All posts by FNU47

boxing, Las Vegas

BOXING ICON AND 8-TIME WORLD CHAMPION THOMAS HEARNS CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO, DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS

May 2, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate fan experience event that gives boxing fans the opportunity to meet-and-greet top fighters, current and former world champions, boxing celebrities and industry people in an up-close personal setting.

*Tickets On-Sale Now at EventBrite*

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

Las Vegas (May 1, 2019) – Boxing Icon &Eight-time world champion Thomas Hearns hasconfirmed that he will appear, have a booth and hold a meet and greet with his fans at the fifth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2019 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.The Expo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., during Cinco De Mayo weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Danny Jacobs, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite – http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

Hearns will make his 4th appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos,personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Living Legend also known as “The Hitman”.

Hearns joins Roy Jones Jr., Mayweather Promotions, Anthony Dirrell, WBA, Julio Cesar Chavez, Riddick Bowe, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Mia St,John, Juan Manuel Marquez, Vinny Paz, Devin Haney, Earnie Shavers, Al Bernstein, Michael Spinks, WBC, Erik Morales, James Toney and Jessie Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

**About Thomas Hearns**
Hearns more famously known as “The Hitman”, became the first boxer in history to win world titles in four divisions. He would also become the first fighter in history to win five world titles in five different divisions. Hearns was named Ring Magazine fighter of the year in 1980 and 1984 and is best known for his fights with Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler and Roberto Duran. He was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012.

**About Box Fan Expo**
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet-and-greet boxing superstars of today, current and former world champions, legends of the sport and other boxing celebrities. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, **“ALL UNDER ONE ROOF**“. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Pazienza, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…

Exhibitors include: boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry.

**Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:**
https://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com

Throughout the next several days leading up to the event, there will be more updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:

Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

For More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

boxing, Ring 8

Record turnout for New York State Boxing Hall of Fame Induction dinner

May 2, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

NYSBHOF Class of 2019: (L-R – seated) – Bob Jackson, John McKaie, Dick DiVeronica, Regilio Turr, Don King and Michal Olajidfe; (L-R – standing) – Ring 8 president Charles Norkus, Jr., Monte Barrett, Arthur Mercante, Jr., Steve Albert and NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy

(all pictures by Peter Frutkoff / NYSBHOF)

Inimitable promoter Don King led the 24-member Class of 2019 into the NYSBHOF

NEW YORK (April 30, 2019) – A record turnout honored the Class of 2019 at this past Sunday’s eighth annual New York State Boxing Hall of Fame (NYSBHOF), sponsored by Ring 8, at Russo’s On the Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

“We had our largest attendance, 402 people,” a happy and proud NYSBHOF president **Bob Duffy** said at the event. “This is the way we show our appreciation with this special belt for these New Yorkers for what they’ve given boxing through the years. Thanks to a lot of peoples’ efforts this is our eighth year. I hope we can do another 50. I’d like to thank everyone of these inductees, and their family members for their support. It’s all about family.”

Living boxers heading into the NYSBHOF include (Bronx-born) three-time, two-division world champion **Wilfredo Benitez** (53-8-1, 31 KOs), (Hempstead) WBO super featherweight world champion **Rogelio Tuur** (46-4-1, 30 KOs), (Bronx) 1968 U.S. Olympian **Davey Vasquez** (19-15, 6 KOs), WBO super middleweight world title challengerMichael Olajide (27-5, 19 KOs), of Manhattan, New York welterweight **Dick DiVeronica**(44-13-1, 13 KOs), and Queens’ world heavyweight title challenger **Monte Barrett** (35-11-2, 20 KOs).

Posthumous participants being inducted are (Bronx) three-time lightweight world championJimmy Carter (84-31-9, 34 KOs), Brooklyn welterweight **Al “Bummy” Davis** (65-10-4, 46 KOs), (Schenectady) world welterweight champion **Marty Servo** (47-4-2, 14 KOs), (Bronx) world heavyweight title challenger **Roland LaStarza** (57-9, 27 KOs), Brooklyn world lightweight champion **Paddy DeMarco** (75-26-3, 8 KOs )and Manhattan’s Lower East Side lightweights **Sid Terris** (94-13-5, 12 KOs) and **Leach “The Fighting Dentist” Cross** (35-10-4, 22 KOs).

