Thursday night.

“Fourth-round knockout,” Spina said defiantly. “I just don’t think he’s up to my ability.”

Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs) will face Biosse on Thursday, May 24th, 2012 in the eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I., the second installment of the 2012 Thursday Night Fight Series.

In addition to Biosse’s New England Super Middleweight Title, bragging rights will be on the line as both fighters enter the ring representing their hometown of Providence.

For Spina, his biggest concern at the start of training camp was making the mandatory super middleweight limit of 168 pounds. A light heavyweight (175) most of his career, where he was once ranked among the Top 20 fighters in the world, the “K.O. Kid” has hit 168 pounds three times in the past two weeks, including Saturday when he tipped the scales at 167.

“I’ve been in the gym for a while now getting ready for this, so I feel good,” said Spina, who lost a split decision to Jerson Ravelo on March 30th in Atlantic City. “I stressed about the weight because I’m a big guy – 6-foot-1, almost 6-2 – and I walk around at 200 pounds while fighting at 168, but I’m point right now.

“Vla’s a great kid – a tough kid – but he stays too long in front of you. I just don’t see him handling my power,” he continued. “I punch too hard and I’m too big.”

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

The undercard features unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) facing veteran Kentrell Claiborne (2-5, 1 KO) of Cleburne, Tex., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) will battle Cedar Hill, Tex., native Samuel Clarkson (4-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round bout.

Medford, Oreg., cruiserweight Mike Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) will face Atlanta’s Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1) in a four-round bout, and fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction. Female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout, and unbeaten Providence light heavyweight Alex Amparo (3-0, 2 KOs) will face newcomer Ben Peak of Worcester, Mass., in a four-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former New England amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while super middleweight Joe Gardner (8-4-1, 1 KO) of Woonsocket, R.I., will face Julio Garcia (4-3, 3 KOs) of Rincon, Puerto Rico in a four-round bout.

“Up For Grabs” will be dedicated to the memory of Jason Pisano, a former wheelchair marathoner from West Warwick, R.I., who passed away earlier this month at the age of 40. Pisano, who completed 52 marathons in his wheelchair, will be inducted in the CES Ring Of Honor on Thursday night.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Article posted on 20.05.2012

“Battle of the Badges 4″ (“BOB4″) was presented by National Public Safety Athletic League (“NPSAL”) in association with the FDNY Boxing Bravest, MCOFU and Foxwoods Resort Casino.

Attending media members selected the following award winners: Fight of the Night, Jamall Spence (NYPD) vs. Jarrod Lussier; Most Outstanding Fighter, Josh DeLaRosa; Sportsman of the Night, Matt Kehoe.

DeLaRosa

FIGHTER OF THE NIGHT (L) Josh DeLaRosa

The entire card was streamed live on GoFightLive.tv with Hermis Yannis (Hawks Media) and “Iceman” John Scully, a former IBF and IBO world light heavyweight title challenger, calling all of the action from ringside.

Medals were presented to all of the participating boxers. Special guests making these presentations included two-time (2001-2003, 2004-2005) World Boxing Association (“WBA”) Heavyweight Champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz, World Welterweight Champion (1955) Tony “The Pride of Fleet” Street” DeMarco, WBA World Boxing Council (“WBC”) (1979) Middleweight Champion Vito Antuofermo, former New England Patriots offensive lineman and three-time Super Bowl winner Joe Andruzzi, stand-up comedian and movie/television star Lenny Clarke; star-in-the-making singer James Massone (“The Voice”), and World Light Welterweight (1976) title challenger Tony Petronelli.

sportsman

SPORTSMAN OF THE NIGHT (R) Matt Kehoe

Proceeds from the May 19th charitable event benefited Work Vessels For Veterans, NPSAL and FDNY Boxing Bravest Team.

Full Results

(non-team scoring matches in red)

FDNY 7 MCUFU 2

SUPER HEAVYWEIGHTS

Al Grdovich (FDNY) WPTS Marc Goguen (MCOFU)

Richie Duest (MCOFU) WPTS Timothy McGuinness (FDNY)

Matt Kehoe (NYAC) WRSC1 (1:00) Brian Schwenk, Sr. (MCOFU)

HEAVYWEIGHTS

Graham Trout (MCOFU) WPTS James Ling (NYAC)

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS

Tommy Beaulieu (MCOFU) WPTS Ryan Nordman (FDNY)

Jack Kirrane (FDNY) WPTS Dean Hardy (MCOFU)

Joe Schiraldo (FDNY) WRSC1 (1:22) Erik Cabral (MCOFU)

Mike Campbell (MCOFU) WPTS Paul Melocowsky (Hartford FD)

Josh DeLaRosa (MCOFU) WPTS Dean Lucier (FDNY)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS

Kevin Barry (FDNY) WPTS Marc Tigino MCOFU)

Todd Velton (FDNY) WRSC2 (1:40) Mike Douglas (MCOFU)

Jamaal Spence (NYPD) WPTS Jarrod Lussier (Fairhaven FD)

FEMALE LIGHTWEIGHTS

JJ Ignotz (FDNY) WPTS Ashleigh Moore (MCOFU)

NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY ATHLETIC LEAGUE: “NPSAL” is committed to fundraising and promoting efficient techniques to promote recreation and sport/physical activities for youths and adults for the purpose of maintaining a healthy and positive lifestyle.

FDNY BRAVEST BOXING TEAM:The organization donates all funds after expenses and has already donated more than $100,000 to various charities includes The Wounded Warrior Project and Building Homes For Heroes.

WORK VESSELS FOR VETERANS: “WVFV” assists veterans returning to the United States as they being their civilian careers or continue their educational pursuits by donating to them the necessary start-up tools (laptops, vehicles, machinery, tools, commercial vessels, etc.). The organization was started in 2008 with the donation of a commercial fishing boat to a returning veteran and to date has helped more than 500 veterans in their transitions. www.wvfv.org

Article posted on 20.05.2012

Weights from McAllen – Solis 267.5, Airich 225.75

Reigning and defending IBF intercontinental champion Konstantin Airich weighed in at 225.75 lbs. The fight at the Convention Center in Pharr (Texas) is promoted by Main Events and ARENA Box. Highlights will be shown in the Telefutura „Solo Boxeo“ broadcast tomorrow night.

Article posted on 19.05.2012

Mr. Berto issued this statement:

“At the present time, I cannot explain the positive drug test, which was provided as part of a voluntary anti-doping program in which I agreed to participate. I know that I have never used any steroids or other banned substances, and I am investigating all possible causes of the positive test with my attorney Howard Jacobs. I have never cheated, and all of my success has come from hard work and dedication.”

