Tag Archives: Providence

CES MMA Welterweight World Champion Vinicius “The Brazilian Bad Boy” De Jesus Makes First Title Defense at CES 58 Sept. 7 at the CT Convention Center in Hartford

EVENT TO STREAM LIVE AND EXCLUSIVELY ON

UFC FIGHT PASS®

 N. PROVIDENCE, RI (August 7, 2019) – CES MMA will return to Hartford, CT on Saturday, September 7th with CES 58. The event will stream live from the Connecticut Convention Center exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 8 PM E.T. / 5 PM P.T.

Headlining this stacked card will be De Jesus vs. Lozano.  Watch as CES MMA welterweight champion Vinicius “The Brazilian Bad Boy” De Jesus makes his first title defense in the main event against challenger Chris “The Cleveland Assassin” Lozano.

Brazilian-born De Jesus, fighting out of Stamford, CT, captured the coveted CES MMA welterweight crown in his last fight (Mar. 29, 2019), when he earned a hard fought five-round unanimous decision over Jeremiah Wells. De Jesus has won three of four Bellator fights and he is riding a three-fight win streak. 

“CES MMA is extremely excited to return to Hartford, Connecticut, with a special Saturday Night Event live on UFC Fight Pass,” proudly announces Jimmy Burchfield Jr., of CES MMA. “The main event is going to be a war when ‘The Brazilian Bad Boy’ Vinicious De Jesusdefends his welterweight title against Chris ‘The Cleveland Assassin’ Lozano. This blockbuster card is guaranteed action you don’t want to miss!”

The co-feature is a heavyweight battle between Hartford’s Parker Porter and veteran Brazilian opponent, Dirlei “Mao de Pedra” Broenstrup. In his toughest test to date, Waterbury, CT lightweight Jesse James Kosakowski takes on veteran Reggie Merriweather

An intriguing match-up is Springfield, MA middleweight prospect Pat Casey challenges Andre “Rumble” Hall.  Casey has won two in a row since he suffered his only pro loss, while Hall is coming off a sensational first-round submission of Pat McCrohan at the recent CES 57.

Also being showcased is fan favorite and Norwich native, Pete “The Heat” Rogers, Jr., whosquares off against veteran “Relentless” Robbie Leroux, Meriden, CT flyweight Justin Valentin vs. TBA, Massachusetts bantamweight Harris Bonfiglio vs. Jornell Lugo, and Waterbury, lightweight Nick Giuletti vs. Cody “Lightning” Schieve,

All fights and fighters are subject to change. This is an all ages event.

Tickets for “CES MMA 57” start at $35 and are available online at cesmma.com or by calling the CES box office at 401-724-2254.

Twin River Event Center doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET with the first fight scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET.

The main card will stream live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS.  To start your 7-day free trial, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

INFORMATION:

Websites:  www.cesmma.comwww.ufc.tv/page/fightpasswww.ctconventions.com

Twitter: @CESMMA, @UFCFightPass, @ctconventionCT,  

Instagram: @CESMMA, @UFCFightPass

Facebook: /CESMMA, /UFCFightPass, /CTConventions

NABA SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION, MARK DELUCA TO FACE UNDEFEATED CANADIAN CONTENDER, BRANDON BREWER

SATURDAY, JUNE 29 IN PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND


FIGHT ADDED TO THE DAZN BROADCAST OF
DEMETRIUS ANDRADE VS. MACIEJ SULECKI


TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE


Boston (June 13, 2019):


Murphys Boxing is proud to announce NABA super welterweight champion, Mark DeLuca (23-1, 13 KOs) will face undefeated Canadian contender, Brandon Brewer (23-0-1, 11 KOs) on the undercard of the middleweight world championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Maciej Sulecki live on DAZN on Saturday, June 29th in Providence, Rhode Island.


DeLuca, who is ranked #9 in the world by the WBA, is coming off a dominate unanimous decision victory over once beaten, Jimmy Williams this past March and is looking to make a statement against an undefeated opponent in order to secure a title elimination fight later this year.


