Tag Archives: George Foreman

boxing, Salita Promotions

Pryce is Right again for undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor

Shiya amazwana
NEW YORK CITY (June 11, 2025) – Immediately after last Friday night’s impressive fourth-round stoppage of Ed “Tex” Fountain, Brooklyn’s undefeated Pryce Taylor (8-0, 5 Kos) was called America’s best heavyweight prospect by his promoter, Dmitriy Salita (Salita Promotions).

The 28-year-old Taylor and his manager, New York City-based Attorney Keith Sullivan, agree with Salita.

“They’re (Salita and Sullivan) both right,” Taylor said, “because they’ve seen me fight. Fighting brings the dog out in me. Yena (Fountain) was a test, real resilient, but like a punching bag that’s ready to fall off the chain. I had to keep hitting him and no way was he thinking about playing it safe. The referee saved his life; he was thinking about not falling down.”

The powerful Taylor entered the ring paying tribute to the late, great George Foreman by wearing a “Big George” T-shirt. Prior to the fight, Taylor noted that he had great success in the pro ranks fighting southpaws like Fountain. Taylor methodically ripped his opponent’s head and body with damaging punches, hurting Fountain in the third round with a straight right-left hook combination, followed by a barrage of shots on the sturdy Fountain who managed to survive the round.
(L-R: Head trainer Benny Roman, Pryce Taylor wearing his George Foreman tribute T-shirt, and manager Keith Sullivan)

Fountain (14-9, 7 Kos), who was the best fighter the 6’ 4”, 280-pound Taylor had fought in the pro ranks, was rocked from another series of violent combinations, when referee Charlie Fitch had seen enough and waved off the fight 36-seconds into the fourth frame.The fight was a scheduled 6-rounder on the “International Boxing Hall of Fame Night,” presented by Taylor’s promoter Salita Promotions, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, I-New York.

“I was excited to be fighting on a show like that,” Taylor added. “He hit me first in the first round, something I always let my opponents do to test their power, gauge patterns, and figure him out. It’s like in baseball when a batter lets a pitch go by without swinging to see what he has on the mound. Because he’s a southpaw, his right is his jab, and he really wanted to use his left power hook. He had a good poker face, but he couldn’t hide it when I hurt him. He tried not showing he was fazed, keeping himself upright, but he felt my power. I like being accurate, especially throwing power punches. I punished him at the end, throwing a body shot, an uppercut, and then two right hooks.”

“I thought George Foreman would have been proud of me and maybe thought he was seeing himself fight when he saw me punch. I put on a show. I’m a combination of Foreman and Muhammad Ali; power punching like Foreman, elusive like Ali with good footwork and light on my toes.

“I’m not sure if this was the best fight of my career, but he was my best opponent and the toughest guy I’ve fought. He came into the ring in good shape and tried to fight. His downfall was Pryce Being Right aphinde. I love throwing my straight right and that keeps opening up my left hook to the body.”

Taylor had a 60-11 irekhodi amateur, including a pair of New York Golden Gloves titles, and he was the heavyweight runner-up four times in the prestigious USA Boxing National Championship tournaments. “Pryce’s TKO win was exactly what I expected – dominant, calculated, and explosive,” Sullivan remarked. “He’s not just another prospect; with continued work, he can be the next great American heavyweight. With every fight, he’s proving that he has the tools, the discipline, and the mindset to be a force within this division. We’re building something special, and the world’s about to see it.”
Team Taylor (L-R): Manager Keith Sullivan, undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor, promoter Dmitriy Salita, and head trainer Benny Roman Salita.

Taylor will be fighting next in his first scheduled 8-round bout on July 26 in Detroit on a Salita Promotions card headlined by undisputed World Heavyweight Champion Claressa Shields (16-0, 3 Kos) versus Lani Daniels (11-2-2, 1 KO) at Little Caesars Arena. Sullivan, a former Deputy Commissioner for the NYS Athletic Commission, also manages 3-time, 2-division World Champion Miyo Yoshida (18-5) and Bronx NYPD Officer Nisa Rodriguez (3-1, 1 KO), as well as co-managing world-rated (IBF #3 & WBA #10) welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-1, 11 Kos), from Limerick, Ireland. Sullivan co-manages Donovan with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee, who is also Donovan’s head trainer.
boxing, USA Boxing

USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception another KO

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class of 2019: Mark Breland, UJoe Frazier,
Al Mitchell & Ray Rodgers


Colorado Springs, Lap. (December 19, 2019) – The Class of 2019 was inducted into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame this past Friday night at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception was held in conjunction with the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships. Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein from Showtime Sports served once again as the event’s emcee.

Olympic gold-medalists Mark Breland futhi “Smokin'” UJoe Frazier along with decorated coach Al Mitchell and famed cut-man Ray Rodgers, were inducted during the 3rd annual USA Boxing Alumni Association HOF reception.

Sen. John McCain was posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award. His daughter, Megan McCain, sent an acceptance video on behalf of her family that was played for the audience.

“We are extremely thankful for the hundreds of USA Boxing Alumni who showed up to support this year’s Hall of Fame class and enjoy an incredible evening of reflection, camaraderie, and joy,” said USA Boxing Alumni Association Director Chris Cuckoo. “Ngeshwa, George Foreman was unable to attend the event, so we will be sure to honor him at a later date. Nokho, the legacies of Ray Rodgers, Al Mitchell, UJoe Frazier, Mark Breland, and Senator John McCain were celebrated with passion and gratitude. It was an evening to remember, and we look forward to a strong 2020 for the USA Boxing Alumni Association.”

The ceremony was well attended, kanye kuka 200 traveling to Lake Charles in celebration of this year’s class. 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier Champion John “Iceman” Scully, 1972 Olympic gold medalist Sugar Ray Seales, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tate, former middleweight and light heavyweight champion “Sweet” Reggie Johnson, futhi 1992 Olympian Raul Marquez celebrated amongst peers from their amateur days.

To watch the entire ceremony, go LAPHA

Below are quotes from the inductees, or those representing inductees, with pictures:

CLASS OF 2019



MARK BRELAND

Mark Breland: “I enjoy boxing, it’s a lot of fun. I’m glad to be here because I’ve seen a lot of fighters I grew up with in the amateurs. I enjoy boxing because it kept me off the streets. I wasn’t a street guy., My father would have beaten me up if I had gotten into trouble in the streets. Boxing kept me off the streets, kept me in the gym. I guess I was good at it. I had a fight with a bully when I was 14 and I beat him up. I went to the gym the same day and my coach asked me what happened. My knuckles were shredded with blood. I told him I had a fight in the street. He said you can’t fight in the street. Then I realized boxing and street fighting are two different things.

