Tag Archives: Mark Breland

boxing, DAZN

Undefeated bantamweight prospect Dominique “Dimes” Crowder Ready to cash in on The Boardwalk

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Streaming live Nov. 16th on DAZN from Tropicana Atlantic City
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (October 31, 2024) – Undefeated blue-chip bantamweight prospect Dominique “Dimes” Crowder (17-0, 10 KOs) is ready to cash in November 16th on Boxing Insider Promotions’ loaded card, streaming live on DAZN from The Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City.

Crowder. the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) International bantamweight champion, is currently rated No. 14 in the world by the WBA. Trained by Jose Guzman and Hall of Famer Mark Breland, “Dimes” is a two-time New York Golden Gloves Champion rated No. 1 nationally in his weight class during his amateur career.

“I’m super excited to be on this card in Atlantic City,” the 30-year-old Crowder said. “I’m glad (event promoter) Larry Goldberg made it happen. All the greats fought there and it’s not too far from my hometown, about a two-hour drive. I’ll have a lot of support on fight night from people in Baltimore and New York City.”

Crowder takes on Duke Micah (24-2, 19 KOs), of Ghana, in an eight-round bout on The Boardwalk. Micah is a former EBC International, Commonwealth Boxing Council and WBO African bantamweight champion.

“I have known Dominique since he was an amateur when I used to sponsor him,” Goldberg commented. “I have been his friend for years and watched his career progress to 17-0. He has a great team with Jose Guzman, Mark Breland, and his manager Adam Glenn. ‘Dimes’ is one of the best free agents in boxing and just an amazing human being.”

Crowder started boxing at the age of 14 in Baltimore. He fell in love with the sport and quickly discovered that he was a natural boxer. New York City is the home of his training camp for each fight in order to enhance his pro career, going back and forth to his Baltimore home on a regular basis.

Guzman has been training Crowder since the latter part of 2017 and he’s extremely high on his protégé. “Dominique is one of those diamonds in the rough from his amateur days,” Guzman noted.

“Everybody knew he was a very slick boxer who was hard to hit, but nobody thought he could hit. As a pro, he’s turned into a boxer-puncher. He didn’t train very much as an amateur because he was so naturally gifted, he didn’t need to. He’s more mature now. Dominique is one of those guys who eats and breathes boxing 24/7. If he’s not in the gym, he’s home watching boxing from back in the day. He is a student of the game.”

“He’s the WBA International champion and the question is who is willing to fight him at 118? He’s 6 feet tall, long, and rangy like Mark Breland and Tommy Hearns, and (for his size) Dominique can hit like them.”

Crowder describes his style as a good puncher who is fundamentally sound but can also mix it up pending the situation in the ring. Because of his advantageous height fighting at bantamweight, Crowder watches and in the ring, he attempts to simulate long, rangy fighters such as Mark Breland, Tommy Hearns, Michael Nunn, and Diego Corrales.

The four world bantamweight champions of the major sanctioning bodies are all from Japan and Crowder realizes he may have to travel halfway around the world for his seemingly impending world title shot.

“Boxing is a waiting game,” Dominque explained, “and I need to stay ready until I get that call (world title shot offer). Because I’m ranked, it could happen at any time. If not, I’ll keep working hard to move up and become the mandatory challenger. Hopefully, my chance could happen next year. I’m getting better and better and I’m always fighting bigger guys than me at training camp, real punchers, never guys my weight.“I’m willing to go to the moon to get my world title shot! I’ll only get one shot at my first world title fight, so I’ll roll the dice and fight anywhere in the world.

Another rising star, Chattanooga (TN) welterweight Avious Griffin (15-0, 14 KOs), headlines in an eight-round bout versus Adrian Gutierrez (12-2-1, 6 KOs). Power-punching Griffin, a former Tennessee State Champion, is trained by Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, who is best known for developing All-World boxer Terence “Bud” Crawford.

Another pair of potential stars who will be in action in six-round bouts are Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Shaquille Cameron (7-3, 6 KOs) in a match presented in association with Overtime Boxing, and Paterson (NJ) junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings, Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs) vs. TBA.