“It’s on short notice but I don’t have any hesitation taking the fight.”, explains the former Marine who is one of New England’s most popular fighters.


“A good performance against an undefeated fighter of Brewer’s caliber on a DAZN televised card will hopefully be enough to land another Top 10 fighter in the ring for a title eliminator. My goal is to be the first world champion from the Boston area since John Ruiz and I feel like all the pieces are finally coming together.”


As for DeLuca’s massive Boston area fan base, the Whitman, Massachusetts native is confident they will be making the short trip down to Providence.


“It’s definitely a home game for me. Providence is only 45 minutes from my front door. I can guarantee you that Boston will be in the house.”


DeLuca’s promoter and Murphys Boxing founder, Ken Casey couldn’t agree more with his fighter.


“Mark deserves big opportunities likes this. Fighting an undefeated opponent on DAZN is a major step to a world title shot. We’re excited for boxing fans to find out what the city of Boston already knows, Mark DeLuca is one of the best super welterweights in the world.”


DeLuca vs. Brewer takes place as part of Andrade vs. Sulecki on Saturday, June 29th at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center (1 La Salle Square, Providence, RI, 02903). The event is promoted by Matchroom Boxing USA and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. Doors open at 5pm and tickets are on sale now by calling or texting 617-657-4356 or emailing mbloom@murphysboxing.com.


ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING


Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III and more!


For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

USA Boxing Alumni Association Profile:   JASON “Big Six” ESTRADA

    

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (July 30, 2018) – 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada fully believes that boxing saved his life, preventing him from running the streets of Providence, Rhode Island, and molding him into the man he is today.

 

 

 

“I didn’t have any money growing up and could have easily gone the other way in the streets,” Estrada explained. “A lot of my friends from back then were selling drugs are many are either dead or in jail. I knew them all, they knew me. Instead of becoming a drug dealer, I beat them up and took their money. I could have easily ended up seller drugs on a bigger scale, shot them, or gotten shot by them. I was broke, but boxing saved me!”

 

 

 

Estrada’s first amateur match was in 1987, when he was only seven years old, and he developed into one of the most dominant amateur boxers in the world between 2001-2003, in which he was a “three-peat” champion at the USA National Championships, PAL National Championships and U.S. Challenge. “Big Six” also remains the only American boxer to capture a gold medal in the super heavyweight division of the Pan-American Games (2003), in addition to representing the U.S. in the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece.

 

 

 

After qualifying for the 2004 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team, much of the pre-Olympic Games boxing interest surrounded an expected showdown between the top two super heavyweights in the world, Estrada and Russia’s Alexander Povetin. Unfortunately, Estrada was hampered by a severe case of planta faucitis, which left Jason in an air cast and unable to train other than swimming throughout the entire pre-Olympics camp. Estrada won in the opening round, but he was eliminated in the second by Cuban Michel Lopes, who Estrada had fairly easily defeated in the championship final of the 2003 Pan-American Games. Povetkin went on to capture the gold medal.

 

 

 

“I would have loved to fight him” Estrada said. “I was super sharp, mentally, but physically I couldn’t bounce and move. I just had to deal with it. I found out that it was amazing how quickly people forget in boxing.”

 

 

 

Not only does Estrada credit his father, optometrist Dr. Roland Estrada, for helping to keep him on the straight and narrow, he also taught him to box. “My father didn’t have any boxing experience when we started,” Jason noted. “We went from gym to gym, sparring guys, and picking up things from other coaches. I appreciated my father so much because he always knew that his style wasn’t the only style. We experienced different styles and met some great coaches. Two of my favorite coaches are Barry Hunter (Washington D.C.) and Mike Stafford (Cincinnati). I’m cool with fighters I met in the amateurs like Andre Dirrell. The guy I’m closest with is George Garcia, who I fought and beat nine times. He’s one of my coolest friends, though. His son is a good prospect coming up, but he’s the opposite of his father, who was short and stocky. His son is a tall, lanky boxer.”

