DE LA HOYA VS. PACQUIAO SET FOR DECEMBER 6 AT MGM GRAND AND LIVE ON HBO PAY PER VIEW

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

LOS ANGELES (August 28) – The wait is over and the fight is on…Olympic gold medalist and 10-time world champion “The Golden Boy” OSCAR DE LA HOYA will face current Ring Magazine No. 1-ranked pound for pound champion MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO on Saturday, December 6 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada in a bout that will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

Presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, Inc., the bout will be a 12-round, non-title fight contested at the 147-pound welterweight limit. This exciting and intriguing match-up pits two of the most recognizable and popular talents in the sport today in what will surely be the grand finale of the 2008 boxing calendar year.

“Manny Pacquiao is considered the best fighter in boxing today and I always want to fight the best,” said De La Hoya. “I am glad we were able to make this fight happen because while Pacquiao is at the pinnacle of his success and has defeated all of the top fighters he has faced, I am going to show the world that it stops with me. December 6 can’t get here soon enough.”

“This is my greatest challenge,” said Pacquiao. “When I take that walk to the ring to fight Oscar, I will carry all the people of The Philippines – the entire country – on my shoulders. I promise I will fight with all of my heart and that I will give everything I have. Like my trainer Freddie Roach says, I have what it takes to win the biggest fight of my life.”

After several weeks of amicable discussions between De La Hoya’s company, Golden Boy Promotions, and Pacquiao’s promoter, Top Rank, Inc., a deal was struck this week ensuring fans around the world the opportunity to see this dream match-up.

Richard Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer, Golden Boy Promotions said, “This fight will have the whole world talking and will be a fantastic night for boxing. Oscar’s career has always been defined by taking on the biggest challenges and fighting best names in boxing. This fight against a great champion like Manny Pacquiao is just another testament to his readiness to face the strongest competition and continue his legacy as one of the greatest fighters boxing has ever seen.”

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum, Chairman of the Board, Top Rank added, “This fight is what all sports fans are looking forward to, a contest between two champions who come to fight and who are the most popular names in boxing today. Manny Pacquiao is taking on a major task in facing the legendary Oscar de la Hoya, but we at Top Rank are very confident Manny will handle himself extremely well.”

Richard Sturm, President of Sports and Entertainment, MGM MIRAGE said, “MGM MIRAGE has hosted the greatest names in sports and entertainment and this event will certainly continue that tradition. We look forward to presenting one of the most exciting promotions in the history of boxing and there is no question this fight will have a major impact on fans worldwide.”

Mark Taffet, HBO Pay-Per-View said, “De La Hoya-Pacquiao is a dream match-up which will capture the imagination of sports fans everywhere. It’s the pay-per-view king vs. the pound-for-pound king and an event in which both fighters’ popularity clearly transcends the sport.”

Oscar de la Hoya has been a fan favorite and the most successful pay-per-view attraction in the history of the boxing. A 1992 Olympic Gold Medalist for the United States, de la Hoya (39-5, 30 KOs) is a champion in every division he has competed in from 130 to 160 pounds and has faced boxing’s elite for over 15 years, including Floyd Mayweather, Julio Cesar Chavez, Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosley, Felix Trinidad, Pernell Whitaker, Ike Quartey, Fernando Vargas, Arturo Gatti, Genaro Hernandez, Jesse James Leija and Hector Camacho Sr. In his fight against Mayweather on May 5, 2007, he fell short via a close split decision, but set records with the fight having the most pay-per-view buys and grossing the most revenue in the history of boxing. In his last fight against Steve Forbes on May 3, 2008 De La Hoya registered a dominating unanimous decision victory, winning nearly every round of the fight which took place in suburban Los Angeles at the outdoor Home Depot Center soccer stadium, another first for boxing’s star attraction.

Manny Pacquiao (47-3-2, 35 KOs) is recognized by most knowledgeable observers as the best fighter at any weight in the world today. Pacquiao, 29, has held world titles in four weight divisions, winning the WBC flyweight world title two weeks before his 20th birthday in December of 1998, the IBF junior featherweight world title at age 22 in 2001, the WBC super featherweight world title in March of this year and most recently the WBC lightweight world title in his last fight on June 28 against defending champion David Diaz.

Unbeaten ranked Braimah Kamoko added to “KnockOut Poverty” All-African Pro Boxing Show

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

Albert-Duran Headlines Tuesday night, Sept. 23 at Hammerstein Ballroom, New York City

NEW YORK CITY (August 28, 2008) – Unbeaten African light heavyweight sensation Braimah Kamoka, aka Bukom Banku, has been added to the September 23rd KnockOut Poverty” pro boxing card, presented by Bob Duffy’s Ring Promotions, at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City.

