Tag Archives: Adrian Sosa

“St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” changes New headliner is undefeated prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan Feb. 12th in Dedham, MA

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BOSTON (February 3, 2022) – Undefeated super welterweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (9-0, 9 KOs) has been elevated to the headliner on “St. Valentine’s Day’s Massacre” card, presented by Vertex Promotions, February 12th at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

The cancellation of the original main event between Adrian Sosa and Zack Kuhn resulted in a few changes. Kuhn (10-10-1, 5 KOs) is now fighting another undefeated prospect, James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 6 KOs), in an 8-round Special Welterweight Attraction.

The 21-year-old southpaw Hogan, fighting out of Weymouth (MA), has knocked out each of his 9 professional opponents to date. The popular fighter was a celebrated amateur boxer, highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the 2019 New England Golden Gloves Championships.

“It’s Tank Time” once again, but this fight Hogan will be making his debut as a headliner, in addition to fighting in his first scheduled 8-rounder.

The 6-round fight between Dorchester (MA) lightweight Jonathan Depina (6-1, 4 KOs) and Jonathan “El Guapo” Hernan Godoy (5-12) has moved up to the co-featured event.
Perella’s (8-0, 5 KOs), of Mansfield (MA), was supposed to fight Mexican challenger Danny “Venado” Flores (15-26-1, 8 KOs), but he was injured during training, and he has been replaced by  Kuhn. “The Slim Reaper” is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

Irish light heavyweight  Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole” (2-0, 2 KOs), of Galway, is matched against Greg Hackett (3-20-1) in a 4-rounder. O’Toole was the 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist, who a powerful southpaw returning to the Boston area for his third pro fight.

Five 6-round bouts are on tap: South Boston super welterweight Joe Farina (7-1, 4 KOs) vs. Rynell Griffin (8-49-2, 2 KOs), Houston super lightweight Miranda “El Alacrana” Reyes (5-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. Jaica Pavilus (1-4-1, 1 KO), undefeated Philly welterweight Tahmir Smalls (6-0, 3 KOs) vs. Leonides Fowlkes (2-7-1), popular Dorchester featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, vs. Mike Fowler (7-42, 2 KOs), and super lightweight Marcus Davidson (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Rakim Johnson (6-15-1, 5 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts is Southbridge (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Brandon Grimmett (0-5), as well as the Davidson’s older brother from Kansas City (KS), pro-debuting lightweight Marcell, a 2-time Ringside World and 2019 National Golden Gloves Champion, vs. TBA.
Fighters subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for $85.00 and up (ringside), $75.00 (general admission) and $50.00 (standing room). Tickets are available to purchase online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-valentines-day-massacre-21222-tickets-243038654157?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or contact any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

IT’S TANK TIME! Undefeated super welterweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan fighting for professional perfection “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” on Feb. 12 in Dedham, MA

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BOSTON (January 26, 2022) – It’s Tank Time, again!

Undefeated prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (9-0, 9 KOs) will be in the ring February 12th on a mission to extend  his perfect pro record versus Vincent Floyd (4-11-2, 2 KOs) in an 8-round Special Welterweight Attraction on the “St. Valentine’s Day’s Massacre” card, presented by Vertex Promotions, at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

“It’s (streak) very important for me,” Hogan said. “I don’t look at it as going 10 for 10. I don’t think I need to knockout my opponent as quickly as possible. I don’t go out there looking for a knockout unless I set up an opponent and hurt him. Through the fight I get better and better. I know I can take out a lot of fighters because I know how hard I hit. My left is my best punch. I can knockout guys with my jab, but I’ve knocked out guys with a right hook, too.

“I go into the ring knowing I’m going to take the heart and will away from who I’m fighting. Everybody is looking at me. They know I’m the real deal and how hard I hit. Some come with the will to win, but once I hit them, they just run or hold. I’m going to put them to sleep.”

The 21-year-old southpaw Hogan, fighting out of Weymouth (MA), has knocked out each of his 9 professional opponents to date. The popular fighter was a celebrated amateur boxer, highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the 2019 New England Golden Gloves Championships.
Hogan’s as smart about boxing as he is skilled. “Frank The Tank” understands that there is no rush to accelerate the pace of his career.

“I don’t want to rush,” Hogan remarked. “I’m only 21 and there’s still a lot of development. I know a lot, but I believe I can learn more. You don’t just transfer from the amateurs to pros. You need to go rounds. Boxing isn’t all about knockouts. I need to gain experience, not only in the ring, but all around. If I get a good offer, though, I’ll take it. ‘It’s Tank Time’ not their time.”

