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TOKA KAHN-CLARY VS. JOHN VINCENT MORALDE HEADLINE REAL DEAL BOXING FRIDAY DEC. 1 IN PROVIDENCE, RI

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TICKETS NOW ON SALE!!
ALSO SHOWCASING NEW ENGLANDERS IRVIN GONZALEZ, NICK DELOMBA, KHIRY TODD, TIMMY RAMOS & ANDY GONZALEZ,
PROVIDENCE, RI (November 10, 2017) Featherweight Contender and Hometown Hero, TOKA KAHN-CLARY, (23-1, 16 KO’s), of Providence, Rhode Island battles undefeated Philippines’ based contender JOHN VINCENT MORALDE, (19-0, 10 KO’s) in the 10-round main event on Friday, December 1 at The Strand Ballroom and Theatre, it was announced today by Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing.
Tickets for ‘Real Deal Championship Boxing V’ starting at $45 are Now On Sale and can be purchased through www.TheRealDealBoxing. com and www.thestrandri.com.
The Strand Ballroom and Theatre is located at 79 Washington Street, Providence, RI, 02903. Doors will open on the evening of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at7:00 p.m. ET. The event will be telecast live on CBS Sports Network.
“We’re very excited to announce this outstanding featherweight clash between Toka Kahn-Clary and John Vincente Moralde,” said Holyfield. “The winner of this fight will have a great opportunity to continue his path towards a world title opportunity and these high stakes are exactly what will bring out the best in each fighter.
“This is clearly the toughest match of each fighter’s professional career and we anticipate an excellent fight for fans in the arena and those watching on CBS Sports Network.”
On October 19, Kahn-Clary, ranked #14 in the world by the World Boxing Association, made an emphatic return to battle with a blistering second round knockout of then undefeated David Berna in Atlanta, Georgia in front of a packed house and a nationally televised audience in Atlanta, Georgia as Holyfield celebrated his 55th birthday in his hometown.
The victory also earned Kahn-Clary the WBA-NABA Featherweight Title.
This will be Kahn-Clary’s first fight in Providence since his professional debut in June 2012. The 25-year-old will be making his fourth start of 2017 with prior victories this year against Angel Luna and Francisco Medel.
Just 23-years-old, Moralde will be fighting for the first time in the United States. Holder of the WBC Asian Boxing Council Featherweight Title, Moralde is coming off a third-round stoppage of Philip Parcon on February 28, 2017 in General Santos City, Philippines.
The heavy handed Moralde is on a three-bout knockout streak, two of which came in the first round.
Co-featured on the outstanding card and also making his U.S. debut is Undefeated Italian Cruiserweight Contender FABIO “Stone Crusher” TURCHI, (12-0-0, 9 KO’s), of Florence, Italy in an eight-round clash.
In a six-round featherweight clash, popular, undefeated Worcester, MA native IRVIN GONZALEZ, (7-0-0, 6 KO’s) battles ERNESTO GARZA, (9-2-0, 5 KO’s), of Saginaw, MI.
The heavy-handed Gonzalez started his professional career with six knockouts, all of which took place in the first two rounds. Most recently the 21-year-old won an eight round unanimous decision over Raul Lopez on June 10, 2017.
Riding a modest two-bout winning streak, the 29-year-old Garza returns to action following a six round unanimous decision over Edward Kakembo on August 25, 2017 in Warren, MI.
Junior welterweights will see action in a scheduled eight rounder with NICK DELOMBA, (11-2-0, 2 KO’s), Cranston, R.I., facing off against LOUIS CRUZ, (12-3-0, 6 KO’s), of Bronx, New York.
The 27-year-old DeLomba looks to move back into the win column after a very hard fought 10-round decision loss to Jimmy Williams on April 7, 2017 in Lincoln, R.I.
The upset minded Cruz heads to Providence following the biggest win of his career, a ninth-round stoppage of local favorite Anthony Karperis on July 28, 2017, in Huntington, New York.
In an eight-round junior middleweight battle, JEREMY ‘J Flash’ NICHOLS, (7-1-1, 2 KO’s), of Las Vegas, NV clashes with Worcester, MA native ANDY GONZALEZ, (6-2-0, 5 KO’s).
Nichols looks towards the win column following the first loss on his record, a hard-fought majority decision to undefeated Peter Dobson on June 24, 2017 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Gonzalez is also looking for a return to the win column losing a six-round majority decision to Antonio Chaves Fernandez on June 10, 2017 in his hometown.
Also featured on the card in separate bouts will be Lynn, MA knockout artist, junior welterweight KHIRY ‘TNT’ TODD, (6-0-0, 5 KO’s), and junior lightweight TIMMY RAMOS, (4-0-1, 4 KO’s, of Framingham, MA.
Further details on this exciting card will be announced shortly.
Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with The Strand Ballroom and Theatre, Medical Arts Radiology
([http://www.medicalartsradiology.com)/]www.medicalartsradiology.com)  and Venum ([http://www.venum.com)/]www.venum.com).
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Former national amateur champion Bobby Harris III breaking out of shadow cast by his father with a little help from his friends

