Tag Archives: lamanna

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 02/23/2018

By: Ken Hissner

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, 25-2 (9), of Millville, NJ, defends his WBC FECARBOX Welterweight title for the second time against tough Gabriel Bracero, 24-3 (5), of Brooklyn, NY, Saturday night at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, promoted by Rising Star Promotions.

LaManna won his first sixteen bouts turning professional in February of 2011. He is 17-0 in Atlantic City and will be looking to add to that. He dropped down a division to welterweight in his last losing fight in September of 2016 for the vacant USBA title to Dusty Hernandez Harrison, 29-0-1, in a hard fought ten rounder in Philadelphia.

LaManna has won all four bouts in 2017 since including winning the WBC FECARBOX title over George “El Terrible” Sosa, 15-9 (15), over ten rounds at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City in August of 2017.

In November he won all ten rounds in defeating Ghana’s Samuel “Bruno” Amoako, 23-16 (17), at the Claridge. He is 6-0 at that Casino before sell- out crowds.
Rising Star Promotions is making their debut at the larger Showboat Hotel. Promoter and President Debra LaManna and IBHOF Matchmaker J Russell Peltz have a twelve bout card scheduled.

LaManna’s opponent Bracero born in Puerto Rico has wins over Danny O’Connor twice (14-0 & 26-2) and retiring Dmitriy “Star of David” Salita, 35-1-1. His losses were to former world champion DeMarcus Corley, unbeaten Olympic Gold Medalist Felix Diaz and three time world title challenger Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi who will be at ringside.

There will be three eight round bouts scheduled featuring Tommy “The Razor” Rainone, of Farmingdale, NY, unbeaten Frederic Julan, of Paris, FR and Brooklyn, NY, along with unbeaten Alvin Varmall, Jr., of Catskill, NY. In addition there are eight four round bouts scheduled for a total of sixty-six rounds. First fight scheduled at 7pm.

Posted on 02/05/2018

By: Ken Hissner

The state of New Jersey had fourteen shows in 2017 and Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna headlined on four of them all in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He will be headlining on February 24^th at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.

LaManna is 25-2 (9), from Millville, NJ, and dropped his weight down to welterweight five fights ago and is 4-1 with all the wins at the Claridge Hotel & Casino. Of his twenty-seven fights he has fought in Atlantic City in sixteen of them. There were seven at the Claridge since 2015, seven at Bally’s, one each at Resorts and Boardwalk.

The 26 year-old LaManna turned professional in November of 2011 and won his first sixteen fights through December of 2014. Most of his fights were promoted by J Russell Peltz of Peltz Boxing out of Philadelphia. Peltz and Brittany Rogers also of Peltz Boxing have now joined Rising Star Promotions and will be doing the matchmaking where the mother of “Cornflake” Debra LaManna is the promoter.

LaManna won the WBC Fecarbox title in August of 2017 easily defeating George Sosa at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City. His previous trainer was Hassan Hameed-El where he learned the fundamentals of boxing. “He’s like a second father to me,” said LaManna.  

LaManna will be taking on Brooklyn’s Gabriel Bracero, 24-3 (5) whose record is almost identical to LaManna’s. It will be LaManna’s second title defense of the WBC Fecarbox welterweight title. In his first defense which was his most recent fight in November he defeated Samuel Amoako, 23-16, of Ghana, winning all ten rounds on the judge’s scorecards. It’s time for LaManna to be world ranked and hopefully it will happen after this upcoming fight. Bracero is a tough opponent from what this writer has seen.  

The two losses for LaManna were to a pair of very good boxers. Antoine Douglas, 16-0-1, stopped LaManna’s sixteen bout winning streak in 2015 for the WBA Fedelatin middleweight title. That’s when he knew it was time to drop down a division or two. The other loss was for the vacant USBA welterweight title losing to Dusty Hernandez Harrison, 29-0-1, in 2016.

 

LaManna was nice enough to answer some questions.

KEN HISSNER: From the first time I saw you fight I could see you knew all the fundamentals of boxing. You had a different trainer then. Who is your trainer now?

THOMAS LA MANNA: “Chino” Rivas.

KEN HISSNER: Do you feel at welterweight you have found the right division?

THOMAS LA MANNA: Yes, definitely. I use my size and height advantage. Nine out of ten times I will be the bigger guy except in the Harrison fight. 

KEN HISSNER: I was pleased to see you brought in J Russell Peltz and Brittany Rogers to do your matchmaking. Who was doing it previously?

THOMAS LA MANNA: I was doing all the matchmaking etc. I was signed with Russell one time. He’s was a great guy and one of the best matchmakers in the business. I wanted to step up and do promoting myself at one time. I brought in Michelle Rosado who is a marketing specialist. Ceasar Gonzalez he is my laison and does all my medical work and working with the commissioin. He was the first guy we brought along as a paid staff member. 

KEN HISSNER: Dusty Hernandez Harrison has not fought since your fight with him. I know there were problems between him and his father who had been working the corner. Did you try to get a rematch with Dusty?

THOMAS LA MANNA: We grew up together in the amateurs. It was for the USBA title and we put our friendship aside and remain friends. We never tried to get a rematch.

KEN HISSNER: What are your goals for 2018? We’re focusing on Bracero.

THOMAS LA MANNA: We’re having a baby girl in May.

KEN HISSNER: You draw quite a crowd at your fights. Is this what decided to go to the Showboat?

THOMAS LA MANNA: I think we were looking for a bigger venue. The Claridge was great for us and I’m not saying we are leaving the Claridge.

KEN HISSNER: I want to thank you for taking the time for this interview. Is there anything you would like to say to your fans?

THOMAS LA MANNA:  My pleasure Ken.

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 08/21/2017

By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions returned once again to the Claridge Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, NJ, with an 11 bout card featuring their headliner Millville, NJ, Welterweight Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna.

In the Main Event welterweight Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna, 24-2 (9), of Millville, NJ, defeated George “El Terrible” Sosa, 15-10 (15), of Reading, PA, for the WBC Silver Latino Welterweight title. He immediately announced his retirement from boxing afterwards with a tear restrained short speech. His parents were in the ring to support him. It was a shock to many I’m sure as it was to this writer.

In the first round Sosa landed half a dozen unanswered punches having Lamanna against the ropes. Lamanna used an effective jab. Sosa landed a left hook to the chin of Lamanna getting his attention. In the second round Sosa continues landing punches without return until Lamanna lands a solid right hand causing swelling under the left eye of Sosa. In the third round a power punching right from Lamanna on the chin rocked Sosa. In the fourth it was a big round for Lamanna and the fifth he drew blood from the nose of Sosa.

In the sixth Lamanna scored a pair of knockdowns starting with a left hook to the body. This was followed by another body shot from a right for the second knockdown. In the seventh through the ninth Sosa fought in spurts looking to go the distance possibly but still dangerous. In the tenth and final round Lamanna he would hurt Sosa once.

Judge’s scores were Pierre Benoit 99-88, Ron McNair 98-90 along with Joe Pasquale and this writer.

“I went to the body and kept my distance and this will be my last fight,” said Lamanna.

In the co-feature former the IBF Cruiserweight champion Imamu Mayfield, 26-10-3 (19), of Perth Amboy, NJ, and Lamont “Too Smooth” Capers, 7-10-3 (0), of Mt. Pocono, PA, ended in a draw.

The first 2 rounds were sloppy on both parts and by the end of the second round Mayfield had swelling under his left eye. In the third and fourth rounds the lack of accuracy continued in an evenly fought bout.

In the fifth round Capers suffered a cut by his left eye. Mayfield used an effective jab. In the sixth round it was Mayfield who suffered a cut by his left eye. Top cut-man Joey Eye closed the cut quite well. In the seventh and eighth rounds the sloppiness went right to the end.

Judge Lawrence Layton 77-75 Mayfield, James Kinney 77-75 Capers and Henry Grant 76-76 as did this writer.

Welterweight Anthony “Juice” Young, 17-2 (6), of Atlantic City, NJ, Carlos Winston Velasquez, 24-29-2 (14), of Managua, NIC,

Russian welterweight Yurik “Don’t Be Sorry Be Careful” Mamedov, 7-0 (3), of NY, won a decision over southpaw Ariel Vasquez, 13-19-2 (9), of NIC, over 6 rounds.

In the first 2 round’s Mamedov kept coming forward outworking Vasquez. In the third round and fourth rounds the body work of Mamedov is hurting Vasquez. In the fifth round a near exhausted Vasquez takes too many punches than comes back to infrequently. In the sixth and final round

Cruiserweight Alvin “Iron Majik” Varmall, Jr, 13-0-1 (12), of Catskill, NY, stopped late sub Lemarcus “The Freight Train” Tucker, 4-3-1 (2), Forrest City, ARK, at 2:18 of the second round.

In the first round out of that “Mike Tyson” style Varmall took it to taller late sub Tucker. Varmall almost put Tucker through the ropes with a left hook but Tucker came right back with a one-two to the head of Varmall. Varmall ended the round with a good combination and having a big lopsided round. In round two it was Tucker driving Varmall into his own corner landing a flurry of unreturned punches. Varmall came right back rocking Tucker with a left hook to the chin. He instantly jumped on Tucker all but knocking him down into the ropes when referee Alan Huggins wisely jumped in to halt the bout.

Super featherweight Vidal “Suave” Rivera, 7-0 (4), of Camden, NJ, defeated Weusi “The Truth” Johnson, 2-5 (0), of Wilmington, DE, over 4 rounds.

