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On April 22nd, one of the newest additions to Star Boxing's growing stable of undefeated fighters, Joe "The Future" Hanks, will make his debut fighting under the Star banner when he takes on Terrell Nelson on the undercard of Star Boxing's ESPN "Friday Night Fights" card at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT. Hanks-Nelson is scheduled for six rounds in the heavyweight division, and will be one of the featured undercard bouts of the evening. Headlining the card is Bayan "The Mongolian Mongoose" Jargal (15-1-3, 10KO's) taking on "Khanqueror" Breidis Prescott (23-2, 19KO's) in a ten round jr. welterweight showdown.

"His nickname speaks for itself. Joe has all the tools to be the future of the heavyweight division," stated Joe DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing. "He is a big, strong, fast and athletic heavyweight and has tons of potential. I've had my eye on Joe for some-time now. We are confident that by this time next year, Joe will be making some serious noise in the Heavyweight division."

Standing at 6'4" and weighing in at an average of around 240 lbs of solid muscle Hanks (15-0, 10KO's) not only looks the part, but also has proven thus far that he can be a true force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division, easily defeating his first fifteen foes. Only 28-years-old, Hanks gained valuable experience during his amateur days, sparring with such fighters as Heavyweight Champion, Wladamir Klitschko, Chris Byrd, Jameel McCline, and Larry Donald. As an amateur Hanks was a five-time Golden Gloves Champion, and was a National Golden Gloves semi-finalist in 2007. After the Nationals, Hanks promptly turned pro, scoring a 2nd round TKO over Joseph Rabotte on none other than a Star Boxing promoted card. Hank's first two pro fights actually came on Star cards, and if everything goes as planned, so will his championship fights, in The Future.

Hanks (15-0, 10KO's) vs. Nelson (8-11, 5KO's) is scheduled for six rounds in the heavyweight division. First bout is scheduled for 7:30PM. ESPN will begin live coverage of "Friday Night Fights" at 8PM ET with highly regarded prospect, 2007 Amateur World Champion and 2008 US Olympian, Demetrius Andrade (12-0, 8KO's) squaring off against Omar Bell (8-1, 5KO's) in an eight jr. middleweight match-up.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1 (800) 745-3000 or visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the Star Boxing office at (718) 823-2000 or visiting www.starboxing.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Mohegan Sun Box Office. Tickets are priced at $80, $50 and $35. ESPN will begin live coverage of the event starting at 8PM ET.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

MASHANTUCKET, CT (April 2011) – Taking time out of his fight week schedule, WBC welterweight champion, Andre Berto, spent part of his Thursday night making sure some aspiring pugilists had a very special Saturday night.

Berto joined a group of forty children, coaches, and parents from Middletown, Connecticut’s Champions of Life boxing program for pizza and soda and presented them all with t-shirts and tickets to Saturday night’s “East-West Showdown” from the MGM Theater at Foxwoods, which will be headlined by Berto defending his title against WBC #5 ranked, “Vicious” Victor Ortiz.

Such acts are not uncommon from Berto, who along with Victor Ortiz and Berto’s promoter, Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment, donated tickets to thirty students from Harlem’s Rice High School who attended the final pre-fight press conference.

“There is never a wrong time to give back and show support for adolescents who need it, even during fight week. The kids I met today want to be world champions, and I look forward to giving a championship effort and hopefully providing them inspiration to attain their dreams.”

Local referee Johnny Callas, who coaches the members of the Champions of Life program and its parent program, the Charter Oak Boxing Academy, saw the glean in his pupil’s faces as they received their gifts, posed for pictures, and formed a line for autographs with the champ.

“It’s very rare that a professional boxing promoter and champion of Lou DiBella and Andre Berto’s stature take a personal interest in the welfare of kids. Just like the last time they came to the area, DiBella Entertainment has supported Charter Oak Boxing Academy’s Champions of Life Boxing Program for disadvantaged urban youth and we can’t thank them enough.”

In March, Sergio Martinez had lunch with Monique McClain, a teen who had to leave school after being the victim of severe bullying. After leaving school, Monique joined the Champions of Life program to help rebuild her confidence. Martinez dedicated his fight with Sergiy Dzinziruk to Monique, even bringing her on stage at the post fight press conference to rally support for the anti-bullying cause.

For more information on the Champions of Life boxing program, please visit: http://thelionsdenct.com/index.php/champions-of-life/

For information about DiBella Entertainment, including a list of all upcoming bouts, please visit www.dbe1.com, or follow Lou DiBella on twitter, @loudibella. Follow Andre Berto on Twitter, @andreberto.

For information on Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, on twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing or Victor Ortiz @VICIOUSOrtiz.

Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter www.twitter.com/hboboxing.

LAS VEGAS (April 2011) – WBA/IBA Light Heavyweight Champion Beibut Shumenov (11-1, 7 KOs) remains fully prepared to continue his history-making journey to unify the light heavyweight titles before the end of 2011 with one of the other 175-pound division world champions.

Shumenov’s dream suffered a setback in January when WBO titlist Juergen Braehmer pulled out of their unification title fight only a few days before their scheduled showdown in Kazakhstan. In only his 12th pro fight, Beibut was supposed to fight Braehmer (36-2, 29 KOs) in a world unification match, breaking what is believed to be the record for fewest fights in a major unification bout in which both featured fighters were world champions. The mark held by WBA cruiserweight king Evander Holyfield, who set the mark in his 15th pro fight against IBF champ Ricky Parky in 1987, is still within Shumenov’s striking range.

Shumenov, the 2004 Kazakhstan Olympian, has been on an unprecedented, accelerated pace since his pro debut only 3 1/2 years ago, defeating two world champions in his first eight bouts, Montell Griffin and Byron Mitchell. A year ago, Shumenov established the mark for fewest pro fights needed to capture a major World light heavyweight title, defeating Gabriel Campillo by decision for the WBA crown in his 10th bout, breaking the record of 15 set by Jeff “Hit Man” Harding in 1989.

“I don’t think about records,” Shumenov said. “I just want the challenge of fighting the best to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion of the world in order to be considered the best. I have a lot more to accomplish in my career to even be mentioned in the same conversation as a future Hall of Famer like Evander Holyfield.

“I chose to fight Braehmer to unify the light heavyweight division, but he pulled out, refusing to be examined by the Kazakhstan Boxing Commission doctor, and breaching his contract. I put Braehmer in the rear view mirror and got right back on track successfully defending my titles against William Joppy, who I applauded for accepting the fight on such late notice. Now, I’m fully focused on collecting the other world light heavyweight titles.”

Joppy became the fourth world champion Shumenov has defeated in his relatively young pro career. Beibut also joined fellow world champion, Lucian Bute, and former superstar Felix Trinidad as the only fighters to knockout Joppy, when Shumenov floored his experienced opponent in the fifth and then finished him off with a vicious left hook to the body in the following round.

“My goal is to unify the light heavyweight division,” Shumenov repeated. “I want to fight the other world champions and I’ll be watching their upcoming world light heavyweight title fights with great interest. I’m trying to learn everything so I can be the best.”

Shumenov owns and operates the Las Vegas-based KZ Event Productions along with his brother, Chingis. In addition to promoting Beibut, Team KZ also includes three undefeated, world-rated boxers in WBA International Light Heavyweight champion Gayrat Ahemedov (16-0-1, 10 KOs), WBA rated No. 2 contender; WBA FEDALATIN Welterweight king Ravshan Hudaynazarov (14-0, 12 KOs), rated No. 9 by the WBA; WBA International Super Lightweight titlist Alexandr Zhuravskiy (11-0, 8 KOs), who is ranked No. 15 by the WBA.

“Beibut is a very special individual who has defied boxing logic since the very beginning of his career,” Shumenov’s head trainer Kevin Barry noted. “He has been instrumental in helping to develop the careers of Gayrat, Ravshan and Alexandr as a leader for them to follow. Beibut sets the standard and they try and keep up with him. Beibut Shumenov is priceless.”

Go online to www.KZEventProductions.com for additional information about Shumenov, KZ Event Productions or any of its fighters.

NEW YORK, NY (Apr. 2011) – International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Larry Hazzard will be the special guest speaker this coming Tuesday night (April 19), starting at 7 PM/ET) for RING 8’s monthly meeting at the historic Waterfront Crabhouse in Long Island City.

In addition, each 2011 New York Golden Gloves Tournament finalist has been invited along with a guest to attend Tuesday’s meeting, in addition to becoming an honorary RING 8 member throughout this year.

Hazzard started referring amateur matches in 1967 and pro bouts 11 years later. He refereed 40 world title fights featuring “Marvelous” Marvin Hagler, Michael Spinks, Dwight Qawi, Sean O’Grady, Riddick Bowe, Matthew Saad Muhammad, and Pernell Whitaker, as well as non-world title fights with all-time greats such as Tommy Hearns, Alexis Arguello, Bobby Czyz, Leon Spinks, Iran Barkley, Hector Camacho, Marlon Starling and Donald Curry.

