Tag Archives: Fred Latham

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE SERIES OPENS FACEBOOK WEEKEND TRIPLEHEADER WITH CES LIVE FROM RHODE ISLAND ON FRIDAY, FEB. 23

Ten month-old fan-friendly fight series averages 88,952 views per show, recently eclipsed 1,000,000 view milestone.
NEW YORK (Feb. 16, 2018) – Beginning next Friday, Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE serves up tripleheader action inside the squared circle. To open the weekend, the fan-friendly boxing and MMA streaming service partners once again with renowned promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr. for a red-hot CES Boxing card to start the boxing year in New England. Fans from across the globe can catch all the action beginning at 8 p.m. ET live from Twin River Casino in Rhode Island on any device wherever Facebook is available.
“This is an exciting main event between two deserving championship contenders and there’s no better partner than FIGHTNIGHT LIVE to provide fight fans all around the globe a front-row seat to the action. Ray Oliveira Jr. has paid his dues though the years while other fighters in New England have had the opportunity to see their name in lights. Now he gets his shot to headline for the first time in his career while competing for his first championship,” said Burchfield, Sr.
Recently hitting the 1,000,000 views mark, Friday’s show rings the opening bell on FIGHTNIGHT LIVE’s Feb. 23-24 back-to-back-to-back Friday and Saturday shows spanning from the casinos of New England to the Boardwalk of Atlantic City.
“At this point, CES and FIGHTNIGHT LIVE are family,” said Mark Fratto, Principal of Linacre Media. “We know each other, we love working on shows with the Burchfield and CES Family and have relationships with the promoters and fighters that extend long past the bell. These are great people and great athletes and we’re excited as always to give them a platform to showcase their talent and tell their stories. What a great way to open a jam-packed weekend of Facebook fights.”
CES Boxing kicks off the 2018 Twin River Casino Fight Series on Friday, Feb. 23, with Fall River, Mass., junior middleweight Ray Oliveira Jr. (9-1, 1 KO) headlining for the first time in his career and vying for the World Boxing Union (WBU) Super Welterweight Canadian-American-Mexican (CAM) Championship in an eight-round showdown against New Haven, Conn., veteran Edwin Soto (11-2-2, 4 KOs), plus a six-round heavyweight co-feature between Sicilian Juiseppe Cusumano (13-1, 11 KOs) and battle-tested Pittsburgh, Pa., native Fred Latham (9-1-2, 5 KOs).
Over the first nine-plus months of programming, the numbers on the 12-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series have showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of close to 90,000 fight fans tuning in per event and more than one-million fans served.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Sept. CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) all topped 150,000 views, and collectively the 12-show series saw a total of more than 21,000 total hours of Facebook video consumed by 1,067,435-plus users across all devices.
In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 142,000 collective live post engagements (nearly 12,000 per show), including almost 97,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 22,000 comments and almost 6,000 shares.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcasts are viewed by 76 percent men, 24 percent women. The top demographic is comprised of males ages 25-34, which encompasses approximately 30.0 percent of the audience, on average.
The Sept. 9 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” set a new bar with 224,658 views and the Sept. 15-16 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Feb. 10 Hard-Hitting Promotions “Philly Fight Night” show stands out individually with 3,421 live hours of content viewed, while the Sept. 15 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves.”
The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 80,000 fans and more than 82,000 followers. And Facebook itself has taken notice – the world’s No. 1 social network recently profiled FIGHTNIGHT LIVE on its “Success Stories” media blog, noting the series’ use of industry best practices for production and interactivity:
            Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has been delivered to fans absolutely free since its May 2017 launch courtesy of series corporate partners like Elite Heat WaterMontauk Iced Tea (montaukbev.com), Mr. Custom Made(mrcustommade.com) and BallWash (ballwash.com).
On Friday night, Feb. 23, live from live from Twin River Casino in Lincoln, R.I., fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by blow-by-blow announcer Michael Woods of the TalkBox Podcast, NYFights.com and The Ring and analyst Xavier Porter of BrooklynFights.com and Notorious Boxing. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast.
Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.
More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Winter/Spring 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.
FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/
Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and@FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow@LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

YUANDALE EVANS TREATS HOMETOWN FANS TO SPLIT DECISION WIN OVER PREVIOUSLY UNBEATEN LUIS ROSA IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

 

 

Butaev Decisions Gonzales; Fa Hands Latham First Pro Loss;

Cleveland’s Conwell Outclasses Zapata

 

Catch The Replay Monday, Nov. 13 At 10 p.m. ET/PT On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

Click HERE To Download Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

CLEVELAND (Nov. 11, 2017) – Two Cleveland boxers stole the show Friday night in the final ShoBox: The New Generation telecast of 2017 live on SHOWTIME.

 

Once-beaten southpaw Yuandale Evans (20-1, 14 KOs) had Cleveland’s fight fans on their feet for the final two dramatic rounds as the East Cleveland boxer earned an exciting, all-action split decision victory over previously undefeated featherweight Luis Rosa (23-1, 11 KOs) in the 10-round main event. Two judges scored the fight in favor of Evans – 96-94 and 97-93 – while the third judge had Rosa winning, 96-94, on Friday night at The Masonic at Templelive Cleveland.

 

It was a night that saw three previously undefeated fighters lose their unbeaten records. Rosa became the 171st fighter to lose his undefeated record in the 16-year history of ShoBox.

 

In the telecast’s first fight, heralded Cleveland boxer and 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell made his television debut and improved to 6-0. But it was the Evans-Rosa fight that fans won’t soon forget.

 

“What a way to end a great year of boxing on SHOWTIME,” said ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood. “Rosa vs. Evans was one of the best main events we have had in the 16 years of the ShoBox series. These were two fighters that understood what was at stake. They both did what they came here to do. At the end, it was all up to the judges. I thought they got it right. It was a split decision. Great action fight between two very well-conditioned fighters.”

 

The Evans-Rosa war included 611 total connected punches and 512 landed power shots were exchanged. There were multiples shifts of momentum throughout the fight as Rosa commanded the early rounds with volume and power while Evans rallied in the middle rounds.

 

“I’m tired but I’m feeling great,” Evans said. “My performance was great. I’ve never felt myself pushed that hard. He’s a tough Puerto Rican. He’s a very tough fighter. The crowd really propelled me to victory tonight, and I’m grateful for that.”

 

Rosa led 268-267 in total connected punches entering the final round, but Evans summoned a huge rally in the 10th (49 of 103 to 27 of 88 for Rosa) to seize a 316-295 overall lead to earn the split-decision victory.