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October 28 in Worcester, MA
(L-R) – front: Bobby Harris III holding Bobby Harris IV and A.J. Rivera; rear: Bobby Harris and Jose Antonio Rivera
WORCESTER, Mass. (October 2, 2017) – Local prospect Bobby “BH3” Harris III is ready to breakout of the shadows cast by his father, retired pro boxer Bobby Harris, starting Saturday night, October 28, in the fourth and final 2017 installment of the popular professional boxing series, “New England’s Future”, at the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 4” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
“BH3” and A.J. grew-up together in gyms as sons of pro fighters. They had dreams of making it in boxing, which has come to fruition with “BH3” the rising prospect, A.J. the president and matchmaker for RPE. At times, though, what’s transpired may be somewhat surreal for both young men.
“I grew up in boxing,” Bobby Harris III explained. “My father always brought me to the gym and his fights. My uncle, Adam Harris, was also a pro boxer. My father and Jose were super close, me and A.J. grew-up as brothers. The same blood couldn’t make us any closer. It’s me and AJ. My first amateur fight was when I was 13. A.J. used to run and workout with me. I’d go to his house after school and sleep over on weekends. We planned our lives together in boxing; my job is to fight and A.J. promotes and makes matches.”
“I remember growing up with Bobby as my brother,” A.J. added. “We did everything together: ran, trained, sparred and pushed each other to our greatest limits. He’s grown so much over the years. His natural ability, mixed with years of experience, and Bobby growing into a man will surely lead to him being world champion one day. I’m truly proud and excited to see our childhood plan unfold.”
“BH3” only had about 40 amateur matches but the large majority were at the national level. He is a two-time national amateur champion, including a gold-medal performance in the USA National Championships, and as a member of Team USA, he was rated No. 1 in the U.S, and No. 2 in the world.
The 21-year-old decided to turn pro earlier this year, rather than wait for a shot at the Olympics, after discussing his options with his father, as well as Jose and A.J. Rivera, plus his head trainer, Rocky Gonzalez. Worcester boxers such as Jermaine Ortiz and Irvin Gonzalez turning pro, along with the arrival of now 8-month-old Bobby Harris IV, were key factors in his decision to become a professional boxer. “I didn’t want to waste another year,” Bobby admitted. “Turning pro now will get me into rankings earlier. The time was right”
Bobby’s father was a 4-time national amateur champion as a super heavyweight who compiled a 20-2-1 (13 KOs) pro record between 1993 and 1999. Today, he is an important member of his son’s corner, but he did leave a shadow cast over his son, especially across New England.
“People will always compare me with my dad, in the ring, but, as good as he was, it’s a great honor to be his son,” Bobby Harris III remarked. “It’s been nothing but good for me. He trained with fighters like (Oscar) De La Hoya, (Shane) Mosley, (Evander) Holyfield and so many other great fighters. We are different, though. and now I’m establishing my own identity. The sport has changed so much since he fought. Back then it was mostly two guys beating each other up, not as much of a performance. I like to put on a good performance and have people say, ‘He’s cool, and when does he fight again. My dad has told me how different boxing is today compared to when he fought. Now, marketing is so important for fighters, and a lot of exposure is through social media.
“My father was a heavyweight, I’m going to go down to 154 (junior middleweight. He is so much bigger, taller and heavier than I am, so fighting in different weight classes separates us. I’m a different style fighter, too. I’m more active than him. So that people don’t confuse us when talking, I came up with ‘BH3’ as my persona. We are different in and out of the ring.”
“I have known Little Bobby (as I call him) since he was born,” Jose Rivera noted. “He calls me, Tio (uncle) Jose, and I love him like a member of my family. I am happy and proud to see little Bobby go after his dreams and goals his way and on his terms. I wouldn’t want it any other way. My son, A.J., and I are happy that we can use our RPE company to be able to help little Bobby pursue his dreams and goals. Worcester – and soon enough the rest of the world – will know it’s BH3 Time!”
“BH3” turned pro this past June 10, in his Worcester hometown, taking a four-round unanimous decision (40-36 X 3) over an awkward opponent, Rodrigo Almeida, who seemed more interested in survival, often frustrating “BH3” with his constant holding.
“I’m happy with the way that fight went because I learned so much,” Bobby commented. “I was so excited with all the hype about my pro debut, and I was into the crowd trying for the knockout. I learned that I need to take my time, have fun, throw combinations and that the knockout will come. Dad liked to jab, I like to hit and run like ‘Sugar’ Ray (Leonard). My first pro fight wasn’t really me. I’m the matador but I can fight like a bull if the opportunity comes to me. I can change things around but I forgot to have fun in my pro debut.”
“BH3” plans to breakout from his father’s shadow in his Oct. 28th fight against New Yorker Troy Omer “KO Artist” Artis (3-7-1, 2 KOs), contested at a 164-pound catchweight, in a four-round bout.
Former WBU Americans and IBU North American cruiserweight champion Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs), fighting out of Pembroke (MA), will face an opponent to be determined in the eight-round main event.
Former UFC heavyweight title challenger Gabriel “Napao” Gonzaga will make his pro boxing debut in a four-round match against Washington D.C. heavyweight Alando Pugh (1-10-1, 1 KO).
The “New England’s Future 4” undercard features many of the best and most popular N.E. fighters, including 2016 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (4-0, 2 KOs), a promising welterweight from East Hartford (CT), who faces Clifton Rashad Thames (3-2-1), of Oklahoma City, in a six-round match.
Other undercard fights, all four-rounders, include 2014 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (4-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of nearby Lawrence (MA), vs. veteran Norwalk (CT) welterweight Shakha Moore (12-23-3, 2 KOs), New Haven (CT) Edwin Soto (10-2-2, 4 KOs) vs. Anthony Everett (1-6). of Lawrence, at a 150-pounds catch-weight, three-time USA Boxing Nationals champion Elvis Figueroa (2-0, 1 KO), of New Haven (CT), vs. Anthony Bowman (11-63-2, 3 KOs). Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (3-0, 2 KOs), of Hartford (CT), vs. Hansen Castillo (0-2), at a 180-pounds catch-weight, Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (2-0) vs. Oscar Diaz (0-12), of Hartford, and Danbury (CT) junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0) vs. Alan Beeman (0-15), of Providence.
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., first bout 7:00 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usna.com, and American Pyramids.
Part of the proceeds will go to Worcester Latino Dollars For Scholars.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Irvin Gonzalez captures UBF All-Americas Featherweight Title