Living non-participants heading into the NYSBHOF are New York City-based promoter **Don King**, Flushing judge **John McKaie**, referee **Arthur Mercante, Jr**. Brooklyn sportscasterSteve Albert, and Bronx trainer **Bob Jackson**.

Posthumous non-participant inductees are Utica matchmaker **Dewey Fragetta**, Corona, Queens referee **Johnny LoBianco**, Garden City referee **Wayne Kelly**, Flushing sportsman **Harry Hill**, award-winning journalist **Jimmy Cannon**, of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, and NYSAC official/former NABF president **Joe Dwyer**, of Brooklyn.

Each attending inductee (or direct descendant of) received a custom-designed belt signifying his or her induction into the NYSBHOF.

The 2019 inductees were selected by the NYSBHOF nominating committee members:**Randy Gordon**, **Henry Hascup**, **Don Majeski**, **Ron McNair**, and **Neil Terens**.

All boxers needed to be inactive for at least three years to be eligible for NYSBHOF induction, and all inductees must have resided in New York State for a significant portion of their boxing careers or during the prime of their respective career.

**INDUCTEES’ QUOTES & PICTURES**

Bob Jackson: “It’s hard to speak at times like this when being honored by friends. It’s been a great run. I live on memories and I have thousands. They keep me going. Never give up, always keep punching.”

(L-R) presenter Vinny Maddalone & 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Bob Jackson

Regilio Tuur: “I was a black kid from Holland fighting in the Olympics. Pretty much a nobody fighting the U.S. champion. They bought my return plane ticket before I even fought because they though my opponent was unbelievable. I trained to fight him, a southpaw, for a year and had a big fight hand that nobody knew of. I wanted to come to American and make by father proud. I retired from the pros) undefeated and make a lot money. I’m honored today. I had a great manager, Stan Hoffman, who is a man who made us men. Standing here today is a dream.”

(L-R) — 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Regilio Tuur & presenter Stan Hoffman

John McKaie: “I have a great job and to be honored for something I really love doing is a great honor. I’d like to thank various commissions for licensing me, but New York is my home. I’d like to thank all the boxers because it’s been a pleasure judging them.”

L-R) – Presenter Melvina Latham, 2019 NHSBHOF inductee John McKaie and
NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy

Monte Barrett: “Congratulations to everybody up here. There’s so much history in this room. I’ve been in boxing 18 years and have a select memory, but there have been so many amazing experiences and accomplishments. I love this guy (trainer Jimmy Glenn). A lot of managers don’t even ask how you’re doing. My manager was the great Stan Hoffman. He gave me $50,000, $3000 a month and another $1000 for insurance without a contract. Stan said: ‘How you doing? I believe in you and love you.’ In 2005, I was having an argument with Don King about money. He said, ‘Life is a negotiation.’ Well, I’m negotiating now, and I’m in the Hall of Fame.”

(L-R) – Presenter Melvina Latham, 2019 NHSBHOF inductee Monte Barrett and his wife, Shaneka, and NYSBHOF president Bob Duffy

Arthur Mercante, Jr.: “What a great honor it is to be recognized by Ring 8 and the boxing community. In 2012, my dad was inducted into the New York Boxing Hall of Fame Now he’s looking down today and he’s so proud. I entered the Golden Gloves at the age of 17. Un the quarterfinals I lost to a great fighter and Hall of Famer, Juan LaPorte. Like any boxer, I thought that I had won, and wanted aa rematch. My father told me I didn’t like road work and just lost a three-round fight. He asked if I’d like to be a referee. I started in 1979 and my father made me work five years before turning pro. I went on to ref so many great fights, including one on the same card with my father at Radio City Music Hall. My greatest fight was Lennox Lewis versus Evander Holyfield.”

(L-R) – 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Arthur Mercante, Jr. and presenter James Mercante

Michael Olajide: “I’m really honored to be here today. My history in boxing goes back a little now. There’s nothing better to be honored by those who are a part of your profession. Thank you. I’ve had an incredible journey: Liverpool to Canada to New York. Boxing has given me so much. I wouldn’t be the person I am without boxing. To live is to fight. Boxing and life are synonymous”

(L-R) – Presenter Jack Hirsch and 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Michael Olajide

Steve Albert: “It is a tremendous honor to be honored by these luminaries. To be recognized in your own state is special. This is a celebration of all of New York. I worked 23 years for Showtime Championship Boxing, from 1987-2010, and the most dramatic was Corrales-Castillo I, one of the greatest fights of all time. I got the see the world because of boxing, but it was the lighter moments I remember most. Only in boxing do you have these characters and amazing experiences.”

