Tag Archives: Nico Hernandez

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U.S. Olympian Nico Hernandez Captures IBA Americas title In 4th pro fight

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“KO NIGHT BOXING” GOLD & GLORY”
OFFICIAL RESULTS

IBA official/Hall of Fame referee Steve Smoger presented Nico Hernandez with the IBA flyweight title belt
(picture by Tony Scvhock / GS Memorymaker)
PARK CITY, Kan. (February 11, 2018) – U.S. Olympian and hometown favorite Nico Hernandez captured the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight title in his fourth professional fight, headlining last night’s “KO Night Boxing” Gold & Glory” card, at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
Presented by “KO Night Boxing LLC,” the card was taped live to be shown at a later date on CBS Sports Network. “KO Night Boxing” Gold & Glory” card, presented by KO Night Boxing LLC,
The 22-year-old Hernandez (4-0, 3 KOs) stopped last-minute replacement, game Victor “El Torito” Torres, in the fifth round.
Hernandez’ original opponent, Hungarian champion Joseph Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs), never made it to Wichita due to a series of unfortunate circumstances. Ajtai lost one day in Frankfurt, Germany, after leaving his passport on the plane he took from Budapest. Once he landed in Chicago on Wednesday, he was tied up by a visa issue at U.S. Customs. He missed his connecting flight to Wichita and because of snowstorms that grounded numerous flights, including those to Wichita, Ajtai never made it out of O’Hare Airport, stranded there for several days.
The IBA granted a special exception for Hernandez to fight Torres, due to these unforeseen problems, with the agreement that Hernandez would next fight Ajtai for an IBA title.
“It was an electric night,” promoter John Andersen said. “Once again, Nico made the proper adjustment that can be credited to his amateur pedigree. In the amateurs, opponents often change at the last moment and Nico has overcome many obstacles during his boxing career. We’re going to give Josef another title shot against Nico in April or May. They have unfinished business together!
“I was very pleased with Nico’s performance. It’s the best I’ve seen him. He was unbelievable in every way, on point throughout the fight. We also want to give Torres credit for accepting the fight on such late notice.”
Hernandez came out fast from the start, battering Torres’ body with tremendous combinations, and he never let up. Torres absorbed punishment but remained upright, but IBA referee Steve Smoger halted the action in the fifth round for Torres’ safety.
“I’m not leaving this belt,” Hernandez commented at the post fight press conference as he handled his IBA Americas belt. “It’s going everywhere with me. I was looking forward to this fight and I’m ready to continue my success. This is the first (title belt) of many. I got what I worked hard for. I want to thank my coaches, all the work paid off, and now I have this (title belt).”
In the co-featured event, Minneapolis welterweight Javonte Starks (13-2, 7 KOs) and Mexican veteran Cesar Soriano (28-36-2, 17 KOs) fought to a six-round majority draw.
Bakersfield, CA pro-debuting Derrick Clayton upset Milwaukee junior welterweight Akeem Black (3-2, 1 KO), registering a second-round technical knockout.
Wichita middleweight Jeff Sturm (2-0, 1 KO) remained undefeated, stopping intrastate rival Brian Clements, of Topeka, halfway through the opening round.
Another pro-debuting California fighter, junior welterweight Chazz Macias, needed only1:20 to knockout Omaha’s Corey Roberts.
Fighting for the first time in 5 ½ years, Washington D.C. heavyweight Maurice “Freight Train” Byarm (14-2-1, 10 KOs) took out 300-pounder Richard “Silverback” Carmack (15-13-1, 12 KOs) in round one.
Full results below:
 
 
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – VACANT IBA AMERICAS FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Nico Hernandez (4-0, 3 KOs), Wichita, KS
WTKO5 (0:55)
Victor Torres (2-8-1, 1 KO), Modesto, CA
(Hernandez won vacant IBA Americas flyweight title)
CO-FEATURE – WELTERWEIGHTS
Cesar Soriano (28-36-2, 17 KOs), Iztacalco, Distrito Federal, Mexico
D6 (5-56, 57-57, 57-57)
Javonte Starks (13-2-1, 7 KOs), Minneapolis, MN
HEAVYEIGHTS
Maurice Byarm (14-2-1, 10 KOs), Washington D.C.
WKO1 (1:34)
Richard “Silverback” Carmack (15-13-1, 12 KOs), Kansas City, MO
MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Jeff Strum (2-0, 1 KO), Wichita, KS
WKO1 (1:12)
Brian Clements (0-1-1), Topeka, KS
JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Derrick Clayton (1-0, 1 KO), Bakersfield, CA
WTKO2 (2:59)
Akeem Black (3-2, 1 KO), Milwaukee, WI
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Chazz Macias (1-0, 1KO), Tehachapi, CA
WKO1 (1:20)
Corey Roberts (0-4), Omaha, NE
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagra
boxing