Kamoka, rated No. 6 by the WBC, will be fighting for the first time as a pro outside of his native Ghana. He is the reigning African Boxing Union champion who will take on Sudan fighter Abdullah Ramadam (15-8, 9), former IBF Interim light heavyweight title challenger, in the 10-round co-feature bout.

Two-time Nigerian Olympian and former IBA Continental light middleweight title-holder Eromosele “Bad Boy” Albert (21-2, 10 KOs), now fighting out of Miami, faces Ghana-native Ossie Duran (23-6-1, 9 KOs), former Commonwealth light middleweight and welterweight champion, in the 12-round main event for the vacant IBF Continental African light middleweight title.

“KnockOut Poverty” is a landmark event to help fight poverty in Africa. Grammy Award-winning, UN Goodwill Ambassador Youssou N’Dour and friends are among the many stars scheduled for the historic evening of entertainment, music and boxing. N’Dour and other musical legends are scheduled to perform between fights with proceeds from the event going to the All For Africa charitable organization.

Two-time world title challenger, light heavyweight Jaffa “The African Assassin” Ballagou (45-6, 39 KOs), from Togo, battles multiple World Muay Thai champion Manu Ntoh (17-14-1, 10 KOs), from Cameroon, in an eight-round bout. Another bout is being made to fill-out the card.

For ticket and sponsorship information call 212.351.0111 or go online to www.allforafrica.org.

All For Africa

All For Africa (“A4A”) is a non-profit organization that serves as a platform for individuals, corporations and other organizations to actively get involved in, design and coordinate economically sustainable projects in Africa. All for Africa believes that the quickest route to realizing Africa’s true potential is through the effective collaboration between the “for profit” and the non-profit stakeholders in Africa’s future.

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Molitor, Labarda Ready for Battle at Rumble at Rama V

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

TORONTO, ON – After weeks of intense preparation, the wait has dwindled down to scant hours for IBF Junior Featherweight world champion, “The Canadian Kid” Steve Molitor (27-0, 10 KO’s), prior to his title defense against undefeated Argentine, Ceferino Dario Labarda (18-0, 7 KO’s) at Rumble at Rama V, taking placing at Casino Rama in Rama, Ontario.

The fight airs live on TSN and TSN HD on Friday, Aug. 29 at 10:30 p.m. ET and will be available on-demand at TSN.ca following the conclusion of the live broadcast.

Wednesday morning, Molitor and Labarda met face-to-face for the first time at the official pre-fight press conference, with both fighters eager to finally step into the ring.

“Labarda said he felt an illusion earlier that he was going to come over here and win. Well, come Friday night, I’ll show he’s right, it was an illusion,” Molitor said.

“I know he has everything to gain. But I’m not taking him, or anyone else, lightly.”

“I’m ready.”

While the quietly confident Labarda might be out of his element here in North America – he will be making his first professional appearance outside of Argentina – he’s eager to show the world what he’s capable of.

“I’m well prepared for this fight, like all my fights,” Labarda said through an interpreter.

“Everywhere I go I put on a good show, and I’m going to win on Friday. I hope everybody enjoys the fight.”

One guy ringside who won’t be casually taking in the action Friday night is Molitor’s new trainer, Stephane Larouche, who will be guiding his new charge

through battle for the first time.

Larouche, for one, thinks of Labarda as more than just a sacrificial lamb brought in to be cannon fodder for the local hero, Molitor.

“This guy (Labarda) is a tough challenger. He has nothing to lose. He’s a good puncher, and has a good amateur background,” Larouche said.

“But Steve is going to be at the top of his game, and plans on keeping the belt here in Ontario.”

Larouche, who also is chief second for IBF Super Middleweight champion Lucien Bute, and WBC Light Heavyweight champion Adrian Diaconu, has enjoyed working with Molitor, and is keen on bringing even more out of the undefeated champion.

“Steve is so strong,” Larouche said of his new protégé.

“He’s much more powerful than most guys at 122 lbs. He just hasn’t been able to show it yet.”

“The thing is though is that he’s such a great fighter, you don’t want to try and change him in five weeks. That would be stupid.”

Tickets for Rumble at Rama V are $125, $75, $50 and $25, and are on-sale in-person at the Casino Rama Box Office, and at all TicketMaster locations, by calling (416) 870-8000, or ordering on-line at www.casinorama.com. Ticket prices do not include applicable taxes or service charges.

Doors open at 7:00 P.M. First bell for the exciting undercard is at 8:00 P.M.

