Strong supportive undercard announced for Holyfield-Williams PPV card Jan. 22nd “Redemption In America’ show

Posted on | January 12, 2011 | No Comments

CHARLOTTE, NC (January 13, 2011) – ARK Promotions president Rick Lazes today announced a strong, supportive undercard for the January 22nd “Redemption In America: The Journey Begins Now” Pay-Per-View Event, headlined by living legend Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs) defending his World Boxing Federation heavyweight title against challenger Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KOs), live from America’s resort — The Greenbrier’s Colonial Hall — in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“Redemption” will fuse world class boxing and entertainment; showcasing a production that includes high-energy music presented by Broadway performers, along with dancers and aerial artists. World-renowned saxophone player Clarence Clemons will also headline a live band between rounds and throughout the night.

Competitive, entertaining undercard fights will set the stage for the main event featuring Holyfield on his journey to become the first heavyweight champion to regain the coveted world title four different times.

The 10-round co-feature pits NABA Heavyweight Champion Cedric “The Bos” Boswell (32-1, 25 KOs) defending his title against Dominique “Diamiond” Alexander (19-9, 9 KOs). Boswell, a Detroit native now fighting out of Atlanta, captured the NABA crown in his last fight, stopping Owen Beck in the ninth round of their December 7 fight. Alexander has been in the ring with former world champion Shannon Briggs and top contenders Odlanier Solis, Kali Meehan and Fres Oquendo.

Former world heavyweight title challenger Monte “Two Gunz” Barrett (34-9, 20 KOs), coming off of an impressive draw by WBO No. 2 rated David Tua, takes on former WBC Latino Heavyweight Champion Charles Davis in a 10-round bout.

In an intriguing match-up, World Boxing Federation Intercontinental Heavyweight champion Marshall “GW Hope” Kauffman (21-1 (16 KOs) is matched against 7’ 2” Julius “Towering Inferno” Long (15-14, 13 KOs) in an 8-round bout.

Also fighting on the under in 8-rounders are unbeaten Detroit middleweight Domonique Dolton (9-0, 7 KOs) versus Venezuelan veteran Marcos “The Terminator” Primera (20-22-2, 13 KOs), as well as 2008 US National AAU lightweight champion, Cleveland junior welterweight Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez (12-2, 11 KOs) against 31-fight veteran Ramon “Che” Guevara.

Rounding-out the card is a 6-round middleweight clash between Lithuania-native Donatas Boundoravas (10-1-1, 3 KOs) and undefeated Willie Fortune (9-0, 5 KOs), of Detroit. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT.

For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com, www.AmericanBoxingLeague.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

Dean ‘Irish Lightning’ Byrne Set ‘To Strike Up A Storm’ In Dublin On Jan 30th

Posted on | January 12, 2011 | No Comments

Sensational, unbeaten (14-0 with 6 wins by KO), Light Welterweight
prospect Dean ‘Irish Lightning’ left his London base earlier today to
travel back to Dublin, where he is set to fight a yet to be named opponent at the Dolphil promotions event at the Citywest Hotel on Sunday the 30th January 2011.

Dean is managed and trained in Los Angeles, USA by ‘Trainer of the Year’
Freddie Roach at his Wild Card Gym, where he regularly sparred with Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan amongst others, but since returning to London has been training with Barry Smith at Johnny Eames’ Ultrachem TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town.

The globetrotting ‘Irish Lightning’, who during his career has already
fought in Australia, America and Ireland, has already proved his
championship credentials, having won the Australian Light Welterweight
title on just his fifth outing, is intent on making his mark in Europe and
to challenge for either an Irish or British title in the near future.

Following his final bruising sparring session, with Freddie Turner at the
Ultrachem TKO Gym, The “Irish Lightning’ took the time to talk briefly on
his career and the upcoming Dublin fight. “I’ve no idea of my opponent as yet, I’m sure he’ll be a decent opponent as it’s a Dolphil Promotions
show on the 30th January.

I’m ready, the last couple of weeks I’ve been training at the Ultrachem
TKO Gym in London where Barry Smith has been helping me out a lot.

I’ve been sparring with everyone up at the gym. Freddie Turner, just got
out after five rounds sparring with Freddie. I’ve been sparring Kash
(Akaash Bhatia) and Nate (Nathan Weiss) and all the boys up here.