In the first 2 rounds it was close on both parts with jabs controlling and Rivera’s a bit better. In the third round Rivera continued to control. In the fourth and final round Rivera tried ending the show but it never came.

All 3 judge’s Layton, Kinney and Grant along with this writer had it 40-36.

Light heavyweight southpaw Frederick Julian, 6-0 (3), from Paris, FR, now out of Brooklyn, NY, stopped Tahlik “Mayhem” Taylor, 2-8 (1), of Freeport, NY, at 1:15 of the sixth round.

In the first round it was Julian the aggressor controlling with his jab. Just prior to the bell Taylor rocked Julian with a lead right to the chin. In the second round Julian controlled the round with his jab and rocking Taylor near the end of the round with a lead left to the chin. In the third round Taylor takes a combination from Julian and comes right back throwing wild punches from his unorthodox style landing but one.

In the fourth round Julian walks down Taylor who looks like he has ran out of gas. Suddenly out of nowhere Taylor landed a 3-punch combination after taking a beating for most of the round. At the end of the round it was Julian rocking Taylor with a combination to the head. In the fifth round Taylor seemed to take the round off as Julian had his way throughout. In the sixth and final round Taylor’s nose was bleeding. A right hook from Julian rocked Taylor causing referee Ronald Bashir to step in and halt the bout.

Bantamweight from Puerto Rico Manny Rodriguez, 2-0 (0), now out of Newark, NJ, won a sloppy decision over Willie Anderson, 0-1 (0), of Paulsboro, NJ, over 4 rounds.

In the first round Anderson rushed out and stopped without throwing a punch. He was outworked punch wise by Rodriguez bug got his punches in. Both looked amateurish style wise. In the second round Anderson’s left eye was almost all red. Rodriguez landed a low punch giving Anderson several minutes to recover from referee Alan Huggins. Anderson came back well to fight even the rest of the round. In the third round the there were as many misses as hits. In the fourth and final round Anderson looked exhausted and Rodriguez couldn’t take advantage of it like he could have but landing enough to take the round. It wasn’t pretty.

All 3 judges Layton, Kinney and Grant had it 40-36 as did this writer.

Lightweight Joshafat Ortiz, 2-0 (1), of Reading, PA, won a lopsided decision over Sidell Blocker, 1-9-1 (0), of Pleasantville, NJ, over 4 rounds.

Lightweight Tomas Romain, 4-1 (0), of Brooklyn, NY, won a majority decision over southpaw Marcos Israel Lugo, 0-1 (0), of Vineland, NJ, over 4 rounds in an all action bout.

In a good opening round both boxers mixed it up well. Lugo was the aggressor and Romain the counter puncher. In the second round both continued mixing it up with Romain the aggressor. Lugo landed a right hook at the timekeepers 10 second warning that knocked Romain several steps to his right. Just prior to the bell Lugo rocked Romain with a straight left to the chin. In between rounds the ring physician came into check Romain.

In the third round the action continued with Romain landing a double left hook to the body and head of Lugo. Midway in the round a Romain left hook rocked Lugo. At the 10 second warning Romain again rocked Lugo with a lead right to the chin. In the fourth and final round both boxers landed well in an exchange. Romain is doing the chasing with Lugo warned for holding twice. Romain flurried with half a dozen unanswered punches on Lugo. Just prior to the bell Romain landed a lead right to the chin of Lugo who countered with a counter left to the chin.

Judge’s Lawrence Layton 39-37, Harold Grant 40-36 and James Kinney 38-38 as did this writer score it.

In the opening bout light welterweight Ronald “Lugar” Logan, 0-2 (0), of NY, NY, was knocked out by Nahir Albright, 2-1 (1), of Philadelphia now a resident of Sicklersville, NJ, at 1:17 of the first round. Then Albright sang the National Anthem.

In the opening round both boxers were feeling each other out when a left hook from Albright put Logan on his back for the full count of referee Ronald Bashir.

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 06/11/2017

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna & Anthony “Juice Money” Young Win at the Claridge in AC!
By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions returned to the Claridge a Radisson Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday night. Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna and Anthony “Juice Money” Young won in a pair of exciting 8 rounders.

In the main event welterweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, 23-2 (9), 149.5, Millville, NJ, scored a shut out over durable southpaw Carlos Winston Velasquez, 24-29-2 (15), 149, Managua, NIC, over 8 rounds.

In the first round LaManna boxed well and slipped punches from Velasquez well. In the second round it was more of the same though Velasquez did land some punches. In the third round an over hand right by LaManna rocked Velasquez. A punch from LaManna south of the border got Velasquez angry and he drove LaManna into the ropes. In the fourth round a lead right from LaManna to the chin of Velasquez hurt him.

In the fifth round it was all LaManna hurting Velasquez to the body with left hooks to the body and straight rights to the head of Velasquez. In the sixth round a solid right to the chin from LaManna hurt Velaszuez. In the seventh round LaManna controlled from bell to bell. In the eighth and final round it was all LaManna who dropped Velasquez at the 10 second warning from the timekeeper. Referee David Fields administered the 8 count and time ran out.

All 3 judges Joe Pasquale, Kason Cheeks and Lawrence Layton scored it 80-71 as did this writer. “I want a name fighter in August like Cintron, Judah or Hernandez-Harrison,” said LaManna.

In the co-feature welterweight Anthony “Juice Money” Young, 17-2 (6), 149, Pleasantville, NJ, won an exciting battle over Cuban George “El Te ribble” Sosa, 15-9 (15), 148, Reading, PA, in 8 rounds.

In the first round Young impressed with punches from various angles, and slipped every one of them coming from Sosa. A lead right by Young to the chin of Sosa had him holding on. In the third round Sosa landed a 3-punch combination. Young came back working the body and head of Sosa. In the fourth round they exchanged right hands to the chin. The action heated up in this round.

In the fifth round a left hook to the body by Young hurt Sosa. In the sixth round Young landed a 3-punch combination driving Sosa into a neutral corner. It was a wild round of both fighters rocking one another. In the seventh round a left uppercut to the chin of Sosa by Young knocked his head back. Another action packed round. In the eighth and final round Young twice hurt Sosa first to the body and then to the head. Sosa came back battling to the end.

Judges Pasquale and Cheeks 80-72 and Layton 80-71 with this writer 78-72. “I only had two weeks to train,” said Sosa. “I hurt him to the body and thought I would stop him,” said Young.

Atlantic City super middleweight southpaw Gabriel “Gabby” Pham, 9-1 (4), Pleasantville, NJ, 171, won a lack luster decision over Edgar Perez, 7-21 (3), 172, PR out of Chicago, IL, over 6 rounds.

In the opening round the taller Pham controlled with his jab. In the second round Pham opened up a bit more. In the third and fourth rounds there was little action. In the fifth it wasn’t until seconds prior to the bell the taller Pham landed a flurry of punches. In the sixth and final round Pham landed a good combination to the head of Perez.

All 3 Judge’s had it 60-54 along with the writer. Fields was the ref.

Middleweight Chris “Sandman” Thomas, 6-0-1 (3), 157, Toms River, NJ, and Oscar “The Machine” Valdez, 1-2-1 (1), 158, Batesville, AR, fought to a majority draw over 4 rounds.

In the first two rounds it was full of action with Thomas outworking Valdez. In the third round there was plenty of action with Thomas getting the better of it. In the fourth and final round Valdez landed a flurry of punches putting Thomas into the ropes. It was too little too late for Valdez.

Judges Pasquale and Cheeks had it 38-38 while Layton 39-37 for
Thomas as did this writer. Ric Vera was the ref.

Light heavyweight southpaw Frederick Julian, 5-0 (3), Cambault, FR, now out of Brooklyn, 172, stopped Jose Valderrama, 5-20 (3), 169, Manati, PR, at 1:17 of the sixth and final round.

In rounds one and two it was all Julian with jab and straight lefts to body of Valderrama. In round three Julian landed a pair of lead lefts to the head of Valderrama. In the fourth and fifth rounds Julian continues to press the action with straight left followed by jab to the head of Valderrama. In the sixth and final round Julian scored a pair of knockdowns with left uppercuts to the midsection of Valderrama causing referee Bashir to call a halt.

Lightweight Tomas Romain, 3-1 (0), Paris, FR, out of Brooklyn, 133.5, won over southpaw Lamont “Strongman” White, 1-8 (1), D.C., 137.5, over 4 rounds.

In the first round Romain landed a combination to the head of White controlling the round. In round two White continued to come forward but was getting countered by Romain. In the middle of the round both fighters exchanged combinations. In the third round Romain led with a pair of rights to the midsection of White. At the bell White landed a good left uppercut to the chin of Romain. In the fourth and final round it was the best of the fight with both letting it all hang out while White landed a solid left to the chin of Romain.

Judge Cheeks had it 39-37 while Pasquale and Layton 40-36 along with this writer. Bashir was the referee.

Super featherweight Donald “No Love” Smith, 5-0 (3), Philly, 127.5, defeated Sidell Blocker, 1-8-1 (0), Pleasantville, NJ, 129,

In the first round it was all Smith landing solid punches to the chin of Blocker. In the second round Smith landed several lead lefts to the chin of Blocker. A lead left from Smith on the chin of Blocker rocked him. In the third round Smith is countering well against the aggressive Blocker. In the fourth and final round a low blow by Blocker put Smith down. He took 5 minutes to recoup from Referee Vera. Smith landed a solid left uppercut to the chin of Blocker to end the round.