KO Night Boxing signs “The Dragon” Popular Canadian junior welterweight Steve Claggett

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LAS VEGAS (January 25, 2018) — KO Night Boxing LLC announced it has signed popular Canadian junior welterweight Steve “The Dragon” Claggett to an exclusive promotional contract.

The Las Vegas-based company also has 2016 Olympic bronze medalist and undefeated Wichita flyweight, Nico Hernandez (3-0), 2 KOs), among its growing stable of professional boxers.
The 28-year-old Claggett (26-4-1, 17 KOs), fighting out of Calgary, is a fan-favorite because of his aggressive, non-stop style. Since the ultra-aggressive Claggett moved back down one division to junior welterweight, Claggett is a perfect 3-0 (1 KO), including a pair of title-winning 10-round decisions over previously unbeaten opponents,Yves Ulysse, Jr. (14-0) for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) North American super lightweight title, as well as Emmanuel Robles (15-0-1) for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) NABA USA super lightweight crown.
“I’m excited to be signed by John Andersen and KO Night Boxing,” Claggett said. “There were no guarantees (without a promoter). I’ve always had the talent but never the structure. I’ll have that now, though. It was always difficult making fights with long layoffs, dates falling through, and offers on short notice. I’ve only been able to show a little of what I’m capable. All I’ve ever wanted is a fair shake and this opportunity will allow me to show what I can do. This year is going to be big for me and KO Night Boxing.
“I’m just approaching my prime. I’ve only been working with my trainer, Vlad Goldenstein, for a little more than a year, but I’m 3-0 with him and have won two belts. I’m an old-school fighter, action-packed and who brings the pace. This is a great for me and my boxing career.”
“We’re taking a big step in the right direction by signing Steve,” Claggett’s new promoter Andersen commented. “I’m excited. Steve deserves this opportunity and we’re going to deliver for him.
“Steve is an action fighter, always coming forward, and he hasn’t been in a bad fight during the three years I’ve known him. He took a risk but really opened some eyes with his performance against Ulysse. What an accomplishment fighting an undefeated fighter in his backyard. He took a big risk and got a big win.  And now he’s beaten the man (Ulysse) who has beaten the man (21-0 Cletus Seldin, WDEC10, Dec. 16, 2017 on HBO). Steve’s undefeated on this run as a junior welterweight, beating two previously unbeaten opponents, and he deserves more recognition and a shot at a big fight.”
“Steve’s an animal in the squared circle and the farthest thing from it outside the ring,” Claggett’s manager Max Matheny added. “He has all the attributes of a champion. His boxing IQ and ability to adapt under pressure makes Claggett a serious challenge. He can beat anybody in the division on any given night. We’ve had a multitude of promotional offers to consider at the end of a strong 2017 and are very excited to align with KO Night Boxing. They are going to give us the opportunities to show the world how good ‘The Dragon’ really is. His signature is turning into an autograph in 2018, mark my words.”
The boxing irony is that Ulysse, not Claggett, is now world ranked. Considering the half-Chinese, half-European Claggett beat Ulysse in his Montreal hometown, Steve proved that he’ll fight anybody, anywhere, unlike many fighters who make that claim but don’t back it up. “Me and my team aren’t afraid to fight anybody,” he spoke about his most significant fight to date. “Bring it on! I’m willing to fight in hostile territory against an A-side fighter. We don’t pick and choose. Too many fighters pad their records, but that only upsets fans, and delays fights. I’m looking for tough fights to judge how much I’ve grown. I’d love to fight the top guys.
“My fight with Ulysse was my biggest but not best fight. I thought I boxed a little robotic and fell back into some old habits. I’d give myself a B- for that fight. I got the win and put on a great show that was fast paced. Ulysse and Robles box, run and move. I’d like an opponent who comes to me, stays in the pocket, and fights. I know it’ll be a helluva fight.”
Maybe Claggett’s next fight will be on a higher platform, perhaps, against a legitimate fighter’s fighter like Steve.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /SteveClaggett
Follow Steve Claggett on Twitter and Instagram @SDragonC
About KO Night Boxing LLC
KO Night Boxing is an emerging combat sports promotional company whose core value is “Fighters First!” KO Night Boxing produces live events for CBS Sports Network. Follow us on Twitter @KONightBoxing.
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2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Fully recovered and raring to go in 1st title fight