(L-R) – Presenter Randy Gordon and 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Steve Albert

Don King: “Only in America, right? I’m happy to be inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame. O got into boxing with Muhammad Ali for his first fight and he stayed with me. A black and a Jew, me and Al Braverman, revolutionized boxing. Mario Cuomo gave me my license to promote in New York. One of our three offices was at 30 Rockefeller Center overlooking this great city. New York is a great city and stayed, so good they named it twice, New York, New York. I’m proud and privileged for all the young men and women honored here. I’m so proud to be inducted with them today. I’m here because New York played such a vital role in my career. I’m happy to be here today to accept this award. I got my belt!”

Presenter Don Majeski, 2019 NYSBHOF inductee Don King and
Master of Ceremonies Dave Diamante

**NYSBHOF**

**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 Giamba, Johnny Persol, Harold Weston, Lonnie Bradley, Paul Berlenbach, Billy Graham, Frankie Genaro, Bob Miller, Tommy Ryan, Jimmy Slattery, Bob Duffy, Mike Katz, Tommy Gallagher, Bruce Silverglade, Charley Goldman, Jimmy Johnston, Cedric Kushner, Harry Markson, Damon Runyon and Al Weill.

**CLASS OF 2016**: Aaron Davis, Charles Murray, Vilomar Fernandez, Edwin Viruet, Hector “Macho” Camacho, Rocky Graziano, Rocky Kansas, Joe Lynch, Joe Miceli, Ed Brophy, Joe DeGuardia, Randy Gordon, Dennis Rappaport, Howie Albert, Freddie Brown, Howard Cosell, Ruby Goldstein and Jimmy Jacobs.

**CLASS OF 2017**: Gaspar Ortega, Renaldo “Mr.” Snipes, Doug Dewitt, “The Bronx Bomber” Alex Ramos, Dick Tiger, Jose Torres, “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey, Don Majeski, Ron Katz, Stan Hoffman, Bobby Bartels, Hank Kaplan, Al Gavin, Arthur Donovan and Dan Parker.

**CLASS OF 2018:** Lou “Honey Boy” Del Valle, Jake Rodriguez, Terrence Alli, “Baby” Joe Mesi, Kid Chocolate, James J. “Gentleman Jim” Corbett, Jack McAuliffe, Billy Costello, Melio Bettina Ralph “Tiger” Jones, Charley Norkus, Dave Anderson, Pete Brodsky, Herb Goldman, Bobby Goodman, Melvina Lathan, Ron Scott Stevens, Johnnie Addie, Johnny Bos, Murray Goodman, Bert Randolph Sugar and Sam Taub.

boxing, Las Vegas

4-TIME WORLD CHAMPION ABNER MARES CONFIRMED FOR 5TH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO DURING CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4, IN LAS VEGAS

May 2, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

boxing, UFC

‘ICEMAN’ JOHN SCULLY TO RECEIVE MURPHYS BOXING’S WARRIOR’S CODE AWARD ON MAY 10 IN SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS AT NOVA VS. LOZANO

May 2, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**PRESENTATION CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE NEXT**
**FRIDAY, MARCH 10TH IN SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS AT**
**NOVA VS. LOZANO**

**EVENT TO BROADCAST LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS**

**TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT** WWW.MURPHYSBOXING.COM

Boston, Massachusetts (May 1, 2019):

**Murphys Boxing** is proud to announce that the next recipient of the **Warrior’s Code Award** will be New England boxing legend, **‘Iceman’ John Scully**.

The Hartford, Connecticut based Scully was one of the most popular fighters in the region during the 1990s and he went 38-11 in a professional career in the light heavyweight division that included challenging for the world title against Henry Maske in Germany.

After his professional career, ‘Iceman’ achieved fame calling rebroadcasts of fights for **ESPN Classic** as well as writing a popular column in the British magazine, **Boxing News**.

However Scully has achieved his most success as a trainer being instrumental in helping take fighters like **Jose Antonio Rivera** and **Chad Dawson** to world titles.

Scully is now a co-trainer of the Russian, now Canadian based, undefeated light heavyweight world champion, **Artur Beterbiev**, who defends his title this Saturday in California live on **ESPN**.

