Tag Archives: atlantic

Posted on 06/25/2019

By: Ken Hissner

The third Annual Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held at The Claridge a Radisson hotel Sunday in Atlantic City, NJ.

There were 19 inductees and Master of Ceremony Samad Haq did a fantastic job introducing participants and honoring the inductees. The President of the NJB HOF Henry Hascup was one of those being honored. He gave a moment of reflection called “9 Count Bell Ringing”. When someone well-known in the boxing business passes it is common for the timekeeper to give a “10 count” once the ring announcer makes the announcement.

What Hascup gave is the 9 Count because they may be gone but not forgotten giving one less ring of the bell. Hascup is the best Historian this writer has known and has been helpful whether it’s his over 100 win club or my over 100 loss club.

Opening the even was the son of top cut-man and PT comedian Joey Eye’s son Nicky Eye doing a great version of the National Anthem. It brought down the house how this big voice out of this 11 year-old (?) kid performed.

Welcoming remarks were done by ACB HOF President Ray McCline who like Hascup has done a bang up job. For the many things Hascup had to say about his career he pointed to his wife and said “that’s the best thing that ever happened to me. We were both single parents of 4 kids with a Siberian Huskey when we met.”

Hascup was one of nine inducted from the Non-Participants. They started with MSG Matchmaker Bobby Goodman who this writer met at the then Cherry Hill, NJ, home of Muhammad Ali in 1973 after Ali’s first fight with Ken Norton. Goodman represented Norton and knew Ali well. I was some fan ringing the doorbell when I was let in.

Former referee and boxing commissioner Tony Orlando, Jr., was next. No, not the singer. Stan Hoffman followed and was one of those “jack of all trades” in boxing. Next the former editor of Ring Magazine and now working with ESPN was Nigel Collins. He even acknowledged boxing writer Jeff Jowett who was at the event and his long gone sidekick Jack “KO” Obermayer. World traveled boxing judge Tom Kaczmarek followed Hoffman.

When it was time for PA Boxing commissioner and official of the IBF Jimmy Binns, Sr. and boxing manager Ronald “Butch” Lewis to be introduced fellow writer Dave Ruff who was wheelchair bound and I were going to the men’s room that initself was an adventure we found out earlier from 5pm to 6pm during the press having a meeting. The hotel people were great but the old hotel was poorly designed for the handicap and others staying there. We had to go down four floors to the lobby. One of the elevators didn’t even have a “4” on it so we got escorted back to the event.

We were back in time for Hascup and current NJ Boxing Commissioner and IBHOF referee inductee Larry Hazzard, Sr. to introduce his “right hand woman Rhonda Utley – Herring being inducted who is one of those “behind the scene’s person’s you couldn’t do that you do without. They both had complementary “jabs” for one another.

In the Participant category were trainer and cut-men Ace Marotta and English “Bouie” Fisher. Both being deceased had their relatives introducing accepting their awards. Marotta was best known for keeping Duva Promotions boxers in the fight. Fisher for what he did for the career of Bernard Hopkins and others.

Wrapping the inductees up were nine fighters. Atlantic City lightweight John “Eastern Beast” Brown, 24-19-2 (11), who didn’t want to leave the stage but being he said “I didn’t care if my opponent was overweight I was fighting him” so no-one messed with him. NABF Middleweight champion Kevin “Killer” Watts, 23-7-1 (9), out of Pleasantville, NJ, followed Brown. He gave an outstanding speech in accepting his award.

One of the most notable people to receive his induction was two-time heavyweight champion WBC and WBA “Terrible” Tim Witherspoon, 55-13-1 (38), of Philadelphia. He impressed all giving a talk from the heart how there are many former boxing people who are down on their luck and how it’s needed to form together a group to help support them getting back on their feet. Former boxers Alex Ramos and Gerry Cooney have had groups in the past do such a thing. Both Ruff and I agreed it was a main point of the event. Prior to the event coming off the elevator Witherspoon rushed over giving Ruff a hug.

Next up was super lightweight “Irish” Micky Ward, 38-13 (27), who though out of Lowell, MASS, brought such an ovation with the NJ fans and fans worldwide remembering his three classic battles with the late NJ 2-division world champion Arturo “Thunder” Gatti that eventually brought a great friendship between the two. Many fans came down from New England to support Ward. He mentioned “We would bring down a busload of people ad there were more fights on the bus than at the event,” said Ward.

Then came 3-division (middle, super middle and light heavy) world champion Iran “Blade” Barkley, 43-19-1 (27), of the Bronx, NY. This fighter defeated Thomas “Hit Man” Hearns twice! One of his most notable “wars” was with one of the next inductee’s four division (lightweight, welter, light middle and middleweight) world champion Roberto “Hands of Stone” Duran, 103-16 (70), of Panama. He really didn’t need an introduction but it was made clear by his introduction he was the most love boxer ever in Panama. This writer remembers when he came to Philadelphia to fight. At “Smokin” Joe Frazier’s Gym you had to see it to believe it how the man could skip rope.

Between Barkley and Duran was IBHOF inductee 2-division world champion Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill, Sr., 51-7 (24) who was not able to be at his induction.

Wrapping up the last inductee was former was 2-division world champion Philadelphia’s Bernard “The Executioner/The Alien” Hopkins, 55-8-2 (32). The talk he gave starting with going to prison and having his mother he loved dearly have to go into her purse to dig out what little money she had at the time to help him out. By the end of his speech he won over everyone including this writer. I saw another side of Hopkins. He discussed the hard work one had to do to get to the top. He is now a highly regarded executive with Golden Boy Promotions.

Helping out with bringing the inductees on and off stage was long-time friend the beautiful (inside and out) Cathy Lebron who also works with Kings Promotions out of Reading, PA.

It was a memorable night for Ruff and I talking to Witherspoon, Cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole, heavyweight champion “Merciless” Ray Mercer and 2-division world champion Michael Spinks. We look forward to the fourth ACB HOF event.

Posted on 04/16/2019

By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of April 9th to April 16th; covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Amir Khan Confirms First ‘Ring the Changes’ Initiatives to Help Young People Across the UK

Boxing superstar Amir Khan and online financial trading broker ThinkMarkets have confirmed their first partnerships as part of the ‘Ring the Changes’ initiatives aimed at providing support and opportunities for under-privileged young people across the UK.

More than 35 young people have been murdered in London already this year and Khan will work with ThinkMarkets and charity partners to raise funds and support initiatives to help young children get off the streets using financial education and the power of boxing.

The London Institute of Banking & Finance will offer young people access to their Lessons in Financial Education (LiFE) course to teach young people about the world of finance. Amir Khan will be actively working with ThinkMarkets to reach out to boxing clubs across London to invite young people on to the programme.

Youth Employment UK is not for profit organisation that helps 14-24-year-olds to kick-start their careers and will provide support specifically through their Young Professional programme which helps young people develop the work ready skills that employers are looking for.

This ties in with Amir Khan’s aims with ThinkMarkets to secure employment in the City for 100 young people from disadvantaged families by 2022.

Amir Khan said: “My ‘Ring the Changes’ initiative with ThinkMarkets WILL have an impact on youth crime and disenfranchisement and make a real difference.

“I’m focused on training for my fight against Terence Crawford in a few days but it’s tragic seeing the increasing devastation families are facing as young people are being killed or maimed in knife attacks.

“We have to give young people hope and opportunities and I believe that ‘Ring the Changes’ can go some way to providing inspiration for young people who may feel lost. Together with ThinkMarkets, we will not forget them and we will provide ways to help.”

Alison Pask, Managing Director, Financial Capability and Community Outreach at The London Institute of Banking & Finance added: “The Ring the Changes campaign helps young people combine the advantages of sports and financial knowledge to develop their skills and confidence.

“Over 70% of young people regularly worry about money and want to learn more. The role that initiatives like this can play in building financial resilience is critical. But more than that, initiatives like these can help open doors to career opportunities – and there are lots of those in the finance sector.

“We hope this programme will help raise the aspirations of young people, opening doors to careers and opportunities they may not have thought possible. We’re very proud of the role we can play.”

Laura-Jane Rawlings, Chief Executive Officer of Youth Employment UK, added: “The combination of sports, financial education and employability programme will provide young people with the necessary tools to further their career goals. By collaborating with ThinkMarkets under the Ring the Changes campaign we believe we can really make a difference to the future generations.”

Khan has a long history of helping charitable causes around the world and set up his own Foundation in 2014, something that attracted ThinkMarkets to working with the former Olympic silver medalist.

Nauman Anees, Co-founder of ThinkMarkets, said: “We wanted to take our time to get the right partnerships in place and have worked closely with Amir Khan before securing the London Institute of Banking & Finance and Youth Employment UK.

“’Ring the Changes’ WILL make a difference to the lives of a great many young people in the UK through a combination of philanthropy, opportunity and inspiration.”

ThinkMarkets aims to teach youngsters the importance of mental discipline and provide them with key skills to help them achieve their goals.

Khan’s partnership with ThinkMarkets is the first of its kind, with ThinkMarkets becoming the first UK broker to sponsor a professional boxer.

Earlier this year, ThinkMarkets announced another sporting partnership, with legendary Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath supporting young people in Australia and the UK.

WBC Champs Seniesa “Superbad” Estrada and “Bang Bang” Louisa Hawton Are All in for Autsim
This past weekend was one stacked with Women in Boxing no doubt! The World Boxing Council, WBC Cares program with Chairperson, Jill Diamond, WBC President, Mauricio Sulaiman and the entire WBC Family are very grateful to our WBC Champs, Seniesa “Superbad” Estrada and “Bang Bang” Louisa Hawton who donated their time Saturday evening to raise money for Autism Awareness. With World Champions in attendance like MLB World Series Champ, Scott Erickson, Former Dallas Cowboys, and NFL Superbowl XXVI MVP, Mark Rypien along with many other celebrities, it was a fun filled night where the Champs played, laughed and rewarded the winners of the table that knocked them out with WBC Medals!

April is Autism Awareness Month and we at the World Boxing Council are honored Pam Phillips and the Gemini Family have invited us to be a part of this event another year! The difference begins within each one of us. Let’s spread awareness just like our Champs Seniesa and Lulu!

For information on how Gemini helps those in the Autism Spectrum, go to Gemini.org

Judah vs. Seldin to Battle At Turning Stone Resort Casino
Preparations are well underway as Central New York prepares to host boxing’s biggest weekend of the year, International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend. Star Boxing, in partnership with Turning Stone Resort Casino, today announced a new event for an already impressive boxing weekend – Zab “Super” Judah (44-9, 30 KOs) vs. Cletus “Hebrew Hammer” Seldin (23-1, 19 KOs). The fight will take place in the Turning Stone Event Center on Friday, June 7, 2019, as part of the 30th Anniversary of Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend. The evening’s co-main event will feature James “Buddy” McGirt Jr. (27-3-1, 14KO’s) facing off against David Papot (22-0, 3KO’s), the same weekend his father James “Buddy” McGirt Sr. will be inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame.

Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to mingle with some of the biggest names in boxing, including boxing VIPs and Hall of Famers. Turning Stone will offer a unique boxing fan experience for guests who purchase tickets for the June 7thJudah vs. Seldin fight. For $50 (plus the purchase of a ticket), guests will receive access to the Boxing Hall of Fame Lounge, where boxing VIPs will be socializing throughout the night.

Tickets for Judah vs. Seldin are now available at the Turning Stone Box Office in person or by calling 315.361.7469 and 12:00 p.m. online at Ticketmaster. Prices start at only $35, with ringside seats available for $89 and $75.

June 7th’s main event features, Zab “Super” Judah (Brooklyn, NY), a six-time world champion, and the last undisputed welterweight champion of the world. The three-time New York Golden Glove champion made his professional debut at the age of 18, later holding world titles in three weight classes, capped off by his undisputed welterweight reign. Judah has defeated some of the most notable names in the business, including, Micky Ward, Lucas Matthysse and Cory Spinks (Undisputed Welterweight Title), and fought many other top fighters including Floyd Mayweather, Amir Khan, Danny Garcia and Miguel Cotto .

Opposing the six-time and former undisputed champion will be New York’s feared knockout artist, Cletus “The Hebrew Hammer” Seldin (Shirley, NY). Born from a tough line of Jewish-Americans, Seldin won the Ringside Amateur World Championship in 2009. As a professional, Seldin created buzz throughout New York as a knockout artist packing the Paramount with his “Hamma Head” fans. He broke on to the national scene when he devoured Roberto Ortiz at the Nassau Coliseum in a featured HBO fight. One month later, Seldin became the first boxer alongside Hall of Fame world champions, Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. to fight in featured fights on back to back months on HBO. 83 percent of Seldin’s wins have come via knockout.

The veteran craftsmanship of former undisputed champion Judah, will have to weather the storm of the heavy-handed New York brawler in Seldin. On the biggest weekend in boxing, with many Hall of Famer’s in attendance, #JudahSeldin is bound to set off fireworks at Turning Stone on June 7th.

In the co-feature bout, James “Buddy” McGirt Jr. (Vero Beach, FL) will look to tip his hat to his father, James McGirt Sr. who is being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame during the same weekend, when he takes on tough Frenchman David Papot (Saint-Nazaire, France). McGirt compiled an impressive amateur record of 44-4 winning the Sunshine State Games and the Southeastern Regional. As a professional McGirt has also found success and has faced some well-regarded fighters in his division, including, Carlos De Leon Jr., Edwin Rodriguez, and Raymond Joval. His opponent, undefeated Frenchman David Papot is taking the trip across the Atlantic Ocean with intentions of ruining the McGirt family weekend. Papot had 102 amateur bouts, 30 of which were with the French National team, earning French National Champion honors two times. In 2017 Papot earned the WBA Continental Middleweight Title, and later that year became the French National Super Welterweight Champion, having since defended the title three times.

Crawford vs. Khan PPV Details Revealed
The undefeated pound-for-pound king, three-division world champion and reigning WBO welterweight champion Terence “Bud” Crawford will headline the inaugural Top Rank on ESPN pay-per-view broadcast against former unified super lightweight world champion Amir “King” Khan Saturday, April 20 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Madison Square Garden.

Crawford vs. Khan will be available via all major cable and satellite providers with a suggested retail price of $59.95 (SD) or $69.95 (HD).

All undercard bouts will air live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Crawford (34-0, 25 KOs), the fighting pride of Omaha, Nebraska, unified all four super lightweight titles in August 2017 and moved up to the welterweight division intent on doing the same. In June 2018, he won the WBO welterweight title with a dominant ninth-round stoppage over Manny Pacquiao conqueror Jeff “The Hornet” Horn. Four months later, in front of a packed hometown house at the CHI Health Center Omaha, he stopped bitter rival Jose Benavidez Jr. in the 12th round.

Khan (33-4, 20 KOs), who captured an Olympic silver medal in 2004 for Great Britain at the age of 17, has long been one of boxing’s most captivating performers. He won his first world title in 2009 and has victories over Marco Antonio Barrera, Zab Judah, Marcos Maidana, Paulie Malignaggi, Luis Collazo and Devon Alexander. He is undefeated as a welterweight and is once again attempting to prove his greatness against boxing’s best.

In other action on the pay-per-view broadcast:

• Lightweight sensation Teofimo Lopez (12-0, 10 KOs) will face former world title challenger and two-time European lightweight champion Edis Tatli (31-2, 10 KOs) in a 12-round co-feature. Lopez is ranked in the top five by all four major sanctioning organizations and is coming off a savage seventh-round knockout over Diego Magdaleno.

• In the other co-feature attraction, Shakur Stevenson (10-0, 6 KOs), the 21-year-old featherweight phenom who earned a silver medal for the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics, will face former world title challenger Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz (24-1, 16 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

• Felix “El Diamante” Verdejo (24-1, 16 KOs), one of Puerto Rico’s most popular fistic attractions, will fight former interim world champion Bryan Vasquez (37-3, 20 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight duel with potential world title implications.

CRAWFORD vs. KHAN is a 12-round fight for the WBO welterweight championship of the world, presented by Top Rank in association with Matchroom Boxing and Khan Promotions. The event is sponsored by Geico. CRAWFORD vs. KHAN will take place Saturday, April 20, beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at Madison Square Garden

Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) Announces Opening of It’s Legends Café
The ACBHOF is pleased to announce the opening of its Legends Café during their 3rd Annual Celebration and Induction Weekend. For the third year, the Claridge A Radisson Hotel will serve as ACBHOF’s partner and backdrop for this historic event to be held June 21 – 23, 2019.
On Friday, June 21st the ACBHOF VIP Cocktail Reception will kick-off the weekend with the opening of the Legends Café and a special screening of the movie “ME WHEE” — a 30-minute documentary of Muhammad Ali.

“It is with tremendous pride that The Claridge-A Radisson Hotel welcomes The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame during this induction weekend. We are privileged to join in this partnership, a blending of the rich history that we both share here in Atlantic City. The Legends Café is an extraordinary, unique, and unforgettable opportunity for immersion into the legendary world of boxing that has evolved in this city over the years.” – A. Cem Erenler V.P. Operations & Development.

On Saturday, June 22nd the ACBHOF will invite boxing enthusiasts to join us for conversation and coffee in the Legends Café where an engaging panel discussion will take place. The panel will be moderated and activated with a panel comprised of top boxing historians from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The Café will host exciting exhibits and art on display by Patrick Killiam from Newport, Wales, and other talented artists and Exhibits that will be on display: Jack Johnson, Joe Frazier Legacy Exists, Deborah King, James O’Neal Sculptures, Boxing Apocalypse and the SparBar.

Also, on Saturday the ACBHOF will be inside the Orange Loop for good food and music at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall; where guests and fans alike will be interacting up close and personal with boxing legends on hand for autographs and photo opportunities.

“Our mission is to honor, preserve and celebrate the excellence of Atlantic City’s rich Boxing History and there’s no better place to highlight this tradition than at the historic Claridge-A Radisson Hotel. My team and I are excited about this collaboration.” – Ray McCline President of Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

The weekend will culminate with the Induction Ceremony on Sunday, June 23rd where the ACBHOF Class of 2019 will be enshrined into the hall of fame history.

The Class of 2019 Participants: Bernard Hopkins, Tim Witherspoon, Iran Barkley, Roberto Duran, Micky Ward, Kevin Watts, John Brown, Virgil Hill, Butch Lewis, English Bouie Fisher, Ace Marotta, Jimmy Binns, Sr., Stan Hoffman, Nigel Collins, Henry Hascup, Tom Kaczmarek, Tony Orlando Jr., and Rhonda Utley-Herring.

Posted on 09/10/2018

By: Ken Hissner

The vacant USA New Jersey State Super Middleweight Title was at stake as Atlantic City’s Antowyan “The Ice Man” Aikens, 13-5-1 (1), lost to Atlantic City’s Decarlo “3mendo” Perez, 17-6-1 (5), over 8 rounds of exciting action with both boxers hitting the canvas.

In the first round Aikens controlled with his jab. In the second round Perez rocked Aikens with a right to the chin knocking him back several steps. Aikens mainly used his jab. In the fourth round Aikens landed a right to the chin of Perez dropping him. He beat the count of 8 by Referee Earl Brown.

In the fifth round Perez was all over Aikens making him hold. The fans were going wild! Aikens came back but mostly held on until the bell. In the sixth round Perez was on the attack. What seemed like a glancing left hook from Perez hit the top of the head of Aikens dropping him to the canvas. He beat the 8 count of Referee Brown. He was able to get through the round. In the seventh round both were mixing it up well. Perez landed a lead right to the head of Aikens just prior to the bell and doing enough to take the round. In the eighth and final round Perez landed a pair of right’s to the chin of Aikens. They both fought furiously to the bell knowing the round may be needed to win the title.

Scores were Lawrence Layton 75-74, James Kinney 77-72 and Al Benett 76-74 as did this writer have it.
In the co-feature Welterweight southpaw John Bauza, 11-0 (5), of North Bergen continued unbeaten easily defeated Rashad Bogar, 4-8-1 (2), of Newark, NJ, over 6 rounds.

In the first round Bauza boxed well landing a double right hook to the body and to the head of Bogar. It was all Bauza. In the second round Bauza continued countering Bogar who would rush in but get hit. It was another big round for Bauza though Bogar never backed off.

In the fourth round Bogar went to throw a right but Bauza beat him to the punch with a left to the chin dropping Bogar. He beat the count of Referee Harvey Dock. In the fifth round Bogar recovered well from the previous round though Bauza continued to win the round. In the sixth and final round Bauza landed a hard overhand left on the chin of Bogar. Though Bauza seemed to take every round Bogar hung in there to the end.

All 3 judges, Atkins, Lundy and Bennett along with this writer had it 60-53. Referee was Harvey Dock.

Making a successful debut Lightweight Isaiah Hart, 1-0 (1), of Atlantic City, stopped “Dangerous” Dillan Kasprzak, 0-2 of Philly, at 0:16 of the second round of a scheduled 4.

In the first round Hart landed a solid right to the chin of Kasprzak stunning him. Hart landed a short right followed by a left hook to the chin of Kasprzak dropping him just prior to the end of the round. Referee Ricky Vera continued his count to 8. In the second round Hart hurt Kasprzak with a right to the chin having him against the ropes as Referee Ricky Vera wisely called a halt. Long time AC top trainer Bill Johnson worked Hart’s corner.