Although his opponent has changed, he is aware that Floyd is tall, long, and that he likes to give and take. “But I’m looking to take him out cold, not have the referee stop the fight,” Hogan added. “I want to start 2002 with a bang by leaving him on the mat.”

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(picture by Emily Harney/Fightography)

Undefeated super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KO), of Lawrence (MA) will headline “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre”, in the 8-round main event against Zack Kuhn (10-10-1, 5 KOs).

Another undefeated prospect, welterweight James “The Slim Reaper” Perella’s (8-0, 5 KOs), takes on tough Mexican challenger Danny “Venado” Flores (15-26-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round fight, which has been elevated to  the co-featured event. Perella, fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, is matched tough is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

Irish eyes will be once again as Galway light heavyweight  Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole” (2-0, 2 KOs) returns to his second home. The 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist is a powerful southpaw returning to the Boston area for his third pro fight. He faces an opponent to be determined.

Three 6-round bouts are on tap: Dorchester (MA) lightweight Jonathan Depina (6-1, 4 KOs) vs. Jonathan “El Guapo” Hernan Godoy (5-12), South Boston super welterweight Joe Farina (7-1, 4 KOs) vs. Rynell Griffin (8-49-2, 2 KOs), and Houston super lightweight Miranda “El Alacrana” Reyes (5-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. Jaica Pavilus (1-4-1, 1 KO).

Popular Dorchester featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, squares off with Mike Fowler (7-42, 2 KOs).

Also fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts is Southbridge (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Brandon Grimmett (0-5), as well as the Davidson brothers from Kansas City (KS), super lightweight Marcus (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Rakim Johnson (6-15-1, 5 KOs), and pro-debuting lightweight Marcell, a 2-time Ringside World and 2019 National Golden Gloves Champion.

Fighters subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for $85.00 and up (ringside), $75.00 (general admission) and $50.00 (standing room). Tickets are available to purchase online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-valentines-day-massacre-21222-tickets-243038654157?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or contact any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Undefeated Adrian “Tonka” Sosa to headline “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre”

Undefeated Adrian “Tonka” Sosato  headline “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre”February 12th in Dedham, MA
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BOSTON (January 10, 2022) – Vertex Promotions returns February 12th with “St. Valentine’s Day’s Massacre,” headlined by undefeated super lightweight prospect Adrian “Tonka” Sosa, on Saturday night, February 12, at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

“We’re very excited to continue promoting our shows to showcase local talent,” Vertex promoter Dave Clark said. “We made our debut last September and promoted three more pro shows last year. We learned a lot and continue our goal to keep local fighters active and provide an entertaining night out for fans.”

The 26-year-old Sosa (12-0, fighting out of Lawrence (MA), headlined a Vertex show last September in his first action in more than 2 years. He will take on an opponent to be determined Feb. 12th in the 8-round main event.

In the 8-round co-featured event, undefeated ABF American West and NBA Continental champion RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (15-0, 11 KOs) faces TBA as the Albany fighter continues his march towards a major fight.

Undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, is matched tough against Mexican challenger Danny “Venado” Flores (15-26-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round bout. Perella is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

It’s “Tank Time,” again. Undefeated Weymouth (MA) super welterweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (9-0, 9 KOs) will attempt to keep his perfect pro record intact and go 10-for-10 in an 8-rounder versus TBA.

Boston Irish will be in the house as Ireland-natives “Lethal” Larry Fryers (11-5, 4 KOs) and Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole” (2-0, 2 KOs) are schedule to be in action. Fryers, a welterweight now living in Yonkers (NY), is a 20212 Ulster Intermediate Champion, while light heavyweight O’Toole (2-0, 2 KOs) returns to the Boston area for his third pro fight. O’Toole, fighting out of Galway, was a 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist.

Fryers will be in a scheduled 8-rounder, O’Toole a 4, and both will be matched against opponents to be determined.

Also fighting in 4-round matches against TBA’s are popular Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, and Southbridge (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (2-0, 1 KO).

Opponents will soon be announced. Fighters subject to change.
Tickets are on sale for $85.00 and up (ringside), $75.00 (general admission) and $50.00 (standing room). Tickets are available to purchase online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-valentines-day-massacre-21222-tickets-243038654157?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or contact any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets.

