Author Archives: Staff

Posted on 04/17/2024

Book Review by Robert L. Seltzer

“MY MOTHER and me” by Thomas Hauser

“MY MOTHER and me” is one of those books that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

The book has a narrow focus — the relationship between a son and his mother. But there is nothing narrow or parochial in the approach. Like all talented writers, Thomas Hauser captures the universal by portraying the specific.

A slender book — only 140 pages — the memoir is no less substantial for its brevity. The writing is clear and lucid with gentle flights of poetry that reflect the emotions that motivated the son to write about his mother. She was a remarkable woman — strong, intelligent and fiercely committed to those less fortunate than her. 

For all her sterling attributes, however, we would never have gotten to meet Eleanor Nordlinger Hauser — “Ellie,” to her friends — without a son who considered her life worth documenting. He was right, although this book is no hagiography. The author offers a full portrait of his mother, flaws and all, and she emerges all the more admirable for the honest depiction.

The book represents the ideal partnership between story and story teller because, for all her sterling qualities, it took a brilliant writer to paint a complete and vivid portrait of her. That the “brilliant writer” turned out to be her son adds an almost heartbreaking poignancy to “MY MOTHER and me.”

In sentence after sentence, page after page, you read prose that embodies the single greatest trait a writer can possess. The prose compels you to keep reading, but you do not just read the words; you hear them, their rhythm and cadence guiding you from passage to passage. The cliché rings true with “MY MOTHER and Me” — you will not be able to put it down. 

Robert L. Seltzer is a former recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Career Excellence in Boxing Journalism and the author of two books – “Amado Muro and Me” and “Thursday Night at the Mall”.

Posted on 04/03/2024

Atlantic City Boxing is Back! 

NYC’s hottest club boxing series is coming May 11 to Tropicana Hotel/ Casino. It’s a stacked card. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster!

Boxing Insider Promotions is bringing boxing back to the Boardwalk at the Tropicana Hotel/Casino in Atlantic City. The date is Saturday, May 11, and begins at 7:30 PM in the Showroom.  This is the Atlantic City debut for the company, which has been promoting shows at the legendary Sony Hall in New York City.

Some of the participants include: 

Junior featherweight JOHN LEONARDO (10-1-1, 4 KO’s) of Manalapan Township, NJ will be in the eight-round main event. Leonardo was a decorated amateur, winning three New York Metro championships and a New Jersey Golden Gloves title. The 23-year-old, nicknamed “Bodyshot,” last fought back in August, when he won an eight-round decision over Dominique Griffin.

Junior middleweight JUSTIN FIGUEROA (8-0, 6 KO’s) is a 2017 graduate of Holy Spirit High School in Atlantic City, where he excelled in football and wrestling. But he was also an experienced amateur boxer, who holds a win over 2022 National Golden Gloves champ Nasheed Smith. He just fought on March 30 with a six-round decision win over Christian Aguirre in San Antonio. The charismatic Figueroa, who spent quite a bit of time as a lifeguard with the Atlantic City Beach Patrol, dances “The Worm” across the ring after his victories. 

Heavyweight prospect PRYCE TAYLOR (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn has a big upside. He only began boxing in 2016, but just three years later he made it to the semifinals of the National Golden Gloves. He was also runner-up in the U.S. Championships in 2021 and 2022. Taylor, who is involved with the Team Combat League, was last seen in action at Sony Hall on March 7, winning a four-round decision over Antonio Torres. He’ll be in another four-rounder on May 11. 

Middleweight JACOB SOLIS of New York (3-0, 3 KO’s), in a four-round fight, doubles as a trainer at Breadwinners Boxing in Manhattan. He is a huge fan favorite, taking a lot of female followers with him, and made his pro debut at Sony Hall last December with a sensational third-round KO of Tevin Terrance. 

And stay tuned for future announcements. 

Boxing has not been seen at the Tropicana for seven years, so this is special for Atlantic City native Larry Goldberg (CEO of Boxing Insider Promotions), who is the most active promoter in New York City. He’s bringing his exciting series home. 

Tickets are priced at $60, $100, $150 and $200, and are available through TicketMaster (https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-05-11-2024/event/02006076BA7B700C (https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-05-11-2024/event/02006076BA7B700C)

This event will also stream live and free of charge at BoxingInsider.com

Posted on 04/02/2024

2024 RING MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: ROAD TO THE GARDEN

New York’s Premier Amateur Boxing Tournament 

New York, NY, April 2, 2024 –The 2024 Ring Masters Championships: Road to the Garden, New York’s premier amateur boxing tournament, will arrive at the Mecca of Boxing on Thursday April 11, 2024.

After eight weeks of competition in boxing venues and clubs across the five boroughs and Long Island, there are 219 athletes remaining from the original 450. 

There is one more semi-final elimination event for Senior Male Novice and Elite Male and Female Challengers on Friday April 5th at the Boxing Insider Promotions Classic Car Club of Manhattan.

Semi-finals and some finals for the Junior Olympian Youths, ages 8-18, will be on Saturday April 6, 2024 at the world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn. 125 athletes will compete in the Pee-Wee, Bantam, Intermediate, Junior and Youth weight classes. The Male Masters, ages 41+, who are matched will also compete at Gleason’s Gym. The final competitions for these divisions will be on April 20, 2024. 

The 2024 Ring Master’s Championships finals for Senior Male Novice and Male and Female Elite divisions will take place on April 11, 2024 at the Theatre at Madison Square Garden. There will be 26 bouts and 52 competitors across several weight classes.

All Senior and Elite Champions and Runner-Ups receive a Ring Masters Championships ring, gold insert for winners, and silver for runner ups. 

Ring Masters Championships is also the road to national competition. The Elite Male and Female champions will represent the Metro Golden Gloves franchise in the National Golden Gloves: Tournament of Champions to be held in Detroit, MI, from May 12-19, 2024. USA Boxing Metro funds the team, covering their uniforms, equipment, travel, accommodations, and per diem. 

“It’s all about opportunity for the kids,” said Sonya Lamonakis, Vice President, USA Boxing Metropolitan. “We just want to give them the best opportunity possible in boxing and in life.”

