Tag Archives: John Scully

‘ICEMAN’ JOHN SCULLY TO RECEIVE MURPHYS BOXING’S WARRIOR’S CODE AWARD ON MAY 10 IN SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS AT NOVA VS. LOZANO


PRESENTATION CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE NEXT
FRIDAY, MARCH 10TH IN SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS AT
NOVA VS. LOZANO


EVENT TO BROADCAST LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS


TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT WWW.MURPHYSBOXING.COM

Boston, Massachusetts (May 1, 2019):


Murphys Boxing is proud to announce that the next recipient of the Warrior’s Code Award will be New England boxing legend, ‘Iceman’ John Scully.


The Hartford, Connecticut based Scully was one of the most popular fighters in the region during the 1990s and he went 38-11 in a professional career in the light heavyweight division that included challenging for the world title against Henry Maske in Germany.


After his professional career, ‘Iceman’ achieved fame calling rebroadcasts of fights for ESPN Classic as well as writing a popular column in the British magazine, Boxing News.


However Scully has achieved his most success as a trainer being instrumental in helping take fighters like Jose Antonio Rivera and Chad Dawson to world titles.


Scully is now a co-trainer of the Russian, now Canadian based, undefeated light heavyweight world champion, Artur Beterbiev, who defends his title this Saturday in California live on ESPN.


In addition to his work as a trainer he has been an passionate advocate and champion for the rights and well being of retired fighters.


“I’m extremely honored to receive this recognition and I really appreciate Murphys Boxing for thinking of me.”, says the 51 year old Connecticut resident.


“It’s particularly special because it will come in the city of Springfield where I spent the majority of my amateur boxing career training at the old Central City Gym at the X under Coach John Tynan. I’m looking forward to a great night.”


Murphys Boxing founder, Ken Casey explains the promotion’s decision to name Scully as the latest recipient of the award named after one of the Dropkick Murphy’s signature songs, “The Warrior’s Code” which is a tribute to another New England boxing hero, Micky Ward


“John Scully is the epitome of the Warrior’s Code Award.”, says Casey.


“John’s career in boxing, from being a world class fighter to his work as an analyst to his success as a trainer, is inspirational. It shows young fighters there is opportunity for them in the sport after their in ring career is over. By giving back as a trainer and a mentor, he also represents the bridge from New England’s past boxing history to the present. Murphys Boxing is honored to acknowledge and celebrate John Scully’s many achievements in the sport.”


Scully will be third recipient of the award established this year by Murphys Boxing to celebrate those fighters who contributed to the rich and diverse history of boxing in New England. Scully joins 2019 International Hall of Fame Inductee, Tony DeMarco and decorated Massachusetts’ amateur, Mike D’Ampolo who received the first awards at Murphys Boxing’s last event in Melrose, Massachusetts this past March.



The presentation of Murphys Boxing’s Warrior’s Code Award will take place during Murphys Boxing’s UFC Fight Pass debut event next Friday, May 10th which features NABA Super Featherweight Champion, Abraham Nova (14-0, 10 KOs) vs. Mario Ezequiel Sayal Lozano (18-2-1, 9 KOs) in the 10 round main event as well as a packed undercard of undefeated fighters from the Murphys Boxing stable including WBC South American Middleweight Champion, Carlos Gongora (15-0, 12 KOs), NABF Jr. Super Featherweight Champion, William Foster III (9-0, 6 KOs), Venezuelan Olympian, Luis Arcon Diaz (6-0, 6 KOs), Boston based amateur standout, James Perella (2-0, 2 KOs) and more.


Nova vs. Lozano and The Warrior’s Code Award Presentation takes place next Friday, May 10th at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts (1 MGM Way). Doors open at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now at: www.murphysboxing.com. The event will be streamed live on UFC Fight Pass at www.ufc.tv


ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING


Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, Luis Arcon Diaz, William Foster III, Mike Ohan Jr. and more!


For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com


For credential requests for May 10 or to speak with any of the fighters on our roster for coverage – email info@murphysboxing.com and we will hook it up!

Follow Murphys Boxing on Social Media!

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Large turnout for recent 1st USA Boxing Alumni Association gathering on West Coast

    
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

A good time was had by all who attended the inaugural USA Boxing Alumni Association on the West Coast

 

 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (October 9, 2018) – A large group of past and present amateur boxers, as well as others involved in the sport, recently turned out in force for the first USA Boxing Alumni Association gathering on the West Coast.

