Tag Archives: Shobox

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION WEIGHTS, FINAL THOUGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

Leave a comment

SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

WEIGHTS, FINAL THOUGHTS & WEIGH-IN PHOTOS

 

Promising Heavyweight Trevor Bryan
Puts Unbeaten Record on Line Against
Veteran Derric Rossy in Main Event of Don King-Promoted Tripleheader

 

Tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 28, LIVE on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT

From Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC)

Across from the D Las Vegas in Downtown Las Vegas

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Esther Lin/SHOWTIME

 

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 27, 2015) – The six fighters who’ll be making their ShoBox: The New Generation debuts tomorrow/Friday, Aug. 28, live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) at Downtown Las Vegas Events Center(DLVEC), across from The D Las Vegas are set to go following Thursday’s official weigh-in outside the D on Fremont Street’s Stage 3.

 

In the 10-round main event of a Don King Productions-promoted tripleheader, promising up-and-coming heavyweight Trevor Bryan (15-0, 11 KOs), of Albany, N.Y., will put his unblemished record on the line when he faces his toughest opponent to date, the more experienced Derric Rossy (30-9, 14 KOs), of Medford, N.Y.

 

In the co-features, two-time Dominican Republic Olympian Juan Ubaldo Cabrera (23-0, 16 KOs), will take on the DeCarlo Perez (14-3-1, 5 KOs), of Atlantic City, N.J. in a 10-round middleweight bout and, in the opening bout of the telecast, Samoa’s Natu Visinia(11-1, 9 KOs) of Tacoma, Wash., will face Joey Dawejko (14-4-2, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an eight-round heavyweight matchup.

 

Bryan weighed 227 pounds, Rossi 235½. Cabrera tipped the scale at 160 pounds, Perez 160½ and Visinia weighed 273 pounds, Dawejko 236¾.

 

Tickets are priced at $39.50, $59.50, $89.50, $149.50 and $500 for VIP Tables and are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say prior to the weigh-in:

 

TREVOR BRYAN

 

“This is my first time on television and I’m moving up in class so this fight is very, very important to me. It’s my headline fight, a chance for everyone to see the next new top heavyweight coming up.

 

“The purpose is to win, but I want to look good and nice on TV doing it.

 

“[Derric] Rossy is a veteran fighter, an extremely clever boxer and a good thinker. His technique is very good and he moves very well for a big man. He has a good jab and always make for tough fights.

 

“I have strength, youth and size in my favor but no way do I underestimate him. I take every fight very seriously. I train very hard. I spar with experienced fighters. I’ve been in shape for my whole four-year career. I take a fight, I’m right back in the gym.

 

“I know with his style that I will have to take it too him, work the jab and then go downstairs to the body. I have a plan and I have to stick to it or there will be a problem. Ideally, I can break him down and he will go down in the fifth or sixth.

 

“I could have fought a lot of other guys who are not as technically sound as Rossy, but it is time for me to step up. The foundation has been built. From Day 1 we knew where we were going, and this is it: the next step. There’s no pressure because I always knew this day was coming.

 

“I know the importance of preparation. I know how important discipline is. What we do daily has become routine. I try to be consistent in everything. I put in a lot of work behind the scenes.

 

“I’ve been hit before, but I keep coming. I got countered and dropped in my last fight, but I got right back up and took care of business. To touch the canvas and then bounce right back up and win was an invaluable experience.

 

“I feel I have good fundamentals and that I’m learning all the time. I started at the bottom learning, but now I am able to work on perfecting my fundamentals and conditioning even more. I like to fight, I like the action but I know I have to fight smart, especially against a guy like Rossy.’’

 

DERRIC ROSSY

 

“I’ve had so many close fights, wins and losses, but the competition I go in against is always really good. I’m not the biggest puncher so I know enough not to just go crazy. Some of my fights I thought were closer than they should have been, but I accepted them and moved on.

 

“I don’t know for sure why I’ve had so many close fights. I must be a tough fighter for judges because sometimes I don’t think they notice all the stuff I’m doing in there, the little nuisances. Maybe they think I box too much. Everybody wants to see a knockout but I am basically a boxer. I feel comfortable in what I’m doing, too, so I am not going to change.

 

“I feel strong and feel I still have plenty left. My job is to make opponents make a mistake. I’m still around to catch up with people. In this sport you need time to develop; for me it was my confidence that I first had to develop. I remember I won a couple of fights just being a good athlete, not a good boxer.

 

“I took my lumps, too. Some of my fights that went into the books as losses I just know I won. The heartache of losing was terrible but I had to get through it. I had to keep going. People say I’m stubborn and crazy for still doing this, but I keep coming back. I always had it in me, the confidence, but I had to bring it out.

 

“Experience is an advantage because I now feel there is no situation I cannot handle. This kid, [Trevor] Bryan, can punch. He’s been brought up the right way. But now he’s moving up two-three steps against a more experienced, seasoned fighter. His confidence comes from a shallow pool and so far it’s working for him. Let’s see how it goes Friday night.

 

“I’m a little surprised I got this opportunity. I’m a real fighter. My confidence is great now and I still believe I am a good fighter. I’m 35 but 35 isn’t old anymore for a fighter. My heart is still in this 100 percent. I want to win the big prize.

 

“I took a tough road to get here. It takes time to develop in this sport. Because I played football and other sports, I didn’t turn pro until I was 24 and had only 10 amateur fights. So I’ve done it the hard way. It’s not the way I preferred, but it is what it is.

 

“From what I’ve seen I think the key is to give him lots of feints and angles and take away his jab. Bryan is long and tall. I need to make him as uncomfortable as possible and my experience will go a long way in making that happen. I’m totally looking forward to this fight.’’

 

JUAN UBALDO CABRERA

 

“I feel good and my weight is good. Some guys get lost in the shuffle after they turn pro and that is me. That is why this fight is so important. It’s my opportunity to show the world what I can do.

 

“It was very hard for me to turn pro after my amateur career. I was such a big star they [Amateur Boxing Federation] wanted me to stay amateur for as long as I could. They never gave me permission to go pro. So I had to get a visa on my own and come to the United States.

 

“I’ve been a pro the last 10 years and it has been very tough. I had managerial problems, guys taking money from me; it really delayed my progress. I never lost my desire to fight even though I had to deal with so much outside the ring. I didn’t get overly discouraged although I could have after getting taken advantage of.

 

“I feel good now with Don King as my promoter. I’m happy to be fighting again and to be able to dedicate myself fully to the sport. I won a decision in my last fight but I know I can do better. I ate something bad two hours before the fight and I got sick. I was sick during the fight and couldn’t wait to get out of the ring once the decision was announced.

 

“I like to box; I feel I am a very good boxer with good movement. I play the angles in the ring. I feel I have a nice jab. I’ve never been badly marked or cut up, never really been caught with a great shot.

 

“With my experience I am ready for what [DeCarlo] Perez brings. I can switch to southpaw, adjust to any style. This is my first fight on television, my first real opportunity as a pro and want to do very well very badly. I know Perez starts slowly, I am going to give him a couple rounds to see what he’s got.

 

“Of course I would love to knock him out in one round but my mindset is to win, to do whatever it takes to get my hand raised. If he comes to fight, it’s going to be a great fight.’’

 

DECARLO PEREZ

 

“I’m always in the gym, always in shape. I’ve been looking for this kind of opportunity for a long time so I have always kept myself ready. With a win something big can come out of it.

 

“I know little about Cabrera except he was a two-time Olympian a long time ago. As long as I know how tall an opponent is, I can prepare mentally how he is going to measure up against me. I feel I can fight a variety of ways and I am ready for anything he brings. I have a little momentum going and I want to keep it going.

 

“This is by far my biggest opportunity on television. As a kid growing up under tough circumstances, living in two rescue missions, I sometimes wondered if I’d ever get to this point. So to do well and make a great impression will only fuel my dreams more to become a world champion.