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Sonya Lamonakis & Laura Ramsey fight to UBF World Heavyweight title draw
“New England’s Future 3” Results from Worcester, MA
WORCESTER, Mass. (June 11, 2017) – Boxing returned to DCU Arena (Exhibition Hall) for the first time in 11 years and Worcester’s newest budding star, Irvin Gonzalez, entertained the hometown crowd, capturing the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) Featherweight Championship, last night in the “New England’s Future 3” main event.
“New England’s Future 3” was presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two-division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera. RPE will return to the DCU Center on October 28th for its final installment of “New England’s Future” series in 2017.
In the co-featured attraction, popular New York City heavyweight Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis, by way of Greece and Turners Falls, MA, faced Laura “Lady Ram” Ramsey in a female battle of former world champions for the vacant UBF World title,
The 21-year-old Gonzalez (7-0, 6 KOs) was fighting in his first scheduled eight-round bout, against Raul Lopez (10-32-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx (NY). The two fighters came out fast in a firefight, both throwing leather from all angles, although neither was hurt in the opening round. The pace picked up even more in the second as both fighters landed solid shots.
Fighting in the third round for the first time in his young professional career, Gonzalez turned up the heat, ripping effective combination to the head and body of Lopez, who responded by pounding Gonzalez on the ropes.
Gonzalez dropped Lopez early in the fourth with a strong right to the chin, followed by a brawling fifth round, and the action slowed slightly in the sixth. Gonzalez, who took control in the final two rounds, went the distance for the first time, taking a hard-fought eight-round unanimous decision (79-73 X 2, 76-75).
“He was definitely the toughest I’ve fought,” Gonzalez said after the fight. “I still have to work on things in the gym. I didn’t go to the body like I did in my last few fights. I was head-hunting tonight. The dude was tough, I had to out-box him. I hurt my left hand late in the later rounds and stayed southpaw.
“I definitely learned a lot. My conditioning was there and I went eight strong rounds. I feel good, I could go another eight rounds.  Fighting at home was good, I have a big fan-base here. I hope to be back here in October 28th.”
Lamonakis (10-2-3, 1 KO), a former IBO world champion, and past GBU world titlist Ramsey (108-1, 5 KOs) went toe-to-toe from the opening bell for 10 competitive, non-stop rounds, ending in a 10-round draw by three judges’ scores of 95-95.
Undefeated Worcester heavyweight Bryan Daniels (5-0, 3 KOs) unloaded on an over-matched Christopher “The Archbishop” Boykins (1-9), dropping the Floridian three times in the second round until referee Leo Gerstel mercifully waved off the fight at the end of the second.
Former No. 1 USA amateur boxer Bobby Harris III, the son of multiple national amateur champion and retired pro heavyweight, Bobby Harris, made his long-awaited pro debut. Fighting out of Worcester, Harris overcame early roughhouse tactics by Brazilian light heavyweight Rodrigo Almeida, of Woburn, MA, to earn a four-round “shutout” decision.
In a rematch of a fight this past April, Antonio Chaves Fernandez (8-32-4, 2 KOs), of Brockton (MA), defeated Worcester welterweight Andy Gonzalez (6-2, 5 KOs), by way of a six-round majority decision, to even their rivalry at 1-1.
Southbridge, MA welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (2-0) and his Lawrence, MA opponent, Anthony Everett (1-6), turned in an entertaining performance as Pagan won a four-round majority decision, despite him being decked in the final round.
Lawrence, MA welterweight Adrian Sosa (3-0, 3 KOs) needed only 41-second to stop New York City’s Zach Johnson (0-2). Sosa dropped Johnson in the first 10 seconds and again moments later, after which referee Gerstel halted the action.
Springfield, MA welterweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (2-0), the son of a retired professional boxer, improved to 2-0 with a four-round unanimous decision over veteran Connecticut fighter Shaka Moore (12-23-3, 2 KOs).
Worcester’s pro-debuting Neal Sullivan (0-0-1) and Brazilian super middleweight Saul Almeida (0-8-1) opened the night fighting a four-round majority draw.
Complete results below:
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS
(winners listed first each fight)
MAIN EVENT – VACANT UBF ALL-AMERICAS FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Irvin Gonzalez (7-0, 6 KOs), Worcester, MA
WDEC8 (79-73, 79-73, 76-75)
Raul Lopez (10-3-1, 5 KOs), Bronx, NY
(Gonzalez won vacant UBF All-Americas featherweight title)
CO-FEATURE – VACANT UBF HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Sonya Lamonakis (10-2-3 (1 KO), New York, NY by way of Greece
D10 (95-95, 95-95, 95-95)
Laura Ramsey (10-7-1 (5 KOs), Winter Haven, FL
HEAVYWEIGHTS
Bryan Daniels (5-0, 3 KOs), Worcester, MA
WTKO2 (2:35)
Christopher Boykins (1-9, 0 KOs), Orlando, FL
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Bobby Harris III (1-0), Worcester, MA
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Rodrigo Almeida (1-7, 0 KOs), Woburn, MA
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Neal Sullivan (0-0-1), Worcester, MA
D4 (37-39, 38-38, 38-38)
Saul Almeida (0-8-1), Framingham, MA
WELTERWEIGHTS
Derrick Whitley (2-0, 0 KOs), Springfield, MA
WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 38-37)
Shaka Moore (12-23-3, 2 KOs), Norwalk, CT
Antonio Chaves Fernandez (8-32-4, 2 KOs), Brockton, MA
WDEC6 (58-56, 58-56, 57-57)
Andy Gonzalez (6-2, 5 KOs), Worcester, MA
Adrian Sosa (3-0, 3 KOs), Lawrence, MA
WTKO1 (0:41)
Zach Johnson (0-2), New York, NY
Wilfredo Pagan (2-0, 0 KOs), Worcester, MA
WDEC4 (38-37, 38-37, 38-38)
Anthony Everett (1-6, 0 KOs), Lawrence, MA
 
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp, KingRivera_
boxing, women's boxing

Heavyweight Sonya Lamonakis Takes on Laura Ramsey for vacant UBF World Championship

