Category Archives: boxing

boxing

Celebrated manager Jackie Kallen predicts unbeaten Mykquan Williams will be her sixth world champion

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MANCHESTER, Conn. (February 12, 2020) – Women’s pioneer Jackie Kallen, the first and arguably most successful female manager in the boxing history, strongly believes unbeaten 21-year-old “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (15-0-1, 7 KOs) will develop into her sixth world champion.

Williams, fighting out of East Hartford, CT, is the reigning the World Boxing Council (WBC) United States super lightweight champion.

“Mykey has a lot of the qualities as some of the greats in boxing,” Kallen said.  “He has some of the flash and speed of fighters like Ray Leonard, and the training habits and dedication of Thomas Hearns and Mike Tyson.  He also has a killer smile and good looks like Hector Camacho, Sr.

“Mykey can go all the way to a world title.  He has the speed, attitude, and heart, along with exceptional boxing ability.  He has been groomed perfectly by his trainer, Paul Cichon, who has kept Mykey true to his style, working hard to perfect his skill.  Mykey trains hard, eats right, and takes the game seriously.”

“Jackie’s very experienced and knowledgeable in boxing,” Williams remarked.  “She’s worked with some great, world-class fighters, so she knows the route to take for me to get there.”

Cichon added, “I sought out Jackie as our manager because of her love for the sports, as well as the knowledge of that she brings to the table.  She’s very well respected, as she certainly deserves to be.”

Boxing has dramatically changed since Kallen covered her first fight for a Detroit daily newspaper in 1978.  The card showcased Hearns and Mickey Goodwin.  She became an instant fan and wrote about boxing on a regular basis.  A legendary trainer/manager based in Detroit, Emanuel Steward, hired her as a publicist for his famed Kronk Gym.  Some of her best friends to this day are fighters who she worked with back then.  She and Hearns still get together.

After serving as Kronk’s publicist for a decade, Kallen decided to branch out and she started managing fighters.  Her first client was heavyweight Bobby Hitz, who today is a successful promoter and restaurateur in Chicago.  She went on to manage a group of Who’s Who fighters, including world champions James Toney, Bronco McKart, Tom “Boom Boom” Johnson, Pinklon Thomas andNonito Donaire.

Kallen, who overcame sexism in the boxing industry, is best known, perhaps, for her working relationship with Toney, largely because her life during that period was the inspiration for the popular 2004 movie, Against the Ropes, starring Meg Ryan as Kallen.

“Boxing today is a totally different animal,” she explained. “That’s not to say it’s better or worse, just different.  There used to be more gyms in every city, heavy amateur programs, lots of shows on television networks, and enough local club shows to keep a young fighter active.  I had guys back then who fought 8 to 10 times a year, which, of course, is almost impossible in 2020.

“There wasn’t as much information available on opponents either.  If you were lucky, you could buy a tape. If the fighter hadn’t been on television, though, you were out of luck.  There was no Internet, so there was nothing like BoxRec to check opponents’ records.  You just had to believe the matchmaker.  I had fighters expecting to fight a 14-4 guy who found out at the weigh in that he was actually 16-0.”

Boxing, likely the second-oldest profession, has continued to survive, albeit often on a roller-coaster ride.

“Today’s fighters are not as quick to fight each other as they were in the days of Hearns/Hagler/Leonard/Duran,” Kallen noted.  “Back then, fighters wanted to really fight to be the best they could be.  I see fighters today being more analytical and taking less chances.

“There are also more sanctioning organizations today.  Back then it was most the WBA, WBC and IBF.  Not to mention there was never one person who managed dozens and dozens of boxers at the same time.  The game has definitely changed!”

Kallen, though is still heavily invested in the sport she loves.  Confident Williams will be her next world champion, her dream is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame with Toney. 

“In 1992,” Kallen concluded, “I was named ‘Manager of the Year’ and my love for the sport has never waned.  As long as there is talent out there needing guidance, I will stay active.”

INFORMATION:

Twitter:  @MarvelousMyke, @JackieKallen

Instagram: @M.mkw_, @jackie.Kallen

Facebook: /MykquanWilliams, /PaulCichon, /JackieKallen

boxing, UFC

No place like home for Undefeated lightweight prospect Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz

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WORCESTER, Mass. (February 11, 2020) – A lifelong dream will become finally reality on February 28th, when undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World lightweight champion Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (12-0, 6 KOs) fights at home for the first time as a professional in  Worcester, Massachusetts.