Article posted on 19.05.2012

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWS!

Be sure to join us for three exclusive interviews:

Floyd Mayweather Sr:
• World Class boxing trainer/Former boxer
• Has worked with world champions Oscar DeLaHoya and Chad Dawson
• Is the father of Floyd Mayweather Jr.
• Will be making his 18th guest appearance “On the Ropes”

Allan Green:
• Is scheduled to face Mikkel Kessler May19th in Denmark.
• Former World title challenger
• Current record stands at 31-3 with 21 wins coming by way of knockout
• Will be making his 2nd guest appearance “On the Ropes”

BE SURE TO TUNE IN!

***

On the Ropes Boxing Radio would like to give a special thanks to Alex Sherpakovski!

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To read more by Ciani or Jenna please visit The Mushroom Mag:
http://www.eatthemushroom.com/mag

Article posted on 18.05.2012

“This is a very tough fight for a comeback after such a long layoff“, says promoter Ahmet Oner. „Airich is a true powerhouse with great stamina and two of the hardest fists out there. Solis has to be very careful and he cannot go into the fight at anything less than 100 percent.“

IBF #12 and WBO #11 rated Airich, a 33-year old German who was born in Kazakhstan, is coming off two impressive KO-wins over Varol Vekiloglu (19-4-1) and Ondrej Pala (30-3) which earned him the IBF i/c and the WBO European championship.

“I know Konstantin from my times in Germany“, states Solis. “We have done sparring a couple of times. He is a tough guy and he is always coming to fight and win. But I don’t care who I step in the ring with. I want to prove that I am the best boxer in the world so I will beat whoever crosses my way.“

One of the most important questions will be how Solis handled the long break and how his right knee has recovered from the injury and the following three surgeries.

„To be honest“, says trainer Pedro Luis Diaz Benitez who most recently led Miguel Cotto to his excellent performance against Floyd Mayweather jr. „His knee is better than ever before. I would even say that his right knee is better than the left one now. We will have no problems. We worked very hard for this comeback. Solis has been in training camp for almost three months. He is in great shape because we know that we have to be in shape against a strong opponent like Airich.“

Since Solis, a multiple time world amateur champion and 2004 Olympic gold medalist, turned pro in 2007 the Cuban defector has been criticized for carrying too much weight.

„His weight is not an issue“, adds the coach. „People should judge Solis from his performance in the ring. See how fast he is, see how he moves in the ring. Who cares about the scale and five pounds more or less as long as the fighter knows how to use his body to wear down his opponents?“

The “Fight Night in Pharr“ which is promoted by Main Events, Cavazos Boxing Promotions and ARENA Sports-Promotion also features the return of unbeaten lightweight prospect Jerry Belmontes (15-0) taking on Dominican Remesis Gil (7-3-5). The bouts will be broadcasted on TeleFutura’s “Solo Boxeo Tecate“.

Article posted on 18.05.2012

Price (12-0) and Norwich Sexton (15-2) clash for the vacant British and Commonwealth heavyweight title.

Maloney was disgusted when Tyson Fury preferred to dump the title rather than face 6ft 8in Olympic bronze medallist Price.

And last week it was announced that Dereck Chisora and David Haye would clash under Luxembourg licenses.

Maloney said: “Thankfully David and Sam are both gentlemen and will give fans a fight to remember.

“There has been no trash talking and whoever wins will be proud to call themselves British and Commonwealth champion.

“Fury tried to lessen the title by refusing to face David. Chisora and Haye have brought bad publicity to the sport.

“Obviously I am backing David to win, but Sam is a very good fighter and been a delight to work with during the build-up.”

The chief support sees Ashley Theophane (31-4-1) defends his British light-welterweight crown against Darren Hamilton (11-2) after Steve Williams pulled out on Monday.

In a third major title fight Liverpool rivals Paul Edwards (9-1) and Kevin Satchell square off for the vacant Commonwealth flyweight crown.

In a special attraction classy Leeds boxer Adil Anwar (16-1) meets Dave Ryan (13-5) in a vacant English title and eliminator for Theophane’s crown.

Other fights include: John Donnelly (13-2) v Mike Robinson (5-4-3) (English super-flyweight title), Bob Ajisafe (9-2) v Travis Dickinson (12-0) English light-heavyweight crown.

Tickets are selling fast. The are some available priced at £95 (ringside), £75 (main floor) and £55 (floor) from www.frankmaloney.com/www.ticketmaster.com

Serrano-Mayfield Heat up Presser

ALBANY, NY (May 16, 2012) Undefeated junior welterweights Ray “Tito” Serrano and Karim “Hard Hitta” Mayfield wasted no time at today’s press conference in Albany, New York getting in each other’s face just two days ahead of their “ESPN Friday Night Fights” showdown at the Times Union Center set for this Friday, May 18, 2012.

Ranked # 9 by the World Boxing Association (WBA) with an undefeated record of 18-0-0 with eight stoppages, Philadelphia’s Serrano challenges San Francisco’s Mayfield, 15-0-1 (9KO’s), in a ten round fight for Mayfield’s NABO Title.

Escalera weigh in

In the eight round co-main event, middleweight prospects will clash as heavy-handed knockout artist Jason Escalera of Union City, New Jersey battles Geneva, New York’s Nick Brinson.

Also featured is an eight round light heavyweight bout between Albany, New York based contender Vincent Miranda and former world title challenger David Telesco of Portchester, New York.

The undercard of “ESPN FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS” includes the Capital Region’s favorite son Kevin “KID” Rooney Jr., along with Schenectady junior welterweight Bryan Abraham.

Tickets, priced at $30, $40, $50 and $75, are available through Ticketmaster, (www.Ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000) or at the Times Union Center Box Office, (www.timesunioncenter-albany.com), and at select local Wal-Mart Music Centers. Tickets are also available by calling Star Boxing at 718-823-2000 or on their website www.starboxing.com.

Follow us at www.facebook/starboxing. www.twitter/starboxing

Article posted on 17.05.2012

It now appears as thought his words may have been misinterpreted and over exaggerated, as Pacquiao has offered an explanation on the issue: I didn’t say that, that’s a lie… I didn’t know that quote from Leviticus because I haven’t read the Book of Leviticus yet. I only gave out my opinion that same sex marriage is against the law of God. I’m not against gay people… I have a relative who is also gay. We can’t help it if they were born that way. What I’m critical off are actions that violate the word of God.” (http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/05/16/12/pacquiao-gays-i-was-just-voicing-my-opinion)

Whether it was misinterpreted or not, as a public figure and a government official, Pacquiao should think twice before bringing up an issue as such, especially in United States, where it has gone through some recent turbulence.

