Tag Archives: Joe DeGuardia

boxing

“FIGHTNIGHT LIVE” ON FACEBOOK OPENS WITH KNOCKOUT NUMBERS 

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Boxing, MMA streaming series debut draws 40,000 views, and still climbing.
Online: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The reviews are in, and the numbers are in, and the decision is unanimous: the debut of FIGHTNIGHT LIVE, on Facebook Live Thursday evening from Mohegan Sun in Connecticut, was a KO victory.

Watchers of the stream, which drew 37,000-plus “uniques” on fight night, and continues to draw clicks, enjoyed a Star Boxing main event topped by a junior middleweight scrap between vet Delvin Rodriguez and up ‘n comer Courtney Pennington.

More numbers: Almost 3,000 comments were shared by watchers during the four plus hour show, which provided incredible value for fans of the sweet science. Fans said things like, “This is the future of the sport, live FREE streaming.” “This stream is giving expose to young guns that would not ordinarily get it on broadcast TV!” “After tonight’s streaming many will talk about it and many more will watch if there’s a next time, this is the bomb!”

“I was inundated with complimentary texts, emails and calls almost as soon as the stream started, and it was a lot of fun watching the numbers swell from 27 views at the start of the broadcast to 40,000-plus by now,” said Mark Fratto, Principal of Linacre Media. “Like many others, we believe that the present and future of ‘televised’ boxing, MMA, Muay Thai and really all live sports is digital. Further, by putting these events on Facebook we’re providing an interactive environment for fight fans to not only view the events, but to connect with each other and provide their own real-time commentary during the bouts. We believe in high-quality, cost-efficient production that can give fans free access to hundreds of global, national and regional live fight nights without breaking the bank of the promoter and also without sacrificing what sports fans have come to expect from their viewing experience – multiple camera angles, graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. We don’t want traditional fans, digital customers and cord-cutters to be relegated to trying to watch other spectators’ live feeds off their cell phones.”

Promoter Joe DeGuardia went on air during the main event. He was visibly impressed and shared his enthusiasm while watching Pennington spring the upset.

“This has been incredible,” DeGuardia said. “It is great that fans will now be able to see more fights on a platform with massive reach. This is good for everyone and a perfect way for fighters to expand their fan base. I am pleased to be involved.”

Said boxing fan-favorite Ray Flores, who sat in the blow-by-blow chair, “It was an honor to be a part of FIGHTNIGHT LIVE and work with such talented individuals. I’m extremely excited about what the future has in store for the series. More than anything, thank you to all the fight fans who tuned, shared it, and commented. Fan interaction and world class fights is the basis for FIGHTNIGHT LIVE. I cannot wait for the next show!”

“We want to have something of a distinct identity,” said analyst Michael Woods, who publishes NYFights.com and does the TALBOX podcast for Everlast. “We want watchers to be able to interact with us, be part of the show, have a voice. We also want to have fun, keep it loose at times, as well. We will be incorporating that interactivity even more going forward. This series aims to be and I think is well on its way to establishing a paradigm in the space.”

“We firmly believe this new series is beneficial to all parties involved. More exposure for the sport and for the fighters,” said Fratto, whose production services company does 200 live events each year. “This production model is designed to be lean and cost-effective. And that enables us to cover more events, and with Facebook, we know we are being seen world wide and on a platform with a great deal of potential.”

Future FIGHTNIGHT LIVE dates will be announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.
boxing