Ortiz will headline a CES Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® event, promoted by Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES), at the historic Worcester Palladium.  His opponent in the 8-round main event will be Mexican knockout artist “Loco” Luis Ronaldo Castillo (22-5, 17 KOs), a former WBC  FECOMBOX lightweight champion.

“I’ve never fought in Worcester as a professional,” Ortiz said at a recent press conference.  “I’ve wanted to do this bad to let people in Worcester see what it has.  It’s going to be extra special because two of my closest friends, Irvin Gonzalez and Kendrick Ball, Jr., are also fighting on this card.  We’ve fought together since we were kids.”

The 23-year-old will not be defending his WBC Youth World title, because he will relinquish his belt in April, when turns 24 and becomes ineligible in terms of the age requirement (23 and younger).

“Jamaine had one of the most prestigious amateur careers ever in New England,” Ortiz’ promoter Jimmy Burchfield (CES Boxing) said.  “He already owns the WBC World Youth title and has World Champion written all over him.”

“The Technician” is fine tuning his game and he’s already looking ahead to the not too distant future.

“I’m very excited to be fighting February 28th for the first time in Worcester,” Ortiz added.  “It’s an exciting card with action-packed fights. I expect it’ll be sold out and hope so, because I want to prove to my city, my promoter, and local businesses that big-time boxing belongs here and will be supported by Worcester.  In 2021, I want to bring world championship boxing to the new baseball stadium (Polar Park, the future home of the Worcester Red Sox, Triple A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox) across the street that will seat 10,000.”

The Feb. 28th show showcasing Ortiz worldwide will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

Tickets are on sale and available to purchase at CESBoxing.com, the Palladium box office or from Team Ortiz.  Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m./ ET.

boxing, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

Unbeaten Former World Champion Luis Nery Takes On Fellow Unbeaten Aaron Alameda In WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator Bout Live On SHOWTIME® Saturday, March 28 In Premier Boxing Champions Event From Park MGM In Las Vegas

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Heavyweight Contender Otto Wallin Meets Lucas Browne In Co-Main Event And Light Heavyweight Prospects Joseph George And Marcos Escudero Battle In Rematch In Telecast Opener

Tickets On Sale Thursday, February 13 At Noon PT!

LAS VEGAS – February 11, 2020 – Unbeaten former bantamweight world champion Luis Nery will face undefeated contender Aaron Alameda in a WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator headlining live action on SHOWTIME Saturday, March 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION® tripleheader begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features heavyweight contenders squaring off as Otto Wallin and Lucas Browne battle in a 10-round attraction in the co-main event, plus rising light heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Joseph George faces Marcos Escudero in a 10-round rematch of their November showdown on ShoBox: The New Generation that saw George win a narrow split decision.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale Thursday, February 13 at noon and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. Wallin vs. Browne is promoted in association with Salita Promotions.

“Saturday, March 28 is going to be a night full of exciting action headlined by Mexican knockout artist Luis Nery beginning his path toward a world title at super bantamweight against an undefeated Mexican contender in Aaron Alameda,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Adding in the heavyweight showdown between Otto Wallin and Lucas Browne, plus a rematch of young light heavyweights Joseph George and Marcos Escudero, fight night at Park MGM in Las Vegas is sure to deliver explosive battles from start to finish.”

Nery (30-0, 24 KOs) is a power puncher who has stopped his last 11 opponents and 15 of his last 16. The 25-year-old southpaw from Tijuana, Mexico scored a dominant stoppage victory over former champion McJoe Arroyo in March and returned in July to stop former champion Juan Carlos Payano. He scored a TKO victory over Shinsuke Yamanaka to win the bantamweight world title in 2018 and will now move up to 122 pounds to seek a world title in a second weight class.

“I’m excited to fight on SHOWTIME and I’m planning on another knockout victory to prove to everyone that I’m one of the kings of the super bantamweight division,” said Nery. “I know that I can knock out any fighter at 118 or 122 pounds, and I’m hungrier than ever to prove that I’m one of boxing’s great Mexican champions. My goal is to continue to put on great performances for the fans and I’m ready to fight anyone who is willing to step up to the challenge.”