Doors will open at 6:30 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Vertex Promotions returns November 20th 12-0 Adrian Sosa to headline “Fall Brawl” Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, MA

Vertex Promotions returns November 20th

12-0 Adrian Sosa to headline “Fall Brawl”

Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, MA

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BOSTON (November 1, 2021) – Vertex Promotions has announced it will present “Fall Brawl,” headlined by undefeated super lightweight prospect Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Saturday night, November 20th at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

“We’re excited to be promoting our fourth show we’ve promoted since our inaugural event this past September 25th,” Vertex promoter Dave Clark said.  “We’ve found a home at Moseley’s On the Charles, which provides intimate setting just outside of Boston. Our goal remains to provide local boxers with opportunities to stay active and fight in front of their family and friends. We get better at promoting with each show.”

Sosa will fight Alfonso Olvera (12-6-3, 4 KOs), fighting out of Tucson (AZ) by way of Mexico, in the 8-round main event. Sosa, who hadn’t fought in 28 months, returned to the ring with a fury, albeit showing signs of rust. His hand were quick, as usual, and he was well poised as on the lat Vertex show, September 25th at the same venue.  His veteran Mexican opponent, Danny “Venado” Flores (15-25-1, 8 KOs), continually but unsuccessfully tried to lure Sosa into traps. Sosa was the hunter, stalking a game Flores, who often stayed in the corners or on the ropes baiting Sosa to mix it up.  Sosa “pitched a shutout,” winning eight rounds on all three judges’ scorecards.

In his last fight (Sept. 28, 2019), Olvera upset previously undefeated Amon Torres by way of an 8-round unanimous decision.  Olvera also gained invaluable experience going the distance with current unified World super lightweight champion Josh Taylor and former IBF Super Lightweight World titlist Ivan Baranchyk.

In the co-featured event, undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, faces veteran Jacksonville (FL) fighter Andre Byrd (8-11-2, 1 KO) in the Perella’s first scheduled 8-rounder event. Perella is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.  The popular fighter returns in the 6-round co-featured event.

Undefeated ABF American West and NBA Continental champion, 23-year-old Albany (NY) lightweight RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (14-0, 11 KOs), returns to his second home at Moseley’s On The Charles again to fight Columbian lightweight Rudolfo “El Tsunam” Puentes (20=8-2, 16 KOs).

Promising super welterweight prospect Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (8-0, 8 KOs) will put his perfect pro record on the line in a 6-round bout against an opponent to bet determined. Hogan, of Weymouth, MA, is the reigning New Hampshire super welterweight champion, as well as a 2019 New England Golden Gloves gold medalist.

In a pair of 6-round bouts, New Bedford (MA) middleweight Drew “Tomahawk” Dwelly (3-0-2, 3 KOs) meets Las Vegas’ Zachary Scott Juusda (1-1, 1 KO), while Springfield (MA) super lightweight super lightweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff (4-0, 3 KOs) is back against Carlos Galindo (0-9).

Unbeaten Providence middleweight Anthony Concepcion (8-0-1, 6 KOs), a member of World middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, will be in action against TBA in a 6-rounder.

Malden (MA) super featherweight Alex Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) faces Francisco Muro (3-8) in a 4-round bout. Also scheduled to fight on the undercard, each in 4-round matches versus TBAs, is Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, vs. Auston Reed Ward (0-9); Galway, Ireland cruiserweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (1-0, 1 KO), a 2019 Irish Elite Championship gold medalist; Boston welterweight James Murrin (1-0), and Kansas City (KS) super lightweight Marcus Davidson (1-0, 1 KO).

Cards are subject to change.

Tickets are on sale for $150.00 (ringside), $65.00 (general admission), $50.00 (standing room) and $2000.00 for a table of 10.  Contact any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets, limited availability at the door.

Doors will open at 7 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET .

Undefeated RayJay Bermudez headlines “Fight Night on the Charles at Moseley’s II” September 25 in Dedham, MA

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RayJay Bermudez

BOSTON (August 25, 2021) – Vertex Promotions has announced its second event, “Fight Night on the Charles at Moseley’s II,” on Saturday night, September 25, at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

A few of the same fighters from Vertex Promotions’ first show, July 31st at the same venue, will be in action again.

“We were very happy with the first show on July 31st,” Vertex promoter Dave Clark said.  “Everyone there really had a great time.  This show will be great as well.  There’s a lot of local talent and we want to try to keep them as active as we can give fans around here a great night out.”
Undefeated ABF American West and NBA Continental champion, 23-year-old Albany (NY) welterweight RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (13-0, 10 KOs) will headline the show once again in the 8-round main event,

Undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.  The popular fighter returns in the 6-round co-featured event.

