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Timothy Bradley, Melvina Lathan & Sadam Ali Leading 2015 award winners honored at  29th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event & Awards Ceremony 

(L-R) — 2015 Ring 8 Award Winners: New York Fighter of the Year Sadam Ali, Woman of the Decade Melvina Lathan and Fighter of the Year Timothy Bradley
(photo by Peter Frutkoff)
NEW YORK, NY (December 21, 2015) – A capacity crowd enjoyed the recent 29th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
Five-time, two-division world champion Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley received the Ring 8 Fighter of the Year Award.  Other 2015 Ring 8 award winners (see complete list below) included former New York State Athletic Commission chairperson Melvina Lathan(Woman of the Decade), undefeated No. 1 world welterweight contender Sadam “World Kid” Ali (NY Fighter of the Year), Heather Hardy (NY Female Fighter of the Year), “Ireland’s” John Duddy (Uncrowned Champion), Andre Rozier (Trainer of the Year) and Joe DeGuardia (Promoter of the Year). Randy Gordon served as the Master of Ceremonies.
“We had 340 people and everybody enjoyed themselves,” reported Ring 8 president Bob Duffy.  “Things went very well.  There were a few emotional acceptance speeches and some tears shed.
“We donated a table to Wounded Warriors and also presented Keith Sullivan with a special trophy for all the legal work and support he gives Ring 8, New York State Boxing Hall of Fame, Atlas Foundation, Boxing Writers Association of America, and boxing in New York.”
2015 Ring 8 Award Winners
(Photo by Peter Frutkoff)
2015 RING 8 Award Winners
Fighter of the Year:  Timothy Bradley
Woman of the Decade:  Hon. Melvina Lathan
NY Fighter of the Year:  Sadam Ali
NY Female Fighter of the Year:  Heather Hardy
Uncrowned Champion: John Duddy
Co-Cutmen of the Year:  George Mitchell & Mike Rella
Board Member of the Year:  Billy Strigaro
Trainer of the Year:  Andre Rozier
Community Service Award: Kevin Collins & Gerard Wilson
Promoter of the Year:  Joe DeGuardia
Sponsor of the Year: George O’Neill
Official of the Year:  Carlos Ortiz, Jr.
Amateur Official of the Year:  Christina Vila
Long & Meritorious Service Award:  Jack Hirsch
Profiles of Courage Award: Paddy Dolan
Prospects of the Year:  Wesley Ferrer & Danny Gonzales
Ring Announcer of the Year:  David Diamante
Patriotism Award: Corporal Ron McNair, Jr.

