Valenzuela Knocks Out Colbert in 6

In the night’s co-feature lightweights Chris Colbert and Jose Valenzuela met in an anticipated rematch that was dominated from wire to wire by Valenzuela. Colbert was blitzed in the first and hit the canvas early, needing to shift to survival mode to make it to the first bell.

Colbert had moments, and stood in valiantly for the duration of the bout but continued to eat power shots consistently with little resistance. 

The action culminated with a devastating hook at 1:36 of round six that left Colbert laying motionless for more than a minute. The Brooklyn product was eventually able to rise to his feet and leave the ring under his own power, but would take home a KO6 loss to rival Valenzuela in the WBA eliminator.

al3nzGuerrero Decisions Berto

Showtime boxing veterans Robert Guerrero and Andre Berto met in a rematch ten years in the making to kick off the Showtime Boxing swans song at the Minneapolis Armory. 

The meeting, as one would expect of two 40 year old combatants off of long layoffs, lacked the fireworks of the original classic, but Guerrero was able to bring the crowd to a rise in the fifth with a flurry behind a shoveling uppercut.

Berto continued to stalk Guerrero from a crouched guard but was not able to fire off the trademarked fast twitch muscle power punches that propelled him to elite ranks in his fighting prime. The two continued to trade spirited exchanges into the late rounds with Guerrero primarily getting the better of Berto. The fight was rounded out with an embrace dripping with mutual respect between the two former world champions and Showtime PPV headliners.

Scorecards read 98-92, 99-91 all in favor of “The Ghost”, Robert Guerrero.

Alberot Puello def  Ector Madera via UD

Super Lightweights Alberto Puello and Ector Madera engaged in a tactical affair, with the former cruising to an easy victory. Puello worked the rust off of a long layoff cleanly, and was sharp behind a jab, creating distance and comfortably picking away at the Stockton, CA native Madera.

Scorecards showed a comfortable margin for Puello at 80-72 twice and 79-73

Kyrone Davis (18-3-1) def  Cruse Stewart (8-3) UD 77-75

Kyrone Davis and Cruse Stewart engaged in a methodical battle for the center of the ring, trading flurries in the pocket, with Cruse opening strong in the first two rounds, but showing some fatigue in the middle rounds. Davis affirmed his presence with steady jabbing to put Stewart on the backstep as the fight entered the later rounds. 

Davis was off his stool well before the beginning of the final round, signifying a preserved stamina heading into the fight’s conclusion. Stewart valiantly pressed forward with combinations, and even brought the Minneapolis crowd to their feet with a late rally, likely winning the round, but was ultimately smothered before a knockdown could be scored to bridge the scorecard gap. 

Davis prevailed with a 5-3 win on all three cards.

Lawrence King (13-1) def Alex Theran (23-13) KO4 (18 seconds)

Lawrence King battered Alex Theran to the body with a crisp and sustained two fisted attack to move to 13-1. Theran absorbed the onslaught through three rounds but was clearly weakened by the offensive assault. King overwhelmed Theran 18 seconds into the fourth, scoring a knockout after dropping Theran prompting a halt to the action.

Michael Angeletti(10-0)  Def Angel Contreras (13-9-2) UD 78-74 (3x)

Michael Angeletti and Angel Contreras traded shots in a back and forth affair over eight rounds. Contreras was game and had his moments, but Angeletti controlled the action, banking 6 rounds en route to an easy decision to remain undefeated.

Joey Spencer (17-1)  UD Marcio Bzowski (11-25-4) 60-54 on all cards.

Joey Spencer  controlled the pace of the bout for 6 rounds with a steady attack. Bzowski showed signs of fatigue but remained sturdy and could not be put away. Spencer advances to 17-1.

Charles Harris Jr(now 8-1) rtd Marlin Sims(8-3)

The referee waved off the action after Simms’ second knee in the 6th round. Sims took a glove to the eye resulting in obstructed vision. Harris hit a visually impaired Sims with a barrage that prompted a second knee, bringing a halt to the action in the 6th round

video1286956496 from brett mauren on Vimeo.

HOUSTON, TEXAS–Houston, Texas showed up for Jermall Charlo (28-0) tonight in his WBC middleweight title defense against Tv’s The Contender champion Brandon Adams (21-2) at The NRG Arena.

Charlo dominated in every facet of the fight, which opened with Adams taking a cautious approach and working in timid combinations while Charlo consistently came over the top with a speedy overhand right.

The crowd was clearly in thirst of fireworks and a knockout that unfortunately never came, but it wasn’t by lack of effort from the WBC middleweight titlist. At times it looked almost as if Charlo was punching a fire hydrant in Adams, unloading big power punches only for the smaller man to keep coming forward.

Adams applied a gutsy gameplan and pressed Charlo on the inside in the early 300 dollar loan same day and middle rounds, only to be teed off on by Charlo with body shots and uppecuts, to the pleasure of the Houston crowd. The most significant reaction came in the final seconds of the third round when Charlo landed a picture perfect uppercut on the chin of Adams.

While Adams never really was able to get the better of Charlo in a given round he did have his moments, landing stiff right hands sporadically throughout the late rounds, that however did not seem to slow up Charlo’s effort.

The crowd launched into a “Charlo” chant at a few points in the late rounds, hoping to speak a knockout into existence, but Adams was just too game and finished the fight out on his feet. To the surprise of nobody in attendance the final scores read in favor of Charlo at  119-109 and 120-108 two times.

“I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t get the knockout,” Charlo told SHOWTIME’s Hall of Fame ringside reporter Jim Gray following the fight. “This is boxing and he came out to box. I came out to fight. It was a good fight. The city of Houston, I’ll be back.

“My hand will be alright.  I hurt my hand in like the second round but I kept throwing it. It was obvious my jab wasn’t flowing.” 

“I was coming up here to win,” said Adams. “I was coming to try to take him out in his hometown.  He did what he was supposed to do. He’s a champ for a reason and I take my hat off to hm.

“He’s a much bigger guy, period.  I just tried to put my best foot forward and tried to take him out at the end.”

“Canelo has done a great job of being a champ, Golovkin also,” said Charlo. “Those guys are at the top but there’s always a young underdog and a lion ready to take over. That’s me.”

Erickson Lubin (20-1) looked every bit the star he has been projected to become against French veteran Zakaria Attou (29-6-2).

Lubin stalked the 37 year old with superior hand-speed and peppered in power shots to make an early statement. It was clear that there was blood in the water early on as Attou spent most of the bout on a backstep offering little resistance.

Lubin’s arsenal finally become too much in the middle of the fourth round as he caught Attou in the corner and strafed him with loaded up power shots until Attou fell forward for the knockdown. The Frenchman stumbled to his feet only for his corner to throw the towel prompting the stoppage.

Erickson Lubin moved to 21-1 and acknowledged to Jim Gray his next outing likely will not be for a title, but expressed interest in a marquee name like Austin Trout or Terell Gausha as an opponent.

“I feel like I just came ready,” said Lubin, who has been training with Kevin Cunninham for the last year. “I was just a few steps ahead from the opening bell. I knew I was going to come out here and dominate. After a few shots, he looked hurt. I was going to keep teeing off until he was down or out. 

“I don’t think the Jermell Charlo fight was too soon, there was just a few mishaps in camp. My next fight won’t be for a world title but I definitely want to get in there with a top-10 kind of guy. I just want to prove that I’m one of the top fighters.”

“I’m heartbroken about the injury,” said Attou. “My strategy was to start picking up the pressure after the sixth round. I know that Lubin has never been 12 rounds before, so our plan was to come on in the late rounds and take him out.”

Featherweights Eduardo Ramirez (22-1-3) and Claudio Marrero (23-3, 17 KOs) kicked off the televised portion of the card with an evenly matched display of high-speed chess in the early goings of their eliminator showdown.

The slight underdog Marrero picked up the pace in the third round unloading a nice barrage with Ramirez backed up to the ropes before the Mexican native turned the tide and pivoted his way into an offensive onslaught of his own.

The two southpaws continued to trade blows into the middle rounds, with Marrero consistently finding a home for his jab and following up with clean power shots. Ramirez shook off a few stiff power shots and continued to counter with hard shots of his own to the delight of the Houston crowd.

The back and forth action continued into the late rounds with fatigue setting in on both sides. Neither fighter was able to create a clear separation in the later portion of the bout making for some challenging rounds to score.

Both fighters embraced and pled their case to the crowd following the final bell. Despite a game effort from Ramirez the scores read 116-112 115-113 118-110 in favor of the Dominican southpaw Claudio Marrero.

My strategy was to pressure him all night and break him down,” said Marrero. “He was an awkward fighter that was hard to solve, but I thought I did a good job as the fight went on. I could feel that he was weak in the body so I attacked there and did it well.

“I’m ready for anybody. I always step to the plate and fight who’s in front of me. Bring them on. Leo Santa Cruz could definitely get this action next.”

A disappointed Ramirez said he thought he won the fight. “I disagreed with the judges,” said Ramirez. “I thought it was close but that I won. I dominated enough of the fight to earn it.

“I went forward with my typical Mexican style and attacked all night. I wanted to target the body and I thought I did that well. I want the rematch with Claudio Marrero, that’s my goal.”

If ever a fighter were able to enjoy a homefield advantage despite fighting hailing from the other side of the globe, it would be Krzyzstof Glowacki (30-1) of Poland competing in Chicago.

The heavy Polish contingent generated a pulsating energy from the introductions all the way to the final bell. Russia’s Maksim Vlasov(42-2) however, was not fazed by the environment as he met Glowacki in the center of the ring for a high octane opening to the bout. Both fighters engaged in a game of high speed chess, with Vlasov looking to work his right hand through the southpaw guard of Glowacki.

The third round saw a bit of controversy when Vlasov hit the canvas following a physical exchange. The knockdown was counted, prompting immediate protest from Vlasov who believed he was pushed. The pro Glowacki crowd obviously reveled in the ruling, and chants for the Polish star carried into the following round.

The back and forth action began to take its toll entering the second half of the contest webbanki.ru. Both fighters showed signs of fatigue to close out the sixth round. Glowacki then found another opportunity to build some momentum in the seventh when he landed a crisp left hand power shot that stopped Vlasov in his tracks.

Vlasov carried a low hanging left hand into the 8th round, inviting Glowacki to take a few shots at the loose guard, but the Russian veteran was able to slip the attack and find some offensive success with Glowacki now in the pocket. The high-volume strategy of Vlasov contrasted that of Glowacki, who stayed on the outside like a sniper in the ninth round and fired crisp power shots one at a time.

Both fighters put fatigue on the back burner for the championship rounds, trading sharp combinations to the pleasure of the heavily engaged crowd. Vlasov found a home for a series of one-two combinations in the twelfth, while Glowacki launched heavy right hooks. A mutual respect was evident as the fighters embraced following the final bell.

Scorecards read 118-110, 117-110 115-112 in favor of the crowd favorite Krzysztof Glowacki. Glowacki will now meet Maris Briedis in the Super Series semi-finals.

Briedis outlasts Mikaelian

The first in a pair of World Boxing Super Series quarterfinal match-ups saw Mairis Briedis(23-1) and Noel Mikaelian (23-1) working to find their range for a majority of the contest.

