7/30/10 Bobby Bryant Back in Action in LA!
Submitted

Bobby Bryant (5-0) will be back in action July 31, 2010 at the Civic Center in Rayne, LA. Bryant will face verteran Anthony Adams in a six round co-main event for Mason Menard vs. Robbie Cannon vacant UBO Lightweight Title Fight.

Since turning pro nine months ago Bryant has only fought twice at home, which is something he would like to see change, but being on the road does not seem to bother the 17 year old.

Bryant's large group of fans and supporters, behind him from day one as an amatuer, traveled from as far away as Kentucky and Florida to Support him in his most recent fight at the Desoto Civic Center, Southaven, MS.

He expects those loyal fans will make there way to wherever he is sheduled to fight.
"When you have people willing to take off work and spend their hard earned money to come out to a boxing show to support you thats when you know who your real freinds are , especially the way the economy is today," said Bryant.

Bobby is also scheduled to fight at Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma city, on August 13.

7/25/10 Barnett Decisions Hendrix in Battle!
Johnson Destroys Ashworth
by Michael Sheffield @ ringside, Photos By JD Meredith
Huge Gallery Now Online!



Ty Barnett (l) busted up his hands early and still managed a thorough victory over Hendrix

Saturday night, the action inside The Fitz matched the temperature outside with a five-card fight that reminded fans why the Fights at the Fitz series is one of the most popular events in Tunica.

Evenly matched lightweights Ty Barnett (17-1-1 12 KOs) and Tyrese Hendrix (18-1-1 7 KOs) gave the crowd everything they had in the 8-round main event that saw Barnett break out with a dominating performance over Hendrix. However, Barnett’s win would be marred by possible injuries to both hands during the fight.

The hard-hitting and immensely fast Hendrix opened the fight imposing his will on Barnett, who didn’t have a bad first round, but was feeling his way through his opponent’s repertoire. Once the 2nd round began, Barnett would begin an onslaught that opened a cut under Hendrix’s right eye that he would continue to exploit during the remainder of the fight. Despite the cut and Barnett’s domination, Hendrix never stopped coming forward, possibly winning two rounds (the 4th and 8th). However, Barnett would flurry enough and back his opponent up to leave no doubt, even though the fight featured no knockdowns and ended with a unanimous 80-72, 79-73, 79-73 decision in Barnett’s favor.

Following the decision Barnett stated that he was ready to fight the best in the 135 lb division. "I would like to fight guys like John Molina. I want to fight for regional titles and then world titles. Now is my time, I am not getting any younger".



Taureano Johnson (l) KO'd a game Ashworth in the first round.

Taureano Johnson would run his record to 4-0 with 4 KOs by destroying middleweight Roy Ashworth (5-9, 1 KO) in 1:31 of the opening round. The fight’s beginning seemed as if Ashworth would be up to the challenge posed by Johnson. Ashworth would brawl toe-to-toe with Johnson in his corner before Johnson would direct the action to the ropes and promptly drop Ashworth with a right uppercut that put him down to stay. Ashworth looked like the punch might have broken his jaw and nose, but still found the sportsmanship and the strength to parade his opponent around ring after the knockout was announced.

Side note: Doctor Jerry Gentry treated Ashworth in the ring as it took him quite a while to gain his composure. Later, while dining, Ashworth suffered breathing and dizziness issues and was immediately air lifted to the closest hospital where reports are that he was treated for fractured facial bones and released. Our prayers and thoughts go out to Roy Ashworth and his family on a quick and healthy recovery.



Bedwell (r) Shocked Hutchinson, Delivers 4 Knockdowns.

Nathan Bedwell 2-3 (1 KO) KO2 Hoyt Hutchinson 1-1 (1 KO)

Another local star could be born in super middleweight Nathan Bedwell, who despite a 1-3 record, impressed the crowd who might have mistaken him for an underdog against Hoyte Hutchinson (1-0 1 KO). Bedwell appeared to be smaller than the 169 lbs both fighters were announced to weigh, but when the bell rang, preceded to hurt Hutchinson almost immediately with a wild left hook that landed during a flurry from both fighters. It would be Bedwell’s last wild punch of the night. While the 18-year old Bedwell showed he still had plenty to learn about setting up his punches, he would finish the first round landing hard shots that would soften Hutchinson up for the fight’s conclusion.

Referee Randy Phillips would end the first round warning Bedwell about elbows and would spend the second round counting the times Bedwell knocked Hutchinson down, ultimately getting to 4 knockdowns before stopping the fight at 1:30 of the second round. Bedwell would win by knockout after scoring four knockdowns in 30 seconds. The crowd would loudly appreciate the performance that could easily make Bedwell a featured fighter in Tunica.


Bell (l) Decisions Williams After 4.

Dedrick Bell 3-2 (2 KO's) UD4 Josh Williams 0-1

The normally wild Jr. middleweight Dedrick Bell put on the best performance of his young career (2-2, 2 KOs) as he would need everything he had to put away Josh Williams, who chose Bell as the opponent to face for his first professional fight.

Williams, who matched Bell in weight (151 lbs) didn’t have the punching power to exploit, even as he repeatedly hurt Bell over the course of the fight’s 4 rounds.

Bell would enter the ring for the second fight in a row escorted by local talent Miss Kitty Hollywood. He would employ his straightforward, throw-every-punch-he-could-think-of style to open the fight. Williams would successfully defend himself from the opening onslaught and force Bell to employ boxing technique, which he did surprisingly well.

Williams refused to allow the fight to turn into the brawl Bell would constantly try make it. However, Bell would constantly land left hooks and would drop Williams with a hook and jab combination in the 4th round. Bell would take a unanimous decision 39-37, 39-36, 40-35, but should have learned some real boxing lessons in the ring against Williams.



Wilson (l) loses a split decision to Henson.

Keuntray Henson 2-1 UD4 Rohan Wilson 4-3-1 (2 KO's)

Jr. Welterweight Keuntray Henson (1-1) would take a split decision against Rohan Wilson 4-2-1 1 KO) in the opening 4 round fight of the evening.

The sell out crowd at The Fitz was Prize Fight Boxing's 88th consecutive sell out of a casino show. The show will be broadcast in it's entirety on Saturday night July 31st on Sportsouth as part of Prize Fight's "Mississippi Fight Night" series. Prize Fight would like to thank all the boxing fans for packing the Fitz once again. They are truly the best fans in the sport today.

7/21/10Hendrix & Barnett To Battle in Must Win Fight!
JULY 24th - FIGHTS AT THE FITZ

Tunica, MS - Prize Fight in association with Global Boxing Gym and Tecate present one of the best fight cards and one of the best main events ever at the Fitz Hotel & Casino in Tunica, MS as it returns July 24th with it's latest installment of "Fights At The Fitz". "Fights At The Fitz" is a record breaking series that has showcased many of the top young fighters in the world today. World ranked fighters such as Fernando Guerrero, Shawn Porter, Lamont & Anthony Peterson and many more have see their careers blossom at "Fights At The Fitz". This coming Saturday, July 24th should be no different as top lightweight prospects Ty Barnett and Tyrese Hendrix will meet in an 8 round battle with future title implications at stake. Barnett 17-1-1 (12 KO's) from Washington D.C. looks to be the hunter in this fight as he attempts to use his great power punching ability and smooth boxing skills to limit the slick southpaw Hendrix. The veteran Hendrix 18-1-1 (7 KO's) from Atlanta, GA will attempt to use great ring generalship, pure boxing ability and quick feet to keep Barnett off balance and land a shot that could swing the night into his favor. "This is probably the most competitive and compelling main event we have ever brought to the Fitz. It is an intriguing match up between the great boxer and the great puncher. Everything is on the line. The winner goes on to regional title fights and the loser has to climb the ladder again. I can't wait!", stated promoter Russ Young of Prize Fight.

The four bout undercard is also packed with very talented boxers. One of those young fighters is the outspoken and charismatic Taureano Johnson. Johnson is considered by many to be one of the top Jr. Middleweight prospects in the world today. Johnson 3-0 (3 KO's), a member of the 2008 Bahamian Olympic Boxing Team and native of Nassau, Bahamas, has electric power in both hands and will look to impose that power on Roy Ashworth of New Orleans, LA in a 4 round clash. Also on the card is light heavyweight prospect Donta Woods 7-0 (6 KO's) of Atlanta, GA as he will lay it all on the line against cagy veteran Terry Porter of Little Rock, AR.

This exciting 5 bout card will be replayed on SportSouth July 31st into 10 million homes throughout the southeastern United States. Tickets for this event can be purchased by calling the Fitz Casino Gift Shop at (800)-766-LUCK(5825), by calling ticketmaster at (901)-525-1515, or by visiting www.ticketmaster.com. The doors for this event will open at 6:30 PM and the first fight will start at 7:00 PM

Contact: Nate Yoder (618) 979-6735

7/20/10V3 Fights Reurn to the Forum!
Live August 14!

Memphis, TN. - V3 Fights is making its way back to the Grand Lobby of FedExForum for another evening of the best MMA action the Mid-South has to offer on August 14.

The much anticipated main event on August 14 will see the newly crowned Lightweight Champion Tripp Carter put his belt on the line against No. 1 contender Chantein Wasion in the most anticipated rematch in V3 history. The two fighters come into the match with a great deal of momentum, as Carter delivered the fastest knockout in V3 history in his last match and Wasion’s most recent victory earned him Submission of the Night honors. The last time these fighters squared off Carter defeated his opponent due to a cut under Wasion’s eye.

There will much to look forward to in addition to the main event, with nine other bouts on the card. The first fight of the evening will begin at 8 p.m.

Tickets for the event are on sale at all Ticketmaster locations, ticketmaster.com, the FedExForum Box Office or by phone at (800) 745-3000. Ticket prices for this exciting event, which include ringside seat options, are available starting at $20. All ticket prices are subject to additional fees and service charges.

V3 Fights was founded in Memphis, TN as an amateur fighting circuit in 2009. The company’s mission is to provide quality MMA events for fans across the Mid-South, while serving as a proving ground for future professional MMA fighters. For more information go tofedexforum.com or v3fights.com.

