ELITEXC SHOW LIVES UP TO BILLING
Posted on | November 11, 2007 | 2 Comments
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NOONS SHOCKS DIAZ TO CAPTURE ELITEXC WORLD TITLE,
KIMBO’S SMASHING IN DEBUT, SHIELDS, NOKE, SILVA TRIUMPH
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Saturday, Nov. 10, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME
The American Bank Center Arena, Corpus Christi, Texas
CORPUS CHRISTI, Tex. (Nov. 11, 2007) – On a night when Kimbo Slice made his eagerly awaited professional Mixed Martial Arts debut, KJ Noons stole the show with a shocking first-round TKO over heavily-favored Nick Diaz to capture the EliteXC lightweight world championship Saturday on SHOWTIME
The event, which took place at The American Bank Center Arena, was presented by Gary Shaw Productions, LLC, and aired on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
In other televised bouts, world-ranked Jake Shields, who signed a long term deal with EliteXC late Friday, earned his ninth win a row with a hard-fought first round submission (rear naked choke) over Mike Pyle, come backing super heavyweight sensation Antonio “Big Foot” Silva won his first fight in nine months via an opening-round submission (rear naked choke) over Jonathan Wiezorek and Kyle Noke, the bodyguard of the late “Crocodile Hunter,” Steve Irwin, took his EliteXC debut with a second-round TKO over “Dr.’’ Seth Kleinbeck due to orbital cut.
With the exception of Diaz-Noons, which was scheduled for five, 5-minute rounds, the fights were three, 5-minute rounds.
“This was a terrific show for EliteXC, SHOWTIME and the fans in attendance,’’ Shaw said. “It is unfortunate that the Noons-Diaz fight had to be stopped, but fans need to understand that doctors stop fights for the health and safety of the fighters.
“KJ was simply outstanding. He is the No. 1 lightweight in the world. He beat the guy who was considered the best lightweight, so he is No. 1. Kimbo showed that he is going to be a superstar. I believe we’ve got the best heavyweight in the world in Silva and the best welterweight in the world in Shields. They are going to be world champions. Noke was impressive against a tough fighter.
“All and all, it was a great night.’’
Noons (kjnoons.proelite.com), a native of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is also a professional boxer. He used a combination of strikes to cut Diaz above both eyes and drop him during an action-packed first round. At the conclusion of the session, the bout was stopped by Dr. Rob Williams.
The victory over Diaz in the first-ever EliteXC world lightweight championship fight was the second huge upset in a row for Noons (5-1) on SHOWTIME. On July 27, 2007, he registered an impressive third-round knockout over Edson Berto on ShoXC: The Elite Challenger Series.
“You can’t be happier than I am now,’’ Noons said. “I feel great. I put in a lot of hard work for this and it paid off. No one gave me a chance. I knew I was a big underdog. But I made the best of this chance, and that is what it is all about.
“This is just the first of many belts for me. Winning a world title in boxing is next.’’
Diaz (nickdiaz.proelite.com), of Stockton, Calif., was the aggressor at the outset. Before long, however, his face was a bloody mess.
“He landed some good shots (to cause the cuts),” said Diaz (15-7), who was incensed by the doctor’s decision and stormed out of the ring. “But he was such a small guy. I couldn’t get a grip on him. He doesn’t hit that hard. I knew I should have boxed him more.’’
Kimbo (kimboslice.proelite.com), aka Kevin Ferguson, was clearly the crowd’s favorite. Each time his name was mentioned or a video of him was shown, they cheered.
The legendary street-fighting Internet legend didn’t give them a lot to watch, however, as he dispatched Bo Cantrell in just 19 seconds.
“I wanted the fight to go a little longer so I could maybe show a little more, but it is good to get this one out of the way,’’ Kimbo (1-0), of Miami, said. “There was a little tension but now I can relax and sigh a little bit.
“I was prepared for anything he was going to throw at me. I envisioned it all so what he did at the start was no surprise.
“I am looking forward to fighting again, next week, tomorrow, it doesn’t matter.’’
Said legendary trainer Bas Rutten: “I am happy for Kimbo, but he needs an opponent that is going to push him a little. I think he can handle it, but I want to see how he does when he has to face some adversity and go a full round or two.
“Really, Kimbo got nothing out of this fight tonight – except for a nice payday.’’
Cantrell (bocantrell.proelite.com), of Citrus Heights, Calif., entered the cage with a vast advantage in experience with 20 MMA fights, but he never stood a chance.
“I am not sure what happened but just before the fight I started feeling weird,’’ Cantrell (10-11) said. “I just wasn’t myself in there. I felt a shell of myself.’’