Shelly Finkel (his manager), when he came into my life, changed a lot of things. Things changed a lot. I focused more on boxing, focused on the Olympic Games, and won championships. Every tournament I went into, Ngiphumelele, but it was a lot of fun. I wanted to inspire youths. I hope I can inspire some amateurs coming up. To keep going, stay off the streets, and do something that can change your life in a good way., Eddie Futch for life!”



JOE FRAZIER

Marvis Frazier(Joe’s son, afanekiselwa): “It is so good today to speak about my father, what he meant to me, and Joe Frazier always said to me, ‘There’s no right way to do wrong, no wrong way to do right.’ He said, if you don’t do right, you’re going to smell this, putting his left fist right to my nose. When it was time for me to do bad, it wasn’t me, wasn’t Marvis Frazier. Ngakho, namuhla, I’m still smelling it even if he’s not here.

“I just love to talk boxing. As an amateur I was 46-1 and then when I turned pro, I beat the guy who had knocked me out. I love my father. He was a good guy and a champion. I know everybody know Muhammad Ali and I know everybody know ‘Smokin’ Joe Frazier.”



AL MITCHELL

Al Mitchell: “I got rid of anybody over 16 who didn’t want to go to school. I’ve been doing this the longest time and I want to thank the coaches. I had three or four who didn’t care about boxing, but they wanted their kids to get an education. Izzy Acosta is one. I got a perfect record at Marquette High, they’ve all graduated. I have four kids with master’s degrees, I’ve got 14 who have degrees, and four guys who are policemen and no way they should be policemen. Ngikhathazekile ubusisiwe.

“Old coaches would tell one you’re only as good as your memories. It’s crazy with kids 14, 14, 15. I had a kid named Vernon Forrest, a four-time world champion., It’s not just about boxing. It’s getting an education and after ten years they have a good life. I want to thank you all for putting me in the Hall of Fame.”




Michael Rodgers (Ray’s son): “Okokuqala, I want to apologize for my father for not being here. He hurt his back over the weekend working a boxing match, believe it or not, and he apologizes for not being here.

“I want to thank USA Boxing and the Alumni Association for recognizing my father for this award. And when he heard about this, he said he didn’t do any of these things during the 72 years he’s been in the sport for awards. He just did what he did for the love this sport and he did what needed to be done.”

USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION



Mike McAtee, Executive Director, USA Boxing (afanekiselwa): “On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Tyson Lee, I can only say thank you, ngiyabonga, and thank you. Tonight, is a culmination of work between our members, our alumni association, but I have to recognize a couple of people. This great event wouldn’t be done without Chris Cugliari, Al Valenti and Nicole Anderson, our Alumni Association Coordinator.

“I have the honor of talking about boxing and obviously we have passion. When Marvis Frazier said this was a brotherhood, a sisterhood, and none of us, quite frankly, who’ve stepped in the ring – I include myself in that – we’re not right. Takes a special person to climb in the ropes. You all can give yourselves a hand for not being right.

“USA Boxing is proud of our history, but more proud of our future, and I can tell you the young men and women battling at the elite levels, we started at 104 and that will be taken down to 13 by Sunday evening. Kodwa, more importantly, we’re going to be breeding the next generation of champions, because this is closing the chapter of 2020, but starting the chapter of 2024, and ultimately, when the Olympic Games comeback here in 2028. This is a special time.”



Chris Cuckoo, Executive Director, I-USA Boxing Alumni Association: “Three years ago a group of us sat around a table in Kansas City at the National Championships and this idea was hatched: John Brown, Al Valenti, John Scully, Christy Halbert, Mike McAtee and a few others. Ngakho, it’s something I’m very proud of and an organization I’m proud to lead with the support of all of you.

“A quick update of the Alumni Association, we’re at about 1200 members right now and this is our third year. We had events across the country the past year, honoring Micky Ward and Vinny Pazianza in the New England area. We gathered in Chicago. We honored Izzy Acosta at the Junior Olympics in Wisconsin, as well as Buster Douglas and coach Mike Stafford at the Ohio Legends celebration, and here we are today honoring our third Hall of Fame class. We’ve come a long way. Our theme in 2020 is two missions: Okokuqala, we want to take this down to the grassroots level, second is supporting our athletes and their families as they travel to the 2020 Olympic Games.”



Al Valenti, Special Projects Consultant for USA Boxing: “USA Boxing is the one fundamental difference that makes a difference in a young person’s life. The path to self-confidence, the path to self-respect, isiyalo, Ukunqoba, and how to accept defeat all comes through amateur boxing.

“Tonight, the story will be told. Tonight, we will take you on a path, of amateur boxing in the United States that rivals no other nation. Gold medalists, silver medalists, abaqeqeshi, Iziphathimandla, doctors…they’re all here. It’s like Woodstock for boxing; everybody’s here!”



Al Bernstein, Master of Ceremonies: “I’m delighted to be back here for my third year at USA Boxing’s Alumni Association Hall of Fame. I hosted a lot of events, MC’d a lot of events, and this is the final event because it’s in the end of December. It’s definitely my favorite.”




HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

I-USA Boxing Alumni Association ivulekele noma ngubani onothando lokufaka isibhakela futhi angathanda ukuhlala exhunywe ne-Amateur Boxing. Amalungu anikezwa ukufinyelela ezinhlobonhlobo zemicimbi ekhethekile ebanjiswa yi-Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku- Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 Imali yobulungu bonyaka ngamunye. Amalungu amasha azothola i-T-Shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.


CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed by Muhammad Ali futhi Evander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders futhi Tom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) champions Roy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhi Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary.

ULWAZI:
www.usaboxing.org
Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing
boxing, USA Boxing

3rd annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception

Shiya amazwana

Sen. John McCain to be honored

class of 2019 ceremonylokhu Friday at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Colorado Springs, Lap. (December 11, 2019) -Senator John McCain will be posthumously presented a Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work to protect boxers and elevate the sport this Friday night at a special ceremony during the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the ongoing 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals of the Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Hall of Fame broadcasterAl Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.

The USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third HOF class also includes three Olympic gold-medalists, “Big” George Foreman, Mark Brelandfuthi“Smokin’” Joe Frazier, as well as legendary coachesAl Mitchell futhiRay Rodgers.

The late Sen. McCain boxed at the U.S. Naval Academy, where the 5’ 7” lightweight competed three years as a fearless boxer who reportedly always came forward, never reversing gears. In his final year, he managed the battalion boxing team to a brigade championship.

“Our family believes our father would accept this award graciously as a very high honor,” daughterMegan McCain said on behalf of the McCain family. “The courage, character and action needed to step into the ring is something he felt very strongly about.

“He learned many life lessons through boxing, including the value of fitness, isiyalo, individual performance training and operating as part of a team. Boxers run up against opposition they have no idea how to attack or defend against, yet they figure it out and learn about themselves, as well as develop endurance during the process.”