In addition to his work as a trainer he has been an passionate advocate and champion for the rights and well being of retired fighters.

“I’m extremely honored to receive this recognition and I really appreciate Murphys Boxing for thinking of me.”, says the 51 year old Connecticut resident.

“It’s particularly special because it will come in the city of Springfield where I spent the majority of my amateur boxing career training at the old Central City Gym at the X under Coach John Tynan. I’m looking forward to a great night.”

Murphys Boxing founder, **Ken Casey** explains the promotion’s decision to name Scully as the latest recipient of the award named after one of the Dropkick Murphy’s signature songs, “The Warrior’s Code” which is a tribute to another New England boxing hero, **Micky Ward**.

“John Scully is the epitome of the Warrior’s Code Award.”, says Casey.

“John’s career in boxing, from being a world class fighter to his work as an analyst to his success as a trainer, is inspirational. It shows young fighters there is opportunity for them in the sport after their in ring career is over. By giving back as a trainer and a mentor, he also represents the bridge from New England’s past boxing history to the present. Murphys Boxing is honored to acknowledge and celebrate John Scully’s many achievements in the sport.”

Scully will be third recipient of the award established this year by Murphys Boxing to celebrate those fighters who contributed to the rich and diverse history of boxing in New England. Scully joins 2019 International Hall of Fame Inductee, **Tony DeMarco** and decorated Massachusetts’ amateur, **Mike D’Ampolo** who received the first awards at Murphys Boxing’s last event in Melrose, Massachusetts this past March.

The presentation of **Murphys Boxing’s Warrior’s Code Award** will take place during Murphys Boxing’s **UFC Fight Pass** debut event next Friday, May 10th which features NABA Super Featherweight Champion, **Abraham Nova** (14-0, 10 KOs) vs. **Mario Ezequiel Sayal Lozano (**18-2-1, 9 KOs) in the 10 round main event as well as a packed undercard of undefeated fighters from the Murphys Boxing stable including WBC South American Middleweight Champion, **Carlos Gongora** (15-0, 12 KOs), NABF Jr. Super Featherweight Champion, **William Foster III** (9-0, 6 KOs), Venezuelan Olympian, **Luis Arcon Diaz** (6-0, 6 KOs), Boston based amateur standout, **James Perella** (2-0, 2 KOs) and more.

Nova vs. Lozano and The Warrior’s Code Award Presentation takes place next Friday, May 10th at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts (1 MGM Way). Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now at: www.murphysboxing.com. The event will be streamed live on UFC Fight Pass at www.ufc.tv

**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 prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, Luis Arcon Diaz, William Foster III, Mike Ohan Jr. and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

**For credential requests for May 10 or to speak with any of the fighters on our roster for coverage – email** info@murphysboxing.com and we will hook it up!

*Follow Murphys Boxing on Social Media!*

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mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

NEF TURNS THE OLD PORT INTO KING’S LANDING FOR A NIGHT OF NONSTOP MMA BATTLES

May 2, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Portland, Maine (April 28, 2019) – New England Fights (NEF) returned to Aura in Portland on Saturday night with its latest mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 38: STORMBORN.” The event was in homage to the HBO series Game of Thrones complete with ring girls attired as the “Mother of Dragons” Daenerys Targaryen and Sansa Stark, as well as a cello player opening the event with music from the hit show’s soundtrack. A capacity crowd of over 1100 was on hand for the action.

In the main event, Ras Hylton (4-2) defeated Charles Penn (0-1) in a heavyweight contest. The ringside physician stopped the bout in the first round when a cut on Penn’s forehead could not be closed. Hylton landed a perfectly-placed straight right hand that opened the gash on Penn’s head and left blood pouring to the mat in a gruesome stream of crimson.

Caleb Hall (3-0) remained undefeated to start his professional career with his third straight win. Hall submitted journeyman Jay Ellis (15-86) in the first round of the co-main event of the evening.

On the amateur portion of the fight card, four titles were at stake.

In the first championship bout of the evening, Tom Pagliarulo (3-1) captured the vacant NEF Amateur Featherweight strap with a unanimous decision victory over Zac Richard (3-1-1). In doing so, Pagliarulo, a native of Haverhill, Massachusetts, handed Richard the first loss of his career.