Layne, 21, was a celebrated amateur who captured gold medals at the 2022 and 2021 USA National Championships and National Golden Gloves Tournament; the 20-year-old Flemmings, Jr., from Paterson (NJ), won a silver medal at the 2018 USA Junior Olympics.

A popular Atlantic City trio of fighters will also be in action: junior middleweight Justin “Mr. Atlantic City” Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs) vs. Imar Rosales (9-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder, along with heavyweight Bruce “Atlantic City Express 2.0” Seldon, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs) – the son of former (WBA) Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon, Sr. — vs. Julio Mendoza (3-4, 2 KOs), and undefeated lightweight Francisco Rodriguez (5-0, 5 KOs) vs. TBA in a pair of four-round matches.

A pair of potential female world title contenders, Philadelphia welterweight Stacia “The Natural” Suttles and Hawaiian lightweight Shere Mae Patricio (2-0, 1 KO) will also be showcased in four-round fights vs. opponents to be determined.

Suttles, who was born in New York City, was a 2016 USA Women’s National Championships gold medalist. Patricio, 21, won a gold medal at the 2023 USA Women’s National Golden Gloves and 2022 USA Women’s National Championships. She will face Sarah “Switch Kick” Click (1-7-1).

Also in action will be undefeated Italian junior welterweight Giacomo Micheli (8-0, 6 KOs), who takes on Ronnell “Punisher” Burnett (11-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Micheli was a standout amateur in Italy.
The card is subject to change.

Ticket prices range between $48.00 and $203.50 and are available for purchase online at https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-11-16-024/event/02006138C81B4F54?_ga=2.165801022.1645432099.1728316789-537326816.1728316789.

An amateur show will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City the following day (Saturday, Nov. 17 – 1-6 pm ET), sanctioned by USA Boxing. Tickets are $40.00 and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Atlantic City PAL.

INFORMATION: 
Website: www.BoxingInsider.com
Facebook: /BoxingInsider
X: @BoxingInsider
Instagram: @boxinginsidercom 
boxing, DAZN

Justin Figueroa, Avious Griffin, Dominique Crowder, Donte Layne & Bruce Seldon Jr. Ready to light up The Boardwalk

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Streaming live Nov. 16th on DAZN from Tropicana Atlantic City
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (October 21, 2024) – The next generation of East Coast boxers will be showcased on Boxing Insider Promotions’ November 16th card, streaming live on DAZN from The Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City.

This knockout card will feature a combination of blue-chip prospects, rising stars, popular local fighters, and a potential women’s world champion in the future.

Two rising stars fighting on the card are Chattanooga (TN) welterweight Avious Griffin (15-0, 14 KOs) and Baltimore (MD) bantamweight Dominique “Dimes” Crowder (17-0, 10 KOs) in a pair of eight-round bouts.

Griffin, 30, is a heavy-handed former Tennessee State Champion presently riding an eight-fight knockout streak. Trained by Brian “Bomac” McIntyre, Griffin will take on Adrian Gutierrez (12-2-1, 6 KOs) in the main event.

The 30-year-old Crowder, the reigning WBA International bantamweight champion, is rated No. 14 in the world by the WBA and a former New York Golden Gloves Champion. Mark Breland and Jose Guzman train him.

Two other boxers to watch closely are Long Island (NY) super middleweight Donte Layne (4-0, 4 KOs) and Paterson (NJ) junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings, Jr. (8-0, 8 KOs).

Layne faces Shaquille Cameron (7-3, 6 KOs) in a six-round fight presented in association with Overtime Boxing. The 21-year-old Layne is a gifted southpaw who captured gold medals at the 2022 USA National Championships and National Golden Gloves Tournament, as well as at the 2021 USA Nationals and Junior Pan American Games.

Flemmings, Jr. is a 20-year-old up-and-coming prospect who won a silver medal at the 2018 USA Junior Olympics. He will fight TBA in a scheduled six-round match. Atlantic City fighters will keep The Boardwalk lit such as electrifying junior middleweight Justin “Mr. Atlantic City” Figueroa (10-0, 8 KOs), legacy heavyweight Bruce “Atlantic City Express 2.0” Seldon, Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), and undefeated lightweight hopeful Francisco Rodriguez (5-0, 5 KOs).