I’m 14 and O with six knockouts, I’ve been a pro five years now, had two
years of inactivity due to injury. I’m ready to fight now and have no
injuries. I’m feeling strong and I’m ready to step up to another level and
get some title shots.

Freddie Roach is my trainer/manager, when I’m in England ticking over
Barry helps me out a lot and keeps me in good shape, and that’s what you need to do is keep ticking over. As a professional person, not just a
fighter, you have to be always ticking over and being in good shape.

I’m ready to go now, you know, I’m really looking forward to the fight.”

As mentioned previously, Dean’s coach in London is Ultrachem TKO’s
upcoming young trainer Barry Smith, who has worked with many of Johnny Eames’ world class stable.

Barry, who has coached Dean for his last two Dublin fights, spoke of his
talented charge, “Man, I think he’s brilliant, he’s a great prospect and
has a great future ahead of him. He’s got all the tools. He just does it,
he’s a delight to work with. He trains hard, he wants it. He’s always in
the gym, he enjoys his boxing.

You don’t have to tell him to do anything, because he just does it, you
don’t have to moan at him he just does it. He’s really keen and dedicated. He’s just a great all round fighter.

He’s without doubt one of the best fighters I’ve seen. He will go all the
way. I have no doubts about it, he can go all the way. He lives the life.
He doesn’t go out celebrating after a fight, two days after he’s back in
the gym. Brilliant.

He makes it easy to work with him, he’s just so professional and he knows what he wants and he knows where he’s going and that’s real good.

When he’s in America he has one of the best trainers in the World (Freddie Roach) and over here he’s at the TKO Gym with myself. What more can I say, he’s dedicated and is a great fighter.

On the 30th he’s gonna do the business, Irish Lightning’s gonna strike.”

Final word though has to go to the ‘Irish Lightning’ who had a bit of
interesting news for his British fans “I’ve been talking to a couple of
people and am hoping in the future to get a fight in England so you might see a bit of ‘Irish Lightning’ here in 2011. So all you UK fans out there you may get to see the Irish Lightning strike up a storm in the UK soon.

I also want to thank all my supporters and any new fans I have, and those that want to become fans, to get down to Citywest Hotel and see Irish Lightning strike up a storm in Dublin on January 30th.”

Dean ‘Irish Lightning’ Byrne against a yet to be named opponent will be at the Dolphil Promotions show at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin on Sunday 30th January 2010.

Also featured on the show are Paulie Hyland, Robbie Long, Ian Tims,
Michael Sweeney, Oisin Fagan, Anthony Fitzgerald, Mark Heffron amongst others.

For tickets call Dean ‘The Irish Lightning’ Byrne on 0851 077634.

ALL HEAVYWEIGHT CARD SET FOR STRIKEFORCE WORLD GRAND PRIX KICKOFF SATURDAY, FEB. 12, LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

Top-Heavy: Shane Del Rosario-Lavar Johnson, Chad Griggs-Gian Villante, Valentijn Overeem-Ray Sefo At IZOD Center in East Rutherford, N.J.,
Ticket Pre-Sale Begins Tomorrow/Wednesday

NEW YORK (Dec. 11, 2011) – Six additional hard-hitting heavyweight fighters have been called to action for the STRIKEFORCE and M-1 Global co-promotion and historic kick-off of the STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix – Heavyweight Tournament on Saturday, Feb. 12, live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from IZOD Center in East Rutherford, N.J.

The three fights are: Undefeated top prospect Shane Del Rosario (10-0) of Irvine, Calif., vs. power-punching Lavar “Big’’ Johnson (15-3) of Madera, Calif., Chad “The Grave Digger’’ Griggs (9-1) of Tucson, Ariz., vs. Gian (pronounced “John”) Villante (7-1) of Bellmore, N.Y., and Valentijn Overeem (28-25) of Amsterdam, Holland, vs. Ray “Sugarfoot’’ Sefo (2-0) of Las Vegas.

“This event will showcase the depth of talent in the STRIKEFORCE heavyweight roster,” said STRIKEFORCE CEO Scott Coker. “Shane and Lavar are two products of the STRIKEFORCE Challengers series that has been instrumental in developing new talent. We are proud to welcome them to our championship series for the first time on Feb. 12 and excited to show the world that STRIKEFORCE is home to the best heavyweights on the planet.”

The all-heavyweight main card will be highlighted by two sensational quarterfinal bouts in the single-elimination STRIKEFORCE World Grand Prix – Heavyweight Tournament.

Fedor “The Last Emperor” Emelianenko (31-2, 1 NC), of Stary Oskol, Russia, returns against Antonio “Big Foot” Silva (15-2) of Campina Grande, Paraiba, Brazil, in the main event. The co-feature will match former world champion Andrei Arlovski (15-8), of Chicago by way of Minsk, Belarus, against Sergei Kharitonov (16-4) of Moscow, Russia. Kharitonov is the last fighter to defeat STRIKEFORCE Heavyweight World Champion Alistair Overeem.

The promising 6-foot-4, 27-year-old Rosario has won nine of his 10 fights in the opening round, including a 3:38 first-round TKO (knees and punches) over Lolohea Mahe during a STRIKEFORCE Challengers event in his last outing on July 23, 2010, at Everett, Wash. Prior to that, Rosario registered a rare omoplata submission victory over Brandon Cash at 2:27 of the first on Nov. 6, 2009, on STRIKEFORCE Challengers at Fresno, Calif.

“I’m looking forward to fighting again and fighting Lavar,” said Rosario, a Muay Thai specialist whose longest fight lasted a total of 4:07. “We’ve both fought on Challengers and now we get to show what we can do on a big show. I’m excited about that. This will be a great fight between two hungry fighters.”

The heavy-handed Johnson has been triumphant in seven consecutive fights, winning all by (T)KO, including three straight on Challengers. This will be his third fight since returning to the cage after he was gunned down while attending a family barbeque during the July 4 holiday in 2009. Johnson survived three gunshot wounds from a walk-by shooting that led to the death of a cousin. A father of two boys, Johnson spent 30 days in a hospital fighting for his life and several more months rehabilitating.

“I want to be known as a fighter, not as a guy who got shot, and this is my greatest opportunity to do that,” said the 6-foot-3, 33-year-old who stopped Virgil Zwicker at 2:17 of the first round on Oct. 22, 2010. “I feel like I’m ready to move up to the big stage. Fighting a talented fighter like Rosario is a huge step and, with our records, there is no way this cannot be one of the most exciting fights of the night.”

Thirteen of Johnson’s 15 victories have come via either knockout or TKO.

Griggs, a winner in four consecutive fights, is coming off a bloody, upset second-round TKO (retirement) over former pro wrestling superstar Bobby Lashley on Aug. 21, 2010, in Houston, on SHOWTIME.

A fulltime Tucson firefighter and paramedic, the 6-foot-1, 32-year-old Griggs opened up a gushing cut over Lashley’s left eye in the first round after getting taken to the ground and ultimately outlasted the previously unbeaten MMA fighter in the second as a still-bleeding Lashley seemed to gas.

The courageous, come-from-behind triumph may have been the most noteworthy for a well-rounded, strong finisher known for quick endings and tricky submissions. Six of Griggs’ victories came in the first round, and he has scored knockouts in eight of his nine victories.

“It was a dream come true to fight for STRIKEFORCE and getting a super win in a big fight like that was huge for me,’’ Griggs said. “I appreciate the opportunity to show what I can do again against another tough opponent.”

Villante is a 6-foot-2, 25-year-old grappling stud who was born and raised on Long Island. Before he wrestled and played football at Hofstra University, he was an All-State football player and All-American wrestler at MacArthur High in Levittown, N.Y.

After trying out with the NFL’s New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles, Villante turned to MMA in late 2008. “I got hooked the first time I went to an MMA fight card and saw one of my high school wrestling coaches KO some guy in a few seconds,” he said. “I was still a senior in high school but I got that feeling that I could maybe do this, and it was always in the back of my mind.

“I knew when my dream to play in the NFL ended that this was what I wanted to do. Now, fighting MMA has become more of a dream than football. I’m extremely excited about fighting for STRIKEFORCE on SHOWTIME. This is a tremendous opportunity and it is like a home game for me.”

Without the benefit of an amateur career, Villante turned pro on Feb. 20, 2009, and won his initial six fights. His lone defeat came when he dislocated an elbow in a bout halted in the opening round on April 16, 2010. Villante is coming off a 1:03, first-round TKO over Joseph Reyes on Dec. 3, 2010. It was his sixth success in the first round.