Representing Sonora, Mexico, Alameda (25-0, 13 KOs) is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014 after a strong amateur career, and will step up in competition as he faces Nery for a shot at a world title bout. The 26-year-old is ranked No. 12 by the WBC and most recently knocked out Jordan Escobar in April 2019, after three victories in 2018. Alameda will fight in the U.S. for the second time when he enters the ring on March 28, after scoring a body shot knockout over Andre Wilson in a January 2016 bout in Los Angeles.

“I’m very excited to be making my SHOWTIME debut in the main event against a great fighter,” said Alameda. “All of the years of training and fighting have brought me to this fight on March 28. Nery is a Mexican warrior like myself and I can’t wait to lock horns with him and give the fans great action all the way until the final bell.”

The 29-year-old Wallin (20-1, 13 KOs) will return to the ring in Las Vegas, where he nearly defeated former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in September, when he opened up a gruesome cut over Fury’s right eye with a legal punch that nearly halted the fight. While Wallin dropped the decision, he proved his mettle as a potential future heavyweight champion. Representing his native Sundsvall, Sweden, Wallin trains in New York with former champion Joey Gamache. Wallin’s last fight in Las Vegas was his second in the U.S., after his debut on SHOWTIME in April ended in a no contest because of a cut suffered by his opponent in the first round.

Fighting out of New South Wales, Australia, Browne (29-2, 25 KOs) most recently scored a knockout victory over John Hopoate in November, his second win of 2019. He’s won four of his last five bouts, with his only career losses coming to Dillian Whyte and David Allen in the U.K. Browne won his first 25 pro fights, including a stoppage of Ruslan Chagaev in 2016 to capture a WBA Heavyweight Championship. He will be making his U.S. debut.

George (10-0, 6 KOs) emerged victorious in a battle of then unbeaten fighters when he faced Escudero on SHOWTIME in November, taking a split-decision victory. The 30-year-old didn’t start boxing until he was 19 and is managed by Washington Redskins All-Pro offensive lineman Trent Williams, and trained in Houston by NFL All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson and James Cooper. George will look to transition from prospect to contender by defeating Escudero again on March 28.

Escudero (10-1, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back and even the score against George, and in turn bolster his own position in the light heavyweight division. The 26-year-old from Buenos Aires, Argentina has fought primarily in the U.S. since turning pro in 2017. His amateur career saw him become a national champion in Argentina in 2014 and represent his country in the Pan-Am Games in 2015. Escudero currently trains in Miami and scored three stoppage wins in 2019 before facing George for the first time.

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @MayweatherPromo and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

boxing

Banner Promotions Signs Undefeated Heavyweight Isaac Munoz Gutierrez to a Co-Promotional Deal with United Promotions

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Philadelphia, Pa. – February 11, 2020 – Banner Promotions has signed undefeated heavyweight Isaac Munoz Gutierrez to a co-promotional deal with United Promotions.


Gutierrez, 27 years-old of Torreon Coahuila de Zaragoza, Mexico has a record of 12-0-1 with 10 knockouts.


“We are happy to bring Isaac to Banner Promotions.  He is a very good prospect that was brought to my attention by Don MacDonald of United Promotions.  I have seen him and he has good power. I feel that he will make waves in the heavyweight division,” said Banner Promotions President Artie Pelullo.  


“I feel very happy to sign with Banner Promotions. Being with a big company will be great for my career.  With Banner and United Promotions, I feel my career can go to big heights, and I am grateful for that,” Said Gutierrez.


“I have known Artie Pelullo for 25 years, and I know what he can do.  I feel Artie and Banner Promotions is the promoter that will make the inroads for Isaac in the heavyweight division,” said Don MacDonald of United Promotions.


Gutierrez was 220-20 as an amateur, and was a multi-time Mexican National champion, and was part of the Mexican National boxing team for two years.  Gutierrez competed in the World Series of Boxing.


Gutierrez turned professional on September 9, 2011 with a 1st round stoppage over Misael Jossy Chavez.  Gutierrez has established himself as a power puncher, and is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Jesus Alberto Martinez Torres on September 7th.


“We are extremely happy to sign with Banner Promotions.  This is exactly what we wanted, and need for Isaac’s career.  I have known about Banner Promotions and Artie Pelullo for a long time, and I know he can get Isaac to the top level,” said Gutierrez manager, Manuel Garrido.