 

“I thought I won the fight, he won maybe three or four rounds,” a disappointed Rosa said after the fight. “I won the fight 6-4, 7-3 at least. I won mostly all of the beginning rounds and I gave him a few after the first six. Four rounds is the most I give him, and that’s being nice. I feel like the judges were swayed by the hometown crowd.”

 

Evans is ready for his next challenge. “I want Gary Russell, I want [Carl] Frampton, I want [Leo] Santa Cruz,” said Evans, who had famed trained Barry Hunter in his corner. “I’m nothing but a contract killer. I’m a contract killer and I want one of those top five guys.”

In the co-main event, undefeated Russian standout Radzhab Butaev (8-0, 6 KOs; WSB: 9-1) earned a hard-fought unanimous decision over Colombia’s previously unbeaten Janer Gonzalez (18-1-1, 15 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup. The three judges scored the fight, 80-72, 79-73, 77-75, in favor of Butaev.

It was a technically sound fight between two accomplished former amateur standouts. Butaev, who dominated from the early rounds, connected on 41 percent of his power punches (66 of 162) compared to 27 percent for Gonzalez (47 or 173).

“I felt like I controlled the whole fight, but he was more durable than I expected,” said Butaev through a translator. “Gonzalez landed good shots but he couldn’t finish me.”

Farhood said Butaev failed to make some key adjustments during the fight. “[Butaev] didn’t have his trainer here,” he said. “Perhaps that is why he failed to make adjustments. He still has a promising future, but this was not his best performance.”

Gonzalez was coached in his corner by noted trainer Ruben Guerrero. “I injured my shoulder in the third round but I stayed in the fight and pushed the fight,” said Gonzalez, “When I injured my shoulder, I couldn’t throw my left jab as well, I couldn’t work the jab. If I hadn’t been injured, I would’ve broken him down more in the later rounds.”

In the second fight of the four-fight telecast, a matchup of undefeated heavyweights, 28-year-old Junior Fa (13-0, 8 KOs) knocked out Pittsburgh’s Freddy Latham (9-1-2, 5 KOs), handing him the first defeat of his pro career just 67 seconds into the fight. It was the 169th time a fighter has lost his undefeated record on the ShoBox series.

New Zealand’s Fa sent the former Golden Gloves champion Latham back-pedaling from the opening bell with a barrage of punches as referee Clifford Pinkney jumped in between the fighters. Latham, who had never been stopped, struggled to keep standing as he leaned against the ropes. Click HERE to watch video of the stoppage.

“I was actually going to keep on going, continue fighting but then he dropped. He was out of it. The ref pulled me back,” said Fa, who earned a first-round knockout for the sixth time of his career.

Fa landed 59 percent of his power shots (17 of 29) while Latham managed to land just one of four power punches.

Farhood was impressed by Fa’s dominating performance. “Every time a heavyweight shows power, you have to pay attention,” he said. “I’m sure we’ll see more of him in 2018.”

“I’m hoping for a chance to get in to the top 15,” said Fa, who beat WBO Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker twice in the amateurs. “This fight gave me more confidence in my ability and power, and I think confidence is a great thing.”

In the telecast opener, 2016 U.S. Olympian and local favorite Charles Conwell (6-0, 5 KOs) –buoyed by a huge third round where he scored two knockdowns and another in the fifth – went the six-round distance for the first time in his young career finishing off a game Roque “Rocky” Zapata (4-2-3) with an impressive unanimous decision victory scored 60-51 twice and 60-53.

The super welterweight contest was dominated by Cleveland’s 20-year old Conwell, who used effective body shots to do the most of the damage as he accounted for 80 of his 175 total connects and 75 of his 150 power punches.

Conwell caught the former MMA fighter Zapata in the third round with a strong right cross. It was the first time Zapata, who came into the fight with a three-bout winning streak, had ever hit the floor in his career. Click HERE to watch video of KOs in round 3.

 

“My game plan was to throw some jabs and go to the body, and I think I accomplished that. My jab was key tonight. I ended up dropping him three times,” said Conwell, who averaged 77 punches per round, but gave himself just a B-minus. “I would love to keep fighting on television. I want to showcase my skills.”

 

A left hook by Conwell in the latter stages of the third round dropped Zapata for the second time. Zapata hit the canvas once again in the fifth after a devastating left hook to the body followed by a left hook to the chin. The Culpepper, Va. native stood up at the nine-count and finished the stanza.

 

Zapata was impressed by his opponent’s talent. “I survived, so I’m happy,” he said. “I went the distance with an Olympian and that was the plan. I should’ve done better and cut my angles more instead of standing right in front of him, but I’m proud I went the full distance.”

 

Friday’s quadrupleheader will replay on Monday, Nov. 13 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME on DEMAND® and SHOWTIME ANYTIME®.

 

The fights were promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

# # #

 

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.

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR TOMORROW/FRIDAY, NOV. 10

 

Live on SHOWTIME® at 10 p.m. ET/PT from The Masonic at Templelive Cleveland

“I think I can be three or four fights away for the chance at a world heavyweight title.”

– Junior Fa, Undefeated Heavyweight Prospect

 

Click HERE To Download Weigh-In Photos; Credit Stephanie Trapp/SHOWTIME

CLEVELAND (Nov. 9, 2017) – SHOWTIME Boxing fans will get their first look at eight promising prospects  with a combined record of 97-2 – including two undefeated up-and-coming heavyweights and a 2016 Super Welterweight Olympian – as ShoBox: The New Generation takes place this Friday, November 10 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from The Masonic at Templelive Cleveland.

Featherweight prospects Luis Rosa Jr. (23-0, 11 KOs) and local favorite Yuandale Evans (19-1, 14 KOs) will square off in a 10-round main event as all eight fighters made their respective weights on Thursday. The ShoBoxquadrupleheader features undefeated Russian standout Radzhab Butaev (7-0, 6 KOs; WSB: 9-1) taking on Colombia’s Janer Gonzalez (18-0-1, 15 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup, and New Zealand’s undefeatedJunior Fa (12-0, 7 KOs) facing former Golden Gloves champion Freddy Latham (9-0-2, 5 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight bout. In the telecast opener, 2016 Olympian Charles Conwell (5-0, 5 KOs) will take on Roque “Rocky” Zapata (4-1-3), who is coming off a three-bout winning streak.