7/18/10Guerrero Captures NABF Middle Crown!
Porter Decisions Robinson after Battle!
Huge Photo Gallery
By: Michael Sheffield, Photos: JD Meredith / Memphisboxing.com

The DeSoto Civic Center played host to its first nationally televised boxing event with Showdown on Showtime, which featured rising stars and local favorites Fernando Guerrero , Shawn Porter and Lanard Lane taking on their toughest challenges to date against Ishe Smith, Ray and Mike Dallas Jr. on the televised card.
(continued)

7/17/10Guerrero gets by Smith!
Porter, Dallas Jr. also victorious
Huge Gallery/Report to Follow!
From Fightnews.com, photo By JD Meredith



Top middleweight prospect Fernando Guerrero (19-0, 15 KOs) pounded out a close ten round unanimous decision over tough veteran Ishe Smith (21-5, 9 KOs) on Friday night at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, Mississippi. Guerrero scored the biggest win of his career and had to work for it every minute. Smith scored a knockdown in round eight to get back a point deducted in round six for a low blow. Scores were 96-93, 95-93, 97-91.

In a very good fight, unbeaten jr middleweight knockout artist Shawn Porter (16-0, 12 KOs) won a ten round unanimous decision over Ray Robinson (11-2, 4 KOs). Porter broke open a close fight by dropping Robinson in round six and punishing him for the balance of the round. Robinson was on his bicycle in the seventh as Porter stalked him. But, after that Robinson battled gamely until the end. Scores were 99-89, 97-92, 98-91.

In a clash of undefeated welterweight prospects, Mike Dallas, Jr. (15-0-1, 5 KOs) kept his ’0' intact with an eight round unanimous decision over Lanard Lane (12-1, 7 KOs). Scores were 78-74 on all cards.

7/15/10Guerrero-Smith final presser
From Fightnews.com

ShoBox: The New Generation headliners Fernando Guerrero and Ishe Smith were joined by co-main event fighters and fellow prospects Shawn Porter and Ray Robinson on Wednesday for a final press conference at The Boiling Point in Southaven, Miss., just two days before the ShoBox tripleheader on Friday, July 16, live on SHOWTIME® at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). World-ranked middleweight prospect Guerrero (18-0, 15 KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line against tough veteran Smith (21-4, 9 KOs) in a 10-round bout in the main event of the tripleheader, which will take place at the DeSoto Civic Center in Southaven, just days from the ninth anniversary of the first ShoBox telecast.
And, in emblematic fashion, this edition of ShoBox will feature highly-regarded prospects in the toughest and arguably most important fights of their careers.

Promising, unbeaten knockout artist Porter (15-0, 12 KOs), of Cleveland, Ohio, will face fellow prospect Robinson (11-1, 4 KOs), of Philadelphia, Pa., in a 10-round junior middleweight (catch weight 150 lbs) bout.More @ Fightnews.com

7/12/10Local Star Added to Showtime Fight Card!
"THE BEST OF THE BEST" LIVE ON SHOWTIME fROM THE DCC

Undefeated Olive Branch, MS, fighter Bobby Bryant has been added to the :Best of the Best" card. He will face Edward Lucas, 1-0 (1 KO), from Dermott, AR in a 4 round Jr. Middleweight bout.

7/9/10V3 Fights Reurn to the Forum!
Live August 14!

Memphis, Tennessee — V3 Fights is making its way back to the Grand Lobby of FedExForum for another evening of the best MMA action the Mid-South has to offer on August 14.
Tickets for the event go on sale Wednesday, July 14 at 10 a.m. at all Ticketmaster locations, ticketmaster.com, the FedExForum Box Office or by phone at (800) 745-3000. Ticket prices for this exciting event, which include ringside seat options, are available starting at $20. All ticket prices are subject to additional fees and service charges.

The much anticipated main event on August 14 will see the newly crowned Lightweight Champion Tripp Carter put his belt on the line against No. 1 contender Chantein Waison in the most anticipated rematch in V3 history. The two fighters come into the match with a great deal of momentum, as Carter delivered the fastest knockout in V3 history in his last match and Waison’s most recent victory earned him Submission of the Night honors. The last time these fighters squared off in the octagon, Carter defeated his opponent due to a cut under Waison’s eye.

There is much to look forward to in addition to the main event, with nine other bouts on the card, including the crowning of V3’s first ever Featherweight and Welterweight Champions. The first fight of the evening will begin at 8 p.m.

V3 Fights was founded in Memphis, TN as an amateur fighting circuit in 2009. The company’s mission is to provide quality MMA events for fans across the Mid-South, while serving as a proving ground for future professional MMA fighters. For more information go to fedexforum.com or v3fights.com.

7/4/10Over 2300 Tickets Sold for "Best of the the Best!"
"THE BEST OF THE BEST" LIVE ON SHOWTIME fROM THE DCC
4 Undefeated Fighters - 2 Olympians - 1 Night Of Boxing

6/24/10Press Conference
Showtime Invades the Mid-South!
"THE BEST OF THE BEST" LIVE ON SHOWTIME–TIX ON SALE NOW!
4 Undefeated Fighters - 2 Olympians - 1 Night Of Boxing

SOUTHAVEN, MS - Prize Fight in association with Global Boxing Gym is proud to announce an unprecedented night of boxing coming to the Mid-South as they unveil "SHOWDOWN ON SHOWTIME" on July 16, 2010 live from The DeSoto Civic Center and televised on Showtime. This 6 bout card will feature 4 of the most talented young fighters in the world today fighting in separate bouts and putting their titles on the line.

" SHOWDOWN ON SHOWTIME " is headlined by NABO Middleweight Champion and #4 world ranked Fernando Guerrero 18-0 (15 KO) facing the toughest foe of his young career as he goes head to head with Ishe "Sugar Shay" Smith 21-4 (9 KO) in the twelve round main event that will catapult the winner into sure world title contention. The powerful southpaw Guerrero is considered by many boxing pundits to be one of the top young fighters in boxing and will look to use the veteran Smith as his ticket to stardom on a world wide stage. Guerrero is coming off an impressive 2nd round stoppage of Chicago's Michael Walker this past April on Showtime in Maryland. Walker had not been stopped or knocked down in his previous 24 fights. However, Ishe Smith is no stranger to big fights or big stages and needs Guerrero to move him back into the rankings and in line for title opportunities himself. Smith has fought the best of the best, starred on the reality series "The Contender" and been a top notch fighter for most of the past decade. This main event shapes up to be a show stopper for sure.

In the co-main event, 2008 United States Olympic alternate "Showtime" Shawn Porter 15-0 (12 KO) goes toe to toe with “The New Sugar” Ray Robinson 11-1 (4 KO’s) in a 10 round attraction. Porter, the NABO Jr. Middleweight Champion, is also one of the brightest young stars in boxing today. Porter has appeared on network television 5 times already in his young career and has already shot up to #14 in the WBO world rankings. Porter is no secret to Mid-South fight fans as he has fought 9 times already between Memphis and Tunica. Shawn's action packed all out style will be on display in the feature bout of the evening.

Also, on the television portion of the card will be the undefeated Lanard Lane 12-0 (7 KO) in a welterweight clash against fellow undefeated prospect Mike Dallas Jr. 14-0-1 (5 KO’s)in 10 round bout. Lane is no stranger either to the Mid-South as he fought a fan friendly fight against John Brown on the April ESPN event from the New Daisy Theatre in Memphis. Lane, a Houston, TX firefighter, brings with him a level of tenacity in the ring that will once again leave fans in attendance at a loss for words. Lane fights from bell to bell at a pace that would wilt normal men.

Last, but not least, 2008 United States Olympic Team Captain Gary Russell Jr. 9-0 (6 KO) will be featured on the television portion of " SHOWDOWN ON SHOWTIME " as he duels with slick St. Louis southpaw Leon Bobo 18-5-1 (3 KO’s). Mid-South boxing fans will remember Gary Russell Jr. from his dominating performance on the ESPN card this past April at the New Daisy Theatre in Memphis as he made quick work of Carlos Diaz. Further, Russell also fought at the Fitz Casino in January of 2010 putting on a stellar performance against David Orosco Cano. Russell, a southpaw, is about as complete of a package as you will see in boxing today and will be fighting for his first title on this card. His hand speed is unmatched and he offers power in both hands.

Tickets for " SHOWDOWN ON SHOWTIME " go on sale Saturday, June 5th, at 10 AM and can be purchased at the DeSoto Civic Center Ticket Office, by calling ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com, and all ticketmaster outlets. Tickets for "The Best Of The Best" will be $30 for floor/ringside seats, $20 for lower bowl seats and $10 for upper bowls seats. Doors will open at 7 PM July 16th.

6/21/10V3 Fights MMA Article from the FedExForum!
V3 Fights Crown Mid-South Champions!
By: Michael Sheffield @ Ringside

A sweltering June night in Memphis was made even hotter by the action in the cage on Saturday night during V3 Fight’s FedExForum debut that featured three championship bouts and an 11-fight card featuring the top local professional MMA fighters.

V3 would crown its first-ever champions in the light heavyweight, lightweight and bantamweight divisions, with two of the bouts not getting out of the 1st round.

Lightweight Tripp Carter would score the most devastating (and
scariest) knockout of the night with a one punch decimation of Steven
Cornelius.

The undefeated Carter would finish the fight in 8 seconds with a right hand that Cornelius and most of the crowd didn’t see coming. Cornelius would hit the ground face first and Carter would land a second right to his prone opponent before referee Dave Ferguson could stop the fight.

Cornelius would be out cold for at least 3 minutes before paramedics would remove him from the ring in a neck brace as a precaution.

Light heavyweight Carlton Little would produce the most action packed first round of the night, starting with his entrance, which featured Memphis rapper Playa Fly, who would then vocally support the fighter to a victory against the undefeated Jaden Booth in a 5-round light
heavyweight bout.

Little, who came into the fight with a record of 6-3, would go on the offensive immediately, power-slamming Booth and nearly locking in a rear naked choke. however, Booth would reverse it and nearly knock in one of his own. However, two takedowns and a powerful ground and pound later, Little would score a technical knockout over his dazed opponent at 2:38 of the first round.

After being crowned the first V3 light heavyweight champion, Little let the crowd know what type of champion he would be. “ I’ll fight whoever they put in front of me,” he said in the cage
after the fight.