 

The inaugural West Coast gathering of the USA Boxing Alumni Association, held at Fortune Gym in Hollywood (Los Angeles), resulted in memorable storytelling, welcome reunions, even between past foes, in addition to a substantial increase in membership ranks.

 

In addition to longtime amateur boxing supporter, actor/singer Frank Stallone, along with the Godmother of amateur boxing, Melanie Ley, attending past and present boxers and trainers included Mickey BeyAlex RamosMaureen SheaRonnie EssettPaul BankeJorge HawleyLes FabriFrank VassarDon DevergesMichael and Anna KeopuhiwaZachary PadillaLenny GargalianoTony LesbeurFelix NanceDerrickand Vince Hudson, Rudy Garza, Justine FortuneAlan SantanaWillie TubbsRandy CrippenAlan Santana, Jacquie Richardson, Steven Stokes, Manny Salcido, Jason and Jeremy Williams, Mike Simms, Jeff Bumpus, current Team USA heavyweight Richard Torres (Tulare, CA), and 2018 Youth World Champion and Los Angeles local Iyana Verduzco. 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist Henry Tilman was also in attendance and registered as a new Alumni Association member.

 

 

 

USA Boxing board advisor and fighter liaison, “Iceman” John Scully, was responsible for recruiting most of the attendees.

 

 

 

“The USA Boxing Alumni Association gathering in Hollywood fully demonstrated our mission: Connecting Generations of Champions,” said attendee Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “While former opponents reunited after exiting the ring decades ago, two of today’s champions and Team USA members, Richard Torres and Roxy Verduzco, were proudly recognized for their recent success. The Alumni Association wants to thank Fortune Gym for hosting this gathering, and we look forward to connecting with our West Coast members at future events.”

 

 

 

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — the Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including Friday evening’s USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

 

 

 

To join the USA Boxing Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

10 Questions with up and coming Junior Welterweight prospect “Action” Anthony Laureano

By: John Scully

 

 

Photo By: David Spagnolo

Anthony “Action” Laureano

7-0 (3)

Age 23

East Hartford, CT

140 lbs/Junior Welterweight

2016 Western New England and New England Golden Gloves 152 pound champion

2016 National Golden Gloves Semi-Finalist

Trainer: Angel Gonzalez

Manager: Nate Torres

Promoter: Joe DeGuardia/Star Boxing

 

 

 

Anthony Laureano is a 23 year old rising prospect in the boxing game today. An extremely hard working and focused young man, Laureano is a throwback type of fighter. He put the hard work in each and every day, strives to learn the finer points of the game and approaches each fight like a Do Or Die event.

 

 

 

Thus far Anthony and his team have chosen a unique path to success in the boxing world. They have not shied away from tough competition thus far and, in fact, have had to dig down and overcome several very stiff challenges from eager opposition. Laureano’s last two opponents in particular, Tobias Green (7-1) and John Hernandez (8-2), both provided extremely tough challenges in bouts that forced “Action” Anthony to dig down to places that most up and comers simply aren’t forced to go until quite a bit later in their careers.

 

 

 

Both performances drew rave reviews from fans and media alike and compelled me to conduct this interview with one of the best professional prospects the Hartford-area has seen in many years.

 

 

 

Humble, clean living, fearless, hard-working and as fan friendly and approachable as they come, undefeated (7-0) Anthony Laureano is definitely one to root for.

 

 

 

The following is a 10 question interview in advance of his June 30 bout at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut against Juan Rodriguez (8-9-1) of Haymarket, Virginia on Star Boxing show that features contender Joe Smith Jr. in the main event against Melvin Russel in a light heavyweight match up.

 

 

 

“10 Questions With “Action” Anthony Laureano”

 

 

 

QUESTION 1. How did you originally get started as a boxer?

 

 

LAUREANO: My father put me in boxing. He wanted us to stay active and in shape. I originally started boxing at age 8 with (former lightweight contender) Pito Cardona. We used to follow him everywhere he went to teach us some techniques. I started competing at age 11 or 12 in a garage. Where the ropes were sheet rock walls. The ring floor was a rug and in the winter time you’d better bundle up. I would go to the gym in all types of weather. Snow, rain and heat waves. I didn’t care, I would just go on my bike. Right after school I would get my big bag ready and get my bike ready to ride.

