Melson to run for New York Congress

Campaign FB page banner pic.JPG
For Immediate Release
New York, NY (May 3, 2017) – Retired professional boxer, current public speaker, 2003 West Point graduate and Army Public Affairs Officer Boyd Melson announced he’ll run for Congress in 2018 for New York’s 11th District, covering Staten Island and South Brooklyn.
Born to a Jewish mother & Louisiana Creole father, Melson’s a lifelong New Yorker who’s dedicated most of his adult life to serving the public. The 35-year-old has resided in Manhattan, Brooklyn and White Plains. Melson also has close ties to Staten Island, where he currently runs free boxing clinics for men and women battling or recovering from addiction.
Following an outstanding amateur boxing career, Melson turned pro in 2010 with the sole intention of raising funds and awareness. Between donating 100% of his fight purses, private donations in his honor and charity galas, Melson, Co-Founder of Team Fight To Walk, helped raise more than $400,000 to help cure Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries, combat Staten Island’s drug epidemic and assist his childhood friend with a son battling brain cancer. He retired from boxing in 2016 with a 15-2-1 record, winning a World Boxing Council (WBC) United States Championship in 2015.
Upon the competition of his final professional fight, Promoter Lou DiBella said he’d never promoted a better man than Boyd Melson.
His unique mission through boxing was chronicled by The Huffington Post, ESPN, Yahoo, Sports Illustrated, HBO Real Sports and The Wall Street Journal among many other media outlets.
As a public and motivational speaker, Melson’s addressed an array of audiences, many of which he spoke to pro bono. His audiences include attendees at New York’s 2017 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Conference, elementary to college age students, Army Battalions, Army Corps level leadership, college sports teams, Fortune 500 companies and religious organizations. He also served as a mentor at Steve Harvey’s Youth Mentorship Camp in July 2016 and was a special guest at various charitable events in New York.
Currently serving our country through the US Army Reserves, literally fighting to raise funds and having traveled the country to assist and motivate others, Melson epitomizes the meaning of a public servant.
“I need to continue my service to this nation. I have a heavy task in front of me. I am committed. I have a tremendous fight in my spirit for what is right. I was born mixed with African, Irish, Native American, French, Dutch, Spanish, and I am Jewish. Perhaps I am a good example of one of the aspects as to why us American citizens are what makes us great- we the people. We combine our strengths. We are the best of all cultures. We are strong, and we do not allow ourselves to be seduced by fear. I understand that my decisions will hurt people, despite my intentions.”
“I understand that in the American citizens’ eyes, I will be the face in the district I am running in, that will be responsible for anything good or bad our government may cause in any of the constituents lives. This is why I will always be present. I focus on how many I still have hurting, not how many I have helped. I will be in the community, at events, highly visible, and highly accessible. My job will be to answer to you, the constituents I am responsible for. I am built for this, my life has prepared me. I will continue my willingness to be knocked down and get back up to keep fighting. I will inspire you to believe in my spirit. Fighters fight! I am a fighter. District 11 must know that I am ready to fight in their corner.”
Please help Boyd by joining him on this mission to get elected into office by going tohttps://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/boyd-melson-for-congress-1.

AMATEUR TITLE FIGHT PROMISES TO BE AN ALL-OUT WAR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (May 3, 2017) –New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee on Saturday, June 17, 2017 with the fight promotion’s next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES.”  The event will feature a full slate of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts.  The amateur portion of the card will be headlined by a lightweight title fight that will see Rafael “Deez Nuts” Velado (4-0) defend against Pat Kelly (3-0).

 

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Velado made his NEF debut in the fall of 2015.  He submitted Kelly’s Young’s MMA teammate Jimmy Jackson (3-3) at “NEF 25” to claim the amateur lightweight title.  To date, only Mike Peitersen (3-1), another member of Young’s, has gone the distance with Velado who has established himself as a master of arm bars and Kimuras.  Velado is a member of First Class MMA in Brunswick, Maine.

