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2016 Olympic Bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Shines in professional debut win at home

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams decisions Eduardo “Thunder” Garza to improve to 10-0
 
Neeco “Rooster” Macias crows after 
Dominant victory over Cesar Soriano
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins”
OFFICIAL RESULTS 
Nico Hernandez (R) is a future star
 
(all pictures by Charles Yellowfeather / KO Night Boxing)
MULVANE, Kansas (March 25, 2017) — A future star was born last night as 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez turned in a stellar performance in his professional debut, stopping Pat “Slacks” Gutierrez in the fourth round of the “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” main event, which aired live on CBS Sports Network from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” was presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, in association with Kansas Star Casino, and sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel   Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
The large, hometown crowd of more than 3,100 had Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO) pumped to start the fight, in which he quickly established himself as the clear aggressor.  The 21-year-old settled down in the second, showing his full arsenal of punches, as he banged Gutierrez’ body and also landed effectively upstairs.
Hernandez cut off the ring in the third, often trapping Gutierrez (0-3) on the ropes, where he unloaded punishing punches that started to take its toll on the gutsy Las Vegas fighter. Hernandez’ dominance continued in the fourth, even as he surprisingly switched from orthodox to southpaw stance, hurting Gutierrez until his corner asked the referee to halt the action.
Nico Hernandez (R) pounded Pat Gutierrez
“It doesn’t get better than this,” a beaming Hernandez said after the fight. “It means so much for me to bring boxing to Wichita, to all of Kansas, for these awesome fans.  I started switching up a little because it was worked.  I’d like to get back fighting again in two months.
“I wasn’t to thank KO Night Boxing.  This was the way I pictured it.  As I was waiting in the tunnel, I could hear the crowd chanting my name.  This was a great night of boxing.  I want to bring more shows here.
“Fighting here tonight was much different than fighting in the Olympics (in Brazil).  Tonight they were cheering me, they booed me at the Olympics no matter who I fought because I was an American.”
In the co-feature, gifted New Haven (CT) southpaw Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams improved his undefeated record to 10-0 (3 KOs), displaying special ring skills on his way to an impressive eight-round unanimous decision over tough Eduardo “Thunder” Garza (6-2, 2 KOs).
A classic boxer, Williams also showed some pop tonight, dropping Garza twice, once in the first round and again in the third. Williams, who made his promotional debut for Roc Nation Sports, rolled to victory by scores of 79-71 twice and 78-72.
Tramaine Williams (R) outclassed Eduardo Garza
“I performance okay,” Williams commented.  “The last two rounds I was a little winded but I hadn’t been in the ring for two years.  We knew he dropped his chin when he jabbed; I followed the game plan and it worked.  He fought his butt off, he didn’t come to lose.  Now, I want to fight the best. Let’s go!”
Relentless junior middleweight Neeco “Rooster” Macias (15-0, 8 KOs), fighting out of Tehachapi, California, enhanced his reputation as a rising contender on the regional scene, assaulting his game Mexican foe, Cesar Soriano (26-35-1, 16 KOs), from the opening bell until the very end for a hard-fought win by eight-round unanimous decision.
A southpaw known for his non-stop motor, Macias connected with punches thrown from every conceivable angle, leaving Soriano no room to move or time to catch his wind, to win by scores of 80-71, 79-72, 78-73).
Neeco Macias had too much for Cesar Soriano
“I feel like I could have done better,” Macias admitted.  “My opponent came to fight eight rounds and we respect for each other.  I’m still learning.  Everybody has a game plan until they get hit.  I didn’t move like I should have.  I thank my opponent for giving me a fight I can learn from.

“I was surprised he took so many punches, but he’s a veteran and I didn’t underestimate him.  I trained hard and needed every bit of it.  I’m getting better and I’m coming back strong to make boxing more exciting.”

Fighting for the first time since last August, Kansas favorite Jeff Page, Jr. (18-3, 12 KOs) dropped Missouri veteran Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-34-1, 16 KOs) three times for a first-round technical knockout victory in a fight contested at a 186-pounds catchweight.
In a non-title fight, Kansas State junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (5-0, 2 KOs) remained undefeated, stopping fellow Kansan Robert Alexander Seyan (2-6, 2 KOs) in the opening round.
Kansas featherweight Eric Vargas (2-0, 1 KO) pitched a shutout, winning all four rounds against pro-debuting Kevin “Indio” Garcia.
Kansas cruiserweight Juan Hollingsworth (1-0) won his pro debut by way of a four-round unanimous decision over Raymond Gray (1-2),
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
Complete results & post-fight presser conference quotes below:
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS
(Winners listed first each fight)
MAIN EVENT – JUNIOR BANTAMWEIGHTS
Nico Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO), Wichita, KS
WTKO4 (2:32)
Pat Gutierrez (0-3), Las Vegas, NV
CO-FEATURE – FEATHERWEIGHTS
Tramaine Williams (19-0, 3 KOs), New Haven, CT
WDEC8 (79-71, 79-71, 78-72)
Eduardo Garza (6-2, 2 KOs), Pal View, TX
CRUISERWEIGHTS
Juan Hollingsworth (1-0, 1 KO), Winfield, KS
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)
Raymond Gray (1-2, 0 KO), Columbia, MO
CATCHWEIGHT (186 lbs.)
Jeff Page, Jr. (18-3, 12 KOs), Andover, KS
WTKO1 (2:36)
Steve Walker (26-34, 18 KOs), Hannibal, MO
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Neeco Macias (15-0, 8 KOs), Tehachapi, CA
WDEC8 (80-71, 79-72, 78-73)
Cesar Soriano (26-35-1, 16 KOs), Mexico City, Mexico
Efrain Morales (5-0, 2 KOs), Garden City. KS
WTKO1 (1:46)
Robert Alexander Seyam (2-6, 2 KOs), Wichita, KS
FEATHERWEIGHTS
Eric Vargas (2-0, 1 KO), Garden City, KS
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Kevin Garcia (0-1), Rio Rancho, NM
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia, @KONightBoxing
Follow on Twitter & Instagram: @Nicomhernandez & @Tramaine_Midget and ABT Films on Twitter @abtfilms
boxing, CBS Boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Joins elite group Saturday night in pro debut “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena 

MULVANE, Kansas (March 20, 2017) –– 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez will join an elite group this Saturday night as he makes his professional debut in the “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” main event, airing (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” is presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, in association with Kansas Star Casino, and sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel   Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
In his six-round bout against upset-minded Las Vegas (NV) flyweight Patrick Gutierrez (0-2), Wichita-native Hernandez will become only the fourth United States Olympic medalist in the last 40 years to make his pro debut at home in a nationally televised main event.
The other three members of this special quartet, all Olympic gold medalists and pro debut winners, include Hall of Famer “Sugar” Ray Leonard (Feb. 5, 1977, in Baltimore, MD, two-time world champion Mark Breland and world title challenger Paul “Super Fly” Gonzales.
“It’s a great feeling,” the 21-year-old Hernandez said from training camp.  “I am feeling some pressure but, once I’m in the ring, everything goes away.  There definitely is some pressure on me because I’m fighting where everybody knows me in my hometown.  So, I can’t lose. At the Olympics, all the Americans there gave me more energy to win.  I didn’t want to lose in front of my people.  Fighting at home will push me to do my best.
“I’m not really focused on fighting on national television. I’m going out there to put on a boxing clinic and, if the knockout comes, it comes.  If it happens, it happens, but not going in there looking for a knockout.  I’m used to fighting only three rounds (as an amateur) but, as the fight goes on, I’ve always gotten better. Six rounds do give me more time to work on my opponent and do more damage.”
 
Picture gallery below from Nico Hernandez’ 
open workout/meet-and-greet this past Saturday in Wichita
 
Undefeated prospect Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams (9-0, 3 KOs), a gifted southpaw from New Haven (CT), takes on Texas featherweight Eduardo Garza (6-1, 2 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.
Opening the televised segment of the card, in an eight-round match, is a potentially explosive junior middleweight throw-down between unbeaten Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs), of Palm Desert, California, and Mexican veteran Cesar Soriano (26-34-1, 16 KOs).
Andover (KS) cruiserweight Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs) meets Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-33, 18 KOs), from Hannibal (MO), in the six-round television swing bout.
Also fighting on the undercard, in separate four-round bouts, are Kansas St. junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO), from Garden City (KS), vs. Wichita’s Robert Alexander Sevam (2-5, 2 KOs), Garden City featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO) vs. New Mexico’s pro-debuting Kevin “Indio” Garcia, and Winfield (KS) cruiserweight Juan Hollingsworth will make his pro debut vs. Raymond Gray, of Columbia, Missouri.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food).
Tickets are available to purchase at  www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena orwww.ticketmaster.com. All ages show.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow on Twitter & Instagram: @Nicomhernandez & @Tramaine_Midget and ABT Films on Twitter @abtfilms
 
boxing, CBS Boxing

Undefeated featherweight Tramaine Williams Added to “KO Night Boxing” TV card co-feature

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
Headlines “History Begins” in pro debut
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena 
MULVANE, Kansas (March 14, 2017) – Undefeated featherweight prospect Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams has been added to the televised portion of the March 25th “KO Night Boxing: History Begins” card, featuring the professional debut of 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez.
 
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” will air live (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
Wichita native Hernandez will meet upset-minded Las Vegas (NV) flyweight Patrick Gutierrez (0-2) in the six-round main event.
“KO Night Boxing: History Begins” is presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, in association with Kansas Star Casino, and sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel   Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
In the eight-round co-feature, the 24-year-old Williams (9-0, 3 KOs) faces tough Texan Eduardo Garza (6-1, 2 KOs) in Williams’ Roc Nation Sports promotional debut.  The most notable victory to date for the slick southpaw from New Haven (CT) is a six-round “shutout” decision over previously undefeated Isaac Zarate (5-0) in Oklahoma.
Undefeated junior middleweight prospect Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs), of Palm Desert, California, battles Mexican veteran Cesar Soriano (26-34-1, 16 KOs) in the eight-round televised opener.
Former Kansas St. light heavyweight champion Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs), fighting out of Andover (KS), takes on former USA Midwest champion Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-33, 18 K0s), from Hannibal (MO), in an eight-round cruiserweight match.
Also fighting on the undercard, in separate four-round bouts, are Kansas St. junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO), from Garden City (KS), vs. Wichita’s Robert Alexander Sevam (2-5, 2 KOs), Garden City featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO) vs. New Mexico’s pro-debuting Kevin “Indio” Garcia, and Winfield (KS) cruiserweight Juan Hollingsworth will make his pro debut vs. Raymond Gray, of Columbia, Missouri.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food).
Tickets are available to purchase at  www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena orwww.ticketmaster.com. All ages show.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez and ABT Films on Twitter @abtfilms
boxing, CBS Boxing

Undefeated prospect Neeco “Rooster” Macias Ready to crow & scratch in Kansas

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
Headlines “History Begins” in pro debut
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena 
Neeco “Rooster” Macias
(courtesy of Sheer Sports)

MULVANE, Kansas (March 9, 2017) – Rising junior middleweight prospect Neeco “Rooster” Macias will put his undefeated record on the line March 25against Mexican veteran Cesar Soriano in an eight-round bout, on “KO Night Boxing: History Begins”, featuring the professional debut of hometown hero Nico Hernandez, the 2016 Olympic bronze medalist.

 
“KO Night Boxing” will air live (9 p.m. ET) on CBS Sports Network from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
One of only two U.S. men boxers to medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Wichita native Hernandez. will face upset-minded Las Vegas (NV) flyweight Patrick Gutierrez (0-2) in the six-round main event.

Got to promo links:  English –  https://vimeo.com/206517858
In association with Kansas Star Casino, KO Night Boxing LLC is the licensed promoter of “KO Night Boxing: History Begins”, which is being sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
The 25-year-old Macias (14-0, 8 KOs), fighting out of Palm Desert, California, takes on “gatekeeper” Soriano (26-34-1, 16 KOs) in the opening televised bout.   The extremely aggressive fighting Macias, who is the reigning World Boxing Council’s (WBC) United States junior middleweight champion, is currently ranked No. 13 by the United States Boxing Association (USBA).
In short, Macias is an energized-bunny boxer, always going forward, throwing an arsenal of punches from every conceivable angle.  His fan-friendly style, in addition to his rooster persona, makes him an instant favorite wherever he fights.  Kansas fans there to support Hernandez will probably take to Macias before the first bell.
“I never chose my nickname,” Macias explained.  “I fought a lot in the amateurs between Los Angeles and Fresno, where there are a lot of Latino fans.  They started calling me, Gallo, which is Spanish for Rooster.  In my fourth fight, I did a little rooster dance and scratched.  Then, I was more dramatic, and eventually I started crowing. I crow and scratch before, during and after my fights, so I better live up to my nickname and keep winning.
“We don’t just focus on techniques on camp, I go through some insane, hardcore workouts.  Everybody gets tired in the ring but I train very hard and always find my second wind during fights because I train so hard.  I’ve been doing it this way for the past five years. I have a good coach, my father (Al), who pushes me.  I never reach a plateau in workouts.  We even steal workouts from other gyms.  But, boxing is 80-percent mental and with the Adrenalin rush from fighting in front of large crowds, mentally, I have to be strong to physically do what I do in the ring.”
Macias is getting close to breaking into the world ratings.  Two of his last three fights have been shown on CBS Sports Network, both live from Las Vegas, including his USNBC-winning fight against previously undefeated Rolando Garza (9-0), the former member of the Mexican National Boxing Team.  Macias took the fight to Garza fight from the opening bell, never letting up during this action-packed fight, until the referee stopped the fight in the fifth round.
“Everybody hits the wall and I did against Garza in the fourth round,” Macias said, “but I got my second wind and finished him off in the fifth. I’ve gotten better since that fight, too.  I’m not a Floyd (Mayweather Jr.)-like fighter, so I’ve been working on my defense, keeping my hands high, elbows close to my body.  I’m smothering opponents now, not giving them leverage, and I haven’t been getting cut like I did in my earlier fights.
“I’m going to show fight smarts early, fighting in flurries and pressuring him inside to make him uncomfortable, and then wear him down for the middle and late rounds. The ‘Rooster’ is going to pressure him; tap, tap, tap to the body, until things settle down and then start digging punches to his head and body.  I’m doing everything to come out of this fight 15-0.”
Soriano has won his last two fights.  He is the former Fecarbox and WBC Mundo Hispano lightweight champ.  As a “gatekeeper,” he has tested the likes of world title challengers Dierry Jean and Ionut Dan Ion, as well as top contenders such as Kevin Bizier and Logan McGuinness.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food).
Tickets are available to purchase at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena
or www.ticketmaster.com. All ages show.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez and ABT Films on Twitter @abtfilms
boxing, CBS Boxing

Real life “Rocky” moment at hand for  Las Vegas’ Patrick Gutierrez

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Make or break fight for underdog vs.
2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kansas Star Arena 
MULVANE, Kansas (February 23, 2017) – Flyweight Patrick Gutierrez is going into his nationally-televised, main event showdown, March 25 in Kansas with high expectations against pro-debuting 2016 Olympic junior flyweight bronze medalist Nico Hernandez.  Gutierrez is training hard in Las Vegas for his scheduled six-round “Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” headline bout to derail hometown hero Hernandez’ coming out party
“This fight is make or break for me,” the 22-year-old Gutierrez said about his ‘Rocky’-like moment.  The crowd won’t bother me because I enjoy fighting in front of large crowds. I’ve learned the hard way that, fighting my opponent in his backyard, I can’t leave it in the hands of the judges. I watched Nico fight in the Olympics.  I have a lot of respect for him and was proud of him for winning the bronze medal for our country.  But, I also saw some flaws from the fight that he lost.  He’s in trouble if he hasn’t corrected those flaws.”
“Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” will air live on CBS Sports Network. At 9:00 p.m. ET from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.  Knockout Night Boxing LLC is the licensed promoter of the March 25th event, in association with Kansas Star Casino, and it is sponsored by Miller Lite, Mel Hambelton FORD and TITLE Boxing.
The CBS Sports Network all-star announcing team for “History Begins” will include Hall-of-Famer Jim “J.R.” Ross, Sean Wheelock and Joey Varner.  Justin Roberts will be the ring announcer.
Hernandez, 21, was a highly-decorated amateur boxer (94-5) who is like a sports franchise in his hometown of Wichita.
A national Taekwondo champion as a youngster, Gutierrez played football in high school, at least until he realized that he had stopped growing, eliminating the possibility that he’d ever play college football.  He had always liked combat sports and decided to try boxing.
“I fell in love with boxing right away,” Gutierrez admitted.  “I live in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, and Floyd Mayweather (Jr.) was at his prime there when I first started boxing.  I boxed in California (Orange County) and won a three-day tournament there as an amateur.  I decided to turn pro but, due to some broken promises, I didn’t make my pro debut for two years.  So, I just focused on training.  I broke my wrist in the second round of my first fight but decided to stick with boxing.  Six months later, I fought a California kid (Alexander Enriquez) in Los Angeles and felt that I had won all four rounds.  I could tell because the large crowd was silent throughout the fight.  I’ve learned the hard way, the past four years, but I’m still young and getting better every day.  I had an easy fight scheduled for March 11 when (promoter) John Andersen called offering me this fight.  I wanted to restart my career and jumped at the opportunity to fight Nico.  I decided to take the risk to fight an Olympic medalist in his hometown.  I just love fighting and I’m not going there to lose.”
The eight-round co-feature shapes up as a southpaw battle between a rooster and bull.  Rising junior middleweight star Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs) puts his undefeated record on the line against dangerous Arturo “El Toro” Crespin (13-8-1, 4 KOs).   Macias is a showman from Palm Desert, California, whose non-stop style makes him an instant fan favorite wherever he fights. His “Rooster” persona will be perfect for his first pro fight in Kansas.
Kansas cruiserweight Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs), will open the televised portion of card in a six-round bout against an opponent to be determined.
Scheduled to fight on the non-televised undercard, in separate four-round matches, are four Kansas boxers: Kansas State junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO), super middleweight Marcio Navarro and featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO). They will all face opponents to be determined.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food).
Tickets are available to purchase at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena
or www.ticketmaster.com. All ages show.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez
boxing, CBS Boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Set for pro debut on Knockout Night Boxing card