Hazzard served as commissioner of the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board from 1985-2007. He was later appointed as chairman of officials, education, development and supervision for the International Boxing Federation.

“Larry Hazzard brings so much boxing experience from a wide variety of different positions,” RING 8 president Bob Duffy said. “He’s been a referee, commissioner and chairman of one of the major boxing organizations in the world. We’re honored to have Larry as our guest speaker. He was known for his full support for the safety of and health of boxers. What better way for our special New York Golden Gloves finalists to be introduced to what RING 8 stands for than listening to Larry Hazzard? We’re opening the door for these men and women who attend Tuesday’s meeting.”
Formed in 1954 by an ex-prizefighter, Jack Grebelsky, RING 8 became the eighth subsidiary of what was then known as the National Veteran Boxers Association -- hence, RING “8” -- and today the organization’s motto still remains: Boxers Helping Boxers.

RING 8 is fully committed to supporting the less fortunate people in the boxing community that may require assistance in terms of paying rent, medical expenses, or whatever justifiable need.

Go on line to www.Ring8ny.com for more information about RING 8, the largest group of its kind in the United States with 350 members. Annual membership dues is only $25.00 and each member is entitled to a buffet dinner at RING 8 monthly meetings, the third Tuesday of every month, excluding July and August.

Photo by: Gianluca (Rio) Di Caro
World Champ turned promoter Graham Earl has really pulled all the stops out for his second London show of the year - æRedemption DayÆ - at the York Hall in Bethnal Green on Saturday 7th May - by having not just one, but two, Southern Area title bouts co-headlining along with a seriously quality undercard, which is to such a high standard that it is likely to put most televised shows of the past year to shame.

GrahamÆs superb æCapital PunishmentÆ event in January was headlined by Paul MorbyÆs Southern Area Super Middleweight title defense against Daniel æThe SlickÆ Cadman, which was a closely fought affair that after ten hard fought rounds the Referee raised both protagonists hands aloft and declared the bout a draw which left an air of unfinished business for Morby and Cadman as well as the 1000 plus fans that packed into the world famous venue.

As such it comes as no surprise that for his May 7th show Graham has Morby-Cadman II co-headlining. ItÆs also seems apt Graham chose to name the event æRedemption DayÆ, as most ringside on the night, including myself, felt that Cadman had done just enough to wrestle the belt from MorbyÆs grip.

The æRedemption DayÆ title also sits well for co-headliner, which sees StreathamÆs Leon æSolidÆ Williams defend his Southern Area Cruiserweight Crown for the first time, against TitchfieldÆs Danny Couzens.

Back in February Williams suffered his first stoppage loss, in a non-championship battle with Blackpool based Slovakian Richard Turba, and is sure to be looking to redeem himself and keep his 2011 British title aspirations on track.

The main support for the double title header sees the welcome return of the sensational former English title challenger Michael Grant, who has just signed a promotional deal with Graham EarlÆs promotional business.

Now competing in the Lightweight division Grant will be looking to impress, after his year long sabbatical from the sport, as he has stated his intention to get straight back on the championship trail.

Former American Basketball star Emmanuel æMannyÆ Oshunrinde will be hoping that his return to York Hall will be more satisfying than his previous outing there.

Oshunrinde was clearly robbed of his first win on British soil when his shortened fight with Jahmaine Smyle was declared a technical draw, following the fight being stopped, in the first round, due to a serious cut over SmyleÆs right eye.

The cut to SmyleÆs eye, as well as a serious swelling below the right eye, were caused by the many solid and highly accurate jabs and punches Oshunrinde landed throughout the short encounter, however referee Ken Curtis bought into play the new technical draw rule rather than presenting Oshunrinde with the much deserved stoppage victory.

Graham also has his exciting Light Welterweight Terry Holmes out for his third professional bout, against a yet to be named opponent. Holmes has proved to be nothing short of sensational on his two previous outings and Graham has big expectations for the heavy hitting nineteen year old protΘgΘ from Stevenage.

Another big hitter, BelfastÆs Joe Hillerby, will also be getting his third outing. Hillerby, who debuted in October 2010, has made quite an impact on the scene. No surprise really, after all he is an all action heavy hitter with a knockout finish, as proved on his debut against Gavin Putney, which lasted just 43 seconds!

His second fight, against super tough Ryan Clark, lasted the full course and turned out to be one of the most action packed fights of the night at Graham EarlÆs excellent æCapital PunishmentÆ event back in January.

Lowestoft Featherweight Craig Poxton will be looking to get back to winning ways, following his loss to Youssef Al Hamidi a year ago.

Making their professional debuts at æRedemption DayÆ are BelfastÆs Mark Ginley, Heavyweight Scott Whyley and former Armed Services boxer Sam Standing, who will be joining his TKO Boxing Gym mates Williams, Grant and Oshunrinde on the show.

With GrahamÆs reputation of putting on closely matched all action bouts his æRedemption DayÆ event is sure to be one of the most exciting shows of the year so far.

Tickets for the Graham Earl Promoted æRedemption DayÆ event at the York Hall, Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 7th May 2011 are now on sale and priced ú35 (Unreserved) or ú60 (Ringside).

For tickets call: 07960 850645, book on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com or call in person at The TKO Boxing Gym, Gillian House, Stephenson Street, Canning Town, London E16 4SA.

Photo by: Carlos Baeza/Thompson Boxing



Saturday, April 23; Telecast Begins Live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT
From Nokia Theatre L.A. Live, Los Angeles, Calif. SANTA FE SPRINGS,
Calif. (April 11, 2011) - After a spirited 60-minute media workout
Monday at the Activity Center here, former International Boxing
Federation (IBF) bantamweight champion Yonnhy Perez (20-1-1, 14 KOs),
of Santa Fe Springs, proclaimed himself fit and ready for his
important 12-round fight against two-division world champion Vic
Darchinyan (35-3-1, 27 KOs), of Sydney, Australia, in The Bantamweight
Tournament: Winner Takes All on Saturday, April 23 LIVE on SHOWTIME®
(10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Nokia Theatre L.A.
LIVE in Los Angeles.

In the tournament finals, Joseph King Kong Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs), of
the Bronx, N.Y. will defend his IBF 118-pound title against undefeated
rising star Abner Mares (21-0-1, 13 KOs), of Hawaiian Gardens, Calif.

Perez will be making his initial start since he suffered the lone loss
of his career on a 12-round decision to Agbeko in a rematch on Dec.
11, 2010. In his first defense of the title he took from Agbeko on
Oct. 31, 2009, Perez boxed a draw with Mares on May 22, 2010. All
three fights were on SHOWTIME.

"I want my title back and the best way to do that is to win my next
fight and then challenge the winner between (Joseph) Agbeko and
(Abner) Mares,'' Perez said. "Both Agbeko and Mares got a shot at my
title and they were great fights. A rematch against either would be
just as exciting as our first fights.

"I'm totally recharged and ready to win by knockout. When I win this
fight, I will be back in the game.''

(on his training camp)

"This training is distinctly different in that I have a lot of
motivation. I was able to train in Colombia (for six weeks beginning
in late February) and that motivated me so much. At first I trained
with my old trainer from my amateur days and then Danny Zamora (his
current trainer) arrived in Colombia to help me finish out the
training there.

"But the most important thing for me was being able to be with my
family during that time. That helped me immensely. My mind is on them
all the time, whether I am with them or not, so being able to be with
them was a major factor. I didn't have to wonder if everything was OK;
I was right there with them. That made me more calm and at ease.

"I am not making excuses but before my last fight, I did my entire
training camp in the U.S. and I felt so unmotivated because my mind
was with my family and there was nothing I could do about it. I was
mentally drained and the proof was in my flat performance against
Agbeko. He fought the perfect fight that night but I wasn't there
mentally. I wish I could erase the past and continue to the future on
a positive note, but I lost. Now, my confidence is back and I am ready
to win again.

"This has been my best training camp and I feel I have never been
better. Motivation is the key with me. I am still hungry and you will
see that when we fight. You'll definitely see an improved performance
from me. I feel really strong. I'll show you everything on April 23.''
(on the brash-talking Darchinyan's vow to win by knockout)

"Vic Darchinyan can make any comment he would like to make. It's a
free country and he has the right. (But) His words don't motivate me.
I get my inspiration and my motivation from my family.

"Darchinyan is a great fighter but he has faded in his last couple of
losses. Abner Mares put him at the door and I am going to put him out.

"The only thing Darchinyan has going for him is his power punch. I am
a natural bantamweight; he is not.''