Article posted on 17.05.2012

Airich and his trainer, former German national coach Hans-Juergen Witte, flew from Germany to Miami where they conclude their preparation for the Solis fight with a couple of lighter training sessions before heading to McAllen International airport on Thursday.

Airich (23-5-2, 17 KOs) is the big underdog against 2004 Olympic gold medalist and multiple times world amateur champion Odlanier Solis (17-1, 12 KOs).

“I know that Solis is an excellent fighter”, says Airich. “But I also know what I’m capable of. I have surely not come to the United States just to hand over my belt to him. I know that there is always a chance and I am willing to take it.”

When working out in Miami Airich wore a t-shirt stating “Nothing is impossible” which might as well be his motto for this fight. “Anything can happen in a boxing ring”, adds Airich. “Especially in the heavyweight division one single punch can decide a fight at any time. I consider Solis one of the best fighters in the world today but being the best fighter doesn’t help you when you lie flat on the ground.”

The German “Sandman” himself is considered to be one of the hardest punchers in the world. He is a regular sparring partner for both Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko and is coming off two impressive KO wins over Varol Vekiloglu and Ondrej Pala.

“Being the underdog makes things even easier for Konstantin”, says his coach Witte. “Nobody expected him to beat Pala – but he did. Now nobody expects him to beat Solis. So he can enter this fight without any pressure. But one thing is for certain: Solis is a complete boxer. With all his amateur merits, his technical and tactical abilities we are surely not here to outbox him and win by decision. Konstantin knows what he has to do: We will go for the knockout.”

For Solis the fight against Airich will be his comeback after a 14 months layoff due to the bad knee injury he suffered when challenging WBC heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko for the world title in March 2011 in Cologne, Germany. The Miami based Cuban suffered a cruciate ligament rupture at the end of the first round in which Solis had landed more clean shots on Klitschko than the champion had to take in all his other fights combined since coming out of retirement in 2008.

“In this first two and a half minutes against Klitschko Solis proved that he is probably the only fighter out there who can actually beat both Klitschko brothers”, states promoter Ahmet Oner. “Solis is an exceptional talent and as long as he stays healthy he will surely become world heavyweight champion. But as we all know styles make fights. And Airich is a hard puncher, has a great work ethic and strong willpower. He has worked very hard to get to where he is right now. This will clearly be no walk in the park for Solis. I am looking forward to an exciting fight.”

Wilson ready for his shot

Irish cruiserweight Wilson ready to make his mark next week in New England debut

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (May 15, 2012) – Mike Wilson has spanned the globe from Texas all the way to Australia searching for his golden opportunity.

The 6-foot-3 Irish cruiserweight from Medford, Oreg., whose grandparents were born and raised in County Cork, Ireland, may have finally found it 3,000 miles east in the heart of New England’s booming boxing community.

Wilson (5-0, 3 KOs) has joined forces with Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment Sports in Providence, R.I., and will make his New England debut Thursday, May 24th, 2012 when he faces veteran Joseph Rabotte (11-20-1) in a four-round bout on the undercard of Burchfield’s “Up For Grabs” show at the Twin River Event Center in Lincoln.

“I’m the best-kept secret on this show. You’ll be wondering, ‘Damn, where did he come from?’” Wilson said. “I’ve flown under the radar for years coming from Oregon. I just needed an opportunity, and it looks like it’s finally coming my way.”

“The Irish have a tradition of being warriors, especially when they’re ancestors come from Ireland,” Burchfield added. “That’s how you know they’re really Irish! We’re honored to have Mike on this card, and we’re excited to watch him develop into a championship-caliber fighter while proudly representing boxing’s storied history within the Irish-American community.”

Wilson linked up with Burchfield through his manager, Bob Spagnola, whom Burchfield describes as a “dear friend.”

“Knowing Mike was represented by Bob was enough for me,” Burchfield said.

A Texas native, Spagnola first met Wilson at the 2008 Olympic Trials in Houston. At the time, Wilson was a 24-year-old super heavyweight with three United States National Amateur titles under his belt looking for one last shot at Olympic glory (he came within one fight of qualifying for the 2004 Summer Games in Athens, Greece).

“He had great amateur credentials,” Spagnola said. “A lot of people were after him.”

Unfortunately for Wilson, he and Spagnola could not strike a deal, so after Wilson lost to Kimdo Bethel in the loser’s bracket finals, he signed with Tennessee-based manager Chris Rowland, who guided him to four wins – three by knockout – within the first three months of his professional career.

“All of a sudden, I couldn’t get in touch with [Rowland] for a few months,” Wilson said. “Then the stipends stopped coming. I’m thinking to myself, ‘What the hell is going on?’”

Turns out Rowland had problems of his own; he was indicted in November of 2009 on federal money-laundering charges, just one month after Wilson’s fourth bout, leaving the promising, young heavyweight without a manager (Rowland was later sentenced to 28 months in federal prison in 2011).

He and Spagnola reconnected shortly after Wilson’s fifth bout – a unanimous-decision win over Jae Bryce in Australia – and Spagnola worked quickly to pitch Wilson to a promoter who could bring his career to new heights.

“I told Jimmy, ‘Listen, this kid is worth working on,’” Spagnola said. “All he needed was an opportunity, and with the way this business has changed in this economy, everyone knows those opportunities are few and far in between.

“A guy like Jimmy, with the way he works, will get this kid the opportunity he deserves.”

Wilson’s long-term goal is to drop from heavyweight, where he fought his first five fights, to cruiserweight, where he’ll fight on the 24th, and eventually win a world title in that weight class before bulking back up to heavyweight. The decision to shed the weight stemmed from an inadvertent lifestyle change two years ago.

“When I first turned pro, I worked my ass off in the gym, but I liked to play hard, too,” Wilson said. “I liked to hang out with friends and drink a few beers. One night, I got arrested for [driving under the influence] and had to spend two weeks in jail.

“I’m sitting there with these people thinking, ‘This is where drinking got me. I’m done with it!’”

Once he stopped drinking, Wilson trimmed down to 200 pounds and soon realized he was a more natural fit at cruiserweight despite more than 15 years of experience in the heavyweight division.

“This is where I should’ve been all that time,” he said. “I was always a small heavyweight fighting bigger guys. Now I’m a big cruiserweight fighting smaller guys.”