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“New England’s Future 3” June 10th in Worcester, MA
WORCESTER, Mass. (June 1, 2017) – Popular heavyweight Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis takes on Laura “Lady Ram” Ramsey for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) World title, on Saturday night, June 10, in the eight-round “New England’s Future 3” co-feature at the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 3” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
Undefeated prospect Irvin Gonzalez (6-0, 6 KOs), 21, headlines at home in his first scheduled eight-round bout, versus Raul Lopez (10-2-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx (NY), for the vacant UBF All-American super featherweight championship.
“I am excited to be able to have our first world championship boxing match on our ‘New England’s 3’ boxing event,” promoter Jose Rivera commented. “It’s special because it’s a women’s World Heavyweight title fight with veterans like Sonya and Laura, who also have some hostilities towards one another. They’ve both earned this opportunity to fight for the UBF Women’s World Heavyweight Championship. I expect fireworks and know fans will be in for a treat.”
Pro boxing returns to the DCU Center for the first time in 11 years, when promoter Jose Antonio Rivera defeated Alejandro Garcia, by way of a 12-round unanimous decision, for the World Boxing Association (WBA) World super welterweight title.
Born in Greece, Lamonakis (10-2-2, 1 KO), who grew-up in Turners Falls (MA), is a teacher in New York City. She is a Springfield College graduate and has two Master’s Degrees. “I’m honored to be fighting in the first world title fight in Worcester since Jose Rivera,” Lamonakis said. “I’m from Massachusetts and I fought twice at Mechanics Hall (in Worcester, including her pro debut in 2010). I heard Jose was promoting shows in Worcester, so I called to say I’d like to fight for a world title on one of his cards. I think he saw me fight before and he quickly agreed.
“This is still a make-dominates sport. I tell young girls to box as a side job. I have two Master’s Degrees and I’m a full-time teacher in New York. Boxing is my hobby. Very few women can make enough money boxing to make a good living. I don’t know if it’s because I was born in Greece and boxing is in my blood, but I love this sport and that’s what keeps me going. I guess I was born to fight. I enjoy getting in the ring. I’ve gotten a lot from boxing and now I’m giving back to amateurs in New York City as president of a youth organization.”
Lamonakis; is a former International Boxing Organization World and New York State female heavyweight champion. Her opponent, Ramsey (10-7, KOs), as a two-time world title challenger is hoping the third time is the charm for her. They have history together and this fight nearly happened a few years ago.
“I beat her daughter (Alysia Williams-Stevenson) in my second pro fight,” Lamonakis explained. “She said she’s see me and now, seven years later, we’re fighting. She’s a little older than me and I needed more fights before I fought her. We were supposed to fight a few years ago in Aruba but a hurricane cancelled the show.”
In an eight-round Special Cruiserweight Attraction, Pembroke (MA) fan favorite Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs) meets Brazilian knockout specialist Marcelo Leonardo “Queizada” Da Silva (22-4, 17 KOs).
Fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Worcester welterweight Andy Gonzalez (6-1, 5 KOs) vs. TBA, Lawrence (MA) junior welterweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Buffalo’s Jack Grady (0-5-1), Worcester featherweight Ranse Andino (1-0) vs. Woburn (MA) Gilvan Santos (0-3), Springfield (MA) junior middleweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (1-0) vs. Norwalk (CT) veteran Shaka Moore (12-22-3, 2 KOs), Worcester’s pro-debuting Bobby Harris III vs. Woburn (MA) super middleweight Rodrigo Almeida (1-6), Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (1-0) vs. Lawrence’s Anthony Everett (1-5), Worcester’s Bryan Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Florida’s Christopher “The Archbishop” Boykins (1-8) at a 205-pound catchweight, Hartford’s (CT) Richie “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Brazilian Nathan Schulte (0-2) at a 180-pound catchweight, and Worcester’s pro-debuting Neal Sullivan vs. Framingham (MA) super middleweight Saul Almeida (0-8).
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters
Doors open at 6 p.m., first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usana.com, Whiskey On Water and Worcester criminal defense Atty. Michael Erlich.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Budding star Irvin Gonzalez Starting to make waves in Super featherweight division

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“New England’s Future 3” June 10th in Worcester, MA

WORCESTER, Mass. (May 24, 2017) – New England’s top prospect with 10 pro fights of less, undefeated hometown favorite Irvin Gonzalez, is on a fast track going into his June 10th headline fight in the third installment of the “New England’s Future” series, at the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“New England’s Future 3” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
The 21-year-old Gonzalez (6-0, 6 KOs) takes on Raul Lopez (10-2-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx (NY), in an eight-round main event for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) All-American super featherweight championship.
Pro boxing returns to the DCU Center for the first time in 11 years, ironically, when promoter Jose Antonio Rivera defeated Alejandro Garcia, by way of a 12-round unanimous decision, for the World Boxing Association (WBA) World super welterweight title.
“I am excited to watch Irvin’s boxing career flourish,” promoter Jose Rivera remarked. “He has all the tools to become a world champion. Fighting for the UBF championship will be the first of many and I am glad that we are able to give him this opportunity. I see big things for Irvin and I hope fans come out Saturday night, June 10th, to support him and the other local boxers.”.
“This is a great opportunity for me,” Gonzalez said. “I’m blessed to be fighting in Worcester for my first title. It’s not a big title but it’s like taking baby steps to a world title. Since I started boxing at the Boys & Girls Club, I always wanted to be like Jose, a three-time world champion. Now, it’s my turn, and I’m fighting again in my city.”
Gonzalez has a perfect pro record: six rights, six wins by knockout. However, he’s only had fought a grand total of eight rounds, and June 10th he’s in a scheduled eight-round match. The well-spoken youngster isn’t concerned with the step up in rounds and opposition.
“I’ve been asked about that by a lot of media, trainers and other fighters,” he explained. “I’ve always trained like it’s for a world title fight, 12 rounds, so I’m not worried about going into deep water. I’m in magnificent shape, three weeks before the fight, and even in the amateurs I’ve always gotten stronger as the fight went along. In sparring, I get stronger, so going eight isn’t a problem for me.
“I don’t really know much about my opponent. He won a few national titles but hasn’t fought too often. I’ll see what he brings into the ring and then adjust. I know I’m taller.”
Gonzalez learned a lot when he was a sparring partner for Guillermo Rigondeaux in Florida that was supposed to be a six-week training camp that ended after three weeks due to Rigondeaux’ fight being cancelled.
“I learned a lot about different training methods that I now use,” Irvin continued. “His techniques are phenomenal.   I was around a world champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist and I saw his work ethic. After all he’s accomplished, he still has a great work ethic, and I learned from him that a fighter need continue working like he does until the day it’s all over. It’s not all about money, it’s having fun every day, doing what we love.”
Former world female heavyweight champions Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis (10-2-2, 1 KO), the New York City teacher who lived in Turners Falls (MA), and Laura “Lady Ram” Ramsey (10-7, 5 KOs) battle for the vacant UBF World heavyweight title in the eight-round co-featured event.
Pembroke (MA) cruiserweight Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs) meets invading Brazilian knockout artist Marcelo Leonardo “Queizada” Da Silva (22-4, 17 KOs) in an eight-round Special Cruiserweight Attraction.
Also fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Worcester welterweight Andy Gonzalez (6-1, 5 KOs) vs. TBA, Lawrence (MA) junior welterweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Buffalo’s Jack Grady (0-5-1), New Haven (CT) featherweight Josh Crespo (7-4-3, 3 KOs) vs. Georgia’s Gabriel Braxton (2-18, 1 KO), Worcester featherweight Ranse Andino (1-0) vs. Woburn (MA) Gilvan Santos (0-3), Springfield (MA) junior middleweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (1-0) vs. Norwalk (CT) veteran Shaka Moore (12-22-3, 2 KOs), Worcester’s pro-debuting Bobby Harris III vs. Woburn (MA) super middleweight Rodrigo Almeida (1-6), Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (1-0) vs. Lawrence’s Anthony Everett (1-5), Worcester’s Bryan Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Florida’s Christopher “The Archbishop” Boykins (1-8) at a 205-pound catchweight, Hartford’s (CT) Richie “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Brazilian Nathan Schulte (0-2) at a 180-pound catchweight, and Worcester’s pro-debuting Neal Sullivan vs. Framingham (MA) super middleweight Saul Almeida (0-8).
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com,
by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters
Doors open at 6 p.m., first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usana.com, Whiskey On Water and Worcester criminal defense Atty. Michael Erlich.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Undefeated hometown prospect Irvin Gonzalez to headline June 10; New England’s Future series continues in Worcester, MA