All 3 Judges had it 40-36 as did this writer.

Super welterweight Elijah “Vicious” Vines, 4-0 (4), Philly, 153, stopped Tyrone “Shoe Laces” Paige, 0-5 (0), Batesville, AR, 156, at 1:43 of the third round.

In the first round switching from orthodox to southpaw Vines dropped Paige with a right hook to the chin. In the second round a lead right by Vines to the head of Paige stunned him. In the third round a left hook by Vines to the chin of Paige drove him across the ring. A left hook by Vines to the nose drew blood and dropped Paige. Referee Bashir saw enough and waved it off.

In the corner of Vines were Rev. Thompson and Danny Davis. Vines is managed by Doc Nowicki.

In the opening bout a rematch southpaw Dan Pasciolla, 9-2-3 (0), 247, Brick, NJ, and Lemarcus “Freight Train” Tucker, 4-2-1 (2), 219, Batesville, AR, fought to a 6 round majority draw.

In the first round a right to the head by Tucker brought blood from the nose of Pasciolla. In rounds two and three Pasciolla used an effective jab with a counter left to the head of Tucker. In the fourth and fifth rounds Pasciolla took the fourth and Tucker the fifth. In the sixth and final round a Pasciolla left uppercut knocked the head of Tucker back. Pasciolla suffered a small cut on the outside of his left eye brow.

Judges Cheeks and Layton had it 57-57 while Pasquale 58-56 Pasciolla as did this writer. Fields was the ref.

Posted on 06/09/2017

Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna Returns to the Claridge in AC Saturday!
By: Ken Hissner

Rising Star Promotions returns to the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, Saturday night with a 9 bout boxing event. Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna will be in the main event with Anthony “Juice” Young from Atlantic City in the co-feature.

Welterweight Lamanna, 22-2 (9), faces Mexican southpaw Carlos Winston Velasquez, 24-28-2 (14), now out of Union City, NJ, over 8 rounds. “I am looking forward to a great fight on Saturday. I am not taking a 54 fight veteral like Velasquez lightly,” said Lamanna. In the co-feature there will also be Atlantic City’s welterweight Anthony “Juice” Young, 16-2 (6), against George “El terrible” Sosa, 15-8 (15), out of NJ, over 8 rounds.

There will be 7 other bouts featuring Atlantic City’s super middleweight Gabriel “GPHAM” Pham, 8-1 (4), heavyweight southpaw Dan Pasciolla, 9-2-2 (0), of Brick, NJ, super middleweight Chris “Sandman” Thomas, 6-0 (3), of Beachwood, NJ. From New York will be light heavyweight Frederick Julian, 4-0 (2), of NY, all in 6 round bouts and lightweight Tomas Romain, 2-1 (0), of Brooklyn in a 4.

From Philadelphia will be super featherweight Donald “No Love” Smith, 4-0 (3), and super welterweight Elijah Vines, 3-0 (3), in 4 round bout’s. First bout will be at 7pm.

Posted on 01/17/2017

Boxing Insider Notebook: Conlan, Canelo, Chavez, Briggs, LaManna, and more…
Compiled By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of January 10th to January 17th comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Ireland’s Conlan to Announce 3/17 Pro Debut

Ireland’s Michael Conlan, recently signed by Top Rank Promotions, will hold a press conference to announce that he will be making his pro debut on St. Patrick’s Day at the “O’Mecca of Boxing” at the Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Conlan represented Ireland in the 2016 Summer Olympics and the press conference will be held on Wednesday, January 18th at the Madison Square Garden Chase Square. It will be streamed live on youtube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUMA2SdFlzA.

Cinco De Mayo Weekend Showdown Announced Between Canelo and Chavez Jr.

In a historic showdown that will rival the biggest fights in the history of Mexico’s proud boxing lineage, two-division world champion and Pay-Per-View star Canelo Álvarez (48-1-1, 34 KOs) will take on former WBC World Middleweight Champion Julio César Chávez, Jr. (50-2-1, 32 KOs) on Cinco de Mayo weekend, Saturday, May 6 in a 12-round battle to be contested at a maximum 164.5 pounds. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®.

Details regarding venue and an international press tour will be announced soon.

“I’m excited to announce my fight against Julio César Chávez, Jr. and confirm that I will be prepared, like I’ve been throughout my career, to give a great fight,” said two-division World Champion Canelo Álvarez. “I want to remind you that when two Mexican fighters face-off, a spectacular show is guaranteed, and I can assure you that May 6 will be no exception especially during the Cinco de Mayo festivities.”

“Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day in September are important dates for us Mexicans, and I’m expecting a great night for boxing and the whole world,” Canelo continued. “Don’t miss this special event live on HBO Pay-Per-View®. We’ll soon be announcing where the fight will be held.”
“I dedicate this fight to Mexico,” said Julio César Chávez, Jr. “I’m going to win, but my country will too because this is the fight that boxing needs.”

Álvarez was last seen in the ring Sept. 17, 2016, knocking out the previously undefeated WBO junior middleweight champion Liam Smith in front of more than 51,000 fans in Dallas, Texas. Chávez was last in action Dec. 10, 2016, when he secured a unanimous decision victory over highly regarded German fighter Dominik Britsch in Monterrey, Mexico.

“Boxing has been searching for a fight to draw the casual fan back to our sport, and Canelo versus Chávez, Jr. is just that fight,” said Oscar De La Hoya, CEO and Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions. “Canelo, the biggest star boxing, will take on not only a former world champion in Julio César Chávez, Jr., but the son of the biggest star in the history of boxing in Mexico. Add in 98 victories and 66 knockouts between these two superstars along with a Cinco de Mayo fight date, and you have a can’t-miss battle.”

“Canelo vs. Julio César Chávez, Jr. is one of the premier and most compelling matchups in boxing today,” said Tony Walker, Vice President of HBO Sports. “May 6 has all the makings of an extraordinary event as these two Mexican warriors will lay it all on the line to show who is the best on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It will be an evening that every fight fan will want to experience live on HBO Pay-Per-View®.”

Canelo vs. Chávez, Jr. is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD. The event takes place on Saturday, May 6 and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

D and D Management Signs Amateur Star Dylan Price

D and D Management Team LLC is proud to announce the signing of prized amateur Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price to a management contract.

Price, 18 years old of Philadelphia will compete in the super flyweight division.
Price had an outstanding amateur career record of 112-12, and finished as the number-1 ranked fighter in the United States and number-3 in the world.

“I Would like to thank Doc Nowicki and my dad Dave Price for believing in me, and for providing for me even as an amateur. They were always there with the financial support needed so that I was always able to concentrate on the task at hand. I am still a senior in high school, and I am still balancing my school workload with my boxing load, but I always enjoy challenges so it works out,” stated Dylan Price.
“I am very happy to sign Dylan (also known as Lil Dave). I have been following him through his amateur career, and I was very proud when he won the bronze medal at the world amateur championship in Russia.

We look forward to him beginning his professional career in February and anticipate him having 5-6 fights in 2017,” said Doc Nowicki, manager of Dylan Price.

Price will make his professional debut on February 4th in Wilson, North Carolina, and he will make his hometown debut on March 31st at the 2300 Arena.

King’s Promotions Signs 5 Fight Deal for Boxing Events at 2300 Arena in 2017 in Philadelphia

Marshall Kauffman’s King’s Promotions is excited to announce the promotional company has inked a 5-fight deal to stage high quality boxing events at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Those dates, which will be in April, May, June, September and December, and will help make KIng’s Promotions the busiest promoter on the east coast for the 3rd straight year.

Those five dates are added to at least four dates at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

King’s Promotions 1st date of 2017 will come on Saturday, February 11th at the Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, Maryland.

King’s Promotions, which has been one of the most active promoters in the United States, staged events in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Florida, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. in 2016, and is eager to continue putting on entertaining cards that will not only feature the best fighter’s from the Delaware and Lehigh Valley, but the top fighters from all over the world in nationally televised events.

“We are happy to get this deal done and we are excited to showcase our events in the great fight town of Philadelphia,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions.

“The 2300 Arena is a 1st class facility and its a pleasure to work with Roger Artigiani and his staff.”

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna to Battle Eduardo Flores
Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will battle veteran Eduardo Flores eight-round junior middleweight bout on Saturday night, January 28th at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.

The bout will headline a card promoted by Rising Promotions.

CEO of Rising Promotions Debra LaManna stated, “We are starting 2017 with a tremendous card and we plan on only doing bigger and better things for boxing this year.”

LaManna of Millville, New Jersey has a record of 21-2 with nine knockouts.

The 25 year-old is coming off a defeat to undefeated Dusty Hernandez Harrison in a thrilling bout that took place on September 15th in Philadelphia.

In that bout, LaManna fought a good fight and had solid moments throughout the hotly contested bout that was for the USBA Welterweight title.

LaManna is moving back up to the 154 pound division where LaManna is undefeated (7-0 between 148-154 pounds) in the division for which he turned professional in 2011.

LaManna won his first 16 bouts, where enjoyed wins over Ashanti Gibbs and Jamaal Davis.

After suffering his first professional defeat to undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas, LaManna ripped off five consecutive victories that was highlighted by by a 4th round stoppage over Kendal Mena (20-3).

“I’m looking forward to displaying my boxing skills against this rugged veteran,” said LaManna He’s been in the ring with a lot of good fighters and former world champions, but never been in there with me. I feel my height, youth and size will play a big role in this fight but it’s all about making adjustments and fighting the smartest fight possible to get the win.”

