MEMPHIS BOXING - NEWS ARCHIVES 2008

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Boxing back at the New Daisy This Friday 4/18! (4/15/08)
Submitted by Fists of Thunder


Friday, April 18th, 2008 is your next exciting "Boxing on Beale" show. Doors open at 6:00 PM, and Bell time is scheduled for 7:30 PM. [more]

Art of War: GI's vs PRO's! (4/15/08)
Sat April 19 @ Grand Casino Tunica!


The MMA’s extravaganza Art of War is coming back to the mid-south area to the only place that can contain it, Grand Casino Resort Tunica. Get ready for the first ever US Army vs. MMA tour. The top talents of the Army and the MMA have been hand-picked to do battle in the ring. Featuring the Main Event Headliner light heavyweight US Army Staff Sergeant Damien "Stealth" Steely Vs. MMA Veteran Proffessional Ron "Superfly" Faircloth.

Don't miss one of the most exciting nights in Tunica history, come see the Art of War: GI's VS PRO's live at the Grand Casino Event Center.

Time: 8:00 PM
Price: $25/$50/$100
Venue: Grand Event Center
Seating Chart: Click here to view seating chart.
Reservations: (901) 525-1515
Online Reservations: Ticketmaster.com

Tickets available at the Grand or Horseshoe Box Office*, by phone at 901-525-1515 or at ticketmaster.com. For more information, call 1-800-303-7463.

*Grand Box Office is open day before and day of show. Tickets to any of our shows can be purchased during these times.

Prize Fight's Whitfield Ranked #1 WBO Flyweight! (4/14/08)


After defeating Manuel Vargas (24-3, 10 KOs) on Wednesday night at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, GA by a majority decision, Rayonta "The Stingray" Whitfield (21-0, 10 KOs) became the WBO's #1 rated Flyweight!

Wiggins Stopped in Kazakhstan Title Fight! (4/11/08)
Submitted


Donnell "Cadillac" Wiggins, of Covington, TN, faced off with 2004 Olympian Biebut Shumenov Thursday night (4/10) in Chemkent, Kazakhstan. Wiggins was knocked out in round two (2:11) of a scheduled twelve round event.

With the Victory Shumenov slips on the vacant crowns of WBC Asian Boxing Council and the PABA Light Heavyweight.

Shumenov faught in March at the New Daisy Theatre where he stopped Shannon MIller in round two.

Whitfield tops Vargas In WBO Eliminator! (4/11/08)
From Fightnews [4/10/08]


In a WBO flyweight eliminator, unbeaten WBO #2 rated Rayonta "The Stingray" Whitfield (21-0, 10 KOs) won a majority decision over Manuel Vargas (24-3, 10 KOs) on Wednesday night at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia. Vargas pressed the action and closed strong while hometown favorite
Whitfield had success from long range. Scores were 114-114, 117-111, 116-112.

Unbeaten junior lightweight Mark Davis (6-0, 3 KOs) dropped Sadat Vazquez (3-2, 1 KO) in rounds four and six en route to a 60-52 unanimous nod on all cards.

Middleweight Fernando Guerrero (4-0, 4 KOs) scored a fourth round stoppage of Valentino Jalomo (2-3, 1 KO). Jalomo received three eight counts before the bout was stopped at the 1:18 mark.

Weights from Augusta, GA! (4/9/08)
WBO Flyweight Eliminator Whitfiled 111.5lbs VS Vargas 111.5lbs

Mark Davis 132 vs. Sadat Vazquez 132
Fernando Guerrero 159 vs. Valentino Jalomo 156
Chris Howard 135 vs. Anthony Smith 134.5
Demarcus Young 206 vs. Mark Johnson 203
Venue: Bell Auditorium, Augusta, GA

THE STINGRAY KICKS OFF NEW SEASON OF ESPN's WNF!
FROM AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 9! (4/8/08)
Press Release


Memphis-TN-March 26, 2008. For sport fans, it doesn't get much better than this. The NCAA holds their basketball championships, the PGA holds the classic Master's golf tournament, and ESPN returns with their exciting installment of Wednesday Night Fights.

For the third year in row, ESPN2 will feature the electrifying and UNDEFEATED flyweight Rayonta “The Stingray” Whitfield (20-0, 10 KO's) as he continues to climb his way to superstardom in a 12-round IBF and WBO title eliminator. The #2 ranked flyweight in the world and Augusta native will take on top-ten flyweight contender Manuel Vargas (24-2, 10 KO's) Wednesday, April 9th at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia to kick off the new season of ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights.