Middleweight Ryan Wilczak, 7-0 (3), of Scranton, PA, defeated Alberto Delgado, 0-4 of Roanoke, VA, over 4 rounds.

In the opening round Wilczak was having his way with little offense from Delgado. He used a jab prior to throwing his right. At the final 10 seconds of the round Delgado finally landed several punches. In the second round Delgado was coming forward but getting countered by Wilczak. Halfway through the round Delgado landed a right to the chin of Wilczak. With Delgado walking in low Wilczak landed an uppercut to the chin just prior to the bell.

In the third round with Delgado pressing the action Wilczak was using a right uppercut to the chin. Wilczak wasn’t using the jab as much this round but throwing lead rights. In the fourth and final round Delgado landed a good left hook to the chin of Wilczak. This was the most competitive round of the fight.

Scores were Atkins 39-37, Lundy 39-37 and Bennett 40-36 as did this writer. Earl Brown was the referee.

In the opening bout in a war Light heavy Tahlik Taylor, 3-12-1 (1), of Greensboro, NC, was stopped by southpaw Travis Toledo, 2-0 (1), of Baltimore, MD, at 2:02 of the second round of a scheduled 4.

In the first round both fighters slugged it out from the bell. In the final minute Toledo was stunned by Taylor but came right back landing right hooks to the chin of Taylor. In the second round Toledo had had Taylor pinned in a corner hurting him and finally dropping him with a left hook. Taylor got up and as Toledo stepped in Taylor hit him with a uppercut to the chin. Toledo again dropped Taylor with a combination. Referee Harvey Dock wisely waved it off.

Middleweight southpaw Omar Salem, 4-0 (1), of Brooklyn, NY, stopped Mike “Top Notch” Anderson, 0-3 of Philly, who didn’t come out for the second round.

In the first round Salem had Anderson on the defense with a good body attack. Salem hurt Anderson going mostly to the body and then the head. Anderson could not come out for the second round. The Referee was Harvey Dock.

Lightweight Nahir Albright, 4-1 (1), of Philly, easily defeated southpaw Glenford “Stallion” Nickey, Jr., 4-2 (1), of Brooklyn, NY, over 4 rounds.
In the opening round the taller Albright had Nickey rocked several times with lead rights to the chin. Nickey switches back and forth from southpaw to orthodox. In the second round Albright continued to land lead rights to the chin as Nickey did quite a bit of holding. Nickey landed the final punch of the round an overhand right to the head of Albright at the bell.

In the third round Albright landed a solid right to the chin of Nickey driving him into the ropes. Nickey charged in getting caught with a Albright right uppercut to the chin just prior to the end of the round. In the fourth and final round Albright was looking to finish off Nickey landing combinations as Nickey was holding in order to survive for the most part.

Scores were Atkins and Lundy 40-36, Bennett 40-35. This writer 40-36. The referee was Ricky Vera.

Lightweight Jahmal Dyer, 6-1 (4), of Baltimore, MD, stopped southpaw Marcos Lugo, 0-2, of Vineland, NJ, at 1:29 of the fourth and final round.
In the opening round both boxers fought on even terms. With about 15 seconds to go a left hook from Dyer to the chin of Lugo dropped him. He beat the count of referee Ricky Vera and got through the round seconds later. In the second round both fighters let it all hang out until a right from Dyer on the chin drove Lugo against the ropes. Lugo came back but Dyer was landing lead rights against the southpaw Lugo.

In the third round Lugo came out firing knowing with the knockdown in the first he’s behind. Considering the vast differences in their records Lugo fights on even terms for the most part. Dyer landed a solid left hook to the chin of Lugo who came right back with a right hook to the chin of Dyer of his own. In the fourth and final round a lead right from Dyer on the chin of Lugo dropped him when his gloves touched the canvas. Referee Vera gave him the 8 count. Shortly seconds later the towel from the corner of Lugo came flying in the ring as referee Vera got between the boxers grabbing Lugo stopping the bout.

Super Bantamweight Ry’Shine “Freak Boy” Collins, 1-0 (1), of Philly, destroyed Lucky Holt, 0-3 (0), of Hannibal, MO, at 0:51 of the first round of a scheduled 4.

In the opening round Collins landed a solid left hook to the chin of Holt. Collins swarmed all over the much smaller Holt dropping him with referee Harvey Dock immediately waving it off.

Welterweight Steve “Illest” Moore, 1-5 (1), of Orange, NJ, lost a hard fought bout to southpaw Kashon “Left Handed Bandit” Hutchinson, 4-5 (1), of Reading, PA, over 4 rounds.

In the opening round Hutchinson drove Moore into a corner. By middle of the round Hutchinson had Moore grabbing. Hutchinson was out landing Moore. In the second round both boxers were working hard with Hutchinson the southpaw again edging Moore.

In the third round Moore had Hutchinson against the ropes until the latter spun out. Moore landed a solid left hook to the chin of Hutchinson who is boxing with his hands to his side. In the fourth and final round Hutchinson had Moore hurt from a left to the chin. Moore was coming forward with the fight up for grabs but walking into punches from Hutchinson. It was an action bout.

Scores were Atkins 39-37, Lundy 40-36 and Bennett 39-37 as did this writer. Earl Brown was the referee.

Philadelphia Welterweight Greg “Lil Greg” Jackson, was awarded the WBF belt when his opponent was a no show. Rising Star Promotions will be returning to the Showboat on November 3rd. All in all it was a crowd pleasing event.

Posted on 09/07/2018

By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions, Debra Lamanna, matchmaker Cesar Gonzalez, keeps New Jersey boxing alive with a 12 bout card at the Showboat Hotel & Casino, in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday night.

With the vacant USA New Jersey State Super Middleweight Title at stake Atlantic City’s Antowyan Aikens, 13-4-1 (1), meets Egg Harbor’s Decarlo “3mendo” Perez, 16-6-1 (5).

Aikens won his first 10 fights and his last 2 fights and is looking to take his first title. It’s been over 4 years since he has fought in his hometown of Atlantic City. He is 6-0 there and looks forward to add another win to that record. He had this to say about his upcoming bout with Decarlo Perez:

I had a 10-week camp, and it was great. I am prepared for a good fight on Saturday. Perez is tough, and I know he is going to bring his “A” Game. He is going to come in shape. But I know what I have, and how I prepared, so there is nothing to worry about. This is one of those fights that is for bragging rights. It is for the State Championship. It is one of those fights that I never expected to happen, but it is here, so I am going to make the best of it. I am prepared to go to war. I will use my boxing ability. That is who I am, but if I have to go to war, then I will.

Perez has defeated Shamone Alvarez, 21-5, who was top dog in Atlantic City at one time. He stopped Philly’s Tyrone Brunson, 22-2-1, who is in the 16 boxer tournament that is coming up. In his last win he defeated Lenell Bellows, 16-1-1, in Las Vegas while Bellows stopped Aikens. Perez had this to say about his upcoming bout with Aikens:

Camp was tremendous. I had a fantastic camp. It was a lot of hurt, but it was worth it with all the road work and great sparring. It was tough, but it was my best camp. Aikens is somebody else that is in the way of something that I want.

He has to go. I know he is the one who wanted this fight, but that is his business. There is not much I can say about that. To me, he wants to prove that he is the best in the area. He had to fight someone who is one of the best. I top my hat to him, because he acknowledged me as one of the best. It is going to be an interesting and action packed fight. We are both coming to fight to see who is the best in the area.

In the 8 round co-feature, Greg “Lil Greg” Jackson, 8-7-1 (2), of Philly battles Julius Dyis, 9-1 (4), of Clarksdale, MS, for the WBF Welterweight title. In a 6 round battle of New Jersey junior welterweights, John Bauza, 10-0 (5), of North Bergen takes on Rashad Bogar, 4-7-1 (2), of Newark.

There are 9 undercard bouts in addition that are scheduled 4’s.

Lightweight Isaiah Hart, of Atlantic City makes his debut against Dillan Kasprzak, 0-1 of Philly. Middleweight Ryan Wilczak, 6-0 (3), of Scranton, PA, meets Alberto Delgado, 0-3 of Roanoke, VA.

Light heavy Tahlik Taylor, 3-11-1 (1), of Greensboro, NC, meets Travis Toledo, 1-0 of Baltimore, MD. Middleweight Omar Salem, 3-0, OF Brooklyn, NY, meets Mike Anderson, 0-2 of Philly.

Lightweight Nahir Albright, 3-1 (1), of Philly meets Glenford Nickey, 4-1 (1), of Brooklyn, NY. Lightweight Jahmal Dyer, 5-1 (3), of Baltimore, MD, meets Marcos Lugo, 0-1, of Vineland, NJ.

Bantamweight Ry’Shine Collins, makes his debut meeting Lucky Holt, 0-2, of Hannibal, MO. Welterweight Steve Moore, 1-4 (1), of Orange, NJ, meets Kashon Hutchinson, 3-5 (1), of Reading, PA. 2018 National Golden Gloves Heavyweight champion Roney Hines, 3-0 (3), of Cleveland, OH, meets Kendrick Houston, 1-3 (1), of Concord, NC.

Doors open at 6 and first bout at 7. Showboat is at 801 Boardwalk.

Posted on 08/17/2018

By: Ken Hissner

Top Rank’s matchmaker Brad Goodman and J Russell Peltz of Peltz Boxing will put on a show that headlines with heavyweights Philly’s Bryant “BY BY” Jennings, 23-2 against Russia’s Alexander Dimitrenko, 41-3. The co-feature has another Philly favorite in Jesse “Hollywood” Hart, 24-1 against Mike Gavronski, 24-2-1, of Tacoma, WA, both a pair of ten round bouts with Hart’s NABF super middleweight title on the line.

This will be seen also on ESPN Saturday night. The undercard is also filled with main event talent as former WBA World Super Featherweight champion Berlin’s Jason Sosa, 20-3-4, returns looking for a title fight as he takes on Dominican Reynaldo Blanco, 14-4, out of PR, over 8 rounds. Another Philly favorite is young Christian Carto, 15-0, a fast rising bantamweight who is a real crowd pleaser in an 8 round bout against Mexican Javier Gallo, 25-15-1, of Bueno Park, CA.

Millville’s Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna, 25-2-1, looks to get back into the WBO rankings taking on Matthew “Mayhem” Strode, 25-6, of Greensboro, NC, over 8 rounds. USA Olympian Shakur Stevenson, 7-0, of Newark looks to keep unbeaten in taking on Carlos Ruiz, 16-4, of Distrito Federal, Mexico, over 8 rounds.