“Senator McCain was a true ally to the sport, having personally understood the courage and risk-taking required from those who enter the ring,"KushoChris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. Throughout his career in politics, USA Boxing communicated with his office numerous times as part of a collaborative effort to safeguard the future of Olympic style, boxing amateur, and Senator McCain never hesitated to offer to do more for our athletes. For this and many other reasons, the USA Boxing Alumni Association looks forward to honoring his legacy this weekend.”

Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalistAndrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tatefuthi umfowaboThomas, 1972 OlympianTim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves iqhaweJaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic QualifierJackie Beard, 1981 Junior OlympicsGlen Modicue, four-time National championEric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier championJohn Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton kanyeStephensbrothers –Donald, Anthony futhiJerry.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

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 host by the Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku-Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.

CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed byMuhammad Ali futhiEvander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coachesRoosevelt Sanders futhiTom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) championsRoy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhiClaressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of CoachingEmanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing officialTom Cleary.

ULWAZI:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

Mayelana ne-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, USA Boxing

Simply The Best! Mark Breland

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class of 2019 ceremony Dec. 13 at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Colorado Springs, Lap. (December 3, 2019) – Arguably the greatest American amateur boxer of all-time, Mark Breland will be inducted into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame on Friday night, December 13, during a special Class of 2019 ceremony at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships, Dec. 7-15, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals of the Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Hall of Fame broadcasterAl Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.

The USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third HOF class also includes two other Olympic gold-medalists, “Big” George Foremanfuthi “Smokin’” Joe Frazier, as well as legendary coachesAl Mitchell futhiRay Rodgers. 

Sen. John McCain will be posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work to protect boxers and elevate the sport.

“I’m very happy to be inducted into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame,” Breland said. “It really means a lot, especially going in this year with Foreman and Frazier. I guess it proves I’ve done a lot in boxing. I’m happy to be going in. I had a lot of fun in USA Boxing. To be going into the same Hall of Fame withEvander (Indawo engcwele) (Muhammad) Ingabe, Foreman, Frazier…champs like that, it’s something for me to be with them.”

Breland, Okuxakayo, first got into boxing at the age of eight, due to him being brought to his first boxing match, Frazier-Ali I, at Madison Square Garden. “We were up in the top seats,” the Brooklyn-born and raised Breland remembered like it was yesterday. “The crowd, the atmosphere…all I could think of was, wow!  I didn’t realize until I got older that there were so many stars there watching Ali and Frazier, because they were all at ringside.

“The next day I went to a gym. I was really skinny, small, but I came back the next day. I enjoyed working out and fell in love with boxing. I wanted to box in big tournaments. This is what I wanted to do, but I had hid boxing from my parents. They knew I had I played football, but that was okay with them, because unlike in boxing, we had a helmet. I won at the Junior Olympics and it was in the papers. I saw it and thought my mother was going to kill me. My mother asked me why I hadn’t told her, so I invited her to watch me fight in the Golden Gloves. She was in one of the front rows, but afterwards when I asked her what she thought when I knocked out my opponent, she said she didn’t see it because she had closed her eyes.”

Breland went on to become a five-time New York Golden Gloves champion with a 21-0 irekhodi, okubala 19 knockouts, 14 coming in the opening round. In 1982, Breland captured a gold medal at the prestigious World Championships in Munich, Germany, after which he was named the No. 1 welterweight in the world by AIBA. He was also selected as Boxer of the Year (1982) by USAABF.

At the 1984 Olympic Games, held in Los Angeles, Breland fought his way to a gold medal,

along with eight of his American teammates: Paul Gonzalez, Steve McCrory, Meldrick Taylor, Pernell Whitaker, Jerry Page,Frank Tate, Henry Tillman futhiTyrell Biggs.

Breland, who completed his amateur career with an amazing 110-1 (73 Kos) irekhodi, appeared to be cooler than the other side of the pillow on a hot, steamy night. No real celebrations after he won gold, to the contrary, Mark was emotionless, the same as he still is today as a trainer of champions.

“I’ve always been really laid back,” he explained. “I just remember raising my hands. At an Olympic press conference, I was asked if I was happy, and I just said I was glad it was over. I guess I didn’t seem excited. I was happy but calm. It’s the same way now (as a trainer); it’s just me. I’m happy to win and happy to be doing what I do.”

“Mark’s dominance over his competition throughout his USA Boxing career cements him as a legend,” commentedChris Cugliari, Umqondisi Omlawuli Ophezulu we-USA Boxing Alumni Association. “His ring intelligence, commitment to his craft, and ability to fight at any pace against any style makes him a tremendous example for today’s group of amateur champions. It has been a long time coming, but the Alumni Association looks forward to reflecting on his accomplishments and honoring Mark in Louisiana.”

Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalistAndrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tatefuthi umfowaboThomas, 1972 OlympianTim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves iqhaweJaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic QualifierJackie Beard, 1981 Junior OlympicsGlen Modicue, four-time National championEric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier championJohn Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton kanyeStephensbrothers –Donald, Anthony futhiJerry.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

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 host by the Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku-Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.

Breland made his much-anticipated pro debut November 15, 1984, at the famed Madison Square Garden, defeating Dwight Williams by way of a six-round unanimous decision. During his illustrious pro career (1984-1997), Breland compiled a sterling 35-3-1 (35 Kos) record and he was a two-time World welterweight champion.

The 56-year-old Breland, who once trained the late, omkhulu 1992 US OlympianVernon Forrest, currently trains another great USA Boxing alumni and 2008 I-Olimpiki yethusi iMedalist, Deontay Wilder, the reigning World Boxing Council heavyweight champion.

“Once I started boxing in the amateurs,” Breland concluded, “I started progressing. I learned a lot from other amateurs like different styles. Boxers from New York/New Jersey had different styles than boxers from Georgia/Florida, and fighting Cubans was completely different. I was beating up a Cuban fighter, but every time I hit him, somehow, they took away a point from me. I knew right away that I had to knock him out to win, and they did end up stopping the fight.”

CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed byMuhammad Ali futhiEvander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coachesRoosevelt Sanders futhiTom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) championsRoy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhiClaressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of CoachingEmanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing officialTom Cleary.

ULWAZI:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

boxing, USA Boxing

Closing cuts & controlling blood flow leads 83-year-old Ray Rodgers into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame

Shiya amazwana
class of 2019 ceremony Dec. 13 at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Colorado Springs, Lap. (November 25, 2019) – Arkansas boxing icon Ray Rodgershas successfully dealt with more cuts than most surgeons, all the way into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame, in which he’ll be inducted on Friday night, December 13, during a special Class of 2019 ceremony, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships, Dec. 7-15, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals of the Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.

The USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third HOF class also includes three Olympic gold-medalists, “Big” George Foreman, “Smokin'” UJoe Frazier futhi Mark Breland, as well as legendary coach Al Mitchell.

Sen. John McCain will be posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work to protect boxers and elevate the sport.

There isn’t much in boxing, if anything, that Rodgers hasn’t done: boxer, official, trainer, administrator and, kunjalo, cut umuntu. “I’m a boxing guy,” Rodgers said in his Southern twang. “I’ve been around the block, several times. But I don’t say I’m a cut man, I’m a laceration management specialist.”

Rodgers first got into boxing when he was in the fifth grade, back in Oklahoma, where he was born. A memo was sent around that there would be a tryout for boxing held the next day at the local high school gym. His parents gave their permission to let him tryout, the first chapter of his incredible boxing career.

“From the first moment,” the charming boxing character remembered, “Ngase wezithombe. I still have the letter I received in boxing. That was in 1947 and I’m still in boxing. I’m very proud of that.”

Rodgers has worked 39 world championship fights in professional boxing, as a cut man (he only trains amateur boxers) for the likes of world champions Jermaine Taylor, Wayne McCollough futhi Tommy Morrison.

“It’s been beyond belief for a regular old boxing guy like me,” Rodgers said about his life in boxing. “I’ve traveled all over the world, many times, as a cut man.”

He was the first national official of both the Golden Gloves and Silver Gloves. Okuningi, he’s already been inducted in three Hall of Fames: Silver Gloves, Golden Gloves and Arkansas Sports HOF.

“Ray’s sacrifice to countless youth as a coach, mentor, cut umuntu, and leader throughout the amateur boxing community is inspirational,” amazwana Chris Cuckoo, Umqondisi Omlawuli Ophezulu we-USA Boxing Alumni Association. “His years of service and the knowledge he has passed on to other generations is what makes him a Hall of Famer, and we look forward to honoring him in December.”

Rodgers hasn’t slowed down, despite recently celebrating his 83rd birthday. He still owns and operates Ray Rodgers Boxing Club in West Little Rock, Arkansas, in addition to serving as director of the Arkansas Golden Gloves and Mid-South Tournament, which includes Louisiana, Mississippi, Western Tennessee and Arkansas. And he’s also the vice-president of the National Golden Gloves and chairman of the National Silver Gloves.

“At my age, I’m happy to have any birthday,” Rodgers joked. “I’m hoping to live another 10-12 Eminyakeni, Lord willing. It’s all in the Lord’s hands; controlling the flow of blood, noma, is in my hands.”

Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalist Andrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tate futhi umfowabo Thomas, 1972 Olympian Tim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves iqhawe Jaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic Qualifier Jackie Beard, 1981 Junior Olympics Glen Modicue, four-time National champion Eric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier champion John Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton kanyeStephens brothers – Donald, Anthony futhi Jerry.


HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

I-USA Boxing Alumni Association ivulekele noma ngubani onothando lokufaka isibhakela futhi angathanda ukuhlala exhunywe ne-Amateur Boxing. Amalungu anikezwa ukufinyelela ezinhlobonhlobo zemicimbi ekhethekile ebanjiswa yi-Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku- Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 Imali yobulungu bonyaka ngamunye. Amalungu amasha azothola i-T-Shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.




CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed by Muhammad Ali futhi Evander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders futhi Tom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) champions Roy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhi Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary.
boxing, USA Boxing

“Smokin’”Joe Frazier punched way into USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame

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class of 2019 ceremony Dec. 13 at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Colorado Springs, Lap. (November 21, 2019) – One of boxing’s all-time greatest, the late, omkhulu“Smokin’” Joe Frazier, will be inducted posthumously into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame, NgoLwesihlanu ebusuku, December 13, during a special Class of 2019 ceremony, at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the 2020 Olympic Trials and 2019 National Championships Dec. 7-15, at Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals of the Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Hall of Fame broadcasterAl Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.

The USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third HOF class also includes two other Olympic gold-medalists, “Big” George ForemanfuthiMark Breland, in addition to a pair of decorated coaches, Al Mitchell futhiRay Rodgers. 

Sen. John McCain will be posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work to protect boxers and elevate the sport.

“On behalf of our family,” Joe’s sonMarvis Frazier wathi, “we’d like to thank the USA Boxing Alumni Association for remembering Joe Frazier. Honoring him like this will introduce to him to new generations of boxing fans.

“My father learned discipline he needed to go on and win Olympic gold and do what he need to be world champion. He took that to the pros and beatMuhammad Ali in the best fight in the world. They were two great champions who worked together to show people what boxing is really all about.”

Born in South Carolina, Frazier was well known as an elite Philadelphia boxing product, wokubhala 38-2 amateur record. He was a three-time National Golden Gloves champion whose only two losses were both toBuster Mathis, who was the only opponent to defeat Frazier, including a loss by decision – questionable according to Frazier – in the Olympic Trials.

When U.S. Olympic Team heavyweight qualifierBuster Mathis was unable to compete at the 1964 Olympic Games due to injury, Frazier took full advantage of this opportunity as a replacement.

Frazier went on to become one of only four American boxers to medal in Tokyo, Joe the lone gold medalist, despite breaking a thumb in the semifinals. In the round wokuvula, Frazier knocked outGeorge Olynello (Uganda), followed by a third-round stoppage ofAthol McQueen (Australia) in the quarterfinals. AgainstVadim Yemelyanov (Russia) in the round kowandulela owamanqamu, Frazier won by way of a second round KO, even though he broke his left thumb.

Unwilling to tell anybody that he had broken his thumb, fearing that he wouldn’t be allowed to fight, Frazier showed the tremendous grit he became famous for by winning a close decision, 3-2, UkuqhathanisaHans Huber (United Team of Germany) in the championship final to capture a gold medal.

“Winning an Olympic gold medal was the highlight of his amateur career,” Marvis noted. “It meant that he was the best in the world, and it also made things easier for his next step into the pros. I think he felt it helped made him a real man, the best in the world, and not many people can say that. Winning Olympic gold with a broken thumb showed our father what he could do and proved that he was the man. He wasn’t afraid to get the job done. No excuses, get the jog done, was what my father said all the time. And you better had gotten the job done.”

Frazier (32-4-1, 27 Kos) went on to become a three-time world heavyweight champion, defeating the likes ofMuhammad Ali, Jimmy Ellis (kabili), Bob Foster, Oscar Bonavena(kabili), Jerry Quarry, Mathis, Doug Jones, Eddie Machen futhiGeorge Chuvalo during his 16-year professional career.

Listed at only 5-11 ½, Frazier was best known for his bobby, weaving, relentless pressure and liver-damaging left hook. He passed away November 7, 2011 due to complications from liver cancer at the age of 67.