(his prediction on Agbeko-Mares)

"I have much respect for Abner Mares and Joseph Agbeko because they
are both great fighters. However, Abner Mares is a great friend of
mine and I believe he will win.''
PROMOTER KEN THOMPSON

"Training in Colombia has done wonders for Yonnhy. I've never seen him
more focused. He will show fight fans this on April 23 with an early
KO. You can take that to the bank."

Tickets, priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $25, are available online
at Ticketmaster.com, and via Ticketmaster charge-by-phone at (800)
745-3000. Tickets are also available at STAPLES Center Box Office.

On Friday, April 22nd, at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT, Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing will present that weeks ESPN "Friday Night Fights". Headlining the card is "The Mongolian Mongoose" Bayan Jargal (15-1-3, 10KO's) squaring off against the "Khanqueror" Breidis Prescott (23-2, 19KO's) in a ten round jr. welterweight showdown. Also featured on the card will be 2008 US Olympian, and highly regarded undefeated jr. middleweight prospect, Demetrius Andrade (12-0, 8KO's) taking on once beaten Omar Bell (8-1, 5KO's). If the two featured ESPN bouts aren't intriguing enough for you, Star Boxing's Publicist, Kevin Rooney Jr. will be making his pro-debut on the undercard.

The 26-year-old Rooney Jr., who graduated from Fordham University in the Bronx in 2007 and has been working for Star full-time since the summer of 2008, is trained and managed by his father, Mike Tyson's former trainer, Kevin Rooney Sr. After beginning boxing at just five years old, Rooney Jr. stepped away from the sport before coming back to it and returning to training after he came on board with Star.

STAR BOXING

"I always had the itch to get back into it, but when I started working for Joe (DeGuardia) and Star is when I really started to seriously think about it," says Rooney Jr. "I started training and took it one step at a time and now I am ready to take the next step."


"I always had the itch to get back into it, but when I started working for Joe (DeGuardia) and Star is when I really started to seriously think about it," says Rooney Jr. "I started training and took it one step at a time and now I am ready to take the next step."


While the typical fight night is a bit hectic for Rooney Jr. who handles all of the Public Relations, as well as many of the event coordination duties for Star, the April 22nd show will have him undoubtedly a bit more busy.


"Luckily for me my father's accent is Staten Island, Joe's is the Bronx, so I shouldn't get the two confused when I'm getting orders from both throughout the night," says Rooney with a laugh.


"He better end his fight quickly and be in and out of that dressing room before the next fight starts or we will have a real problem," jokes DeGuardia, CEO and President of Star Boxing, a former boxer himself. "All jokes aside, we couldn't be happier than to have Kevin make his debut on one of our cards. Working for Star, and the relationship we have built together the last three years it's only fitting."


"For those who haven't seen Kevin fight before, he has ability," adds DeGuardia. "I think a lot of people are going to be surprised when they see him in the ring. We are excited to see how far he can go with it. Besides the fact that he has his father's name and his father behind him, he is good looking Irish kid, with an exciting style, fighting out of New York. We are looking forward to start bringing in the Irish fan base, which is known to come out in armies to support their Irish fighters."


"I'm very excited for the opportunity to have my debut on one of Joe's cards," says Rooney. "Not a lot of people get to ever fight on such a high profile card, let alone make their pro-debut on it, so I couldn't be more thankful. I havSTAR BOXINGe been thinking about this day for a very long-time, and finally it's almost here. I have a lot of people coming out to show their support and I don't plan on letting them down."


Regarding his future in the sport, Rooney is optimistic.

"I'm working really hard every day in the gym. I feel myself maturing and improving each and every day. There are things that I obviously need to work on, but that's the great thing about this sport, you are always learning something new. While I might not have the biggest amateur background (Rooney Jr. had approximately 12 fights total from when he started as a young kid till now) I feel that I have one of the best trainers in the entire world in my father, and as long as I keep listening to him and keep working hard, the sky's the limit."


Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1 (800) 745-3000 or visiting www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased by calling the Star Boxing office at (718) 823-2000 or visiting www.starboxing.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the Mohegan Sun Box Office. Tickets are priced at $80, $50 and $35. ESPN will begin live coverage of the event starting at 8PM ET.


ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing, Inc. has been in operation since1992. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit the official website at www.starboxing.com

Four of the world's most talented and exciting bantamweights participated in a media conference call to discuss The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All
on Saturday, April 23 LIVE on SHOWTIME® (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles. International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight world champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs), of Accra, Ghana, will defend his title against the fast-rising, undefeated Abner Mares (21-0-1, 13KOs), of Hawaiian Gardens, Calif. by way of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, in the tournament final. Mares' WBC Silver bantamweight belt will also be on the line. In what will be a hotly contested 12-round co-feature, former two-division world champion Vic "Raging Bull" Darchinyan (35-3-1, 27 KOs), of Sydney, Australia, by way of Vanadzok, Armenia, and former IBF bantamweight world champion Yonnhy "El
Colombiano" Perez (20-1-1, 14 KOs), of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., by way of Cartagena, Colombia, will clash in a must-win tournament consolation bout. Tickets, priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $25 are on sale now and available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com and via Ticketmaster charge-by-phone lines at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at STAPLES Center Box Office. Doors at Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE open at 4 p.m. with the first non-televised undercard fight beginning at 5 p.m. PT. The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All is promoted by Don King Productions, Gary Shaw Productions, Golden Boy Promotions and Thompson Boxing Promotions and is sponsored by Corona and DeWalt Tools.

Here's what the fighters had to say on Wednesday's conference call: You're both coming off disappointing defeats in the Semifinals. What do you have to
prove?

DARCHINYAN: In my last fight I showed skills for all 12 rounds and didn't go bombing for a knockout. But no more, I'm changing my style again. I'm going to knock out everyone in front of me. This time it's Yonnhy Perez, I'm just coming to knock him out. I'm just coming to destroy him. You will see. People talk about when I moved to bantamweight and say I'm not as powerful as I was at 115 pounds? You will see how powerful I am at bantamweight.

PEREZ: "I have nothing to prove. Everyone knows me; I'm a former world champion.
Right now I'm just concentrating on Vic Darchinyan. I feel 100 percent confident. On April 23 everyone will see a great fight. Yonnhy, the first time you fought Agbeko you won. What did you do wrong or what did you change in the second fight that you lost?

PEREZ: "In the first fight Agbeko came to fight and slug it out with me. In the
second fight Agbeko came to box. Agbeko fought a great fight and he beat me. I'm not taking anything away from him." Yonnhy, have you ever sparred with Vic or watched his fights?

PEREZ: "I've watched Darchinyan fight before because we work with the same promoters. Darchinyan is going to do his job and I'm going to do my job and, at
the end, the promoter is going to come out winning because whoever wins is from the same promoter. But we're going to give a great fight. Darchinyan is a great person and it's just part of the sport. We respect it and we're going to do 100 percent for the fans." Yonnhy, it seemed like you flattened out in the second half of the last fight. What was the reason for that?

PEREZ: "I was frustrated with the fight. Mentally, I was just down. The cut hurt me a lot. It was something that happened and it won't happen again. I'm ready for this fight." Yonnhy, how did going back to Colombia and training with your family help you for this fight?

PEREZ: "It was a great motivation for me because I was close to my family; I got to see my kids all the time. And that's the reason I'm fighting - I'm fighting for my kids. That motivated me and that why I feel like I'm ready for this fight."

Vic, what kind of impact do you think the Armenian community will
have on your fight?

DARCHINYAN: "I'm very excited to fight in front of the crowd. It's great to have because you get more motivated for the fight. I love to fight in America, I love to fight in California. I've never lost in California, I love it. The stadium is a nice
stadium, a fancy stadium. It's great to fight here." Vic, where do you see the fight ending?

DARCHINYAN: "I'm coming to knock him out. He's a good fighter, it's nothing personal, I'm just coming to knock him out. I'm just going to punch the left and the right with damaging punches. I'm just coming to destroy him. I'm looking for a knockout in the fourth round. Is it going to happen, I don't know. Yonnhy, how will you prepare for Vic and counteract his technique?

PEREZ: "I'm prepared for however Darchinyan comes out. If he comes out to slug I'm
going to slug with him. If he comes to box, I'm going box. I'm prepared for whatever Darchinyan brings to me. We're just ready."

Vic, you're fighting in a consolation fight. Are there any issues
with motivation?

DARCHINYAN: "I'm a professional and I'm concentrating on my next opponent. What's happened in the past stays in the past. I'm just looking forward to this fight." Yonnhy, can you answer the same question?

PEREZ: "I have motivation in my family. I fight for my kids so they're better off, my family back home, friends, everybody. I fight for my country and my family. I'm just taking this fight as another fight that I need to win to get to that title shot again." Who do you think is going to win between Agbeko and Mares?

DARCHINYAN: "I don't care about who's going to win. I just want to fight the winner.
I'm looking forward to my next fighter."