2007 was a stellar year for “the Stingray” and his promoter Prize Fight Boxing as Whitfield scored two impressive knockouts before the second round drew to a close. “The Stingray” also made a statement last year when he took three rugged and determined veteran fighters into deep waters winning each of those fights on all three judges' scorecards. [more]

Prize Fight's Davis/Guerrero Make TV Debut! (4/7/08)
LIVE ON ESPN, APRIL 9!

Memphis-TN- Monday, April 7, 2008-This Wednesday at the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia, the exciting young talent under the Prize Fight Boxing banner will kick off the new season of ESPN's Wednesday Night Fights, and they are sure to thrill fight fans from the first ding to the last dong. “I think from top to bottom this is a very strong card,” says Prize Fight's own Russ Young. “Wednesday night's card shows that Prize Fight continues to put on great shows and quality fights. Fans should know that they will get equally matched fights and overwhelming value on their dollar.”

Starting with the main event, which has Augusta's own UNDEFEATED Rayonta “The Stingray” Whitfield (20-0, 10 KO's) going up against tough Mexican Manuel Vargas (24-2, 10 KO's) hailing from Mexico City, in a 12-round IBF/WBO flyweight title eliminator is a fight made for television. [more]

Gulf Coast Explosion Explodes! (4/7/08)
From Fightnews [4/6/08]


The Mississippi Athletic Commission has informed FightNews that the April 12th “Gulf Coast Explosion” event at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi featuring super middleweight contender Jean Paul Mendy has been cancelled due to non-compliance of an agreed upon order issued by the Commission to the promoter. Patrick Turner, Director of the Mississippi Athletic Commission, explained that Promoter Gabriel Gaide of Round One Entertainment was not able to secure the purses of the fighters ten days in advance of the event and therefore the commission was forced to revoke the event permit and cancel the card. “We were looking forward to the event but the promoter could not secure the contracted monies for the fighters,” stated Turner. Several prominent fighters - including Mendy, super middleweight Kingsley Ikeke plus Ballroom Boxing fan favorite and middleweight prospect Ishmail Arvin - were scheduled to fight for IBO regional title belts. The always crowd pleasing female featherweight Sharon Biggers was also scheduled to appear.

Chapman, Holmes return May 3! (4/3/08)
Unbeaten heavyweights on collision course!
From Fightnews [4/2/08]

Undefeated WBO #8 heavyweight contender JD Chapman (29-0, 26 KOs) and unbeaten WBC #10 contender Donnell Holmes (28-0, 24 KOs)will be in action in seperate bouts on May 3rd in Paris, Arkansas. The card will be co-promted by Hirsch Borao Promotions and Slugout promotions. Chapman will take on Moultrie Witherspoon (14-1, 8 KOs) while Holmes fights journeyman Benito Fernandez. Promoter Scott Hirsch made it clear that this is just the prelude to the two fighters battling each other. "A lot of people in the boxing media have been calling for J.D. and Donnell to step up and I know they're both ready," stated Hirsch. "We are looking at setting up Chapman vs Holmes this year and we're talking to venues in the states and in Dubai. I think any time you get two ranked and undefeated heavyweights in this type of crossroads fight, you have the possibility of a really good fight. I think it will be a war!" The two fighters are just as anxious. "Right now I'm thinking about taking care of business with Witherspoon on May 3. After that, I'll fight Donnell Holmes or any other contender they put in front of me," said Chapman. Holmes commented, "Now that I'm with my new promoter Hirsch Borao, I know I will get immediate opportunities for bigger fights beginning with Chapman and I am ready to prove I'm a worthy contender."
Wednesday, April 2 2008

Boxing On Beale - March edition Report! (3/27/08)
Bostice KO's Hunt - Shumenov KO's Miller!
By: JD Meredith, @ Ringside


Memphis, TN, March 21, 2008 – Friday night at the New Daisy Theatre, Mid South All Star Promotions continued to push for a revitalization of Beale Street's and New Daisy Theatre Boxing scene by offering a fight card with nine bouts for fight fans.

In the main event, southpaw Jameson "Jamie Kang" Bostice (13-3, 8 KO's) hailing from Brooklyn, NY, faced Jackson, TN's, Marvin Hunt (11-21, 4 KO's) in a four round light heavy clash.

In the opening round Bostice looked to set up the big one with his long jab and was able todo just that. But, it wasn't just one punch, it was a culmination, that dropped Hunt twice within the round.

Bostice dispatched of his opponent early in round two.