Wilson hopes to draw from the experiences of Tomasz Adamek, Evander Holyfield and Marco Huck, who each won world titles as cruiserweights before making the leap to heavyweight – the most successful being Holyfield, who went on to become the Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion just two years after winning his last cruiserweight title.

“That’s logistically the easiest way to do it,” Wilson said. “The money’s not great at cruiserweight, but you can get a title shot, and then you’re already in the Top 10 when you move up to heavyweight.

“I followed Adamek and Huck when they went up, but their styles didn’t fit at heavyweight. Huck is more of a brawler – too small. Me, I’m more of a boxer. I like to box. I like to use my length and reach. Adamek, he has that fighter’s heart and mentality, but sometimes those heavyweights are too damn big to bang with.

“That won’t be a problem for me as long as I bring the weight with me. I plan on doing it the right way.”

Wilson has flown under the radar fighting out of Oregon – “There’s really no boxing in the northwest,” Spagnola said – but his amateur background is unrivaled by that of most fighters his age. A self-described “fat kid” growing up, he began boxing at 13 when he joined a newly-opened gym in Medford.

“Boxing had always interested me, and when this gym opened I tried getting a few of my friends to join with me, but none of them had the balls to do it,” Wilson said. “My mom got tired of me talking about it, so she brought me there one day without me knowing and told me, ‘Go inside and sign up.’

“She tricked me, but it worked.”

Boxing soon became an outlet for Wilson to travel the country, a luxury he couldn’t afford growing up since his family had little money. He soared to the top of the super heavyweight division within seven years, capturing the first of three consecutive U.S. National Amateur championships in 2004 (he was later stripped of his 2006 title after testing positive for marijuana, an incident Wilson said is, “in my rearview mirror now”). Later in ‘04, he narrowly missed qualifying for a spot on the U.S. Olympic team when he lost to Providence’s Jason Estrada in the finals.

“At first, I took a lot of things for granted and didn’t always want to train because I’d rather be hanging with my friends,” Wilson said, “but I eventually kind of just woke up and thought, ‘If I’m going to do something with this, I better start now.’”

Following a one-point loss to Michael Hunter, this year’s Olympic qualifier in the heavyweight division, in the 2007 National finals and his subsequent loss to Bethel in the ’08 Olympic trials, Wilson finally made his professional debut in August of 2009.

Through trials and tribulations – stemming from both bad luck and poor decision-making – Wilson has finally landed with the right manager and promoter. Coming soon to an arena near you, “Irish” Mike is ready to state his case as boxing’s best-kept secret.

“I firmly believe everything happens for a reason,” Wilson said. “Sometimes when you starve for so long, it makes you hungry. You’ve got to go through struggles to appreciate things. All I want is one opportunity, and it seems like it’s finally falling into my lap now. I’m going to make the most of it.”

The eight-round main event of “Up For Grabs” features Vladine Biosse (12-1-1, 6 KOs), dubbed “Mr. Providence” due to his strong following in Rhode Island’s capital city, defending his New England Super Middleweight Title against Providence’s Joey “K.O. Kid” Spina (26-2-2, 18 KOs). Unbeaten Burlington, Vt., super middleweight Kevin Cobbs (3-0, 1 KO) will face veteran Borngod Washington (3-10, 1 KO) of Queens, N.Y., in a four-round bout while unbeaten middleweight Thomas Falowo (6-0, 4 KOs) faces La Vista, Neb., native Sean Rawley Wilson (5-10, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.

Super lightweight Zack Ramsey, a former national amateur champion from Springfield, Mass., will make his long-awaited debut against Providence’s Alan Beeman (0-1), while fan-favorite Richard “Bobo The Bull” Starnino (9-7-2, 2 KOs) of Providence will now face Harwich, Mass., native Paul Gonsalves (3-2, 3 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout.

“Up For Grabs” also features the return of former reality television star Richard Gingras (11-2, 7 KOs) of “The Contender,” who, after signing a promotional agreement with Classic Entertainment Sports, will battle Terrance Smith Jr. (7-13-2, 4 KOs) of Oklahoma City in the six-round cruiserweight special attraction. Female bantamweight Shelito Vincent (2-0) of Providence will battle newcomer Carmen Cruz of Fort Myers, Fla., in a four-round bout.

Tickets for “Up For Grabs” are $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Up For Grabs.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

EDWARDS AND SATCHELL READY FOR BIG AINTREE JUMP

Scouse rivals Paul Edwards and Kevin Satchell rivals have a big fence to clear at Aintree racecourse this Saturday (April 19) – each other! Their fight will now be for the vacant Commonwealth flyweight championship, which has been relinquished by Chris Edwards.

It is now the third major title fight topped by the vacant British and Commonwealth title clash between David Price (12-0) against Sam Sexton (15-2) at Aintree racecourse.

Former British champ Edwards (9-1) and Satchell (7-0) have put their friendship aside and promoter Frank Maloney is tipping a photo-finish.

Maloney said: “They are both every good young fighters and ambitious. It is a pick ‘em fight and so hard to pick a winner

“When they were matched against each other neither one of them needed to think about accepting the challenge.

“I believe they have sparred together often, but what you do on the night in that ring is all that counts.

“I hope that whoever wins will get a crack at Chris Edwards for the British because they will have earned that Lonsdale belt chance.”

In the chief support Ashley Theophane (31-4-1) defends his British light-welterweight crown against Liverpool’s Steve Williams (12-1).

In a special attraction classy Leeds boxer Adil Anwar (16-1) meets Dave Ryan (13-5) in a vacant English title and eliminator for Theophane’s crown.

Other fights include: John Donnelly (13-2) v Mike Robinson (5-4-3) (English super-flyweight title), Bob Ajisafe (9-2) v Travis Dickinson (12-0) English light-heavyweight crown.

Tickets are selling fast. The are some available priced at £95 (ringside), £75 (main floor) and £55 (floor) from www.frankmaloney.com/www.ticketmaster.com

Article posted on 16.05.2012

25-year-old Davis is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and now lives in Cleveland, Ohio. During his 200 amateur bouts, he competed at the 2005 World championships and won the Eastern Olympic trials for the 2008 Olympics. Davis also won gold medals at the 2002 US Junior Olympics, the 2002 US National Silver Gloves, and the 2002 Police Athletic League (PAL) tournament as a junior. He won a silver medal at the 2003 PAL and won a gold medal for the USA at the 2003 Under-19 Sweden Cup.

Lightning quick and masterful on defense, as a professional, Davis has already beaten some well-thought-of opposition, including Guillermo Sanchez (13-3) in his latest fight and Ramesis Gil (then 6-1) before that.

“We’re all very excited to be working with Mark,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “He was a terrific amateur and he’s proven to be a blue-chip prospect as a professional. I predict big things for him.”

“He’s a future world champion,” said Bluewave’s Luis DeCubas. “Mark is at a level of skill already that puts him in an elite class. It’s going to be a pleasure to work with him and help get him where he wants to go in professional boxing.”

Newhouse Promotions, a Cleveland-based company, is also very pleased with the signing: “I feel Mark is on track to become the best fighter in the world,” said lifelong friend and Newhouse’s Tim VanNewhouse. “Working with strategic men like Luis DeCubas and Leon Margules, I know he will get the opportunity to compete on some of the highest levels the sport can offer.”

Article posted on 16.05.2012

One person had asked whether Pacquiao would ever fight Berto, Martinez or Canelo? Ariza’s reply was: “Manny can’t fight anyone not promoted by Bob.” Not only are the boxing fans noticing and fuming about this phenomenon, but now even members of the team expose it as they see it. While it is no secret, still hearing it from Ariza himself makes it that much more authentic.

https://twitter.com/#!/ArizaFitness/status/201495455924883457

Another Tweeter stated: “It’s not all Arum, its Floyd too with his BS demands,” to which Ariza responded with a simple: “Wrong, it’s Arum.” A straightforward effective response from the man who knows more than most of us about this topic. Again, while Ariza is not writing paragraphs about his dislike of Arum and Bob’s direct involvement with the Mayweather Jr. fiasco, Ariza makes his opinion clear.

https://twitter.com/#!/ArizaFitness/status/201509963670102016

“Do you think Manny Pacquiao deserves 50/50 from the PPV record maker Floyd Mayweather?” was yet another question to Pacquiao strength trainer Alex Ariza, to which he responded with: “Not if Floyd’s #’s are higher.” In the midst of the financial dilemma that camp Mayweather Jr. and camp Pacquiao have recently had, surprisingly Ariza, the man that has been in Pacquiao’s corner for a very long time, and essentially his well paid employee, believes that technically speaking, Floyd deserves the higher pay in the proposed mega fight.

https://twitter.com/#!/ArizaFitness/status/201497560102346752

I don’t know about you, but I think that this deserves some attention and respect. Ariza is public about his opinion, and says what eh things in a direct no nonsense fashion, even if the truth may hurt his client.

Article posted on 15.05.2012

Kathy Duva said, “It has been a long time since we had such a busy month. There is a lot of excitement in the air at Main Events, lately, and, as a fan, I can’t wait to watch each one of these bouts.”

So get ready for both quality and quantity over the next month.

First up is a card at the Pharr, Texas Convention Center to be televised by Univision on May 19th. Headlining the show is Texas featherweight, Jerry Belmontes, known as “The Corpus Christi Kid”, puts his undefeated, 15-0, 5 KOs, record on the line against Dominican trial horse Ramesis Gil, 7-3-5, 5 KOs. It will be Belmontes’ first time in the ring since last June, and he’ll be hoping a win over Gil will be his ticket to a successful and more active future. The loyal fan base Belmontes built as an all-star amateur, will no doubt be in the house to cheer him on.

Also on the card, is an important heavyweight bout between Odlanier Solis, 17-1, 12 KOs, and Konstantin Airich, 23-5-2, 17 KOs, for the IBF Intercontinental Title. Cuban-born Solis will try to bounce back from his bizarre 2011 loss to WBC champ Vitali Klitschko, and to do so, will have to will have to get past the German-based Airich, who is currently on a six-bout winning streak, the last three by knockout.

Two weeks later, Main Events returns with the latest installment of NBC Sports Network’s “Fight Night” series in partnership with Russell Peltz of Peltz Boxing. Topping the show at the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, PA, is rising junior middleweight Gabriel Rosado of Philadelphia, 19-5, 11 KOs. This will be a command performance for Rosado, who so impressed the NBC Sports Network execs in January with his disposal of Jesus Soto Karass on the very first edition of “Fight Night”, that they ordered an extra show in the series just for him. Rosado faces two-time world title challenger Sechew Powell in a 12-round bout for the WBO Intercontinental Jr. Middleweight belt. Powell brings a seasoned 26-4, 15 KOs record, as well as a tricky southpaw style into the fight. Rosado will have his hands full, but another impressive win may position the Philadelphian for a big fight. He is currently ranked #5 by the IBF and #9 by the WBC. Powell is the IBF’s 9th-ranked junior middleweight.

Supporting Rosado-Powell is a 12-round bout between Bethlehem’s Ronald Cruz, 16-0, 12 KOs, and Prenice Brewer, 16-1-1, 6 KOs, of Cleveland. The fight will be for the Vacant WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Championship. The winner of the bout takes home his first piece of hardware as a professional. Clearly Cruz will have the hometown advantage, but Brewer brings a wealth of top-level amateur experience in with him.

Two weeks after this show, Main Events snaps right back with another “Fight Night” installment, nationally televised by NBC Sports Network. On June 16, “Heavyweights Collide” when Tomasz Adamek, 45-2, 28 KOs, takes on Eddie Chambers, 36-2, 18 KOs, in a significant match of top big men for the IBF North American Heavyweight belt. Both fighters have fought for the world heavyweight title, and are raring to get back to the big show. Each stands in the other’s way. Adamek and Chambers are well-conditioned, quick-fisted, highly regarded talents in the sport. Their pairing is a natural and should make for a great fight. Chambers will have to contend with Adamek’s massive fan base, which will surely pack the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. But the fact that Chambers’ Philadelphia home base is not so far from Newark, means he too will have serious support for the fight. Clearly the atmosphere for this one should be electric.

Adding to the excitement on June 16th will be another key heavyweight match up when breakout star, Bryant Jennings, 13-0, 6 KOs, meets Steve Collins, 25-1-1, 18 KOs, of Houston, TX, in a 10-rounder for the Vacant USBA Heavyweight Title. This will be Jennings’ third appearance on the NBC Sports Network “Fight Night” series. His last bout was an overwhelming TKO of former champion Sergei Liakhovich in March. Collins will try to stop Jennings’ star-making streak in its tracks with his superior punching power. Main Events is promoting this show in partnership with Ziggy Promotions and Goossen Tutor Promotions.

After these three consecutive shows, Main Events will take the briefest of breathers before returning with more world class boxing.

Article posted on 14.05.2012

You moved on and tried to explore other things. You succeeded and you failed and you no longer have any interest with her. Unfortunately, the thorn that the dude who took her planted to your heart remained there. The thought of him still pains you. Until after a long time, he tried to once again take the girl you are with. Only this time you are confident that she will NEVER be his. No not this time. It will never be possible.