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KIMBO SLICE, KEN SHAMROCK, JAKE SHIELDS, PAUL DALEY AND GINA CARANO AMONG MMA SUPERSTARS ENTERING THE CAGE FOR “CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS” SATURDAY, OCT. 4 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

Undefeated Heavyweight Sensation Kimbo Slice
Faces One of the Sports All-Time Greats, Ken Shamrock (Co-Main Event)

EliteXC Welterweight Champion Jake Shields Makes First Title Defense
Against Cage Rage Welterweight Champion and UK Standout, Paul Daley (Co-Main Event)

Undefeated Female MMA Superstar Gina Carano
Faces Toughest Challenge to Date Against Talented Kelly Kobald

Former EliteXC Middleweight Champion Murilo “Ninja” Rua
Takes on Veteran Striker Benji Radach

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 27 — The third installment of CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS will be broadcast live from the Bank Atlantic Center, in Sunrise, Fla., on Saturday, Oct. 4 (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network. A four-fight broadcast will feature two main events: undefeated heavyweight sensation Kimbo Slice faces legendary Hall of Famer Ken Shamrock and EliteXC Welterweight Champion Jake Shields makes his first defense against Cage Rage Welterweight Champion Paul Daley.

The following is the confirmed lineup for the Oct. 4 CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS:

· Kimbo Slice vs. Ken Shamrock (Heavyweights)

· Jake Shields vs. Paul Daley (for EliteXC Welterweight title)

· Gina Carano vs. Kelly Kobald (Women’s 140-Pound Weight Class)

· Murilo “Ninja” Rua vs. Benji Radach (Middleweights)

KIMBO SLICE VS. KEN SHAMROCK

Kimbo Slice, of Miami, returns to CBS following his third round TKO over James “Colossus” Thompson on May 31. Kimbo will be squaring off against Ken Shamrock, of Reno, Nev., a true MMA legend and one of the biggest draws in the sport. Known as “The World’s Most Dangerous Man,” 22 of his 26 wins have come via submission.

JAKE SHIELDS VS. PAUL DALEY

Jake Shields, of San Francisco, enters the cage with an undefeated streak spanning nearly five years. A winner of 10 straight, Shields is widely considered one of the best in the world at 170 pounds. He currently holds the title of EliteXC Welterweight Champion. Shields’ opponent on Oct. 4 is Paul Daley, of Nottingham, England, a dangerous Muay Thai specialist, who is also the current Cage Rage Welterweight Champion. Daley has won his last six fights, five by KO. Thirteen of his 18 wins have come by stoppage.

GINA CARANO VS. KELLY KOBALD

Gina Carano, of Las Vegas, will attempt to follow up her impressive second-round TKO over Kaitlin Young on May 31 on CBS when she takes on Kelly Kobald of Minneapolis. Carano is a skilled Muay Thai specialist with model looks and world-class ability, while Kobald began her career 16-0-1.

MURILO “NINJA” RUA VS. BENJI RADACH

Murilo “Ninja” Rua, of Curitiba, Brazil, is a Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai black belt. A former EliteXC 185-pound champion, “Ninja” has won five of his last six, including a first-round TKO over Tony Bonello in June. His opponent, Benji Radach, of Castle Rock, Wash., is a heavy-handed veteran who has won five of his last six fights.

In one of the evening’s exciting undercard bouts, Brazilian female newcomer, Cristiane Cyborg, who made her U.S. debut on July 26 on CBS, will square off against Japan’s Yoko Takahashi. Highlights from this match will be shown during the CBS broadcast.

CBS Sports play-by-play announcer Gus Johnson, cageside analysts Frank Shamrock and Mauro Ranallo, and reporter Karyn Bryant will return as the “CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS” broadcast team.

CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS will be produced by SHOWTIME Sports. The executive producer is David Dinkins, Jr.

For more information on CBS ELITEXC SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHTS, visit cbssports.com or www.proelite.com.

TICKETS AVAILABLE IN ALL PRICE RANGES
FOR SPECTACULAR ELITEXC MMA EVENT
FEATURING KIMBO SLICE, KEN SHAMROCK, GINA CARANO
SATURDAY, OCT. 4, AT THE BANKATLANTIC CENTER

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 27, 2008) – Incredibly popular hometown hero Kimbo Slice returns to 305 to face legendary Hall Of Famer Ken Shamrock in a featured fight on a stellar, star-studded mixed martial arts card that includes women’s superstar Gina “Conviction” Carano and MMA standouts Jake Shields, Paul Daley and Murilo “Ninja” Rua Saturday, Oct. 4, at the BankAtlantic Center in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Tickets start at $30 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at (954) 523-3309 in Broward County, (305) 358-5885 in Dade County and (561) 966-3309 in Palm Beach County, online at www.ticketmaster.com and at the BankAtlantic Center box offices (954) 835-7825.

The BankAtlantic Center box offices are located on both the North and South sides of the main entrance. Their normal business hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The box office will be open the day of the event beginning at 10 a.m. The first live fight begins at 6 p.m. ET. The event is presented by Los Angeles-based ProElite, Inc.’s live fight division, EliteXC.