The theme of a fighting champion would continue in the main event, a 5- round bantamweight title fight between Cody Lane and Brian Hall. Hall would dominate the fight early and often, scoring multiple takedowns over the course of 3 of the scheduled 5 rounds. Lane would
begin the 3rd round as the aggressor, attempting to lock in his own guillotine choke, but failing to lock his opponent up for good. The fighters would trade holds and grapple to a near stalemate throughout the round. However, at the end of the round, a visibly spent and
frustrated Lane would throw his mouthpiece into the crowd, either as a mistaken sign of elation for finishing the fight, or as a gesture of concession.

During the between round intermission, neither Lane’s corner nor the referee could convince him to continue, resulting in Hall being named the winner by TKO.

After the fight, the soft-spoken Hall was adamant who he wanted his next opponent to be, rising local MMA star Thomas Vasquez, who would make his way to the cage to accept the challenge.

The end of the main event wasn’t a shock, as two preliminary bouts had controversial endings of their own.

Lightweights Ronnie Sharp and Adam Denton would end an entertaining fight with a no-decision, after Round 1 when Sharp would absorb a series of kicks and knees to the midsection and face. It would be a knee to the nose that resulted in the initial stoppage. Despite Sharp
being unable to continue because of a legal blow, the fight would be called a no-decision, much to the chagrin of the sellout crowd. With both fighters entering the fight at 1-0, neither would lose their 0 on this night.

Phillip Price (2-1) and Jimmy White (2-0) would meet at a catchweight of 160, with White playing up the intimidation factor from the moment he stepped into the cage. White would counter everything Price would do for the first round and his aggression would result in another
strange stoppage, after Price complained of being poked in the eye. The fight would be stopped at 40 seconds of the second round, with White winning by TKO.

Muay Thai fighters Derek Jackson and. Marcus Jones would make their pro debuts at a catchweight 140. The fight would go the distance, and both fighters, after a first round filled with nervous energy, would settle in for a rousing start to the night. Jones would win by
unanimous decision.

Light heavyweight Jamie Houston (2-1) would TKO Matt Hill (0-2) in 1:32 of the first round.

Middleweight Patrick Burkett would make an impressive debut against Lenny Edgar at a catchweight of 145 pounds, winning by unanimous decision.

Welterweight Travis Robertson (6-3) would reverse a first round where he was dominated by Jess Brown and score a victory. Robertson, who was immediately taken down by Brown in the first round, would begin the second round with a right hand that would drop his opponent. Robertson would move in for the kill and TKO Brown 40 seconds into the second round.

Robertson gave credit to his opponent after the fight, calling him “a bad a-- fighter.” However, he would also promise great things from here on out.

Bantamweights Jessie Parker and Miles Brown would put on an entertaining fight for the 2 minutes it would last, however, their display of sportsmanship and fun after Parker won by arm-bar tap-out would outlast and be more entertaining than the fight itself.

Brown would hoist Parker on his shoulders and parade him around the ring after the fight. Both fighters would leave the crowd excited for the next fight.

Crowd favorite Chantein Wasion (2-1) would bounce back from a loss in his previous fight by dominating Daniel Deossio (2-2) in a lightweight fight.

Wasion would look to end the fight with a rear naked choke early, almost lock in a guillotine choke and finally finish Deossio with a locked in rear naked choke.

6/4/10SHOWTIME INVADES THE MID-SOUTH!
"THE BEST OF THE BEST" LIVE ON SHOWTIME–TIX ON SALE JUNE 5!
4 Undefeated Fighters - 2 Olympians - 1 Night Of Boxing

SOUTHAVEN, MS - Prize Fight is proud to announce an unprecedented night of boxing coming to the Mid-South as they unveil "The Best Of The Best" on July 16, 2010 live from The DeSoto Civic Center and televised on Showtime. This 6 bout card will feature 4 of the most talented young fighters in the world today fighting in separate bouts and putting their titles on the line.

" The Best Of The Best" is headlined by NABO Middleweight Champion and #4 world ranked Fernando Guerrero 18-0 (15 KO) fighting in the twelve round main event against a fighter to be determined. The powerful southpaw Guerrero is considered by many boxing pundits to be one of the top young fighters in boxing and will look to use the veteran Smith as his ticket to stardom on a world wide stage. Guerrero is coming off an impressive 2nd round stoppage of Chicago's Michael Walker this past April on Showtime in Maryland. Walker had not been stopped or knocked down in his previous 24 fights. This main event shapes up to be a show stopper for sure.

Also on the card is 2008 United States Olympic alternate "Showtime" Shawn Porter 15-0 (12 KO). Porter, the NABO Jr. Middleweight Champion, is also one of the brightest young stars in boxing today. Porter has appeared on network television 5 times already in his young career and has already shot up to #14 in the WBO world rankings. Porter is no secret to Mid-South fight fans as he has fought 9 times already between Memphis and Tunica. Shawn's action packed all out style will be on display in the feature bout of the evening.

Also, 2008 United States Olympic Team Captain Gary Russell Jr. 9-0 (6 KO) will be featured on the television portion of "The Best Of The Best". Mid-South boxing fans will remember Gary Russell Jr. from his dominating performance on the ESPN card this past April at the New Daisy Theatre in Memphis as he made quick work of Carlos Diaz. Further, Russell also fought at the Fitz Casino in January of 2010 putting on a stellar performance against David Orosco Cano. Russell, a southpaw, is about as complete of a package as you will see in boxing today and will be fighting for his first title on this card. His hand speed is unmatched and he offers power in both hands.

Last, but not least, on the television portion of the card will be the undefeated Lanard Lane 12-0 (7 KO) in a welterweight clash. Lane is no stranger either to the Mid-South as he fought a fan friendly fight against John Brown on the April ESPN event from the New Daisy Theatre in Memphis. Lane, a Houston, TX firefighter, brings with him a level of tenacity in the ring that will once again leave fans in attendance at a lost for words. Lane fights from bell to bell at a pace that would wilt normal men.

Tickets for "The Best Of The Best" go on sale Saturday, June 5th, at 10 AM and can be purchased at the DeSoto Civic Center Ticket Office, by calling ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com, and all ticketmaster outlets. Tickets for "The Best Of The Best" will be $30 for floor/ringside seats, $20 for lower bowl seats and $10 for upper bowls seats. Doors will open at 7 PM July 16th.

Contact: Nate Yoder (618) 979-6735

5/24/10Fights at the Fitz Report!
By Michael Shefield @ ringside

Prize Fight Boxing’s Fights at the Fitz series returned Saturday night, with a national audience tuning in on SportSouth for “Mississippi Fight Night.”

The five-fight card ran the gamut from Jr. welterweights to heavyweights, with heavyweights Adam Kownacki (2-0, 2 KOs) and Yohan “The Bodysnatcher” Banks (3-3, 1 KO) putting on the most entertaining fight of the night in a 4-round battle.

The Polish Kownacki, fighting out of Brooklyn, brought a sizable and vocal cheering section with him and he wouldn’t disappoint the fans. Banks would give it his best shot for the first two rounds before he ended up on the receiving end with Kownacki punishing his midsection in the third round. Banks would survive the round and Kownacki would pick up where he left off immediately in the 4th round.

After a standing 8-count from referee Randy Phillips, Kownacki would end the fight with a knockout at 1:11 of the 4th round.

In the main event, Jr. Middleweight Shawn Porter (16-0, 16 KOs) would need 4 of the scheduled 8 rounds to pick apart Bobby Kliewer (10-10 6 KOs), who had 6-inches on his opponent.

Porter was clearly quicker and more skilled than Kliewer, who would attempt to lean on him to slow his momentum. Porter eventually was able to neutralize Kliewer and would stun him at the end of the 4th round, before quickly eliminating Kliewer at 1:08 in the 8th round by TKO.

Marlon Lewis (2-1, 1 KO) and Chris Gray (1-1 1 KO) would renew hostilities from an underwhelming April bout at the New Daisy with another underwhelming opening bout. Gray, who was visibly tired at the end of the first round of the previous fight, actually put up more of a fight this time around, catching Lewis with hard hooks and jabs throughout the fight before tiring in the 4th round.

However, as has been his MO during his 3-fight career, Lewis couldn’t finish his opponent, but did enough to win a unanimous decision 39-35, 40-34 39-35.

Welterweight Rodney Coffman would notch his first victory against Lewis Crews (0-2), scoring a TKO in 55 seconds of the second round.

Both fighters would trade hard and wild shots throughout the first round with Coffman getting the better of his opponent as the round went on

Light heavyweight Donta “The Dream” Woods (6-0, 5 KOs) would score a TKO at 2:27 of the second round against Roy “The Destroyer” Ashworth (5-8 2 KOs) and

Middleweight Dominic “The Blade” Wade (6-0 5 KOs) would take a unanimous decision (40-35, 40-35, 40-33) against Michael Faulk (2-0)

5/19/10Fights at the Fitz This Saturday!
second installment of “Mississippi Fight Night” on SportsSouth

Tunica, MS - Prize Fight Boxing is proud to introduce the second installment of “Mississippi Fight Night” on SportsSouth. "Fights At The Fitz" will air on SportsSouth from the beautiful Fitzgerald’s Casino & Hotel in Tunica, MS. This 6 bout card will feature some of the hottest prospects in the sport today. "This whole series is built around introducing tomorrow's stars today", said Brian Young of Prize Fight.
 
The main event on the card will be a classic duel of two talented junior middleweights. “Showtime” Shawn Porter 14-0 (11 KO's) of Akron, Ohio will square off with Robert Kliewer 10-10 (6 KO's) of St. Paul, MN. Porter, a 2008 United States Olympic Boxing Team Alternate and one of the hottest prospects in boxing, looks to continue his winning ways against the formidable Kliewer in this 8 round bout. Defeating Bobby Kliewer will be no easy task for Porter as Kliewer is well known for being a tough customer in the middleweight division. Porter is well on his way to achieving his goal of a world title and cannot take Kliewer lightly or his hopes could be derailed.
 
The feature bout of the evening is an exciting bout of undefeated fighters. Dominic Wade 6-0 (5 KO’s) of Largo, MD and Michael Faulk 2-0 of Minneapolis, MN. square off in an action packed Middleweight bout which is sure to have the Tunica fans on their feet. The scintillating 6 bout card is filled out with three evenly matched affairs featuring a classic light heavyweight battle between Dontae Woods and Terry Porter, a brutal heavyweight match up between Adam Kownacki and Yohan Banks, a four round Jr. Welterweight duel between Marlon Lewis and Chris Gray and the professional debut of Tupelo, MS welterweight Rodney Coffman.
 