Tickets for the DiBella Entertainment event are still available for purchase via the following link HERE.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS, REFS AND JUDGES:

 

Luis Rosa Jr. vs. Yuandale Evans – 10-round Featherweight Bout

 

Rosa Jr.: 125 Pounds

Evans: 125 ½ Pounds

Referee: Shawn Clark (P.A.); Judges: Patrick Casey (P.A.), Larry Hazard Jr. (N.J.), Phil Rogers (Ohio)

 

Radzhab Butaev vs. Janer Gonzalez – Eight-round Welterweight Bout

 

Butaev: 146 Pounds

Gonzalez: 147 Pounds

Referee: George Nichols (C.A.); Judges: Brian Kennedy (Ohio), Patrick Casey (P.A.), Larry Hazard Jr. (N.J.)

 

Junior Fa vs. Freddy Latham – Eight-round Heavyweight Bout

Fa: 262 Pounds

Latham: 261 Pounds

Referee: Clifford Pinkney (Ohio); Judges: Brian Kennedy (Ohio), Phil Rogers (Ohio), Larry Hazard Jr. (N.J.)

  

Charles Conwell vs. Roque “Rocky” Zapata – Six-round Super Welterweight Bout

Conwell: 153 Pounds

Roque Zapata: 155 Pounds

Referee: George Nichols (California); Judges: Patrick Casey (P.A.), Larry Hazard (N.J.), Phil Rogers (Ohio)

 

FINAL QUOTES:

 

LUIS ROSA JR.:

“There was a time in my career when I was one fight away from fighting for a world title at 122 pounds, but I’m a natural featherweight. This fight is at 126 but I’ll fight at 126 or 122. Wherever the opportunity is, I’ll take it.

“I’m going to show a lot of different things. I have more to show than just my boxing skills. Whatever I have to do to get the win, I will do it.

“My opponent is a southpaw, but he’s not the slickest southpaw I’ve seen. We’ve been training with a lot of southpaws. Fighting southpaws is not a big deal for me. I fought so many of them in the amateurs.

“I don’t think I’m going to have any problem with him. I know his left hook is his favorite punch so I’m going to try and take that away from him.

“I think putting together some timely combinations is going to be the key to this fight.

“After I beat [Jorge] Diaz and [Luis] Del Valle in 2015 my opposition dropped. I was knocking on the door but just never got the call. That’s why this fight is so big for me. I’m ready to showcase my skills on national TV. I’m ready for the next step on my career.”

YUANDALE EVANS

“I know all the bigger names are at 126 so I’m going to stay right here. I’ve bounced around from 126 to 130. Lou DiBella, my promoter told me to stay ready and that’s what I did; I’m ready.”

“It took me awhile from me to come back after the loss to Javier Fortuna [in 2012]. But I’ve always stayed sharp and I’ve been in various camps. I’ve trained with guys like Lamont Peterson, Gervonta Davis and Rau’Shee Warren.

“I’ve been doing this since I was 10 years old, but I’m a lot wiser and smarter than in the past. I have knowledge and have been talking to a lot of managers and champions. I’m like an Einstein now. I’m a lot sharper, and craftier. And I have defense now.

“This fight will show the boxing world that I belong. I can be in the top five. This fight means a lot for me and the people of Cleveland.

“I’ve been working with [famed trainer] Barry Hunter for this fight and he’s taught me so much. My opponent has been spoiled and has never had to travel into enemy territory. Until now.

I’ve been a road warrior my entire career. I know the crowd can win the fight for me. Just the energy and hearing them when I’m tired. It’s a big advantage for me to be fighting at home. I will have a lot of fans here and it’s going to be big. I still got guys’ texting me for ringside seats, but there’s none left.

“I want ShoBox to say, ‘We have to have this guy back. We have to go back to Cleveland.’ ”

“[Rosa] is my height. He’s going to be right in front of me. He’s going to come straight at me. He has to.”

“They call me ‘Money Shot’ and ‘Southpaw Machine’ and the ‘Black Mexican’ in the gyms here in Cleveland.”

JANER GONZALEZ

“I’ve been training with Ruben Guerrero for the past couple of weeks, and I like training a lot better here in the United States. I felt like I was mistreated in the past back in Colombia.

“Fellow Colombian Oscar Escandon introduced me to Ruben and here we are. It’s the United States and everyone wants to be over here. The sparring and the training is just so much better here.

“I’m 30 years old now and I have a family back home in Colombia to support. This is my shot. I will not fail them. I have Team Guerrero on my side so I’m ready.

“We all know skills pay the bills and I just have to do my job and not get too crazy in there and get the win.

“I watched Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard when I was younger. I liked how smart and intelligent they fought.”

RADZHAB BUTAEV

“I’ve been in the United States for a year now and really liked training at Wild Card Gym and Wild Card West in Southern California.

                                                                                                                                                      

“I can punch as hard as [Gennady] Golovkin and can move better than [Vasyl] Lomachenko. I’m very confident and my experience is the reason for that.

“I sparred with Demetrius Andrade and Shawn Porter and I have held my own.

“The welterweight division is the best in boxing, everyone knows that. And I’ll fight anybody.

“It doesn’t matter that there’s no YouTube video on Gonzalez. He’s tough and competitive and a boxer who will come to fight.”

JUNIOR FA

“When I beat Joseph Parker [in the amateurs twice] it was my movement and my footwork that was key. He’s such a big puncher I just kept moving because I didn’t want to stand right in front of that.

“I’m a multi-dimensional fighter and my strengths are my mobility.

Deontay Wilder showed that he has plenty of power. He’s always there from the first bell… I like the guy, he’s got plenty of power and is very explosive.

“I like Anthony Joshua’s boxing brain. He’s got power, but it’s a different kind of power from Wilder. I like the way he sees his punches.

“For myself to be known, I’ll definitely have to fight in America. I don’t think I can make too much of a statement being back home in New Zealand.

“I think I can be three to four fights away for the chance at a world heavyweight title. I have to be entertaining in this fight for the American people to get to know me.

“Boxing used to be the biggest thing in New Zealand, but then rugby blew up.

“I live 40 minutes from Joseph Parker but we’ve never sparred. It’s too competitive.”

FREDDY LATHAM

“This is my first time on national TV so I’m excited and nervous.

“He’s taller, but I feel like I’m just as long as he is. I can put my head in his chest and go to war. If it’s going to be a dog fight I’ll get into his chest.

“Yeah, I’ve watched both the heavyweight world champs. I’d beat Joshua now. Wilder, I would have to get serious sparring in. I’d have to change everything I do in my life – the way I train and my lifestyle and everything. Deontay’s the man right now. Joshua burns out after six rounds and that’s why I’d beat Joshua now. I’m two years away from those guys. Tomorrow night is my first step.