 

“I’m known for slow starts but that won’t be the case tomorrow. He is 23-0 and that sounds good, but in this sport it doesn’t always come down to records as much as to the quality of your opponents. If you’re supposed to beat or KO a guy and you do, you’re only doing your job. It’s nothing to get excited about.

 

“This is my first fight outside of New York or Pennsylvania. I’m fighting in a city where some of the greatest fighters who ever lived have fought. For me, fighting in Las Vegas, fighting on television, is as good as it can get. I’m looking forward to putting on a memorable show for the fans.

 

“I think it will be a war. I know that’s his style, but that’s my style as well. I want to make it a war. With this opportunity my foot is now in the door. I’m going to kick out the door and open it.

 

“This is only the start for me.”

 

NATU VISINIA

 

“I’ve been training in Riverside [Calif.] where it is hot, but not as humid as it is Vegas. It is going to be a different kind of hot fighting outside tomorrow, but I’m from Samoa, so even though I’ve never fought outside I am not concerned.

 

“We really focused on this camp, turning up the cardio, getting a nutritionist and a strength-and-conditioning coach. Honestly, this is the best I’ve ever felt. I feel closer to 20-years-old than 30. Despite my weight, I feel lighter, more mobile.

 

“Being Samoan, I never back down from anything. I want to fight anybody, but you can’t just go in and slug and be successful your whole career. So I’m working on other aspects of my game.

 

“A lot of people in the business know me, but I’m sort of an underground guy. A lot of fans don’t know me but they will after tomorrow.

 

“I’ve fought two guys in my 12-fight career who were ranked in the top 25. How many didDeontay Wilder fight before he became champion? Part of that comes from my culture. You want to get it on, that’s fine by me. Put aside that macho, though and I know now you have to be moved the right way.

 

“I lost to [former world champion] Steve Cunningham, but I learned an invaluable lesson in that fight and it may actually have helped my stock more than hurt me. I did MMA before boxing and loved it, but nothing is like boxing.

 

“Outside the ring, Joey [Dawejko] and I are friends and it is always tough fighting a friend, but we both have families to feed and sometimes you just have to do it and put friendships aside.

 

“Joey is the shortest opponent I’ve ever fought but he is tough, real crafty and has that Philly style. For me, my natural instincts are to go right through him, but I plan to be patient and utilize my jab and legs.

 

“I feel I’ve progressed every fight and now this is my chance to showcase my skills. It’s time for me to get my name known.’’

 

JOEY DAWEJKO

 

“A lot of fighters, because of my height, think my style is too come straight to them, but I like to stand in the pocket and counter.

 

“Natu’s a big guy, for sure, but I think he’s slow and I can take advantage of that. He gets hit a lot so he may just walk into something. I know I can hurt him. I feel I can slip his punches and move. I won’t just stand there and let him hit me.

 

“I’ve fought much better [opposition] than he has. I fought unbeaten guys when I was just starting out, but I’ve since turned my career around. I fought [Derric] Rossy and beat him on one week’s notice, so I feel I have some experience.

 

“Philly fighters are the best in world. They have to grow up and come up the hard way. It can be a struggle. Everybody always underestimates me. They see this little short fat guy walking through the gym and wonder what he’s doing there.

 

“This is my ShoBox debut. It is something I have always dreamed of. I can’t wait for Friday.’’

 

# # #

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series,ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBoxphilosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

About the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @DLVEC.

 

About the D Las Vegas

The D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino feature modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar. The D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter at @theDLasVegas.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

Natu Visinia to take on Joey Dawejko on Friday, August 28 on ShoBox

Leave a comment
Nutley, NJ (August 27, 2015)— Heavyweight Natu Visinia will be looking for his 2nd consecutive victory when he takes on Joey Dawejko in an 8-round bout that will be part of a ShoBox: The New Genration card tomorrow night at the D Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. (11pm ET/PT on Showtime)
Visinia is co-promoted by GH3 Promotions and Final Forum Promotions.
Visinia is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Joshua Clark on May 13 in Hollywood, California.
With that win, the 30 year-old from Clinton, Illinois raised his mark to 11-1 with 9 knockouts.
Most fans were introduced to Visinia when he fought former two-time world champion Steve “USS” Cunningham on October 18, 2014.  That fight was Visnia’s only career blemish as he was stopped in seven rounds in a fight that in hindsight he should not have competed in.
“There was a lot going on around the fight.  It is well known that my trainer, Charles Bereal suddenly passed away from a heart attack just eight days before the fight,” said Visnia.
When asked if he had it to do all over again, Visinia may have not gone through with the fight.
“I learned in boxing that it is best to move the right way.  I am now fighting my 2nd top-25 guy.  At the point of the Cunningham fight, I had no business in the fight.” That being said, I did learn a lot in that fight.  I saw that I missed a lot of shots and my hands were low.  I also knew, I had to cut off the ring better.  But I have had a lot of top notch sparring and I know I have corrected all that.  I went int camps in Big Bear, California with Charles Martin and Andrey Fedosov.”
Now he looks to the showdown with Dawejko, which is another fight that is not an ideal situation as he has become good friends with his opponent.
“I have become good friends with Joey.  We met a couple years ago as we were both in a Wladimir Klitschko camp.  We continue to communicate on social media but going into the fight it is normal business.”
Against Dawejko, Visinia will have a size advantage and this is something he believes could be the difference in his favor.
“I will definitely have a reach advantage and I plan to utilize it.  My power and he is a tough little scrapper, it should make for a fun fight to watch.”
“I am glad to get another opportunity on national television.  People have been wondering what I have been up to as it is tough finding fights.  I have been training for the last six months.  There have been several big names  that are ahead of me in the rankings that have turned down fights, so I am happy for this opportunity.”
GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith,undefeated Super  lightweight Bienvenido Diaz, Heavyweight Natu Visinia, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

Q&A WITH TOP UNBEATEN  HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT TREVOR BRYAN AS HE PREPARES TO FACE VETERAN DERRIC ROSSY THIS FRIDAY ON SHOWTIME®

Leave a comment

 

“I’m a young fighter coming up who is trying to take the old dog out of his misery.” –Trevor Bryan

 

 

 

ShoBox: The New Generation LIVE on SHOWTIME

This Friday, Aug. 28 at 11 p.m. ET/PT From “The D” in Las Vegas

 

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 24, 2015) – Promising up-and-coming heavyweight Trevor “The Dream” Bryan (15-0, 11 KOs) will put his unblemished record on the line when he faces his toughest opponent to date, experienced Derric Rossy (30-9, 14 KOs), in the 10-round heavyweight matchup in the main event of this Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live onSHOWTIME (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

 

Bryan, who is making his ShoBox debut, is looking to establish himself in the heavyweight division after a standout amateur career in which he won five national championships in just 60 bouts. Since his debut at 22 in November 2011, the 6-foot-4 heavyweight, who recently turned 26, has registered 10 of his 11 knockout victories in three rounds or less.

 

Here’s what Bryan had to say:

 

How would you say your career is going?

 

“My career is going great. I can’t wait for this great heavyweight fight. Rossy is a guy who is on his last leg and I’m a young fighter coming up who is trying to take the old dog out of his misery.”

 

What type of role did your amateur career play in preparing you as a professional?

 

“My amateur career played a huge role in my development as a boxer. Attending all the national tournaments and fighting against top athletes from all over the world played a big role in my professional career. I have seen all different styles of fighting. I also went to several sparring camps in my amateur career and have sparred against Wladimir Klitschko andGuillermo Jones, among other champions.”

 

Some people chalk up your undefeated record to the fact that you haven’t faced any tough opposition. That will change when you face battle-tested veteran Derric Rossy. How are you preparing for the toughest test of your career?