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Heavyweight Sonya Lamonakis to
Fight for vacant UBF World title
WORCESTER, Mass. (May 10, 2017, 2017) – Undefeated rising super featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez will headline the third installment of the “New England’s Future” series, Saturday night, June 10, as professional boxing returns for the first time in 11 years to the DCU Center (Exhibition Hall) in Worcester, Massachusetts.
“New England’s Future 3” is presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by retired three-time, two division world champion Jose Antonio Rivera and his son, Anthonee (A.J.) Rivera.
Arguably the top New England prospect, the 21-year-old Gonzalez (6-0, 6 KOs) is continuing Worcester’s rich boxing tradition, which dates back nearly a century.  A 2015 N. E. Golden Gloves champion, Gonzalez has knocked out all six of his pro opponents, four in the opening round, the other two in the second. Gonzalez will fight Raul Lopez (10-2-1, 5 KOs), of Bronx (NY), in an eight-round match for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) East Regional super featherweight championship.
Former International Boxing Organization (IBO heavyweight world champion, Sonya “The Scholar” Lamonakis (10-2-2, 1 KO), will face TBA in the eight-round co-feature for the vacant UBF World heavyweight title.  Lamonakis is a New York City teacher who lived in Turners Falls (MA) and graduated from Springfield (MA) College.  She is a native of Greece and a four-time New York Golden Gloves champion.
“I am excited that we will be having our ‘New England’s Future 3’ boxing event at the DCU Center,” promoter Jose Antonio Rivera said.  “The last time there was boxing at the DCU was when I fought for and won the WBA Junior Middleweight world title. It was an electric night with the fight televised live on Showtime. I am hoping we can bring the same kind of excitement with our action- packed lineup of young and hungry up-and-coming boxers.
“We have two UBF title fights on the line with Sonya Lamonakis fighting for the female UBF Heavyweight World Title and Worcester’s own Irving Gonzalez, in only his seventh pro fight, fighting for the UBF 126-pound division East Regional championship. I’m also excited to have five Worcester boxers on our event at the DCU and I hope our Worcester fan-base comes out to support them. I am looking forward to seeing another great night of action-packed boxing.”
Powerhouse fighter Vinnie “American Nightmare” Carita (16-1-1, 15 KOs), fighting out of Pembroke (MA), returns in an eight-round Special Cruiserweight Attraction against TBA.
Also fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Worcester welterweight Andy Gonzalez (6-1, 5 KOs) vs. Baltimore’s Kevin “The Scarecrow” Womack, Jr. (7-14-3, 5 KOs), Lawrence (MA) junior welterweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Las Vegas’ Johnny Frazier (2-3-0-4, 2 KOs), New Haven (CT) featherweight Josh Crespo (7-4-3, 3 KOs) vs. Georgia’s Gabriel Braxton (2-18, 1 KO), Worcester featherweight Ranse Andino (1-0) vs. Woburn (MA) Gilvan Santos (0-3),  Springfield (MA) junior middleweight Derrick “Double Impact” Whitley (1-0) vs. Norwalk (CT) veteran Shaka Moore (12-22-3, 2 KOs), Worcester’s Bobby Harris III vs. Brazil’s Nathan Schulte in a battle of pro-debuting super middleweights, Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (1-0) vs. Lawrence’s Anthony Everett (1-5), Worcester heavyweight Bryan Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Florida’s Christopher “The Archbishop” Boykins (1-8) and Hartford’s (CT) Richie “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Michigan’s Michael Shipp (1-4, 1 KO) fighting at a 180-pound catch-weight.
                                                            
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at the DCU Center box office, www.dcu.centerworcester.com, by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera
(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters.
Doors open at 6 p.m., first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Championsofhealth.usana.com, Whiskey On Water and Worcester criminal defense Atty. Michael Erlich.
INFORMATION:  
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Top Prospect Irvin Gonzalez remains perfect Stops Israel Rojas in second round

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OFFICIAL RESULTS FROM WORCESTER
(L) – Irvin Gonzalez
WORCESTER, Mass. (January 20, 2017) – Boxing returned to Worcester last night (Thursday) for the first time in more than five years to the delight of a capacity crowd of 2,100 passionate fans at the Palladium.
The inaugural event of the “New England’s Future” series, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment, featured 10 action-packed fights, highlighted by rising Worcester featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez (5-0, 5 KOs).
“The support we received from the sold out crowd was exciting for our first show,” said promoter Jose Antonio Rivera, the former 3-time, 2-division world champion. “We working on our second show in March, of course, right here in Worcester.”
The 20-year-old Gonzalez was absolutely relentless in the main event, fright rom the opening bell, throwing a barrage of unanswered punches from every conceivable angle, repeatedly hurting his Mexican foe, Israel “Tigre” Ramos (9-15, 3 KOs), including a late first-round knockdown.  Gonzalez didn’t let up in the second, firing crisp punches, until Rojas hit the canvas early in the second frame and referee Steve Clark had seen enough, stopping the one-sided fight.
Gonzalez is continuing the rich Worcester boxing tradition.  “I’m always relentless,” Gonzalez said with a smile. “It was great fighting in the main event at home.  I heard the crowd and really appreciated their support.  I hurt him early and I almost took him out in the first round with a body punch. I finished him off with a right in the second.  None of my fights have gone the distance, but I prepared to go the full six tonight, if needed.”
Gonzalez takes off Sunday o report to undefeated Guillermo Rigondeaux’ training camp in Miami, where he’ll work with the reigning WBA super bantamweight world champion and 2-time Olympic gold medalist.
Undefeated Ray “Bazooka” Gracewski (5-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of Springfield (MA), was on a search-and-destroy mission in the co-feature against Worcester super middleweight Ralph Johnson (2-10, 1 KO), who was dropped three times before referee Kevin Hope halted the fight.
Hartford’s pro-debuting Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera was good to the finish, albeit only two rounds, in a fight contested at a 185-pound catchweight against Philadelphian Davonte Hopkins (0-3).   Rivera, who was a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament winner, punished Hopkins, finally dropping him in the second round, after which his corner threw in the towel.
In an evenly matched junior featherweight bout, hometown favorite Ranse Andino‘s pro debut resulted in a hard earned victory, by way of a four-round unanimous decision, over Lowell’s (MA) previously unbeaten Jonathan Perez (2-1-1, 2  KOs)
Unbeaten Haitian heavyweight Jean Pierre “Kid Creole” Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs) pounded game Mexican foe Jose Humberto “Olympico” Corral (19-22, 12 KOs) from the opening bell en route to a shutout six-round unanimous decision.
East Hartford prospect Anthony Laureano (2-0, 1 KO), a 2016 New England Golden Gloves champion, finished off winless welterweight Rafael Francis (0-9) with a debilitating body shot early in the second round.
In his pro debut, popular Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez, a local barber, spotted his opponent, 392-pound Bobby Favors (0-4), nearly 60 pounds but Favors was unable to continue after the first round.
Southbridge, MA Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan turned in a memorable pro debut, winning a four-round majority decision over Alexander Picot (1-2-1 (0 KOs), contested at a 145-pound catchweight.
The second-oldest pro fighter in Massachusetts history, 49-year-old “Irish” Chuck Shearns (3-1, 2 KOs), of nearby Auburn, MA., ended his boxing career in style with an opening-round technical knockout victory over Philadelphia junior middleweight Shavonte Dixon (0-2).
Team Shearns celebrates after his retirement fight
U.S. Marine Brandon Montella, fighting out of Saugus, MA., improved his record to 6-0 (5 KOs), as his light heavyweight Mexican veteran Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-74-2, 56 KOs) suffered an injury early in the second round.
 
Complete results below:
 
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS
 
Main Event –Featherweights
Irvin Gonzalez (5-0, 5 KOs), Worcester, MA
WTKO2 (1:28)
Israel Rojas (9-15, 3 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico
Co-Feature – Super Middleweights
Ray Graceski (5-0, 3 KOs), Springfield, MA
WTKO1 (1:32)
Ralph Johnson (2-10, 1 KO), Worcester, MA
HEAVYWEIGHTS
Jean Pierre Augstin (8-0-1, 3 KOs), Lawrence, MA
WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 60-54)
Jose Humberto “Olympico” Corral (19-23, 12 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico
Felix Martinez (1-0, 1 KO), Worcester, MA
WTKO1 (3:00)
Bobby Favors (0-4), Cincinnati, OH
(185-pound) Catchweight
Richard Rivera (1-0, 1 KO), Hartford, CT
WTKO2 (2:48)
Davonte Hopkins (0-3), Philadelphia, PA
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Brandon Montella (6-0, 5 KOs), Saugus, MA
WTKO2 (0:50)
Roberto Valenzuela (69-74-2, 56 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Chuck Shearns (3-1, 2 KOs), Auburn, MA
WTKO1 (2:19)
Shavonte Dixon (0-2), Philadelphia, PA
(145-pound) CATCHWEIGHT
Wilfredo Pagan (1-0, 0 KOs), Southbridge, MA
WDEC4 (39-37, 39-37, 38-38)
Alexander Picot (1-2-1, 0 KOs), Cidra, Puerto Rico
WELTERWEIGHTS
Anthony Laureano (2-0, 1 KO), East Hartford, CT
WKO2 (0:24)
Rafael Francis (0-9), Dorchester, MA
JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS
Ranse Andino 1-0, 0 KOs), Worcester, MA
WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 39-37)
Jonathan Perez (2-1-1, 2 KOs), Lowell, MA
 
SPONSORS:  Heavyweights – Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto, USANA Health Services; Lightweights – TKO Auto Repair, Atty. Stephen W. Debs.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp, @KingRivera_
ABOUT RIVERA PROMOTIONS ENTERTAINMENT (RPE): Founded in 2016, Rivera Promotions Entertainment is owned and operated by one of Worcester’s all-time greatest boxers – 3-time, 2-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera – along with his son, Anthonee “AJ” Rivera, whose collective goal is to bring boxing back to Worcester on a consistent basis, providing boxers a platform and fans a full entertainment experience.
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Prospect Irvin Gonzalez continuing Worcester boxing tradition Jan 19th