 

 

QUESTION 2. What are your goals as a fighter? What do you want to do in this game?

 

 

LAUREANO: My goal as a fighter is to become champion of the world. It would be an achievement that I could share with the people. In this game I want to show that no matter how hard it is at first you still can accomplish big things. With hard work, dedication and will power anything is possible. I want to put God first. I want to give people hope.

 

 

QUESTION 3. In your opinion what was the highlight of your amateur boxing career?

 

 

LAUREANO: The highlight of my amateur career was my first fight with my trainer Angel Gonzales. This fight changed everything. I felt had the talent, but I was coming from a back to back losing streak. This fight was a close one. I was just getting ready to lose because when it was close I never got the decision. Angel yelled at me “What;s wrong with you? You don’t do this in sparring. You better show me something!!!” I went out  that round and gave the kid two standing 8 counts in the 3rd round. This fight was the turning point of my career. This made everything possible.

 

 

QUESTION 4: So far you’ve faced several tough opponents for someone with only a few fights yourself under your belt. And as long as I have known you its been very obvious that you are not shy about stepping in with the tougher competition.  Where do you think that comes from? Where did you develop this mindset?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: The reason that I’m not shy about taking on competition is because I have faith God. I failed a lot in the amateurs so I know what it is to lose. Every time I lost one of my amateur fights I went right back at it the next day. Of course, I felt like I shouldn’t be in the gym. I even felt embarrassed to go to the gym. I wanted to be something in the sport of boxing, though, so I didn’t care what other people thought. The reason I’m willing to take on better competition is to prove to myself and get better as a fighter.

 

 

 

QUESTION 5: How did you begin working with your trainer, (1986 New England Golden Gloves 106 pound champion) Angel Gonzalez, and what is the training like?

 

 

 

LAUREANO:  Angel Gonzalez was always around me. He would do little group exercises and I’d jump in sometimes. I eventually got to work with him when I was looking for a new trainer. I even thought about doing Muay Thai, but I still had a love for boxing. So I went back to boxing and started training with Angel. Angel gave me discipline in the sport and that was something I needed. After my first pro fight, Angel spoke to Nate Torres and ask him to help him train me. Nate accepted and now is my manager and co-trainer.  The professional game is different and we must continue to improve my skill set in order to continue my success as a professional boxer. 

 

 

 

I have a great team now. Truly blessed!

 

 

 

QUESTION 6: Were u a boxing fan growing up or are you one now? Who did you grow up watching in the sport and who are your favorite boxers?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: My favorite boxers of course are the fighters who take risk and keep coming forward. I look up to Mickey Ward and Arturo Gatti wars. Growing up I just really loved doing boxing. It’s really an art form. There is Lomachenko, he shows that it’s sometimes just a master in his angles. I see fights of his to learn new things that I like. Adrian Boner when he is on his game boxing is really nice to see. Of course, people really down play him but, if you take all the drama and leave it to the side, he is really something to see when he has it together.

 

 

 

QUESTION 7. Do you have anyone in the sport who you try and emulate as a fighter? What boxers influenced your style as a professional fighter?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: My style is like Ward and Gatti in terms of heart and will to win. My trainers say my style resembles Miguel Cotto at 140. Similar left hook to body and boxing style. Miguel is a warrior with no quit in him and I’d like for people to see that in me, too..

 

 

 

I also really like Mikey Garcia today because he is a complete fighter. He takes on big challenges. Can adjust to any situation. He has such good speed and power. Even after a two year layoff he still came back so strong.

 

 

 

QUESTION 8. What is the best thing about being a professional boxer?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: For me the best thing about being a pro is I’m doing what I love. Using the gifts that God gave me to honor him. Also the opportunity it creates to provide a better life for my family.

 

 

 

Question 9: So far what has been the toughest part of being a professional fighter for you?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: I would say the toughest part about being a professional fighter is just managing life and training. Right now I’m in the come up. So it’s tough I would love to work but, then I would lack in training. It’s managing the people around you some support and some don’t. So you really just got to stay with positive people that support. Your mindset is everything so if your failing to manage your emotions it will hit hard when you got a fight coming up.

 

 

 

QUESTION 10. At this point in your career you are still working your way up, fighting on undercards in preliminary bouts.  Spots often open up on these smaller cards on short notice. How long would you need to get ready for a fight if called for one?