 

“I’ve been doing everything that is physically possible to get ready for this fight. I stay in the gym and work hard. I have a great work ethic and have a great team around me. I feel confident and know that I will come out with the victory. The hours that I have put in the gym will pay off. I am in fantastic shape, I let my hands go, I have one of the best jabs in the division. I’m ready to show the world what a wonderful fight this is going to be.”

 

Although you won your last fight against Stacy Frazier, you were knocked down for the first time in your career. What did you learn in that fight?

 

“I touched the canvas for the first time in my career. It was a great learning experience for me. We know that it only takes one punch in the heavyweight division. I went into the fight with confidence. I threw a punch and was off balance, he countered me with a great shot and it woke me up and reminded me that it only takes one punch to end a fight. I learned to not play around, but instead to set the pace and see if my opponent can hang with me in the ring. The great champions are the guys who get knocked down and are able to get back up and finish the fight.

 

“I feel like I am world championship material. I learned a lot in the Frazier fight and I’m going to make sure that this will never happen again.”

 

How did you get into boxing?

 

“I was originally a football and basketball player. I came from a tough area in Albany, N.Y., and I never had any guidance growing up. I owe my career to my amateur boxing coach who was the hall monitor at the middle school I was attending. From day one he looked at me and said that he saw a champion in me. Every single day from then on, he tried to get me in the gym to train. This was when I was 11 years old; I was very arrogant and didn’t understand why I should be fighting in a ring when I could instead be fighting in the streets. That’s the mentality I had.

 

“One day I decided to go in for a workout and it was the greatest workout I have ever had. I was so tired after that workout that I had to call my mom to have her pick me up, I was so fatigued. From then on I have been in the gym every single day, and here I am today, a product of all my hard work and perseverance. I have a dream for myself that I want to be world champion and I’m not going to stop until I get it.”

 

What is it like being promoted by Don King knowing his history as a promoter, especially with his success with heavyweights similar to yourself?

“Don King is the greatest promoter in the world. He is not going anywhere. He started this boxing thing and I want to be a part of that history. The first time I met him he gave me a pamphlet of all the world champions he had. From that day on I knew I wanted to be involved with him. He has told me to work hard and not expect anything to be given to me.”

 

Do you look at an American heavyweight like Deontay Wilder as an inspiration? What type of impact does someone like him have on you and your career?

 

“Deontay is definitely an inspiration for me. I knew him in 2008 when I was getting him ready for the Olympic Games and just to see him from that point to now being a world champion; it definitely gives younger heavyweights the inspiration and extra desire. It’s hard to get there, but it’s even harder to stay there. No offense to Deontay, but there’s a young heavyweight coming up that’s hungry just like him—me. We will see how long he is able to hold the title. It is great to once again see an American heavyweight back on top.”

 

How did sparring with veteran, former champions like Guillermo Jones help you? 

 

“Guillermo Jones had so many different styles and different things he was able to do in the ring. He taught me that I couldn’t be one-dimensional and it was great to have that experience. I knew that for me to do my best, I must be able to do different things. He was bringing it to me and I had to harness all my strengths in order to compete with him.”

 

You are making your ShoBox debut, what does that mean to you?

 

“It’s mind-blowing. I finally have my chance. For me as the heavyweight to be the main event, it’s a dream come true. I’m ready to show people what I’m doing in my reality. I do not take this opportunity for granted, I have trained so hard and I’m ready to go.”

 

Your prediction?

 

“After I lay that big jab on him during the first three rounds, I think I should loosen him up by the fifth or sixth round. We’ll see if it goes past the sixth round.”

 

 

In an eight-rounder that will open the telecast, Samoa’s 6-foot-2, 280-pound heavyweight Natu “The Truth” Visinia (11-1, 9 KOs) of Tacoma, Wash., will face 5-foot-10, 235-pound Joey “The Tank” Dawejko (14-4-2, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia.

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer isGordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

 

# # #

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

About the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @DLVEC.

 

About the D Las Vegas

The D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino feature modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar. The D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter at @theDLasVegas.

 

 

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO OUTCLASSES ELVIN AYALA IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLEHEADER

Leave a comment

Ievgen Khytrov Delivers TKO Over Nick Brinson

Regis Prograis Earns Unanimous Decision Over Amos Cowart

 

Three-Fight Telecast To Replay Monday, Aug. 10 At 10 p.m. ET/PT

On SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Rosie Cohe/SHOWTIME®

 

ATLANTIC CITY (Aug. 8, 2015) –Talented undefeated middleweight prospect and 2008 Olympian Sergiy Derevyanchenko continued to move on the fast track as he earned a unanimous decision over former world title challenger Elvin “El Lycan” Ayala of New Haven, Conn. inFriday’s main event of the ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader from Bally’s Atlantic City.

 

Known as “The Technician,” Derevyanchenko (6-0, 4 KOs/WBS: 23-1, 7 KOs), of Brooklyn, N.Y. by way of Ukraine, kept his record unblemished as he carefully broke down the experienced Ayala (28-7-1, 12 KOs) in their eight rounder. He was the more effective and accurate aggressor, unleashing an excellent body attack and out-landing Ayala 185 to 49 on power punches.

 

Derevyanchenko, who had never been past the fourth round, thoroughly and comfortably outboxed the 34-year old Ayala from the opening bell, showcasing his superiority and dominance on a one-sided unanimous decision (80-71 twice, 80-72).

 

“I am happy with my performance. I would have liked to have scored the knockout, but Elvin showed he has a lot of heart,” said Derevyanchenko. “I was able to work on a lot of different things and show a lot of different dimensions to my game.

 

“This was my first time going eight rounds and I feel great. My stamina was great and I was able to do pretty much everything that I wanted to do in there. Elvin was my toughest opponent to date and I think that I passed this test with flying colors.

 

“I feel that I need a few more fights, and a few more good learning experiences like this, but a world title is not too far down the road. I trust my team behind me to guide me in the right direction, and when they tell me that I am ready, then I will be.”

 

Ayala, who was coming from upsets over Eric Mitchell and Ronald Gavril, fought back, but couldn’t counter the Ukrainian’s power.

 

“The kid can flat out fight,” said Ayala. “He without a doubt has championship caliber. I tip my hat off to him. I thought that I would be able to do something to neutralize him in there, but he was the better man tonight. He has a very bright future.”

 

Impressed with Derevyanchenko’s performance, Boxing Historian and SHOWTIME Analyst Steve Farhood asserted that the Ukrainian is ready to move from prospect to contender.

 

“Derevyanchenko fought as advertised,” he said. “He’s a technician. A very smart and believe it or not, mature fighter. He took control in the first round, mixed his attack to the body and to the head and showed superiority. He gives us no reason to think that he’s not ready for something much bigger.”

 

In the co-feature, undefeated power-punching middleweight and 2012 Olympian, Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (11-0, 10 KOs) of Brooklyn, N.Y. by way of Ukraine, scored an eight-round TKO over daring Nick “The Machine Gun” Brinson (17-4-2, 7 KOs) of Geneva, N.Y. with a devastating flurry of power punches at 2:31 of the final round.

 

Khytrov got his toughest test to date from Brinson, who dominated the early rounds with good lateral movement, consistent combinations to the body and strong jabs. But the Ukrainian picked up the pace and although he appeared to be frustrated in the middle rounds with his inability to finish his opponent, he continued to exert pressure.

 

After the sixth, Khytrov picked up the pace landing meaningful combos and powerful rights.

 

His aggressiveness paid off. With 29 seconds left in the eighth, referee Earl Brown halted the contest after “The Ukrainian Lion” put Brinson on one knee after a flurry of punches.

 

“This was a tough fight for me. I had some discomfort in my stomach back in the dressing room, I just didn’t feel 100 percent, and it took me a couple of rounds to find my rhythm,” said Khytrov. “Brinson had a good game plan and had some success early, but I never worried. I knew I was hurting him with my shots and I felt him breaking down as the rounds wore on.