PEREZ: "Both fighters are great fighters. But my friend Abner Mares is going to win this fight and he'll be a world champion. I know how hard he's worked for it and
it's his time." Yonnhy, you've fought them both. Do you think you should be first up to challenge the winner of the tournament?

PEREZ: "I believe so. That's why I'm getting ready for this fight because I know that the winner of this fight will take the next step to getting a rematch with either fighter." Vic, what would you tell your Armenian fans?

DARCHINYAN: "Boxing is about excitement. I'm not coming just to win the fight; I'm coming to bring excitement. I want excitement. I want to fight bigger guys. I want to fight world champions. I want to just prove my point and show everyone how strong I am at the moment. I have my style, I am who I am. I'm just going to show
everything in the ring. You're going to see my punches and you're going to hear my punches." "On the other side of the world in Armenia, April 24 is a very big day for Armenia. It's the Genocide of Armenia. I want everyone to see this fight and see how motivated I am for this fight. All my team is going to come and remember 1915. It's a very big day for Armenia."

DARCHINYAN & PEREZ CLOSING COMMENTS:
PEREZ: "I just want to thank SHOWTIME for putting this tournament together. And I want to thank the promoters. This is a big event and hopefully there are more events that can follow this."

DARCHINYAN:
"I'm fighting on SHOWTIME. I want to do something special. I want to put all my exciting fights on Showtime. "

AGBEKO & MARES OPENINGCOMMENTS:AGBEKO: "I want to thank SHOWTIME for putting together this tournament. Abner Mares is a very good fighter but I know I'm the
best bantamweight in the world and I'm going to win on April 23."

MARES: "I want to thank SHOWTIME for giving me this opportunity to showcase myself. I'm prepared 100 percent for this fight. I'm really focused and I'm going as a champion and I'm defending my title, too. It's destiny. About a year ago this time I was training to fight Yonnhy Perez, who I fought on May 22 of last year. Now I'm ready to fight Joseph Agbeko on April 23. It's destiny, it's a year apart.
It's the same belt - I let it go once, it slipped away from my hands, and I got a draw. I shook it off and we worked harder. Now we have a second chance. Not many people get second chances and I'm just going to take advantage of it." Abner, is there anyone you've fought that you can compare style-wise with Agbeko?

MARES: "I've said it before, I don't like to study tapes or an opponent because you don't know what's he going to bring in. When he comes to fight you it could be
totally different. I've never faced a fighter like Joseph Agbeko - Agbeko is a complete fighter, he can box, he can bomb, he can do whatever he wants in the ring. Really, it comes down to whatever style he brings in - we have to work with it and adapt to his style."

Abner, can you talk about how that setback against Perez affected
you?

MARES: "A loss or even a draw, which motivates you more, it depends on the person. I took it really serious and went back and worked extremely hard. I had the chance to fight for a world title and I got a draw, which I pretty much consider a loss. I didn't get the title so I just went back in the gym and trained harder. Now I
have a second chance and I have to take advantage of it."

Joseph, how did the loss to Perez outside the tournament affect you?

AGBEKO: "After losing to Yonnhy Perez I learned a couple of lessons and I've been working very hard since then. I had the chance to get back with the SHOWTIME Bantamweight Tournament and I was able to reclaim my belt from Yonnhy Perez. The lessons I learned from the first fight are making me work harder and harder every day for the fight with Abner Mares."

Abner, did the Perez fight help you in any way with motivation
against Darchinyan?

MARES: "I think every fight that you fight you take something from it and you learn something from it. The Darchinyan fight was a really tough fight. The first couple of rounds didn't go my way. I was cut and I was knocked down. I think what really helped me there was just the motivation and the strength, mentally, that I had just thinking about my family and not thinking about losing. Just the strength - mentally, I never gave up and I always continued to go forward and never had a losing mentality. I think that was the key in that fight." How do you think your styles will mesh in this fight?

MARES: "I think it's going to be an exciting fight. Obviously, you've seen our styles and have seen us fight. We can both brawl, we can both box. It really just depends what we bring into the ring and how adapt to the styles. I like to give exciting fights. There are times, even Agbeko said, where you go toe-to-toe; I sometimes like that because it makes the fight interesting and exciting."

AGBEKO: "I think we both are skillful and we both are very aggressive. Abner
is a very strong guy and always like coming in and throwing a lot of punches. I can do the same. I believe it's going to be a very beautiful fight. There's going to be a lot of action in this fight. I think the smarter fighter is going to win this fight. We're going to fight with our body, our strength and our energy and I think the smartest fighter is going to win."

NEW YORK (April 13, 2011) – New York State welterweight champion Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre extended his unbeaten streak to 10 after fighting to an eight-round draw last Thursday with hometown favorite Damian “Divo” Frias in Miami.

Sostre (11-3-1, 4 KOs), the newest member of Boxing 360’s growing stable of fighters, took the fight on late notice and fought WBC FECARBOX light welterweight champion Frias (16-4-1, 7 KOs) in his backyard. It marked Sostre’s first fight in 12 months and the Puerto Rico native, now living in Manhattan, hasn’t lost in four years.

“I’ve known him for a long time,” Boxing 360 Director of Boxing Bob Duffy talked about Sostre. “He spoke to us about promoting him and we worked out a deal. Fighting a draw on last minute notice against a hometown fighter, considering he hadn’t fought in a year, was a big positive. He always gives his best and never says no to a challenge. He’s defended his NY State title three times. He wants to prove that, with time to train properly, he belongs with anybody in his division.”

Sostre captured the NY State title in 2009 via a majority eight-round decision against Mike Ruiz, followed by successful title defenses against Tommy Rainone (DEC8), Frank Houghtaling (TKO6) and Jay Krupp (DEC8).

Other members of Boxing 360’s stable include USBA heavyweight champion Maurice
“Sugar Moe” Harris, former IBF super middleweight champion Alejandro “Naco” Berrio,
WBC No. 3 super bantamweight Leon “Hurry Up” Moore, NY State super middleweight title-holder Lennox “2 Sharpe” Allen, KO king Tyrone Brunson, Nick “Hands of Gold” Casal, Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, middleweight prospect DonYil Livingston, Joshua “The Juice” Harris, Emad Ali, Angel “Toro” Hernandez and “King” David Estrada.

NEW YORK, NY (April 2011) – World Boxing Council (WBC) # 5 rated “Vicious”
Victor Ortiz plans to go full throttle in order to knockout WBC Welterweight
World Champion and unbeaten star Andre Berto in their highly-anticipated
12-round “East-West Showdown” on April 16 at the MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods
in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

With training camp winding down and fight week here,
Ortiz kept his comments short and to the point regarding his fight with
Berto. Below are notes from Ortiz’s training camp in Oxnard,
California:

How was training camp for this fight?
“Training has been great.”

Have you prepared differently for Berto than previous
opponents?
“I have trained like never before in my
life.”

What is a typical Ortiz training day
like?
“It’s ‘Vicious.’”

Who have you been sparring with?
“My main sparring partner is Francisco “Chia” Santana;
the others are a secret.”

What is the most imperative strategy to win this
fight?
“Knock Berto out.”

How do you feel about coming to the East Coast to
fight?
“I will go to the end of hell and back to get my
belt.”

24-year-old Ortiz (28-2-2, 22 KO’s), fighting out of
Ventura, California, is hitting his fighting prime and has developed
into one of
the most popular fighters in boxing. The hard-punching southpaw holds victories
over former World Champions Nate Campbell (UD10), Vivian Harris (KO3)
and Carlos
Maussa (KO1) as well as high profile opponents such as Antonio Diaz
(TKO7), Mike
Arnaoutis (TKO2) and Jeffrey Resto (TKO2). The former NABO/USBA title holder
will look to capture his first world title by defeating Berto on April
16.

“East-West Showdown: Berto vs. Ortiz” is presented by DiBella
Entertainment, in association
with Golden Boy Promotions. The bout will be televised live on HBO’s World
Championship Boxing starting at 9:45 PM/ET 6:45 PM/PT. The broadcast kicks off
with Amir “King” Khan (24-1, 17 KO’s) defending his WBA Super Lightweight World
Title against Paul “Dudey” McCloskey (22-0, 12 KO’s) from the M.E.N. Arena in
Manchester, England.

Tickets are priced at $350, $200, $125 and $65 and are
available through the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office. Tickets can also be
purchased online at www.mgmatfoxwoods.com or by calling the MGM Grand at
Foxwoods at 1-866-646-0609.

For information about
DiBella Entertainment, including a list of all upcoming bouts, please visit
www.dbe1.com,
or follow Lou DiBella on twitter, @loudibella.

For information on
Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,
Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or
on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing or Victor Ortiz @VICIOUSOrtiz.

Follow HBO Boxing news
at www.hbo.com/boxing, Facebook
at www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter www.twitter.com/hboboxing.