OPENING BELL: “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE” ON FACEBOOK PREMIERES THURSDAY FROM MOHEGAN SUN

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FREE fan-friendly, interactive live social series to provide new global “digital TV” vehicle for traditional boxing, MMA and Muay Thai events.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW YORK (May 9, 2017) – Beginning Thursday, fight fans from around the globe no longer have to miss out on their favorite boxing, MMA or Muay Thai cards, nor will they be forced to search desperately for a ringside spectator’s blurry mobile phone feed at non-televised events.
Supporters of the Sweet Science, MMA and other combat sports can now tune-in to Facebook, as fans from around the planet will be introduced to “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE” this Thursday, May 11, at 7:30 p.m. ET. The new fan-friendly, interactive vehicle delivering big TV quality to on any Facebook-enabled device “goes live” from Mohegan Sun Arena as the exclusive carrier of Star Boxing Inc.’s “Slugfest at the Sun,” with a number of future fight dates to be announced.
On Thursday night, fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by blow-by-blow announcer Ray Flores of Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime Boxing, HBO Boxing and CBS Sports Network boxing fame. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast. Rounding out Thursday’s announce team at ringside are Michael Woods of the TalkBox Podcast, NYFights.com and The Ring and former Golden Gloves Champion Cara Castronuova, now of the Knockout Obesity Foundation.
Promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, each action-packed “Slugfest at the Sun” bout will be streamed exclusively via Facebook Live on the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Facebook Page. The card is highlighted by a main event featuring former world title contender and Connecticut fan favorite Delvin Rodriguez (29-8-4, 16KOs), as he takes on upset-minded Courtney Pennington(10-4-1, 5KO’s) in a 10-round Junior Middleweight bout at Mohegan Sun Arena. Former WBC women’s world champion Kali Reis (10-6-1, 4 KOs) meets determined veteran Ashleigh Curry (7-10-4, 8 KOs) in the co-feature.
“Our ability to leverage Facebook is great for the future of boxing. It is a fantastic way to reach our fans and create a wider and younger audience,” said Joe DeGuardia, President and CEO of Star Boxing. “I’m thrilled to help bring boxing to this platform and believe it will be fantastic for Star Boxing, our fighters and other fighters and promoters. The future is extremely bright for boxing, which has traditionally been a leader in finding new ways to connect with the world. In the past it was radio, then TV, then Closed Circuit, Cable and ultimately PPV. Watching boxing live via a stream on a platform like Facebook is the next frontier.”
Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series will feature multiple camera angles, graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows will be available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives small business sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.
“Like many others, we believe that the present and future of ‘televised’ boxing, MMA, Muay Thai and really all live sports is digital. Further, by putting these events on Facebook we’re providing an interactive environment for fight fans to not only view the events, but to connect with each other and provide their own real-time commentary during the bouts,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “We believe in high-quality, cost-efficient production that can give fans free access to hundreds of global, national and regional live fight nights without breaking the bank of the promoter and also without sacrificing what sports fans have come to expect from their viewing experience – multiple camera angles, graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews.”
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
Follow all the action via social media at Facebook FIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or @STARBOXING on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and by using the hashtags #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE and #SlugfestAtTheSun. For ticket information and updates on upcoming Star Boxing events please log on toStarBoxing.com. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or#LinacreMediaOnTV.
boxing

MICHAEL FARENAS & MARC PAGCALIWANGAN SIGN PROMOTINAL CONTRACTS WITH STAR BOXING

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LOS ANGELES, CA (December 14, 2016) – Filipino fighters Michael “Hammer Fist” Farenas (41-5-4, 33 KOs) and Marc “El Gwapo” Pagcaliwangan (9-0-1, 7 KOs) have signed promotional contracts with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.  Both fighters, who are managed by SMG and Platinum Timing (owned and operated by Germaine Gillies), are scheduled to make their Star Boxing debuts in early 2017.
A former world title contender, Farenas, who started his career as a bantamweight, will now be campaigning at lightweight.  Trained by Marvin Somodio at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card gym, Farenas is a stablemate of superstar Manny Pacquiao.  Having won his last two fights, the Philippine born fighter has not been in the ring since October of 2015.  With his new management team and promoter, his goal is to get back into world title contention with the possibility of fighting for a world title by the end of 2017.
“I’m very pleased to be fighting under the Star Boxing banner,” said Michael Farenas. “I want to thank my co-mangers, Bill and Germaine, for believing in me.  I know I have a lot of fight left in me and I know that I’m fighting at lightweight (135 lbs.). I’m a stronger fighter today and I’m looking forward to a new beginning with my new team in place.”
Pagcaliwangan, who is of Philippine decent, but born in Ontario, Canada, will be campaigning at super-bantamweight.  His last fight was in April of 2015, so he too will be looking to stay busy in the upcoming year.
“With all my fights, having been fought in Canada, I’m really looking forward to making my USA debut with Star Boxing,” said Marc Pagcaliwangan. “I have a solid management team now so I know I’ll have all the proper support to make my march toward a world title.  I plan to relocate to Oxnard, CA, in the beginning of 2017 and start training with my new coach Robert Garcia.  I can’t wait to get back in the in the ring.”
“SMG is very proud to have two hard hitters, in Farenas and Pagcaliwangan, join our team,” said SMG’s Bill Halkias. “Both fighters possess the power, speed and skills to become world champions.”
boxing, Ring 8