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“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” for
vacant IBA Americas flyweight title vs. Jozsef Ajtai
Feb. 10 at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (January 22, 2018) – 2016 Olympic bronze medalist and hometown hero Nico Hernandez has fully recovered from an injury that postponed his December 2nd fight to Saturdeay, February 10, versus Hungarian champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai in the the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight title, headlining the “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, and sponsored in part by Park City (KS), Twister City Harley-Davidson and Metro PCS.
The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.
The 22-year-old Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Wichita, suffered an undisclosed injury that forced him to withdraw from the Dec. 2nd fight. Neither Hernandez nor his promoter, John Andersen (KO Night Boxing, LLC), have revealed any details about Nico’s injury to avoid giving his opponent any possible advantage to target in the ring.
“I feel good, ready to fight,” Hernandez commented.  “We wanted to make sure that I was injury free and I am 100-percent. I’m going to do whatever is needed to win this fight.  Fighting for my first title means a lot to me.  I didn’t think it would happen this fast.  I want everybody to see that I can be competitive with the best in my division. A win February 10th will get me there a lot closer.

“My opponent like to runs a lot and he’s quick, so I need to have my legs under me.  Other than that, though, I should be okay.  He has fought some good guys.  I can’t wait to get in the ring in front of my fans.”
Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs), who is one year and six days younger than Hernandez, has already fought in five title fights. He also went the full 10-round distance, albeit in a loss by decision in 2016, to two-time Olympic gold medalist Shiming Zou, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) flyweight world champion. Fighting in his opponent’s hometown isn’t a problem for Ajtai, who has vast road experience having fought as a pro in the USA, United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Ukraine and Slovakia.
“Nico will not know where I will be in the ring,” Ajtai predicted. “When he looks to the left for me, I will go to the right; when he tries to find me on the right, I will be on the left. When he wants to rest, I will come forward punching; when he wants to punch, he won’t find me.
“I have a plan for this fight and I’m sure he does as well. But, in the ring, only one fighter’s plan can succeed. It’s going to be a good fight, but I can’t promise the public that Nico will be the winner.”
“I’m excited that Nico is 100-percent healthy for this fight,” Andersen said. “We couldn’t be happier to bring this great fight, and many more as we move forward, to the great city of Wichita.”
In the six-round co-featured event, Minneapolis welterweight Javonte Starks (13-2, 7 KOs), a former Future Stars National Champion as an amateur, takes on veteran Mexican fighter Cesar Soriano (28-36-1, 17 KOs), the former FECARBOX lightweight titlist.
Promising Milwaukee junior middleweight prospect Akeem Black (3-1, 1 KO) faces pro-debuting Derrick Clayton, fighting out of Bakersfield (CA), in the four-round televised opener.
Wichita middleweight Jeff Sturm (1-0) meets cross-state rival Brian Clements (0-0-1), of Toledo, in the four-round TV swing bout.
Also fighting on the under card is Washington D.C. heavyweight Maurice “Freight Train” Byarm (13-2-1, 9 KOs) battles 300-pound Kansas City (MO) foe Richard “Silverback” Carmack (15-12-1, 12 KOs) in a six-round match. A pair of four-rounders find undefeated Bakersfield junior welterweight prospect Miguel Contreras (5-0, 4 KOs) throwing-down with his Georgia opponent, Archie Wey (2-9), and California junior welterweight Chazz Macias is slated to make his pro debut against an opponent to be determined.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 24 @ 10 a.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/50551?Brand=Hartman. Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $50.00, $35.00, $25.00 and $20.00 (prices do not include service fees).  Student tickets are available – kindergarten through college – for $15.00 dollars but are only sold at the arena. Student Identification is requited.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing

Olympic medalist Nico Hernandez injured, “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” postponed