2004 Olympian for Kazakhstan, Beibut Shumenov (3-0, 3 KO's) fighting by way of Las Vegas, NV, faced off with Columbus, MS's, Shannon Miller (23-40-8, 17 KO's) in a scheduled six round light heavyweight matchup.

The most impressive of all fighters this evening was Beibut Shumenov. Shumenov waltzed into the ring with his white robe tightly gathered around his neck as if he had just stepped out from a relaxing shower. [more]

Donkingtv.com Offer's Free webcast tonight 3/27!
Cory Spinks vs Verno Phillips 9:35pm Central! (3/27/08)
Press Release

(03-20-08) 2004 Kazakhstan Olympian Beibut Shumenov (L) KO'd Shannon Miller with a shot to the liver at 1:03 in round four of their scheduled six round main event. Their fight was held Friday night (3/21) at the New Daisy Theatre on Beale Street, Memphis, TN. Photo by: JD Meredith

Beibut Shumenov KO's Miller in New Dasiy Main Event! (3/22/08)
Bostice Topples Hunt in Two!
By: MemphisBoxing.com


Full Report To follow. Click here for Final Results.

(03-20-08) DeAndrey Abron Has moved from Sixth to Forth in the WBO Light Heavy Rankings. Photo by: JD Meredith

Abron has climbed the WBO rankings, busting into the rankings originally at number fifteen he moved to number nine, then six and to his current position at number four.

With the exception of three fights Abron has fought his entire career in the North Mississippi and Memphis area. DeAndrey won the NABO Light Heavyweight title in September 07 after a grueling tweleve round contest against then unbeaten Shane Benfield (17-2, 9 KO's).

After Abron's most recent win over a tough Thomas Reid, Abron told Memphisboxing.com that he was ready to take on any of the title holders. Now, in his first fight since making this statement, Abron gets his shot at a world title when he faces WBO world champion Zsolt "Firebird" Erdei (28-0, 17 KOs) on April 28, at the Freiberger Arena in Dresden, Germany. More to come.

A Hunt Before Bostic's Super Middleweight Hunt (3/18/08)
By: Jake Donovan, Press Agent Team Jamie Kang


It's not the fight he desired, but if it were all about that, then Jameson "Jamie Kang" Bostic (12-3, 8KO) would never find work.

In an effort to stay busy while further surveying the super middleweight landscape, Bostic returns to the ring this Friday, when he faces journeyman Marvin Hunt in a catchweight tune up bout at the famed New Daisy Theatre in Memphis, Tenn. [more]

Bang! Fighting Championships! (3/14/08)

The River Palace Arena at Sams Town, Tunica, will host the mixed marshall arts event "Bang! Fighting Championshps!", on March 22, 2008, 7pm. See the best mixed martial artists in the area fight for the honor of their hometown! Tickets are $35 ringside, $25 GA. 21 and older only.

Impact Sport: Boxing (3/13/08)
By: JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com, as seen in Memphis Sport Magazine!



While the controversial stereotypes about boxing get the most attention, at the core of the sport are fundamentals such as controlled aggression, agility, self preservation and opportunity, valuable tools not only in the ring, but in life as well.

Largely, boxing preparations have less to do with fighting and more to do with personal improvement, whether it be physical advancements such as developing hand speed, mental improvements like sharpening focus, or establishing emotional connections through relationships. The characteristics and influences associated with boxing greatly impact those involved in the sport and tip its balance towards the overall betterment of the boxer. [more]

Prize Fight Stable Holds Five NABO Titles! (3/7/08)
Memphisboxing.com



Anthony Peterson – NABO Lightweight Title
Lamont Peterson – NABO Jr. Welterweight Title
Rayonta Whitfield – NABO Flyweight Title
DeAndre Abron – NABO Light Heavy Title
Rafael Valenzuela – NABO Featherweight Title

(03-07-08) Rafeal Valenzuela (Blue with White) Toppled (KO2) Robbie Cannon to claim the Vacant NABO Feather Title last Saturday evening at the Grand Ballroom of the Fitz Casino. Photo by: JD Meredith

Valenzuela Conquers Cannon, Captures NABO Feather Title!
Whitfiled Survives Hudgins to improve to 20-0! (3/7/08)
By: Michael Sheffield, Memphisboxing.com



In another sold-out show at Fitzgerald’s Casino in Tunica, Prize Fight Boxing crowned another champ after featherweight Rafael Valenzuela stopped Robbie “Peashooter” Cannon in the second round of their scheduled 12-round showdown for the NABO featherweight title.