The fight can be viewed live on the Internet via prizefighttv.com for free starting at 7:30 p.m. central time. The doors will open at 7:00 PM for this exciting night of boxing and the first bout will begin at 7:30 PM. Tickets are available through all ticketmaster outlets, at www.ticketmaster.com, by calling ticketmaster at (901) 525-1515 or by calling Fitzgeralds at (800) 766-5825. This unbelievable night of boxing can be viewed live from beautiful Fitzgerald’s Casino & Hotel in Tunica, MS.
 
For More Information:
 
Nate Yoder - Prize Fight - (618) 979-6735
 

FedExForum To Host Three MMA Title Fights June 19
V3 Fights Set to Crown Mid-South Champions

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (May 11, 2010) – Local mixed-martial-arts fans will witness the crowning of the first ever V3 Champions following three title fights at the FedExForum on June 19.
V3 Fights, the leading MMA event company in Memphis and the Mid-South, has held a series of preliminary bouts since the sport was legalized in Memphis more than a year ago to prepare local fighters for professional careers in the sport. On June 19, the company will crown the first ever V3 Champions in the Light-Heavyweight, Lightweight and Bantamweight divisions.

“ These fighters are all local guys training to become professionals in the sport,” said V3 Fights president Nick Harmeier. “Their passion, fan base and level of professionalism have grown with every fight and we felt like it was time honor our local champions with titles.”

Jaden Booth will be taking on Carlton Little for the Light-Heavyweight title. Steven Cornelius is squaring off against Tripp Carter for the Lightweight belt. The main event will be Brian Hall versus Cody Lane to see who will become the V3 Champion in the Bantamweight division. An online fan poll, which received over 43,000 votes, determined which fight would be the main event.

The fights are scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Ticket start at $20 and are available at the FedExForum box office or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
About V3 Fights

V3 Fights was founded in Memphis, Tenn. as an amateur fighting circuit in 2007. The company’s mission is to provide quality MMA events for fans across the Mid-South, while serving as a proving ground for future professional MMA fighters. Learn more about the company at www.v3fights.com, or call 901.260.4181 for more information.

5/4/10"Melee In Mississippi" Harlow's Casino Results
Fight to be replayed on Fox SportSouth 10pm Central Time!
Submitted

In the Main Event of Prize Fight Boxing's "Melee in Mississippi" (4/30) at Harlow's Casino in Greenville, MS, Eric "The Outlaw" Hunter, a 2004 United States Olympic Boxing Team Alternate and one of the hottest prospects in boxing, continued his winning ways by TKO'ing the formidable Hernandez in round four. 2008 Bahamian Olympian Taureano Johnson TKO'ed Anthony Bowman in round four. Pete Johnson took Donta Woods the round distance but lost by unanimous decisions (UD4). In feature bout of the evening, an exciting female bout of in state rivals, April Ward (Batesville, AR) TKO'd Britanny Glendenning (Ft. Smith, AR) in round two of a scheduled 6 round Jr. Middleweight figth. Mike Wagenblast defeated over Dedrick Bell bu four round unanimous decsion. Rohan Wilson decisioned (4) Keundrey Henson. The fights will be replayed this Saturday, May 8th at 10:00 central time on SportSouth.

4/29/10Prize Fight's "Melee In Mississippi"
hot prospects Fight @ Harlow's Casino & Resort in Greenville, MS.
Submitted

Greenville, MS - Prize Fight Boxing is proud to introduce the inaugural event of a ground breaking series on SportsSouth. "Melee In Mississippi" will kick off a monthly fight series on SportsSouth live from the beautiful Harlow's Casino & Resort in Greenville, MS. This 5 bout card will feature some of the hottest prospects in the sport today. "This whole series is built around introducing tomorrow's stars today", said Brian Young of Prize Fight. "Through our wonderful relationship with FOX and Harlow's Casino we are able kick off this series in a first class way", Young continued.

The main event on the card will be a classic duel of two talented featherweights. Eric "The Outlaw" Hunter 12-1 (5 KO's) of Philadelphia, PA will square off with Jose Hernandez 11-7 (5 KO's) of Atlanta GA. Hunter, a 2004 United States Olympic Boxing Team Alternate and one of the hottest prospects in boxing, looks to continue his winning ways against the formidable Hernandez in this 8 round bout. Defeating Jose Hernandez will be no easy task for Hunter as Hernandez is well known as defeating hyped prospects. Four times previously in his career Hernandez has entered a fight as an underdog against an undefeated prospect and four times Hernandez as crushed the prospect's dreams by coming a way with an upset victory. Most recently Hernandez faced 15-0 Rasheim Jefferson for the USBA Featherweight Title in Philadelphia, PA and stopped Jefferson in the 12th round of a scheduled 12 round bout with a crushing left hook.

The feature bout of the evening is an exciting female bout between in state rivals Britanny Glendenning 2-0 (1 KO) of Ft. Smith, AR and April Ward 5-1 (5 KO's) of Batesville, AR. This 6 round Jr. Middleweight bout is sure to be for the bragging rights of Arkansas. The scintillating 5 bout card is filled out with three evenly matched affairs featuring 2008 Bahamian Olympian Taureano Johnson. Johnson is one of the hardest hitting prospects in boxing today and is just coming off a crushing 30 second stoppage of Ryan Bianchini in Memphis, TN.

The doors will open at 7:00 PM for this exciting night of boxing and the first bout will begin at 8:00 PM. Tickets are only $15 with a Harlow's Players Card. This unbelievable night of boxing can be viewed live from beautiful Harlow's Resort & Casino in Greenville, MS.

For More Information:

Nate Yoder - Prize Fight - (618) 979-6735

Harlow's Casino Resort & Hotel 4280 Harlows Blvd Greenville, Mississippi 38701 1-866-524-LUCK (5825) www.harlowscasino.com

4/28/10Johnson vs. Brown at the Electric Cowboy!
NEW MAIN EVENT FOR KNOCKOUT NIGHT OF FIGHTS CARD
Submitted

There will be a change in the main event of Bad Boy Promotions & Electric Cowboy May 6 “A Night of Knockout Fights” card in Little Rock. Originally we had Bobby Bryant as the main event, but due to some issues with the athletic commission we were unable to get Bobby approved to fight on the card, so we looked to put Justin Ridgway vs. Derek Amos in a cruiserweight bout as the main event, however that fight has been scratched, but now we are lucky to announce we have the main event that this card needs which will be Little Rock’s own heavyweight Randy Johnson squaring off with 6’2” 220 lb Nick “Bad News” Brown of Baton Rouge, La. This is a bout where we have 2 big men and can almost assure a devastating knockout; Randy has a record of 3-2 as a professional and has fought out of the ABC Gym for years now and has trained with the likes of Jermaine Taylor, Terry Smith and other pro fighters who have made a name for themselves and fought for world titles which Randy hopes to do some day. Nick brown on the other hand started his career off with a loss, but is now training out of the Gladiator Gym in Baton Rouge, La and has high hopes of coming away with a victory and turning his career around. There will be many other exiting bouts on the card as well including undefeated light heavyweight prospect Sherman Guy in the toughest bout of his career against Nashville, TN’s James Jones, we will also see the hard hitting southpaw Hunter Limbaugh from Batesville, Ar and we will see crowd pleasing welterweight Caleb Turpitt out of Sherridan, Ar returning to the ring. There will be a minimum of six bouts and we will have a special guest from the Contender Season 1 making a special appearance as well. Don’t miss out tickets are now on sale at the Electric Cowboy or by calling (501)562-6000. Must be 21 years or older to enter the Electric Cowboy

4/16/10Thompson TKO's Beck!
Lundy captures Belt – SEE GALLERY
By: Michael Sheffield, Photos: JD Meredith / Memphisboxing.com

A sweltering New Daisy Theater on Beale Street provided the backdrop for ESPN’s "Friday Night Fights" Friday night.

The broadcast included an NABO Lightweight title fight that exceeded expectations and a main event featuring two up and coming heavyweights looking to take their careers to another level in front of a national audience. The undercard featured two former Olympians looking to establish their own young careers. Neither would disappoint against two out-classed opponents.

Heavyweights Tony Thompson (33-2 21 KOs) Owen Beck (29-4 20 KOs) would plod through 4 rounds of a scheduled 10 rounder with Thompson gaining an early advantage he would never relinquish. more

4/16/10Guerrero, Porter Dominate!
From Fightnews.com

Undefeated middleweight prospect and hometown favorite Fernando Guerrero earned an impressive second round TKO victory over Chicago’s Michael Walker in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation Friday night on SHOWTIME from the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD. Fighting in front of a packed hometown crowd, Guerrero (18-0, 15 KOs) displayed the type of energy and power that has made him such a coveted prospect in the stacked middleweight division. The southpaw came out swinging, drilling Walker (19-4, 12 KOs) with repeated shots against the ropes to close out the first round.

It was more of the same in the second with Guerrero banging away against the ropes and landing shot after shot against his defenseless opponent. With Walker up against the ropes and unable to respond to the onslaught of combinations from Guerrero, referee Malik Waleed was forced to stop the fight at 1:49 of the second round.

“ The crowd was a little bit off so I had to spice things up,” Guerrero joked. “I said I was going to go with him and fight an exciting fight. I’m going to be the new face of boxing, that’s a promise. I work hard like I’m going for a world title in every fight. ” more

4/16/10
Weights from Salisbury, MD
Live on ShoBox From salisbury maryland –10pm CST

Fernando Guerrero 160 vs. Michael Walker 161
Shawn Porter 158 vs. Raul Pinzon 161
tonight on ShoBox at 10 central time from salisbury maryland

4/16/10
ESPN Fights Tonight at New Daisy!
By Nate Yoder

MEMPHIS, TN - ESPN Friday Night Fights returns to historic Beale Street tonight!

Heavyweights headline the night in a clash of former World Title challengers in the 10 round Main Event as Washington D.C.'s Tony Thompson 33-2 (21 KO's) goes toe-to-toe with Nashville, TN's Owen Beck 29-4 (20 KO's).