 

 

 

LAUREANO: I’m always ready for a fight because I don’t take any time off from the gym. I do my cardio at a fitness club then I do my boxing later on in the day. Always.

 

 

Photo By: Peter Pabon

 

                                                       

                                                                                    ICEMAN JOHN SCULLY

 

 

 

“The wait in the dressing room before a professional boxing match -that last hour- could be enough to strip a man who never fought before of whatever pride, desire, heart or courage he thought he had.” – Iceman John Scully, April 2002

USA Boxing declares June “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month”

 
Miguel Cotto                                     Gerry Cooney  
                             Jesse Vargas
 
 Kevin McBride                                 Reggie Johnson
                         Junior Jones
  
    Michael Spinks                               Antonio Tarver    
                         James Toney

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (June 11, 2018) – USA Boxing’s “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month” got off to a knockout start this past weekend in Canastota, New York, at the annual International Boxing Hall of Fame Class induction ceremonies, as nine high-profile boxers, featuring an incredible accumulate pro record of 365-51-7 (239 KOs) and 24 major world titles, joined the growing USABAA ranks as proud, new members.

 

 

 

Chris Cugliari and John Scully represented USA Boxing Alumni Association, manning tables at the IBHOF golf tournament and Memorabilia Show, to increase USABAA awareness and recruit new members.

 

 

 

“The spirit of amateur boxing was alive and well throughout the International Boxing Hall of Fame weekend,” explained Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “Information about the new USA Boxing Alumni Association was well received by the weekend’s guests, and esteemed alumni such as Jesse Vargas and Reggie Johnson mentioned that they are excited to become more involved.  The Alumni Association thanks the support provided by many this weekend, particularly Micky Ward and Antonio Tarver, who continue to spread our mission.”

 

 

 

“The fact is that the vast majority of professional boxers who attend the Hall of Fame weekend at Canastota each year were at one time amateur boxers and knew each other well before they ever even turned professional,” added invaluable USABAA advisor Scully, who recruits boxers for group-sponsored events like this. “At some point in the conversations between boxers across the grounds, the topics frequently will eventually turn to their amateur days together.”

 

 

 

“The amateurs, for me, was about fighting for respect,” two-division world champion Junior Jones (50-6, 28 KOs); noted. “To go to different places and make it very far (as an amateur), you have to learn how to conduct yourself and transact with others.”

 

 

 

Other new USABAA members are six-time, two division world champion Miguel Cotto(41-6, 33 KOs); four-time, two division world champion, as well as 1976 Olympic gold medalist and Hall of Famer, Michael Spinks (31-1, 21 KOs); Irish heavyweight who retired Mike Tyson, Kevin McBride (35-10-1, 29 KOs); two-time, two division world championJesse Vargas (28-2-1, 10 KOs); five time world champion and 1996 Olympic bronze medalist Antonio Tarver (31-6-1, 22 KOs); two-time, two division world champion Reggie Johnson (44-7-1, 25 KOs), three-time, three division world champion James Toney (77-10-3, 47 KOs); and world heavyweight contender Gerry Cooney (38-3, 24 KOs).

 

 

USA Boxing Alumni Association

 

 

 

Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events hosted by the Alumni Association, including its annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing,.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

.

 

 

“I think this is great,” Jones talked about the formation of the USA Boxing Alumni Association. “Fighters who turned pro were great amateurs, but there are also a lot of amateurs who didn’t turn pro. Everybody doesn’t become champion, but they tried and gave their best, and that’s why this organization is good because all boxers are appreciated.”

 

 

 

“Although Hall of Fame weekend tends to focus on the professional careers of many fighters,” Cugliari concluded, “it was hard not to notice the effect that amateur boxing has had on the lives of many of these great champions. The USA Boxing Alumni Association wants to thank Ed Brophy for his generosity and support for boxing, and we look forward to a long partnership with the International Boxing Hall of Fame.”

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

 

USA Boxing declares June “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month”

PAST & PRESENT of USA Boxing: (L-R) 1972 Olympic bronze medalist Jesse Valdez, 2004 U.S. Nationals champion Austin Trout, future Olympic hopeful Sharaha-Taina Moreu, 2-time world (pro) champion Danny Romero, and 1984 Olympic silver medalist Virgil Hill.

 

 

 

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO (May 31, 2018) – USA Boxing has declared June as its “Alumni Association Membership Drive Month”.