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James “The Slim Reaper” Perella

(picture by Emily Harney / Fightography

Undefeated super featherweight Daniel “G.D.F.E.” Bailey (7-0, 4 KOs), fighting out of Tampa (FL), and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) junior welterweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (11-0, 9 KOs) are slated to be in 6-round bouts.  Bailey is a 4-time U.S. Army and 2012 Ringside National champion, as well as the cousin of multiple world champion Randall Bailey.

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Daniel Bailey

Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, and Lynn (MA) light heavyweight James Perkins (5-0-1, 4 KOs) are scheduled to be in 4-rounders.

Other returning fighters from Vertex Promotions’ inaugural event include Boston welterweight James Murrin (1-0), Malden (MA) junior lightweight Alex Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) in 4-round matches.

Opponents will soon be announced.  Fighters subject to change.

Tickets will go on sale soon for $95.00 (row 1), $85.00 (2nd row), $65.00 (3rd row), $55.00 (general admission) and $45.00 (standing room).
Doors will open at 7 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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Lawrence’s Undefeated junior welterweight prospect 11-0 Adrian Sosa finds new home in Ryan Roach’s Fighter Locker stable

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(L-R) Trainer Sean Farley & Adrian Sousa
 
BOSTON (August 18, 2021) – Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (11-0, 9 KOs) has found a new home having signed a managerial contract with Ryan Roach’s Fighter Locker.

The 26-year-old Sosa, fighting out of Lawrence (MA), was a hot commodity after defeating previously undefeated Khiry Todd (7-0) in 2018 by way of a 6-round majority decision, which led to Sosa signing a promotional contract with DiBella Entertainment. Sosa was unhappy fighting about only four times against journeymen through mid-2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown boxing.

“I had issues with opponents who kept falling out,” Sosa explained.  “Foxwoods is only 2-hours from Lawrence, and I was losing credibility with my fans because fights kept falling out.  I wanted to step up to showcase my skills, but I wasn’t getting good fights, and then COVID hit.  I called (Lou) DiBella and he gave me my release.

“That fight (vs. Khiary) is the biggest for me so far.  People kept asking me why an undefeated fighter (6-0) would fight another undefeated prospect (Todd was 7-0).  He wanted the fight and called me out in a disrespectful way on social media.  I took the fight and knew I was faster than him.  That fight led to me signing with DiBella.”

Despite his inactivity the past 2-plus years, in terms of fights, Sosa has kept busy in the gym, and he greatly benefited from four months in training camp this past May in Ft. Lauderdale (FL), sparring 50 rounds with George Kambosos, Jr. for his since postponed fight versus unified World lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez.  Sosa used social media to get the sparring gig.

“I reached out to him on social media,” Sosa explained.  “Every time he posted about his fight against Lopez, I replied asking him to bring me to his camp for sparring.  One day I was DM’d by him on Instagram.  He let me know his team watched my video and they wanted to bring me to his camp.  I learned a lot there, more about my style, because I would just sit back as a boxer-puncher.  I started to counter more, and my defense opened.  I got a little more game from camp.  When he did something, I wanted to come right back with it.  The camp brought more of the fighter out of me.  It opened my range and sharpened my defense.”  

Sosa is a promotional free agent who has a new manager, Ryan Roach.  The junior welterweight prospect is expected to be back in the ring next month at a site and date to soon be announced.

“I signed with Ryan because he is genuine and has proven himself,” Sosa noted.  “Some doors were open to me, but he kept showing interest in me, and he never closed the door.  He’s trustworthy and I want to be part of what he’s doing, and sign with a major promoter.”

“Signing Adrian means a lot to me personally because it took a lot of work over the past year,” manager Ryan Roach commented. “We built a relationship and I’ve proven to him what I do for my fighters. Adrian is special; I believe he could be one of the best fighters to come out of this region. He is a quick, talented fighter who has power and can work off of his defense very well. He also has a great work ethic. Adrian has all the tools to be a world champion. I look forward to guiding him as we are looking for tough fights right out of the gate. He’s been inactive but he’s ready, he’s learned a lot in the last two years. He was in camp with George Kambosos getting him ready for Teofimo Lopez I think that proves what kind of fighter Adrian is. Tonka will be a household name soon.”


Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers include California super flyweight Rocco “So Cal Kid” Santomauro (21-1, 6 KOs), Troy, NY ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (12-0, 9 KOs), ABF USA super welterweight Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams (18-5-2, 6 KOs), ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (8-0, 4 KOs), super bantamweight Daniel “G.D.F.E.” Bailey, Jr. (7-0, 4 KOs), lightweight Leonel de los Santos (3-0, 3 KOs), a2-time Dominican Republic Olympian, Boston featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), pro-debuting Dominican Republic welterweight Juan Solano, Salt Lake City, 2016 Brazilian Olympic silver medalist Yuberjen Martinez, Brazilian Olympian Jorge Vivas, Colorado super middleweight Marvin “Too Much” CordovaJr. (23-2-1, 12 KOs), West Palm Beach, FL light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs),  pro-debut Irish light heavyweight Thomas O’Toole, and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).

INFORMATION:
WEBSITE:  fighterlocker.compunch4parkinsons.com
FACEBOOK:  /fighterlocker
TWITTER:  @RoachRyan
INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82

Former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga Victorious in pro boxing debut

 
“NEW ENGLAND’S FUTURE 4” RESULTS

 

 
 Gabriel Gonzaga (R) won his pro boxing debut
WORCESTER, Mass. (October 29, 2017) – Former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga has a successful pro boxing debut last night (Saturday, Oct. 28) in the co-featured event on the “New England’s Future 4” card, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), at DCU Center, Exhibition Hall, in Worcester.
The 6′ 2″, 280-pound Brazilian, now fighting out of Worcester (MA), fought another pro-debut boxer with limited MMA experience, Alejandro Esquilin Santiago, of Tampa (FL). Gonzaga stalked the southpaw Santiago, landing some hard shots in the opening round. The heavy-handed Gonzaga picked up the pace in the third and his upset-minded opponent responded in a positive fashion. Both fighters exchanged freely in the fourth and final round, neither was hurt during the contest, and Gonzaga was awarded a win by four-round majority decision.
“I thought I’d be more relaxed in the ring like I had been in the gym,” Gonzaga said. “I did my best and came away with a victory. I was too safe in the third round. My punches were much strong and a lot of his punches I blocked with my gloves. This was really great! tonight”

  Gonzaga (L) defeated Santiago
“I felt good and gave it my all,” Santiago remarked. “He hit me with some shots and gave ’em back. Not only does he have a big nose (“Napao”), he has a strong, big head, too.”
In the main event, popular Hartford (CT) light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera remained undefeated, improving his record to 4-0 (3 KOs), with a first-round knockout of an over-matched Hansen Castillo (0-3)
Rivera, not relations to the promoter, first dropped Castillo with a beautifully placed left uppercut and finished the show moments later with a left hook that sent Castillo flying to canvas. Referee Kevin Hope didn’t bother to count.
“My coaches were telling me to be calm because it was a six-round bout,” Rivera explained. “I saw that he had his left down and caught him with an uppercut. I’m strong to the finish because I eat my spinach.”
New Haven junior middleweight Edwin Sosa (11-2-2, 4 KOs) overcame at 15-pound disadvantage, at the very least, en route to a dominant six-round unanimous decision over Anthony “The Animal” Everett (1-7), of Rowley (MA).
Danbury (CT) junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (3-0, 1 KO) stopped New York veteran Bryan “The Brick” Abraham (6-31, 6 KOs) in the fourth and final round. Abraham was decked twice and after counting to 10 after Abraham’s second time on the canvas, referee Paul Casey waved off the action.
Three-time national amateur champion Elvis “Chi Chi” Figueroa (3-0, 1 KO), fighting out of New Haven, pitched a complete shutout over a game, pro-debuting Rene Nazare(0-1), of Brazil, for a convincing win by way of a four-round unanimous decision.
Southbridge (MA) welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (3-0, 1 KO) pinnedPatrick Leal (0-4), of Woburn, on the ropes early, dropping him three times until referee Casey halted the fight midway through the opening round.
Complete results below:
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Richard Rivera (4-0, 3 KOs), Hartford, CT
WKO1 (2:18)
Hansen Castillo (0-3), Orlando, FL
CO-FEATURE– HEAVYWEIGHTS
Gabriel Gonzaga (1-0), Worcester, MA
40-36, 40-36, 38-38)
Alejandro Esquilin Santiago (pro debut), Tampa, FL.
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Elvis Figueroa (3-0, 1 KO), New Haven, CT
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Rene Nazare (0-1), Brazil
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Edwin Soto (10-2-2, 4 KOs), New Haven, CT
WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 58-56)
Anthony Everett (1-6), Rawley, MA
WELTERWEIGHTS
Wilfredo Pagan (3-0, 1 KO), Southbridge, MA
TKO1 (1:36).
Patrick Leal (0-4), Woburn, MA
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Omar Bordoy, Jr. (3-0, 1 KO), Danbury, CT
WTKO4 :148)
Bryan “The Brick” Abraham (6-31, 6 KOs), Schenectady, NY
(All fights & fighters subject to change)
 