Shields (jakeshields.proelite.com), of San Francisco, Calif., overcame a fast start by Pyle to triumph at 3:39 of the opening round. Once the Cesar Gracie protégé got Pyle on the ground, he methodically worked to get Pyle’s back and sink the rear naked choke.
“I knew this would be a tough fight and it definitely was for a couple minutes,’’ said Shields (20-4-1), who is unbeaten since 2004. “He came out very strong. Mike is a good fighter. I knew that if I had a chance to put him away I better because I did not want the fight to go any longer than it had to. I am happy with the win, and will be ready for whoever they put in front of me next.’’
Pyle (mikepyle.proelite.com), a Randy Couture disciple, came out cocky and swinging and landed a few while stuffing Shield’s takedown attempts.
“This is not what I wanted,’’ Pyle (14-5-1), of Dresden, Tenn., said. “I am extremely disappointed.’’
Noke (kylenoke.proelite.com), of Queensland, Australia, by way of Sydney, won a hotly contested fight that was stopped at 4:12 of the second round due to nasty gash above Kleinbeck’s left eye.
“I expected a hard fight, which is exactly what this was,’’ Noke (14-3-1) said. “But I am very happy to win in my first start for EliteXC on SHOWTIME. I have fought in front of crowds of 300. Tonight, I fought in front of millions.’’
Kleinbeck (sethkleinbeck.proelite.com), of Stuttgart, Ark., clearly won the first round and may have been winning the second before he got cut.
“I felt stronger than him on the ground, but he was a really good fighter,’’ Kleinbeck (8-4) said. “In this sport, you throw elbows and when get caught like I did, this kind of thing happens.
“I should have boxed more instead of just fighting him.’’
In the opening televised bout, trim Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva (antoniosilva.proelite.com), a Brazilian now living in Miami, had his way against Jonathon Wiezorek (jonathanwiezerek.proelite.com) of Springfield, Ill., winning by submission (rear naked choke) at 3:12 of the first round.
Silva, who entered the cage at a trimmed down 265 pounds, dominated. “Everything went like I expected,’’ said Silva after improving to 9-1. All his victories have come in the first round.
Said Wiezorek (11-2), of Valdosta, Ga.: “Nothing I tried worked. He is a big, strong guy.’’
Non-televised, opening bout results that will be available on ProElite.com the week of Nov. 12: In a battle between two Corpus Christi heavyweights, Geoff Bumstead (3-1) defeated Robert Ruiz (1-1) via rear naked choke at 1:30 of round one; new American Top Team member, Yves Edwards (30-13-1), of Woodlands, Tex., submitted Nick Gonzalez (13-6), of Austin, Tex., via rear naked choke at 3:05 of round one; Matt Lucas (8-0) of Queen’s Creek, Ariz., earned a unanimous decision over crowd-favorite Jon Kirk (10-2), of Houston; heavyweight Brett Rogers (6-0), of St. Paul, Minn., defeated Ralph Kelly (6-2), of San Antonio, via ground-and-pound TKO at 1:43 or round one; and Spirit MC’s Jae Sok Lim (8-2) submitted Daniel Pineda (3-1), of Houston, Tex., via rear naked choke at 2:42 of round one.
Renowned play-by-play announcer Mauro Ranallo called the shots on Saturday’s telecast with “The Fight Professor” Stephen Quadros and Bill Goldberg serving as color analysts. The executive producer was David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing.
Catch an encore of Saturday’s EliteXC telecast on SHO Sports Presents, Tuesday, Nov. 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO 2. SHO Sports Presents is a new series airing every weeknight at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHO 2 featuring replays of the best SHOWTIME boxing and EliteXC mixed martial arts telecasts. (For complete schedule of SHO Sports Presents, please visit SHO.com/Schedule).
Replays of Saturday’s EliteXC telecast will air as follows:
Monday, Nov. 12 at 8 p.m. (SHO Extreme)
Tuesday, Nov. 13 at 10 p.m. (SHO 2)
Wednesday, Nov. 14 at 12:30 a.m. (SHOWTIME)
For more information on SHOWTIME Sports telecasts including exclusive videos and photos, please visit SHO.com/Sports. For the most interactive MMA experience on the Web, including full coverage of EliteXC mixed martial arts events, press conferences, weigh-ins, LIVE fights, pre- and post-fight interviews, and forum chats with fighters, please visit www.ProElite.com and EliteXC.com.
About ProElite, Inc.