 

 

 

 

USA Boxing Alumni Association

 

 

 

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events hosted by the Alumni Association, including its annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

 

Estrada fought professionally for more than a decade, compiling a 20-6 (6 KOs) record, as an unusually quick-handed, slick-moving heavyweight. Today, Estrada and his father own and operate Big Six Academy in Providence, coaching amateur and pro boxers.

 

 

 

“Boxing is like a marriage,” commented Estrada, who retired from the ring 3 ½ years ago. “I love it, but we’re not together anymore. We’re still good friends. I still love boxing as a friend. I get my boxing fix by coaching, it’s still a part of my life. I spar with some of the fighters. I can do what I want for four rounds. There’s no challenge, no pressure. I could still fight, if not for the rigorous training. Physical problems I had when I fought – back, knee and feet – no longer hurt.

 

 

 

“My dad understands the knowledge I have – he never fought – and a lot of times in the gym we’ll say to each other, ‘I was just thinking that.’ He has no experience (fighting in the ring) and now, he lets me handle all the pads work. He’s putting more and more on me, work wise, but he closely watches us and takes care of the business end.

 

 

 

“I really enjoy helping our fighters prepare for media interviews. I’m thankful to USA Boxing for that, because we were trained to be in the right state of mind for interviews.”

 

 

 

Estrada had an opportunity to travel the world as a member of USA Boxing’s elite teams, boxing in Cuba, Dominican Republic Kazakhstan, Ireland (3 times), Germany and Brazil.

 

 

 

Now giving back to young boxers what he learned in USA Boxing ranks, the 37-year-old Estrada has one boxing goal left on his wish list.

 

 

 

“I’d love to work with somebody who becomes world champion and makes money to support their family,” Estrada concluded, “but more than anything, I’d love to work with a boxer who becomes a U.S. Olympian because I was a U.S. Olympian.”

 

 

 

And nobody can ever take that away from Jason “Big Six” Estrada, one of America’s most decorated amateur boxers of all-time, and a proud USA Boxing Alumni Association member.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

2017 National Golden Gloves champion Poindexter Knight, Jr. wins his Pro debut

New York (December, 11, 2017)–On December 1st, welterweight prospect Poindexter Knight, Jr. won his anticipated professional debut when he stopped Samuel Forjoe in the first round of their scheduled four-round bout at The Strand Ballroom and Theater in Providence, Rhode Island.
The 2017 National Golden Gloves champion out of Philadelphia landed a hard combination the corner that had Forjoe bending over, and the bout was stopped in just 63 seconds.
Knight is the latest top-prospect to debut for Split-T Management, and he is promoted by Evander Holyfield’s Sports and Entertainment.
“Everything went well, I was excited and nervous, but I got through it,”said Knight.
“I thought my opponent would have a little more for me, but I did what I had to do in there and I got him out of there.  It was great to get the knockout in my pro debut,” continued Knight.
Knight is eager to get his next victory, and he is looking to do in front of his hometown fans.
“I am hoping to fight in front of my hometown fans in 2018.  That would be a goal for the upcoming year.  I can’t wait as I am coming strong in 2018.”
Knight is trained by his father Poindexter Knight, Sr, and the elder Knight was happy with his son’s performance.
“Poindexter looked relaxed, and it looked like it was his 10th fight.  I am happy to be with Split-T Management.  They gave us a chance when no one else did.  We wanted to turn pro for a while and a lot of managers made a lot of broken promises.  I put Poindexter back in the Golden Gloves, and he won, which opened a lot of doors,” Said Poindexter Knight, Sr.
“Like my son said, I would like to see him get at least five fights for 2018.  That will keep him sharp, and he will continue to learn.  We had a great 1st fight, and we will continue to work hard and get better with each fight.”
Said David McWater, CEO of Split-T management, “I’m truly excited about Poindexter Knight’s future – he has the skill and more importantly the drive to be one of the very best.”