Valenzuela dominated the bout from the beginning, going to Cannon’s body early and often in the first round. Cannon, who nearly defeated Ira Terry in Tunica last fall, was just as susceptible in this fight to body shots as he was in the last fight. The only difference this time was that Valenzuela stuck to the strategy until Cannon’s arms lowered to defend the shots and opened his head up to two hard head shots from Valenzuela, which backed him up into the ropes.

From there, it was academic as Valenzuela alternated head and body shots until finishing Cannon up with three hard jabs that led referee Randy Phillips to call an end to the fight 2:54 seconds into the second round. [more]

Interview with Rayonta "Stingray" Whitfield! (2/29/08)
Plus Tom morates talks about Whitfield's progress!
By: JD Meredith



Memphisboxing.com caught up with the WBO number two ranked 112lb in the world, Rayonta "Stingray" Whitfield and spoke with him on his progress & what's in store for him in 2008.
Whitfield's trainer, Tom Morates, also gave us some insight on Whitfield's growth.

MemphisBoxing: How's your training going?

Rayonta: I'm in great shape (have had a good camp) Has had lots of sparring.

MB: Are you training any differently for your upcoming fight with Hudgins?

R: ...Preparing for it like any other fight.

MB: Ray you are a long way from the first fight of your career... now you are ranked number 2 in the world (WBO). How does that feel? [more]

Valenzuela VS Cannon in Battle for NABO Belt! (2/22/08)
Plus Whitfield/Hudgins - Davis/Alexander - Guererro/TBA - Howard/Logan

Memphis-TN, Friday, February 22, 2008-On Saturday, March 1st Prize Fight Boxing presents another exciting installment of “Fights at the Fitz” at the famed Fitzgerald's Casino and Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi.

In the main event, Rafael Valenzuela (9-1, 4 KO's) and Robbie Cannon (10-1, 6 KO's) will collide in a twelve round no-holds barred battle for the NABO Featherweight Title that will have each fighter throwing everything they possess in their arsenal to come away the victor. With each warrior having lost their first professional fight in the past year, both fighters will attempt to use the other as a stepping stone towards redemption and to championship glory. Only the fight fans in attendance will be the sure winners that night, and what a sight it will be watching how it will all play out in front of them.

When the #2 ranked flyweight in the world and powerhouse sensation Rayonta “The Stingray” Whitfield (19-0, 10 KO's) steps through the ropes and wages war in the ring, his opponents are usually left incapacitated from the sting of his punishing leather until the referee reaches the count of ten, and sometimes even longer.

Rayonta will collide against Kevin Hudgins in a scheduled eight-round battle that will have sparks flying from ding to dong, and those in attendance who even blink may miss out on part of the exhilarating non-stop action. Throughout his nineteen fight career that spans almost four years, Rayonta has proven that whenever he is under pressure or steps up in competition, he becomes more fierce, knocking most of his opponents out before the second round can draw to a close.
In his last two battles, Rayonta took on opponents who had more knockout victories than he had fights. “The Stingray” stopped them both in the second round, leading him to claim the #2 spot with the NABO and a shot at their world flyweight championship.

Hudgins, however, will not go away easily. Hudgins has faced the likes of IBF Flyweight Champion Nonito Donaire and went the distance with undefeated contenders Raul Martinez and Abner Mares. Having been in the ring with some of the best in the division, he will be certain to use his ring experience and expertise as a way to derail Rayonta's climb to the top.

Another exciting warrior being featured on the card that night will be the promising up-and-comer, amateur stand out Fernando Guerrero (2-0, 2 KO's) returning to the Fitz in his third professional fight. This thrilling young middleweight has become a fan favorite in Tunica as all of his professional battles have ended in exhilarating knockouts during Prize Fight Boxing's “Fights at the Fitz.”

Lightweight fan favorite Chris “The Hurricane” Howard faces off in his first six round bout against tough, tried and tested Donnell Logan from Memphis, TN. Expect this to be one of the stand out fights of the night as both are ready for war.

Cleveland, Ohio's, Mark Davis (4-0, 2KO's) once again will thrill the fans with his faster-than-the-speed-of-light hand speed and superior boxing skills as he goes toe-to-toe with Stillwater, Oklahoma's Ricky Alexander (7-6, 6KO's) who himself is no slouch with six of his wins coming by way of knock out, in a scheduled four round bout.

Be sure not to miss a great night of action that will have everyone thirsting for more.
Tickets available for purchase at the Fitz's gift shop priced at $35.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. With the first fight at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, call the Fitz at 1-800 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions 662 349-6263.