Duncan Smith (5-3) defended the NEF Amateur Welterweight Title against Jon Tefft (2-1). After five hard-fought rounds, Smith was declared the winner on all three judges’ scorecards. It was a good night for Smith’s team of Evolution Athletix. The Saco, Maine-based team went 4-0 on the evening with Smith’s teammates Adina Beaudry (3-0), Keegan Hornstra (4-11), and Megan Rosado (1-1) all picking up wins.

Taylor Thompson (4-0) made short work of Michigan’s Andrea Howland (2-1) to become the first-ever NEF Women’s Amateur Bantamweight Champion. Thompson submitted Howland in the first round with an armbar. The fight was brought to Portland by NEF in conjunction with Queen MMA Media.

In the fourth, and final, championship bout on the amateur card, Kam Arnold (5-0) kept his knockout streak alive with a first-round downing of Henry Clark (5-5). It was the fifth straight knockout for Arnold who retained the amateur bantamweight belt.

The fight promotion also announced several fights for its long-awaited return to Lewiston on June 22 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee. The event is titled “NEF 39: ALL-AMERICAN.”

Hometown favorite Jesse Erickson (9-7) will take on Lewis Corapi (8-5) that evening in a lightweight contest. Erickson is a mainstay of the NEF cage and a perpetual top contender to the promotion’s professional 155-pound title. Massachusetts’ Corapi is a seasoned veteran of the New England MMA circuit, finally making his NEF debut on June 22.

Josh Harvey (6-0-1) announced that he would return to the cage at “NEF 39” to take on Jordan Downey (5-4) from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Harvey will defend the NEF Pro Featherweight Title that evening looking for his first successful defense since capturing the belt last February in Bangor. Downey is on a two-fight win streak.

Nate Boucher (4-3) will take on Robert Presley (5-4) for the vacant NEF Amateur Flyweight Title. Boucher has finished his last two opponents in the first round to move himself back into contention for another shot at the 125-pound belt. Presley represents the Lancaster Academy of MMA in Lancaster, Ohio.

In a solemn moment to open the event, NEF paid tribute to longtime staff member Casey Main with a ten-bell salute. The Wiscasset, Maine resident passed away unexpectedly late last week. The promotion dedicated the event to his memory.

The full results from Portland, Maine:

PROFESSIONAL

Ras Hylton def. Charles Penn via doctor stoppage, round 1
Caleb Hall def. Jay Ellis via submission, round 1
Keegan Hornstra def. Zenon Herrera via submission, round 1
Bryant Bullock def. Fred Lear via submission, round 2

AMATEUR

Kam Arnold def. Henry Clark via KO, round 1
Taylor Thompson def. Andrea Howland via submission, round 1
Duncan Smith def. Jon Tefft via unanimous decision
Tom Pagliarulo def. Zac Richard via unanimous decision
Arii Fernandez def. Ryan Savage via submission, round 1
Titus Pannell def. Justin Philbrook via TKO, round 2
Brian Cosco def. Garry Carr via TKO, round 1
Megan Rosado def. Amanda Bennett via split decision
Jason Landry def. Justin Boraczek via submission, round 1
Brandon Maillet-Fevens def. Jesse Fitzsimmons via submission, round 1
Jordan Norman def. Greg Ishihara via TKO, round 2
Nate White def. Clifford Redman via tapout to strikes, round 1
Schuyler Vallaincourt def. Dillon Henry via ref stoppage, round 2
Adina Beaudry def. Traci Baldwin via TKO, round 2

NEF’s next mixed-martial-arts event, “NEF 39: ALL-AMERICAN,” will take place on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with a bell time of 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com.

Bellator, DAZN, mixed martial arts, MMA

Full Results & Photos for Bellator 220: MacDonald vs. Fitch

April 28, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Complete Fight Night Photos**

**Main Card:**

**Rory MacDonald** (20-5-1) and **Jon Fitch** (32-7-2, 1 NC) fought to a majority draw (48-46, 47-47, 47-47) – MacDonald retains the welterweight title and advances in the Welterweight World Grand Prix

**Ilima-Lei Macfarlane** (10-0) defeated **Veta Arteaga** (5-3) via TKO (doctor stoppage) at 1:50 of round three to retain the women’s flyweight title