 

“Here we go again,” exclaimed Velado. “We’ve got a friendly rivalry going between First Class MMA and Young’s MMA. They throw a badass at me and I answer the call. PK (Pat Kelly) is a legend of sorts. If you wrestle in Maine and you don’t know who he is, you’re out of touch. I think PK a different kind of challenge for me than my previous four fights. I’ve shown that I can get the fight to the ground and that I’m dangerous when I get there, but that’s a wildcard with Pat.  This fight is very exciting to me because we are both undefeated and the winner is going to have to prove that they are ready for the next level by bringing a well-rounded game. I have no doubt as to whether PK is capable of taking me down. The question is; will he regret his decision to take me there? We will see on June 17th.”

 

Pat Kelly is, as Velado noted, a legend in the Maine wrestling world.  He put together an impressive 116-20 career record at the University of Maine, captured a New England title and wrestled in the NCAA Championships in 1986.  The 52-year-old is no stranger to the championship circle as a coach either, having led the Camden Hills team to several state titles over the years, earning himself an induction into the Maine Amateur Wrestling Alliance Hall of Fame in the process.  Kelly famously coached current UFC star Tim Boetsch (20-11) to four state wrestling titles during Boetsch’s time at Camden Hills.

 

As a member of Young’s MMA, Kelly made his MMA debut at “NEF 14.”  Known for his intense in-cage performances, Kelly has finished all three of his opponents.  A knee injury has forced him to the sidelines since his last victory in the summer of 2015.

 

“First, my sincere thanks to NEF for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and to Coach Chris Young and Ernie Fitch along with all my teammates at Young’s MMA,” said Kelly. “I am so pumped-up to get back into the NEF cage. I am now fully recovered from a serious knee injury and am felling better than ever. This fight makes perfect sense in that you have two undefeated fighters that are willing to wage war for the belt.

 

“I am honored to share the cage with a fighter of Raf’s caliber,” Kelly continued.  “I respect the fact he is currently the undefeated champ. To fight him means that my time has come to offer him a challenge worthy of title contention. I have been training for an opportunity like this for the past four years. I will bring to the cage a sense of unpredictability and true grit. In essence, Raf will do what he has to do and I will do what I have to do. Whatever happens, happens.”

 

New England Fights returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with its next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES,” on Saturday, June 17, 2017.  Tickets are on sale now at the Colisee box office 207-783-2009 x 525 and online atwww.TheColisee.com.

 

For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com.  In addition, you can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

Largest MMA event in The Americas July 14-15 in Monterrey, Mexico

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONTE CARLO, Monaco (May 3, 2017)- The World MMA Association (WMMAA) has announced that its 2017 Pan-American Championships, the largest MMA event ever in The Americas, will be held this coming July 14-15 in Monterrey, Mexico.
National teams from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Uruguay, Brazil, along with special guest Spain, are expected to compete in the 2017 Pan-American Championships.
“Representing your country on the biggest continental competition of nations, it strikes you, your heart starts to race in anticipation of the grand journey into WMMAA history,” Pan-American Division president Tomas Yu said.
The PAN-AM Board of Directors met again this past month during a collaboration with USA Boxing, during the latter’s 2017 Western Elite Qualifier & Regional Open, when the tentative announcement was made that Monterrey (Mexico) would be the event host this July.
Albuquerque, New Mexico was a leading destination host, however, PAN-AM Board members voted in favor of Monterrey as the ultimate location.
“WMMAA Mexico, as well as Monterrey as the host city this year, is a huge step in the development of the championships and movement as a whole,” Yu added.  “Monterrey has been an active sport city. It was the first city to bid on the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics. Monterrey had never bid on an Olympic Game prior to its effort to bid for the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics. The city did host several matches of the 1986 FIFA World Cup.
“The moment we have all been waiting for is finally here as the 2017 Pan-American Championships will take place in Monterrey, Mexico this coming July 14-15. The final decision has been made and now it is time to exhale, relax, and peacefully wait for the upcoming grand event, gathering people from all around the world to watch their country’s athletes competing among the best.”
INFORMATION:

Lightweight Contender Argenis Mendez Wins Split Decision Over Ivan Redkach in Main Event of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 & BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes Live From Sportsmen’s Lodge in Studio City, CA

Michael Farenas to make comeback on Fight Club OC card June 1st

COSTA MESA, CA (May 2, 2017) – They say it’s never is too late to start a comeback, and for  lightweight contender Michael Farenas (44-5-4, 33 Kos), the comeback starts Thursday, June 1
st when he enters the ring for the first time in nearly two years. The eight-round bout will take place on Roy Englebrecht’s “Fight Club OC” show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA.
Having fought some of the top Jr. lightweight out there over the past five years, which include Yuriorkis Gamboa, Jose Padraza, and Fernando Beltran to name a few, Farenas believes he still has some gas left in his tank.
“It’s been a long journey to get back in the ring, but now that time has come,” said Michael Farenas. “I’m in great shape and I feel my skill and experience will help me on my comeback.”
Will new managers Bill Halkias and Germaine Gillies crafting his career and new trainers Marvin Somodio and Jesse Arevalo in his corner, the new look Farenas will have another opportunity to march toward a world title.
“This bout will take place at one hundred and forty pounds, but my plan is to campaign at lightweight,” said Farenas, who fought Takashi Uchiyama for the WBA World super featherweight title. “I know with hard work, I can make another run toward another world title.”
Under new management and a new trainer, “Hammer Fist” as he is called, will look to bring that Filipino fighting spirit back to his career.
Tickets for the Thursday, June 1st Fight Club OC show in The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, CA are on sale at www.fightcluboc.com.

MONSTER ENERGY BELLATOR MMA FIGHT SERIES HITS CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY FOR MONSTER ENERGY NASCAR ALL-STAR RACE WEEKEND ON MAY 20

 

 

ALSO, MMA LEGENDS TITO ORTIZ AND DAN HENDERSON TO MEET WITH FANS FOR AUTOGRAPH SIGNING ON MAY 19

 

LOS ANGELES – The Monster Energy Bellator MMA Fight Series visits Charlotte Motor Speedway during the Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race weekend on Saturday, May 20 and will feature several MMA bouts throughout the afternoon prior to the start of the on-track racing action. All bouts are set to take place between 3:30-5 p.m. ET at the Monster Energy display in the Charlotte Motor Speedway Fan Zone.

Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet two of the biggest names in the history of the sport onFriday, May 19, when former UFC champion Tito Ortiz and former PRIDE and STRIKEFORCE titleholder Dan Henderson will be available to sign autographs at the Monster Energy display in the Charlotte Motor Speedway Fan Zone between 3-4 p.m. ET.

Through Bellator MMA, along with longstanding partner Monster Energy, mixed martial arts will be included as a pre-race activation exclusively for fans in attendance. The lineup on Saturday will consist of four MMA bouts featuring some of the best regional up-and-coming talent, with the main event prospects in consideration to be signed to a multi-fight Bellator MMA contract.

The Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star Race takes place Saturday, May 20 at 8 p.m. ET, airing live on FS1. Tickets to the Monster Energy NASCAR All-Star race are available at ‪NASCAR.com/tickets or by calling Charlotte Motor Speedway at 1-800-455-FANS (3267).

 

Updated Monster Energy Bellator MMA Fight Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway Fight Card:

Heavyweight Main Event: Allen Crowder (7-2, Mebane, N.C.) vs. Robert Neal (4-2, Jefferson, Ga.)

Welterweight Bout: Jeremie Holloway (8-2, Charlotte, N.C) vs. Jacob McClintock (8-2, Charleston, S.C.)

Lightweight Bout: Mike Stevens (6-3, Winston-Salem, N.C) vs. Lashawn Alcocks (6-8, Wilmington, N.C.)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Allen Bose (5-0, Jacksonville, N.C.) vs. Chris Crawford (8-5, Durham, N.C)

 

Please visit Bellator.com for details.

 

*Event schedule subject to change.

THE HEAVYWEIGHTS WILL SEE ACTION AT NEF 29

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (May 2, 2017) –New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee on Saturday, June 17, 2017 with the fight promotion’s next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES.”  The event will feature a full slate of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts.  On the professional portion of the MMA card, the ever-popular Ras “Rasquatch” Hylton (1-0) has signed to face Eric “Big Black” Ramsey (0-1) in a heavyweight contest.

 

Including his amateur career, the 6’6″ Ras Hylton is a perfect 4-0 in the NEF cage.  His meteoric rise to the top of the NEF heavyweight division has left a trail of broken and battered opponents in its wake.  Hylton’s first four opponents have not lasted a total of six minutes with the Taekwondo black belt.  A member of both First Class MMA and Dragon Fire Martial Arts, Hylton won his pro debut over veteran Mike Hansen (5-5) at “NEF 27” last February.

 

“I’m really excited about being able to get in the cage again,” said Hylton. “I have the opportunity to get tested by someone outside the circuit, which evokes a real ‘next level’ feeling. NEF is really pulling out all the stops to make June 17th a great start to the summer! I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Father’s Day, so I intend to relax, undefeated, with my kids on Sunday. I hope everyone comes out for this one!”

 

Eric Ramsey will make his first NEF appearance on June 17.  Based out of Clinton, Oklahoma, Ramsey has been a fixture on MMA cards in the Sooner State since 2012.  Like Hylton, he gained a reputation as a quick finisher, with his first three amateur bouts lasting a total of less than three minutes.  Ramsey comes to Maine looking for his first win as a professional.  He represents Trinity Combat Club.

 

“I look forward to displaying my skills in front of a new crowd,” said Ramsey.  “I am very grateful to NEF and Ras Hylton for allowing me the opportunity to challenge myself.  I’m excited to show what Oklahoma has to offer.  Thank you, and God bless.”

 

New England Fights returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with its next event, “NEF 29: STARS & STRIPES,” on Saturday, June 17, 2017.  Tickets are on sale now at the Colisee box office 207-783-2009 x 525 and online atwww.TheColisee.com.

 

For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com.  In addition, you can watch NEF videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

 

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

6th annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2017 induction ceremony review

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(L-R) – Seated – Alex Ramos, Boby Bartels, Doug Dewitt, Stan Hoffman and Gaspar Ortega; standing – Don Majeski, Renaldo Snipes & Ron Katz
All pictures by Peter Frutkoff
NEW YORK (May 1, 2017) – More than 300 people thoroughly enjoyed yesterday’s sixth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction ceremony at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York. NYSBHOF is sponsored by Ring 8.
“It seems like yesterday that we started the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame but here we are in our sixth year,” NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy said opening the festivities. “I’ve been asked what VIPs were coming here and I said the 15 inductees are VIPs.   This is how we remembers our New Yorkers in boxing.  We recognize them for their achievements in boxing and all of them are great guys, too.”
“Today is a validation of their (inductees’) careers,” added Ring 8 president/Chairman of the NYSBHOF Induction Committee Jack Hirsch.  “This is a great honor for all of them.  Congratulations to all of the honorees.”
Living boxers inducted into the NYSBHOF were 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 world middleweight title challenger Alex “The Bronx Bomber” Ramos (39-10-2, 24 KOs)
Posthumous participants inducted were Queens’ former middleweight and light heavyweight world champion Dick Tiger (60-19-3, 27 KOs), Brooklyn/Manhattan light heavyweight world champion Jose “Chegui” Torres(41-3-1, 29 KOs), and Williamsburg’s middleweight world champion, “The Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey (51-4-11, 23 KOs).
Non-participants now in the NYSBHOF are Brooklyn/Bronx manager Stan Hoffman, Long Island matchmaker Ron Katz, and past Ring 8 president/NYSAC judge Bobby Bartels and Queens’ International agent Don Majeski.
Posthumous non-participant inductees were 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.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.
Past world champions and NYSBHOF inductees Iran Barkley, Vito Antuofermo and Mark Breland were in attendance, as were retired boxers and others such as Dennis Mitlon, Bobby Miller, Jimmy Lange and Richard Brown.
(L-R) – Michael & Gaspar Ortega.