“Joe’s legacy will live on forever throughout USA Boxing,” addedChris Cuckoo, Umqondisi Omlawuli Ophezulu we-USA Boxing Alumni Association. “His toughness and heart were second to none, and today’s USA Boxing champions can look to Joe for the definition of a champion in and out of the ring. We look forward to honoring his legacy as a Hall of Famer on December 13th."

Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalistAndrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalistFrank Tatefuthi umfowaboThomas, 1972 OlympianTim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves iqhaweJaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic QualifierJackie Beard, 1981 Junior OlympicsGlen Modicue, four-time National championEric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier championJohn Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton kanyeStephens brothers –Donald, Anthony futhiJerry.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

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 host by the Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku-Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.

CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed byMuhammad Ali futhiEvander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coachesRoosevelt Sanders futhiTom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) championsRoy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhiClaressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of CoachingEmanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing officialTom Cleary.  

ULWAZI:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

Mayelana ne-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, USA Boxing

USA Boxing Alumni Association announces Hall of Fame Class of 2019

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George Foreman, Mark Breland, UJoe Frazier, Al Mitchell & Ray Rodgers

Lifetime Achievement Award to Sen. John McCain

Dec. 13 reception at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Colorado Springs, Lap. (November 4, 2019) – Olympic gold-medalists“Big” George Foreman, Mark Breland futhi“Smokin’” Joe Frazier head the Class of 2019 into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame, NgoLwesihlanu ebusuku, December 13, at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the 2020 Olympic Trials and 2019 National Championships. Dec. 7-15, at Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Hall of Fame broadcasterAl Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.

USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third class also includes decorated coachesAl MitchellfuthiRay Rodgers. 

Sen. John McCain will be posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award. A fearless boxer for three years at the U.S. Naval Academy, Sen. McCain managed his battalion’s boxing team to the brigade championship.

Sen. McCain was the architect of the ground-breaking Muhammad Ali Act, pushed for the pardoning ofJack Johnson, and worked with the Cleveland Clinic on the forefront of brain trauma studies leading to more safety measures for boxers.

“My father had a passion for boxing,” his daughterMegan McCain said. “He loved it for the thrill of achievement, the nobility of struggle, and the dignity of men bloodied but unbowed. His love for boxing and his love for America had a lot in common. That’s why he worked tirelessly to protect and elevate the sport – making it an arena of integrity for fans and fighters alike.

“That’s also why I am honored to join the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame to accept their Lifetime Achievement Award on his behalf.”

Foreman (ngoba: 76-5, 68 Kos, amateur: 22-4) was also a three-time World Heavyweight Champion as a pro, in addition to famously winning a gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico, as well as at the National AAU Championships. A resident of Houston, Texas, his victims included Frazier (kabili), Ken Norton, Dwight Muhammad Qawi futhiMichael Moorer.

Considered one of the greatest amateur boxers of all-time, Breland (ngoba: 35-3-1, 25 Kos), amateur: 110-1) was a gold medalist at the 1984 Olympic Games in Las Angeles and 1982 World Championships. The Brooklyn native was a two-time World Welterweight Champion as a pro. His most notable victories were versusSteve Little, Rafael Pineda futhiLloyd Honeyghan.

The late Frazier (ngoba: 32-4-1, 27 Kos, amateur: 38-2), representing Philadelphia, captured a gold medal at the 1964 Olympics in Japan and he was a three-time World Heavyweight Champion as a professional. Frazier’s hit list includedMuhammad Ali, Jimmy Ellis (kabili),Bob Foster futhiOscar Bonavena (kabili).

Mitchell has been in boxing for more than 60 Eminyakeni, first as a boxer, but he’s much better known as a world-class boxing coach. He has been the boxing coach at N. Michigan University for decades, in addition to being head coach of the 1996 U.S. Olympic Team, and technical advisor for the 2004 futhi 2012 U.S. Olympic squads. He was selected as the 1994 USA Boxing Coach of the Year and among the 800-plus national amateur champions he has worked with areMike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather futhiVernon Forrest.  He currently trains 2016 U.S. Olympian and world title contenderMikaela Mayer, who will be in attendance supporting her coach.

A legend in Arkansas boxing, Rodgers has been an outstanding coach and extraordinary cut-man, who has been in the corner of world champions such asWayne McCullough, Jermain Taylor, Iran Barkley futhiTommy Morrison.  Ray’s decades of service through coaching and mentorship for the youth of Arkansas have established him as a role model and inspiration for amateur boxing coaches everywhere.

“This year’s USA Boxing Alumni Hall of Fame class, as well as Senator McCain, represent the very best of Olympic style boxing, kokubili futhi aphume ring,"amazwanaChris Cuckoo, Umqondisi Omlawuli Ophezulu we-USA Boxing Alumni Association. “Their decades worth of service representing themselves inspire us to give back and support current and future generations of champions. The USA Boxing Alumni Association looks forward to an exciting and memorable evening as we honor these champions of our sport.”

Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalistAndrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalistFrank Tatefuthi umfowaboThomas, 1972 OlympianTim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves iqhaweJaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic QualifierJackie Beard, 1981 Junior OlympicsGlen Modicue, four-time National championEric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier championJohn Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton kanyeStephens brothers –Donald, Anthony futhiJerry.

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Idalwe ukumpetha impilo yonke, Ubudlelwano obuzuzayo obuzuzisayo phakathi kwe-USA Boxing kanye ne-alumni yayo, –punjab, Iziphathimandla, Abaqeqeshi nabalandeli bebhokisi — I-Alumni Association ixhuma izizukulwane ze-Champions, ukugqugquzela nokubuyisela emuva ku-USA Boxing's Tunning Champions yesikhathi esizayo, futhi uphume esiyingini.

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 host by the Alumni Association, Kubandakanya i-USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception.

Ukujoyina inhlangano ye-alumni, Mane ubhalise ku-Alumnin@usaboxing.org Okwe $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, I-Keychain ne-E-Wallet.

CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed byMuhammad Ali futhiEvander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coachesRoosevelt Sanders futhiTom Coulter.

CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) championsRoy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward futhiClaressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of CoachingEmanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing officialTom Cleary. 

ULWAZI:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Isikhathi Sombukiso, Showtime Boxing

I-SHOWTIME® TO AIR EPIC WILDER vs. FURY HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE MAYELANA NALO UMGQIBELO E 9 PM ET/PT

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KONKE ACCESS: Wilder vs. I-FURY EPILOGUE Iqala Nge-SHOWTIME Ngokushesha Ngemva Ukulibaziseka Ukusakazwa Komdlalo Womcimbi OyiDrama

Photo Credit: Esther Lin / Showtime

 

I-Deontay Wilder ethokozisayo vs. Tyson Fury heavyweight blockbuster, ikhandidethi eliqinisekile le-Fight of the Year, izodlala ngo-SHOWTIME kulo Mgqibelo, December 8 at 9 p.m. ET / PT. Impi ye-WBC Heavyweight World Championship phakathi kukampetha waseMelika u-Wilder ongahluliwe ka-6-foot-7 kanye no-6-foot-9 inselele u-Fury iqale yasakazwa bukhoma ku-SHOWTIME PPV® ngomgqibelo, December 1 kusukela Ukudla Center e Los Angeles.

Ngomgqibelo, bobabili uWilder noFury benza amacala aqinile 2018 Kuhlonishwa iFighter of the Year. UWilder ubhekane nabaphikisi ababili abanzima kunabo bonke emsebenzini wakhe kulo nyaka okuhlanganisa nokuwina okumangalisayo ehlula i-slugger yaseCuba uLuis Ortiz emqhudelwaneni we-Fight of the Year ngoMashi.. Ukufutheka, umpetha we-lineal heavyweight, ubuyile emsebenzini weminyaka emibili nesigamu ukuze athole amawini amabili esikhathini esingangesonto 10 amasonto ngaphambi kokubhekana noWilder. Ngomgqibelo, wamelana ngokuyisimangaliso nokubhubhisa, umngqimuzo womzuliswano wokugcina obonakale wamkhipha emakhazeni. UFury ukhuphuke ngendlela emangalisayo futhi waqhubeka nokulwa kwaze kwaba insimbi yokugcina yokuvala umzamo ozokwehla njengenye yezindaba ezibuyayo ezinkulu kuyo yonke imidlalo..

Iphrezentheshini ye-SHOWTIME ye-Wilder vs. Ukufutheka, isiqephu esibizwa ngokuthi "...ubusuku obukhulu kunabo bonke bomdlalo wesibhakela e-U.S. enkumbulweni yakamuva,"By Yahoo! Sports, izolandelwa ngokushesha yi-premiere ye KONKE ACCESS: Wilder vs. I-FURY EPILOGUE. Indondo yenethiwekhi ye-Emmy Award Isiphetho iveza idrama yobusuku bokulwa ngombono ohlukile futhi yethula ababukeli umphumela ongavamile ukubonwa wokuklomelisa ubuqhawe bomhlaba. KONKE ACCESS: Wilder vs. I-FURY EPILOGUE uhamba ngemuva kwezigcawu, emakamelweni okukhiya, amakhona kanye nemibuthano yangaphakathi njengoba uFury ehlose ukuqedela ukubuya kwencwadi yezindaba futhi uWilder ubheka ukuqhubeka nokubusa kwakhe "njengomuntu omubi kunabo bonke emhlabeni."

boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Isikhathi Sombukiso, Showtime Boxing

U-DEONTAY WILDER NO-TYSON FURY BIGHT TO SPLIT-DECISION DRAW IN EPIC BATTLE NGESIKHATHI SOKUBONISA PPV® KUSUKA STAPLES CENTRE E-LOS ANGELES

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UJarrett Hurd Uvikela i-WBA, Izihloko ze-IBF 154-Pound Nge-KO Yomjikelezo Wesine Over James Welborn; U-Luis Ortiz Ubhalisa i-10-Round TKO ka-Travis Kauffman; UJoe Joyce Usale Engahluliwe Nge-KO Yomzuliswano Wokuqala Ebhekene noJoe Hanks
Chofoza LAPHA Izithombe ku-Esteri Lin / SHOWTIME

I-LOS ANGELES (Dec. 1, 2018) - UDeontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder kanye noTyson “The Gypsy King” Fury balwe kwaze kwaphuma isinqumo sokuhlukana nge-SHOWTIME PPV® ngoMgqibelo ebusuku bevela e-STAPLES Center, ngokungangabazeki enye yezimpi ezingcono kakhulu ze-heavyweight eminyakeni edlule.

 

 

 

Ngemuva kokulawula impi yeWBC World Championship kusenesikhathi, Ukufutheka (27-0-1, 19 Kos) wanqoba ngokuyisimangaliso ama- knockdown amabili kaWilder (40-0-1, 39 Kos) – okuhlanganisa eyodwa emzuliswaneni 12 - emdwebeni ongenakwenzeka. Abahluleli igoli iziqubu 115-111 ngoWilder, 114-112 for Fury kanye 113-113.

 

 

 

“Ngicabanga ukuthi ngokushaywa kwemingqimuzo emibili nakanjani ngiyinqobile impi,” kusho uWilder, oqophe i- knockdown ngayinye yakhe 41 Izimpi zodumo futhi ubevikela ibhande lakhe le-WBC okwesishiyagalombili kusukela lapho 2015. “Sithulule izinhliziyo zethu namhlanje ebusuku. Sobabili singamaqhawe, kodwa ngalawa maconsi amabili ngicabanga ukuthi ngiyinqobile impi.”

 

​

 

UFury wabona ngenye indlela, esho ukuthi wayinika konke anakho.

 

 

 

“Sisendaweni engaphandle, Ngiwiswe phansi kabili, kodwa ngisakholwa ukuthi ngiyinqobile leyo mpi,” kusho uFury wase-England, ukubuya kwakhe okumangalisayo kuyaqhubeka kulandela iminyaka emibili nesigamu engekho kulo mdlalo ekuluthweni izidakamizwa notshwala kanye nezinkinga zempilo yengqondo.. Bengingeke ngiwiswe phansi namhlanje ebusuku. Ngikhombise inhliziyo enhle ukusukuma. Ngize lapha ebusuku futhi ngalwa nenhliziyo yami.”​

 

 

Bekuwubusuku obumnandi njengoba kumenyezelwe ukuthi kuzoba khona 17,698 fans, eyayihlanganisa izinkanyezi zaseHollywood futhi ilwa nabalandeli abafana nabaphambili beLakers uShaquille O'Neal, UJerry West, izihlabani ze-NFL uMichael Strahan noMichael Irvin, nezingqalabutho zesibhakela u-Evander Holyfield noFloyd Mayweather.

 

 

 

Ukufutheka, owashiya uWilder 84-71 jikelele, ubanjwe isandla esifushane sokudla uWilder ngemuva nje kwendlebe yangakwesokunxele ukuze awise uFury okwesithathu emsebenzini wakhe emzuliswaneni wesishiyagalolunye.. Kwathi ngo-12, inhlanganisela ye-Wilder yesandla sokudla nehhuku yesokunxele ithumele i-6-foot-9 Fury phansi futhi, eshaya ikhanda phezu kweseyili. Again, ukwazile ukusukuma unompempe uJack Reiss wamvumela ukuthi aqhubeke nokulwa.