**Benson Henderson** (27-8) defeated **Adam Piccolotti** (11-3) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

**Phil Davis** (20-5, 1 NC) defeated **Liam McGeary** (13-4) via TKO (strikes) at 4:11 of round three

**Gaston Bolanos** (5-1) defeated **Nathan Stolen** (8-5) via KO (punch) at 2:21 of round one

**Preliminary Card:**

**Aviv Gozali** (2-0) defeated **Travis Crain** (0-1) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:15 of round one

**Brandon Faumui** (5-3) defeated **Chris Avila** (6-8) via split decision (30-27, 29-28, 28-29)

**Matt Perez** (5-2) defeated **Justin Tenedora** (2-2) via KO (punches) at 4:52 of round one

**Cass Bell** (3-0) defeated **Peter Ishiguro** (1-1) via KO (punches) 2:59 of round two

**Chuck Campbell** (2-0) defeated **Bruno Casillas** (0-1) via KO (knee) at 1:45 of round one

**Hyder Amil** (3-0) defeated **Paradise Vaovasa** (6-4, 1 NC) via submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:34 of round one

**Josh San Diego** (9-4) defeated **Brandon Laroco** (5-2) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)

**Jordan Williams** (8-2, 1 NC) defeated **Diego Herzog** (4-3-1) via TKO at 1:21 of round three

**Abraham Vaesau** (5-2, 1 NC) defeated **Justin Roswell** (3-3, 1 NC) via TKO at 1:59 of round one

**Chris Inocencio** (1-1) defeated **Boris Novachkov** (0-1) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

**Thomas Ponce de Leon** (3-0) defeated **Jamario Mulder** (2-4) via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-27, 29-27)

**Ignacio Ortiz** (2-0-1) and **Roger Severson** (3-3-1) fought to a unanimous draw (28-28, 28-28, 28-28)

**Erik Gunha** (2-0-1) and **Jon Adams** (0-0-1) fought to a majority draw (29-27, 28-28, 28-28)

Please visit Bellator.com for more information.

boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

ROBERT EASTER JR. AND RANCES BARTHELEMY FIGHT TO A SPLIT-DRAW IN MATCHUP FOR WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME ® FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS

April 28, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

***Viktor Postol Outclasses Mohamed Mimoune In WBC Super Lightweight Eliminator & Efe Ajagba Knocks Out Michael Wallisch In Co-Featured Bouts***

**Catch The Encore Presentation Monday At 10 p.m. ET/PT**
**On SHOWTIME EXTREME^®**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Ryan Hafey/PBC**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Esther Lin/SHOWTIME**

**Click** **HERE** **for Photos from Sean Michael Ham/**
**Mayweather Promotions**

LAS VEGAS – April 27, 2019 – Robert Easter Jr. and Rances Barthelemy fought to a split-draw in their matchup for the vacant WBA Lightweight World Title Saturday on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

The challenging fight to score was ruled 115-113 Barthelemy, 115-113 Easter and 114-114. The WBA 135-pound title remains vacant following the split decision.

With both former world champions needing a win in a crossroads affair, neither fighter was able to pull the trigger in a matchup of talented counterpunchers. The tall, rangy lightweights competed on the outside for much of the 12-round bout, and while both relied on their reach to keep their opponent at bay, they failed to land many effective shots from the outside.

The switch-hitting Cuban Barthelemy (27-1-1, 14 KOs), who fought defensively for most of the fight, transitioned to mostly southpaw in the third. The former two-division world champion’s most effective punches appeared to be body shots from the southpaw stance, while Easter (21-1-1, 14 KOs) was at his best when he countered with his right.

As the 12-round affair progressed, the corners of both fighters – Robert Easter Sr. and former Cuban champion Joel Casamayor – pleaded with their pugilists to increase their output to little avail. Neither fighter landed 10 punches in any round, and while Easter was slightly more active they combined to throw just 743 punches. They combined to land just 106 total punches.

“I feel I did enough to win this fight but the judges saw it differently,” said Easter, who was fighting for the first time since losing to pound-for-pound great Mikey Garcia in a unification last summer. “They saw it a different way. Rances is a crafty fighter, an elusive fighter. I tried to take the fight to him but he wouldn’t take it. It was hard to land my shots.”

Barthelemy, who was returning to lightweight after losing a rematch to Kiryl Relikh in his bid to become Cuba’s first three-division world champion, was frustrated with the decision.

“Robert was absent in the ring tonight,” Barthelemy said. “I wanted him to land his right and he didn’t. I wanted him to come forward and he didn’t. We were prepared for a different Robert Easter – the one that attacks – but he didn’t show up so I couldn’t deliver my strategy.

“I landed the cleaner and more accurate shots. I feel I threw more punches. I was the busier fighter. I won the fight. I think this was a missed opportunity for me. I really feel I won this fight.”

Former 140-pound world champion Viktor Postol outclassed Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Eliminator, winning via unanimous decision 98-92, 97-93, 99-91 in the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION co-feature.

Postol fought off a stiff jab and utilized his reach advantage to keep the fight at range. The Ukrainian, who was working with Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, was the more active fighter from bell to bell, throwing 587 punches compared to just 306 for the French Mimoune. While Mimoune was elusive and able to slip many of Postol’s power shots, he never left himself in a position to effectively counter his taller and more aggressive opponent. The southpaw Mimoune (21-3, 2 KOs) averaged just 30 punches per round and was off balance for much of the fight, throwing wide looping shots that rarely landed.

After the fight, Postol attributed his victory with being able to remain disciplined and stick to the game plan of Roach.

“I always try to be disciplined,” Postol said. “I did well tonight. My opponent’s style was a little awkward, but I did okay. If I could fight a guy like (Terence) Crawford, I can handle Mimoune. And I did.”

After the fight, Postol, who’s only losses came against top fighters Terence Crawford and Josh Taylor, promised to chase the elite of the 140-pound class.

“I want the next big fight,” Postol said. “Doesn’t matter who – WBC Champion Jose Ramirez would be a great choice. I was away for two years so I was a little bit worried before, but now I feel like I’m back. I’m 100 percent back and ready for the next test.”

Hall of Famer Steve Farhood, who served as unofficial ringside scorer for the SHOWTIME telecast, gave Postol all 10 of the rounds in the WBC Eliminator.

In the opening bout of the telecast, fast-rising heavyweight Efe Ajagba added another knockout to his resume with a second-round TKO of previously once-beaten Michael Wallisch.

Ajagba (10-0, 9 KOs) was aggressive from the outset, throwing nearly 100 punches in the opening round. Utilizing a steady diet of 1-2 combos, Ajagba landed at will in the second against Wallisch, who fought behind a high guard but couldn’t prevent the Nigerian’s power shots from landing. After eating a series of combos in the second, Wallisch (19-2, 12 KOs) took a knee and was given time to recover after Ajagba appeared to throw and land a punch with his opponent on his knee. Wallisch got back up but was defenseless against Ajagba’s onslaught, forcing referee Tony Weeks to step in to stop the contest at 1:40.

“I took my time in there, I used my jab a lot and it worked,” said Agjaba, who landed 43 percent of his power shots. “When I shot my right hand and he took it, I decided to keep unloading. I kept throwing combinations and I knew I was hurting him so I kept doing it.

“I’m happy to be training with Ronnie (Shields). He is one of the best trainers in the world. He helped me with my jab and he’s helping me develop as a fighter.”

Said trainer Ronnie Shields: “I think we still have a lot to learn. You saw he’s a busy guy and for a big guy to throw 93 punches in the first round, it’s a lot. He may be about a year away to becoming a contender. He will get there.”

Tonight’s live event was promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions.

An encore presentation of the tripleheader will air Monday at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available via the network’s On Demand platforms.

# # #

**ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY**
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com,
followon Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions/ andwww.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

boxing, Ringstar Sports

RINGSTAR SPORTS ADDS 16 YEAR OLD MEXICAN SUPER TALENT FERNANDO MOLINA TO ITS WORLD CLASS ROSTER OF FIGHTERS

April 28, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

Los Angeles, California, April 25 – 2019 – Ringstar Sports is proud to announce the signing of the most prominent Mexican Amateur fighter, Fernando Molina. At just 16 years of age, Molina has one of the best amateur records in Mexico. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Molina started boxing at the age of 6. Since then, Molina has compiled an amazing record including 200 amateur wins. Among those wins were 4 State Championships, 4 Regional Championships, and Gold in the 2017 National Junior Championship.

Discovered by world renowned boxing manager, Shelly Finkel, the young talent has all the tools to become a superstar. “Fernando Molina is a rare talent with an exciting style. Although only 16 years old, he impressed me with his maturity in and outside the ring. I am happy to work with him and help make his dream of becoming a world champion a reality,” said Finkel.