Besides Kimbo-Shamrock, other finalized fights include: a title defense by EliteXC lightweight champion Jake Shields against Paul Daley, Carano collides with Kelly Kabold in a 140-pound bout and Rua, a former EliteXC middleweight beltholder, faces Benji Radach, at 185 pounds.

Cristiane “Cyborg’’ Santos meets Yoko Takahashi and Florida-based Edson Berto faces Hawaii’s Mike Aina at 170 in top undercard fights. The undercard also will feature Florida favorites Crafton Wallace and Seth Petruzelli, who will face foes to be announced. Wallace has won four straight and six of seven. Petruzelli, a former cast member of the Ultimate Fighter, has won eight of his last 10 fights.

A major MMA attraction, the undefeated Kimbo, of Perrine, Fla., near Miami, is trained by respected legendary fighter and trainer, the no-nonsense Bas Rutten. Kimbo is coming off an exciting third-round TKO over James “Colossus” Thompson on May 31.

Before turning pro, the hard-hitting Kimbo grew up in and around Perrine. He made a name for himself on the Internet where videos of the bald, bearded, menacing-looking former underground bare-knuckle street fighter have been downloaded literally millions of times on YouTube.

Kimbo’s first two MMA fights lasted 62 seconds. In a devastating, memorable performance, Kimbo blew up Tank Abbott in 43 seconds last Feb. 16 in Miami.

Shamrock, of Reno, Nev., is a true MMA legend and one of the biggest draws in any sport. Known as “The World’s Most Dangerous Man,’’ 22 of his 26 wins have come via submission.

One of the sport’s most recognizable and popular figures, Shamrock has fought in some of the biggest and most important fights in MMA history. He has defeated the likes of Rutten, Maurice Smith, Dan “The Beast” Severn and Kimo Leopoldo in an illustrious career.

Shields, of San Francisco, is a life-long vegetarian who was raised in a remote area in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Northern California. Undefeated for nearly five years and a winner of 10 straight, including six inside the distance, Shields is considered one of the best in the world at 170 pounds.

On July 26 in Stockton, Calif., Shields captured the EliteXC belt with a 1:03, first-round submission over highly regarded Nick Thompson. A Cesar Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, Shields’ last five fights have ended in the first round.

Daley, of Nottingham, England, is a confident, dangerous Muay Thai specialist whose style has been described as an aggressive mix of striking, striking and more striking. Extremely popular in England, he has won his last six fights, five by KO. Thirteen of Daley’s 18 wins have come by stoppage.

Nicknamed “Semtex” after an explosive that British armed forces use to demolish large structures, Daley stopped previously unbeaten Bojan Kosednar in the first round in his last start on July 12 in the UK. When he’s not fighting, Daley has been involved in a project with Mothers Against Guns in London.

Carano, aka “Crush” on American Gladiators, resides in Las Vegas. She’ll be making her first start since registering an entertaining, crowd-pleasing second-round TKO over Kaitlin Young on May 31.

The most recognizable female MMA fighter in the world, Carano is a skilled Muay Thai specialist with model looks and world-class ability. She has mostly dominated her opposition.

Kobald, of Minneapolis, began her career 16-0-1. A tough talker who has predicted an early- round knockout, Kobald holds a second round TKO victory over the respected Shayna Baszler.

Rua, of Curitiba, Brazil, is a classy Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai black belt whose aggressive style makes for scintillating scraps. A former EliteXC 185-pound champ and the brother of Mauricio “Shogun” Rua, “Ninja’’ has won five of his last six, including a first-round TKO over Tony Bonello last June 14.

Radach, of Castle Rock, Wash., has been on a roll. The heavy-handed veteran has won five of his last six fights. Regarded as a top young prospect until an injury sidelined him for three years, Radach owns several notable triumphs in a career that began in March 2001.

Santos, a talented, aggressive-minded Brazilian, stormed onto the women’s scene in spectacular fashion in her United States debut on July 26 in Stockton. In an overwhelming performance that lasted just under six minutes, she overpowered Baszler en route to winning by impressive second-round TKO.

A product of the world-famous Chute Boxe Academy in Curitiba, Brazil, Santos is trained by her husband and fellow fighter, Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos.

The more experienced Takahashi, of Japan, has won two of her last three.

Berto lives in Orlando and will be making his fifth start for EliteXC. Aina, who lost a controversial decision to world-class Nick Diaz in September 2007, is coming off a win over Strikeforce lightweight champion Kaleo Kwan last June 14.