“Boxing’s coming back in Pittsburgh and we’ve got two or three other heavyweights there that are popular right now.”

 

CHARLES CONWELL

“When you have a good crowd around you, you know it hypes you up.

“I was the youngest member of the 2016 Olympic team at age 18. It was cool being in high school and making the Olympic team.

“I’m very tenacious and determined, that’s why I’ve been successful so far in my young pro career.

“There’s no rush for me. People want to see me, sure. But there’s no reason to move fast at this point.

I think the competitiveness of boxing is what drives me. Sure the money and the fame are going to be great, but I just love everything about this sport.”

ROQUE “ROCKY” ZAPATA

“I haven’t surprised myself when I’ve beaten undefeated fighters.

“I’m an awkward fighter, in a good way. My angles I learned when I was fighting in MMA.

“The risk and the reward wasn’t worth it [to continue] in MMA. I was making a couple hundred bucks and getting elbows to the face. It just wasn’t worth it.

“Conwell is good and aggressive and I’ve seen him on YouTube. He comes forward and he looks to put you down.

“I just feel so much more comfortable in a boxing ring. I was good at takedowns.

Conor McGregor went 10 rounds with Floyd [Mayweather] and he got paid, so good for him. I’m one of the few guys who have been able to do both MMA and box professionally.”

# # #

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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.

LUIS ROSA JR. vs. YUANDALE EVANS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES & PHOTOS

 

 

 

Featherweight Prospects Headline ShoBox: The New Generation Quadrupleheader Friday, Nov. 10 from Cleveland, Ohio

 

Click HERE for Photos from Henry Epstein/DiBella Entertainment

 

CLEVELAND (Nov. 8, 2017) – Featherweight prospects Luis Rosa Jr. and Yuandale Evans worked out for the media today at the Thurgood Marshall Recreational Center in Cleveland, Ohio prior to their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event matchup this Friday, November 10 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from The Masonic at Templelive Cleveland.

 

The ShoBox quadrupleheader features undefeated Russian standout Radzhab Butaev taking on Colombia’s Janer Gonzalez in an eight-round welterweight matchup, and undefeated New Zealand’s Junior Fa facing former Golden Gloves champion Fred Latham in an eight-round heavyweight bout. In the telecast opener, decorated fighter Charles Conwell will take on Roque “Rocky” Zapata, who is coming off a three-bout winning streak.

 

Tickets for the DiBella Entertainment event are still available for purchase via the following link HERE.

 

In addition, 2016 U.S. Olympian Conwell and local Cleveland fighters Willie Nelson and Isaiah Steen worked out in front of the media Wednesday.

 

Here is what the fighters had to say:

 

LUIS ROSA JR.

 

“Yuandale’s a solid, tough fighter. He’s got good pop, but I’m ready for everything, I’m here to win.

 

“He wasn’t really on my radar, he sort of came out of the woodwork. We’re looking for a world championship and this is a step closer.

 

“I have no problem coming to Cleveland. I want to be a world champion, not a state champion or the champion of one country. I’ll go anywhere and be victorious.

 

“Boxing fans can expect a powerful, fast, smart fighter-I’m the full package. I fight with both hands, we’ll see if he can take it.

 

“This fight is dedicated to all the people of Puerto Rico. Most of my extended family still lives there and thank God everyone is okay after the hurricane.”

 

YUANDALE EVANS

“I know that’s he a Puerto Rican at heart. He’s a strong fighter that comes forward, a good body puncher. But he doesn’t have any boxing skills. He’s just a banger who keeps coming forward.

“Defensively he leaves himself open with his aggressiveness.

“He was not on my radar. I’ve wanted to fight much tougher guys, higher ranked guys. But once the fight was offered I said yes.

“I want to fight Carl Frampton, Leo Santa Cruz, Gary Russell Jr., and a rematch with Javier Fortuna. I want to fight all the top guys because that’s where I belong.

“Feels great to be fighting at home, been a long time. Just want to give back to the city and community for them supporting me while I’ve been on the road. Even as an 11-year old amateur they supported me.

“Expect a show, this will be a war, I can box and everybody knows I’m a puncher. Fans should be expecting a good fight. I’ll have a huge amount of people backing me.”

 

CHARLES CONWELL

“Means the world to me that I can fight at home and show everyone what they’ve been missing. Last time I fought here [in Cleveland] was in 2015.

“I know Rocky is a tough fighter, he’s beat a couple prospects and he’ll be coming to win.

“I’ve heard from many of my Olympic teammates this week and I’m excited to show them how I look as a professional. I’m looking forward to showing all the boxing fans around the world my skills.

“Should be an entertaining, good fight, I’m ready to go and hopefully close the show early. I’m ready for all six or a first round knockout.

“No pressure fighting at home or on Showtime. After fighting in the Olympics I’m ready for anything.”

WILLIE NELSON

“Right now, I’m at the rebuilding stage of my career to become a world champion.”

“I know a lot about Alexis Hloros, so no issue being a late addition as an opponent, I’m ready.

“I haven’t fought in Cleveland since 2009. I love being able to fight at home, means a great deal to me.

“I want my next opponent to be a top 20 opponent and to fight on Showtime.”

ISAIAH STEED

“I know Nunez is a very strong, come forward fighter, but he’s got no chance on Friday night.

“Last time I fought in Cleveland was as an amateur, three or four years ago.

“No pressure at all fighting at home, thrilled to be fighting at home.

“Charles and I spar all the time helping each other, he’s like my little brother, we make a great team.

“Sign the contract. I’m ready to fight anyone.”

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook atwww.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. TheShoBox 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 73 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, Errol Spence Jr. and more.

FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECTS LUIS ROSA & YUANDALE EVANS HEADLINE SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION QUADRUPLEHEADER FRIDAY, NOV. 10 FROM CLEVELAND, OHIO

 

 

 

Plus Undefeated Radzhab Butaev, Junior Fa & 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell Featured In Separate Bouts

 

Live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT

From Masonic Temple & Performing Arts Center in Cleveland

 

NEW YORK (Oct. 18, 2017) – Undefeated featherweight Luis Rosa will face once-beatenYuandale Evans in a 10-round matchup of 126-pound prospects looking to make a statement in one of boxing’s deepest divisions in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, Nov. 10 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Masonic Temple & Performing Arts Center in Cleveland.

 

The quadruple header features eight fighters making their ShoBox debuts, including six undefeated prospects.  The four-fight telecast is ShoBox’s first return to Cleveland since 2014.