The older brother of Alistair Overeem, Valentijn Overeem is a fierce, dangerous striker who has won his last two fights in a combined time of 47 seconds. The 6-foot-3, 34-year-old Dutch Destroyer scored a 40-second KO (knee) over Catalin Zmarandescu on May 21, 2010. In his outing before last, the previous April 17, a head kick finished off Tengiz Tedoradze seven seconds after the opening bell.

Overeem, who injured an elbow during training and withdrew from a match last Dec. 4 against “Big Foot’’ Silva, has several notable victories, including a 0:56, first-round submission over all-time great Randy “The Natural” Couture and a 2:19, first-round submission over former STRIKEFORCE Middleweight Champion Renato “Babalu” Sobral. Overeem has only gone the distance twice in a 53-fight career.

A member of Team Golden Glory like his brother, Alistair, Valentijn is a four-time winner in PRIDE Fighting Championship competition. He’ll be making his debut for STRIKEFORCE after signing with the San Jose, Calif.-based promotion last June.

Sefo is one of the most devastating knockout artists in the history of kickboxing and many are excited to see him return to STRIKEFORCE. This will be the native of Auckland, New Zealand’s first MMA start since he defeated (knee injury) Kevin Jordan in his STRIKEFORCE debut during a Challengers event on Sept. 25, 2009.

After turning prol and earning more than a dozen kickboxing championships, Sefo turned his focus to the mecca of kickboxing, K-1, in Japan. While competing under the K-1 banner, Sefo quickly earned a reputation as a power puncher with a penchant for knocking his opponents out. During his time with in K-1, Sefo notched wins over the likes of MMA notables Mark Hunt, Melvin Manhoef, 7-foot-2 Hong Man Choi, Gary Goodridge, Marvin Eastman and Gilbert Yvel along with scores of champion kickboxers.

The 6-foot, 39-year-old Sefo’s level of kickboxing is rarely seen in MMA, yet with just two pro MMA fights in five years he remains a question mark in a heavyweight division regarded as the best in MMA. Sefo, who went undefeated his entire career as an amateur kickboxer, won his MMA debut with a second-round KO (head kick) over Min Soo Kim on July, 6, 2005, in Japan.

A special ticket pre-sale for “STRIKEFORCE Insiders,” begins tomorrow/Wednesday, Jan. 12, at 10 a.m. ET and ends Thursday at 10 p.m. Fans can sign up to become an “Insider” at STRIKEFORCE.com

Tickets for the mega-event go on sale to the public on Friday, Jan. 14, at 10 a.m. ET at the IZOD Center box office, online at Ticketmaster.com and STRIKEFORCE.com or by phone at (800) 745-3000.

VICTOR “THE BARBER” VASQUEZ LOOKS TO CUT DOWN OSNEL CHARLES ON JANUARY 22ND AT HARRAH’S IN CHESTER

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

First pro boxing event at Harrah’s Resort in Chester, Pa to feature local favorites VaSquez, Poore, Dawejko, Butler and more

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHESTER, PA (January 12, 2011)—One of the most famous movie scenes in the past quarter century took place in the movie Coming to America when Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall played many different characters in a barbershop and began arguing who the greatest heavyweight amongst Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali and Rocky Marciano.

One man who can attest that scenarios like that are common place all over the country is Lightweight Victor Vasquez, who on January 22nd will take on Osnel Charles in the main event of the first event boxing event at Harrah’s in Chester, PA.

The show is promoted by Joey Eye Boxing.

Vasquez is a licensed barber who has been cutting hair for the better part of a decade.

Vasquez of Northeast Philadelphia cuts hair at “Consider It Done” that is located at 2546 North Front Street in Philadelphia.

“Everybody comes in there argues sports”, said Vasquez, who has a professional record of 12-4-1 with six knockouts.

“The best thing about it is that I box so I have a more authentic opinion I guess. But it’s fun because everyone has an opinion and over the past couple years we have had some good arguments when the topic is Mayweather-Pacquiao.”

Vasquez is Philadelphia’s uncrowned Blood and Guts champion for his many wars plus the great fan base he has built up since turning pro in 2006.

“I love the support. It’s great that random people come into the barber shop and buy tickets to see me fight.”

Vasquez looks forward to a big 2011.

“I have had nothing easy but I am a gym rat and I hope to win a few more fights and be able to fight for a regional title by the end of the year.”

Vasquez will take on Osnel Charles of Atlantic City in the six round main event.

Charles of Atlantic City has a record of 5-2 and is on a roll as he is riding a four fight winning streak.

He is coming off a four round unanimous decision over local favorite Zachary Smith (4-1) this past September 11th in Albany, New York.
In a four round co-feature, John Poore (21-4, 18 KO’s) of Boothwyn, PA will make his Cruiserweight debut against Zeferino Albino (3-12-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA.

In a four round Welterweight bout, Ardrick Butler (5-3, 2 KO’s) takes on Eberto Medina (5-5) of New Jersey.

Former World Jr. Amateur champion, Joey Dawejko (3-0,1 KO) of Philadelphia an opponent to be named in a four round Heavyweight bout.
In a four round Middleweight bout, debuting Stephon Burgette of Scranton, PA takes on Joe Dunn (0-3) of Philadelphia.

Dan Grafton (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on Antonio Robertson (0-2) of South Carolina in a four round Heavyweight bout.

In a four round Featherweight bout, Joey Tiberi (2-0, 2 KO’s) takes on debuting Corey White.

In a fight featuring undefeated Welterweights, Troy Corbin (5-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia takes on Luis Merced (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Kentucky in a bout scheduled for four rounds.

Rounding out the card will be undefeated Light Heavyweight Kyle White (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Fort Lee, NJ taking part in a four round bout against an opponent to be named.

Tickets for this great evening of boxing are $90; $60 and $45 and can be purchased by calling 610-933-7510.

Harrah’s Chester Casino & Racetrack
777 Harrah’s Blvd.
Chester, PA 19013
(800) 480-8020
www.harrahschester.com

Surprising twist of fate brings Fickett to MFC

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

Accomplished veteran lightweight will make debut at Supremacy

In one of the most astonishing turn of events in the history of the Maximum Fighting Championship, MFC Owner/President Mark Pavelich announced that the organization has signed world-ranked lightweight Drew “Night Rider” Fickett to a multi-fight contract.

Fickett (40-13) will make his organizational debut at MFC 28: Supremacy on Friday, Feb. 25 televised live on HDNet Fights (10 p.m. ET/8 p.m. MT/7 p.m. PT – check local listing for channel designation). Fickett’s opponent will be revealed in the very near future.

Pavelich and Fickett were involved in a heated feud back in 2008 when the fighter had initially agreed to compete in the Maximum Fighting Championship. When Fickett ultimately did not fight, a massive controversy erupted that created a huge stir in the mixed martial arts world.

But now the buzz will be all about one of the hottest 155-pounders in rankings coming on board with the MFC.

“My biggest thing is that everyone deserves a second chance and everyone deserves forgiveness,” stated Fickett. “Mark and I had a quarrel but everything has been forgiven and I appreciate that he is giving me a shot.

“He called me with this opportunity even after we had such a big dispute. To me, that’s just beautiful … it’s just awesome. I think Mark and I are now able to sit back and have a beer and laugh about all that past stuff.”

Fickett has turned over a new leaf. Re-incarnated and re-energized. Re-invigorated and re-focused. It has clearly had a profound effect on his personality.

“I’ve got a lot of love for a lot of people,” reflected Fickett, who turned 31 on Christmas Eve. “I’m really grateful for the people who are around me. I’ve got my daughter. I’ve got people who care about me. I’ve got a good girlfriend who supports me.

“I’m surrounded by good people and I’m away from the BS and the partying. It’s made me want to fight.”

And Fickett has fought with a great deal success since his turnaround following a disastrous 2009. In 2010, the Tucson, Arizona, product’s re-generation resulted in a four-fight winning streak that he will carry into his MFC debut. Two of those wins came over former MFC title contenders Derrick Noble and Carlo Prater, which added to Fickett’s impressive list of career victories.

Over the course of his 12-year run, Fickett has scored wins over such notables as Kenny Florian, Josh Koscheck, Josh Neer, Dennis Hallman, Kurt Pellegrino, Fabio Holanda, Charles Bennett, and Edwin Dewees. Taking a page out of what got him to those victories and erasing the nasty skid of ’09, Fickett has rebounded in fine style.

“No one can beat me now,” touted Fickett, who holds 29 career wins via submission. “Mentally I burned out and I didn’t really want to fight. Now I have a renewed passion for the sport and I have a re-invigorated spirit.

“I’m going to choke people out and people are going to get hurt. I’m coming to the MFC and I’m going to win the belt. It’s going to be awesome.”