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Feb. 10 at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (November 27, 2017) – Due to an injury suffered by 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez last week at training camp, this Saturday night’s “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, presented by KO Night Boxing LLC, has been postponed until February 10, at the same venue, Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
The 21-year-old Hernandez was scheduled to headline the event in his hometown against Hungarian flyweight champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight championship.
The promoter plans to keep the card intact, as much as possible, and he is hopeful that Ajtai is available to challenge Hernandez for the IBA Americas title.
“Injuries are an unfortunate part of boxing, but the good news is that Nico will be 100-percent ready to go February 10th,” promoter John Andersen said. “I know that Nico feels that he’s letting everybody down but, at the end of the day, all that really counts is his health. He’s a tough kid who has his entire pro career ahead of him.”
“Over the last six months, Nico has become like family to the Hartman Arena staff,” said Hartman Arena Executive Director, Ben Bolander. “We wish the best for him and hope for a speedy recovery, so we can see him back here in February fighting for the title.”
TIckets to the December 2nd event will still be honored at the February 10 event. If ticket holders, are unable to attend the new event date, full refunds will be offered at the point of purchase. Tickets will remain on sale for the February 10, 2018 event date.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
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Two title fights set for “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory”

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Dec. 2 at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
Tramaine Williams
(picture courtesy of Roc Nation Sports) 

PARK CITY, Kansas (November 24, 2017) – Undefeated, rising star Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams is returning to the “Sunflower State” with his own “Gold & Glory” plan as he battles for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) International junior featherweight title co-main event on the “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Roc Nation Sports and Hartman Arena. The event is sponsored in part by Park City KS, Twister City Harley-Davidson and Metro PCS.
The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.

Williams 13-0, 5 KOs) will be fighting for the third time in Kansas, each on a “KO Night Boxing” card headlined by hometown hero and 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs). Hernandez will be fighting for his first pro title Dec. 2 in only his fourth pro fight, versus Hungarian flyweight champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight title fight.

A 10-time national amateur champion from New Haven (CT), the 24-year-old Williams is moving down one weight class to fight Alexei “The Hurricane” Collado (23-2, 20 KOs) for the vacant WBO Junior Featherweight Championship in the 10-round co-featured event.
Williams, who is the No. 2-rated featherweight in the United States Boxing Association (USBA), won eight and 10-round decisions, respectively, to Eduardo Garza and Derrick Murray, this past March 3 and September 23, on “KO Night Boxing” events in Kansas.   On another “KO Night Boxing” card, Williams registered a sensational opening-round knockout of 30-7 William Gonzalez, this past July at the Queen Mary in Long Beach.

“Fighting for the WBO International Junior featherweight title is a huge opportunity for me and I’m thankful for Roc Nation’s support in arranging this fight,” Williams said. “I know my potential and winning this belt would be the first step toward putting myself in position to fight for a world title.

“I’m looking forward to competing for this honor at Hartman Arena, in front of the fans in Kansas, who have always supported me.”
Collado was a decorated amateur boxer in his native Cuba, where he defected from to Miami, where he lives and trains. In his last fight, Collado stopped Walter Rojas in the first round, May 28th in Trinidad, to capture the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Latino junior featherweight title.
The opening televised bout is an eight-round welterweight match featuring unbeaten Wellington Romero (13-0-1, 7 KOs), a 2012 Dominican Republic Olympian who now fights out of Newburgh, New York, against his fellow Dominican, Victor Abreau (9-2, 5 KOs).
Arizona welterweight Abel Ramos (18-2-2, 13 KOs) takes on battle-tested Mexican invader Cesar Soriano (28-36-1, 17 KOs) in an eight-round throw-down.

Also fighting on the undercard in a six-round match between undefeated junior lightweights, Californian Joshua Zuniga (8-0, 3 KOs) and Moldova-native Piotr Apostol (4-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Seattle.