Welcome to the Boxing career of Brian Viloria, the undefeated light flyweight contender more than half a decade ago. Hawaiian Punch Viloria had all the signs of being one of the top boxers in the world. Knocking out his opponent’s within the first couple of rounds, he packed that solid left hook and right straight that makes you realize you are already in the canvass before you know it.

That was until Omar Nino Romero stepped in the ring with him on that fateful August 10 of 2008 in Las Vegas. For twelve grueling rounds that night, Viloria was outworked, out punched and outclassed by the underdog who, in posters and promotional materials looked more like Tom Selleck than a Mexican flyweight pug with that mustache.

Suddenly, Viloria saw his record being tarnished by not only one but three consecutive losses. Fortunately for him, one of those losses from the rematch with Romero was turned into a No contest after Romero was found positive with an illegal substance. Might be a vindication but it was too late. Brian dropped down the world rankings. Most fight fans at that time were thinking that he should hang up the gloves.

Fortunately for him and for his supporters, he was able to bounce back. He won seven consecutive bouts to try and redeem himself and take back what was rightfully his.

Fast forward to last Saturday evening May 12, 2012. In front of a packed crown in Ynares sports arena in Pasig City, Philippines. Brian “Hawaian Punch” Viloria, for the third time squared off against the man who started it all, the man who pulled him down the ladder. This is now his chance. This is now his time for redemption.

Grab that moment he did. The fight scheduled for 12 rounds only lasted for 9. Viloria’s jabs, hooks, power punches and uppercuts carried all the 6 years of his hard work, his gloves landing on Romero’s head and body. Romero was stunned a couple of times and was on the verge of dropping most notably during the fourth round when a solid left hook landed on Romero’s chin and backing him up. Viloria took a little more than half a second to realize that he caught his opponent and it was his chance. Unfortunately, his onslaught did not pay off. Romero was able to recover and survive the round and the 4 rounds following that.

Viloria was able to dominate his opponent the whole fight. The ninth round proved to be the exclamation point of that match. At 2:07 of that round, the referee stopped the fight and his corner offered no opposition to the decision. For the Hawaiian Punch, the redemption is complete.

With that out of the way, WBO champ Brian Viloria can now leave the past behind and move forward with new chapters of history that he will write in the ring and for the sport of Boxing.

Article posted on 14.05.2012

But instead, we will be seeing a title fight between top contender Mike Jones taking on the experienced Randall Bailey for the vacant IBF welterweight title.

Both fighters present a legitimate threat to one another in very different ways. Randall Bailey is a huge puncher and possesses knockout power especially in his right hand. The right uppercut and the right cross are his best punches and he’s KO’d plenty of people with them. 36 of his 42 wins have come by knockout. However, he sometimes makes it to obvious that he’s looking for that one big punch and abandons his game plan looking for that one shot.

However, his opponent Mike Jones possess good hand speed and above average skills. Jones also possesses unique physical gifts for the weight class standing at 6’0 feet tall with a 72 inch reach. But just like any other fighter to ever live, Mike Jones has his shortcomings and limitations as well. He has shown in the past that he is capable of getting caught up in the moment and letting emotion get the best of him. He has to stay poised and relaxed, and think long term against a dangerous puncher like Bailey. Mike Jones has to avoid getting hit with that big right hand and make sure he puts his big speed advantage to good use. He also has to make sure he doesn’t get caught up in a brawl and take advantage of his boxing skills.

If Jones fights a “smart” fight he should be able to handle business on June 9th in Las Vegas against the older puncher. However, history tells us that’s not a guarantee and if the seasoned veteran can take advantage of those moments and land his money punch it can be lights out for Mike Jones. I must admit I expect Mike to take advantage of his natural attributes and not make the fight harder than it should be and win the fight in a competitive well-earned championship win.

Article posted on 14.05.2012

Middleweight Terrell Gausha (Cleveland, Ohio) and light heavyweight Marcus Browne (Staten Island, N.Y.) each advanced in tournament action as well, winning their semifinal contests on Friday. Lightweight Jose Ramirez (Avenal, Calif.) and light welterweight Jamel Herring (Coram, N.Y.) both dropped their semifinal bouts but will return to the United States as 2012 Olympians and are Americas Qualifier bronze medalists.

Hunter was the first of the two U.S. boxers to qualify on Friday, winning a 14-8 decision over Julio Castillo of Ecuador in semifinal action. Using his experience from his first round of Olympic qualifying tournament in 2008, Hunter took a 6-3 lead after the first round. He continued to use his movement and footwork to out-box Castillo in the second stanza and held a 10-6 lead with three minutes of boxing remaining. Hunter refused to allow Castillo back into the bout in the final round and won the 14-8 final decision to fulfill his dream of becoming a U.S. Olympian. He will face Argentina’s Yamil Peralta in the finals.

Breazale competed in the final bout of the night in his semifinal contest with Puerto Rico’s Gerardo Bisbal. The former University of Northern Colorado quarterback fell behind early in the context, trailing by a 5-3 margin after one. Following a tied second round, Breazale faced a 10-8 deficit with one round remaining in the bout. Yet Breazale refused to allow his Olympic hopes to slip away. The 6-6 boxer peppered Bisbal with shots, giving him a standing eight count and chipping away at his deficit. His third round efforts paid off as he was announced the winner by a 15-12 margin to claim the ninth Olympic spot for Team USA. He will take on Ecuador’s Ytalo Perea in championship round action today.

Hunter’s journey to the Olympic Games reaches back to 2007 when the then teenager won the 2008 Olympic Trials. After falling to the Russian and Cuban super heavyweights in the qualifying bouts in the first two international Olympic qualifying tournaments, he got food poisoning during the final Olympic qualifying tournament and despite his best efforts, lost in last opportunity to qualify for Beijing. He made the decision to come back for a second run in 2012, moving down a weight class to the heavyweight division. The son of a former professional heavyweight, Michael “The Bounty” Hunter, he boxes in his father’s memory.

Breazale boxed his way on to the Olympic Team with only three years of experience in the sport. A former collegiate quarterback, Breazale is a product of the All American Heavyweight program in Carson, Calif.

Gausha moved on to the finals with a 15-10 win over Marlo Delgado of Ecuador in their middleweight semifinal and will face Junior Castillo of the Dominican Republic in today’s finals. Browne won a 12-8 decision over Carlos Gongora of Ecuador in light heavyweight action to move on to a final round showdown with Brazil’s Yamaguchi Florentino.