5th annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2016 inducted in festive ceremony 

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NYSBHOF Class of 2015
Boxers
World welterweight champion (’90-91) Aaron “Superman” Davis,                                                 Bronx
World junior welterweight champion (’93-94) Charles “The Natural” Murray                                 Buffalo
Two-time world lightweight title challenger Vilomar Fernandez                                                      Bronx
World lightweight title challenger Edwin Viruet.                                                               New York City
(Deceased)
4-time, 3-division world champion Hector “Macho” Camacho                                        Spanish Harlem
World middleweight champion (1952) Rocky Graziano                                                             Brooklyn
World lightweight (’25-26) titlist Rocky Kansas                                                                           Buffalo
2-time world bantamweight titleholder Joe Lynch                                                                      Brooklyn
“Uncrowned welterweight champion” Joe Miceli                                                                         Buffalo
Non-Participants
International Boxing Hall of Fame executive director Ed Brophy                                             Canastota
Promoter Joe DeGuardia                                                                                                            Bronx
Commissioner/media personality Randy Gordon                                                                       Melville
Promoter/manager Dennis Rappaport                                                                                      Queens
(Deceased)
Manager Howie Albert                                                                                                               Bronx
Trainer/cutman Freddie Brown                                                                                            Manhattan
New York City television commentator Howard Cosell                                                    New York City
Boxer/referee Ruby Goldstein                                                                                             Manhattan
Manager Jimmy Jacobs
NYSBHOF Class of 2016 (L-R):  Seated – Vilomar Fernandez, Dennis Rappaport, Randy Gordon and Ed Brophy; Standing:  Aaron Davis and Joe DeGuardia
-All pictures by Peter Frutkoff-
NEW YORK (April 5, 2016) – More than 300 people packed Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, NY this past Sunday for the fifth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner.
Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.  Plaques are on display at the New York State Athletic Commission.
The 2016 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:  Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair, Angelo Prospero and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years in order 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.
(L-R) – NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy, Don Majeski, Ed Brophy and Jill Diamond (WBC)
 
Ed Brophy:  “I’d like to thank the committee of the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame and Ring 8, a wonderful group that sponsors the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  I’m so proud to have been born in New York, in the small town of Canastota, where boxing is in our blood.  I’m thrilled to be honored today.  My name is attached to the International Boxing Hall of Fame as director, but so many different people help out.  I only accept this honor on their behalf.  Boxing is the greatest sport.  Congratulations to all of the inductees.  This is the greatest day of my life.”
  (L-R) – Ron McNair, Aaron Davis and Bob Duffy
 
Aaron Davis:  Thanks, Ring 8.  Boxing is a hard sport.  It was much harder in the gym.  I saw Gerry Cooney, Iran Barkley and Roberto Duran and wanted to do what those guys did and it made me a fighter I was.  I’d like to thank my father and Billy Giles, who was my trainer. I’d also like to thank Joe DeGuardia, who managed me later in my career, and thanks to everybody who supported me.”
 
(L-R) — Bob Duffy, Dennis Rappaport and family
 
Dennis Rappaport:  “It seems like yesterday when a six or seven year old living in Brooklyn watched a fight between Jake LaMotta and Jim Hairston.  This young man was mesmerized.  The next month he watchedSugar Ray Robinson knockout Rocky Graziano and that was the start of a love affair that’s lasted 63 years.  Boxing, at its best, is poetry in motion.  It’s Shapespeare, Picasso, Rembrandt.  But it can also be crude.  I started in boxing managing three fighters:  Ronnie Harris, Gerry Cooney and Howard Davis. Jr.  Because of the creative marketing of our fighters, one reporter called me and my partner, Mike Jones, ‘The Gold Dust Twins’ but then the media starting calling us, ‘The Wacko Twins.’ I preferred ‘The Gold Dust Twins.”