ProElite Inc. [PELE.PK] delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. ProElite’s interactive business, ProElite.com, capitalizes on the growing popularity of the sport of mixed martial arts by building a community of mixed martial arts enthusiasts. In addition to streaming the most exciting live fights to the web, ProElite expands the fan base of the sport by providing a comprehensive set of online social networking tools for fans, fighters and organizations.
ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME® TOO™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILYZONE® and TMC XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL HD™, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND™ and THE MOVIE CHANNEL ON DEMAND™. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI is also an owner and manager of SUNDANCE CHANNEL, a venture of NBC Universal, Robert Redford and SNI. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME® PPV.
RASHEEM BROWN INTERVIEW
Posted on | November 10, 2007 | No Comments
Interview with Rasheem “The Untouchable” Brown
Philadelphia Middleweight Set For Return to the Ring
By Tony Penecale
Almost like an under-cover superhero, Rasheem Brown is a mild-manner surgical technician by day. By night, he is “The Untouchable”, a power-punching middleweight from “The City of Brotherly Love.”
Several years ago, it seemed that Brown was on the fast track to superstardom. He was undefeated and appeared several times on the undercard of Arturo Gatti, impressing the packed house at Boardwalk Hall with several spectacular knockouts.
Then Brown hit a rough spot. He lost two bouts in 2004, one of them a close split decision loss, and he walked away from the sport. He came back a short while later and is now trying to gear up for one final run at the division’s elite.
I have known Rasheem for the last seven years. I’ve seen him train, watched him spar, and interacted with him at several local cards. He is a true boxing student and he knows the sport very well. Rasheem Brown the man is a very quiet, soft-spoken gentleman. Rashem Brown the “Untouchable” is a terror in the ring.
I had a chance recently to speak with him, discussing his future in the ring, what made him walk away a few years back, the politics of the sport, and his opinion of some upcoming superfights.
TP: There has been mention of a fight in December. What is the status of that?
RB: We were hoping to get a fight for December. At this point I doubt it will come off in December. Right now, we’re getting back into negotiations to get a fight for early 2008. I’m 17-3 with 14 knockouts. I just want to get back in there and prove myself.
TP: Is there any preference to where or against whom you would fight?
RB: I would love to fight in Philadelphia. Get a tune up and then step it up from there. In 3rd fight, I’d like to fight anybody in middleweight division.
TP: You haven’t fought in 21 months (decision loss to Darnell Boone), is there any concern of ring rust?
RB: No, I’ve been in the gym the whole time. I’ve been working hard. I’ve been sparring and I am in great shape.
TP: A potential fight with Jonathan Reid fell through. Then you were mentioned as a possible comeback opponent for Edison Miranda after his loss to Kelly Pavlik. What happened?
RB: I don’t handle the business side. That is handled by Aaron (manager and trainer Aaron Ford). I haven’t heard much of that one. Right now, I’m just trying to come back. I don’t want it to seem like I am calling anybody out or trash talking. Get a win and move forward from there.
TP: You had retired a few years back. What was the reason behind that?
RB: Deciding to retire was said out of frustration. I had lost 2 straight fights in 2004 and I was very frustrated. Did you see the second loss? (a split decision loss to Jose Spearman with two judges favoring Spearman 76-75 while the other favored Brown 77-74)
TP: No, I didn’t. I know it was a split decision loss.
RB: The loss was a robbery. I scored a knockdown in the one round and it wasn’t called. I tripped over his foot and it was called a knockdown. That is 2 points and the difference between winning and losing. It hurts to lose like that.
TP: How do you feel now?
RB: I feel as strong as ever. I feel great and I can’t wait to fight again.
TP: At 31, do you think this will be your last run?
RB: To be honest, yes I do. I am going to optimistic. I am going to go all out and give it a good two-year run and then call it a career.
TP: In your last few bouts, you weighed in 162-163. You spoke about fighting back at middleweight. Are you open to take bouts at middleweight or supermiddlweight?
RB: It all depends on the opponent. If the fight is right, it is right for me!!!
TP: You fought in Atlantic City on the undercards of Gatti-Ward III (1 round KO over Joshua Onyango) and Gatti-Branco (3 round TKO over Shakir Ashanti). What was the atmosphere like for those bouts?
RB: Wow!!! I’m here!! I’m coming up the ranks and proving myself. I didn’t realize it then but thinking back, it was amazing. That was when boxing was fun. It was a business but it wasn’t a business then. I was just having fun.
TP: Do you think it will ever be fun for you again?