3/1“Fights at the Fitz” Sells Most Seats Ever for a fight! (2/19/08)
Fitz released 150 additional Tickets - 20 Remain!!!!


Ticket sales for "Fights at the Fitz" are through the roof after Prize Fight Boxing reportedly released additional seats for the March 1, event because of high demand. Prize Fight's Brian Young requested of the Fitz to release an additional 100 tickets. As of yesterday evening there are 22 "Fight's at the Fitz" tickets available for purchase at the Fitz's gift shop priced at $35.

For tickets call the Fitz at 1-800 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions 662 349-6263.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the first fight at 7:15 p.m.

DeAndrey Abron Now Ranked #6 in World by WBO! (2/19/08)
Light Heavyweight Hailing from Southaven, MS, Climbing the ranks!!!!


You've seen him in some of the toughest fights the Fitz Casino has seen and now current NABO LIght Heavyweight Champion, DeAndrey Abron (I5-1, 10 KO's) has moved up in the rankings. This month's release of the WBO rankings places Abron in the #6 spot in the world in the Light Heavyweight division.

(01-27-08) WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik (33-0, 29 KOs) won a unanimous decision over Jermain Taylor (27-2-1, 17 KOs) in a very exciting non-title encounter on Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas. Photo by: Rafael Soto Gil, Courtesy Fightnews.com

Pavlik beats Taylor Again! (2/14/08)
From Fightnews.com [2/16/08]


WBC/WBO middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik (33-0, 29 KOs) won a unanimous decision over Jermain Taylor (27-2-1, 17 KOs) in a very exciting non-title encounter on Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas. Fighting at a catch weight of 166, Pavlik was busier while Taylor landed the sharper punches. Most of the rounds were close, but it was Pavlik who closed stronger to win by scores of 117-111, 115-113, 116-112.

Pavlik-Taylor LA presser! ! (2/12/08)
From Fightnews.com [2/12/08]


Middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik and former champion Jermain Taylor are scheduled to make their "grand arrivals" in Las Vegas today. However, the fighters first met Monday in Beverly Hills at a special press conference for LA media. "A lot of people have said to me, why don't take a tune-up and get your confidence back I don't need a tune-up to get my confidence back, I never lost my confidence. I can beat Kelly Pavlik," stated Taylor. "I choose do this rematch because I want to beat the guy who beat me. I don't want to waste anytime with any tune-up fights." Pavlik was brief in his comments. “I have made a career out of fighting and beating the best and this fight is no exception,” said Pavlik. “Just because I beat Jermain before doesn’t take away from the fact that he is still the best contender out there. I dedicated my entire being to training to take away his title when we fought the first time and I will do no less to make sure I win this time because that’s what it will take to beat him again.” [more]

Pavlik–Taylor Media Conference call Transcript! (2/11/08)
Press Release


Lee Samuels: The champion is here, Kelly Pavlik. He’s in his hometown, Youngstown, Ohio with his trainer, Jack Loew ,who is also with us today and of course my boss, Bob Arum. This is Kelly Pavlik v. Jermain Taylor. The epic battle continues on HBO Pay-Per-View coming from the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday, February 16.

Bob Arum: Lee, thank you very much. I’m here in Las Vegas now and I’m still on a tremendous high my Giants having won the Super bowl last Sunday. And, you know, I think it was second only as a high to when Kelly won the Middleweight Championship knocking out Jermain Taylor.

Kelly is a young man who we at Top Rank are enormously proud of. A young man of dedication. A writer interviewing me a little while ago asked, “After Kelly won the championship did you give him any advice about how to behave?” And I said, “No.” Because Kelly is the kind of young man that doesn’t need any advice, just like you wouldn’t give advice to Eli Manning after he won the Super bowl; because they are two young men who are grounded and know what they’re about and you don’t have to worry about them behaving in an inappropriate manner. [more]

Audio from Pavlik/Taylor/Trainers Conference Call! (2/8/08)
From Pound4pound.com [2/8/08]


Click to hear what Jermain Taylor and Ozell Nelson have to say about the upcomgin fight with Middle Champ Kelly Pavlik and Jack Loew and visa versa.
(Listen to Quicktime Audio in new window)

Taylor: I'm going to finish him! (2/8/08)
All about revenge for ex-champ
From Fightnews.com [2/8/08]


Former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain Taylor, the man who finally toppled the lengthy reign of Bernard “the Executioner” Hopkins, can’t wait for his highly anticipated rematch with Kelly “the Ghost” Pavlik – the man who smeared his perfect record with a seventh-round knockout last year. He vows that the February 16th rematch held in Las Vegas, Nevada, will be much different: “If I get him in that position again, I’m going to finish him. It’s all about revenge.”