Fickett’s bout rounds out the stacked main-card lineup for MFC 28: Supremacy featuring:

Light-heavyweight title – Dwayne Lewis vs. Ryan Jimmo

Lightweight – Kajan Johnson vs. Richie Whitson

Light-heavyweight – Razak Al-Hassan vs. Rodney Wallace

Welterweight – Thomas Denny vs. Sheldon Westcott

Lightweight – Robert Washington vs. Tyrone Glover

VIP, Row 1 and Row 2 tickets for MFC 28: Supremacy are going fast and available exclusively through the MFC Ticket Hotline at (780) 504-2024. All other tickets will go on sale Friday, Jan. 14 via Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.ca and charge-by-phone (780) 451-8000.

Heavyweight prospect Travis Kauffman added to Holyfield-Williams card Jan. 22nd “Redemption In America’ PPV show

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

CHARLOTTE, NC (January 12, 2011) – Heavyweight prospect Travis “GW Hope” Kauffman (21-1, 16 KOs) has been added to the “Redemption In America: The Journey Begins Now” Pay-Per-View Event, headlined by living legend Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield (43-10-2, 28 KOs) defending his World Boxing Federation heavyweight title against challenger Sherman “Tank” Williams (34-11-2, 19 KOs), January 22 live from America’s resort — The Greenbrier’s Colonial Hall — in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

The 25-year-old Kaufmann, fighting out of Reading, Pennsylvania, is the World Boxing Federation Inter-Continental Heavyweight Champion. The former National PAL Super Heavyweight Champion takes on 7’ 1” veteran Julius “Towering Inferno” Long (15-14, 13 KOs) in an 8-round bout. The full undercard is scheduled to be announced tomorrow.

“Redemption In American,” presented by ARK Promotions in association with The Greenbrier, will be distributed in North American by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay per view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States, as well as Viewer’s Choice and Shaw PPV in Canada, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

“Redemption” will fuse world class boxing and entertainment; showcasing a production that includes high-energy music presented by Broadway performers, along with dancers and aerial artists. World-renowned saxophone player Clarence Clemons will also headline a live band between rounds and throughout the night.

Competitive, supporting fights will set the stage for the main event featuring Holyfield on his journey to become the first heavyweight champion to regain the coveted world title four different times.

Ticket/hotel packages can be purchased at www.greenbrier.com or by calling 1.800.453.4858. Deadline to book reservations is Jan. 21.

Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET, and first PPV fight at 9 PM/ET, 6 PM/PT.

For more information about the Holyfield-Williams PPV event go to www.greenbrier.com, www.NCMusicFactory.com or www.integratedsportsnet.com.

Dutch Cruiser Balker’s Ready For London Showdown With Okoth On 22nd Jan

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

Exciting London based Dutch Cruiserweight Mitchell Balker is set for his second British outing, since signing with Johnny Eames’ Ultrachem TKO Boxing Gym team last year, when he comes face to face with Battersea’s super tough ‘Fighting Fireman’ Nick ‘The Ox’ Okoth at the Graham Earl promoted ‘CAPITAL PUNISHMENT’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 22nd January 2011.

Balker, who prior to moving to London had an unbeaten three fight record, will be looking to put the disappointment of losing to British championship prospect Matty Askin, when the fight was controversially stopped during a wild exchange that see Balker visibly shake Askin, on his maiden UK outing in November.

However Balker’s opponent on the 22nd January is no walk over, as the ever popular former Commonwealth and IBO Inter-Continental Champion Darren ‘Raging Bull’ Corbett can attest. Back in April last year Okoth shot to fame following his gritty all action performance to overcome Corbett at the Sky televised Prizefighter – Cruiserweights 2 to rightfully earn a showdown with eventual tournament winner Jon Lewis Dickinson in the final.

Following a sparring session with Southern Area Cruiserweight champ Leon ‘Solid’ Williams, at the Ultrachem TKO Gym in Canning Town, Balker spoke briefly about his preparations for his upcoming fight with Okoth. “I don’t know not too much about Nick. He fought Ali (TKO gym mate Ali Adams) not long ago, but other than that not know much about him.

Training going very good. After my first fight in the UK I was straight in the gym so I’m in shape like always.

I’ve been sparring Leon (Williams). Sparring has been going really, really well. I’m in great shape. Tip top condition so sparring going very well.