RB: It will never be fun again. It’s all business now. The only thing that makes boxing fun is beating guys up. Just getting in there and doing my job! The business side is crazy. You wouldn’t understand. I was in tip-top shape in January ‘07, supposed to fight every month, in top shape the whole time. But I couldn’t get a fight. That’s not fun. I was working with Anthony Thompson and Demetrius Hopkins. I was in shape with them. They were fighting and I wasn’t. It’s very frustrating. Running with them. Sparring with them. Getting them ready to fight on PPV cards. There are getting paid and I’m not. How does that make me feel?
TP: What was your inspiration to get into boxing?
RB: I was in High School and I had no extra circular activities to do. I really had nothing to do so I went to a local boxing gym to see if my athletic ability would make it as a good boxer. Fortunately it did.
TP: Who are some of your role models in the sport?
RB: Ha ha! I knew you were gonna go there. I would have to say (former super middleweight champion) Charles “The Hatchet” Brewer. Man, working in gym and learning from him. It was a privilege.
TP: Fans may not know this but you work full time as a surgical technician. What is that like?
RB: I work at Presbyterian Medical Center. I assist in the operating room during surgical procedures. To me, it is just like an every day job. Just like I am going to the office. It’s not like people think.
TP: Really? Wow! I don’t know if I could do that!
RB: Sure you can! C’mon. It’s not really that hard. You could definitely do it!
TP: I would like to get your opinion on several big name bouts that are signed or rumored coming up.
RB: OK
TP: Mosley-Cotto
RB: Shane wins that one. He has too much experience and speed.
TP: Mayweather-Hatton
RB: Floyd all day. It’s Floyd vs Gatti all over again. There is heat in the kitchen Hatton won’t be able to stay in there Floyd is 10 times faster. He will beat him dancing. He’ll be dancing with the stars all night. He is quicker and he is a harder puncher than people think. He is not a feather puncher at all. He picked Zab Judah apart. He was losing. And then he dominated. He beat him worse and worse and worse. He felt him out and picked him apart. HE walked him down and beat him. Ricky won’t be able to stand in there with him. He’ll get carved up!
TP: Jones-Trinidad
RB: Man, I got to ride with Roy and that. He is the physically bigger man. Trinidad is heavier but it is out-shape weight. If Tito lands one on the whiskers it’s GOOD NIGHT ROY. But I don’t think he will. He hasn’t been the same fighter the last few years. Winky beat Tito. He beat Tito worse than Bernard did.
TP: Pavlik-Taylor II @ 166 lbs
RB: Weight wouldn’t make different. The rematch can go either way. Jermain was talking about having to make weight but Kelly had to make the weight too. Jermain had Kelly in the 2nd round but he was head hunting and wild. He didn’t touch the body at all. Kelly is big. If they fought 10 times, they would split 5-5. Jermain was fighting smaller guys like Ouma and Spinks, guys that were 5’8” and 5’9”. It is difference when you fight guy who is 6’3”. You can do things to smaller guys that you can’t do to bigger guys. Back in the day, you would see tall and skinny guys who were not real strong. These days, guys today are big and not skinny. They are just as strong and you can’t walk them down. It would be a long night if you tried to. A guy 5’9” has got to work to hit Jermain. Kelly is 6’3”. That threw Jermain off. He was walking into jabs and punches.
TP: Hopkins-Calzaghe
RB: That’s a hard one. Joe is best supermiddleweight in world today. He fought (Charles) Brewer when Brewer was still at his best and he beat him. He got my respect right there. Bernard looked a big older in his last fight but he is still a rough and tricky fighter. I can’t go against Bernard. He’s a Philly boy. But Joe is a bad dude. Styles make fights. Joe throws a lot of punches and is tough fight for anybody. Bernard is not stronger than Joe. If he is, I’m surprised. It would be a toss-up fight. Whoever can get their style going will win that one.
TP: Thank you for your time today. It has been a pleasure speaking with you. I wish you the best of luck in your return to the ring.
RB: Thank you for the opportunity. Just let everybody know that I am coming back and to get ready.
JAKE SHIELDS RE-SIGNS CONTRACT WITH ELITEXC
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
ELITEXC RE-SIGNS JAKE SHIELDS
TO A LONG-TERM CONTRACT
Highly Sought-After, World-Ranked Welterweight To Remain In ProElite Family
CORPUS CHRISTI, Tex. (Nov. 9, 2007) – The decision, it turns out, was a no-brainer. In fact, one would be hard-pressed to even call it a decision.
“The plan was always to stay with EliteXC,’’ said Jake Shields, who has re-signed with Los Angeles-based ProElite’s Live Fight Division. “For some reason, reporters were running like crazy with the notion that I was going to leave and sign with some other organization.