Gasper Ortega: “I’m very honored to have people come out to honor me.  It’s truly a pleasure to be here. I want fans to know how much I appreciate their support.  Right now, I feel like a champion; I’m on top of the world.”
Stan Hoffman
 
Stan Hoffman: “A lot of things have been said about me in boxing and I’m grateful for the success I’ve had in boxing.  I wish I had 200 friends but the problem is I [probably have a 1000, so I can’t name them all today.  This is special because I’m going into the Hall of Fame the same year as my godson, Ron Katz, who was the best matchmaker.  He’s terrific.  Boxing has been good to me.”
(L-R) – Ron & Barbara Katz


Ron Katz: “During the past 42 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many great fighters, over 200 world champions.  I’ve had the pleasure to work for some great promoters, to say I’ve world for some of the giants of this industry is an understatement.  I learned so much from Johnny Bos, Mickey Duff, Bruce Trampler and my mentor, Teddy Brenner.  I’m so grateful to them.”
(L-R) — Melvina Lathan, Doug Dewitt & his son
Doug Dewitt: “I could have done better in the Tommy Hearns fight.   Took Robbie Simms too lightly but I won the rematch.  I was No. 3 (in the world) and I was going to fight Marvin Hagler, who was world champion when there was only one.  Boxing is a tough business.  I’m not walking around like I used to 20 years ago.  I had some good teachers.  I had a good career, I wouldn’t call it great.  Thank you very much.”
(L-R) — Renaldo Snipes & Mike Taroli
Renaldo Snipes: “I have a lot of friends. I had a lot of enemies but now they’re friends. You have to know how to get along with everybody even though you had to fight some in the ring.  You can’t go into the ring without freaking killer instinct.  I’d like to thank everybody who supported me.  I took what I learned in boxing and took it into the business world.”
(L-R) — Bobby Bartels & Lenny Mangiapane
Bobby Bartels:  Dick Tiger wanted me to go to Africa with him but I said I couldn’t.  I wish I had gone with him.  When I was in Stillman’s Gym sparring, Gasper helped me a lot. He’s a beautiful man.  I want to congratulate all the inductees.  It’s great to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  It’s been a long road from the gym, through Golden Gloves, becoming a judge, and then Ring 8 president for nine years.  This is the icing on the cake.”
(L-R) — Alex Ramos & Bob Duffy
Alex Ramos:  First, I want to thank the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame and everybody here from the bottom of my heart.  I want to thank Shelly Finkel, who did so much for me, and all the people who trained me.  I was my own problem. I had a brain injury but it’s great to be alive.”
(L-R) — Michael Griffith, Don Majeski & Jack Hirsch
Don Majeski: “I have much to be humbled about.  I congratulate all the inductees for their hard work and incredible contributions to boxing.  I’m a beneficiary for all the fighters who gave me a chance to be a small part of their careers.  This is a great honor, probably the only one I’ll ever get.  It’s been a wonderful life in boxing the past 50 years.”
Master of Ceremonies Dave Diamante
 
CLASS of 2012: Carmen Basilio, Mike McCallum, Mike Tyson, Jake LaMotta, Riddick Bowe, Carlos Ortiz, Vito Antuofermo, Emile Griffith, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Gene Tunney, Benny Leonard, Tony Canzoneri, Harold Lederman, Steve Acunto, Jimmy Glenn, Gil Clancy, Ray Arcel, Nat Fleischer, Bill Gallo and Arthur Mercante, Sr.
CLASS of 2013: Jack Dempsey, Johnny Dundee, Sandy Saddler, Maxie Rosenbloom, Joey Archer, Iran Barkley, Mark Breland, Bobby Cassidy, Doug Jones, Junior Jones, James “Buddy” McGirt, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Bob Arum, Shelly Finkel, Tony Graziano, Larry Merchant, Teddy Brenner, Mike Jacobs, Tex Rickard and Don Dunphy.
 