NEW YORK, NY (April 2011) – World Boxing Council (“WBC”) Welterweight World Champion and undefeated star Andre Berto is experiencing one of his best training camps ever in preparation for his sixth title defense April 16 against WBC # 5 rated challenger “Vicious” Victor Ortiz in the 12-round main event headlining the “East-West Showdown” card at the MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods in Mashantucket, Connecticut.

“East-West Showdown: Berto vs. Ortiz” is presented by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Golden Boy Promotions. The bout will be televised live on HBO’s World Championship Boxing starting at 9:45 PM/ET 6:45 PM/PT. The broadcast kicks off with Amir “King” Khan (24-1, 17 KOs) defending his WBA Super Lightweight World Title against Paul “Dudley” McCloskey (22-0, 12 KOs) from the M.E.N. Arena in Manchester, England.

Berto (27-0, 21 KOs), a 2004 Haitian Olympian fighting out of Winter Haven, Florida, captured the vacant WBC Welterweight World Title in 2008 by way of a seventh round technical knockout of Miguel Angel “Miki” Rodriguez. The lightning-quick boxer has made five successful title defenses against World Champions Steve “2 Pound” Forbes (UD12), Luis Collazo (UD12), Juan “Iron Twin” Urango (UD12), and Carlos “El Indio” Quintana (TKO8), as well as veteran Freddy “Riel” Hernandez (TKO1) last November.
Below are notes from Berto’s training camp in Winter Haven, Florida and his comments:

Training Camp
“This training camp has to be one of my best thus far, simply because I have been staying in shape during my off time with my strength-and-conditioning coach, Cleveland Berto. So, when training camp came around, I got in rhythm within the second week. As the weeks go on, I’m feeling stronger, faster and more conditioned. I am ready to get in the ring.”

Different Preparation for Ortiz
“I always work hard in training camp. He’s a southpaw with power, so we have to prepare and tweak a couple of things to get ready for the fight.”

Typical Berto Training Day
“I work harder and harder as fight night gets closer. We do two-a-days, swim three times a week, run and go to the boxing gym every day.”

Gameplan
“I need to do what I’ve been doing: stay sharp, smart and, of course, be the last man standing.”

Fighting at Foxwoods
“It feels good to be back on the East Coast, closer to where it all started for me. It’s a new venue so this gives two great fighters the opportunity to put it on the map because this fight will be a good one. People will remember who and where it was fought.”

Tickets are priced at $350, $200, $125, and $65 and went on sale today through the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office. Tickets can be purchased online at www.mgmatfoxwoods.com, by calling the MGM Grand at Foxwoods at 1-866-646-0609, or in person at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office.

For information about DiBella Entertainment, including a list of all upcoming bouts, please visit www.dbe1.com, or follow Lou DiBella on twitter, @loudibella. Follow Andre Berto on Twitter, @AndreBerto.

For information on Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, on twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing or Victor Ortiz @VICIOUSOrtiz.
Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter www.twitter.com/hboboxing.

ORANGE, CA (April 6, 2011) - It will be a spring slugfest on Friday, April 29, when Thompson Boxing Promotions presents a WBC CABOFE junior welterweight championship fight pitting Riverside's Jose "El Niño" Reynoso against Texas' Esteban Almaraz. This bout headlines the latest edition of the popular "New Blood" series at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.

Also featured on this seven bout card will be Alberto "Baby Dynamite" Herrera, and unbeatens Abraham "Chamaco" Lopez and Jonathan "Lil' Thund'r" Arellano.

Tickets for "NEW BLOOD" are priced at $75, $45, and $30. They are available now and may be purchased by calling 714-935-0900.

Fresh from a near shutout win over veteran Santos Pakau on February 25th, Mexicali native Jose Reynoso (14-3-1, 2 KOs) will return to the Doubletree for his fourth straight appearance on April 29, but this bout has even more at stake, since the 26 year old will be looking to defend his WBC CABOFE crown for the first time and continue on his road to a world title shot.

Harlingen, Texas' Esteban Almaraz (10-3, 4 KOs) is a veteran of over four years in the pro ranks, and with wins in three of his last five bouts, including a six round victory over former world champion Nestor Garza last June, he has received plenty of deserved praise from around the boxing world. Later this month he will attempt to stop Reynoso's five fight unbeaten streak in front of his hometown fans.

In an intriguing eight round welterweight bout, it will be a California turf war when Riverside's Alberto Herrera (7-2-1, 5 KOs) squares off against East Los Angeles' Aron Martinez (13-1-1, 3 KOs). Eager to get back to his winning ways after losses to Demetrius Andrade and Chris Chatman, the 29 year old Herrera will have his hands full with Mexico City native Martinez, whose current five fight winning streak includes a win over Pavel Miranda last June at the Doubletree.

Another match that will have boxing fans watching closely is the six round featherweight showdown between La Puente's Abraham Lopez (13-0, 10 KOs) and Vista's Aron Garcia (10-1-2, 2 KOs). The 23 year old Lopez likes nothing better than an emphatic knockout win, and thus far in his career he's taken out eight opponents in two rounds or less. Garcia is a veteran who hasn't lost a fight since 2006, and he has his sights set on removing the "0" from Lopez' record on April 29.

In undercard action...

Ontario's own Jonathan Arellano (7-0-1, 1 KO) will put his unbeaten record up for grabs in a six round bantamweight matchup against Denver's Ernie Marquez (9-8-1, 3 KOs).

Also, New Hampshire junior welterweight Jhon Ortega (3-0-1, 3 KOs) looks for another knockout victory, but he'll be put to the test by Harlingen, Texas' Hector Garza (3-1, 2 KOs), a fighter with a pretty fair KO punch of his own.

In a four round super bantamweight contest, Indio's Francisco Ochoa makes his pro debut against Bakersfield's Jose Garcia (0-3), and in the opening bout of the evening, debuting Puerto Rican super bantamweight Angel Aponte takes on an opponent to be announced at a later date.

Bouts subject to change. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the first bell rings at 7:30 pm. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 North Vineyard Avenue in Ontario. The hotel phone number is 909-937-0900

HARTFORD (April 6, 2011) – Popular East Hartford lightweight Joseph “Chip” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) puts his undefeated record on the line Saturday night at home against unbeaten Esteban Nichol (2-0, 1 KO) on “The Willie Pep Boxing Classic” card, presented by Hard Hittin’ Promotions (“HHP”), at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

In a crossroads fight of significant interest, local heavyweight favorite Tony “TNT” Grano (17-2-1, 13 KOs), the 2005 U.S. Nationals amateur champion, meets veteran “Diamond” Dominque Alexander (20-10-1, 10 KOs) in the eight-round main event.

Perez, who works for the Connecticut Department of Children & Family, was born and raised in Holyoke (MA). The 24-year-old former New England Golden Gloves champion recently has had, unfortunately, several scheduled fights fall through. His last action was back in November, a first-round knockout of Ronnie Peterson at Mohegan Sun. Saturday night he’s matched against Nichol in a four-round bout.

“I don’t know anything about my opponent other than he’s 2-0 and a former Golden Gloves champ from Colorado,” Perez said. “I trust my manager, Bret Hallenbeck, and I’m always ready to fight. My style depends on my opponent. I adjust to what my he does in the ring.

“Fighting at home is awesome. Mohegan Sun is in Connecticut but it’s a long distance (from Hartford) compared to the Connecticut Convention Center, which is only five minutes from my house. I was born and raised in Holyoke and I always have a lot of family and friends from there supporting me when I fight. They’ll be there for this fight, too, along with family, friends and co-workers from here (Hartford).”

Perez’ chief second is former world title contender “Iceman” John Scully, who trains numerous boxers at Lion’s Den Connecticut in Middletown. “He’s has been very exciting and dynamic so far in each of his five fights,” Scully commented. “He’s shown that he can box and punch, but he’s been most exciting for fans when he comes in with both guns blazing, letting go five and six punch combinations. He had more than 100 amateur bouts. He spars frequently with the likes of Matt Remillard and Mike Oliver and more than holds his own. If he stays on course, I think he will have a great future in the professional game.”

Remillard and Oliver are locally-based world-class boxers. “Sparring with them has been a great experience for me,” Perez noted, “going against guys who are such bigger names. I’ve learned how to adjust and adapt by working with these two world class fighters. I study Matt and Mike, as well as John, when they spar and try to remember what I saw when I’m in the ring. I’m learning what they’ve been through, in and out of the ring, and I often talk to them about boxing.”

Bantamweight Danny Aquino (5-1, 1 KO), fighting out of Meriden (CT), faces James Owens (4-2, 2 KOs) in the six-round co-feature.

The undercard showcases some of the best young fighters in New England, including Norwalk (CT) veteran Shakha Moore (10-15-3, 2 KOs) vs. welterweight Noel Garcia (2-8, 1 KO), and promising New Haven featherweight and former amateur standout, Luis Rosa (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. Tommy Attencio (4-6, 2 KOs), both in six-round bouts .