Figueroa, 25, is matched against Omar Rosales (9-3-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round match. He was a popular football player at Holy Spirit High School and former member of the famed AC Beach Patrol. Figueroa is riding a 10-fight knockout streak.

The 30-year-old Seldon, Jr. is the son of former World Boxing Association (WBA) Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon, Sr. (40-8, 36 KOs), known as “The Atlantic City Express” when he fought professionally from 1988 to 2009. Seldon, Jr., who attended Absegami High School, is matched with Zach Calmus (1-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder.

Rodriguez, 20, has a perfect pro record to date, five victories in five fights, all ending in a knockout. The southpaw has only fought a total of eight rounds, displaying natural power after fighting in The Combat League (TCL) for the Philadelphia Smoke.

The loaded card will also display a bonafide future female title contender, Hawaiian lightweight Shere Mae Patricio (2-0, 1 KO). The 21-year-old Patricio was a gold medal winner at the 2023 USA Women’s National Golden Gloves and 2022 USA Women’s National Championships. She will fight TBA in a four-round encounter.

Boxing Insider Promotions’ power-packed Nov. 16th event at The Trop also has an international flair, as undefeated Italian junior welterweight Giacomo Michels (8-0, 6 KOs) takes on Ronnell “Punisher” Burnett (11-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Michels, who fights out of Roma, Lazio, was a standout amateur in Italy, capturing top honors in the 2021 Italian Elite National Championships and U-22 National Championships.

Boxing Insider Promotions promoter Larry Goldberg, an Atlantic City native, is dedicated to bringing boxing back to The Boardwalk. This event will mark his 12th promotion to date, the third in a row at Tropicana Atlantic City in 2024. After holding six boxing events in New York last year, Goldberg was recently selected as Promoter of the Year by the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame.

“It’s amazing to bring local boxing back to Atlantic City with a strong mix of local and regional fighters,” Goldberg said. “I am excited that once again DAZN will be streaming the event and continue showing its commitment to grassroots boxing.”As always, the card is subject to change.

Ticket prices range between $48.00 and $203.50 and are available for purchase online at  https://www.ticketmaster.com/boxing-insider-live-professional-boxing-atlantic-city-new-jersey-11-16-024/event/02006138C81B4F54?_ga=2.165801022.1645432099.1728316789-537326816.1728316789.

An amateur show will be held at Tropicana Atlantic City the following day (Saturday, Nov. 17 – 1-6 pm ET), sanctioned by USA Boxing. Tickets are $40.00 and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Atlantic City PAL.

INFORMATION:

Website: www.BoxingInsider.com
Facebook: /BoxingInsider
X: @BoxingInsider
Instagram: @boxinginsidercom
boxing, USA Boxing

USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame Reception another KO

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Class of 2019: Mark Breland, Joe Frazier,
Al Mitchell & Ray Rodgers

 
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (December 19, 2019) – The Class of 2019 was inducted into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame this past Friday night at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
 
The HOF reception was held in conjunction with the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships. Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein from Showtime Sports served once again as the event’s emcee.
 
Olympic gold-medalists Mark Breland and “Smokin'” Joe Frazier along with decorated coach Al Mitchell and famed cut-man Ray Rodgers, were inducted during the 3rd annual USA Boxing Alumni Association HOF reception.
 
Sen. John McCain was posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award. His daughter, Megan McCain, sent an acceptance video on behalf of her family that was played for the audience.
 
“We are extremely thankful for the hundreds of USA Boxing Alumni who showed up to support this year’s Hall of Fame class and enjoy an incredible evening of reflection, camaraderie, and joy,” said USA Boxing Alumni Association Director Chris Cugliari. “Unfortunately, George Foreman was unable to attend the event, so we will be sure to honor him at a later date. However, the legacies of Ray Rodgers, Al Mitchell, Joe Frazier, Mark Breland, and Senator John McCain were celebrated with passion and gratitude. It was an evening to remember, and we look forward to a strong 2020 for the USA Boxing Alumni Association.”
 
The ceremony was well attended, with over 200 traveling to Lake Charles in celebration of this year’s class. 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier Champion John “Iceman” Scully, 1972 Olympic gold medalist Sugar Ray Seales, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tate, former middleweight and light heavyweight champion “Sweet” Reggie Johnson, and 1992 Olympian Raul Marquez celebrated amongst peers from their amateur days.
 
To watch the entire ceremony, go HERE 
 
Below are quotes from the inductees, or those representing inductees, with pictures:
 
CLASS OF 2019
 

  
MARK BRELAND

Mark Breland: “I enjoy boxing, it’s a lot of fun. I’m glad to be here because I’ve seen a lot of fighters I grew up with in the amateurs. I enjoy boxing because it kept me off the streets. I wasn’t a street guy., My father would have beaten me up if I had gotten into trouble in the streets. Boxing kept me off the streets, kept me in the gym. I guess I was good at it. I had a fight with a bully when I was 14 and I beat him up. I went to the gym the same day and my coach asked me what happened. My knuckles were shredded with blood. I told him I had a fight in the street. He said you can’t fight in the street. Then I realized boxing and street fighting are two different things.
 
Shelly Finkel (his manager), when he came into my life, changed a lot of things. Things changed a lot. I focused more on boxing, focused on the Olympic Games, and won championships. Every tournament I went into, I won, but it was a lot of fun. I wanted to inspire youths. I hope I can inspire some amateurs coming up. To keep going, stay off the streets, and do something that can change your life in a good way., Eddie Futch for life!”  


  
JOE FRAZIER

Marvis Frazier(Joe’s son, pictured): “It is so good today to speak about my father, what he meant to me, and Joe Frazier always said to me, ‘There’s no right way to do wrong, no wrong way to do right.’ He said, if you don’t do right, you’re going to smell this, putting his left fist right to my nose. When it was time for me to do bad, it wasn’t me, wasn’t Marvis Frazier. So, today, I’m still smelling it even if he’s not here.
 
“I just love to talk boxing. As an amateur I was 46-1 and then when I turned pro, I beat the guy who had knocked me out. I love my father. He was a good guy and a champion. I know everybody know Muhammad Ali and I know everybody know ‘Smokin’ Joe Frazier.”


  
AL MITCHELL

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

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


  
 
Michael Rodgers (Ray’s son): “First, I want to apologize for my father for not being here. He hurt his back over the weekend working a boxing match, believe it or not, and he apologizes for not being here.
 
“I want to thank USA Boxing and the Alumni Association for recognizing my father for this award. And when he heard about this, he said he didn’t do any of these things during the 72 years he’s been in the sport for awards. He just did what he did for the love this sport and he did what needed to be done.”
 
USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
 

  
Mike McAtee, Executive Director, USA Boxing (pictured): “On behalf of the Board of Directors, President Tyson Lee, I can only say thank you, thank you, and thank you. Tonight, is a culmination of work between our members, our alumni association, but I have to recognize a couple of people. This great event wouldn’t be done without Chris Cugliari, Al Valenti and Nicole Anderson, our Alumni Association Coordinator.
 
“I have the honor of talking about boxing and obviously we have passion. When Marvis Frazier said this was a brotherhood, a sisterhood, and none of us, quite frankly, who’ve stepped in the ring – I include myself in that – we’re not right. Takes a special person to climb in the ropes. You all can give yourselves a hand for not being right.
 
“USA Boxing is proud of our history, but more proud of our future, and I can tell you the young men and women battling at the elite levels, we started at 104 and that will be taken down to 13 by Sunday evening. But, more importantly, we’re going to be breeding the next generation of champions, because this is closing the chapter of 2020, but starting the chapter of 2024, and ultimately, when the Olympic Games comeback here in 2028. This is a special time.”
 

  
Chris Cugliari, Executive Director, USA Boxing Alumni Association: “Three years ago a group of us sat around a table in Kansas City at the National Championships and this idea was hatched: John Brown, Al Valenti, John Scully, Christy Halbert, Mike McAtee and a few others. So, it’s something I’m very proud of and an organization I’m proud to lead with the support of all of you.
 