CLASS OF 2014:  Floyd Patterson, Tracy Harris Patterson, Billy Backus, Kevin Kelley, Juan LaPorte, Gerry Cooney, Mustafa Hamsho, Howard Davis, Jr., Lou Ambers, Jack Britton, Terry McGovern, Teddy Atlas, Lou DiBella, Steve Farhood, Gene Moore, Angelo Prospero, Whitey Bimstein, Cus D’Amato, William Muldoon and Tom O’Rourke.
CLASS OF 2015: Saoul Mamby, Joey Giambra, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.
CLASS OF 2016:  Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.
About Ring 8: Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, Ring 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association – hence, RING 8 – and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.
RING 8 is fully committed to supporting less fortunate people in the boxing community who may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.
Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with more than 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $30.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, excluding July and August.  All active boxers, amateur and professional, are entitled to a complimentary RING 8 yearly membership.  Guests of Ring 8 members are welcome at a cost of only $7.00 per person.

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Returns to headline “Rapid Fire” in Kansas 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 17 on CBS Sports Network, live from Hartman Arena 

 
PARK CITY, Kansas (May 1, 2017) – 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez returns to the ring on Saturday, June 17, at home in Wichita for his second professional fight. “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” will air (10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network live from Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
Wichita native Hernandez will face unbeaten Mexican flyweight Jose Rodriquez (2-0, 2 KOs)in the six-round main event.
 
In his professional debut on March 25th, Hernandez turned in an impressive performance, entertaining nearly 3,200 passionate Kansas fans as he defeated Patrick Gutierrez in the fourth round of the main event. The fight was also televised on CBS Sports Network.
 
NICO HERNANDEZ HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO FROM HIS PRO DEBUT
Feel free to view and/or post parts or all of this highlights video of Nick Hernandez’ pro debut.  To use, credit “KO Night Boxing, LLC and TITLE Boxing:
Nico Hernandez
(Picture courtesy of TITLE Boxing)

The 21-year-old Hernandez displayed tremendous poise and a few tweaks to his amateur style, adding a devastating body attack, in addition to effectively switching from his orthodox stance to southpaw at times.

“I feel that there will be even more people there this fight than at my pro debut,” Hernandez said.  “I live only a 10 to 15-minute drive from Hartman Arena, north of Wichita.
“I worked hard on body punching for my pro debut.  I didn’t do that in the amateurs (no scoring points) and I’m getting use to switching to southpaw.  Both were in our game plan and successful in my firsts fight.  I’m excited to get right back in the ring, especially at home.  Our plan is to fight every two to three months and have a total of four fights this year.”
“KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC.
“Gutierrez was the perfect opponent for Nico’s pro debut,” commented John Andersen, who promotes Hernandez as well as the June 17th show.  “He was tough but now it’s time to step it up a little against a 2-0 opponent with two knockouts.  Nico is starting to climb the ladder to get him where we want him to go.  We need to move him quicker than an average fighter, largely due to his amateur background, and he’ll probably have only one more six-round bout after this before moving him up to eight.
“I thought he looked a little nervous in his pro debut at the start, but that’s expected for a fighter making his pro debut at home in front of nearly 3,200 people, and after that he was great.  We couldn’t have asked for anything more and he did get in some rounds that will be helpful.
“This fight will be close to where Nico lives. Nico really connects to kids in the community, often speaking at local schools, and this is the perfect opportunity for parents to bring their children to watch him fight on a weekend night.
“We’re calling this show, ‘Rapid Fire,’ primarily because of Nico’s exciting style, firing crisp combinations in rapid succession, in addition to his activity level as he comes right back to fight so quickly.”
Hernandez’ father and head trainer, Lewis Hernandez, believes fans will see a more improved, well-rounded fighter in this fight.  “Nico showed his body punching and he switched around a little to fight lefthanded,” he explained, “which weren’t part of his boxing style in the amateurs.  Fans will see the fighter Nico really is but this fight he’ll get back to boxing more.  I told him that he needed to go to the body as a professional fighter but that each punch doesn’t have to be as hard.    Sometimes I need to remind him of that because he’s a fighter at heart.
“I knew he’d be okay in his pro debut (nerves-wise) because he gets going as the fight goes on.  When he hurts his opponent, he comes on even stronger.  I just tell him to box and be himself.  He’s always well-conditioned so he can go rounds without a problem.  I want him to be fast and elusive to take away his opponents’ body and then, in later rounds, go back to boxing.  He fought at 115-pounds but he’ll be back to 112 for this fight.  Nico was strong at 115 and he’ll be very strong at flyweight.”
A 29-year-old native of Mexico who fights out of Markesan, Wisconsin, Rodriguez (2-0, 2 KOs) has two first-round knockouts in a pair of pro fights.  Rodriguez is trained by four-time world title challenger Angel Manfredy, whose invaluable experience from fighting Floyd Mayweather, Jr., Stevie Johnston and Diego Corrales certainly aids his fighter. Manfredy (43-8-1, 32 KOs) had statement victories over Arturo Gatti, Julio Diaz and Ivan Robinson, among the more notables.
Additional “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” fights will soon be announced.  All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets go on special pre-sale Wednesday, May 3, and general sales Friday, May 5, at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/060052A193761C74.  Prices are $175.00 (VIP ringside package ticket which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt and a ticket to the official after-party with a meet-and-greet opportunity), $150.00 (floor seat which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt), $75.00, $35.00 and $20.00.  Tickets will also be sold in Wichita at Angela’s Café (2119 W. 21st St. N), or call Team Nico (Jeremiah @ 316. 393.3743 or Lewis @316.806.0144.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing

Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram

WORLD CHAMPION BADOU JACK CONFIRMED FOR THIRD EDITION OF BOX FAN EXPO TAKING PLACE ON CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 6, IN LAS VEGAS

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.
Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite
 
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE DEADLINE FOR CREDENTIAL REQUESTS IS TUESDAY MAY 2NDPLEASE CONTACT: 


RESPONSES WILL BE EMAILED ON MAY 3 RD, 2017. THANK YOU
For Immediate Release
Las Vegas (May 1, 2017) – World Champion Badou Jack has confirmed that he will appear to Meet & Greet his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 3rd edition of Box Fan Expo that will take place Saturday May 6, 2017 from 10am to 5pm, during Cinco De Mayo weekend.
Jack will appear once again at this years’ Expo at the Mayweather Promotions booth and will be signing gloves, photos and merchandise. Boxing fans will also have a great opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as “The Ripper”. Fans will get an experience like no other at the Mayweather Promotions booth, with a chance to shop Mayweather Promotions, TMT, Mayweather Sports merchandise, and meet other great boxing superstars under the Mayweather Promotions banner.
Badou Jack, is a Swedish professional boxer who held the WBC Super Middleweight title from 2015 to 2017. On April 24, 2015 he defeated Anthony Dirrell to win the WBC championship belt and defended it successfully against George Groves at the MGM Grand Las Vegas on September 12th, 2015 during Mexican Independence weekend. He went on in defeating another great champion in Lucian Bute to retain his belt and then had a Majority draw against Gold medalist James Degale at the Barclays center in Brooklyn New York on January 14, 2017. He has recently decided to move up in weight and challenge the top light heavyweights in the division.
Jack joins, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, Marcos Maidana, Jessie Vargas, WBA, Mayweather Promotions, Marco Antonio Barrera, Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, Yuriorkis Gamboa, Al Bernstein, Thomas Hearns, Kronk Boxing, WBC, Christy Martin, Mia St.John, Fernando Vargas and Joel Casamayor among early commitments to this year’s Box Fan Expo.
Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last two Expo’s such as Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Vinny Pazienza, Mikey Garcia , Mia St.Johns, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks and many more…
Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipments, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to Meet and Greet Boxing Superstars of today, current and former world champions, Legends of the sport and other boxing Celebrities at their booth. On Site, fans will experience different activities from Autograph Sessions, Photo Sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, as well as a chance to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from their booth, plus so much more… you won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!
Box Fan Expo will also feature top boxing organizations, promoters, ring card girls, famous trainers and commentators as well as boxing gear companies “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”.
Throughout the next few days leading up to the Event, there will be more announcements on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.
 And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:
Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927
 For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com
More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://www.boxfanexpo.com
You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo

The Best Fight News on the Net!

Newsletter Powered By : XYZScripts.com