“My last fight, I took a L but that stands for “Lesson” and since that lesson, I’ve been training extremely hard and I’m very focus at this task at hand.”

Flores of Quito, Ecuador is a 52-fight veteran and sports a record of 25-24-3 with 15 knockouts.
The 30 year-old Flores is a 10 year professional, who has taken on the best fighters in the 135-154 pound divisions such as former world champions Carlos Baldomir, Diego Chaves & Kermit Cintron as well as 19 other undefeated opponents, for which Flores had three wins and a draw.

Flores is coming off a six-round unanimous decision defeat to undefeated Sammy Valentin (9-0) on November 18th in Kissimmee, Florida.

In the six-round co-feature, light heavyweight Chuck Mussachio (19-3-2, 5 KO’s) of Wildwood, New Jersey will fight Michael Mitchell (3-7-2, 1 KO) of Paterson, New Jersey.

Mitchell has faced terrific competition and has only been stopped once, and has fought four undefeated fighters.

LeRoy Davila and Keenan Smith Headline List of Prospects to be Featured on January 20th

GH3 Promotions undefeated up-and-comers LeRoy Davila and Keenan Smith will head an impressive list of prospects that will be featured in non-televised action on Friday night, Jan. 20 at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel & Casino that will precede a tremendous quadrupleheader that will be televised live on ShoBox: The New Generation card on SHOWTIME®.

In the 12-round main event, undefeated WBA No. 3-ranked super bantamweight Adam Lopez (16-0-1, 8 KOs) will face the WBA’s No. 4-ranked Danny Roman (20-2-1, 7 KOs) in a title elimination bout.

In the co-feature, undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis (13-0-1, 1 NC, 10 KOs) will face off with Christopher Brooker (11-2, 5 KOs) in an eight-round 168-pound matchup of ShoBox veterans.

In another eight-round featured bout, former national amateur champion Kenneth Sims Jr. (10-0, 3 KOs) and Emmanuel Robles (15-1-1, 5 KOs) will clash in a matchup of promising, unbeaten super lightweights making their ShoBox debuts in their toughest assignments to date.

In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated bantamweight Stephon Young (15-0-3, 6 KOs) takes on Elton Dharry (21-5-1, 14 KO’s) in an eight-round bout.

Davila (4-0, 2 KO’s) of New Brunswick, New Jersey will take on fellow undefeated Anthony Taylor (4-0, 1 KO) of Warren, Ohio in a six-round bantamweight bout.

Davila, a 2016 United States Olympic Alternate is beginning his second year as a professional and is coming off a 4-round unanimous decision over Damon Simon on Nov. 11 in Philadelphia.

Taylor, 25, has been a professional for two years, and is coming off a third-round stoppage over Jajuan Gills last July 23 in Youngstown, Ohio.

Smith, of Philadelphia, has a record of 9-0 with 3 knockouts, and will take on Marquis Hawthorne (4-5, 1 KO) of Waco, Texas in a welterweight bout scheduled for six-rounds.

The 26 year-old Smith is a seven-year professional. In recent bouts, he has stepped up the competition. He holds a second-round knockout over previously undefeated Lavell Hadley (2-0). In his last bout, Smith won an eight-round unanimous decision over Benjamin Whitaker (10-1-1) on Nov. 6, 2015 in Las Vegas, on ShoBox.

Hawthorne, 25, is a two-year pro and holds a win over previously undefeated Francisco Cruz (5-0). He will be looking to break a three-fight losing streak, with the latest being a four-round unanimous decision to undefeated Jeremy Nichols (6-0) on Sept. 30 in Las Vegas.

Also seeing action in a 6-round bout is local favorite Anthony “Juice” Young (14-2, 6 KO’s) of Atlantic City who will take on James Robinson (4-5-4, 1 KO) of Brooklyn, N.Y., in a welterweight scrap.
Former amateur standout, Darmani Rock (6-0, 4 KO’s) of Philadelphia will battle Solomon Maye (3-7-2, 3 KO’s) of New Haven, Connecticut in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In four-round bouts, Hafiz Montgomery (3-1, 2 KO’s) of Toms River, N.J. takes on Tracey Johnson (4-5-4) of Boston in a cruiserweight battle; Jeff Lentz (5-1, 1 KO) of Lanoka Harbor, N.J. will fight Jeff Souffrant (3-1, 1 KO) of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. in a welterweight bout.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by GH3 Promotions, Kings Promotions in association with Thompson Boxing (the main event) and Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel and Casino, are $125, $100 $75 & $50 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com or calling 1-800-745-3000.

Shannon Briggs Has New App Game

Shannon Briggs has released a new app game called Clash of Champs. It was released last week and is now available to download.

View the trailer at: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=gtm5m1FK6YE

Find more information here at : http://www.champplay.net/ clash-of-champs

Posted on 12/27/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Wilder, LaManna, Rabii, Spadafora, and more…
Compiled By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of December 20th to December 27th, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Deontay Wilder’s Next Fight Set for February 25th

Deontay Wilder’s next fight has been reportedly set for February 25th against Andrzej Wawrzyk. The Tuscaloosa Times reported that this fight will take place in Birmingham, Alabama.
Wawrzyk lone loss on his record came at the hands of Alexander Povetkin three years ago, but he has since won six straight fights. Wilder is coming off a half a year layoff from multiple surgeries to repair his broken hand and torn biceps.

Read more at http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/sports/20161220/wilder-to-fight-next-bout-in-birmingham

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna Returns to Action on Saturday, January 28th

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna will return to the ring in an eight-round junior middleweight bout on Saturday night, January 28th at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City.

The bout will headline a card promoted by Rising Promotions.

LaManna of Millville, New Jersey has a record of 21-2 with nine knockouts.

The 25 year-old is coming off a defeat to undefeated Dusty Hernandez Harrison in a thrilling bout that took place on September 15th in Philadelphia.

In that bout, LaManna fought a good fight and had solid moments throughout the hotly contested bout that was for the USBA Welterweight title.

LaManna is moving back up to the 154 pound division where LaManna is undefeated (7-0 between 148-154 pounds) in the division for which he turned professional in 2011.

LaManna won his first 16 bouts, where enjoyed wins over Ashanti Gibbs and Jamaal Davis.

After suffering his first professional defeat to undefeated middleweight prospect Antoine Douglas, LaManna ripped off five consecutive victories that was highlighted by by a 4th round stoppage over Kendal Mena (20-3)

“I’m excited to be getting back in the ring at The Claridge! It’s like my adopted home in Atlantic City and the whole staff over there have been nothing but great to me and my Rising Star Promotions crew,” said LaManna. “My last fight with Dusty was a rough one for me, I feel I was robbed of a decision win or at least a draw. I took some time off, enjoyed time with family and friends but I’ve been training for the passed 2 months and camp has been going really well.”

“This is my second fight with new trainer Ray McCline and we expect to put on a show come January 28th.”

“I’m looking for big fights in 2017, possibly another title fight and TV exposure but my main focus is on January 28th.”

In the six-round-co feature, light heavyweight Chuck Mussachio (19-3-2, 5 KO’s) of Wildwood, New Jersey will fight Michael Mitchell (3-7-2, 1 KO) of Paterson, New Jersey.

Mitchell has faced terrific competition and has only been stopped once, and has fought four undefeated fighters.

Also scheduled to appear in a six-round bout will be:

Junior Welterweight John Bauza (5-0, 2 KO’s) of North Bergen, NJ & super middleweight Gabriel Pham (6-1, 2 KO’s) of Pleasantville, NJ.

In four-round bouts:

Ernesto Perez of Vineland, NJ will make his pro debut against Courtney McCleave (2-5, 1 KO) of Concord, North Carolina in a junior middleweight bout.

Jamil Simmons of Pleasantville, NJ will make his pro debut against Tomas Romain (0-1) of Brooklyn, NY in a lightweight bout.

Also scheduled to compete in four-round bouts will be heavyweight Quian Davis (4-0-2) of Mays Landing, NJ; junior welterweight Bryne Green (7-9-1, 3 KO’s) of Paulsboro, NJ; junior welterweight Dan Murray (1-0) of Lanoka, NJ; welterweight Yurik Mamedov (3-0, 1 KO) of Brooklyn, NY & bantamweight Dallas Holden (1-0) of Atlantic City.

Decorated Amateur Boxer Mohammed Rabii to Make Pro Debut February 18th

Moroccan amateur boxing sensation Mohammed Rabii will make his long anticipated professional debut February 18, fighting at home in Casablanca, at the Complexe de Sportif Mohammed V Arena.

The 23-year-old Rabii represented Morocco at this year’s Olympic Games in Brazil, where he captured a bronze medal in the welterweight division, losing a disputed decision (0-3) in the semifinals to Uzebek boxer Shakhram Giyasov, who then lost (0-3) in the championship final to Daniyar Yeleussinov. Rabii had defeated Yeleussinov, of Kazakhstan, in the gold-medal championship bout of the AIBA World Amateur Championships. An average of 6 million Moroccans viewed each of Rabbi’s Olympic matches, providing testimony to his celebrity status back home.

A gifted orthodox fighter, Rabii was the past World Series of Boxing Fighter of the Year, who signed an exclusive, multi-year managerial contract last October with Nowhere2Hyde Management, which is owned and operated by international manager Gary Hyde, of Cork, Ireland.