The co-feature of the night is a rare match up of young undefeated prospects. Tyrese Hendrix 18-0-1 (7 KO's) and Henry Lundy 17-0-1 (10 KO's) will put it all on the line as they meet for the vacant NABO Lightweight Title.

The six bout card will be rounded off by four extremely well matched bouts. Houston, TX's Lanard Lane 11-0 (7 KO's) meets grizzled veteran John Brown 24-17-2 (11 KO's) of Atlantic City, NJ in an 8 round Jr. Welterweight bout. Also, 2008 United States Olympian Gary Russell Jr. 8-0 (5 KO's) of Capitol Heights, MD puts his undefeated record on the line against the always tough Carlos Diaz of Dorado, Puerto Rico in a 6 round Featherweight match up. Further, Taureano Johnson 1-0 (1 KO), a member of the 2008 Bahamian Olympic Team, will do battle with Ryan Bianchini in a 4 round Middleweight clash. In addition, on the card is Memphis, TN's Marlon Lewis 1-1 (1 KO) boxing Chris Gray 1-0 (1 KO) of Batesville, AR in a 4 round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Doors open at 6:00 PM for this tremendous night of live boxing and the first bout will start at 7:00 PM. The ESPN television broadcast will begin at 8:00 PM. All tickets are priced unbelievably low at $15 and seating is first come first serve.

To purchase tickets call The New Daisy Theatre at (901) 486-2385.

4/12/10
Bryant KO's Beard in First!
Submitted

Memphis' own Bobby Bryant made short work of Pensacola FL's Marshall Beard Friday night at the Hilton Towers in Layfette, LA. Bryant sent Beard to the canvas twice. The second time for the full ten count with 47 seconds to go in round number one.

4/9/10
No Room to Hide!
Thompson/Beck Heavyweight Clash held in 20' Ring
ESPN2 FNF at the New Daisy Friday, April 16!
By JD Meredith Brief Description of New Daisy Theatre

Memphis, TN – Fight supporters and media gathered Thursday afternoon (4/8) at a press conference/lunchoen for the ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights - The Proving Grounds" from the historic New Daisy Theatre on Beale Street. The bout on Friday April 16, will mark the fourth consecutive year ESPN and Prize Fight Boxing have teamed up to bring a nationally broadcast boxing to Beale Street and Memphis.

"This is a star studded card from top to bottom." – Brian Young

Prize Fight's Brian Young has brought four ESPN fights to Memphis in as many years.

Memphis sport talk radio host Dave Woloshin opened the press conference saying, "How fitting is it that we have boxing here. I can remember back twenty-five years ago there were fights on Beale every Tuesday night and we now reenact that great time."

Owner of the New Daisy Theatre, Mike Glenn, has some interesting history with the ESPN network. Years ago Glenn managed a cruiserwieght fighter from Memphis by the name of Mike Greer. Greer fought as a cruiserweight in a tournament on ESPN in the network's formative years.

Mike Glenn appears filled with excitement about his venue playing host making statements such as, "To have ESPN come to Memphis all these years that Brian and Russ have brought it to Handy Park and for it to end up here – this is like a Rocky movie." In another statement he said, "This is an exciting moment for me and this is an exciting moment for Beale Street. And let me tell you something, this main event is going to be the fight of the year."

" My entire adult life is built here on Beale Street and some of my younger days I ran around out here in the street but don't let my mother find out about that," said Glenn.

Brain Young of Prize Fight Boxing's, co-promoter of this ESPN2 FNF event, greeted the media and thanked supporters (Kevin Kane, John Elkington, Patrick Ashcroft and Mike Glenn to name a few). With heartfelt appreciation he conveyed his love and thanks for his home town, Memphis, TN. Young was also quick to bring to the media's attention a powerful fact stating, "This card is the fourth year we have brought back an ESPN fight to Beale Street."

"ESPN told me the other day, when we booked this fight with them, that they love coming back to Memphis. And thats why they do at least once–maybe twice a year." Young continued, "Memphis and Los Angeles are ranked as the top two cities in the United States for boxing according to ESPN. Its two of their favorite cities to do boxing in. So I think we will continue to bring ESPN back, here to the Memphis market, every year."

The colossal main event features two top ten contenders, Tony Thompson 33-2 (21 KO’s) and Owen Beck 29-4 (20 KO’s). The southpaw Thompson, making his first appearance of 2010, is fresh off a ninth round TKO of Chazz Witherspoon and three fights removed from his only loss in nearly a decade, an eleventh round stoppage at the hands of IBF/WBO/IBO Heavy Champ Wladimir Klitschko. The Tiger stands at 6' 5" and most recently fought at 250lbs.

Thompson's opponent, Nashville, TN's, Owen "What the Heck Beck" most recently contended for a heavy title in 2006 against "The Russian Giant" Nikolay Valuev (L, TKO3). After that defeat Beck reeled off four wins before losing by TKO in the final round (TKO10) of a bout verses Manuel Charr who is now 14-0 (7 KO's). Beck stands at 6' 3 1/2" and last fought at 250.5 lbs.

"Both have fought for the world title and lost hard fought battles."– Brian Young

"These two giant men, 6'5, 245-250 lbs each are fighting right here–ten feet in front of where I am standing–in a 20' x 20' ring. There is no room for a man that size to hide. These two men will go at it from the opening bell. There is no love lost. There's a little bit of history there between the two. They will throw down and I'm not sure the fight goes 4 or 5 rounds. I think the over under will be less than five rounds. That fight will be a war and will alone be worth the price of admission.

Two undefeated top lightweights in the world today Hanky Lundy 17-0 verses Tyrese Hendrix 18-0, of the Prize Fight Boxing stable, could be a "Fight of the Year" candidate. "I think that strongly of the fight. Both kids have already been going at it on the internet about the out come of the fight," said Young. Hendrix (18-0-1, 7 KO's) and Lundy (17-0-1, 10 KO's) will battle for the NABO Lightweight Title.

The bout sheet includes two olympians, Gary Russell, Jr. (8-0, 5 KO's ), captain of the 2008 USA Olympic Team as he faces Carlos Diaz in a six round feather bout and Taureano Johnson (1-0, 1 KO) who represented the Bahamas faces Ryan Bianchini in a four round middle bout.

In other action Lanard Lane (11-0, 7 KO's) of Houston is set to face veteran John Brown (24-17-2, 11 KO's) in an scheduled eight round jr. welter matchup.

The swing bout of the evening will showcase two mid-south fighters in a grudge match for turf when Memphis' Marlon Lewis (1-1, 1 KO) climbs in the ring with Batesville, AR's, Chris Gray (1-0). Lewis says he is taking Memphis back to Arkansas with him while Lewis says that he is ready for the win, "You hear?!"

The New Daisy is tight, dark, smokey and its fans are boisterous – thats for a non-televised fight!

Tickets are $15, first come first served basis.

This is classic boxing at its best! Do not miss this opportunity to be a part of this fantastic nationally televised event at the New Daisy Theatre!

Marlon Lewis (l) and Chris Gray will fight in the swing bout Friday, April 16, on the ESPN2 FNF Card. Photo by JD Meredith.

4/9/10
Bobby Bryant VS Beard Tonight in Layfette, LA!
Submitted

Memphis' own Bobby Bryant is set for battle at the Hilton Towers in Layfette, LA tonight against late replacement Pensacola FL's Marshall Beard will face off for 4 rounds. Bryant was originally slated to fight Breuntre Miller (3-3) Beard who was the 2008 Florida Amatuer Champion is making his pro debut and he says that he is in shape and is ready to upset Bryant.

Bryant who splits time trianing between Vero Beach FL and Memphis has recorded all his fights in Louisana.

Bryant's camp says that the State of Tennessee has refused to issue a Bryant a boxing license stating that under Tennessee rules a fighter must be 18. This has not stopped Bryant from fighting as he has been issued licenses in Georgia, Nevada, Louisiana and Arkansas where Bryant will fight as the main event, May 6, at The Electric Cowboy in North Little Rock.

As for his fight tonight Bryant said, "I will just go out to do what I have trianed in the gym to do, box. If a knockout comes, then it comes but I will go out and set it up and not waste and punches. I realize I am young and am still maturing as a young man and as a fighter. I wont be able to knockout everyone. A win is a win in my book–so we will see what happens. Hopefully I will be able to get Beard out of there within a couple rounds."

Bryant, who went the distance with Richard Dinkins back in February, said of that fight, "The game plan got all messed up. What was supposed to be a six round bout ended up being only a four rounder. Our plan was to box for three to four rounds and get him out of there in fifth or sixth round. I dropped him in the first and third and was on my way to finishing him when the commission said it was only a four rounder. The contract had said six. Had we known it was a four rounder we would have finished him off early but with the thought of six I wanted to conserve myself until the last two rounds. That will not happen again. I am here to box but I am just gonna let my hands go and see what happens. I know Beard has a lot of amatuer expereince but he hasnt fought on the level I have."

Bryant weighed in at 148.6 and Beard 147.8 will meet in the co-main event of the night. The main event features Jared Lablanc of Layfette, LA (12-0) vs Juliano Ramos (15-3) originally of Brazil, now fighting out of Miami, FL.

4/8/10
ESPN Friday Night Fights at the New Daisy!
By Nate Yoder

MEMPHIS, TN - ESPN Friday Night Fights will return to historic Beale Street for the 4th year in a row as Prize Fight will promote a power packed six bout card from The New Daisy Theatre. Heavyweights headline the night in a clash of former World Title challengers in the 10 round Main Event as Washington D.C.'s Tony Thompson 33-2 (21 KO's) goes toe-to-toe with Nashville, TN's Owen Beck 29-4 (20 KO's). The 6'5" southpaw Thompson is coming off an impressive 9th round stoppage of Chazz Witherspoon and looks to get himself back in line for another shot at the World Title. Thompson recently fought for a World Title as he lost on an 11th round TKO to Wladimir Klitschko in July of 2008. Conversely, Owen Beck is 4-1(2 KO's) since his World Title loss to Nikolay Valuev and knows a win over Thompson will surely get him close to another World Title shot.

The co-feature of the night is a rare match up of young undefeated prospects. Tyrese Hendrix 18-0-1 (7 KO's) and Henry Lundy 17-0-1 (10 KO's) will put it all on the line as they meet for the vacant NABO Lightweight Title. The Atlanta native and southpaw Hendrix is no stranger to the Memphis boxing fans as he has fought his last three bouts at The Fitz Casino in Tunica, MS. Lundy, from the historic fight town of Philadelphia, is coming off of a tough 10 round split decision win this past January. The winner of this fight will catapult themselves as a boxer to be reckoned with in the lightweight division as well as receiving a top fifteen world ranking.

The six bout card will be rounded off by four extremely well matched bouts. Houston, TX's Lanard Lane 11-0 (7 KO's) meets grizzled veteran John Brown 24-17-2 (11 KO's) of Atlantic City, NJ in an 8 round Jr. Welterweight bout. Also, 2008 United States Olympian Gary Russell Jr. 8-0 (5 KO's) of Capitol Heights, MD puts his undefeated record on the line against the always tough Carlos Diaz of Dorado, Puerto Rico in a 6 round Featherweight match up. Further, Taureano Johnson 1-0 (1 KO), a member of the 2008 Bahamian Olympic Team, will do battle with Ryan Bianchini in a 4 round Middleweight clash. In addition, on the card is Memphis, TN's Marlon Lewis 1-1 (1 KO) boxing Chris Gray 1-0 (1 KO) of Batesville, AR in a 4 round Jr. Welterweight bout.

Doors open at 6:00 PM for this tremendous night of live boxing and the first bout will start at 7:00 PM. The ESPN television broadcast will begin at 8:00 PM. All tickets are priced unbelievably low at $15 and seating is first come first serve.

For more information on April 16th's ESPN Friday Night Fights or to set up boxer interviews please call Nate Yoder at (618) 979-6735. To purchase tickets call The New Daisy Theatre at (901) 486-2385.

4/3/10
Velasquez sinks late sub
From Fightnews.com

Unbeaten Puerto Rican super featherweight Carlos Velasquez might’ve been fighting a late sub, in Memphis’ Ira Terry, but he was determined to go home early.

Ending a nine-month layoff, Velasquez shook off a bit of rust in the first round, edging the round with aggression but finding himself countered well by Terry.

Going to the body and landing an increasing number of straight rights, he kept Terry on the defense for most of the second. In the third, Terry found himself in trouble, both, early and late in the round.

Wasting no time in the fourth, Velasquez stunned Terry with a right, then finished and floored him with a barrage that had Referee Jay Nady counting out the face-down foe at :20.

Velasquez rises to 12-0, 10 KOs while Terry drops to 24-3, 14 KOs.

The Velasquez/Terry bout was on the undercard of Lara vs Perez, Friday night 4/2, at the Hard Rock’s The Joint in Las Vegas.

4/1/10
New Daisy Theatre to Host ESPN2 FNF – April 16!


ESPN2 Friday Night Fights will be coming to Beale Street on April 16, 2010. The event location WILL be the historic New Daisy Theatre on Beale!

Heavyweights Tony Thompson and Owen Beck are scheduled to square off in the main event and lightweights Hank Lundy and Tyrese Hendricks are scheduled to face each other.

Also on the card is Gary Russell, Jr.

Tickets wil go on sale soon and are $15, first come first served basis.

This is classic boxing at its best! Do not miss this opportunity to be a part of this fantastic nationally televised event at the New Daisy Theatre!

3/30/10
2010 Title National Championships!
Ripley High school, Ripley TN

The new Ripley High school, Ripley TN, will serve as host for the 4th Annual Title National Championships (June, 2-5, 2010).

With over 600 boxers and nearly 400 coaches and spectators the event will bring revunue to this community. Last year the event, hosted in Holly Springs, MS, brought in over seventy-five thousand dollars to the North Mississippi economy in just four days.

The tournament, in which some of the nation’s elite amatuers have competed, is sponsored by Title Boxing Equipment of Lenexa, KS, It was founded in 2006 by Brain & Russ Young of Prize Fight Boxing and Coach John Bryant with the goal to bring mid-south kids off the streets and into the gym. Many major metro areas have a boxing program for at risk groups which focuses on the same goal. Bringing a tournament of this size to the Memphis area will offer young at risk kids other an alternative to crime in the streets.

The 2010 tournment will be bigger than 2009, with 3 rings of boxing begining at 6 pm daily (a second session may be added at 12 noon if needed).

Tournament tickets are $10 per session, $15 for the finals or $25 for a event pass which includs all sessions. Tickets can be purchased at www.southernboysboxing.com using paypal or by calling 901-626-4920.

3/17/10
May 22 - Next Fights at the Fitz Date

3/16/10
Pivital Moment
Observations on Huck/Richards

In his fight with WBO Cruiser Champ Marco Huck at the Max Schmeling Halle, in Berlin, Germany, Adam Richard pressed the action forward throughout rounds one and two. As the fight entered the third, the champion had a slight edge on the cards and had tested Richards' chin with powershots. But a pivotal moment in the fight came at roughly a minute through round three when Huck landed a series of power shots, then slipped to Richard's left and landed a straight right hand to Richard's head.

The punch, appeared to connect behind and above Richards left ear and sent him slumping to the canvas (a punch in this area has high probability of dropping fighters to their pant seats and at very least is disorienting). Bleeding but steady, Richards climbed back to his feet. American Referee Mark Nelson looked at Richards' head and tapped his own fore head as if to signal the cut was from a clash of heads. On several occasions throughout the fight, Nelson had cautioned each fighter to watch their heads. (some viewers believe that the cut was opened by the laces or tape on Huck's glove) Richards appeared to respond to that suggestion with a few choice words.

Seconds later, as he separated Huck and Richards from a clinch, Nelson could be heard suggesting that Richards' cut was "real bad".

Prior to the statement it appeared that Richards had no idea of neither the location nor severity of the cut, but what was apparent was that Richards swung for the fences from that moment on. In doing so, he left openings and Huck capitalized.

After a barrage of punches, with some landing–some not, Nelson jumped in, making an attempt wave the fight off and wrap his arms around a staggard Richards and protect him, but from the vantage of the footage this viewer saw, he appeared to step in and fall with an already off balance Richards to the canvas.

Huck fought a sound fight, picking his punches and landing power shots when the opportunity presented itself. In no way do the above observations suggest otherwise.They are just that, observations.

With the win Huck, retained his WBO Cruiser crown and moves to 28-1 (21 KO's). Richards, recieves a mark in the loss column but holds a strong record of 23-3 with 15 wins coming by way of knockout.

The official time of the bout was 2:30 of round number three.

3/16/10
Bryant Looks for License–Fight in Milwaukee

Plans are being made for Bobby “the Prodigy” Bryant (3-0, 2 KO’s) to appear on the Johnson-Kennedy Promotions card at the Crown Plaza Hotel Ballroom in Milwaukee, WI, March 20, 2010. Bryant is currently waiting for the Wisconsin Board of Licensing to approve his application for a professional boxing license.

For Bryant, turning pro at 17 has made getting a license in some states difficult. The Wisconsin board has accepted and is reviewing Bryant’s application and medicals. An answer is anticipated by mid-week.

Team Bryant knows of two other young fighters that have faced similar obsticales in Nevada. Both were approved.

An opponent is being sought for Bryant as it is believed that the licensing process will go smoothly.

The Crown Plaza Ballroom is home to some of the best boxing in Chicago-Milwaukee area.Tickets are $40 and can be purchased online at www.cjkpromotions.eventbrite.com

3/16/10
Huck Successfully Defends WBO Cruiser Title
From Fightnews.com

Marco “Captain” Huck (28-1, 21 KOs) defended his WBO Cruiserweight Title with a spectacular third-round TKO victory over Adam Richards (23-3, 15 KOs). The 25-year-old German champion started to land his trademark power punches in the second round before dropping his opponent in the third. Huck followed it up with another firework that sent his opponent down again, prompting the referee to call the one-sided contest off. “I am never pleased with my performance because I can always improve but I am happy that I defended my title in front of my fans in Berlin,” Huck said. “I really wanted to put on a good show to please everybody. I am happy with the result. ”

2/28/10
Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards Ready To Battle Marco Huck For WBO Cruiserweight Title

Murfreesboro, TN - A journey 9 years in the making will see the ultimate goal come to fruition on March 13 as Murfreesboro native Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards will challenge WBO Cruiserweight Champion Marco Huck of Germany for the the world title at the Max Schmelling Halle in Berlin. Richards 23-2 (15 KO's) and rated the #14 contender by the WBO will square off with the reigning and defending champion Huck 27-1 (20 KO's) in the 12 round title fight. This will be Richards's first attempt at a world title in a career that has seen him reinvent himself from cruiserweight to heavyweight and eventually back to cruiserweight. Richards turned pro in March of 2001 as a cruiserweight and weighed 201 lbs in his pro debut against Lewis Gilbert. He suffered a set back in his 3rd professional fight against Kevin Petty and took the next 3 1/2 years off from the sport to go to school and re-evaluate his career. Richards was a full time student at Middle Tennessee State University during his break from the ring and pursued a degree in criminology. Richards returned to boxing in February of 2005 as a heavyweight weighing 232 lbs against Eric Lindsey. After campaigning as a heavyweight in his next 18 fights and weighing as much as 255 lbs Richards decided to transition back to cruiserweight and make a run for a world title. The Swamp Donkey reserected his career at The Fitz Casino under the promotional guidance of Prize Fight. Richards is another great boxer in the great line of fighters who have built their career under the Prize Fight banner and who have ultimately reached world rankings and world title fights. Prize Fight's "Fights At The Fitz" series is over 5 years old and has built the careers of famed prospects Lamont Peterson, Anthony Peterson, Rayonta Whitfield, Fernando Guerrero and Shawn Porter just to name a few. "We are fortunate to have a great relationship with The Fitz and be able to promote 10+ shows per year there. It has been the breeding ground for many world class fighters and a blessing for our company", said Brian Young of Prize Fight.