“I talked with other groups, but, in the end, I decided the best thing for me and my career was to stay put. I have been happy with EliteXC from the beginning. They have been like family to me.’’
Shields (jakeshields.proelite.com), of San Francisco, is 19-4-1. Undefeated since 2004, the Cesar Gracie protégé’s eight-fight winning streak is one of the longest currently in MMA.
Among those the classy Shields has defeated during his impressive run of victories include middleweight contender Yushin Okami, former UFC champion Dave Menne and current WEC welterweight champion Carlos Condit. Shields defeated Renato “Charuto’’ Verissimo on a first-round TKO at EliteXC’s Sept. 15 “Uprising” in September on SHOWTIME.
Gary Shaw, EliteXC Live Event President, made the announcement Friday night on the eve of an EliteXC cage fight card here. In one of Saturday’s top bouts at the American Bank Center Arena on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast), Shields will take on Mike Pyle.
“Jake is, flat-out, No. 1 in the world in his weight class and we are thrilled that he has re-signed with us,’’ Shaw said. “He has been part of the EliteXC family from the beginning. Jake and his dad, Jack, are class acts and a joy to not only work with but to be around.
“Jake wants to fight the best and we are going to get him the best. We welcome any and all challenges from the other organizations. If you think you have the best welterweight in the world, then prove it by fighting Jake.’’
Terms and length of the deal were not disclosed.
The Shields re-signing brings to three the number of well-known, highly regarded fighters who have re-signed or signed recently with EliteXC. Nick Diaz (nickdiaz.proelite.com) signed an exclusive, long-term contract extension with EliteXC a few weeks ago, as did Kimbo Slice (kimboslice.proelite.com), the backyard-fighting YouTube legend. Both Diaz and Kimbo will be in featured bouts Saturday on SHOWTIME.
Said Jack Shields, Jake’s father and manager: “We are really happy to be staying with EliteXC. This (offer) is what we were looking for. EliteXC has treated us very well. They have promoted Jake and they have been true to their word, even when it came to the little things.
“Both Jake and I are confident this organization is going places. You look at the acquisitions they’ve made, the fighters they are getting and you know they are serious about becoming a major player. Actually, they already are a major player and we are very happy to be associated with them.’’
For more information on EliteXC and other MMA-related stories, including bios, videos, photos, stats and more, please visit ProElite.com, EliteXC.com and www.SHO.com/Sports.
About ProElite, Inc.
ProElite Inc. [PELE.PK] delivers the most exciting entertainment experience in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with live arena-based entertainment events, cable television programming on Showtime Networks and community-driven interactive broadband entertainment via the Internet. ProElite embraces MMA with the highest levels of honor, integrity, discipline and self-esteem all the while remaining inclusive for fighters, fans and schools. ProElite’s live fight division, EliteXC, delivers spectacular live MMA fight events that showcase the world’s top fighters [elitexc.com]. ProElite’s interactive business, ProElite.com, capitalizes on the growing popularity of the sport of mixed martial arts by building a community of mixed martial arts enthusiasts. In addition to streaming the most exciting live fights to the web, ProElite expands the fan base of the sport by providing a comprehensive set of online social networking tools for fans, fighters and organizations. ProElite.com – Empowering the Fight Community TM
PHILADELPHIA’S BEST WILL BOX IN AC ON NOVEMBER 17th ON HBO B.A.D. CARD
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
PHILADELPHIA ‘S RISING BOXING STARS HIGHLIGHT action-packed EVENT at borgata in atlantic city november 17
hopkins AND allen RETURN to atlantic city action,
while garcia and dargan make pro debuts
PHILADELPHIA (November 8, 2007)…If you want to see some of Philadelphia’s best young fighters, all you have to do is to take a quick trip down the highway as the area’s best up-and-coming fighters will be featured on the off-television undercard of the HBO Boxing After Dark November 17 show at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ.
Undefeated fighters such as Demetrius “The Gladiator” Hopkins and 2004 U.S. Olympian Rock Allen will highlight the undercard, which also features exciting young fighters Danny Garcia and Karl Dargan will both make their pro debuts. Golden Boy East President and current World Light Heavyweight Champion Bernard Hopkins will also be in attendance.
In the featured undercard bout, Demetrius Hopkins (27-0-1, 11 K0s), nephew of Bernard Hopkins, will face Enrique Colin (23-3-3, 19 K0s) of Guasave, Mexico. “The Gladiator” was once seen as strictly a technician in the ring, but with five of his last eight wins coming by knockout over quality competition, opponents now have to fear Hopkins’ power in addition to his boxing skills. Hopkins is currently ranked number two in the world by the IBF, and eighth by the WBC, WBA and WBO.