(L-R – Jack Hirsch, Joe DeGuardia and Bob Duffy
Joe DeGuardia:  It’s a real pleasure, honor and privilege to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  Like many of you here, I live and bleed boxing, which has been a big part of my life.  Four months ago, I received the (Ring 8 at its Holiday awards dinner) Promoter of the Year award.  I said then that we are truly a family of boxing; it’s a real brotherhood.  I also talked about how boxing tied into lire.  In that room – not with us now – was my father who passed away three weeks ago.  Because of him, I developed this love of boxing that I’ve carried in life: work hard to do the best you can in life.  I’m truly honored to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  In honor of my father and everybody else who loves this sport.  I accept on behalf of my father who, I know, is watching us now.”
(L-R) – Charles Murray and Bob Duffy
 
Charles Murray:  “They called me, ‘The Natural.’  I appreciate this, being honored for my contributions to boxing.  Thank you very much.”
  (L-R) – Steve Farhood, Vilomar Fernandez and Bob Duffy
 
Vilomar Fernandez:  “It wasn’t easy fighting guys like Roberto Duran and Alexis Arguello.  They were the best in the world.  I’m thankful for the opportunities to fight them, I’m honored today.”
  (L-R) – Henry Hascup, Randy Gordon, Melvina Lathan, Bob Duffy and Gerry Cooney
Randy Gordon:  “Thank you, everyone.  This amazing event we have every year, I never expected this would happen.  My career was born out of the aches of one of boxing’s biggest scandals, the US Championships on ABC, promoted by Don King, and Ring Magazine produced the ratings for the tournament.  It turned out the ratings and some of the records were padded and it just about knocked Ring Magazine out of business. Bert Randolph Sugar hired me to be its Editor In Chief.  Working together, we brought Ring Magazine back from the dead.  I burst into tears when Jack Hirsch called to tell me I was being inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  This is an absolute dream.  Anybody who has ever or will ever be inducted into any hall of fame, nobody can possibly enjoy this more than me.  I love boxing with every ounce of my body.  My wife and family drive me back into boxing.  This is the greatest honor.  I can’t get enough of boxing.  I’m truly the luckiest man ever placed on this planet.”
 (L-R) – Ed Brophy, Don Majeski, Jack Hirsch and Joe DeGuardia
NYSAC Executive Director Dave Berlin and Harold Lederman
 
(L-R) – Joe DeGuardia and NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy
 
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.
boxing, Ring 8

2016 Class Inductees honored to be going Into New York State Boxing Hall of Fame This Sunday, April 3, at Russo’s On The Bay

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Hector Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Aaron Davis and Howard Cosell head 2016 class
NEW YORK (March 29, 2016) – The fifth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, will be held this Sunday afternoon (April 3 – 12:30-5:30 p.m.) at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
 