“We are delighted to have signed one of the best amateur boxers in the world,” Hyde said. “Mohammed has a great style with knockout power in both hands. He will kick-star his pro career in front of his adoring fans in Casablanca February 18th. He is a national hero, so, the plan is to take full advantage by building him up at home in Morocco.”

Two other boxers managed by Hyde, former World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight Simpiwe Vetyeka and middleweight Gevorg Khatchikian, will fight in the main event and co-feature, respectively, against opponents to be determined.

Vetyeka (29-3, 17 KOs), fighting out of South Africa, is currently ranked No. 4 by the WBA. The only two pro losses for Khatchikian (24-2, 12 KOs), a Netherlander, have been to present super middleweight world champions James Degale (IBF) and Gilberto Ramirez (WBO).

Tickets are now on sale for the Feb. 18 show in Casablanca, in which Rabii will be supported by three other Moroccan fighters.

Paul Spadafora in Trouble with the Law

Paul Spadafora is in jail for allegedly stabbing his brother in the thigh and then threatening officers who responded to the scene and hurling an object at them.

It is being reported that police had to respond with a stun gun and had to place a mask on his face in order to get Spadafora to stop spitting on them.

Spadafora was recently in trouble for allegedly attacking an older woman at a local bar and throwing her to the ground. Spadafora also served time in prison for shooting his girlfriend in 2003.

Read more at: http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/18331623/boxer-paul-spadafora-stabbed-brother-fought-cops-according-police

IBF Flyweight World Champion John Riel Casimero to Relinquish Title and Campaign at Super Flyweight

Former IBF World Light Flyweight and current IBF Flyweight World Champion John Riel “Quadro Alas” Casimero and his team have made the decision to relinquish his title and campaign in the super flyweight division.

Casimero (23-3, 15 KOs), who stopped Englishman Charlie Edwards in 10 rounds last September at the O2 Arena in London, will now go gunning for the 115-lb division’s top dogs including IBF World Champion Jerwin Acajas and Nicaragua’s Román “Chocolatito” González.

26-year-old Casimero, from Cebu City, Philippines, says he’s looking forward to the opportunity to join the greats of Philippines boxing.

“To win my third title would be a great honor for me and put my name in with some of the best fighters my country has ever produced,” said Casimero. “I will be immediately looking to make an impact and fight the big fights that allow me the opportunity.

Casimero’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing, says Casimero is more than ready for the move.
“He’s so strong and he keeps growing,” said Lewkowicz. “It is time for John Riel to move up and secure his place in Philippines boxing history. It is our hope to quickly face Acajas and Chocolatito next year. That is what we will work to make happen.”

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2017

The New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF), sponsored by Ring 8, has announced its 15-member Class of 2017. The sixth annual NYSBHOF induction dinner will be held Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 30, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“Once again, “said NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy, “we’re honoring New York’s finest in our sport. This is all about recognizing great fighters, as well as others involved in boxing, from the state of New York. We’re expecting another knockout night.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include Manhattan welterweight Gaspar “El Indio” Ortega (131-39-6, 69 KOs), Yonkers’ world heavyweight title challenger Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes (39-8-1, 22 KOs), Yonkers middleweight Doug “Cobra’ Dewitt (33-8-5, 19 KOs), and “The Bronx Bomber,” world middleweight title challenger Alex Ramos (39-10-2, 24 KOs)

Posthumous participants being inducted are Queens’ former middleweight and light heavyweight world champion Dick Tiger (60-19-3, 27 KOs), Brooklyn/Manhattan light heavyeight world champion Jose “Chegui” Torres (41-3-1, 29 KOs), and “The Nonpareil”, Williamsburg middleweight world champion Jack Dempsey (51-4-11, 23 KOs).

Non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are Queens’ International agent Don Majeski, Long Island matchmaker Ron Katz, Manhattan manager Stan Hoffman and past Ring 8 president/NYSAC judge Bobby Bartels.
Posthumous non-participant inductees are Brooklyn boxing historian Hank Kaplan, Long Island cut-man Al Gavin, Bronx referee Arthur Donovan and New York City columnist Dan Parker.

Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2017 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members: Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Randy Gordon, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair, Angelo Prospero and Neil Terens.

Posted on 09/16/2016

Dusty Hernandez-Harrison and Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna Rock the House at the Philly Arena!
By: Ken Hissner

This was a Peltz Boxing Promotion with GH-3 who has a good young group of boxers and on a Thursday night. CBS Sports Center will televise the show. The place was packed with standing room only. This one goes back to Ward and Gatti without the hoopla.

Photo Credit: Darryl Cobb Jr.

No. 4 Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna, 21-2 (9), of Millville, NJ, was defeated by No. 1 Dusty Hernandez-Harrison, 30-0-1 (16), of South East D.C. for the vacant USBA welterweight title. “I thought he won 6-4 not like the wide scores,” said Lamanna.

In the opening round Hernandez-Harrison moved around the ring countering well. Lamanna seemed to have problems with the speed of his opponent. In the second round Hernandez-Harrison landed a 3-punch combination. Lamanna is having a problem hitting the elusive Hernandez-Harrison.

In the third round Lamanna flurried having Hernandez-Harrison against the ropes only to have Hernandez-Harrison come back with 3 left hooks. Lamanna came out all fired up landing half a dozen punches without return. Things started heating up in the third round.

In the fourth round a lead right by Hernandez-Harrison rocked Lamanna who came back with a flurry of punches. In the fifth round Lamanna was doing well which seemed to anger Hernandez-Harrison who came back punching Lamanna around the ring. Lamanna has swelling around both eyes. In the sixth round Hernandez-Harrison is putting more behind his punches. Both boxers have plenty of fans in the crowd.

In the seventh round Lamanna landed a power right to the head of Hernandez-Harrison who was holding on. A half a round later it was all Hernandez-Harrison. In the eighth round both went back and forth controlling the round but Hernandez-Harrison’s hand and foot speed always keeps him one step ahead of Lamanna.

In the ninth round it’s more action from both but Hernandez-Harrison continues to batter Lamanna whose eyes are swelling while Hernandez-Harrison is unmarked. In the tenth and final round the fans are yelling “Dusty, Dusty”, as he is looking for a knockout to avoid a hometown decision. This was one of the best fights seen here in sometime with one from Millville and the other D.C.

Judges Bernard Bruni had it 98-92 while judges Tom Schreck and Dana DePaolo had it 97-93 while this writer had it 100-90.

In the co-feature former NFL player Ray “Cincinnati Kid” Edwards, 11-0-1 (7), out of Cinn., OH, won a 6 round decision over southpaw New Jersey champion Dan Pasciolla, 8-1-1 (0), out of Brick, NJ.

In the first two rounds it was the light punching Pasciolla who was taking good body shots from Edwards. The action was very slow. In the third round and fourth rounds Edwards was too strong for Pasciolla.

In the fifth and sixth rounds Pasciolla got his jab in but it wasn’t enough to offset Edwards.

Atlantic City’s Anthony “Juice” Young 14-2 (6) easily stopped Malik “The Freak” Jackson, 3-10-4 (2), of Newark, NJ, at the end of the fourth round stopped by ring physician.

In the opening round a hard right by Young to the head of Jackson dropped him. Referee Clark gave him the 8 count. Jackson did what he had to do to get through the round.

On paper it looked like a mismatch and this writer was surprised Boxing Director Greg Sirb approved it.

In the second round it was more of the same but Jackson staying on his feet. In the third round Jackson’s corner is yelling out instructions but one wonders how they put him in with Young. In the fourth round Young continued bombing Jackson who has little power to hold Young off. A left uppercut to the midsection by Young dropped Jackson At the bell a left hook by Young to the head had Jackson out on his fight.

His corner should have stopped it but it took the ring physician to do it. This was a total mismatch from the time they signed the contracts. Working the corner for Young was Chino Rivas assisted by Rashiem Jefferson.

The Hottest prospect in Philly since 1984 Olympic Gold medalist Meldrick Taylor is Philly’s Jaron “Boots” Ennis, 6-0 (5), from the Germantown section of the city who showed flashes of greatness and needed a fight like Eddie Diaz, 2-4-2 (0), of Compton, CA, gave him. “I should have done better,” said Ennis. You can’t knock everybody out!

In the opening round Ennis came out orthodox showing very fast hands and going to the body of Diaz. Diaz managed to get some punches to the chin of Ennis. In the second round Ennis continued looking terrific but anytime you are in with a fighter from Compton, CA, which is possibly the baddest city in the country you have to be aware he came to fight. Diaz had a small cut outside of his right eye.

In the third round Diaz would take 3 to land 1 which was usually a right to the head of Ennis. The round was won by Ennis but he got rocked at the bell with a Diaz right to the chin. In the fourth and final round Ennis could not hurt Diaz who was one tough fighter. So Ennis continue to throw combinations and uppercuts to the body of Diaz who never took a back step. Ennis needed a fight like this. “We aren’t taking anymore 143 fights. We will move up to 147,” said Bozy Ennis. The young Ennis had an ice pack on his left hand.

Two judges had it 40-36 and one 39-37. This writer had it 40-36.

In a rematch bantamweight Leroy “Luscious” Davila, 3-0 (1), out of New Brunswick, NJ, had Edgar Torres, 3-4 (0), of Vineland, NJ, on the canvas 3 times with the final one in the second round at 2:03.