INFORMATION:
 
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp, KingRivera_

“New England’s Future 4” OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

WORCESTER, MASS. (October 27, 2017) – The official “New England’s Future 4” weight in was held today at Pepe’s Pizza & Restaurant in Worcester (MA) for tomorrownight’s the final installment of the popular “New England’s Future” series show in 2017, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), at DCU Center, Exhibition Hall, in Worcester.
 
OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
 
Main Event – Light Heavyweights (6)
Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs), Hartford, CT 177.6 lbs.
Hansen Castillo (0-2), Orlando, FL 176 lbs.
Co-Feature – Heavyweights (4)
Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga (pro debut), Worcester, MA 280 lbs.
Alejandro Esquilin Santiago (pro debut), Tampa, FL 235.8 lbs.
Super Middleweights (4)
Elvis Figueroa (2-0, 1 KO), New Haven, CT 167 lbs.
Rene Nazare (pro debut), Brazil 167 lbs.
Junior Middleweights (6)
Edwin Soto (10-2-2, 4 KOs), New Haven, CT 140 lbs.
Anthony Everett (1-6), Lawrence, MA 153.6 lbs.
Welterweights (6)
Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (5-0, 4 KOs), Lawrence, MA 139 lbs.
Shakha Moore (12-23-2 (2 KOs), Norwalk, CT 146 lbs.
Welterweights (4)
Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (2-0), Southbridge, MA 146.6 lbs.
Patrick Leal (0-3), Woburn, MA 148.6 lbs.
Junior Welterweights (4)
Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0), Danbury, CT 139.8 lbs.
Bryan “The Brick” Abraham (6-30, 6 KOs), Schenectady, NY 141 lbs.
(All fights & fighters subject to change)
 
WHEN:                   Saturday, October 28, 2017
WHERE:                 DCU Center, Exhibition Hall, Worcester, MA
 
PROMOTER:          Rivera Promotions Entertainment
 
TICKETS:               Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general
                                admission), are sale and available to purchase at the DCU
                                Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting
                                Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), A.J.                                 Rivera (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the
                                fighters.
 
DOORS OPEN:         6:30 P.M. ET
 
FIRST BOUT:            7:00 p.m. ET
RING ANNOUNCER: John Vena
 
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp, KingRivera_

New boxing chapter to start for former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga

October 28 in Worcester, MA
WORCESTER, Mass. (October 19, 2017) – The next chapter of former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga starts October 28th when he makes his professional boxing debut fighting on the “New England Future 4” card, the fourth and final 2017 installment of the popular professional boxing series, “New England’s Future”, to be held at the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 4” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
The 38-year-old Gonzaga teaches Brazilian Ju-Jitsu (BJJ) in Worcester and lives nearby in Ludlow (MA). An imposing physical fighter, the 6′ 2″, 260-pound Gonzaga (17-11-0, 7 KOs, 9 SUBs, 1 DEC), holds 4th degree black belt in BJJ. The highlight of his MMA career was at the 2007 UFC 70, held in Manchester, United Kingdom, in which he knocked out K-1, Pride and Rizen champion Mirko Cro Cop with a head kick in the opening round, positioning Gonzaga for his unsuccessful challenge of UFC Heavyweight Champion Randy Couture in his next fight.
Gonzaga, who retired from MMA 1 ½ years ago, also defeated Ben Rothwell, Shawn Jordan and Chris Tuchscherer, among the more notable UFC fighters he faced in the Octagon.
(L-R) – Rocky Gonzalez & Gabriel Gonzaga
Gonzago has a new opponent for his four-round bout, Tampa’s pro-debuting Alejandro Esquilin Santiago, who also has a pro MMA background.
“I like challenges in my life,” Gonzaga explained why he’s making his pro debut. “I set new goals because I like to be competitive in sports. I have a good boxing coach who told me I should try. I was a BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) world champion and UFC title contender. I have good boxing skills and plan to put on a good show. I do have one-punch power and hit hard.
“I started boxing in 2001 and worked at it every day for two years to learn, but then I was competing in MMA. Now, I’m focused on boxing. I think boxing is the hardest part of MMA.   I know you can’t make mistakes in boxing and there’s no time to relax. In MMA, I could relax a little at times in clinches, but the referee won’t allow that in boxing. I’ll probably fight more than once but not too many because of my age and I’m not really at the high-level of boxing like I was in MMA.”
Gonzaga’s head boxing trainer, Rocky Gonzalez, has been working with several MMA fighters, including Gonzaga, for more than a decade to help them improve their striking skills. Gonzalez freely admits that Gonzaga knew how to box before he started working with him, crediting Gonzaga’s Muay Thai coach, and that boxing came naturally to the big Brazilian who has made an easy adjustment from the Octagon to the ring. Gonzalez also feels that leg positioning differences for MMA fighters switching to boxing, in terms of throwing proper punches, is somewhat overrated.
“In boxing,” Gonzalez said, “fighters need their hands like their legs and elbows in MMA. Distance and timing is more important than where their legs and feet are positioned. Gabriel doesn’t like sparring with headgear, so, his sparring is more like real fighting. He’s been hot with some real shots but he’s responded well. He’s always going to have a puncher’s chance and he’s deceptive because he doesn’t look as fast as he is.
“We didn’t really plan anything but he got this good opportunity. He’s always wanted to turn pro as a boxer and go from there. Gabriel is a good listener who keeps working hard to get better. When he first brought up boxing, he was contracted by the UFC, but we started talking about him boxing after the UFC released him. He knew Jose from him teaching boxing. Gabriel isn’t doing this for the money. He’s a competitive guy who wanted to try boxing.”
Former WBU Americans and IBU North American cruiserweight champion, Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs), fighting out of Pembroke (MA), will take on Bolivian heavyweight champion Saul “El Fenjx Asesino” Faraff (64-23-3, 56 KOs) in the eight-round main event.
Hartford’s (CT) popular Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs) meets Hansen Castillo (0-2) in the four-round, co-featured event to be contested at a 180-pound catchweight.
Many of New England’s best and most popular N.E. fighters will be in action, including 2014 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of nearby Lawrence (MA), vs. veteran Norwalk (CT) welterweight Shakha Moore (12-23-3, 2 KOs) in a six-round match.
Also fighting on the undercard in four-round fights include 2016 N.E. Golden Gloves champio, Anthony Laureano (5-0, 3 KOs), of East Hartford (CT) vs. Bruno Dias (0-3), of Woburn (MA), New Haven (CT) Edwin Soto (10-2-2, 4 KOs) vs. Anthony Everett (1-6). of Lawrence, at a 150-pound catchweight, three-time USA Boxing Nationals champion Elvis Figueroa (2-0, 1 KO), of New Haven (CT), vs. pro-debuting Brazilian native Rene Nazare, Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (2-0) vs. Patrick Leal (0-3), of Woburn (MA), at a 150-pound catchweight, Danbury (CT) junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0) vs. Schenectady (NY) veteranBryan “The Brick” Abraham (6-30, 6 KOs), and Timmy Ramos (4-0-1, 4 KOs), of Framingham (MA) vs. Seth Basler (0-2), of Illinois.
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., first bout 7:00 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usna.com, and American Pyramids.
Part of the proceeds will go to Worcester Latino Dollars For Scholars.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_

Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita boxes in his own unique way