Knight vs Forjoe
Knight vs Forjoe

TOP CRUISERWEIGHT PROSPECT FABIO TURCHI MAKES UNITED STATES DEBUT THIS FRIDAY NIGHT

 
LIVE ON CBS SPORTS NETWORK
Providence, Rhode Island (November 29, 2017) This Friday night, December 1, top cruiserweight prospect FABIO “Stone Crusher” TURCHI, (12-0, 9 KO’s), of Florence, Italy makes his highly anticipated U.S. debut against Detroit, MI veteran DEMETRIUS BANKS, (9-3, 4 KO’s) from The Strand Ballroom and Theatre in Providence, Rhode Island and telecast live on CBS Sports Network (9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT).
Turchi vs. Banks, scheduled for eight rounds, is part of an eight-bout action packed card presented by Boxing Legend Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing.
Tickets for ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ starting at $45 are can be purchased through www.TheRealDealBoxing.com and www.thestrandri.com.
The Strand Ballroom and Theatre is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at7:00 p.m. ET.
“I’m thrilled to be fighting in the United States,” said the 24-year-old Turchi. “Since I turned professional two years ago I’ve wanted to come here and fight.”
“When I arrived here on Sunday night for the first time I felt very good right away. I’ve met a lot of Italian-Americans here in Providence and they’ve been very cordial to me which is galvanizing me to a great performance on Friday night.
“I consider myself an intelligent fighter with power. I can box to a decision but if the opportunity comes along during the fight for a knockout I’ll take advantage of it,” continued Turchi known in Italy for his show-stopping knockouts.
“I don’t know much about Demetrius Banks but I’m very well prepared for anything in the ring.
“Since I was a kid, being Italian, my favorite fighter was Rocky Marciano. It’s an honor to be fighting so close to his hometown of Brockton, Massachusetts on Friday night.”
“Evander was a great world champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions. I will do my best to make him proud of me on Friday night.”
Said Holyfield, “Just being around Fabio these last few days you can see how serious he takes his career. I’m excited for boxing fans in Providence and those watching on CBS Sports Network to have the opportunity to see him fight.”
In the televised main event on Friday night, TOKA KAHN-CLARY, (23-1, 16 KO’s), of Providence, Rhode Island defends his WBC-USNBC Featherweight Title against undefeated Philippines’ based contender JOHN VINCENT MORALDE, (19-0, 10 KO’s) in the 10-
Opening the telecast in a six-round featherweight clash, popular, undefeated Worcester, MA native IRVIN GONZALEZ, (7-0-0, 6 KO’s) battles MARLON OLEA, (13-1-0, 12 KO’s), of Barranquilla, Colombia.
Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with The Strand Ballroom and Theatre, Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox, @Holyfield
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxing

PHOTOS, QUOTES — TOKA KAHN-CLARY PROVIDENCE PRESS CONFERENCE!

TICKETS ON SALE!!

(L-R) – Fabio Turchi, Evander Holyfield, Toka Kahn-Clary, Sal Musumeci, CEO of The Real Deal Boxing, and Nick DeLomba
PROVIDENCE, RI (November 30, 2017) – Hall-of-Famer Evander Holyfield hosted the final press conference for this Friday night’s ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ card, presented byhis The Real Deal Boxing, the promotional entity under his Real Deal Sports and Entertainment, this afternoon at Ladder 133 Sports Bar & Grill in Smith Hill, Rhode Island.
 