Olympian Rock Allen who was basically raised in the sport, Allen, a three-time national amateur champion, comes from a fighting family that includes his brothers and cousins, but most notable is that Allen’s father and coach, Naazim Richardson. In Rock’s last fight on July 21st he had a decisive victory over Ramiro Rivera at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV; and on November 17 th Rock will face Braulio Lopez of Nuevo San Juan, Mexico (6-5-1, 2 K0s).
Dargan will face Jose Velasquez of Boston, MA (0-1) and Garcia’s opponent will be named shortly.
The November 17 HBO Boxing After Dark telecast will be headlined by WBO World Junior Lightweight Champion Joan Guzman defending his title against former WBC Interim Featherweight Champion Humberto Soto, while the telcast’s co-feature bout will include undefeated 2004 Olympian Abner Mares making his HBO debut in a bantamweight fight against Argentinean Damian David Marchiano. The event, which isbeing promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Sycuan Ringside Promotions and Top Rank Inc., and will air live from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, NJ, will air on HBO’s Boxing After Dark starting at 9:45 PM ET/PT.
Tickets for this event are priced at $225, $175, $145, $115, $95, $75 and $45 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 866-900-4TIX (4849) or online at www.theborgata.com.
FIGUEROA TO CLOSE OUT ’07 WITH SCHEDULED BOUT AGAINST NOEL RODRIGUEZ
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
Figueroa plans to close out 2007 in grand style
NABF champ defends title Nov. 16 vs. Rodriguez in Florida
VERO BEACH, Florida (November 9, 2007) – NABF light welterweight champion Frankie “El Gato” Figueroa makes his first title defense Friday night (November 16) against fellow southpaw Noel Rodriguez at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Figueroa-Rodriguez will be the 12-round main event airing live on Telemundo.
The Spanish Harlem-born, Bronx-raised Figueroa (17-2, 13 KOs), now fighting out of Miami, is rated No. 12 by the World Boxing Council and No. 14 by the International Boxing Federation. He will have famed trainer and former 2-time world champion James “Buddy” McGirt in his corner for the first time.
“I’m going to close out the year with a bang,” Figueroa said. “This will be my first national exposure. I’m glad to be fighting on Telemundo because I’m Spanish. Next year has got to be my year. I hope to move up higher in the ratings after this fight and get a world title fight in 2008. I’m going to let ‘The Cat (El Gato)’ out of the bag. I know Rodriguez is a tough guy who is going to come hard to fight and try to take my title belt. I’m bringing my A game, though, and it’s going to be an explosive fight.”
By the time the fight happens, U.S. Army veteran Figueroa will have been at his Vero Beach training camp with McGirt for 2 ½ months, primarily because Frankie’s fight originally was scheduled to be held in October. “There wasn’t a television fight available until November so we waited,” Figueroa explained. “I’m still flabbergasted and motivated to have Buddy, a 2-time world champion, in my corner. I want to make him happy and proud. Buddy doesn’t change a world-class fighter; he has me doing a lot more jabbing, something I only really did for exercise, and circling left as I throw punches. I never threw punches that way before.”
McGirt, who has trained numerous world champions, enjoys working with Figueroa. “He’s been doing real good,” Buddy noted. “He’s coming along great. Frankie’s a great kid who listens well and is never a problem.
Rodriguez, fighting out of Texas, is riding an eight-fight win streak, dating back two full years. His most notable victory to date was a win by unanimous eight-round decision against 18-5 Robert Frankel this past April in New Mexico.
“The main reason we took this fight was the need to get Frankie television exposure and fighting Rodriguez in the main event on Telemundo is the way to go,” Figueroa’s manager Sal LoNano noted. “We’re happy that the people at HBO and Showtime will have an opportunity to see Frankie’s talents. Next year, he’ll have a shot at a world title. He’s ready now with a new team that includes the best trainer in boxing, Buddy McGirt. We believe an impressive win against Rodriguez will set-up Frankie for a world title fight in 2008.
“Gato” also is the reigning WBC International Mundo Hispano welterweight and New York State light welterweight title-holder.
For more information about “Gato” Figueroa visit his web site at www.gatofigueroa.com.