 

 

 

“Isibhakela sihlezi siyishashalazi yabantu abebengalindelekile, futhi yilokho ebesinakho kulobubusuku,” kusho umhlaziyi ongungoti we-SHOWTIME u-Al Bernstein.

 

 

 

UBernstein uthe ukubona uFury esukuma eqhubeka nokulwa ngemuva kokushaywa ngesihluku “kungenye yezinto ezimangaza kakhulu engake ngazibona eringini yesibhakela.”

 

 

 

Usomlando wesibhakela we-SHOWTIME nomhlaziyi uSteve Farhood wayenoFury elawula imizuliswano yokuqala nemizuliswano yokuwina uFury 3-8, futhi ekugcineni wahola impi, 115-111.

 

 

 

Ngenxa yesigatshana sokuphikisana, bobabili abalwi babuzwa ukuthi bangathanda yini ukuphinda. “Ngingathanda ukuthi kube yimpi yami elandelayo,” kusho uWilder. "Kungani kungenjalo? Ake sinikeze abalandeli lokho abafuna ukukubona. Bekuyimpi enkulu futhi masikwenze futhi. Akusho lutho kimina lapho sikwenza khona.”

 

 

 

“Amaphesenti ayikhulu sizokwenza impinda,” kusho uFury, ukulwa empini yokuqala yebhande le-heavyweight ekhokhelwayo eMelika kusukela 2002. “Singompetha ababili abakhulu. Mina nale ndoda singama-heavyweight amabili ahamba phambili emhlabeni.”

 

 

 

UWilder uthe uphume kancane waphuthuma izibhakela zakhe. “Angizange ngihlale phansi. Ngangimanqika kakhulu. Ngaqala ukuketula isandla sokudla futhi angikwazanga ukuzijwayeza.”

 

 

 

Ukufutheka, elwa okwesithathu kulo nyaka nomqeqeshi oneminyaka engu-26 uBen Davison ekhoneni lakhe, ubuye waba nomdlali wesibhakela owayengumdlali wesibhakela u-Ricky Hatton kanye nomqeqeshi wonyaka amahlandla ayisikhombisa uFreddie Roach ekhoneni lakhe.

 

 

 

Empini ehamba phambili kaWilder-Fury, "Swift" uJarrett Hurd (23-0, 16 Kos) uvikele ibhande lakhe le-IBF le-WBA lika-154-pounds ngomngqimuzo womlalisaphansi emzuliswaneni wesine ehlula uJames Welborn wase-United Kingdom. (24-7, 7 Kos), owayelwa okokuqala emhlabathini waseMelika.

 

 

UWelborn nguyena ohlasele ngomzuzu wokuqala emzuliswaneni wesine, ukuthumela u-Hurd ezintanjeni ngesibhakela ngemuva kokushaya umzimba nasekhanda. Ngokuphazima kweso ebona ukuthi kungenzeka usenkingeni, Ubunzima be-Accokeek, Md., countered back from sudden adversity in dramatic fashion and sent Welborn back-tracking before a devastating body punch sent him to one knee. He was counted out at 1:55 by referee Lou Moret, who was officiating the final fight of his 30-plus year career.

 

 

 

Emva fight, undefeated super welterweight Jermell Charlo entered the ring to challenge for Hurd’s coveted belts. “We definitely want Charlo,” Hurd told SHOWTIME Sports’ Jim Gray, saying the matchup would likely occur after one more fight. “I’m calling the shots. I’m No. ​1​ right now. When I say answer the phone, answer the phone. I got the date.”

 

 

 

Charlo shot back. “This is easy money. I like those belts – they look real good on you. He said he wants another fight. I’m ready now.”

 

 

 

Hurd, who unified the WBA and IBF belts by beating WBA champion Erislandy Lara in April in Las Vegas, was returning with a surgically repair left shoulder. He threw 118 limgwaza, more than half of the 220 punches he threw in the fight.

 

 

 

“I’m just coming off surgery so I wanted to see how I worked off the jab,” Hurd said. “I felt good I was working behind the jab I got caught on the ropes and got caught with some shots and said ‘that’s enough. He got enough TV time.’ I heard the crowd and I didn’t want to get brave. So I turned it up and got the knockdown.​”​

 

 

 

Former Wilder foe and heavyweight southpaw Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (30-1, 26 Kos) returned to STAPLES​ Center​ for a second consecutive victory with a resounding 10th-round TKO against Travis “My Time” Kauffman (32-3, 23 Kos) of Reading, Pa.

 

 

 

The 39-year-old Ortiz of Camaguey, Cuba, registered left-cross knockdowns in the sixth, eighth and 10th rounds before the final blow coming later in the 10th round against a gritty Kauffman. It was the 26th career stoppage for Ortiz, who lost to Wilder in a Fight of the Year candidate back in March.

 

 

 

The fight was officially called at 1:58 of the 10th round. "Ngingumfana iqhawe,” Ortiz said. “Nothing contains me. We didn’t have to knock him out but we wanted to show everything we have in our repertoire, and we showed it tonight.”

 

 

 

Ortiz, who was warned twice for low blows, clipped Kauffman for a second time by a lethal left hand of Ortiz at 2:29 in the round lwesishiyagalombili. But just like the first time he was send to canvas in the sixth round, Kauffman was able to get up and continue fighting.

 

 

 

The technically sound performance by Ortiz included 376 jab attempts to Kauffman’s 99 and out-landing him 66-7. That led to a 135-37 lead in total connects and a 69-30 margin in power connects against Kauffman, who SHOWTIME commentator Paulie Malignaggi called, “a stubborn guy who wouldn’t go away.”

 

 

 

“Of course I’ll fight the winner of this fight [Wilder-Fury],” Ortiz said. “I want that second fight with Wilder. I want to fight anybody.”

 

 

 

In the ​pay-per-view​ telecast opener, Joe “The Juggernaut” Joyce (7-0, 7 Kos) recorded a massive first-round knockout against Joe “The Future” Hanks (23-3, 15 Kos). A rising heavyweight, Joyce, kusukela London, England, ended the fight officially after just 2:25 as he used a right jab to set up a near-perfect left hook sending Hanks to the canvas and down for the count.

 

 

 

Trained by noted trainer Abel Sanchez, Joyce told Gray he’s ready for anyone. “I want to get in some bigger fights,” said the former Olympic silver medal winner who recorded his fourth first-round KO. “I’ve been doing well so there is plenty more to come. All the support from back home in England, thanks for coming. I hope I put on something good to watch.”

 

 

 

It was the second win in the United States for Joyce, who also picked up the vacant WBA Continental heavyweight title. “I’m getting people out quickly,"Uthe. “I’ve got a lot of experience, I’m just going to improve on my strength and my speed. I’ve heard comments that I’m slow but I seem to land the shots and get the job done.”

 

 

 

It was the third time during his career that Hanks, from Newark, N.J., has been knocked down by a left hook.