He refers to the second round when Taylor had Pavlik in major trouble but could not quite finish his courageous and resilient challenger. Taylor’s promoter Lou DiBella expressed it as follows: “Next time he does the chicken dance, he won’t finish the round.”[more]

Congratulations Joey Bryant! (2/5/08)
Bryant wins National Gold @100lbs. Now #1 13yr old in Nation!
By: John Bryant


The Truman Ballroom, Hilton Gardens Kansas City, MO, played host to the nation’s top amateur boxer’s for age 15 and under. The National Silver Gloves and Under tournament will determine the best in the nation. These young boxers had to win state and region titles to repesent their respected region. [more]

Memphis Native Set to do Battle on Big Stage! (2/5/08)
By: Terry Green

Tampa, FL-Memphis native Monyette Flowers 5-8-1 2kos is set to do battle with Ronnie Vargas 4-0 3kos of Bronx, New York in a 4 round bout on the undercard of the Wladamir Klitschko vs Sultan Ibrigamov heavyweight title unification bout set for February 23, 2008. Monyette is currently training hard in Tampa, Florida where he now resides.

(01-27-08) DeAndrey Abron (L) connects with a eft hook to the body against Thomas Reid in his first NABO Light Heavy Title Defense. Reid proved to be a very stiff opponent for Abron and pushed him to his limits, however, Abron weathered the storm and won by unanimous decision after 8 action packed rounds. Photo by: JD Meredith

Abron, Reid in Slugfest. Abron Retains Belt in Tough fight! (1/27/08)
By: Michael Sheffield

Prizefight Boxing held in its own late January new year’s party when "Fights at the Fitz" started its year off with a six-fight card that featured the return of NABO light heavyweight champion

Deandrey Abron, fighting in Tunica for the first time since winning the belt last fall.
Abron’s fight would be a war with a determined and tough opponent in Thomas Reid that would push both fighters physically and mentally.

Abron, who had been ill earlier this week with strep throat and a sinus infection, struggled at times and absorbed numerous hard shots from Reid, who took his fair share of punishment as well.

The normally aggressive Abron seemed tentative in the first round, which surprised Reid, who seemed prepared for an onslaught that never came. Reid took advantage of the situation and took the fight to Abron late in the first round and through most of the second. Abron’s aggression arrived late in the second round and both fighters spent the last ten seconds of the round and ten seconds after the bell brawling in Abron’s corner before being separated by referee randy Phillips and Abron’s trainers. [more]

1/26 “Fights at the Fitz” Will Soon Sell Out for 3rd Time! (1/25/08)
Fitz to releases 50 additional Event Tickets! Twice!


Ticket sales for "Fights at the Fitz" have always been hot but this month's fight show inparticular have seen sales out and out on fire. Prize Fight Boxing reportedly sold out early this week for Saturday night's boxing event. Prize Fight's Brian Young requested that the Fitz release an additional 50 tickets. These quickly sold out as well. Now, for a second time, Young has pursuaded the Fitz to release another 50 tickets for tomorrow night's fight. As of this report (8:22pm) there are 50 "Fight's at the Fitz" tickets available for purchase at the Fitz's gift shop priced at $35. For tickets call the Fitz at 1-800 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions 662 349-6263.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the first fight at 7:15 p.m.

“Fights at the Fitz” Returns on January 26th! (1/21/08)
From Prize Fight Boxing


Memphis-TN-Monday, January 21, 2007, Prize Fight Boxing is at it again, starting 2008 exactly where they left off last year bringing the most exhilarating and electrifying wars in the ring to the great fight fans in the mid south.

On Saturday, January 26th, Prize Fight Boxing kicks off their new season of “Fights at the Fitz” at the Fitzgerald's Casino and Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi. This highly successful boxing series has quickly become a fan favorite, and is always sold out due to the tremendous battles seen waged in the square circle each and every time Prize Fight holds their fights at the illustrious venue.

This latest installment of “Fight at the Fitz” is certain to be another sellout as NABO light heavyweight titlist and powerhouse sensation Deandrey Abron (14-1, 10 KO's) goes toe-to-toe against the rugged Thomas Reid (35-20, 13 KO's) in the 8-round main event. Abron, a Southaven, Miss. resident and 2003 National Golden Gloves Champion has been thrilling fans at the Fitz since his fifth pro fight. On September 10th, 2005, Abron bloodied the durable James Johnson, a thirty-six fight veteran, from the opening bell until Johnson's corner stopped the fight in the second round. Since then, Abron has gone on to win seven more fights at the Fitz, five of them by brutal and devastating knockout.

Last September, Abron took a big stride towards world class status when he stepped up against then-undefeated Shane Benfield (17-0, 9 KO's) at the Fitz and won virtually every round of their twelve-round battle to earn the NABO light heavyweight title. When Abron steps through the ropes against Reid in his first title defense, Abron will most certainly have his hands full as he will be facing a fighter who has gone up against some of the best in the “hurt” business. Taking on the who's who of the 175-pound realm, Reid has fought the likes of former WBC light heavyweight champ and Roy Jones Jr. conqueror Montell Griffin, WBO 175-pound titlist Julio Gonzalez, light heavyweight contenders Elvir Muriqi, Yusaf Mack, and Prince Badi Ajamu. Reid, a Jackson, Miss. native is coming into this fight carrying the momentum of being victorious virtually every time he fights on Mississippi soil. The last time Reid fought in Tunica, his shutout of Jerry Stephens over their six-round brawl was part of an impressive win streak that spanned over four years of hard-fought action.

In the co-featured bout of the evening, the human wrecking ball Ty Barnett (12-0, 9 KO's) will go up against the astonishingly powerful Billy Gates (9-8, 8 KO's) in a junior welterweight clash of knockout artists. Barnett is not one to waist time getting the job done, and stepping in with Gates, he plans that this time around will be no exception. Of Barnett's twelve victims, half of them never made it out of the first round, with only an elite few ever hearing the final bell. However, Gates has left his own pile of carnage in the ring, and has sent nearly all his knocked out victim opponents back to the showers within the first two rounds. When these two warriors are allowed to trade their arsenal of punishment on each other, only the fight fans are guaranteed to walk out of the arena still intact.

Those in attendance at the Fitz that night will also be treated to a very entertaining match-up when Fernando Guerrero (1-0, 1 KO) and Anthony Reese (2-0, 1 KO) put their undefeated records on the line in a four round middleweight bout. The featherweights will also let their leather fly when Lee Griffith makes his pro debut against the undefeated Mark Davis (3-0, 1 KO). Also appearing on the undercard will be Chris “Hurricane” Howard (3-0, 1 KO) taking on the dangerous Mario Lacey (7-15, 6 KO's) four round lightweight battle.

In addition, as a special attraction in a schedule four round welterweight bout is Nicole Woods (1-1) and Cassandra Lindsey (2-2, 1KO).

Be sure not to miss this night of boxing entertainment, and one that will have everyone talking long after the final bell tolls.

Tickets available for purchase at the Fitz's gift shop priced at $35. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the first fight at 7:15 p.m. For tickets call the Fitz at 1-800 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions 662 349-6263.

Wiggins, Monaco Draw at the Boat! (1/19/08)
From Fightnews.com [1/20/08]


Heavyweights Donnell Wiggins (24-9-4) and Louis Monaco (15-35-5) fought to a majority draw over 10 rounds at the Emerald Queen Casino I-5 in Tacoma, Washington Saturday night. Both men eschewed the jab and marched forward with power punches. As long as Wiggins remained active, he was able to outwork the awkward, squared-up Monaco. However, the late substitute Wiggins faded down the stretch, allowing Monaco to come on strong. Judges had the fight 96-94 for Monaco and 95-95 twice. Fightnews scored the fight 97-93 for Wiggins. The winner of the match was to fight Cruiserweight prospect Eric Fields on April 12, though the draw leaves that match up in the air.

Fights at the Fitz Bout Line-up for Jan 26th! (1/10/08)
Brian Young says tickets Selling at record pace. Could be fastest sellout!

Photo Gallery Added from Lamont Peterson vs Mesquita! (1/10/08)
Click here to View Gallery!

Q&A: Jermain Taylor! (1/7/08)
By Boxing Bob Newman, Fightnews.com


Fightnews.com spoke to former undisputed middleweight champion Jermain Taylor, who is training for his highly anticipated rematch with Kelly Pavlik on February 16th at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas.

FN: Jermain, as training camp gets underway for your rematch with Kelly Pavlik, a lot has changed since your last fight with him. Let’s talk about some of those things. First off, you’re back to your original amateur trainer Ozell Nelson and Emanuel Steward is gone. When we last talked, you stressed that it was a good match and too much was being made of his addition to the camp. Had you won the Pavlik fight, would Manny still be in your corner or do you feel a parting of ways was imminent, regardless of the outcome?