Both southpaws scoring well while Davila was very conservative with his punches when all of a sudden out of nowhere he drops Cortes not once but twice. Referee Rosato gave him he the 8 count both times. In the second round Cortes walked right into a lead straight left from Davila putting Cortes on the canvas almost knocked out. Referee Rosato wisely halted it and in no time the ring physician was in the ring administering to Cortes.

Junior welterweight Kenneth “Bossman” Sims, Jr., 7-0 (2), out of Chicago, won a hard fought 6 round decision over Gilbert “Gordo” Venegas, 14-24-5 (8), of E. Moline, IL.

In the opening round Sims goes from orthodox to southpaw having his way with tough veteran Venegas. In the second and third rounds Simms continues to show his skills while Venegas lands an occasional overhand right to the head of Sims. Left hooks by Sims are rocking the iron jawed Venegas.

In the fourth round Sims lands a 3-punch combination and follows with a flurry of punches. In the fifth round Venegas has a small cut along the eyebrow of his left eye. In the sixth and final round Venegas lands his best punch of the fight an overhand right to the head of Simms. This is probably the best round of the fight as both fighters were still throwing leather at the bell!

Judges Gail Jasper, Tom Schreck and Dana Depaolo had it 60-54 as did this writer. Sims was very impressive.

Good looking lightweight Devin “The Dream” Haney, 10-0 (6), out of Las Vegas, defeated southpaw “Mighty” Mike Fowler, 5-3 (2), out of Milwaukees over 8 rounds.
In the opening round Fowler controlled the first half before Haney got his rhythm together and took the second half. In the second and third round Haney unloaded on Fowler who is doing very little in return.

In the fourth Haney is landing 3 punches at a time as the nose of Fowler is bleeding. In the fifth round Haney continued to rock Fowler until referee Rosato wisely halted the fight. ”I fought a good fight especially going to the body,” said Haney. He is one to watch!
In the opening bout a war broke out. Darryl “Dreamking” Bunting, 2-1-2 (1), of Asbury Park, NJ, was stopped by Darryl Gause, 2-0 (1), of Vineland, NJ, in a super middleweight match at 2:14 of the second.

In the opening round it was a slugfest with Bunting having the edge until a right hand from Gause had him out on his feet. It looked like referee Dali might stop it. He gave him a standing count at the bell. In the second round the slugfest continued until once again a Gause right hand drove Bunting across the ring into the ropes Gause jumped on him and referee Dali wisely halted the action.

Ring announcer was Mark Fratto.

Posted on 09/14/2016

Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna & Dusty Hernandez-Harrison Thursday in Philly Arena!
By: Ken Hissner

You don’t always see two white fighters headlining but Thursday at the 2300 Arena in the Philly Arena a Peltz Boxing Promotion should be a good one and a flip of the coin who the winner will be! CBS Sports Center will televise the show.

Thomas “Cornflake” Lamanna, 21-1 (9), of Millville, NJ, who has won his last five fights and Dusty Hernandez-Harrison, 29-0-1 (16), of D.C. for the vacant USBA welterweight title.

Harrison-Hernandez is coming off a brutal draw and the first event if I am not mistaken without his father Buddy Harrison. Winning the USBA title usually guarantees a ranking in the IBF. In the July USBA ratings Hernandez-Harrison was No. 1 and Lamanna No. 4.

The 8 fight show has Atlantic City’s Anthony “Juice” Young 13-2 (5) against Malik Jackson, 3-9-4 (2), of Newark, NJ, who is a “spoiler”.

Heavyweight Ray “The Cincinnati Kid” Edwards, 11-0-1 (7), of Cinn., OH, is a former football player at Purdue University. His opponent is southpaw Dan Pasciolla, 8-1-1 (0), of Brick, NJ, whose latest win over former IBF Cruiserweight champion Imau Mayfield for the NJ, state title fight was his best showing to date.

The Hottest prospect in Philly since 1984 Olympic Gold medalist Meldrick Taylor is Philly’s Jaron “Boots” Ennis, 5-0 (5), who has been fighting once a month since turning professional has his father “Bozy” Ennis in his corner. His opponent which would be his toughest to date is Eddie Diaz, 2-4-2 (0), of Torrance, CA, welterweight match-up.

A good prospect is bantamweight Leroy “Luscious” Davila, 2-0 (0), out of New Brunswick, NJ, taking on Edgar Torres, 3-3 (0), of Vineland, NJ. Welterweight Kenneth “Bossman” Sims, Jr., 7-0 (2), out of Chicago meets up with Gilbert Venegas, 14-24-5 (8), of E. Moline, IL. Devin “The Dream” Haney, 9-0 (5), out of Las Vegas battles Mike Fowler, 5-2 (2), out of Milwaukee in a lightweight match. Darryl “Dreamking” Bunting, 2-0-2 (1), of Asbury Park, NJ, meets Darryl Gause, 1-0 (0), of Vineland, NJ, in a super middleweight match.

Posted on 09/06/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Canelo, Crolla, Vasquez, Lopez, LaManna, Harrison-Hernandez, and more
By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of August 30th to September 6th, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Photo Credit: Tom Hogan/Golden Boy Promotions

Canelo Alvarez Media Workout Quotes

Canelo Alvarez recently worked out and spoke to the media in San Diego, ahead of his upcoming PPV fight with Liam Smith. Below are a few select quotes.

CANELO ALVAREZ, Former Two-Division World Champion:

“I love San Diego because it’s really calm here, which is something I require when I am in camp. I feel comfortable and at home which makes me feel great while training, and allows me to train at 100 percent.

“Getting to fight at the AT&T Stadium in Texas is a huge privilege for me and my career. Fighting on this weekend is powerful because it tells the story of Mexicans all over, making a win even more important. This fight is going to be historic; from the venue, the title, to the fans who are going to show up – I take all of this into consideration as I train hard for this match.”

“In our training we have taken a huge focus on the opponents fighting style – no matter what size or weight. Analyzing, and breaking down the fighter’s approach is what we go after in the ring. Just because Smith isn’t very well known in the U.S. doesn’t diminish how tough he is as an opponent. We expect him to be very powerful, and we are training for that.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

“People can have their opinions on the fight. We are training for a world title fight, which is worth respecting. We are doing the work and training hard. Winning this fight is the focus and everything else will come.

“We are working especially hard on defense. We are going to be working the counterpunches, and being able to counteract anything that Smith brings to the ring.”

JOSE “CHEPO” REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

“The climate here in San Diego is perfect for training. They have a great training environment here at the gym – we have the privacy and the space to run the distance and that makes us very happy. We are enthusiastic with our training efforts, and are working hard to get another title. We are content with the way training is going, and we are looking forward to showing the fans what we have been working on.

“Liam Smith offers us the opportunity to be at the top. His last eight fights have all been won via knock out. He is a dangerous fighter, and just because he isn’t known here doesn’t take away his potential. Smith has to be doing something right to be able to have such powerful victories under his belt, and that has given us an indicator that he is dangerous, and we have to be careful to not enter the ring too confident. We are working our defense specifically for this fight, because we don’t want one of his punches to catch us off guard.”

Crolla vs. Linares to Take Place on September 24th

One of the most anticipated bouts in boxing will take place on Saturday afternoon, September 24th as Anthony Crolla and Jorge Linares will square off for the WBA/WBC Diamond/Ring Magazine Lightweight championship that will be televised LIVE on AWE-A WEALTH OF ENTERTAINMENT.

For boxing fans who don’t have AWE, you are in luck because the fight will be streamed live on www.klowdtv.com

“We are thrilled to be able to show this major bout. This is for the lightweight championship of the world and we have two great champions willing to put it on the line. This fight is for supremacy and the fans will see a great fight on September 24,”said AWE President, Charles Herring.

“If your cable system doesn’t carry AWE, we’re offering the fight to everyone in the United States via www.Klowdtv.com. KlowdTV is a new 24/7 streaming service that offers AWE and this upcoming unification world title fight, plus several other great channels including Fight Network, GolTV, FNTSY Sports, and other exciting sports programming. We’re ecstatic to be able to service all boxing fans across the country via KlowdTV as we continue to showcase the best fights from all over the world.”

LaManna Sees Big Opportunity in September 15th Fight with Dusty Hernandez-Harrison

Welterweight prospect Thomas ” Cornflake” LaManna took time out from training to discuss his much-anticipated Sept. 15 showdown with Dusty Hernandez-Harrison at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia and live on CBS Sports Network

What are your thoughts on Dusty Hernandez-Harrison?

I think he is better than what people are given him credit for. He is 29-0-1 for a reason. He has defeated everyone that they have put in front of him
(except the one draw).

How important is this fight for your career?

This is a career-defining fight. The winner gets a world ranking. It is for the USBA title and a spot in the Top 15 (in the world). This is a big opportunity for both of us. I am zoned in and I will do what I have to do to get the win. It is a huge opportunity. I have a loss and I don’t like that feeling.

You just mentioned that you have a loss. What did you learn from that defeat that will help prepare you for this upcoming fight with Dusty?

The Douglas loss has prepared me for this. Being a headline fighter on television. We will be seen by more people being on CBS Sports Network. I am five fights more mature since my loss. I have been fighting solid competition and I have been more active.

What in those five fights has helped you prepare for this fight?

None of those guys are comparable to Dusty, but I fought guys with different styles and went some rounds with them when people may have questioned my stamina. I fought a rugged guy in Ayi Bruce and a crafty southpaw in Ariel Vasquez. Those guys aren’t killers, but I was getting work in.

What things have you fixed since the loss to Douglas? Did you feel you were overmatched in the fight?