Adam is tarined by world renowned trainer Ronnie Shields and Shields feels he is prepared to shock the world and win the title. Shields had this to say when asked about Richards preparation for the Huck fight, "Adam is ready. This is a very tough fight in the champion's backyard but when opportunity knocks you must answer. Adam has worked hard and is a heavy puncher so he has a great chance in this fight." When asked if he felt he could win a decision in Germany against Huck, Shields responded, "You would like to think the judges would be fair to us but it is always tough fighting overseas against the local champion. We won't go in looking for the knockout but we will definitely take it if it comes." Shields had this to say about the difference between Richards as a cruiserweight versus a heavyweight, "Adam is much faster but has maintained his power which is rare when losing as much weight as Adam has lost. He is a more complete package as a cruiserweight."

Adam Richards felt similar to Shields on fighting in Germany and had this to say, "I know if anything is close it is most likely going to go to Huck. So I have to make sure that I apply continual pressure and not let him steal any rounds. I have to be the aggressor and look for the opening to hurt him with power shots. Then if the knockout comes it comes." Richards also commented on his move from heavyweight to cruiserweight, "I have the same strength but I am faster. I am a better athlete and more mobile. With my added speed and mobility my punches are faster which I think gives me even more power as a cruiserweight." On the opportunity to fight for a world title Richards had this to say, "It is a dream come true. This is why we do this, for the chance to call ourselves world champ. I have that chance and will be fully prepared to bring this title home to the United States." Adam is also excited about the style math up with Huck and said the following, "I don't have to chase Huck around the ring. He comes to fight just like I do which means this will be a war fought in the middle of the ring." Richards, rated by the WBO as the number 14 contender in the world was asked why he was chosen for this title fight over the other possible contenders ranked ahead of him and had this to say, "I think I have proven myself as a warrior and that is the main reason I was chosen. If other fighters were offered the fight and wanted it then they should have signed the contract. Fighting for a world title was a dream of mine so when it was offered to me I immediately said yes. There was no question about it."

The WBO Cruiserweight World Title bout featuring champion Marco Huck vs. Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards is scheduled for 12 rounds and is promoted by Sauerland Events in association with Prize Fight.

For more information on this event please contact Nate Yoder with Prize Fight at 618.979.6735

2/28/10
Bryant Defeats Dinkins!

Photo By: Southern Boys Boxing
In only his third professional bout, Bobby Bryant (146.5lbs – 3-0, 2 KO's) squared off with 62 fight veteran Richard Dinkins Thursday night at the Civic Center, in Rayne, LA. In what was scheduled to be his first six round bout, the 17 year-old Bryant came away with a four round unanimous victory. Scores were 40-34 | 40-35 | 40-36.

2/22/10
Porter defeats Russell!
From Fightnews.com
Unbeaten jr middleweight Shawn Porter (13-0, 10 KOs) won a ten round unanimous decision over Russell Jordan (15-7, 10 KOs) on Friday night at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The gangly 6'2" lefty Russell presented some problems for the 7" shorter Porter, and the hometown hero had to work hard all night to get the win. Russell was deducted a point by referee Randy Jarvis in round nine for losing his mouthpiece. Scores were 97-92, 97-92, and a ludicrous 100-89.

2/19/10
Bobby Bryant Public Workout Friday 2/19!
Friday, February 19, 1-3pm – Memphis Police Boxing Gym

Training Camp for Memphis Welterweight Bobby Bryant will be open to the public today at the Memphis Police Boxing Gym. teh gym is located on Hollywood Ave., just behind Liberty Bowl stadium. Sparring will be from 1-3 p.m. Open to the public.

Bryant's Camp will end Monday, February 21, after which Bryant will travel to Rayne, LA, for his February 25, bout, a six rounder, against 61 fight veteran Richard Dinkins of Mobile, Al.

Camp has been intense with sparring sessions 6 days a week of 10 rounds each session , Darryl Nicols, or Pearl, MS, was brought in to join the camp in preparations for his pro debut early next month. Nichols, who was a top level amatuer, lost by narrow margin to then future Olympian Gary Russell, Jr,at the Jr. U.S. Nationals.
Nichols is back in full swing who took a couple years off and is ready to make his way into the pro ranks.

NO VIDEO CAMERAS ALLOWED ONLY STILL FRAMES WITH PRIOR APPROVAL

2/9/10
Swamp Donkey Signs to Fight for WBO Cruiser Title!

Exciting news released today from Prize Fight Promoters. WBO #13 World Ranked Curiser Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards signed today to challenge WBO Cruiser Champ Marko Huck for his title March 13, in Berlin, Germany.

2/1/10
January Fights at the Fitz Report!
Nelson Dominates Taylor!
By: Jeff White at Ringside, Memphisboxing.com

Prize Fight Boxing kicked off 2010 at the Fitz Casino in Tunica, MS, with a five card bout before an always boisterous crowd.

The scheduled eight round main event featured middleweights Jonathan Nelson (13-0, 6 KO's) vs Clarence Taylor (14-23-4, 7 KO's).

The fight started with light action, with Nelson getting the slight edge. Nelson was seemingly the more polished fighter but Taylor's experience proved valuable as he knocked down Nelson in the third and picked his spots throughout the bout. Midway through the fourth Nelson took control, landing on several good combos when he got Taylor in the ropes. However, he seemed to lack the ability to finish up and capitalize on the advantage from the combos. But despite the hesitation from Nelson, he dominated the fight and won by unanimous decision.
Result Nelson, Unanimous Decision

Nicole Woods (9-6-1, 1 KO) faced Kimberly Connors (5-1-1, 3KO's) in a jr. middle female bout scheduled for eight rounds.

The most entertaining fight of the night. Round 1 was fairly even, with Woods being the aggressor. Things heated up in the second, with Connor being more aggressive in taking the fight to her opponent. Both landed solid shots to the head and Connor's nose began to trickle blood late in the round. In the third, both women came out swinging and Woods starting taking advantage of her reach to keep Connor at a distance. The fourth through seventh rounds provided more of the same furious action with each fighter landing numerous productive blows. Connor's nose bled more profusely throughout. In the eighth and final round, both fighters came out with intensity, sensing it was practically a dead heat. Connor took control midway through the eighth, dizzying Woods with repeated shots to the head. It appeared the late charge might be enough to give her the edge, but almost fittingly, the fight ended in a draw. Valiant effort from both fighters.

Result 77-75 Woods, 80-72 Connor, 76-76 tie Draw

Dedrick Bell (1-0, 1KO) squared off with Rohan Wilson (2-3-1, 1 KO) in a scheduled four round jr. welter bout.

This fight started slowly, with each fighter sizing up their opponent throughout the first round. Wilson landed a solid right to start the second and initiate the contact. Wilson fought with an opportunistic style, relying on counterpunches to help neutralize the reach advantage of Bell. Bell was the aggressor, but his reluctance to shoot the jab allowed Wilson to get inside seemingly at will against the taller Bell. Bell was knocked down twice in the third, and Wilson landed a powerful right cross in the fourth to claim the unanimous decision.
Result: Wilson, unanimous decision

Gary Russell, Jr. (7-0, 3 KO's) faced David Orosco Cano (1-7) in a scheduled four round featherweight bout.

Russell came out like a hurricane, smothering Orosco with combinations and body blows. He dominated from the opening bell, causing two standing eights and two knockdowns in the first round, after which Orosco's corner stopped the fight.

Result: First round TKO, Russell (2:58)

Nathan Kempa (1-1-1, 1 KO) vs. Brandon Oldham (1-4-1, 1 KO) in a four round jr. middle bout.
Fairly evenly matched fight, with Oldham starting out as the aggressor. Kempa started landing good body blows in the second and third rounds. The fight was competitive throughout with good action. Kempa was cut over the left eye early in the fourth with an impressive right cross from Oldham. This seemed to light a spark in Kempa who closed the first round with a flurry of action.
Result: Majority Draw

1/31/10Memphis Morns the Loss of Boxing Staple, Fortner
Published in The Commercial Appeal on January 29, 2010

Rogers - Lealon “Red” A. Fortner, 64, passed away January 25, 2010 at his home. He was born November 12, 1945 in Holcomb, MS, the son of John Abston Fortner and Josephine Hollen Morris. Mr. Fortner was a professional boxer in Memphis and was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame. After retiring from boxing he became a boxing promoter. He worked for Overnite-UPS in Memphis for 24 years. Lealon attended Schoolfield Presbyterian Church in Memphis. He was preceded in death by his mother. Lealon is survived by his wife, Kimberly (Black) Fortner of the home; his father, John Fortner of MS; his children, Lisa, James and Holly and three brothers. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 6, 2010 at Fair Grove Baptist Church in Fair Grove, MO with Pastor Dale Rose officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Boys & Girls Club for Autistic Children, ATTN: Julie Good, 1410 N Freemont, Springfield, MO 65802. Online condolences may be sent to stressfree007@yahoo.com. Benton County Funeral Home (479)636-6700

1/21/10ESPN Ranks F.Guerrero, Porter as Top Prospects!

Fight Boxing promoted Fernando Guerrero and Shawn Porter have been included in ESPN and Dan Rafael's list of top 20 prospects.

Both Guerrero (17-0 ) and Porter (12-0) are scheduled to fight on ESPN2 on 2/19.

1/21/10Adam Richards Targets Marko Huck's Cruiser title!
Adam "Swamp Donkey" Richards will travel across the pond this spring to face
WBO Cruiser Champ Marko Huck. Richards, the WBO's #13 ranked cruiser weight, dropped down in weight class to fight at cruiser following a fight with Chazz Witherspoon.

1/13/10V3 Fights Plans Hometown Grudge Match!
Local Unbeaten Contenders Square Off in Battle at Newby's

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Jan. 8, 2010) –Familiar foes Trip Carter and Chantein Waison, both from the Memphis area, will put their perfect records on the line Thursday Jan. 21 when they go toe-to-toe in V3 Fights’ latest mixed-martial-arts bout at Newby’s on Highland.
These two fast-rising stars in the amateur MMA circuit will be meeting in the ring for the first time, but there is already blood in the water.

“ These guys are both extremely competitive, and on top of that, they can’t stand each other,” said V3 Fights president Nick Harmeier. “This fight will be brutal and ultimately show fans across the Mid-South who is the fighter to be reckoned with in that weight class.”

Carter and Waison fight in the 155-pound weight class and have already given fans some memorable performances. Carter is undefeated with two victories by decision and no defeats. Waison, on the other hand, has achieved his perfect record in a more explosive fashion, scoring a first round knockout and a first round submission to go with no defeats.