 

 

 

“I have been involved in boxing my entire life,” USA Boxing president John Brown said. “I’m a strong believer in USA Boxing and The Grass Roots Program; that truly makes up everything that IS boxing in America. The USA Boxing Alumni Association was started to keep this FAMILY together. I’m hoping that each of our current members will reach out to ONE other potential new member. I look forward to a busy month of June. ”

 

 

 

Created to champion lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.

 

 

 

Chris Cugliari and John Scully will oversee two USA Boxing Alumni Association tables at the International Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend, June 7- 10 Canastota, New York, during the its golf tournament and Memorabilia Show.

 

 

 

USA Boxing product Winky Wright (51-6-1, 25 KOs), a two-time junior middleweight world champion, is one of only three boxers being inducted into the IBHOF Class of 2018.

 

 

 

Multiple world champion as a pro and 1984 Olympic silver medalist, Virgil “Quicksilver” Hill, three-time Fight of the Year participant “Irish” Micky Ward, world champions Riddick BoweJunior Jones and other “Alumni Association” members are expected to make supportive appearances.

 

 

 

 

 

“USA Boxing Alumni Association has enabled countless alumni to congregate at various events throughout the country since its inception last November,” added Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “By expanding our membership through a strong June campaign, we will build on our successful infancy and strengthen our ability to support the Alumni Association’s mission statement.  We are very thankful for the support provided by our members and look forward to even better times to come.”

 

 

 

The Alumni Association drive will continue June 24-30 in Charleston, West Virginia during the 2018 Junior Olympics, Prep Nationals and Youth Open.

 

 

 

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.

 

 

 

To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing,.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.

 

 

 

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

Hartford Boxing Promotions To launch this summer

(L-R) – Michael Tran, Richard Rivera & Tony Blanco

HARTFORD, Conn. (April 4, 2018) – Professional boxing’s newest promotional company, Hartford Boxing Promotions, has announced its official formation, as well as tentative plans calling for its inaugural event this summer in Hartford.

 

 

 

Boxing trainer Tony Blanco and his Hartford-based House of Boxing gym partner, Michael Tran, have teamed with their undefeated light heavyweight prospect, Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (6-0, 5 KOs), to form Hartford Boxing Promotions. Rivera is one of the best and most popular pro fighters in New England.

 

 

 

“We want to bring boxing back to Hartford,” Blanco addressed why they founded this new promotional company. “Hartford is a hotbed of boxing. There’s a lot of talent here and Hartford has a rich boxing history.

 

 

 

“We hope to promote our first show on June 16th, subject to Connecticut Boxing Commission approval, at Xfinity Theatre in Hartford. It’s owned by Live Nation and has been used only as a concert hall, but it has an old-school feel and will be an awesome venue for boxing. We’re excited about promoting events in this new venue for boxing.”

 

 

 

Boxing’s roots in the Hartford market dates back nearly a full century, headlined by International Hall of Famers Willie “Will o’ the Wisp” Pep and Christopher “Battling” Battalino. Other top-area boxers include world champion Marlon “Magic Man” Starling, world title challengers Gaspar “El Indio” Ortega“Iceman” John Scully and Israel “Pito” Cardona, and 1996 USA Olympic Boxing Team captain Lawrence Clay-Bey.

 

 

INFORMATION;

Facebook: /hartfordboxingcenter

Twitter: @hartfordboxing

Instagram: @hartford.boxing.center/

You Tube: /c/HartfordBoxingCenter

1stUSA Boxing Alumni Association event in N.E. A knockout in Lowell, Mass

Picture courtesy of Edward Boches / Boches Photography
 
LOWELL, Mass. (February 23, 2018) – Nearly 50 past New England Golden Gloves boxers turned out last night for the inaugural USA Boxing Alumni Association meet-and-greet in a private room, prior to the opening bout of the New England Tournament of Champions, at historic Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts.
The USA Boxing Alumni Association gathering was also to promote the 2018 USA vs. Ireland Northeast Boxing Tour, which kicks-off Monday, March 12, at Royale Entertainment Complex in Boston’s famed theater district. The USA vs. Ireland Northeast Boxing Tour will continue March 15 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass. and concludes March 21at The Manchester Downtown Hotel in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Among the USA Boxing Alumni Association attendees were former professional world champions “Irish” Micky Ward, a Lowell boxing icon, and Jose Antonio Rivera, as well as The Contenders star Peter Manfredo, Jr., “Iceman” John Scully
Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.
The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including Friday evening’s USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.
To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @USABoxing
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing

NEW ENGLAND TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS Open division semifinal results from Lowell

New England
Tournament of Champions

Open Division semifinals results from Lowell

 
72nd annual Lowell Sun Charities
Golden Gloves Championship
New England Tournament of Champions
Open Division championship finals tonight in Lowell 
LOWELL, Mass. (February 22, 2018) – A highly-competitive semifinal round was held last night, setting the stage for this evening’s finals of the New England Tournament of Championships, at historic Lowell Memorial Auditorium.
The New England Tournament of Champions, also known as the All-New England’s, is part of the 72nd annual New England Golden Gloves Championships.
Tonight’s individual winning N.E. champions will qualify for Team New England, which will compete at the National Golden Gloves Championship, starting May 14, 2018 in Omaha, Nebraska. Western New England is seeking its fifth straight N.E. team title.
“After watching last night’s semifinals,” N. E. Executive Director Bobby Russo said, “I can’t wait for tonight’s great match ups in the finals. These are the best amateur boxers in New England and all the winners will have a shot at national titles.”
Also, USA Boxing will host a USA Boxing Alumni Association meet-and-greet tonight.All USA Boxing Alumni Association members, as well as any prospective members, are welcome to attend this unique meet-and-greet, starting when doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, until the first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Many of New England’s all-time great amateur boxers will participate, including former wotld champions such as hometown hero and three-time New England champion,“Irish” Micky Ward, Jose Antonio Rivera, Travis Simms and Iran Barkley, The Contender star Peter Manfredo, Jr., John Scully, Richie LaMontagne, Dave Sullivan, USA Olympian Lawrence Clay-Bey and many other past New England Golden Gloves favorites including Tarvis Simms, Bobby Harris, Joe Alloj and Troy Wortham. (subject to change)
Tickets start at $18.00, only $7.00 for students (ID required) and are available to purchase by calling the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office at 1.866.722.8881 or ordering online at www.lowellauditorium.com. Buy tickets early to avoid long lines the night of the show.
Proceeds from the Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship go towards sending the New England Golden Gloves champions to the National Golden Gloves Championship (starting May 14, 2018 in Omaha, Nebraska), in addition to supporting local athletes and area gyms, the Boys & Girls Club, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, cancer funds, scholarships and many other great charitable causes.
OFFICIAL RESULTS
(Feb.21, 2018)
 
NEW ENGLAND TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS
OPEN DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIPS
FEATHERWEIGHTS (123 lbs.)
Felix Parilla, North Haven, CT / WNE
WDEC (5-0)
Joseph Valdes, Nashua, NH / Central CNE
LIGHTWEIGHTS (132 lbs.)
Joseph DePina, Dorchester, MA / CNE
WDEC (3-2)
Joshua Orta, Springfield, MA / WNE
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (141 lbs.)
Sharad Collier, Hartford, CT / WNE
WDEC (4-1)
Mike Bloodworth, Woonsocket, RI / SNE
WOMEN’S JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (141 lbs.)
Ashleigh Moore, Buzzards Bay, MA / CNE
WDEC (5-0)
Deborah Basora, Hartford, CT / WNE
WELTERWEIGHTS (152 LBS.)
Josniel Castro, Portland, ME / NNE
WDEC (5-0)
Luca Botis, West Point, NY / WNE
James Perella, Mansfield, MA / SNE
WDEC (5-0)
Charles Espinel, Salem, MA / CNE
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS (178 lbs.)
Miguel Teo, Marlboro, MA / CNE
WDEC (5-0)
Tony Adams, Bridgeport, CT / WNE
HEAVYWEIGHTS (201 lbs.)
Edmond Worley, Lowell, MA / CNE
WDEC (4-1)
Hampton Miller, Waterbury, CT / WNE
SUPER HEAVYWEIGHTS (201+ lbs.)
Tim Hatfield, Providence, RI / SNE
WDEC (5-0)
Zack Calmus, Gloucester, MA / CNE
WNE – Western New England
CNE – Central New England
NNE – Northern New England
SNE – Southern New England
 
72nd annual Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship Schedule
(Lowell Memorial Auditorium – 6:30 p.m. doors open, 7:30 p.m. first bout)
New England Tournament of Champions
Open Class Championship Finals – Thursday, Feb. 22
INFORMATION:
New England Golden Gloves Executive Director: Bobby Russo
Director of Contestants: Art Ramalho
Chief of Officials: Laurie Purcell
Ring Announcer: John Vena
Venue: Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 Merrimack St., Lowell, MA
Twitter: @LowellGloves

Former USA boxers to hold private meet-and-greet at New England Tournament of Champions Open Division Championships

1stUSA Boxing Alumni Association Event in N.E.
 