It opened my eyes and it showed me that I needed to fix stuff. My diet and daily living. I was overmatched in maybe size, but I really felt going into that fight that I would beat him.

What are you doing different?

My diet and other things I do when I am not training. I was a middleweight because I was too lazy to drop down in weight. I have made a lot of adjustments.
You started out at middleweight, but you have eased your way down to welterweight.

How difficult has that been and what type of advantage does this play into the September 15fight?

I was always a big middleweight, but strength-wise I wasn’t. Now at welterweight, I am more explosive, faster, more experienced and now I can dictate the action. This is the first time he (Harrison) is fighting someone bigger than him. He has been fighting smaller guys. He now will have to face punches from a grown man.

The fight was originally scheduled for Atlantic City, where you would have been involved in the promotional aspects of the show. That would have entailed doing a lot of work behind the scenes, which would have taken some time away from training. Are you relieved that the fight is in Philadelphia?

I am thankful for that. I know I would have had to get involved in the promotional aspect and some of the stuff leading up to the fight. To me it doesn’t matter where the fight is. Philadelphia is a neutral ground. As long as there is a ring, it doesn’t matter where it takes place

Why this fight right now?

It’s time. He has fought one tough guy and if you saw the fight, he lost it (officially a draw with Mike Dallas). I have no doubt in my mind that I will win the fight and maybe even stop him. But it is a great opportunity to get showcased on national television for the USBA title.

Battle Born Boxing Amateur Series Returns to Las Vegas

The fourth edition of “Battle Born Boxing” returns this Thursday night (June 9), starting at 7 p.m. PT, at the outdoor Downtown Las Vegas Events Center.

“Battle Born Boxing” is an amateur boxing series created by Neon Star Media on behalf of its client, the D Las Vegas, to support amateur boxing in Nevada, as well as provide a platform for amateur boxers from other states to compete against local clubs and boxers.

Las Vegas-based boxing clubs represented at “Battle Born Boxing: Uprising IV” includes Barry’s Boxing, Richard Steel Boxing Club and Johnny Tocco’s Ringside Boxing.

“Battle Born Boxing” was successfully launched April 15 and the amateur boxing series will continue the night before each of the “Knockout Night at the D” series professional boxing events, airing throughout 2016 on CBS Sports Network, live from the DLVEC.

“Battle Born Boxing: Uprising IV” tickets, priced at $15.00 for ringside (rows 1 and 2) and $10.00 for general admission, are on sale at www.DLVEC.com.

Tyrone Spong Wins a Knockout in the Inaugural International Championship Boxing League

International Championship Boxing League (ICBL) Founder and CEO, Jack Perone Fulton, wishes to thank all involved with making the inaugural Azteca Open event a tremendous success.

Held this past Saturday, September 3, in Aguascalientes, Mexico, in association with promoter Bernie Valenzula of BBB Promotions, the ICBL Azteca Open featured 21 bouts with a considerable number of these fighters looking to earn a spot in the ICBL 2017 inaugural season.

In the night’s main event, a WBC Latino Silver Title eliminator, Ontario, California’s John “Bang Bang” Delperdang scored an eight-round majority decision over hometown favorite Oscar “Totti” Mejia.

Behind after the first three rounds, Delperdang (8-1, 7 KOs) eventually wore down Mejia (8-1-1, 3 KOs) with punishing blows to the body and head, leading to a cut above Mejia’s right eye. With the victory, Delperdang now holds the right to challenge the UK’s Lewis Ritson for his WBC Latino Silver Title.

In other ICBL-significant action, 10-time world champion kickboxer turned professional boxer Tyrone “King of the Ring” Spong of Miami, Florida, (via Paramaribo, Suriname), scored his sixth straight stoppage victory (6-0, 6 KOs) with a one-punch third-round destruction of formerly undefeated Mexican heavyweight Hugo Leon (3-1, 3 KOs).

Tickets On Sale for Lopez vs. Vazquez

Tickets for the highly anticipated showdown between former Super Bantamweight World Champion *Wilfredo Vázquez Jr.* and former Super Bantamweight and Featherweight World Champion *Juan

Manuel López, “GUERRA EN EL CLEMENTE”*, will go on sale *Wednesday, September 7 at 12:00 noon ET.*

Tickets are priced at $200 (Red Carpet), $100 (Ring Side), $75 (Palco), $40 (Preference), and $20 (General Admission), not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased at Ticketpop.com, Ticketpop locations (all Walmart stores at the Money Center counter and all Amigo Supermarkets at the Service counter), or by calling 787-294-0001 or toll free 1-866-994-0001.

The fight promises crowd-pleasing, high-intensity action between two powerful fighters in an all Puerto Rican match. A fight in the making for 5 years, it promises fireworks, as it is widely known that there is a clear dislike and bitterness between the fighters. Both *Papito* and *JuanMa* have had illustrious careers and enjoy high levels of popularity in the Island. *“Guerra en el Clemente”* is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated fights in the Island for years.

*Vázquez Jr. vs. López*, a 12-round fight, takes place Saturday, October 8th at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The fight is presented by Black Tiger Promotions, in association with Matias Entertainment, and sponsored by Best Alarms and Municipio de San Juan. The event will be distributed live on Pay-Per-View in Puerto Rico and the United States beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Split-T Management Signs Andreal Holmes

Split-T Management is pleased to announce the signing of the US National Elite Champion, Ardreal Holmes to an exclusive managerial contract.

Holmes, 21 years-old of Flint, MI made his successful professional debut on August 27, 2016 when he stopped Rakim Johnson of Indianapolis, IN in the first round, in Detroit, MI.

Holmes, who was the number-one ranked welterweight in the US, had an outstanding amateur career that culminated in reaching the finals of the Olympic trials.
Holmes has competed in over 80 amateur fights and won several major tournaments including the 2015 USA National Elite Championship.

Holmes also has competed in several major international tournaments. In March 2016, he competed in the World Series of Boxing and scored a sensational knockout over Cyrus Patterson of Great Britain.

“Since the signing, David McWater has treated me and the Gallo boxing team like family. I look forward to our success together,”said Holmes

Said Split-T Management CEO David McWater, I am thrilled to have Ardreal Holmes in the Split-T Management family! Not only is he an outstanding fighter, he a true gentlemen in and out of the ring. With his size and power, I could see him winning world titles in five different weight classes!”

Said trainer, Joe Bermudez Jr., “Ardreal’s accuracy, power and determination will make him a great fighter to watch as he transitions into professional boxing.”

Posted on 08/16/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Mayweather, Bute, Guerreo, Harrison, LaManna, and more..
By: William Holmes

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

Pacquiao vs. Vargas Official for November 5th

Manny Pacquiao has made it official; he will be fighting Jessie Vargas on November 5th at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bob Arum confirmed the fight announcement to ESPN after meeting with Pacquiao and Michael Koncz in the Philippines to go over the details.

Terence Crawford was in the running to be Pacquiao’s next opponent, but Vargas won out despite being the lesser draw.

Vargas is coming off of a ninth round knockout of Sadam Ali.

TMZ Sports Reports One of Floyd Mayweather’s Bodyguards Accused of Battery

One of Floyd Mayweather’s gigantic bodyguards has been accused of roughing up a restaurant patron during a heated altercation over the weekend — and it all culminated in a citizen’s arrest.

TMZ Sports has learned … Mayweather and his security team hit up Hot N Juicy Crawfish in Vegas on Sunday afternoon.

Sources tell them … a verbal altercation broke out between Mayweather’s team and a male/female couple at a nearby table, who were teasing Floyd that they were Pacquiao fans.

We’re told things escalated when the couple whipped out their cell phones and began shooting video of Floyd’s crew.

The couple claims a bodyguard, who goes by the name Big Pat, grabbed their phone away and wouldn’t give it back … and pushed the man in the process.

The Henderson PD confirms they were called to the scene and the alleged victim told them he wanted to make a citizen’s arrest … which essentially means he wants to press charges for battery.

Cops are investigating. Big Pat has not been charged with a crime and Mayweather’s camp is not commenting.

Read More at http://www.tmz.com/2016/08/10/floyd-mayweather-bodyguard-battery-citizens-arrest/

Bute Claims He’s the Victim of a Tainted Supplement

Former world champion Lucian Bute learned late yesterday afternoon that the test of his “B” sample was positive, as was his “A” sample, which was no surprise and these findings were welcomed by Lucian and his team.

When the initial announcement of the positive result revealed Ostarine, Lucian didn’t understand what could have happened, hence his disbelief of the situation yet hope regarding test results of his sample “B”. At that time it was announced extensive research would be conducted to find out what really happened. Today, more than ever, Lucian says he never knowingly used illegal products during his illustrious career in professional boxing.

To assist in his search for truth, Lucian retained the services of a Los Angeles-based lawyer, Howard Jacobs, who requested all nutritious supplement products used by Bute during in his training camp for the fight against Badou Jack.

KorvalLabs, an accredited laboratory in California specializing in sport, was mandated to carry out all of the analyzes, and results were obtained Monday.

However, analysis of a product named Dynamita recovery, made by Pharmagenic laboratory in San Diego, California, contained traces of contamination, Ostarine.

The supplement formula prescribed by physical trainer Angel Heredia (see photos) had to be perfectly free of all illegal substances in its composition, meaning, unfortunately, it had been contaminated during preparation of this supplement at the Pharmagenic laboratory.

Responsibility for the detection of Ostarine in Bute’s tests was totally up to Pharmagenic laboratory in San Diego. Bute and his lawyer intend to pursue legal proceedings against the laboratory that has caused irreparable harm to the integrity and reputation of the former IBF super middleweight champion.

Details of the investigation were forwarded to the athletic commission in Washington DC, which will therefore be inviting Bute to enable representations and explanations of what happened before it takes a decision.

Meanwhile, Lucian Bute is in training at the gym of the Grant brothers regularly, does not put his career in question and is determined to take all means to become world champion in his division once the details of this case are fully set.

Robert Guerrero Press Conference Quotes

Former multiple division world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (33-4-1, 18 KOs) will bring his exciting style to the ring as he looks to put on a show when he he headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Spike against Argentine slugger David Emanuel Peralta (25-2-1, 14 KOs) Saturday, August 27 from the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Guerrero, along with his trainer and father Ruben Guerrero, have put together another successful camp in the Bay Area as Robert looks to earn another opportunity at the top fighters in the sport. Here is what Guerrero had to say about his matchup, training camp and more:

On fighting in a special weekend edition of MMA and Boxing on Spike…

“It’s going to be a great weekend of fights on Spike. On Friday, you got top level MMA fighters like Benson Henderson throwing down. He’s always giving the fans their money’s worth. On Saturday, you got Alfredo Angulo and myself, who always bring excitement to the ring. We’re never in boring fights. All in all, there’s going to be a lot of action packed fights that weekend. Everyone should be tuning in that’s for sure.”

On his recent training camp…

“There’s been a lot of hard work that’s been put into this recent training camp. My dad and I have been grinding daily to get ready for this fight. It’s been a productive camp though. I got a lot of rounds sparring with top guys. I’m in tip top shape and ready to go.”

On facing tough Argentine David Emanuel Peralta…

“Anytime you’re facing a fighter from Argentina you know you’re in for a tough fight. Peralta knows this is his chance to make a name for himself so I know he’s coming with his very best. He’s had a lot of time to prepare for this fight but I’ll be well prepared for anything he brings. He’s going to realize once he’s in the ring with me that I’m not some washed up fighter like some may think. I got plenty of fight left in me and Peralta will find out what I’m all about on August 27th.”

On the importance of coming out victorious..

“It’s very important that I win this fight at all cost. The welterweight division has plenty of good fighters that I want to get in the ring with. So it’s a must that I win this fight. I’m not taking Peralta lightly. I’m coming to win and win impressively.”

On fighting in Anaheim at the Honda Center…

“Anytime you’re fighting in Southern California, you know the fans are going to be passionate about the fights. They love to see a lot of action and that’s exactly what they’ll see when I step in the ring. The Honda Center is a top level venue where the fans will all have a great seat. I’m looking forward to fighting in front of the SoCal fans once again.”

Greg Cohen Promotions Signs Samuel Clarkson

Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of red-hot light heavyweight contender Samuel “Main Event” Clarkson to a co-promotional agreement, along with Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions LLC.
25-year-old Clarkson (17-3, 11 KOs), from Cedar Hill, Texas, had a sensational year in 2015, scoring five wins, including two impressive ShoBox: The New Generation-televised victories over then 15-1 Lavarn Harvell (TKO 2) and then 13-1 Jerry Odom (TKO 3).

Clarkson also beat former world title challenger Cedric Agnew (then 27-1) by decision on DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing.

Trained by his father, Samuel Sr., since starting in boxing at age 17, the southpaw Clarkson went 69-9 as an amateur, winning the 2009 National PAL Amateur Championship and a pair of Texas Golden Gloves State Championships.

“It’s a blessing,” said Clarkson of the signing. “We sat down and talked to Greg Cohen about the opportunities he could offer me and my family in the boxing business and I’m looking forward to a very bright future.”

Clarkson says his streak of impressive victories started when he began to focus on more than his punching power.

“In my amateur days, I had a lot of knockouts,” he explained. “I knocked out everybody, but then in the pros I started to focus more on my boxing skills. I learned you can’t just go in there and swing hard punches and knock everybody out. I dissect my opponents now before getting them out of there. I pick them apart and then, when I see somebody hurt, I go in for the kill. That’s the biggest change in me.”

LaManna and Hernandez-Harrison Set to Battle September 15th

Welterweights Thomas LaManna and Dusty Hernandez-Harrison will square off in a scheduled 10-round bout for the vacant USBA Welterweight title on Thursday, Sept. 15, in a highly anticipated showdown at the 2300 Arena. The card is promoted by Final Forum Boxing, Peltz Boxing Promotions & GH3 Promotions and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network.

“This is the kind of fight boxing needs at this juncture,” said Hall-of-Fame promoter and matchmaker J Russell Peltz. “We have two young prospects at the same level meeting in a logical location–New Jersey against Washington, D.C. in Philadelphia. Boxing needs more fights like this in this kind of setting. This is the best fight for each of these fighters at this point of their careers.”

The wick for this explosive fight was lit several years ago when LaManna and Hernandez-Harrison engaged in heated sparring sessions which forged the rivalry for the inevitable bout.

LaManna, 24, of Millville, NJ, has a record of 21-1, 9 K0s. He has been fighting regularly on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, NJ, since turning pro in 2011. He won his first 16 bouts, highlighted by wins over Ashandi Gibbs, of Tampa, FL, and Jamaal Davis, of Philadelphia. Since suffering his only loss to world-ranked middleweight Antoine Douglas, of Burke, VA, last year in a ShoBox-televised contest, LaManna moved back down to welterweight and has won five matches in a row. In his last fight July 22 at the Claridge in Atlantic City, Lamanna, knocked out Engleberto Valenzuela, of Mexico, in the first round.

“I’ve been looking forward to this fight for a long time,” said LaManna. “Our careers have run parallel. Dusty will bring plenty of fans to support him that night and the same goes for me. It’s an intriguing match for both of us and it’s in a natural setting where it belongs.”

Hernandez-Harrison, 22, of Washington, DC, is 29-0-1, 21K0s. He has been touted as the city’s “best boxing prospect since Sugar Ray Leonard” by the Washington Magazine.

He began fighting at the age of 6 in a boxing exhibition at the Ritz Nightclub in Northwest D.C. and became a sanctioned amateur at the age of 8.

Hernandez-Harrison compiled an amateur record of 167-30, winning Ringside World Championships, National Silver Gloves Championships and three consecutive National Golden Gloves Championships from 2007 to 2009. He turned pro in 2011 at the age of 17 in Mississippi, the youngest licensed pro boxer at the time.

Under the promotional banner of Roc Nation, Hernandez-Harrison has wins over Tim Witherspoon, Jr., of Philadelphia, Tommy Rainone, of New York, and Michael Clark, of Columbus, OH. His fights have been televised by ESPN, Fox Sports 1 and BET and he recently entered into agreements with FILA and GEICO to be a brand ambassador, the only professional boxer to represent each prestigious company.

“This is a big opportunity for both of us,” said Hernandez-Harrison “The winner will get a Top 15 world ranking by the IBF and that’s what this is about. I have known Thomas for a long time, but that all goes out the window when we step into the ring.

Slovenia Braces For Big WBF Convention Event

Slovenia is beginning to look forward to the upcoming World Boxing Federation (WBF) World Convention in Maribor (Sept. 22 – 25) in a big way.

As delegates from all over the world will be making their way to the small, but sports-crazy country, champions past and present, headed by local icon Jan Zaveck (Dejan Zavec), former world Light Heavyweight champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde of Canada and first and foremost Italian superstar and all-time great Nino Benvenuti, to name but a few, have confirmed their presence at Maribor.

Meanwhile, RTV Slovenija national television have announced to not just cover the WBF Championship Boxing Night on the Saturday (Sept. 24), but also broadcast the Official Opening Ceremony of the WBF World Convention.

As if to underline the importance of the occasion, several honoraries will attend, among them Mr. Andrej Fistravec, mayor of Maribor, Mr. Bogdan Gabrovec and Mr. Tomaz Barada, President and Vice President of the National Slovenian Olympic Committee respectively.

Don’t miss what shapes up to be the biggest event in the history of the World Boxing Federation, dating back to its founding in 1988 in the USA, by registering today. Click here http://worldboxingfederation.net/articles/WBF-Convention-2016.pdf for the Registration Form.

Karim Mayfield Plans Big Surprise for Eyubov

If the team behind Bakhtiyar Eyubov think his next fight will be another easy showcase for their unbeaten welterweight, his opponent, Karim Mayfield has a message.

“He’s a very strong guy, but I’m more experienced than he is for sure,” said Mayfield. “He comes out looking for the first-round knockout by swinging with everything he’s got and he’s going to find it doesn’t work on me.”

Mayfield (19-3-1, 11 KOs), of San Francisco, will take on Kazakhstan’s Eyubov (10-0, 10 KOs) in the 10-round opening fight on ShoBox: The New Generation® on Friday, Aug. 19, live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Rhinos Stadium in Rochester, N.Y.

In the 10-round main event, power-punching Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (17-0-1, 15 KOs) will take on smooth veteran Fred Kassi (18-5-1, 10 KOs) for the NABO Heavyweight Title. In the 10-round co-featured bout, top prospect Mason Menard (31-1, 23 KOs) will face tough Bahodir Mamadjonov (19-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the NABO Lightweight Title. Also featured is WBO NABO Bantamweight Champion Antonio Nieves (16-0-1, 8 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, defending his title against Alejandro “Peque” Santiago (11-2-1, 3 KOs), of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.