“A quick update of the Alumni Association, we’re at about 1200 members right now and this is our third year. We had events across the country the past year, honoring Micky Ward and Vinny Pazianza in the New England area. We gathered in Chicago. We honored Izzy Acosta at the Junior Olympics in Wisconsin, as well as Buster Douglas and coach Mike Stafford at the Ohio Legends celebration, and here we are today honoring our third Hall of Fame class. We’ve come a long way. Our theme in 2020 is two missions: First, we want to take this down to the grassroots level, second is supporting our athletes and their families as they travel to the 2020 Olympic Games.”
 

  
Al Valenti, Special Projects Consultant for USA Boxing: “USA Boxing is the one fundamental difference that makes a difference in a young person’s life. The path to self-confidence, the path to self-respect, discipline, victory, and how to accept defeat all comes through amateur boxing.
 
“Tonight, the story will be told. Tonight, we will take you on a path, of amateur boxing in the United States that rivals no other nation. Gold medalists, silver medalists, coaches, officials, doctors…they’re all here. It’s like Woodstock for boxing; everybody’s here!”
 

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

 
 
HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE USA BOXING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
 
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 the 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.
 
 
CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed by Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders and Tom Coulter.
 
CLASS OF 2018:  U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) champions Roy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward and Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary.  
 
INFORMATION:
www.usaboxing.org
Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni
Instagram: @USABoxing
Facebook: /USABoxing
boxing, USA Boxing

3rd annual USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame reception

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Sen. John McCain to be honored

Class of 2019 ceremony this Friday at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 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 host by the Alumni Association, including the 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.

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

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

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

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

boxing, USA Boxing

Simply The Best! Mark Breland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 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 host by the Alumni Association, including the 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.

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

The 56-year-old Breland, who once trained the late, great 1992 US Olympian Vernon Forrest, currently trains another great USA Boxing alumni and 2008 Olympic bronze medalist, Deontay Wilder, the reigning World Boxing Council heavyweight champion.

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

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

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

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

boxing, USA Boxing

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

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

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (November 25, 2019) – Arkansas boxing icon Ray Rodgershas successfully dealt with more cuts than most surgeons, all the way into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame, in which he’ll be inducted on Friday night, December 13, during a special Class of 2019 ceremony, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
 
The HOF reception is being held in conjunction with the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Boxing and 2019 National Championships, Dec. 7-15, at the Lake Charles Civic Center. The finals of the Olympic Trials will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein from Showtime Sports will serve as the event’s emcee for the third year in a row.
 
The USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third HOF class also includes three Olympic gold-medalists, “Big” George Foreman, “Smokin'” Joe Frazier and Mark Breland, as well as legendary coach Al Mitchell.
 
Sen. John McCain will be posthumously presented a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work to protect boxers and elevate the sport. 

There isn’t much in boxing, if anything, that Rodgers hasn’t done: boxer, official, trainer, administrator and, of course, cut man. “I’m a boxing guy,” Rodgers said in his Southern twang. “I’ve been around the block, several times. But I don’t say I’m a cut man, I’m a laceration management specialist.”
 
Rodgers first got into boxing when he was in the fifth grade, back in Oklahoma, where he was born. A memo was sent around that there would be a tryout for boxing held the next day at the local high school gym. His parents gave their permission to let him tryout, the first chapter of his incredible boxing career.
 
“From the first moment,” the charming boxing character remembered, “I was hooked. I still have the letter I received in boxing. That was in 1947 and I’m still in boxing. I’m very proud of that.”
 
Rodgers has worked 39 world championship fights in professional boxing, as a cut man (he only trains amateur boxers) for the likes of world champions Jermaine Taylor, Wayne McCollough and Tommy Morrison.
 
“It’s been beyond belief for a regular old boxing guy like me,” Rodgers said about his life in boxing. “I’ve traveled all over the world, many times, as a cut man.”
 
He was the first national official of both the Golden Gloves and Silver Gloves. Plus, he’s already been inducted in three Hall of Fames: Silver Gloves, Golden Gloves and Arkansas Sports HOF.
 
“Ray’s sacrifice to countless youth as a coach, mentor, cut man, and leader throughout the amateur boxing community is inspirational,” commented Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “His years of service and the knowledge he has passed on to other generations is what makes him a Hall of Famer, and we look forward to honoring him in December.”
 
Rodgers hasn’t slowed down, despite recently celebrating his 83rd birthday. He still owns and operates Ray Rodgers Boxing Club in West Little Rock, Arkansas, in addition to serving as director of the Arkansas Golden Gloves and Mid-South Tournament, which includes Louisiana, Mississippi, Western Tennessee and Arkansas. And he’s also the vice-president of the National Golden Gloves and chairman of the National Silver Gloves.
 
“At my age, I’m happy to have any birthday,” Rodgers joked. “I’m hoping to live another 10-12 years, Lord willing. It’s all in the Lord’s hands; controlling the flow of blood, though, is in my hands.”  
 
Confirmed special guests include 1988 Olympic gold medalist Andrew Maynard, three-time National AAU Coach of the Year (1972-76-77) Joe Clough, 1984 Olympic gold medalist Frank Tate and his brother Thomas, 1972 Olympian Tim Dement, 2002 National Golden Gloves champion Jaidon Codringtion, 1980 Olympic Qualifier Jackie Beard, 1981 Junior Olympics Glen Modicue, four-time National champion Eric Kelly, 1988 Eastern Olympic Qualifier champion John Scully, Obie Beard, Mark Lanton and theStephens brothers – Donald, Anthony and Jerry.
 
 
HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 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 host by the Alumni Association, including the 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.
 
 
 
 
CLASS OF 2017: The charter class was headed by Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield, in addition to veteran coaches Roosevelt Sanders and Tom Coulter.
 
CLASS OF 2018: U.S. Olympic Team medalists and world (professional) champions Roy Jones, Jr., Andre Ward and Claressa Shields, as well as former USA Boxing National Director of Coaching Emanuel Steward and veteran USA Boxing official Tom Cleary.
 
boxing, USA Boxing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Joe’s legacy will live on forever throughout USA Boxing,” added Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “His toughness and heart were second to none, and today’s USA Boxing champions can look to Joe for the definition of a champion in and out of the ring.  We look forward to honoring his legacy as a Hall of Famer on December 13th.”

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

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 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 host by the Alumni Association, including the 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.

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

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

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

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

boxing, USA Boxing

USA Boxing Alumni Association announces Hall of Fame Class of 2019

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

Lifetime Achievement Award to Sen. John McCain

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

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (November 4, 2019) – Olympic gold-medalists “Big” George Foreman, Mark Breland and “Smokin’” Joe Frazier head the Class of 2019 into the USA Boxing Alumni Association Hall of Fame, Friday night, December 13, at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

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

USA Boxing Alumni Association’s third class also includes decorated coaches Al Mitchelland Ray Rodgers. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“This year’s USA Boxing Alumni Hall of Fame class, as well as Senator McCain, represent the very best of Olympic style boxing, both in and out of the ring,”commented Chris Cugliari, USA Boxing Alumni Association Executive Director. “Their decades worth of service representing themselves inspire us to give back and support current and future generations of champions.  The USA Boxing Alumni Association looks forward to an exciting and memorable evening as we honor these champions of our sport.”

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

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE 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 host by the Alumni Association, including the 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.

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

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

INFORMATION:

www.usaboxing.org

Twitter: @USABoxing, @USABoxingAlumni

Instagram: @USABoxing

Facebook: /USABoxing

boxing

Webster decisions Riojas in Atlantic City Wins by Seldon, Ajamu, Wikins and Manzueta

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Atlantic City, New Jersey (June 1, 2018)–Super Middleweight Derrick Webster pounded his way to a 10-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas in the main event of a five-bout card at The Claridge Hotel.

 

 

 

Mis Downing Promotions promoted the near-capacity show.

 

 

 

With the win, Webster captured the American Boxing Federation Continental Americas Super Middleweight title.

 

 

 

Webster was pinpoint with his jab, which he followed with a solid body work that reddened the sides of Riojas.  Webster stunned the gritty Riojas on several occasions, but the visitor from Monterrey, Mexico showed a good chin and remained on his feet for the ten-round bout.

 

 

 

Scores were all 100-90 in favor of Webster of Glassboro, New Jersey, who is now 26-1.  Riojas is 16-10-1.

 

 

 

“It was boxing in there.  I put on a display.  Roy Jones told me to keep him long, and that’s what I did.  I started the body work a little late, but the jab was my key.  I could have done a little more with the body, but the jab was everything tonight,” said Webster.

 

 

 

“In the 1st round, I hit him with a big right hand, but the bell saved him. I hit him good a couple more times.  Some guys know how to survive, and he is one of them.”

 

 

 

“We have been talking to the USBA about fighting for their title.  That will get me to where I need to be.  I am ready for a world title shot.  I have been putting it out there that I would like fight George Groves or Tyron Zuege.  I will go to China or Germany or wherever to fight those guys.”

 

 

 

Isiah Seldon scored two knockdowns en-route to a six-round unanimous decision over Lamar Harris in a super middleweight bout.

 

 

 

In round four, Seldon landed a perfect counter right that sent Harris to the deck.  In round five, it was another right that mad Harris’ glove touch the canvas for a 2nd time.

 

 

 

Seldon of Atlantic City won by scores of 60-52 twice and 59-53 and is now 12-1-1.  Harris of St. Louis is 9-15-4.

 

 

 

 

Prince Badi Ajamu won a eight-round unanimous decision over Edgar Perez in a cruiserweight rematch. Ajamu of Camden, New Jersey won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 to raise his mark to 29-4-1.  Perez of Chicago is 7-25.

 

 

 

James Wilkins stopped Joe Gbola at the end of round two of their scheduled four-round featherweight bout.

 

 

 

Wilkins dropped Gbolo midway through the 2nd round, and then pounded on his opponent for the rest of the round.  The bout was stopped in between rounds.

 

 

 

Wilkins of Brooklyn, NY is 4-0 with 4 knockouts.  Gbolo of Newbergh, NY is 3-3-2.

 

 

 

In the opening bout of the evening, Felix Manzueta stopped Antonio Allen in round two of a scheduled four-round welterweight bout.

 

 

 

Manzueta pounded on Allen until the bout was stopped at 1:17.

 

 

 

Manzueta of Dover, Delaware is 2-0 with both wins coming via stoppage.  Allen of Philadelphia is 0-8-1.

 

 

 

The card took place on Atlantic City Hall of Fame weekend, and stars such as Roy Jones Jr., Riddick Bowe, Evander Holyfield, Hector Camacho Jr., Bruce Seldon, Mark Breland, Marlon Starling, Michael Spinks and Jeff Chandler were among the dignitaries that were sitting ringside.”

 

 

 

 

Mis Downing Promotions would like to thank their sponsors which includes The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame, The Claridge Hotel, Fantasea Resorts, AEI Insurance, Urgent Response, HairX, Buy Smart Motors & New Vision Property Management.

boxing, charity

June 3, NYC, Wilfred Benitez Fundraising event

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FUNDRAISER for three-time World Champion WILFRED “EL RADAR’ BENITEZ
(Youngest World Champion Ever at age 17)
Organized and promoted by Efrain Diaz, Franklin “Beatle” Flores, former NYC amateur boxer Eddie Montalvo, Yvonne Benitez (Wilfred’s sister)  and “Iceman” John Scully
Saturday, June 3, 2017  @ Monique’s Lounge in Spanish Harlem, New York City. 1 pm – 7 pm
181 East 108th St. Spanish Harlem, NY 10029.
FOOD-MUSIC-FUN
$20 admission. All proceeds go to Wilfred Benitez.
Wilfred Benitez tee-shirt comes with the admission price)
Invited and expected guests include the likes of Mark Breland, Iran “The Blade” Barkley, “Poison” Junior Jones, Seamus McDonough, Dennis “The Magician” Milton, Marlon “Magic Man” Starling, Angel Manfredy, Israel “Pito” Cardona, Harold “The Shadow” Knight, Pedro Vilella, Hector Camacho Jr. Richie “The Mountain” Lamontagne, Alfred “Ice” Cole, Tyrone “The Harlem Butcher” and HBO Judge Harold Lederman.
Benitez’ sister Evelyn will also be in attendance.
Actor and former professional boxer Mickey Rourke has already donated an undisclosed sum to the Fundraiser.