2024 marks the largest tournament since the Ring Masters Championships debuted in 2018. Debuting in this year’s tournament is Open Scoring, where the judges score cards are collected after each round and the scores are shared with the competitors, coaches and ringside officials. “Once again, USA Boxing Metro boldly steps into the ring of transparency, first in 2018 with brackets and in 2024 with the introduction of Open Scoring at the 2024 Ring Masters Championships,” said Ray Cuadrado, President, USA Boxing Metropolitain. “Every coach and athlete deserves a real-time peek into how the judges score their performances in an ever-evolving climate of fairness and openness.”

On-hand at the events, are the Athlete Representatives, all volunteers, and competitors and past champions.  Their job is to help the athletes with anything they might need, from weigh-ins to paperwork and finding equipment. “I wanted to be an athlete representative to help create the best experience for metro athletes,” said Arianne Elshawarby. “As an athlete, I wanted to be a voice for my fellow athletes and I thought I had some good ideas to contribute that would make events run more smoothly.”

USA Boxing Metropolitain is a 501(c)(3) non-profit supported by its membership, the boxing community and sponsors. Everyone working at the tournament from referees to organizers and photographers, donate their time and services pro bono. This year’s tournament is made possible by the support of sponsors including: WBC Amateur, USA Boxing Metropolitain, Sting Sports, RX Water, Boxing Insider Promotions, Millions.co and Madison Square Garden.

For news and updates on Ring Masters Championships follow @ring_masters_offical and @usaboxingmetro on Instagram. 

For sponsorship opportunities, media inquiries and additional information please contact:

Sonya Lamonakis, Vice President, USA Boxing Metropolitan at [email protected]. 

Sanctioned Event Calendar

Brackets and competitors will be notified via email to all USA Boxing Metropolitan members prior to the event, and announced online at @ring_masters_offical and @usaboxingmetro on Instagram. 

4/5/24 Boxing Insider Promotions Classic Car Club of Manhattan 408 12th Avenue NY, NY 10018 5pm weigh-in, 6pm doors, 7pm show. 

Semifinals for the following divisions:

Male Novice: 165 and 203

Elite Female Challenger:  110, 119, 125, 132                                        

Elite Female: 154

Elite Male Challengers: 125, 132, 147, 156, 165, and 176 

4/6/24 USA Boxing Metro Gleason’s Gym 130 Water Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show. Tickets available at the door. Event streaming on Millions.co

Semifinals for the following divisions: Elite Males: 147 and 165 

Semi-Finals/Finals for Junior Olympian Youth divisions 

Semi-Finals/Finals Masters

4/11/24 2024 Ring Masters Championships Finals THE THEATRE AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 

4 Penn Plaza, New York City, NY 10001 4pm weigh-in, 5pm doors, 6pm show.

Tickets available online at MSG.com and ticketmaster.com. Event streaming on Millions.co

        Finals Senior Male Novice, Elite Male and Female 

Posted on 03/19/2024

Tickets are on sale for the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held Friday September 27th, Saturday September 28th, and Sunday September 29th, 2024 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel. 

The ACBHOF induction weekend commences at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on Friday September 27th with the “Opening Bell” VIP Cocktail Reception where you can engage in an meet & greets with legendary figures: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, $60.00 admission fee online and at the door, and Saturday September 28th, Fight Fan Experience will offer boxing enthusiasts an immersive interactive experience showcasing stunning artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia and so much more: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, free admission

The Highlight of the weekend is Saturday evening September 28th, red-carpet formal Induction Ceremony which takes place in an award show atmosphere. Join us as we honor all who helped make Atlantic City a worldwide boxing Mecca. Attendees will enjoy the opportunity to mix and mingle with boxing royalty and special VIP guests.  

On behalf of Hard Rock Atlantic City, we are proud to welcome back Atlantic City’s Boxing Hall of Fame. This exciting event offers boxing enthusiasts a wonderful experience to interact and meet some of the most influential and legendary names in boxing history. Hosting unique events such as the ACBHOF continues to provide us with the most diverse entertainment line-up in Atlantic City,” stated Mike Woodside, VP of Entertainment & Marketing, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

 Tickets can be purchased by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices are: $125.00 & $60.00

Please visit our website for event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary by visiting us at: www.acbhof.com  

“We eagerly anticipate the induction of these distinguished individuals chosen for the “2024” Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame. We look forward with great enthusiasm to celebrating and paying tribute to this exceptional group, whose contributions have played a significant role in establishing Atlantic City as a globally recognized boxing Mecca.” – Ray McCline, President, Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 

“Thank you esteemed colleagues for selecting me for a prestigious position such as an inductee in the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame! This is a great honor and I salute you all. Moreover, Atlantic City has been great to me throughout my career and I have fond memories of the many fights fought there while pursuing my Championship journey. I look forward to seeing you all in September 2024.” – James Buster Douglas

“Atlantic City holds many great memories from my boxing career, where I experienced triumph and defeat. The iconic Boardwalk Hall marked the start of my recognition on the world boxing stage, establishing me as one of the best globally. I’m humbled and forever grateful for being inducted into Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame rich boxing history. Thank you for this extraordinary recognition.” – Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez 

“I cherish the memories from my time in Atlantic City, where numerous significant moments unfolded in my life. I’m so proud to be honored by A. C. Boxing Hall of Fame, particularly at this juncture in my life when it might seem that the efforts I invested to achieve championship status are overlooked by many. I’m humbled by this recognition” – Paul Williams 

2024 INDUCTION CLASS:

  FIGHTERS: James Buster Douglas, Sergio Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young CONTRIBUTORS:James “Buddy” Mcgirt, Bruce Blair, Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan POSTHUMOUSLY: Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, Eddie Cotton PIONEERS: Eric Seelig, George Godfrey, Joey Giardello 

A special thanks to our partners, sponsors and supporters: Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Flagship Hotel-Club Boardwalk Resorts, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Irish Pub -Atlantic City, Sampson Boxing, Sparbar Ltd, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Fight Night Apparel, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, CM 3D Crystal’s, Chris Guzman Gloves and Patrick Killian Arts.