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Inaugural “New England’s Future” series event in Worcester
WORCESTER, Mass. (January 11, 2017) – Fast rising featherweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs) will continue Worcester’s rich boxing tradition Thursdaynight, January 19, headlining the inaugural “New England’s Future” series event against Mexican invader Israel “Tigre” Rojas (9-14, 3 KOs), at the Worcester Palladium.
Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), is promoting the first professional boxing show in the Central Massachusetts city in more than five years.
                                                                                      (photo by Cristian Nunez)
Worcester’s boxing tradition started close to a century ago with Canadian import Lou Brouillard, a two-division world champion and Hall of Famer, 1928 Olympic bronze medalist Leo Sawicki, and more recently, among others, pro and amateur standouts such as multiple national amateur champion Bobby Harris, Sean “The Irish Express” Sean Fitzgerald and Edwin Rodriguez.
Arguably the greatest Worcester fighter in the past 50 years is three-time, two-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera, who is promoting “New England’s Future” with his son, Anthonee.  “I have seen Irvin train and fight since he was in the Junior Olympics,” Rivera said.  “I am very proud of him because he was able to discover on his own that he was getting in his own way.  He was always a talented fighter but, at times in the ring, he was inconsistent and it cost him a few fights.  As he got older, he boxed more talented boxers and looked good against them.  He started believing in himself more and it showed in his training. His abilities and confidence grew and that got him all the way to the Olympic Trials. I feel he has the skills to become world champion in the future.  The sky is the limit for this young man and I am proud to have him fighting on our show.”
Gonzalez, a 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion, will be headlining his first show in his first scheduled six-round bout.  “Fighting in my hometown in the main event means a lot to me because,” Gonzalez admitted.  “I’ve grown up in this city, fighting my whole life, and of people who’ve supported me will be watching me fight for the first time as a pro.  I’m excited.  I’m comfortable fighting here in Worcester and I want to showcase the boxing talent we have in Worcester.”
Gonzalez qualified for the 2016 Olympic Trials but he was eliminated, not due to a loss in the ring, for missing weight.  He decided not to wait four years for another Olympic shot, turning pro this past March with a first-round stoppage of Gilvan Santos at Foxwoods Resort Casino.  In four pro fights to date, Gonzalez has four knockouts and only one was extended into the second round.
“I was always told that I had a pro boxing style,” the well-spoken, handsome Gonzalez continued, “but we didn’t immediately decide to turn pro until the time was right.  I had some stoppages as an amateur but, as a pro, I’ve been going more to the body.  I do have heavy hands. I don’t go into a fight looking for a knockout.  I just let ’em come but I’ve prepared to go six rounds if needed for this fight.  I’ve been sparring eight rounds with different guys coming in fresh.”
In addition to being a prize fighter, the 20-year-old Gonzalez works at a bank and he also owns and operates New England Boxing gym with his father, former boxer Irvin Gonzalez, where the youngster serves as a personal trainer.
In the six-round co-feature Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Reinaldo “Bazooka” Graceski (4-0, 2 KOs) faces Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (2-9, 1 KO).
Fighting on the undercard in four-round bouts are Worcester junior lightweight Ranse Andino in his pro debut vs. Lowell’s (MA) Jonathan Perez (2-0-1, 2 KOs), pro-debuting Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez vs. Bobby Favor (0-3), Hartford’s (CT) pro-debuting light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera vs. Brockton’s (MA) Davonte Hopkins (0-2), pro-debuting Southbridge (MA) boxer Wilfredo Pagan vs. Alexander Picot (1-1-1, 0 KOs) at a 145-pound catchweight, pro-debuting Springfield (MA) junior featherweight Luis “Pancho” Santiago vs, Jonathan Ramos (0-2), 2016 N.E. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (1-0), of East Haven (CT), vs. Boston junior welterweight Rafael Francis (0-8), Auburn (MA) junior middleweight “Irish” Chuck Shearns (2-1, 1 KO), the 49-year-old hanging up his gloves after his fight with Shavonte Dixon (0-1), of Philadelphia, Saugus (MA) light heavyweight Brandon Montella (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Roberto El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs) and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) heavyweight Jean Pierre Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. Jose Hymberto “Olympico” Corral (19-22, 12 KOs).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $65.00 (ringside), $45.00 (preferred seating) and $35.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954),  AJ Rivera  (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) of any of the fighters.  A portion of the proceeds will go to Why Me & Sherry’s House.
Major event sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto and USANA Health Services. Other sponsors are TKO Auto Repair and Atty. Stephen W. Debs.
INFORMATION:  
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp
boxing, Rivera Promotions

49-year-old pro boxer “Irish” Chuck Shearns Hanging up gloves January 19th

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
REMINDER:  The deadline to apply for a media credential is Jan. 12th

WORCESTER, Mass. (January 5, 2017) – Auburn (MA) junior middleweight “Irish” Chuck Shearns will become the second-oldest professional fighter in Massachusetts boxing history on Thursday night, January 19, in his farewell performance at the Worcester Palladium, marking the first pro boxing event in Worcester, located in Central Mass., in more than five years.
The inaugural “New England’s Future” series event is being presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE), which is owned and operated by one of Worcester’s all-time greatest boxers – 3-time, 2-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera – and his son, Anthonee “AJ” Rivera.
 
Rising junior lightweight prospect, 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion Irvin Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs), will be fighting at home in the 6-round main event against Mexican invader Oscar Eduardo Quezada (2-1, 1 KO), while Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Reinaldo “Bazooka” Graceski (4-0, 2 KOs) meets Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (2-9, 1 KO) in the six-round co-feature.
The 49-year-old Shearns (2-1, 1 KO), who is the general manager of Lundgren Honda in Auburn, will take on Shavonte Dixon (0-1), of Philadelphia, in a four-round bout.  The state record, set in 2011 by then 53-year-old Joe Siciliano, is safe because Jan. 19th will definitely be Shearns’ last fight.
“I have a tremendous amount of respect for all boxers in terms of what they go through to be able to perform at their best in the ring,” promoter Jose Antonio Rivera said. “Chuck is doing it at 49 years old! That takes a lot of sacrifice and courage to put your body through that rugged training. I wish him the best and I am glad I can provide him with the opportunity to be able to say goodbye to boxing on his own terms.”
Shearns made his amateur debut at the age of 29, 10 years later he made his professional debut.  “I grew up watching boxing with my father (John), who boxed in the Navy, and my grandfather (John),” Shearns explained. “My grandfather was a club fighter, so, boxing was in my blood. I only had four amateur fights and one day I met “Fitzy,” who is now one of my closest friends. (Sean Fitzgerald, one of Worcester’s all-time best boxers, who is Shearns’ head trainer.)  I told him I wanted one pro fight and asked him to train me.”
Why, though, at the age of 49 does he still put himself through such extensive training, while working fulltime during the holiday season, to fight an opponent half his age?
“Boxing was the ultimate hobby for me and I just got carried away with it,” Shearns admitted. “I’m a novelty, not a real pro boxer.  I’m fighting January 19th because I was given this opportunity and decided to accept it but, honestly, I’m sure that this it!  Maybe I just wanted a chance to go out with a win because I lost my last one?  I don’t know.  Sometimes I wake up asking myself, ‘What am I doing?’  And ‘Fitzy’ is working me so hard for this fight – I don’t know if it’s my age or what – but I’ve hated every minute of it.  I lost my father in March.  He was always in my corner and this fight I’ll have RIP on my trunks in his honor.”
Lately, Shearns’ typical day has been, well, in a word, unordinary, to say the least.  He reports to work at 5 a.m., exercises and runs on the treadmill for an hour in a small gym at work, catches up with “Fitzy” at Anytime Fitness to hit the heavy and speed bags, and after work “Fitzy” trains Shearns at Camp Get Right.
Shearns has the complete support of his family and co-workers, who will all be at the Worcester Palladium supporting him Jan. 19.  “My wife (Karen) and two daughters (Kayla and Olivia) have always been there for me,” Shearns noted.  “My wife supports me and has jokingly said, ‘We’re getting divorced if you lose this fight.’  I’ve worked at Lundgren Honda for about 20 years and most of the 100-plus employees there will be at my fight.  I did want to fight one more time before I turn 50.  When Jose asked me to fight, how could I pass up this final opportunity?”
Also fighting on the undercard in 4-round bouts are Worcester junior lightweight Ranse Andino in his pro debut vs. Lowell’s (MA) Jonathan Perez (2-0-1, 2 KOs), pro-debuting Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez vs. Dorchester’s (MA) Brian Richardson (0-8), Hartford’s (CT) pro-debuting light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera vs. Brockton’s (MA) Huston Crayton (1-8, 0 KOs), pro-debuting Southbridge (MA) boxer Wilfredo Pagan vs. Puerto Rican Alexander Picot (1-1-1, 0 KOs) at a 145-pound catchweight, pro-debuting Springfield (MA) junior featherweight Luis “Pancho” Santiago vs, Mexican Jonathan Ramos (1-2, 0 KOs), 2016 N.W. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (1-0), of East Haven (CT), vs. Boston junior welterweight Rafael Francis (0-8), Saugus (MA) light heavyweight Brandon Montella (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Mexican veteran Roberto El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs) and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) heavyweight Jean Pierre Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $65.00 (ringside), $45.00 (preferred seating) and $35.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954),  AJ Rivera  (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) of any of the fighters.  A portion of the proceeds will go to Why Me & Sherry’s House.
Major event sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto and USANA Health Services. Other sponsors are TKO Auto Repair and Atty. Stephen W. Debs.
INFORMATION:  
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp
Inaugural “New England’s Future” series event in Worcester
boxing, Rivera Promotions

Professional Boxing returns Jan. 19 to Worcester Junior lightweight prospect Irvin Gonzalez headlines Inaugural “New England’s Future” series event

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WORCESTER, Mass. (December 29, 2016) — Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) held a press conference yesterday to formally announce its inaugural show, “New England’s Future,” Thursday night, January 19, at the Worcester Palladium.  It will mark the first professional boxing event in Worcester, located in Central Mass., in five years.
Rivera Promotions Entertainment is owned and operated by one of Worcester’s all-time greatest boxers – 3-time, 2-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera – along with his son, Anthonee “AJ” Rivera, whose collective goal is to bring boxing back to Worcester on a consistent basis, providing boxers a platform and fans a full entertainment experience.
“It’s all about the fighters,” RPE CEO Jose Antonio Rivera said.  “I’m in a unique position as a promoter because of my boxing background.  I hard it is for local fighters to get fights, which is why we have so many with less than six pro fights and five pro debuts fighters on this card.  They are why we’re here today. I never had a press conference until I was much more established in my career. This is about them showcasing their skills.
“After my son graduated from Johnson Wales University with a degree in Sports Management, he told me he was ready to form Rivera Promotions Entertainment, as we had discussed, and promote shows.  I lost a lot of money promoting a show in 2008, so I told him to put a plan together first and within a week he did.  He had gotten his feet wet in the business as an intern for a boxing promoter.  We went over the plan ad decided that we can do this.   We’re not signing fighters, right now, we’re helping them build their careers.  We do a lot of hard work behind the scenes that the public doesn’t see; the fighters work in the gym.  I’m really excited about January 19th.  Irvin Gonzalez is a future world champion.”
Tickets, priced at $65.00 (ringside), $45.00 (preferred seating) and $35.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954),  AJ Rivera  (anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) of any of the fighters.  A portion of the proceeds will go to Why Me & Sherry’s House.
“We appreciate the support being given to us and the fighters who give their blood, sweat and tears for you,” RPE president A.J. Rivera added.  “I got into the business side of boxing as an intern working for CES.  In Worcester, we have 11 active fighters, all on the rise, and to bring boxing back to Worcester is special, Teamwork makes dreams work. I also want to note that none of these fighters turned down a single opponent we offered.”
Promising junior lightweight prospect, 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion Irvin Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs), fighting out of Worcester, will be showcased in the 6-round main event against Mexican invader Oscar Eduardo Quezada (2-1, 1 KO).
“I’m very excited to be fighting in my hometown for the first time as a pro,” Gonzalez commented. “I fought here as an amateur but that’s not the same as fighting in the main event and my first 6-rounder.  Don’t take your eyes off the ring when I fight.  I’m going to be 5-0 with five knockouts on January 19th.”
In the 6-round co-feature, light heavyweight Reinaldo “Bazooka” Graceski (4-0, 2 KOs), of nearby Springfield (MA), faces Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (2-9, 1 KO).
Fighting on the undercard in 4-round bouts are Worcester junior lightweight Ranse Andino in his pro debut vs. Lowell’s (MA) Jonathan Perez (2-0-1, 2 KOs), 49-year-old Auburn (MA) junior middleweight “Irish” Chuck Shearns (2-1, 1 KO) in his retirement fight vs. Philadelphian  Shavonte Dixon (0-1), pro-debuting Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez vs. Dorchester’s (MA) Brian Richardson (0-8), Hartford’s (CT) pro-debuting light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera vs. Brockton’s (MA) Huston Crayton (1-8, 0 KOs), pro-debuting Southbridge (MA) boxer Wilfredo Pagan vs. Puerto Rican Alexander Picot (1-1-1, 0 KOs) at a 145-pound catchweight, pro-debuting Springfield (MA) junior featherweight Luis “Pancho” Santiago vs, Mexican Jonathan Ramos (1-2, 0 KOs), 2016 N.W. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (1-0), of East Haven (CT), vs. Boston junior welterweight Rafael Francis (0-8), Saugus (MA) light heavyweight Brandon Montella (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Mexican veteran Roberto El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs) and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) heavyweight Jean Pierre Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. TBA.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Major event sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto and USANA Health Services. Other sponsors are TKO Auto Repair and Atty. Stephen W. Debs.
INFORMATION:
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