 
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like the  Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.
boxing, Olympics, USA Boxing

1988 Olympic gold medalist “Merciless” Ray Mercer Looks back at his Olympic experience

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (February 11, 2020) – Thirty-two years after he captured an Olympic gold medal, “Merciless” Ray Mercer fondly remembers his Olympic experience like it was last month.  Mercer, who is the only American heavyweight champion to knock out all of his Olympic opponents, went on to become world heavyweight champion as a professional for our “heavyweight double.”

For Mercer, it all started in Germany, where his U.S. Army unit was based. Offered a chance to avoid a 30-day field exercise, Mercer accepted an offer to serve as a sparring partner for the post’s heavyweight boxing champion.  Despite never having put on a pair of gloves before, Mercer was a quick learner who was naturally strong, and he rapidly developed into the 1985 U.S. Army and Inter-service heavyweight champion.

The World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), in which qualified athletes have an opportunity to train fulltime for the Olympics, didn’t exist back then, nor the Olympic qualifier rules of today.  Mercer defeated future world heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison in the opening round of the 1988 Olympic Trials and another future world heavyweight titlist, Michael Bentt (5-0) in the championship final. At the 1988 USA Olympic Box-offs at famed Caesars Pala

ce in Las Vegas, Mercer won a split decision (3-2) over Bentt, but Mercer had already qualified to fight in the Olympic Games by being the U.S. Armed Forces champion.

“When I was in the Army, I had to win in the service, maintain things, and go to the next step,” Mercer remembered.  “I had to beat some good fighters on my way to the Olympics, and I was in the best shape of my life.  There was more discipline in the amateurs than the professional ranks. The final year before the Olympics, I left my home unit, traveled a lot to fight, and stayed in my trainer’s house instead of living in the barracks.

Mercer made history at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, South Korea, when he became and remains the only Olympic heavyweight champion from the United States to knockout all four of his opponents:  Rudolf Gavenciak (Czechoslovakia – RSC3), Luigi Gaudiano(Italy – KO1), Arnond Vasnderlyde (Netherlands – RSC2) and Baik Hyun-Man (South Korean – KO1).

“I knew I had to knockout the South Korean in the final,” Mercer admitted.  “I just wanted to do what I could to be the Olympic gold medalist.  I don’t think I used a jab.

“Winning the Olympic gold medal resulted in some big-time changes for me.  I became a celebrity, a household name, and it allowed me to make money as a professional. The best thing that ever happened to me was winning the Olympic gold medal, even more than winning the world title as a pro.  Nothing compared to becoming an Olympic gold medalist.  I accomplished my dream.  I had never dreamed of going pro, until after I won the gold medal. 

“It was really important to win that gold medal.  I fought with my heart; no money was involved, celebrated so hard that night (after winning the gold medal) that I lost my medal for a few hours.  My dream had come true, my hands were shaking, and I lost my medal. What a night!”

Mercer offers members of the 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Qualification Team one bit of advice, “Keep fighting, follow your dream and take that last step.”

Mercer, who was born in Jacksonville, Florida, made his much-anticipated pro debut in 1989, stopping Jesse McGhee in the third round of their fight in Atlantic City. “Merciless” won his first 18 pro fights, including a ninth-round knockout of Francisco Damiani, followed by a successful defense against Morrison, who was stopped in the fifth round.

During his 19-year pro career, Mercer compiled a 36-7-1 (26 KOs) record, defeating four world champions in Damiani, Morrison, Tim Witherspoon and Ossie Ocasio.  Five of his eight career losses were to world champions: Lennox Lewis, Wladimir Klitschko,Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield and Shannon Briggs. 

“Ray represents everything that makes USA Boxing proud,” said Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Director.  “As an Army veteran, Olympic gold medalist, and heavyweight champion of the world, he has demonstrated excellence and professionalism that reflects the best of what USA Boxing has to offer.”

USA Boxing Alumni Association

Created to champion lifelong, mutually beneficial relationships 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.

Mercer’s outstanding amateur boxing career also included a classic match-up against Cuban great and three-time Olympic gold medalist, Felix Savon, at USA vs. Cuba dual match, in which Mercer twice staggered Savon, who survived without suffering additional damage only because the Cuban referee made a questionable intervention that gave his fellow countryman time to recover and a controversial 2-1 victory.

“And he gave me a standing eight-count for no reason,” Mercer added.  “I beat that guy and he knows it.  We’re still in touch even though he doesn’t speak English.  He has a friend translate and we’re in touch on Facebook.  We like each other.”