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com

Posted on 02/22/2024

Sony Hall in Times Square has become the place to go for pro boxing in the greatest city in the world. BoxingInsider Promotions has been delivering at that location – eight times in their first 14 months, in fact – and they’re looking to do it again on Thursday, March 7 (with a 7:30 PM start time) streamed live on BoxingInsider.com.

There’s an action-packed show on tap at the intimate venue, with a lot of local flavor.

Larry Goldberg of BoxingInsider has committed himself to providing a launching pad for the next generation of great local fighters in a city that is famous for its boxing history. He is keeping boxing very much alive in Manhattan. And he has some intriguing matchups lined up for the March 7th show.

* A Gleason’s Gym standout, featherweight Ariel Lopez (20-1-1), is fighting Gregorio Lebron (24-6) in what promises to be an action packed eight-round main event. Lopez, originally from Mexico and now fighting out of Brooklyn, won the WBC Latino title at 122 pounds in February 2022, winning a decision over Wilner Soto. Lebron, a native of the Dominican Republic, fought for the WBC world flyweight crown in 2018, traveling to Kiev (Ukraine) in an unsuccessful attempt against Artem Dalakian. Ariel Lopez will be defending his WBC Latin Continental title.

 * In a highly anticipated female co-feature, Brooklyn featherweight Chiara “Speedy” Dituri (7-0), who also trains at Gleason’s, takes on Jaica Pavilus (3-6-1) of Harlem. The well-traveled Pavilus, a rough-and-tumble southpaw, will be facing her sixth undefeated opponent in a seven-bout stretch. It should be noted that she has two wins and a draw against those unbeaten foes. So Dituri is in for a battle.

* Light heavyweight Emmet Brennan (2-0) hails from Dublin, where he represented Ireland in the Tokyo Olympics as a light heavyweight and former Celtic Champion. He’s making his US debut against Devaun Lee (11-10-1) of Queens in an eight-round match.

* Heavyweight Pryce Taylor (2-0) of Brooklyn, a two-time finalist in the US Championships as an amateur who has fought nine times in Team Combat League, will compete in front of hometown fans in a four-rounder against the 2-time veteran TCL veteran Kenyon Walker (1-0) of San Antonio, TX in a four-round match.

More bouts will be added. Stay tuned for subsequent announcements.

Tickets are priced at $95, $150, $200 and $325, and are available at Ticketweb (https:// www.ticketweb.com/event/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-sony-hall-tickets/ 13430053). Sony Hall is located at 235 W 46th Street in Manhattan.

For those who can’t experience the event at Sony Hall, the March 7 show will be shown, free of charge, on BoxingInsider’s streaming platform (https:// videos.boxinginsider.com/).

Posted on 02/05/2024

By Derek Brantley

Jackie Kaplan Kallen faced a barrage of stares, snickers, and insults when she first set foot in a boxing gym in the 1970s. She endured the taunts while becoming the manager of one of the all-time great middleweights and super middleweights, James Toney, and rose to become one of the top figures in the sport. On December 7th, 2023 she became the first female manager to be elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF).

Her pioneering career was powered by relentless drive and a deep love for boxing. Often referred to as the “First Lady of Boxing,” Kallen was accustomed to derisive remarks from many, including boxing writers who at first dismissed her as a “dumb blonde.” Some promoters underestimated her, making cutting and unflattering comments. While none were overtly horrible, Kallen faced a stream of annoying, microaggressive remarks suggesting her place was in the kitchen or beauty salon—anywhere but near the ring.

“I was not exactly welcomed into the boxing community,” Kallen said.

Despite the challenges, she pursued her vision, passion, and mission to become a successful boxing manager and promoter. She reached the top, earning prestigious accolades such as:

● The ‘Michigan Jewish Sports Hall of Fame’ in 1997.

● The ‘Aileen Eaton Award’ for Lifetime Achievement from the ‘World Boxing Hall of Fame’ in 2007.

● The ‘International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame’ in 2016.

● She will be inducted into the ‘IBHOF’ in Canastota, N.Y. on June 9th, 2024.

Road To Recognition 

James Toney was Kallen’s first champion, but their relationship extended beyond that. Jackie was the first to predict that Toney would go down as ‘one of the all-time greats’.

“The first time I had a world champion that was my own fighter was a wonderful first because nobody thought I could do it,” she said.

James Toney had all the makings of a Mike Tyson 2.0, known for their wild natures, anger towards the world, and incredible boxing talent. However, unlike Tyson, who often seemed a reluctant fighter, Toney relished the thrill of the fight, born to fight as he often said.

His mother, Sherrie, first took him to a boxing gym at age 11, but it wasn’t until he was older that he began to take the sport seriously. As a teenager, Toney found himself in trouble, dealing drugs and getting into fights. His amateur record of 33-2, marked by a fearsome knockout ratio, earned him the moniker ‘Lights Out.’ Even as a professional, trouble seemed to loom nearby; after his seventh fight, his manager and part-time street pharmacist, Johnny ‘Ace’ Smith, was killed in a drive-by.

By early 1989, Toney was floundering, managerless, and his anger was unchecked, leading to incidents that put his hands and future at risk. Kallen, then a publicist for the Kronk Gym and managing two fighters, noticed Toney during a sparring session.

“He stood out because he was so mean,” Kallen recalls. “He got into the ring to spar, and it was like a championship fight. He had something to prove every day.”

Toney asked Kallen to manage him, and she accepted.

Being managed by Kallen was akin to being adopted into a family. Despite it’s inherit risk, teaming up with Kallen gave Toney the supportive structure he so desperately needed.

Kallen admired Toney’s perfectionist side and gambled on his talent.

“With James Toney, my strategy was to keep him busy – – fighting as often as possible to keep him sharp and motivated. I also tried to elevate his competition as much as possible with each fight so that his skill level would grow, and he would be challenged. I’ve always felt that to be the best you need to beat the best, so I don’t believe in padding a record with easy wins all the way up to a title fight.”

Daring to be great

On May 10, 1991, Kallen matched Toney with a 20-to-1 favorite named Michael Nunn. She accepted the fight despite it being held in Nunn’s hometown of Davenport, Iowa. Nunn underestimated Toney, mocking him at a press conference and poking him in the face at the weigh-in. 

Nunn was the IBF and lineal middleweight champion, ranked in the top five of the pound-for-pound listings. The fight was widely seen as a mere formality, with Toney considered a massive underdog.

The IBF fifth-ranked contender, Toney declared he would “pressure him until he has to fight.” 

Nunn was leading comfortably through the first 10 rounds when, a minute into the 11th round, he inexplicably dropped his hands. Toney capitalized with a textbook left hook. Nunn went down, and a new IBF Middleweight Champion was crowned.

“He’s got to be a helluva fighter to do what he did to my guy,” said the legendary Angelo Dundee, Nunn’s trainer.

Until Toney defeated Nunn, Kallen had struggled for recognition.

“I remember trying to get the late promoter Cedric Kushner to feature James Toney on one of his cards. He basically laughed me off and didn’t pay much attention to anything I said about James’ potential. 

Later, after we signed with Bob Arum and started winning significant fights, Kushner apologized for not taking me seriously and expressed regret for not signing James.”

I took fights for my fighters that others advised against. I believed in their ability to win after studying their opponents and comparing their styles, determination, and readiness to do whatever it takes to win.”

To show his appreciation, Toney would lavish Kallen with gifts such as clothes, jewelry, and even wore the famous Star of David on his trunks as a tribute.

Kallen’s ambitious approach with Toney persisted.

In July 1994, Toney scored a knockout against Charles Williams in the 12th and final round, paving the way for his fight with the undefeated 1988 Olympic silver medalist, Roy Jones Jr.

That September, promoter Bob Arum officially announced the highly anticipated title fight between the two undefeated fighters. Toney, with a record of 44–0–2 (29 KOs), entered the bout as the IBF super middleweight champion, having claimed the title from Iran Barkley on February 13, 1993, and having defended it three times. 

Jones, with a record of 26–0 (23 KOs), had been the IBF middleweight champion since defeating Bernard Hopkins on May 22, 1993. However, he had only defended the title once before vacating it to move up in weight so he could challenge Toney. 

Both fighters were at the pinnacle of the sport—Toney was ranked number two in the pound-for-pound rankings, while Jones was number three. Only then-WBC welterweight champion Pernell Whitaker was ranked ahead of them.

Sugar Ray Leonard called the matchup the “Leonard vs. Hearns” of the generation.

Both Jones and Toney turned down pre-arranged purses beforehand, $2 million and $2.5 million respectively, opting instead for a share of the pay-per-view revenue. TVKO sold the event at $29.95 per viewing, with Toney set to make 45 percent and Jones 35 percent. It was later reported that the event garnered around 300,000 buys, amounting to just under $9 million. The fighters’ decision to reject the original offers proved financially astute.

“We had a very large contract on the table with HBO had James won the Roy Jones Jr. fight,” said Kallen.

Once the contest was underway, Toney showcased flashes of his brilliance, but the fight was largely one-sided over the 12 rounds. Jones was awarded the unanimous decision with lopsided scores of 119-108, 118-109, and 117-111.

“There was a lot on the line, and the same offer was there for Jones. As it turned out, Jones was the better man that night, and unfortunately, it affected my relationship with James at that time. I think the first loss is always the hardest, and he was devastated,” Kallen reflected.

The showdown between Toney and Jones will be remembered in the annals as a battle featuring two all-time great (ATG) fighters, each with one of the most distinguished legacies of the past quarter-century.

During her career, Kallen has managed and promoted over 40 fighters, many of whom have become world champions or contenders. In addition to Toney, she managed the likes of Thomas Hearns, Bronco McKart, and Tarick Salmaci. She has also been instrumental in creating opportunities for female boxers such as Laila Ali, Christy Martin, and Mia St. John.

Kallen fearlessly carved out a place for herself and her fighters.

Under Kallen’s guidance, Toney reached extraordinary heights, becoming a multiple-time world champion across different weight divisions. Their success story has elevated Kallen’s reputation as an innovator, earning respect from both her peers and the boxing community at large.

Destiny’s Kallen

Kallen’s contributions to the sport extend beyond her partnership with Toney.

She played an instrumental role in reviving the career of legendary boxer Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, guiding him to victories and ensuring his place in boxing history. Kallen’s ability to recognize potential, negotiate advantageous deals, and provide unwavering support cemented her status as one of the most influential figures in boxing management. 

Kallen currently manages an outstanding young man that she believes in her heart will soon follow in the footsteps of Thomas “Hit Man” Hearns and James “Lights Out” Toney and add the title “World Champion” to his name.

MykQuan Williams,(19-0-2) The 25 year old Connecticut man now becomes part of the conversation at 140 pounds following  WBA regional title. The new Super lightweight Champion Williams pulled off the upset against the undefeated Luis Feliciano on January 17th, 2024.

Kallen is far more than just a boxing manager and promoter. Her lifestory was the inspiration for the 2004 film, “Against the Ropes“ starring Meg Ryan. The film portrays Kallen as a trailblazer in a industry where women were far and few between. She overcomes various obstacles to achieve her goals.

Television credits include being a regular on the first season of NBC’s “The Contender“ with Sylvester Stallone, where she was a boxing advisor and manager on the reality TV series. She mentored the contestants with her expertise and guidance, helping them improve their skills and succeed in the boxing industry.

A former writer and author Kallen has also penned two books. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” a 2008 self-help book sharing her personal challenges and triumphs in boxing and imparting wisdom, and “Between the Ropes,” a 2006 memoir. 

Passionate about writing since age nine, Kallen embraces the creative journey of storytelling and has expressed her love for the craft throughout her career. With two books already showcasing her varied interests, she is now working on a third book, yet to be titled, which focuses on aging gracefully and optimizing life’s later stages.

Kallen shared which qualities led to her success and gave her the ability to provide sage counsel to others.

“I am strong and confident. I think we all have the potential to achieve greatness. It starts with a positive attitude, then preparation and information. You have to be knowledgeable about your chosen field. You also need passion. Passion makes everything exciting. Love what you do. Don’t listen to the critics. They don’t know your situation. Don’t ruin your relationships. You will meet the same people throughout your career. Listen to people. You can learn a lot from their perspectives and emotions. Don’t be arrogant or insensitive. There are always two sides to every story. Smile and be kind. People like happy people.” she replied.