The Latvian, Briedis looked just a bit more comfortable with the fight’s spacing and pace, peppering Mikaelian with jabs and short rights. Mikaelian could never quite establish a rhythm, failing to land with a wide overhand right at several points in the early rounds, until the third when a clubbing shot drew some fan reaction. The crowd-pleasing shot didn’t do much to slow down Briedis, who pressed forward with a clean attack to close out the round.

Mikaelian’s missed right hooks turned into rabbit punches one too many times, resulting in a docked point in the fourth round. Despite the deduction, the German cruiserweight found some success in the middle rounds with a busy work-rate and decent inside positioning.

Briedis found himself on the business end of a point deduction himself in the 10th, when he was penalized for excessive holding. In the midst of the late round clinches Briedis continued to work on establishing an offense, wrapping a right hook around Mikaelian’s turned back in the twelfth round.

Scorecards leaned heavily in favor of the new WBC diamond champion and now Super Series semi-finalist Mairis Breidis with tallies of 116-110, 115-111, 114-112 UD. A result that drew a mixed reaction from the UIC Pavilion crowd.

Boyd UD4 Delgado

Deshawn Boyd of Fort Wayne, IN out-boxed Chicago product Marcos Delgado in a four round lightweight bout. Boyd picked up a victory with scores of 40-35 on all three cards.

Mendez KO4 Harris

Super lightweights Genaro Mendez (12-4-1 6 ko’s) and Tyrone Harris(26-12 16 ko’s) warmed up the Chicago crowd with a competitive affair. Mendez utilized the jab effectively, catching Harris lunging at several points early on. The fighters continued to trade combinations, with Mendez generating the better momentum throughout the bout. The exclamation point came with Mendez landing a picture perfect counter left hook that dropped Harris, prompting a stoppage from referee Mark Nelson.

Saldana KO1 Miller

Local cruiserweight Owen Saldana(debut) brought an abundance of fanfare to the UIC pavilion. Saldana’s cheering section provided a thunderous energy as the fighters were introduced. Saldana did not disappoint his following, making short work of Joe Miller(1-2) of Florida. Saldana worked the jab effectively before connecting on a big straight right hand that sent Miller into the ropes. Saldana showed veteran level killer instinct with a brutal flurry of power shots that prompted a first round stoppage, to the pleasure of his already strong fan base.

Mann UD10 Zubov

Cruiserweights Artur Mann (14-0)and Alexey Zubov(16-1) wasted no time heating things up in their bout.

Sporting Chicago Bull inspired trunks, Mann put Zubov into survival mode early on in the first round, finding a home for a left hook followed up with a rear uppercut that wobbled Zubov. With Zubov vulnerable, Mann opened up the arsenal, scoring a knockdown off of a straight right hand. Mann landed another clean right at the first round’s closing bell that sent Zubov to the canvas once again.

Zubov weathered the storm and was able to string together effective punches in the second round, even wobbling Mann with a right hand of his own.

The tide turned to an extent in the middle rounds, with Zubov keep thing competitive, before eventually eating another straight right hand that resulted in a knockdown in the seventh round. A gritty effort in the closing rounds from Zubov was not enough to close the scorecard gap, as Mann picked up the unanimous decision win.

Hincley, MN- Cruiserweights Phil Williams and Al Sands are slated to meet in Minnesota’s most anticipated boxing event of the year on August 28th at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Both Williams (14-7-2) and Sands (15-1) are nationally ranked in the cruiserweight division, and boxing fans in the upper Midwest have been calling for the matchup for close to two years ????? ???? ?? ????? 10000. A deal was finalized for the boxers to meet at Grand Casino Hinckley, which should draw a large contingent for both fighters, as Sands hails from Duluth, and Williams represents Minneapolis.
“It’s a fight I’ve been wanting for a while now. I’ve been calling him out, and now we’re finally going to make it happen.” Said Williams.
Former WBU super middleweight champion Williams made his cruiserweight return last August when he notched a highlight reel knockout of Galen Brown. His only loss in the division came in December when he was stopped by the number one ranked prospect in the country Jordan Shimmel in Chicago.
“A matchup with Sands was at the forefront of our priority list when we moved Phil up to cruiserweight. Records aside, I think Phil’s experience and power against Al’s size and athleticism should make for a matchup that excites the fans.” Said Williams’ advisor Brett Mauren.
Sands has established a loyal fan base in the Twin Ports area since debuting in 2010, and picked up the state’s cruiserweight title in 2013, in addition to an NABA cruiserweight title. His 81% knockout rate has propelled him to a #8 ranking nationally by Boxrec.com
The fight is presented by Cory Rapacz and Grand Friday Night Fights. Tickets go on sale on July 3rd at 10am at grandcasinomn.com, and are priced 35$ general admission, 50$ reserved, 100$ ringside, and 600$ ringside table.

St. Paul, MN- Boxing fans in Minnesota were treated to a return from local knockout artist Phil Williams(12-5-1), who made an emphatic statement with his demolition of Shujaa El Amin (12-4) of Las Vegas on Saturday night for the WBU super middleweight title.

Williams, over a year removed from his last bout, a stoppage loss to Andrze Fonfara in Chicago, had the look of a new man as he dropped El Amin through the ropes roughly a minute into the bout. El Amin was able to rise to his feet, but only to taste a series of devastating right hands from Williams who would not let up until referee Mark Nelson halted the action for a first round TKO.

While the bout was short lived, the buzz at St. Paul’s Crowne Plaza had staying power. Friends and fans of Williams stuck around to pose for pictures with the newly crowned WBU champ and his hardware.

Saturday night also saw a shutout pitched by Minnesota’s hottest boxing prospect in Robert Brant (6-0), who made target practice of Keith Collins over six rounds. Brant expressed frustration with not being able to stop Collins, who spent most of the bout in retreat mode, but was able to impress the crowd with crisp combinations, and dazzling hand speed.

Also in action was cruiserweight prospect Al Sands(7-1) who wowed fans with his destruction of JJ Corn in round two. Corn had no answer for the imposing size and athleticism of Sands when referee Scott Erickson had seen enough, calling for a halt to the action at 2:28 of round 2.

Super featherweight Wilton Hilario (13-3) returned to the win column with a hard fought victory over James Owens (4-7). Vicente Alfaro captured a state super bantamweight title with his unanimous decision win over Brad Patraw, and Jonathan Perez stopped Reuben Elias in round two.

Vacant WBU Super Middleweight title
Phil Williams 167.4 vs. Shujaa El-Amin 167.4

Vacant Minnesota State Jr. Featherweight title
Brad Patraw 122 vs. Vicente Alfaro 121.6

Al Sands 200.2 vs. J.J. Corn 194.6
Wilton Hilario 128.6 vs. James Owens 128
Robert Brant 160.8 vs. Keith Collins 161.4
Dan Moret 160.6 vs. Brandon Abrego ??
Jonathan Perez 124 vs Ruben Elias 123.8

St. Paul MN- A long time Minnesota fan favorite will make his return to the ring after over a year long layoff, while a fast rising newcomer continues his ascent on the same card this Saturday night on a show loaded with local talent.

Robert Brant (5-0) of Oakdale, will make his sixth venture to the ring when he faces Keith Collins Saturday night at the Crowne Plaza in St. Paul. Brant has been nothing short of electrifying in the early stages of his professional career, and is not slowing up, taking to the ring only five weeks removed from his last victory.

“Bravo” Brant was perhaps Minnesota boxing history’s most highly anticipated professional debut in the Summer of 2012, and has not disappointed, posting a flawless record in dazzling fashion. With three knockouts, Brant has captured the affection of Minnesota boxing fans through his explosive style, complimented by a media friendly charisma that has all the makings of star potential.

Phil Williams (11-5) faces Shujaa El Amin (12-3), known previously as Dion Savage, with the WBU Super Middleweight title on the line. The fight will end a significant inactive stretch for both fighters, as Williams last saw the ring in December of 2011, and El Amin has been out since scoring a unanimous decision win over Joe McCreedy in May 2012.

Also featured is an intriguing super bantamweight matchup between St. Paul native Brad Patraw (9-4) and Vicente Alfaro (5-3) for the Minnesota state title.

Saturday night also marks the local return of super featherweight Wilton Hilario (12-3) who takes on James Owens.

The card is rounded out by cruiserweight knockout artist Al Sands (6-1), who takes on JJ Corn, and bantamweight speedster Jonathan Perez.

Weigh-ins for “Crown the Kings” will be held at Sakura’s Japanese restaurant in St. Paul Friday evening, Tickets are priced at $35, $45, and $75 and more information is available at vitalculture.com

It was a classic. In a town that enjoys a classic brawl so few and far between, the Minneapolis Convention Center was treated to one for the storybooks when Caleb Truax finally met Matt Vanda with Minnnesota middleweight supremacy on the line.

Minnesota boxing, for all intents and purposes waved goodbye to an icon, as Matt Vanda came up short against his probable successor Caleb Truax in a 10 round unanimous decision. The state’s strongest ticket sellers in this era were able to generate a strong crowd, and supplement the atmosphere with an absolute show.

Minnesota’s middleweight champion, Caleb Truax, solidified his title by outclassing the St. Paul native over ten rounds, despite sporadic rallies from Vanda. The veteran, Vanda, attempted to win the mental war over the younger Truax by raising his hand in triumph following a flurry midway through the bout. The Osseo native, Truax, showed poise, and was able to answer back with strong combinations throughout the fight, and eventually silence a pro-Vanda crowd.

The electricity was amplified in the late rounds of the bout, as the always energetic Vanda fan base urged their fighter on, but to little success. Vanda was outgunned by the younger, faster and stronger fighter from the early going. In a bout that truly served as a shot in the arm to the sport of boxing in Minnesota, Truax reigned supreme and showed promise of a new era, just as Vanda did so many times in the past decade.

The bout was complimented by a strong undercard line up which featured an instant local classic between Charles Meir and Travis Perzynski. Both fighters tasted the canvas, in an all out war, as Meir was able to outlast the less experienced Perzynski over eight rounds.

A man dubbed as one of the state’s strongest punchers pound for pound, put his power on display, when Muhammad Kayongo went toe to toe with Gilbert Venegas in a six round slugfest. Kayongo was able to slide the uppercut through the cover of Venegas all too often, and pull out a unanimous decision victory in a well contested bout.

Also in action were lightweight standouts Jeremy Mclaurin, who made his way back into the win column by beating Dewayne Wisdom, and Tony Lee who topped Leonard Overstreet, both in decision victories.

Minneapolis- In pursuit of his sixth professional win, the explosive Robert Brant( 5-0 3 ko’s) of Oakdale, MN will make his return to the ring on February 9th at the Crowne Plaza in St. Paul.

Following National and world accolades at the amateur level, Brant is poised to keep a strong pace in 2013. In his next venture, he will be showcased alongside super middleweight Phil Williams, heavyweight Raphael Butler, and lightweight Wilton Hilario on a star studded local bill.

The Minnesota middleweight is wasting little time in getting back to action. Brant was last seen January 5th when he picked up a unanimous decision victory in a dazzling performance over Romon Barber in Minneapolis. The 22 year old prodigy has been on the fast track since turning professional in the Summer of 2012.

Boxing out of Circle of Discipline Gym in Minneapolis under the tutelage of Sankara Frazier, Brant has showcased a strong blend of power and skill in the early goings of his career. With three knockouts in five fights, Brant will look to electrify a Twin Cities audience that is growing accustomed to his highlight reel talent.