An exciting tripleheader, arguably the best top-to-bottom card in recent Rhode Island boxing history, willair on CBS Sports Network, starting at 9 p.m. ET,live from The Strand Ballroom and Theater in Providence, RI. The entire undercard will be live-streamed, starting at 7 p.m. ET, online at www.TheRealDealBoxing.com.
Providence featherweight Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (23-1, 16 KOs) headlines against undefeated Filipino invader John Vincent Moralde (19-0, 10 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant WBC USNBC featherweight title.
Tickets starting at $45 are On Sale and can be purchased throughwww.TheRealDealBoxing.com and www.thestrandri.com.
The Strand Ballroom and Theater is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET, first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET, and live broadcasting starts at 9 p.m. ET on CBS Sports Network.
MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBC USNBC FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10) – CBSSN
Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (23-1, 15 KOs), Providence, RI by way of Liberia
vs.
John Vincent Moralde (19-0, 10 KOs), General Santos, Philippines
CO-FEATURE – CRUISERWEIGHTS (8) – CBSSN
Fabio “Stone Crusher” Turchi (12-0, 9 KOs), Florence, Italy
vs.
Demetrius Banks (9-3, 4 KOs), Detroit, MI
FEATHERWEIGHTS (6) – CBSSN
Irvin Gonzalez (7-0, 6 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Marlon Olea (13-1, 12 KOs), Baranquilla, Colombia
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)
Nick DeLomba (11-2, 2 KOs), Cranston, RI
vs.
Louis Cruz (12=3, 6 KOs), Bronx, NY
JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)
Timmy Ramos (4-0-1, 4 KOs), Framingham, MA
vs.
Phil Davis (1-1), Worcester, MA
WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Poindexter Knight (pro debut), Philadelphia, PA
vs.
Samuel Forjoe (0-1), Bronx, NY
CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)
Bryan Daniels (5-1, 3 KOs), Worcester, MA
vs.
Darnell “The Unknown” Pierce (5-1, 1 KO), Frederick, MD
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (7-1-1, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
vs.
Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-15-1, 5 KOs), Vega Maja, Puerto Rico
(all fights & fighters subject to change)
PRESSER QUOTES
Sal Musumeci, CEO of The Real Deal Boxing: “We’re honored to be here in Rhode Island. So many champs come through here and we’re here for that reason and its great boxing fans. I’ve been promoting 20 years with more than 400 shows worldwide. I know where we want to go to places with people who appreciate boxing.”
“Evander and I got together to put together The Real Deal Boxing because we want the same shows, two warriors in the ring, and that’s what you’re going to see Friday night at The Stand. Thanks for accepting is here. Toka is a great inspiration. When I first heard his story, my COO (Eric Bentley) sad we need to sign him. He’s in a tough fight. Toka accepted the challenge because he believes he’ll be world champion.”
“Turchi is an undefeated cruiserweight who will grow into a heavyweight. An Italian heavyweight like the great Rocky Marciano who fought in providence so many times.”
“I guarantee on Friday night you’ll see the most competitive fights in Providence in many years.”
Evander Holyfield: “I’m honored to be here. A big part of me being a promoter is how can I help boxing? I started at eight, when I was told I’d be like Ali. I believed that, but I had to ask my mother (permission to box). I was a four-time heavyweight world champion, but I also had my ups and downs. I tell them (my fighters), if they listen and ask me for advice, I will tell them. The problems today with millennials is that there’s really nobody to tell them. Just ask me, I tell them.”
“I bring a lot to boxing, but I won’t say I will make my fighters champions. I will give them an opportunity to be champion. I had opportunities and never quit. If you set goals and you don’t quit, you’ll reach that goal. Correct your mistakes and don’t quit. These fighters need to believe in me but, more importantly, they need to believe in themselves. I can give them advice because I’ve done it. I’m on their side.”
Toka Kahn-Clary: “I want to thank Evander, Sal and everybody on my team for having me fight in my state. I also want to thank my manger, trainer and Dan Crotty. I’m happy to be here. Boxing isn’t easy, but it is the path I’ve chosen. I’m fighting here on national television, representing my city and state.”
“I’m going to put on a show December 1st. It’s not going to be easy but I’m going in the ring to give it my all. I can’t wait to fight!”
 