Thursday, February 22
Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Mass.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (February 19, 2018) – USA Boxing will host a private USA Boxing Alumni Association meet-and-greet this Thursday night (Feb. 22), prior to that evening’s open division finals of the New England Tournament of Champions, part of the 72nd annual New England Golden Gloves Championships, at historic Lowell Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts.
The Feb. 22nd USA Boxing Alumni Association also being held, in part, to promote the 2018 USA vs. Ireland Northeast Boxing Tour, which kicks-off Monday, March 12, at the newly renovated Royale Entertainment Complex in Boston’s famed theater district. The USA vs. Ireland Northeast Boxing Tour will continue March 15 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass. and concludes March 21 at The Manchester Downtown Hotel in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Many of New England’s all-time great amateur boxers will participate, including hometown hero and three-time New England champion, “Irish” Micky Ward. Others include Jose Antonio Rivera, John Scully, Richie LaMontagne, Dave Sullivan, Travis and Tarvis Simms, Bobby Harris, Peter Manfredo, Jr., Joe Alloj, Lawrence Clay-Bey and Troy Wortham.
All USA Boxing Alumni Association members, as well as any prospective members, are welcome to attend this unique meet-and-greet, starting when doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, until the first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Ticket prices start at $18.00, only $7.00 for students (ID required) and are available to purchase by calling the Lowell Memorial Auditorium box office at 1.866.722.8881 or ordering online at www.lowellauditorium.com.
Created to champion a lifelong, mutually beneficial relations between USA Boxing and its alumni, –boxers, officials, coaches and boxing fans — The Alumni Association connects generations of champions, inspiring and giving back to USA Boxing’s future boxing champions, in and out of the ring.
The USA Boxing Alumni Association is open to anyone who has a love for boxing and would like to stay connected with amateur boxing. Members are granted access to a wide variety of special events host by the Alumni Association, including Friday evening’s USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception.
To join the Alumni Association, simply register at alumni@usaboxing,.org for a $40.00 per year membership fee. New members will receive a T-shirt, keychain and e-wallet.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @USABoxing
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing

“New England’s Future 5” Press Conference Quotes

“New England’s Future 5”
Feb. 10 in Worcester, MA
(L-R) – Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera and Kevin “The New England Bully” Cobbs
WORCESTER, Mass. (January 18, 2018) – Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) hosted a press conference last night in Worcester, Massachusetts at Beatniks to formally announce its February 10th “New England’s Future 5” at The Palladium in Worcester.
Undefeated Hartford (CT) light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (5-0, 4 KOs) will headline the fifth installment of the “New England’s Future” series, against Kevin “The New England Bully” Cobbs (10-2, 4 KOs), fighting out of South Boston (MA), for the vacant Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) New England title in the eight-round main event.
Worcester’s two-time national amateur champion Bobby “BH3” Harris, III (2-0) meets Brazilian super middleweight Saul Almeida (0-8-1) in the four-round co-featured event, while Hartford super middleweight Jose “Rated R” Rivera (4-1, 3 KOs) meets Troy “Omar KO Artist” Artis (4-7-1 (3 KOs), of Danbury (CT) in a six-round match.
 