NYSBHOF Class of 2015
Boxers
World welterweight champion (’90-91) Aaron “Superman” Davis                               Bronx
World junior welterweight champion (’93-94) Charles “The Natural” Murray                Buffalo
Two-time world lightweight title challenger Vilomar Fernandez                                    Bronx
World lightweight title challenger Edwin Viruet.                                                          New York City
(Deceased)
4-time, 3-division world champion Hector “Macho” Camacho                                    Spanish Harlem
World middleweight champion (1952) Rocky Graziano                                               Brooklyn
World lightweight (’25-26) titlist Rocky Kansas                                                           Buffalo
2-time world bantamweight titleholder Joe Lynch                                                        Brooklyn
“Uncrowned welterweight champion” Joe Miceli                                                         Buffalo
Non-Participants
International Boxing Hall of Fame executive director Ed Brophy                                 Canastota
Promoter Joe DeGuardia                                                                                         Bronx
Commissioner/media personality Randy Gordon                                                       Melville
Promoter/manager Dennis Rappaport                                                                      Queens
(Deceased)
Manager Howie Albert                                                                                            Bronx
Trainer/cutman Freddie Brown                                                                                Manhattan
New York City television commentator Howard Cosell                                             New York City
Boxer/referee Ruby Goldstein                                                                                Manhattan
Manager Jimmy Jacobs                                                                                         New York City
Randy Gordon:  “What a journey this has been from boxing fan to boxing writer…to boxing announcer…to boxing commissioner…to boxing promoter…to boxing talk show host….to the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.  If I’m dreaming, I don’t want to wake up!”
Dennis Rappaport:  “It is with the utmost pleasure and profound appreciation to be inducted into the NYSBHOF with such a class of distinguished honorees.  At the age of six, I watched my first fight between Jake LaMotta and Gene Harston.  I was so captivated and mesmerized by the sport that it began my 63 year love affair with boxing.  From the bottom of my heat, I would like to thank each and every member of the boxing fraternity for a lifetime filled with magical moments and unforgettable memories.”
Ed Brophy:  “This is a wonderful honor that truly caught me by surprise. I am humbled by this acknowledgement and thank the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.”
Joe DeGuardia:  “I am honored to be recognized and included among the past and present boxing luminaries inducted into the prestigious New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.”
Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.  Plaques are on display at the New York State Athletic Commission.
The 2016 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:  Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair, Angelo Prospero and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years in order 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.
 
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.
Limited tickets are still available, priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16), which includes a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at 12:30 p.m. ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the event.  Tickets are available to purchase by calling NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304.  Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.
boxing

Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade signs a new promotional contract with Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

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Philadelphia, PA. / Bronx, NY (March 25,, 2016) – A Team Promotions, Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing are pleased to announce the re-signing of former WBO junior middleweight world champion, Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade to a new exclusive multi-year promotional contract.
“We are very happy to have Demetrius re sign with Joe & I,” said Banner Promotions president, Arthur Pelullo.
“We are looking to move forward together with Demetrius becoming one of the major players in boxing.  The next step is to win the WBC world title and then to unify all the title belts.”
“We have promoted Demetrius since he turned pro 7 years ago. We believed then, as we do now, Demetrius is one of the most talented boxers in the world.  We are all looking forward to a bright future together,”said Star Boxing CEO, Joe DeGuardia.
“We are excited to get Demetrius career back on track and are are looking forward to have Demetrius be a co-promoter for his career.  He is excited to get back in the ring as quickly and as often as possible,” said Ed Farris of A-Team Promotions.
Andrade of Providence, Rhode Island has a record of 22-0 with 15 knockouts.

The 27 year-old former world amateur champion and 2008 Olympian turned professional in 2008 and became the WBO junior middleweight world champion with a 12-round split decision over 2004 United States Olympian Vanes Martirosyan.

He made one defense of the crown by stopping Brian Rose in 7 rounds on June 14, 2014.

He is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Dario Fabian Pucheta on October 17th in Uncasville, Connecticut.
boxing, Ring 8

New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Induction dinner tickets selling fast Sunday, April 3 at Russo’s On The Bay

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Hector Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Aaron Davis and Howard Cosell head 2016 class
NEW YORK (March 23, 2016) – Tickets are selling fast for the fifth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF) induction dinner, sponsored by Ring 8, Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), April 3, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.
 