Also scheduled to fight on the is Middletown (CT) favorite, light heavyweight Doug Cartelli (1-0), against Jaquan Williams in his pro debut, plus undefeated Philadelphia super featherweight Frank Trader (7-0, 2 KOs) versus John Willoughby (2-6, 1 KO). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

There will be a special wheelchair boxing exhibition match wheelchair boxer Ian Cannon, an 18-year-old college student who faces former New England Golden Gloves champion Luis Reynoso, of Springfield (MA), in a three-round wheelchair boxing exhibition under amateur boxing rules (headgear, large gloves, etc.). The inspirational Cannon, of Glastonbury (CT), suffers from cerebral palsy but regularly trains at Lion’s Den Connecticut in Middletown, where he has developed a wheelchair boxing program, “Roll With The Punches.”

Tickets are priced at $100.00 (ringside), $80.00 (preferred seating), $60.00 (reserved) and $40.00 (general admission) and are available to purchase by calling 860.402.4838 or The Lion’s Den at 860.613.2394.

Willie Pep: Born Gugliermo Papaleo in 1922 in Middletown, CT. He was a 2-time world champion who retired in 1966 after a 26 year professional career with an amazing 229-11-1 (65 KOs) record. In 1990, Pep was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York. He died November 23, 2006 at the age of 84.

Photo Credit: Tom Casino/SHOWTIME

Click on thumbnail for larger pics


BRONX, N.Y. (April 2011) – International Boxing Federation (IBF) Bantamweight Champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko participated in a media workout today at John’s Boxing Gym in the Bronx, N.Y. as he prepares for Abner Mares in the eagerly anticipated final of The Bantamweight Tournament: Winner Takes All on Saturday, April 23 LIVE on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles.

In the must-win co-feature, former Two-Division World Champion Vic “Raging Bull” Darchinyan (35-3-1, 27 KOs), of Sydney, Australia, by way of Vanadzok, Armenia, and former IBF Bantamweight World Champion Yonnhy “El Colombiano” Perez (20-1-1, 14 KOs), of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., by way of Cartagena, Colombia, will square off in the tournament consolation bout.

Agbeko (28-2, 22 KOs), of the Bronx, by way of Accra, Ghana. recaptured the IBF title from Perez in the tournament’s semifinal round, while Mares (21-0-1, 13 KOs), of Hawaiian Gardens, Calif. by way of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, won a close split decision over Darchinyan.

Tickets, priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $25, are available online at Ticketmaster.com, and via Ticketmaster charge-by-phone at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at STAPLES Center Box Office.

The Bantamweight Tournament Final: Winner Takes All is promoted by Don King Productions, Gary Shaw Productions, Golden Boy Promotions and Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Corona. An exciting undercard will be announced shortly.

Here’s what Agbeko had to say on Tuesday:

JOSEPH KING KONG AGBEKO:

“The winner of this fight is the best bantamweight in the world, of course! Ya know, this tournament was open to everybody – all the greatest fighters at bantamweight. The tough fought. We were brave enough to make the decision to fight in the tournament and that shows that we are the best fighters at bantamweight. So the winner of this tournament becomes the best bantamweight in the world.

“The fight with Vic was the only war that Mares has been through. I’ve been in a couple of wars, as far as boxing is concerned. No disrespect to [Mares] but I think I’m the better fighter. Against him, I’ve got better skills. There’s [no] way that he can go through me. “



2-2-2
Joseph Agbeko Workout Quotes in Advance of The Bantamweight Tournament Final Against Abner Mares on SHOWTIME

“When I come to the fight prepared, no one can survive. When I fought Yonnhy Perez the first time, I wasn’t fully prepared for that fight. Even though that was a very close fight, I didn’t think I was going to lose. But a few head butts happened and it went to the favor of Yonnhy Perez and I lost the fight. In the second fight, I proved to the world that I’m the best bantamweight.

“I feel happy to be in the final of the tournament. The only prediction that I know is that I am going to come out of the ring as the winner of the night. I’ve really prepared for [Mares]. I don’t know if he’ll be able to take the strength and the skills that I bring to the ring. If he can take it, then I’m going to beat him unanimously. If he can’t, it’s going to be a knockout.

“To be honest with you, I have not watched Abner Mares [vs.] Vic Darchinyan because Vic is a different fighter [than me] so I don’t need to watch. Plus, Vic is a southpaw so I can’t really see anything in that fight.

“I’m thinking of moving up to featherweight to take on the big guys. I’m thinking of Gamboa, Lopez and I’m thinking of being in the league with them. After this fight, if I don’t get any good competition then I’m going to move to featherweight. I want to fight them. I want to prove to the world that I’m the best.

“Joseph King Kong Agbeko is not my nickname. It’s an original name. It’s my birth name. I think my dad had a vision of something. My dad gave me the name “King Kong” as I was born. It’s my real name. It’s on my passport and everything.”

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HARTFORD (April 2011) – Mexican-American bantamweight prospect Danny Aquino, trained by his father Julian, is looking forward to making a statement Saturday night in the six-round co-feature fighter on “The Willie Pep Boxing Classic” card, presented by Hard Hittin’ Promotions (“HHP”), at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.

In a crossroads fight of significant interest, local heavyweight favorite Tony “TNT” Grano (17-2-1, 13 KOs), the 2005 U.S. Nationals amateur champion, takes on veteran “Diamond” Dominque Alexander (20-10-1, 10 KOs) in the eighth-round main event.
The 21-year-old Aquino (5-1, 1 KO), fighting out of Meriden (CT), will attempt to bounce back from his only pro loss, last December in Florida against undefeated Yoandris Salinsas by way of a four-round split decision, in the six-round co-feature versus James Owens (4-2, 2 KOs).

“I’m looking forward to fight at home this weekend,” Danny said. “I know I’ll have a lot of family and friends there supporting me. My last fight I thought that I won a unanimous decision, but we fought in my opponent’s hometown and they gave him a win by split decision. That’s ok, though, because it’s made me a different fighter. I’ve trained much harder and I’m better shape for this fight.

“My opponent has two losses but they were to undefeated guys who have real good records (Leo Santa Cruz 15-0-1, 9 KOs and Rances Barthelemy 11-0-0, 9 KOs). Ownes is going to be a good test for me. I’m a warrior who comes forward but, for this fight, people are going to be seeing a little different Danny Aquino. I’m still going to bring it, but. I’ll also be boxing more than in the past.”

The undercard showcases some of the best young fighters in New England, including Norwalk (CT) veteran Shakha Moore (10-15-3, 2 KOs) vs. TBA, and promising New Haven featherweight and former amateur standout, Luis Rosa (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. Tommy Attencio (4-6, 2 KOs), both in six-round bouts; undefeated East Hartford Joseph “Chip” Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) faces unbeaten Esteban Nicol (2-0) in a 4-rounder.

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard are a pair of Middletown (CT) favorites, light heavyweight Doug Cartelli (1-0) and pro-debuting super featherweight Willie Picard, respectively, against the Williams brothers, Jaquan Williams in his pro debut and Charles (0-1), plus undefeated Philadelphia super featherweight Frank Trader (7-0, 2 KOs) versus John Willoughby (2-6, 1 KO). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

There will be a special wheelchair boxing exhibition match wheelchair boxer Ian Cannon, an 18-year-old college student who meets former New England Golden Gloves champion Luis Reynoso, of Springfield (MA), in a three-round wheelchair boxing exhibition under amateur boxing rules (headgear, large gloves, etc.). The inspirational Cannon, of Glastonbury (CT), suffers from cerebral palsy but regularly trains at Lion’s Den Connecticut in Middletown, where he has developed a wheelchair boxing program, “Roll With The Punches.”

Tickets are priced at $100.00 (ringside), $80.00 (preferred seating), $60.00 (reserved) and $40.00 (general admission) and are available to purchase by calling 860.402.4838 or The Lion’s Den at 860.613.2394.

Willie Pep: Born Gugliermo Papaleo in 1922 in Middletown, CT. He was a 2-time world champion who retired in 1966 after a 26 year professional career with an amazing 229-11-1 (65 KOs) record. In 1990, Pep was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York. He died November 23, 2006 at the age of 84.

NEW YORK, NY (April 2011) – Last Thursday’s media conference call featured World Boxing Council (“WBC”) Welterweight Champion Andre Berto and WBC #5 rated title challenger “Vicious” Victor Ortiz in advance of their “East-West Showdown” event on April 16 from the MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods, airing live on HBO World Championship Boxing. Also on the call were Berto’s promoter Lou DiBella, the promoter of the event, and trainer Tony Morgan, as well as Ortiz’s promoter Richard Schaefer and adviser Rolando Arellano.