Tickets are priced at $35, $45, and $75. Ringside VIP table $1000. More information on the event is available at vitalculture.com

Sterling Entertainment Group in association with Fight Area 51 presents Pound for Pound II Saturday January 5th. Fighters weighed in Friday night and met with the media prior to Saturday’s show.

Ismail Muwendo 132 – Anthony Nuponyi 128.6

Jamal James 146.6 – Patrick Boozer 145

Robert Brant 152.8 – Romon Barber 152.8

Jonathan Perez 116.8 -Brian Jones 118

Zach Wolff 124.4 – Brad Heroff 122.4

Stephen Watt 152.2- Tyler Hultin 156

Dan Kiser 147.8 – Donald Williams 148.6

Tomi Archambaut 125.8-Robert Da Luz 125.8

“Feeling Great, we have a great fight, excited. I think we’re both ready to come out and give everyone a show” – Jamal James (8-0 welterweight)

“It’s gonna be my toughest fight in the pro’s. I’m feeling well prepared, ready to come out victorious.” – Rob Brant (4-0 junior middleweight)

Minnesota’s next wave of fast rising, young, boxing stars will be on full display Saturday night at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Minneapolis.

The card is spearheaded by a featherweight clash for the ABO Mid-America title between the explosive Ismail Muwendo (11-0) and Anthony Napunyi (14-11). Fans have become accustomed to Muwendo’s lethal punching accuracy, complimented by his devastating power over nine career knockouts. Muwendo is coming off of a second round knockout of Leon Bobo in October.

Fresh off his most significant victory to date, Minneapolis based welterweight Jamal James(8-1) will be back in action against Patrick Boozer (5-1). The bout will be another step up in opposition for James, who beat in-state rival Corey Rodriguez in October.

One of the state’s most anticipated talents in recent memory will also see action Saturday night. Former Amateur elite Robert Brant (4-0) of Oakdale will continue his fast track transition into the professional level when he takes on Romon Barber (2-2).

The card will open with a strong preliminary line up of young talent as bantamweight, Jonathan Perez of Shakopee (3-0) looks to stay undefeated against Brian Jones(0-4). Tyler “The Hitman” Hultin (3-1) will face Steven Watt (1-0) in a junior middleweight contest, and featherweight Brad Heroff (1-0) faces Zach Wolff.

Fight weekend will kick off at the Sports page bar in Bloomington Friday afternoon at 5:00 PM where weigh ins, and media availability will be held. Tickets are available at sterlingmn.com.

Minneapolis, MN- Three of Minnesota’s strongest boxing prospects will continue their ascent to national level contention on January 5th at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Minneapolis.

Ismail Muwendo(11-0) fresh off of a victory over Leon Bobo on October 27th will take on Anthony Napunyi (5-1) in an 8 round affair for the ABO Mid America featherweight title in the card’s main event. Muwendo has electrified Minnesota boxing fans with his devastating power, paired with lethal punching accuracy. The Ugandan featherweight has racked up nine knockouts over his eleven wins and will look to add another stoppage to his highlight reel come January 5th.

The night’s co-feature brings lengthy Minneapolis welterweight Jamal James(8-0) in his first action since scoring a technical decision over in-state rival Corey Rodriguez in a thriller on October 27th. James will square off with Patrick Boozer(5-1) of Michigan. The bout will continue the trend of James’ increase in competition as he pursues his 9th win in the six round bout.

Junior middleweight Robert Brant(4-0) looks to continue his fast track transition from amateur to professional stardom when he takes on Ramon Barber(2-2). Brant has captured the attention of Minnesota sports fans, and become a fan favorite with his versatile skill set, and infectious personality. As one of Minnesota’s most decorated amateur boxers in recent memory, Brant looks to polish his winning ways in the six round bout.

The card’s preliminary portion will be complimented by two of Minnesota’s best lower weight fighters. Jonathan Perez (3-0) takes on Brian Jones at 118 lbs. While BradPatraw (9-4) takes on veteran Robert DaLuz at 124 lbs. Also in action will be junior middleweight Tyler “The Hitman” Hultin(3-1), facing Steven Watt, and Garvin Crout vs. Tomi Archambault at lightweight.

Tickets are priced at $30, $60, and $100 and are available at Sterlingmn.com

Shakopee, MN- Heralded prospect Jamal James(8-0) met his match Saturday night at Canterbury Park, in the form of in state rival Corey Rodriguez(5-3).

James struggled to establish his height and reach advantage early on as Rodriguez pressed the issue. The Minneapolis native, James, remained on the back step into the middle rounds until a cut opened over the right eye of Rodriguez, the product of an incidental headbutt.

James began to land his jab, and follow up with power shots in the sixth round, and reclaimed the center of the ring by imposing his reach on the 5’9 Rodriguez. Midway through the seventh round, an additional accidental headbutt brought a stop to the bout , sending the verdict to the scorecards, Where Jamal James proved to be victorious by two cards of 68-65 and one reading 69-64.

In the co-feature, Minnesota’s pound for pound most accurate puncher, and featherweight knockout artist, Ismail “Sharpshooter” Muwendo (11-0 9 ko’s) stopped grizzled veteran Leon Bobo (18-10) at 2:53 of the second round.

Muwendo, who has established himself as one of the region’s most electrifying knockout artists, remained patient in the bout’s opening round. The veteran defense of Bobo was able to minimize the damage in the early goings, but a sustained offensive attack from Muwendo was able to take over in round two. Muwendo collapsed Bobo twice with body shots in round two, and earn a knockout victory moving him to 11-0.

Robert Brant (4-0) sizzled in his first round stoppage over Ryan White Mountain (2-4). Brant overwhelmed White Mountain with power shots early on, and didn’t let up. A crushing right hand finally dropped White Mountain to one knee. White Mountain eventually regained his footing but was unable to hold off Brant’s barrage, and suffered a first round knockout at the hands of the junior middleweight prospect.

In other action Jonathan Perez (4-0) beat Aaron Fernandez (2-8) by scores of 40-36 across the board. Olenraju Duradola stopped Sam Hill in the opening round. Dan Moret stopped Cheyenne Ziegler in the second round, and John Moxey scored a unanimous decision over John Schimon.

Twin Cities- As they approach the most significant local showdown of their careers, Jamal James(7-0), and Corey Rodriguez (5-2) are putting the finishing touches on training camps that will culminate in Saturday night’s anticipated 8 round junior middleweight Minnesota superfight at famed Canterbury Park in Shakopee, MN.

Fight week festivities will kick off at Mystic Lake resort in the Dakota Ballroom, for Friday night’s weigh in. The combatants will meet face to face Friday night, as they wrap up extensive training camps that have prepped them for a night dripping with opportunity.

“I feel strong, I’m in the best shape of my life, and I’m much more prepared than Jamal will expect. It’s going to be an epic night” noted Corey Rodriguez, who is wrapping up camp this week.

Fans who can’t make the trip to Canterbury Park for Minnesota’s fight of the year can still catch all the action on sterlingmn.com or Facebook.com/sterlingmn where KFAN radio’s the Common Man Dan Cole, and boxing expert Jake Wegner will call the action from ringside.

Fans will also be treated to a co-main event that promises fireworks as the electrifying Ismail Muwendo(10-0 8ko’s) takes on the tough Leon Bobo. Top notch prospect Rob “Bravo” Brant (3-0) will continue his fast track into the professional ranks as he takes on Ryan Soft. Jamal James’ Circle of Discipline stablemate Jonathan Perez will also take the ring, as he will be pitted against Aaron Fernandez in a four round affair. The card will be complimented by a strong preliminary segment that features heavyweights John Moxey, and John Schimon, cruiserweights Olanrewaju Durodola, and Sam Hill, as well as local fan favorite Donny “Trauma” Tierney.

“Pound4Pound” marks professional boxing’s return to the famous horse racing venue Canterbury Park. Fans can purchase tickets in advance at Sterlingmn.com and more info can be found at facebook.com/sterlingmn

Highly touted Minneapolis product Jamal James (7-0) will take part in a crucial in-state grudge match on October 27, when He goes head to head with Corey “Collateral Damage” Rodriguez (6-2) at “Pound 4 Pound” at the famed Canterbury Downs in Shakopee, MN presented Fight Area 51 and Sterling Entertainment Group.

James, training out of Circle of Discipline gym in Minneapolis has compiled a 7-0 record with five wins by knockout since turning professional in 2010. Rodriguez, holds a record of 6-2, having only lost to undefeated opposition. The fight pits two of Minnesota’s top junior middleweights in a bout with no shortage opportunity on the line. James has a chance to establish himself as one of Minnesota’s elite fighters, while Rodriguez can put himself back into contention for a run nationally.

In the co-feature, lightning fast featherweights square off, as the explosive Ismail Muwendo (10-0 8 ko’s) takes on seasoned veteran Leon Bobo. Muwendo has made a name for himself amongst Minnesota boxing fans by racking up highlight reel knockouts since turning professional in 2009, While the well-versed Bobo makes his first trip back to Minnesota since going toe to toe with Wilton Hilario in 2009.

Fans will also catch a glimpse of the future when Robert Brant (3-0) takes the ring. Brant, out of Oakdale will make his fourth trip to the ring in the professional ranks following an amateur career rich with world class accolades.

The card is rounded out by a healthy preliminary lineup. James’ Circle of Discipline stable mate Johnothan Perez looks to remain unbeaten as he takes on Aaron Fernandez. Hard hitting cruiserweights Olanleraju Durodola and Sam Hill will meet in a six round matchup, while heavyweights John Moxey and John Schimon face off in a six round bout. The card also features the debut of Dan Moret.

Tickets are priced at 30, 65, 100, and 120 dollars and are available at Sterlingmn.com

This Friday night boxing fans will watch former undisputed world beater Jermain Taylor(29-4-1) resume his quest for redemption on Showtime. Its chapter two in the Arkansas native’s comeback story, this time he’ll be taking on Caleb Truax (18-0-1) of Minnesota.

(record scratch) Who?

If you’re a boxing enthusiast, you’ll probably Google his name, skim his record, and gear up to see what Taylor has left in the tank. Unless you happen to be from Minnesota, in which case Friday night is “Caleb’s big fight”. Minnesota’s boxing community is a small, but fiercely loyal cluster, most of whom have watched Truax fight, train, and even shared a few post-fight beers with him over the years.

After covering Caleb Truax for three years I’ve developed a strong familiarity with him inside and outside of the ring. This is a much better fight than the general public may believe. While there are a small handful of people out there that give Truax a shot in this one, my reasoning will probably differ from most. If Caleb Truax is going to win this fight it will have to be because he is good enough, not because Taylor has fallen off far enough.

The Middleweight from Osseo, Minnesota has a window of opportunity Friday night. For fans unfamiliar with Caleb Truax, I’ve divided my insight on what to watch for into two themes, they are as follows…

Don’t bank on a knockout

The most repetitive mistake I come across in my conversations with other Minnesota fight fans/fans of Truax is looking to Taylor’s shortcomings for an opportunity. Yes Taylor has been knocked out in devastating fashion three times, but each time was at the hands of a current or former world champion. Truax has never been in with anyone even close to that class. That’s something Truax’s team won’t ignore, and neither should anyone making a prediction on this fight
“But isn’t Truax’s best hope to catch Jermain off guard, and hope for a flash knockout?”