Wichita middleweight Jeff Sturm (1-0) faces intra-state rival Brian Clements (0-01), of Topeka, while another Wichita fighter, junior middleweight Ramon Barber (7-16, 6 KOs). meets Milwaukee’s Akeem Black (3-1, 1 KO), in a pair of four-round bouts.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 24 @ 10 a.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/50551?Brand=Hartman. Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $50.00, $35.00, $25.00 and $20.00 (prices do not include service fees).  Student tickets are available – kindergarten through college – for $15.00 dollars but are only sold at the arena. Student Identification is requited.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez & Hungarian champion Jozsef Ajtai have taken different paths into pro ranks

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“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” for
vacant IBA Americas flyweight title
 
Dec. 2 at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (November 20, 2017) – USA Olympian and hometown hero Nico Hernandez and Hungarian flyweight champion Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai took completely different paths into the professional ranks.
Hernandez vs, Ajtai is the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas flyweight title fight, Saturday night, December 2, on the “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” card, at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, and sponsored in part by Twister City Harley-Davidson Metro PCS, Mort’s Cigar Bar andJimmy’s Egg.
The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.
The 21-year-old Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Wichita, was a decorated amateur boxer who compiled a sterling 123-12 record, highlighted by his bronze-medal winning performance at the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil. Hernandez made his pro debut last March. All his fights have been at home, each has been in the main event, and on national television. His fight against Ajtai, however, will be his first title fight, coming in only his fourth pro bout.
Ajtai, who is one year and six days younger than Hernandez, made his professional debut 2 ½ years ago, and he’s already fought in five title fights.
Hernandez’ amateur pedigree versus Ajtai’s pro experience?
“I feel like I’m already at the level of a lot of top pro fighters,” Hernandez said. The only advantage he has is he’s used to fighting more rounds than I (this is Nico’s first scheduled 8-rounder), but I don’t plan on letting it go the distance anyways.
“I feel blessed to have this IBA title fight opportunity so early in my pro career. It honestly couldn’t come any faster. I do believe it will be special and open a tot of opportunities to fight bigger names once I win this fight. A win should open-up additional title fight opportunities, both overseas and, hopefully, back here at home to help us continue building Wichita into a fight town.”
Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) has already had 28 pro fights, including a full 10-round distance loss by decision last year at Madison Square Garden in New York City to two-time Olympic gold medalist Shiming Zou, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) flyweight world champion. The Hungarian has fought at home in Hungary, as well as on the road in the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, Ukraine and Slovakia. A trip to America’s heartland doesn’t faze him in the least.
“He will be at home, where everybody wants to fight, but this isn’t a problem for me,” Ajtai explained. “I know he is a good boxer, but I will try to be a bit better December 2nd. When my condition is good, as it is for this fight, nobody likes to fight me.
“This is a big opportunity for me. It’s always difficult to beat a good fighter but doing so is real success. Fighting Shiming Zou in only my fourth fight was very nice for me. I want that feeling again in this fight against Nico.”
Hernandez realizes that this fight could be his last at home for a while, due to the lack of quality American flyweights, and that most world-class fighters in his weight class are from Central America, Thailand and Japan.
“I don’t think I’ll have many more fights at home,” Hernandez admits. “I don’t think that will matter too much because I feel more pressure fighting at home than elsewhere. I will miss everyone cheering my name like they do at home. I think I’ll be traveling more to fight bigger names to work my way up the ladder until I’m at the top.
“I think the early rounds in this fight (vs. Ajtai) will be a chess match because, from what I’ve seen, he runs a lot. I feel that once I start landing my body shots, he’ll slowdown in the latter rounds. and, like I’ve said, I don’t plan on this fight going the distance.”
Ajtai, of course, isn’t traveling all the way to Kansas to visit Dorothy or the Wizard of Oz, he’s coming to win!
“Nico will not know where I will be in the ring,” Ajtai predicted. “When he looks to the left for me, I will go to the right; when he tries to find me on the right, I will be on the left. When he wants to rest, I will come forward punching; when he wants to punch, he won’t find me.
“I have a plan for this fight and I’m sure he does as well. But, in the ring, only one fighter’s plan can succeed. It’s going to be a good fight, but I can’t promise the public that Nico will be the winner.”
The full “Gold & Glory” card will be announced later this week. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 24 @ 10 a.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/50551?Brand=Hartman. Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $50.00, $35.00, $25.00 and $20.00 (prices do not include service fees).  Student tickets are available – kindergarten through college – for $15.00 dollars but are only sold at the arena. Student Identification is requited.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez   To fight for first pro title, Dec. 2 at home vs.   Hungarian invader Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai

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“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
Nico Hernandez
Tony Schock / GS Memory Maker

 

PARK CITY, KANSAS (October 23, 2017) – 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez will be fighting for his first professional title on Saturday, December 2, when he takes on Hungarian invaderJozsef “Little Red” Ajtai in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Flyweight Championship, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, and sponsored in part by Twister City Harley-Davidson Metro PCS, Mort’s Cigar Bar and Jimmy Egg.

