All posts by FNU47

Bare Knuckle Boxing

Ken Shamrock’s Valor Bare Knuckle Boxing Returns April 22nd in Miami

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

Ken Shamrock.jpg — **RENO, Nev. (January 31, 2022)** – Ken Shamrock’s Valor Bare Knuckle (ValorBK) Boxing returns to action April 22, 2022, with “real bare-knuckle fights,” featuring thrilling bouts between professional fighters, often matching mixed-martial-arts fighters versus boxers, at the James L. Knight Center in Miami.

ValorBK, presented by Valor Sports Inc. and Ken Shamrock, showcases all-action, unfettered entertainment by fierce fighters stepping into the Bout Circle. ValorBK brings forth the world’s first true Bare-Knuckle competition, setting the industry standard for both fighters and fans.
Shamrock, universally known in combat sports as “The World’s Most Dangerous Man,” is a living legend and industry pioneer who is responsible for accelerating some of the most successful companies, brands, and movements in the last two decades of combat sports.
Best known for his participation in the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC), Pride Fighting Championships, the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), Total Nonstop Wrestling Action, and Pancrase, Shamrock is taking Valor Bare Knuckle to the forefront of contemporary combat sports.

“ValorBK is a lifelong vision realized after decades of global competition at the highest level across various combat sports,” Shamrock said. “With the innovation of the Bout Circle and our unique rulesets, ValorBK will take the industry by storm. No gloves, no ropes, no cages, no dirty boxing, is a concept born in part out of competition and is perfect for the next phase of combat sports.

“‘Stand them up’ was a theme I heard throughout my career. I know what fans want to see and what real fighters want to do. Our first event was the proof. ValorBK will be the platform to disrupt bare-knuckle boxing while also enhancing the great sport of boxing by developing a generation of skilled fighters tilted towards action. We are pleased to announce our return and hope you tune in for more big updates.”

Due to a restructuring and COVID-19 restrictions, ValorBK has been regrouping since its inaugural event, September 20, 2019, at 4 Bears Casino in Newtown, North Dakota. (ValorBK1 replay available to watch at https://valorbk.com/events/)

ValorBK 2 matchups, as well as viewing and ticket information, are coming soon.

**INFORMATION**

Website : valorbk.com, kenshamrock.com
Facebook: /valorbk, /worldsmostdangerousman
Twitter: @ValorBK, @ShamrockKen
Instagram: @valorbk, @kenshamrockofficial
TikTok: @kensharmrockwmdm

**ABOUT VALOR BARE KNUCKLE:** ValorBK is a well-organized TRUE bare-knuckle professional sport that was founded by Ken Shamrock, UFC & Wrestling Hall of Famer.

Valor Bare Knuckle (ValorBK) is founded upon a “By a fighter for the fighters” principle.

ValorBK™ is committed to preserving the purity of bare-knuckle boxing and passing that immersive experience to the audience by showcasing the God-given talents of fighters worldwide through safer, but faster, and more exhilarating bare-knuckle bouts.

Valor Sports Inc is a media-based technology company that creates exciting sports entertainment content in part by securing and promoting combat sports events.

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions

Jesús “Mono’’ Ramos Clashes With Vladimir Hernández on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, February 5 From Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

**Josesito Lopez Injured in Training, Forced to Withdraw Against** **Abel Ramos on PPV Undercard**

***FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Headlined By Showdown Between Former Champions Keith Thurman & Mario Barrios***

**LAS VEGAS** (January 31, 2022) – Rising unbeaten star **Jesús “Mono” Ramos** will take on super welterweight contender **Vladimir Hernandez** in a 10-round showdown on the undercard of the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay.

Josesito Lopez was injured in training and forced to withdraw from his bout against Abel Ramos in a pay-per-view attraction. Jesús Ramos vs. Hernandez replaces the Abel Ramos vs. Josesito Lopez bout on the pay-per-view lineup.