Seth DeRobbio, manager of Toka Kahn-Clary, Irvin Gonzalez, Nick DeLomba & Timmy Ramos:
“I want to thank Sal and Evander for giving Providence good fights. This is a great opportunity for Toka, who is fighting a 19-0 opponent, setting up a 2018 to be a big year for him. Hopefully, we’ll be bringing something very big to Providence, too. You won’t know who is going to win Friday night until the fights are over.”
Peter Manfredo, Sr., head trainer for Kahn-Clary: “I’d like to thank Evander, Seth, the whole crew (The Real Deal Boxing). When Seth mentioned signing Toka with Evander, I soon learned that they take care of their fighters, no BS. Listen to them and you’ll make it to the top.
“Toka Kahn-Clary is the best fighter I’ve ever had, I’ve had a lot of good ones. Toka is always in condition, he works hard and has an iron chin. He wants to be a legend and I’m going to do everything to help him.”
Fabio Turchi: “I’m really happy to be here. I want to thank Real Deal Boxing for having faith in me. I will try to do my best to put on a great show. The people here mean a lot to me and I want to make the Italian-Americans here in Providence proud of me.”
Nick DeLomba: I want to thank Evander for putting me on this card. I grew up watching his fights on video; he is my idol and I’m honored to be fighting on his card. I come to fight. My opponent is a tough fighter who’ll bring his best.”
                            *                    *                     *                               
Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).
SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions
Twitter: @TheRealDealBox
Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxin

DEMETRIUS ANDRADE PROVIDENCE, R.I. MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

Unbeaten Super Welterweight Opens Up On The 154-Pound Division, Pros In The Olympics & Muhammad Ali As He Prepares To Face Willie Nelson In WBC Title Eliminator This Saturday, Live on SHOWTIME®

 Demetrius Andrade

 

Click HERE For Images; Credit Stanley Bois / A Team Promotions

 

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (June 7, 2016) – A Team Promotions hosted an open media workout on Monday at Bix Six Academy in Providence for undefeated former world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade(22-0, 15 KOs). The 2008 U.S. Olympian, of Providence, R.I., is finalizing preparations for this Saturday 12-round WBC Super Welterweight eliminator against Willie “The Great” Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in one of three fights on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®  live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

 

Here’s what Andrade, who’ll also be risking his WBO International title, said Monday:

 

DEMETRIUS ANDRADE

 

Reflections of Muhammad Ali:

 

“Muhammad Ali certainly shook the world, and not only in boxing.  He was colorful; nobody talked like him.  He helped boxers, too.  Ali is the reason Floyd (Mayweather, Jr.) is who he is because Ali set the bar high.

 

“As an entertaining boxer, Ali brought blacks and whites together and later he spread the word about religion, culture and his other diverse interests.

 

“What young boxer didn’t do the Ali Shuffle?  I know I did, and taunted my opponents like him, too.”

 

About Pros in the Olympics:

 

“I’m for pros in the Olympics as long as an amateur, who has a few Olympic trials, has the first opportunity to qualify for the Olympics.  Coming up in the amateurs, I fought grown men, some who had been Olympians a few times.  I was 21 and some of the opponents were 34-35 and had already been Olympians one or two times.  They had advantages in experience, power and skill.  Unfortunately, Americans only have Olympic opportunities when they’re young amateurs.

 

“Would I go the Olympics now?  Yes! The Olympics is the biggest thing on the planet.  To represent the United States again, yeah, I’d do it now for the chance to win gold.  But I do think headgear should be applied in amateur boxing, including the Olympics.”

 

On the 154-pound division:

 

“I’m putting myself in the best position to fight for the WBO or WBC title.  There are rumors of Canelo fighting (WBO champion Liam) Smith.  Let me fight Smith and the winner gets Canelo.  Or let me fight Canelo with the winner getting Smith.

 

“I’m going to knock out the Charlo twins.  Both guys have fought on SHOWTIME, so those fights shouldn’t be too difficult to make.  Once I take care of business with the Charlo twins, I’ll fight Lara (WBA champion) to clean up the division.”

 

On Gennady Golovkin:

 

“I definitely want to fight Golovkin.  Let me build myself up first, by cleaning out the 154-division, and then we’ll have a mega-fight with two different styles.  GGG is known for his knockouts.  I knock out people, too, but I’m a better boxer than him.  It’ll be one of the biggest fights in the sport of boxing.  I’m going to clean up the 154-division, make my reputation and then it’s a go with GGG.”