I feel really strong, very confident. I can’t wait. It’s going to be a great fight”

Mitchell Balker versus Nick ‘The Ox’ Okoth will be on the undercard of Paul Morby vs. Daniel ‘The Slick’ Cadman BBBofC Southern Area Super Middleweight title showdown at the Graham Earl promoted ‘Capital Punishment’ event at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 22nd January 2011.

Graham Earl has put together a top class support card for the Morby vs Cadman title fight that includes the third outing for Ultrachem TKO’s exciting Welterweight Danny ‘Cassius’ Connor, who is set to face Graham Earl’s nineteen year old protégé Terry Holmes.

Also on the card are British Masters Light Welterweight Champion Jay ‘The Isle Of Wight Assassin’ Morris, Hove’s unbeaten Light Heavyweight Navid Iran, unbeaten Middleweight Joe ‘The Belfast Banger’ Hillerby, Leicester’s Super Middleweight Jahmaine ‘ Smasher’ Smyle, Balker’s Ultrachem TKO gym mate Daryl Setterfield and Miami, Florida exile, now living in Luton, Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Oshinronde all against yet to be named opponents.

Tickets, priced £35 (unreserved) and £50 (ringside) are available on-line now at www.tkoboxoffice.com – or for further information call 07960 850645.

Former World Champ Graham Earl Guests On The Steve Bunce Show This Thursday

Posted on | January 11, 2011 | No Comments

Former WBU Lightweight Champion of the World, now turned Boxing promoter, Graham Earl is to be a guest on Steve Bunce’s Boxing Hour, on BBC Radio London 94.9 between 8pm and 9pm this coming Thursday, 13th January 2011, to talk about his upcoming show ‘CAPITAL PUNISHMENT’ which takes place at York Hall, in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 22nd January 2011.

During his illustrious career Graham won virtually every domestic title
going, including the Southern Area, British, Commonwealth and of course
the WBU World title. Whilst the later may have been Graham’s crowning
glory it was his next fight, against Michael ‘The Great’ Katsides for the
interim WBO belt, that Graham is most fondly remembered for.

Graham, always a crowd favourite due to his ever gutsy performances,
showed he had the heart the size of a Lion’s after going to war with
Katsides right from the opening bell. Graham was sent to canvas twice in
the final 30 seconds of first round but on both occasions was back on his feet to resume the toe-to-toe punch fest.

Round two was more of the same, again Graham was sent to the canvas but as before Graham was back on his feet quickly. Some twenty seconds or so later Graham’s trainer Johnny Eames threw the towel into the ring as Graham, with his back against the ropes, absorbed massive salvo after massive salvo from Katsides.

Referee Mickey Vann picked the towel up and threw it back, just seconds later it was Katsides turn to take the count after Graham lets rip with a massive right hand which turned the Australian’s legs to jelly. Following the count Graham marched forward and pressured Katsides, who was clearly was in trouble, for the rest of the round.

Round three see Graham revert to boxing rather than locking horns with
Katsides, following a series of lows blows from Katsides, which eventually
cost the Aussie a point deduction, Graham easily secured the round by a
clear 10-8 points margin.

Round four was just plain brutal, Katsides stepped up his attack but
Graham once again showed his resolve by letting rip with massive rights
and combinations of equal venom.

Graham again reverted to his boxing in the fifth round and put on a
magnificent performance. In the final twenty seconds of the round Katsides backed Graham into a corner and started to let rip with bomb after bomb, Graham ducked and weaved before letting rip with massive right hands of his own.

Unfortunately for Graham, even after putting on such a solid performance in the fifth, his team felt he was taking far too many shots and retired him in the corner.

Graham may have lost the fight but he won the hearts and minds of boxing fans the world over with his gutsy never say die performance that night. The fight quite rightly was declared the ‘Fight of the Year’.

When Graham fought you were guaranteed value for your money and now he has turned his attention to promoting nothing has changed, his ‘Capital Punishment’ event which is headlined by the much anticipated Southern Area Super Middleweight title fight between Paul Morby and Daniel ‘The Slick’ Cadman and is supported by a top class undercard.

Speaking earlier today Graham Earl said, “It’s always an honour to be on
Buncey’s show.

Steve is the voice of British Boxing and his shows are always
entertaining. I’m really looking forward to being on his show this
Thursday.”