Today, she resides in West Bloomfield, MI, where she remains active in boxing management, writing, motivational speaking, and film production. 

Kallen’s exceptional career is rightfully recognized by her prestigious induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF), which acknowledges her significant contributions and solidifies her legacy in boxing history.

When asked about this IBHOF milestone, Kallen reflected upon its significance, and all she has achieved.

“That will be the pinnacle achievement because it’s lasting. I will forever be the first female boxing manager inducted. That makes me very proud.”

Posted on 02/05/2024

2024 RING MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: ROAD TO THE GARDEN

by Jennifer Leuzzi

New York’s Premier Amateur Boxing Tournament 

New York, NY, February 5, 2024 –The 2024 Ring Masters Championships: Road to the Garden, New York’s premier amateur boxing tournament, kicked off on Saturday February 2, 2024 at Hempstead Boxing in Hempstead, NY. 

450 amateur boxers, aged 8 to 68, will compete in 17 sanctioned events, from February to April. 2024 marks the largest event since the Ring Masters Championships debuted in 2018. The last elimination bouts are scheduled for Saturday April 6, 2024 at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, NY. The finals in April will take place at The Mecca of Boxing –  Madison Square Garden. The winners receive a Ring Masters Championships ring, Gold insert for winners, and silver for runner up. 

“The 2024 Ring Masters Championships is a testament to USA Boxing Metropolitan’s commitment to promoting the sport of boxing and providing a platform for emerging talents to shine,” said Ray Cuadrado, President, USA Boxing Metropolitan.

Ring Masters Championships is a 501(c)(3) non-profit supported by its membership, the boxing community and sponsors. Everyone working at the tournament from referees to organizers and photographers, donate their time and services pro bono. This year’s tournament is made possible by the support of sponsors including: WBC Amateur, USA Boxing Metropolitan, Sting Sports, RX Water, Boxing Insider Promotions, Millions.co and Madison Square Garden.

“Sting Boxing is proud to sponsor the Ring Masters Championships for the fifth year running,” said Josh Watson, Sting North America. “The rich history of the Ring Masters Championships combined with the opportunity to compete at the world’s premier boxing venue, Madison Square Gardens, makes this partnership one of Sting’s most valuable, anywhere in the world.”

91 New York gyms are represented in the tournament, because it is recognized as the proving ground for amateurs, and is often the start to a successful boxing career. The Elite Male and Female Open champions will advance to the National Golden Gloves: Tournament of Champions to be held in Detroit, MI, from May 12 to 19, 2024.

“We at Millions are committed to supporting athletes at every level, with a special focus on nurturing the emerging talents of tomorrow,” said Scott Whitteker, Millions.co. “The participants of the Ring Masters Championships represent the future of boxing, and it’s a privilege for Millions to provide a platform that highlights their incredible skills, dedication, and hard work. Join us in celebrating these promising athletes as they showcase their talents live on Millions!”

All of the family-friendly events are open to boxing fans and the public. Tickets can be purchased at the host gyms. Dates and venues listed below.

For news and updates on Ring Masters Championships follow @ring_masters_offical and @usaboxingmetro on Instagram. 

For sponsorship opportunities, media inquiries and additional information please contact:

Sonya Lamonakis, Vice President, USA Boxing Metropolitan  at [email protected]. 

2024 RING MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: ROAD TO THE GARDEN

New York’s Premier Amateur Boxing Tournament 

Sanctioned Event Calendar

Brackets and competitors will be notified via email to all USA Boxing Metropolitan members prior to the event, 

and announced online at @ring_masters_offical and @usaboxingmetro on Instagram. 

2/3/24 Hempstead Boxing Kennedy Park Memorial 335 Greenwich St. Hempstead, NY 11550 1pm weigh-in, 3pm show

2/10/24 Gleason’s Gym 130 Water Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show

2/16/24 Gotham Gym 600 Washington Street NY, NY 10014 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show

2/17/24 Sweatbox Brooklyn 229 46th Street Brooklyn, NY 11220 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show

2/22/24 N.Y.A.C. 180 Central Park South NYC, NY 10019 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show

2/23/24 Church Street Boxing 25 Park Place NY, NY 10025 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show

2/24/24 Knights of Columbus Saturday 186 Jericho Turnpike Mineola, NY 11501 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show

2/29/24 Full Package Promotions Mulcahy’s Pub 3232 Railroad Avenue Wantagh, NY 11793 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show.

3/2/24 John’s Boxing Gym 2323 Haviland St. Bronx, NY 10462 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show.

3/8/24 Bay Ridge Catholic Academy  NYC Cops & Kids 365 83rd Street Brooklyn, NY 11209 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show.

3/9/24 Freeport PAL Freeport Recreation Center 130 East Merrick Rd. Freeport, NY 11520 11am weigh-in, 1pm show

3/15/24 Prime Time Promotions Amazura 91-12 144th place Queens, NY 11435 4:30pm weigh-in, 6:30pm show

3/16/24 Pro Fit Deer Park Saturday 41 Mercedes Way Edgewood, NY 11717 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show

3/22/24 Sportsmen’s Club  Local Union 3 IBEW 67-35 Parsons Blvd Flushing, NY 11365 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show

3/23/24 John’s Boxing Gym Saturday 2323 Haviland St. Bronx, NY 10462 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show.

4/5/24 Boxing Insider Promotions Classic Car Club of Manhattan 408 12th Avenue NY, NY 10018 5pm weigh-in, 7pm show.

4/6/24 USA Boxing Metro Gleason’s Gym JO/Youth Finals 130 Water Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 3pm weigh-in, 5pm show.

4/11/24: FINALS AT THE THEATRE AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 

Posted on 11/27/2023

November 27th- NYC, NY- On Saturday Night Dec 16 Boxing Insider, which has quickly become New York City’s most active promoter presents its 2nd Annual Holiday event, Fight Night 2 featuring an exciting night of boxing. The sensational 6 fight card will be held at Sony Hall on 246 W 46th street. Doors open at 6:30, with the first fight at 8:00. Tickets are on sale now at TicketWeb and this event will air live and Free on Boxinginsider.com and on YouTube.com/BoxingInsider.  

The Fights:

Tsendbattar Eredbaat (7-0-0), the Mongolian Olympian Champion makes his 3rd appearance at Boxing Insider when he faces the very tough Yohan Vasquez (24-5). Tsenbaar is one of the most feared boxers and this feature fight is presented in Association with Lou Dibella and Dibella Entertainment. Tsenbaatar made a huge impact on the NY Boxing scene in February with a crushing knock out over the game Giovanni Gutierrez and then returned with a dominating performance against Edy Valenzi Mercado.

Heavyweight Sensation Fernely Feliz Jr (6-0-0) is fighting the very slick, Raphael Carlolina (2-3-0) in a six round bout. 

NYC’s favorite club fighter Christian Otero (6-4-0) is returning to Boxing Insider for his 3rd appearance when he challenges super feather weight, Yeuri Andujar (5-6-1).

Cesar Francis (12-2-0), the popular welterweight will be facing Windry Amadis Martinez (9-1-0) in a six round bout.

Pryce Taylor, the two-time NY Golden Gloves Champion is scheduled for a four round heavyweight fight against an opponent to be announced.

Jacob Riley Solis, the middleweight from Bredwinners boxing, trained by Guzman, will be making his debut in a four round bout against an opponent to be announced.

Just in time for Christmas, Boxing Insider is giving out free Candy Canes and Santa hats. There will be a mariachi band performing.  The very lovely, Stephanie Almeida known as Miss Multiverse USA will be singing the National Anthem and performing with the mariachi band.

Tickets for Holiday Fight Night | TicketWeb – Sony Hall in New York, US 

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, Boxing Insider transitioned in 2022 into NYC’s most active club boxing promoter. This will be Boxing Insider’s 8th professional boxing promotion in the heart of Broadway in Times Square. Boxing Insider is NY States most active promoter in 2023 with six events. 

Posted on 10/06/2023

Boxing Insider Returns to Times Square for a night of local fights October 10th at Sony Hall

10/6/2023- New York a NYC’s newest promoter Boxing Insider Promotions Returns Tuesday October 10 at Sony Hall, for its 7th professional boxing show in Times Square featuring some of the top local fighters in NY in the heart of Broadway.

Cletus “The Hebrew Hammer” Seldin is making his long anticipated return. 

In keeping with their commitment to female boxing there will be one of the best fighters in action, Chrtistina Cruz makes her second appearance at a Boxing Insider event. 

Rounding out the card is Micheal Hughes, Christian Otero, and Famous Wilson. 

“We launched this series last year with a strong female headliner in Heather Hardy and we are continuing the tradition featuring NYC’s most decorated female fighters with Christina Cruz at BoxingInsider Fight Night.” Said promoter Larry Goldberg

“In addition, I am really excited to feature the long-anticipated return of Cletus Seldin as well we are bringing back Micheal Hughes and Christian Otero who are all matched in competitive fights. Oct 10 will be another highly entertaining night of club fights in the heart of Broadway.”

                                                                          -The Fights-

Cletus Seldin (26-0-1) makes his return after a 22 month layoff when he fights Patrick Okine (21-5-2) Superlight (8rds)

Church Street Boxing’s Micheal Hughes (4-1) returns to fight the very tough Christopher Burroughs (4-6-2) Superlight (6rds)

Hells Kitchen’s Christina Cruz  (5-0) is scheduled to fight against Josefina Vega 9/7/0  Superfly (6×2 rds)

The Colorful Christian Otero (5-4-0) is fighting a rematch from the amateurs against Carlos Marrero (5-8-3) Light (6rds)

Long Island’s Famous Wilson 2/0/0 looks to make a splash against Derrick Vann 4/8/0 Middle  (4ds)

In addition to an exciting night of boxing, Larry Holmes, former heavyweight champion will be in attendance. Holmes is considered by many boxing experts as one of top-ten greatest heavyweights of all time.

Tickets priced at $95-$325 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketweb. https://www.ticketweb.com/event/boxing-insider-fight-night-sony-hall-tickets/13497418

They will “go toe to toe”” on Tuesday, October 10th, at Sony Hall, in the heart of Times Square, Manhattan. The doors open at 6:30pm, with the first fight scheduled for 7:30pm.

This event will air for free on BoxingInsider.com

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, Boxing Insider has recently transitioned into the promotional business. This will be Boxing Insider’s seventh professional boxing promotion. It has promoted one amateur boxing event and six professional events, all at Sony Hall, Times Square, New York, NY.
                           

Posted on 10/06/2023

The Who’s Who at our “Night of the Stars” Two-Day International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame Event October 6 & 7th in Las Vegas! 

The International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame (IWBHF) is celebrating a very special and unique year when we make yet another landmark in the sport commemorate our 10th Year anniversary. The IWBHF was the first in history to dedicate a hall of fame to honor retired female boxers. With the IWBHF we include men and women who are and were dedicated “outside the ring” with their contributions. We also included IWBHF special award recipients for their contributions to the sport.   Check out the latest “Who’s Who” at our two-day event upcoming event taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada! 

Link to story:   https://womenboxing.com/NEWS2023/news32223iwbhf-press-release-the-whos-who-at-event.htm

Posted on 09/12/2023

Unfortunately, we have some bad news. 

The team here at BoxingInsider Promotions has been faced with a rather unusual set of challenges in the process of promoting our September 14 show at Sony Hall in Times Square and have to reschedule the event. 

In the interest of transparency within a period of 72 hours, we had to experience:

— A fighter who was turned away by the New York State Athletic Commission due to failed medical tests.

— A fighter who tested positive for the Covid, taking him out of action.

— A main event participant, fighting for a title belt, who checked into the hospital with an illness.

— A fighter in one of our undercard bouts who suffered a back injury and had no choice but to withdraw. 

This left us with three fights (i.e., half a show) as of Monday evening.

We might have been able to go with a very short lineup of bouts. But that is not an event we can stand behind. Since we began promoting fights in the New York area last year, we have sought to maintain a certain standard and will continue to do so. 

We have determined that, in the best interest of boxing itself, the wisest course of action is to postpone this event and reschedule it for October.

We will be announcing a new card shortly.

Refunds will be available at the point of purchase. ( The fighters or Ticketweb will credit your account)

Posted on 06/29/2023

Posted on 06/07/2023

Undefeated New Yorker Kurt Scoby will face his toughest test to date when he goes up against battle tested and Philly Tough Hammerin’ Hank Lundy in an eight-round super lightweight match-up in the June 29 main event at Sony Hall.

The event will be streamed live, not behind a pay wall, but for FREE, like boxing used to be, on BoxingInsider’s various platforms.

In the co-featured bout, Brooklyn’s Brian Ceballo returns to Sony Hall following a successful April win, this time battling Mitch Charles in an eight-round super welterweight tilt. In a neighborhood war, Long Islanders Terell Bostic and Mathew Gonzalez will brawl for a scheduled eight rounds at super lightweight.

Rounding out the card, undefeated New Yorker Arnold Gonzalez will face-off against The Bronx’ Issouf Kinda in an eight-round welterweight bout; Northern Ireland’s Feargal “Fearless” McCrory will fight in a six-round lightweight bout, and Ridgewood’s Raymond “The Scientist” Cuadrado will fight in a four-round super featherweight bout against Dominican Yeuri Andujar.

Kurt Scoby (11-0, 9 KOs) from New York, NY is on a six KO streak. The 27-year-old made his professional debut in 2020 and will be facing his toughest test to date against the rugged Hammerin Hank Lundy (31-13, 14 KOs), who was born and raised in Philadelphia. Lundy, who challenged Terence Crawford in a world welterweight title fight, has also fought fomer champions John Molina Jr., Chop Chop Corley, Thomas Dulorme and Viktor Postol.

Brooklyn’s Brian Ceballo (14-1, 7 KOs) is a five-time New York Golden Gloves champion and former WBO Inter-Continental welterweight champion. Ceballo made his Sony Hall debut in April and won a unanimous decision in front of a raucous crowd. The twenty-nine-year-old Mitch Louis-Charles (7-3-2, 4 KOs) is from Quebec, Canada and is coming off a big knockout win in January at Mohegan Sun.

Terell Bostic (7-1, 1 KO), a Long Islander, was born and raised in Wyandanch, NY. He made his pro debut in 2015 and is on a five fight win streak. In his last bout at Sony Hall on February 23, Bostic came away with a unanimous decision win. Matthew “Lefty Gunz” Gonzalez (12-0-1, 8KOs) from Ridgewood, NY was undefeated going into his last fight at Madison Square Garden. That result was a majority decision draw, which left him ‘only’ unbeaten.

Arnold Gonzalez (11-0, 6 KOs) from New York, NY made his pro debut in 2019 and won the Universal Boxing Organization Inter-Continental welterweight title on November 20, 2021, and successfully defended (TKO4) that title in December.

The Bronx’ Issouf “Volcano” Kinda (18-6, 7 KOs), made his pro debut in 2009 and is a former New York State super lightweight champion.

Two undefeated fighters will round out the card. Former Boxing Union of Ireland Lightweight Champion Feargal “Fearless” McCrory (14-0, 7 KOs) from Northern Ireland will fight in a six-round lightweight bout against Gerffred Ngayot (6-1, 5 KOs) from Buffalo; and Raymond “The Scientist” Cuadrado (7-0, 3 KOS) from Ridgewood, NY, will fight in a four-round super featherweight bout against Yeuri Andujar (5-5-1, 3 KOs).

This edition of Broadway Boxing will air on SNY on a delayed basis and will stream live and free on BoxingInsiders social media the way boxing was intended.

Posted on 05/15/2023

JESSZILLA: Screening Saturday, May 20, 4:30PM at Keeler Tavern Museum 152 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT 06896 part of RIFF2023, Ridgefield Independent Film Festival’s 8th Edition

Ticket Link: https://www.squadup.com/events/jeszilla

SUMMARY:

Jesselyn Silva, a 15-year-old girl from New Jersey, is a 3x national boxing champion. She has her sights set on becoming the best in boxing. Jess’s father, Pedro, navigates what it means to support his daughter’s dreams in an extremely dangerous sport. However when she gets an unthinkable diagnosis, her relationship with fighting takes on a whole new meaning.

EMILY SHESKIN – DIRECTOR

Emily Sheskin is a director and editor who has worked on award-winning documentaries, TV specials and advertising campaigns. Her work has been featured in numerous publications such as (but not limited to) The New York Times, National Geographic, and The Atlantic. She holds a BFA from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and is a member of New York Women in Film & Television, and IFP.

RIFF WEBSITE: 

https://www.riffct.org/

Background:

Ridgefield Independent Film Festival was founded in 2015 by local playwright and filmmaker, Joanne Hudson and presented its first iteration in May of 2016 at ten venues throughout Ridgefield, CT; screening 72 films from 26 countries. Since then the festival has attracted the likes of celebrities Allison Williams, James Naughton, Barry Levinson and Paul Dano, as well as talented local and international filmmakers. This highly curated festival attempts to bring films, filmmakers, and community together in Ridgefield Connecticut to share all it has to offer with the same independent spirit in which it began: in the hopes of making the world a more compassionate place through the sharing of stories through cinema.

Posted on 04/26/2023

BoxingInsider returns for its fourth promotion in six months with Broadway Boxing, a card full of local and international talent to be streamed globally on DAZN.

The April 27 event is promoted by BoxingInsider Promotions and DiBella Entertainment.

In the main event, five-time New York Golden Gloves champion Brian Ceballo (13-1, 7 KOs), from Brooklyn, face off against Dominican Edward Ulloa Diaz in an eight-round super welterweight contest. In December 2020, Ceballo captured the WBO Inter-Continental welterweight belt. He’s looking forward to defending his home turf. 

“My training is amazing! I haven’t felt this good about my training and my fight since 2019,” said Ceballo. “I know my opponent has been in with really tough opposition and although he’s come up short, he showed that he belongs with top guys. So, I know he will be a competitor coming to win as we take center stage on Times Square Thursday. I’m coming to win big in front of my hometown friends, family, and fans. So it’s a fight you do not want to miss.”

Miyo Yoshida (15-3), a two-time super flyweight world champion, will make her US debut on Thursday, April 27. She has been training out of Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, NY, under the tutelage of head coach Leon Taylor. “The time is finally here and I am thrilled to make my New York debut that I have been dreaming of,” said Yoshida. “I cannot thank everyone enough for this opportunity. It is a big challenge for me to move with my little daughter here from home for the new chapter of my boxing career, but I am determined to show my spirit to the fans to make NY my new home. Thanks a lot for your support!”

 After playing softball as a teenager, the athletic Yoshida moved to Hawaii to study martial arts and learned kickboxing. She then transitioned to boxing and made her professional debut in 2014. She gave birth to her daughter the following year. Yoshida first captured the Japan Boxing Commission and Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation bantamweight titles then seized the WBO super flyweight crown in 2019. She lost her title in her second title defense via close technical decision against Tomoko Okuda, but quickly regained it in a 2021 rematch. Yoshida is determined to get back into world title contention after losing her belt via split decision against Tamao Ozawa in her last fight.

Yoshida battles Indeya Smith (6-6, 1 KO), from Dallas, TX, via New Orleans, LA, made her BoxingInsider Promotions debut on December 21, 2022, with an upset win versus Sulem Urbina, dominating the bout from the opening bell.

The Maccow-Otero New York City grudge match has reached a boiling point. The two fought each other as amateurs and their gym wars are well known. Sydney “The Jackal” Maccow (8-8, 3 KOs), born in Sint Maarten, Netherlands, now residing in Brooklyn, NY, is coming off of a five-fight streak of four wins sandwiched around a no contest. Christian “Veneno” Otero (4-3, 2 KOs), from New York, NY, made his pro debut on October 31, 2020, and his career began with four straight victories.

The two recently had this back-and-forth:

Otero: “You better be ready because no one is going to be able to save you. It’s just going to be me and you, 1-on-1, and I am coming for you.  I’ve had the best camp of my life. There is going to be a lot of emotion in the ring and I’m going out there to perform. I am desperate for this fight.”

Maccow: I’ve dropped a lot of people in the gym in my twelve years of sparring and Otero is one of them, I beat him in the amateurs and I beat him up in sparring and I’ll beat him up on Thursday. 

Otero: He is publicizing sparring sessions. Sparring sessions stay in the gym. A fight is totally different. It’s going to be 8 oz gloves and once I touch him, he’s probably not going to want to fight me – he is going to run. Leave sparring in sparring and bring the fight to the fight. On Thursday, I’m going to be in the middle of the ring so you better be ready.

Maccow: Otero said he wasn’t in shape when I dropped him. What does that say about him? That he was out of shape and not training? I am always in shape – there is never any getting in shape for me. I spar with people at a high level and he hit me up and I dropped him. Bottom line is there is real footage out there of him getting beat up.

Otero: People get dropped all the time in the gym. In a real fight, anyone that pushes me gets their but whipped and gets dropped. I’m telling you right now, I’m going to beat the (bleep) out of him. This is my business, and this is personal.

Maccow: Every time he steps in the ring he gets bullied by me. There are more videos. There is only one out there but I may drop more.

Otero: This fight I am in top shape so good luck to him.

Other fights on the card include:

In an eight-round battle for the vacan NABF Jr. Super Featherweight Championship, two-time Mongolian Olympian and 2018 Asian Games gold medalist Tsendbaatar “Chinggis Khaan” Erdenebat (5-0, 3 KOs)will battle Edy Valencia Mercado (20-9-6, 7 KOs). Tsendbaatar returns to Sony Hall following a third-round TKO win at the venue on February 23.

In a six-round Junior welterweight bout, Joshua David “Pretty Boy” Rivera (8-2, 3 KOs), from La Mesa, CA, faces off against Ireland’s Larry “Lethal” Fryers (11-6, 4 KOs) who now resides in Yonkers, NY. Fryers

“Dynamite” David Lopez (2-0, 2 KOs), the 19-year-old phenom from Las Vegas, NV, will compete in a four-round junior welterweight bout against Scranton’s Nelson Morales. In his last fight, Lopez, who comes from a family of fighters, is trained by his father and former boxer Kris Lopez.

ABOUT BOXING INSIDER

Established in 1997 as a premier boxing news and information destination, Boxing Insider has recently transitioned into the promotional business.  This will be Boxing Insider’s fourth professional boxing promotion.  It has promoted one amateur boxing event and three professional events, on October 13, December 21, and February 22, all at Sony Hall, Times Square, New York, NY.

ABOUT DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT

In May of 2000, Lou DiBella launched DiBella Entertainment (DBE), a full-service sports and entertainment company, which has become one of the most successful promotional entities in boxing. Serving as matchmaker, television distributor, marketing advisor, and promoter, DiBella has developed an exciting stable of championship caliber, world-class fighters, such as Sergio Martinez, Bernard Hopkins, Jermaine Taylor, Micky Ward, Deontay Wilder, and George Kambosos, among others. DBE clearly established itself as an industry leader with the successful launch of its monthly-televised “Broadway Boxing” series in November 2003. Prior to becoming a promoter, DiBella held an 11-year tenure as the Senior Vice President of HBO Sports. While at HBO, DiBella created and established the highly successful “Boxing After Dark” series, which featured some of the sport’s greatest fights. He is also a well-known fixture in the film industry, having worked as an Executive Producer for the film “Love Ranch”, as an Associate Producer on “The Fighter”, and making his acting debut in “Rocky Balboa”. He also produced or executive produced numerous documentaries, such as Viva Baseball!, Magic Man, Maravilla, Larry Flynt for President, and Tapia. The President and Managing General Partner for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team, DiBella proudly wears his 2010, 2012 and 2014 World Series rings, as his team is the class AA affiliate to the San Francisco Giants. In 2017, DiBella also became the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits baseball team, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. DiBella was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020 and inducted in June 2022, as well as the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.

About DAZN Group: 

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK. Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.  

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F. DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans. 

DAZN is re-imagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialise, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN. 

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to ground-breaking rights catalogue and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including Playstation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.    

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit www.dazngroup.com.