 

 

 

Earlier in the night on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Adonis Stevenson’s five-and-a-half year reign as the WBC Light Heavyweight Champion of the World ended as Oleksandr Gvozdyk dethroned boxing’s longest reigning champion with a devastating 11th round knockout from Videotron Center in Quebec City. VIDEO: https://s.sho.com/2BMNZIx. Saturday’s one-fight telecast from Quebec City will replay on Monday, December 3 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®. Isibhakela sesikhathi sombukiso: SPECIAL EDITION streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports social platforms and is archived on the SHO Sports YouTube channel and Facebook page.

 

 

 

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boxing, Premier Boxing Champions, Isikhathi Sombukiso, Showtime Boxing

HEAVYWEIGHT LEGENDS ROUNDTABLE QUOTES & IZITHOMBE

Shiya amazwana
Former Heavyweight Champions & Stars Discuss Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury Heavyweight Championship Showdown Taking Place This Saturday, December 1 Phila on SHOWTIME PPV® kusukela STAPLES Center in Los Angeles
Chofoza LAPHA Izithombe ku-Esteri Lin / SHOWTIME

 

 

I-LOS ANGELES (November 30, 2018) – One day before the most significant heavyweight event in the U.S. e kuka 15 Eminyakeni, heavyweight legends have descended on Los Angeles to discuss the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury showdown that will be live on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday night from STAPLES Center in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

 

 

 

A media roundtable featured heavyweight greats Evander Holyfield, Lennox Lewis, Riddick Bowe, Gerry Cooney, Earnie Shavers, Buster Douglas futhi Michael Spinks as they broke down Saturday’s battle of unbeaten giants.

 

 

 

Amathikithi for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Enterprises and Queensberry Promotions, in association with TGB Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and are available via AXS.com. Wilder vs. Fury will be produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. The suggested retail price (SRP) for the pay-per-view telecast is $64.99 for standard definition.

 

 

 

The roundtable was hosted by SHOWTIME Sports award-winning reporter Jim Gray from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, I-Los Angeles. Here is what the heavyweight legends had to say Friday:

 

EVANDER HOLYFIELD

 

 

“I feel that Deontay Wilder will win because eventually he’ll land that right hand. He’s very patient. He’s a thinker, but he can also take chances. When people take chances, they win.

 

 

 

“Deontay might not have as much experience as we did in our day, but he’s got the power. That’s what the people want to see and I think they’re going to be happy when they see it.

 

 

 

“There was a point in time where every great heavyweight was from the United States. We had a very good amateur program. I was the last true heavyweight champion from the U.S. before Wilder and until I lost the decision against Lennox.

 

 

 

“To be the heavyweight champion of the world, and to say you’re the best, you have to fight any man.”

 

Lennox LEWIS

 

 

 

“I think it’s going to be a great fight. Deontay Wilder has a terrific right hand and when it lands, not too many people can stand up to it. I also think that you can’t hurt what you can’t hit. Tyson Fury is not an easy person to hit. He has great ability and movement. I’m going with Deontay early or Fury late.

 

 

 

“We all know how it feels to lose the heavyweight championship. We know how hard it is to gain it back. Fury has lost it, and now he wants it back. I can see now that he’s sacrificing and saying to himself that he shouldn’t have lost it, and now he has to regain it.

 

 

 

“I think the view in the U.K. is that Tyson Fury is the man that stepped up. The gauntlet was thrown out there and he stood up for Britain. Deontay came to England to challenge Anthony Joshua, but it was Tyson Fury who answered the call.

 

 

 

“I would say that there are a couple of meccas in boxing that are places where everyone wants to fight. Las Vegas, New York and of course, I-Los Angeles. My fight against Vitali Klitschko at STAPLES Center was a great fight. My plan that night was not to box to go the distance, I boxed to go a short distance and it did.”

 

RIDDICK BOWE

 

 

 

“I’m going with Deontay Wilder tomorrow night. He’s going to put on a great show for everyone and get another knockout.

 

 

 

“Tyson Fury is skilled and tall, kodwa kimi, he doesn’t do enough on offense. He moves but he doesn’t move his hands enough.”

 

GERRY COONEY

 

 

 

“I think it’s a great fight tomorrow night. We know that Fury is coming back motivated. If Wilder finds a home for that right, he’s going to take Fury out. I think he’s going to connect at some point during the fight.

 

 

 

“I think Tyson Fury is a great man for how far he’s come back in his life and for standing up to Deontay Wilder. Fury called him out, so maybe he knows something we don’t know.

 

 

 

“I’m so glad to be up here. Look at all these great heavyweights and great guys. It’s special and they’re all here to watch this fight tomorrow night.”

 

EARNIE SHAVERS

 

 

 

“Me and Deontay are both from Alabama. I’ll be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame soon and Deontay will be there one day as well. Deontay is a great puncher and I’m pulling for him tomorrow night.

 

 

 

“I fought in a great era. If you fight guys on the same level, you’ll get good fights. These guys today could get in there in our day and put on a good show.”

 

BUSTER DOUGLAS

 

 

 

“I think this is going to be a good competitive fight. If I had to pick, I’d take Deontay Wilder by knockout in the eighth round.

 

 

 

“I feel like Tyson Fury has already won by battling back and getting into great shape and being in this position. I’m sure many people thought they’d never see him back here. That’s a victory in itself.

 

 

 

“My victory over Mike Tyson changed my life in a great way. I was now the heavyweight champion of the world. My dream had come true. Seeing my two youngest kids being born was the only thing that could top it.”

 

MICHAEL SPINKS

 

 

“Kwangathi umuntu umhlabeleli ukunqoba. I don’t know who’s in the best of shape but I think Fury being out of the ring makes me lean toward Deontay Wilder. If Fury is as big in person as they say he is, he’s got a great chance.

 

 

“If you’re the underdog, you just have to go on what you know and what you’ve worked on. You can’t pay attention to the doubters. You focus on what you’ve prepared yourself for and give it your all. I always saw myself winning. It’s the greatest feeling to come out of the ring victorious.”

 

 

 

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ABOUT WILDER vs. FURY

Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury pits the WBC Heavyweight World Champion Wilder against the lineal heavyweight champion Fury on SHOWTIME PPV® Saturday, December 1 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The PPV undercard begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT and will featureunbeaten unified super welterweight world champion Jarrett Hurd returning to take onJason Welborn, Cuban heavyweight slugger Luis Ortiz facing-off against Travis Kauffman and rising undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce battling Joe Hanks.

 

 

 

Ukuze ulwazi olunabile, vakashela www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.comfuthi www.staplescenter.com ukulandela on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @BronzeBomber, @Tyson_Fury, TGBPromotions, @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions futhiwww.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.