October 28 in Worcester, MA
WORCESTER, Mass. (October 12, 2017) – Once-beaten Vinnie “American Dream” Carita is preparing in an entirely different way than all other fighters on the October 28th “New England Future 4” card, the fourth and final 2017 installment of the popular professional boxing series, “New England’s Future”, to be held at the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 4” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
“I am happy to have a dedicated, hard-working boxer like Vinnie Carita headlining our boxing event on Saturday, October 28th at the DCU Center,” promoter Jose Antonio Rivera said. “He is a perfect example of why my son, A.J., and I started RPE. We want to be able to help boxers grow their careers and create a platform for them to get bigger and better opportunities.”
A former WBU Americans and IBU North American cruiserweight champion,Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs) will take on Bolivian heavyweight champion Saul “El Fenjx Asesino” Faraff (64-23-3, 56 KOs) in the eight-round main event.
Carita, fighting out of Pembroke (MA), will move up in weight once again to fight another foreign opponent.  In the world of boxing, not only does Carita fight, he’s his own promoter, manager, trainer and matchmaker.  Outside of the ring, Carita is a fulltime court officer in Brockton (MA), as well as a part-time security contractor for the Department of Defense (DOD).
Although his incredibly busy schedule leaves little, if any, downtown to relax, Carita thrives because he’s so dedicated, disciplined and driven.  He starts each day at 4 a.m., running or doing cardio exercising, works his day job, and hits the gym to train between 9-10 p.m. on a regular basis for a scheduled fight.  When he’s had some free time to travel, Vinne has gone to New York, Philadelphia and even Montreal for quality sparring.
He started boxing at seven, when he first walked into a gym, and captured a Southeast Regionals Golden Glove title but, at 14, only boxed sporadically, until he turned pro at 20.  “I definitely have a passion for boxing,” the 32-year-old confessed.  “I’m a boxing fanatic.  If I’m not training, I’m watching fights, live or on television. It’s my love.  Boxing will always be part of me and when I finally hang up my gloves, I want to be a referee, so I can still be in the ring, and have the best seat.  I don’t want to judge.  Bigger guys last longer than smaller fighters.  I want to continue doing this until by late thirties, maybe early forties.
“I fell in love with the cruiserweight division when I saw the (Vassily) Jirov-(James) Toney fight (at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut).  The cruiserweight division is hot right now with the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS).  (Oleksandr) Usyk could win the tournament, unifying all four major belts, and then move up to heavyweight.  That could be good for me if I was one of the eight fighting for one of the four vacant (major) titles.  I’ll look for the right fights until then, against guys who’ve been around and maybe competed for world or regional titles, like my next opponent (Faraff), who is the WBC Latino heavyweight champion.”
Carita, who occasionally is forced to fight as a heavyweight as he will against Faraff, will still weigh in around 200-205 pounds.  He walks around at 208 and usually weighs in at 194-196 for his cruiserweight fights.  “I have no plans to compete as a heavyweight,” he said. “I’ve fought some heavyweights and it looks better for me to go the distance, or stop, guys much bigger than me.  I try and pick the right guys to advance my career.”
Why has Carita fought so many opponents from countries all over the world?  Networking.  His job with the DOD, before he started working as a court officer, found him traveling around the world.  Wherever he went – South Africa, Dubai, Northern Ireland, etc. – he worked out at boxing gyms and made invaluable connections, establishing working relationships with many managers and matchmakers who he’s remained in contact with throughout his pro boxing career.
Because he trains himself, Carita only has one regular person working his corner, Pittsfield (MA) court officer John Felix, who he first met when they were drill instructors at the academy.  Carita adds a cut-man for his fight but he tends to keep things lean and mean, even in his corner.
Nobody knows better or appreciates more what promoter Jose Antonio Rivera accomplished when he was world champion working full-time as a court officer in Worcester.
“To work full-time, raise children, train to be a world-class fighter and become world champion three times speaks volumes about Jose,” Carita commented. “Now, he’s promoting and putting guys like me on his shows.”
“I understand perfectly how hard and demanding his schedule is working a fulltime job as a court officer and training to try to achieve his goals of fighting for and winning world championship,” Rivera added.  “I am glad Vinnie has chosen to give RPE an opportunity to be able to help him get closer to achieving his dream.”
In the co-featured event, Hartford’s (CT) popular Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs) meets Hansen Castillo (0-2) in the four-round bout to be contested at a 180-pounds catch-weight.
The “New England’s Future 4” undercard features many of the best and most popular N.E. fighters, unbeaten East Hartford (CT) welterweight and 2016 N.E. Golden Gloves champion, Anthony Laureano (5-0, 3 KOs), who meets welterweight Clifton Rashad Thames (3-2-1), of Oklahoma City, in a six-round fight.
Former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga makes his pro boxing debut in a four-round bout versus Washington D.C. heavyweight Alando Pugh (1-10-1, 1 KO).
Other undercard fights, all four-rounders, include two-time national champion and hometown favorite, Bobby “BH3” Harris III (1-0), vs. Troy “Omar KO Artist” Artis (3-7-1, 2 KOs), 2014 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of nearby Lawrence (MA), vs. veteran Norwalk (CT) welterweight Shakha Moore (12-23-3, 2 KOs), New Haven (CT) Edwin Soto (10-2-2, 4 KOs) vs. Anthony Everett (1-6). of Lawrence, at a 150-pounds catch-weight, three-time USA Boxing Nationals champion Elvis Figueroa (2-0, 1 KO), of New Haven (CT), vs. Anthony Bowman (11-63-2, 3 KOs). Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (2-0) vs. Oscar Diaz (0-12), of Hartford, and Danbury (CT) junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0) vs. Alan Beeman (0-15), of Providence.
                                                              
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., first bout 7:00 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usna.com, and American Pyramids.
Part of the proceeds will go to Worcester Latino Dollars For Scholars.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_