The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.
The 21-year-old Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Wichita, will be fighting in a scheduled eight-round bout for the first time. His three pro fights to date were all scheduled for six rounds and each was held in Kansas, the last two in his second home, Hartman Arena.
In his last fight this past September 23rd, Hernandez was forced to fight late replacement Kendrick “Uprising” Latchman who outweighed the celebrated American Olympian by more than 10 pounds. Hernandez won a six-round unanimous decision by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice.
Despite being younger than Hernandez by almost a year to the day, Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) has already had 28 pro fights, including a full 10-round distance loss by decision last year to two-time Olympic gold medalist Shiming Zou, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) flyweight world champion.
“By far, Nico is fighting the toughest opponent of his pro career,” Hernandez’ promoter John Andersen (“KO Night Boxing LLC) said. “Ajtai has much more experience as a pro than Nico, plus he went the distance against a two-time Olympic gold medalist, Zou. Ajtai is a busy fighter with a good knockout ratio (63%). This fight is going to tell us a lot about Nico, especially his power at 112 pounds.
“Nico fighting for a title in only his fourth pro fight proves that all our hard efforts of KO Night Boxing and Team Nico has paid off quickly and we’re grateful that the IBA has given him this great opportunity. I didn’t realize the high quality of champions the IBA has had in the past and we’re proud that Nico can someday join this group. In the flyweight division, Nico may enter world title fight shot discussions earlier than I had originally thought, which was in his third year as a pro.   An impressive performance against Ajtai could position him for a world title fight next year with less than 10 fights under his belt.”
“We’re excited to have an American Olympian fighting for our first Americas title,” IBA PresidentJ.C. Courreges added. “Nico Hernandez is an Olympic bronze medalist and we’re hopeful that he will develop into an IBA world champion in the not too distant future. His amateur pedigree speaks for itself and we’re very happy to have this young man fighting for the IBA Americas title.”
IBA world champions during the past quarter-century include Hall-of-Famers Oscar de la Hoya,George Foreman, Roberto Duran and Arturo Gatti, as well as stars such as Roy Jones, Jr.,Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosely, James Toney, Mikkel Kessler, Eric Morales, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver.
Other fights on the “Gold & Glory” card will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 24 @ 12 p.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/50551?Brand=Hartman. Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $50.00, $35.00, $25.00 and $20.00 (prices do not include service fees) .
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing
Facebook:  /NeonStar, /IBABoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing, Roc Nation

Olympian Nico Hernandez remains undefeated Tramaine Williams, Armando Alvarez & Zhilei Zhang victorious