-FF-
COTTO VS. MOSLEY BOUT SHEET
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
MIGUEL COTTO vs. “SUGAR” SHANE MOSLEY
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Madison Square Garden
Live on Pay-Per-View
RED CORNER BLUE CORNER
MAIN EVENT-WBA WORLD WELTERWEIGHT TITLE – 12 ROUNDS
Miguel Angel COTTO vs. Shane MOSLEY
Caguas, PR Pomona, CA
30-0 (25 KO’s) 44-4 (37 KO’s)
Wt: 146 ¼ Wt: 147 ¼
VACANT WBO INTERCONTINENTAL WELTERWEIGHT TITLE – 12 ROUNDS
Antonio MARGARITO vs. Golden JOHNSON
Tijuana, MEX San Antonio, TX
34-5 (25 KO’s) 25-8-3 (18 KO’s)
Wt: 146 ¼ Wt: 147 ½ *reweigh
RING MAGAZINE & WBC INTERIM WORLD LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE – 12 ROUNDS
Joel CASAMAYOR vs. Jose A. SANTA CRUZ
Guantanamo, CUBA Lincoln Heights, CA
34-3-1 (21 KO’s) 25-2 (14 KO’s)
Wt: 134 Wt: 134 ¾
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS – 10 ROUNDS
Victor ORTIZ vs. Carlos MAUSSA
Oxnard, CA Monteria, COL
19-1-1 (14 KO’s) 19-4 (17 KO’s)
Wt: 141 ½ Wt: 141
FEATHERWEIGHTS – 8/10 ROUNDS
Billy DIB vs. Rogers MTAGWA
Sydney, AUS Philadelphia, PA
16-0 (9 KO’s) 24-11-2 (17 KO’s)
Wt: 128 Wt: 127 ½
JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
Jesus ROJAS vs. Carlos DIAZ
Caguas, PR Tampa, FL
9-0 (7 KO’s) 9-10-4 (7 KO’s)
Wt: 122 Wt: 122
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Michael FARAGON vs. Javier GARCIA
Schenectady, NY Caguas, PR
Pro Debut 2-1
Wt: 136 ¾ Wt: 136 ¾
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Ronny VARGAS vs. Bryan Mullis
Bronx, NY Mount Holley, NC
3-0 (2 KO’s) 4-1-1 (1 KO)
Wt: 152 Wt: 150 ¾
YOUTH VS. EXPERIENCE FACTORED INTO GODFREY VS. WILLIAMS BOUT
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
Godfrey-Williams: Youth vs. Experience
PROVIDENCE (November 9, 2007) – Undefeated NABF cruiserweight champion Matt “Too Smooth” Godfrey, rated No. 2 by the World Boxing Council, is positioned for a world title fight in 2008. The 26-year-old from Providence has some unfinished business, though, defending his title belt November 24 against outspoken Jeremy “Half-Man, Half-Amazing” Williams in the 12-round main event headlining “Pinnacle FiteNite: The Heat’s On In Hartford” at the Connecticut Convention Center.
“Pinnacle FiteNite: The Heat’s On In Hartford,” promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment, Inc. (CES), in association with Sports Entertainment & Media, Inc., will be taped live and air worldwide on dates and times to be determined.
Godfrey (16-0, 9 KOs), also rated No. 4 by the International Boxing Federation and No. 6 by the World Boxing Association, relinquished his NABA, WBC Continental Americas and USNBC championships.
Godfrey-Williams is a classic match-up of youth versus experience between Godfrey and 35-year-old Williams, who once fought for the WBO heavyweight championship.
“Williams is a big talker but whatever he says he’ll have to back-up in the ring,” Godfrey said. “I’m unlike any fighter he’s ever been in with. I’m sure he’s thinking that I’ll crack under his pressure, but I’m too smooth for that. He’s on the downside and this is his last hurrah. I’m young, fast and hit hard. He’s going to get hit often and hard. I’m going to prove that I belong in the top 5 in the world.”
“It’s going to be a good fight,” Godfrey’s manager Bret Hallenbeck added. “Matt’s going to prove that he belongs up there with the best cruiserweights in the world.”
In 2007, Godfrey registered his career-defining victory to date, stopping 18-1-2 prospect Felix Cora, Jr. in the second round on ESPN2 for the NABF title, along with a win by unanimous 10-round against 13-2-3 Derrick Brown.
“It’s been a great year,” Godfrey commented. “I had a very important win against Cora on national television, capturing the NABF title, and a stay busy type victory against a tough guy, Derrick Brown. I’ll be capping off the year against an opponent with 48 pro fights — all but one in the heavyweight division — and against some high-level competition. He is the perfect opponent to end the year with a bang. I want fans to see the style changes since my last fight; they’ll see me being aggressive, punching more, and taking more chances.”