Herring dropped an 11-6 decision to Francisco Vargas of Puerto Rico in his semifinal contest to win a bronze medal. Ramirez made a large comeback attempt in the third round of his bout with Wellington Arias of the Dominican Republic, giving him two standing eight counts in the final round but lost 13-10.

With the total of nine male boxers qualifying for London, the United States is tied for second place in the world for the largest number of male boxers vying for Olympic gold with only Australia sending a full team and Kazakhstan also taking nine berths in the 2012 Olympics.

U.S. Results
132 lbs: Wellington Arias, DOM, dec. Jose Ramirez, Avenal, Calif./USA, 13-10
141 lbs: Francisco Vargas, PUR, dec. Jamel Herring, Coram, N.Y./USA, 11-6
165 lbs: Terrell Gausha, Cleveland, Ohio/USA dec. Marlo Delgado, ECU, 15-10
178 lbs: Marcus Browne, Staten Island, N.Y./USA dec. Carlos Gangora, ECU, 12-8
201 lbs: Michael Hunter, Las Vegas, Nev./USA dec. Julio Castillo, ECU, 14-8
201+ lbs: Dominic Breazale, Alhambra, Calif./USA dec. Gerardo Bisbal, PUR, 15-12

Article posted on 12.05.2012

2: Franklin Lawrence. Lawrence, 17-2-2(12) is a dangerous fighter who is capable of asking most any fighter a few tough questions. A fringe contender, the 36-year-old has enjoyed some fine form recently (wins over Jason Estrada and Lance Whitaker) and he would give Mitchell a decent test.

3: Samuel Peter. Peter, 34-5(27) has been on the downside as of late (stoppage losses to Wladimir Klitschko, which was expected, and to Robert Helenuis last time out), yet “The Nigerian Nightmare” remains a hard puncher who can always be dangerous. If Mitchell were to take a shot or two from the 31-year-old and come on to win, we would have a better idea about how good “Mayhem’s” chin is.

4: Magomed Abdusalamov. “Mago,” unbeaten at 14-0(14) has called out a number of fellow prospects/contenders, including Mitchell. This match-up would be a risky proposition for both fighters, yet the fans would pay to see it. Also, Mitchell-Abdusalamov would be a great under-card support to a big fight. How would “Mayhem” cope with the Russian slugger’s southpaw stance and raw power? How would Abdusalaov cope with Mitchell’s skills? I’d love to find out!

5: Tyson Fury. This one is unlikely to happen seeing as how both heavies are young, promising talents. Still, Fury, 18-0(13) against Mitchell would certainly prove a huge hit with the fans. A risky fight for both, the winner would earn more fans, while the loser would be young enough to be able to come again. Fury is still to have his U.S debut, it would be great if the managers of both fighters agreed to this match-up.

Article posted on 13.05.2012

“Eddie Perkins was a globe-trotting world champion. In the ring he was a gifted defensive fighter with terrific boxing skills,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “The Hall of Fame joins the boxing community in mourning his passing.”

In 2008, Perkins was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

“TERRIBLE” TERRY NORRIS TO RETURN TO CANASTOTA FOR 2012 HALL OF FAME WEEKEND

Hall of Fame Weekend June 7-10th

CANASTOTA, NY – MAY 11, 2012 – The International Boxing Hall of Fame announced today Hall of Famer “Terrible” Terry Norris will return to Canastota to attend festivities planned for the 23rd Annual Hall of Fame Induction Weekend set for June 7-10th.

Terry Norris

“Terry Norris was a tremendous world champion with lightning quick hands and knockout power,” said Hall of Fame director Edward Brophy. “He’s a real fan favorite and we’re looking forward to welcoming him back to Canastota.”

Born in Lubbock, TX, Norris turned pro in 1986 following a brief amateur career. As a pro he reigned three times as WBC junior middleweight champion (1990-93, 1994, 1995-97) and also held the IBF title (1995-97). During his championship career he scored wins over John “The Beast” Mugabi, Donald Curry, Meldrick Taylor, Maurice Blocker, Simon Brown and Hall of Famer Sugar Ray Leonard. Norris retired in 1998 with a pro ledger of 47-9 (31 KOs). In 2005 Norris was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Events planned for the weekend include a banquet, a heavyweight bash, parade, golf tournament, boxing autograph card show, cocktail party and the Official Induction Ceremony honoring the Class of 2012. Living inductees to be honored at the Official Induction Ceremony on Sunday, June 10th are multi-division champion Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, two-division champion Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, “Let’s Get Ready To Rumble” ring announcer Michael Buffer, trainer Freddie Roach, broadcaster Al Bernstein and journalist Michael Katz. Posthumous inductees will also be honored.

An impressive list of over 40 boxing greats from the United States and abroad are scheduled to participate in weekend festivities.

For more information on the Hall of Fame’s 23rd Annual Induction Weekend please call (315) 697-7095, visit online at www.ibhof.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/InternationalBoxingHallofFame and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BoxingHall.

Article posted on 12.05.2012

Augustama recently signed a promotional contract with Don King Productions. It is highly probable that Augustama will appear in the world ratings within one to two years, after which he will rival his division’s elite in pursuit of a world championship.

A native of Haiti, Augustama’s family moved to the United States in 1990, and he is a citizen of both countries. In the following interview, Augustama discusses his career with ESB.

ESB: What got you started in boxing?

AA: I started boxing when I was 15 years old. To be honest, my first passion was American football.
I made the football squad in high school, but decided to try another sport. But from second grade until high school, I was always in at least one fistfight every year. Because of this, my mom sometimes asked me, “why are you always fighting so much,” so I went into boxing. Once I took up amateur boxing, I won the locals, then nationals, and the rest is history.

ESB: Why did you like boxing better than other sports you played?

AA: I found that I liked boxing because you’re in the ring all by yourself. You’re the one who can shine, and you can make your own decisions. You don’t have that power of choice in team sports, where you have a coach pulling you out or sending you in, controlling everything. In boxing, it’s all you in the ring.

ESB: You have two brothers who are accomplished boxers. That must have inspired you.

AA: I’m the sixth of eight brothers. My older brother Manuel is the fifth, but he actually started boxing after me. He is a very powerful puncher, and made it to the Olympic trials. Altogether Manuel had between 17 and 20 amateur fights. My younger brother Eli also boxes. Next to me, he has the most experience of us, having between 40 to 60 amateur fights.

ESB: You had a distinguished amateur career. What was your record, and who were your toughest opponents?