Today, Mercer is founding a charity at home in North Carolina, which will include free boxing clinics, but, more importantly, give back to the community and teach youths, especially those who are bullied, the skills they’ll need to go out into the real world.

Ray Mercer has reached the zenith twice in boxing as an Olympic gold medalist and world heavyweight champion as a professional. Not too shabby for somebody who never really wanted to box.

“Boxing saved my life,” Mercer concluded.  “I can’t imagine my life without boxing, it certainly wouldn’t be the same.

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.orgi

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

ABOUT USA BOXING:  The mission of USA Boxing shall be to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States.  The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of amateur boxing in the United States. 

boxing

RUBEN TORRES KICKS OFF THOMPSON’S 20th ANNIVERSARY

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Unbeaten Lightweight Torres to Headline Against Slugger Gabino Cota

ORANGE, Calif. (Feb. 11, 2020) – Lightweight prospect Ruben “Ace” Torres (11-0, 9 KOs), will headline Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event on Friday, Feb. 21st, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.
 
Torres, who is rapidly making a name for himself with his aggressive style, headlines his third straight Thompson Boxing card, as he faces the dangerous knockout artist from Sonora, Mexico, Gabino Cota (19-10-2, 17 KOs), in an eight-round main event clash.
 
The 22-year old Torres, who hails from South Central Los Angeles, is guided by Danny Zamora and trains out of the Santa Fe Springs Activities Center in, Santa Fe Springs, Calif. Torres is most known for his power on the right hand, as all but two of his fights have ended by way of knockout. 
 
“This is such a great opportunity for me,” said Torres. “I’m comfortable and happy with my promoter, they are allowing me to elevate my game and are putting me in a great position along with my trainer/manager Danny Zamora. On February 21st, I will look to put on another great performance and like always, fans can expect to see my hands flying.” 
 
Torres is no stranger to headlining a show as his last two outings have been eight-round main event bouts, with “Ace” knocking out his opponents in the first and second round respectively. Standing in front of Torres’ undefeated record is Gabino “The Flash” Cota, who is known for his explosive strength. 
 
“My opponent is not only tough,” Torres said. “He also comes forward at all his fights and we know he has knock out power. Our fight should be a barn burner.”
 
Torres has been working hard in camp, sparring his teammate, super lightweight Michael Dutchover, who is also signed to Thompson Boxing.  
 
“I’ve been getting pushed a lot in camp.” stated Torres, who turned professional nearly three years ago. “I’m getting some great sparring with Michael and other guys as well; my coach is also having me do specific drills that I will use to my benefit. One thing is for sure, I’m going to give the fans an entertaining bout.”
 
Tickets for “Path To Glory” are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.


In the “Path To Glory” co-feature, lightweight George Acosta (8-1, 1 KOs) of Long Beach, Calif. meets Ivan Benitez (14-3, 6 KOs) of Mexico (6-rounds).

UNDERCARD BOUTS:
 
Bantamweight standout Saul Sanchez (12-1, 7 KOs) of Pacoima, Calif will face Victor Trejo (17-11-2, 8KOs) (8-rounds).
 
Featherweight Jose Sanchez (5-0, 4 KOs) of nearby Cathedral City, Calif. fights Cristian Arredondo (4-1, 3 KOs) of Mexico (6-rounds).
 
Additionally, super welterweight Richard Brewart (6-0, 2 KO) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. meets Juan Jose Riveria (3-1, 2 KOs) of Mexico (4-rounds)
 
Opening “Path To Glory” is bantamweight Ivan Zarate (1-0) who will face Ulises Gabriel (0-1) of Mexico. (4-rounds)


# # #
 
All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com. 
 
The livestream starts at 8:05 p.m. PT / 11:05 p.m. ET. 
 
The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.
 
“Path To Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast. 
 
For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #NewBlood, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime, Showtime Boxing

RAEESE “THE BEAST” ALEEM MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

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Undefeated Prospect Aleem Makes his Televised Debut on ShoBox This Friday, February 14 Live On SHOWTIME® From 2300 Arena In Philadelphia


 
Use This Link For Photos From Team Aleem:

https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/ovztcuBNt3

LAS VEGAS – February 10, 2020 – Undefeated rising prospect Raeese “The Beast” Aleem (15-0, 9 KOs) held a media workout at the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame as he prepares for his upcoming eight-round super bantamweight bout against Adam Lopez (19-3-2, 9 KOs) in the co-feature of ShoBox: The New Generation this Friday, February 14 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.