2015 CLOSES WITH EXPLOSIVE ACTION ON HBO BOXING AFTER DARK® AND HBO LATINO® BOXING

HUGE SHOW OPENS AND CLOSES WITH BIG KNOCKOUTS — LUIS ORTIZ MAINTAINS WBA INTERIM HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSIP; SOSA AND WALTERS BATTLE TO DRAW
Click HERE for Photos
Photo Credit: Alex Menendez – HoganPhotos/Golden Boy Promotions
VERONA, NEW YORK (December 19, 2015) – The 2015 boxing year culminated with a tremendous show at Turning Stone Resort Casino as WBA Interim Heavyweight Champion Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz  (24-0, 21 KOs) closed the show by maintaining his title with a knockout-of-the-year candidate over Bryant “By – By” Jennings (19-2, 10 KOs) in the seventh round of their scheduled bout live on HBO Boxing After Dark.
“Today, there is a new era in the heavyweight division,” Ortiz, who landed a vicious uppercut to end the fight, said. “Jennings is fighter who deserves much respect, but he can tell you that I am a force in the heavyweight division. I am going to go out and obtain my objective. “I have been training for a big fight of this magnitude for three years. My strategy was to keep him at a distance and I was able to do that effectively with my reach and my jab. I will fight whoever next, whoever Golden Boy Promotions gives me I will take. Wilder, Fury, Klitschko anyone of them, I am ready to prove that I am the heavyweight world champion.  A lot of people say a lot of things about me, but the testing showed that I am a clean fighter.”
“I wasn’t on my game, and he got the best of me,” Jennings said. “I didn’t adjust well and he was the better man.”
The co-main event saw two Super Featherweights – former WBA Featherweight and Super Featherweight World Champion Nicolas “Axe Man” Walters (26-0-1, 21 KOs) and Jason Sosa (18-1-4, 14 KOs) — wage a superb battle with both fighters landing tremendous sharp, accurate shots throughout the fight. While Sosa won the fight on one of the judge’s cards, the fight was ruled a draw as the two other judges had the fight even.
“I am in total shock. I was never in any danger, never hurt,” Walters said. “[Sosa] is a good fighter — the kind of fight I wanted — but I thought I won all the rounds. So surprised this happened to me.”
“I thought I won and am disappointed it was a draw,” Sosa said. “I worked hard, I really thought I won the fight.”
In the HBO Latino Boxing main event light heavyweight Vyacheslav “Lion Heart – Chigonsky” Shabranskyy (15-0, 12 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact slugging out a majority decision over Yuneski Gonzalez (16-2, 12 KOs) in an action-packed brawl that saw both fighters land huge shots throughout the fight.
“This fight was the most important and most exciting fight of my career,” said Shabranskyy. I did feel a lot of Gonzalez’ punches but I also feel like I hurt him — especially in the last round, he was beginning to sway. If I had a little more time I feel I would have knocked him out.”
“I knew that this was going to be a war and that is what we delivered tonight,” Gonzalez said. “We both gave it our all and didn’t let up.  I knew that I needed to knock him out to win this fight but he was more resilient than I thought and didn’t open up enough for the knockout to happened.  I did know the fight was very close and should have been a draw in my opinion. I would like the opportunity to fight him again and prove that I am the better fighter.”
In the co-main of the HBO Latino broadcast, rising middleweight “King” Gabriel Rosado (22-9, 13 KOs) shook off some tough early rounds to earn a hard-fought unanimous victory against former IBF Welterweight World Champion Joshua “Grand Master” Clottey (39-6, 22 KOs).
 “It has been more than a year since I have been in the ring so I did feel a little I the rust but I feel like this fight really helped me shake it off,” Rosado said. Clottey is a tough opponent, former world champion, definitely a challenge for me in my first fight back. I delivered an entertaining fight tonight and I was happy with my performance.  I am ready for my next big challenge, I would like a shot at Canelo [Alvarez] next.”
“Gabriel gave everyone a great performance today,” said Fernando Vargas, Rosado’s trainer. This was our first training camp together and I think we are going to keep growing and make great fights together.”
“This was an off night for me,” Clottey said.  “I do think that the fans enjoyed the fight –we are both fighters that do not like to back down. However, I don’t feel comfortable at this weight class, I want to go back down to 154 and continue to fight at junior middleweight.”
Opening the HBO Latino broadcast, former WBA and IBF Featherweight World Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa (25-1, 17 KOs) had all he could handle after a 13-month layoff, squaring off in a lightweight showdown against Hylon Williams Jr. (16-2-1, 3 KOs) of Houston. After 10 rounds of back-and-forth action, the judges awarded Gamboa a hard-fought unanimous decision.
 “It feels good to be back in the ring,” Gamboa said. “I trained in Cuba, and I feel that all the hard paid off.  I was faster and stronger in the ring. I know I dominated the action tonight, I made sure he knew I was in control from the first round.”
 “I felt good about the pace of the fight, I know I hurt him a few times,” Williams said. “This fight should have gone my way.”
In a light heavyweight battle, rising prospect D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard (11-0, 7 KOs) won a shutout unanimous decision against a game Fabiano “Pit Bull” Pena (11-4-1, 8 KOs).
“I am glad I secured the victory today,” Ballard said. “[Pena] was able to go all six rounds with me, but I felt in complete control the entire fight. I think I am ready to step up to more rounds and bigger opponents. I am ready for the next big step of my career and this fight showed that. I want to thank Oscar and Golden Boy Promotions for the opportunity and I can’t wait for the next fight.”
In the opening bout of the evening, middleweight Steven “The Hitman” Martinez (16-2, 13 KOs) emerged with a second round TKO victory over Jorge “Destroyer” Melendez (28-6-1, 26 KOs). Martinez got off numerous combinations in round one and followed it up in round two with a sizzling left hook that floored Menendez. While Mendendez beat the count, Martinez quickly moved in, forcing the referee to wave off the fight at1:33 of the second round.
Jennings vs. Ortiz was a 12-round heavyweight bout fight for the WBA Interim Heavyweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and is sponsored by Corona, Mexico – Live It to Belive It! and Carmelita Chorizo. Walters vs. Sosa was a 10-round junior lightweight bout presented by Top Rank in association with Peltz Boxing Promotions and Warriors Boxing Promotions. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET and first fight begins at 6:05 p.m. ET, and the HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins live at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT.
Gonzalez vs. Shabranskyy, was a 10-round light heavyweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The HBO Latino Boxing telecast begins at 12:15 a.m. ET/PT (tape delay).
Host of the event, the Oneida Nation’s Turning Stone Resort Casino continues to distinguish itself as a premier destination for blockbuster boxing matches. The December 19 fight will mark Turning Stone Resort Casino’s 16th nationally-televised boxing event in three years, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout televised fights.  Located in Upstate New York, the destination resort offers world-class entertainment and gaming, award-winning accommodations, a diverse mix of restaurants, two luxury spas and several nightlife options.
Professional media requesting credentials for the December 19 fight must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at (315) 366.9291 or kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.
For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,www.garyshawproductions.com, www.toprank.com, www.hbo.com/boxing,www.starboxing.com and www.turningstone.com. Follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @GaryShawBoxing, @TRboxing, @StarBoxing, @HBOBoxing, @TurningStone and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/Gary-Shaw-Productions-134758615997/,www.facebook.com/trboxing, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing,www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort. Visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing, @TurningStone. Follow the conversation by using #JenningsOrtiz and #WaltersSosa.

BILLY JOE SAUNDERS DETHRONES ANDY LEE SATURDAY TO BECOME 12th CURRENT BRITISH WORLD CHAMPION ON SHO EXTREME® FROM MANCHESTER,ENGLAND

NEW YORK (Dec. 19, 2015) – Billy Joe Saunders dethroned WBO Middleweight World Champion Andy Lee with a 12-round majority decision Saturday on SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL from Manchester, England.

 

The fight, which was scored 115-111, 114-112 and 113-113,  will re-air tonight at 9 p.m. ET/PT on SHO EXTREME.

 

In a matchup of tactical southpaws, an explosive third round from Saunders (23-0, 12 KOs) was the difference.  The British challenger floored Lee twice – first with a big right hook and again with a counter right just 30 seconds later – and a dazed Lee somehow survived the 10-7 round. VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS: http://s.sho.com/1OfibYe

 

The Irish Lee (34-3-1, 24 KOs) fought his way back and was the more aggressive fighter in the championship rounds, but it wasn’t enough to make up for a slow start and the two knockdowns.

 

With the win, Saunders became the 12th current British world champion.

 

“I’m world champion,” Saunders said.   “I beat a good champion today, a good sturdy champion.  I used his power against him.  When I was boxing he got a little bit careless and dropped his lead hand and I caught him with the hook.

 

“I’m not going to start running my mouth, but it was a good shot.  With someone as fast as me you have to keep your hands up.  I’m not the biggest puncher in the world, but I showed you there that I can punch.”

 

WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs, fresh off a first round knockout of Peter Quillin two weeks ago on SHOWTIME, was a guest analyst on Saturday from New York.

 

“I thought he was going to be a big brawler, I thought he had better assets,” Jacobs said of Lee.  “He didn’t do enough for me.  He was too complacent and after the knockdown you didn’t see that sense of urgency that a fighter has to have on the comeback trail.

 

“All credit due to Billy Joe, but it wasn’t an impressive victory.”

 

After watching the fight, Jacobs wasn’t ready to commit to a unification showdown in 2016 with the winner.

 

“We’ll do whatever makes sense,” Jacobs said.  “I think it’s time to sit-down and figure what makes sense.  Obviously it’s a good time to be a middleweight champion.”

 

BRYANT JENNINGS vs. LUIS ORTIZ PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AND PHOTOS

 
LIVE FROM TURNING STONE RESORT CASINO IN VERONA, NEW YORK AND BROADCAST ON HBO BOXING AFTER DARK®
AND HBO LATINO® BOXING ON SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19
 
Click HERE 

for Photos
Photo Credit: Ed Mulholland/HBO
 

VERONA, NEW YORK (Dec. 17) – Fighters featured on the December 19 HBO Boxing After Dark and HBO Latino shows shared their final thoughts ahead of Saturdays fights at the final press conference today at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Former heavyweight world title contender Bryant “By – By” Jennings (19-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia was joined at the final press conference by his opponent Cuban heavyweight Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz  (23-0, 20 KOs), who will clash in the main event on the HBO Boxing After Dark telecast on Saturday for the WBA Interim Heavyweight World Title.
Jennings and Ortiz were joined by co-main event fighters former WBA Featherweight and Super Featherweight World Champion Nicholas “Axe Man” Walters (26-0, 21 KOs and Jason Sosa (18-1-3, 14 KOs) who will battle Saturday in a 10-round super featherweight fight.
Also at today’s press conference were HBO Latino Boxing main event fightersYuneski Gonzalez (16-1, 12 KOs) and Vyacheslav “Lion Heart – Chigonsky” Shabranskyy (14-0, 12 KOs) who will fight a 10-round light heavyweight bout; HBO Latino Boxing co-main event fighters “King” Gabriel Rosado (21-9, 13 KOs) and former IBF Welterweight World Champion Joshua “Grand Master” Clottey (39-5, 22 KOs) who will battle in a 10-round middleweight bout; and former WBA and IBF Featherweight World Champion Yuriorkis Gamboa (24-1, 17 KOs) and opponent Hylon Williams Jr. (16-1-1, 3 KOs) who will open up the HBO Latino Boxing broadcast in a 10-round lightweight bout.
Below is what the fighters and their teams had to say at today’s final press conference at Turning Stone Resort Casino:
BRYANT “BY-BY” JENNINGS, Former Heavyweight World Title Contender:
 
“Thank everyone for this fight and making this event happen. Preparation went as planned. I moved to Florida and had a great camp; it was a great environment. There will be no surprises on Saturday.”
LUIS “THE REAL KING KONG” Ortiz, WBA Interim Heavyweight World Champion:
 
“I have worked very hard to be here, and I will not waste this opportunity. We will seeon Saturday who is the best.
“I am a man of few words and will let my hands to the talking.”
ERIC GOMEZ, Senior Vice President at Golden Boy Promotions:
 
“To make the best fights you need to have great partners getting together that will make fair deals.
“These fighters are hungry and ready to brawl on Saturday. Bryant Jennings had a great performance at Madison Square Garden recently. Luis Ortiz is just as hungry. I want to thank Gary Shaw, HBO, Mario Serrano and everyone that has been part of this promotion. It has truly been a pleasure.”
BERNARD HOPKINS, Business Partner at Golden Boy Promotions and Future Hall of Famer:
 
“2015 is the best year I will remember as a promoter. We’ve had excellent fights, competitive match ups this year. This is what boxing needs at this moment, and Golden Boy Promotions has been instrumental in helping deliver these entertaining fights to the fans. Jennings vs. Ortiz will be yet another one of those entertaining, high-action fights the fans want to see.”
 
MARIO SERRANO, Public Relations Director for Gary Shaw Productions:
 
“I want to thank HBO, Gary Shaw Productions, Golden Boy Promotions and the WBA.  With the WBA Interim title on the line, we at GSP believe Bryant Jennings will be victorious.  He has a new coach in John David Jackson and they are working harmoniously together.”
JOHN DAVID JACKSON, Trainer for Bryant Jennings:
 
“Thank you to Turning Stone Resort casino for hosting this event and to Gary Shaw Productions for making this event happen.
“Thank you to team Jennings, and to Bryant for being part of this team. Saturday, you’ll see. We will prove that we are the best.
“Bryant has worked hard this is what he wants and what he desires. He will be the heavyweight world champion of the world.
 
HERMAN CAICEDO, Trainer for Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz:
“Camp has been going well. We have been in camp for than more than a year. Luis lives in the gym – he doesn’t take a day off.”
“We have prepared well for this fight, and he has been doing his due diligence. I will not be surprised when he wins.”
“Luis has a lot of reasons to win and persevere. Saturday night, we will have the victory; it’s coming.”
LEE SAMUELS, Director of Public Relations at Top Rank:
 
“Thank you to HBO for all that they do for boxing. Thank you to Golden Boy Promotions- everyone there is a great person and we have a wonderful relationship.
“This is a big year for Top Rank. Bob Aram is celebrating his 50th year in boxing- Muhammad Ali, Marvin Hagler, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Herns, Roberto Duran, Oscar De La Hoya, Manny Pacquiao, George Forman, and now here we are at Turning Stone Resort Casino for this very meaningful fight for us with Walters vs. Sosa.
“It will be a tough battle with two tough stars and big stakes for the winner.
“Nicholas is very powerful and had a great amateur career. This is his first time at 130 pounds, so we are not sure what we will see on Saturday night with him.”
NICHOLAS “AXEMAN” WALTERS, Undefeated Former World Boxing Association (WBA) Featherweight World Champion:
 
“As they say, 130 lbs. is his territory. I am willing to fight at whatever weight. I had an excellent training camp in Panama.
“We are going to be OK. I hope he is ready because we are going to put on a good fight. Thanks to HBO and all the promoters. I want to make a big statement for 2016-we are ready.”
JASON “EL CANITO” SOSA, Junior Lightweight Contender:
 
“Thank you to God; thanks to HBO for believing in me; thanks to Top Rank, Russell Peltz, and Golden Boy Promotions. Training camp has been great, and my game plan is excellent. I’m ready to give the fans what they want.
“Walters is coming in to my territory at 130 lbs. There is a big difference in this weight division compared to what he is used to. He will find out really quick what I am really all about.”
JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing:
 
“It is great to be here at Turning Stone Resort Casino and is a pleasure to work with Golden Boy Promotions, looking to go great things together. Thank you to HBO as well. This will be a spectacular show.
“Yuniesky Gonzalez came up from Cuba, Mexico, and Florida to try and find a manager. He is an accomplished fighter, and I have tremendous high hopes for him. This will be a big fight between two warriors, and he is not going to disappoint.”
Yuniesky Gonzalez, Light Heavyweight Contender:
“Thank you to God for giving me this moment. Thank you to my promoters, Star Boxing and Golden Boy Promotions and HBO for everything.
“I feel good. I have the reality of Shabranskyy, but I feel very good. He is a good fighter, but I have come a long way and I am going to make a statement.”
Vyacheslav Shabranskyy, Undefeated Light Heavyweight Contender:
“Thank you. I am ready and it will be a great fight. I am ready to go.”
JOSHUA “GRAND MASTER” CLOTTEY, Former IBF Welterweight World Champion:
“Thanks to HBO for everything they have done for me. I wouldn’t be where I am in my career without them. I am ready for this opportunity.”
YURIORKIS GAMBOA, Former WBA and IBF Featherweight champion:
“Thank you to God and thanks to HBO for trusting me. That is what I am here for, to give an exciting night. Thanks to SMS Promotions for having me here and to continue my promotional deals.
“Thanks to HBO for the opportunity, and we look forward to working with you in the future.”
HYLON “Kid Cosmo” WILLIAMS JR., Lightweight Contender:
“This going to be a great show on Saturday. I am glad to be here. I’ve come to do what I’ve come to do. Thanks to SMS Promotions for having me and for supporting me.”
Tickets for the Dec. 19 HBO Boxing After Dark and HBO Latino Boxing event start at $25, $35 and $60 for ringside seats plus applicable fees and are available at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office by calling 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).
Jennings vs. Ortiz is a 12-round heavyweight bout fight for the WBA Interim Heavyweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and is sponsored by Corona, Mexico – Live It to Belive It! and Carmelita Chorizo. Walters vs. Sosa is a 10-round junior lightweight bout presented by Top Rank in association with Peltz Boxing Promotions and Warriors Boxing Promotions. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET and first fight begins at 6:05 p.m. ET, and the HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins live at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT.
Gonzalez vs. Shabranskyy, is a 10-round light heavyweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The HBO Latino Boxing telecast begins at 12:15 a.m. ET/PT (tape delay).
Host of the event, the Oneida Nation’s Turning Stone Resort Casino continues to distinguish itself as a premier destination for blockbuster boxing matches. TheDecember 19 fight will mark Turning Stone Resort Casino’s 16th nationally-televised boxing event in three years, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout televised fights.  Located in Upstate New York, the destination resort offers world-class entertainment and gaming, award-winning accommodations, a diverse mix of restaurants, two luxury spas and several nightlife options.

“BREATHE FOR CALEY” TOY DRIVE AND PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA EVENT

GILROY, CA (December 17, 2015)Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero will attend the“Breathe for Caley” Toy Drive and Pancake Breakfast with Santa event happeningthis Saturday at the Applebee’s in Gilroy.  Everyone is encourage to bring an unwrapped toy for those in need.  All toys to be donated to the Rebekah Children’s House (Gilroy) and Stanford’s Children’s Hospital.  Tickets priced $8.00 per person can be purchased by emailing: info@breatheforcaley.org or by calling408.568.5481 (Brandi)408.568.5481 (Teresa)
WHO:            Four-Division and Six-Time World Champion, Robert Guerrero
WHAT:          Breathe for Caley Toy Drive and Pancake Breakfast with Santa
WHY:            To help bring toys to those in need during the Christmas holiday
WHEN:         Saturday, December 19, 2015
                      8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
WHERE:       Applebee’s 8200 Arroyo Circle
                     Gilroy, CA, 95020

FLYWEIGHT SCRAP PROMISES EXCITEMENT AT NEF 21

Lewiston, Maine (December 17, 2015) – New England Fights (NEF), America’s number-one regional fight promotion, will hold its next event, “NEF 21: THE IMMORTALS” on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine.  The fight card is scheduled to feature both mixed-martial-arts (MMA) and professional boxing bouts.  Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional flyweight bout to the “NEF 21” fight card.  “Sleepy” Norman Fox (0-0) will make his pro debut against Brandon Warne (0-1) at a fight weight of 125-pounds.

 

Fox put together an impressive 4-2 record as an amateur, starting his career in the NEF cage in the summer of 2013.  He won his first four in the NEF cage, all via stoppage prior to losing his bid to become NEF MMA Amateur Flyweight Champion to Dustin Veinott (4-4) last June.  The back-and-forth battle with Veinott ended in a split decision, and it has been nominated for “2015 NEF Fight of the Year.”  Later in 2015, Fox and teammate Jason Lachance (2-3) purchased the MMA Athletix gym in Bath, Maine from their former coach, Ryan Cowette (2-3).  The upcoming bout with Warne will be the first of a multi-fight developmental deal Fox signed recently with NEF.

 

“Brandon and I seem like a pretty even match up,” said Fox.  “Expect a fast-paced fight that could end at any moment.”

 

Brandon Warne is a member of Team Bombsquad based out of Ithaca, New York.  He excelled in the amateur ranks of the sport, amassing a record of 5-1 with three finishes.  Warne made his professional MMA debut this past October in Rhode Island in a losing effort to David Baxter (2-0).  He comes to Maine looking for his first win as a pro against Fox.

 

“It’s an honor to be coming to Maine and put on a show at what I love in front of the NEF crowd,” said Warne.  “Plus, it’ll be my parents first time back in Maine since their honeymoon.  As for the fight, I’m not much for trash talking.  Fighters fight and that’s I’m coming to do!”

 

New England Fights’ next event, “NEF 21: THE IMMORTALS,” takes placeSaturday, February 6, 2016 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine.  Tickets for “NEF 21” start at just $25 and are on sale now atwww.TheColisee.com or by calling the Colisée box office at 207.783.2009 x 525.  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.”

Introducing The “Detroit Brawl” Series From Salita Promotions

 
Detroit (December 17, 2015)–Get your engines revving, fight fans, for a new professional boxing series which will be kicking off in fine-form shortly.
“I am starting a new series, called “Detroit Brawl,” promoter Dmitriy Salita proudly announces. “Detroit Brawl” will be a series of electrifying Detroit based boxing events showcasing the talents and skills of fighters from throughout the city, across the country and around the world!”

Detroit is “America’s Greatest Comeback City,” and that is a theme close to the heart of boxers and boxing fans. Who doesn’t appreciate a pugilist, or a storied city with a rich and vibrant history, clambering back into the spotlight? Most fight fans know of the fabled history of tremendous fighters from Detroit and the region, including Floyd Mayweather, Joe Louis and Thomas “Hitman” Hearns. Area gyms are once again filling up with accomplished pros and the “Detroit Brawl” series will provide a platform for these talented boxers.

The first show will take place February 6th at an iconic Detroit venue, the Masonic Temple in downtown Detroit, and Salita will be providing an electric atmosphere, and offering patrons superior bang for the buck. Each show in the series will feature a performance by a local musician, tag-teaming with fast and furious boxing action.

Up and coming Detroit-area hitters will be placed prominently on the card, and as with every Salita show, you can expect talent from all over the world, showcasing their skills.

A resurgent auto sector, a more diversified state economy, an uptick in technology jobs, along with a spruced up downtown area means Detroit is showing a fighting spirit, and piling up the Ws after a downturn. The “Detroit Brawl” will be yet another credit to the scrappy city. “First Brooklyn Brawl, now a version of the same in Detroit,” said Salita. “Two heavyweight cities, home to maybe the best local, grassroots boxing series in the nation. I am committed to supporting the rebirth of Detroit and will focus attention on encouraging young people to succeed in life, by supporting local programs. That includes local gyms, youth boxing programs and activities for young people which will help strengthen the core of the city! I am beyond excited to kick this off in what promises to be a stellar year in boxing, 2016!”

The series will run on local and national television, with details to be announced soon.

 

To snap up tickets go to ticketmaster.com, call 800-745-3000, or by visiting the Masonic box office

The tickets are priced at $28, $38, $48, $63, $93, and $123.
For event information visit themasonic.com and SalitaPromotions.com for more info
.

HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION DEONTAY WILDER  & POLISH CHALLENGER ARTUR SZPILKA EXCHANGE VERBAL JABS  ON MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL

 
Click HERE To Download MP3
 
“I’m knocking out Szpilka and
I’m sending a message to everyone who stands in my way!” – Wilder
 
“I hope you hear this loud and clear…you’re done January 16th!” – Szpilka
BROOKLYN (December 16, 2015) – Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilderand bruising Polish challenger Artur Szpilka took time out of their intense training schedules to exchange some words on a media conference call Wednesday before they meet in the ring on Saturday, January 16 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).
Wilder and Szpilka will meet in the first heavyweight title matchup in Brooklyn in 115 years as the American heavyweight champ looks to defend his belt for the third time.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Sferis Knockout Promotions, start at $25, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.comor by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Purchase before January 1and receive a 10% discount. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
DEONTAY WILDER
“I’m always in shape. I’m always in the ring because I’m in love with this sport.
“There’s so much rich history in Brooklyn. Barclays Center still needs a face. Why not me? I have friends and family in New York. That’s the mission that I’m on.
“Don’t get too overwhelmed by the opportunity, Szpilka. You still have to do something with it.
“Once I knock Szpilka out, I want all the Polish fans to come on the “Bronze Bomber” train as I bring the heavyweight division back to the top.
“I’m the guy who has everything it takes to be heavyweight champion of the world. It’s not just about being great inside the ring, it’s about being able to do great things outside of the ring. Not everyone has that. I love to be out there with the people.
“I don’t care who it is. It doesn’t matter who is in the ring with me. I love a fighter who’s not scared because it gives me the motive to knock him out. I don’t play around because I mean business.
“I’m looking for a grand show. It’s going to be a great performance to kick off 2016. This is going to be a huge year for me. I’m knocking Szpilka out and I’m sending a message to everyone who stands in my way.”
ARTUR SZPILKA
“I hope that you hear loud and clear, I can win this fight. My mind is ready, my body is ready. You’re doneJanuary 16.
“I have everything that a good boxer needs. I’m very confident and I know that this is my time. I have respect for him, but he’s never fought somebody like me. Everybody he fought but Bermane Stiverne was a bum.
“Only three people have actually tried to fight him. Everybody else had already lost before they got into the ring.
“I wanted this fight. This is my time. The heavyweight titles are wide open. There’s new blood for boxing.
“There is a big difference between me now and two years ago. I trust in my corner. You will all see a new Artur Szpilka on January 16.”
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FLORES DETERMINED TO DETHRONE UCHIYAMA

 
LEON, NICARAGUA (December 10, 2015)WBA #7 rated super-featherweight contender, Oliver Flores (27-1-2, 17 KOS), is eager to show the world he is capable of dethroning WBA world champion Takashi Uchiyama (23-0-1, 19 KOs).  The championship fight between Uchiyama and Flores is set to take place on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2015 at the Ota-City General Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan.
Promoted by Havoc Boxing Promotions, Flores is currently riding a 4-fight winning streak, with his last fight ending by way of knockout.  With the WBA super-featherweight world title on the line, Flores feels he’s destined to bring home the title to his countrymen of Nicaragua.
“I’ve worked hard my whole life with the goal of becoming a world champion someday,” said Oliver Flores. “That time is now just a few weeks away.  I’m very determined to show the boxing world and everyone in the super-featherweight division that I’ve arrived.  Uchiyama is the champion and he’s fighting in his backyard, which is going to be a difficult task to for me to come out victorious.  But I’ve always believed that I would be a world champion and that reality will come true on December 31st.”
“We are thrilled to be representing another world champion in a high profile fight with Oliver Flores challenging Takashi Uchiyama for the WBA super-featherweight world title,” said Rob Diaz of Havoc Boxing. “Flores is in great shape and we believe he has all the tools to come out victorious.”

Undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez Punctuates 2015 with 2nd round knockout over former world champion Erik Aiken

San Antonio, Texas (December 16, 2015) – This past Saturday night in his hometown of San Antonio, undefeated Super Bantamweight contender Adam Lopez(14-0, 7 KO’s) scored a 2nd round stoppage over former world champion Erik Aiken in a bout that took place at the AT & T Center.

 

Lopez is promoted by GH3 Promotions.

Lopez dominated the action as he took the fight to the former champion, finally stopping Aiken at 2:09 of round two.
“I was very excited and we executed the game-plan,”said Lopez, who celebrated his 25th birthday on fight night.
“I am happy to have that win in San Antonio.  It’s my hometown and it’s a great place to be.  I wish I was on later in the card, but I am happy to get the stoppage win.”
Aiken, who was a Featherweight world champ is the biggest name on the Lopez’ resume to date.
“He is a former world champion and even though he hasn’t fought at the world championship level in a while, a win is a win.”
Lopez will kick off what he believes will be a huge 2016 with a nationally televised bout in February.
“I am headlining ShoBox on February 12th.  It will be my first headliner.  After that, I hope that I could be in a line for a world title opportunity.  I am ranked number-seven by the WBA but if that isn’t next after the ShoBox fight, we will wait for our opportunity.”
When asked if he indulged in any birthday / knockout win celebrations, Lopez was busy with his family and fans.
“I really didn’t even eat. let alone eat any cake.  I was busy thanking my family and fans.  I got the best present anyway and that is to be able to do what I love to do on my birthday and that is fight and win!”
GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Hector Frometa, Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.