MEMPHIS BOXING - NEWS ARCHIVES 2008

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9/11/08Campell, Guzman Media Workouts in Biloxi!
No Tickets For Ike at Beau Rivage as Biloxi Moves
Outside the ‘Cone of Uncertainty’
Alan Hopper, Don King Productions

Nate Campbell (L) and Joan Guzman (R) meet Sat. At the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS
Photos by Tom Casino, Showtime

BILOXI, Miss.—Biloxi boxing fans rejoiced at the news that Hurricane Ike’s dangerous “cone of uncertainty” no longer included their city, paving the way for Don King Productions world championship boxing card presentation at the Beau Rivage Theatre on Saturday.

Two world championships will be featured including International Boxing Federation, World Boxing Association and World Boxing Organization lightweight champion Nate “Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell (39-5-1, 25 KOs) defending his crowns against undefeated former two-time WBO champion Joan “Sycuan Warrior” Guzman (28-0, 17 KOs) and World Boxing Council super lightweight champion Timothy “Desert Storm” Bradley (22-0, 11 KOs) will make his first title defense against WBC No. 6-ranked Edner “Cherry Bomb” Cherry.

Both of the world championships will also be televised on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT/9 p.m. PT (delayed on the West Coast) on SHOWTIME.

Workout Quotes From Dixon’s Dungeon Gym – Biloxi, MS

Nate Campbell: “After all the things that Guzman and his people have said, somebody is going to have to pay for that and I guess it’s going to have to be Guzman. I’m going to give him something to shut his mouth on Saturday here in Biloxi. I have said all I need to say. My talking is done. Now it’s time to fight.”

Joan Guzman: “I’m ready to fight. This is my opportunity. I’ve been waiting for a fight like this for a long time. Now it’s here and I’m going to win. I will be taking Campell’s titles.

“ Nate is a good, experienced and smart boxer but I am faster and more hungry than he is. That will be the difference on Saturday night.”

Floyd Mayweather Sr. (Joan Guzman’s trainer): “Joan Guzman is the man to meet if you want to go to sleep.

“ I like the match up. If everything is right, Guzman will win the fight. Guzman is no Juan Diaz, a one-dimensional fighter that just comes right at you. Guzman gives you a lot of different angles—slipping and sliding.

“ No matter what, it should be a great fight. I look for my man to prevail—taking nothing away from Nate Campbell, who is an awesome fighter. As a matter of fact, I called Nate about three weeks ago because I’d been hearing some things being said. I let him know that people are saying many things and I can only own up to what I have said. Nate and me are good.”

A domestically non-televised WBC featherweight championship elimination bout will also be showcased with No. 1-ranked Hector Velasquez (50-11-2, 35 KOs), from Tijuana, Mexico, against No. 2-ranked Elio “The Kid” Rojas (19-1, 13 KOs), from the Dominican Republic, now fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y. The winner becomes the WBC featherweight mandatory challenger, guaranteeing a title shot.

The event is being promoted by Don King Productions in association with Beau Rivage. The Campbell vs. Guzman main event will be presented in association with One Punch Productions and Sycuan Ringside Promotions. Both the Campbell-Guzman main event and Bradley vs. Cherry co-feature will be televised live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT/8 p.m. CT (delayed on the West Coast). Ticket prices are $39.95, $69.95, $89.95 and $299.95 plus tax and service charge and can be purchased at the Beau Rivage Box Office or by calling 888.566.7469 (9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily).. Beau Rivage room reservations can be made by calling 888.567.6667 or visiting www.beaurivage.com.

9/11/08Mississippi Commission to WBC,
DO NOT INTERFERE!
From Fightnews.com [9/11/08]

Jon Lewis, Chairman of the Mississippi Athletic Commission, provided FightNews the following exclusive statement regarding the controversy surrounding the selection of the officials for the two WBC title fights (WBC lightweight champion Timothy Bradley vs. Edner Cherry and the WBC featherweight eliminator bout featuring Elio Rojas vs. Victor Velazquez) that are scheduled for this Saturday at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi:

Mississippi law states that it is a felony if anyone acts or attempts to act as a judge in a boxing event without being licensed by the State Athletic commission. I strongly advise the WBC not to interfere with the State of Mississippi in regards to the judging of our boxing events. If the WBC interferes, we will take that action very seriously and we will take the appropriate action. It is in the Muhammad Ali Act that the commission approves the officials, (therefore) we are backed by federal law. The ABC also states that it is jurisdiction of the commission to appoint the officials and they (the Commission) may consult with the sanctioning bodies.

We have two veteran officials who will be officiating the Bradley-Cherry bout who have a lot of experience officiating both contests here in the U.S. and internationally - Bill Clancy (referee) and Gary Ritter (judge). They have worked many title bouts both here and internationally.
There is big money involved in these fights and we (the Commission) do not believe that a sanctioning organization should select the officials in such as a manner as suggested by Jose Sulaiman. Why would a sanctioning body have such a strong desire to control the officials? From my perspective, you have to ask what is their motivation? Do they want a specific outcome?
It is going to be a good night for everyone and everyone will be well pleased with officiating!

9/10/08WBC, Mississippi at odds!
From Fightnews.com [9/10/08]

The WBC has announced that it will not officially sanction Saturday's fight between WBC super lightweight champion Timothy Bradley Jr. and challenger Edner Cherry, or the final featherweight eliminator between Elio Rojas and Hector Velazquez, which are scheduled to be held on September 13 in Biloxi, Mississippi. The action was taken because the commission appointed local judges for the bouts instead of WBC-approved judges. “The WBC Board of Governors and I cannot be responsible for any verdict resulting from local officials whose names we don’t even know as of today, and are not registered in the WBC by any boxing commission," stated WBC President Jose Sulaiman. "Consequently, the WBC has decided to buy three ringside tickets for three judges of the highest certification who are registered in the WBC by specific boxing commissions and appointed by the WBC, and these judges will provide the final and official result for the world of boxing for the WBC world championship fight and elimination fight. The WBC will respect the scoring of the Mississippi commission due to their right to do so in their state, but it will not count for the WBC world championship recognition or in the final elimination fight. We truly regret to have been forced to take this action and we would give anything to obtain friendship, mutual reciprocity and an agreement with the local commission, which extended to us no acceptance, nor courtesy for even a conversation."

9/9/08Fights at the Fitz September 27!
Prize Fight Brings Another Card to the Fitz!
Submitted by Prize Fight

Memphis-TN-Prize Fight Promotions announced today they are heading back to the Fitz Casino & Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi on Saturday September 27th with a five bout fight card. Historically, this boxing series “Fights at the Fitz” has been immensely popular with local fans, and every event is a sell out.

In the 8-round Lightweight Main Event, fan favorite Chris “Hurricane” Howard (8-0, 4 KO’s) of Crossville, Tennessee goes up against his toughest opponent to date in Derek Moon (12-21, 2 KO’s) of Dallas, Texas. Fitz fight fans will remember the tough veteran Derek Moon from his close decision loss to Mark Davis at the outdoor fight held at Fitz back in May of this year. In the co-feature, the aforementioned fast-handed Mark Davis (8-0, 3 KO’s) will battle Carl McNikols (5-1, 5 KO’s) in a 6-round lightweight bout.

Also, scheduled on the card in a 6-round Female Welterweight bout is Mandy Todd (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Fort Smith, Arkansas against Nicole Woods (4-3) of Atlanta, Georgia. This female bout is sure to be explosive as both women are heavy handed.

Rounding out the card will be two heavyweight bouts, whereby fight fans can expect a significant amount of leather to be exchanged. The first heavyweight 4-round bout will pit the pro debut of Ray Flores from Houston, Texas against Darius Graves (1-0, 1 KO) of Gulfport, Mississippi. Also, heavyweight Jesse Peterson (1-0) of Knoxville, Tennessee makes his return to the Fitz and puts his undefeated record on the line against Ricardo Clayton (0-1) of Meridian, Mississippi in a scheduled 4-round heavyweight bout.