“New England’s Future 5” charity choice: Luis Rosa, Jr. Scholarship Fund
For each RPR event, promoter Jose Antonio Rivera selects a charity to donate a portion of the proceeds to, and for “New England’s Future 5” he has announced that it will be the Luis Rosa, Jr. Scholarship Fund.
“We believe it’s important to give back to the community and for this show we have selected the Luis Rosa, Jr. Scholarship fund. Luis died last weekend in a tragic car accident at the age of 26. He was a great fighter and an even better person who will be terribly missed. Our company will also push the news about the Luis Rosa, Jr. Scholarship Fund when it’s finalized through our social media.”
Fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Danbury junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (2-0) vs. Puerto Rican foe Alexander “El Bravo” Picot (2-4-1), Southbridge (MA) junior welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (3-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Nick Peralta, of Lawrence, undefeated Springfield (MA) light heavyweight Ray “Bazooka” Graceski (5-0, 3 KOs). vs. Hartford’s pro-debuting Pawel Bansiak, Springfield welterweight Derrick “Bad Boy” Whitley (2-0) vs. Roger Blankenship (1-2), undefeated Puerto Rican super middleweight Jelame Garcia (6-0, 6 KOs) vs. Brazilian Rodrigo Almeida 1-7), Bridgeport’s (CT) pro-debuting welterweight Joseph Goss vs. Seth Basler (0-3), and Hartford junior lightweight vs. Bridgeport’s Carlos Marraro, III (0-1).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Jose Rivera, RPE CEO: “I’m excited because a press conference means the fights are getting closer. We plan to build our promotional company this year. There is a lot of talent in New England and that’s why we have so many Connecticut fighters on this card. I want the fighters here to understand the importance of a press conference. They will gain valuable experience speaking in public and being interviewed by the media. One of the primary reasons we’re promoting is to give young fighters a platform to box and prepare them for their pro careers.”
A.J. Rivera, RPE President/Matchmaker: “The support we’ve received has been tremendous and we exceeded expectations in our first year. This is just the begining for RPE. We’re going to get better this year. We’re not satisfied just being a small promotional company. Boxing is the loneliest sport in the world and these boxers need fans’ support. There’s a lot of talent in New England and much of it is concentrated in Connecticut. We have more Connecticut fighters on this card than fighters from Massachusetts.”
Richard Rivera: “This is a big opportunity for me. Rivera Promotions accomplished so much in its first year. I fought in the co-main twice of two previous RPE shows I fought on. This is going to be an awesome show, not just the main event. There are competitive boxers up and down the card. Don’t blink, don’t go to the bathroom because any one of these fights could end at any time.”
“This is a big step up for my career. Boxing is my passion. We’re both coming to fight. Win, lose or draw we’ll see who the Alpha dog is at the end. “I’m ‘Popeye The Sailor Man’, and I’m good to the finish because I eat my spinach.”
Kevin Cobbs: “I respect Rivera and believe in what I hear. He seems like a good dude. I’m excited about this fight. A lot of people weren’t sure about what I was doing because I hadn’t fought in two years when I got the call (to fight Rivera). Boxing took me out of the space was in and I never stopped boxing. This is going to be a big year for the Rivera’s. I like to switch it up and I’m ready to go.”
Bobby Harris, III: “My opponent wants to redeem his brother’s loss to me. I want to thank RPE for putting me in the co-feature in only my third pro fight. My first two fights were a learning experience and this fight I’m looking to make a statement to showcase my talents. I have a lot to prove as the only Worcester fighter on this card.”
Omar Bordoy, Jr: “I’m fighting a tough opponent. Fighting is easier for me than talking up here. I’m fighting a guy from Hartford. I have a lot of love for his trainer and Hartford. I want my hand raised at the end of the fight.”
Derrick Whitley: “I want to thank Rivera Promotions for putting me on this card. I fought on two of their shows last year and came out 2-0. I’m looking to be 3-0. It was a learning experience going from the amateurs to pros. Everybody’s goal is to raise your level. I’m in the best shape of my life for this fight and doing things in the gym I’ve never done before. I’m looking for a stoppage.”
Wilfredo Pagan: “I’m 37 years old and I’ve always had a glad to fight at least one pro fight. A couple of fights fell through but the Riveras opened the doors for me. I put it all into my fights. I was looking for one fight and this will be my fourth. I’m going to be 4-0.”
Carlos Marraro, III: “I want to thank Rivera Promotions for the opportunity to showcase my talents February 10th. This will be my first fight on a Rivera Promotions card, but I’m familiar with most of the fighters on this card.”
Tickets, priced at $75.00 (ringside) and $45.00 (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) or any of the fighters.
Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout 7 p.m. ET.
Sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Top Royalty, Allstate, USANA, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto, Ambicion Musik, Hill Team Associates and Lundren Insurance & Financial Services.
INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/RiveraPromotionsEntertainment
Twitter: @RiveraPromoEnt @joseriverachamp @KingRivera_