World-renowned promoter Richard Schaefer, Chief Executive of Ringstar Sports, will promote Molina. “I am blessed to have had the opportunity to promote some of the biggest names in the sport over the past 20 years. Most of them I built up from the beginning and many were managed by Shelly Finkel. Shelly has without a doubt the best eye for boxing talent. With Molina, we have a generational super talent who will certainly stamp his name in the history books alongside the names of Barrera, Morales, and Marquez. I am proud to welcome Fernando to Ringstar Sports and start his journey of becoming a superstar of boxing,” said Schaefer.

Molina added, “I am delighted to have been able to secure an All Star team with Shelly Finkel and Richard Schaefer to guide my career in the pro ranks. I have worked hard since I was a young boy to eventually become a professional boxer. The time is now! I am committed to hard work and dedication to uphold the rich boxing tradition of my native Mexico.” Molina is planning to turn professional in the lightweight division limit 135 pounds. Further information about Molina’s debut will be announced soon.

boxing, Product Reviews, Rich Bergeron

Hybrid Gear SHIRT REVIEW

April 24, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

By: Rich Bergeron

There is a new brand of stylish and functional clothing that everyone with an active lifestyle should know about.

Hybrid Gear strives to produce comfortable, stylish clothing that fits and adapts to all aspects of your daily grind. The brand encourages you to “Adapt to Life” and embrace the “Hybrid Gear Lifestyle.”

I put the two moisture-wicking Tri-Blend Raglan T-shirts the company sent me through the paces of my own hybrid lifestyle, and I am happy to report excellent results.

The first thing I found impressive was the extremely minimal weight of this shirt. I put this shirt on under my sauna suit for a boxing workout, and it felt like I was wearing no shirt at all. Even the fittest guys and girls feel the need to cover up, which can be annoying in scorching temperatures. This shirt makes having to wear a shirt bearable and surprisingly comfortable even when you are covered in sweat.

The weight of the shirt is nicely complemented by the comfort factor. It’s like wearing a garment made completely of soft dryer lint pressed into fabric. It’s just amazing the way it feels. It’s hard to describe how different it is from other t-shirts, but it is definitely different in all the right ways.

I also wore the shirt for a full work day as a logger. My firewood business keeps me busy all year long, and I can work up a sweat processing wood on even the coldest days. Using this shirt as my only protection from sharp, jagged edges of logs and branches, I was surprised to find it undamaged and fairly clean at the end of the day. Not a scuff, not a hole, not a smear. My pigskin gloves took more of a beating.

I am also the author of a book about Representing Yourself in Court, so I have to dress up in a fancy suit every now and then. I’m currently working on a battle with UHAUL, and I had the chance to test out this shirt as an undergarment. It passed with flying colors. It was very comfortable, not a hassle to tuck in with my dress shirt, and didn’t cause me to overheat in the courtroom.

This could very well be the most versatile and comfortable shirt I’ve ever seen or had the pleasure to own. I highly recommend you get your own. Actually, get two so you can qualify for the deal I explain in detail below. That way you can wear one while the other is in the wash. By the way, these shirts have been through two washes so far for me, and they are still as awesome in quality and condition as the day they arrived.

Hybrid Gear also offers full customization services so you can get your logo placed on your gear before it ships out to you. There are so many other products they offer as well, from hoodies and sweatshirts to tank tops, leggings, head gear and polos.

Visit http://hgusa.co/RICH and use promo code “RICH” to get 50% off your own Hybrid Gear Men’s Moisture Wicking Tri-Blend Raglan T-Shirt when you buy a second one at full price.

Keep an eye on this post, as we will be adding pictures and a video commercial for Hybrid Gear in the near future.

If you have a product you would like us to review, contact Rich at rich.bergeron@gmail.com or 603-630-6235.

boxing, Las Vegas, Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RANCES BARTHELEMY & MOHAMED MIMOUNE LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

April 24, 2019 FNU47 Leave a comment

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ROBERT EASTER JR. AND RANCES BARTHELEMY FIGHT TO A SPLIT-DRAW IN MATCHUP FOR WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME ® FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS

RINGSTAR SPORTS ADDS 16 YEAR OLD MEXICAN SUPER TALENT FERNANDO MOLINA TO ITS WORLD CLASS ROSTER OF FIGHTERS

Hybrid Gear SHIRT REVIEW

RANCES BARTHELEMY & MOHAMED MIMOUNE LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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