Final word has to go to the show’s host Steve Bunce who said, “In addition to Graham I’ve got Willie Casey on the show, Jimmy Batten from the 70s and 80s and the last interview with Gary Mason.

It’s the original and still the best – it covers the lot: Million-pound
fights, down and out boxers, new promoters, old promoters, cranks, unknown amateurs, fruitcakes, world champions, legends, lunatics and the best from boxing every single week. It has broadcast every single Thursday since Jan 7th 2010!”

Steve Bunce’s Boxing Hour goes out on BBC Radio London every Thursday between 8-9pm on BBC London 94.9, online live on BBC iPlayer.

Tickets for the Graham Earl promoted CAPITAL PUNISHMENT at York Hall,
Bethnal Green in London on Saturday 22nd January 2011 are priced £35
(unreserved) and £50 (ringside) and are available on-line now at
www.tkoboxoffice.com – or for further information call 07960 850645

« go back — keep looking »

SEARCH OUR BLOGS

Search for:

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

Categories

Categories Select Category A.J. Vittone  (4) Affliction MMA  (60) amateur boxing  (12) Amateur MMA  (3) BAMMA  (4) Bareknuckle Boxing  (10) Bellator  (64) BJJ  (37) Blogroll  (9,763) Boxing  (5,785) Cage Fighting Xtreme  (39) Cage Rage  (2) Capiello Promotions  (2) CBS  (17) Charlie Schmidt  (7) CHARLIE WARD  (7) Clay Smith  (3) COMPANY PROFILES  (10) Darren McElligott  (5) Dissipline  (3) Dominic Lavin  (6) EliteXC  (172) Fight Previews  (178) fight videos  (7) Fighter Interviews  (80) Fightzone TV  (16) Full Force Productions  (7) Gina Carano  (8) gofightlive  (32) grappling  (91) Groupon  (1) HDNet FIGHTS  (130) Holli Yargo  (29) IFL  (38) IFO  (16) Investigative Reports  (44) Jack Bratcher  (46) Jerky.Com  (1) jiu jitsu  (17) Joe Ball  (8) John Martinez  (9) Judo  (6) K-1  (3) karate  (10) Keisha Morrisey  (2) kickboxing  (25) King of The Cage  (5) KNOCKOUT NATION  (4) Kristie L. Groves  (2) Kristin Van Zee  (2) M-1  (37) Mark McCoy  (3) martial arts  (80) Matt Yanofsky  (83) Matthew Brothers  (4) MaxFights  (13) Melissa Hatch  (2) MFC  (89) MFL  (3) Michael Fountain  (4) Midwest MMA  (41) MIKE INDRI  (21) Mixed Martial Arts  (3,406) MMA  (3,405) mma agents  (4) MMA RECRUITER  (59) Moosin: God of Martial Arts  (1) movies  (16) Muay Thai  (60) NAGA  (3) other interviews  (16) PALACE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIPS  (54) PATRICK MCELLIGOTT  (46) Politics  (1) Post fight reports  (109) Predictions  (11) press conferences  (28) press releases  (298) Prizefighter  (86) ProElite  (136) Pure Combat  (9) Rage in the Cage  (48) Reality Fighting  (5) Rich Bergeron  (157) ring girls  (22) Ring of Fire  (43) Rocky Marciano  (2) Round 5  (9) Ryan Christensen  (6) seperated at birth  (4) Shaun McCoy  (5) SHOWTIME SPORTS  (177) SportFight  (6) Steele Cage  (16) Strikeforce  (395) Striking Technique  (14) submission fighting  (3) sun sports  (7) Tachi Palace Fights  (11) Takedown Radio  (413) The Ultimate Fighter Series  (21) Tony Penecale  (117) Tri-State Cage Fighting  (9) Tristan Yunker  (5) UFC  (478) Uncategorized  (75) Untamed  (12) USFL  (2) War  (7) WEC  (10) White Chocolate Management  (3) White Collar Brawler  (1) women’s boxing  (115) Women’s MMA  (16) World Championship Fighting  (23) wrestling  (1,117) WWE  (7) Xtreme Arm Wrestling  (1) Xyience  (75) Yamma  (3)

JOIN FIGHT SPACE ONLINE

About

This is an area on your website where you can add text. This will serve as an informative location on your website, where you can talk about your site.

Subscribe to our feed

Search

Admin

• Register
• Log in
• Wordpress
• XHTML