NYSBHOF Class of 2016
Boxers
World welterweight champion (’90-91) Aaron “Superman” Davis                                   Bronx
World junior welterweight champion (’93-94) Charles “The Natural” Murray                    Buffalo
Two-time world lightweight title challenger Vilomar Fernandez                                        Bronx
World lightweight title challenger Edwin Viruet.                                                              New York City
(Deceased)
4-time, 3-division world champion Hector “Macho” Camacho                                        Spanish Harlem
World middleweight champion (1952) Rocky Graziano                                                   Brooklyn
World lightweight (’25-26) titlist Rocky Kansas                                                               Buffalo
2-time world bantamweight titleholder Joe Lynch                                                            Brooklyn
“Uncrowned welterweight champion” Joe Miceli                                                             Buffalo
Non-Participants
International Boxing Hall of Fame executive director Ed Brophy                                      Canastota
Promoter Joe DeGuardia                                                                                              Bronx
Commissioner/media personality Randy Gordon                                                            Melville
Promoter/manager Dennis Rappaport                                                                           Queens
(Deceased)
Manager Howie Albert                                                                                                  Bronx
Trainer/cutman Freddie Brown                                                                                      Manhattan
New York City television commentator Howard Cosell                                                    New York City
Boxer/referee Ruby Goldstein                                                                                       Manhattan
Manager Jimmy Jacobs                                                                                                New York City
Each inductee will receive a custom-designed belt signifying his induction into the NYSBHOF.  Plaques are on display at the New York State Athletic Commission.
The 2016 inductees were selected by NYSBHOF nominating committee members:  Jack Hirsch, Steve Farhood, Bobby Cassidy, Jr., Don Majeski, Henry Hascup, Ron McNair, Angelo Prospero and Neil Terens.
All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years in order 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.
 
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.
Tickets are priced at $150.00 per adult and $60.00 for children (under 16), and include a complete brunch and cocktail hour upon entry, starting at12:30 PM/ET, as well as dinner (prime rib, fish or poultry) and open bar throughout the evening.  Tickets are available to purchase by calling NYSBHOF/Ring 8 president Bob Duffy at 516.313.2304.  Ads for the NYSBHOF program are available, ranging from $50.00 to $250.00, by contacting Duffy. Go on line at www.Ring8ny.com for additional information about the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.
CONTACT:
Bob Trieger, Full Court PRESS, 978.590.0470, bobtfcp@hotmail.com
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.
boxing, Ring 8

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

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(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.
boxing, Ring 8

Fighter of the Year Timothy Bradley to attend 29th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event & Awards Ceremony Dec. 13 in New York; Melvina Lathan, Sadam Ali, Heather Hardy & John Duddy among 2015 award winners

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Timothy Bradley (R) vs. Juan Manuel Marquez
(pictures courtesy of Chris Farina / Top Rank)
NEW YORK, NY (November 30, 2015) – Five-time, two-division world champion Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley will attend the 29th annual Ring 8 Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony, Sunday afternoon (12:30-5:30 p.m. ET), December 13, at Russo’s On The Bay in Howard Beach, New York.  Bradley will receive his award as the 2015 Ring 8 Fighter of the Year.
Randy Gordon will serve as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.  Other 2015 Ring 8 award winners (see complete list below) include 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(BY Female Fighter of the Year), “Ireland’s” John Duddy (Uncrowned Champion), Andre Rozier (Trainer of the Year) and Joe DeGuardia (Promoter of the Year).
The 32-year-old Bradley, fighting out of Palm Springs, California, is a two-time and reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO welterweight champion, in addition to being a three-time world light welterweight titlist.
His list of victims reads like a Who’s Who of boxing in the 140 to 147 pound divisions:  Manny Pacquiao, Juan Manuel Marquez, Ruslan Provodnikov, Joel Casamayor, Devon Alexander, Jessie Vargas, Luis Carlos Abregu, Lamont Peterson, Kendall Holt,Junior Witter and Brandon Rios.
“Timothy Bradley earned his award with an outstanding performance against Brandon Rios (WTKO9),” Ring 8 president Bob Duffy said.  “Working with his new trainer, Teddy Atlas (pictured to below to right with Bradley) , the sky is the limit for Bradley. We’re very fortunate to have Timothy traveling cross country to attend our Holiday Event to receive his Fighter of the Year award.
“Because this is such a great group we’re honoring this year, we expect a sold out crowd of 400.  Our members look forward to this event every year.  We truly appreciate them lending their support as Ring 8 proudly continues its record for lending a helping hand to  those in the boxing community who are less fortunate. Each year our Holiday Event and Awards Ceremony celebrates our great sport of boxing, insuring much-needed funding is raised so we may continue our mission for our needy brothers and sisters in boxing. We will never waver from their corners.”
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.
Limited tickets, priced at $125.00 per person, are still available to purchase by contacting Bob Duffy by phone (516.313.2304), email DepComish@aol.com, or mail checks (payable to Ring 8) to him (164 Lindbergh Street, Massapequa Park, NY 11762). Donations of any denomination are welcome for those unable to attend the festivities.
Tickets include a complete brunch with cocktail hour upon entry, followed by seating at the awards ceremony, dinner and dessert, and top-shelf open bar throughout the afternoon. There will also be a silent auction of boxing memorabilia. This event is expected to sell-out and everybody is urged to purchase tickets as soon as possible in order to secure favorable seating.
The deadline for program ads is approaching for full Page ($150.00), Half-Page ($80.00), and Quarter-Page ($50.00). All ads must be emailed (DepComish@aol.com) or mailed to Duffy (516.313.2304) at the address listed above.
Go online to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about Ring 8 or its annual Holiday Events and Awards Ceremony.
Russo’s On The Bay is located at 162-45 Crossbay Blvd. in Howard Beach(718.843.5055).
Ring 8 News:  Jack Hirsch, who will be receiving the 2015 Ring 8 Long & Meritorious Service Award, was recently elected as Vice President of Ring 8.
Attending Ring 8 Holiday and Awards Ceremony celebrity guests include former world champions Mark Breland, Luis Collazo, Iran Barkley and Vito Antuofermo, as well Sean Monahan, Bobby Cassidy, Harold Lederman and Frankie Galarza
boxing