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“History Begins”
 
 March 25 on CBS Sports Network live from Kanas Star Arena 

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
 
Press Conference quotes below
(All pictures courtesy of Courtney Wells / Kansas Star)
 
MULVANE, Kansas (February 16, 2017) – 2016 Olympic junior flyweight bronze medalist Nico Hernandez will make his professional boxing debut at home on Saturday, March 25 (9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT) on CBS Sports Network. He will headline “Knockout Night Boxing: History Begins” live from Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kansas.
A press conference was held today at Kansas Star to announce the show, as well as Hernandez signing a promotional contract with Knockout Night Boxing LLC, the promoter of the March 25th event, in association with Kansas Star Casino and sponsored by Miller Lite. Neon Media Sports & Entertainment is the parent company of Knockout Night Boxing.
“I reached the highest-level I could in my amateur career and it was time for me to turn pro,” Hernandez said.  “I’ve always wanted to make my pro debut in my hometown, Wichita.  My plan is to do it like Terence Crawford has done in Omaha.  I’m hoping it works out as well for me.  I signed with Knockout Night Boxing because they’re really going to work with me and I like what they want to do.”
The all-star announcing team for “History Begins” will include Hall-of-Famer Jim “J.R.” Ross, Sean Wheelock and Joey Varner, while Justin Roberts serves as ring announcer.
The 21-year-old Hernandez’ long anticipated pro debut will be against flyweight Patrick Gutierrez (0-2), fighting out of the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas (NV), in the six-round main event.
Hernandez was a highly-decorated amateur boxer (94-5) whose accomplishments, in addition to capturing a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil, include eight-time Ringside World Championships and six-time consecutive Silver Gloves National Championships winner, as well as 2014 National Golden Gloves gold medalist.
Patrick Gutierrez (L), promoter John Anderson and Nico Hernandez
Undefeated rising junior middleweight star Neeco “Rooster” Macias (14-0, 8 KOs) takes on Arturo “El Toro” Crespin (13-8-1, 4 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature.  Macias is a colorful, fan-friendly fighter from Palm Desert, California, who is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) United States 154-pound division champion.
Kansas cruiserweight Jeff Page, Jr. (17-3, 11 KOs),  will open the televised portion of card in a six-round bout against an opponent to be determined.
Scheduled to fight on the non-televised undercard, in separate four-round matches, are four Kansas boxers: Kansas State junior middleweight champion Efrain Morales (4-0, 1 KO) faces Brandon Philips (1-2); cruiserweight Chris Harris (2-2-2, 2 KOs), super middleweight Marcio Navarro and featherweight Eric Vargas (1-0, 1 KO) will meet opponents to be determined.
(L-R) — Jeff Page, Jr., Patrick Gutierrez, promoter John Andersen, Eric Vargas and Efrain Morales
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Ticket prices are $115.00 (ringside, rows 1 & 2), $75.00 (floor seats, rows 3-5), $60.00 (floor seats, floor rows after 1-5), $35.00 (lower bowl) and $25.00 (upper bowl).  Suites seating up to 22 people are available to purchase for $2,500 (includes non-alcohol beverages and food). Tickets are available to purchase via pre-sale tomorrow (Friday, Feb. 17), starting at 10 a.m. CT (use presale code: KOBOX), at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena.  Tickets go on sale this Saturday (Feb. 18) at 10 a.m. CT at www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena, and
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.
PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Nico Hernandez: “I want to thank everybody for coming here today to Kansas Star.  I also want to thank my opponent for stepping up.  I’m training hard and don’t take anything for granted.  I hope to put on a great show.”
Patrick Gutierrez: “I want to thank Nico and his team.  He represented our country so well and I’m honored to be fighting him in five weeks.  It’s a big fight, make or break for me.  If I can pull it off, it’ll be a jump start for my career. I plan to put on a good show.  I’m coming to fight and I’ll be putting in a lot of hard work.”
Jeff Page, Jr.: “I want to thank everybody here.  It’s been fun watching Nico fight and I’m blessed to be fighting on his pro-debut card.”
Efrain Morales: Thank you for this opportunity.  It’s an honor to be fighting on the same card as Nico’s pro debut.  I’m grown up watching Nico fight and I’m excited to be on hi card,”
Eric Vargas: “It’s a huge opportunity for me to fight on Nico’s card.  I’m coming out big.”
Mike Garrow, CEO, Neon Star Sports & Entertainment: “First off, I would like to thank, on behalf of “‘Knockout Night Boxing’ on CBS Sports Network, all fighters here today and also those competing on the card, Saturday, March 25th, at Kansas Star Arena. It is you that fans are coming to see and we are excited once again to provide a platform with ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ for you to showcase your skills and dedication to the sport.  That is one of the core philosophies of the ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ series: to provide a platform for the stars of tomorrow – today – to shine on Saturday, March 25th. Wichita’s own Olympic medalist, Nico Hernandez, will make his pro debut as he takes on Patrick Gutierrez from Las Vegas.  History will begin!
“In closing, we would like to thank you, fans and media, for coming out today to support ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ on CBS Sports Network and we look forward to you also being part of ‘History Begins’ on Saturday, March 25th.”
John Andersen, Promoter, Knockout Night Boxing: “Let me start by saying what an absolute pleasure it’s been working with Kansas Star. Our mission Knockout Night Boxing is to help put Kansas on the boxing map.  What better way to do that than announcing our signing of Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez to the Knockout Night Boxing Team?  I feel having Nico fight in his hometown, in the main event on CBS Sports Network, is exactly what an Olympian like Nico deserves for what he’s accomplished, not only for himself, but for the state of Kansas. It is such an honor for us to showcase him in the main event, on national television, for the boxing world to see.
“This is a can’t-miss show, loaded with Kansas fighters like Jeff Page, Jr., Efrain Morales, Eric Vargas and others.  Let’s not forget that ‘Knockout Night Boxing’ series is known for putting on well matched fights and this card will not disappoint.  Nico will have his hands full with Patrick Gutierrez.  I also would like to announce the return of Neeco “Rooster” Macias on our series.  You guys will be in for a real treat watching this kid fight.  He is one of a kind.  Come support your very own Nico Hernandez in what will really be a can’t-miss show where ‘History Begins!”
Dan Ihm, Vice President & General Manager, Kansas Star: “I’m very excited about today’s announcement of this event that will be held right behind me in Kansas Star Arena.  We’ve hosted a lot of events – equestrian, MMA and national entertainment acts – but this will be the first time it’s boxing.  We’re very excited.”
Pete Meitzner, City Councilor from Hernandez’ district in Wichita: “On behalf of the mayor (Jeff Longwell) and City Council, we’re so proud of and excited for Nico.  He’s elevated the excitement in this city (Wichita), state and country.  For him to continue his story here in the next stage of his life is great.  I want to thank Kansas Star and Boyd Gaming for all they do.”
Adam Roorbach:  Executive Director, Kansas Athletic Commission: “For the past 2 1/2 years, since I’ve been on the commission, we’ve had some great fights It’s exciting for Mr. Hernandez to make his pro debut in Kansas. I’m familiar with some of these other (fighters) faces from fights in Kansas and I’m glad they will be able to showcase their skills here on a larger stage.  I’m looking forward to the fights.”
Lewis Hernandez, trainer/father of Nico Hernandez: “This is an opportunity we’ve been waiting for a long time.  I want to thank Patrick for stepping up.  We don’t take anybody lightly.  This is going to be a great fight.”
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @Kansas_Star, @Neonstarmedia
Follow Nico Hernandez on Twitter & Instagram @Nicomhernandez
boxing, CBS Boxing, Las Vegas

Claggett upsets Robles for NABA US title Macias steals show with electrifying performance

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“KNOCKOUT NIGHT AT THE D” RESULTS FROM LAS VEGAS
(All pictures by Manny “Mitts” Murillo / Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions)
(L-R) — John Anderson, Neon Star Media; co-promoters Keith Veltre and future Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr., Steve “The Dragon” Claggett and Derek Stevens, Owner and CEO of the D Las Vegas and Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
LAS VEGAS (September 10, 2016) – The heat was on last night at “Knockout Night at the D,” in and out of the ring, thoroughly entertaining another sold-out crowd at the outdoorDowntown Las Vegas Events Center.
On a stacked card that had fans on their feet all night, Canadian Steve “The Dragon” Claggett (24-4-1, 16 KOs) upset Emmanuel “Renegade” Robles (15-1-1, 5 KOs) in the main event, promoted in association with Bobby D Presents, but it was Neeco “The Rooster” Macias (13-0, 7 KOs) who stole the show in the co-feature
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by

the D Las Vegas and Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.  Hall Of Fame announcers

Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein called the action from ringside on CBS Sports Network in North America and internationally via ESPN.
Steve Claggett (L) upset Emmanuel Robles
Claggett, fighting out of Calgary, Canada, dropped down one weight class. Coming off a disputed 10-round decision loss to Chris van Heerden this past April, also at the Downtown Las Vegas Event Center, Claggett won a 10-round majority decision (98-92, 98-92, 94-96)tonight for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) welterweight title.  His expert body work allowed him to dictate the pace of the boxing match.
“This is a long time coming, Claggett admitted.  “I took the loss (vs. van Heerden) in stride, vowing to go back to the gym and make changes.  I went down to 140 (lbs.) and it was the right decision.  I’m stronger.  I I really worked hard.
“I landed a couple of shots that hurt him noticeably.  He’s tough.  Robles is a champion in the making.  I have a lot of respect for him.  This is my life.  It (his loss to van Heerden) fueled me.  The fire’s back in me.  I love fighting in Las Vegas.”
Neeco “The Rooster” Macias (L) stole the show to became a rising star
The co-feature showcased a pair undefeated junior middleweights and from the opening bell it was a real firefight. Macias forced Rolando “Rola” Garza (9-1, 6 KOs), a 3-time Mexican National amateur champion, to fight his fight.  Macia’s aggressive style, always coming forward, throwing punches from every conceivable angle, ruled the coop. Garza got caught up in the action and paid for it, although the score after was 39-37, 39-37 for Macias, 39-37 for Garza, entering the fifth and final round.  Macia’s constant pressure controlled the action, wearing down Garza, and paid dividends as he dropped Garza in the fifth. Referee Jay Nady had seen enough, halting the fight at that point as much due to the damage Garza had suffered in the first four rounds as the knockdown.
A rising star was born in Macia, who captured the vacant World Boxing Association (WBC) United States junior middleweight championship.  “It’s conditioning, a lot of work,” Macias explained the reason for his non-stop action before crowing loudly in the ring.  “I stuck to the game plan.  I knew he’d come to fight with a lot of skill to out-box me and get points.  My game plan was throw a lot of upper cuts and punches from every angle. It was all about throwing combinations.
“He had a lot pf power, so I used defense to block punches.  In the last round, I put punches together.  I think the fight was stopped a little early and he could have kept going, but I didn’t see what he saw, and the referee was looking out for the fighters so we can fight another day.”
Jeremy Nichols remained undefeated
In the television opener, flashy Las Vegas welterweight Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (6-0, 2 KOs) kept rolling, winning a 4-round unanimous decision over Steve Belmontes (2-1, O KOs).  Nichols outworked his opponent, consistently beating Belmontes to the punch with his superior quickness.
“I think it could have been a little flashier,” Nichols admitted. “But give it up to my opponent, he came to fight.  With more than 100 amateur fights, he could take a punch but he kept coming.  My goal was to take everything from him and make him fight my fight.  His hands were a little slower and he took a lot of good body shots and counters.”
Marina Ramirez (R) was a crowd pleaser
Idaho junior flyweight Marina “Rocky” Ramirez (40-36, 40-36, 40-36) pitched a 4-round shutout, defeating Rachel “The Black Widow” Sazoff (0-2) by scores of 40-36 across the board.  “I landed a lot of shots,” Ramirez noted.  “I respect her, she was tough.  The game plan worked and we got the win.”
Randy Moreno (L) keeps improving
Twenty-year-old Randy Moreno (4-0, 3 KOs) turned in the best performance of his young career, stopping Australian junior lightweight “12” Gaige Ireland (2-1-2, 2 KOs) in the third round.   Moreno fights with the poise of a much older fighter, effectively counter punching from the opening bell.  “It feels great,” Moreno commented.  “I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t forGil Martinez (head trainer).  He is notorious for his training methods and it’s paid off.  I’ve been with him 10 years.  Fighting here at home means the world to me.”
Ismail Muwendo (L) remained undefeated
Undefeated lightweight prospect Ismail “Sharp Shooter” Muwendo, fighting out of Minneapolis by way of his native Uganda, improved to 18-0 (12 KOs), taking a one-sided six-round unanimous decision from Eliseo Cruz (9-2-1, 6 KOs).  “I think I did well, I was out of the ring a long time,” Muwendo commented.  He’s a tough guy who was ready.”
Max Ornelas (R) opened the show in grand style
Las Vegas favorite Max “Baby Face Assassin” Ornelas (4-0, 2 KOs) remained unbeaten by way of a 4-round unanimous decision over Jonathan “Johnny Boy” Quiorz (6-5, 1 KO).  “I was confident (of winning the decision,” the 18-year-old Ornelas said.  “I was out-boxing him.  I love fighting here.  I have a lot of support from family and friends; I’m motivated when I hear them.”
Full results below:
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS – MAIN EVENT
Neeco Macias (13-0, 7 KOs), Palm Desert, CA
WTKO5 (2:31)
Rolando Garza (9-1, 6 KOs), Austin, TX
(Macias won vacant WBC US Junior Middleweight title)
WELTERWEIGHTS
Jeremy Nichols (6-0, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)
Steve Belmontes (2-1, 0 KOs), Corpus Christi, TX

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS – CO-FEATURE
Steve Claggett (24-4-1, 16 KOs), Calgary, Alberta, Canada
WDEC10 (98-92, 98-92, 94-96)
Emmanuel Robles (15-1-1, 5 KOs), San Diego, CA
(Claggett won vacant NABA – US Junior Welterweight title)
LIGHTWEIGHTS
Ismail Muwendo (18-0, 11 KOs), Minneapolis, MN
WDEC6 (60-54, 60-54, 59-53)
Eliseo Cruz (9-2-1, 6 KOs), Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, Mexico
JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS
Randy Moreno (4-0, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
WTKO3 (2:52)
Gaige Ireland (2-1-2, 2 KOs), Victoria, Australia
BANTAMWEIGHTS
Max Ornelas (4-0, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 39-37)
Johnathan Quioroz (6-5, 1 KO), Oceanside, CA
FEMALE JUNIOR FLYWEIGHTS
Marina Ramirez (2-0, 0 KOs), Parma, ID
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Rachel Sazoff (0-2), Hamilton, NJ
“Knockout Night at the D” returns Friday, Sept. 30
Hanzel Martinez (23-2, 18 KOs) vs. Emmanuel Quartey (20-2, 19 KOs)
Vacant WBA International Super Bantamweight Championship
Tony Lopez (11-1, 4 KOs) vs. Stephon Young (14-0-3, 6 KOs)
Vacant WBA / NABA Bantamweight Championship
John Vera (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Milorad Zizic (12-1, 6 KOs)
WBA / NABA Super Welterweight Championship
TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM or DLVEC.COM
 
The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and Neon Star Media.
 
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go towww.cbssportsnetwork.com.
Tonight’s as well as the Sept. 30th “Knockout Night at the D” events are licensed to ESPN, available to watch in 61 additional countries and territories in Latin America (South America, Central America, Mexico & Brazil) Caribbean, Oceania (Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Islands), United Kingdom, Canada and India
RIVAL BOXING GEAR is the main sponsor of the “Knockout Night at the D” series (www.rivalboxing.com, Twitter: @RivalBoxingGear
 
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @thedlasvegas, @dlvEventsCenter, @DerekJStevens, @BoxingatheDLV, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Instagram: @dlvec, @thedlasvegas, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Follow these fighters on Twitter: @SDragonClaggett, @Jflashgang, @SteveTheBoxer, @IMuwendo, @RandyMoreno
boxing, CBS Boxing

The “O” must go in co-feature showdown at “Knockout Night at the D” between Undefeated junior middleweight prospects Rolando Garza & Neeco Macias  

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Live Sept. 9 on CBS Sports Network from the Downtown Las Vegas Event Center
LAS VEGAS (August 30, 2016) – In a classic match-up of contrasting styles, Rolando “Rola” Garza and Neeco “The Rooster” Macias will both put their undefeated records on the line in the “Knockout Night at the D” 8-round co-featured event, airing Friday night, September 9, on CBS Sports Network, live from the outdoor Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC).
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by

and DLVEC, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.  Hall Of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein will call all of the action from ringside, starting at 11 p.m. ET / 11 p.m. ET, on CBS Sports Network.

The 10-round main event pits unbeaten junior welterweights Emmanuel “Renegade” Robles (15-1-1, 5 KOs) and Steve “The Dragon” Claggett(23-4-1, 16 KOs),promoted in association with Bobby D Presents, for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) – United States junior welterweight championship.
Garza and Macias (12-0, 6 KOs), who will be fighting for the vacant WBC – US junior middleweight championship, are exact opposites in and out of the ring.  The winner will advance to the next level of competition in the 154-pound division.
A technically sound boxer, Garza had an extensive amateur background as a member of the Mexican National Team, finishing with a 120-12 record, before turning pro September 29, 2012.  The quiet, unassuming fighter 24-year-old was impressive in his last fight, also at the DLVEC this past June 10, in which he dominated previously unbeaten Erasmo Garcia (5-0-1) on his way to  an 6-round unanimous decision (59-54, 59-54, 58-56) victory.
Rolando Garza
(Photo by Tom Donoghue / the D))

“The opportunity that Roy Jones Jr Boxing Promotions and CBS Sports Network has presented me has boosted my confidence to another level,” Garza said. “I have never been more confident in my skills, my team and training. I’m going to show Las Vegas and the rest of country what my talent brings into the ring.  Once Las Vegas witnesses my talent, fighting on national television, no one will be able to turn a blind eye. Not only will this fight put my name out there, but better opportunities will present themselves, and that keeps me motivated.

“This fight will propel me into the 154-pound rankings. It’s high risk with an even higher reward: the WBC / US title.  My opponent is a brawler; a non-stop, aggressive puncher who moves forward, which will make this fight nothing short of explosive fireworks in the ring.”
In the other corner, the non-stop Macias relies on conditioning and an aggressive, always coming forward approach to break down his opponent.  The 25-year-old Macias, fighting out of Palm Desert, California, unlike Garza, who now lives and trains in Austin (TX), had only 30 amateur bouts having started boxing at the relative advanced age of 21.  He did win gold medals at the National Blue & Gold Tournament, as well as Central California Golden Gloves and Desert Showdown. Macias is a showman, playing to the crowd before, during and after fights, crowing like a rooster, always with a broad smile on his face.
Neeco Macia
(Photo by Tom Donoghue – the D)

Macias’ last fight, also at the DLVE this past April 16, resulted in an action-packed fight against Limberth Ponce(10-2).  Never tasking his foot off the pedal, Macias rolled to a win by 8-round unanimous decision (79-73 X 3), earning him a legion of new fans who were in attendance or watched the fight on CBS Sports Network.

“Fighters don’t really care who they fight, they just want to fight,” Macias explained why his risking his undefeated record against an opponent who has never loss. “I had a fight fall through so, instead of waiting for another fight, when the opportunity to fight a 9-0 guy came, my coaches watched film of him and we agreed that I’m ready.  This is the first time I’m fighting on the ‘B’ side, but we’re using that as motivation.  I take one fight at a time but I know I’m fighting on TV and need to look good.  I want to show everyone that all the hard work has paid off.
“I see this fight as my opponent probably having more skill, he’s technically sound and sets up his shots.  But our plan is to take him out of his game plan, wear him down and have some fun doing it.  My last fight was my first in Las Vegas and first time fighting on national television.  It got a lot of notice.  I’ve been through all of that now and will be even better prepared for this fight.  It’s awesome fighting in Las Vegas on CBS Sports Network!”
‘Knockout Night at the D” returns Friday, Sept. 30
Hanzel Martinez (23-2, 18 KOs) vs. Emmanuel Quartey (20-2, 19 KOs)
Vacant WBA International Super Bantamweight Championship
Tony Lopez (11-1, 4 KOs) vs. Stephon Young (14-0-3, 6 KOs)
Vacant WBA / NABA Bantamweight Championship
John Vera (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Milorad Zizic (12-1, 6 KOs)
WBA / NABA Super Welterweight Championship
TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM or DLVEC.COM
 
Las Vegas favorite Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (5-0, 2 KOs) battles TexanSteve Belmonte (2-0) in a 4-round bout to open the television broadcast.
Also scheduled to fight on the undercard is undefeated Ugandan lightweight prospect Ismail “Sharp Shooter” Muwendo (17-0, 11 KOs), fighting out of Minneapolis, in a 6-rounder versus dangerous Mexican fighter Eliseo “Lobo” Cruz (9-1-1, 6 KOs). In 4-round fights, 20-year-old junior lightweightRandy Moreno (3-0, 2 KOs), of Las Vegas, will square off with Gaige Ireland (2-0-2, 2 KOs), of Australia by way of Ireland, 18-year-old Las Vegas bantamweight Max “Baby Faced Assassin” Ornelas (3-0, 2 KOs) meetsJohnathan Quiroz (6-4, 1 KO), of Oceanside, California, and Las Vegas junior flyweight Marina Ramirez (1-0) faces New Jersey’s Rachel “The Black Widow” Sazoff (0-1).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $99.99 VIP ringside, $49.99 ringside, $24.99 and $14.99 general admission (seated), are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com orwww.DLVEC.com.  Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:30 p.m. PT.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with DLVEC and Neon Star Media.
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go towww.cbssportsnetwork.com.
boxing, CBS Boxing, Las Vegas

Robles vs. Claggett crossroads fight Headlines Sept. 9th “Knockout Night at the D” 

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Live on CBS Sports Network from 
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
LAS VEGAS (August 22, 2016) – Undefeated San Diego prospect Emmanuel “Renegade” Robles takes on Canadian welterweight champion Steve “The Dragon” Claggett in a crossroads fight for both on Friday night, September 9, in the return of “Knockout Night at the D,” airing (11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT) live on CBS Sports Networkfrom the outdoor Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC).
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by the D Las Vegas and DLVEC, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.  Hall Of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein will call all of the action from ringside on CBS Sports Network.
Robles vs. Claggett, promoted in association with Bobby D Presents, is the 10-round main event for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) – United States junior welterweight championship.
Sept. 9th has the potential to be the most explosive top-to-bottom card in the already praised 2016 “Knockout Night at the D” series, which consistently showcases tomorrow’sstars in highly competitive, compelling match-ups.
“Knockout Night at the D’ is truly establishing itself in Downtown Las Vegas as a premier event for boxing fans in the community and beyond,” said Derek Stevens, Owner and CEO of the D Las Vegas and DLVEC. “From hometown heavy-hitters to up-and-coming amateur fighters, the second half of this series will bring unforgettable, action-packed shows that can’t be missed.”
A former World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino super lightweight champion, as well as a 2008 National PAL gold medalist.  Robles (15-0-1, 5 KOs) needs an impressive victory on national television in order to advance to the next level of the junior welterweight division. The southpaw has won his last 11 fights since his 2012 draw with 7-0
Adrian Vargas.
Emmanuel Robles
(photo by Marcus Tanner Shepard)
“I am excited to showcase my skills once again as the main event on a Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions card,” Robles said. “Both of my promoters, RJJ & Bobby D, are presenting me with such an incredible opportunity to fight for the Regional NABA Title belt. My opponent is in for the boxing lesson of his life. I know Claggett will be a strong contender and brings a power punch to the table.   He is going to be challenging, the toughest opponent I’ve had to face thus far in my boxing career, but I am ready to show my opponent and his team the skills that will help me capture the title and bring it home to RJJ and my team.
“It’s an honor to display my superior boxing skills for Roy Jones Jr. on CBS Sports Network and I am humbled that Las Vegas has accepted me with such open arms.  Defeating Claggett will put me on the map as a contender for the top 140-pounders in the world such as (Adrien) Broner, (Terence)Crawford & (Victor) Postal.
The 27-year-old Claggett (23-4-1, 16 KOs) needs to bounce back from a disputed 10-round loss by majority decision the Chris van Heerden in his last fight this past April, also at the DLVEC, to revitalize his career. Claggett is taking a risk by dropping down one weight class in order to challenge junior welterweight Robles.
Steve Claggett
(Photo by Tom Donoghue / the D

“This fight means everything to me,” Claggett explained.  It is a make or break fight for my career and I have a chance to re-enter the boxing world at 140 pounds, which is a weight that I believe I should have been fighting at a little while ago. I have a new trainer for the first time – a new team – and I am looking forward to showing fans a new fighter. A victory will stamp my name as a true world champion contender. I understand my position and I know that I am on the ‘B’ side, but I have been in this position many times before. I have a lot of experience in the sport of boxing and it has finally all come together for me. This will be my best fight. My focus and training will show on fight night.

“My opponent is a strong fighter. Robles is a sharp boxer and he has a good history in the sport as well. He is a southpaw and brings a good record to the table. All respect to the Robles team, but I am ready to fight for my life, and this is what this sport is all about. Expect me to bring everything I have and put on a ’10’ war for the fans.”
A firefight is developing for the 8-round co-feature between unbeaten prospects Rolando “Rola” Garza (9-0, 6 KOs) and Neeco “Roster” Macias (12-0, 6 KOs), who will throw-down for the vacant WBC – US junior middleweight championship.
The opening 4-round television fight pits two young welterweights, local favorite Jeremy “J-Flash” Nichols (5-0, 2 KOs) and Texan Steve Belmonte (2-0), in another rare showdown between unbeaten prospects.
Also scheduled to fight on the undercards are undefeated Ugandan lightweight prospectIsmail “Sharp Shooter” Muwendo (17-0, 11 KOs), fighting out of Minneapolis, in an 8-rounder vs. TBA. In 4-round fights, 20-year-old junior lightweight Randy Moreno (3-0, 2 KOs), of Las Vegas, will be matched against an opponent to be announced and Las Vegas junior flyweight Marina Ramirez (1-0) meets New Jersey’s Rachel “The Black Widow” Sazoff (0-1).
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $99.99 VIP ringside, $49.99 ringside, $24.99 and $14.99 general admission (seated), are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com or www.DLVEC.com.  Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:15 p.m. PT.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with DLVEC and Neon Star Media.
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @thedlasvegas, @dlvec, @DerekJStevens, @BoxingatheDLV, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Instagram: @dlvec, @thedlasvegas, @RoyJonesJrBoxing
Follow these fighters on Twitter: @SDragonClaggett, @Jflashgang, @SteveTheBoxer, @IMuwendo, @RandyMoreno
boxing, Las Vegas

“Knockout Night at the D” returns Sept. 9 Robles vs. Claggett, Garza vs. Macias

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Live on CBS Sports Network from 
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
Emmanuel Robles
(Photo courtesy of RJJ Boxing Promotions)
LAS VEGAS (August 15, 2016) –  “Knockout Night at the D” returns to Las Vegas with the fourth series installment of the popular professional boxing series,Friday night, September 9, airing (11 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. PT) live on CBS Sports Network from the outdoor Downtown Las Vegas Events Center
(DLVEC).
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented bythe D Las Vegas and DLVEC, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.
Hall Of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein will call all of the action from ringside on CBS Sports Network.
Undefeated prospect Emmanuel “Renegade” Robles (15-0-1, 5 KOs), fighting out of San Diego, faces Canadian welterweight champion Steve “The Dragon” Claggett (33-4-1, 16 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) – United States junior welterweight championship.
                              
The 28-year-old Robles is a former WBC Latino super lightweight champion, as well as a 2008 National PAL gold medalist.  The gifted southpaw has reeled-off 11consecutive victories since his 2012 draw with 7-0 Adrian Vargas.  NABA No. 1 contender Robles’ signature win to date was last year’s second-round stoppage of Leon Spinks III, grandson of former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist Leon Spinks, who left the ring on a stretcher.  Also notable are winning decisions versus 15-1 Yordenis Ugas and 13-1 Jonathan Chicas.  His last fight was a fourth-round technical knockout of Gerardo Cuevas this past May.
Claggett, 27, is coming off of a disputed 10-round majority decision loss to Chris Van Heerden (23-2-1) last April at the DLVEC.  Fighting out of Calgary, Alberta, Claggett is dropping down one weight class in order to challenge junior welterweight Robles for the vacant NABA – United States title.
 
Steve Claggett (photo by Tom Donoghue / the D)
In a rare battle of unbeaten prospects, Roland “Rola” Garza (9-0, 6 KOs) meets popular California junior middleweight Neeco “The Rooster” Macias (12-0, 6 KOs) in the 8-round co-feature.
Garza, 24, was an outstanding amateur boxer in Mexico, where he compiled a 120-12 record, earning a spot on the Mexican National Team.  This past June, Garza won a thrilling 6-round decision over previously unbeaten Erasmo Garcia (5-0-1) at the DLVEC.
(L) Roland Garza (photo by Manny “Mitts” Murillo / RJJ Boxing)
The always entertaining Macias, 25, who crows like a rooster in the ring before and after fights, had fans on their feet in his last fight, which was a non-stop brawl at the DLVEC with Limberth Ponce this past April, ending in a unanimous 8-round decision for Macias.
Neeco Macias (photo by Tom Donoghue / the D)
Undercard fights will soon be announced.  All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets, priced at $99.99 VIP ringside, $49.99 ringside, $24.99 and $14.99 general admission (seated), are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com or www.DLVEC.com.  Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:15 p.m. PT.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with DLVEC and Neon Star Media.
CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com.
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