Heavyweight Olek Sander, 13-0, from the Ukraine takes on Avery Gibson, 9-6-4, of L.A., over 8 rounds. Hard hitting lightweight from Allentown, PA, Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno looks to make it 9 straight knockouts in taking on Augustine Mauras, 6-4-3, of Lawrence, Mass, over 6 rounds. “Robert Garcia will be in my corner with my dad,” said Adorno.

This writer was able to get comments Wednesday at the Atlantic City PAL starting with Jennings who said “The time has come again for the world to know who I am. I’m expecting him to come out better than he did in his previous fight. I’m expecting him to have the will to win, wanted to establish his name and his legacy.” Dimitrenko said “It is very important for me to be here, to fight live on ESPN with Jennings. I will do anything to win this fight. I am here to win this fight. I prepared myself very well. It’s an honor to fight here in America. Everybody watching will get a great show. Saturday night can’t come soon enough. I am ready to fight.”

Jesse Hart had this to say: I don’t have anything derogatory to say about him (Gavronski). I think he’s alright. The Atlantic City market is one of the best in the world because it is so rich in boxing history. Mike Tyson fought Michael Spinks here. Before the market went to Las Vegas it was all here in Atlantic City. This is boxing roots. This is boxing heritage.” Gavronski had this to say about Hart: “I’m absolutely ecstatic. A lot of hard work has gone into this, but there’s more hard work to do. I need to keep my head into it, and that’s about it.” In being asked about being the underdog he said, “I don’t even worry about that stuff. I’m just going to stick with what I know and do what I do.”

Unbeaten Carto said “I’m worried about this fight. After that I can sit back and relax, and enjoy the rest of the show. We agreed to come in at 120 instead of 118, and we have had a training camp of 8 weeks. I have a new trainer in Billy Briscoe. I’m fighting a guy who has been around. I’m ready for what he brings. I bring a fan-friendly style into the ring. I know I have a ton full of support from family and friends.” His brother and manager Frankie said “we have known Billy for some time and this has been proven to be most beneficial. He has sparred with former world champ Villoria, Philly’s “Scooter” Fulton, Rommuel Cruz and DC’s unbeaten Alex Marin.”

Stevenson had this to say: “I have a lot of family and friends coming. I plan on putting on a fine show. I feel every time I’m in the east coast, I have my best performances. I’m coming off two straight knockouts, and I’m going to get my third in a row on Saturday night.” I feel I’ve waited my whole life to get a world title. That would be a dream come true. I’m ready to move into the top ten and take on anyone who has a belt.”
LaManna had this to say “It feels great fighting in my adopted home town. They could have put someone else on the card. I’’ glad they recognized all the hard work that me as an individual put into my craft, marketing myself, and the fan base I bring to the table. On Saturday night, I’am going to perform in front of everybody . It’s a big platform. It’s pretty cool getting all of this notoriety, and exposure and stuff, but I learned how to not let the hype get to me. I’m focused on what I have to be focused on, and that’s my fight. I hope to get back into the WBO rankings with a win. Tommy Brooks is my new trainer.” Sosa said “I haven’t been this focused in the past two years and look forward to getting back in the ring.”

Posted on 06/06/2018

By: Ken Hissner

“Donald Trump couldn’t make it due to his day job,” said ACB HOF President Ray McCline. It brought quite a bit of laughter at the CLARIDGE a Radissan Hotel Sunday in Atlantic City, NJ.

Master of Ceremony NJB HOF President Henry Hascup and Ring Announcer Nino Del Buono did a fine job introducing the inductees. India Mercer, daughter of WBO Heavyweight champion Ray “Mercilus” Mercer did a great version of the National Anthem. Atlantic City Mayor Frank M. Gilliam Jr. also spoke.

The four “Special Contributors” were Trump, Mark G. Etess (accepting Don Hurley), former IBF President Marian Muhammad and former WBC President Jose Sulaiman (accepting Jill Diamond WBC Honoree). Officials being inducted who were present were judges Joseph Pasquale and Jean Williams.

Media inductees there were photographer Ray Bailey, and writers Bernard Fernandez and David Weinberg. Of the four Operations inductees Diane Fisher-Cristiano was there and had the audience in an uproar of laughter and got a great ovation when being introduced. She has been a long time promoter and was most worthy of her induction.

Fighters being inducted who were there were former Cruiser and Heavyweight champion Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield who accepted his award first. He had another engagement and wanted to get going first but took about 20 minutes in his acceptance speech which was a good one.

Mercer got a great round of applause when he was introduced for his induction. WBA Bantam champ “Joltin” Jeff Chandler, NABF champ Richie Kates and WBA Heavy champ Bruce “Atlantic City Express” Seldon were well received by the audience upon being introduced.

Hector Camacho Jr accepted for his father the late Hector “Macho Man”. Two division world champion Bobby ”Chappie” Czyz got a great ovation from the audience and had the them in stitches. He was followed by Vinny “Pazmanian Devil” Pazienza and they traded humorous jabs back and forth. Paz turned it into an R rated event and it can’t be in print the comments he said. He did say his most satisfying victory other than winning two world titles was stopping Dana Rosenblatt (in their first of two fights with Rosenblatt taking the second one).

In attendance were NJ Boxing Commissioner and IBHOF Referee Larry Hazzard, Sr., former Olympic, Light Heavy and Heavy champion Michael “Spinx Jinx” Spinks, 3-division world champ Iran “The Blade” Barkley, WBO Light Welter DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley, champ Legendary matchmaker Don Elbaum, Referee Alan Huggins, Olympic and WBA World Welter champ Mark Breland, NJ and PA inductee cut-man Joey Eye, trainer Aaron Snowell, judge George Hill, writers Danny Serratelli of Brick City Boxing, Frank Bartolini of Boxing News, Joe Santoliquito of Ring Magazine and this writer.

Posted on 06/04/2018

By: Ken Hissner

Real Deal Sports & Entertainment along with Mis Downing with matchmaker Kevin O’Sullivan presented a ten bout card Saturday night at the Boardwalk Hall, in Atlantic City, NJ, over USA CBS Sports Network.

In the Main Event Liberian Featherweight southpaw Toka Kahy Clary, 25-1 (17), of Providence, RI, defeated Emmanuel “Venanzo” Dominguez, 22-7-2 (14), of Agumscalientes, MEX, 10 rounds for the WBA-NABA Featherweight title.

In the opening round the taller Dominguez edged out the heavy favorite Clary. It would seem to be the last round that he would win. Though the aggressor, Dominguez was met with right crosses from the smaller southpaw Clary landing them to take the round. In rounds 3 through 6 Clary had his way staying one step ahead of Dominguez.

In the seventh through the tenth and final round Dominguez made a fight of it but seemingly never quite doing enough to take a round.

Judges scores were 98-92 twice and 97-93 with this writer having it 99-91. Benjy Esteves, Jr. did his usual good job as the referee.

In the co-feature of the evening this bout filled in for 3 scheduled bouts that fell through.
Russian Cruiserweight Alexey Egorov, 5-0 (4), of Obninsk, RUS, destroyed Luther Smith having him down twice and halfway through the ropes causing Referee David Fields to stop the onslaught in the first round.

Welterweight Greg Outlaw, 5-0 (2), of Bowie, MD, brought many fans with him from home as he stopped Dan Murray, 3-2 (0), of Lanoka Harbor, NJ, at 1:47 of the second round in a scheduled 6.

In the second round referee Ron Bashir had seen enough after the first knockdown. By the second one he wisely waved it off.

The long awaited professional debut of Super Bantamweight Sacred Downing, 1-0 (0), of Trenton, NJ, finally took place. There wasn’t a lot of action but Downing dominated for 3 rounds. In the fourth round a nasty cut above the left eye of Hart’s stopped it in a scheduled 4. Downing was an Olympian who had won many titles and is now a pastor. All 3 judges and this writer had it 40-36.

Welterweight southpaw Poindexter Knight, 5-0 (2), of Philadelphia, PA, defeated a game Jean Carlos Sepulveda, 0-1-1, over 6 rounds.

Judges scores were 40-36 twice and 39-37 as did this writer score it. Ron Bashir was the referee.
Super Lightweight Daiyann Butt, 1-0 (0), of Haverford, PA, won an easy 4 round decision over Samuel Forjoe, 0-3, of Ghana and Bronx, NY.

Forjoe seemed content just to go the distance. The much taller Butt used an effective jab and hit him with everything but the kitchen sink. One had to wonder about his lack of punching power. The Referee was Sparkle Lee.

Bantamweight Alejandro Jimenez, 2-0 (0), of New Hope, PA, won a hard fought decision over Dallas Holden, 1-3 (0), of Atlantic City, NJ, over 4 rounds.

Judges had it 39-35 twice and 40-34 as did this writer. Ron Bashir was the Referee.

There were many boxers there with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame inductions being on Sunday. The press sat so far back they had to send in pigeons since we couldn’t hear the scores.

Posted on 05/31/2018

By: Ken Hissner

There will be 21 inductees Sunday going into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame at the Claridge Hotel & Casino. It was quite an event in 2017 and it looks like it will be another good night.

In the Boxers category there will be WBU Super Cruiserweight, WBA Cruiserweight and IBF World Light Heavyweight Champion Bobby Czyz, WBA Heavyweight Champion Bruce “The Atlantic City Express” Seldon, WBA, WBC & IBF Cruiserweight and Heavyweight Champion Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, WBC Super Featherweight, WBC Lightweight and WBO Light Welterweight Champion Hector “Macho” Camacho, WBA Bantamweight Champion “Joltin” Jeff Chandler, IBF Lightweight and WBA Light Middleweight Champion Vinny “Pazmanian Devil” Pazienza, WBO Heavyweight Champion Ray “Merciless” Mercer and NABF Champion Richie Kates.

In the Trainers and Cut Man category will be trainers Carmen Graziano, George Benton and cut man Ralph Citro. In the Operation category will be promoters Bob Arum, Dan Duva, Diane Fischer-Cristiano, and Ring Announcer Ed Darian.
In the Officials category will be Judges Jean Williams and Joe Pasquale. Also, Former Heavyweight Champion and NJ Boxing Commissioner “Jersey” Joe Walcott. In the Media category will be writers Bernard Fernandez and David Weinberg. Also, photographer Ray Bailey.

There will be numerous guests including Hector Camacho, Jr., Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the WBC, Michael Spinks, Larry Holmes, Riddick Bowe, Mark Breland, Marlon Starling, Iran Barkley, DeMarcus Corley, John Scully, Larry Hazzard, Sr., Steve Smoger, Dave Bontempo, Freddie Roach, Aaron Snowell, Plaxico Burruss, Eddie Alvarez, Clinton Portis, Jill Diamond and Mayor Frank M. Gilliam, Jr.

Posted on 02/25/2018

By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions made their debut at the larger Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City Saturday night. Their President is Debra LaManna and their matchmaker is IBHOF promoter and matchmaker J Russell Peltz.

In the Main Event Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, 25-2-1 (9), of Millville, NJ, defended his WBC FECARBOX Welterweight title for the second time against tough Gabriel “Tito” Bracero, 24-3-1 (5), of Brooklyn, NY, ending in a 10 round split decision draw.

In the first round Bracero got inside the much taller LaManna who used his reach to jab back. In the second round LaManna continued to be the aggressor following Bracero around the ring. The round had little action. In the third round LaManna was warned by Referee Esteves for a low blow. LaMann landed a lead right to the chin of Bracero. Bracero came back with a combination to the head of LaManna. Bracero makes LaManna miss quite a bit though the aggressor.

In the fourth round Bracero lands a short left hook to the chin of LaManna and they clash heads. Bracero counters a jab from LaManna with a combination to the head. LaManna landed his best punch of the fight with a solid lead straight right to the chin of Bracero rocking him. In the fifth round LaManna lands a jab and gets countered with a left hook from Bracero. LaManna’s lands a double jab while Bracero counters with a combination to the body. LaManna lands a hard right to the chin of Bracero. Bracero lands a 3-punch combination. Both fighters go to the body at the bell and have words.

In the sixth round LaManna misses a jab and Bracero gets inside with three body shots. LaManna lands a left hook to the chin of Bracero. Bracero is standing his ground in the middle of the ring. LaManna lands a left to the body and Bracero counters with a left hook of his own to the body. The shorter Bracero lands a pair of snapping jabs to the chin of LaManna and follows up with a pair of body shots.

In the seventh round LaManna lands a double jab. Bracero lands a combination to the body and head of LaManna. Bracero. This continues. In the eighth round LaManna lands a hard right to othe head of Bracero. Bracero counters a LaManna jab with a solid left hook to the chin. LaManna comes back with a right of his own. Bracero rocks LaManna with a left hook to the chin.

In the ninth round Bracero becomes the aggressor landing a left hook to the chin of LaManna. Bracero drives LaManna into the corner with a combination to the head. Bracero drives LaManna into the ropes with a combination to the head. In the tenth and final round LaManna lands a left hook to the chin of Bracero. LaManna counters with a hard right to the chin of Bracero. LaManna lands the final punch a right to the chin of Bracero.

Judge Joe Pasquale had it 98-92 for LaManna, Pierre Benoist 97-93 for Bracero and Lawrence Layton 95-95. This writer had it 98-92 Bracero. Both had words afterwards to ring commentator Paulie Malignaggi about a rematch. Paulie holds a win over Bracero.

Cruiserweight Larry “The Hit Man” Pryor, 10-17 (5), of Washington, DC, lost to Alvin “Iron Magic” Varmall, Jr., 15-0-1 (12), of Catskill, NY, over 6 rounds.

In the first round Varmall in with head down throwing punches to the body of the taller Pryor. In the second round Pryor drives Varmall across the ring. Varmall comes back with body work. A wicked overhand right on the chin dropping Pryor who beat the count of Referee Murdaugh and got through the round. In the third round Varmall came out with uppercuts and wild overhand punches to the head. Pryor landed a lead right to the chin of Varmall. Varmall continues to work the body breaking down Pryor.

In the fourth round Varmall inside landed a pair of left hooks to the head of Pryor. Pryor came back with a solid left hook backing up Varmall. In the fifth round Pryor put Varmall against the ropes with four unanswered punches. Varmall came back with a left hook and right uppercut to the chin of Pryor. Pryor landed a pair of lead rights to the head of Varmall.

In the sixth and final round Varmall went for the knockout but Pryor would have nothing of it taking Varmall the distance.

Judges Layton and Benoist scored it 60-54 and Pasquale 59-55 with this writer having it 60-54.

The eleventh and final bout had southpaw Middleweight Omar Kabary “They Egyptian Magician” Salem, 2-0 (0), of Brooklyn, NY, shut out Leon DeShields, 0-3 (0), of Philadelphia, PA, over 4 rounds.

In the first round it was all Salem until DeShields landed a straight lead right to the chin of Salem. Salem continued throwing all the punches with DeShields in defensive mode. In the second round Salem rocked DeShields with a left to the head. Salem was warned for a low blow by Referee Dali. Salem countered a DeShields right with a left of his own to the chin. In the third round Salem landed a right uppercut to the chin of DeShields was looking to survive. In the fourth and final round DeShields landed a straight right to the chin of and was countered with a right to the chin.

All three judges Pasquale, Layton and Benoist had it 40-36 as did this writer.

Middleweight Robert Terry, 1-0 (0), of Jersey City, NJ, won his debut shutting out Corey Weekley, 0-1 (0), of Philadelphia, PA, over 4 rounds. Referee was Dali.

All three Judges Pasquale, Benoist and Layton had it 40-36 as did this writer.

This one started “after midnight” of a 11 bout fight card with a half hour intermission Middleweight Corey Weekley, 0-1 (0), of Philadelphia, PA, was shut out by Robert Terry, 1-0 (0), of Jersey City, NJ, over 4 rounds.

For two rounds Terry chased and battered Weekley. In the third round

In the first round Terry chased Weekley scoring at will until the ten second warning when Weekly landed his first punch a right to the chin. In the second round and third rounds it was Terry all over Weekley but couldn’t drop him after chasing him down. In the fourth and final round Terry still couldn’t put away Terry winning every round.

Heavyweight Darius Taylor, 0-3 (0), of Wilson, NC, was brought in as a sacrificial lamb for 40 year-old body builder Mike Rashid King, 1-0 (1), of Tucson, AZ, who won in 0:59 of the first round.

In the first round King lands a wild left hook. A right hand from King and Taylor took a knee and quit. Even the winner was disgusted with the set-up opponent.

Junior Lightweight southpaw Andrew “Sweet Pea” Bentley, 3-3 (0), of Jersey City, NJ, was shut out by southpaw Donald “No Love” Smith, 5-0 (3), of Philadelphia, PA, over 4 rounds.

In the first round with a pair of southpaws Smith used an effective jab on Bentley’s chin. Bentley came back with a lead left to the chin of Smith. In the second round Bentley rocked Smith with a lead left to the chin. Smith came back with an overhand left to the chin of Bentley. Smith was warned by Referee Esteves for hitting behind the head in a clinch. In the third round Smith tossed Bentley to the canvas and got a warning from Referee Esteves. Shortly later Smith got another warning from Referee Esteves. Smith landed a good combination to the chin of Bentley. Smith ended the round with a lead left to the chin of Bentley. In the fourth and final round Smith caught Bentley with a left uppercut to the chin. The round was full of clinches on both parts of the boxers.

Judge’s Pasquale, Layton and Benoist had it 40-36 as did this writer.

Light Heavyweight southpaw Frederic “The Soul” Julan, of Paris, FR and Brooklyn, NY, 9-0 (7), won a lopsided stoppage over Edgar “The Boxing Swag” Perez, 7-24 (3), of Erie, PA, at the end of the third.

In the first round Julan landed punch after punch to the obvious out of shape Perez. In the second round Perez kept his hands held high leaving his mid-section wide open as Julan had target practice to the body. In the third round it was more of the same. This was a mismatch before the fight started Down went Perez from a left to the body followed by a right to the head. In the third round Perez had a bloody nose from a fight that should have been stopped by Referee Murdaugh. The corner of Perez finally wouldn’t let him out for the fourth round.

Junior Welterweight Laquan “Lightning” Lewis, 2-9 (2), of Brooklyn, NY, was stopped at 0:33 of the fourth and final round by Osnel “Prince” Charles, 12-18-1 (1), of Atlantic City, NJ.

In the first round Charles was chasing but was caught several times with punches from Lewis. In the second round Charles landed an overhand right to the chin of Lewis dropping him. Referee Dali administered the 8 count. Lewis got up and went after Charles. Charles landed a combination hurting Lewis. Lewis came back to land a right dropping Charles. In the third round Lewis landed a low blow giving Charles a minute to re-coop. Charles landed an overhand lead right to the chin of Lewis. In the fourth and final round Charles went on the attack having Lewis out on his feet when Referee Dali called a halt.

Welterweight southpaw Tommy “The Razor” Rainone, 26-8-3 (6), of Farmingdale, NY, was held to a disputed draw with Eduardo “El Cheito” Flores, 23-29-4 (14), over 8 rounds.

In the first round Flores was the aggressor but was being countered by a Rainone jab and an occasional left uppercut. In the second round referee Dali warned Flores for dirty tactics but he continued it. In the third round Rainone landed a solid lead left to the chin of Flores as he came rushing in. Flores continued hitting Rainone in the back with another warning from referee Dali. In the fourth round Rainone rocked Flores with a solid left to the chin. Flores kept missing for the most part when he wasn’t fouling.

In the fifth round Rainone landed several lead uppercuts as Flores was quite frustrated not able to land anything solid. In the sixth round Rainone moves away picking Flores apart with his jab. Rainone landed a triple jab to the chin of Flores who keeps talking and catching lead lefts to the chin by Rainone. In the seventh round Rainone continues using his feet to stay out of danger while Flores is hitting “air!” Referee Dali gives him yet another warning without taking a point away. In the eighth and final round Referee Dali warns Flores for hitting behind the head for the umpteenth time. In the final minute of the fight Flores and Rainone exchange punches as Flores continues to make a fool of himself.

Judge Pasquale somehow gave it to Flores 78-74 while Layton had it 77-75 for Rainone while Benoist scored it 76-76. This writer had it 80-72 Rainone. “I thought I won the first 6 rounds and gave away the last two,” said Rainone.

Welterweight Steve Moore, 0-3 (0), of Orange, NJ, lost to southpaw Ernesto “Tito” Perez, 1-0 (0), of Vineland, NJ, over 4 rounds.

In the first round there was little to choose from but Perez forced the action. In the second round it was more of the same until Perez rocked Moore in the final minute with an overhand left to the chin. In the third round both fighters mixed it up well with little to choose from who won the round. In the fourth and final round Perez was nailing Moore with lead overhand rights for the most part of the round though Moore was otherwise having his best round but not good enough.

Judge’s Pasquale and Layton had it 39-37 while Benoist had it 40-36 as did this writer.

Welterweight Jahmal Dyer, 4-1- (2), of Baltimore, MD, was stopped by Venderley Miranda, 1-3 (0) Marselle, FR, at 2:14 of the fourth and final round. Benjey Esteves, Jr. was the referee.