Godfrey is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, Inc., managed by Bret Hallenbeck and trained by “Iceman” John Scully.
Tickets are priced at $35.00 (Bronze), $50.00 (VIP Silver), $100.00 (VIP Gold), and $150.00 (limited Jimmy’s Platinum Club). Group discounts are available. Discount tickets are being offered to members of the Connecticut police and fire departments, men and women active in the U.S. military, and students. VIP Presidential Tables (total of 10 tables, 8 per table) are available by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254. Call CES at 401.724.2253/2254, the Connecticut Convention Center (860.249.6000), Manchester PAL (860.645.6261) and Connecticut Restoration (860.528.6800), or go on line at www.cesboxing.com, to order tickets or for more information. Visit www.pinnaclefitenite.com for additional information. Doors will open at 5:30 PM/ET, first bout at 6:45 PM/ET.
-MG-
HDNET FIGHTS SET FOR STAR STUDDED DECEMBER CARD
Posted on | November 9, 2007 | No Comments
MMA STARS TRIGG & “MAYHEM” MILLER SET FOR
RECKLESS ABANDON
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 – AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER
TRIGG VS DEWEES, MILLER VS SALMON HEADLINE 10 FIGHT CARD
DALLAS, TEXAS — Mixed-Martial-Arts stars Frank Trigg and Jason “Mayhem” Miller are recognized as two of the sports top middleweights. They, in fact, once squared off in an epic battle for the ICON World Championship, with Trigg coming away the newly crowned champ.
On Saturday, December 15th, the non-stop warrior, Trigg, and the master of mayhem, Jason “Mayhem” Miller, will share top billing (in separate fights) on RECKLESS ABANDON, when Mark Cuban’s HDNet FIGHTS returns to the American Airlines Center in Dallas.
Let the lessons in Triggonomics and Mayhem begin.
Trigg (15-6), a proven star in both Pride and UFC, will be taking on Edwin Dewees (43-10) in a 3-round middleweight, non-title fight.
When Miller (19-5), of San Diego, steps into the cage against highly regarded Sean Salmon (14-4, Columbus, OH) for their 3-round slugfest, it will be a battle between two UFC veterans.
Also slated for action on the card will be one of the world’s top lightweights, Yves Edwards (29-13-1, Houston). Edwards will be taking on Alonzo Martinez (20-8). Local fighters Pete Spratt, Chris Bowles and Jason House will head up an Undercard that also features rising MMA sensation, CB Dollaway (5-0, Phoenix, AZ).
Tickets for RECKLESS ABANDON are priced at $25, $50, $100 and $300 (Cageside Club). Cageside Club seating includes: Seating in first 4 rows, Platinum Parking, Pre-Fight Dinner/Meet & Greet, Complimentary T-Shirt and program.
Tickets GO ON SALE Friday, November 16th at the American Airlines Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster Outlets, including www.ticketmaster.com .
According to HDNet FIGHTS matchmaker, Guy Mezger, having Trigg and Mayhem on the same card makes for an action-packed night in the cage.
“With Frank (Trigg) and Jason (Miller), you know there’s going to be a ton of action and lots of bizarre things can happen in the cage,” said Mezger, the former UFC Champion. “Frank is called “Twinkle Toes” because he’s known for painting his toe nails, but it certainly doesn’t represent his vicious fighting style.
“On the other hand, Jason (Miller) has certainly earned his “Mayhem” nickname. With him (Miller), you never know what you will see but you know it will be something crazy.”
Most important for Cuban and HDNet FIGHTS, the two co-main events featuring Trigg and Miller represent his organization’s desire to present the world’s best fighters in quality fights.
“We’re thrilled to have these talented and entertaining fighters on board with HDNet FIGHTS,” said Cuban. “Our goal is to present the best fighters in the best fights we can make. These are two of the top middleweights in the world and we are fortunate enough to have them both fighting on the same card. The big winner will be the fans.”
The remainder of the card will be announced shortly.
« go back — keep looking »SEARCH OUR BLOGS
SEARCH THE WEB
Subscribe in a reader
US Money Reserve
Bodybuilding fitness software: Gain weight & build muscle fast.
Photographers - Boston, MA
PRO-SEBLOG.COM: EMPOWERING ORDINARY PEOPLE TO PRACTICE LAW ON THEIR OWN BEHALF
CLICK HERE TO ORDER AN AWESOME SELF-HELP LEGAL COURSE
MARKETINGBOSS.INFO: MARKETING TIPS FOR YOUR SITE & BUSINESS
Boxing Live
RING GIRLS
OUR SPONSORS