Former WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade returns to the ring on Saturday, October 17 when he takes on Dario Fabian Pucheta for the WBO International title at The Mohegan Sun 

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Providence, RI (September 15, 2015)–It was announced today at the Rhode Island State House that undefeated former WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade will return to the ring on Saturday night, October 17 when he takes on Dario Fabian Pucheta that will take place at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

The bout will be contested for the WBO International Jr. Middleweight title.

Andrade (21-0, 14 KO’s) will be returning for the first time in 16 months, and the October 17th bout will be the fight that will springboard Andrade back to a world title.

Andrade defended his title with a 7th round stoppage over Brian Rose on June 14, 2014 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Pucheta of Benos Aires, Argentina has a record of 20-2 with 11 knockouts. The 28 year-old has won three in a row which includes his last bout when he stopped Bethuel Ushona (32-2) on October 4, 2014 in Windhoek, Namibia.

The show is promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s CES Boxing, with the Andrade – Pucheta bout being promoted by Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

“It’s about time that I get back in the ring. I am happy to be fighting at home in front of my fans. It is the most comfortable place in the world to be, and I look forward to regaining my title and defending in front all my loyal fans. I just want to thank them for their support during the last year. I look forward to seeing all of my fans at the fight,” said Andrade.

“I am looking forward to Demetrius getting back in the ring. We have been in the gym training hard, and he will be ready to put on a good performance on October 17,” said Andrade’s father/trainer, Paul Andrade

“I am very excited about Demetrius getting back in the ring. He is one of the top Jr. Middleweights in the world. I predict within a year that he will be fighting for and winning the Jr. Middleweight championship of the world for a second time,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.

Said Joe DeGuardia, president of Star Boxing, “I am thrilled that Demetrius is back. I have always felt he has the ability to be the best in the world, and I expect that within the next year he will be an undefeated 2-time World Champ.”

“We are thrilled to bring our Olympian and former world champion Demetrius Andrade back to New England. This is where Demetrius grew up, honed his skills and developed into the championship-caliber fighter he is today, both in and out of the ring. Furthermore, we’re honored to bring this event to one of our favorite venues, Mohegan Sun Casino, and to work in association with two of the most trustworthy, honest and hardest-working promoters in professional boxing, Artie Pelullo of Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing. They are more than just colleagues; they are lifelong friends. With the three of us working together, this event will continue to raise the bar and set the standard for professional boxing in the northeast,” said Jimmy Burchfield, president of CES Boxing.

Ticket prices are $25, $50, $125 and $200 (VIP).

They can be purchased at www.cesboxing.com or www.mohegansun.com or by phone at 401-724-2243/2254.

For more information visit www.cesboxing.com, follow @CESBOXING on Twitter and Instagram and “like” the official CES Boxing Facebook fan page. Details also available at www.starboxing.com and www.banner-promotions.com.