The remainder of the fights will be announced soon. For more information on Kimbo, please go to (http://www.elitexc.com/fighters. For more information on the entire card, go to http://www.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, broadcast and cable television programming on CBS and 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 MMA enthusiasts. In addition to offering the most exciting live fights to the web via VOD, 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

Remillard earning bones vs. Mexican fighters

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

Godfrey-Nwodo NABF title fight headlines Friday night’s “Title Wave” at Mohegan Sun

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (August 27, 2008) – Mexican fighters are feared worldwide because of their toughness in the ring. WBC World Youth featherweight title-holder Matt “Sharp Shooter” Remillard, however, has accelerated his relatively young pro career by defeating a series of Mexican opponents.

Remillard (14-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of nearby Manchester, takes on new Texas State champion Adauto Gonzalez (10-5, 3 KOs) for the vacant WBC USNBC featherweight title in the 10-round co-feature on the “Title Wave” card, airing live this week on ESPN Friday Night Fights from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Four of Remillard’s last six opponents have been of Mexican heritage and Gonzalez continues that trend.

NABF cruiserweight champion Matt “Too Smooth” Godfrey defends his belt against challenger Emmanuel Nwodo. Godfrey (16-1, 9 KOs), rated No. 5 by the WBC, faces former USBA champion, Nigerian-born Nwodo (22-4, 18 KOs), currently rated No. 12 by the WBA and No. 14 by the WBC, in the 12-round main event on “Title Wave,” promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), in association with Mohegan Sun and ESPN.

Remillard, recently named the NABF Top Prospect of the Year, was one of the most decorated U.S. amateur boxers during the early part of this century. He passed on an opportunity to qualify for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team and signed a pro contract with CES in 2005. As an amateur boxer, Matt Remillard defeated several highly rated national opponents, including top pro prospects such as Brandon Rios (18-0, 12 KOs) and John Jackson (12-1, 12 KOs). .

Two years ago, Matt suffered a serious wrist injury that twice required surgery, keeping him sidelined for nearly 1 ½ years, as well as costing him his WBC Youth super featherweight title belt.

While rehabilitating his wrist, Remillard remained in the gym daily to stretch, run, walk and do calisthenics. Unable to use his left hand, he strengthened his right, and eventually learned how to comfortably fight as a southpaw. His versatility has paid off in three impressive wins since his return.

2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada (13-1, 3 KOs), rated No. 11 by the NABF and NABO, faces Texas champion Domonic Jenkins (13-8-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round Special Heavyweight Attraction.

In a pair of four-round bouts, Ledyard’s (CT) unbeaten super middleweight Brian Macy (4-0, 1 KO), 2000 National PAL champion and U. of Connecticut graduate, faces Shawn Kirk (4-2, 2 KOs), while light heavyweight Keith Kozlin makes his pro debut versus Borngard Washington (0-3).

In two four-round female bouts on the undercard, Hartford’s popular welterweight Addy Irizarry (5-2, 2 KOs) is up against her toughest challenge in former world champion Yvonne “Silk” Reiss (7-12-1) and Mystic (CT) super bantamweight Karen Dulin (0-1) goes for her first pro victory versus Christina Leadbeater (1-1, 1 KO). All fighters and bouts are subject to change.

Tickets for “Title Wave” are priced at $30.00, $45.00, $75.00 and $100.00 and available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going on line at www.cesboxing.com or www.mohegansun.com, at the Mohegan Sun box office or any TicketMaster outlet.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) for more information. Doors open at 6:30 PM/ET, first bout at 7:30 PM/ET.

-CES-

Pawel Wolak returns to headline “Havoc At The Hilton”

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

Sept. 26 at Huntington Hilton Hotel

NEW YORK CITY (August 27, 2008) – Promoter Bob Duffy today announced that his Ring Promotions will present “Havoc At The Hilton,” featuring Polish power puncher Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (21-1, 14 KOs), Friday night, September 26 at the Huntington Hilton Hotel.

Wolak, originally from Poland and now living and training in Brooklyn, is coming off his first pro loss August 21 to Ishe Smith (20-3, 9 KOs), star of The Contender Season 1, by a close 10-round decision. The 26-year-old Wolak is the reigning WBC Interim USNBC and Polish International light middleweight champion. He faces Chad Greenleaf (10-10-1, 4 KOs) in the eight-round main event on Sept. 26.

“Pawel is a real fighter who wanted to get right back into the ring after his first loss,” Duffy said. “He’s one of the most explosive punchers around and has a very enthusiastic fan base. Everybody gets their money’s worth at a Pawel Wolak fight. We also have some of the most popular, entertaining fighters from the Long Island area on this card.”

Also fighting on the card are Long Island welterweight Mike Ruiz (8-2, 5 KOs), New York State heavyweight champion Darrel Madison (10-1, 3 KOs), out of Central Islip and riding a nine-fight win streak, Merrick heavyweight Costa Philippou (3-0, 1 KO), Garden City welterweight Kevin “Irish Storm” Collins (8-8-2, 2 KOs), veteran Harlem light heavyweight George “Blaze” Walton (18-3, 12 KOs), and Brooklyn light heavyweight Will Rosinsky (1-0, 1 KO), three-time U.S. National Golden Gloves champion.

Tickets are priced at $100.00 (Golden Ringside), $75.00 (Ringside) and $40.00 (General Admission). VIP tables of 10 are $1500. To purchase tickets go to www.ringpromotions.com or call 516.313.2304. Doors open at 6:30 PM, first bout at 7:30 PM.

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EUROPEAN BOXING NEWS

Posted on | August 28, 2008 | No Comments

Former EBU jr middle champ Edip Secovic, who at the age of 50 made a comeback this year, was found dead outside of his pub in Vienna this morning. Secovic had been stabbed to death. A man – a 26-year old Russian also with stab wounds – has been taken into custody and is believed to be one of the killers but the case is yet very unclear. Iit´s believed that Secovic had gotten into an argument with one or some of his guests. Secovic hailed from what was Yugoslavia but fought out of Austria for his entire career. He won the EBU title in 89 but lost it the same year. Edip also won the WAA and UBF “world” titles. He first retired in 89 but kept coming back through the 90´s. In 2000 he retired for good it seemed but returned June 1 of this year with a first round knockout of Steve Klockow for a total record of 29-9-1. Check again out edip.at for a final farewell to the champ.

French cruiser champ Nadjib Mohammed defends the title against Abdelkader Benzinia September 18 in Paris. On this bill Woilid Guarras and Hassan N´Dam N´Jikam clash in the semifinal of the Grand Tornoi. Russian cruiser Valery Brudov and Cameroon heavy Carlos Takam are featured on the undercard.

Riddick Bowe´s latest comeback – this time September 12 in Gyor, Hungary – is not yet officially cancelled but there are rumors it will be. If parts of the show can be salvaged or postponed to a different date remains to be seen. In Denmark the financial difficulties for Bowe´s agent in Europe, Robert Larsen, continues and his licenses as promoter and manager remain suspended.

German jr light Vitali Tajbert, official challenger for the EBU title, face Belgian Ermano Fegatilli August 29 in Duesseldorf on Spotlight Boxing´s big show at the Burg-Waechter Castello.

FANTASY DREAM FIGHTS: JACK DEMPSEY VS. ROCKY MARCIANO

Posted on | August 26, 2008 | 4 Comments

 

[mpinpage]

FANTASY DREAM FIGHTS

Jack Dempsey vs. Rocky Marciano

By Tony Penecale

What do you get when you match up two of the most aggressive and destructive heavyweight champions of all time? Just like mixing gasoline and fire, there is sure to be an explosion. Jack Dempsey was an icon of the 20’s, a former railroad hobo who learned his craft fighting for food and carried that mentality in the ring with him. Rocky Marciano grew up watching his father suffer at a local shoe factory, and he was driven by the desire to provide a more secure lifestyle for himself and his family.

Neither man knew the meaning of retreat.

Dempsey was “The Manassa Mauler” and he fought like it, ravaging his opponents.

Marciano earned the nickname “The Brockton Blockbuster” as he just devastated his adversaries.

It would be a war of the ages with the battlefield inside the ring if these two legends actually fought. Hide the women and children. It is sure to be a classic!

STATISTICS

Dempsey: (all stats for bout on 9/14/23)

Age – 28 years old
Height – 6’1”
Weight – 192 lbs
Reach – 77”
Record – 65-4-11 (50)

Marciano: (all stats for bout on 9/24/53)

Age – 30 years old
Height – 5’10”
Weight – 185 lbs
Reach – 67”
Record – 44-0 (39)

STYLE

Dempsey:

Was often like a tightly-coiled spring that would be unleashed in the ring. Dempsey came forward crouched, using a pawing jab to find the range and then he exploded on his opponent, reigning heavy-handed blows to the head and torso. Was fond of firing a right hand to the chest that would freeze an opponent and he would then step in to unleash vicious punches until his opponent would fall.

Marciano:

A pure pressure fighter who attacked opponents from the outset, bobbing and weaving to fight in close quarters, Marciano threw punches from all angles. His bombs would land on every conceivable target from the head and body to the shoulders and forearms. Was not afraid to take two punches to land one and never stopped coming forward. Was also not shy about liberally using elbows on the inside.

STRENGTHS

Dempsey:

1) Speed – Dempsey could strike with the quickness of a rattlesnake. Before his opponent could react, Dempsey would be on top of him, striking with both hands.

2) Power – Coupled with his quickness, Dempsey carried thunder in both fists, primarily in his right hand. He crushed several opponents who were considered giants and he so brutally beat Jess Willard that it was rumored that his hands were wrapped in Plaster of Paris.

3) Killer Instinct – In the ring, Dempsey was merciless. He would drive into his opponents with a ruthless attack only stopping when they crumbled under the assault. In the days before the neutral corner rule was put into effect, he would stand over a downed opponent and would resume pummeling them once they got to their feet.

Marciano:

1) Power – Marciano’s famed right hand, nicknamed “Susie Q” was a destructive force. With a compact body, Marciano specialized in putting his full weight into every punch, driving with his legs and twisting his hips. Every punch carried a tremendous amount of force behind it.

2) Durability – Marciano’s strength and durability was unmatched. His chin was exceptional and he was willing to stand in front of opponents and walk through their best punches. The great Joe Louis even commented that just bumping into Marciano hurt him.

3) Stamina – Whether the 1st round or the 15th, Marciano was continually coming forward and throwing punches. He would turn fights into wars of attrition and he would always be the one punching at the end.

WEAKNESSES

Dempsey:

1) Lack of Control – Dempsey’s fierceness in the ring could also be a disadvantage. Trying to initiate the attack, he would often leave himself open for counters. And he has had trouble with repeated fouling.

2) Fades Late – Dempsey was great early in fights and often ended them within a few rounds. But if opponent lasted beyond the 4th round, Dempsey would start to fade and became more inclined to clinch.

Marciano:

1) Cuts – As great as Marciano’s chin was, his skin was just as frail. Marciano had a history of cuts and swelling around his eyes, some of them being severe.

2) Slow – Marciano was plodding on his feet. He did not have good balance and was lacking in speed and mobility. He also had only average hand speed and was more willing to throw slow powerful punches instead of any combinations.

BEST PERFORMANCES

** Indicates the Version of the Fighter Used for this Matchup

Dempsey:

1) ** Luis Angel Firpo (9/14/23) – This was a wild affair, featuring 12 knockdowns in four minutes of action. Firpo scored a flash knockdown within seconds of the opening bell, but Dempsey was quickly up and on the attack, flooring Firpo seven times in the 1st round. Before the round concluded, Firpo got the momentum back, knocking Dempsey out of the ring with a right hand. Dempsey quickly recovered and pounded Firpo to the canvas three more times in the 2nd round, finally knocking him out.

2) Georges Carpentier (7-2-21) – Carpentier was a highly-respected light heavyweight champion from France and he gave a good account of himself. But in the end, Dempsey was too strong and too relentless, overwhelming Carpentier, flooring him twice in the 4th round and knocking him out.

3) Jess Willard (7-4-19) – Dempsey brought the fireworks on this 4th of July fight, held at a scorching 100 degree outdoor arena in Toledo, Ohio. Quickly negating Willard’s sizable height and nearly 60 lb weight advantage, Dempsey opened up his offense early, savagely mauling Willard and knocking him down seven times in the 1st round. Dempsey continued the beating for the next two rounds, and even though Willard stayed on his feet, the consequences were noticeable with his face a bruised and bloody mess. Before the start of the 4th round, Willard was unable to continue and the Dempsey Era was underway.

Marciano:

1) ** Roland LaStarza (9-24-53) – Marciano had won a razor thin decision over LaStarza three years earlier. In the second defense of his title, Marciano was troubled early by LaStarza’s tight defense. Rocky proceeded to attack LaStarza’s guard, landing repeated blows against his forearms and shoulders, breaking the blood vessels in his arms. After several rounds, LaStarza was supporting large bruises on his arms and could no longer hold them up, leaving him open to Marciano’s attack. Rocky finally broke through in the 11th round, knocking LaStarza through the ropes and ending the fight.

2) Jersey Joe Walcott (9-23-52) – The normally slick-boxing Walcott had finally won the title, starching Ezzard Charles, and he was determined to keep it. He uncharacteristically attacked at the opening bell and sent Marciano down with a left. Rocky was up and engaged Jersey Joe in an epic slugfest. With Walcott narrowly ahead going into the 13th, Marciano landed one of boxing most famous punches, a short right hand that echoed through Philadelphia’s Municipal Arena and left Walcott in a heap.

3) Joe Louis (10-26-51) – Marciano was reluctant to face Louis as the former heavyweight champion was just a shell of his former greatness. Marciano broke Louis down, flooring him in the 8th round, before finishing him with a brutal combination that left Louis sprawled out on the ring apron.

QUESTIONS

Dempsey:

1) Can he survive if the fight goes into the late rounds?

2) Can he withstand Marciano’s devastating power?

3) Will he lose control and make costly mental mistakes?

Marciano:

1) Will he be overwhelmed by Dempsey’s aggressive attack?

2) Can he cope with Dempsey’s advantage in speed?

3) Can his skin hold up to Dempsey’s onslaught?

THE PREDICTION

Dempsey is in the ring first, wearing white trunks, a scowl across his face. Marciano follows, wearing black trunks, looking fit and determined.

At the opening bell, Dempsey charges across the ring and tries to ambush Marciano. Dempsey fires a left and a wild right, leaving himself open for a solid Marciano right hand which drops him to his knees. Marciano quickly goes to the neutral corner but Dempsey is up before he gets there and is ready to resume battle.

As Dempsey comes back in his crouch, Marciano tries to seize the advantage by landing his uppercut. He smashes a hard shot to Dempsey’s face, but the Manassa fighter is swarming with three and four punches at a time and is outworking Marciano on the inside. The round ends with Dempsey trying to back Marciano up.

The pace remains frenzied in the 2nd round. There is no feeling out process between these fighters. Dempsey is still moving inside and rough-house tactics are being traded among the punches. Marciano is landing single thumping shots to the ribs and arms, mixed in with a few elbows. Dempsey digs some shots to the body, straying a few shots on the belt line, while his head repeatedly bumps Marciano in the face. Dempsey takes the momentum as he lands a shot below the belt and follows it with a right hand to the face, followed by two left hooks. As Marciano walks back to his corner at the end, the damage is evident as his left eye is cut and starting to swell.

Dempsey continues applying the pressure in the 3 rd round. Marciano is standing right in front of him, landing wide hooks and over hand rights. Dempsey weaves low under a Marciano hook and drives a right hand to the heart, followed by a left hook to the head and a right hand which topples Marciano forward, landing on his knees while he tips over and comes down on his side. Dempsey stands over him, ready to pounce immediately, but the referee restrains him, forcing him to a neutral corner. Marciano is up at the count of six and clears his head and Dempsey rushes in. Still hurt, Marciano holds while Dempsey fights hard to free himself. After the referee breaks the clinch, Dempsey comes back firing and lands two more lefts as the round ends.

Marciano is ready to resume battle in the 4th round and Dempsey is there to oblige him. Marciano starts to use his superior strength on the inside to muscle Dempsey off of him. While Dempsey is still landing more punches, Marciano is pushing him off and countering with punches of his own, rib-busting shots that are leaving welts on Jack’s arms and sides. Rocky is trailing on the scorecards and leaking blood, but he is in the fight and there is no quit in him.

The tide continues its turn in the 5th and 6th rounds. Dempsey is more accustomed to ending fights early and he is noticeably slowing down. He still has his moments but the slower pace favors The Rock. Marciano is moving forward now and Dempsey is throwing one punch at a time and trying to clinch when in close. A vicious Marciano uppercut slams into Dempsey’s face, blood exploding from his nose, as he staggers to his corner and holds on until the bell.

As the 7th round starts, it is clear that Marciano is the fresher fighter, despite the damage to his face, and Dempsey is spent. Marciano keeps moving in and firing bombs. Looking for a respite, Dempsey lands a shot well below the belt, and as Marciano slumps from the effects of the low blow, Jack fires a gigantic left hook to the face. The referee orders Dempsey to a neutral corner and deducts a point for the flagrant foul, allowing Marciano five minutes to recover. Marciano takes about 90 seconds and is ready to resume the war. It is clear that the break wasn’t enough for Dempsey as he is clearly winded, allowing Rocky to continue to move forward and land punches from every conceivable angle. Another Marciano uppercut lands solidly and Dempsey goes down to one knee in his corner. A visibly beaten Dempsey rises at the count of eight and is forced to hold like a drowning man clinging to driftwood, surviving the round.

Unfortunately for Dempsey, there is nowhere to run in the 8th round and Marciano is firing on all cylinders. Marciano presses forward and fires his “Susie Q” as Dempsey backs to the ropes. The punch lands with a thudding impact and Dempsey goes down hard. His hardscrabble lifestyle and enormous pride brings him to his feet but Marciano is right there and meets him with a left hook and right hand, forcing Dempsey to a corner. With victory in sight, Marciano fires everything and the kitchen sink, leveling big rights and lefts as Dempsey covers up. Finally an overhand right explodes against Dempsey’s jaw, crumbling him in a heap. This time, he is unable to rise as the referee reaches the 10 count.

Your winner by Knockout in the 8th round is Rocky Marciano!!!

 

For the next installment of Fantasy Dream Fights, we are going to match two long-reigning and hard-nosed middleweight champions. Carlos Monzon had the record for most title defenses until Bernard Hopkins eclipsed him. Let’s see what would happen in their primes. This upcoming installment will be available on September 8.

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