JT: First I want to say there are no hard feelings between Emanuel and myself, Emanuel Steward is a Hall of Fame trainer. I learned a lot being with Manny, however it just didn't seem to click when came fight time in the corner. I don't know what you would call it, but sometimes certain fighters and trainers just don't seem to click when it's fight time. (full story)

(01-04-08) Lamont Peterson connects one of many left hooks verses a super tough Antonio Mesquita Friday Night at the Hard Rock Casino in Biloxi, MS. Both fighters went into this fight undefeated. Peterson came out on top with a ten round unanimous decision. Peterson is randed #3 by the WBA and #6 by the WBA in the Jr. Welterweight division Photo by: JD Meredith

Peterson Decisively Decisions Mesquita! (1/6/08)
Anthony Peterson KO's Izquierdo in 8th! Photogallery to come!
From Fightnews.com

WBO #3/WBA #6 super lightweight Lamont Peterson (24-0, 11 KOs) won a ten round unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Antonio Mesquita (34-1, 27 KOs) on Friday night at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. Although not particularly impressive himself, Peterson had little trouble blocking Mesquita's punches while pinpointing his own blows through Mesquita's defense. Mesquita's much ballyhooed offense was ineffective for most the fight before he finally showed some fire in the last round. Scores were 98-93, 99-90 and 100-89.

(01-04-08) Anthony Peterson (r) withstood hard pressed action by Jose Izquierdo inroute to a 8th round KO Friday Night at the Hard Rock Casino in Biloxi, MS. Peterson is ranked #1 by the WBO and #4 by the WBC in the Lightweight Divison. Photo by: JD Meredith

WBO #1/WBC #4 lightweight Anthony Peterson (26-0, 19 KOs) scored an impressive eighth round KO over Jose Izquierdo (16-2-1, 13 KOs). Peterson overcame a determined effort by Izquierdo, dropping him in rounds seven and twice in the eighth before the bout was stopped. Time was 2:54.
Additional results can be seen here.

Peterson Brothers Speak! (1/4/08)
Continue on Quest for World Titles
By David L. Hudson Jr., Fightnews.com

Many boxing brothers have placed their stamp on boxing history through the years. The names include Leon and Michael Spinks, Mike and Tommy Gibbons, Max and Buddy Baer, Gabriel and Rafael Ruelas, and Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko. Two young men who survived tough circumstances in Washington D.C. hope to place their names at the top of this luminous list.

Lamont and Anthony Peterson have cleared every hurdle with ease and aplomb in their professional careers. Lamont, who is 14 months older, is an undefeated, ranked junior welterweight, while Anthony has an unblemished mark at lightweight. (full story)

Petersons Make Weight! (1/4/08)
Hard Rock Casino Boloxi Hosts Duo In Separate Bouts Tonight!


Lamont Peterson 143 vs. Antonio Mesquita 143
Anthony Peterson 135 3/4 vs. Jose Antonio Izquierdo 135 3/4
Will Mcintyre 182 vs. Matthew Charleston 187
Gary Bergeron 140 vs. Curtis Smith 139
Martin Verde 175 vs. Joseph Burgeron 172

New foe for Anthony Peterson! (1/2/08)
From Fightnews.com [12/8/07]


Unbeaten WBO #1 lightweight Anthony Peterson (25-0, 18 KOs) will now face big-punching Jose Antonio Izquierdo (16-1-1, 13 KOs) in co-main event of Friday's big ShoBox card on SHOWTIME at 11PM ET/PT. Peterson was originally slated to face Guadalupe Rosales (25-2, 15 KOs), who pulled out. In the main event, unbeaten Lamont Peterson (23-0, 11 KOs), who is ranked #3 in the WBO and #6 in the WBA at 140 pounds, faces Antonio Mesquita.

The Best of 2007! (12/28/07)
Be Sure to Check out Nat Gottlieb's "The Best of 2007" @ HBO.com

It was a great year for boxing, and picking the best-of-the-best was delightfully difficult. The year was packed with excitement from start to brilliant finish. Here is one opinion on the cream of this year's bumper crop.

Taylor-Pavlik
There were several terrific fights, but for sheer drama and significance, none quite matched the classic showdown in September between reigning middleweight champion Jermain Taylor and unbeaten knockout artist Kelly Pavlik. It was a highly-anticipated fight with several subplots, and lived up to its billing. (Con't @ HBO.com)

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