The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by former unified welterweight world champion **Keith “One Time’’ Thurman** battling former super lightweight world champion **Mario “El Azteca” Barrios**, and also features four-division world champion **Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz** taking on **Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal** in the co-main event. Plus, two-division champion **Luis Nery** will battle unbeaten **Carlos Castro** in the 10-round pay-per-view opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available at axs.com.

Ramos (17-0, 14 KOs), the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos, has paved his way to stardom with highlight-reel KOs, but has shown his ability to outbox opponents in his last two fights. After winning a unanimous decision over Javier Molina in May 2021, Ramos most recently dominated Brian Mendoza en route to another unanimous decision in September on FOX. Prior to those fights, the 20-year-old southpaw had scored five-straight knockout victories.

The 32-year-old Hernandez (13-4, 6 KOs) has revitalized his career during his current three-fight winning streak, most recently earning a split-decision over former unified champion Julian Williams in an October 2021 action fight. Hernandez’s previous outing had seen him upset longtime contender Alfredo Angulo in August 2020, with a July 2020 decision over Aaron Coley kicking off the run. Originally from Durango, Mexico, Hernandez now fights out of Stockton, California as he looks to spring another upset on February 5.

# # #

***ABOUT THURMAN VS. BARRIOS***
Thurman vs. Barrios will see former unified welterweight world champion Keith “One Time’’ Thurman return to the ring to take on former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in a 12-round welterweight showdown that headlines a jam-packed FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View lineup on Saturday, February 5 from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto’’ Santa Cruz will battle Keenan “Bedo’’ Carbajal in a 10-round super featherweight match, while former two-division champion Luis “Pantera” Nery battles unbeaten Carlos Castro in a 10-round super bantamweight duel. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with rising unbeaten Jesús “Mono” Ramos dueling Vladimir Hernandez in a 10-round showdown.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Bellator, mixed martial arts, MMA, Showtime

BELLATOR MMA SET FOR RETURN TO PARIS ON FRIDAY, MAY 6 WITH MASSIVE HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOUT

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

A collage of a person

Description automatically generated with low confidence — **UNDISPUTED CHAMP RYAN BADER WILL DEFEND TITLE IN REMATCH AGAINST FRENCH MMA LEGEND CHEICK KONGO DURING MAIN EVENT AT ACCOR ARENA**

**PARIS, FRANCE –** Fresh off unifying the BELLATOR MMA Heavyweight Championship, **Ryan Bader** (29-7, 1 NC) will defend his crown in enemy territory against hometown favorite and No. 2-ranked heavyweight **Cheick Kongo** (31-11-2, 1 NC) on Friday, May 6. Paris’ Accor Arena is set to play host to the world title fight, which will headline the *BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo* event.

Tickets for *BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2* are on sale now at accorarena.com and bellator.fr.

Broadcast details and additional fights, including a plethora of French talent, are set to be announced in the coming weeks. Follow Bellator France on Instagram @BellatorFrance and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BellatorFrance/.

With mixed martial arts becoming legalized in France in 2020, BELLATOR became the first promotion to hold a major MMA event with *BELLATOR 248* in October of that year. The success of that historic card propelled BELLATOR to make a return to “The City of Lights.”

“Bringing BELLATOR to France in 2020 was one of the highlights of my career, and I knew that it was the start of a long run of big events in Paris,” BELLATOR President Scott Coker said. “Here we are ready for our second trip to France and this time we are bringing a heavyweight world title rematch featuring arguably the most recognizable French mixed martial artist in our sports history. It’s personally important to me to help grow the sport in France and give these athletes a chance to perform on a large stage.”

The main event is a rematch from *BELLATOR 226* in 2019 that ended in a controversial no-contest following a disputed eye poke, creating heightened tension between the two fight camps that will surely boil over on May 6.

Successfully returning to the 265-pound division following an impressive run in the BELLATOR Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix, **Ryan Bader** (29-7) is fresh off a dominant BELLATOR MMA World Heavyweight Title defense over interim champion **Valentin Moldavsky** in front of a partisan Phoenix crowd on Jan. 29. A former two-division champion, Bader has defeated nine of his last 12 opponents at both heavyweight and light heavyweight. Fighting out of Chandler, Ariz., the former two-time NCAA Division I All-American wrestler from Arizona State University opened his professional career by winning season eight of “The Ultimate Fighter.” Never one to shy away from an opponent, Bader has had nothing but high-profile bouts since signing with BELLATOR MMA in 2017, defeating Fedor Emelianenko, King Mo, Matt Mitrione, Linton Vassell, Lyoto Machida, and Phil Davis. In his initial 265-pound title defense against Kongo, Bader controlled the action before referee Mike Beltran stopped the contest due to an accidental poke to Kongo’s left eye at 3:52 of the opening round.

Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat at *BELLATOR MMA 265*, longtime BELLATOR veteran **Cheick Kongo** (31-11-2, 1 NC) was on the verge of being stopped by Sergei Kharitonov in the initial stanza during his last outing on Aug. 20, 2021. After hitting the canvas and becoming badly hurt, the exhausted Parisian rallied to secure a tap out via rear-naked choke with one second remaining in round two. Ten months prior to the dramatic triumph, the former UFC standout headlined the first major MMA event in his native France as he took on **Tim Johnson** in a rematch on Oct. 10, 2020. Since signing with the Scott Coker-led company in late August 2013, the promotional mainstay, who currently sports a 13-3 promotional record with one no contest, holds the records for most fights (17) and wins (12) in BELLATOR heavyweight history. Just three years shy of 50, Kongo has proven that age is just a number as he continues to challenge the best that BELLATOR MMA has to offer.

***BELLATOR PARIS:*** *BADER VS. KONGO 2* MAIN CARD:

*Heavyweight World Title Main Event:* #C-**Ryan Bader** (29-7, 1 NC) vs. #2-**Cheick Kongo** (31-11-2, 1 NC)

*Card subject to change.

Please visit www.Bellator.fr and Bellator.com for additional information.

**Updated schedule of BELLATOR events**
Sat., Feb. 19 / / *BELLATOR 274: Gracie vs.* *Storley* // Mohegan Sun Area // Uncasville, Conn.
Fri. Feb. 25 // *BELLATOR 275: Mousasi vs. Vanderford* // 3Arena // Dublin, IRE
Fri. May 6 // *BELLATOR PARIS: Bader vs. Kongo 2* // Accor Arena // Paris, FRA
Fri. May 13 // *BELLATOR LONDON: Amosov vs. MVP* // The SSE Arena, Wembley // London

****

mixed martial arts, MMA, New England Fights

HALL OUT, LACEY IN AGAINST MICKLE AT NEF 46 IN PORTLAND

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Portland, Maine (January 29, 2022) – New England Fights (NEF) returns with its next mixed-martial-arts (MMA) event, “NEF 46: Decade of Dominance,” on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. The leading regional promotion launched on February 11, 2012. Earlier today, NEF announced the addition of a professional lightweight bout to the fight card. Aaron “Relentless” Lacey (6-2) is scheduled to face New York’s Jerome Mickle (4-11) at a fight weight of 155-pounds.

The bout was originally scheduled to feature Caleb Hall (4-0) against Mickle, but Hall had to pull out of the fight due to a medical issue. Lacey was quick to jump on the opportunity to get back in the NEF cage. He has not competed since “NEF 35” in the fall of 2018 when he defeated Jon Lemke (7-8). The fight with Mickle will be Lacey’s first as a member of Nostos MMA of Somersworth, New Hampshire.

“I’m very thankful to be getting back in the cage,” said Lacey. “It’s even better that I get to do it in front of my home crowd! I have already had a few fights get booked and subsequently cancelled this year, so this opportunity is amazing. Jerome seems to be an experienced veteran but my game is better and more dangerous than ever. I cannot wait to showcase the weapons that have been added to the arsenal! Get you tickets now! February 12th you will witness a master class in controlled violence!”

“NEF 46: Decade of Dominance” takes place on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at Aura in Portland, Maine. The event will commemorate NEF’s ten-year anniversary. Doors open at 6 pm with first fight at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com.

About New England Fights

New England Fights (“NEF”) is a fight events promotions company. NEF’s mission is to create the highest quality events for fighters and fans alike. NEF’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

boxing

Jeter Promotions Returns to Live Casino Hotel Maryland with Stacked Card on Saturday, February 19th

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

TICKETS ON SALE AT AXS.COM

***Jordan “Short Dog” White takes on Gadwin Rosa in Main Event***

***Demond “D’Bestatit” Nicholson takes on Gabriel Pham in Co-Feature***

***Also Jeter Promotions Fighters Brandon Chambers, AJ Williams, Victor Williams and Mansaborie Conde***

***Appearances by Jaqeem Hutcherson, Tyrek Irby, Colby Madison, Thyler Williams, Ahmad Muhammad Jones and Joseph Veazey***

**Hanover, MD (January 27, 2022)** — **Jeter Promotions** returns to **The HALL at Live! inside Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland** on **Saturday night, February 19th.**

Jeter Promotions is back at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland for the 7th time and 1st of 2022 on the heels of a near capacity show on October 23rd.

In the main, event, **Jordan White,** 12-1 with 10 knockouts of Washington, DC takes on **Gadwin Rosa**, 11-2 nine knockouts of Ocala, Florida in a 10-round bout for the WBC USNBC Super Featherweight title.

The co-feature is a 10-round super middleweight clash will pit **Demond Nicholson** (24-4-1, 20 KOs) of Laurel, Maryland battling **Gabriel Pham**, 15-2 with eight knockouts of Atlantic City, New Jersey.

White, 24, is a seven year-professional and has wins over Ronaldo Solis (4-0-1), Misael Lopez (11-0), and his last bout when he stopped Joe Perez on October 23rd at The HALL at Live!

Rosa, 27, is a six-year professional, and has a win over Jonathan Irizarry (3-0). Rosa is coming off a defeat to George Acosta on May 7.

Nicholson, 28, is a nine-year professional, who has wins over German perez (11-1-3), Joshua Okine (28-5-1) and Isaac Rodriguez (25-2). Nicholson is coming off a unanimous decision over Victor Darocha on October 23rd at The HALL at Live!

Pham, 32 is a 13 year-professional, has big victories over Michael Glenn (2-0), Chauncey Fields (4-1), Jaba Khositashvili (4-0), Derrick Webster (28-2), Rafael Fernandez Sosa (8-0) and his last contest when he stopped Israel Valerio Nino(15-3) on October 16th in the Dominican Republic.

In six-round bouts:

**Jeter Promotions** **signee**, **Brandon Chambers** (6-0-1, 3 KOs) of Gwynn Oak, Maryland fights an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight bout.

**Jeter Promotions signee** and Penn State Graduate, **AJ Williams** (5-1, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland takes on an opponent to be named.

**Jeter Promotions signee,** and former Dartmouth star Wide Receiver, **Victor Williams** (3-0, 3 KOs) of Washington, DC takes on an opponent to be named in a super welterweight fight.

**Thyler Williams** (5-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on **Maurice Anthony** (3-3, 3 KOs) of Ypsalanti, Michigan in a junior welterweight fight.

**Colby Madison** (9-3-2, 6 KOs) of Baltimore, MD takes on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight.

**Jeter Promotions** Signee **Tyrek Irby** (9-0, 3 KOs) of Landover, Maryland battles on opponent to be named in a junior welterweight contest.

In four-round fights:

**Jeter Promotions signee**, **Mansaborie Conde** (4-0, 3 KOs) of Laurel, MD takes on an opponent to be named in a middleweight bout.

**Ahmad Muhammad Jones** (1-0, 1 KO) of Baltimore, MD takes on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight.

**Joseph Veazey** (5-0, 3 KOs) of Baltimore fights an opponent to be named in a welterweight contest.

**Tickets for this great night of boxing are priced at $65-$150 and can be purchased at** AXS.COM

**The HALL at LIVE!** is a 75,000-square-foot, three-story multi-use concert and event venue that features some of the nation’s best touring acts, comedians, championship boxing and other show-stopping entertainment. With a capacity of up to 4,800 persons, the state-of-the-art performance venue features three levels of seating: a main orchestra level, intimate loge-level boxes and a plush VIP Level with private bar, lounge and balcony. Each of these options afford spectacular views and immerse audiences in audio visual systems unparalleled in the region.

The $10 million state-of-the-art audio and visual system provides absolute acoustic perfection combined with stunning visual displays. The built-in performance stage, surrounded by massive, high resolution LED screens, is 60 feet wide by 40 feet deep and, from a technological standpoint, rivals the largest and most advanced performance venues anywhere. The HALL is the largest theater in any casino in the state of Maryland, as well as in Anne Arundel County. The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland is located at 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover, Maryland 21076.

boxing

Potential Instant Classics in World Cup Boxing Series “4-Man Lightweight Tournament” semifinals

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

boxing

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

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

Hogan poster.jpg — BOSTON (January 26, 2022) – It’s Tank Time, again!

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

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

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

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

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

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

(picture by Emily Harney/Fightography)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fighters subject to change.

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

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

R - Hogan.jpg — BOSTON (January 26, 2022) – It’s Tank Time, again!

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

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

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

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

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

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

(picture by Emily Harney/Fightography)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fighters subject to change.

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

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

boxing, Granite Chin

Atlanta middleweight Antonio Todd, Jr. Riding high after upsetting WBC No. 10 rated Hugo Centeno

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

ANTONIO TODD PHOTO 2.jpg — **QUINCY, Mass. (January 26, 2022)** – Last Saturday night in Detroit, Atlanta middleweight Antonio Todd, Jr. registered his career-defining victory, upsetting World Boxing Council (WBC) No. 10-rated Hugo “The Boss” Centeno, Jr. by way of a 10-round majority decision in the main event.

The 27-year-old Todd, fighting out of Atlanta, won on two of the three judges’ scorecards, 97-93 and 96-94, as the other had it a 95-95 draw. More impressive was Todd defeating a fighter who is under contract to the event promoter, Dmitriy Salita.

“It was the biggest win of my career, thus far,” Todd said. “It means a lot for my career in terms of taking me to the next level. I feel that I won the fight by unanimous decision and, if he hadn’t started moving around, I could have stopped him. But this is boxing, you need to take chances to be great.

“I want to fight anybody, anybody in the 160-pound division, fighting bigger names on television. I’m ready now! I think real fighters or those confident in their skills will be the guys who step up. We do have a couple names in mind.”

Todd is promoted by rising New England-based Granite Chin Promotions, owned, and operated by Chris Traietti.

“The way Antonio handled himself throughout the whole process leading up to the Centano fight is a testament to his character and drive,” Traietti commented. “At first, the fight was on, then off, then back on again. Then, Centeno was over the weight limit. Despite all of this, Antonio and his trainer, Lionel Harris, just stayed focused on the fighting part of all this, leaving the behind-the-scenes stuff to me, and he delivered a career-defining performance. For 10 rounds he brought pressure, used his world-class jab, and pulled off a beautiful complete win.”
Todd concluded, “I love being promoted by Chris. It’s great being part of his Granite Chin team and him being part of my team.”

**INFORMATION:**
Facebook.com/GraniteChin, /AntonioTodd
Twitter: @Granite_Chin, @primothagreat
Instagram: @AntonioTodd

boxing

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA HEAVYWEIGHT SONNY CONTO PUTS UNDEFEATED STREAK ON THE LINE AGAINST MIKE MARSHALL IN LIVE BOXING AT LIVE! CASINO & HOTEL ON FEBRUARY 24

February 1, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

PHILADELPHIA (January 25, 2022)—South Philadelphia heavyweight fighter Sonny Conto (8-0, 7KOs) puts his impressive undefeated streak on the line against Mike Marshall (6-2-1, 4 KOs) of Danbury, CT, in a six-round heavyweight fight at The Event Center at Live! Casino & Hotel in Philadelphia, on Thursday, February 24th at 7 p.m.

Tickets will go on sale Friday January 28^th at 10am starting at $50, $75 and $125 and can be found at Philadelphia.livecasinhotel.com, AXS.com or by calling 215-364-9000. Must be 21 or older to attend.

In his previous sold out fight at Live! in November 2021, Conto scored a third-round knockout in front of the loud supportive hometown crowd.
Marshall is a veteran of the sport making his debut in 2015 and is coming into enemy territory trying to bounce back from a tough loss on the Wilder vs Fury 3 undercard.

Super lightweights Daiyaan Butt (10-1, 5KO’s) of Philadelphia, PA and Bryce Mills (7-1, 4KO’s) of Liverpool, NY will battle six rounds where Butt will look to extend his three fight winning streak. Another highlight on the card is lightweight Jordon Murphy (1-0, 1KO) of Bensalem, PA will be making his second professional appearance competing in a four round bout. The card will also feature super featherweight Frankie Trader (13-2-1, 3KO’s) of Philadelphia, PA competing in a six round contest. Trader will look to continue to climb the ranks, as he has won 3 straight bouts since making his return from a four and a half year layoff and reuniting with his head trainer Aaron Ford.

Super lightweights Christopher Burgos (3-4-1, 1KO) of Philadelphia, PA will battle Phillip Davis (2-5-1) in a six round bout. Burgos won his last fight in an all-out war in a rematch against Gerardo Martinez and will look to build on that win to gain some momentum. Rounding out the card will be Gerardo Martinez (5-2, 1KO) of Coatesville, PA going against Seifullah Jihad Wise (4-8, 1KO) of Philadelphia, PA in a six round bout.

For press credentials contact Bam McCloskey at Brittany@JoeHandPromotions.com.

About Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia

Voted Best Overall Gaming Resort in Pennsylvania by Casino Player Magazine, Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia has transformed the South Philadelphia Stadium District into a nationally unrivaled one-stop destination to enjoy the fast-paced action of four major professional sports teams, memorable entertainment, premier dining, well-appointed hotel accommodations and world-class gaming. Conveniently located off I-95 and I-76, the facility features more than 200 luxury hotel rooms that are Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide, a FanDuel® Sportsbook and Lounge, over 2,100 slots and electronic table games, and 150 live action table games, including a dedicated poker room.

New dining and entertainment options include the Zagat-rated #1 steakhouse The Prime Rib®; Luk Fu, serving authentic Asian cuisine; Sports & Social Philly, a one-of-a-kind sports restaurant, gaming venue and social lounge; the 10^thStreet Market, a unique food hall featuring Guy Fieri’s Taco Joint and Guy’s Burger Joint; Philadelphia-favorites Lorenzo and Sons Pizza, Termini Bros. Bakery and Sang Kee Noodle Bar & Kitchen; Morty’s Deli and Luckie’s Liquor. A spirited nightlife scene at Center Bar and R Bar rounds out the Live! experience.

The property offers more than 15,000-square-feet of customizable meeting and event space, as well as ample, secure parking. Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia was developed and remains owned and managed by Stadium Casino RE, LLC, an affiliate of The Cordish Companies, the premier developer of Live! dining, entertainment, gaming, hotel and sports-anchored destinations in the country. For reservations, call 1-833-472-5483 or visit Philadelphia.LiveCasinoHotel.com. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram – @livecasinophl

boxing

Pittsburgh’s Matt Conway rebuilding Pittsburgh boxing tradition – “Winter Mayhem” headliner this Saturday in Cheswick, PA

January 14, 2022 FNU47 Leave a comment

**PITTSBURGH (January 12, 2022)** – The journey continues this Saturday for Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (20-2, 8 KOs) as he continues to bring boxing’s popularity back to what it was back in the glory days.

Conway headlines “Winter Mayhem,” which will be streamed live on www.facebooklive.com for $19.99 (at Cut ‘N’ Run Productions’ page), versus cross-state rival Avery Sparrow (10-3, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, in the 12-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Featherweight Championship, at the Pittsburgh Shrine Center in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

While boxing in Pittsburgh will never be as popular as it once was during the glory years when local heroes Harry Greb (1913-26), Billy Conn 1934-48), and Charlie Burley (1936-50) were household names at the junction of 3 rivers, Conway hopes to make the sweet science more relevant than it has been there in many years.

“Fighting for a world title is a dream come true for me, especially bringing a title back to Pittsburgh,” said Conway, who has never been stopped in 22 pro fights. “Pittsburgh hasn’t been a big boxing town since Paul Spadafora (1995-2014) and Sammy Vasquez fought (2012-2017). I’d like to help bring boxing back here to that level.

“I’m really hoping to win the IBA World title to get my name out there so that this kid from Pittsburgh gets more recognition and title fight opportunities. I want to continue the rich Pittsburgh boxing tradition. It’ll start when I bring the IBA title to Pittsburgh. There are a lot of talented, young fighters in Pittsburgh. We just need to fight and (promoter) Derek Gionta is doing that for me and other fighters. He’s really helping us.”

The 26-year-old Conway is fully prepared to face Sparrow, who’s notable victories have been against fellow Philly fighter 29-2-1 Hank Lundy (WMDEC10) and 19-1-1 Jose Lopez (WUDEC10).

“He’s a tough fighter who uses his jab and is able to move and box,” Conway said about Sparrow. “I’ll try to nullify his left hand and do what I do.”
Conway, who has never been stopped in 22 pro fights to date, has successfully bounced back from back-to-back losses in Reno and Las Vegas on the ESPN+ platform to, respectively, to 10-1-1 Francisco Esparza (SDEC8) and 17-0 Gabriel Flores, Jr. (UDEC8).

“It wasn’t difficult,” Conway talked about coming back from two straight losses after winning his first 17 pro fights. “I lost to a 17-0 guy in Las Vegas. I learned more from my two losses than I did in my 17 wins going into those fights. I’ve taken what I’ve learned from those fights and applied it to my last three fights (all wins). I’m hungrier!”

“Matt has done everything asked of him over the last year, going 3-0),” Gionta remarked. “This is a big fight for the region. Having a cross-state rival from Philly in the main event is huge. Sparrow is a very good boxer and anyone that knows anything about boxing knows that and how good of a match-up this is.

“Putting a belt on the line in a 12-rounder is enough to intrigue casual fans aside from our loyal boxing followers. A win against Sparrow will do a lot for Conway. Most importantly, it’ll show how much he developed over the past year or so and will line him up for bigger challenges down the road.”

In the co-featured event, Ohio lightweight Ryizeemmion “The Humble Beast” Ford (6-1, 4 KOs) faces an opponent to be determined in the 6-round co-featured event.

Popular Pittsburgh middleweight prospect Eric Lomax (4-0, 3 KOs) takes on Ohio’s Samuel Wildenhaus (4-1, 1 KO) in a 6-rounder.

Scheduled to fight on the undercard in 4-round bouts are undefeated Portugal super featherweight Milton Jorge Andrade Jeremias (2-0, 2 KO) vs. David Boria (0-4), New York super featherweight Alexander Castellano (5-1, 2 KOs) vs. Shawn Rall (1-4, 1 KO), and New Jersey’s pro-debuting heavyweight Daniel Bean v. Joe Nunez (0-2).

Card is subject to change.

Available tickets are priced at $50.00 (reserved seating, plus tables of 8 ($800) are available to purchase by calling 412.759.0407.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET with the first bout starting at 7 p.m. ET.

**INFORMATION:**
Facebook: /DerekGionta
Twitter: @DGionta
Instagram: @d_p_g1
LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManageme

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Pittsburgh’s Matt Conway rebuilding Pittsburgh boxing tradition – “Winter Mayhem” headliner this Saturday in Cheswick, PA

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