WBC Welterweight World Champion, Andre Berto: “I caught the end of his conference call. It seems they were gassing him up at camp. April 16th is going to be a reality check for him. They’ve been lying to him at training camp thinking this is going to be an easy fight. The ring is a really cold place to find out that. Like he said, the fight won’t go the distance, only it’s going to come out on our side.”

“I feel I’ll always get a little criticism. A lot of people believe in my skills and potential. I’m fighting Victor Ortiz. I’m going in with a guy with a lot of speed and power. He’s going to bring some action and try to prove himself. At the end of the day I don’t listen to criticism. You need balls to step in the ring against anybody. I’m comfortable in myself and my true fans believe.”
“Victor Ortiz is a big guy, physically bigger than I am. He’s a competitive fighter, one I’m looking forward to fighting. I don’t listen to what others say, I’m staying focused on the fight.”

“Luis Collazo is a tough veteran. I’m my end I wasn’t in shape like I was supposed tp. That’s a mistake fighters on the rise go on and don’t take (fights) as seriously as some. It almost cost me the fight. I made that fight tough. Luis Collazo is tough, give him credit.”

“I saw different pieces of it (Ortiz vs. Peterson). Victor Ortiz is a good kid and can fight. He is limited in a lot of areas. He’s trying to box but needs to be set on his feet to throw punches. He’s a tough kid. Lamont Peterson, later in the fight, hit him with a lot of tough shots. If I had hit him like that, he probably would go to sleep. He definitely comes to fight.”

“Skills pay the bills. I can out-power him; I can out-skill him. Any way it goes. What showed in the Maidana fight, maybe he feels that he has a lot more to prove and he’s willing to die to prove it. I have a heart of a lion – where it comes from, how I’m built. There’s no question about my heart. I have to question his on everything from one situation, when he had to endure controversy – he didn’t like to crack back. At the end of the day, you can’t teach what beats in the chest. You either have it – heart - or you don’t.”

“I’m not sure. All of my focus is on fight night. I don’t see past this fight. All my energy and training I’ve put into this fight in a couple of weeks. “
“I’m feeling sharp. It’s always different going in against a southpaw. It’s been going well and now I’m hurting southpaws anytime, almost second nature. There should be no problem at all.

“I try to stay sharp in there -- he needs to stay in shape as well, he knows I can take him out with one punch -- not get lazy and make every move a smart move.”
“I’ve been sparring big guys my whole life, 160-165, some 170. I don’t think he’s stringer than guys I’ve been in there with. Juan Urango was the hardest puncher at 140. I’m looking forward (to fighting Ortiz) to see what all the hype’s about.”
“He has a lot of different weaknesses. He’s been a puncher trying to box. I don’t think he has it all done, yet. April 16th I’ll use all my skills to expose him.”
“A lot of guys predicting ask him how he’s going to handle my power. Let’s see how he handles real power. I got caught early in my career - my hand just hit the canvas – and I got aggressive. I didn’t quit, I got aggressive.”

“I think he’s a tough kid. It’s hard to say because I haven’t been in the ring with him. I can answer that after the fight. How do you figure his competition (is high level)? I fought Collazo, Urango and (Carlos) Quintana who beat Paul Williams. They say the fighters I’ve fought are a lower level of competition. I won’t get credit that I deserve (after the Ortiz fight). I just keep knocking guys out. Talk doesn’t make a difference. Every time I step in with ‘em I’ll make it look like that (easy).”
“I don’t care. The last 27 opponents were guys who were going to knock me out, take me into deep water and drown me, I was too young, I make mistakes. Maybe Victor Ortiz took a class that tricks you into thinking something else. If he does, fine; it’ll be a better fight but shorter fight.”

“It’s the name of the game, I love it. Victor Ortiz can say what he wants. The macho Mexican thing, or his team hyping him up. April 16th he knows he’ll be in with the truth. Once I beat him he’ll see his friends disappear. A lot of kids have to go through that.”

“They’re making a mistake if they’re watching the Collazo fight. It was close but I wasn’t prepared mentally or physically. It was the worst I’ll ever look. I’ve had tremendous sparring, non-stop, getting familiar with his style – southpaw angles – mentally getting prepared for those punches.”

“I’ve gotten a lot of credit but there’s been a lot downplayed. The boxing public, in general, just wants an exciting, young fighter against the No. 1 guy instead of a credible opponent. They want to see me fight the Mayweathers and Pacquiao but, until that happens, they say, OK, you were supposed to win. I can’t get upset. At first I didn’t understand but I’ve grown up in front of fans fighting on HBO since my 16th or 17th fight. It’s like watching a student in the ninth grade go to the 12th to see how they tackle the world. I’m focused on April 16th, handle that and then see what happens.”

“It only matters if you win. Victor Ortiz was the new Fernando Vargas, promoted by Golden Boy with a Spanish background. Then he lost. They turned their backs on him. The only thing that matters is he’s coming to fight (Apr. 16).”

“My big fight is April 16th on HBO. I’m fighting a young, hungry lion. I’ve been calling these guys (Mayweather and Pacquiao) out: been there, done that. I can’t keep yelling out there names after each fight. Same thing with Donaire and Martinez, Who do you want to fight, Mayweather or Pacquiao? I’ll keep dominating the guys in front of me. All the barking, as you see, really doesn’t get the business done. If they want to fight you, they’ll fight you.”

World Title Challenger, “Vicious” Victor Ortiz: “I’m doing quite well and prepared. Nothing has been easy at camp. I know where I’m going and what I’m about. I must be champion and I will be champion. Berto has been talked about as the next thing. I don’t agree. April 16th I must and will bring back the belt.”
“Not much has been different. I’ve always made weight easy at 140. When everybody runs from you at 140, you go up to 147, and I shot for the top of the line, Andre Berto.”
“I stepped out of my shell. For me, it’s not to be good or to be great; it’s excellence. It’s my time!”

“It’s normal for me (gaining 16 pounds between the weigh in and fight). More eyes were on me, so people noticed (last fight). I was one of the biggest threats at 140.”
“I want to be the best fighter. I want to be great.”
“Berto was the only one to give me a shot. I didn’t come up to fight at 147. I just want my belt.”

(draw vs. Lamont Peterson) “Total bull s**t. That’s in the past. I’m focused on fighting the best 147 pounder in the world. You can talk about Peterson all you want, call him. I thought it was complete bull.”

“In my heart and mind, I won that. Obviously, during the show I didn’t show any pain to the media or fans, but in the locker room it hit me and I cried. It’s a new day, new camp; out with the old and in with the new WBC Welterweight Champion of the world.”

“I’m going to be crowned, no matter what. I’ve paid my dues. I’ve been here a while and finally they’re going to give me a shot. It’s my time! Winning The Ring title definitely is important to me because it shows I’m the best in the world.”
(about Marcos Rene Maidana) “He’s running left and right, dodging me. He sees me in his nightmares. When he gets the courage and comes out of the closet, he can meet me at 147.”

“I just listen to my corner. I always do and had just one slip-up against Maidana. That’s the difference between then and now. If Maidana want to end his career, he should move up to 147.”

“I’m ready for whatever comes my way, not dodging or putting anyone aside.”
“Mike Tyson once said, ‘Everybody has a plan until they get hit.’ He says he has power, so do I; he says he has speed, so do I. I’m not expecting less than the green belt coming home with me.”

“I will do whatever it takes to take that green belt home with me.”
“You say I haven’t fought a puncher. Maidana was considered the toughest puncher at 140 and 147 and he couldn’t put me down. Berto hasn’t been hit by someone like me. He’ll see April 16th.”

“April 16th, see it all. April 16th is the day on HBO.”
“I’m not going to be the gatekeeper (at 140). I’m fighting at 147 and I’ll be the king there. Everybody had their chance at 140.”
“How is he Berto going to deal with my speed and power? I’m going to listen to my corner.”
President of DiBella Entertainment & Berto’s Promoter , Lou DiBella: “We call this ‘East-West-Showdown’ and it’s going to be a terrific fight of different styles between two of the most exciting young fighters. We’re expecting both guys to bring it for an explosive fights, which is what fight fans want to watch. They’re going to get that April 16th at Foxwoods. I want to thank Foxwoods for taking this fight. Tickets are moving fairly quick, considering we got off to a little late start.

“Tickets are $350, $200, $125, and $65 and on sale on line at www.mgmatfoxwoods.com, by calling the MGM Grand at Foxwoods at 1-866-646-0609, or at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office. I’d like to thank HBO for televising this great fight that they wanted and we’re giving to them.”

“I think it’s great to have Victor showing up confident and talking about hurting the champ. He won’t’ and he won’t win. It’s good because it’ll make an explosive fight.”

“This is his (Berto’s) most difficult fight. Fight fans wanted it, HBO wanted it. We wanted bigger fights but, if we can’t make those fights, what are we supposed to do? Victor Ortiz has never been less than 156 the night of a fight. He’s probably bigger than Andre. This is not a welterweight going against a 140 pounder. That’s 100-percent BS. Like Berto said, we can’t control what people think.”