AA: A rough idea of my record is about 88 wins and 12 losses. To be quite frank, there were maybe five or six guys I could credit as being my toughest opponents. The first guy that comes to mind is Edgar Munoz from Venezuela, who I fought in the Olympic trials. I entered that fight having been off for a year and a half. We both threw about 70 punches per round for four two-minute rounds. After that fight, it took me an hour to recover my breath. Artur Berterbiev I lost to twice by close decisions. He was tough, and was knocking out everyone else in that tournament in just two rounds. But I hung in there with him and made it really close. Afterwards, he talked to me and gave me a lot of credit.

ESB: In your experience, which nations produce the strongest amateur teams?

AA: Well, the thing is, there are different weight classes, so I judge the competition based on what weight class I’m in. In my weight class, Russia was extremely tough. Obviously the Cubans are super tough. Columbia produces a lot of strong powerpunchers; I can’t really put my thumb on why. Maybe they train to sit down on their punches.

ESB: Sometimes you fought at heavyweight as an amateur, above your weight class.

AA: That’s something I learned from my younger brother Eli, to be quite honest. Talent wise, he is one of the best, but sometimes he was at the point where he got lazy, and couldn’t get down to his own weight class of 165 lbs. Whenever that happened, he fought at heavyweight instead. I followed his example. I knew I was stronger than Eli, and figured I could do even better than him at the higher weight.

ESB: How did it feel to make the transition from the amateurs to the pros?

AA: I’m more into the pro style. Even as an amateur, my style was more like a pro style, I would say. In the amateur system as it works now, a fighter throws one or two shots, gets points, then keeps staying away, and then he’s credited for winning the fight. In the pros, it’s different in that how a guy dictates the fight can win him the round. Because of this, even if a guy lands just one punch in a round, he can win that round because he’s putting on the pressure and his opponent is just trying to stay away from him.

ESB: Describe your fighting style.

AA: Well, I do admire boxer/punchers, so that’s the style I try to bring into the ring. Sometimes I lose focus and do things I shouldn’t, but overall the boxer/puncher style is what comes naturally to me.

ESB: What is your best punch?

AA: The straight right hand, which I like to use in the one-two. I put a little range on it. I hide it. When I don’t load up, and it comes straight down the middle, my right works best. I find that I get more leverage that way, and the opponent doesn’t see it coming.

ESB: What are you working on in the gym, to improve your game?

AA: I’m working on my jab. I have a beautiful jab when I use it. I’m not consistent enough when I use it, but that’s changing. When I make my jab work right, everything works out. Al Bonanni (Don King Productions Director of Boxing and trainer of IBF Light Heavyweight champion Tavoris Cloud) is constantly complimenting me on how I use the jab.

ESB: Do you any fighters from the past or present inspire you?

AA: Manny Pacquiao is one of the most humble boxers ever, I respect him. He works really hard, and is very humble. Shane Mosely is a tiger in the ring, but he’s humble outside of it. Roy Jones Jr. always seemed so arrogant and cocky on television, but when I met him, he was a class act. Bernard Hopkins is also a class act. I was in two training camps with him. Once Bernard gave me a jacket that a pop musician from Haiti gave him. He’s even mentored me, and has spoken with me a lot. Bernard is a great guy. Also, there’s David Haye. In 2007 my trainer Jorge Rubio asked me to spar with him. David showed me the shoulder role move, which I incorporated into my style. David is a really nice guy in person; none of the cockiness that he shows on television was there.

ESB: As a pro, you’ve lost only once, by split decision to Denis Grachev. At the time, some people felt the loss reflected unfavorably on you, because Grachev was relatively unknown and you were expected to beat him. But last week, Grachev KO’d top contender Ismayl Silakh, a win that will put him in the world ratings. So, in retrospect, the Grachev loss doesn’t necessarily look bad. Any comments?

AA: Overall, the Grachev fight was a learning experience. There are some people who say the fight could have gone to me by a round; the fight was that close. I think the decision could have gone either way, and he got it. In a fight like that, you always look back, think about what could have been done better, or done differently. Definitely there are some things that I did that I could have done differently. If he fights me again, I’ll be a whole different fighter. I now know what adjustments to make against him. On one night, he beat me. On another night, I think I would beat him. I give him credit though. Grachev is a really smart fighter.

ESB: How does it feel to work with a legendary promoter like Don King?

AA: Don is a legend…he’s been around a very long time. He gave me a great chance. I’m going to make the most out of it, and be the best I can be.

ESB: What can you tell us about work with your long-term trainers, Tony Betancourt and Angel Nazario?

AA: Angel preaches the fundamentals, controlling the opponents, not making the fight any harder than it has to be, and he emphasizes conditioning as much as possible. He really pushes me to the brink. I love that, it helps me to excel. Tony’s approach is not far from Angel’s…he’s mentored me from the beginning, when I started boxing. Tony’s helped to incorporate everything I’ve learned from other coaches. He’s like the father figure in the corner for me.

ESB: You’ve sparred several times with world champion Tavoris Cloud. Surely you must have learned something from that experience.

AA: I’ve sparred with him on several different occasions. The first time was when I was still an amateur…I didn’t know too much about him at the time. It was great sparring, very competitive. We just went four rounds that firwst time; I tried to dictate my style of fighting, and he tried to dictate his. Al Bonanni (Cloud’s trainer) was very impressed with me. Since then, I’ve sparred with Tavoris several times, and all the sessions have been very competitive. These sessions have helped me excel as a fighter. 

ESB: What motivates you to succeed?

AA: Family, God, the drive to know truth, the hard days working in the gym, and seeing my mom and dad struggle. All these things motivate me to hopefully help my family.

ESB: Does you Haitian background inspire you to succeed in boxing, and do you speak Creole?

AA: I do speak Creole, but if I go to Haiti, they realize I have an American accent. Every value I feel comes from my mom and dad, of course, and they taught me to be respectful and courteous. That’s something that shows my Haitian background. I do take great pride in being Haitian, and I take great pride in being American. Haitians have a sense of strength because of their history, as they were the first African-American country to win their independence by defeating a strong foreign power (note: Haiti won its independence in 1804 waging a successful armed revolt against Napoleonic France.)

ESB: Where do you see yourself in boxing one to two years from now? Grachev is already in the world ratings, and you are on par with him. You are rising fast.

AA: Well, a year from now, hopefully, I’m getting on Showtime. Possibly I’ll be 17-1 or 18-1 by then. Two years from now, I see myself in contention with the top fighters. Hopefully by that time I’ll have 23 or 24 fights. I’m just looking for bigger and better things, pursuing my dream of becoming the world champion.

Article posted on 12.05.2012