November 19, 2008

Saturday's Undercard

by:

HATTON-TACKIE AND BAUTISTA-RUIZ FEATURED ON

HATTON VS. MALLIGNAGGI UNDERCARD SET FOR NOVEMBER 22 AT MGM GRAND

LOS ANGELES, November 19 - British welterweight star Matthew Hatton and junior featherweight contender Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista will be pushed to the limit in pivotal bouts on the off-television undercard of Saturday night's showdown between Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton and Paul "Magic Man" Malignaggi at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Matthew Hatton (34-4-1, 13 KO's) will warm up British fans in attendance for his brother Ricky when he takes on perennial contender Ben Tackie (29-10-1, 17 KO's) in a 10 round welterweight bout while 22-year-old Bautista (26-1, 19 KO's) will square off against former world title challenger Heriberto Ruiz (39-7-2, 23 KO's) in a 10 round junior welterweight bout.

Also stepping between the ropes on November 22nd will be up and coming prospects Danny Garcia, Hylon Williams, Adrien Broner and Adrian Gonzalez. An eight round welterweight battle between undefeated Sirimongkol Singwancha and veteran Rogelio Castaneda will also be part of the show.

The night's main event, Ricky Hatton vs. Paulie Malignaggi, is a scheduled 12-round battle for Hatton's Ring Magazine and IBO Junior Welterweight titles, presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Punch Promotions and DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Affliction Clothing and Cerveza Tecate. In the co-feature James Kirkland vs. Brian Vera, a 10 round middleweight bout, is presented in association with Tournament of Contenders. Both bouts will air live on HBO's World Championship Boxing broadcast beginning at 7:00pm PT/10:00pm ET. Doors open at 3:00 pm PT with the first bell ringing at approximately 3:15pm PT.

Tickets priced at $1,000, $750, $500, $300 and $150 are still available at any MGM Grand box office outlet and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also are available for purchase atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.(**Editor's Note - Stay home and watch it for free on HBO at 7:00 pm)

Although he is the little brother of one of boxing biggest stars, Matthew Hatton is well on his way to carving out his own niche in the crowded welterweight division. A proud native of Manchester, the 27-year-old has won six of his last seven bouts including his last bout, a solid win, over Scott Woolford in September of this year. Hatton faces Accra, Ghana's Ben "Wonder" Tackie who is no stranger to the Hatton family, having fought Ricky in 2003. Although this unyielding warrior has had his share of bad luck in the ring over the last two years, he is confident that the string will end and a winning streak will begin against the younger Hatton on November 22nd.

Tagbilaran's Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista is already a star in the Philippines, but the highly-motivated youngster wants to achieve the same status around the world as his countryman Manny Pacquiao and knows the only way to do that is to win a championship. After falling short in his first world title shot against Daniel Ponce De Leon, Bautista has roared back with three straight wins. In Heriberto "Cuate" Ruiz Bautista will be facing a rugged warrior who has been in with the best in the world over the last 14 years. Winner of four of his last five bouts, the 31-year-old from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico is ready for a battle with "Boom Boom."

Former World Super Featherweight Champion Sirimongkol Singwancha (59-2, 34 KO's) of Thailand will return to fight in the United States for the first time in over three years when he puts his 16 fight winning streak on the line in a welterweight eight rounder against the always dangerous Rogelio Castañeda Jr. (24-14-3, 8 KO's) of Tijuana, Mexico.

Already 6-0 in 2008 and 8-0 with 7 KO's overall, Philadelphia's Danny Garcia will look to keep the momentum going in his busy year when he faces El Paso, Texas' Adan Hernandez (14-5, 5 KOs) in a junior welterweight six rounder.

Also competing in six rounders will be lightweight Hylon Williams (5-0 1 KO) of Houston, Texas, against Carson, California's Ramon Flores (2-3-1, 2 KO's) and hard-hitting Cincinnati lightweight prospect Adrien Broner (3-0, 3 KO's) making his debut under the Golden Boy Promotions banner against tough veteran Terrance Jett of Las Vegas.

In the opening bout, junior featherweight Adrian Gonzalez will get a chance to perform in front of his hometown fans in his pro debut when he battles an opponent to be determined in a four round contest

November 17, 2008

PACMAN Shows No Anger

by: .

Manny Pacquiao says he will not fire a punch in anger, even when his opponent is superstar Oscar De La Hoya.

"I look at boxing as a competition, like other sports - basketball, for example," said Pacquiao. "I respect all of my opponents. I think Oscar is a great fighter who has defeated many champions."

Pacquiao said he doesn't get totally worked up mentally until fight night when he leaves the locker room, takes the long walk to the ring and thinks about all of the fight fans in The Phillipines.

"Defeating Oscar De La Hoya - the Golden Boy - will mean so much for my country," he said.

ROACH SAYS HE FEELS SORRY FOR OSCAR

Chief trainer Freddie Roach says it wasn't his fault Oscar De La Hoya lost to Floyd Mayweather Jr. Roach said he put together a solid strategy for that fight.

"Oscar did everything we planned for about six rounds. Then he stopped doing it. Is that my fault? I don't think so, but I sure took the heat for it," said Roach. "In a way, I feel sorry for Oscar - sorry for the way he treated me and other trainers who have worked for him. Oscar never loses a fight. It's always the trainers who lose it. There's a message there somewhere and it's not good."

De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao 'The Dream Match' is scheduled for Dec 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao will be available on HBO Pay Per View.

HBOs Emmy-Award-winning all-access franchise 24/7 returns with Oscar De La Hoya and Manny Pacquiao in starring roles. The four-episode series De La Hoya/Pacquiao 24/7premieres Sunday, Nov. 16th at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on HBO.

November 9, 2008

Amatuer Boxing Results from Elite Boxing

by: Steven Robinson

Elite Boxing hosted nineteen amateur bouts Saturday evening at the Warrior Traning Center on S Teneya Way. The results were as follows:

75 Lbs Jose Guevara (Salvation Army) over Robert Almanzan (Arce Boxing) - Points

115 Lbs Carlos Pena (Elite Boxing) over Shaie Lindsey (Unattached) - Points

125 Lbs Nicholas Chiodini (Genesis) over Ramiro Ramos (Mity Mites) - Points

100 Lbs Francisco Butler (NLV Center Ring) over Davis Beltran (Unattached) - Points

120 Lbs Sergio Lopez (Las Vegas Boxing) over Richard Castillo - Walkover

80 Lbs Andres Cortes (Elite) over Antonuio Rangel (East Valley) - Points

130 Lbs Michael Santomauro (Genesis) over Branson Stutz (Unattached) - Points

140 Lbs Jesus Gutierrez (Tacco's) over Kuron Butler (Unattached) - Points

135 Lbs Juan Sandoval (So-Cal) over Oscar Torres (Tocco's) - Points

150 Lbs Raphael Rodriguez (UNLV) over Jesus Sanchez (Arce) - RSC - 1

140 Lbs Zenuni Sefedin (Elite) over Yul Abragan (NLV Center Ring) - Points

130 Lbs Jerome Foster (UNLV) over Angel Santana (Elite) - Points

115 Lbs Jovanni Diaz (Elite) over Adrian Cruz (Gene Lewis) - Points

175 Lbs Eriberto Rico (Elite) over Kevin Newman (Steele's) - Points

135 Lbs Oscar Rico (Elite) over Daniel Ramirez (Mesquite) - Points

160 Lbs Bradley Blankenship (Elite) over Mattinez Porter (Uppercut) - Points

115 Lbs Luis Cortes (Elite) over O'Shanique Foster (Unattached) - Points

150 Lbs Juan Heralsez (Elite) over Hugo Huerta (Jackie Robinson) - Points

150 Lbs Olger Laska (Elite) over Thomas Ordonez (Unattached) - Points

November 2, 2008

Top Rank Undercard

by: Steven Robinson

Other Undercard Bouts

Peterson vs. Tyner

Lamont Peterson (25-0, 12 KO) took on Linardo Tyner (19-1, 11 KO) for the NABF Super Lightweight Title. When I looked at their records and after I saw the first round, where Tyner came out like a buzz saw, I thought we would have a great fight tonight, but it was not to be. After the first it was all Peterson, who fought in close, out of a crouch and an impenetrable defense for the remaining nine rounds. Peterson landed everything he threw and did it effectively in a dominating performance. Peterson's only blemish was a point deduction for low blows in the fourth. Judge Al Lefkowitz saw it 99-90, CJ Ross had it 99-87 and Herb Santos scored 98-91 all for Peterson.

Donaire vs. Mthalane

Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire defended his IBF Flyweight title tonight against Moruti Mthalane of South Africa. Donaire got off to a slow start showing the ring rust of not fighting since last December. In an uneventful fight he picked away at Mthalane's defense with steady progress until the sixth when Mthalane suffered some kind of eye injury. The ring doctor examined him and advised Referee Joe Cortez to stop the bout. A dull ending to a dull fight but Donaire gets a TKO victory never the less at 1:31 of the sixth and successfully defends his title. He was well ahaead on all three judges cards when the bout was stopped.

The Way Deep Down Undercard

There were three fights prior to the broadcast on HBO PPV to keep a few dozen people who showed up early entertained for a while.

The first was a fight presented was a Middleweight bout between Terrance Wilson (5-3. 3 KO) and Mark Tucker (5-0, 5 KO). Their weights were listed at 170 and 177, neither of which made the Middleweight limit. The southpaw Tucker sporting a Mohawk hairdo dominated much of the action and easily outpointed Wilson 60-54 by all three judges.

Next up was a Super Featherweight match between Johnny Edwards (14-2-1, 9 KO) and Ty Barnett (14-0-1, 11 KO). Barnett stood a head taller than the 5'4" Edwards who put up a valiant effort but Barnett was too much for him winning 59-54, 59-55 and 57-57 for a majority decision.

Vanes Martirosyan (21-0, 13 KO's), the pride of Glendale and Armenia, made short work of Charlie Howe (16-5-2) with a TKO at 1:20 of the first. Vanes deserves more of a challenge.

November 2, 2008

Chavez Foils Vanda at Mandalay Bay

by: Gregory Robinson

Matt Vanda vs Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

The last time these two met in Mexico, bottles flew from an angry crowd when one Mexican judge failed to give a single round of the close fight to Vanda. This time, Vanda was out to prove that revenge is a dish best served bloody.

The fight started at good pace; Vanda came out aggressively while Chavez held back, circling and effectively countering as Vanda charged ahead. Vanda found some success with this approach, but for every punch he landed, Chavez landed three for four. The result was written on their faces: Chavez looked cool and collected, while Vanda looked frustrated and tense even when he smiled.

The first half of the fight was a battle: Chavez took the first two rounds, then Vanda came back in three and four. Chavez took five by throwing volumes of punches, while Vanda took six by landing some of the strongest blows of the fight. However, from that point on, Chavez dominated the action. Vanda slowed and started throwing one punch at a time while Chavez continued to lash out combinations that were finding their mark with increasing accuracy. By round ten, Vanda knew he needed a knockout, and Chavez knew that Vanda did not have the strength left to do it. They slugged it out for the first half of the last round, then Chavez dropped his hands and taunted Vanda with a target that he could no longer hit.

Tonight, revenge was not on the menu. I should also note that I too want revenge since Mandalay Bay is richer by $50 of my hard earned money. At the end of 10 rounds, the judges score the bout 98-92, 99-91, and 97-93, all for Chavez. Vanda, troubled by the loss, goes home to get a pick-me-up tattoo.

Mario Evangelista vs Matt Korobov

In a lopsided battle not unlike of the Russian victory over Sweden at the 1709 Battle of Poltava, 2008 Russian Olympic Representative Matt Korobov pummeled Mario Evangelista for two rounds before throwing a big right that put him down for good at 2:01 of the third. Since we are sure to see much more of Korobov in future Top Rank bouts, someone should give him a nickname. Given his Russian military background, perhaps it could be Matt "The Tank" Korobov?

Isidro "El Chino" Garcia vs Jorge "El Travieso" Arce

Jose Arce, a star in boxing and Mexican reality television, stepped into the ring with the talented and tough Isidro "El Chino" Garcia tonight to battle it out for the WBA Interim Super Flyweight Title. Garcia started the fight aggressively, chasing Arce and egging him on when Arce refused to slug it out. In rounds two and three, Arce decided to make Garcia pay for his bravado by tagging him with flurries every time he rushed forward. In round three Arce switched roles by egging Garcia on - tapping his chin and blocking Garcia's multiple attempts to knock it clean off. In round four, Arce got Garcia up against the ropes and landed a clean body shot that left Garcia notably hurt. A follow up shot to the body made Garcia whither like a tulip in the winter, and at 48 seconds into the round, Tony Weeks stepped in to end the fight.

October 31, 2008

Top Rank Boxing at the Hard Rock

by: Steven Robinson

October 31st - Halloween night at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Top Rank Boxing is putting on six matches to showcase some of their up and comers for the Las Vegas boxing crowd. You never know what to expect in boxing and especially on a night like this but were hoping for some good action and demonstrations of skill.

Bogere vs. Peralta

The first contest is a Lightweight match between Mike Peralta (4-3, 1 KO) of Carson City, NV and Sharif Bogere (3-0, 2 KO's) of Kampala, Uganda now fighting and training in Las Vegas. Bogere enters the ring wearing a lions head and skin- a remnant from his childhood or his lunch? Bogere dropped Peralta early in the second with a straight right but was unable to put him away. Peralta went down again late in the third as Bogere demonstrated power in both hands with a left. Late in the fourth Bogere was given an eight count on what appeared to be a slip but Referee Toby Gibson called it a knockdown. After four all three judges scored it 39-35 for Bogere.

Estrada vs. Garcia

The first live TV bout matches Featherweights Walter Estrada (30-6, 20 KOs) out of Columbia and Miguel Angel Garcia (14-0, 12 KO's) of Oxnard, CA .Both weighed in at 127 pounds. After three pretty slow rounds, Garcia looked like he was going to take control of the fight but he left himself open and the veteran Estrada caught him with a clean left hook that dropped him on his butt for an eight count. After a slow fifth, Garcia took control again in the sixth landing a couple of solid rights. Estrada was cut over left eye in the seventh when heads came together that added to his cut over the right ear from an earlier clash. He looked an appropriate bloody mess for a Halloween fight. Garcia finished the last in control as it went to the judges' scorecards. Judge Trowbridge had it 77-74 and Judges Moretti and Houck saw it 76-75 all for Garcia. The scorecards showed Garcia won the last three rounds to pull out the win.

Trejo vs. Diaz

The main event pitted Fernando Trejo (30-14-4) of Pachuca, Mexico and former champ Julio Diaz (35-4, 26 KO's) of Cochella, CA. in a Lightweight contest. They weighed in at 132 and 134 pounds respectively. Diaz dominated the first with speed, clean punches and two and three blow combinations. Trejo let his hands go in the second as Diaz continued his steady attack - a good round for both. Diaz quickness controlled the third as Trejo's attacks appeared awkward and wild. From the fourth round on it was all Diaz who landed first, landed cleaner and landed harder. He continued to land punches and move out of Trejos way. Trejo stayed in the fight by staying on the attack but was unable to land clean or very often. Trejo cemented his career track as a journeyman by taking Diaz best punches and coming back with some of his own. The last three rounds were action packed and got the crowd on their feet and cheering. Judges Jerry Roth and CJ Ross scored it 99-91 and Robert Hoyle had it 100-90 all for Diaz in a Unanimous Decision victory.

DeLeon vs. Belmontes

After the main attraction, two Texans, Guadalupe De Leon (7-3, 4 KO's) and Jerry Belmontes (4-0, 1 KO) met in a Featherweight match. Belmontes dominated this fight from the opening bell with superior speed and accuracy. Deleon proved that even with a great trainer like Jesse Reid in your corner and lots of guts and stamina, its no substitute for talent. After six rounds Judges Hoyle and Moretti saw it 59-55 while Judge Trowbridge had it 60-54 all for Belmontes.

Thompson vs. Magdaleno

Super Featherweight Diego Magdaleno (6-0, 3 KO's) of Las Vegas took on Travis Thompson (3-2-1, 2 KOs) of Pottstown, PA. Both came in at 132 pounds. Diego pleased his local fans by dominating the first with both hands. Spurred on by his corner men, Augie Sanchez and Pat Barry who have trained him since preteen years, Magdaleno went on to dominate the rest of the fight with clearly superior speed, accuracy and boxing skills. Judges Houck, Moretti and Ocasio all scored it 40-36 for Diego Magdaleno and another Unanimous Decision victory.

Flores vs. Lenk

In the final bout, Alex Rufino Flores (1-0, 1 KO) of Los Angeles fought Anthony Lenk (4-0, 3 KO's) of Las Vegas in a Super Lightweight match. In the spirit of Halloween, Lenk entered the ring wearing a death mask. Lenk dominated the fight for all four rounds with the only surprise being that he didnt knock Flores down or out. Judges Ocasio, Trowbridge and Hoyle all scored it 40-36 for Lenk.

October 30, 2008

Dundee To Consult with DeLaHoya

by:

LEGENDARY TRAINER ANGELO DUNDEE

JOINS TEAM DE LA HOYA AS SPECIAL CONSULTANT

FOR PACQUIAO SUPERFIGHT

LOS ANGELES, October 30 - As the architect for some of the greatest fighters of all-time, including Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard and George Foreman, Angelo Dundee's name is synonymous with excellence. Now, the legendary trainer will look to impart his wisdom on boxing's reigning superstar - Oscar de la Hoya - as a special consultant for the "Golden Boy" for his December 6th super-fight with Manny Pacquiao.

Dundee joins world-renowned trainer Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain on Team De La Hoya for the showdown, which will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tickets for the bout are sold-out, but the event will air live on HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9pm ET / 6pm PT and closed circuit tickets are available at MGM-Mirage properties in Las Vegas.

"I am honored to have Angelo Dundee on my team for the biggest fight of my career," said De La Hoya. "His knowledge of the fight game is second to none, and along with Nacho Beristain, I feel like I have an unbeatable team in my corner for this fight against Pacquiao."

Dundee will review fight tapes, consult with Team De La Hoya regarding technique and strategy, visit training camp in Big Bear, California and attend fight week events. While he will consult with De La Hoya and Beristain regarding fight strategy, he will not be working the corner during the fight, leaving Beristain as the lead strategist and sole voice in the corner on fight night.

"After working with Ali and Leonard, I think it's only fitting that I now get the chance to work with the most important fighter of this era," said Dundee. "This fight against Pacquiao is the biggest fight boxing has seen in years and I'm excited to be a part of it and to help lead Oscar to victory."

A 1994 inductee to the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Angelo Dundee has been a fixture in the boxing world for most of his life and is one of the game's most revered ambassadors. In the ring, he has worked with 15 world champions, including Ali, Leonard, Foreman, Carmen Basilio, Jose Napoles, Luis Rodriguez and Willie Pastrano. Now he will take "The Golden Boy" under his wing.

Promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, Inc., presented by Tequila Cazadores and sponsored by Ceverza Tecate, DeWalt Tools, Full Throttle Energy Drink, and Southwest Airlines, the fight sold out in hours, making it the second largest grossing gate in boxing history. This exciting and intriguing 12-round, 147-pound welterweight battle pits two of the most recognizable and popular talents in the sport in what will surely be the grand finale of the 2008 boxing calendar year.

October 29, 2008

Boxing Weekend in Vegas

by: Steven Robinson

Top Rank brings professional boxing to Las Vegas Friday night at the Hard Rock and Saturday at Mandalay Bay Events Center. Friday nights fights start at 4:15 pm at the Hard Rock with the main event going off at 6:00 pm. The main event features former world champ Julio Daiz taking on Fernando Trejo and several local boxers including Diego Magdaleno are headling the undercard. Tickets are available from $30.

Culican, Mexico is a quiet ciudad in the Northwestern state of Sinaloa not far from the Gulf of California. The area is known mainly for agriculture but harvests much of it's pride in it's favorite son, former three-division boxing champion Julio Caesar Chavez. Saturday night his son and namesake, Julio Caesar Chavez, Jr headlines the Top Rank boxing card at Mandalay Bay in the main event. He's fighting a rematch of a close and somewhat controversial July 2008 split decision victory over St. Paul Minnesota tough guy Matt "The Predator" Vanda. Vanda is eager for revenge in a neutral venue and said, "Chavez knows he got away with a gift decision on his home turf from his hometown judges in our last fight. If it goes 10 rounds, and I hope it doesn't, it's gonna be one hell of a beating for Julio." Chavez stated "The Predator is going to find out what it's like to be the prey. This time I'm going to finish him off". Mandalay Bay Sports book listed Chavez as the favorite at -500, with Vanda coming off at +350.

Also headlining the card is IBF Featherweight Champ Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire Jr. He'll be taking on Moruti Mthalane of Durban, South Africa in his US debut. Donaire is 19-1, 12 KO's and Mthalane is 22-1, 15 KO's.

The remaining three bouts that will be televised in HBO PPV feature WBA Super Flyweight Champ Jorge Arce, Super Lightweight contender Lamont Peterson and Russian Olympian Matt Korobov in his pro debut.

The first bout Saturday goes off at 3:30 pm with TV bouts starting at 6:00 pm. Tickets are available from $50 and the Mandalay Bay Events Center is an excellent venue to see the action close up. If you can't make it out, the PPV is a bargain at $39.95 as it telecasts five feature events.

October 26, 2008

Amateur Results - Las Vegas Boxing Gym

by: Steven Robinson

Results from Las Vegas Boxing Gym Amateur Boxing competition on Saturday 10/25/08

Andres Cortes (Elite Boxing) over Noah Contreras (Mojave Valley) - Points

Shaie Lindsey (Unattached) over Brandon Gutierrez (Steele's) - Points

Nicholas Chiodini (Genesis) over Ramiro Ramos (ARCE - Reno) - Points

Eric Portillo (N L V Center Ring) over Jose Macia (Mojave Valley) - Points

Magdalino Lopez (Carson City) over Marvin Patino (ARCE - Reno) - RSC

Yul Abragan (N L V Center Ring) over Kevin Arnold (Las Vegas Boxing) - Points

Eric Jordan (Steele's) over Raphael Rodriguez (Unattached) - Points

Martinez Porter (Uppercut - WI) over Troy McNight (Genesis) - Points

Elmer Rivera (Mesquite) over Neil Jasson (Carson City) - Points

October 24, 2008

Doc Broadus Memorial Service

by: Steven Robinson

Funeral services for Charles "Doc" Broadus will be held on Sunday 5 pm to 9 pm and Monday, October 27, at 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 am at Bunker Funeral Home (925 North Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, 385-1441), followed by interment in the Boulder City Veterans Memorial Cemetery. The viewing will be on Sunday, October 26, 5:00-9:00 p.m.

October 11, 2008

Amateur Boxing Fight Results

by: Steven Robinson

A good crowd turned out tonight for the Oktoberfest Fall Festival Boxing Tourney at Barry's Boxing. The results were as follows"

Micharel Laberinto (Barry's) over Ariel Datu (Unattached) - Points

Daniel Sanchez (Tacco's) over Aaron Corona (Barry's) - Points

Kenneth Bulin (Barry's) over Steven Munoz (Mojave Valley) - Points

Val Breau (Barry's) over Caleb Davis (Unattached) - Points

James Culwick (Unattached) over Jonathan Escobar (Barry's) - Points

Carlos Pena (Elite) over Luis Mena (AT Gym) - Points

Thomas Cortez (Unattached) over Jonathan Parrales (Barry's) - RSC - 3

Andre Cantlin (Tocco's) over Jesus Zambrano (Barry's) - Points

Edgar Parrales ( Barry's) over Jesse Mares (Barry's) Points

Jesus Martinez (Barry's) over Asa Cleveland (Steele's) - Points

Michael Santamauro (Genesis Boxing) over Christopher Jez (Barry's) - Retirement

Kyron Butler (Unattached) over Davis Gonzalez (Barry's) - RSC

Jonathon Candido (Barry's) over Hugo Huerta (Jackie Robinson) - Points

Lanell Bellows (Steeles) over Noe Pena (Barry's) - Retirement

October 11, 2008

Dawson Dominates at the Palms!

by: Gregory Robinson

For those of you that have a chance to catch a boxing match at the Palms, jump on it. The venue is small and comfortable, and there isn't a bad seat in the house. Now on to the fights..

Antonio Tarver vs Chad Dawson

Tonight, Tarver fought Dawson for the IBF/IFO Light Heavyweight Title. Let me say, it was really refreshing to see two sharp, well-matched fighters after the Klitschko-Peter disaster.

Before the fight, Tarver stated, Just like Roy Jones, Glen Johnson, Montell Griffin, and Reggie Johnson, Dawson is going to become another world champion with a big L on his record from me. It was a confident statement from a confident champ. Tonight, that confidence was misplaced. Tarver came into the ring cool as can be, like it was just another day at the job. Dawson was notably different - hungry, aggressive, and willing to press the fight. Immediately, the two established their positions: Tarver held the middle and Dawson took control of the outside. But it was immediately clear that Dawson simply wanted it more. He circled and looked for a way in, and when he found it, he repeatedly threw one of the sharpest jabs I have seen in a while. Like a needle, he threaded it through Tarver's guard, rocking his head back, and when Tarver closed the gap to make it impenetrable, Dawson switched to hooks that rocked Tarver from the side. Round after round, Dawson snuck in, tagged Tarver, and got back to the outside before Tarver could respond. Tarver did manage to edge out a few rounds, and looked particularly good in round 6, but Dawson was unmoved, and returned to take the following rounds. By round 12, Tarver was notably fatigued - his hands were low and his punches were sloppy. Dawson took advantage and pummeled Tarver with a quick one-two that sent him stumbling. Tarver's glove touched the canvas, and it was ruled a knockdown. (Tarver claimed afterwards that this was a push.) Tarver came back strong, realizing that he needed a knockdown, and after throwing so many punches, Dawson was winded. But Dawson dodged and held on, keeping Tarver from pulling out any last minute upsets. At the end of 12, the judges scored the bout 118-109, 117-110, and 117-110, all in favor of the new IBF/IBO champion, Chad Dawson.

Ricardo Williams vs Dairo Esales

After paying a small debt to society, Ricardo Slicky Ricky Williams is back and looking to regain some of his former glory. His opponent, Dairo Esales didn't look like he would stand in the way for long - he came into tonight's fight having lost 9 of his last ten bouts. I predicted two rounds. In round two, when Williams tagged Escales with a quick left and put him down, it looked like I was right. Surprisingly, Escales recovered and stood toe to toe with Williams the rest of the fight, and even landing enough to win the sixth round. Nevertheless, every other round went to Williams, and by the end of eight, there was no doubt who had taken the fight. The judges score the bout 79-72, 80-71, and 79-72 all in favor of Williams.

Chris Avalos vs Ernie Marquez When these two met for the first time in May, The Hitman Chris Avalos walked out with a unanimous decision. This time, Marquez made it a bit harder. For the first four rounds, Avalos circled Marquez and split him up the middle with quick one-two combos as Marquez threw slower, looping blows. However, in the last two rounds, Marquez came alive and found repeated success with short shots from the inside. After six rounds, Paul Smith scored the bout even, giving Marquez the last three rounds. Jerry Roth and Dick Houck weren't nearly so sympathetic, scoring the bout 59-55 in favor of Avalos, giving him a majority win.

Klitschko-Peters

During an unusual intermission tonight at the Palms, the fights were stopped to broadcast the Klitschko-Peters fight, which had taken place in Germany. Unfortunately, there wasn't much to report: Klitschko made Peters a human bobble-head for eight rounds until Peters gave up at the beginning of the ninth. Peters may have landed two punches, but that is debatable.

October 1, 2008

The Fight Club at The Silver Nugget

by: Steven Robinson

It was Tuesday night at The Silver Nugget in North Las Vegas and the debut of The Fight Club promoted by Boxing Hall of Fame Referee Richard Steele. The Events Center at The Silver Nugget was pretty much sold out thanks to cheap seats ($20) and lots of Las Vegas area boxers who brought along their family, friends and fans to cheer them on. The Casino sold food and drinks at reasonable prices and provided singers, musicians and even boxing poodles at intermission. Steele and the Silver Nugget have successfully brought back club fighting to North Las Vegas, where similar fights were promoted for many years during the 1990's. The series is scheduled monthly through the end of this year.

Del Real vs. Dizay

The opener was a Super Welterweight match between Gabe Del Real and Sean Dizay. Both are from Las Vegas and were making their pro debuts. Del Real started quickly with fast left jabs and good left-right combos that kept Dizay off balance. Dizay landed a few rights to get back into the fight when Del Real caught him with a short left to the chin that put Dizay on the canvas. Referee Jay Nady carefully looked Dizay in the eyes as he was counting and waived off the count at 5 when Dizay arose and staggered insteadily. Del Real gets his first professional win by TKO at 1:10 of the first.

Hernandez vs. Adame

Next up were Featherweights Antonio Hernandez (0-1-1) of Las Vegas and Jesus Adame (1-1) of Los Angeles. Hernandez landed three hard body shots to Adame's midsection in the first. Adame attempted to counter but often missed. Adame smiled after eating Hernandez best shots and kept coming forward - no quit in this guy. This went on for four rounds with a determined Adame landing occasionally but Hernandez was quicker to the punch, landed more often and harder. Neither was seriously hurt and neither went down so it went to the judges scorecards where Robert Hoyle and Richard Ocasio had it 40-36 and CJ Ross saw it 39-37 all for Antonio Hernandez who gets his first win by Unanimous Decision.

Griffin vs. Wate

Super Lightweight Rynell Griffin (2-1) of Las Vegas took on Shawn Wate (0-1-1) of Paramount, CA in the next match. Griffin let Wate know he was a southpaw by leading off the bout with a straight left to the face. Griffin continued the round by moving in, landing two and three punch combinations and backing off. Wates punches were wide looping blows that Griffin easily avoided. This pattern continued for four rounds demonstrating Griffins speed and power advantage. In the final, Griffin landed three consecutive lefts to Wates face. Wate weathered the onslaught until the final bell and it went to the scorecards where judges Morse-Jarman, Houck and Hoyle all scored it 40-36 for Rynell Griffin.

Tillman vs. Banks

After the intermission it was time for the big boys as Heavyweight Clarence Tillman (1-1) of Las Vegas took on Yohan Banks (0-1) of San Francisco. Banks, coincidentally, resembles John Ruiz, not just in appearance but in style. For four rounds he was able to move inside the bigger Tillman, grapple and hold on. Therefore Tillman wasn't able to unload and neither did much damage in this hug fest. After four rounds two of the judges scored it 37-37 for a draw.

Jett vs. Wade

In the final, Terrance Jett (3-11-2) of Las Vegas took on Charles Wade (4-6) of North Carolina in a Welterweight bout. You wouldn't expect much from either of these guys by their records but this turned out to be one of the better fights of the night and a good way to end the evening. By Jett's record you can see that his boxing career hasn't been managed very well, as it appears he takes on lots of fights against superior opponents and victories are few and far between. But tonight he was matched with Wade who lost his last 6 fights and was just as desperate for a victory. Terrance looked smooth in the first moving in with his jab combined with rights, then backing off to regroup. Wade wildly threw home run blows that never landed. Jett landed some solid body blows late in the round. Jett started with more body work in the second but got caught with a left early on and stayed away the remainder of the round. Wade decided to lay on the ropes in the third and let Jett pound away to which Terrance kindly obliged. Jett landed more solid body shots that were taking their toll. Wade got off the ropes but Jett landed a right to the liver that caused Wade to crumple to the canvas writhing in pain. Referee Jay Nady counted to ten while Wade never attempted to rise. Terrance Jett gets a first class KO victory along with hopes he can revive his boxing career.

September 27, 2008

Friday Night Fights

by: Steven Robinson

Friday night saw our usual enthusiastic Las Vegas boxing fans show up at The Orleans for half a dozen matches, many of which featured local talent. Promoter Crown Boxing put together a good card of well matched opponents for our entertainment made up of fighters with similar records. Tonight we saw a mix of knockouts, comeback wins, close decisions, and fighters who bring the crowd to their feet - just what we've come to expect at the Friday Night Fights.

Correa vs. Davis

In a feature event, Welterweights Victor Hugo Correa (8-1) of Mexico City took on Jason Davis (10-1-1) of Vancouver, WA. Friday night at the weigh-in Correa did not make the Welterweight limit of 147 pounds coming in at 153.5 while Davis came in at 143.5. However the fight went on by agreement of the fighters and Correa was fined $400 for the infraction. The extra weight was no advantage as Davis took control from the opening bell with good basic boxing skills, using a stinging left jab, left-right combinations and rights to the body to dominate the action. Davis showed he had been well schooled by trainer and former Lightweight Champ Greg Haugen. For four rounds Correa was unable to mount any substantial attack landing awkward blows only occasionally and without effect. Davis landed several hard body shots in the forth that had Correa smarting. Evidently that was enough, because Correa did not answer the bell for the fifth giving Jason Davis a TKO win at 3:00 of the forth. Jason Davis earned $3000 for his efforts in a fine demonstration of good boxing skills while Correa got $1600 after his fine.

Bozan vs. Lee

Local Heavyweights Eric "The Bull" Bozan (1-0) and Benjamin Lee (Debut) got it on in a match that many of the local fans were looking forward to. We saw Bozan in his pro debut in September but we didnt get to see much of him because he KO'd his opponent in 23 seconds. Bozan is unique in that he started his pro career at 40 years of age. He also brings a huge contingent of fans, friends and people who train with him at Boe's Boxing. Tonight they all waved red neckerchiefs to encourage him on. Bozan weighed in at 248 pounds while Lee came in at 210. Tonight wasn't to be as easy for Bozan as his debut. A quicker Lee with an obvious reach advantage kept his left jab in Bozan's face to keep him away and danced away when Bozan attempted to get in close. For the first three rounds the story was the same, Bozan trying to walk Lee down and Lee dancing away sticking his jab and landing the occasional right. Bozan's frustration and fatigue were beginning to show in the forth, but he reached down deep and finally cornered his elusive opponent. It was finally Bozans fight but he was unable to knock Lee down although Lee was staggered at the end. It went to the judges score cards where judges Glen Trowbridge and Lisa Giampa saw it 39-37 for Lee while Judge Darby Shirley had it 40-36 for Bozan. (What was he watching?) Lvboxing.com agreed with the majority. Lee gets a Split Decision victory in his debut and both boxers promised to meet again in two months when Crown Boxing returns to the Orleans.

Duhart vs. Cotrich

Two local Jr. Welterweights met in a scheduled four rounder to open the night. Raul Duart (2-0) took on last minute substitute Manny Cotrich (0-2). Both of Duhart's victories came in August of this year and both were by TKO. Early on it looked like Duhart was on his way to another victory as he dominated the first with an aggressive attack to the body. However late in the round, Cotrich countered with a left and Duhart's gloves touched the mat, therefore technically a knockdown. Referee Tony Weeks gave him an eight count and Duhart appeared unhurt. Duhart came out agressively in the second to avenge the knockdown. Cotrich caught him with a series of punches ending with two more lefts that saw Duhart crumple face down to the floor. Referee Weeks began the count but waived it off after looking a wobbly Duhart in the eyes. Manny Cotrich gets his first professional victory in a surprise TKO at 1:03 of the second.

Young vs. Gonzalez

Two more local Welterweights were up next. Abraham Louis Young in his pro debut took on Joel Gonzalez (1-1, 1 KO). Gonzalez dominated the first with fast hands rocking Young's head with well placed left-right combinations. Late in the round Young lands a big right that causes Gonzalez to drop to his knee. Before Referee Robert Byrd can pull him off, Young hits Gonzalez 5 or 6 more times to the head while he was down. Referee Byrd gives Young a stern tongue lashing, penalizes him two points and gives Gonzalez a lengthy time to recover from the foul. The second began just as the first ended with Young landing a clean right early causing Gonzalez to drop to a knee. Unbelievably, Young hit him again while he was down. Referee Robert Byrd was quick to move in, pull Young off and waive off the count. Young is disqualified for major infractions, Gonzalez gets the victory in defeat and Young should try MMA where it's acceptable to hit a guy when you get him down.

Frasier vs. Casillas

Up next were Lightweights Johnny Frasier of Las Vegas and Jorge Casillas of Lake Tahoe, CA. in their pro debuts. Frasier lands several clean jabs to start the fight, then nails Casillas with a quick left-right combo that drops him for an eight count. With maturity not shown by many more experienced fighters, Frasier calmly went back to work with his jab opening Casillas up for a double right that floored him again. Referee Tony Weeks waived off the count giving Frasier a TKO victory at 1:20 of the first. After the fight Frasier stated he has had about 60 amateur fights.

Aranda vs. Hurley

Super Featherweights Ronald Hurley (3-3-2) and Rodrigo Aranda (8-7-2) squared off in the last undercard match of the night. Both of these fighters have appeared several times before at the Orleans - Aranda in September, where he upset Johnny Taunton. Hurley controlled the early action with quicker hands and good left-right combinations. Aranda never landed a blow until he hit Hurley below the belt late in the round. Hurley continued to control the action into the second outdueling Aranda with his faster hands and quick footwork to escape Aranda's charges. Aranda landed a few body shots late in the round to no effect. Evidently the body shots did some good as Hurley slowed in the third and Aranda was able to do some more damage with body shots and a wild right that lands. For the remainder of the fight there was plenty of close toe to toe action and inside fighting. After six hard fought rounds it went to the judges cards where all three scored the match 58-56 for Ronald Hurley.

September 25, 2008

Friday Night Fights at Orleans

by: Steven Robinson

Frank Luca's Crown Boxing returns to the Orleans Friday night with a six bout card with local, national and international interest. These fights, which usually sell out the showroom, still have a few tickets remaining but if you're going you should get your tickets in advance because there might not be any at the door on fight night.

The featured match is a Lightweight bout between Victor Hugo Correa (8-1, 1 KO)of Mexico City in his first fight in the US. He will be taking on Jason Davis (10-1-1) of Vancouver, WA making his Las Vegas debut. The big Tada about Davis is that he is trained by former Lightweight champ Greg Haugen of Seattle who fought 53 fights between 1982 and 1999 including matches with Julio Caesar Chavez, Ray Mancini, Hector Camacho, Vinny Pazienza and Pernell Whittaker. The Orleans Sports Book will make wagers available on this event.

Also featured is a heavyweight bout between 40 year old Las Vegan Eric Bozan (1-0) and Benjamin Lee in his pro debut. On September 26 Bozan made his debut with a KO at 23 seconds of the first at The Orleans. Bozan, who trains locally at Boe's Boxing, brings a good crowd of all his friends and supporters to the fights to cheer him on.

Doors open at 6:00 pm and the first fight of six scheduled goes off at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $25 and $50.

September 25, 2008

Oscar vs, Manny Sold Out

by:

LAS VEGAS, NEV. (September 24, 2008) - Tickets to "The Dream Match" -- the 12-round welterweight super fight between six-division world champion OSCAR DE LA HOYA and boxing's No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter MANNY PACQUIAO - are already gone just hours after going on sale today, making the almost 16,000-seat arena a complete sell outwith a gross gate of almost $ 17.0 million, making it the second biggest gate in boxing history. "This is just a reflection of the overwhelming interest in this mega-event and we are extremely delighted that tickets sales were so swift," said Richard Schaefer. "The match-up is one of the best in boxing and will be one of the biggest events the sport has ever seen."

"This is fantastic and shows the magnitude and appeal of this event," said Bob Arum. "When you have two superstars like Manny Pacquiao and Oscar de la Hoya fighting each other, the public is going to respond and that is what they just did. No one wants to miss this one."

The De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.

September 21, 2008

Las Vegas Boxing Invitational

by: Steven Robinson

There was a standing room only crowd at Las Vegas Boxing Gym Saturday night to see amateur boxers duke it out. Amateur hopefuls came from Reno to Arizona to participate with locals. The results were as follows:

Steven Munoz (Mohave) over Bradley Gutierrez (Steeles) - Points

Josue Gayton (Arce Boxing) over Robert Petica (Mohave) - Retirement

Ricardo Calzada (Unattached) over Marcos Torres (Mohave) - RSC

Lanell Bellows (Steeles) over Foreman Briggs (Arce Boxong) - Retirement

Marvin Patino (Arce) over Juan Contreras (LV Boxing) - Walkover

Elisio Duran (LV Boxing) over Robert Almazan (Arce) - Points

Francisco Torres (LV Boxing) over Anthony Sanders (Steeles) - Points

Daniel Diaz (Steeles) over Santos Ortega (Sacremento) - Points

Carlos Pena (Elite) over Jesus Rascon (Unattached) - RSC

Jesus Gutierrez (Tocco's) over DeHaven Alexander (Elite) - Points

Brandon Everett (Mesquite) over Ronald Nagarro (LV Boxing) - Points

Mario Gonzalez (Tocco's) over Sergio Lopez (LV Boxing) - Points

Raul Cardenas (LV Boxing) over Narco Sanchez (Tocco's) - Points

** Las Vegas Boxing Gym has no affiliation with www.lvboxing.com

September 20, 2008

DeLaHoya vs. Pacquaio Tickets

by: Select your name...

TICKETS GO ON SALE FOR

DE LA HOYA vs. PACQUIAO

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 AT 10 A.M. PT

LAS VEGAS, NEV. (September 19, 2008) - Tickets to "The Dream Match" -- the 12-round welterweight super fight between six-division world champion OSCAR DE LA HOYA and boxing's No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter MANNY PACQUIAO -- will go on sale this Wednesday, September 24 at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT. Presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao will take place Saturday, December 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.

Tickets are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $250, $150, not including applicable taxes and service charges. Ticket sales are limited to two (2) per person at each price level with a total ticket limit of four (4) per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (702) 474-4000. Tickets also are available for purchase atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets will be sold via Ticketmaster phones and website only. There will be no sales at MGM Grand or any Ticketmaster outlets.

The De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com

September 20, 2008

Top Rank Boxing in Primm

by: Steven Robinson

Friday night saw a sparse crowd drive the 42 miles out to Primm to Buffalo Bils Star in the Desert Arena to watch a Top Rank promoted boxing card. The fights started a little early with the first bout going off at 4:30 pm but there was plenty of action and many of the participants had local connections.

JUAREGUI vs. RAIYMKULOV

The main event pitted Javier Chatito Juaregui of Guadalajara, Mexico against Kid Diamond Almazbek Raimkulov of Las Vegas via Krygystan. Both fighters weighed in at 136 # the night before the fight.

Juaregui with a record of 53-15-2, with 36 KOs was fighting in his 71st professional fight. Hes 35 years old but has been fighting professionally since 1988 at the age of 14. We last saw Juaregui in August in a hard fought decision loss to Anthony Peterson.

Raiymkulov (26-1-1, 15 KOs) had 300 amateur fights and represented his native Krygystan in the 2000 Olympics. Shortly after the Olympics he turned pro and moved to Las Vegas to pursue his professional career. For the past few years we have seen him on the undercard of many major fights locally and his aggressive style has always pleased the crowd. His only loss occurred in 2005 when he was KOd by Nate Campbell.

Early on in this match Juaregui showed that he learned something in his 20 years in the ring not giving Kid Diamond much of a target, and taking advantage of every opening to land a blow. The Mexican won 3 of the first 4 rounds on one judges card and all four on another with a persistent attack, good counter punching and a slippery defense. Raiymkulov was cut by his left eye in the 4th. From that point on Raiymkulovs punches started to find their mark and his aggressive style kept Juaregui off balance. Kid Diamond landed first and landed cleaner in taking control of the fight from this point on. For the remainder of the fight there were no knockdowns and neither was injured but there was plenty of dueling in the ring right up until the final bell. After 10 rounds Judge Dick Houck scored the match 95-95 for a draw. Jerry Roth saw it 96-94 and Duane Ford had it 97-93 for Raiymkulov giving him the Majority Decision win.

MEDINA vs. MARTIROSYAN

In another 10 round attraction Michael Medina (18-0-2, 14 KOs) took on Vanes The Nightmare Martirosyan (20-0, 13 KOs) of Glendale, CA in a Super Welterweight match. The boxers weighed 153 ½ and 154 ½ respectively. We have seen Martirosyan on several undercards of big Las Vegas fights in the past while Medina has fought most of his pro career in Monterrey, Mexico.

Vanes started strong using a juackhammer left jab to control the early action. He rocked Medina with a right late in the round while Medina managed to land a few good lefts to the body. Medina proves he is a tough opponent early on landing some effective counter punches but Martirosyan takes his punches, moves forward, gets off first and lands more often  all things that win rounds. For ten rounds there was almost no lull in the action as both boxers continued their pursuit: Martirosyan as the aggressor and Medina as the counter puncher. Vanes landed some wicked shots but Medina never went down and never slowed his attack. However Martirosyan did a little more each round to control the action and this turned out to be one of the best one-sided bouts I have ever seen. After ten hard fought rounds Judge Al Lefkowitz scored it 97-93, Paul Smith saw it 98-92 and Adalaide Byrd had it 100-90 all for Vanes Martirosyan who notches a ten round Unanimous Decision victory over a tough Medina.

RUIZ vs. MAGDALENO

Local prospect Diego Magdaleno (5-0, 2 KOs) notched another KO victory when Jorge Ruiz (5-6-1) corner threw in the towel stopping the match at 1:16 of the 5th in a scheduled 6 round Super Featherweight match.

September 13, 2008

Juan Manuel Marquez celebrates Mexican Independence Day by using Casamayor as a Pinata.

by: Gregory Robinson

In a technically impressive Main Event for the Ring World Lightweight Title, Juan Manuel Marquez defeated Joel Casamayor by TKO at 2 minutes and 55 seconds of round 11.

Watching boxing like this is like seeing an entirely different sport. Every move seems carefully planned yet executed without a moment's hesitation. The fight can, and often does, change entirely with a single punch. Tonight, Casamayor started off on top, landing quick jabs and keeping Marquez at bay for the first two rounds. After that, Marquez caught on to Casamayor and started landing blows that halted Casamayor's advances. A beautiful right-left combo in round four made Casamayor stop and shake his head. After that, the two fighters traded rounds. It was difficult to determine who was really getting the best of who, although both fighters were certainly giving and receiving hard punches. By round 10, Judge Glen Feldman had Marquez ahead 7-3, while the other two judges had Casamayor ahead by a round. Nevertheless, the fight was concluded quickly and definitively when Marquez landed a giant right in round 11 that sent Casamayor flying to the canvas. Casamayor managed to get back up, but Marquez was on him, landing multiple punches including another big right that put Casamayor down again. At that point, Referee Tony Weeks stepped in and stopped the fight - and of course - the crowd when absolutely bonkers.

A great fight from two amazing fighters.

Sergio Mora vs Vernon "The Viper" Forest - WBC World Super Welterweight Title

Imagine the best fight possible with 12 rounds of non-stop action. Now imagine its complete opposite. That was Mora-Forest I in June of this year. In that fight, Mora edged out a majority decision and Forest claimed he over-trained, but the real loser of this fight was the audience. Fortunately (or unfortunately) a clause in the contract required twelve more rounds of the same. So here we go again.

Luckily, a different Viper stepped into the ring this time. He was confident and controlled, systematically chopping Mora down rather than going for a quick knockout. This is not to say that this was a clean fight - there was an inordinate amount of low blows, holding and hitting, and overall sloppiness on both sides, all of which really do not belong in a co-main event. Nevertheless, it was better.

Other than a slow first round, Forest completely controlled the action, patiently but consistently tagging Mora with quick one-two combos in the center and short shots against the ropes. Some of the highlights include a beautiful right by Forest in the fourth and a series of overhand rights in the 6th while Mora was pinned against the ropes. In the 7th, Forest landed a quick left hook at the end of the round that sent Mora stumbling. The bell rang just as Mora was going down, but referee Vic Drakulich halted the fight and correctly awarded the knockdown to Forest. In the 9th, Mora made his last stand, flurrying, landing one solid right, and probably doing just enough to take a round. However, it was not nearly enough to change the tide of the fight. After twelve rounds, the judges score the bout 118-109, 117-110, and 119-108 all in favor of Forest, who now has his title restored.

Vicious Victor Ortiz (21-1-1) vs Roberto Arrieta (30-13-4) NABO Junior Welterweight Title

Ortiz is an artist. He stays small and tight, low to the ground, attacking at short range and covering well. His opponent, Argentinean fighter Roberto Arrieta, is a solid fighter, but clearly in a different league. In round 2, Ortiz narrowly missed with a right hook but connected with a straight left that sent Arrieta sprawling to the canvas. Arrieta recovered, but he continued to take serious punishment until a right-left combo put him down again in the fourth. This time, a cut had formed over his left eye, which gave Ortiz a beautiful bulls-eye to hone in on. In round 5, a quick one-two put Arrieta down for the third and final time. He managed to get back on his feet, but Referee Jay Nady had seen enough. He calls off the fight at 2 min and 25 seconds, making Vicious Victor the new NABO Junior Welterweight Champ. It was a well-earned victory from a fighter that I'm anxious to see again.

Julio Baby Face Garcia (41-3) vs Danny Dynamite Perez (32-5)

For ten rounds, a rather uninspired Julio Baby Face Garcia seemed content to allow Danny Dynamite Perez (32-5) to batter his head and body at will. Garcia did manage to show signs of life at points, landing a nice hook in round 7, but he quickly reverted to his semi-comatose state and finished out the fight as a slowly moving punching bag. After ten very long rounds, the judges score the bout 100-90, 99-91, 97-93, all in favor of Dynamite Perez.

Daud Yordan (Ketapang, Indonesia) vs Antonio Meza (Mexicali, Mexico)

Newly signed Golden Boy fighter Daud Yordan was welcomed to Las Vegas tonight by the surprisingly hard-hitting Antonio Meza. The two featherweights fought eight solid rounds, offering a clinic in clean punches and quick upper body movement. Although Meza proved to be more aggressive and more willing to throw punches, Yordan landed the majority of crisp blows, impressing the judges just enough to take rounds. At the end, Lisa Giampa scored the fight a draw, while Duane Ford and Jerry Roth scored the fight 78-74 in favor of Yordan. This was a great fight from two promising pugilists.

August 29, 2008

DeLaHoya vs. Pacquaio on for December

by:

LOS ANGELES (August 28) - The wait is over and the fight is on. . .Olympic gold medalist and 10-time world champion "The Golden Boy" OSCAR DE LA HOYA will face current Ring Magazine No. 1-ranked pound for pound champion MANNY "Pacman" PACQUIAO on Saturday, December 6 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada in a bout that will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View. Presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank, Inc., the bout will be a 12-round, non-title fight contested at the 147-pound welterweight limit. This exciting and intriguing match-up pits two of the most recognizable and popular talents in the sport today in what will surely be the grand finale of the 2008 boxing calendar year. "Manny Pacquiao is considered the best fighter in boxing today and I always want to fight the best," said De La Hoya. "I am glad we were able to make this fight happen because while Pacquiao is at the pinnacle of his success and has defeated all of the top fighters he has faced, I am going to show the world that it stops with me. December 6 can't get here soon enough." "This is my greatest challenge," said Pacquiao. "When I take that walk to the ring to fight Oscar, I will carry all the people of The Philippines - the entire country - on my shoulders. I promise I will fight with all of my heart and that I will give everything I have. Like my trainer Freddie Roach says, I have what it takes to win the biggest fight of my life." After several weeks of amicable discussions between De La Hoya's company, Golden Boy Promotions, and Pacquiao's promoter, Top Rank, Inc., a deal was struck this week ensuring fans around the world the opportunity to see this dream match-up. Richard Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer, Golden Boy Promotions said, "This fight will have the whole world talking and will be a fantastic night for boxing. Oscar's career has always been defined by taking on the biggest challenges and fighting best names in boxing. This fight against a great champion like Manny Pacquiao is just another testament to his readiness to face the strongest competition and continue his legacy as one of the greatest fighters boxing has ever seen." Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum, Chairman of the Board, Top Rank added, "This fight is what all sports fans are looking forward to, a contest between two champions who come to fight and who are the most popular names in boxing today. Manny Pacquiao is taking on a major task in facing the legendary Oscar de la Hoya, but we at Top Rank are very confident Manny will handle himself extremely well." Richard Sturm, President of Sports and Entertainment, MGM MIRAGE said, "MGM MIRAGE has hosted the greatest names in sports and entertainment and this event will certainly continue that tradition. We look forward to presenting one of the most exciting promotions in the history of boxing and there is no question this fight will have a major impact on fans worldwide." Mark Taffet, HBO Pay-Per-View said, "De La Hoya-Pacquiao is a dream match-up which will capture the imagination of sports fans everywhere. It's the pay-per-view king vs. the pound-for-pound king and an event in which both fighters' popularity clearly transcends the sport." Oscar de la Hoya has been a fan favorite and the most successful pay-per-view attraction in the history of the boxing. A 1992 Olympic Gold Medalist for the United States, de la Hoya (39-5, 30 KOs) is a champion in every division he has competed in from 130 to 160 pounds and has faced boxing's elite for over 15 years, including Floyd Mayweather, Julio Cesar Chavez, Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosley, Felix Trinidad, Pernell Whitaker, Ike Quartey, Fernando Vargas, Arturo Gatti, Genaro Hernandez, Jesse James Leija and Hector Camacho Sr. In his fight against Mayweather on May 5, 2007, he fell short via a close split decision, but set records with the fight having the most pay-per-view buys and grossing the most revenue in the history of boxing. In his last fight against Steve Forbes on May 3, 2008 De La Hoya registered a dominating unanimous decision victory, winning nearly every round of the fight which took place in suburban Los Angeles at the outdoor Home Depot Center soccer stadium, another first for boxing's star attraction. Manny Pacquiao (47-3-2, 35 KOs) is recognized by most knowledgeable observers as the best fighter at any weight in the world today. Pacquiao, 29, has held world titles in four weight divisions, winning the WBC flyweight world title two weeks before his 20th birthday in December of 1998, the IBF junior featherweight world title at age 22 in 2001, the WBC super featherweight world title in March of this year and most recently the WBC lightweight world title in his last fight on June 28 against defending champion David Diaz.

August 24, 2008

Cordova Wins at the Trop

by: Steven Robinson

A surprisingly good sized crowd showed up at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino as Zeferino Entertainment staged a five fight card of up and coming boxers in the Grand Ballroom. Fights such as this are referred to as club fights as they feature boxers who dont yet have or never will have national credentials. These guys are just fighters with a dream of someday getting a big fight and earning the title of Champion. So it was tonight when most of the fights turned out as expected but even though there were no surprises there was lots of good boxing action and entertainment for Las Vegas boxing fans.

NABO Super Lightweight Title

Marvin "Much Too Much" Cordova Jr. (19-0-1, 11 KO's) of Colorado took on Derrick "Super" Samuels (15-3-1, 4 KO's) of Florida for the vacant NABO Super Lightweight Championship at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino Saturday evening. In a tough battle of contrasting styles, Cordova took on the role of a brawler relying on powerful blows to the head and body while Samuels, not known for his power with only 4 KO's in 19 fights, relied on a ceaseless attack always moving forward no matter what Cordova threw at him. This made for a good fight with lots of back and forth action and several close rounds.

Cordova established himself early with powerful blows to Samuels head and body. As hard as Cordova hit Samuels never waivered and continued to come forward and take advantage of breaks in Cordova's attack. There were many rounds where just when it appeared that Samuels was dominating the round, Cordova would come back with a flurry of withering blows that landed hard. There were also many instances where the boxers stood toe to toe and slugged it out. For ten rounds there were very few lulls in the action and both gave their all  Samuels with his tough chin and unending attack and Cordova with powerful well-placed blows. After ten action packed rounds nobody had been knocked down and neither had any serious cuts. So it went to the scorecards where Judge Dave Moretti had it 96-94 for Samuels. Judge Robert Hoyle saw it 96-94 for Cordova and Judge CJ Ross had it 97-93 for Cordova giving him the Split Decision win in a close entertaining match. Cordova earned $4,500 along with his title belt and Samuels got $7,500 for his losing effort.

Undercard

Pacheco vs. Grajeda

In the opener Jose Pacheco (0-1-4) fought Caesar Grajeda (4-0) in a Bantamweight match. This fight was a crowd pleaser because for four rounds there was no break in the action. A tough Pacheco gave Grajeda all he could handle with an unending attack while Grajeda demonstrated superior skill and more power. After four rounds they were both still on their feet and it went to the judges scorecards where all three saw it 40-36 for Grajeda who remains undefeated.

Williams vs. Page

Next up were Light Heavyweights Aaron Williams (17-1-1, 12 KO's) and Zach Page (15-20-2, 5 KO's). For six rounds Williams used a hammering jab and countered effectively when the journeyman Page lunged at him with an attempt at a blow. At the final bell Williams had done enough to win and Page had done enough to make it interesting. All three judges scored it 60-54 for Williams.

Daniels vs. Wasswa

In a Featherweight bout Torrence Daniels (10-4, 4 KO's) of Las Vegas took on Hassan Wasswa (5-6-2) of Uganda. Daniels dropped Wasswa late in the first with a right hook to the midsection. Wasswa beat the count and finished out the round. In the second and third Daniels got his rhythm with good jabs and good 1-2 combos to Wasswa's face. Late in the fourth Daniels was well in control of the match when he landed several head rocking shots to Wasswa's face. Since Wasswa didnt appear to be able to protect himself, Referee Toby Gibson stepped between the boxers to stop the fight. Daniels gets a TKO at 2:38 of the fourth.

Laleye vs. Henderson

Cruiserweights Akinyem "AK47" Laleye (9-1, 4 KO's) and Issaiah "The Prophet" Henderson (11-9, 4 KO's) met in a scheduled 4 rounder just before the main event. Late in the first Laleye landed a perfect left-right combination to Hendersons head that floored him. Referee Tony Weeks looked him in the eyes while he was still down and waived off the count. If Henderson was truly a prophet he should have seen that one coming. Laleye gets a TKO at 2:20 of the first.

August 23, 2008

Nation Jr. Golden Gloves on TV Tonight

by: Steven Robinson

A taping of the National Junior Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament which was recently hosted in Mesquite Nevada will be braodcast tonight (Sat. Aug 23) and tomorrow on Las Vegas 1 (Cable 19) at 7:30 pm. it will be broadcast again Saturday and Sunday nights for the next two weeks. The matches that will be broadcast are the Championship bouts that took place on the final day of competition in the center ring.

August 22, 2008

Super Lightweight Title Fight Saturday Night

by: Steven Robinson

Zeferino Entertainment and the Tropicana Hotel and Casino will host the NABO Super Lightwieght Title Fight between Marvin "Much Too Much" Cordova Jr. and Derrick Samuels in the main event of a five card match Saturday night. Action will take place in the Grand Ballroom (just past the Island Buffett). The first fight is scheduled to go off at 7:00 pm and tickets ranging from $35 -$70 are still available.

August 17, 2008

Police Olympics

by: Steven Robinson

Saturday night Barry's Boxing Center hosted an amateur boxing competition of Police and Firemen from across the country. The results were as follows:

Jonathan Soler (LA Sherriff Dept) over Douglas Hurst (Oklahoma City PD) - RSC

Michael Lee (Las Vegas Metro) over Walter Husband (LA Airport Police) - RSC

Noel Sanchez (Las Vegas Metro) over Chad Owens (Las Vegas Metro) - RSC

Bienveinido Villaflor (Honolulu PD) over Anthony Sanders (Clark Cty Detention Ctr) - Points

Richard Sanchez (LA Airport Police) over Richie Arnold (N Las Vegas PD)- Points

Benjamin Rodriguez (El Paso Fire Dept) over Rafael Garcia (California Highway Patrol) - Points

Rahsaan Harrison (LA Sherriff) over Steven Grammas (Las Vegas Metro) - RSC

Non- Police Amateur Bouts

Jesus Martinez (Barry's) over William Parrales (Barry's) - Points

Victor Torres (Unattached) over Mario Gonzalez (Toccos) - Points

Jesus Gutierrez (Tocco's) over Luis Martinez (Barrys) - RSC

Steven Jones (Barry's) over Marcos Terriquez (Toccos) - Points

August 16, 2008

Aranda and Tauton in a Six Round Slugger

by: Gregory Robinson

Tauton has looked good in all is fights with Crown Boxing and it was certainly time for him to step up his level of competition. On paper, Rodrigo Aranda (7-7-2) didn't look like he'd present much of a challenge. In this case, the record was misleading. Aranda, who had three losses and one draw in his last four fights, apparently had grown tired of losing. When the bell rang, both fighters came out looking like they wanted to win. Tauton was quicker and able to move freely around the ring, while Aranda looked stronger and more assertive. His attack was like a charge, direct and without adornment. Tauton found some success circling and landing punches from the outside, but Aranda was frequently able to cut off the ring and through bombs. When they landed, they landed hard. For six rounds, Aranda came straight in, bulldozing forward (in as much as a super flyweight can bulldoze) while Tauton struggled to stay out his way. Ultimately, Aranda's forward momentum, and sheer will, proved to be too much. After six rounds, the judges scored the fight 60-54, 59-55, and 58-56, all in favor of Aranda. That said, it was a solid fight for both opponents, far surpassing several other bouts on the card.

Raul Gonzales and Jerry Granados

These two made their professional debut this evening. For some reason Raul's name was announced as Gonzales but listed as Raul Duhart on the card and on boxrec.com. So I guess I'll just call him Raul until things are clarified. Both fighters entered the first round tentatively, punching the air and circling. Granados threw a few and more blows, but Raul clearly had superior evasive skills and managed to avoid almost everything Granados had to offer. In round two, Raul landed an early left hook that sent Granados sprawling to the canvas. Granados beat the count, but Raul came in for the kill and put him out for good with an impressive flurry. The fight ended at 42 seconds of the 2nd round and Raul Gonzales/Duhart gets his first professional win.

Rodrigo Aquiar and Simon Ruvalcaba

This was a bit of a lopsided fight between two middleweights. The fight began, continued, and ended with Aquiar (4-3) slowly but effectively turning Ruvalcaba (4-9-2) into a human bobble head. Aquilar, who was completely uninterested in bodywork, focused solely on thrashing Ruvalcaba's noggin, and Ruvalcaba focused solely on welcoming the pain. As everyone knows, even working the heavy bag gets tiring after a while, and by round three, Aquilar was exhausted from pounding on a target that wasn't defending, but also wasn't going down. Both fighters managed to make it through four rounds on their feet, but only one fighter managed to win a round. The final scores: 40-35, 40-36, and 40-36 all in favor of Aquilar.

August 16, 2008

McCarter Wins Lightweight Title

by: Steven Robinson

It was another amazing night of boxing at The Orleans Hotel and Casino Friday night when Crown Boxing put on another great night of fights for local fans. Only in Las Vegas can a sold out, standing-room-only crowd see Elvis sing the National Anthem, hot ring girls and hotter hostesses, and ten guys and two ladies who fight their heart out for our enjoyment for $25 a seat.

Women's GBU Lightweight Championship

Leyla McCarter (30-13-5), a local favorite and veteran of many fights at The Orleans, took on Loli Munoz (8-4-1) of Barcellona, Spain. The only controversy in this fight was the length of the rounds. Normally women fight two minute rounds in their bouts but can apply for a variance to fight three minute rounds. McCarter has done this several times in the past. About two rounds into the fight the Spaniard's corner was protesting the round length to the officials and Keith Kizer, Executive Director of the Nevada Athletic Commission came to their corner with a copy of the contract and pointed out the round length to Munoz manager. He wasn't happy with it but let the fight continue. Munoz was somewhat taller and appeared to have a reach advantage but rarely got the opportunity to put it to work. For ten rounds, McCarter controlled the action by getting off her punches first, using her speed to negate Munoz awkward attempts and landing blows when opening occurred then getting out of the way. It was another McCarter masterful, if at times somewhat dull, display of superior boxing skills over an overmatched opponent. Neither went down from a punch nor did either appear seriously hurt for the duration. After ten rounds Judge Duane Ford saw it 97-93, Jerry Roth had it 98-92 and Dave Moretti scored 100-90 all for Leyla McCarter.

Liles vs. Aldrete

In a Cruiserweight match Patrick Liles (7-0-0, 7 KO's) took on last minute replacement Mike Aldrete (6-3, 4 KO's). The southpaw Liles started strong landing his right jab followed by several straight lefts that a seemingly hapless Aldrete ate for most of the first. Just when it looked like dull one-sided match, Aldrete lands a big left hook that floors Liles. Liles made it to his feet and beat the count just as the bell rang ending the first. For the next 5 rounds the crowd was on its feet cheering for every big blow and there were a lot of them. Liles continued to control most of the rounds with an awkward but tough Aldrete attacking in vicious spurts to the enjoyment of the crowd. By the sixth and final round both opponents were exhausted barely able to raise their arms but both gave it there all intil the closing bell. Jusge Richard Ocasio scored it 57-56 for Aldrete. Judge Al Lefkowitz saw it 58-56 for Liles. Judge Dick Houck scored it 57-57 so the fight is called a draw. The crowd wasn't happy with the result as both boxers gained a lot of fans tonight but I'm sure they would all be glad to pay to see a rematch of the fight of the night sometime in the near future.

Bozan vs. Presnell

Heavyweights Eric Bozan (0-0) of Las Vegas and Charles Presnell (0-1-0) of Reno met in a preliminary bout scheduled for four rounds. Let me preface the blow by blow by saying that this fight was unusual because Bozan, who trains at Boe's Boxing, makes his pro debut at 40 years old. We really didn't get to see much of what Bozan has because in just 22 seconds he landed a series of unanswered blows to the body and head of a hapless Presnell forcing Referee Joe Cortez to step between the boxers and stop the bout. Bozan starts his professional boxing career with a TKO victory in round one.

August 14, 2008

Boxing at Orleans Friday Night

by: Steven Robinson

Boxing returns to The Orleans Friday night when Crown Boxing showcases some of Las Vegas' best up and coming fighters. Crown Boxing for the past two years has been promoting fights for boxers starting out their professional careers. Most of these boxers didn't have a glorious amateur career with Olympic backgrounds - they were fighters who came up the hard way on meager budgets, working other jobs, and then going to the gym to work out and spar. Fighters who have a dream of getting a shot at a title fight some day and making a big pay check. History tells us that most will have a short-lived career and fade into oblivion but a few will make it to the next level. Las Vegas boxing fans turn out for sold out performances at The Orleans to cheer on the underdog and for a chance to see a fighter who might someday be the champ. The Orleans ballroom turned boxing arena is an intimate venue where all the seats are good. Exhibitions of boxing prowess and big-time knockouts are common and can be seen for as little as $25 a seat.

This month the feature fight is a ladies bout showcasing "Amazing" Layla McCarter fighting for the women's GBU Lightweight title. McCarter has been featured several times as the lead fighter at The Orleans in the past and always puts on a great show. Because there are relatively few woman boxers of her caliber in the world, Crown Boxing has gone all the way to Spain to find the European and Spanish women's champ in Loli Munoz of Barcelona, Spain. McCarter is a local favorite with a healthy following of fans. The Orleans Sports Book is offering wagers on this fight with McCarter heavuily favored at -1000. Munoz comes in at +600.

There are five other fights on the card featuring several boxers with local ties including Johnny Taunton, Eric Bozan, Raul Duhart, Jerry Granados , Rodrigo Aranda and Rodrigo Aguiar. The doors open at 6:00 pm and the first fight is scheduled to go off at 7:00. If you want a seat call the Orleans box office now because at $25-$50 a ticket these events usually sell out.

August 3, 2008

Palms Undercard

by: Steven Robinson

Undercard

Sanchez vs. Judah

The opener was a Super Welterweight match between Javier Sanchez (1-1) of Long Beach, CA and Joseph Judah (2-0) of New York City - Zab's relative. Judah stood a head taller and had an obvious reach advantage. Judah used a stiff right jab to keep a hard charging Sanchez off and landed some good left-right combos. Sanchez concentrated on body shots. Judah took control early in the second then covered up and rested on the ropes while Sanchez mostly landed on his arms. Judah was even more casual in the third evidencing that he could land at will when he made an effort but he didn't make much of an effort. In the last, Judah took over landing at will and slipping Sanchez efforts. All three judges scored it 39-37 for Judah who remains undefeated.

Marts vs. Chavez

In a Super Lightweight match Jeremy Marts (4-2. 3 KO's) of Ottumwa. IA took on Omar Chavez (10-0-1, 8 KO's) of Culiacan, Mexico. Omar is the son of Culiacan's famous Julio Caesar Chavez. It didn't take Chavez long to demonstrate his power dropping Marts early with a straight right to the face. Marts got up quickly and appeared unhurt. About 30 seconds later Marts went down from a right hook to the body. Again he was up before the count but somewhat slower this time. Shortly thereafter Chavez landed a left-right combination that floored Marts again. Referee Vic Drakulich didn't even begin to count this time, waiving off the bout at 2:44 of the first. Chavez remains undefeated and notches anther KO victory.

Hernandez vs. Garcia

In a Featherweight match Jose Hernandez (11-6-1, 5 KO's) of Cuernavaca, Mexico met Miguel Angel Garcia (12-0, 10 KO's) of Ventura, CA. For the majority of this fight Garcia put on a superb boxing exhibition that to a boxing fan was a true work of art. He controlled the action, got off first and often, took advantage of all openings, used a fast stiff jab to create openings for combinations and landed with power when openings occurred. The only round he rested was the seventh and them he came out in the eighth and put Hernandez away. Garcia landed three or four unanswered blows and Referee Tony Weeks waived off the count. Garcia gets a TKO at 24 seconds of the round to remain undefeated.

Juarequi vs. Peterson

Next up was a Lightweight bout between Javier Juarequi (53-14-2, 36 KO's) of Guadalajara, MX and Anthony Peterson (27-0, 19 KO's) of Washington, DC. For ten rounds Peterson was faster and hit harder and more often. A tough Juarequi weathered everything that Peterson could throw at him and kept on fighting. Peterson had to wonder what he had to do to take this guy out but the Mexican never went down and easily absorbed Peterson's best shots. However Peterson easily dominated the whole ten rounds and Judge CJ Ross scored it 99-91 while Judges Hoyle and Moretti had it 100-90 all for Anthony Peterson who remains undefeated. After the fight Peterson rated his performance a B minus. "I want to be great, not just good."

Furney vs. Magdaleno

Just before the main event Scott Furney (3-4-1, 1 KO) took on local favorite Diego Magdaleno (4-0, 2 KO's). Magdaleno had Pat Berry and Augie Sanchez in his corner who have trained him since his amateur days. Diego worked a soft looking Furney over in the first landing regularly to the body and his face. Furney was down twice in the second but beat the count each time. Furney protested the knockdowns but to a deaf ear of Referee Kenny Bayless. There were no more knockdowns for the remainder of the six rounds although Magdaleno dominated all of them. All three judges scored the bout 60-52 for Diego Magdaleno who remains undefeated.

Mouton vs. Pierson

After the main event we had a Middleweight bout between Don Mouton (5-2-1, 5 KO's) of Houston, TX and Richard Pierson (8-1, 5 KO's) of Patterson, NJ. A shorter more powerful Mouton was able to stay inside the reach of Pierson or keep him on the ropes and batter him to the body to dominate all six rounds. Late in the final round Mouton landed a big right that knocked Pierson through the ropes. Pierson was counted out by Referee Kenny Bayless at 2:59.

Flores vs. Franco

For the walk off match we had a Bantamweight bout featuring Felix Flores (14-8-1, 11 KO's) of Valledupar, Columbia and Michael Franco (12-0, 8 KO's) of Riverside, CA. In a sloppy fight that looked more like a wrestling match at times, Felix Flores did was he was supposed to do - lose. Franco didn't look very good against this awkward opponent but did enough to win most of the rounds. After six of what seemed extremely long rounds it went to the score cards where the judges scored it 60-53 x 2 and 59-54 all for Franco.

August 2, 2008

Clottey Wins IBF Title by Technical Decision

by: Steven Robinson

IBF World Welterweight Title

Zab Judah vs. Joshua Clottey

Tonight at The Pearl in the Palms Hotel and Casino, Zab"Super" Judah (35-6, 25 KO's) took on Joshua "Hitter" Clottey (34-2, 21 KO's) for the vacant IBF World Welterweight title. After eight and a half close rounds Referee Robert Byrd stopped the fight on advice of the doctor. Byrd stopped the fight after what he saw as an accidental head butt opened a cut over Judah's right eye. Judah stated to the doctor that he couldn't see so the doctor stopped the fight. Under Nevada rules after the fourth round if the fight is stopped by an accidental head butt we go to the score cards. Judge Duane Ford had it 87-84, Judge George Hill saw it 86-85 and Judge Glenn Trowbridge had it 86-85 all for Joshua Clottey. When the fight was stopped Judah protested and whined so much that Clottey lived up to his promise and "made him cry".

The fight was actually very close with a lot of back and forth action throughout. Judah relied on his speed and a rifling right jab to control the aggressive Clottey. Clottey was always on the charge throwing lunging rights that often landed. COMPUBOX showed Judah threw 280 jabs landing 45 vs Clotteys 30 landing 8. Of power punches Judah threw 139 landing 72 while Clottey threw 363 landing 114. The power punches actually made the difference as replays showed that the cut that ended the fight was caused by a Clottey right hand. Had it been scored correctly Clottey would have gained a TKO win. Fortunately he was ahead at the time of the stoppage. Two of three judges had it all even after eight rounds and they all gave Clottey the last to cement the win.

August 1, 2008

Judah vs.Clottey for Welterweight Title

by: Steven Robinson

Clottey - "I will make him cry!"

An unusually boisterous Joshua Clottey made that claim to the press Thursday at the Palms two days before the IBF World Welterweight Championship fight with Zab Judah. That's the kind of trash talk we have come to expect from Judah (36-5, 25 KO's), who is never at a lack for words. But today he was clam and polite in saying he was ready for this fight and thanking his team for getting him prepared.

A 30 year old Clottey (34-2, 20 KO's), who is fighting in his first world championship, is the tough, workmanlike boxer who many contenders have avoided on their way up the ladder to championship opportunities, much like Antonio Margarito who wrestled the WBA Championship away from Miguel Cotto last weekend in a decisive KO victory. Clottey and Margarito met in 2006 where Margarito gained a UD victory while throwing an unheard of 1675 punches. Clottey lasted all twelve rounds of that assault in a valient effort.

Judah (also 30) is fighting in his 15th world championship bout. He has a record of 10-5 in these fights and is the former WBA-WBC-IBF Welterweight Champ. Judah has no opponents in commom with Clottey but was beaten by Cotto, who lost to Margarito last weekend, in 2007.

There are many reasons to watch this fight. The winner stands a good chance at getting a shot at Margarito for the WBA belt. It is a "must win" fight for both boxers, especially Judah, to continue a successful career so both will make an extraordinary effort. "The Pearl" venue at The Palms is set up for 1900 seats ranging from $88 to $253 and the layout promises no bad seats and up close action. If you can't afford to see it live it's being broadcast free to HBO subscribers at 9:30 pm by delay. Many fights not as promising as this have been PPV only. There is a great 7 fight undercard (not televised) featuring lightweight Anthony Peterson (27-0, 19 KO's) of Washington, DC and local favorite Diego Magdaleno (4-0. 2 KO's).

Odds posted at The Palms Sportsbook on 7?31 were Clottey -280, Judah +220. Clottey by KO 3/2, Clottey by Decision 3/2. Judah by KO 5/1 and Judah by Decision 19/5. Draw 14/1.

First bell is at 4:30 pm PDT with the main event scheduled to go on at 7:30.

July 27, 2008

National Jr Golden Gloves Finals

by: Steven Robinson

The Finals of the Golden Gloves Junior National Championship were held in Mesquite Nevada tonight. Champions were crowned in the Bantam Division (9-10 yrs old), Junior Division (11-12), Intermediate Division (13-14) and Senior Division (15-16). The results were as follows:

Bantam Division

55 lbs Anthony Reyes (CA) over Jimmy Doyle (WA)  Points

60 lbs Ace Jiron (NM) over Jose Guevara (ID) - Points

65 lbs Aukanaii Mustafaa (WA) over Justice Jiron (NM)  Points

70 lbs Brandon Lee (CA) over Salvador Gallegos (ID) - Points

75 lbs Gavin Stowe (LA)  Unopposed

80 lbs Cameron Boles (LA)  Unopposed

95 lbs Sergio Aldona (CA)  Unopposed

132 lbs Cole Gregson (ID)  Unopposed

138 lbs Edgar Saenz (MI)  Unapposed

Junior Division

65 lbs Victor Gonzales (CA) over Izaiah Bautista (CA)  Points

70 lbs Omero Gallegos (ID) over Homer Palamino (CA)  Points

70 lbs Danny Antunez (CA) over Emilio Orejel (CA)  Points

75 lbs Ruben Villa (CA) over Chaz Lucero (NV) - Points

80 lbs Edgar Berlanga (NY) - Unopposed

85 lbs Rahim Gonzales (CA) over Brandon Schoeffler (LA)  RSC

90 lbs Kevin Pimentel (NV) over Conn McDevitt (ID) - Points

95 lbs Jordan Howard (CO) over Johnny Rodriguez (ID)  Points

101 lbs Kenneth Davis (NV) over Travis Jerig (OH)  Points

106 lbs Ropati Tiatia (UT) over Vaomatua Mustafaa (WA)  Points

114 lbs Triston Rodriguez (ID)  Unopposed

119 lbs Chase Calloway (MS)  Unopposed

132 lbs Alberto Fundora (FL)  Unopposed

Intermediate Division

75 lbs Shayson Soares (HI) over Melik Elliston (CO) - Points

80 lbs Brady Sensibaugh (WA) over Johnnie West (LA)  Points

85 lbs Mathew Gonzalez (NY) over Angelo Leo (NM)- Points

90 lbs Hunter Turbyfill (MS) over Joseph Rodriguez (NY)  Points

95 lbs Jason Sanchez (NM) over Francisco Esparza (NV) -Points

101 lbs Pedro Duran (CA) over Isaac Gurule (NM)  Points

106 lbs Julian Rodriguez (NJ) over Dido Rodrigues (HI)  Points

110 lbs Dusty Harrison (DC) over Edgar Gutierrez(CA)- Points

114 lbs Danyell Lynch (NY) over Trinity Lopez (MT) - RSC

114 lbs Ricardo Gallegos (ID) over Jonathan Casaca (CA)  Points

119 lbs Zachariah Shamoun (MI) over Mario Martinez(CA)  Points

125 lbs Marcos Rodrigues (TX) over Kenneth Thomas Jr (IN)  Points

132 lbs Cristino Ceballo (NY) over Marco Andrade (MI) - Points

138 lbs Christian Cabral (NM) over Isaiah Castanon (NJ)  Points

145 lbs Jay Williams (LA) Unopposed

176 lbs Sergio Mercado (CO) over Marcio Figueroa (FL)  Points

189+ lbs Bryan Zamora (FL) over Alexander Williford (LA)  RSC

Senior Division

90 lbs Steven Cross  Unopposed

106 lbs Jovanni Diaz (NV) - Unopposed

101 lbs Carlos Suarez (OH) over Michael Norato (CA)  Points

110 lbs Alejandro Hernandez (MI) over Davisd Sandoval (WA)  Points

114 lbs Dennis Galarza (FL) over Gabriel Montoya (WY) - Points

119 lbs Jesus Magdaleno (NV) over Chris Galvadon (CO)  Points

125 lbs Jose Arambula (IL) over Byron Zamora (FL)  Points

132 lbs Xavier Montelongo (CA) over Bobby Bryant (LA)  Points

138 lbs Joe Almanza (LA) over Ranson Soares (HI)  Points

145 lbs Jonathan Dinong (HI) over Julio Miramontes (CO)  Points

154 lbs John Zabala (CO) over Jesse Hernandez (TX)  Points

165 lbs Daquan Arnett (FL) over Gabriel Yellow Owl (MT)  Points

176 lbs Josue Gayton-Gracia (NV)  Unopposed

201 lbs Arnold Noriega (CA)  Unopposed

201+ lbs Brandon Carmack (MS) - Unopposed

July 26, 2008

Cotto Down and Out in the 11th!

by: Gregory Robinson

Tonight Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito fought for 11 hard rounds. Most had it even going into the 11th but everything changed when Margarito flurried half way in and put Cotto down. Cotto managed to get back on his feet, but Margarito went right back after him, and after the second knockdown Cotto's corner threw in the towel.

July 26, 2008

National Jr Golden Gloves Semi Finals

by: Steven Robinson

The National Junior Golden Glover Semi Finals took place in Mesquite, NV tonight at the Casablanca Events Center. The results were as follows:

55 lbs Anthony Reyes (CA) over Alberto Santiago (NY)  Points

65 lbs Victor Gonzalez (CA) over Andrew Strode (CO) - Points

70 lbs Homer Palomino (CA) over Ryder Daniels (MT)  Points

70 lbs Emilio Orejel (CA) over Ramiro Rosas (CA)  Points

70 lbs Omero Gallegos (ID) over Damien Vasquez (CO)  Points

70 lbs Brandun Lee (CA) over Samir Rezgui (CO)  Points

70 lbs Cory Conner Jr. (NM) over Danny Antunez (CA)  RSC

75 lbs Ruben Villa (CA) over Moises Orozco (CA)  Points

75 lbs Chaz Lucero (NV) over Gabriel Olivo (ID)  Points

85 lbs Brandon Schoeffler (LA) over Brandon Trejo (CA)  Points

85 lbs Rahim Gonzales (CA) over Sean Pellitier (AZ)  Points

85 lbs Matthew Gonzalez (NY) over Paul Coy (NM)  Points

85 lbs Angelo Leo (NM) over Blake Flores (NV) - Points

90 lbs Hunter Turbyfill (MS) over Isaiah Abeyta (NM)  Points

90 lbs Joseph Rodriguez (NY) over Kekoa Agoo (HI) - Points

95 lbs Johnny Rodriguez (ID) over Hector Catala (NV)  Points

95 lbs Francisco Esparza (NV) over Jose Jimenez (CA)  Points

95 lbs Jason Sanchez (NM) over Angel Avalos (LA) - Points

101 lbs Kenneth Davis (NV) over Roman Guevara (ID)  Points

101 lbs Travis Jerig (OH) over Henry Allen (LA)  Points

101 lbs Pedro Duran (CA) over Marseilles Tolliver (CO)  Points

101 lbs Isaac Gurule (NM) over Kevin Salcido (CO)  Points

106 lbs Ropato Tiatia (UT) over Malik Broussard (LA)  Points

106 lbs Julian Rodriguez (CA) over David Olson (MT)  Points

106 lbs Dido Rodrigues (HI) over Brendan Bryant (MS)  Points

110 lbs Dusty Harrison (DC) over Lee Mandragon (CO)  Points

110 lbs Edgar Guttierrez (CA) over David Olson (MT)  RSC

110 lbs David Sandoval (WA) over Jebarri Barr (FL) - Points

114 lbs Danyell Lynch (NY) over Miles Khamphilavong (LA)  Points

114 lbs Jonathan Casada (CA) over Justin Pauldo (FL)  Points

114 lbs Trinity Lopez (MT) over Alejandro Martinez (NM)  Points

114 lbs Ricardo Gallegos (ID) over Gerald Carrasquillo (WA)  Points

114 lbs Dennis Galarza (FL) over Nick Jefferson (WA) - Points

119 lbs Mario Martinez (CA) over Samuel Mora (CA)  Points

119 lbs Zachariah Shamoun (MI) over Robert Antunez Jr (CA)  Points

119 lbs Jesus Magdaleno (NV) over Jose Ramirez (CA)  Points

119 lbs Christopher Galvadon (CO) over Carlos Otero (FL)  Points

125 lbs Kenneth Thomas Jr (IN) over Hector Rendon (WA)  Points

125 lbs Marcos Rodriguez (TX) over Isaac Castaneda (NV)  Points

125 lbs Byron Zamora (FL) over Shalom Jones (FL)  Points

125 lbs Jose Arambula (IL) over Yoel Gonzales (NM) - Points

132 lbs Bobby Bryant (MS) over Jose Sanchez (NM)  RSC

132 lbs Xavier Montelongo (CA) over Kenny Todd (OH)  Points

138 lbs Ranson Soares (HI) over Jorge Castro (CO)  Points

138 lbs Joe Almanza (LA) over Maxim Justin (NV)  Points

145 lbs Julio Miramontes (CO) over Jason Salazar (NM)  Points

145 lbs Jonathan Dinong (HI) over Armando Gallegos(ID)  Points

154 lbs Jesse Hernandez (TX) over Izaak Cardona (CO)  Points

165 lbs Daquan Arnett (FL) over Todd Manuel (LA)  RSC

165 lbs Gabriel Yellow Owl (MT) over Trevor Mourer (OH) - Points

July 25, 2008

Results From Mesquite

by: Steven Robinson

7/24/08

The first day of preliminary bouts for the 2008 National Junior Golden Gloves Championships took place tonight at the Casablanca Events Center in Mesquite. Boys aged 9 through 16 from across the country competed in 34 matches for the right to fight in Saturday nights national finals. There are over 50 bouts scheduled for tomorrow night at the Events Center at 7:00 pm that will take place in three rings simultaneously. Tickets are still available at the door at $15 for one night or $20 for the remaining two nights.

Tonights results are as follows:

70 lbs Emilio Orejel (CA) over Doyle Nathan (WA)  Points

75 lbs Chaz Lucero (NV) over Jacob Perez (CO)  Points

75 lbs Ruben Villa (CA) over Christian Bermudez (NY)  Points

75 lbs Gabriel Olivo (ID) over Christian Garcia (NM)  Points

75 lbs Moises Orozco (CA) over Anthony Leggiere (NV)  Points

85 lbs Matthew Gonzalez (NY) over Chance Fontenot (LA)  Points

90 lbs Isaiah Abeyta (NM) over Trevure Poitra (MT)  Points

90 lbs Kekoa Agoo (HI) over Richard Johnson (NM)  Points

90 lbs Joseph Rodriguez (NY) over Isaac Chavez (CA)  Points

95 lbs Francisco Esparza (NV) over Jorge Soto (WA)  Points

95 lbs Jose Jimenez (CA) over Ricky Tomlinson Jr (FL)  Points

95 lbs Jason Sanchez (NM) over Eduardo Vasquez (CO)  Points

101 lbs Isaac Gurule (NM) over Romelio Garcia (MI)  Points

101 lbs Pedro Duran (CA) over Floyd Baker (LA)  Points

101 lbs Marseilles Tolliver (CO) over Kennith Bulin (NV)  Points

106 lbs David Olson (MT) over Brandon Munoz (NM)  Points

106 lbs Julian Rodriguez (NJ) over Joshua Moreno (CA)  RSC

106 lbs Brendan Bryant (MS) over Christopher Salazar (NM)  Points

110 lbs Edgar Guttierrez (CA) over Jose Rivera (CO)  RSC

110 lbs Dusty Harrison (WA) over John Brent (NV)  Points

110 lbs Lee Mondragon (CO) over Rocky Balala (HI)  Points

114 lbs Justin Pauldo (FL) over Rasean Charles (WA)  Points

119 lbs Carlos Otero (FL) over Leonardo Sanchez (NM)  Points

119 lbs Mario Martinez (CA) over Montel Martin (WA)  Points

119 lbs Zachariah Shamoun (MI) over David Figueroa (CA)  Points

125 lbs Shalom Jones (FL) over Kiko Soto (WA)  Points

125 lbs Byron Zamora (FL) over Elijah Peters (WA)  Points

125 lbs Jose Arambula (IL) over Anthony Lapier (MT)  Points

125 lbs Yoel Gonzales (NM) over Derik Jensen (ID)  Points

132 lbs Bobby Bryant (MS) over Alan Figueroa (NM)  Points

132 lbs Xavier Montelongo (CA) over Marvin Johnson (NJ)  Points

132 lbs Kenny Todd (OH) over Sergio Garcia (MI)  Points

138 lbs Jorge Castro (CO) over Justin Williams (OH)  RSC

138 lbs Joe Almanza (LA) over Nicholas Falls (MT) - RSC

July 15, 2008

National Jr. Golden Gloves Returns to Mesquite

by: Steven Robinson

The 2008 Junior Golden Gloves National Championship Amateur Boxing Tournament will return to Mesquite, NV July 24-26, 2008. The tournament hosts our nation's best male amateur boxers aged 9-16 years old from all over the country. Last years tourney at Mesquite drew teams from Florida to Hawaii with over 200 participants. Dawn Sanchez, Executive Director, stated "Our inaugural hosting of this tourney was so successful last year that we expect even more boxers from across the nation this year."

Matches take place nightly at 7:00 pm at the Casablanca Events Center in Mesquite with all finals occurring Saturday. Due to the size of this event, there will be three boxing rings where competition will occur simultaneously for never ending action. Tickets are priced at $15 for a single day, $20 for two days and $30 for all three nights of boxing competition.

On a side note, the Oasis Resort Casino will host a charity poker (Texas Hold-Em) tournament Saturday 7/26 at noon to benefit amateur boxing. The buy-in is $80.

July 9, 2008

Kevin Kelly Wins at The Hilton

by: Steven Robinson

Las Vegas Lightweight Kevin Kelly (59-8-2, 39 KO's) used the experience gained in 70 professional fights to outbox a game Jaime Palma (13-11-1, 6 KO's) of Alexandria, VA., in the Main Event at The Las Vegas Hilton tonight. The slick Kelly made Palma look bad even though he made a valient effort nearly every round. Kelly laid back, took advantage of every opportunity to land his right jab and was effective with crushing left hooks. Palma threw a lot of punches but Kelly either made him miss or slipped them so their full force was nullified. When Palma managed to land some good shots, Kelly would come back with more good shots of his own. For ten rounds, neither went down or was ever in any danger of being knocked out. When they did get hit, both absorbed the punishment and kept on fighting. Both fighters put on a great boxing exhibition with a unending action from the opening bell. After ten rounds it went to the judges scorecards, where Judge Adelaid Byrd saw it 99-91, Glen Trowbridge had it 98-92 and Patricia Morse-Jarmen saw it 97-93 all for Kevin Kelly who notches his 60th career victory at age 41.

Undercard

Kaspars Kambala (2-0-1,1 KO) of Las Vegas took on Ron Weaver (0-1) of Tucson, AZ in a Heavyweight feature. The 6'9" 276# Kambala dwarfed the 216# Weaver, Kambala patiently used his jab and reach advantage for the first half of the round to keep Weaver at bay. A frustrated Weaver lunged too far just once too often and Kambala caught him clean with a straight right. Weaver was on the mat for an eight count. Kambala quickly followed up with two more rights that put Weaver down again. Weaver barely beat the count but was so unsteady on his feet that Referee Kenny Bayless called off the fight. Kambala gets a TKO victory at 2:08 of the first.

In the opening bout, Welterweight Lynel Burton, son of former champ "Lightning" Lonnie Smith in his pro debut took on Chris Finley (0-1) of Detroit. Finley wasted no time and landed a left hook followed by a right to the head that floored Burton. Burtoon made it to his feet, but Referee Russell Mora looked him in the eye and called of the bout. Finley spoils Burton's debut at 26 seconds of the first.

Former UFC Heavyweight Champ Ricco Rodriguez (1-0) of North Hollywood, CA took on Chad Davis (0-1) of Phoenix, AZ. Rodriguez had over 40 bouts under his belt in the UFC. A soft looking Rodriguez came in at 270# while Davis weighed in at 216. Ricco was the agressor in the first but had trouble landing clean. In the second Rodriguez went head hunting while Davis worked the body. Davis gained confidence in the third when Rodriguez best punches had little effect. The final round slowed for both and was a little sloppy but both continued their plan of attack. After four rounds Judge Al Lefkowitz saw it 39-37 for Rodriguez, Judge Dave Moretti saw it 39-37 for Davis as did Judge Paul Smith. Davis gets the upset Split Decision win to spoil Rodriguez Las vegas debut.

July 5, 2008

Holt Takes WBO Title

by: Steven Robinson

WBO World Super Lightweight Championship

Kendall Holt (23-2, 12 KOs) vs. Ricardo Torres (32-1, 28 KOs)

When I came to this fight tonight, I really didnt expect much. Before this fight the highlight of the evening were appearances by Mike Tyson and Paris Hilton. These two fighters had met before, therefore they knew each other pretty well and that usually doesnt lead up to an exciting fight, so man! Was I surprised when I got the most exciting minute in boxing this year! Kendall Holt came out fast looking to land a big punch, but Ricardo Torres beat him to it and clobbered him with a right about 20 seconds into the round for an eight count. Then almost immediately after the eight count Holt was down again for another eight count when he stumbled after a blow and his gloves touched the mat. So he was already down 10-7 early in the first, an almost impossible number to overcome. Torres moved in for the kill and Holt caught him with a left, then a big overhand right that crumpled Torres to the floor with his arm draped over the lower rope. Referee Jay Nady moved in to start the count and could immediately see that Torres was out cold and the only thing keeping him up was the ropes. Nady waived off the count and called the doctors into the ring. Kendall Holt makes an amazing comeback for a TKO victory and the WBO Super Lightweight Title at 1:01 of the first. It was the most amazing action packed minute of boxing I have ever witnessed.

Castaneda vs. Peterson

The first TV bout was a Super Lightweight match between Rogelio Castaneda (24-13-3, 8 KOs) of Sacramento, CA and Lamont Peterson (24-0, 11 KOs) of Washington, DC. Peterson totally dominated a tough but less talented Castaneda. Peterson easily won every round throwing hard clean punches and Castaneda took it never backed up and kept on fighting, although ineffectively. Finally late in the ninth Peterson switched his stance to southpaw and landed a right cross that floored Castaneda. He easily beat the count but continued to take a beating when his corner threw in the towel. Peterson gets a TKO win at 2:50 of the ninth.

Planet Hollywood Undercard

Judah vs. Tapia

The opener was a Super Welterweight match between Luis Tapia in his pro debut from Los Angeles and Joseph Judah (1-0) (relative of Zab) from Brooklyn, NY. Tapia stuck his glove out to greet Judah and Judah greeted him with a straight left to the face. Judah was a head taller and had a 10 inch reach advantage. Judah dominated the first with solid lefts and a good right cross. Tapia managed to get inside during the second and did some good work while Judah was less effective when Tapia was in close. Judah kept Tapia outside for the remaining two rounds and landed more big lefts and some body shots that rocked Tapia. Judge CJ Ross saw it 40-36 while Judges Giampa and Smith had it 39-37 all for Judah.

Marry vs. Coffi

Next up was another Super Welterweight bout between Trinidad Marry (0-2) of Amarillo, TX and Omar Coffi (0-0-1) of NY, NY. Coffi dominated all four rounds with a strong straight left and a wicked right cross. Marry was ineffective in all rounds except for demonstrating he can take a punch. Judges Moretti. Ocasio and Shirley all had it 40-36 for Coffi who notches his first win by Unanimous Decision.

Da Luz vs. Gonzalez

In a Featherweight match Robert Da Luz (11-11-2, 9 KOs) took on Glen Gonzalez (5-0, 4 KOs) of the Philippines. The younger faster Gonzalez dominated Marry for four rounds to win an unquestionable Unamous Decision. All three judges scored it 40-36 for Gonzalez who remains undefeated.

Lagos vs. Franco

In a Super Flyweight match Javier Lagos (15-10-2, 4 KOs) of Houston, TX met Michael Franco (11-0, 8 KOs) of Franco up against an experienced opponent. Lagos at 32 yrs old has 27 fights inder his belt to the 20 year old Francos 11. Lagos didnt make it easy for Franco and outdueled him in the first but Francos speed and strength took over for the remainder of the fight. Lagos was down once in the 5th and out on his feet in the 6th. Franco winds a UD with scores of 59-64 twice and 59-53. Franco looks like a good prospect for better competition in the future and could be a serious contender.

Mouton vs. Judah

In a Middleweight bout scheduled for 6 rounds, Don Mouton (4-2-1, 3 KOs) tangled with highly touted Josiah "Gorilla" Judah (brother of Zab). A charging Mouton caught Judah off balance early and hit him so that his gloves touched the mat, so he had to be counted for eight. Mouton followed up still charging and rocked Judah 3 more times. Judah was still on his feet but Referee Toby Gibson determined he had had enough and stopped the fight at 1:42 of the first. In our first upset of the evening, Mouton gets the upset TKO win as Judah suffers his first loss.

Mendez vs. Julaton

In a ladies Super Bantamweight match Johanna Mendez (3-0, 1 KO) of Houston, TX took on Ana Julaton (4-0, 1 KO) of Daly City, CA. Julaton is trained by Freddie Roach. For six rounds Julaton moved forward throwing her jab and following up when openings occurred while Mendez backpedaled and counter punched. Neither landed a lot of clean blows and neither really dominated the other. When it was all done Judge Bill Graham saw it 59-55 for Julaton, Judge Ricardo Ocasio had it 58-56 for Mendez and Paul Smith had it 57-57. Therefore the match is a draw.

Vinan vs. Cancio

The last match before the TV bouts was a Super Featherweight match between Carlos Vinan (7-6-3, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ and Andrew Cancio (8-0-2, 8 KO's) of Blythe, CA. I didn't expect much out of Vinan with his undistinguished record and since he was 28 years old vs. Cancio's 19 years of age. However, from the opening bell. Vinan put up a great fight, throwing more punches and taking everything the younger Cancio could throw at him. Both fighters threw a lot of leather every round and both landed often. In the fourth, Vinan caught Cancio with a right as he was backing up and dropped him for an eight count. It was the only knock down in a real war that the crowd really appreciated. Judge CJ Ross saw it 57-57 draw, while Judges Moretti and Giampa had it 57-56 for Vinan who gets the upset win by Majority Decision.

July 3, 2008

Torres - Holt Rematch Saturday Night

by: Steven Robinson

Planet Hollywood will host a rematch of Ricardo Torres defending his WBO Jr. Welterweight Title against Kendall Holt Saturday night in the Theater for the Performing Arts. The interesting story of this match comes from their first meeting last September in Columbia when Torres scored a controversial knockdown victory over Holt. The story goes that Holt was ahead on two scorecards going into the eleventh round, when Torres dropped him near his corner. As Holt tried to regain his feet he slipped on the wet surface caused by fans hurling drinks and ice into the ring and the referee called a halt to the bout giving Torres the win. Obviously Torres is anxious to get this rematch on more friendly ground. Holt is favored at the Planet Hollywood Sports Book with odds at -300 vs +250 for Torres.

This fight card is a real bargain for fight fans as there are a total of nine bouts scheduled. The first fight is scheduled to go off at 4:30 pm with two TV bouts telecast on Showtime's "Showbox - The Next Genertion" starting at 8:00 pm. Tickets ranging from $50 to $150 are still available and because of the theater style seating there are no bad seats in the house.

July 2, 2008

Boxing Returns to The Hilton

by: Steven Robinson

Next Tuesday(7/8/08) professional boxing returns to the Las Vegas Hilton for the first time in several years. The Hilton means a lot to Las Vegas boxing history as it was the site for many top professional fights including bouts with Mohammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Evander Hollyfield.

Next weeks main event features Lightweight Kevin "The Flushing Flash" Kelley (59-8-2, 39 KO's) who now resides in Las Vegas in a scheduled 10 rounder against Jaime Palma (13-11-1, 6 KO's) of Alexandria, VA. At 38 years old, Kelly still talks a good game (and talks & talks & talks). If he can perform even half as good as he talks he should have no problem with Palma. Also featured is former MMA Heavyweight Champ Ricco Rodriguez (over 40 MMA bouts) in his second pro boxing match. Local Heavyweight and former UNLV basketball star Kaspars Kambala (6'9" 275#) will fight in a four rounder.

Next weeks card is not as impressive as many of the Hilton's past fight cards but it should be entertaining and the price is right at $25 to $75 a seat. The Hilton Theatre is not overly large so there are no bad seats. Doors open at 5:30 pm with the first fight scheduled to go off at 6:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the Hilton box office at 732-5755.

June 28, 2008

Pacquiao Dominates Diaz

by: Steven Robinson

Pacquaio Wins By KO in the Ninth

Manny Pacquiao (46-3-2, 34 KOs)) stepped up to the Lightweight Division for the first time and left no doubt that he belonged there. From the opening bell Manny dominated WBC title holder David Diaz (34-1-1, 17 KOs) with lightning speed with both hands and the skill to throw every punch in the book. After the first few rounds there was little doubt that Pacquiao was going to win, dominating every round in such a fashion that many could have been scored 10-8 even though no knockdowns occurred. Diaz was cut early on the bridge of the nose, then in the 4th over the right eye. The cuts only worsened as the fight continued as the ring doctor closely monitored Diaz condition. Diaz demonstrated courage and heart by keeping his feet, but he was so totally outclassed that it was a relief when he finally went down in the ninth from a right jab left cross combination. Referee Vic Drakulitch didnt even begin the count and Diaz didnt try to regain his feet. Pacquiao gets the KO at 2:24 and shows why hes the champ in four divisions and may get more in the future.

Undercard

Luevano vs. Santiago

The opening TV bout was for the WBO Featherweight Title featuring Champion Steven Luevano (35-1, 15 KOs) against Mario Santiago. Luevano got off to a strong start with a good body attack and strong right hooks. The second was action packed starting with Luevano walking into a left and taking a quick knee for an eight count. He got right up and clobbered Santiago to drop him for an eight count. They slugged it out for the remainder of the round with Luevano gaining the edge. Luevano continued to control the action for the next few rounds with good body work and a steady paced attack. Luevano got caught with an uppercut in the 5th that rocked him but he kept his feet. As Luevano seemed to come back he was rocked again late. Santiago stole the next round with a late flurry. The 7th was slower but Santiago continued to have the momentum. The 8th remained in Santiagos favor as he landed the cleaner stronger shots while Luevano appeared to tire. The Santiago inexplicably rested in the 9th and gave the round to Luevano. A rested Santiago came out string in the 10th and rattled Luevano who kept his feet but got rocked again mid round. Santaigo had to hold on for the remainder as he punched himself out. Luevano outboxed Santiago for the final rounds to let the decision go to the scorecards. Judge Davis scored it 117-111 for Luevano, Judge Duane Ford had it 115-113 for Santiago and Judge Dave Moretti saw it 114  114 tie. The decision is a draw and Luevano retains his title. Luevano got hit hard throughout the fight and took a beating while retaining his title. This one is worth a rematch.

Fields vs. Barrett

For the first time in his career, Tye Big Sky Fields (40-1, 36 KOs) took on a credible opponent in Monte Barrett (33-6, 19 KOs) in a scheduled 10 round Heavyweight bout. Fields at 67 and 265 pounds chased Barrett awkwardly around the ring flailing with his longer arms early. Barrett ducks under a punch and counters with a right that rocks Fields, then land three more rights in a row that put Fiels on the floor. Fields struggled to his knees then went down again as he was counted out by Referee Kenny Bayless. Fiels finally comes up against a boxer with some skills and pays the price at 57 seconds of the first.

Soto vs. Lorenzo

In a Super Featherweight match Humberto Soto (44-6-2, 28 KOs) of Los Mochis, MX took on Francisco Lorenzo (32-4, 14 KOs) of New Jersey. The fight was for the WBC Interim Super Featherweight Title. We have seen Soto several times in Las Vegas over the past 4 years at the Orleans and other undercards and he has always been a Las Vegas favorite. Soto easily won the first three rounds landing the bigger blows against the slippery Lorenzo. Early in the fourth Soto finally drops Lorenzo for an eight count. Lorenzo got up but Soto attacked again cutting Lorenzo over the right eye and causing him to drop to the floor again. Just before Lorenzo went down Referee Joe Cortez pulled Soto off as if to stop the fight but released him to continue. The fight was stopped but Cortez gave no signal of a decision. He conferred with the ring doctor and then the Keith Kizer, Commission head. After a long delay the ring announcer stated that Soto had been disqualified for hitting Lorenzo in the back of the head after he was down. Replays didnt indicate that the glancing low had anything to do with Lorenzos ability to continue. This was probably the worst decision of a long and distinguished career of Joe Cortez. At worst Soto may have deserved a point deduction but Referee Cortez chose to overcome the true decison of the fight by interjecting his authority. Referee Cortez indecision in stopping the bout at the proper time actually caused the penalty blow to occur and his embarrassment in his error seems to have effected the decision. This was the worst travesty I have seen in recent Las Vegas boxing history. It indicates to me that perhaps Joe Cortez is past his prime and should consider retiring from the ring. The thoroughly beaten Lorenzo wins by DQ.

June 13, 2008

Fight Night on VERSUS at Orleans Arena

by:

TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY 10 AM FOR ANTHONY PETERSON'S TOP RANK DEBUT AT ORLEANS ARENA JUNE 26

Top Rank's newest sensation, hard-hitting world-rated lightweight Anthony Peterson of Washington, D.C., makes his TR debut when he takes on Fernando Trejo to headline a 'Fight Night on Versus' network show at The Orleans Arena, Las Vegas on Thursday, June 26.

Tickets at $50, $30 and $15 go on sale Thursday, 10 am.? Tickets are available at all Coast Casino box offices in Las Vegas and on the Ticket Hot Line at 702-284-7777.

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

The Orleans fight card is loaded with top young future stars including USA Olympian Vanes Martirosyan, a brutally-tough, hard-hitting super welterweight who is on a path towards a world title fight. Martirosyan, from Glendale, Ca., is one of the top young fighters on the Top Rank roster.

Top Rank matchmaker Brad Goodman put together a scorching undercard bout featuring unbeaten Mikey Garcia of Ventura, Ca against Jae-Sung Lee of Hanam, Korea. Lee is promoted by Pearl Kim of New York. She said a number of Korean fight fans and officials will be at the event. The super featherweight bout is set for 8 rounds.

Las Vegas fan favorite Diego Magdaleno, handled by 'Manager of the Year' Cameron Dunkin and trained by Pat Barry and Augie 'Kid Vegas' Sanchez, will be featured on the undercard. Magdaleno is a skilled, tactically-sound young prospect who strikes with power.

Also appearing will be the popular Alex Mercado, a tough unbeaten Las Vegas prospect who trains at Barry's Boxing Gym.

Doors?will open at 5 pm and the first bell will be at 5:15 pm.

June 13, 2008

Boxing Returns to LV Hilton July 8th

by:

LAS VEGAS--Boxing returns to the Las Vegas Hilton w