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 7:30 p.m. For tickets call Ticketmaster at (901) 525-1515, the Fitz Casino at (800) 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions (662) 349-6263.

9/9/08Campbell / Guzman in Biloxi!
From Fightnews.com [9/8/08]

Unified IBF/WBA/WBO lightweight champion Nate Campbell and Undefeated two-division world champion Joan Guzman have arrived at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. Campbell will defend against undefeated two-division world champion Guzman on Saturday at the Beau Rivage. In the co-feature, WBC super lightweight champion Timothy Bradley will open the telecast and make his initial world title defense when he takes on #6 contender Ender Cherry. The world championship doubleheader on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will air at 9PM ET/PT, delayed on the west coast.

9/8/08 Domestically Non-Televised Title Bout Scratched From Saturday’s Boxing Card At Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Miss.
the rest of the card in Biloxi is planned to go on as scheduled
Submitted by: Alan Hopper, Don King Productions

IBF Bantamweight Champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko Falls Ill;
Two World Championships, a Championship Eliminator and Undercard Matches
Will Be Presented As Scheduled

BILOXI, Miss.—One of the three world championship matches set for Saturday’s Don King Productions fight card in Biloxi, Miss., has been scratched after one of the boxers became ill.

International Boxing Federation bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko (25-1, 22 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, was to have made his first title defense against his mandatory challenger, IBF No. 1-ranked William “Chirizo” Gonzalez (21-2, 19 KOs), from Managua, Nicaragua, in a domestically non-televised title bout, but Agbeko contracted Malaria in August while training in Africa.
Read

9/2/08Gulf Coast Auto Dealer to Sing Nat'l Anthem
Longtime Singer Will Perform in Ring Prior to Main Event at Beau Rivage Sept. 13
Submitted by: Alan Hopper, Don King Productions

BILOXI, Miss.—Gulf Coast auto magnate Chuck Stevens will return to his singing roots to perform the national anthem at Don King’s world championship boxing card being staged at the Beau Rivage Theatre in Biloxi, Miss., on Sept. 13. The main event will feature unified lightweight champion Nate Campbell opposing undefeated former two-time world champion Joan Guzman.

King always has many requests from those wishing to sing The Star-Spangled Banner at his events, and he specifically asked Stevens to sing at his big Beau Rivage fight card.
Read

8/21/08Championship Boxing on the Gulf Coast
SHOWTIME will Televise Unified Lightweight Championship!
Submitted by: Alan Hopper, Don King Productions

BILOXI, Miss.—Flashy boxer Nate “The Galaxxy Warrior” Campbell will make the first defense of his International Boxing Federation, World Boxing Organization and World Boxing Association lightweight titles against undefeated two-division world champion Joan “Sycuan Warrior” Guzman on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Beau Rivage Theatre in Biloxi, Miss.
Read

8/4/08ALERT - "I can confirm Ralph is alive"!
Submitted

It appears as though reports announcing the tragic death of heavyweight Ralph West earlier this week were based on a case of mistaken identity.

Memphisboxing.com was contacted by the original news source and told the following,

"It seems that in the confusion the witness thought it was Ralph killed. Added to that neither the Sheriff's office or the coroners would give Skip any information didn't help or the fact that Ralph had not been contactable from that day. But I can confirm Ralph is alive - good news, although still quite sad as someone else lost their life in the incident."

8/4/08Peterson outpoints Jauregui!
By Andreas Hale at ringside
Anthony Peterson (L) pitched a near-shutout 10RD unanimous decision over former champion Javier Jauregui as the co-feature of Judah-Clottey at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas.
Photography by Chris Cozzone

Anthony Peterson pitched a near-shutout 10RD unanimous decision over former champion Javier Jauregui as the co-feature of Judah-Clottey at the Palms Casino in Las Vegas.

The storied rise of the Peterson brothers continued as the older of the two siblings kept his unbeaten streak alive. Although it was a shutout, Jauregui was no walk in the park—the former champion who holds two TKO victories over Jose Luis Castillo, kept the fight competitive throughout.

Peterson was relentless with his work ethic throughout. He constantly beat Jauregui to the punch as he worked the jab to the body and head effectively before launching into a tirade of combinations that landed often.

Jauregui, who had Antonio Margarito watching from ringside, showed that he could take a punch, and he constantly urged Peterson to attack. Although Peterson would dominate the fight through the first four rounds, the fifth opened with Jauregui looking to turn the fight into a brawl. Peterson constantly obliged the Mexican’s demands to come forward as Jauregui made valiant attempts to score with looping right hands. Peterson picked off everything he saw coming and gave Jauregui all he could handle.

Peterson finally staggered his opponent briefly in the final frame, but the former champ was just too tough to put away on this night. Regardless, Peterson cruised to a unanimous decision.
Two judges had the fight 100-90 while the third gave Jauregei the sixth round and scored the fight 99-91.

Peterson, improves to 28-0 (19 KOs) with the victory, while Jauregui falls to 53-15-2, 36 KOs.

"Swamp Donkey" vs Charles Davis Photo Gallery
Check out the Photo Gallery from Adam Richards vs Charles Davis. Photos By: JD Meredith

6/28/08Swamp Donkey Frustrated by Davis – Wins UD
Before Record Crowd At Fights at the Fitz – Tunica, Ms
By Michael Sheffield, Photos by: JD Meredith

Adam Richards (L) Decisioned Charles Davis Saturday at the Fitz. Photo by: JD Meredith

Five fights were scheduled on a muggy Saturday night in Tunica for the July edition of Fights at the Fitz, including a main event featuring crowd favorite, Adam “Swamp Donkey” Richards.

That fight, a scheduled 8-round bout between the 20-1 Richards and the 17-15, Charles Davis devolved into a wrestling match that featured everything from takedowns by both fighters, both fighters being knocked down by a Richards punch and Davis seeming to fake an injury to his right arm.

The bout started out promising enough with the southpaw Davis employing a strategy of throwing and landing punches, but holding before Richards could get any punches off. Richards was able to unleash a flurry early in the second round that included what was believed to be a knockdown, but was called a slip by referee Randy Phillips.
Read

7/26/08Weights From "Fights at the Fitz" Tonight!


8-round Heavyweights – Main Event
Adam “Swamp Donkey” Richards (20-1, 14 KO’s), 241.5 lbs
Charles Davis (17-15, 4 KO’s), 221.5 lbs

4-round Light Heavyweights
Jason Ross (2-2, 2 KO’s), 176 lbs
Billy Cunningham (1-0, 1 KO), 174.5 lbs

6-round Middleweights
Fernando Guerrero (8-0, 8 KO’s), 160.5 lbs
Fernando Barajas (4-1), 160.5 lbs

6-round Jr. Middleweights
Derrick Ennis, Jr. (14-2, 11 KO’s), 151.5 lbs
Enrique Gallegos (6-3, 1 KO), 156 lbs

6-round Super Middleweights
Farah Ennis (5-0, 3 KO’s), 168 lbs vs
Bruce Rumbolz (21-17, 15 KO’s), 170 lbs

Adam Richards landing a left hook verse Raphael Pedro at the Hard Rock Casino and Hotel Biloxi.
Richards will see action in the Main Event at the Fitz Saturday Jukly 26. Photo By: JD Meredith
7/16/08“ Fights at the Fitz" – 7/26!
Press Release

Memphis-TN-Monday, July 14th- Prize Fight Promotions announced today they are heading back to the Fitz Casino & Hotel in Tunica, Mississippi on Saturday July 26th with a five bout fight card. Historically, this boxing series “Fights at the Fitz” has been immensely popular with local fans, and every event is a sell out. Prize Fight prides itself on delivering amazing talent and this card is no exception.

In the 8-round Heavyweight Main Event, fan favorite Adam “Swamp Donkey” Richards (20-1, 14 KO’s) makes his long awaited return to the Fitz against Charles Davis (17-15, 4 KO’s). This fight will mark the tenth appearance of Richards at the Fitz Casino.

In the co-feature Light Heavyweight 4-round bout, Southaven’s own Jason Ross (2-2, 2 KO’s) goes against Billy Cunningham (1-0, 1 KO) in what should be an all out slugfest.

Also, scheduled on the card in a 6-round Middleweight bout is heavy handed Fernando Guerrero (8-0, 8 KO’s) against Fernando Barajas (4-1) from Oakland, California. Guerrero is coming off an impressive first round knockout win last month on the HBO fight card held at FedEx Forum and will look to keep his knockout streak in tact.

Rounding out the card will be the Ennis brothers from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in separate bouts. In a scheduled 6-round Jr. Middleweight bout, Derrick Ennis, Jr. (14-2, 11 KO’s) goes up against Enrique Gallegos (6-3, 1 KO) from Portland, Oregon. Also, younger brother Farah Ennis (5-0, 3 KO’s) will take on Bruce Rumbolz (21-17, 15 KO’s) from Chicago, Illinois in a 6-round Super Middleweight bout.

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with the first fight at 7:30 p.m. Click HERE For tickets or call Ticketmaster at (901) 525-1515, the Fitz Casino at (800) 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions (662) 349-6263.

7/7/08
Lamont Peterson Defeated Castaneda, Jr. by TKO9 on the undercard of Torres vs Holt II.
Photo From Fightnews.com, By: Mary Ann Owen
Lamont Peterson TKO's Castaneda, Jr!
From Fightnews.com [7/6/08]

The storied rise of the Peterson brothers continued as Lamont Peterson put together a fireworks display of his own just one week after his brother Anthony rolled to victory. Peterson improved his already unblemished record (25-0, 12KOs) as he dominated the severely overmatched Rogelio Castaneda Jr (24-14-3, 8 KOs) en route to a ninth round TKO.

7/5/08Lamont Peterson on Torres-Holt II Undercard!

Undefeated jr. welterweight Lamont Peterson (24-0, 11 KOs), in his debut under the Top Rank banner, will take on Rogelio Castaneda (24-13-3, 8 KOs) in a ten-rounder tonight on Showtime. Stay tuned for a full pressconference report on Monday.

7/4/08

6/30/08Atheletic Commission Update!
Tennessee Governor to make Appointments!
Submitted to Memphisboxing.com

Want to be considered for appointment to the Tennessee Athletic Commission?
Submit your interest and info to Melissa Bast, or the Governor and Speakers immediately.

Diligent efforts are being made to get appointments made ASAP so that the Commission can get up and running. Appointments are the responsibility of the Governor. While it is not advised to have a time period for any regulatory body in place -- the Governor knows that time is money.

For the time being (as of June 30) boxing is at a stand-still in the state until the commission appointments have been made. Therefore there is an immediate need to get commission appointees in place and begin work.

Their were talks of appointing a truncated number of members to get the department moving, however sources say that an interpretation of law they were given stated that the complete commission must be appointed.

What can you do to help? Call the Governor's and Speakers office--express safety concerns and the need to make appointments as soon as possible so that events can be booked and related revenue can begin to enter our state.

615-741-2001 Governor
615-741-4524 Speaker Ramsey
615-741-3774 Speaker Naifeh

Photo Chris Cozzone: (Left to right) Torres, Lamont Peterson and Holt.

6/28/08Torres-Holt II Presser!
From Fightnews.com [6/28/08]

Top Rank held a press conference today at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, to hype next week’s highly anticipated rematch between WBO Junior Welterweight Champion Ricardo Torres (32-1, 28 K0s) andKendall Holt (23-2, 12 KOs), televised next Saturday night on Showtime. The original fight ended controversially but both fighters, today, promised a decisive ending. In the co-main event, undefeated jr. welterweight Lamont Peterson (24-0, 11 KOs), in his debut under the Top Rank banner, will take on Rogelio Castaneda (24-13-3, 8 KOs) in a ten-rounder. Stay tuned for a full pressconference report on Monday.

6/30/08Winning isn't everything!
Undefeated Peterson, Martirosyan pile up points
(but not with crowd) for lopsided decisions!
From Fightnews.com [6/27/08]

Scoring points with the judges does not always translate to scoring points with the fans—that’s what undefeateds Anthony Peterson and Vanes Martirosyan proved last night at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the Top Rank-promoted, Versus-televised card, Peterson and Martirosyan cruised through a collective 22 rounds, content to collect on the scorecards, preferring to show the uninspiring science of Jekyll while hiding their Hyde sides.
Stacked up against smaller-but-game foes, the two racked up points-a-plenty, both citing problems to their left paws, post-fight.

Photo: Chris Farina/Top Rank. Anthony Peterson (right) vs Fernando Trejo.

6/26/08Weights from Vegas! A. Peterson vs Trejo!
In a fight for the interim NABF Lightweight Title, undefeated super star in the making Anthony Peterson , who fights out of Memphis, TN, will contest Fernando Trejo (30-13, 4KO's) tonight at the Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. This is Peterson's first fight under the Top Rank Banner.
Their fight will be broadcast on the Verses channel @ 8pm CST (Verses Channel – Comcast 222, Dish 151, Direct TV 603, Millington Cable 118)

Anthony Peterson 133 vs Fernando Trejo 132
Vanes Martirosyan 154 vs Angel Hernandez 155
Miguel Angel Garcia 127 vs Jaesung Lee 127

6/24/08Berto/Rodriguez, Arreola/Witherspoon
& Complete Under Card Galleries Online Below!
Photos By: JD Meredith

Berto vs Rodriguez Undercard Photo Gallery
Check out the Under Card Photo Gallery from Andre Berto vs MIkki Rodriguez. Photos By: JD Meredith  

6/22/08Berto Claims First Title! TKO's Rodriguez!
Arreola Unofficially KO's Witherspoon! Wins by DQ!
Fireworks From the FedExForum in Memphis, TN! Photo Gallery Soon!
By Michael Sheffield, Memphisboxing.com


Welterweight Andre Berto (22-0, 19 KOs) stopped Miguel “Mikki” Rodriguez (29-3, 23 KOs) in round seven to claim the newly vacated WBC Welterweight Championship. Photo By: JD Meredith

The evening’s main event, the WBC Welterweight Championship between Andre Berto (21-0 18 KOs) and Miguel Angel Rodriguez (29-2 23 KOs) possessed everything necessary for a top shelf main event: action, speed, power and a willingness to fight between both participants.

Berto, who is gaining a reputation for his knockout power threw everything he could at the taller and noticeably slower Rodriguez for the first four rounds. Berto also was able to nullify Rodriguez’s height advantage, driving in and keeping the action at close quarters. Rodriguez was able to land a few quality shots late in what would go 7 of the scheduled 12 rounds. Those shots kept Berto honest, but his power was on display for much of the fight, causing even Rodriguez to be awed by a fierce right uppercut that also scored the first knockdown of the fight. Rodriguez was able to get up from that shot before being brought to a knee by another Berto shot. Berto landed a hook after Rodriguez took the knee, but the fighter didn’t complain. He just got up, tried to fight his way through the Berto rally and then took the TKO at 2:13 of the seventh round, giving the 24-year old Andre Berto his first world championship.
more

6/22/08Berto TKO's Rodriguez in 7!
Complete Report & Huge Photogallery Coming Soon!

Welterweight Andre Berto (22-0, 19 KOs) stopped Miguel “Mikki” Rodriguez (29-3, 23 KOs) in round seven to claim the newly vacated WBC Welterweight Championship, which Floyd Mayweather Jr. relinquished when he suddenly opted to retire. Berto was in control from the outset, finally dropping Rodriguez with an uppercut in the seventh round. After Rodriquez hit the canvas the second time, referee Lawrance Cole stopped the fight at 2:13.
Full Results

6/22/08Arreola Defeats Witherspoon by DQ in 3!
Complete Report & Huge Photogallery Coming Soon!
In a battle of unbeaten heavyweights, Chris Areloa (24-0, 23 KOs) defeated Chazz Witherspoon (23-1, 15 KOs) by third round disqualification at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee. Arreola dropped Witherspoon twice in round three, the second time at the bell. Referee Randy Phillips gave Witherspoon an eight count at which point Witherspoon's corner entered the ring to try to help Chad back to the corner and Chad was DQ'd.
Full Results

6/20/08Weights from Memphis!
Andre Berto 146 vs Miguel Rodriguez 145
(Vacant WBC welterweight championship)
Chazz Witherspoon 220 vs Chris Arreola 239
Venue: FedEx Forum
Promoter: DiBella Entertainment

6/20/08Whitfield Eyes Title Shot
Fights at the FedExForum in Memphis Saturday June 21!
By Scott Foster FIND TICKETS ONLINE
ALERT: 2 for 1 DISCOUNT @ Gate for Military & City Employees (6/20-21)



Rayonta Whitfiled (R) will fight on the HBO "Black and Blues" BAD undercard this Saturday at the FedExForum. Photo by: Scott Foster

For Rayonta Whitfield [21-0 w/10ko], 2008 looms as a potential break out year. After successfully negotiating 12 rounds twice in the past 9 months, the undefeated flyweight contender feels that the time is ripe for the rubber to meet the road, with all champions at 112lbs residing squarely within the sights of the “Stingray.”
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6/20/08Berto on the Mound [From Fightnews 6-18-08]

Undefeated NABF Welterweight Champion Andre Berto (21-0, 18 KO’s) shows off his grip before throwing out the first pitch before the AAA baseball game between the hometown Memphis Redbirds and the Albuquerque Isotopes. Berto will face talented Mexican veteran Miguel “Mikki” Rodriguez (29-2, 23 KO’s) for the vacant World Boxing Council Welterweight Title on Saturday night at the Fed Ex Forum in Memphis, TN. Photo by: Photo: Wilbur Post

6/19/08HBO "Black and Blues"
Berto / Rodriguez Eye WBC Welter Title!
Witherspoon/Arreola Call for Fireworks in Memphis, June 21!
By Michael Sheffield, Memphisboxing.com
TICKET DISCOUNT ALERT: 2 for 1 Military Personnel & City Employees (6/20)
FIND TICKETS ONLINE

The principals in Saturday night’s two main events kept it short and sweet in the final press conference leading up to the fight being held at FedExForum and broadcast as part of HBO’s Boxing After Dark series.


Mikki Rodriguez (l) and Andre Berto will face each other in the HBO "Black and Blues" BAD main event this Saturday at the FedExForum. Photo by: JD Meredith

Welterweights Andre Berto (21-0 18 KOs) and Miguel “Mikki” Rodriguez (29-2, 23 KOs) will face off for the newly vacated WBC Welterweight Championship, which Floyd Mayweather Jr. relinquished when he opted to retire last week. Until then, the fight was believed to be the determining factor of who Mayweather’s next opponent would be. The sudden presence of a title bout wasn’t lost on Lou DiBella, who is promoting the fight in association with Memphis-based Prize Fight Promotions, Don King Productions and Goosen Tutor Promotions.
Read

6/19/08HBO "BAD" Shakeout for June 21st!
From Prize Fight Boxing Gym –– Photos coming Soon!
By JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com

Southaven, MS - Andre Berto who faces MIkki Rodriguez in the main event Saturday night at the FedExForum in Memphis, TN, for the WBC Welterweight Title, along with Chazz Witherspoon who faces off Chris Arreola in a potenitally explosive heavyweight class of unbeatens were at the Prize Fight Gym yesterday for a pre-fight media shakeout.

Rodriguez and Witherspoon took the gym first where Rodriguez jumped rope, shadow boxed and hit pads. Witherspoon, worked out at about half speed, hitting a heavy bag, speed bag, jumped some rope and stretched. Both fielded questions from the media.

Mikki Rodrigeuz, (29-2, 23KO's) – Welterweight

On this fight with Berto...
Rodriguez: I have worked for his fight. I have made preparations and want it to be a good fight for the people. We've worked for this guy. Everything I have worked on --my hands, my mind -- is specifically for this guy. I want this guy. I'm in shape. I am prepared. If Berto is in shape this fight will be really good.
 read

6/12/08Peterson headlines 6/26!
Tickets on sale Thursday 10AM for Anthony Peterson's
Top Rank debut at The Orleans Arena on June 26
From Fightnews.com [6-11-08]

| Top Rank's newest sensation, hard-hitting world-rated lightweight Anthony Peterson of Washington, D.C., makes his TR debut when he takes on Fernando Trejo to headline a 'Fight Night on Versus' network show at The Orleans Arena, Las Vegas on Thursday, June 26.
Tickets at $50, $30 and $15 go on sale Thursday, 10 am. Tickets are available at all Coast Casino box offices in Las Vegas and on the Ticket Hot Line at 702-284-7777.

Anthony, 26-0, and his older brother Lamont, 24-0, signed with Top Rank last month. They are top performers in the ring and their Top Rank debut is much anticipated. Anthony will fight at The Orleans Arena on June 26, while Lamont will be in his first Top Rank bout on the Ricardo Torres vs. Kendall Holt 'No Excuses' rematch on July 5 at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. Anthony and Lamont have been training for weeks in Vero Beach, Fla.

6/11/08"BAD" HBO Memphis Card Set for June 21!
Brought to you by DBE in association with Prize Fight Boxing
By JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com

Memphis, Tn - The illustrious FedExForum, on Historic Beale Street, will play host to HBO's "Boxing After Dark," Saturday June 21. Fight fans in the city of Memphis welcome DiBella Entertainment and HBO back to the Bluff City while we applaud Prize Fight Boxing for bringing championship boxing back to West Tennessee.

A vacant WBC Welterweight Title will be waiting to be claimed on June 21 and the show is boiling over with rising talent and undefeated prospects that we will watch for years to come.

Meeting in the twelve round main event are two welterweight fighters on the hunt for their first mainstream titles. Undefeated 2004 Olympian Andre Berto (21-0, 18KO's) is pitted against Miguel Angel Rodriguez (29-2, 23KO's) in a welterweight clash for the vacant WBC title. [Full story]

6/11/08Petersons gear up for TR debut!
From Fight News [6/10/08]

Anthony and Lamont Peterson of Washington, D.C. are training at Buddy McGirt's Gym in Vero Beach, Fla. "Both are very excited about their upcoming fights for Top Rank," said Barry Hunter, manager. Anthony, the WBO #1 rated lightweight, will be in the main event on a Top Rank/VERSUS card at The Orleans Arena in Las Vegas on Thursday, June 26. Lamont, rated WBO #3 as a junior welterweight, will box on the Ricardo Torres vs Kendall Holt title card July 5 at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

Holt is also training at McGirt's Gym in Vero Beach. "Sparring 10 rounds every Monday, Wednesday and Friday; doing a lot of distance running; sprints; tons of padwork," said Henry Cortez of Team Holt. "Kendall has put down a few of his sparring partners. He's all set for Torres." Torres and Holt will head for Las Vegas on June 27 and will have a press lunch the day of the Pacquiao vs. Diaz 'Lethal Combination' title card. Holt has spotted the Peterson's at McGirt's but they are working at different times.

6/2/08Toughman's '08 World Champs Are...
From Sam's Town Casino - Tunica -- Fox Sports Net!
From AdoreAble Promotions, Inc.

They come from all corners of the United States, representing Mississippi, California, Indiana, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, Texas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Maryland, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire. 36 Light Heavyweight and 29 HW local Champions from around the United States entered and trianed to do battle for the title “Toughman™ World Champion!”.

The 2008 Toughman™ World Championships were held at the beautiful Sam’s Town Casino-Tunica, inside the River Palace Entertainment Center over three incredible nights, Thursday, May 29th (LHW PRELIMINARIES), Friday, May 30th (HW PRELIMINARIES) and the FINALS in both divisions on Saturday, May 31st, 2008.

In the heavyweight championship bout Lee "Garbage Man" McGinnis of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania defeated Darrell "Freight Train" Ellis, (Little Rock, AR) by decision.

In the light heavyweight championship bout Aubrey "Jewelz" Bickerstaff of Midfield, Alabama defeated Jamal "Mr. Cash Flow" Rogers (Cincinnati, OH) by decision.
Both received $20,000.


Above: The May 29-31 "2008 World Toughman Championship" Winners are Pictured Toughman™ creator Art Dore, (L) Aubrey "Jewelz" Bickerstaff (Light heavyweight) and (r) Lee "Garbage Man" McGinnis(Heavyweight). Photo Courtesy of Adoreable Promotions.

In Toughman™ each bout consists of three – one minute rounds of boxing with participants wearing 16 ounce gloves and headgear. With only one minute per round, the action is fast and furious. There is no time for show, you gotta go!

The event was filmed by Fox Sports Net and will air nationwide as four shows beginning July 17th (Thursday nights) with the LHW Preliminaries, July 24th HW Preliminaries, July 31st LHW Finals, August 7th, HW Finals.

May 29, 2008Now Playing on Showtime - The Underdogs
Anthony Bowman and Marteze Logan
Featured on Showtime's Original series "This American Life"

This particular episode, "This American Life - The Underdogs", is centered around two fighters from West Tennessee Anthony Bowman (9-29-2, 2 KO's) and Marteze Logan (26-33-2, 6 KO's) who face each other in Memphis, TN, at the New Daisy Theatre on Beale.

The show is currently playing on Showtime and can be seen this evening (5/29) at 9:30pm, Friday (5/30) at 8pm, Saturday (5/31) at 6:30pm and Monday (6/2) at 6:30pm.

Excerpt from Showtime.com – THIS AMERICAN LIFE: UNDERDOGS (TV14 - V) (2007) There's a whole world of boxing way down the food chain from championship fights, and the stakes are high even without media hype and massive cash prizes. Two boxers in Tennessee who've known each other all their lives face off in a match that neither can afford to lose; a group of kids in New York learns to fight bullies the old-fashioned way: by being funny.

Above: The May 24 "Fights at the Fitz" were held outside on the banks of the Mississippi River Saturday night in Tunica. The Fitz Hotel and Casino can be seen in the background.
Photos by: JD Meredith

May 26, 2008

May 26, 2008Fights at the Fitz Report!
Michael Sheffield, Memphisboxing.com

Despite rains earlier in the day, the May edition of Fights at the Fitz, subtitled “Take it Outside” gave fans a full slate of boxing action and two fights that were everything fans might have expected.

The afternoon Mississippi rains gave way to a perfect evening on the banks of the Mississippi River and boxing action that featured a lackluster official main event that was quickly forgotten, thanks to two gutsy displays of speed, strength and skill by fan favorite Mark Davis and his opponent, Dallas native, Derrick Moon

The 12-19, 136 pound Moon was able to take everything the 7-0 Davis (who also weighed in at 136 pounds) dished out for the duration of the 8-round Jr. Lightweight battle, even resorting to taunting Davis by asking “Is that all you got?” after a particularly brutal combination from Davis in the second round. What Moon didn’t do was land any significant punches until the fifth round, when he landed a flush right to Davis’ jaw that, while it didn’t put him in any real danger, did show that Moon had the power to back up his toughness, if not the discipline to put it to work.
By the end of the fight, both fighters were worn out, but were able to put together a crowd-pleasing flurry to end a classic fight that was definitely a treat for fans.

Moon’s willingness to stand toe-to-toe with Davis was admirable, but his lack of activity ended up costing him the fight, which the judges gave to Davis in a 77-75, 77-75 and 78-74 unanimous decision.

The fight that was expected to be the fight of the evening delivered on its inherent potential as crowd favorite, Lightweight Chris “Hurricane” Howard (7-0 4, KOs) was taken the distance by a game John Trigg (15-32, 7 KOs), who suffered three cuts at the hands (and head) of Howard, but still stood in and bloodied Howard’s nose midway through the fight.

Howard was able to display the speed and power that has made him a fan favorite early in his career, but it also showcased the need for the fighter to improve his defense. Howard was able to pull out the win with a 59-55, 60-54, 60-54 unanimous decision, over Trigg, who announcer JD Lyons called “tougher than 20 miles of gravel road”.

The evening got off to a torrid pace with two knockouts, the first being during the night’s first bout, a scheduled 4 rounder featuring super middleweights Farah Ennis (3-0, 3 KOs) and Phillip Hammac (“veteran of 24 fights”).

Hammac displayed his defensive skill early as he successfully eluded Ennis’ attempts to mix it up with him. Ennis’ corner exhorted him to cut the ring off as Hammac continued to use the entire ring to his advantage until the third round.

Ennis was able to floor Hammac with a body shot early in the third round and then again at the end of the round. It was obvious to both fighters and the crowd that Hammac, though he wasn’t seriously hurt was done before Ennis finished him at 2:05 of the fourth round for a TKO.

Emerging fan favorite Fernando Guerrero (7-0) made short work of Chuck Orso (4-7 3 KOs) in a scheduled 4 Round Middleweight bout. In typical Guerrero fashion, the fighter circled Orso like prey before unleashing a pair of lethal hooks that dropped him twice in 45 seconds. Guerrero dropped Orso twice more before referee Randy Phillips stopped the fight at 2:41 of the first round.

The night’s official main event was anything but as new Prize Fight signee, Monterrey, Mexico native Victor Proa (17-0 13 KOs) was pitted against the clearly outmatched and completely unwilling Valentin Leon, who took a knee six times in three rounds before referee Phillips had seen enough and called a halt to the bout at 1:03 of the third round

May 24, 2008Boswell Decisions Page in New Daisy Main Event!

Mid-South All-Star Boxing offered an extremely entertaining main event
Friday night at the New Daisy Theatre on historic Beale Street in Memphis, TN.

Two well known fighters entered the ring in the eight round main event when Cedric Boswell (236lbs - 26-1, 20 KO's) faced tough journeyman Zack Page (206lbs - 15-20-1, 5 KO's).

Boswell controlled the fight with a strong jab and compact left hooks. He managed to beat Page to the punch up to the midway point when the slick Page moved in closer and landed some strong counter punches. Page did land some nice one two combinations of his own.

Boswell went on to win this entertainer by unanimous decision. Scores were 80-72, 87-72 and 79-71.

In a battle for the Midsouth Cruiser Title, champion Craig Ganby (6-2-1, 5 KO's - 190lbs), Harrisburg, AR, was stopped at :40 of round three by challenger Marvin Hunt (12-21, 5 KO's - 180lbs) of Jackson, TN. Hunt, a former Mid South Heavyweight Title holder, moved down from heavyweight for this fight.

Ganby got off to a quick start landing solid shots and kept Hunt at the end of his gloves but in round two Hunt attacked Ganby's body and sent him twice to the canvas.

In round three Ganby stopped fighting and holding his right wrist told referee Clay Huddleston that he couldn't continue.

Check back soon for other results!

May 23, 2008"Boxing On Beale" Tonight @ New Daisy!

Boxing will return to the New Daisy Theatre tonight with three big heavyweight bouts. Atlanta heavyweight, Cedric Boswell (25 wins - 1 loss - 20 Knockouts) will face Cleveland's Zach Page(15-19-1, 5 KO's) in an 8RD event. Local 6'4", 285lb heavyweight Kelsey Arnold (1-0-1) will face off with 6'5", 285lb Bobby Jones in a 4RD bout that you will not want to miss. Undefeated heavyweight, Preston Haliburton (9-0, 5 KO's) will face 0-4 Stephen Cox in a 4RD bout. Cox has been knocked out in the first round in all butone of his bouts.

Other scheduled bouts
In a light heavyweight match up Craig Ganby (6-1-1, 5 KO's) climbs into the ring against Marvin Hunt (11-21, 4 KO's) in a 6RDbout. Memphis' Hashim Louis (0-1) will clash with Roderick McGary 4RD welterweight fight. Local mIddleweight Toris Smith (2-26, 2 KO's) will fight Parson, TN's, Davian Jones (1-3, 1 KO) over 4RD's in Jone's pro-debut.

Please be advised that bouts are subject to change.
Advance Tickets: $15.00. At the door: $20.00
Call Malcolm (901) 502-1020) for special seating or reserved seats.

May 21, 2008Tennessee To Get New Athletic Commission!
Legalizes MMA!
JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com

Lawmakers in Nashville, TN, passed SB3836 on Tuesday (5/20) with an overwhelming vote of 30-0. The bill legalizes mixed martial arts (MMA) in the state and will create a new athletic commission to oversee boxing and mixed martial arts in the state. Currently, the commissioner of commerce and insurance regulate boxing in Tennessee.

Because of the revenue that will be brought into the state, lawmakers are determined to move quickly to establish the nine member committee that should be up and running by the end of July of 2008. The bill, which should be signed into law soon by Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen, will go into effect on July 1, 2008.

Stay tuned to Memphisboxing.com on official date and media events surrounding this bill.
According to the Tennessee General Assembly's website, MMA is defined as unarmed combat using a combination of techniques from different disciplines of the martial arts, including kicking, wrestling, and striking, subject to certain limitations.

May 20, 20082nd Annual Title National Boxing Championships!
Pipkin Building located on the fairgrounds, Memphis, TN

Prize Fight Gym (Southaven, MS) host the 2nd annual Title National Boxing Championships at the Pipkin Building located on the fairgrounds, Memphis, TN, on June 5-7.The Nation’s elite amateur open boxers and some top novice fighters will compete for a national championship. Tickets are $12 per session or $25 for 3 day pass. Ringside tabels can be purchased for $250 (for all three days) and seats 8. Bell time is 6 pm Thursday (6/5) and Friday (6/6). Saturday finals bell time is 1 pm.Day pass tickets will be sold at the door. For ringside tables and 3 day passes contact John Bryant (901-503-0827). The event is sponsored by Title Boxing & Prize Fight Gym. Bouts are sanctioned by the Southeastern Association of USA Boxing.

May 19, 2008 Fate of SB 3836 Decided Tomorrow! 
Passing would Legalize MMA in TN & create new Athletic Com.
JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com

The state of Tennessee is 24 hours away from a final vote on the Senate Final Floor tomorrow (5/20/08) where lawmakers will decide the fate of SB 3836. The passing of SB 3836 will legalize mixed martial arts events in the state of Tennessee and create a new athletic commission to oversee MMA, Boxing and kickboxing.

"This bill will allow Tennessee to be one of the leaders in the Nation in hosting these type of events. The revenue for the State will be in the neighborhood of 70-100 million dollars. In our area alone the economic impact will be pre event 25 to 50 million dollars." State Representative Curry Todd told Memphisboxing.com.

Be a part of bringing revenue to the Volunteer State. Tennessee law markers are standing by to take your calls and e-mails supporting bill SB 3836. If you live out of state but do business in Tennessee your support may be voiced as well. E-mail All Senators

There are earmarks on this bill. [Read]

May 14, 2008Andre "Boom Boom" Berto
A Steady Ascension to Stardom
By: Phil Santos, Overhandright.com

In the talent laden Welterweight division names like Mosley, Judah, Cotto and Mayweather guard the gates through which superstardom is obtained. There are no easy paths for a fighter looking to make his mark at 147. Even at the bottom end of the top ten, as rated by The Ring Magazine, there are difficult fights with proven veterans and former champions.

While Mayweather is still recognized as the best fighter in any weight and Miguel Cotto is thought to be the heir apparent to his throne, at least as the welterweight boss, there is another fighter who has peaked fight fans interest. That fighter is Andre Berto.

On June 21st, at the Fedex Forum in Memphis, Tennessee, Berto takes on his toughest challenge to date in Miguel Angel Rodriguez. While a young, undefeated fighters record can be misleading in the case of Andre Berto his 21-0 (18) is looking more legitimate with each passing fight. The manner in which he has raised his game to new levels each time the competition becomes fiercer lends credibility to his growing status as a serious contender.

In his last two fights Berto faced veteran opponents with granite chins and methodically wore them out before finally stopping them. First up was David Estrada whom Berto furiously pounded en route to an 11th round stoppage. Then he proceeded to dismantle Michel Trabant forcing him to quit on his stool. The victory over Estrada marked only the forth loss of his career, (Shane Mosley, Kermit Cintron and Ishe Smith being the others), and the second time that he had been stopped; Kermit Cintron is the only other fighter to have stopped Estrada. Equally impressive was becoming the first fighter to make Trabant quit, handing the German fighter his third loss and first by KO.

Now with his June 21st date with Rodriguez looming Berto looks to put together another notable performance perhaps landing him a shot at one of the lower end top ten welters. Berto certainly appears ready and his skills and growing résumé make him a worthy opponent for a Luis Callazo or Jackson Bonsu. For that matter the other three fighters who rank 6-10, Zab Judah, Joshua Clottey and Kermit Cintron, would be a step up but by no means would they outclass Berto given his recent showings.

The near future looks promising for the 24 year old up and comer. His combination of speed, power and patience should carry him through the ranks and possibly into the title picture. He has a good promoter in Lou Dibella and possesses a great attitude as well as a humbleness you rarely find in this sport. He is well on his way to establishing himself as one of the talented bunch of Welterweight stars and assuming a win on the 21st he’ll have inched closer to challenging a big name.

May 13, 2008 Boxing Returns to the New Daisy!
Friday, 5-23 – Doors @ 6:00 PM, First Fight @ 7:30 PM.

Scheduled Bouts:

Craig Gamby vs Marvin Hunt
Clash for the Mid-South Cruiser Weight Title.

Thomas Reed vs Terry Porter

Jose Cruz vs Toris Smith
Cruz is a 2004 Olympian from Columbia.

Undefeated Lightweight Ira Terry vs "To be announced."

Kelsey Arnold vs Walter Wiggins.
Tennessee State Heavy Weight Title.

Chris Hancock vs Tommy Cliff

Davian Jones vs "To be Announced."

Donnell Wiggins vs "To be Announced." Trying to get this one set to be a WBC Intercontinental Americas Title.

Bouts subject to change.

Advance Tickets $15.00, $20.00 at the door.
Reserve Seats available by calling Malcolm @ 901-502-1020

May 12, 2008Prize Fight Signs Philadelphia Standout!
From Rachel Charles Media

Memphis-TN-Monday, May 12, 2008. Memphis based Prize Fight Promotions today announced the signing of Philadelphia power puncher, light heavyweight prospect Farah Ennis (3-0, 2KO’s), to a multi year fight deal.

Ennis will make his first appearance under the Prize Fight banner on May 24, at the Fitzgerald Casino in Tunica, MS, as part of the popular long-standing, top selling fight series “Fights at the Fitz.”

“ Prize Fight is very excited about signing Ennis to our stable of elite talent. He has huge punching power, tremendous skills, he is domineering and strong, he will fit right in.” said Prize Fight’s Russ Young.

Tickets available for purchase at the Fitz’s gift shop priced at $35.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

First fight at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, call the Fitz at 1-800 766-5825 or Prize Fight Promotions 662 349-6263.

May 12, 2008Samuels smokes Logan!
From Fight News [5/10/08]

Junior welterweight Derrick Samuels (15-3-1) stopped Covington, TN, fighter Donnell Logan (10-16) in the first round on Friday night at the A la Carte Pavillion in Tampa, Florida. Samuels hurt Logan with a body shot and Logan was not able to recover.

May 12, 2008FedExForum to Host HBO Card, June 21!
Berto vs Rodriguez in Welter Eliminator!

Main Event
Andrew Berto (21-0, 18KOs) vs Miguel Angel Rodriguez (29-2, 23 KOs)
WBC Welterweight Eliminator

Co-feature
Chazz Witherspoon (23-0, 15 KO's) vs Chris Areola (23-0, 21 KOs)

Flyweight
Rayonta Whitfield (21-0, 10KOs) vs TBD

The card co-promoted by Lou DiBella and Prize Fight Boxing.
Stay tuned for more info.

May 9, 2008The Push for SB 3836!  E-mail All  Lawmaker's
Legislation faces More steps to legalize MMA in Tennessee.
JD Meredith, Memphisboxing.com

The state of Tennessee is now one step closer to legalizing mixed martial arts events for the state after bill HB 3836 passed the House on Tuesday (5/6/08) by a 95-2 vote.

The legislation still has two crucial votes. One with the Senate finance committee on Monday followed by a Senate floor vote.

Not only is this bill vital to MMA in Tennessee, which will greatly impact state and local economies by bringing in projected state-wide revenues nearing one-hundred million dollars, but it will also provide better regulation of other sports like Boxing and Kickboxing via the establishment of a new athletic commission. There are earmarks on this bill. [Read]

Be a part of bringing revenue to the Volunteer State. Tennessee law markers are standing by to take your calls and e-mails supporting bill SB 3836. If you live out of state but do business in Tennessee your support may be voiced as well.

Contact lawmakers by phone or e-mail Friday (5/9), Saturday (5/10), Sunday (5/11) & Monday (5/12) to express your interest in SB 3836.

Lt. Governor Ramsey 615-741-4524
Senator Dwayne Bunch 615-741-3730
Senator Bo Watson 615-741-3227

Senate finance members
Senator Randy McNally 615-741-6806
Senator Jim Kyle 615-741-4167
Senator Joe Haynes 615-741-6679
Senator Mark Norris 615-741-1967
Senator Rosalind Kurita 615-741-2374
Senator Douglas Henry 615-741-3291
Senator Raymond Finney 615-741-2427
Senator Diane Black 615-741-1999
Senator Tim Burchett 615-741-1766
Senator John Wilder 615-741-2638

Others
Senator Mae Beavers 615-741-2421
Senator Andy Berke 615-741-6682
Senator Charlotte Burks 615-741-3978
Senator Rusty Crowe 615-741-2468
Senator Thelma Harper 615-741-2453
Senator Roy Herron 615-741-4576
Senator Jack Johnson 615-741-2495
Senator Tommy Kilby 615-741-1449
Senator Steve Roller 615-741-6694
Senator Steve Southerland 615-741-3851
Senator Paul Stanley 615-741-3036
Senator Jim Tracy 615-741-1066
Senator Mike Williams 615-741-2061
Senator Jamie Woodson 615-741-1648

5/5/08Earmarked legislation could box Nashville
out of millions!
Mixed martial arts bill could bring in millions of dollars, but the hold-up involves the UT Chattanooga wrestling team
By Ken Whitehouse, Nashville Post

A bill is before the state legislature that would replace the commissioner of commerce and insurance as the regulator of boxing and kickboxing with a new athletic commission to regulate those sports as well as mixed martial arts.

So what's the hold up? It's not that legislators are squeamish about holding the events in Tennessee. Nope, many want to bring in one of the country's fastest-growing sports, whose pay-per-view events are among the highest-grossing in the nation. [full story]

5/5/08Vote For Your Favorite Fighter in "M Awards"!

They're back – The M Awards. The only local/regional awards that recognizes the local flavor, personality and uniqueness of the Memphis area sports community. Results will appear in the July/Aug issue of Memphis Sport. So call all your friends and IM your buddies and text everyone else you know, because the voting ends June 10. [VOTE NOW!]

5/5/08Johnson Sweeps Logan!
From Fight News [5/2/08]

Junior welter Earnest Johnson moved to 18-2-1 with 7 KOs after sweeping the cards (60-54, three times) against journeyman Marteze Logan (26-33-2, 6 KOs) over six on Friday night at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California.

Like the new Look? You decide! Let us know! [E-mail MB]

5/2/08Marteze Logan faces Earnest Johnson Tonight!
MemphisBoxing.com

Covington, Tn, Journeyman, Marteze "Too Sweet" Logan is scheduled to face 17-2-1 (7 KO's) Earnest Johnson tonight at the Home Depot Center in Carson, CA. Their bout is scheduled for six rounds in the lightwelterweight division.

Logan (26-32-2, 6KO's) is coming off a February '08 win over Anthony Bowman at the New Daisy Theatre.

Johnson will fight for the first time in 2008 and is 2-2-1 in his last five fights.

5/1/08David Hudson, JR, Critiques New Film!
Film about A boxing match that changed two men's lives.
From Fight News [4/30/08]

On June 16, 1983, in front of a capacity crowd of 25,000 at Madison Square Garden, the lives of two young men were forever changed during a controversial boxing match. A tough club fighter from Puerto Rico named Luis Resto fought Nashville's Billy Collins Jr., an Irish golden boy, for ten grueling rounds. Resto was declared the winner, but within minutes was accused of tampering with the padding in his gloves - in effect brutalizing Collins Jr. with his bare fists for thirty minutes. More than two decades later, Luis Resto is a broken man shouldering the burden of his opponent's death, a prison sentence, and a lifetime ban from boxing.

Recently FightNews feature writer David Hudson was invited to see the screening of Cornered, a documentary that revisits the Collins-Resto scandal. As the 25-year-anniversary approaches of one of boxing’s darkest hours, Cornered exposes the truth behind what happened that June evening in the world’s most famous arena. Read the review of Cornered and then see the film . . .[more]

4/30/08Bobby Bryant Receives 2008 Nunnally Award!
Submitted by John Bryant

The Michael Nunnally award is the highest charter award given to a amatuer boxer who has made a commitment to make a difffenrence in and out of the ring and in his community and beyond. [more]

4/30/08Decorated Marine, Army Soldier, 3 Policemen! 
Coming to Tunica to Become “ THE TOUGHEST MAN ALIVE!”
Press Release

The 2008 Toughman World Championships will be held at the beautiful Sam’s Town Casino-Tunica, inside the River Palace Entertainment Center over three incredible nights, Thursday, May 29th (LHW PRELIMINARIES), Friday, May 30th (HW PRELIMINARIES) and the FINALS in both divisions on Saturday, May 31st, 2008. 36 Light Heavyweight and 29 HW local Champions from around the United States have entered and are training to do battle for the title “Toughman World Champion!”. [more]

Above: Lightweight Chris "Hurricane" Howard (l) scored an impressive second round KO of opponent Ricky Alexander Saturday night at the Fitz Casino.

4/28/08"The Hurricane" Causes Evacuation at the Fitz! 
Howard KO's Alexander in Two -- Davis Decisions Ruiz!
Memphisboxing.com

Prize Fight Boxing assembled a fantastic and entertaining card Saturday night for "Fights at the Fitz". The Grand Ballroom at the Fitz played host to this action packed event which featured many of Prize Fight's best up-and-comers.

Lightweight Chris "The Hurricane" Howard (6-0, 3 KO's – Crossville, TN - 127lbs.) squared off with Stillwater, OK's, Ricky Alexander (7-7, 5 KO's - 134lbs) in the main event.

Alexander come out strong and landed several firm consecutive jabs in round one but Howard found early openings of his own, landing crisp left hooks to the head. The right hand successfully followed for Howard, who cut down the ring. Towards the end of the round, Alexander found himself defending against the ropes.

The Hurrican began to whirl in round two and at 1:55 threw a straight right hand that dropped Alexander in the center of the ring where referee, Randy Phillips waived the fight off.

Mark Davis (7-0, 3 KO's - 137lbs.) was extended the distance by tough Jorge Ruiz (5-5, 1 KO - 133lbs.). Davis displayed lightening quick speed, agile footwork and some razzle dazzle.

Although largely the receipent of punches, Ruiz remained unfazed by Davis' repertoire through round four. He invited Davis in to brawl with a motion of the hand and talked all along the way. However in round five, not seening any change in Davis' speed or movement, appeared to be going through the motions.

Davis continues to shine bright and show promise in the ring.
Although young, he shows confidence, poise, defensive skill and precision punches.

Hard hitting 160lb. southpaw, Fernando Guerrero (6-0, 6 KO's) continued his knockout run after KO'ing Jackson, TN's, Anthony Bowman in a scheduled six round middleweight fight.

Their fight was one of cat and mouse. In round two Bowman was deducted a point for a low blow in an appearant retaliation of an earlier boarder-line blow from Guerrero. After taking a moment to recover from the blow, Guerrero resumed the fight by coming straigh out of the corner to drop Bowman with a single left hand to the head.

Victory came for Guerrero at 2:14 of round three.

The opening bout of the evening showcased two debuting fighters in a heavyweight sluggfest.
Jesse Peterson (249lbs) managed to take three of the four rounds on all judges' cards to pull out the victory.

Ladies professional boxing made it's way back to the Fitz on this night!

In a scheduled four round female welterweight event, "Notorious" Nicole Woods outclassed Carrine Hamlett and won by unanimous decision. Scores were 40-35, 39-36, 39-36.

Alejandra Lopez dominated Brianna Hines over four rounds in a very entertaining bantamweight female bout. Lopez's successful jab was a huge factor in their fight. Scores were 40-36 around the ring.

4/28/08Erdei Outclasses Abron
#4 Rated Light Heavy Abron Falls short in hunt for World Title!
From Fight News [4/26/08]

In the fifth and final 175lb title fight of the "Month of Light Heavyweights," unbeaten WBO champion Zsolt Erdei (29-0, 17 KOs) made the tenth successful defense of his belt by schooling #4 rated DeAndrey Abron (15-2, 10 KOs) over twelve one-sided rounds on Saturday night at the Freiberger Arena in Dresden, Germany. Erdei pressed the action against the much taller Abron who tried to use his reach from the outside. From early on it was apparent that Edrei's speed and boxing skills put him at a much higher level than his outclassed challenger, who was unable to generate any kind of effective attack. Erdei rocked Abron in the last round, but was content to settle for a clear 119-109 win across the board.

Post Fight Comments

WBO light heavyweight champion Zsolt Erdei: "I saved my energy in this fight. In the twelfth round I stepped on the gas again because I wanted to finish the fight early but it didn't work out. I didn't take any risks because my opponent could hit really hard. This was Zsolt Erdei at 80 percent. I still could have done a little bit more, but I'm a careful person. I'm satisfied. This was a technically good performance."

Erdei's trainer Fritz Sdunek: "Zsolt didn't take many punches. This was decisive. All's well that ends well. Of course, a KO is more spectacular, but unfortunately we didn't see it. However, Zsolt also shouldn't take any unnecessary risks."

Challenger DeAndrey Abron: "Zsolt is a great champion. His jab is quick and effective. He imposed his tactics and fought intelligently. He did what a champion must do." Abron's Trainer Trevor Wittman: "Zsolt showed he's world class. He wouldn't fight our fight."

(03-20-08) DeAndrey Abron (r) willl face Zolt erdei for his WBO Light Heayweight World Title this Saturday night (4/26) in Dresden, Germany. Abron Has movedto Forth in the WBO Rankings. Photo by: Eroll Popova

4/21/08Erdei-Abron Presser!
#4 Rated Light Heavy DeAndrey Abron battles for World Title!
From Fight News [4/22/08]

The prefight press conference was held Monday in Dresden for Saturday's big "Universum Champions Night" world title twinbill at the Freiberger Arena featuring the WBO light heavyweight world title fight between champion Zsolt Erdei (28-0, 17 KOs) and #4 rated DeAndrey Abron (15-1, 10 KOs) and the WBO junior middleweight world title clash between champion Sergiy Dzinziruk (34-0, 22 KOs) and #2 rated Lukas Konecny (36-2, 18 KOs).

" Dresden is a wonderful town," commented Erdei. "It was a great experience to box here in November of last year. We like Dresden. I'm a little superstitious and because the town brought me luck with my last victory, I'm glad to be here again. The fight with Mendoza was a little bit boring because he only boxed in the reverse gear. Abron is 6'3, again a physically big opponent, but luckily for me he's an offensive fighter. I have no problem with bigger boxers. I'm the quickest boxer in my weight class and if, as they say, the better boxer wins, that's me! For the Dresden fans I promise a spectacular fight."

" This is my most important fight," countered Abron. "I earned this chance for the world title with with hard fights in the USA. I have a lot of respect for Zsolt Erdei, because he has already defended his title nine times as a world champion. This speaks for a great champion. With my coach Trevor Wittman, we had a hard training camp in the Rocky Mountains, preparing very intensely with long mountain runs and hard sparring. The size difference won't play a big role since we know the strengths of Erdei. I will with certainty provide the German boxing fans with a good fight and a good show. We will win!"

4/21/08Art of War: Gi vs Pro Breakdown! Grand Hotel & Casino Tuncia, MS!
Submitted by Sun Sports Entertainment

SUN Sports & Entertainment Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SSPE) announced today the completion of their first event of the new MMA Series "GI vs. PRO" at the Harrah's Grand Hotel & Casino in Tunica, MS with the GIs beating the PROs 4-2.

On Saturday April 19th SUN, in association with FOX Sports Net, Show Partners and Harrah's completed the filming of production for the first television show which will be edited to create the start of nine weeks of programming for the flagship National Sports Channel.

The fast and furious events only had one bout go the distance while the loud boisterous fans were treated to an array of unpredictable finishes. In the main event, GI Army Ranger Damien Stelly dominated MMA PRO Ron Faircloth by starting off with an unprecedented flurry of blows, forcing the stunned MMA veteran to tap-out in 44 seconds. PRO Mike Wessel, the main event victor at Art of War 4 in October 2007, won his co-main event contest by split decision against GI Patrick Castillo. The fight of the night may have ended at 4:40 in the first round, but PRO Chris Hawk and GI Darrill Schoonover traded fight-ending positions until Schoonover caught Hawk with a rear naked choke. "It's one of the best fights I've ever seen given the fact that both men were so close to being finished at different points in the game before Darrill pulled out the victory," said Clyde Gentry III, Chief Operating Officer for SUN. "It's the kind of fight that audiences watching from home will remember." [more]

4/21/08Prize Fight Inks Hard Hitting Undefeated Victor Proa!
From Rachel Charles Media

Memphis-TN-April 17, 2008. Memphis based Prize Fight Promotions has inked a
multi-fight deal with UNDEFEATED WBO ranked #12, Jr., Bantamweight
Victor Proa (17-0, 13KO's).

Proa, hailing out of Monterrey, Mexico, will make his American debut on May 24th at the Fitzgerald Casino in Tunica, MS, as part of the highly successful fight series “Fights at the Fitz” presented by Prize Fight Promotions.

“ Prize Fight is extremely pleased that we were able to come to terms with Proa and his team, his skill level and KO ratio is outstanding,” stated Prize Fight's Russ Young. “He has all the makings of a champion, and we look forward to getting him a title shot in the near future”

The addition of Proa to the already world class caliber stable is another example of Prize Fights commitment to bringing the best fighters and fights that the fans want to see.

For further information on Prize Fight Promotions, visit http://www.prizefightpromoters.com

4/8/082008 Toughman World Championships!
At Sam's Town Casino - Tunica on Fox Sports Net!

The 2008 Toughman World Championships will be held at the beautiful Sam’s Town Casino-Tunica, inside the River Palace Entertainment Center over three incredible nights, Thursday, May 29th (LHW PRELIMINARIES), Friday, May 30th (HW PRELIMINARIES) and the FINALS in both divisions on Saturday, May 31st, 2008. 36 Light Heavyweight and 29 HW local Champions from around the United States have entered and are training to do battle for the title “Toughman World Champion!”. [more]

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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