The fight card features ten bouts. Doors are scheduled to open at 7 p.m., and the fights begin at 8 p.m. Ticket start at $20 and are available at the door or online at www.newbysmemphis.com.

About V3 Fights

V3 Fights was founded in Memphis, Tenn. as an amateur fighting circuit in 2009. The company’s mission is to provide quality MMA events for fans across the Mid-South, while serving as a proving ground for future professional MMA fighters. Learn more about the company at www.v3fights.com, or call 901.605.7028 for more information.

1/13/10JERMAIN TAYLOR
STATEMENT REGARDING HIS BOXING FUTURE
By : Norman D. Horton

" I'm going to take some time off from the sport of boxing and take myself out of Showtime Sports World Boxing Classic tournament. It's important that I give my body and mind some much needed rest, because I have been boxing for nearly 20 years."

LITTLE ROCK, January 12, 2010 - Jermain Taylor (28-4-1, 17KO's) former undisputed middleweight champion has made a decision regarding his future boxing career. Taylor, who was a participant in SHOWTIME Sports World Boxing Classic last fought on October 17th in a losing battle against Arthur Abraham in Berlin, Germany.

" I'm going to take some time off from the sport of boxing and take myself out of SHOWTIME Sports World Boxing Classic tournament. It's important that I give my body and mind some much needed rest, because I have been boxing for nearly 20 years," said Taylor. "I plan on keeping myself in shape and making a return to the sport sometime in the future. This was not an easy decision for me, having discuss it with my family, trainer, friends and my adviser Al Haymon, because I'm a very competitive person-but I know this is the smart road for me to take. I want to thank SHOWTIME Sports for everything and I wish the best for my 5 counterparts who will continue on in the Super Six tournament. Most of all, I want to thank the many fans for their continued support."

1/6/10Bryant Back in Action!
Bobby Bryant (2-0) will be back in action February 25, 2010 at the Civic Center in Rayne Louisana. He'll face verteran Richard Dinkins, of Mobile, AL in a six round bout.
The show is being promoted by Bad Chad Promotions, LLC. For tickets call 337 298 7658.

12/21/09Guerrero stops Nicklow in 4
From Fightnews.com

Unbeaten middleweight Fernando Guerrero (17-0, 14 KOs) scored a fourth round TKO over Jesse Nicklow (19-2-2, 7 KOs) on Friday night at the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minnesota. Guerrero dropped Nicklow with a right hook early in the fourth. Nicklow fought back gamely, but Guerrero’s attack was too strong and referee Mark Nelson waved it off at 2:09.

In a clash of unbeaten jr middleweights, Shawn “Showtime” Porter (12-0, 10 KOs) was impressive again as he stopped Jamar “Yung Prince” Patterson (8-1, 4 KOs) in round four. Porter dropped Patterson with a big left hook in round four and referee Celestino Ruiz stopped the fight during Porter’s follow-up attack. Time was 1:54.

In a clash of unbeaten welterweights, Lanard Lane (10-0, 7 KOs) scored a second round TKO over Said “The Messenger” El Harrack (8-1, 3 KOs). Lane dropped El Harrack twice in round one, and after Lane rocked El Harrack again in round two, referee Mark Nelson waved it off at 1:38. The stoppage seemed premature.

12/16/09Guerrero headlines Friday!
From Fightnews.com

Top middleweight prospect Fernando Guerrero will put his unbeaten record on the line against Jesse Nicklow in a 10-round middleweight bout in the main event of the final ShoBox: The New Generation telecast of the year on Friday, Dec. 18 LIVE on SHOWTIME ® (11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the west coast). Two exciting co-features will showcase four undefeated prospects in their toughest challenges to date. Knockout artist Lanard Lane (9-0, 6 KOs) will take on Said El Harrack (8-0, 3 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight bout. Hard-hitting Shawn Porter (11-0, 9 KOs) will face the dangerous Jamar Patterson (8-0, 4 KOs) in an eight round jr. middleweight bout. The fights will originate from Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minn.
Continued

12/14/09UFC 107 Penn/Sanchez Coverage!
Photos Coming Soon to Memphissport.net!
By: Michael Sheffield

After nearly three years of planning, preparation and anticipation, UFC finally made its debut in Memphis at FedExForum Saturday night with UFC 107, featuring a lightweight championship bout between Diego Sanchez and BJ Penn, along with four other fights broadcast on pay-per-view.

An announced sellout crowd of 13,896 fight fans witnessed a performance from UFC lightweight champion, BJ Penn worthy of his nickname, The Prodigy, as Penn methodically destroyed challenger Diego Sanchez in the main event of UFC 107 live in Memphis on Saturday night.

Penn (14-5-1) would let Sanchez (23-2) and the crowd know what type of fight it would be early in the first round as he landed an early right that stunned his opponent and resulted in early, but severe punishment for Sanchez, who would barely survive the first round.

Everything Sanchez would attempt for the first three rounds of the fight, from takedowns to high kicks, would result in more of the same from Penn, who picked every piece of Sanchez’s game apart, while also physically dominating his opponent to the delight of the decidedly pro-Penn crowd.

When pinned against the cage by a desperate and exasperated Sanchez at intervals during the second and third round, Penn would casually sweep his opponent’s feet out from under him with his free arm, while landing elbows and punches whenever he wanted.

By the end of the second round, Sanchez was bleeding from his ear, mouth, nose and clearly looking for a way to survive until the end of the fight. Sanchez would finally land a punch in the fourth round, but Penn would end the round with a knee to Sanchez’s face that left the fighter dazed in the middle of the ring and nearly unrecognizable.

Sanchez would briefly taste relief in the fifth round, when he was finally able to take Penn down. However, even that takedown seemed like part of Penn’s plan, as would immediately escape Sanchez’s attempted leg lock and land his only attempted high kick of the night, which opened a 4-inch long cut on Sanchez’s forehead, leaving him as UFC president Dana White would say after the fight, “as busted up as any guy I’ve ever seen,” and on his way to a Memphis hospital.

After leaving the ring, Penn would jokingly ask the reporters on press row to “give me a good write up,” while slapping hands with every one of them.

In the co-main event, heavyweight Frank Mir (12-4) would make short work of challenger Cheick Kongo (24-5-1), who was hoping to make Mir “shut his big mouth” during the fight. Mir, who had constantly disparaged Kongo during the build up to the fight, more than backed up his promise to beat Kongo by opening the fight with a quick left that knocked Kongo into the fence and then a choke that rendered him unconscious. Mir immediately went to check on Kongo, despite the animosity between the two men.

“ He got beaten the two worst ways you could get beaten by getting punched out and then choked unconscious,” Mir said. “I’m sure I was the last person he wanted to see at that point.”
Mir, who had analyzed Kongo perfectly before the fight said he knew his opponent fought standing straight up with his hands down, leaving him open to the punch.

Crowd favorite-Clay Guida (25-7) would give everything he had in a matchup with Kenny Florian, who would suffer an early cut over his right eye, but would open a devastating cut to Guida’s head with elbows.

Guida kept coming forward during the fight, but by the second round, Florian, who was covered with Guida’s blood was able to exploit the injury by repeatedly making contact with it before landing a jab that put Guida down, and following it wit a rear naked choke at 2:19 of the second round.

Florian was gracious towards his opponent after the fight.
“ Clay Guida’s a phenomenal fighter,” Florian said.
“This is one of those guys you’ve gotta cheer for.”

6'-11" Stefan Struve won a majority decision 29-28, 29-28, 28-28 over Paul Buentello in a matchup of heavyweights that opened the pay-per-view broadcast.

John Fitch also won a unanimous decision over Mike Pierce in a 3 round heavyweight swing bout that preceded the main event.

12/14/09UFC 107 Undercard Con't Coverage!
By: Michael Sheffield

Unlike the HBO boxing events FedExForum has hosted since it opened in 2005, a capacity crowd began filing in as the 11-fight, un-televised undercard started at 6 p.m. The early arrivers would not be disappointed in the early fights.

Welterweight TJ Grant scored a first round TKO over Kevin Burns in 4:57 of the first round. Burns may have been slightly softened up by a low blow Grant landed seconds before a perfect right cross finished the fight for good. Burns gave as good as he got for half of the first round and Grant acknowledged as much in his post-fight interview, when asked about an early knockdown Burns scored.

“ For a second, I was on the canvas and didn’t know what happened,” Grant said. “I know what kind of fight he brings and I thank him for that.”

Submission of the night honors (and the $65,000 bonus that goes with it) would go to Demarques Johnson during the second fight of the evening, who traded hard shots with Edgar Garcia during a scheduled battle of welterweights. Johnson overcame an apparent strength advantage from Garcia, including a right cross that floored him late in the first round. Just when it seemed like Garcia would take the fight, with a choke, Johnson landed an up-kick to Garcia’s chin and locked in a vicious triangle choke that would end the fight in spectacular fashion at 4:03 of the first round.

“ That was spur of the moment,” Johnson said. “That was some straight up Jeremy Horn Fight-Jitsu.”

The next two fights would slow the pace considerably, starting with a 3-round bout between middleweights Lucio Linhares and Rousimar Palhares. Both fighters would go to the ground game throughout the two rounds before Palhares was able to lock in a heel lock, which resulted in a tap at 3:57 of the second round.

Welterweights Ricardo Funch vs. Johny Hendricks were at the mercy of the judges in the first fight of the night to go the distance. Hendricks dominated the entire fight, but couldn’t finish off Funch, who seemed to lose interest in mixing it up halfway through the second round. Hendricks would win a unanimous decision 30-25.

Lightweight Shane Nelson wouldn’t be able to recover from a nasty cut to the forehead during his 3 round contest against Matt Wiman, who would end the fight pummeling Nelson before taking a 30-27 unanimous decision.

Jonesboro, Ark. native Alan Belcher would make short work of Wilson Gouveia in a catchweight bout that would see both fighters bleed, but Gouveia get the worst of it after Belcher landed 8 punches in a row, starting with an uppercut that put Gouveia out on his feet, to score the TKO at 3:03 of the 1st round.

Belcher, who was reportedly miffed at not being included on the television broadcast looked to send a message and serve notice to his division.

“ I want to show that I can finish fights,” Belcher said. “I can knock guys out...I’m ready to step up and be the next contender--I want that belt, baby. ”