15rounds in association with Gardenstatefightscene.com brings you our inaugural New Jersey pound for pound list, which will be updated on a regular basis. Unlike regular P4P lists, this one was a bit tricky, as many fighters are at different stages. In compiling the list, we factored resume with potential and what each fighter has left. Without further ado, here is who we think are New Jersey’s best.

1. Tomasz Adamek Heavyweight Secaucus: Adamek, easily Jersey’s best fighter, has impressed thus far since vacating his IBF/Ring Magazine Cruiserweight titles to move up in weight. The beloved Pole most recently took a competitive decision over 2004 US Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada, where he was hit a few more times than one would have liked.

Next up is an April 24 HBO showdown with heavyweight contender Cris Arreola in Arreola’s home state of California. This is fight fan’s dream, thus had been discussed within boxing circles in recent months since both men like to mix it up and have tremendous chins. Outside of a matchup with WBA champion David Haye, is there anything better that we could have asked for?

NEXT FIGHT: April 24 vs Arreola

2. Carlos Tamara Junior Flyweight North Bergen: Tamara went from a virtual unknown to one of the most talked about fighters locally after his stunning 12th round TKO over IBF Junior Flyweight champion Brian Viloria in the Philippines. Viloria, a Filipino-American, was up on points early, but Tamara rallied back late to end the fight in devastating fashion, giving him one of the best wins by a local fighter in years.

The 2004 Colombian Olympian was chasing a fight with WBO champion Ivan Calderon, but reports indicate Calderon has a fight lined up against another opponent in May.

NEXT FIGHT: TBA

3. Kendall Holt Junior Welterweight Paterson: Holt was shockingly stopped after six rounds by unknown South African Kaizer Mabuza last Saturday in Atlantic City. Holt was expected to win the fight – an IBF 140 lb eliminator – en route to taking on the winner of this weekend’s Juan Urango-Devon Alexander fight, but this wasn’t the case. Holt had a good opening round but after that, it went all down hill.

Mabuza took the fight over and Holt’s corner stopped the fight following the sixth. With back to back losses, especially considering how he lost to Mabuza, Holt has a tough road back. With that said if he can refocus himself and get back to the Kendall Holt who beat Demetrius Hopkins, he can still be a major player at 140 lbs.

NEXT FIGHT: TBA

4. Pawel Wolak Junior Middleweight North Arlington: The rapidly improving Wolak impressed in a virtual shut out victory January 23 at Madison Square Garden over once beaten Ishmail Arvin. Wolak’s defensive adjustments make him a potential player in the 154 lb division with another win or two. Since his last two fights have been on Top Rank’s most recent cards at MSG, expect him to return on the Miguel Cotto-Yuri Foreman undercard.

NEXT FIGHT: June 5?

5. Mike Arnaoutis Junior Welterweight/Welterweight Atlantic City: Arnaoutis dropped a debatable split decision to Tim Coleman December 3 in New York City. The bout wasn’t pretty, but Arnaoutis appeared to do enough to warrant a close decision. Unfortunately, two of the judges didn’t think so. Arnaoutis, who has struggled to make 140 lbs recently, is taking a risk by moving up to 147 lbs to challenge contender Delvin Rodriguez April 2 on ESPN2’s Friday Night Fights. In addition to taking a tough fight in a new weight class, Arnaoutis is fighting at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT, where Rodriguez is a fan favorite. The cards are really stacked against him in this one.

NEXT FIGHT: April 2 vs Rodriguez

6. Shaun George Light Heavyweight Wayne: George is yet another local fighter who suffered a devastating loss last time out when he was stopped on July 10 by fellow 175 lb contender Chris Henry. George got off to a strong start but faded after the second round en rout to being viciously in round six. After some time off, George is reportedly back in the gym and close to signing with a new promoter. The talent is definitely there with George and at age 30, he can get right back into contention with a few notable wins.

NEXT FIGHT: TBA

7. Shamone Alvarez Welterweight Atlantic City: Alvarez fell just short last March against the aforementioned Rodriguez, dropping a split decision in an entertaining fight. The volume punching Alvarez also lost a decision to Joshua Clottey a few years back, which has caused some to question if he can truly hang with a top welterweight. He returns to the ring Saturday night in AC against hard hitting Alexis Camacho. A loss would likely destroy his career while a victory can help push him towards a minor title fight.

NEXT FIGHT: March 6 vs Camacho

8. Prince Badi Ajamu Light Heavyweight Camden: Ajamu was scheduled to face fringe contender Daniel Judah November 20, but surprisingly missed weight by 10 lbs, canning the fight altogether. Since then, he has been on a hiatus and his next move is unknown. Whether he fights on at cruiserweight (which appears likely since he is 38) or light heavy, he will be a handful for any contender/up and comer.

NEXT FIGHT: TBA

9. Jeremy Bryan Junior Welterweight Paterson: If this list was purely on potential, Bryan would easily be number one. He is a good boxer and has shown the ability to apply pressure as well. In his most recent bout, Bryan demolished Darren Fallen, decking the experienced veteran three times en route to a second round TKO.

Bryan is scheduled to return April 17 in AC as pat of the Kelly Pavlik-Sergio Martinez undercard and is definitely ready for a step up in competition. If he is victorious on the 17th, hopefully we can see him on an ESPN, ShoBox or Top Rank Live (who have a good relationship with Bryan’s promoter Pat Lynch) card in the near future.

NEXT FIGHT: April 17 vs TBA

10. Vivian Harris Junior Welterweight Carlstadt: Once upon a time Vivian Harris was the WBA champion and the most avoided man in the 140 lb division. Unfortunately for Harris, it seems all too long ago. Harris’ skills have greatly diminished and he honestly hasn’t been the same since getting viciously knocked out by Junior Witter in 07’. Since then, Harris had to come off the canvas twice to beat journeyman Octavio Narvaez, battled to a scary no contest with Noe Bolanos and was controversially stopped by unbeaten power puncher Lucas Matthysse on February 20.

Harris had a few good moments against Matthysse, but it’s clear he isn’t what he once was. Due to the controversial stoppage (the referee strangely halted the bout after Harris was buzzed by a single punch) a rematch appears in place for April 2 on ShoBox. His resume can get him a notable fight if he wins the rematch, but a loss would all but likely end his career.

NEXT FIGHT: April 2 vs Matthysse?

Honorable Mention:

Jorge Diaz Featherweight New Brunswick: Outside of Adamek, Diaz is the most entertaining fighter in Jersey. He returns March 20 against unbeaten Alejandro Lopez on a Top Rank Live card from Florida. His October 2009 knockout over Olympic Gold Medalist Yan Barthelemy was one of the best in recent memory.

Francisco Contreras Junior Welterweight Irvington: Contreras made a major statement in his National TV debut February 5, blowing away Juan Castaneda inside of one round on ShoBox. The cement fisted Contreras has been kept busy by promoter TKO Boxing. Hope to see more of him soon.

Bobby Gunn Cruiserweight Rochelle Park: Gunn captured the hearts of local fight fans with his gutsy performance against Tomasz Adamek on July 11. Gunn’s chin and willingness to mix it up with Adamek earned him more respect than all of his wins put together. Gunn recently notified us that he is targeting a showdown with unbeaten Ran Nakash and hopes the bout will take place in AC.

Patrick Majewski Middleweight Atlantic City: Majewski, an all action Pole, has solid wins over Latif Mundy and Jimmy Lubash. Like Adamek, his willingness to mix it up makes him worth the price of admission.

Jerson Ravelo Super Middleweight Newark: Talent wise, Ravelo is as good as anybody in Jersey, but many have questioned his ability to beat a top fighter (three of his four losses came to world champion Andre Ward along with contenders David Lopez and Allan Green) and how much he has left in the tank due to injuries. A self proclaimed refocused fighter, Ravelo hopes to surprise his harshest critics and show why he was a highly touted prospect coming out of the 2000 Olympics.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to gardenstatefightscene.com

Sparta, NJ based junior middleweight Chris Murphy, 3-0-1 3 KO’s, notified 15Rounds that he is retiring due to a reoccurring retina injury. Murphy first hurt his eye three years ago and after multiple surgeries, re injured it sparring with contender Alfredo Angulo a few months back.

Murphy, a pressure fighter who loved to brawl, will remembered among most locals for his scintillating four round draw with Abe Torres, which will likely go down as one of the most entertaining club show fights in North Jersey history.

“I am blessed because I have a year left in school and aspirations to get a higher degree when I am done with that” said Murphy, a student at Sussex County College who also played professional hockey. “I am looking to follow in my brother’s footsteps (who graduates from Georgetown law in the spring).”

Although he will no longer be fighting, Murphy vows to support his stablemates as they develop.

“Glen Tapia, Jeremy Bryan, (Bobby) Rooney, Jorge Diaz, Pat Farrell, Danny McDermott and the rest of Pound 4 Pound (promotions) are my family for life. It was great to work with them as well as trainer Mike Skowronski.”

15Rounds wishes Murphy the best of luck in his future outside of boxing.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to gardenstatefightscene.com

Sources notified 15Rounds that Carlstadt, NJ’s Vivian Harris, (29-4-1 19 KO’s), will be granted a rematch with Lucas Matthysse April 2 on ShoBox due to a controversial stoppage. We were unable to find footage of the bout, but multiple media sources reported that Harris’ night was cut short after taking a right hand in the fourth round.

“He threw two punches, I blocked them and the referee stopped it”, Harris angrily told us. “The whole crowd was booing and you will all see (that the ending was a joke) when it is on youtube. This guy used to getting people out of there early and that wasn’t happening against me!”

With many still insisting that he retire, Harris is excited about getting back on track in the rematch.

“I am going to try and get him out of there early next time. I have to throw more punches in the first few rounds in the rematch.”

Team Harris claims that Golden Boy Promotions CEO Oscar De La Hoya and Matchmaker Eric Gomez personally mandated a rematch immedately following the fight. They are also hoping for the official result to be changed to a no contest.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to gardenstatefightscene.com

15Rounds was informed that John Lynch’s Pound 4 Pound Promotions will return Thursday March 25 at the elegant Schuetzen Park ballroom in North Bergen, NJ.

In state prospects slated to appear on the card are lightweights Chris Green (3-1 one KO of Asbury Park), Danny McDermott (North Bergen – 8-1-1 3 KO’s), cruiserweight Patrick Farrell (5-0 3 KO’s – Jersey City), featherweight Victor Valenzuela (7-0 1 KO – Passaic), super middleweight Jason Escalara (7-0 6 KO’s) and junior middleweight Abe Torres 1-3-2 1 KO, each of Union City. Bronx NY’s Steven Martinez, a highly touted junior middleweight with a 3-0 (3) record will be on the card as well.

McDermot and Green each had good amateur backgrounds and are fixtures at Schuetzen Park. Farrell, a rapidly improving prospect, is coming off an impressive four round unanamous decision over The Contender’s Jon Schneider February 6. Valenzuela and Escalara are two highly touted local prospects. Martinez won the 2007 National Golden Gloves welterweight title, while Torres is best remembered for a thrilling August 09′ draw against Sparta’s Chris Murphy in what will go down as one of the most entertaining four round fights in North Jersey history.

Tickets will be available on location and at the majority of North Jersey’s boxing gyms.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com

Matt Yanofsky speaks with Cris Arreola’s trainer Henry Ramirez following Tomasz Adamek’s hard fought victory over Jason Estrada in Newark, NJ to talk about the proposed Adamek-Arreola bout.
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Matt Yanofsky catches up with Promoter Kathy Duva of Main Events after Tomasz Adamek’s victory over Jason Estrada to discuss the potential Cris Arreola fight and more.
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Main Events presents an intriguing crossroads bout tonight at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ when local favorite Tomasz “Goral” Adamek (39-1, 27 KO’s) defends his recently won IBF International heavyweight championship against 2004 US Olympian Jason “Big Six” Estrada (16-2. 4 KO’s).

Adamek will make his second start at heavyweight after previously winning belts at light heavy and cruiserweight. The Secaucus, NJ based Pole made quite the impression during his debut in the 201+ division, demolishing faded contender Andrew Golota last October.

The highly anticipated bout was billed as the “Polish Fight of the Century” but barely was one, as Adamek twice dropped Golota before the one sided drubbing was stopped in the fifth round. Against Golota, Adamek used his athleticism and hard power punches to simply overwhelm his once promising countryman.

Although Adamek’s chin, heart and willingness to mix it up made him the star he is today, he’s shown improvements in his boxing ability as of late, using a powerful jab to keep opponents at bay. His long term success heavyweight remains to be seen, but it’s only fair to say so far so good.

Estrada has twice failed in notable bouts, but has the chance of a lifetime to revitalize his once promising career against Adamek. Estrada is a classy boxer with quick hands, but doesn’t have much pop in his punches. He has also had well documented difficulties staying in shape.

His first defeat came against amateur rival Travis Walker (who Estrada beat three out of four times with headgear on). Estrada came in against Walker undertrained and overconfident, scaling in at a career high 257 lbs before dropping a majority decision. The Walker fight turned out to be a beauty in disguise, as Estrada rededicated himself en route to dominating his next eight opponents while weighing no more than 245 lbs. The win streak guided him to a fight with top ten heavyweight Alexander Povetkin.

Estrada got off to a good start against the former Olympic Gold Medalist, but was hurt down the stretch and dropped a competitive decision. In his most recent bout, he scored a 7th round stoppage over the upset-minded Zuri Lawrence.

Stylistically, this bout has the makings to be a good one. Estrada’s aforementioned ability to box (he holds skillful victories over gatekeepers/formers contenders in Robert Wiggins, Dominic Jenkins, Lance Whitaker, Derek Bryant and Lawrence) will definitely present problems for Adamek. The last quick-handed boxer Adamek fought was Chad Dawson; the same man who handed him his lone defeat; thus some insiders consider the Providence, RI native a live underdog to say the least.

Estrada also realizes the importance of this bout, weighing in at a career lightest 237 last night. With Adamek’s first true test at heavyweight against coming against a fighter desperate to show why he was once considered a top prospect, tonight’s fight looks to be one worth the price of admission.

The Adamek-Estrada bout can be seen live on www.gofightlive for $9.99 beginning at 8pm eastern

Photo by Ed Mulholland/Main Events

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to Gardenstatefightscene.com.

Manager Nelson Fernandez informed 15rounds that talks between his newly crowned IBF Junior Flyweight champion Carlos Tamara of North Bergen, NJ and WBO/Ring Magazine champion Ivan Calderon of Guaynabo, PR are likely to take place in the coming days about a unification match in Puerto Rico.

“We understand that Calderon is a longtime champion and a great fighter, but we are looking for a fair negotiation”, stated Fernandez. “Everyone wanted to see Calderon vs Viloria, but Carlos is the man that beat the man, so this is the fight to make!”

Tamara, 21-4 (15 KO’s), scored a shocking 12th round TKO to take Viloria’s belt January 23 in The Philippines. The 2004 Olympian was behind on points, but battled back in what many insiders consider the biggest upset thus far in 2010.

Unbeaten at 33-0-1 with 6 wins by kayo, Calderon is regarded as one of the top fighters on the planet. The slick boxing Puerto Rican was a longtime title holder at Strawweight (105 lbs), before moving to junior flyweight, where he has five successful defenses.

Tamara and a member of Universal Promotions are heading to Puerto Rico Tuesday to stop by a number of radio and TV stations to spice up the potential fight.

E-mails to Puerto Rico based promotional firm PR’s Best Boxing weren’t immediately returned, but Calderon is tentatively scheduled to fight in April.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to Gardenstatefightscene.com

Atlantic City’s Mike Arnaoutis will have a shot to rebound from his controversial loss to Tim Coleman when he battles Delvin Rodriguez April 2 on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.

Arnaoutis, 22-4-2 (10 KO’s), appeared to do just enough to warrant a victory against the awkward Coleman, but dropped a hotly contested split decision. The former USBA Junior Welterweight champion will move up to welterweight for the first time after reportedly having severe difficulty making the 140 lb limit.

Rodriguez, like Arnaoutis, is looking to get back on track following an L. The Danbury, CT native dropped a unanimous decision in Poland to hometown favorite Rafael Jackiewicz and a split decision to Isaac Hlatshwayo for the then vacant IBF Welterweight crown back in August. Ironically, Rodriguez, 24-4-2 (14 KO’s), was also a USBA titleholder that came up short in his biggest bouts.

Arnaoutis and Rodriguez are scheduled to meet over 12 rounds.

For more New Jersey Boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com

Cruiserweight Patrick Farrell has dominated thus far as a pro, but knows there is plenty of room for improvement.

His first four opponents were a combined 2-5, giving the Jersey City native an opportunity to develop his skills. However, Saturday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, Farrell is taking a notable step up when he meets Contender Season 4 alum Jon Schneider. Schneider, 7-4-1 (5 KO’s), is far from a world beater, but is expected to give Farrell a solid test in their four round bout on the Tomasz Adamek-Jason Estrada undercard.

“He’s a lefty and I have a couple of fights on tape”, said Farrell, who remembers watching Schneider on The Contender. “He is definitely a tough kid.”

Farrell’s last two bouts took place at North Bergen’s Schuetzen Park, a small venue that holds less than 1,000 people. While many young boxers get butterflies fighting in big arenas, especially one as loud as the Prudential Center, Farrell considers it an advantage.

“The arena is five minutes from my house and I have a lot of fans coming out.” “Boxing is an emotional sport so if anything, (the fan support) just adds motivation”.

Farrell, who has sparred with Adamek to ensure he is in top shape, trains at the Passaic Boxing Club alongside his Pound for Pound Promotions stablemates.

Duran-Davis, Tapia-Miles February 27 in AC!

Ossie Duran is one of the toughest gatekeepers in boxing, but is amongst New Jersey’s least known fighters from a local standpoint. The Ghana native never fought in the Garden State and is well traveled, spending time in England and Rhode Island before relocating to Paterson.

Duran doesn’t have a promoter or the luxury of fighting in his hometown, thus has been used as an opponent for a number of good boxers. Duran’s last four bouts came against contenders James Kirkland, David Lopez, former top ten rated Eromosele Albert and hot prospect Fernando Guerrero, who were a combined 91-14. While he was competitive in all four fights, Duran’s record in those bouts was 0-3-1, with all three defeats coming by razor thin decision.

Duran, who now trains under watchful eye of fellow Paterson native Aroz “Terrific” Gist, surprisingly received an offer to take on Philadelphian Jamal Davis February 27 at Bally’s in Atlantic City. While far from a pushover at 11-5 (6 KO’s), Davis is the least experienced opponent Duran has faced in five years. Even though Davis is not on the same level as his recent opponents, Duran isn’t taking him lightly.
“I train for every fight like it’s a world title fight”, said Duran, a former British Commonwealth Champion”. “I am looking forward to this fight and taking him out because (even with the losses) I am still knocking, so hopefully (a victory will) open doors”.

Duran and Davis meet over six rounds at Junior Middleweight.

Passaic’s Glen Tapia will also appear on the card. Tapia, 3-0 (2 KO’s), had a terrific amateur background and served as one of Joshua Clottey’s main sparring partners leading up to his fight with Miguel Cotto last summer. The junior middleweight was featured on the Cotto-Clottey card at Madison Square Garden, scoring a four round UD over David Lopez (who is unrelated to the David Lopez Duran fought)

Camden’s Tyrone Miles is scheduled to be Tapia’s opponent. Miles is 1-2 as a professional, most recently dropping a close decision to former New Jersey Golden Gloves champion Tyre Roberts. The Tapia-Miles fight is scheduled for four rounds and is also part of the Kendall Holt-Kaizer Mabuza undercard.

THE FARRELL FIGHT CAN BE VIEWED WWW.GOFIGHTLIVE.TV

for more information click www.gardenstatefightscene.com

15Rounds.com Matt Yanofsky caught up with with unified 122 lb champion Celestino Caballero at Saturday night’s Lopez/Gamboa doubleheader
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15rounds.com Matt Yanofsky caught up with WBA Super Welterweight champion Yuri Foreman to discuss a proposed June 12th showdown with Miguel Cotto
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15rounds.com’s Matt Yanofsky catches up with legendary promoter Bob Arum after impressive wins by Yuriorkis Gamboa and Juan Manuel Lopez at Madison Square Garden’s WaMu theater
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North Bergen, NJ based Colombian Carlos “El Olimpico” Tamara sent shockwaves through the boxing world with a stunning 12th round TKO over IBF Junior Flyweight champion Brian Viloria early this morning at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Viloria controlled the majority of the early and middle rounds, with hard right hands and crisp body shots, but following the 8th, Tamara turned the tides.

The challenger pressured Viloria, using a solid flurry of punches to wear down the 2000 US Olympian. Tamara, who displayed phenomenal stamina, almost forced the severely gassed Viloria into submission in round 11.

Knowing he would still need a knockout to claim the title, Tamara unloaded a barrage of punches and rocked Viloria’s in the opening minute of the final stanza. The spaghetti legged Viloria twice slipped to the canvas due to sheer exhaustion and made it back to his feet, hoping to somehow finish the fight. He wasn’t so lucky.

Viloria did all he could to try and survive, but a follow up assault by Tamara left him defenseless, forcing referee Bruce McTavish to stop the contest and crown a new world champion.

Tamara improves to 21-4 (15 KO’s), while Viloria returns home to Hawaii at 26-3 (15 KO’s). The victory also derails a scheduled
unification between Viloria and WBO champion Ivan Calderon.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com.

Nelson Fernandez (Manager): I saw the Solis fight several times and Viloria has huge power, but Carlos can punch with both hands.” “Two of Carlos’ losses came in his opponent’s hometown, but we have learned from our mistakes and will be leaving Viloria’s home country with his title.”

“We want Calderon next since the 108 lb division is in dire need of unification but first thing is first”.

Butch Sanchez (head trainer): Tomorrow will be the happiest day of my life when he takes Viloria’s belt. Three of Carlos’ four losses were controversial (so don’t judge him on that). I have no doubt that Carlos wins tomorrow; there is a reason that Viloria didn’t want to fight us and the IBF had to mandate it!”

Angel “Ping” Dejesus (assistant trainer): “Carlos remained very humble throughout training and he knows this is a golden opportunity. We are here in Viloria’s home country to show him what champions are made of”.

Carlos “El Olimpico” Tamara (20-4 14 KO’s) of North Bergen, NJ meets IBF Junior Flyweight champion Brian Viloria (26-2 15 KO’s) tomorrow at the Cuneta Astrodome in the Philippines. The 10 fight card is available in the US on pay per view starting at 9 am ET.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com

The PAL Gym in Yonkers, NY is geographically close to Madison Square Garden but is far from the World’s Most Famous Arena. It’s a small venue, maintenance was in dire need and a poor sound system made the ring announcer difficult to hear throughout the evening. While the aforementioned issues could hurt attendance when the facility is used for another event, anyone involved in the sport will tell you that venues like the PAL Gym are a major part of boxing’s club circuit.

The main event of the Friday night’s card was an eight middleweight scrap between local favorite Jose Angel Rodriguez of New York, NY and renowned tough guy Darnell Boone of Atlanta, GA. Boone, who defeated up and coming prospects Chris Archer, Ronald Johnson, Willie Lee, James Countryman, Rasheem Brown and James Johnson, was once again looking to upset the hometown favorite, and almost got it done early on.

Boone had a solid opening round and rocked Rodriguez with a left hook in the second, providing a scare for the latter’s fans. Then Boone, like many unpredictable journeyman, completely changed his game plan; albeit not for the better. In rounds 2-8, Boone’s punch output drastically decreased, giving the speedy Rodriguez an easy opening to outbox him. Boone rarely attempted to remount an offensive attack and spent far too much time lying on the ropes, ultimately costing him the fight.

Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice for Rodriguez, who improves to 15-1-1 (2 KO’s). Boone, who asked promoter Brian O’Shea for a rematch following the decision, falls to a decisive 16-4-2 (6 KO’s).

Harlem based African junior welterweight Issouf Kinda remained unbeaten after a sloppy six round unanimous decision over Stephane Malenou. Kinda had success early on with a jab/right hand combo, but Malenou clinched excessively, making the bout a difficult watch.

Kinda continued to be victimized by Malenou’s holding, which cost him a point in round three in addition to a chorus of boos. Malenou had a few good moments in round four and five, but Kinda finished the bout strong.

Scores were 58-55 twice and 57-56. Kinda – pronounced Kin duh – improves to 7-0 (3 KO)’s. Malenou, a New York based Frenchman, drops to 5-6-1.

“Kinda is a solid fighter but my kid (Malenou) has been off for a year and a half”, said trainer Joey Gamache, a former two time world champion. Stephane is 5-6-1, but he wasn’t taken care of early in his career, so we are working on changing that around”.

Good looking prospect Nydia “Da Phenomenal” Feliciano of The Bronx upped her record to 2-0-1 after an impressive four round unanimous decision over Puerto Rico’s Norma Faris. Feliciano dominated the action from bell to bell, tagging Faris with solid body punches and crisp hooks to the head in close quarters ala Juan Diaz. Faris was game, staying on her feet throughout the contest, but simply didn’t have enough to keep Feliciano off. All three judges scored the contest 40-36. Faris drops to 3-2 with the defeat.

In the fight of the night, Allentown, PA junior bantamweight Miguel Diaz sent shockwaves through the building after upsetting local favorite Jose “Chili” Rivera. The opening round was action packed, with the shorter Rivera pressing the action while Diaz attempted to box and move. Diaz took control in the second, using his reach advantage to tag his hard charging opponent with clean punches to the head. Both men had solid success in the third round, as the two traded shots in close range.

Rivera was cut in the fourth round from a headbutt, but the blood only added fuel to the fire. Following the accidental clash of heads, a fired up Rivera pressed the action and stole the round after being outboxed in the opening minute. The score of 38-38, the same way I had it, was overruled by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 for Diaz. Although Diaz of New Rochelle, NY dropped the decision, he did more than enough to warrant a rematch.

Super Featherweight Jonathan Cuba, 2-1 (2 KO’s), viciously stopped 0-2 Takashi Sato in the battle of Manhattanites. Cuba dropped a very timid Sato in the opening round and finished the contest in the third with a huge left hook, which sent his opponent crashing to the canvas. Sato was motionless for a moment but was able to get up under his own power to a standing ovation. Time of stoppage was 0:19.

In the opening bout of the evening, former New York Golden Gloves champion Chazz McDowell, of Yonkers stopped the Bronx’ Alex Cooper in the second of their scheduled four round super featherweight fight. McDowell dominated the action, dropping Cooper in the first round wit a jab and twice more in the second, forcing referee M.S. Murdaugh to halt the contest at 2:24. McDowell is now 1-0 (1 KO), while Cooper falls to 0-3.

The card was promoted by O’Shea Brothers Boxing, who deserve all the credit in the world for putting together a well organized and better than advertised fight card, which had a number of bouts fall off at the last minute. Notables on hand included surging heavyweight Derric Rossy and 2004 Olympian Carlos Tamara, who takes on Brian Viloria this Saturday in the Philippines for the IBF junior flyweight crown.

When North Bergen, NJ resident Carlos Tamara was informed that IBF junior flyweight champion Brian Viloria agreed to an April unification with Ivan Calderon, he immediately went to the history books.

In 1990, James “Buster” Douglas pulled off the biggest upset in boxing history by stopping unified heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in Tokyo, spoiling his mega-showdown with Evander Holyfield at a time when both would have been undefeated. Tyson did not meet Holyfield until six years later, when he was nowhere near the fighter he once was.

With a bout against pound for pound king Floyd Mayweather agreed to for April 8 2006, WBC Welterweight champion Zab Judah first took a stay busy fight at Madison Square Garden against Carlos Baldomir. Showtime was on tap to air the fight, further building up to Mayweather-Judah. Ultimately, Judah’s homecoming turned out to be a nightmare.

In arguably the worst performance of his career, Judah lacked focus and dropped a decision to the unheralded Argentinean. Judah, like Tyson, reportedly undertrained and lost focus with a more lucrative bout ahead of him. Although Judah-Mayweather still took place in April, the fans and media were infuriated and the fight did not receive the large-scale attention it likely would have received if Judah handled Baldomir.

Tamara, who is less than two weeks away from his second crack at a world title, is confident Calderon will have to find a new opponent.

“Viloria shouldn’t count his chickens before they hatch”, said Tamara, a 2004 Olympian. “I am dedicated and hungry to ruin his plans and become Colombia’s latest world champion.”

Tamara, 20-4 (14 KO’s), and Viloria, 26-2 (15 KO’s) meet January 23 at the Cuneta Astrodome in the Pasay City, Philippines. The card will be available in the US on pay per view.

PHOTO BY REUTERS/Maxi Jonas (ARGENTINA)

For more New Jersey boxing info click www.gardenstatefightscene.com

Popular junior middleweight Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak of Wallington will look to move further up the ranks when he takes Baltimorean Ishmail “The Arsenal” Arvin January 23 at Madison Square Garden. Known for his all-action style, Wolak, 25-1 (17 KO’s), demolished former title challenger Carlos Nascimento last time out, and is fighting at MSG for the third time in four fights.

Arvin, 15-1-4 (7 KO’s), has been out of the ring since August 2008 when he controversially defeated once promising prospect Anthony Thompson. Arvin was decked twice and thoroughly dominated, but an accidental headbutt incorrectly ruled a punch busted up Thompson and shockingly gave Arvin a TKO victory. Arvin has only two other fights since 2007 – both ending in a draw – but will not be taken lightly.

“Arvin is no walk over”, said Wolak’s Assistant Trainer Aroz “Terrific” Gist. “He is going to be the toughest guy Pawel fought (outside of) Ishe Smith.”

Even though Wolak hasn’t necessarily altered his style since his lone defeat against Smith, Gist is far from concerned.

“Pawel’s defense has got a lot better we have worked a ton on moving his head and he hasn’t cut during his last three fights”. “Pawel goes only in one direction and he is going to be ready since there is no easy sparring in my gym”!

According to Gist, Wolak’s training partners include former world champion Kendall Holt, rising contender Henry Crawford, hot prospect Jeremy Bryan and gritty veteran Ossie Duran.

Wolak-Arvin is part of the untelevised portion of the HBO double header featuring Juan Manuel Lopez and Yuriorkis Gamboa in separate bouts.

Harris looking to get back on track vs unbeaten Matthysse January 30

The last two plus years simply haven’t gone Vivian Harris’ way.

The Guyanese native was on the wrong end of a 2007 knockout against Junior Witter, a bout where he had difficulty adjusting to his unconventional opponent’s style from the get go.

The former WBA Junior Welterweight champion’s return bout came 13 months later just minutes from his Carlstadt residence and was expected to be a tune up. Harris’ supposed tune up fight turned out to be a dog fight, as he was decked twice and almost stopped the opening round against 7-4-1 Octavio Narvaez before scoring a TKO in the sixth. Even with the victory against Narvaez, it was widely believed that the man once considered gem of the 140 lb division was all but finished.

Harris’ most recent fight vs Noe Bolanos last August on ESPN ended in a scary no contest. Harris got off to a slow start and was looking to outbox the durable Bolanos, but was victimized by a vicious clash of heads. The ill-effects of the hard headbutt caused him to collapse and he was rushed out of the ring on a stretcher.

Harris was assumed by many to be done for good after the frightening fight with Bolanos not helping his already slumping stock. But like most former champions, he was not so quick to hang em’ up.

Harris, 29-3-2 (19 KO’s), returns to the ring January 30 to face 25-0 Lucas Matthysse on the off-TV undercard of the Andre Berto-Shane Mosley welterweight title unification in Las Vegas. Matthyse, the brother of fringe contender Walter, has an impressive 23 knockouts, but has manufactured it against inferior opposition.

“Matthysse is a puncher, so is Vivian, but (the difference is) Vivian has skills”, said Gist, who also serves as Harris’ assistant trainer. “Vivian fought all the top guys and this is a big step up for Matthysse. Vivian has looked very in the gym and he is out there to prove that at 31 years old, he is still a threat in the division.”

Harris meets Matthyse at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino over ten rounds. The bout will not be televised.

Zambrano and Zegarra return home February 25

Featherweight Carlos “Mina” Zambrano and junior welterweight Juan “JZ” Zegarra of North Bergen are set to fight in their native Peru February 25.

Zambrano, 9-0 (3 KO’s), will fight an opponent to be announced in an eight rounder, while Zegarra risks his perfect 4-0 record against TBA over six rounds. According to manager Nelson Fernandez, their opponents are likely to come from Colombia.

Zambrano and Zegarra, two of the most storied amateurs in their nation’s history, will fight at Coliseo Nino Heroe Manuel Bonilla in Lima. Fernandez said a sell out crowd is expected.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com

Sources have told 15rounds.com that a proposed bout between former WBO Jr. Welterweight champion, Kendall Holt and Tim Coleman is close to being finalized for February 20th.

Holt, 25-3 of Paterson, New Jersey hasnt fought since dropping his belt to Tomothy Bradley last April and will look to get in position to fight for his second world title.

Coleman of Baltimore, Maryland has a record of 17-1-1 with four knockouts is coming off his best win of his career when he scored a controversial split decision over Mike Arnaoutis on December 3rd in New York City.

The winner would be a mandatory challenger for champion Juan Urango, who has been rumored to be fighting a unification bout with WBC champion Devon Alexander on March 6th.

No venue was mentioned for the fight.

Sources notified 15rounds.com that Atlantic City based welterweight Shamone “The Truth” Alvarez will meet hard hitting Texan Alexis Camacho Saturday, February 6 at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino.

Alvarez, 20-2 (11 KO’s), makes his first start since losing a razor thin decision to Delvin Rodriguez in March. The volume punching Alvarez most recently outpointed 1996 US Olympian Terrance Cauthen in November 2008, but also dropped a competitive decision to future titleholder Joshua Clottey back in ’07.

The hard hitting Camacho brings a record of 17-2 with 16 KO’s, but like his counterpart, fell short on the scorecards in two of his last three fights and is in need of a victory. Camacho, who most recently dropped a decision to upset specialist Carlos Molina, has been working hard with one of New Jersey’s very best to prepare for February 6.

“This is not going to be an easy fight, but I am very confident that I will be walking away as the winner”, Camacho told 15rounds. “I have been working with Lou Duva for a few months now, and he has really improved my game. I want to face the top welterweights in the world, but first and foremost I must get by Shamone.”

Alvarez, a perfect 12-0 when fighting in his hometown of Atlantic City, recognizes the importance of getting back in the winners circle.

“I am really looking forward to this fight. Anytime you have the opportunity to fight in front of your hometown fans is great. I want to get myself back into title contention and a win over Camacho points me in that direction.”

The card is being promoted by Joe Deguardia’s Star Boxing. Also slated to appear in a six round light heavyweight contest is Wildwood’s Chuck Mussachio against the ever famous TBA.

For more New Jersey boxing news, go to www.gardenstatefightscene.com

Fighter of the Year: Manny Pacquiao

Pacquiao’s 2009 was one for the ages. With dominant victories over Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight champion Ricky Hatton (who was previously unbeaten at 140 lbs) and WBO Welterweight kingpin Miguel Cotto (considered by many an undefeated fighter due to the Antonio Margarito hand wraps controversy), Pacquiao was a unanimous pick for Fighter of the Year.

Fight of the year: Juan Manuel Marquez TKO9 Juan Diaz

Marquez-Diaz was a sensational action bout from start to finish. The two mixed it up from the opening bell, with the naturally bigger Diaz getting the better of the exchanges early on. Marquez, who refused to back down, continued to slug it out with Diaz before turning the tides in fashion. The technically proficient Marquez badly cut Diaz in round 8 and dropped him hard with a two punch combo in round nine. Marquez then tagged the badly hurt Diaz with a vicious uppercut, leaving him flat on his back, forcing Referee Rafael Ramos to halt the most exciting fight of 2009.

Hottest Division: Welterweight

With the inclusion of Pacquiao, the hottest division got hotter. The sport’s biggest fight in recent memory will occur at 147-pounds when Pacquiao eventually meets Floyd Mayweather Jr. Though they are one and two on the pound-for-pound list, neither will be able to claim they are the clear welterweight king until they beat Shane Mosley. The ranks 4-7 at 1-4-7 are as good as in any other division, with Miguel Cotto, Joshua Clottey, Andre Berto and Luis Collazo competing in a ridiculously stacked weight class.

Weakest division: Heavyweight

Just about enough has been said about the dearth of talent at heavyweight. No one can argue that the brothers Klitschko, Wladimir and Vitali, are not a highly talented duo. But the drop-off after them is unlike anything we have seen in decades. Not only is the top ten a limited lot, but there are scarcely any prospects to get excited about. Once upon a time, not that long ago, the World Heavyweight champion was the most recognizable man in the United States, if not the world, and the most prestigious position in all of sports.

Prospect of the Year: Fernando Guerrero

Guerrero (17-0, 14 KOs) has the look of a future champion and made great strides in 2009. There are several criteria for choosing a Prospect of the Year, and Guerrero seemed to get check marks for each one. Guerrero kept a busy schedule, as a prospect should, fighting five times, scoring three knockouts and winning two decisions. Guerrero took a step-up in competition, winning a majority decision over fringe contender Ossie Duran and stopping tough journeyman Brian Norman, who had gone ten full with Jean Pascal.

Guerrero has the benefit of fighting at the high-profile middleweight class, which is ripe with opportunities for rapid advancement. The former amateur star is still young at 23-years-old, and has a fight of some significance scheduled in 2010 against former prospect Jesus Gonzales. Lastly, what gives Guerrero a huge edge over every other U.S. based prospect, is his massive drawing power in his hometown of Salisbury, Maryland, where he has fought in front of 8,000 people.

Worst Decision of the Year: Ali Funeka D12 Joan Guzman

For the better part of twelve rounds, Funeka hammered the unbeaten Guzman. Guzman, a quick and slick Dominican, was bloodied and rocked on a number of occasions by his taller opponent. Funeka had everything going his way. From a strong jab and big power punches, the South African clearly had the fight in control, winning at the absolute worst 8 of the 12 rounds (the score Joseph Pasquale had of 116-112).

The vacant IBF Lightweight title appeared to be his. This was until Alan Davis and Benoit Roussel unexplainably scored the contest 114-114, disgustingly robbing Funeka of the title. This created a major out roar in the boxing community and further solidified why judges should be required to do post fight interviews.

Promoter of the year: Top Rank

The promoter of the year’s biggest fight, Pacquiao-Cotto, and the co-promoter perhaps the second biggest fight, Pacquiao-Hatton, Top Rank earns the nod as best promotional firm of 2009. In addition to those two mega events, Top Rank continues to develop their prospects into champions and stars better than any one in the business. The latest example of which is Juan Manuel Lopez, who has achieved superstardom in Puerto Rico and may be en route to his second world title January 23.

Fight you’d most like to see in 2010: Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather

This appeared to be a given until issues over pre fight drug testing at least temporarily derailed the fight. Pacquiao and Mayweather are unquestionably the top two fighters in the sport. Each brings a style that the other hasn’t faced. With both topping 1,000,000 pay per view buys for a fight in 2009, they are obviously box office kings as well.

Pacquiao and Mayweather appear ready to take on different opponents in their next bout, but an overwhelming public demand makes the fight all the more likely for later in 2010.

Knockout of the Year: Manny Pacquiao KO2 Ricky Hatton

There were not that many people outside of England picking Hatton to beat Pacquiao this past May, but could anyone have expected the brutal one-sidedness in which Pac man would end the fight? The left hand Pacquiao landed to put Hatton down in a heap at the end of round two was picture perfect.

Fighter of the Decade: Manny Pacquiao

Pacquiao nabbed titles in a record six divisions over the last ten years (super bantamweight, featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight, junior welterweight and welterweight). Pacquiao’s sensational decade included knockout victories over Marco Antonio Barrera (who he would later defeat by decision), Erik Morales (twice), Miguel Cotto, Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton; all multi division world champions that were ranked on the pound for pound list during their careers. Pacquiao also owns a points victory over the great Juan Manuel Marquez, and stopped once-beaten David Diaz among other notable victories. A simply sensational run by one of the best fighters in the last quarter century.

Authors note: Pacquiao’s victories over Barrera in their first fight and Ricky Hatton were for the Ring Magazine title, which is globally recognized as the legitimate championship belt in each weight division.

Fight of the Decade: Diego Corrales TKO10 Jose Luis Castillo

On May, 7 2005, Diego Corrales and Jose Luis Castillo battered each other over the duration of an unforgettable fight. Both neglected any kind of defense in this phone booth battle, willingly using their faces as a line of defense. In the opening thirty seconds of round ten, Castillo dropped Corrales hard with a left hook. The dazed Corrales was down just seconds later and his night appeared to be all but over. This was until, the unthinkable happened.

After a brief break and a point deduction for spitting out his mouth piece, trainer Joe Goosen famously quipped Corrales “you have to f****ng get inside on him now. And did he ever. Castillo swarmed Corrales in an attempt to finish the fight, but was rocked by a two punch combo, springing the latter back to life. Corrales then stunned Castillo via a hard left hook and stopped him with a vicious combination (which had Castillo out on his feet) him thirty seconds later. Corrales tragically passed away exactly two years after the fight, but will forever be linked to the most miraculous comeback in one of the greatest slugfests of all time.

Division of the Decade: Welterweight

The 147 lb division, our best of 2009, had a number of terrific pugilists make a mark in it. The list of fighters making major waves at 147 include Floyd Mayweather, Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao (since the Cotto bout lifted him to an even higher level), Vernon Forrest, Paul Williams, Zab Judah, Joshua Clottey, and current rising star Andre Berto among others. Though featherweight was a very close second, welterweight division had too many top tier fighters to ignore.

Worst Decision of the Decade: Courtney Burton SD10 Emmanuel Augustus

Discounting significance, but just based on sheer disgustingness, Courtney Burton’s 2004 decision over Emanuel Augustus in Michigan was the Worst Decision of the Decade. Their fight, televised on ESPN2 from Burton’s home state, was utterly one-sided. Despite an unnecessary point deduction by the referee, Augustus should have had the verdict running away. Somehow, one judge scored the bout 99-90, while another had it 97-92 for Burton.

The third judge scored the fight 98-94 for Augustus, and even that was a little too close. Making matters worse, when commentator Teddy Atlas approached the Michigan Boxing Commission representative on air, they apparently did not know the difference between a majority decision and a split decision. Augustus gained a small measure of justice, stopping a by-then faded Burton in 2006.

Promoter of the decade: Top Rank

With the reign of Don King Productions winding down, and Golden Boy Promotions rising up as the decade began the clear choice for Promoter of the Decade is Top Rank. Again, Top Rank helped create or elevate three of the decade’s the biggest stars in Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. In addition, Top Rank was largely behind the renaissance of the featherweight division.

Knockout of the decade: Manny Pacquiao KO2 Ricky Hatton (see above)

Write ups compiled by Matt Yanofsky and Mario Ortega Jr. Awards voted on by staff.

Photo by Chris Farina of Top rank