Wrong. Caleb Truax doesn’t knock people out. He didn’t knock out Phil Williams, he didn’t knock out Andy Kolle , and he probably won’t start with Jermain Taylor, so it’s best to just throw that idea out the window. Taylor’s handlers probably wouldn’t have picked Truax if it weren’t for his modest KO%.

Regardless of Taylor’s decline, you can expect to see plenty of his jab, and you can expect it to be the best jab Caleb Truax has ever seen. To expect a guy who is taking a dramatic step up to plan around that jab, and find a way to land that perfect power shot isn’t realistic. It took Carl Froch, and Arthur Abraham twelve rounds to do it, and I just don’t see it being the Minnesotan’s best route to a victory.

Expect a thorough game plan

So, how can Truax beat Taylor? He isn’t a power puncher, and he’s not a particularly fast middleweight. What’s the saving grace I’m giving him? It’s that if Caleb Truax is one thing, in or out of the ring, he is a strategist.

Caleb is a college graduate, and one of the more articulate pro fighter’s I’ve ever shared a conversation with, and that trait follows him into the ring. I’ve watched close to every one of Caleb’s professional fights, and have almost never seen him overwhelm anyone. I have, however, seen him out-think almost everyone.

Truax has the patience to develop a game plan and stick with it from start to finish, and in this case it should center around Taylor’s stamina issues. One would have to expect Taylor will want to finish this one early, and make a statement. The longer Truax can survive Taylor’s power the better. I’ve come to know Caleb Truax as one of the more careful fighters I’ve watched, and don’t expect him to get caught early. If he can defend against a few of Taylor’s power presses he’ll benefit greatly in the middle and late rounds when the former champ’s stamina starts to falter.

Conclusion

Although Truax is 28 while Taylor is 33, and it’s entirely possible that he’ll be the superior athlete come fight night, I just wouldn’t bank on it if I’m team Truax. Truax needs to be ready for a brand of speed and power that he’s never seen before. He’s going to have to weather a storm of sorts, and wait for his opportunity. He’ll have to start with a defensive mindset that shifts in favor of offense as the fight wears on. If his offense is strengthening by the middle rounds we’ll know a lot more about his chances.

I’m giving Jermain Taylor a 60/40 tilt in the odds. It is absolutely his fight to lose, but if I know Caleb Truax, he isn’t thinking that way, and 40 percentage points worth of breathing room may just be more than enough for him.

Poise might have been the area that veteran Lanardo Tyner(25-7-2 15 ko’s) chose to target more than any other in his welterweight bout with prospect Jessie Vargas(18-0 9 ko’s), but the 22 year old showed composure beyond his years, and outlasted Tyner in an ugly ten round affair littered with fouls.

Vargas opened up the fight long exchange in illegal blows by catching Tyner low in the first round, part of a sustained body attack. Tyner was granted time to recover by referee Tony Weeks, and was visibly angry as he rose to his feet, and converted his frustration into an offensive rally to close out the first round.

The two men exchanged combinations inside, until round four when Tyner evened the score with a low blow of his own that sent Vargas to the canvas, reeling in pain. After a recovery period Tyner pounced on his weakened opponent, putting punches together and scoring well. Vargas turned the tables once again, however, with another shot below the belt in retaliation, which infuriated the 36 year old Tyner.

The fighters were able to keep things moderately clean for the next few rounds, with the exception of a few exchanges after the bell that were quickly broken up. Vargas continued to work well inside, but showed a few defensive flaws, and ate some unnecessary shots from Tyner.

Vargas stepped on the gas pedal in round 7, teeing off on Tyner with hooks, and right hands to the body and head. The offensive showcase drew a reaction from the crowd until Tyner smiled and beat his chest at the younger Vargas, and pressed forward with a successful combination of his own.

After a rough and tumble eighth round that saw the two men wrestle their way through the ropes and out of the ring momentarily, Vargas was able to clean up the pace of the bout, and get the better of Tyner in close quarters, outworking his man down the stretch.

In what started out as a firefight, Jessie Vargas was able to keep his cool in the late rounds, and outlast a savvy veteran opponent for a lopsided decision victory with scores reading 99-91 all the way across. It was an ugly affair for the centerpiece of Floyd Mayweather’s promotional stable, and while room for improvement is clear, Vargas was able to pick up a big win, and a valuable learning experience.

“I don’t think this was my toughest or hardest fight, but it was a good fight,’’ said Vargas, who was sporting a cut on the upper left side of his head afterward. “This was just another learning experience. I need these kinds of fights against these kinds of fighters to stay in position to move forward.

“I probably could have moved and boxed more, but he took my out of my game plan a few times. There were times when all I wanted to do was connect with the big shot.

“That low blow he got me with in the fourth round was definitely the hardest low blow I’ve ever been hit with. I’ve never been nailed with anything like that before.’’

Latimore vs. Nunez

“The Bull’ took on the role of matador when Deandre Latimore (23-3-1) survived a late rally from short notice replacement Milton Nunez (23-4-1) and took home a majority decision win.

St. Louis native Latimore, originally slated to face Ryan Davis (who failed his eye exam), brought a conservative game plan into Friday’s bout, working his jab, and making the Columbian miss with wide hooks. In round three the 26 year old Latimore found a rhythm, landing to the body and putting combinations together, staggering Nunez at certain points.

24 year old Nunez, who was brought in on 48 hours notice, stayed competitive, but wasn’t able to do any significant scoring. Until round 9 that is. In the final minute of the ninth Latimore’s sharp defense offered up a costly opening, which Nunez capitalized on with a hard right hand. With Latimore visibly staggered Nunez charged forward with a wild, but effective flurry that dropped Latimore to the canvas. Latimore rose to his feet, still out of sorts, but was saved by the bell to end the round.

Latimore was able to slow the pace down a little bit to open round ten, staying defensive and jabbing himself out of trouble. Nunez, however, was able to find another opening and drop Latimore once again inside of the round’s final minute, winning over the crowd, and earning his paycheck.

Latimore was announced the majority decision winner, to a mixed reaction from the crowd at Hard Rock in Las Vegas, improving him to 23-3-1.

“It was my first start in nearly a year and I’m just happy to get the win,’’ said Latimore, who was making his first start for new trainer Jeff Mayweather. “Honestly I didn’t care if I won by 10 points or one, I just wanted the win. I had to pace myself at times but I did what I had to do and what Jeff wanted me to do,

“The second knockdown wasn’t a knockdown. I went down from headbutts. It is what it is, though, and I look forward to getting back to work in the gym and fighting on a regular basis.’’

“I knocked him down and was hitting him with a barrage of right and left hands and the referee (Joe Cortez) moved in and stepped between us. I thought he was going to stop it. You don’t do what the ref did and not stop the fight.

“Still, I thought I’d done enough to win.’’

Undercard

Junior Welterweights Joaquin Chavez (0-0-1) and Jalani Wilson (0-0-1) put both their passion and inexperience on display. Chavez was able to land significant shots throughout the four round affair, while Wilson lunged forward with hooks, landing on occasion but failing to inflict any meaningful damage. The bout was ruled a draw after four rounds.

Antonio Orozco (13-0 8 ko’s) looked sharp as nails in a dominating performance over Rodolfo Armenta(11-5 9 ko’s).

Orozco stayed tight with his combination punching, working the body, and scoring upstairs. Armenta was game, but overmatched by the hand speed of “The Simple Man”. Orozco scored a well earned stoppage in round 4 with a combination that dropped Armenta for the count.

In a California vs. Nevada border war David Clark(4-2-1) blitzed Rocco Espinoza(3-3-1) for an easy TKO1 via 3 knockdown rule. Espinoza had no answer for Clark’s immediate pressure and collapsed to the canvas three times early on for the quick loss.

At the time of my interview with Jermaine White (17-4 9ko’s) being scheduled he was slated to face Vivian Harris in what would have been an opportunity to take a significant step forward, and kick off the second act of his career. White, the Chicago based welterweight, considers it the second act because he is returning from a hiatus with renewed passion, and a revamped team surrounding him. By the time the interview date had rolled around, however, the fight card was scrapped, and for the second time in mere months “The Hawk” had watched a fight with Harris fall through.

Frustration is a common trend amongst fighters. White’s attitude, however, is not.

Watching White in the gym it becomes clear that he is a fighter with a world of talent, who has been done no favors by the business end of boxing. Talking with White you’ll find that he is something of a boxing historian, and a student of the game. What makes him so easy to root for is the way he takes each setback and converts it into confidence. After suffering four losses to top notch company, including Anthony Peterson, and Julio Caesar Chavez Jr. White has hit the gym with a chip on his shoulder, and a genuine belief that he is better than almost anyone you put in front of him.

Jermaine White is now in Las Vegas, under the tutelage of Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, and aims to open up the second act of his boxing career this Spring, I caught up with him for a conversation on where he’s been, where he is, and where he plans to go.

On his next fight, and plans for the near future:
I’m hoping to get in on March 31 in Seattle, Washington. They want me to come to 136 but I think we’re going to try a catchweight, maybe 140 or something. I feel good at 147, I feel strong. I’m used to guys that are fast and throw a lot of punches. Coming up in weight guys are a little slower, and a little easier to me.

On his previously scheduled fight with Vivian Harris falling through:
It fell through, I don’t know what the issue was, some kind of promotional issue. The first time we were scheduled to fight we had blood work that was done wrong on my behalf, we both signed waivers but the commission didn’t let us fight. Vivian Harris was supposed to be the fight that catapulted me to the next level. It’s very frustrating. My whole career has been frustrating but I take it in stride. It builds character when everything doesn’t come on a silver platter. I didn’t have the perfect matchmaker coming up. I just have to get on the right course.

On his 4 career losses:
If it wasn’t for those losses I wouldn’t have gotten better, I wouldn’t have learned. In reality you have to be prepared. Taking fights on short notice you’re bound to lose. My losses weren’t really decisive losses, I lost to Peterson with 3 pinched nerves in my back, I did manage to swell his eye with my left hook. I fought Chavez at 147, In El Paso, across the street was Mexico, literally, across the street . I signed for a fight at 144 lbs. they said we had to be at 147 when I got there. So I was a blown up lightweight fighting what was pretty much a junior middleweight. It was a promotional game that they got me with.

On the second chapter of his career and training in Vegas:
People looking at my record see 17-4 but fighting in places like Indiana you have to kill their guys to get a decision. People out here in Vegas have told me that I have the best slip game in the business. I think I could beat a lot of these people out here. I had to get rid of some people and gain people on my team that I need to go forward. I’m with Eddie Mustafa Muhammad my main trainer now, Kevin Henry working drills. I get some good help at home in Chicago.

On who he would compare himself to:
I would say the Black murderer’s row. For people who don’t know who they are, they were Great fighters in the 1940’s who just didn’t get the right opportunities. Charlie Burley, one of the great fighters of all time, just didn’t have the management to get a world title shot. Sugar Ray Robinson said “he’s too good for his own good” I feel like one of those kind of guys. I’m a slip master, I frustrate a lot of guys. Real old school style. I can dance, I can square up, and I can bang. Mike Tyson was in here and said “that little man can punch” that meant a lot to me. I think I’m going to surprise a lot of people. A lot of fighters are real basic now days and I think I’m a style that’s hard to deal with.

On his career up to now:

My career and life have been tough. I’ve done well, I won a lot in the amateurs, Nationals, Silver Gloves, all that. But it’s been hard and that taught me a lot about life. There’s been a lot of character building along the way. I see a lot of guys making more money than me but they also have a lot more problems that go along with it. I think I’m in a better situation because of the people around me. I’d much rather have less and be surrounded by people who I know genuinely care about me.

On the next 12 months:
This year I will get some kind of belt, might be regional, anything like that. I will get a belt. Hopefully I can get the Vivian Harris fight again. I think that’s something I’d really like to finally get done, but either way I think it’s going to be a big year and I will have a belt of some kind very soon.

During a quiet Thursday afternoon workout inside of Las Vegas’ H.I.T. Factory an upbeat young fighter wears an infectious smile as he carries out the final part of his training session. He is rising prospect J’leon Love, a 10-0 middleweight who hails from Dearborn Heights, Michigan and walks with a demeanor that makes it clear, he’s excited to be here, and after spending ten minutes with him you’ll find yourself excited about him.

In a sport that serves as something of a way out for troubled youth, or an outlet of pent up aggression, Love’s mindset seems to be in a different place from other young fighter’s in his situation, he’s having fun. Dubbing himself the gym’s resident prankster, Love carries out his training routines with all the pride and craft of a world class athlete, but what makes him endearing, and dangerous, is that he has not forgotten to enjoy the sport.

Fans will have an opportunity to watch J’leon in action on the Berto-Ortiz undercard February 11th, where his bout will be broadcasted along with the rest of the undercard on Showtime Extreme, but before he steps into the ring Love offers up a chance for fans to get to know him a little better.

On what he hopes to accomplish on February 11th “Whatever comes, a knockout would be great. I’d love to get some rounds and look good. Whatever comes really.”

On his favorite weapon in the ring “Body shots man. I love to go to the body, and jab. I think those are important tools in the professional game, and you don’t see a lot of young fighters working enough on those things. One of my advantages is the sparring I get around the country, and advice from these top notch trainers, and that’s what sets me apart.”

On his favorite boxing memories “I don’t really have one that stands out. I’m blessed to have so many experiences, but I think coming up in Detroit is where a lot of my memories are. Detroit is home for me and that’s where I learned it all. I’m blessed and have a great family.”

On living and training in Las Vegas “I love it, I love the lights. I’ll be running in the desert and you can see the lights from a distance, there’s nothing like it. I don’t gamble, I like to keep my money. I don’t drink, but I love to get out and have a good time. I’ll go out and get a water and that’ll be my champagne, and I’ll have just as much fun as everyone else.”

On his future in the middleweight division “I’ll fight anyone, and I know a lot of times that isn’t the smartest thing a fighter can do, but I’m all about the fans. In the amateurs me and Dennis Douglin had our rivalry, Shawn Porter gave me a good fight, I’d love to see those guys again in the future. Ideally in the next few years I’d like to fight Jermain Taylor, who wouldn’t want an opportunity like that? Chavez would be great, I just want to end up fighting the best.”

On the next 12 months “Just continuing to come up and get better. I want to be a world champion eventually, and I see that happening in the near future. I just want to continue to take better fights and keep coming up.”

On dreams outside of boxing “Boxing is number one, that’s what I do, but I think people should use every attribute they have. I’ve modeled and it was a blast(Love has modeled with the likes of Kate Moss). I’d love to model again, I’d love to find myself in front of a camera, on a movie screen. You never know, boxing is number one, but I don’t rule out anything.”

On what fans should know about him “I’m a prankster man, I love to have fun. If you ever see me out come holler at me, because I love to talk. I love to meet boxing fans, and to be in a situation where people would want to take a picture with me, or get an autograph, I’m truly blessed. “

During a quiet Thursday afternoon workout inside of Las Vegas’ H.I.T. Factory an upbeat young fighter wears an infectious smile as he carries out the final part of his training session. He is rising prospect J’leon Love, a 10-0 middleweight who hails from Dearborn Heights, Michigan and walks with a demeanor that makes it clear, he’s excited to be here, and after spending ten minutes with him you’ll find yourself excited about him.

In a sport that serves as something of a way out for troubled youth, or an outlet of pent up aggression, Love’s mindset seems to be in a different place from other young fighter’s in his situation, he’s having fun. Dubbing himself the gym’s resident prankster, Love carries out his training routines with all the pride and craft of a world class athlete, but what makes him endearing, and dangerous, is that he has not forgotten to enjoy the sport.

Fans will have an opportunity to watch J’leon in action on the Berto-Ortiz undercard February 11th, where his bout will be broadcasted along with the rest of the undercard on Showtime Extreme, but before he steps into the ring Love offers up a chance for fans to get to know him a little better.

On what he hopes to accomplish on February 11th “Whatever comes, a knockout would be great. I’d love to get some rounds and look good. Whatever comes really.”

On his favorite weapon in the ring “Body shots man. I love to go to the body, and jab. I think those are important tools in the professional game, and you don’t see a lot of young fighters working enough on those things. One of my advantages is the sparring I get around the country, and advice from these top notch trainers, and that’s what sets me apart.”

On his favorite boxing memories “I don’t really have one that stands out. I’m blessed to have so many experiences, but I think coming up in Detroit is where a lot of my memories are. Detroit is home for me and that’s where I learned it all. I’m blessed and have a great family.”

On living and training in Las Vegas “I love it, I love the lights. I’ll be running in the desert and you can see the lights from a distance, there’s nothing like it. I don’t gamble, I like to keep my money. I don’t drink, but I love to get out and have a good time. I’ll go out and get a water and that’ll be my champagne, and I’ll have just as much fun as everyone else.”

On his future in the middleweight division “I’ll fight anyone, and I know a lot of times that isn’t the smartest thing a fighter can do, but I’m all about the fans. In the amateurs me and Dennis Douglin had our rivalry, Shawn Porter gave me a good fight, I’d love to see those guys again in the future. Ideally in the next few years I’d like to fight Jermain Taylor, who wouldn’t want an opportunity like that? Chavez would be great, I just want to end up fighting the best.”

On the next 12 months “Just continuing to come up and get better. I want to be a world champion eventually, and I see that happening in the near future. I just want to continue to take better fights and keep coming up.”

On dreams outside of boxing “Boxing is number one, that’s what I do, but I think people should use every attribute they have. I’ve modeled and it was a blast(Love has modeled with the likes of Kate Moss). I’d love to model again, I’d love to find myself in front of a camera, on a movie screen. You never know, boxing is number one, but I don’t rule out anything.”

On what fans should know about him “I’m a prankster man, I love to have fun. If you ever see me out come holler at me, because I love to talk. I love to meet boxing fans, and to be in a situation where people would want to take a picture with me, or get an autograph, I’m truly blessed. “

Las Vegas, NV- Cuban star Guillermo Rigondeaux (9-0 ) and previously undefeated American Rico Ramos(20-1) brought fans a forgettable show Friday night at the Palms in Las Vegas, for all but about 20 combined seconds of round one and six. Two meaningful exchanges was all Rigondeaux needed however to score a stoppage.

An overwhelming majority of the bout saw both fighters staring eachother down, looking for an opportunity to counter punches that never happened. Rigondeaux looked to be on his way to a quick victory, as he dropped Ramos with a Right hand in the opening round, and pressed the action until the bell saved Ramos from first round stoppage.

After an intriguing first round, it didn’t take long for fans to not only lose interest, but join together in a chorus of boos from a lack of action. For as little as Rigondeaux did, Ramos did far less. The fight’s second interesting occurrence came in round six, when Ramos complained of a rabbit punch, that looked from the outside to have hit the top of his forehead. When Ramos was instructed to continue fighting Rigondeaux wasted no time, pressing the gas, hurting “Suavecito” with a body shot, and pressing on from there until he was on the canvas for a ten count.

Rigondeaux walked away with a stoppage, and his WBA Super Bantamweight title still in hand, while Ramos walked with his first career defeat, and a lackluster national television showing under his belt.

“Rico Ramos is a very good fighter,” said Rigondeaux. “But I train very hard and when I train, no one can beat me.”

“2012 is going to be my time. I’ve got the greatest promoter of all time, Bob Arum. I just want them to open the doors for me.”

“He showed he was a true champion, he was real tough. I showed I was a true champion by getting up. He caught me the first round and I went down. Then in the third he started to slow down.

He hit me in the back of the head and I got dizzy. The referee told us to fight and I wanted to take my time. That’s when he caught me with the head butt and I fell. I’m gonna bounce back harder. I’ll be up in that gym next week. It don’t stop.”, Said Ramos

While the main event had all the makings of tactical chess match, fans at the Palms might have had their expectations raised by the all out war between Guy Robb(7-1) and Joel Diaz(7-0) treated them to in the televised opener.

Robb opened up going strong to the body, but eating a high volume of right hands, as Diaz capitalized on the opportunity to tag his unprotected left side. Robb flipped the momentum in round two, dropping Diaz with a thunderous right hand. The pace of the bout wouldn’t belong to Robb long as he went down in round three twice in the midst of back and forth exchanges.

Northern California native Guy Robb went back to the game plan that brought him success early on and hammered away at Diaz’s body in the fourth round, and seemed to get the better of the exchanges making for an interesting situation on the scorecards.

With both men visibly gassed, Diaz seemed to have just a little bit more left as the fight continued. In round seven Diaz bombed away on the open left side of Robb, who’s defense worsened as the bout wore on. The pressure seemed to overtake Robb, who stopped firing back during a strong rally from Diaz with just under a minute left, and referee Vic Drakulich stopped the action, giving Diaz a KO7 win.

“It was much harder than I thought. I was expecting it to be more like my previous fights, but not everybody’s the same. I can’t hit everybody with one punch and knock them down.”, Said Diaz

This was my first time going 8 rounds. One of my fights before went 4 rounds, and all of the others ended in the first.

They gave us a call last Wednesday, to fill a spot as the co-feature on the Rico Ramos card, and who would turn that down? So we took the fight, we were already training, might as well

First time I’ve ever been knocked down. It was a lucky punch that caught me off guard, and I got up really quick. Hopefully it will never happen again. We’re gonna go back to the gym and continue working on my chin, like I’ve been doing”

In the opening televised bout, Burbank native Matt Villanueva(7-0-1) looked impressive in a seventh round stoppage of Mike Ruiz(8-2-1). Ruiz was gritty, and won a new crop of fans with his heart but was ultimately undersized and turned out to be tailor made for Villanueva.

A picture perfect left hook wobbled Diaz in round 7 and Villanueva’s killer instinct offered no time for recovery, prompting a stoppage from Russell Mora.

“I felt perfect, as far as my conditioning, this is the best I’ve ever felt. This was my first time going 8 rounds, and it was no problem. I was surprised that it went this long. He took a lot of my punches, and survived an early knockdown. He was able to get up and fight a few more rounds, and that surprised me.”, Said Villanueva

Photo by Chris Farina / Top Rank

Las Vegas, NV-Fans at Hard Rock Hotel’s “Joint” in Las Vegas were treated to Chris Martin and Teon Kennedy battling in close quarters for ten rounds Friday Night, but neither man was able to create distance on the scorecards, leaving a lack of closure for both camps.

Kennedy(17-1-2) was aiming to bounce back strong from a loss to Alejandro Lopez in August, and pressed the issue from start to finish, but left himself open for Martin (23-1-2) to stay in the fight. ESPN’s Teddy Atlas, and several ringside analysts scored the fight in Kennedy’s favor but Martin was able to place clean shots that turned several rounds into toss ups.

A second warning for low blows, and some swelling to the right eye in round 7 led to a more conservative offensive approach from Kennedy, an opportunity which Martin jumped on. Martin was able to put together his busiest sequence of the fight, and thought he scored a knockdown in the closing seconds, but the spill was ruled a slip by Jay Nady.

Martin spent the middle rounds watching the clock during clinches, and showed signs of fatigue but did not abandon his game plan, and continued to fire away inside on the Philadelphia native Kennedy. Kennedy’s vicious body attack clearly slowed Martin down, and softened his shots, but as the fight went on the “S.D. Kid” refused to go away, and kept things close enough to earn a majority draw.

In the co-feature Cuban welterweight Yordenis Ugas(11-0) looked to be on his way to making easy work of Esteban Almaraz (10-5), dropping his foe with a right hand in the first round, and continuing to land his overhand right early and often. Almaraz put heart, and endurance on display to survive the early assault.

Hand speed proved to be the difference for Ugas who had no problem putting combinations together, snapping Almaraz with his jab, and following with a consistent overhand right. Although his attack slowed as Almaraz proved himself able to sustain the damage, Ugas never seemed to lose control of the fight.

Almaraz never stopped coming forward, but was constantly forced back by the combination punching of Ugas who earned his way to a unanimous decision victory, shutting Almaraz out on one card, and surrendering just one round on the other two cards.

Following the televised action 22 year old super bantamweight prospect Gabino Saenz(6-0 5ko’s) suffered the first setback of his career.

Saenz appeared to be on the fast track to a stoppage win over Gil Garcia (5-2), knocking Garcia down in round 2. Although Saenz showcased superior boxing tact, and hand speed, Garcia was able to force the young prospect into his brand of fight. Garcia and Saenz traded blows for six rounds, both fighters staggered at certain points, but it was Garcia who appeared more comfortable with the bout’s pace.

At the final bell Garcia celebrated his impending victory, but as the score’s were read off a draw would be the fate of the bout, saving Saenz from his first career defeat.

Las Vegas native Anthony Lenk (13-1 7ko’s) made short work of previously undefeated Boyd Henley (8-1-1) stopping the Kansas City native in the first round of their welterweight bout. 20 year old featherweight prospect Jesse Magdaleno was also in action and looked impressive, shutting out Shawn Nichol in a six round unanimous decision win.

Teon Kennedy 121.5 – Christopher Martin 121.5
Yordenis Ugas 141.5 – Esteban Almarez 142
Gabino Saenz 125 – Gil Garcia 128
Shawn Nichol 122 – Jesse Magdaleno 122
Anthony Lenk 141.5 – Boyd Henley 142

While the top story from Friday’s boxing card at Mandalay Bay was the star studded audience, Marco Antonio Rubio put on an impressive display in front of some of his most famous peers.

Rubio fired away at the game Matt Vanda, who couldn’t avoid the 1-2 combinations that Rubio was able to stick right through his defense. The always durable Vanda had his moments, putting together combinations in certain places, but was never able to really get a rhythm established that could keep up with Rubio’s high volume game plan.

In the 5th round Rubio stepped on the gas pinning Vanda against the ropes and not letting up. While Vanda was able to duck away from the initial fire, a second flurry prompted a stoppage from Kenny Bayless, and a 5th round TKO for Rubio in the midst of a gathering of stars.

In the room to take the action in from the start was Hector “Macho” Camacho, joking with fans and personnel from the beginning. Camacho’s arrival was followed by the likes of Tommy Hearns, and Marvin Hagler, both taking their fair share of photos with eager fans. Former Hearns conqueror Iran Barkley sat ringside talking boxing with the rest of the crowd. The most attention grabbing arrival was from Mike Tyson, who stopped for a few pictures en route to his ringside seat. As well as the several former world champions, not all of which were named, an impressive crop of current fighters showed up for the event. Sergio Martinez, Andre Dirrell, Wayne McCullough, Hasim Rahman Jr., Ishe Smith, and several others were also on hand.

In preliminary action Javier Fortuna had no trouble landing flush on Miguel Roman, but was never able to put together enough power shots for the stoppage. Fortuna moved well, and landed solid combinations throughout ten rounds and picked up a decision victory.

Son of Julian Jackson, John Jackson looked impressive, stopping Keandre Leatherwood in round six. Jackson took his fair share of punishment, but put a durable chin on display, and finished Leatherwood off in the sixth.

Super middleweight Badou Jack opened the card up in emphatic fashion, dropping Adam Collins in the first round. Jack put his power on display, collecting three quick knockdowns and a stoppage moving him to 9-0 with 8 ko’s.

In other action Samuel Rogers stopped Jamar Freeman in the tenth, Azael Cosio stopped Ronnie Warrior Jr. in the sixth, and Laura Serrano fought to a majority draw with Ela Nunez.

All in all the show provided some boxing entertainment, to the most hardcore of boxing audiences. Something of a family reunion feeling was in the air throughout the ballroom, and the boxing community for at least one night, felt like a fraternity.

Worldly culture was in a surplus at the MGM Grand Marquee Ballroom on Saturday night when Rafael Marquez did battle with Toshiaki Nishioka of Japan, with Nishioka’s WBC Super bantamweight strap on the line.

The hard hitting, and hard headed Marquez started the fight strongly, dictating the bouts methodical pace with well timed combinations, not without eating a number of solo right hands from Nishioka. The Japanese world champion, making his U.S. debut carried out a strategy that centered around footwork and a carefully selected offensive attack early on, landing sporadic shots over Marquez’s cover.

Following the bout Marquez expressed frustration with Nishioka’s reluctance to bring the fight to the center of the ring, and that element seemed to give the former world champion trouble in the second half of the bout. Marquez was never quite able to develop a consistent rhythm in the later rounds. A cut on the head of Nishioka halted action in the 8th round, and prompted an offensive assault from Marquez, who seemed inspired by the sight of blood. Nishioka weathered the storm and lived to see the last four rounds, where he would prove to prosper.

The 9th round was the root of a trend that would carry on through the remainder of the fight, Nishioka’s lead left hand. Marquez simply could not find an answer for Nishioka’s go to punch, which he began to follow up with combinations as the fight wore on. Nishioka’s efforts would not go unnoticed by the judges in his Las Vegas debut, as they awarded him a unanimous decision, with a potential showdown with world champion Nonito Donaire emerging as the hot topic in the aftermath of the bout.

In other action featherweight prospect Jesse Magdeleno stopped Isaac Hidalgo with a brutal first round attack. Nicaraguan light flyweight world champion Roman Gonzalez put his superior skills on display with a two round drubbing of Omar Soto, and short notice opponent Jose Angel Beranza stunned Christopher Martin with a split decision win.

The Mayweather gym opened it’s doors to writers, photographers, and videographers alike this past Tuesday with it’s traditional pre-fight media day.

The action kicked off with a workout from young, and undefeated prospect Jesse Vargas who worked the pads and heavy bag for the national and local media. Roger Mayweather fielded questions from the press at ringside, while p.r. specialist Kelly Swanson conducted interviews with fighters and trainers for Ustream.

Mayweather himself entered the room close to 3 o’clock, decked out in black, fielding questions from the press before changing into his workout attire. Commenting on everything from his father, to Victor Ortiz, to Manny Pacquiao, Mayweather reiterated the same points he has drilled home time and time again. When faced with a question regarding Ortiz’s thoughts on his financial carelessness Mayweather offered up his defense.

“People act like I just woke up and was a millionaire, I had a very tough upbringing. But people don’t want to hear the same thing over and over, 24/7 is about entertainment”

Nowhere to be seen was the original Floyd Mayweather, who was infamously involved in an eruption with his son just weeks ago. Mayweather Jr. was inevitably asked to comment on his father, and remained reserved in his answer, wishing his father well in his boxing ventures, and reaffirming his loyalty in uncle and long time trainer Roger.

Another inevitable question the former champion faced involved a certain Pilipino champion by the name of
Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather’s criticism toward Pacquiao on this particular day centered around the Pac-Man’s lawsuit.
“I figured that this was boxing, Ali used to criticize his opponents. I criticize my opponents, It’s boxing.”

The Grand Rapids native continued to insist that he has never outrightly accused Pacquiao of cheating, and stood by his stance on Olympic style blood testing.

The Mayweather gym houses more than just it’s future hall of fame namesake. The facility also serves as a breeding ground for several hopeful young champions. Among them is 25 year old Christian Thomas.

While Thomas has yet to make his debut, he calls himself the car that isn’t quite ready to come out of the garage yet, but when his number is called he’l be ready for the best at 168. The young fighter migrated west from Mayweather’s hometown of Grand Rapids Michigan, and notes that the gym functions as a team operation.

If Media day offered one consistent trend, it’s that Floyd Mayweather is not afraid to be hated, and when the spotlight is on him he is at his brightest.

Nearly one year ago Allan Green was featured by Showtime in what many considered a “bullpen” type of fight, before Green was asked to enter the Super Six Tournament. Green’s opponent that night, Tarvis Simms was brought in on short notice, and expected to play the role of a tune up. Simms had other plans.

“I proved I can compete with anyone that night. I went into his promoter’s show, in his backyard, and I thought I won the fight” Simms said of his performance that night.

Scorecards aside (Green won a decision), Simms looked impressive, especially considering the situation he was up against. Given his performance that night one would have imagined Simms would be poised for another opportunity in the coming months. That assumption would prove to be deadly inaccurate. Simms is approaching 12 months of inactivity and he insists that has not been by choice.

“Believe me it has nothing to do with me. I’m ready able and willing to get in there and fight the best of them”

Simms says that his promotion has dropped him by the wayside, while he remains in top notch form, and is physically and mentally prepared for a premiere fight. While a rematch with Green doesn’t seem to be written in the stars Simms has said he would have liked to have done battle with a fighter like Kelly Pavlik.

“We wanted Green again but they didn’t want to entertain the idea. I’d like to fight Pavlik, I think the fans would love it, I do well with bigger fighters” the Connecticut native said.

Tarvis also told me a story of a fight being presented to him with a purse offer intact, Tarvis referred the offer to his management, who later suspiciously presented it back to him with a smaller purse attached. It’s no secret that boxing is home to some ill practices behind the scene, but Tarvis seems to be a case that simply cannot catch a break. With Green remaining his only loss, Simms holds impressive wins over Marcus Upshaw and Carl Daniels, but can’t seem to get the attention of fighters at the next level.

Simms’ situation seems to be another example of boxing’s all too familiar dark side. After putting forth an impressive effort in October of last year, perhaps he drove opportunities away by proving to be a riskier opponent. Either way, his performance has not been rewarded and Simms has been stung by the business of boxing.

While talking with Tarvis Simms I got the impression that he is sincere in his message to the boxing community, that he is ready to fight anyone at any time or place. If you said boxing was struggling, you may be right, you may be wrong, but you wouldn’t be the first. You could search for flaws within the game all day long, but Tarvis Simms is not one of them. If there were more fighters like Tarvis Simms there would be fewer fights that should have but didn’t happen. While Tarvis Simms current situation is difficult to understand, for anyone familiar with him, he is not difficult to root for.

Memphis, TN- Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith(21-4) will keep his streak of challenging the best opposition alive when he goes toe to toe with middleweight prospect and NABO champion Fernando Guerrero(18-0) at the DeSoto Civic Center In Memphis, TN on July 16 on Showtime. Smith will again move up to middleweight to meet the hard hitting Guerrero.

Smith will be fighting above his primary weight of 154 lbs, but the Former Contender star has put forth exceptional performances in the middleweight class. Smith will be making his fifth appearance on Showtime, a network which he has compiled a 4-0 record on, the last appearance being a dominating performance over then undefeated Pawel Wolak in 2008.

“It’s a network I call home, I’m 4-0 there and excited to head back” said Smith.

Guerrero is 18-0 with 15 knockouts, but faces his toughest test in Smith, who has never touched the canvas, much less been stopped in his professional or amateur career. Smith’s last bout at middleweight came with a gutsy effort against undefeated Danny Jacobs in 2009, while Guerrero picked up a knockout win over Mike Walker earlier this year. Although inactive in 2010 thus far, Smith served as Floyd Mayweather’s primary sparring partner in preparation for Shane Mosley this Spring, and says he feels prepared to take on the big stage once again, whatever the weight may be.

“160 will not be a problem this time around, It’s going to be a beautiful thing. Fernando Guerrero is all we are focused on right now.” Smith noted.

Also on the card will be undefeated Shawn Porter, and Olympian Gary Russell Jr. Tickets go on sale Saturday June 5 and can be purchased at the DeSoto Civic Center ticket office or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Ishe Smith turned professional in 2000, and has captured NABO, WBC Continental, and USBA welterweight titles. Becoming a household name by participating in NBC’s The Contender in 2005, Smith has since appeared on national television numerous times.

Along with holding several marquee victories Smith has also shared the ring with Floyd Mayweather, Fernando Vargas, Shane Mosley, and Oscar De La Hoya as a sparring partner. Smith is based out of boxing’s capital city of Las Vegas, Nevada.

I’m writing a letter, not because it’s the 50th anniversary of anything, not to celebrate a birthday or any other benchmark, not because I believe you will ever read this but because I believe I am one of millions of people that owes you a thank you.

In a world where reality tv characters are pop culture icons, and we know more about our favorite movie stars than our own families, I often ask myself why we care so much about people we’ve never met nor will meet. Yet, here I am writing a letter to a man that it is safe to say I will never meet, thanking him for events I wasn’t even born t to see. What sets you apart? Easy, you shook up the world, with an aftershock so profound the trembling can be felt a half century later.

Will I ever shake up the world? Probably not. Will anyone ever do so the way you did? Also doubtful, but the image of a 22 year old Cassius Clay breaking free from his entourage, jumping onto the ropes and pointing into the crowd of critics, almost as if to count the men that doubted he could beat Sonny Liston that night never fails to give me the idea that anything in the world is possible.

Having the audacity, at age 22, to look the world in the eye and say “I told you so” is something you have to take for yourself, and that night Cassius Clay grabbed it with no intention of giving it back.
46 years after you captured your first world title, a cold reality has long been established, and a man that once bounded around the ring with an innovative grace has been dramatically slowed and withered by Parkinson’s Disease. The same hands that stunned the sports world by knocking out George Foreman are now plagued by tremors, and the feet that shuffled around the canvas in a manner that no one had ever seen at that time are now bound to a wheelchair. The mouth that had the audacity to fearlessly shoot off at the government, the business, and any man that stood across the ring from him has been all but silenced. Although you are not the same man today that you were in 1960, 1965, or 1980 for that matter, the story of a man daring to tell the world “I told you so” has been told, and can never be untold. A man that announced his greatness over and over, until it became true.

Few men have been as loved as well as hated to the degree that Muhammad Ali has, but it takes something special to evoke that kind of emotion. Mothers, fathers, husbands and wives often have that power, the ability to inspire, anger, and break a person’s heart. You have to give yourself over to someone entirely to give them that power, and Muhammad Ali was this person to the entire globe.
I write this letter as a thank you note, for changing the landscape of the sports world, and in many ways American culture. For giving boxing an icon unlike anything else. In a sport that is said to be dying a glimmer of hope can be found in the image of Muhammad Ali lighting the torch at the 1996 Olympic Games, and the realization is that one of the most influential human beings of all time was a boxer.

A thank you note, addressed to two men, Muhammad Ali, who with hands that tremble with Parkinson’s Disease is still able to grab the world’s attention, and make people fall in love with him all over again, and a 22 year old Cassisus clay. The same Cassius Clay who’s image is frozen in time as he informs the world that he is indeed the greatest of all time.

You shook up the world champ. Rumble young man, rumble.

Boxing can be a difficult field to make your name in, and even more difficult to crack the mainstream code, but at 20 years old Michael Perez will have an opportunity to lay the groundwork when he takes to the ring on May 14 at Paradise Theater in the Bronx.

“Well I’m the first televised bout of the night on Telefutra, so I’ve been stepping up training. A lot of hills, a lot of different things in this camp” Perez said in regards to his training.

The 20 year old captured a Golden Gloves title in 2008 and has since put together an unblemished record of 7-0 with 3 ko’s. Signing a deal with Golden Boy Promotions, the young fighter is optimistic on the road ahead, and making his television debut, will be a major building block. Currently campaigning at lightweight, Perez notes that the division has its share of exciting prospects that could make the coming years interesting for fighters and fans alike.

“I see a lot of young guys coming up that could make for good fights soon. Hylon Williams, he’s a Golden Boy Prospect as well, I’d like to fight Saddam Ali, there are a lot of different guys at lightweight.”

No opponent has been named thus far for May 14, but Perez remains excited at the prospect of making his t.v. debut. While still getting his feet wet in the pro’s, Perez is already no stranger to the big stage. Signing with Golden Boy promotions has brought Perez the opportunity to fight on the undercards of major events including Mayweather vs. Marquez, Malignaggi vs. Diaz, and Kirkland vs. Julio.

Making his debut in late 2008, Perez has been dubbed with the nickname “Michaelangelo The Artist”and as a Newark, New Jersey resident will have an opportunity to build on his East Coast following when he does battle in the Bronx.

“I’d just tell anyone who doesn’t know me yet to follow me. I’m coming up, I have a crazy work ethic, and I’m going to have some good fights coming up”

Twin Cities, MN- Previously undefeated lightweight Jeremy Mclaurin(7-1, 5 ko’s) suffered a shocking unanimous decision loss to underdog Hector Orozco this past weekend in Hinckley, but the St. Paul based fighter wants to make it clear he plans to return with a sharpened focus.

“I was just stuck in the mud all night, I have no excuses, I lost my drive somewhere in the last few months and stopped hitting the pavement. I was running on treadmills and waking up at 9AM instead of six. I tip my hat to Hector and I’ll take the positives from this loss, and build toward my future.”

Prior to April 2nd Mclaurin had been followed by whispers of a potential showdown with Gary Eyer (8-0, 6 ko’s) of Duluth, who stopped Brad Patraw on the same card, but plans now likely point to Mclaurin returning to 130 and taking on two or three more fights before an Eyer bout comes to fruition.

“If there is one positive from Friday I’m happy to be able to take a learning experience like this early on in my career rather than later, and on a bigger stage. I want to thank all my fans, and supporters for sticking by me, and I plan to bring you a better show next time around.”

McLaurin stopped Orozco in February, and no plans have been mentioned at this time for a third bout between the two. Also in action Friday Tyler Hultin and Tim Taggart fought to a draw, Donny Tierney edged Dan Copp, and in the main event middleweight Andy Kolle dominated Matt Vanda for a unanimous decision win.

Minneapolis, MN- Minnesota’s top junior middleweight prospect and former national champion Javontae Starks(3-0 3 ko’s) suffered the first setback of his career this month when he was forced to pull out of his bout with Bobby Kliewer(10-9 6 ko’s) on April 2.

Starks suffered a back injury while training alongside stablemate and former amateur elite Jamal James,who will make his pro debut April 2. Although disappointed with the cancellation Starks plans to return to the ring in May, and remains open whatever fight that is brought to the table, including Kliewer.

“I’ve fought the best in the world I’ve trained with the best and been recognized as the best, I’m not afraid of any fight” Starks noted.

Starks insists the injury will not remain a problem for much longer, and feels he could have fought, but the risk was just too great at this stage of his career.

“I feel like I could have fought and won, but it’s how I want to win that’s important this early in my career”

Starks and his team aim to return to training during the first week of April, and hope to take to the ring as soon as possible, a date in late May the most likely scenario.

Javontae Starks is expected to be on hand April 2 to support close friend Jamal James, and Midwest Sports Council stablemate Jeremy McLaurin in their bouts. The card is headlined by the long awaited rematch between Matt Vanda and Andy Kolle for the Minnesota State Middleweight title. Tickets are available at grandcasinomn.com.

Starks trains at the Circle of Discipline Gym in Minneapolis alongside fellow celebrated amateur Jamal James. Under the direction of trainer Sankara Frazier Starks aims to put his home state of Minnesota on the boxing map. After capturing National and regional titles in the amateur ranks, he made his professional debut in late 2009.

With an undeniable will, and professional level skills Starks aims to become a beacon of hope for Minnesota fight fans.

This Saturday night, Manny Pacquiao will put his streak of brilliance on the line in one of the world’s most remarkable buildings. Four months ago the Dallas Cowboys’ brand new billion dollar stadium was poised to hold the long awaited showdown between Pacquiao and Mayweather, but it was not to be. While boxing fans from all four corners of the globe were dejected when the fight was scrapped, Joshua Clottey was gleaming from ear to ear. The Ghana native steps into an opportunity of a lifetime on one of the biggest stages imaginable, and presents Manny Pacquiao with what some say will be his most demanding physical challenge to date.

Manny Pacquiao

Record: 50-3-2 (38 KO’s)

Former Flyweight, Super Bantamweight, Featherweight, Junior Lightweight, Lightweight, Junior Welterweight and current WBO Welterweight champion. Currently recognized as the number one fighter in the world pound for pound.

Age: 31

Home: General Santos City, Philippines

Notable wins: Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, Erik Morales, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera

Notable losses: Erik Morales

Joshua Clottey

Record: 35-3 (20 KO’s)

Former WBO Welterweight champion

Home: Bronx, NY via Accra, Ghana

Age: 32

Notable wins: Diego Corrales, Zab Judah

Notable losses: Antonio Margarito, Miguel Cotto, Carlos Baldomir

Speed/Athletecism

Weighing the athleticism variable in a Pacquiao fight is almost a formality. There is only one man in boxing that can match the Pac Man’s athleticism and that’s Floyd Mayweather. Clottey is a strong, formidable opponent but as far as speed and athleticism will go this will be a mismatch. If Clottey is going to beat Manny Pacquiao it’s going to have to be by doing something other than trying to outwork the Pac Man. Pacquiao is in a different stratosphere and I see his athletic skill set as the gamebreaker in this fight.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Matt’s Take: Pacquiao has tremendous athleticism and in terms of putting combinations together, his hand speed is second to none. They are essentially his bread and butter. Clottey has decent athleticism and average speed at best, but doesn’t heavily rely on either to help him emerge victorious. Many of the shots he landed in his fight against Miguel Cotto were due to terrific timing, not quick hands.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Power

This one is a bit trickier. Do you look at knock out percentages or brute strength? One would imagine Clottey is the stronger man, but Pacquiao has knocked more welterweights lately than Clottey, who has recorded one stoppage since 2004. I’d lean with Pacquiao here as well. I firmly believe the brunt of Pacquiao’s power is in his killer instinct. It was hard to find a those instincts in the Joshua Clottey that fought Cotto, and that could be his downfall in this bout. Where Clottey slips up, Pacquiao will capitalize.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Matt’s Take: It’s no secret that Manny Pacquiao has true pound for pound punching power ala Thomas Hearns; just ask naturally bigger opponents in Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and Oscar De La Hoya. In his two fights at welterweight (where he meets Clottey), Pacquiao has used fast, hard combinations to batter the aforementioned Cotto and De La Hoya, making him a heavy handed fighter even as an undersized 147 pounder.

Clottey’s power has always been underrated in my book. Clottey, easily the biggest active welterweight, has tremendous physical strength and the ability to throw noteworthy punches at any given time. He hurt former world champion Zab Judah and also made things quite uncomfortable for Cotto in their June 2009 match up. He possesses a unique punching style, which I have always been a fan of, which includes body-head combinations and double hooks up top. While the man known as “Hitter” can definitely do damage if he connects, Pac Man’s other alias is “The Destroyer” for a reason.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Defense/Chin

If Clottey has a shot at knocking off Pacquiao it lies in his defense. Clottey survived twelve rounds with Antonio Margarito, and I hate to go there, but who knows what was in Margarito’s gloves at that time. Clottey’s defensive success may be a testament to his refusal to take risks, but that flaw nudges him ahead of Pacquiao in this category.

Pacquiao hasn’t hit the canvas in years, but he has hit the canvas nonetheless. If I see one scenario that has Clottey winning this bout it’s a product of him using his strength and defense to control the pace of the bout. Clottey won’t make himself as presentable a target like Pacquiao’s most recent opponents and that may be the one thing that could propel him to a decision victory.

Advantage: Clottey

Matt’s Take: Pacquiao has had a good chin since day one. Although he was twice knocked out as a severely weight drained youngster, he has consistently shown the ability to take a punch. The best proof of his proficient chin is something he once was; a poor defensive fighter. The old, lighter Pacquiao had no problem trading punches with anybody at any time, but the 140-147 lb version boxes and moves a lot more effectively. Moving up in weight gave him the opportunity to build up his legs, thus he avoids punches far better than in years prior. On the contrary, he had trouble avoiding Cotto’s jab in their November super fight and against a strong fighter like Clottey that could be a problem.

Like many African fighters, Clottey has an effective high guard defense and a good beard. His defensive style is very effective and he rarely gets hit with flush shots. Basic or not, Clottey’s defensive abilities are frustrating for opponents. His chin isn’t an easy target to find, but even when he was hit, Clottey weathered the storm. The rugged Ghanaian has never been seriously hurt and his only trip to the canvas (against Cotto) was due to him being off balance.

Advantage: Clottey

Heart

Yet another category that is hard to pick against Manny in. On top of being arguably the fighter of the decade, Pac Man has taken part in several fight of the decade candidates. Surprisingly, I saw more heart from Manny in his first bout with Marquez than I have seen in a long time. After putting his man down three times in the first round only to have him claw back into the fight, Manny stayed with it despite giving up the draw.

Clottey will come into Cowboy’s stadium with a world of desire behind him, but heart is something that either you have or you don’t. I believe Joshua Clottey does to an extent, but anyone who lets a defeated Miguel Cotto survive, and throw enough punches to steal the bout from him will have trouble matching the heart, desire and killer instinct of Manny Pacquiao.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Matt’s Take: Pacquiao is as gutsy as they come. He’s a number of times and never had any issue adopting to take on a bigger fighter (see above). His willingness to exclusively mix it up when he fought the world’s best in lower weight classes simply can not be overlooked, even if he has changed his style a bit. Manny has also taken the heart of many of his opponents, such as De La Hoya, Hatton, Cotto and Barrera.

Manny may very well take exactly that from Clottey, since this is perhaps his biggest weakness. The late, great Arturo Gatti and even a more fragile fighter like Floyd Mayweather have fought multiple times with hand injuries and other distractions, proving when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Unfortunately this isn’t the case for former WBO Welterweight champion.

Clottey went into a shell after injuring his hand against Margarito in 06, squandering a good start en route to losing a decision. Against Cotto, he didn’t fare much better, electing to cover up on the ropes rather than throw back consistent combinations when the rugged Puerto Rican applied heavy pressure. Unless his questionable antics change, he is in for a rough night against an opponent who has snatched the heart out of some of boxing’s best.

Advantage: Clottey

Experience

Joshua Clottey will take part in a fight that draws the eyes of the sports world onto him, and it will be the first time that he has done so. Pacquiao meanwhile has been to this dance before. Pac Man has captured titles at a number of weight classes, stared down boxing legends, and had the morale of an entire country on his shoulders.

Clottey is by no means a wide eyed kid in over his head, the 32 year old has fought all over the world against different breeds of boxers, but it’s hard to find a resume` that measures up to Pacquiao’s. It’s been reported that ticket sales are around 45,000, a far bigger audience than either fighter is accustomed too. I don’t know that either man has a case of stage fright but on a scale this big I’d have to give the edge to Pacquiao.

Advantage: Pacquiao

Matt’s Take: When I say Pacquiao has fought everyone, I mean Pacquiao has fought everyone. Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton, Juan Manuel Marquez and Marco Antonio Barrera (twice each) and Erik Morales (three times) among others, there are very few noteworthy opponents he missed along the way. In addition, Pacquiao fought all of the aforementioned opponents on pay per view and has delivered masterpieces when the most eyes were on him.

Whether it is an asset to how dangerous of an opponent he is or the fact his inability to capitalize under the bright lights, Clottey is lacking in experience compared to Pacquiao. His most notable opponents were Cotto, Margarito, Judah, the late, great Diego Corrales and Carlos Baldomir. Outside of those five, three of whom have beaten him, Clottey’s fought mostly gate keeper type opponents.

Advantage: Pacquiao

The Verdict:

I have a shot for shot screenplay of this bout playing out in my head. It’s of an aggressive Manny Pacquiao overwhelming Joshua Clottey with a high volume of punches. Clottey is game, but careful. He knows that taking a risk of any kind will land him into deep trouble so he finishes the fight by kicking it into safety mode. Pacquiao doesn’t walk through Clottey the way he did Hatton and Cotto, but walks away with an impressive decision.

Verdict: Pacquiao UD

Matt’s Take: Clottey is regularly criticized for not throwing enough punches. His loss to Cotto serves perfect example of why he is a fighter that can do far more on the offensive end, but for one reason or another, chooses not to. Rather than going to take the title from the champion by making sure his hands were consistently busy, Clottey had too many Punchless spurts and cost himself the fight; as he did against Margarito.

Pacquiao throws terrific combinations and moves well enough to avoid return shots from his much slower opponent on Saturday night. The Filipino icon’s busy hands and Clottey’s inability to get going on a steady basis will spell trouble for the latter. Clottey’s natural size advantage, good chin and defense will likely help him make it to the final bell, albeit as a loser in the majority of the rounds.

Verdict: Pacquiao UD

Photo by Chris Farina / Top Rank

On the cusp of boxing’s super-season the world’s focus remains on Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather. While we await their hopeful showdown both men have tall tasks in front of them this spring. Mayweather will face Shane Mosley on May 1, a bout that will be touched off on in the coming weeks, while Pacquiao dukes it out with the upset minded Joshua Clottey. I have compiled the thoughts of a number of boxers, and am lucky enough to be able to put together an amazing list of predictions. I consulted fighters from lightweight to heavyweight, male and female, amateur prospect to world champion, from America to Australia to see how they see this event playing out. Some were elaborative, while some kept it short and sweet. See how their predictions match up with mine and your own, and tune in March 13 to see who’s vision plays out.

I think Pac will overwhelm Clottey with a lot of activity, I look for a late stoppage or unanimous decision. I also see very game and tough Clottey throughout. – Steve Forbes, former super featherweight world champion

Manny is too fast and elusive for Clottey. Clottey is Strong, stronger than Cotto but he doesn’t throw enough punches. Pacquiao’s speed will be too much. –Bobby Gunn, cruiserweight world title challenger

Pac is too fast and too strong for Clottey, too awkward to be honest. I love Josh but he had Cotto and let him get away, if he doesn’t have the killer instinct with Pac he is done. It will be a great fight but I give Pac the edge. –Ishe Smith, junior middleweight contender

I pick Manny by decision because Clottey fights safe enough not to be ko’ed but too safe to win the fight.- Jeff Mayweather, world class trainer, former lightweight contender

This is a much more difficult fight for manny than people think. It will be a hard fought bout with pac winning on points. –Billy Dib, featherweight contender

I like Clottey by a twelve round decision. He’d have to be able to take the punishment then work. –A.K. Laleye Contender Season 4 participant

It will go the distance and it will go to Pac-Man. – Jason Litzau, NABF super featherweight champion

I like Clottey’s relentless pressure. I think Pac-Man’s fire is going to ignite Clottey, it will be a close fight but Clottey comes out with the decision. –Hasim Rahman Jr. world class amateur fighter.

I’m Going with Pacquiao by U.D. 🙂 – Mia St. John former female lightweight world champion

A dangerous fight for Pac-Man because of Clottey’s size and strength but I think the speed will be too much for Clottey to overcome. I’m going with Pac Man and I will be VERY impressed if he wins by stoppage. – Caleb Truax, WBF International super middleweight champion.

Mmmm, I don’t know, this is a pick ‘em – Nate Campbell, former undisputed lightweight champion

My only thoughts are do I get to fight the winner? – Emanuel Augustus, former IBA champion

This is a tough one. Clottey is such a physical terror for any welterweight to handle and he boasts an iron jaw. Still, I think Pacquaio will get by him. Not because of speed, power, or combination punching, but because he’s got too much riding on a potential showdown with Mayweather/Mosley. Great fighters find a way to win and I think Pacquaio will do just that. –Ryan Coyne, cruiserweight prospect, Contender Season 4 participant.

I said it prior to the Cotto fight, and it proved obsolete but I’ll say it before this one too, Clottey has to knock Pacquiao out. If you think Mayweather-Pacquiao isn’t still in HBO’s fold this fall you’d have to be punch drunk. For Clottey to derail this event he’s going to have to stop Pacquiao which I don’t see happening. I thought Oscar, and Cotto would both be too big for Pac-Man but I’m not making that mistake again, Pacquiao at his best is not too small for anyone. It will come down to aggression and Pacquiao will win that war every time, I’ll take Manny via wide UD. – Brett Mauren, 15rounds, Phantom Punch Productions

Final Tally

Pacquiao : Mauren, Forbes, Gunn, Smith, Mayweather, Dib, Litzau, St. John, Truax, Coyne

Clottey: Laleye, Rahman Jr.

Neutral: Campbell, Augustus

With as many different viewpoints as we have just seen, someone’s call is bound to play out, and we will find out which one on March 13. Please support these exciting fighters as their careers unfold and stay tuned for the Mayweather-Mosley prediction piece in the coming weeks.