 

“This was a good learning experience for me and my career. I fought through some adversity and still was still able to secure the victory. I feel that I am ready for some of the biggest name in the 160-pound division but I have faith in my team, my trainers, managers and promoters, and they will do whatever is best for me. Whatever they decide is best, I will be ready for and ready to put on a spectacular performance.”

 

Brinson, who was ahead on the scorecards (68-65, 70-62; 66-66), argued he was taking a knee at the time of the stoppage.

 

“I am fine. I am upset with the stoppage, said Brinson. “Our game plan was to box and give him a lot of lateral movement. I felt his strength on the inside, so we worked to outbox him and overwhelm him with the jab.

 

“I took a knee to recoup. I wasn’t knocked out. I knew where I was. I thought the smart thing to do was take a knee and get myself back together. He was coming on strong, but I knew there wasn’t much time left at all in the fight. I looked at the ref and I told him I was fine and he still stopped the fight. It is upsetting to me. I was winning the fight.

 

“I would love a rematch. It was a great fight, and I think the fans loved it. If a rematch is on the table I would take it right away.”

 

Opening the telecast in a quintessential ShoBox: The New Generationmatchup, undefeated knockout artist Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (15-0, 12 KOs) of New Orleans, La., captured a one-sided eight-round decision over  previously unbeaten Amos “2Smooth” Cowart (11-1-1, 9 KOs) of Groveland, Fla. in an impressive battle of junior welterweight southpaws.

 

Prograis, who averaged over 100  punches per round, landed 381 body punches and connected with 219 power punches, while Cowart, who was courageously attempting to counter the Rougarou’s speed and power, landed 129 connects and 94 power punches.

 

Prograis showcased his boxing superiority by outlanding and outclassing his opponent with strong jabs, body shots and impressive foot work. He won by the scores of 80-72 twice and 79-71.

 

“I feel great, I am ready to go a couple more rounds,” said Prograis. “This was a great fight for me. I was able to show another dimension and box.

 

“I have been going in there and just walking guys down and putting them away, but Amos came to fight. He showed that he has a huge heart and a great chin, because I hit him with some big shots and he kept coming, so I tip my hat off to him.

 

“He was a true warrior in there, he hit me with some good shots, but we expected that coming in and were prepared for that. I am very happy with my performance. This is just the beginning for me.”

Cowart, who moved up in weight for this matchup, admitted Prograis was the better fighter.

 

“He is a really good fighter,” said Cowart. “I was expecting him to come in and go toe-to-toe. He never hurt me, but he was more active.

 

“He was able to adjust in there.  He was the better man tonight. I think it was a very exciting fight, and I wish I would have let my hands go more. I showed that I am true warrior though and I will be back and learn from this.”

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. Gordon Hall served as executive producer with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

boxing, ShoBox

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO vs. ELVIN AYALA IEVGEN KHYTROV vs. NICK BRINSON REGIS PROGRAIS vs. AMOS COWART FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS

Leave a comment

ShoBox: The New Generation Tripleheader Live On SHOWTIME ® Tomorrow/Friday, August 7 At 10 p.m. ET/PT From Bally’s Atlantic City

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Rosie Cohe / SHOWTIME

 

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Aug. 6, 2015) – Blue-chip Ukrainian middleweight prospect Sergiy “The Technician” Derevyanchenko weighed-in at 159 pounds and former title challenger Elvin “El Lycan” Ayala of New Haven, Conn. measured at 161 pounds during Thursday’s official weigh-in for the main event of this Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

 

Derevyanchenko (5-0, 4 KOs/World Series of Boxing: 23-1, 7 KOs)and Ayala (28-6-1, 12 KOs) will square off in the eight-round middleweight headliner of the televised tripleheader from Bally’s Atlantic City.

 

Undefeated power-punching middleweight Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (10-0, 9 KOs) tipped the scales at 159 pounds and upset-minded Nick “The Machine Gun” Brinson (17-3-2, 7 KOs) of Rochester, N.Y. measured at exactly the same, 159 pounds, for their eight-round middleweight matchup.

 

In the opening fight of the telecast, undefeated knockout artists Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (14-0, 12 KOs) of New Orleans, La. will take onAmos “2Smooth” Cowart (11-0-1, 9 KOs) of Groveland, Fla in an eight-round junior welterweight showdown. Both, Prograis and Cowart measured at 139 pounds each.

 

Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Fight Promotions Inc., are currently on sale and are priced at $120 and $60. Tickets can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. ET.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say prior to Thursday’s weigh-in:

 

Sergiy Derevyanchenko

“I have a lot of respect for him, he’s a tough opponent. I had a ten-week training camp and I’m ready for whatever game he brings. I’m not taking him lightly, this is a step up in class for me and he’s a really good fighter—he outclassed Ronald Gavril back in March, that’s no joke. But I’m not concerned because I feel I have faced tougher opposition in the past.

 

“I’m training in Brooklyn and I have sparred with really good boxers, Daniel Jacobs and Frank Galarza among them. Jacobs is a world champion, and let me tell you, it’s not easy to spar with a world champion, they know what they are doing.

“I’ve been sparring with Danny [Jacobs] for almost a year now. He’s very technical and very slick and so am I, so we are the perfect sparring match. My trainer says that to watch us spar is like watching chess. Every move counts, every punch matters. It’s all part of a calculated strategy. I love it.

 

“Some might argue I lack of experience, but I don’t feel that way in the least. I’ve been in the ring so many times, that I feel like home when I fight. I feel I’m right where I belong.”

 

Elvin Ayala

“I know I’m the underdog here, but so I was when I fought [Ronald] Gavril in Las Vegas last March. With four days’ notice and against the odds, I got the decision. I thought I was going to get robbed, but I won. So, I’m not too worried about being the underdog here, because it doesn’t mean anything. Anything can happen.

 

“On paper, Derevyanchenko has five fights, but he is way more experienced than that. In the amateurs alone he had more fights than me in as a pro and amateur combined. Every time you step in the ring, you leave something, but you gain some knowledge on fighting. So, he has a lot of experience and I’m not sleeping on him at all.

 

“I’m ready for Derevyanchenko. I know he’s going to come forward and I’m going to stand up and box. I don’t have a recipe or a specific strategy, I’m just going to read him and decide my course of action. Every fight is different, so sticking to one plan is not really an option. My plan is to read him and to respond to what he does with the best possible strategy.”

 

Ievgen Khytrov

“Some criticize my last performance against Aaron Coley, but I was coming from three back-to-back fights and I was physically exhausted. I won, but my performance it was not my best, I couldn’t even get my combinations going. This time around I’m better conditioned, a lot bigger and a lot stronger. I’m in the best shape of my life.

 

“I’m hungrier than my opponent and that’s an advantage for me. See, American fighters are a little bit in their comfort zones with comfortable gadgets and easy access to training and easy access to everything. In Eastern Europe, we don’t have that, so if you are lucky enough to get access to training or even an opportunity, you do your best and you try to break through. You work hard and don’t let opportunities slip away.

 

“Nick [Brinson] is good opposition, but I have no doubt I’m better than him.”

 

Nick Brinson

“I actually asked for this fight. I looked for it because Khytrov is the right style for me. We are tailor-made for each other.

 

“I’ve been in camp for thirteen weeks, I’m right on point with weight, I’m just ready to go.

 

“I know Khytrov is going to be on my face from the get go. He’s just like that, he stands there and he fights with all he has. Ha throws and throws, and that’s what I like about him. I know how to counter it. I know how to defeat him.

 

“My division is hot and I want to keep on moving. This is a tough test, but I know I can ace it.”

 

Regis Prograis

“I’m not concerned about Prograis. I fought bigger and stronger men. I feel quite comfortable and I’m confident I’ll come out victorioustomorrow. I know he’s not going to be a walk in the park, but I have what it takes to defeat him and I know it.

 

“This is my television debut, and my family and everybody around me is excited to see on T.V., on SHOWTIME. I’m in the big leagues now. It feels good, but I don’t let it get into my head. I’m focus on my opponent and on bringing my “A” game tomorrow night.”

 

Amos Cowart

“This is a big stepping stone for me. If I win, I move forward and upward, and if I lose—I know I won’t—it won’t hurt me, because I’d be losing to a guy that is as good as me, really tough opposition. So this is a win-win situation for me.

 

“I know I’m the smaller guy here. I’m moving up in weight, but I’m at that time in my career that I need to be tested to know where I’m at and to know what’s next. So, I welcome the challenge and I tell Prograis to watch out, because he might go down quicker than he thinks.”

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKeanproducing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

 

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

DON KING PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS UNBEATEN HEAVYWEIGHT TREVOR BRYAN AGAINST DANGEROUS DERRIC ROSSY AUG. 28 ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION

Leave a comment

Tripleheader Features Undefeated Middleweight Juan Ubaldo Cabrera Against Once-Beaten Mike Gavronksi

& Samoa’s Natu Visinia Versus All-Action Heavyweight Joey Dawejko

 

Friday, Aug. 28, Live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT)

From Downtown Las Vegas Events Center

 

NEW YORK (Aug. 5, 2015) – Promising up-and-coming heavyweight Trevor Bryan (15-0, 11 KOs) will put his unblemished record on the line when he faces his toughest opponent to date, the more experienced Derric Rossy (30-9, 14 KOs), in the 10-round main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast). Promoted by Don King Productions, the bout will take place Friday, Aug. 28, at Downtown Las Vegas Events Center (DLVEC), across from the D Las Vegas in iconic Downtown Las Vegas.

 

In the co-feature, two-time Dominican Republic Olympian Juan Ubaldo Cabrera (23-0, 16 KOs), will take on the versatile Mike Gavronski (18-1-1, 12 KOs), of Tacoma, Wash., in a 10-round middleweight match.  In the opening bout of the telecast, Samoa’s 6-foot-2 heavyweight Natu Visinia (11-1, 9 KOs) of Tacoma, Wash., will face 5-foot-10 Joey Dawejko(14-4-2, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, in an eight-round matchup.

 

All six boxers will make their ShoBox debuts in what amounts to make-or-breakout fights for each. Tickets are priced at $39.50, $59.50, $89.50, $149.50 and $500.00 for VIP Tables and are available at www.ticketmaster.com.

 

“It gives me great pleasure to help young and old prospects, men and women, chasing their dreams, grasping for an opportunity to transform their dreams into living reality,” King said.  “Trevor Bryan is such a prospect seeking an opportunity to fulfill his dreams. Well, Don King and SHOWTIME are giving him that opportunity to capture the imagination of the people onShoBox on Aug. 28.  However, Derric Rossy, a great challenger and ‘Dreambreaker’ is blocking the door to greatness. And Trevor Bryan has to fight like hell to get through that door. The fight will be the power of dreams. I urge all fight fans to tune in on ShoBox and don’t blink.’’

 

“We are excited to partner with Don King Promotions and ShoBox in bringing outdoor boxing to downtown Las Vegas,” said Derek Stevens, CEO/Owner DLVEC and the D Las Vegas. “The fight card features promising talent, which should make for an unforgettable event.”

 

Looking to establish himself in the United States heavyweight division, the talented but unproven Bryan of Pompano Beach, Fla., by way Albany, N.Y., is taking a huge leap in class against Rossy, of Medford, N.Y.

 

So how good of a prospect is Bryan, who turns 26 on Aug. 23?  The former amateur standout

won five national championships in just 60 amateur bouts.  While a close loss in the finals of a 2011 qualifying tournament kept him out of the U.S. Olympic Trials, the heavyweight gained valuable experience at Northern Michigan University under the tutelage of former U.S. Olympic Coach Al Mitchell.

 

Since his debut at 22 in November 2011, the 6-feet-4 Bryan has stayed active and registered 10 of his 11 knockout victories in three rounds or less.   Bryan, who knocked out outmatched Stacy Frazier in the second round last June 20, is excited for the opportunity to prove himself against a veteran heavyweight.

 

“On paper, it looks like it’ll be exciting and I’m definitely looking at it as a breakout fight for me,’’ Bryan said. “I feel excitement, not pressure.  It’s time for people to start mentioning my name with the others.  I’ve had a great training camp, I continue to feel confident with trainer Stacey McKinley and I feel strong, mentally clear and confident.  I’m ready to roll.”

 

Bryan has gone eight rounds once but is intelligent enough to not overlook a dangerous veteran like Rossy.

 

“You can’t take an awkward, determined guy like Rossy lightly,” Bryan said.  “He’s scored a couple of upsets, fought some guys he thought he beat, has ring experience and he’s been there against all kinds.  Like me, I feel he’s kind of desperate in his own way and the guys who are the most desperate are the most dangerous.

 

“This guy can’t beat me but I expect a tough, tough fight.  I know Rossy’s not coming to lie down.  Me?  I’m just a young fighter trying to make his way and looking to showcase my talents.  It’s time to fight somebody tough.”

 

Rossy, 35, has never managed to get past journeyman/gatekeeper status and over that proverbial hump fight that catapults you to the next level.

Rossy has been in with former WBO heavyweight champion Ray Mercer, world-title contenders Eddie Chambers (twice) and Fres Oquendo and world-ranked contenders such as Vyacheslav Glazkov in an 11-year career in which he seldom got the benefit of the doubt in tight fights.  In his outing before last, Rossy dropped a highly controversial 10-round majority decision to 2008 Olympic bronze medalist and IBF No. 2-rated contender Glazkov (17-0-1) on Aug. 9, 2014.

 

“I’ve been dealt some unfortunate hands in boxing, results not coming my way, but I don’t sit and dwell on them,’’ Rossy said. “The bottom line is I can’t sit around and mope.  I’ve got to win and leave no doubt in anybody’s mind. I feel like I’ve done that in many fights, but for some reason they think I leave doubt.”

 

One exception came in his last fight when Rossy registered an upset in a unanimous 10-round decision over previously undefeated, untested Akhor Muralimov (16-0, 13 KOs going in).  Utilizing smart separation and his considerable height and reach, Rossy triumphed by the scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice.

 

Rossy is looking for a similar performance against the undefeated Bryan.

 

“Bryan, I think he’s put together well,” Rossy said.  “He’s a good boxer.  It’s going be a good stylistic and action-packed fight.  We’ll both try to establish our jabs.  I think this is a formidable fight for both of us.

 

“Bryan has the pedigree to maybe be a heavyweight champion someday, but not now.  In my eyes I feel he’s making a mistake, but anybody that fights me know they are looking at a war.  I am a high-risk, low-reward kind of opponent.  I’ve fought them all; Bryan is a little green in that area so we’ll see.”

 

Before becoming a pro boxer, Rossy was an All American high school football star who would go on to play at Boston College where he was an outstanding 248-pound defensive end. Hehad some pro tryouts but was seen as a “tweener,” too big for linebacker, too small to play end.  So he turned to boxing and despite only 10 amateur fights won the 2004 New York Golden Gloves tournament, and turned pro in October of that year.  He went 15-0 at the outset of his pro career before losing to Chambers the first time.

 

Juan Ubaldo Cabrera, who will take on Mike Gavronski in the ShoBox co-feature, represented the Dominican Republic in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games.  The 36-year-oldmay best be known for defeating future world champion Jean Pascal en route to taking the gold medal in the middleweight class in the 2003 Pan-American Games.  During an excellent amateur career, Cabrera also brought home a silver medal in the 2002 Central American and Caribbean Games as a light middleweight.

 

Two years after his last appearance in the Olympics, at the age of 26, he turned pro in October 2005 and won 13 of his initial 15 fights by knockout.  Cabrera is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision victory over Tim Hall on the Deontay Wilder-Eric Molinaundercard last June 13 in Birmingham, Ala.  Cabrera has been inactive recently – the win over Hall was his first fight in a year and only his sixth since July 2009.

 

Gavronski is a durable, well-conditioned 29-year-old from the Northwest who combines boxing skill with KO power in both hands and also fought in MMA.  He’s won four in a row – all in Tacoma – and is 3-0 this year.  In his last fight, he recorded a resounding ninth-round TKO over rival Tyrell Hendrix on May 30 in a rematch of their 2011 draw.

 

A Washington state favorite, the 6-foot-tall Gavronski turned pro at the age of 24 in 2010, and suffered his lone loss via 10-round decision to Tureano Johnson (14-1) in 2011 in a bout for the WBC Continental Americas middleweight title.

 

The opening bout of the telecast – Natu Visinia vs. Joey Dawejko – features a heavyweight showdown between a talented prospect and a former standout amateur.

 

Visinia, 30, is perhaps the most promising up-and-coming Samoan heavyweight since former longtime contender David Tua.   A true heavyweight with tremendous knockout power in both hands, a rock-hard head and granite chin, the 6-foot-4 30-year-old is coming off a fourth-round knockout over Joshua Clarke last May 13.  Seven of Visinia’s nine KO victories came in the first round.

 

Visinia was a former standout high school and college football player at Southern Illinois University.  He began his fighting career in MMA, where he became the No. 2 ranked amateur in the United States before making his pro debut.  He then switched to boxing in 2006.

 

After his boxing pro debut in 2009, Visinia gained invaluable experience sparring with the likes of Wladimir Klitschko, Evander Holyfield and Lamon Brewster.  He won his first 10 pro fights before losing by seventh-round TKO to former two-time IBF cruiserweight championSteve Cunningham on Oct. 18, 2014.  In his first genuine step up in class, Visinia dropped Cunningham in the fifth but Cunningham’s past class and conditioning proved too much to overcome.

 

Dawe­jko had a decorated am­a­teur ca­reer that included a World Junior Amateur championship in 2008, the national under-19 crown, and a victory over Bryant Jennings, who recently challenged heavyweight world champion Wladimir Klitschko last April.

 

The 25-year-old Dawejko was on a heavy roll, winning six consecutive fights, four in a row by first-round stoppage before his six-fight winning streak ended when he lost a 10-round decision to Amir Mansour (21-1) in a Pennsylvania State heavyweight title fight this past May.  This will be the third start of the year for the 5-foot-10, six-year-pro, an all-action heavyweight who owns a victory over Rossy in January 2014.  Two outings back, on March 3, Dawejko required all of 27 seconds to dispatch of Enobong Umohette.

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer isGordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

# # #

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna looks to get back in win column this Friday night in rematch against Josh Robertson

Leave a comment

Fight to be part of off-tv undercard of ShoBox fight card at Ballys Atlantic City 
For Immediate Release
Atlantic City, NJ (August 4, 2015)—This Friday night at Ballys Atlantic City, Middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (16-1, 7 KO’s) will be back in action and looking to get back in the win column against a familiar foe when he takes on Josh Robertson in a bout scheduled for 8-rounds.
The bout will be part of the off-tv portion of a ShoBox televised tripleheader that will feature Middleweight Ievgen Khytrov taking on Nick Brinson.
LaManna of nearby Millville, New Jersey is coming off his first professional setback which ironically was televised on ShoBox on March 13 when he was stopped by 6 rounds to undefeated Antoine Douglas.
LaManna, who won a 6-round unanimous decision over Robertson in the same Ballys ring on September 28, 2013 knows that a big effort will get him back in a big fight.
“Training has been great.  By the time I get in the ring on Friday, I would have completed a 10 week training camp.  I started camp in New York and I was supposed to fight on July 25.  That show got postponed and I was fortunate enough to land on this show,” said LaManna.
When asked about what he remembers about the first encounter with Robertson, LaManna recalls, “I won every round.  That was a six rounder and this is an eight round fight.  I want to stop him and make a statement.”
If LaManna is able to get that emphatic win, he is hoping to look impressive in front of his hometown fans.
“It’s good to be back on an undercard of a ShoBox event.  It’s a high profile show in my home area.  I will have a lot of support and I am looking forward to putting on a good performance.”
During the camp, LaManna is working on the things that he needed to tighten up after the loss to Douglas.
“I have been working on keeping my composure and sticking to my gameplan.  I feel like I am getting stronger.  I am still just 23 years-old and despite my last fight, my best boxing is still ahead of me.”
“I want to thank Lou DiBella for putting me on the card.  As well I would to thank Vincent Ponte of Gulfstream Promotions as well as Rising Star Promotions.”
Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Fight Promotions Inc., are currently on sale and are priced at $120 and $60. Tickets can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 or by visitingwww.ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. ET.


About Rising Star Promotions:
Rising Star Promotions was created with the intent of becoming a house hold name with the key objective of Rising Star Promotions being able to coordinate an array of diversified special events within the sports and entertainment industry, The CEO and partners at Rising Star Promotions feel that the opportunities for growth are endless. We would like to give opportunities to up and coming professional as well as amateur boxers that other promoters would not readily give opportunity to. The events that Rising Star plans to coordinate will provide much needed affordable, family-friendly sports entertainment.
boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

ANTOINE DOUGLAS DEFEATS ISTVAN SZILI WITH THIRD ROUND TKO IN MAIN EVENT OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION QUADRUPLEHEADER

Leave a comment

 

Arif Magomedov and Adam Lopez Remain Unbeaten,

Clarkson Beats Odom On Upset Of The Night

 

Watch Replay On Tuesday, July 21, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME®

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Rosie Cohe / SHOWTIME®

 

BETHLEHEM, Pa. (July 18, 2015) – ShoBox: The New Generation celebrates its 14th anniversary with an action-packed card. Undefeated middleweightAntoine “Action” Douglas (18-0-1, 12 KOs) of Washington D.C. finished offIstvan “The Prince” Szili (18-1-2, 8 KOs) of Frekendorf, Switzerland with an impressive third round TKO in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation, Friday, July 17 from Sands Casino Hotel in Bethlehem, Pa. The event was televised live on SHOWTIME.

 

Both Douglas and Szili, had strong starts. Douglas exploited his reach advantage and strong right, while Szili showcased a few good combinations. However, Douglas showed dominance throughout the round by outlanding Szili 18-to-one in jabs.

 

Szili tried to wear Douglas down, but the 22-year–old Washingtonian countered the Swiss’ attempts with great combinations and strong rights. Douglas knocked Szili down with a left hook and two big rights with less than 10 seconds to go in the second, but Szili pulled himself together to finish the round. “The Prince” never fully recovered and Douglas used his speed and powerful jabs to deliver two more knockouts causing the stoppage just 29 seconds into the third round.

 

“Tonight was a team effort and I’m really proud of us. I rely on my team to help me move forward and continue to be successful,” Douglas said. “I will return again to fight under the SHOWTIME banner soon.

 

“I worked him [Istvan Szili] off the jab and once I caught him a few times, I was able to give him the combinations. After that my power punches kicked in and you saw the result of that.”

 

Douglas is an active fighter, making this his fourth win in a row since his draw with Michel Soro in July 2014. For Szili, this was his first time fighting in 11 months.

 

“I wasn’t able to show what I was capable of doing. I had a great sparring camp and looked tremendous going up against world champions, so I’m not sure what happened,” Szili said. “Once I was hit in my ear, I lost my balance.

 

“Loses happen. Some of the best people have been beat before. Now I have to decide if I will come back or retire after this but I would love another chance to show what I can do.”

 

“This is the fourth time Antoine Douglas has fought on ShoBox, and I thought [Istvan] Szili would give him more trouble. I thought Szili would try to take him into the later rounds, but Douglas was much faster, much quicker on his feet. Szili made him look really good because Douglas was able to do whatever he wanted,” said Boxing Historian and SHOWTIME analyst Steve Farhood.”I’ve seen Douglas four times now, three wins and one draw and every time I take away the same thing: I want to see him again.”

 

In the co-feature, Derrick “Take it to the Bank” Webster (19-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pa. suffered his first loss against fellow unbeaten, 22-year-old Arif Magomedov (16-0, 9 KOs) of Glendale, Calif. by way of Russia in a one-sided 10-round middleweight matchup.

 

Magomedov impressed the crowd by outboxing the 33-year-old southpaw with poise and aggressiveness. He fought on the inside, pressuring Webster and dictating the pace of the fight. Webster struggled to adapt to his opponent’s style, but picked up the rhythm in round four only to be outboxed by Magomedov in the following rounds. Despite Webster being knocked down twice (seventh and tenth) the victory for the Russian wouldn’t come by way of knockout but by the judges’ scorecards. Magomedov won by unanimous decision 99-89, all three judges.

 

“I thought I would knock [Derrick] Webster out but I could tell he was prepared. Because of his height, I was surprised by how easy it was to get inside. In the end, I did what I was supposed to do. I did what we prepared to do in the gym – get inside. The ref did a good job of letting us fight on the inside.”

“Only time will tell where what’s in store for me next. I still have a lot of learning to do.”

“I was very prepared for the fight but due to my stomach virus and fractured ankle, I wasn’t 100 percent health wise. This was also my first time at 160 in about five or six years. No excuses, he [Magomedov] was the better man tonight. I’ll be right back in the gym on Monday.”

 

“[Arif] Magomedov is also 22, just like Douglas. He looked very good against [Derrick] Webster – a six foot four southpaw – a fighter that is not easy to look good against,” said Farhood. “Magomedov, relatively new to the American boxing landscape, is definitely one of the best young middleweights in the world.”

 

During his second appearance on ShoBox, Adam “Mantequilla” Lopez (13-0, 6 KOs) was victorious in his 10-round super bantamweight bout with Dominican Republic-native Eliezer “Campeoncito” Aquino (17-1-1, 11 KOs).

This may have been Aquino’s first fight in the United States, but he showed that he was a true competitor. Aquino chose a relentless approach by unloading punch after punch, while Lopez was able to strategize and take smarter shots. Typically, Lopez has been able to finish off his opponents in the sixth round, but tonight the two went the distance.

Aquino was relentless initially, hitting Lopez nonstop. It was clear that Lopez was frustrated, but he wouldn’t let Aquino dominate for long.

Lopez won by majority decision, 95-95 and 96-93 twice.

“I knew nothing about my opponent. Every round I had to learn a little bit about him. I got the drop early. I never thought that he was going to last the full ten rounds.  I also thought I won by a bigger margin than that,” said Lopez. “He’s a good boxer and has a lot of power. He threw a few solid shots, but he didn’t really have a hook so I was basically trying to block his right hand.

 

“This is my first 10-round fight; a good learning experience. Before, I had only gone to six once. Aquino had a lot of energy and hit me with a lot of awkward shots. It wasn’t easy, but I weathered the storm.”

 

“This was a great learning experience for [Adam] Lopez going 10 rounds for the first time against an opponent that wouldn’t stop coming at him,” said Farhood. “He definitely won the fight, but the type of experience that he gets with the level of opposition at SHOWTIME, allows a fighter like Lopez to grow.”

 

Opening the ShoBox:The New Generation telecast, Samuel “The Main Event” Clarkson (15-3, 9 KOs) of Dallas, Texas delivered a huge upset by knocking down Jerry “The King’s Son” Odom (13-2, 1 NC, 12 KOs) of Washington, D.C. three times before the referee, Shawn Clark,  stopped the fight at 1:15 of the third round.

 

The scheduled super middleweight 10-rounder started strong, with big lead rights and uppercuts from Odom and strong body shots and good connections from Clackson. Odom seemed to take the lead in the second, breaking Clarkson down, landing bigger shots and looking for an opportunity to put his power to good use, but Clarkson fought back and finished the round by knocking Odom down for the first time in his career with a right uppercut. In the third and final round, Clarkson led from the get go knocking Odom down twice more before the referee stopped the fight.

 

“This is a blessing, my team and I struggled a lot to get here. This win is really a blessing” said Clarkson. “We did what we had to do, we overcame the distractions and we won. I wasn’t supposed to win, but you can’t judge a book by its cover and a fighter by his record.

 

“I studied [Jerry] Odom in and out, and everything I expected, he did.

 

“We’ve been working on the uppercut for almost six weeks. I met a lot of great orthodox fighters before, and one thing that I noticed is that when a fighter comes with a right hand, the real bonus comes after with the right uppercuts. So, when I saw him [Jerry Odom] leaning in and his head wasn’t moving with his punches, I would just slip in and throw an uppercut and he was there on the canvas.

 

“In the world of boxing, sometimes you get caught. Tonight, I got caught,” Odom said. “I just want to thank all my supporters, this is just a small setback and I will be back.”

 

“[Samuel] Clarkson stole the show. I think he was the biggest underdog on the card coming in and he exposed [Jerry] Odom,” said Farhood. “Odom was the bigger puncher; Clarkson was the one with the suspect chin. Turned out to be exactly the opposite, a good example of the fact, ‘You never know in boxing.’”

 

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins called the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Mike Arnolddirecting and Rich Gaughan producing.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

boxing, ShoBox, Showtime Boxing

Weights from Bethlehem, PA Quadruple-Header Live on Showtime ShoBox: The New Generation

Leave a comment
       
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bethlehem, PA (July 16, 2015)—

Antoine Douglas 159.8 – Istvan Szili 159.4
(IBO Intercontinental title)

Arif Magomedov 160 – Derrick Webster 158.3 
(NABO Middleweight Title)

Adam Lopez 118.6 – Eliezer Aquino 118.5
(WBA FEDELATIN and WBC Latino Super Bantamweight titles)

Jerry Odom 168.3 – Samuel Clarkson 172.2

Manny Folly 121.4 – Jose Garcia 120.6
Rickey Nuno 154.9 – Tim Kunkel 155.3
Christopher Brooker 168.4 – Botirsher Obidov 167.9
Rob Brant 163.1 – Ernesto Berrospe 162
Samuel Teah 138.8 – Raymond Velez 139.4
Promoters:  GH3 Promotions in association with Kings Promotions, Greg Cohen Promotions and Main Events

Venue: Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem
1st Bell:  7 PM

Television:  Showtime- ShoBox:The Generation  10 PM ET / PT
Tickets are priced at $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster andwww.ticketmaster.com
GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight Jerrell Harris,undefeated Super Bantamweight Qa’id Muhammad,  lightweight Oscar Bonilla, Heavyweight Natu Visinia, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell and Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster to the GH3 Promotions stable.
boxing, Showtime Boxing

ShoBox: The New Generation CELEBRATES 14 YEARS

Leave a comment

 

 

ANTOINE DOUGLAS vs. ISTVAN SZILI

AND UNDERCARD FIGHTERS FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS

 

ShoBox: The New Generation Quadrupleheader Tomorrow/Friday LIVE on SHOWTIME®

From Sands Casino Hotel in Bethlehem, Pa.

 

Click HERE To Download Photos

Credit: Rosie Cohe / SHOWTIME

 

Telecast Jump-Starts An Action Packed Weekend of Fights on SHOWTIME and PBC on CBS

 

BETHLEHEM, Pa. (July 16, 2015) – Top prospect, unbeaten Antoine “Action” Douglas of Burke, VA weighed-in at 159.8 pounds and Switzerland’s Istvan “The Prince” Szili measured 159.4 pounds during Thursday’s official weigh-in for the main event of this Friday, July 17 ShoBox: The New Generation 14thanniversary edition, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

 

Douglas (17-0-1, 11 KOs), also known as “Action” and Szili (18-0-2, 8 KOs) will square off in the 10-round middleweight headliner of the televised quadrupleheader from the Sands Casino Hotel in Bethlehem, Pa.

 

Undefeated power-punching middleweight Derrick “Take it to the Bank” Webster (19-0, 10 KOs) tipped the scales at 158.3 pounds and fellow unbeatenArif Magomedov (15-0, 9 KOs), of Glendale, Calif., measured at 160 pounds for their 10-round middleweight clash.

 

Adam “Mantequilla” Lopez (12-0, 6 KOs) weighed-in at 118.6 pounds while Dominican Republic’s Eliezer “Campeoncito” Aquino (17-0-1, 11 KOs) tipped the scale at 118.5 pounds. The two will face off in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

 

In the opening fight of the telecast, super middleweight prospect Jerry “The King’s Son” Odom (13-1, 1 NC, 12 KOs) will take on Samuel “The Main Event” Clarkson (14-3, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight match.  Odom, of Washington D.C measured 168.3 pounds while Clarkson weighed-in four pounds overweight at 172.2 pounds. After stepping off the scale, tension grew after Clarkson nudged Odom in a dismissive manor during a photo opportunity, which almost led to a scuffle between the two.

 

Tickets for the event, promoted by GH3 Promotions in association with Greg Cohen Promotions, Main Events and King’s Promotions are on sale and priced at $100, $70 and $35. Tickets can be purchased by calling GH3 Promotions at(212) 947-2577. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.

 

Here’s what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s weigh-in:

 

ANTOINE DOUGLAS:

“Every fight is about improving. My ring intelligence has gotten way better. Not to say I wasn’t intelligent in the past, but I have a better understanding of what I need to do in the ring. I’m now more capable of picking my opponent apart from the outside and working my way in.

 

“In comparison to my first fight on SHOWTIME, I can tell I fight more like a pro now. At first, I was all about getting in the ring and focusing on taking my opponents head off, but I now have a more strategic approach.

“I’m constantly setting goals and working reaching them so I’m open to opportunities that are going to bring me closer to my goal. That’s what’s important to me.

“I’ve always had the mindset to think towards the future for a lot of reasons. I already have in mind what I see for myself in the future for me and my loved ones, that’s what motivates me. I know the only way I’m going to get there is through hard work.”

 

ISTVAN SZILI:

“I’ve fought all around Europe but never in the United States. There were offers before but it was too short of notice. This time, there was more time to prepare and I was ready to make my debut in the U.S. I’m hoping this opportunity will open the door for more fights here.

“The Unites States is a good place to fight because of its appreciation for boxing. They love and cherish their boxers more than any other country. If I can make it here, I know I can make Hungary proud.

“I watched [Antoine] Douglas fight and I won’t deny that he has power and talent. I will go into the ring with a few plans, but it always depends on the type of opponent I’m up against. From there, I adjust accordingly.

“I’ve been training in Germany so I didn’t come all the way here not to win. It’s not about the money. I’m a warrior and I’m here to give 100 percent.”

 

 

DERRICK WEBSTER:

“The lowest I fought at was 159. It wasn’t hard for me to take the weight off so I’m probably going to stay at this weight.

“I was all-American in high school and college, received a Bachelor’s degree in Juvenile Criminal Justice, own five different businesses, while acting and modeling on the side. This is a lifestyle. I love boxing, I’m good and it and I enjoy it.

“I’m comfortable inside and out. Because of that, I’m able to break down a fighter’s mentality first so they have to worry about how to get to me. I haven’t been up against anyone as fast as me so I’m not worried about what they do. I’m ready for anything that comes my way.

“I’ve been on television before so I’m not worried about the cameras. It’s more important for me to get in the ring and do what I need to do.

“My sparring partners have been great. I’ve worked with [Julio Cesar] Chavez Jr. and a ton of other people. That’s what’s really helped me build my strength. I even asked Chavez Jr. if he would go up against me if I was at his weight, he said no.”

 

ARIF MAGOMEDOV:

“I know this isn’t going to be an easy fight, but that’s what makes you a good fighter. If you want to be a good fighter, you have to challenge yourself and fight some tough people.

“He [Derrick Webster] may have some height on me, but I’m not worried about that. I have my own technique.

“Fighting on SHOWTIME is always great exposure because it will help take me to the next level. I’m focused on right now but ready for what’s ahead.

“I’m very ready for this fight. I’m confident in the way I prepared.”

 

ADAM LOPEZ:

“I don’t know much about my opponent [Eliezer Aquino], except for the fact that’s knocked  11 people out. No matter what, I’m confident that my training has me prepared to get in the ring and do what I need to do. I’m not underestimating him,  I’m just confident in my ability.

“I feel strong at 119. I’m pretty sure going forward I could even move up.

“There was such a good reaction from everyone after the Pablo Cruz fight. It was a huge boost for me. It was my first fight of 2015, I was already on a roll so it gave me a lot of buzz. The knockout was definitely a confidence booster. I stepped in the ring and took care of business.

“I have the power to take him out. I don’t think it’s going to go all 10 rounds.

“I’ve had tremendous sparring getting ready for this fight. I traveled all over Texas just to make sure I was ready. Now, I have the power to take [Eliezer] Aquino out. I don’t see us going all 10-rounds. I’m feeling sharp.

“Power is something can be taught, but to me, it was always there. You just have to learn how to bring out your inner power and strength. I have the type of power where I don’t have to put much out but it still causes the right impact.

 

 

ELIEZER AQUINO:

“This is my first time fighting in the United States and on SHOWTIME.  I want to make boxing fans worth their while. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this for a while. I want the world to see me. I want the world to see my talent.

“Some question my 10-month layoff, but I see no problem with it. I was simply trying to find a worthy opponent. It’s tough to find strong opponents in Dominican Republic. That was the main reason of my layoff, but I was also out of luck. A few fights I had lined up fell off.

“I’m going up in weight, but don’t see it as a disadvantage, I see it as an opportunity. I’m good at 115 and I’ll be great at 118. Just wait and see.

“I’ve watched some video on my opponent. I think we have similar styles, but I’m more aggressive than he is. It’s going to be a war.

“On Friday, I’m going to stand and fight. And every inch [Adam] Lopez gives me, I’ll take. I’ll move forward and I’ll pressure him. He better watch out, he’s going to find himself cornered up.”

 

JERRY ODOM:

“I’ve seen the way [Clarkson] fights but he’s not my biggest test to date, I am. Mentally and physically, I’m my own competition. I don’t get in the ring and judge anyone’s ability but my own.

“I haven’t worried about what Clarkson does well. He’s going to have to worry about what I do well.

“When I’m in the gym, I work on everything all around the board. I don’t just focus on improving one move. It’s about discipline and practice, that’s what will make me an overall better fighter.

“Football, golf, tennis, I’ve played it all but boxing has always come natural to me. That’s what I chose over everything because I know I’m good at it.

“A lot of guys may not take this sport seriously but I do. I may appear to be quiet but I’m focused. I fight for a better cause, it’s not about money. That’s why I take it so seriously I have a family to support.”

 

SAMUEL CLARKSON:

“I faced tougher competition than my opponent. He’s not as good as everybody think he is and I’m ready to take his spot in the boxing world. I’m a step up for him.

“Training camp was good, making weight was the hard part. I walk around very heavy, but I had six weeks’ notice for this fight. So, I thought I was going to be fine, but I wasn’t. It is what it is. I won’t let this take my concentration away from tomorrow.

“I think [Jerry] Odom is going to be a fun fight. I like his style. It’s made for me. He doesn’t move his head and he likes to bully people, but so do I. I’m not afraid of him. You saw him at the weigh-in, he pushed me.

“Tomorrow, I’m just going to be me. I’m going to fight smart and I’ll beat him. Odom can’t handle my power and my speed.”

 

# # #

 

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Mike Arnoldproducing and Rick Phillips directing.

 

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 62 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.