 

In the co-feature, former Russian amateur standout Radzhab Butaev (7-0, 6 KOs, WSOB: 9-1) will take on Colombia’s Janer Gonzalez (19-0-1, 15 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup.  Butaev compiled a record of 304-12 in the unpaid ranks, followed by a 9-1 record in the World Series of Boxing, while Gonzalez was a member of the Colombian National Team with an equally impressive 291-29 record as an amateur.

 

In a televised heavyweight attraction, New Zealand’s Junior Fa (12-0, 7 KOs), who owns two amateur victories over countryman and current WBO Heavyweight World Champion Joseph Parker, will face Pittsburgh’s Fred Latham (9-0-2, 5 KOs) in an eight-round bout.

 

In the ShoBox opening bout, undefeated 2016 U.S. Olympian and Cleveland native Charles Conwell (5-0, 5 KOs) will look to keep his knockout streak intact in his hometown debut in a six-round super welterweight matchup with Panama’s Roque “Rocky” Zapata (4-1-3, 0 KOs).

 

“I am thrilled to bring this talent-filled quadruple header to the ShoBox series, from the Masonic Temple in Cleveland, Ohio,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Undefeated featherweight contender Luis Rosa Jr. faces hard puncher Yuandale Evans. Amateur prodigy Radzhab Butaev and New Zealand heavyweight prospect Junior Fa –who defeated Joseph Parker as an amateur—will be tested by fellow unbeaten opponents. U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell, one of the most exciting young prospects in boxing, will make his national TV debut in his hometown. On November 10, to quote Ian Hunter, ‘Cleveland Rocks!'”

 

Tickets are priced from $35 to $90 and can be obtained by visiting BoxingCleveland.com. The Masonic Temple and Performance Arts Center is located at 3615 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115. Doors will open on the night of the event at 7:00 p.m.

 

LUIS ROSA vs. YUANDALE EVANS – 10-Round Featherweight Bout

The 26-year-old Rosa (23-0, 11 KOs) is a Puerto Rico native who lives and fights out of New Haven, Conn. The come-forward, aggressive Rosa has recorded four knockouts in his last seven fights.

Trained by his father Luis Rosa Sr. and managed by his mother Marilyn, Rosa is currently ranked No. 10 by the WBC at 126 pounds, and was 95-10 as an amateur. Fighting in one of boxing’s deepest divisions (Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Carl Frampton, Gary Russell Jr.), the U.S. National Silver Medalist is looking to establish himself as a featherweight contender, and has career wins over Luis Orlando Del Valle (18-1) and Jorge Diaz (17-2).

 

“I’m dedicating this fight to the people who are still suffering from the tragedy of the hurricane,” Rosa said. “We are and always have been very strong people and I take that into the ring with me on November 10. I’ve seen some tapes of Evans. He’s a tough, strong fighter but my skills are much greater and I will be victorious and move one step closer to a shot at a world title.”

 

The 28-year-old Evans (19-1, 14 KOs) is a Cleveland native fighting in his hometown for the first time. Known as a power-puncher who works fast, Evans has recorded eight of his 14 knockouts in the first round. His only professional loss came against future world title holder Javier Fortuna in April of 2012.

 

Evans, who took a three-year hiatus following the Fortuna loss, is coming off the best win of his career – a hard-fought 10-round unanimous decision over Billel Dib (21-1; WBO No. 7-ranked coming into the fight) in Miami, Okla., in April.

 

“I’m thrilled to be fighting at home in Cleveland, the city of Champions,” Evans said. “It’s been a very long time since I’ve had a home fight. Truly, I’ve been a road warrior fighting all over the world.

 

“I’ve followed Luis Rosa for a couple years, I know he’s a very tough Puerto Rican fighter. He’s the same height as me and will come to fight, which will make for an all-action fight. But I know I’m the toughest competition he’s had and I’m planning to win in front of the big hometown crowd and everyone watching on SHOWTIME.”

 

The vacant WBC Continental Americas Title belt is on the line for this fight.

 

RADZHAB BUTAEV vs. JANER GONZALEZ – 8-Round Welterweight Bout

Russian Radzhab Butaev had a stellar amateur career during which he compiled a record of 304-12 with 164 KOs. A former Russian National Champion, Butaev qualified for the 2016 Olympics but instead elected to turn pro in the United States.

 

Butaev has progressed quickly since turning professional in March of 2016 – of his seven professional fights, six of his seven opponents have had winning records. The 23-year old is coming into his fifth fight of the year and the eighth fight in his short, 18-month professional career. Five of Butaev’s seven fights have taken place in the U.S, while his other two victories were on his home turf in Moscow, Russia. In his last fight in July, the 23-year-old Butaev knocked out Sherzodbek Alimjanov in Red Square in Moscow.

 

Said Butaev, “This is a great opportunity to fight on SHOWTIME and I’m looking forward to putting on a tremendous performance. I know that Colombian fighters are well known for their power but I faced many hard hitters in the amateurs and I’ll be ready for victory on November 10.”

A native of Barranquilla, Colombia, the heavy-handed Janer Gonzalez sports a record of 19-0-1 with 15 knockouts. Prior to turning professional in 2011, Gonzalez was a member of the Colombian National Boxing Team, compiling a record of 291-29.  Gonzalez, who returned in September following a two and a half-year layoff, will make his U.S. debut against Butaev.

 

“It’s a dream come true to make my television debut in the United States,” said Gonzalez. “I grew up watching all of my favorite boxers fighting in the U.S. and now it’s my turn. It’s truly surreal how everything unfolded. I was ready to give up on boxing when an opportunity just came my way. I fought in Mexico and here I am.

 

“I had a long layoff, but I needed it. It has made me more appreciative, more motivated. I work harder now. I had my last fight on a Saturday and on Monday I was back in the gym. I’ve studied my opponent. I’m ready. My style will mold to his. I’ll get on his face and counterpunch. On November 10 boxing fans will see a Colombian warrior that came to America to become a legend.”

 

Butaev vs. Gonzalez is promoted in association with Fight Promotions.

 

JUNIOR FA vs. FRED LATHAM – Eight Rounds Heavyweight Bout

Standing 6-feet, 5 inches and weighing 270 pounds, the 27-year-old Junior Fa has compiled a professional record of 12-0 with seven knockouts since turning pro in February 2016. Fa had a successful amateur career, which included two victories over reigning WBO Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker. The native of Papakura, New Zealand has most recently trained in England with heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and has also sparred with Joshua’s Oct. 28 opponent Carlos Takam.

 

Fa, who won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games, will fight for just the second time in the United States.

 

“I’m thrilled to be fighting in the United States again and on SHOWTIME,” said Fa. “I know Latham is undefeated but I also plan on staying unbeaten on November 10. Training with Anthony Joshua improved my boxing in many ways and just as important taught me what it takes inside the gym to become a world champion.”

 

Fighting out of Pittsburgh, Pa., Fred Latham (9-0-2, 5 KOs) is a former Pennsylvania Golden Gloves Champion. In his last bout on December 3, 2016, the 27-year-old Latham battled to a split decision draw against Alonzo Butler.

 

Said Latham, “I appreciate the opportunity to fight on SHOWTIME and I am looking forward to facing Fa. I’ve heard a lot about him and the great heavyweight prospect he is but on November 10 I’ll show the world that I’m a much better fighter.”

 

CHARLES CONWELL vs. ROQUE ‘Rocky’ ZAPATA – Six-Round Super Welterweight Bout

Nineteen-year-old Charles Conwell, who turns 20 on Nov. 2, is 5-0 with all of his victories coming by way of technical knockout. The Cleveland native has a decorated resume – he went 134-14, was the National Gold Gloves Champion in 2015, and a 2016 U.S. Olympian. Conwell has been busy since turning pro last year, having fought all five of his professional fights in the past eight months. In his last fight in August, Conwell earned a technical knockout against Rey Trujillo.

 

“I’m thrilled to be fighting at home for the first time as a professional and on ShoBox,” said Conwell. “I can’t wait to put on a great performance for the Cleveland fans and those seeing me for the first time on national television.”

 

The 21-year-old Zapata is a native of Panama City, Panama now fighting out of Culpepper, Va. Having compiled a record of 4-1-3 since turning professional 18 months ago, he is currently riding a three bout winning streak.   Zapata is coming off the biggest win of his career, a six-round decision over previously undefeated Justin Steave on June 24 in Pittsburgh.

 

“This fight with Charles Conwell is an exciting challenge for me. He had a great amateur career and he made the Olympic team,” said Zapata. “I’ve been offered to fight him twice, but at the time I was injured and had to decline. But on November 10, Charles and I will come face-to-face and put on a show for the fans. I’m ready to do my job.”

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Rich Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

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

Seldon and Mussachio earn big wins on the Boardwalk

 

Capers upsets Kisner; Big wins by Davila, & Johnson

Davis and Maye battle to draw

For Immediate Release

Atlantic City, NJ (May 30, 2016)–This past Friday night at the Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City, Rising Promotions staged it’s third consecutive fight card in front of a large crowd that saw Isiah Seldon defeat Eddie Edmond in the six-round main event.

The middleweight bout highlighted a entertaining six bout card.

Seldon rocked Edmond several times with right hands that had the Newark, New Jersey resident holding on. The grabbing got much more severe and Edmond was deducted a point in round four. In round six, Seldon sealed the fight when he landed a right hand that forced Edmond’s glove to touch the canvas for a knockdown.

Seldon, 156 lbs won by scores of 59-54, 59-53 and 58-54 to raise his record to 9-1. Edmond, 158 lbs is 4-5-2.

In the co-feature, Chuck Mussachio shook off 39 months of ring rust to pound out a six-round unanimous decision over Willis Lockett in a cruiserweight rematch of a draw that occurred almost eight-years ago.
Mussachio was adept with his jab and landed some hard right hands that stunned Lockett. Despite the long layoff, Mussachio was sharp with his punches and reflexes looked on-point as he was only hit with a couple right hands. Mussachio thrilled his fan base that has stood by him throughout his eleven year career and the Lower Cape May Regional High School guidance counselor will look to make one more run at a title fight.

Mussachio, 183 lbs of Wildwood, New Jersey won by scores of 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56 and is now 19-3-2. Lockett, 205.3 lbs of Takoma Park, Maryland is 14-17-5.

In an action filled welterweight bout, Quan Johnson made a successful pro debut with a fourth round stoppage over Adrian Wilson in the final scheduled round of their welterweight bout.

Johnson showed fast hands from his southpaw stance and he got off to a good start when a straight left hand in round one landed for a knockdown. Moments later, a hard straight left sent Wilson down for a second time in the opening frame, Wilson began to bleed from his nose in the next round and his troubles worsened when a cut over the right eye formed after another hard left. Wilson showed heart as he fought back hard but, he was outgunned as he tasted the canvas two more times in round four from first a right hook and then finally an accumulation of punches forced the bout to be stopped at 2:15 of round four.

Johnson, 148.6 of Cherry Hill, New Jersey is 1-0 with 1 knockout. Wilson, 147.3 lbs of Atlantic Cuty is 0-3.

Heavyweight’s Quian Davis and Soloman Maye battled to a four round majority draw

Davis boxed but Maye came forward in attempt to make the fight. The judges liked the aggressiveness of Maye and gave him credit for two rounds on two cards ad Davis took a card 39-37 while two read even at 38-38.

Davis, 253 lbs of Mays Landing, New Jersey is now 2-0-2. Maye, 226.7 lbs of New Haven, Connecticut is 1-6-2.

2016 United States Olympic Alternate, LeRoy Davila stopped Dominic Whitehurst in the second round in a scheduled four round bantamweight bout featuring pro debuter’s.

Davila showed quick hands from his southpaw stance and dropped Whitehurst with a body combination in round two. Davila landed a three punch combination to the body to register a second knockdown. Davila ended things when he landed a hard left hand and the fight was stopped at 2:34.
Davila, 116.9 lbs of New Brunswick, New Jersey is now 1-0 with one knockout. Whitehurst, 117.5 lbs of Chillicothe, Ohio is 0-1.

Said Davila’s manager, Pete Festa, “Rising Promotions is the best up and coming promoter in the industry.”

Lamont Capers opened up the show by scoring a eight round split decision over Nick Kisner in a cruiserweight bout.

Capers was effective with the right hand that continued to get through on Kisner. Kisner landed some good shots that made Capers nose bleed, but he wasn’t as consistent or active enough to pile up the rounds. Kisner was deducted a point for holding in round seven.

Capers, 196.2 lbs of Hawley, Pennsylvania won by scores of 77-74 twice, while Kisner took a card 76-75. Capers is now 6-8-2. Kisner, 197.8 lbs of Baltimore, Maryland falls to 16-3-1.

“We are the most active promoter in New Jersey and our mission is bring world class boxing back to the boxing capital of the state and that’s Atlantic City. We are working on bringing TV into the picture in the very near future,” said Rising Promotions Thomas LaManna.

“Debbie LaManna and Rising Promotions have done a tremendous job in trying to restore Atlantic City’s reputation as a boxing town again. They seem to have found a niche by bringing local fighters who have strong fan bases to a great venue like the Claridge,” said prominent boxing writer, Dave Weinberg of The Atlantic City Press.

The next Rising Promotions card will take place on Friday, July 22 at The Claridge Hotel with the return of welterweight contender, Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna in the main event.

Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo

Cruiserweight contender Nick Kisner ready for Boardwalk debut this Friday night at the Claridge in Atlantic City 

   

Isiah Seldon battles Eddie Edmond in main event

Chuck Mussachio takes on Willis Lockett in Light Heavyweight rematch

  Plus undefeated Heavyweight Quian Davis,

The pro debut of former United States amateur sensation LeRoy Davila

WEIGH IN TODAY AT 2 PM

For Immediate Release
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (May 26, 2016)–THIS Friday night, May 27th, a big night of boxing will kick off a holiday weekend at The Claridge in Atlantic City as Rising Promotions will present a terrific card of boxing.
In the main event, It will be about New Jersey bragging rights as Isiah Seldon will take on Eddie Edmond in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.
In a one of the undercard bout, Baltimore-based cruiserweight contender, “Slick” Nick Kisner will take on Lamont Capers.
Kisner, who was a prized amateur that saw him become a 3-time National Silver Gloves champion, a 2-time National junior Golden Gloves champion and a Ringside World championship, just to name a few of his big wins in the non-paying ranks.
The 25 year-old has a record of 16-2-1 with six knockouts.
“I have had a very good training camp,” said Kisner.  “Capers is a tough and durable opponent.  He has been in with some very good fighters, but I am very confident about getting the win on Friday.”
Kisner has won two in a row since his highest profile bout to date when he dropped a ten round unanimous decision to former two-time world title challenger  Lateef Kayode,
In that bout, Kisner fought well and had some moments in the bout, but came up just short in a fight that seemed closer then the official scorecards.
“I learned a lot about in that fight.  I went 10-rounds for the first time.  I did that against one of the best fighters in the divisions.  That was the fight where, also learned the best way to get down to 200 pounds.  Before that fight, I would kill myself to make the weight.”
That training regimen has worked so well, that Kisner is now contemplating a move to light heavyweight.
“That is the plan.  In fact, if everything goes well on Friday, that I am looking at a big name at light heavyweight in August.”
But first, he has to deal with Capers, not far from Kisner’s hometown of Baltimore.
“I am excited to be fighting in Atlantic City.  It is one of the big stages in boxing.  ComeFriday, I am going to put on a great show, and I am going to show the world that I am great fighter.  I have learned from my previous fights.  I have matured and on Friday, people will see that I am on the best fighters in the world.”
In a six-round co-feature, one of the most popular fighter’s from the shore area, Light Heavyweight Chuck Mussachio will be back in the ring after a 39-month lay off when he takes on Willis Lockett in a rematch of a bout that that ended in a draw on September 19, 2008.
In four round bouts:
In a four round Welterweight bout, Adrian Wilson (0-2) of Atlantic City will take on pro debuting Da’Quan Johnson of Pennsauken, New Jersey
Quian Davis (2-0-1, 1KO) of Mays Landing, NJ will fight Soloman Maye (1-6-1, 1 KO) of New Haven, CT in a Heavyweight out.
Also on the card will be  the pro debut of Bantamweight Leroy Davila of New Brunswick, New Jersey battling fellow pro debuter Dominic Whitehurst of Chillicothe, OH.
Davila, who had over 60 amateur fights was ranked second in the United States in his weight class.
Tickets are $125 for premium, $77 Ringside stage and $52 reserved and are available atwww.risingboxingpromotions.com or 609-487-4444
Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo
  
About Rising Promotions:
Rising Promotions was created with the intent of becoming a house hold name with the key objective of Rising Promotions being able to coordinate an array of diversified special events within the sports and entertainment industry, The CEO and partners at Rising Promotions feel that the opportunities for growth are endless. We would like to give opportunities to up and coming professional as well as amateur boxers that other promoters would not readily give opportunity to. The events that Rising plans to coordinate will provide much needed affordable, family-friendly sports entertainment.

Isiah Seldon ready for 1st headlining appearance this Friday night at the Claridge in Atlantic City 

   
Chuck Mussachio takes on Willis Lockett in Light Heavyweight rematch

  Plus undefeated fighetrs Quian Davis, & Lawrence Newton

Nick Kisner battles Lamont Capers in Cruiserweight attracton

Anthony Burgin to appear in Lightweight bout

The pro debut of former United States amateur sensation LeRoy Davila

For Immediate Release
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (May 23, 2016)–THIS Friday night, May 27th, a big night of boxing will kick off a holiday weekend at The Claridge in Atlantic City as Rising Promotions will present a terrific card of boxing.
In the main event, It will be about New Jersey bragging rights as Isiah Seldon will take on Eddie Edmond in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.
Seldon, who is the son of former WBA Heavyweight champion, Bruce Seldon will be making his 2nd appearance in three months as he is coming off a 6-round on March 19th over Michael Mitchell, has been in the gym to round back into form after 33-month layoff.
“Training camp has been great.  We have been doing a lot of boxing as I been still shaking off some rust from the layoff,” said Seldon.  “To come right back is not a big deal.  I am an athlete and I am always in good shape.  My body feels better when I am active and in the gym.  Even when I wasn’t getting the fights, I was always in the gym.”
In Edmond, he is fighting a fighter from Newark, New Jersey and has similar experience.
“I have seen some video of him.  He comes forward and he throws punches.  That is the kid of fight that I want to be in.  He will come to fight and that should ,make for entertaining fight.”
This will be the 2nd straight fight for Seldon against a fellow foe from the Garden State, but that doesn’t matter to the 27 year-old native of Atlantic City.
“I don’t care where a person is from.  A fight is a fight.  In fact, I actually want to see all the locals make it.  That is unless they are fighting me.  It is always fun fighting in Atlantic City.  I will have a lot of friends there supporting me.”
Seldon credits his return to the ring to Rising Promotions, who will be staging their 3rd show in the past six months.
“I would like to thank Rising Promotions, Thomas LaManna and the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.  They are all trying to bring boxing back to Atlantic City the way it used to be.  I feel I have an opportunity to become the face of Atlantic City boxing.  I have been working very hard and I feel very good.  To be headlining for the first time feels really good.  Rising Promotions has given me this opportunity to showcase my skills and on Friday, I am going to put on a great performance.”
In a six-round co-feature, one of the most popular fighter’s from the shore area, Light Heavyweight Chuck Mussachio will be back in the ring after a 39-month lay off when he takes on Willis Lockett in a rematch of a bout that that ended in a draw on September 19, 2008.
In an eight-round Cruiserweight bout, Nick Kisner (16-2-1, 6 KO’s) of Baltimore, MD will take on Lamont Capers (5-8-2) of Hawley, PA.

In four round bouts:
In a four round Welterweight bout, Adrian Wilson (0-2) of Atlantic City will take on pro debuting Da’Quan Johnson of Pennsauken, New Jersey
Quian Davis (2-0-1, 1KO) of Mays Landing, NJ will fight Soloman Maye (1-6-1, 1 KO) of New Haven, CT in a Heavyweight out.
Lightweight Anthony Burgin (9-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will fight Curtis Morton(4-5-4) of Harlem, NY.
Also on the card will be  the pro debut of Bantamweight Leroy Davila of New Brunswick, New Jersey battling fellow pro debuter Dominic Whitehurst of Chillicothe, OH.
Davila, who had over 60 amateur fights was ranked second in the United States in his weight class.
.
Lawrence Newton (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Florida will take on an opponent to be named
Tickets are $125 for premium, $77 Ringside stage and $52 reserved and are available at www.risingboxingpromotions.com or 609-487-4444
Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo
  

After three year absence, Chuck Mussachio returns in in rematch against Willis Lockett, Next Friday night at the Claridge in Atlantic City 

Isiah Seldon battles Eddie Edmond in main event

  Plus undefeated fighetrs Quian Davis, Fred Latham & Lawrence Newton

Nick Kisner battles Lamont Capers in Cruiserweight attracton

Anthony Burgin to appear in Lightweight bout

The pro debut of former United States amateur sensation LeRoy Davila

For Immediate Release
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (May 3-, 2016)–On Friday night, May 27th, a big night of boxing will kick off a holiday weekend at The Claridge in Atlantic City as Rising Promotions will present a terrific card of boxing.
In the main event, It will be about New Jersey bragging rights as Isiah Seldon will take on Eddie Edmond in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.
In a six-round co-feature, one of the most popular fighter’s from the shore area, Light Heavyweight Chuck Mussachio will be back in the ring after a 39-month lay off when he takes on Willis Lockett in a rematch of a bout that that ended in a draw on September 19, 2008.
Mussachio of Wildwood, New Jersey has a record of 18-3-2 with five knockouts and will be looking to get back to winning ways that made him a contender.
He will be marking his ring return in a familiar town where he has performed 17 times.
“Everything is going well.  I am back in the swing of things and getting good sparring three days a week,” said Mussachio.  “I started getting the itch again when I was helping Isiah Seldon ready for his fight in March.  I am not worried about the layoff.  I got that ring rust off in February.  That wore off quickly and that motivated me to get back in the room quickly.  I have been in the gym the whole time, sparring.  I was in Bernard Hopkins last two camps, so I have been in good shape this whole time.”
Lockett of Takoma Park, Maryland has a record of 14-16-5 with five knockouts.
His record does not tell the story as Lockett has faced the “Whose-Who” of fighters between Super Middleweight and Heavyweight.
He has quality wins over Tyrone Tate (5-1), Calvin Riley (1-0), Willie Williams (6-1), former world title challenger Larry Marks, Joe McCreedy (10-2-1) & John Lennox (13-3). The winner of Lennox was part of Rising Promotions maiden card on December 5, 2015.
Lockett has faced eight undefeated fighters.  Lockett will look to break a two-fight losing streak.  In his last bout, Lockett was disqualified against Jordan Shimmell (19-1) on February 27 in Washington, DC.
“When we fought before,” said Mussachio, “I won that fight.  I can’t believe they ruled that a draw.  I have something to prove, because I took every round in that fight.  Looking back, I couldn’t even tell you how he is.  He never hit me.  I am just going to do what I did last time, but this time, I have to do more.”
Mussachio, who is a guidance counselor by day, isn’t just coming back for one fight.  He wants to get back to the status that got him to a 17-1-2 record and came within seconds of becoming USBA Cruiserweight champion before getting stopped by Garrett Wilson in 2011.
“The goal is to take this as far as I can.  I have my rhythm back.  This is not just one fight.  I want to get a big opportunity.  I already have the record for that.”
“I feel rejuvenated.  I haven’t took a pounding and I still have good legs.”
Mussachio would not have his comeback fight anywhere else and is impressed by the way Rising Boxing Promotions has handled business leading up to the fight.
“I don’t like fighting anywhere else but Atlantic City.  This is my 2nd home and it means a lot.  After all this time, the interest is still there for me and my fans are coming out.  It is like the old days.  I want to thank everyone for their continued support of my career which is now going on 12 years.  Debbie and Thomas LaManna have been great with Rising Promotions.  They are very professional and great to work with.”
In an eight-round Cruiserweight bout, Nick Kisner (16-2-1, 6 KO’s) of Baltimore, MD will take on Lamont Capers (5-8-2) of Hawley, PA.

In a 6-round Heavyweight bout, Fred Latham (9-0-1, 5 KO’s) of Pittsburgh, PA will fight Jon Bolden (8-10-1, 6 KO’s) of New York.

In four round bouts:
In a four round Welterweight bout, Adrian Wilson (0-2) of Atlantic City will take on pro debuting DaQuan Johnson of Pennsauken, New Jersey
Quian Davis (2-0-1, 1KO) of Mays Landing, NJ will fight Soloman Maye (1-6-1, 1 KO) of New Haven, CT in a Heavyweight out.
Lightweight Anthony Burgin (9-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will fight Curtis Morton (4-5-3) of Harlem, NY.
Also on the card will be  the pro debut of Bantamweight Leroy Davila of New Brunswick, New Jersey battling fellow pro debuter Dominic Whitehurst of Chillicothe, OH.
Davila, who had over 60 amateur fights was ranked second in the United States in his weight class.
Lawrence Newton (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Florida battles Julio Crespo (0-1) of Puerto Rico in a Bantamweight bout
Tickets are $125 for premium, $77 Ringside stage and $52 reserved and are available at www.risingboxingpromotions.com or 609-487-4444
Facebook.com/risingstarboxing
Instagram: @risingpromo