“Victor can say what he wants but gaining 16 pounds in 24 hours isn’t normal. He moved up because he had to. He could probably get down to 140 for the right fight just like Andre Berto would to up to 154 for the right fight. He has no intention of fighting again at 140. He’ll weigh 156 in the ring. He is a welterweight.”

“We need to make fights like this. Fans and the media have been receptive. Now you need to give people what they wasn’t and we will April 16th. We always try to make the best fights. The best fighter in the world, Floyd Mayweather, is not available. When was the last time Manny Pacquiao fought a fighter? He’s been protected. Bob Arum will not put him in a fight like that if he’s making money. There’s been an issue trying to make a fight against Cotto. Mosley was going to fight Berto except for the Haiti tragedy. He got an opportunity to fight Pacquiao for much bigger money. Outside of Mayweather, Pacquiao and Berto there’s not as much talent at 147. That’s the same problem Sergio Martinez is encountering at 160.”

CEO of Golden Boy Promotions & Ortiz’s Promoter, Richard Schaefer: “I want to thank Team Berto for taking this fight. There’s no question, no doubt, that it’s the most dangerous fight ever for Berto. I want to thank Al Haymon and HBO for getting this great show. I’ve been on a press tour for Pascal/Hopkins and I’ve heard very positive feedback from the media and fans about this fight. It’s exciting and people have a chance to see it for $65. That’s amazing for a world championship fight at Foxwoods. If not, turn on HBO on April 16th.

“I googled ‘vicious’ and it said ‘able to inflict pain or suffering’ and that’s what he is capable of and will be doing April 16. Those in the media who know Victor will know that he’s hungry again, to prove what he is all about. I know we will have a new world welterweight champion April 16th. He has set his heart on it and will deliver. He is in the middle of training in Oxnard with his team.”

“If you think you know Victor, or have been around him, this is a different Victor Ortiz – the confidence, the speed, the youth. They will all make the difference April 16th live on HBO.”

Berto’s Trainer, Tony Morgan: “I can see why Victor didn’t want to be on the conference call with us. He got hot with Maidana and wanted a way out. I wish the kid luck. I hope he doesn’t get hurt but we have a job to do April 16th.”

“I’ve watched Victor Ortiz and he’s a lot of in and out. His main strength is his right jab, strong left. One-two, pretty complacent. He hits hard and has hurt a lot of people with that one-two. We’ve adjusted. Victor’s not going to handle the speed we’re bringing to the table. He wants to bang and prove he’s not shot and he’s got heart. The last few guys he’s fought couldn’t punch. Lamont Peterson touched him a few times and he started running. If he thinks Maidana is a strong puncher, he doesn’t hit as hard as Andre Berto.”

Ortiz’s adviser, Rolando Arellano: “It’s important to thank Lou DiBella and, more importantly, Andre Berto for giving our team an opportunity of a lifetime for Victor Ortiz. We understand Andre Berto is one of the best out there and respect him more than some of the media. Victor Ortiz has trained like never before. He is taking it to the next level and will bring it all into the ring April 16th.”

“The night of the Lamont Peterson fight, he came in at 156 pounds on the HBO scale, and gaining 16 pounds was an indication to Team Ortiz and Oscar de la Hoya that Victor Ortiz would tackle the challenge at a higher weight class. Instead of taking an easier fight at 147, Victor looked to the biggest and the best challenge and that was Andre Berto. If they stood next to each other, you’d see that Victor is the naturally bigger guy, and younger guy. He will make you believe.”

“East-West Showdown: Berto vs. Ortiz” is presented by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Golden Boy Promotions. The bout will be televised live on HBO’s World Championship Boxing starting at 9:45 PM/ET 6:45 PM/PT. The broadcast kicks off with Amir “King” Khan (24-1, 17 KOs) defending his WBA Super Lightweight World Title against Paul “Dudley” McCloskey (22-0, 12 KOs) from the M.E.N. Arena in Manchester, England.

Tickets are priced at $350, $200, $125, and $65 and on sale through the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office. Tickets can be purchased online at www.mgmatfoxwoods.com, by calling the MGM Grand at Foxwoods at 1-866-646-0609, or in person at the MGM Grand at Foxwoods box office.

For information about DiBella Entertainment, including a list of all upcoming bouts, please visit www.dbe1.com, or follow Lou DiBella on twitter, @loudibella.
For information on Golden Boy Promotions, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, on twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing or Victor Ortiz @VICIOUSOrtiz.
Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing and on twitter @hboboxing.

NEW YORK (April 2011) – A pair of Boxing 360 fighters, World Boxing Council No. 3 rated super bantamweight Leon “Hurry Up” Moore and promising middleweight prospect DonYil Livingston, both registered unanimous six-round decision victories last Saturday evening in Brooklyn.

The 31-year-old southpaw Moore (28-2, 22 KOs), from Guyana, is the reigning PABA and WBC CABOFE super bantamweight champion, as well as the former NABA, Guyanese and CABOFE bantamweight titlist. In his United States debut, He defeated Moore outclassed veteran Felipe Almanza (18-23-4, 9 KOs).

“We were excited to introduce Leon Moore to U.S. boxing fans,” Boxing 360 CEO and Founder Mario Yagobi commented. “He’s a world-rated super bantamweight contender. Our goal is to better position him for a world title fight this year against (WBC super bantamweight champion Toshiaki) Nishioka or any of the other world champions.”

Moore captured the WBC CABOFE and NABA bantamweight belts in September 2009, when he won a unanimous 12-round decision against former 2-time world champion Maurico Pastrana. Last January, Leon won a unanimous 12-round decision versus Indonesia Boxing Association champion Marangin Marbun for the vacant PABA crown. In his last fight (Nov. 16), Moore won a 10-round decision against Breilor Teran in Guyana.

Livingston (3-0), the most recent addition to the growing Boxing 360 stable, won a six-round decision against rugged Greg Hackett (2-7). “We’re very high on DonYil who was a highly decorated amateur boxer,” Yagobi noted. “This was his first fight on the East Coast. He has good bloodlines, his cousin is Andre Ward.”

Livingston, 26, fights out of Palmdale, California. He had a solid 178-23 (83 KOs) amateur record, including gold medal performances in the National Silver Gloves (1996, 1998 and 2000), National Junior Golden Gloves (1995-2000), 2000 National & International Junior Olympic s, 2001 National Under-19 Tournament, and 2004 Ringside World Championships.

“Most importantly,” Boxing 360 director of boxing Bob Duffy remarked, “Leon and DonYil both won their New York City debuts. Leon was in total control of his fight and DonYil got in much needed work against a tough opponent.”

Other members of Boxing 360’s stable include USBA heavyweight champion Maurice “Sugar Moe” Harris, former IBF super middleweight champion Alejandro “Naco” Berrio, NY State super middleweight title-holder Lennox “2 Sharpe” Allen, KO king Tyrone Brunson, Nick “Hands of Gold” Casal, Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, Mike Mollo, Joshua “The Juice” Harris, Emad Ali, Angel “Toro” Hernandez and “King” David Estrada.

Go on line to www.boxing360.com for more information about Moore, Livingston, or any of Boxing 360 fighters, as well as upcoming events.

Photos courtesy of: Showtime Sports

The FIGHT CAMP 360°: Pacquiao vs. Mosley camera crews are embedded and filming in the Philippines with Manny Pacquiao and Big Bear, Calif. with “Sugar” Shane Mosley, capturing the most intimate training camp moments as both fighters prepare for their May 7 showdown on SHOWTIME PPV®. Prior to joining both camps, the FIGHT CAMP 360° camera crews were allowed unfiltered access to the promotion’s coast-to-coast press tour and inside the Top Rank headquarters in Las Vegas.

The four-part series produced by SHOWTIME Sports, FIGHT CAMP 360° will present all the compelling moments from each man’s unique journey to the ring on May 7 – from the serenity of running the hills in Big Bear, to the fan hysteria enveloping the world’s No. 1 fighter in his homeland, to Pacquiao’s trip to Washington D.C. for a private meeting with President Barack Obama.

The series premieres on Saturday, April 2 on CBS (Noon ET/9 a.m. PT) before the Network’s coverage of the NCAA Men’s Final Four.

Below are the premiere dates and times for FIGHT CAMP 360°: Pacquiao vs. Mosley

Episode 1 CBS Saturday, April 2 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT
Episode 1 SHO Saturday, April 16 10 p.m. ET/PT
Episode 2 SHO Saturday, April 23 10 p.m. ET/PT
Episode 3 CBS Saturday, April 30 8 p.m. ET/PT
Episode 3 SHO Saturday, April 30 10 p.m. ET/PT
Episode 4 SHO Friday, May 6 10 p.m. ET/PT
Episode 4 CBS Saturday, May 7 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT