BOXING I-FO

‘‘Hammerin’” Hank Lundy vs. John John “The Hammer” Molina in ESPN FNF fireworks display

CES’ “Let Freedom Ring” show July 9 at Twin River Event Center, RI

PROVIDENCE (June 15, 2010) – Red-hot lightweight prospect “Hammerin’” Hank Lundy, rated No. 13 by the World Boxing Association, makes his first title defense against challenger John John “The Hammer” Molina (20-1, 16 KOs) in the 12-round main event July 9 on “Let Freedom Ring,” presented live on ESPN Friday Night Fights by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc. (CES), at Twin River Event Center in Lincoln, R.I.

The always entertaining, fan-favorite Lundy (18-0-1, 10 KOs), fighting out of Philadelphia, has made the Providence area his second home with this being his fifth fight in that market. The 26-year-old has defeated Tyrese Hendrix (18-0-1), Richard Abril (12-1-1), Jason Cintron (10-0), Esteban Alveraz (7-0) and fought Darnell Giles, Jr. (8-0) to a controversial draw.

“I’m ready to go and I think my first ESPN main event is overdue,” Lundy commented. “It feels real good. I’ve fought on ESPN three or four times. They liked what they saw and that’s why I’m back fighting on national television, but this time I’m in the main event. I put on a show for fans every time I’m in the ring.”

The NABO No. 9 rated Molina will be fighting east of the Mississippi River for the first time when he steps into the ring. He has beaten Efren Hinojosa (30-6-1), Frankie Achuleta (25-6-1) and Fernando Omar Lizarraga (16-1-1).

“He doesn’t impress me, not one bit,” the often outspoken Lundy said about his opponent. “He hasn’t fought the quality of opponent like me. Molina’s credentials are fraudulent. He has a beefed-up record. I can box but, most of the time, I just go in and blast away. Fans are going to see better boxing skills from me in this fight. John Molina is done. He may be 5-10 but he gives-up his height. He’s dumb.

“This nationally televised fight is going to prove I’m the top lightweight prospect in boxing. I’m going to be looking to get him out of there and, if it goes the distance, he’s going to get a real butt whooping. I’m ‘Hammerin’ Hank, he calls himself ‘The Hammer.’ I’m the real ‘Hammer’ and when I hit him with my hammer, he’s going to sleep.”

New England and EBA super middleweight champion “Irish” Joey McCreedy (11-4-2, 6 KOs), trained by “Irish” Micky Ward and fighting out of Lowell (MA), makes his middleweight debut in the 8-round co-feature against an opponent to be determined.

In a rare battle of college graduates, undefeated Cape Verdean boxer Vladine Biosse (6-0, 4 KOs), a former University of Rhode Island football player living in Providence, steps-up in class Quincy (MA) light heavyweight Chris Traietti (8-2, 5 KOs), an Iraq War veteran, in the 6-round ESPN swing bout.

Quincy (MA) welterweight Aleksandra Magdziak Lopes (2-1, 1 KO) plans to avenge her only loss against Providence’s Kali Reis (2-0 1 KO), who won a hotly-contested 4-round decision in their first meeting, in a 6-round rematch.

Providence firefighter Eric Estrada makes his long-awaited pro debut as a cruiserweight in a 4-round match against Antonio Robertson (0-1). Estrada, whose brother is 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada, was perfect as an amateur with a 6-0 record, including victories in the New England Golden Gloves Tournament and Rocky Marciano Tournament.

Roxbury (MA) super middleweight Maceo Crowder (2-0, 1 KO), whose brother is 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade, takes on Worcester (MA) mixed martial arts fighter Ralph Johnson in his pro boxing debut.

Also slated to fight in 4-round bouts against opponents soon to be announced are Warwick (RI) super middleweight Keith Kozlin (5-1, 3 KOs), Woonsocket (RI) super middleweight Joe Gardner (4-1-1, 1 KO), Lincoln light welterweight Diego Pereira (4-0, 2 KOs), and Fall River (MA) middleweight Dustin Reinhold (1-1, 1 KO). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets for “Let Freedom Ring,” priced at $35.00, $50.00, $75.00 and $100.00, are available to purchase by calling CES (401.724.2253/2254), going online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at Twin River’s Players Club booth at Twin River, or any TicketMaster location.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) or the Twin River Event Center (877.82.RIVER/ www.twinriver.com) for more information. Doors open at 5:30 PM/ET, first bout at 6:30 PM/ET.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Let Freedom Ring.” Anybody under the age of 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult and they must enter through the West entrance.)

-CES-

John “The Quietman” Ruiz Retires

The First and Only Heavyweight World Champion of Latino Heritage Calls it a Career

LAS VEGAS (Apr. 26, 2010) – After a professional career spanning 18 years, highlighted by becoming the first and only Heavyweight World Champion of Latino heritage, two-time world champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz today announced his retirement from the ring.

Ruiz (44-9-1, 30 KOs) defeated three world champions – Evander Holyfield, Hasim Rahman and Tony Tucker – as well as top contenders such as Andrew Golota, Fres Oquendo, Jameel McCline and Kirk Johnson. Six of John’s nine career losses were to world champions.

“I’ve had a great career but it’s time for me to turn the page and start a new chapter of my life,” Ruiz said. “It’s sad that my final fight didn’t work out the way I wanted, but, hey, that’s boxing. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished with two world titles, 12 championship fights, and being the first Latino Heavyweight Champion of the World. I fought anybody who got in the ring with me and never ducked anyone. Now, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family.

“I want to thank all of fans for staying in my corner through a long, up-and-down ride, as well as members of my family and team – my manager and legal advisor, Atty. Tony Cardinale, my brother, Eddie (cornerman), and Keith McGrath (strength-and conditioning coach) who’ve been with me so long. I also want to thank my trainer Miguel Diaz and (assistant) Richie Sandoval for teaching an old dog, new tricks, and my promoter, Golden Boy Promotions, the fairest promoter in boxing.

“I was proud to be the WBA champion twice and have the opportunity to fight 12 times for the WBA championship, the oldest and most respected organization in boxing. I’d particularly like to thank WBA President Gilberto Mendoza.”

Ruiz plans to move from Las Vegas back home to the Boston area this year and open a boxing gym in the inner city. “With my experiences in boxing,” he explained, “I want to go home and open a gym where kids will have a place to go, keeping them off of the streets, so they can learn how to box and build character. Someday, I’d like to see one of them go on to represent the United States in the Olympics. I want them to have the same opportunity to see the world that I had as an amateur. I’ve always tried to be involved in community and charity work in the past and now I’ll have more time to work with kids.

“Maybe, someday I’ll get into training, but right now I just want to spend time with my wife, Maribelle, and my children. I wasn’t around as much as I would have liked for my two oldest children, John and Jocelyn, because I was away training or fighting. Now, I’ll be around for them and my 3-year-old son, Joaquin, as he grows up. I’m going back to my roots in Massachusetts, where a lot of my family and friends live, and look forward to helping young boxers avoid some of the bad things that I experienced in the sport but help them to experience the good times, too. Boxing is brutal but also beautiful. As I look back, I’m happy about my career, and my future is very bright.”

Go on line to www.johnthequietmanruiz.com for more information about John Ruiz.

-JR-

JULIO READY FOR ANGULO WITH NEW POINT OF VIEW

APRIL 22 2010 PHOTO JAN SANDERS

Joel Julio is focused and feels he has had the best training camp of his career. With a fight that many critics feel is a must-win match just two days away, Julio is displaying a level of maturity, confidence and physical conditioning never seen before.

Julio, 35-3, 31 KO’s, is facing Alfredo Angulo, 17-1, 14 KO’s, in a 12 round WBO Interim Jr. Middleweight Championship this Saturday, on the undercard of the Cristobal Arreola-Tomasz Adamek heavyweight fight, on HBO’s Boxing After Dark.

You only need to look at Julio to know he has taken his physical conditioning to a new level. Julio has a new point of view, a new approach to training. He says this camp was his toughest, most challenging camp to date - and he seems excited when he tells you that! He has added a strength and conditioning coach, Jeremy Fedoruk, to his team this time around; something he feels had made a difference.

He has worked untiringly with boxing trainer Anthony Hamm. Hamm explains, “This camp made a big difference. The Joel Julio you see today is different than the Joel you knew before. He’s improved on all the good things he was capable of, but also added so much more. He’s like a sponge. He really wants to work hard; you don’t have to push him to do more. He pushed himself harder than even I did!” Hamm added, “What this team did together in the last 3 months is amazing. I told Joel he is capable of much more than he even realizes. We are going to beat Angulo no matter what!’

Joel does not hesitate a second when he tells you, “I am ready. I feel energized, strong. I feel like I am already a winner. I worked extremely hard to get ready for this fight. I deserve this shot. I will show everyone that I am a champion. I thank God for the opportunity.”

In spite of being 2 years younger, Julio is clearly the more experienced fighter. He has had nearly twice as many professional fights as Angulo. All of his losses have come at the hands of southpaws. Angulo, a right-handed, come forward fighter affords Julio the opportunity to showcase his talents. A win here puts him in the middle of the deepest, most talented division in the sport.

Kathy Duva, CEO, Main Events, expressed her thoughts, “We adore Joel. It’s obvious this camp has made a big difference, given him a new point of view. This is a terrific match, it could be a main event on it’s own. Winning this fight will allow us to negotiate a truly great championship match for Joel in the hottest division in boxing at this time. We have faith that Joel will win.”

ADAMEK, MAIN EVENTS ISSUE STATEMENT ON TRAGIC POLISH ACCIDENT

Kathy Duva, CEO, Main Events issued this statement on behalf of the Main Events staff: “We at Main Events wish to extend our heartfelt sympathy to the families and friends of all who were lost in yesterday's terrible plane crash. We were particularly saddened to hear that Piotr Nurowski, former Polsat Chairman and Chairman of the Polish Olympic Committee, was among the deceased. Our staff had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Nurowski at the Adamek-Golota fight in Lodz, Poland, just this past October.”

“So many people have been affected by this tragedy. All we can do is pray for the victims, their loved ones and for the Polish people who, no doubt, will remain strong and courageous as they deal with their grief.”

Tomasz Adamek expressed his grief: “Fate took friends, people who I always admired, distinguished Polish President Lech Kaczynski and the First Lady. Many people so important for my home country. Their families need us; they need compassion as they grieve.”

“I was looking forward to meeting President Kaczynski who not long ago extended an invitation to meet him for breakfast in the Presidential palace in Warsaw this May. There’s not much I can do, but I would like to dedicate my upcoming fight to all of those who perished Saturday morning and all those left grieving.”

“Poles living in America and my American friends have been calling me, saying words of sympathy because they know that I’m Polish. Today in the United States of America we all are Polish.”

Zyggi Rozalski, Adamek’s advisor, also extended his condolences: “Death has taken from us great people, people making the lives of all Poles much better. Among them, it took away my dear Friend, Polish Olympic Committee chairman, Piotr Nurowski. He was indispensable for Polish sports, and he did so many great things for boxing. They were people you cannot replace; people we will never meet again. My thoughts are with all the mourners in Poland and all over the world.”

Holyfield-Botha PPV

Undercard Announced

Saturday night at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (Apr. 5, 2010) – A solid supporting undercard for Saturday night’s “The Legend Returns” pay-per-view event, headlined by 4-time world heavyweight champion Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield challenging World Boxing Federation heavyweight title-holder Frans “The White Buffalo” Botha, has been announced by Crown Boxing.

Holyfield (42-10-2, 27 KOs), coming off of a controversial 12-round majority decision loss December 20, 2008 in Switzerland to then World Boxing Association champion Nicolai Valuev, takes on Botha (47-4-3, 28 KOs) in the 12-round main event at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

“The Legend Returns,” presented by Crown Boxing, is being distributed in the United States and Canada by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Avail-TVN, Viewer’s Choice and Bell TV, for a suggested retail price of only $29.95.

Crown Boxing has been promoting solid shows six times a year in Las Vegas. Fans have come to expect competitive, entertaining fights at affordable prices, in an intimate atmosphere. Every fight counts on Crown Boxing’s cards and its rich tradition continues Saturday night, only headlined by the Holyfield-Botha title fight. The scaled down (9,500 seats) Thomas & Mack Center insures great seats at affordable prices. The PPV price of $29.95 is much less than charged for most pay-per-view shows.

Award-winning broadcaster Al Bernstein will be calling the action from ringside, teaming with blow-by-blow announcer Trip Mitchell. “I’ve seen many of the undercard fighters on Crown Boxing shows before in exciting fights,” Bernstein commented. “Since Frank Luca is one of the best matchmakers in boxing, I know there will be exciting fights this Saturday night. I think Holyfield-Botha will be very competitive and this is an excellent chance for people to see exciting fights at reasonable prices, on pay per view or in the arena. They will get an opportunity watch a legend in his final days in the sport and an exciting night of boxing.”

In the 10-round co-feature, Las Vegas cruiserweight Henry Namauu (5-3, 3 KOs), the former UNLV boxer and 2006 National Collegiate Cruiserweight Champion, meets dangerous Texan Rayford Johnson (5-4, 3 KOs). Former IBF cruiserweight champion “King” Arthur Williams (46-16-1, 30 KOs) tests unbeaten Utah prospect Valente Tinajero (8-0, 4 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

Also on the undercard in 4-round bouts is Las Vegas featherweight Rocco Santomauro (3-0) vs. Karl Hammer (1-2), Las Vegas super bantamweight Crystal Hoy (3-1-2, 2 KOs) vs. Jennifer Han (0-1-1), Detroit lightweight Joel Flores (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Jose Fernandez (1-1), St. Louis welterweight Lawrence Hughes (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, Las Vegas lightweight Jesus Gutierez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Jonathan Garcia, and Phoenix super bantamweight Alexis Santiago (2-0-1, 1 KO) vs. Brice Yeniki (0-4). All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $25.00, $75.00, $150.00 and $250.00, are available to purchase at www.UNLVtickets.com or by calling 702.739.3267.

Doors open at 4 PM/PT, first bout 4:30 PM/PT, and first PPV bout 6:00 PM/PT (9:00 PM/ET). Go on line to www.crown-boxing-inc.com or www.worldboxingfederation.net for additional information

-IS-

Unbeaten prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez

ready to explode nationally Mar. 19 on ESPN FNF

WORCESTER, Mass. (Feb. 26, 2010) – Highly-touted, undefeated super middleweight prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez is preparing for his nationally televised debut March 19 in an 8-round co-feature against veteran George “The Rooster” Armenta on ESPN Friday Night Fights, live from Choctaw Gaming Center in Durant, Oklahoma.

The Dominican Republic-born Rodriguez (13-0, 9 KOs), fighting out of Worcester (MA), was on most 2010 Prospect Watch lists, based on his perfect 5-0 (4 KOs) record last year, as well as his amateur pedigree that includes gold-medal performances in the 2005 USA Boxing National Championships and 2006 U.S. National Golden Gloves Tournament.

“I’m excited to be in my first nationally televised fight,” Rodriguez said. “It’s certainly more of a challenge and pressure, but I’ve always performed better under pressure. It’s time. I want to be impressive in my first nationally televised fight so fans all over can see what type of fighter I am. It’s a very important fight because it’ll also back-up all of the good things written and said about me as a top prospect. I’m ready for the challenge and plan to show everybody that I’m worth the hype.”

“Edwin has received a lot of accolades for being a top prospect and he was a great amateur,” Rodriguez’ manager Larry Army noted. “But after this fight he won’t be flying under the radar anymore. This is a great opportunity to get him where we want him to be, showcasing his talent, nationally. One of the key reasons we signed with DiBella Entertainment are the great television contacts Lou has and it’s already paying off for us.”

Armenta (13-5, 11 KOs) is battle-tested having knocked out 2000 U.S. Olympian Dante Craig and gone the distance against current WBA light middleweight champion Yuri Foreman and top contender Sechew Powell, who, ironically headlines against Deandre Latimore in a rematch on the Mar. 19^th Lou DiBella promoted card.

“Armenta is a tough fighter who keeps coming forward,” Rodriguez added. “He’ll be in tremendous shape and he throws a lot of punches. His ability will help me look good because he’ll bring the best out of me. I’ll b able to really showcase my talent against a solid opponent. Armenta has never been kayoed, so that’s another challenge for me.”

Go online to www.edwinrodriguezboxing.com for more information about the 24-year-old Rodriguez.

-ER-

SMITH REMAINS FOCUSED ON GENNADY GOLOVKIN DESPITE PULLING OUT OF SCHEDULED BOUT WITH INJURY

SMITH AVAILABLE TO ALL COMERS FROM 154 TO 160 LBS

(December 1, 2009) Disappointed by a doctor’s order to sit out his scheduled November 21 bout, Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith is now back in the gym, cleared by doctors to fight, and has his sights set on the one that got away. That one is Gennady Golovkin, the man he was scheduled to do battle with less than two weeks ago in Germany for Golovkin’s WBO Intercontinental Championship.

“I want to still make the Gennady Golvokin fight,” said Smith. “It is very unfortunate what happened right before the fight. I enjoyed the holidays with my friends and family, but that itch to knock him off has been bothering me and it won’t leave.”

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Smith (21-4, 9 KOs) is eager to get in with an opponent as lauded as Golovkin (18-0, 15 KOs), rated WBC #1, WBO #1, WBA #2, and IBF #6. In the past, Smith has earned a reputation for taking on all comers, beginning with a stint on the NBC reality hit The Contender.In August, 2008, Smith entered the ring as a sizeable underdog against unbeaten Pawel Wolak on Showtime’s ShoBox series, but dazzled Wolak over ten rounds to earn a unanimous decision. He had, and still has, similar plans for Golovkin.

“Gennady is the only one on my mind right now,” he said. “I want to go to Germany and come back home with WBO Intercontinental Championship and his lofty rankings.”

Promoter Lou DiBella has promised to work fiercely in pursuit of rescheduling his fighter’s dream bout.

“When I see the passion Ishe has about fighting Golovkin, it makes me believe there is no way Ishe doesn’t come home to America with a win,” said DiBella. “It is my hope that Golovkin and his team still want to get this done as badly as we do.”

In the meantime, Smith will do what he has always done: keep himself available for the biggest and best fighters from 154 to 160 lbs.

“I have signed for a fight and I want to go through with that fight,” said Smith. “Let’s just wait and see if Golvokin’s team reschedules this fight or if they realize they dodged a bullet and move on.”

###

GREEN, SMITH, JOHNSON, MONROE, HAMER, AND RODRIGUEZ WIN DURING DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT’S 6-0 WEEKEND

Whether in Oklahoma or Rhode Island, it was a clean sweep for DiBella Entertainment (“DBE”) this past weekend as one of the best super middleweights in the world, and five of the best young prospects in all of boxing, scored impressive wins in their quests to reach the world championship level.

The winnings ways started on Friday night at the First Council Casino in Newkirk, Oklahoma where DBE presented a televised triple header on Showtime’s ShoBox series. In the main event, WBC #6, WBO #9, IBF #11, WBA #12 ranked super middleweight Allan Green (29-1, 20 KOs) won a dominant unanimous over late replacement, Tarvis Simms(25-1-1, 11 KOs). Green was originally scheduled to face rugged, power puncher Victor Oganov (26-2, 26 KOs) as he waits for an opportunity to enter Showtime’s Super Six: World Boxing Classic tournament. Instead, in Simms he faced a slick boxer who changed stances several times throughout the course of the contest. Nevertheless, Green proved he could adapt to any style by winning nearly every round.

“Allan trained for Victor Oganov and Oganov is nothing like Tarvis,” said promoter Lou DiBella. “It was a dominating win against a skilled pro that was impossible to look impressive against.”

The co-feature matched two of the best young welterweights in the world as DBE’s own Antwone Smith (17-1, 9 KOs) battled previously unbeaten Henry Crawford (22-1-1, 9 KOs). Crawford started strong, winning the first two rounds with his tremendous speed, but for the rest of the fight, Smith began flashing the skills that have led him to upset wins over Richard Gutierrez and Norberto Gonzalez in his previous two fights. Smith dropped Crawford once in round six, and again in round nine before Crawford’s corner had seen their man get beat up too much.

At only 22 years of age, Smith has already faced, and defeated, stiffer competition than many top contenders in the game. Given his age, and experience, the prognosis on Smith’s career appears to be a limitless future.

“Antwone again proved he’s one of the best young fighters in the game by stopping Crawford,” said DiBella. “There is no 22-year old pro in the country with more impressive wins than Antwone Smith. With DBE behind him, he’ll be given the best opportunities to meet his potential.”

In the televised opener, unbeaten super middleweight prospect Marcus Johnson (18-0, 14 KOs) faced the stiffest test of his young career, and passed with flying colors, by winning an 8-round decision over Victor Villereal (8-4-2, 4 KOs). Johnson dropped Villereal in round six and coasted the rest of the way to an 80-71, 80-71, 79-72 decision. The dominance of Johnson’s performance was even more impressive considering that he hurt his hand sixth round and had to switch styles, opting to box Villereal instead of going for the kill.

“Marcus Johnson is a beast-in-waiting and a skilled boxer,” said DiBella. “When he hurt his right hand the boxer took over. Given the adversity, I thought it was a real impressive performance against a tough pro.”

Even when the television cameras weren’t rolling in Oklahoma, DBE was. On the non-televised portion of the show middleweight prospect Willie Monroe, Jr. (6-0, 2 KOs), and heavyweight prospect Tor Hamer (9-0, 7 KOs) scored big wins. Monroe won a 4-round decision over Tyson Schwieger, while Hamer continued his trend of winning, and winning big, by knocking out Howard Jones 22 seconds into the first round.

“Willie and Tor are two fighters on course for greatness,” said DiBella. “Tor showed what a monster he can be, and Willie did his thing by out-slicking a game challenger. They might have different styles, but these are two fighters with endless potential.”

Although the ring in the Oklahoma was dismantled, and ShoBox went off the air, that didn’t stop DBE from taking their winning act elsewhere. Saturday, on a card promoted by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports from the Twin Rivers Event Center in Lincoln, Rhode Island, young prodigy Edwin Rodriguez (12-0, 8 KOs) passed the stiffest test of his professional career with a unanimous decision win over Darnell Boone (16-13-2, 6 KOs).

Boone, who has made a career out of derailing top prospects, was simply no match for Rodriguez’s accurate punching and slick boxing skills. A shutout win over a an experienced warhorse like Boone has the whole DBE team excited over hometown hero from Worcester, Massachusetts.

“In another New England main event, Edwin proved himself against stepped up competition,” said DiBella. “He’s on course to be a ranked and television-showcased fighter. Thanks to world-class promoter Jimmy Burchfield for giving Edwin the chance to showcase his skills not too far from his home.”

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8^th annual “Fight To Educate” pro boxing card Sept. 23 at Verizon Center

Rodriguez plans to drop “La Bomba” on Manchester

MANCHESTER, N.H. (September 4, 2009) – Unbeaten Worcester (MA) prospect Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez continues September 24 on his mission to establish himself as a future world champion, fighting in the 8-round co-feature on the 8^th annual “Fight To Educate” charity event, at the Verizon Wireless Arena in Manchester, New Hampshire.

The 8^th annual “Fight To Educate,” presented by MB Tractor & Equipment, in association with Cedric Kushner’s Gotham Boxing, will benefit the SEE Science Center, Bobby Stephen Fund for Education, and The Veterans Count Club.

In the 10-round main event, 3-time world title challenger Omar Sheika (27-9, 18 KOs) battles unbeaten Czech Republic light heavyweight sensation Adam Hubinger (13-0, 10 KOs).

The new-and-improved Rodriguez (11-0, 8 KOs), a 2-time U.S. national amateur champion, is matched against veteran super middleweight Robbie Tovar (15-4-1, 5 KOs), former NABC Latino title-holder. “I don’t know much about him other than he’s Mexican,” Rodriguez said, “so I know he’s tough and coming to fight. I’m looking forward to a good fight. I want to be tested so I can keep improving. I’ve been sparring with Peter (Manfredo, Jr.) and I’m ready to go eight hard rounds if necessary. I’m in tremendous shape, stronger than ever, and I want to continue showing everybody that I’m a world-class up-and-coming enjoy be part of a fund-raiser like this that’s going to help so many worth causes.”

prospect.

“There’s a lot of pressure fighting so far from home, but I perform better under pressure. I’m hungrier to prove myself fighting in front of so many people who know me. I don’t want to let down my family, friends, fans or myself. That’s why I love to fight close to home and Worcester isn’t too far from Manchester.”

Granite State favorite Richard Gingras (9-2, 5 KOs), star of The Contender IV and fighting out of nearby Claremont (NH), is also fighting in an 8-round bout against Robert Davis.

2008 U.S. Olympic Team alternate Danny O’Connor (8-0. 2 KOs), who made his pro debut at the “Fight To Educate,” faces an opponent to be determined in a 6-rounder. O’Connor, a Framingham (MA) native, captured gold medals at last U.S. Future Stars, in which, he was selected Outstanding Boxer of the tournament, and National Golden Gloves Championships.

“I’m excited to be fighting on the same card as my friend, Danny, for the first time, and Rich Gingras,” Rodriguez added. “I was here as a fan last year supporting Danny, who made his pro debut. I also

Also in the undercard, undefeated heavyweight Faruq “The Dream” Saleem (38-0, 32 KOs) faces an opponent to be determined, while Bronx (NY) super middleweight Hajro Sujak (3-0, 1 KO) squares off against Eric Clinton in six and four round bouts, respectively.

Tickets are priced at $10 (seniors, veterans and students only), $25 and $50 and available to purchase at the Verizon Wireless Arena Box Office, any TicketMaster location, on line at www.ticketmaster.com, or call 603.868.7300 to charge. For more information go to www.fight2educate.com. First bout will be at 8 PM/ET.

-GB-

Oliver-Gonzalez III

title fight headlines

“A Night to Remember”

9/11 pro boxing show at Memorial Hall in Plymouth, MA

PROVIDENCE (Aug. 11, 2009) – A New England and Eastern Boxing Association junior featherweight title fight between former IBO World champion, “Machine” Mike Oliver, and former Guatemalan amateur star Castulo Gonzalez, headlines the September 11^th “A Night To Remember” pro boxing show, presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment and Sports, Inc., in historic Plymouth Memorial Hall in Massachusetts.

“A Night To Remember” is the third in a 4-fight arrangement, “The Radisson Hotel Plymouth Harbor Fight Series,” scheduled in 2009 at Plymouth Memorial Hall and promoted by CES.

“Plymouth is such a beautiful area,” Burchfield said. “We’re encouraging people to go on a mini-vacation with their families. There are plenty of things to do – whale watching, visit the Mayflower and Plymouth Rock, play golf at any of the surrounding nine courses – as well as drop by at one of the great restaurants and shops in Plymouth. We kick off the weekend with a great pro boxing show, headlined by the Oliver-Gonzalez title fight. CES will also pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives on that infamous 9/11 day eight years ago. That’s why this show has been named, ‘A Night To Remember.’ We will never forget the many sacrifices and acts of bravery.”

The 8-round main event between Oliver (21-2, 7 KOs), a former USBA title-holder fighting out of Hartford (CT), and Lynn (MA)-based Gonzalez (9-8, 3 KOs) will be their third fight. Oliver stopped Gonzalez in the ninth round of their 2006 fight and this past June, in Boston, their fight was halted in the second round and ruled a no contest when Castulo suffered a cut over his eye from an unintentional head-butt.

Local favorites will be showcased in 4-round bouts, including Stoughton (MA) super middleweight Mical Weisberg (3-0, 2 KOs) against Frankie Reed (0-2), and exciting Lynn (MA) bantamweight Isander “Peachy” Beauchamp (5-0-1, 2 KOs) versus Elton “The Real Coolie Bully” Dharry (2-4-1).

Also scheduled to fight on the undercard in separate 4-round bouts are Harwich (MA) light heavyweight Paul Gonsalves (1-0, 1 KO), a 2-time Southern N.E. Golden Gloves champion; Barnstable (MA) heavyweight Jesse Barboza (1-0, 1 KO), a 3-time N.E. Golden Gloves champion; Marshfield (MA) welterweight Artie Lopes in his much-anticipated pro debut, and Lawrence (MA) native Alexis Santos (1-0, 1 KO).

“We saw the excitement Manny Lopes brought into the ring in Plymouth,” Burchfield noted. “Manny has been out of action with an injury but we expect the same type of performance from his little brother, Artie, in his pro debut.”

Tickets for “A Night To Remember” are priced at $35.00 (Bronze), $45.00 (Silver), $55.00 (Gold), and $75.00 (Jimmy’s Platinum Club). VIP tables of eight are also available. To purchase call CES (401.724.2253/2254) or go online at www.cesboxing.com.

Contact CES (401.724.2253/2254/www.cesboxing.com) for more information. Doors open at 6:15 PM/ET, first bout at 7:15 PM/ET.

Unbeaten featherweight Matt “Sharp Shooter” Remillard keeps pluggin’ along

MANCHESTER, Conn. (July 21, 2009) – WBC Youth and USNBC featherweight champion Matt “Sharp Shooter” Remillard is learning first-hand how the risk-and-reward theory in boxing can work against a fighter.

For the second time in a row, veteran Edel “Cuate” Ruiz (32-22-4, 23 KOs) pulled out of a scheduled bout against Remillard. Ruiz had done the same thing two months earlier in Maryland.

The 23-year-old Remillard (18-0, 10 KOs), fighting out of Manchester, Connecticut, put late replacement Tyler Ziolkowski (11-7) to sleep at the midway point of the opening round in their July 10^th fight in Reno.

“I was a little frustrated the fight fell apart again,” Matt said. “It’s happened to me a lot. Most importantly, though, I got my opponent out of there early. I didn’t want it to go rounds because it would have looked bad for me. I was a professional, getting him out of there right away, and now we’ve moved on. I can only hope it (opponent pulling out) doesn’t happen again.

“I think a lot (available opponents) has to do with it being this weight class and the economy. I understand. Nobody wants to fight an undefeated fighter, unless they’re making a lot of money. As a pro fighter, I need to understand that those things are going to happen, maybe for a little while longer, but I feel that it’s all going to lead-up to the right fight.”

Remillard hopes to be back in action within two months, possibly headlining a show in Connecticut.

-MR-

Arturo Gatti’s Funeral Services:

Wake:

Sunday, 7/19 - Maison Funeraire Magnus Poirier, 10300 Pix-IX, Montreal, Canada, (514) 727-2847 - 2pm to 5 pm and 7pm to 10pm.

Funeral:

Monday, 7/20 : Church - Catholic Parishes - Notre-Dame de la dfense- 6800 ave. Henri-Julien, Montreal, Canada, tel. 277-6522 ? 11AM

Statements from Main Events about Arturo Gatti

The staff of Main Events was shocked and deeply saddened by the news of Arturo Gatti’s death.

Kathy Duva, Main Events CEO, shared her thoughts on Arturo, “There will never be another Arturo Gatti. His fights were among the most exciting and entertaining in the history of professional boxing. “

“Known throughout his career as ‘The Human Highlight Film,’ Arturo will be remembered by his fans as one of the all-time greats, and by his friends and family as one very special human being who will never be replaced. “

“We at Main Events mourn his untimely death, extend our condolences to his family and close friends and wonder if boxing will ever be as much fun without him.”

Jolene Mizzone, Logistics and Fighter Relations Manager, expressed her sadness. “Everyone knew Arturo as a superstar boxer. To me he was like family. I knew Arturo the person, the man who would give me the shirt off his back. Arturo would do anything for the ones he loved. He was like a brother to me. I will miss him.”

Dennis Dueltgen, Chief of Operations, usually a man of few words was moved to share his thoughts also, “Most of all I think he was a regular guy. My mother-in-law was a big boxing fan. Arturo was aware of this. She knew him from the time he made his pro-debut to the end. It didn’t matter how big a star Arturo became or how big a fight he was in, if he saw her at a show he would take the time to spend a few minutes with her. It would always be genuine. It meant a lot to her and it meant a lot to me. He really was a caring person.”

IBF Cruiserweight Champion, Tomasz Adamek learned of Arturo’s death on the night of his successful title defense. Adamek was deeply moved by the tragic events. He dedicated his win to Arturo Gatti’s memory at his post-fight press conference. “We met not so long ago. We talked about his great fights and how he always fought for the fans first and for everything else second. I would be proud if in the future people compared me to Arturo Gatti in that respect. Every one of his fights was something to remember. There will never be another Arturo Gatti.”

We at Main Events extend our sincere condolences to Arturo’s family. We will dearly miss not only a great boxing legend but an even greater friend.

-ME-