 
In the main event of the four-fight telecast, lightweight prospect Thomas Mattice (15-1-1, 11 KOs) will face hard-hitting Isaac Cruz (18-1-1, 14 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight bout. Plus, in a matchup of undefeated super lightweights, Cleveland’s Montana Love (12-0-1, 6 KOs) returns to ShoBox in an eight-round bout with Houston’s Jerrico Walton (16-0, 7 KOs). In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated super welterweight Derrick Colemon Jr. (11-0, 8 KOs), of Detroit will face Joseph Jackson (15-0, 12 KOs) of North Carolina.


 
Aleem, who is managed by Greg Hannely of Prince Ranch Boxing and promoted by Kings Promotions, will make his television debut on ShoBox: The New Generation.


 
Here is what Aleem had to say Saturday at the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in Las Vegas:


 
RAEESE ALEEM


 
“I’m very excited to be making my televised debut on SHOWTIME, where the world will get to see my talent.  I’m definitely looking forward to making some new fans.  This is a stepping stone to bigger and better things.


 
“I feel like I’m flying under the radar.  I’ve been right there with all the other rising prospects. I’m originally from a small town so I never had the proper eyes on me.  I feel like I must train twice as hard as the average fighter just to be in the same conversation than these guys. But that’s just how the game is. I’m ready to show up and show out.


 
“It’s been a huge transition since I moved out here [Las Vegas] from Muskegon, Mich., where I’m originally from.  I came out here with no family and no friends, with the sole idea to pursue my career. I took a leap of faith and it has paid off. It’s been all about business here in Las Vegas, and it’s been great.  I’ve been exposed to a lot of great fighters and picked up a lot of good tips.


 
“Adam Lopez is a tough Latino fighter who is going to bring his ‘A’ game, and he has something to prove.  He has a lot of experience.  He’s been in the ring with a lot of skilled guys and current world champions. This is the type of fight I need to take the next step toward being a world champion.


 
“I’m an aggressive boxer who likes to throw a lot of punches. I make my opponent miss and I make them pay. I’m all-action. I’m a beast! I’m prepared to go the distance, but my ultimate goal is to get him out of there, to get the win.”


 
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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports 
follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

 
boxing, Las Vegas

Undefeated NABF Welterweight Champion Blair “The Flair” Cobbs Battles Samuel Kotey Friday February 14, From the Honda Center in Anaheim, California Live on DAZN

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Click HERE for Photos from Team Cobbs

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 10, 2020) – Undefeated NABF Welterweight Champion Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (14-0-1, 10 KOs) hosted a Las Vegas media workout Saturday in preparation for his upcoming bout against Samuel Kotey (23-2, 16 KOs) which takes place Friday, February 14 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.


Cobbs, who is managed by Greg Hannely of Prince Ranch Boxing and promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, will make his 2020 debut as part of the of Ryan Garcia versus Francisco Fonseca card, which will air live on DAZN at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.


Here is what Cobbs had to say Saturday from the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame in Las Vegas:


BLAIR COBBS


“This camp has been amazing. I’ve had nothing but the greatest sparring partners to get prepared for this upcoming bout. My trainer Brandon Woods has been sharpening up my tools and I’m ready to preform at my best on fight night. Everyone can expect to see the best Blair “The Flair” Cobbs possible. This is a sport filled with entertainment and I call myself “The most exciting man in Boxing”.


“On Valentines Day, I’m going to steal the show and all the fans watching on DAZN will see an amazing performance from me. My opponent, Samuel Kotey, is a tough hombre who is coming to win, but I have other plans for him. There is nothing he can do that will outmatch my skill and desire to win this fight.”


“It’s been a wonderful experience having the Mexican fans behind me being that they know that’s where I first learned how to box when I fled to Guadalajara, Mexico. It’s been a hell of a journey coming back to the United States from Mexico, where I learned to fight the Mexican style, always throwing big shots to entertain the fans. Fighting in the amateurs in Mexico, is like fighting in the pros. Sometimes we didn’t use headgear. It was crazy, but it made me the fighter I am today.”

boxing, Olympics, USA Boxing

USA Boxing featherweight Andrea Medina closing in on 2020 Olympic spot in Tokyo

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (February 10, 2020) – Coming off consecutive runner-up finishes in major tournaments, USA Boxing featherweight Andrea Medina is within one tournament of representing her country in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.

In December, the 20-year-old Medina lost a split decision to Lupe Gutierrez at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing, and 4-1 to Iulia Tsyplakova (Ukraine) last month at the Strandja Tournament in Bulgaria.  The Chula Vista, California boxer was recently named to USA Boxing’s Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 Boxing Qualification Team.

“Placing second at the trials only made me more eager to get that Olympic Qualification spot,” Medina said.  “I just wanted to show USA Boxing that I was the one to represent at 57 kilograms.  I am only going to get better and I cannot wait to show the world everything that I got.

“For it (Strandja) being my first ever international tournament, I was very proud of how far I got in the tournament and getting that silver medal.  I was very happy with all my performances and I am excited to get back to work on things I need to improve on.  Aside from all that, going to a different country was awesome and I can’t wait to travel more doing what I love the most.”

Medina and her Team USA stablemates are currently training in Colorado Springs at the state-of-the-art United States Olympic and Paralympic Training Center.  To qualify for participation in this year’s Olympic Games, Medina needs to finish among the top three in the 57-kilogram (125 lbs.) division at the America’s Qualification Tournament, March 26-April 3, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.  One final opportunity at the World Qualifier in Paris, France, in which she could qualify for the Olympics by placing among the top five.

“It means the world to me to be on the USA Boxing Olympic Qualification Team,” Medina added.  “It is everything I have been working for since I started competing at eight years old and I cannot believe the Olympic Games are only in a few months.  Making history in San Diego by being the first person to make the Olympic Team for boxing is a big deal for my family, my city and myself.  I cannot express how excited I am to have come this far, but there is still so much to do, and I am ready.

“I feel that I work better under pressure and I truly believe that I will qualify for Tokyo, whether it be in Argentina or France, but my main goal, right now, is to train hard to get that gold in Argentina.”

Medina believes her major strength inside the ring is her ability to adjust during a fight.  She prefers fighting on the outside, but she can brawl if needed, because she enjoys throwing a lot of power punches.

Medina also realizes that she’s in a prime place regarding the rising popularity of female boxing, following in the USA Boxing footsteps of two-time Olympic gold medalist Claressa Shields and Olympic bronze medalist Marlen Esparza, along with past USA Olympians such as Queen Underwood and Mikaela Mayer.

“Female boxing is only going to get bigger,” Medina predicted.  “Being a female fighter today means a lot to me, because I have been doing this for 15 years now, and seeing it grow year after year only shows how strong females are and what we can accomplish.  I predict that, in the future, boxing will not be seen as a man’s sport, but will be neutral for both men and women.”

Competing at the Olympics has been a life-long dream for Medina, but she also has plans for her immediate future.

“Reaching the Olympics has been my main goal throughout my boxing career,” Andrea remarked, “so now that it is so close makes me want to work even harder.  Other goals of mine are to graduate from college and get my own condominium, which I will do after all this is over.

“I plan on turning pro after the Olympics, most likely at the beginning or middle of 2021, so I can finish school and give my body some rest and recovery.”

Andrea Medina is so close to being an Olympian and everything associated with that accomplishment that she can practically reach out and feel it.  Just one more step, whether in Buenos Aires or Paris, and it’ll be mission accomplished for her.

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

ABOUT USA BOXING:  To promote and grow Olympic-style amateur boxing in the United States and to inspire the tireless pursuit of Olympic gold and enable athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence. Additionally, USA Boxing endeavors to teach all participants the character, confidence and focus they need to become resilient and diverse champions, both in and out of the ring. USA Boxing is one team, one nation, going for gold!

boxing

“Fight Night In Framingham” Fighting Life charity event, March 20th at Sheraton Hotel

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FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (February 10, 2020) – “Fight Night In Framingham”, presented by Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP), not only will be the first professional boxing event in the Massachusetts city, located 20 miles southwest of Boston, it has additional meaning for youngsters in that market.

“Fight Night In Framingham,” will be held Friday night, March 20, at Sheraton Framingham Hotel for the benefit of Fighting Life, an after-school youth boxing and academic empowerment program, available 100-percent free of charge, to students beginning in elementary school through high school education. 

“SBP is very excited and looks forward to putting on Framingham’s first ever boxing event for this organization,” promoter Chuck Shearns commented.  “I think what is speaks the loudest right now is the amount of community and business support Fighting Life has received, including the presenting sponsor, Street Light Ventures, which is a great company. I think it says a lot about what A.J. Thomas and the board are trying to accomplish with this organization. This kind of support will go a long way.”

Located out of UpperKuts Boxing Club in Ashland, Massachusetts, the Fighting Life Boxing Program was founded by owner and head coach, A.J. Thomas, as a resource and program to provide children with a positive outlet and outlook in life. Visit www.fightinglife.org to learn more about this organization.

The purpose of Fighting Life is to provide a safe space to promote structure, growth mindset, self-worth, and goal setting through physical and academic fulfillment and self-discipline.

“It is an outlet for kids,” Thomas (pictured to the left) explained Fighting Life.  “Kids who have been picked on, bullied, or at risk find it’s a safe haven.  We take kids from all walks of life.  We don’t turn anybody away.  If their parents can’t afford the membership fee to join the gym, we provide a voucher to apply to waive the fee.  Not all of these kids come here to become boxers.  We have fitness classes in addition to teaching boxing lessons. 

“This show is important because the attention and money we receive will help us get more volunteers, equipment, and go places (to box) that they’ve never been.  Any money we receive will go straight to the kids.  Our dream is promote out own shows someday to get our charity’s name out there for the benefit of our programs. Boxing is growing here in Framingham and we believe that there will be more boxing in our city.  I even check on them in school and if they need help, they’ll have a big brother right next to them.  Everything is for the kids!”

Two unbeaten pro “graduates” of the Fighting Life Boxing Program, super featherweights Timmy Ramos (5-0-2, 5 KOs) and Nelson “Chino” Perez (2-0m, 2 KOs), are fighting in the main event and co-feature, respectively.  Both train at UpperKuts and haven’t forgotten where they come from, often teaching youngsters in the program how to train to become boxers. 

“Timmy and Nelson have been with me for years,” Thomas added.  “They’ve used their efforts in boxing to better their lives.  We’re all family here.  Timmy and Nelson are still part of our program because they help the other kids.” 

Ramos, fighting out of Framingham, was a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion as an amateur. He is in the 6-round, main event against Carlos Marrero, III (2-3-1), of Bridgeport, Connecticut. 

Perez, who hails from nearby Marlboro, is another New England Golden Gloves champion. He faces an opponent to be determined in the 6-round co-featured event.   “I try to teach the kids to stay out of trouble,” Perez remarked.  “I coach them a little to help them live and prosper.  It’s great seeing these kids in the gym.  I’m very excited to be part of this event to benefit Fighting Life.” 

Boston heavyweight Tracey Johnson (4-7-6), whose brother Demetrius Andrade is a past Olympian and reigning WBO super middleweight champion, takes on Larry “Hitman” Pryor (11-22-5, 5 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

A pair of quality MMA fighters, Albania-born super middleweight Kastriot “Slaughterhouse” Xhema, fighting out of Greenwich, CT, makes his pro boxing debut against Framingham favorite, Brazilian-born Saul “The Spider” Almeida (0-10-3, 20-11 in MMA).  

Also fighting on the undercard is Southbridge, MA welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (6-1, 3 KOs) vs. Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (9-12-4, 7 KOs), in a 6-round bout; Worcester, MA super featherweight Ranse Andino (1-1) vs. Henry Garcia (0-5-1), of New Bedford, MA, and pro-debuting Hartford, CT super flyweight Angel Gonzalez, Jr. vs. Brandon Allen Sagraves (0-1), in 4-round fights.  Gonzalez is a decorated amateur boxer who is a three-time New England Golden Gloves, two-time Ringside National and 2014 National PAL champion

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets prices are $75,.00 ringside (rows 1-3), $60.00 (seated), $45.00 standing room, and VIP tables (of 10) for $1000.00 and may be purchased HERE, at UpperKuts gym, or from any of the local fighters on the card.   

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first fight at 7 p.m. ET.

Street Light Ventures is the presenting sponsor.  Other sponsors include Bernardi Auto Group, East Coast Herbalist, Tecate, Ashwood Advisors LLC and A Affordable Insurance.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing, @UpperKutsBoxing, @sheratonframingham

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions, @Upperkuts_boxing_club, @sheratonframingham