Posted on 02/20/2018

Boxing in Atlantic City has been prevalent for more than 45 years. One man who has been in the center of a lot of the action on the boardwalk has been International Boxing and Atlantic City Boxing Hall-of-Fame promoter and matchmaker J Russell Peltz.

The Philadelphia legend, who has promoted scores of cards in the shore town, is making matches for the February 24 card at The Showboat Hotel that will feature Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna vs. Gabriel “Tito” Bracero in a 10-round battle for the WBC Fecarbox Welterweight championship.

“I did my first fight in 1973,” said Peltz, who has run shows in just about every property in Atlantic City.

It is only fitting that Peltz is the matchmaker with promoter Rising Star Promotions in the South Jersey based promotional outfit’s effort to bring Atlantic City back to prominence as the the premier fight destination on the East Coast.

Peltz is hoping LaManna-Bracero is added to the memorable bouts that Peltz has been involved in Atlantic City:

1. August 31, 1981 at The Sands Hotel–Frank Fletcher vs Ernie Singletary.(PRISM)

“The fight was televised by local cable channel PRISM (Jim Barniak and Bob Wright, both deceased, did the commentary) and it was for Fletcher’s USBA middleweight title.

“This was the most brutal fight I ever saw, even more brutal than Matthew Saad Muhammad-Marvin Johnson I. This was a closet classic since few saw it on PRISM. The fight was toe-to-toe for seven rounds, no knockdowns, until ringside doctor stopped it between the seventh and eighth round. They coukd have fought this one in a phone booth.

“Singletary was taken to hospital after fight.

“Later, when we couldn’t find Fletcher, we broke into his hotel room, and he was out cold on the floor. We couldn’t get an ambulance so we (Marty Feldman and I) put him in the back of a police wagon and rode with him to the hospital where the doctor told us if we hadn’t found him he would have been dead.

“Singletary kept saying in the pre-fight buildup that no 12-2 TV fighter was gonna beat him. This was a reference to Fletcher getting into the first ESPN tournament and winning while Singletary had been plying his trade for years (24-2 then) and never got that kind of exposure, just on PRISM. Actually, Fletcher already had been on NBC once, beating Norberto Sabater.”

2. September 9, 1980 from Resorts–Mike Rossman vs. Al Bolden (PRISM)

“Ex-WBA light-heavyweight Rossman was getting beat up every round for 8 1/2 rounds against Al Bolden, of Pittsburgh, PA, and finally found a little light late in round 9 and came on to knock Bolden out at 2:32 of the 10th round and salvage the win. Bolden took the second knockdown in the 10th on his knees.”

3. March 13, 1983 from Resorts–Jeff Chandler – Gaby Canizalez (ABC)

“Jeff Chandler, in the most brilliant performance of his Hall-of-Fame career out-boxed, out-punched and out-muscled future champion Gaby Canizales, of Texas, over 15 rounds to defend his WBA bantamweight title for the seventh time by unanimous decision. No one thought he could stand up under Canizales’ body attack but it was Chandler’s body and head attack that kept Canizales at bay for the entire fight. Just magnificent.”

4. March 2, 1985 from the Sands Hotel–Gary Hinton vs Aaron Pryor (ABC)

“Unknown lefty Gary Hinton gave IBF 140 pound world champ Aaron Pryor all he could handle, but a 14th-round knockdown helped Pryor gain a 15-round split decision with Sylvester Stallone in attendance. He was our partner at the time with Pryor. It was Pryor’s last successful title defense.”

5. November 19, 2011 from Ballys–Garrett Wilson vs. Chuck Mussachio

“Moving from light heavyweight to cruiserweight, Mussachio appeared to have out-boxed Wilson for 11 rounds in their USBA cruiserweight title fight, but Wilson drilled Mussachhio with a monstrous overhand right 41 seconds into the 12th round for the knockout win.”

Besides LaManna vs. Bracero, a terrific undercard has been assembled featuring undefeated fighters: light-heavyweight Frederick Julan (8-0, 6 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY; super middleweight Darren Goodall (5-0, 4 KOs), of New Milford, NJ; middleweight Omar Kabary Salem (1-0), of Brooklyn, NY; super lightweight Jahmal Dyer (4-0, 2 KOs), of Baltimore, MD.

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS: $150, $80 and $55 and can be purchased at: www.risingboxingpromotions.com

Posted on 11/28/2017

Compiled By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of November 21st to November 28th; covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Holyfield and Arum Headline 2018 Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Class

Evander Holyfield and Bob Arum headline the 2018 inductees into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) has announced its 25 member 2018 Induction Class, which also includes President Donald J. Trump. This epic event will take place at The Claridge, a Radisson Hotel located at Park Place & Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey on June 1 – 3, 2018.

Atlantic City, New Jersey Mayor-Elect Frank M. Gilliam Jr. commented, “The future of boxing in Atlantic City is brighter than ever. Being the newly elected Mayor of the City of Atlantic City, New Jersey it gives me great honor to be a part of bringing the 2nd Annual Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend back to our Great City. I believe boxing and Atlantic City has always been a natural fit and we see it returning to its glory days, and under my administration, we plan on welcoming it back wholeheartedly: Congratulations to the ACBHOF “2018” Inductees!”

The Claridge Hotel serves as the signature Corporate Sponsor for this knockout weekend, “The Claridge is proud to be in partnership with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and to continue to promote professional boxing’s exceptional history in Atlantic City,” says Cem Erenler, Vice President/ Operations & Business Development for TMJ Properties, the owner and developer of The Claridge. The iconic hotel, which is now part of the global Radisson brand first opened in 1930. “Hosting this signature event is in the best traditions of The Claridge, which for more than 80 years has been Atlantic City’s center for exciting events in sports and entertainment,” Mr. Erenler said.

Evander Holyfield stated: “I have many great memories fighting in Atlantic City, and I am honored to be inducted into its Hall of Fame.”

The 2nd Annual Induction Ceremony & Celebration Weekend will honor some of the world’s most prominent trailblazers from the sport of boxing: President Donald J. Trump, José Sulaimán, and Bob Arum are just a few names who will be enshrined with the 2018 induction class. Also expected to be in attendance; current and former boxing champions, and VIP Guests for a fun-filled weekend that’s highlighted by a black-tie evening, and the acclaimed, unforgettable Induction Ceremony.

“The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame is here to stay! The epic success of our 2017 Inaugural Induction weekend was pivotal to our brand value in the boxing and business community,” said Rodrick Green Vice President and Business Strategist for ACBHOF. “We are excited about the economic and sports entertainment impact the ACBHOF will continue to have in Atlantic City. Thank you for your support and be reassured that at the 2018 Induction Celebration the bar will be raised even higher.

Over the next several weeks there will be updates on the schedule of events, room packages and expected VIP appearances on the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame and the Claridge Hotel websites and social media platforms.

“We’re excited about the ACBHOF 2018 Induction Class; I believe our nomination committee did an incredible job in selecting a diverse and richly deserving group of individuals. I’m extremely proud of this class because it contains three remarkable women: Diane Fischer-Cristiano, Jean Williams, and Marian Muhammad. The ACBHOF team along with our partners and sponsors are looking forward to June where we will pay homage to our 2018 inductees,” said Ray McCline ACBHOF President and Founder.

Tickets for Groves-Eubank Jr. Sold Out in Seven Minutes
It took seven minutes to sell out the Ali Trophy semi-final bout between WBA Super World Champion George Groves (27-3, 20 KOs) and IBO-Champ Chris Eubank Jr. (26-1,20 KOs) at the Manchester Arena on February 17, 2018.

Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena will be at capacity to witness what promises to be the biggest Super Middleweight night in years.

“This is a sensational start to the semi-finals of the World Boxing Super Series and the quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy,” said Roberto Dalmiglio, Comosa’s CEO.

“I said before we went on sale that the fight between Groves and Eubank Jr. represents the boxing event fans cannot afford to miss, and I am happy to say that I was right.”

Said Kalle Sauerland, Comosa’s Chief Boxing Officer: “This is clearly the fight everyone wanted and I am sure this super-fight will capture not only a nation but a generation of fight fans.”

“The build-up is going to be huge and we can’t wait to go to Manchester for a sold out event between two spectacular rivals and world-class fighters.”

“We will work hard over the coming weeks to release extra tickets to meet the huge demand for this fight.”

The build-up to the all-British grudge match begins today when Groves and Eubank Jr. come face-to-face at a kickoff press conference at 2 pm in London.

ITV will be live streaming the press conference on ITV Box Office, YouTube and Facebook.

The Ali Trophy super middleweight semi-final between George Groves and Chris Eubank Jr. will be live on ITV Box Office on February 17.

Lucas Matthysse and Jorge Linares to Headline HBO Card at Los Angeles Forum

Two of the world’s most exciting fighters, Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse (38-4, 35 KOs) and Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares (43-3, 27 KOs), will kick off the 2018 boxing year with a bang as they compete in separate world championship bouts on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 at the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood, California. This special double main event will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:20 p.m. ET/PT.

The first co-main event will see the 35-year-old Matthysse, an absolutely thunderous puncher out of Chubut, Argentina, facing undefeated Thai superstar Tewa Kiram (38-0. 28 KOs) in a 12-round battle for the vacant WBA Welterweight World Championship.

“I am honored to be able to fight for a world championship in just my second fight at welterweight,” said Matthysse, a former interim world champion at 140 pounds who has defeated the likes of former two-division champion Lamont “Havoc” Peterson, formerWBO Junior Welterweight Champion Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov and former three-division titlist Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto. “I understand I am facing a younger, undefeated opponent, but I am confident that ‘The Machine’ will emerge victorious.”

Since turning pro at the age of 15, Kiram has torn through an astounding 38 opponents, with 28 of them never hearing the final bell. He won the interim PABA Welterweight Championship in just his sixth fight and defended it – and the full PABA Welterweight title – more than 30 times over seven years. This will mark his first fight outside of Thailand.

“I understand not many people know me in the U.S., but they are in for a big surprise on Jan. 27,” Kiram said. “I have never been defeated, and I am fully confident that I will return to Thailand with the WBA Welterweight World Championship around my waist.”

In the second co-main event, Linares, a 32-year-old Venezuelan considered one of the top fighters in the world, will make his second trip to the ‘Fabulous’ Forum in a row to defend his multiple lightweight world championships against the once-defeated Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (31-1-2, 17 KOs).

“I have travelled all over the world to win and defend my titles, and I am looking forward to having my hand raised in victory once again in America,” said Linares, the three-division world champion who holds victories over world champions and contenders such as Anthony “Million Dollar” Crolla, Kevin “Mighty” Mitchell and Gamaliel “El Platano” Diaz. “I know that Gesta has speed and power, but he hasn’t been at this level before, and on Jan. 27, he’ll know what it’s like to face a world champion.”

Gesta, a 30-year-old from the Philippines, has not tasted defeat in six fights, beating quality opponents including Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez and former contender Martin “El Brochas” Honorio. Gesta is getting his second shot at a world championship more than five years after dropping a unanimous decision to Miguel “Titere” Vazquez for the IBF World Lightweight Championship.

“I know firsthand how long it takes to get a shot at a world championship, and I will not allow this opportunity to pass me by,” Gesta said. “I understand Linares is a great fighter, but I know I have the skills, speed, power, and great coaching which will get my hand raised in victory.”

“What a way to kick of 2018 – with two of the top fighters in the sport taking on younger, hungry challengers,” said Oscar De La Hoya, CEO and Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions. “It’s not often you get two main events on one card, but that is what we will have on Jan. 27 at the “Fabulous” Forum. This card will help keep the momentum that boxing established in 2017.”

“This is a very important fight for Argentine boxing, for Lucas Matthysse and for Arano Box,” said Mario Arano of Arano Boxing. “Matthysse is ready to be a world champion, and we are more than sure that his win will make huge waves throughout the entirety of the Republic of Argentina and South America.”

“Thailand has never had a Welterweight World champion before,” said Taweesin Terry Laosuwanwat, Manager and Promoter of Kiram. “We are making history here, and Tewa [Kiram] will do anything to win this fight. Tewa has never lost before, and he will keep his undefeated record against Matthysse.”

The remainder of the undercard and the ticket information for this stacked event will be announced shortly.
Jose Lopez to Take on Avery Sparrow in New Co-Main Event on November 30th ESPN Show
Super featherweight contender José “Wonder Boy” López (18-1-1, 13 KOs) of Carolina, Puerto Rico will now take on Avery Sparrow (8-1, 3 KOs) in the new co-main event of the Nov. 30 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland. The event will also feature the headlining debut of Lamont Roach, Jr. (15-0, 6 KOs) as he defends his WBC Youth Super Featherweight Title against Rey “Flash” Pérez (21-8, 6 KOs) in the 10-round main event. ESPN3 (English) and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) will air the fights live at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. Undercard will stream on ESPN3 at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT. ESPN2 will air the fight at 11 p.m.ET/8 p.m. PT.

López, a 23-year-old contender who is coming off a four-fight win streak, has earned two regional titles since making his debut in Sept. 2011. In 2014, Lopez defeated veteran Leivi Brea to win the Interim WBC Fecarbox Super Bantamweight Title via first-round technical knockout. Two years later, López captured the WBO International Super Featherweight Title by defeating Edgar López Sasso via stunning second-round knockout. López was originally scheduled to fight against Miguel “Miguelito” González, but González was forced to pull out due to an injury suffered in his left arm when sparring.

Sparrow, who is also 23-years-old will took to take advantage of his first co-main event opportunity. The Philadelphian is coming off a four-fight win streak, defeating two undefeated prospects in his last two fights.

Fairfield, California’s Manuel “Tino” Ávila (22-1, 8 KOs) will take on Nick Otieno (31-12, 13 KOs) of Nairobi, Kenya in an eight-round featherweight fight. Ávila will return after his only defeat, which was in a tough battle against Joseph Diaz, Jr. on the Canelo vs. Chávez Jr. undercard in May of this year. The featherweight contender is looking to get back into the 126-pound mix before the year ends.

In the night’s swing bout, George Rincón (2-0) of Dallas, Texas will take on Jihad Wise (3-3, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in a four-round 140-pound clash. Rincón’s brother, Alex Rincón, was originally scheduled to be in the swing bout, but the welterweight prospect who is currently signed to Golden Boy Promotions was forced to pull out and undergo surgery as he has been diagnosed with appendicitis.

Luther Smith (9-1, 8 KOs) of Alexandria, Virginia will open the night of boxing in a four-round bout in the cruiserweight division against an opponent that will be announced shortly.

Roach, Jr. vs. Pérez is a 10-round super featherweight fight for the WBC Youth Super Featherweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy “Never Stop, Never Settle.” ESPN3 (English) and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) will air the fights live from MGM National Harbor at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT. ESPN2 will air the fight at 11 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Roach, Jr. vs Pérez are on sale and are priced at $75 VIP, $75, $55 and $35, not including taxes or fees. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Ticketmaster Contact Center at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will also be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.goldenboytickets.com.

Nico Hernandez Injured, Fight Posptoned

Due to an injury suffered by 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez last week at training camp, this Saturday night’s “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, has been postponed until February 10, at the same venue, Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

The 21-year-old Hernandez was scheduled to headline the event in his hometown against Hungarian flyweight champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight championship.

The promoter plans to keep the card intact, as much as possible, and he is hopeful that Ajtai is available to challenge Hernandez for the IBA Americas title.

“Injuries are an unfortunate part of boxing, but the good news is that Nico will be 100-percent ready to go February 10th,” promoter John Andersen said. “I know that Nico feels that he’s letting everybody down but, at the end of the day, all that really counts is his health. He’s a tough kid who has his entire pro career ahead of him.”

“Over the last six months, Nico has become like family to the Hartman Arena staff,” said Hartman Arena Executive Director, Ben Bolander. “We wish the best for him and hope for a speedy recovery, so we can see him back here in February fighting for the title.”

TIckets to the December 2nd event will still be honored at the February 10 event. If ticket holders, are unable to attend the new event date, full refunds will be offered at the point of purchase. Tickets will remain on sale for the February 10, 2018 event date.

Posted on 11/19/2017

By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions, Winner Take All Promotions and Greg Cohen Promotions brought boxing back to the Claridge Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday night with an 8 bout event.

In the final bout of the night Welterweight Ray Serrano, 24-4 (10), of Philadelphia, won by DQ over Enver Halili, 10-1 (3), of Kosovo and the Bronx, NY, at 1:34 of the eighth and final round for the WBC FECARBOX title.

In the two rounds Serrano took the first with an effective jab and a right cross that knocked out the mouthpiece of Halili who took the second with good body work. In the third a Serrano left hook knocked out the mouthpiece of Halili for a second time. Halili took the round pressing Serrano. In the fourth round Serrano knocked out the Halili mouthpiece for the third time.

In the fifth round Serrano took the round with right hand head shots off of his jab. In the sixth round referee Eric Dali took a point away from Halili when Serrano knocked it out for the fourth time. In the seventh round referee Dali took away a second point for Serrano landed a lead right to the chin knocking out Halili’s mouthpiece for a fifth time. In the eighth and final round a chopping right by Serrano to the chin of Halili knocked out his mouthpiece for a sixth time halting the action by referee Dali DQ’ing Halili. Serrano was ahead on all scorecards by one point when the bout was stopped.

Welterweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, 25-2 (9), of Millville, NJ, dominated every round over a defensive minded Samuel Amoako, 23-17 (17), of Accra, GH, to win the LBF Intercontinental title over 10 rounds.

LaManna controlled each round with an effective jab chasing Amoako for the entire fight hurting him whenever he got him on the ropes which was often. Each round was almost identical to the round before it. Raul “Chino” Rivas was head trainer of LaManna.

All 3 judges Lindsay Page, Ron McNair and Mark Constatino and this writer had it 100-90. Eric Dali was the referee.

Bantamweight Jorge “King” Diaz, 19-5-1 (10), of New Brunswick, NJ, won the WBC Fecarbox title from champion Adam “Mantequilla” Lopez, 16-2-2 (8), of San Antonio, TX, on a disputed 8 round decision.

In the first round there wasn’t much action but Lopez seemed to have an edge with Diaz doing quite a bit of holding. In the second round a Lopez glancing right hand followed by a left hook to the chin of Diaz dropped him. Referee Bashir administered the 8 count.

In the third round Diaz did better coming back from a previous knockdown round but not good enough to win the round. In the fourth round Diaz started out well landing a 3-punch combination on Lopez. Just prior to the end of the round a Lopez left hook to the chin of Diaz almost dropped him but for the ropes.

In the fifth round it was a lot of clinching that referee Bashir had to separate. Lopez had the better of the two but not by much. In the sixth round Diaz forced the action landing a right to the chin of Lopez who countered with a combination to the head of Diaz.

In the seventh round both fighters mixed it well with Diaz showing a mouse under his right eye. Diaz landed a triple left hook to the body of Lopez. It was a close round. In the eighth and final round Diaz landed several right hands to the chin of Lopez. Diaz had his best round of the fight out working Lopez.

All 3 Judge’s had it 76-75 for the Diaz while this writer had it 78-73 for Lopez.

Welterweight Yurik “Don’t Be Sorry Be Careful” Mamedov, 8-0 (3), Russia, France and Brooklyn, NY, defeated southpaw Vincent “Hack Em Jack Em” Floyd, 3-4-1 (2), of Philadelphia, over 6 rounds.

In the first round Mamedov came in head low swarming Floyd who countered with a right hook to the chin while on the ropes. Mamedov continued to push Floyd to the ropes not allowing him much punching room. In the second round Mamedov is using uppercuts with both hands while inside of Floyd. Floyd spun off the ropes and landed several unanswered punches to the head of Mamedov. In the third round Floyd kept this round in the middle of the ring keeping off the ropes countering well.

In the fourth round Mamedov regaining control of the fight pressuring Floyd to the ropes. In the fifth round with Mamedov’s head on the chest of Floyd he gave him no punching room. In the sixth and final round referee Franciosi warned Mamedov to keep his punches up. He continued bullying Floyd to the ropes with his head and forearms. Floyd had little left by the end of the fight but fought the best he could under the conditions.

Judge Weisfeld had it 60-54 while judges McNair and Constatino had it 59-55 as did this writer.

In the opening bout cruiserweight southpaw Frederic Julan, 7-0 (5), of New York, stopped Willis “The Prophet” Lockett, 15-22-6 (5), of Takoma, MD, at the end of the fifth of a six rounder.

In the first round Julan is using a jab followed by a straight left to the head of Lockett. Lockett is on the defense for Julan is to fast a foot and hands. In the second round Julan continued to out box Lockett until halfway thru the round when Lockett landed a left hook to the head of Julan. Julan went back to boxing and landed his straight left until Locket landed an overhand right to the head of Julan.

In the third round a lead left from Julan to the head knocked Lockett back several steps. Julan controlled the round. In the fourth round Julan continued to out work Locket but can’t seem to hurt him.

In the fifth round Julan drove Lockett into the ropes with a flurry of punches. Julan finally went to the body of Lockett with a lead left to the mid-section. Lockett countered Julan with a counter right to the head. Lockett walked right into a short left to the head from Julan but countered with a right to the mid-section of Julan.

Lockett’s corner wouldn’t allow their fighter to come out for the sixth and final round. Referee was Ron Bashir.

Lightweight Sidell Blocker, 1-10-1 (0), of Pleasantville, NJ, lost a decision to Tomas Romain, 5-1 (0), of Brooklyn, NY, over 6 rounds.

In the first round Romain landed a solid combination to the head of Blocker who had been boxing well from the start of the round. Romain ended the round with a solid left hook to the body of Blocker. In the second round Romain landed a good left hook to the head of Blocker who countered with a right to the head of Romain. In the third round Romain used a jab followed by a left hook while Blocker countered with right hands. Romain did good body work in the round.

In the fourth round Romain had a big round scoring well to body and head of Blocker who was on the defense the entire round. In the fifth round Blocker looks tired with Romain working the body well with left hooks. Just prior to the end of the round Blocker landed his best punch of the round, a right to the head of Romain. In the sixth and final round it was all Romain until the final minute when Blocker

Judge’s McNair scored it 59-55, Constatino and Weisfeld had it 60-54 as did this writer. Dave Franciosi was the referee.

Cruiserweight Alvin ”Iron Majik” Varmall, Jr., 14-0-1 (12), of LaPlace, LA, knocked out Nicholas Lavin, 5-7 (4), of Shelton, CT, in the first of a scheduled 6 rounds.

In the first round Varmall charged out of the corner like a raging bull landing punch after punch “Tyson Style” keeping Lavin on the defense until a right uppercut dropped Lavin to his knees for the count of referee Dave Franciosi.

Welterweight southpaw Jonathan “Pretty Jon” Arroyo, 1-0 (0), of NY, NY, came off the canvas in the fourth round but came back to defeat Steve Moore, 0-2 (0), of Orange, NJ, over 4 rounds.

In the first round Arroyo landed several lead left hands to the head of Moore. In the second round a left hand from Arroyo to the head of Moore rocked him. Just prior to the bell Arroyo landed a combination to the head of Moore driving him into the ropes.

In the third round Moore landed a right to the chin of Arroyo driving him back several steps. Arroyo was landing enough punches Moore looked like he was spent. In the fourth and final round Arroyo drove Moore halfway across the ring with a left to the head. A wild right from Moore to the chin of Arroyo made his gloves touched the canvas that referee Bashir ruled a knockdown. Moore became the aggressor for the first time in the fight and was all over Arroyo when the round ended.

Mark Constatino and Ron McNair scored 39-37 while Steve Weisfeld had it 39-36. This writer had it 38-37. The referee was Ronald Bashir.

Posted on 11/16/2017

By: Ken Hissner

Promoters David Schuster of Winner Take All Productions, Devin Haney of Devin Haney Promotions, Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions and Debra LaManna of Rising Star Promotions will be putting on a ten bout card at the Claridge Hotel & Casino, in Atlantic City, NJ, this Saturday.

Millville, NJ, welterweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna is keeping busy at the Claridge having his fourth fight there this Saturday in the Main Event against Ghana’s Samuel Amoako, 23-16 (17), now out of Silver Spring, MD.

The co-feature will have Philadelphia welterweight Ray “Tito” Serrano, 23-4 (10), taking on unbeaten Enver Halili, 10-0 (3), from Kosovo and out of The Bronx, NY, for the WBC FECAR title.

These are two of a ten bout card with lightweight Devin “the Dream” Haney, 18-0 (12), of Las Vegas taking on Nigerian Taiwo Ali, 21-5-1 (16), out of Thailand. Super bantamweight Jorge “King” Diaz, 18-5-1 (10), out of New Brunswick, NJ, for the WBC FECARBOX title.

Super lightweight Russian Yurik Mamedov, 7-0 (3), out of FR and NY, meets Philadelphia’s Vincent Floyd, 3-3-1 (2). Light heavyweight Frederic Julan, 6-0 (4), of NY, meets veteran Willis Lockett, 15-21-6 (5), out of Takoma, MD. Pleasantville, NJ, lightweight Sidell Blocker, 19-1, meets Tomas Romain, 4-1, of Brooklyn, NY.

From Catskill, NY, cruiserweight Alvin “Iron Majik” Varmall, Jr. looks to stay unbeaten against Nicholas Lavin, 5-6 (4), of Shelton, CT. From Lanoka Harbor, NJ, Super welterweight Jeff Lentz, 5-1 (1), meets Darryl Gause, 2-0 (1), of Vineland, NJ. Making his debut will be Johnathan Arroyo, of Brentwood, NJ, against Steve Moore, 0-1, of Orange, NJ.

Doors open at 6pm and first fight scheduled at 7pm.

Posted on 08/17/2017

By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions returns to the Claridge Hotel & Casino, in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday. They will be featuring 12 bouts with Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna of Millville, NJ, against George “El Terrible” Sosa for the WBC Silver Latino welterweight title in the Main Event.

“I’m just ready to fight and I hope he is too. I encourage people to come to this action packed event. 12 events and a title fight,” said Lamanna. His opponent Sosa had this to stay, “I think Lamanna is a boxer who has fought no one of my caliber yet, and like me I have fought everyone.”

Former IBF Cruiserweight champion Imamu “Young Ben” Mayfield, 26-10-2 (19), of Perth Amboy, NJ, takes on upset minded Lamont Capers, 7-10-2 (2), of Hawley, PA. Anthony “Juice” Young, 17-2 (6), of Atlantic City, NJ, takes on southpaw Tracey Johnson, 4-5-4 (0), of Boston, MASS.
Doors open at 6pm and first bout at 7pm

Posted on 08/06/2017

by: Ken Hissner

Mis Downing Promotions in Association with Roy Jones, Jr’s Square Ring Promotions put together a six bout show at the Claridge Hotel & Casino and Radisson Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday night with a nine bout card. Rene Aiken was matchmaker.

Chinese 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist heavyweight southpaw Zhilei Zhang, 17-0 (13), now out of Las Vegas, NV, stopped Nick “2 Gunz” Guivas, 13-8-2 (9), of Topeka, KS, at 2:43 of the first round of a scheduled 10.

In the opening round Zhang used a jab and right hook keeping Guivas on the defense rarely throwing a punch. Zhang dropped Guivas in his own corner with a right hook body shot. Shortly later another Zhang right hook this time to the head and down went Guivas for the second time as referee Shada’ Murdaugh waved it off. Guivas came in for a pay day and Zhang needs to step up the competition.

In the Main Event super middleweight southpaw Derrick “Take It to the Bank” Webster, 24-1 (13), of Glassboro, NJ, stopped Lamar “King of Pain” Harris, 9-14-4 (5), of St. Louis, MO., at 0:28 of the second round.

In the first round Harris came out fast until several Webster jab’s hit him in the face followed by a straight left to the head. A right hook from Webster spun Harris a full 360 degrees. A follow-up combination from Webster dropped Harris who got to his feet as referee Murdaugh gave him the 8 count as the bell sounded ending the round. In the second round a flurry of punches from Webster had Harris out on his feet causing referee Shada’ Murdaugh to call a halt. Webster needs to step up the competition.

In the co-feature cruiserweight “The Boxing” Prince Badi Ajamu, 28-3-1 (15), of Camden, NJ, returned after 8 years, to win a lack luster decision over Puerto Rico’s Edgar Perez, 7-22 (3), of Chicago, IL, over 8 rounds.

In the first round Ajamu used an effective jab to the midsection keeping Perez at bay. It was a feeling out round. In the second round Ajamu landed a 3-punch combination to the body and head of Perez. A jab by Ajamu pushed Perez back several steps. In the third round Ajamuj landed half a dozen punches mostly to the body of Perez putting Perez against the ropes. Ajamuj landed another 3-punch body shot bringing the defense of Perez down. In the fourth round Ajamuj landed half a dozen unanswered punches from Perez. It was nothing more than a sparring match.

In the fifth round Ajamuj landed eight light punches as Perez continued fighting a survival fight. Ajamuj continued to work the flabby body of Perez. Near the end of the round Ajamuj got Perez upset causing the best exchange of the fight. In the sixth round Perez used and effective jab as Ajamuj was in a peek-a-boo defense. In the seventh round they continued to go through the motions. In the eighth and final round of a real snoozer it finally came to an end. Referee Gonzales had little to do with few clinches.

Judges Pasquale and Page had it 80-72 while Barnes scored it 79-73. This writer had it 80-72.

Middleweight Shady Gamhour, 4-0 (3), of Sweden living in Pensacola, FL, knocked out Jessie Singletary, 0-3, of D.C., at 1:43 of the first round.

In the opening round Singletary came out throwing punches while Gamhour was using his jab. Suddenly a lead right hand from Gamhour on the chin of Singletary and down he went for the count from referee Ricky Gonzales. Former world champion Roy Jones, Jr., worked the corner of Gamhour.

Cruiserweight Mike “Super Beast” Hilton, 7-0 (6), of Trenton, NJ, was fortunate to get a decision over Willis “The Prophet” Lockett, 4-12-6 (5), of Takoma Park, MD, in a foul filled 6 rounds.

In the first round Lockett is throwing more punches with little power while Hilton hurts him every time he lands a punch mostly to the body. In the second round Hilton landed a 3-punch combination as Lockett came in low. Hilton got a warning from referee Glover for pushing Lockett’s head down. Lockett outworked Hilton in the round. In the third round a lead overhand right from Lockett landed on the head of Hilton to the crowd’s delight. Both fighters tumbled to the canvas. Lockett continues to outwork Hilton who was too busy loading up and throwing little.

In the fourth round after both fighters missed wild left hooks Lockett landed a lead right to the midsection of Hilton. Lockett continues to outwork Hilton. In the fifth round Hilton was missing with wild punches until he finally landed a right driving Lockett to the ropes. Hilton warned for pushing by referee Glover. Hilton landed a power punch to the body of Lockett hurting him. There was much too much holding in the round. Both fighters looked exhausted. In the sixth and final round Lockett landed a left hook to the head of Hilton. Hilton landed a low left south of the border putting Lockett on the canvas. Referee Glover gave him but 30 seconds to re-coup. Again Hilton landed a low right hand putting Lockett on the canvas for another 10 second rest from the referee Glover who doesn’t understand the fouled fighter can take up to five minutes to re-coup.

Judge’s scores were Barnes 60-54, Pasquale 60-53 and Page 58-56. This writer had it 57-57.

In the opening bout Cruiserweight southpaw Lamont “Lay Em Down” McLaughlin, 0-2 (0), of Philly, was knocked out by Tahlik Taylor, 2-7 (0), of Freeport, NJ, at 0:31 of the first round of a scheduled 4.

In the opening round McLaughlin came at Taylor who countered with a right hand and down went McLaughlin for the count from referee Mary Glover. The crowd loved it as Taylor won his second fight in nine starts.

Mis Downing Promotions will return November 4th.