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
“KO NIGHT BOXING” RESULTS FROM KANSAS
PALM CITY, Kansas (September 24, 2017) – The name of last night’s “KO Night Boxing: Step Up” event certainly was appropriate as 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez had to overcome a major obstacle to remain undefeated at Hartman Arena in Palm City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” was a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Roc Nation Sports and Hartman Arena, sponsored by Mort’s Cigar Bar, Jimmy Egg and Twister City Harley-Davidson. The action was taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.
St. Louis southpaw Kendrick “Uprising” Latchman outweighed regular flyweight Hernandez by more than 10 pounds when the two fighters entered the ring because Hernandez’ scheduled opponent, Basyzbek Baratov (2-1-2), abruptly pulled out of the fight after the weigh in due to a contractual disagreement. Hernandez weighed in at 113 pounds, Baratov was 112, which was the contracted weight. The Kansas Athletic Commission, however, automatically allows one-pound over for all non-title fights. Baratov refused to fight but Latchman agreed to fight at a 125-pound catchweight. Hernandez gained four pounds and the fight was on.
Wichita hero Hernandez was unmoved by the late change, largely due to his standout amateur career, in which his opponents often changed at the last moment. Latchman (1-5-1, 1 KO) is a pro boxer-MMA hybrid fighter who is 6-3 (5 KOs) in MMA, including a 55-second stoppage of 14-7-1 Cody Land this past July.
Latchman buzzed Hernandez in the first round, much to the chagrin of the Hernandez’ loud hometown crowd. The U.S. Olympian displayed a good chin and went on to win a six-round unanimous decision to improve his pro record to 3-0 (2 KOs).
“They (his corner and fans) were nervous,” the 21-year-old Hernandez said after the fight, “but I wasn’t. My coach (father Lewis Hernandez) told me to feint and go in, but I lunged a little too much. Hey, I’m staying in my division (flyweight) before moving up in weight.”
“Nico had to step up, fighting a new opponent on 24-hour notice, along with the difference in their weights,” promoter John Andersen commented. “Everything turned out okay but it wasn’t an easy fight. My palms were a little sweaty in the first round when he got hit hard, but Nico pulled out the win and he’ll be an even better fighter because of this experience. His father said Nico had never been hit like that before. It was a good card and the crowed was really into it.”
KO Night Boxing LLC announced that Hernandez would return December 2 to headline another show at Hartman Arena.
USBA No. 2- rated featherweight Tramaine “The Might Midget” Williams (13-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of New Haven (CT), cruised to his 13th victory without a defeat, taking a one-sided 10-round unanimous decision over Derrick Murray (13-3, 5 KOs), in the co-featured event.
Key West, FL welterweight Armando “The Gentleman: Alvarez (17-0, 11 KOs) remained undefeated, winning a 10-round unanimous decision against Hungarian champion Gabor “Squirrel” Gorbics (23-8, 14 KOs) in a competitive Special Welterweight Attraction. Alvarez is the WBC Latino welterweight title holder.
Undefeated Chinese heavyweight prospect Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang (18-0, 14 KOs), the reigning WBO Oriental champion, needed only 2:28 to stop veteran Byron “The Bear” Polley(30-22-1, 13 KOs). Zhang, as well as Williams, are promoted by Roc Nation Sports.
In the most dramatic fight of the night, Los Angeles heavyweight Scott Alexander (13-2-2, 7 KOs) rebounded from being decked, as well as a pre-fight cut, to knockout 361-pound Richard “Silverback” Carmack (15-12-1, 12 KOs) in the second round. Alexander suffered a cut on his shin that resulted from a step breaking as he entered the ring.
Milwaukee junior middleweight Akeem Black (3-1, 1 KO) won three of four rounds on all three judges’ scorecards for a four-round unanimous decision over Marcus Neal (2-2, 2 KOs).
Wichita light heavyweight Jeff Strum pitched a shutout in his pro debut against Topeka’s (KS) previously unbeaten Chris Ortega (3-1-1), winning all four rounds in impressive fashion.
Complete results below:
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – FEATHERWEIGHTS
Nico Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs), Wichita
WDEC6 (60-54, 59-55, 59-55)
Kendrick Latchman (1-5-1, 1 KO), St. Louis, MO
CO-FEATURE – FEATHERWEIGHTS
Tramaine Williams (13-0, 5 KOs), New Haven, CT
WDEC10 (98-91, 98-91, 97-92)
Derrick Murray (13-3, 5 KOs), St. Louis, MO
SPECIAL WELTERWEIGHT ATTRACTION
Armando Alvarez (17-0, 11 KOs), Key West, FL
WDEC10 (100-90, 98-92, 96-93)
Gabor Gorbics (23-8, 14 KOs), Budapest, Hungary
HEAVYWEIGHTS
Zhilei Zhang (18-0, 14 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
WKO1 (2:28)
Byron Polley (30-22-1 (13 KOs), Saint Joseph, MO
Scott Alexander (13-2-2, 6 KOs), Los Angeles, CA
WKO2 (1:45)
Richard Carmack (15-12-1, 12 KOs), Kansas City, MO
LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Jeff Strum 1-0), Wichita, KS
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Chris Ortega (3-1-1), Topeka, KS.
JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS
Akeem Black (3-1, 1 KO), Milwaukee, WI
Wdec4 (39-36, 39-36, 39-36)
Marcus Neal (2-2, 2 KOs), Kansas City, MO.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing, Roc Nation

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Returns this Saturday at home in Kansas