 

Relationship with his opponent Willie Nelson:

 

“We were in the U.S. amateurs together, but because we were in two different weight classes – he was 140-147 and I was 152 – there were no problems between us.  We used to watch each other fight and watch other Americans box.

 

“Nelson is experienced having gone through the amateurs.  He fought (Vanes) Martirosyan, who I beat (for the vacant WBO title by 12-round unanimous decision).  He’s fought at this level.  I know he’s tall, but I’m 6-foot-1, so our height difference isn’t serious.”

 

On returning to the ring:

 

“I’m pleased that we have this opportunity.  SHOWTIME has given me this chance and now it’s up to me to prove I can backup what we said.”

 

For more information: Twitter: @AndradeATeam, @BooBooBoxing, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports. Instagram:  @BooBooATeam,www.Facebook.com.DemetriusAndrade

Undefeated featherweight prospect Toka Kahn-Clary continues to develop 

–   Pictures courtesy of Mikey Williams –
PROVIDENCE (May 18, 2016)) – Undefeated blue-chip featherweight prospect Toka “T-Nice” Kahn-Clary (17-0, 11 KOs) continues to show improvement in each and every fight.  Last weekend, the 23-year-old Liberia-native knocked out seasoned veteran Orlando Rizo (19-7) in the fourth round at Sportsman Lodge in Studio City, California.
Kahn-Clary, fighting out of Providence, may still be flying under the radar but he’s getting closer to becoming a breakout star.  His most recent fight was his first scheduled 10-rounder.
“I put in a lot of hard roadwork, running seven miles a day, and (his head trainer) Peter (Manfredo, Sr.) really pushed me,” Kahn-Clary talked about preparing for his last fight.  I got some good work from Javier Fortuna, sparring him a few times, and he’s a good southpaw.
“I wasn’t looking for a knockout but it just happened.  I stepped left and threw a left.  I didn’t load up but it was accurate, hitting him right on his chin.  I was happy to get the knockout but I was looking forward to getting in some more rounds.”
“Nothing Toka does really surprises me because I’ve known since the beginning that he’s special,” Manfredo commented.  “Toka continues to improve with each fight and he’s hungry to get to the next level.  There’s no rush, he doesn’t turn 24 to next year.  He’s still maturing.  The kid he knocked out was Nicolas Walters’ main sparring partner.
“I just don’t want to put him in with the big names just yet.  He’s maturing but he’s not all the way there.  He’s improving all of the time, putting his combinations together better each fight.  I’ve also noticed that he’s nice and relaxed in the ring now.  He’s becoming a good boxer who always had power.  Top Rank is doing a great job moving him. Everybody’s happy.”
A decorated American amateur who had a 131-11 record, highlighted by a gold-medal performance at the 2010 National Golden Gloves Tournament, Kahn-Clary passed on a shot to make the 2016 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team to turn pro three years ago.
“I’ve been boxing 10 years now,” Kahn-Clary added. “Knowing what I’ve already accomplished, I also realize that I’m still improving.  I’ll be back in the gym Monday to get ready for the next call we get about my next fight.  (Top Rank’s) Brad Goodman is one of the best matchmakers in boxing.  He and everybody at Top Rank are doing a great job positioning me for a big opportunity.  That may not happen this year but, hopefully, it will sometime next year.  I’m boxing so much better now than I ever did.  I used to fight like I was in a fog but, now, my eyes are wide open.”
Not bad for a kid who left his mother and siblings in Liberia when he was six, only to have his father murdered a year after he arrived in the United States.  He’s overcome many difficult obstacles in his young life, most of them tougher than any opponents he’ll every fight, including a stretch in which he was homeless.  It’s only made him tougher and an even better overall person.
 
Follow Kahn-Clary on Twitter and Instagram @TokaKahnClary, or friend him on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/tokakahn.

Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade Continues giving back to community with 2nd annual Turkey Drive in Providence

PROVIDENCE (November 10, 2015) – Undefeated super welterweight Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs) has never forgotten where he comes from, Providence, and for the second year in a row the 27-year-old former world champion is spearheading a Turkey Drive there.
The group that Andrade founded, The Andrade Team, Inc., is on a mission to provide the Providence community with resources that, unfortunately, have become more scare, conducting various events that have included its aforementioned Turkey Drive.
The Andrade Team has also organized a community clean-up in Providence, provided backpacks and school supplies to more than 500 children, and a safe Halloween candy hand-out.
“Our staff will provide turkeys for those in need as well as the delivery of the turkeys,” Andrade explained.  “With the economic climate being what it is today, we understand that more people are in need of some aid. This year we would like to increase the number of turkeys we give away from 500 to 700.  I’m asking companies and people for donations to help us reach our goal of $5,500.
“I’m proud of our work and truly appreciate the support we’ve received in the past.  It’s tough out there.  People are working hard just to survive.  This is a way for more fortunate people to show how thankful they really are at Thanksgiving by helping others.”
Donations of any denomination will be gratefully accepted.  Checks should be made out to The Andrade Team, Inc. and sent to Demetrius Andrade, P.O. Box 28555, Providence, RI 02908.
Andrade was a 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2007 AIBA World Championships gold medalist.
Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @AndradeATeam.

Demetrius Andrade’s  Open media workout Quotes & pictures 

Returns Oct. 17 at Mohegan Sun Arena
 

(more pictures below)
PROVIDENCE (October 9, 2015) – Last night at Big Six Academy in Providence, undefeated super welterweight contender Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (21-0, 14 KOs) hosted an open media workout in advance of his October 17th 10-round main event fight versus Argentinian opponent Dario Fabian “El Gallo” Pucheta (20-2, 11 KOs) at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
Stripped earlier this year of his World Boxing Organization WBO) title due to inactivity, Andrade will face Pucheta for the WBO & World Boxing Association (WBA) International titles, marking his first fight in 16 months, since the 2008 U.S. Olympian stopped No. 1 mandatory contender Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs) in seven rounds of his first and only world title defense.
Andrade captured the vacant WBO 154-pound title November 9, 2013 by way of a 12-round decision over previously unbeaten 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan(33-0-1, 21 KOs).
Tickets are on sale, ranging from $200.00 to $25.00 (excluding fees). Call 401.261.3755 to purchase tickets as well as for bus special information.
DEMETRIUS ANDRADE:
“This turnout (of public) shows the support I have in Rhode Island.  It’s been a while since they’ve seen me in the ring, but they’re going to start seeing me in big fights.”
“The cream always rises to the top.  I’m going to show that I’m the best 154-pounder in the world.”
“It’s been frustrating (16-month layoff).  This is something I’ve been doing since I was six and not to do it has been tough.  I’ve tried to stay positive, working hard in the gym to stay in shape, but sparring in a gym is different than being in a fight when your opponent is trying to take your head off.  October 17th, people will see what I’m truly made of.”
“I have other ways of making a living but I love what I do every day…box!  This is a life-changing business.  I’m very happy to get back in the ring October 17th.  “I’m going to make a statement that I’m the future of boxing.”
“The WBO and WBA International titles are on the line in this fight. They took my (WBO world) title and it’s vacant right now.  The reason I took this fight is to get ranked in the top 15 and fight for a world title.”
“My opponent (Dario Pucheta) has come all the way from Argentina to win.  This is a tough business and to be 20-2 takes a lot of heart and guts.  This is an opportunity for to make a statement.  He’s hungry and believes because a win over me will make a name for him.”
“I’ve had some bumps in the road and it took a year to get settled.  I haven’t suffered any damage in the ring.  I feel good.  The fans are going to say that they need to see a lot more of Demetrius Andrade.”
“Camps’ been good and I feel great.  I want to thank CES for letting me showcase my skills on their card and to continue to bring great boxing to New England.”
Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @AndradeATeam or @BooBooBoxing.