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez
Returns this Saturday at home in Kansas
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (September 19, 2017) — 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandezreturns to the ring this Saturday night for his third professional fight, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Step Up!”, at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, Mort’s Cigar Bar, Jimmy Egg and Twister City Harley-Davidson. The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.
Hernandez (2-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Wichita, has a new opponent in the six-round main event, Kyrgyzstan flyweight Basyzbek Baratov (2-1-2).
  Nico Hernandez (R) is in action this Saturday night
(picture courtesy of Tony Schock, GS Memory Maker)
Fighting out of Philadelphia, Baratov has had some tough luck, in terms of scoring, with two draws and a loss by split decision. His pro record could easily be 5-0.
A pair of undefeated Roc Nation Sports fighters, New Haven (CT) featherweight Tramaine “The Mighty Midget” Williams (12-0, 5 KOs) and Chinese heavyweight Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang(17-0, 13 KOs), will be showcased.
USBA No. 2-rated Williams faces Derrick Murray (13-2 (5 KOs), of St. Louis (MO), in the 10-round co-feature. Fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada, Zhang meets Missouri veteran Byron “The Bear” Polley (30-21-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round bout.
Also fighting on the televised portion of the card is a 10-round welterweight match pitting undefeated rising star Armando “The Gentleman” Alvarez (16-0, 11 KOs), fighting out of Key West, Florida, against Hungarian champion Gabor “Squirrel” Gorbics (23-7, 14 KOs).
In an eight-round battle of heavyweights, Los Angeles’ Scott Alexander (12-2-2, 6 KOs) facesRichard “Silverback” Carmack (15-1-1, 12 KOs), of Kansas City (MO).
The already loaded undercard continues to provide a boxing platform for local fighters in four-round fights: Kansas City (MO) junior middleweight Marcus Neal (2-1, 2 KOs) vs. Akeem Black(2-1, 1 KO), of Milwaukee, Wichita’s pro-debuting light heavyweight Jeff Sturm vs. Chris Ortega(3-0-1), of Topeka (KS), and Topeka’s Brian Clements (0-0-1) vs. Liberian junior welterweightArchie Weah, fighting out of Ohio.
All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets are on sale at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/06005308B32459E5 Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $75.00, $50.00, $30.00 and $25.00.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing

Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
boxing

2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez Back in action Sept. 23 vs. Francisco Lapizco

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS
PARK CITY, Kansas (August 10, 2017) – KO Night Boxing LLC and Hartman Arena hosted a private media luncheon today to announce the return of 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez for his third professional fight on Saturday, September 23, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.
“KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, Mort’s Cigar Bar and Jimmy Egg.
Wichita-native Hernandez (2-0, 2 KOs) will face the stiffest test of his young pro career, Mexican flyweight Francisco “Guerrero” Lapizco (8-5, 2 KOs), in the six-round main event.
“I’m very fortunate that my promoter, John Andersen(KO Night Boxing), has worked hard to make my third pro fight at home,” Hernandez said. “I’m very excited to be able to show boxing at its best.
“My opponent has never been stopped. Obviously, he has more professional experience than me, and I understand he likes putting pressure on his opponent. I want to be the first to stop this guy! I also want the boxing world to know I’m coming for belts. Champions should get ready for Nico Hernandez.”
In his professional debut on March 25th, Hernandez knocked out Patrick Gutierrez in the fourth round, and this past June 17th at Hartman Arena, the 21-year-old U.S. Olympian stopped previously undefeated Jose Rodriguez in the third round of the main event.
Lapizco, 22, has already defeated an unbeaten opponent, Cesar Sustaita (3-0), three years ago at Ontario, California. His last fight was this past January at home in Sinaloa, Mexico, in which Lapizco won a six-round unanimous decision over Jairo Miranda.
“This fight is a step up for Nico against a proven opponent who goes rounds,” Andersen noted. “He has already upset an undefeated fighter. It’s time for Nico to step up, as well as the city of Wichita, in terms of supporting him. This is a major event on September 23rd that will bring national attention, not only for Nico, but to Wichita.
“We have an opportunity to put Nico, all of Kansas, on the national map in boxing. We have a multi-fight deal to showcase Nico at Hartman Arena. After the September 23rd show, we’ll announce his final fight of 2017. We need people to turnout September 23rd at Hartman Arena to continue promoting Nico at home.”
(L-R) — Promoter John Andersen, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez and his father/head trainer Lewis Hernandez
(photo courtesy of Hartman Arena)

Additional “KO Night Boxing: Step Up!” fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Friday, Aug. 11 @ 10 a.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office andhttp://www.ticketmaster.com/event/06005308B32459E5 Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $75.00, $50.00, $30.00 and $25.00.
This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.
TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for KO Night Boxing, LLC.
INFORMATION:
Twitter: @KONightBoxing
Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram.