Saturday, September 29, 2007

Martin Wins Pro Debut in Delaware!

Congratulations to Baltimore junior lightweight Durrell Martin who won his pro debut by four-round unanimous decision last night at Delaware Park in Stanton, DE.

Martin, who is trained by former IBF Junior Middleweight champ Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway, defeated Elias Castillo of Brooklyn, NY (0-2). Martin registered a shutout (40-35) on one card while the other two judges saw the bout 39-36.

Friday, September 28, 2007

Joppy To Fight in October!

Former two-time WBA Middleweight champion William Joppy will headline a card on Friday, October 5 at Elkins High School in Elkins, West Virginia.

Joppy (38-4-1, 29 KO's) is slated to face veteran Etienne "ET" Whitaker (32-26-2, 21 KO's). Joppy has not fought since his bout on April 27 at the DC Armory that he won by technical decision over Virgil McClendon.

Thompson Makes Short Work of Couser in California!

Tony Thompson was looking to stay busy and go some rounds, but apparently he couldn't.

The WBO's number one ranked heavyweight contender stayed on that path with a second round TKO over Cliff Couser last night in Lemoore, CA. According to Fightnews.com, Thompson, the mandatory challenger for the winner of the October 13 Ibragimov-Holyfield heavyweight title clash, connected with a series of hard right hands that finally brought Couser down to the canvas at 1:49 of the second.

Thompson is now 31-1 with 19 KO's and has won 27 bouts in a row.

Results from Glen Burnie!

Here are the results from the 14th season opener of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD:

In the main event, Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant scored a devastating second-round knockout over "Lightning" Mike Sheppard of Palestine, WVA. The time was 2:55 of the second. Grant is now 8-1, six KO's while Sheppard is 10-8-1, six KO's.

The co-feature saw Willis "The Prophet" Lockett of Takoma Park, MD win a six-round majority decision over Baltimore's Willie "For Real" Williams. Lockett is now 9-4-4, three KO's while Williams falls to 6-2, two KO's.

DC heavyweight Ernest "Zeus" Mazyck was stopped in the fourth round by Cleveland, OH's Ryan Thompson. The time was 1:34 of the round. The loss is Mazyck's first as a pro and he is now 6-1, two KO's. Thompson's record rises to 3-1, three KO's.

Oxon Hill light heavy Alexander "The Great" Johnson remained undefeated in his young career with a fourth-round TKO over Brandon Singleton of Grand Prairie, TX. Johnson is 2-0, two KO's while Singleton is 1-2, one KO.

In the opening bout, Jason Douglas of Brooklyn, NY won his pro debut with a first-round TKO over Chris Edmunds of Cincinnati, OH. Edmunds is 2-4, two KO's.

Danny Kisner was scheduled to participate on the card but his opponent was unable to fight. Kisner's son Nick fought on the amateur card and was very impressive in victory.


Here is the Boxing Along the Beltway Post-Fight Wrap-up sponsored in part by Undisputedbrand.com:

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #85 - Post Fight From Michael's Eighth Avenue!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I recap a knockout night of bouts from the latest Ballroom Boxing Card in Glen Burnie, MD.

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Thompson at 246 Tonight at Tachi Palace!

Tony "The Tiger" Thompson weighed in at 246 for his bout against Cliff "Twin Tyson" Couser tonight at the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, CA. Couser checked in at 242 pounds for the contest.

Baltimore Examiner Profiles The Kisners!

The Baltimore Examiner's Ron Snyder has written a good profile on the father-son tandem of Danny and Nick Kisner. Both will be in action tonight at Michael's Eighth Avenue. Danny will work on the pro side, while Nick has an amateur bout.

Here is the link to the article:

"http://www.examiner.com/a-957897~Father__son_to_share_spotlight_of_the_ring.html"

Scale Watch for Glen Burnie!

Here are some of the weights for tomorrow's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue:

Ernest Mazyck 329 vs. Ryan Thompson 254 1/2

Willis Lockett 174 1/4 vs. Willie Williams 174 3/4

Danny Kisner 234 1/2 vs. Kevin Thompson (will weigh in tomorrow)

Jason Douglas 173 vs. Chris Edmonds 177

Horace Grant 246 1/4 vs. Mike Sheppard (will weigh in tomorrow)

Alexander Johnson vs. Brandon Singleton (both will weigh in tomorrow)

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Changes in October 6 Card!

More changes to the Saturday, October 6 benefit card at the Hilton Tyson's Corner in McLean, VA. Two bouts have been dropped from the card and one has been added. The bout between Angelo Ward and James Franks and the matchup between John Mackey and James North have both been dropped. Mackey is still slated to be on the card.

The contest that will be added should be an interesting one as Arlington, VA's Bayan Jargal (2-0-1, two KO's) will take on Edward "Nuckie" Anderson of Richmond, VA (4-9, three KO's) in a four-round junior welterweight matchup.

Baltimore Sun Profiles 'Zeus' Mazyck!

Baltimore Sun Columnist Rick Maese has a nice profile of seven-foot, DC-based Ernest "Zeus" Mazyck in today's editions.

Mazyck will be a part of tomorrow's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Check out the column "Tall Order for the Heavyweight Class" by going to this link:

"http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/boxing/bal-sp.maese26sep26,0,6223759.column"

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

October Pro Schedule Taking Shape!

There will be three pro boxing cards along the Beltway in October. In fact, there will be one card in each of the first three weeks of the month.

We've talked about the Saturday, October 6 benefit card at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner in McLean, VA. There has been a notable change to that card.

The main event will now feature DC junior middleweight Luther "Sugarman" Smith, making his second ring appearance after a two-year absence. Smith (22-5-2, 12 KO's) will try to bounce back from a fourth-round stoppage against David Estrada in July by taking on Youngstown, OH's Jesse Williams (3-4-1, one KO) in a six-round contest. Williams will also be trying to break a two-bout losing streak.

By the way, Smith is now managed by "Money" Mike Sawyer.

Also recently added to the card will be undefeated Montgomery, AL middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey. Mackey, originally from DC, is coming off a four-round unanimous decision over Damon Antoine on August 25 at Lee High School. Mackey (6-0, three KO's) is scheduled to take on veteran James North of Weston, WVA (8-19-2, three KO's) in a four-round encounter.

In other four-round contests on the card, Charlottsville, VA middleweight George "War Time" Rivera (4-1, two KO's) will take on Portsmouth, VA's John "JT" Terry (2-6, one KO). Baltimore middleweight Ron Reaves (2-0, one KO) battles "The Freak of Nature" Charles Norwood of Roanoke, VA (by way of DC,2-1, one KO). Also, Baltimore featherweight Angelo Ward makes his pro debut against Norfolk, VA's James Franks (2-3, two KO's).

We also now have our first look at the Baltimore Pro Boxing card scheduled for Friday, October 12 at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore.

Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim Coleman is slated to headline the show in a scheduled eight-round contest against Doel Carrasquillo of Lancaster, PA.

Coleman (12-0, two KO's) is coming off a win in his first eight-round encounter, a unanimous decision over Richard "Tiger" Lee Hall. The Puerto-Rican born Carrasquillo (10-5-1) is coming off a third-round stoppage loss to Mike Jones on July 20 in Philadelphia. However, one of Carrasquillo's notable wins came against Contender: Season 2 participant Aaron Torres. Carrasquillo stopped Torres in the third round.

One of the six-round co-feature bouts should be very interesting. We have a battle of "weather phenomenons" as Baltimore super middleweight Henry "Hurricane" Mayes takes on the returning Tony "Cyclone" Cygan of Middle River, MD.

Mayes (6-3, four KO's) will try to build on a solid four-round unanimous decision victory over Jacob Rodriguez on June 22 at DuBurns. The loss broke a four-bout winless streak for Mayes.

Cygan (11-1, six KO's) has not fought since August 12, 2006 when he won a fifth-round technical decision over David "Weezil" Estrada in Ocean City, MD.

Former WBO Cruiserweight champ Boone Pultz is slated to continue his comeback on this card. Pultz (25-1, 15 KO's) is scheduled to battle Darryl Holley of Brigantine, NJ (5-5, one KO) in a six-round contest.

And it looks like the rematch between "The Golden Greek" Elias Bouloubassis of Reisterstown, MD (1-0-3, one KO) and Rakeem Carter of Albany, NY (0-1-2) will finally take place. The first contest on May 11 at DuBurns was stopped in the first round because of cuts.

And don't forget, there will be a Keystone Boxing card on Friday, October 19 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. No word yet on who will be on that card.

Ballroom Boxing Update!

Here's an update on the lineup for Thursday's Ballroom Boxing card at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD:

The bout between Horace "The Reason" Grant and "The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton will not take place. Apparently, Felton was incorrectly listed as suspended on Fight Fax by the Pennsylvania State Commission. Grant is still scheduled to be on the card.

UPDATE: Horace Grant will now face Mike Sheppard of Palestine, WVA (10-7-1, six KO's) in a six-round bout. You may remember Sheppard won a six-round majority decision over Phill Brown on May 31 at Michael's.

In another heavyweight bout, seven-footer Ernest "Zeus" Mazyck, now fighting out of DC (6-0, two KO's) will battle Ryan Thompson of East Cleveland, OH (2-1, two KO's).

Glen Burnie's Danny Kisner (1-0, one KO) returns to take on debuting Roy Furlow.

Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander Johnson (1-0, one KO) will take on James Jenkins, who makes his pro debut.

Also, Miami, FL heavyweight Henry Fuentes (2-0, one KO) will go up against Anthony Harris.

Thomas "KO" Snow is still slated for the card and there will be four amateur bouts for the evening.

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Petersons Head to Caribbean in November!

The undefeated Peterson Brothers are slated to fight their next bouts on Saturday, November 17 on the Caribbean island of Turks and Caicos.

The Petersons's promotional company -- Prize Fight Boxing of Memphis, TN -- recently announced a multi-fight series of cards at the Casablanca Casino and Resort. The November 17 card will also feature former world champion Zab Judah, who is also promoted by Prize Fight Boxing.

The card is slated to be televised by Comcast in the US.

A Week For Boxing Historians!

The Library of Congress is offering a week of classic boxing footage and boxing movies starting this coming Monday at the Library's Mary Pickford Theater.

On Monday, Sept. 24, The Library will show the 1956 movie "The Harder They Fall," based on the novel by noted author Budd Schulberg and featuring Humphrey Bogart in his final movie role. Also, there will be two classic boxing matches -- Max Baer vs. Primo Carnera for the heavyweight championship from June 14, 1934 as well as Jack Dempsey versus Luis Firpo from the Polo Grounds in New York on Sept. 14, 1923.

On Tuesday, Sept. 25, it's an all-movie night featuring the 1949 feature "The Set-Up" starring Robert Ryan and a 16-minute documentary from 1951 called "Day Of The Fight," which takes you behind the scenes as two boxers prepare for a contest. The documentary was one of the first directorial projects for Stanley Kubrick and was narrated by longtime CBS newsman Douglas Edwards. There will also be a boxing-themed episode of the tv series "Casey, Crime Photographer," starring Darrin McGavin.

Wednesday, September 26 focuses on the great Sugar Ray Robinson and shows a documentary and two of his classic battles. The documentary is called "Sugar Ray Robinson -- Pound For Pound" One of the fights that will be shown will be the sixth and final matchup between Robinson and the "Raging Bull" Jake LaMotta. This is a championship matchup from February 14, 1951 and is forever known as "The St. Valentine's Day Massacre." The other bout is from 1951 when Robinson faced Englishman Randy Turpin. The information on this week doesn't specify which bout this is because the two men fought twice in 1951.

On Thursday, September 27, the focus will be on Muhammad Ali as the library shows the documentary "A.K.A. Cassius Clay" as well as footage from Ali's Olympic victory over Zigzy Pietrzykowski in Rome, Italy in 1960.

The week ends in grand style on Friday, September 28 with footage from many of the great heavyweight championship bouts of the 20th Century. How about this for a lineup:

Gene Tunney vs. Jack Dempsey from September 22, 1927. This is the second of the two bouts, famous for "The Long Count." This week marks the 80th anniversary of this legendary bout. This classic fight film footage was restored by the Library of Congress from original nitrate elements..

Joe Louis versus "Two-Ton" Tony Galento , New York City, June 28, 1939

Joe Louis versus Buddy Baer, May 23, 1941, Washington, D.C. This bout took place at Griffith Stadium in DC and is still one of the most important contests to ever take place in the Nation's Capital.

(Quick DC history lesson: Howard University Hospital stands where Griffith Stadium once stood.)

Joe Louis vs Billy Conn, June 18, 1941, New York City

In 1941, Light Heavyweight champion Billy Conn stepped up in weight and class to challenge Joe Louis for the heavyweight crown. The result was one of the greatest matches of all time.

Rocky Marciano versus Joe Louis, October 26, 1951, New York City

Rocky Marciano vs. Jersey Joe Walcott, September 23, 1952, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Rocky Marciano versus Archie Moore, September 21, 1955, New York City

Joe Frazier versus George Foreman, Kingston, Jamaica, January 22, 1973 (this is where "Down Goes Frazier! Down Goes Frazier!" comes from.)

Muhammad Ali versus Henry Cooper, London, England, May 21, 1966

Muhammad Ali versus Cleveland Williams, Astrodome, Houston, Texas, November 14, 1966

This is a free event but you must have reservations. Normally, the Library asks that you make reservations a week in advance, but I just received the info myself so hopefully you can still get tickets for this. Starting Monday at 9 AM, call 202-707-5677 to reserve your tickets.

Friday, September 21, 2007

Pepe Correa on 'Black Eye on Sports' Friday Night!

Noted trainer Jose "Pepe" Correa will be the special guest on the popular internet radio show "Black Eye on Sports" this Friday night at 8 PM Eastern Time.

"Black Eye on Sports" is co-hosted by my good friend Quentin Coles and can be heard by going to "http://www.im4radio.com

You may remember Quentin did a post-fight wrap-up show for me from the Lincoln Theatre last year.

You can call into the show by dialing (301) 772-6220 or toll free at 1.877.iM4.Radio (464-7234).

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Ballroom Boxing Begins 14th Season on Sept. 27!

The 14th season of Ballroom Boxing at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD begins on Thursday, Sept. 27.

One bout has already been signed for this contest. Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant will battle "The People's Champion" Jonathan Felton of Stafford, VA in a six-round contest.

Grant (7-1, five KO's) has won six in a row since his October 2006 loss to Phill Brown. Grant scored a second-round over George Jacobs on August 25 at Lee High School in Springfield, VA.

Felton (5-9, five KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision loss to Kevin Hood on July 13 in Hockessin, DE. The loss broke a two-fight winning streak for Felton.

Another bout slated for this card is a six-round light heavyweight contest between Baltimore's Willie "For Real" Williams and Takoma Park's Willis Lockett.

Williams (6-1, two KO's) is riding a five-bout winning streak but has not fought since his six-round majority decision victory over Deandre McCole in Erie, PA last November.

Lockett (8-4-4, three KO's) is coming off a third-round TKO over Calvin Riley on the August 25 Springfield show. The bout was Lockett's first since February of 2006.

Other Beltway Boxers scheduled to appear on the Ballroom Boxing card are Ernest "Zeus" Mazyck, Danny Kisner, Alexander Johnson and Thomas "KO" Snow.

I hope to have the complete card very soon.

BATB Legends Interview -- Andrew Maynard!

This is the first of an occasional series of interviews I plan to do (time permitting) with some of the legendary Beltway Boxers of the last 20 years.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #84 - BATB Legends Interview -- Andrew "Smilin' Drew" Maynard!

From Harlingen, TX, Beltway Boxing Legend and 1988 Olympic Gold Medalist Andrew Maynard talks frankly about his amateur and pro career and how the "Sugar Ray Leonard Survival Kit" didn't help his pro career.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Additions to Amateur Schedule!

First of all, don't forget about the two amateur boxing cards this month.

Saturday, September 22 -- Benning Park (51st and Fitch Sts, SE) in DC. The card begins at 7 PM.

Saturday, September 29 -- Pikesville National Guard Armory, Pikesville, MD. The card is put on by Jake Smith and Mike Paschall. Scheduled to appear on the show are Steve Wheeler, Jeremy Miller and Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell. The card begins at 8 PM.

Now, add these cards to the amateur schedule:

Friday and Saturday, October 12-13 -- Joe Cole Fitness Center (1200 Morse Street, NE) in DC. Card begins at 7 PM.

Saturday, October 20 -- Old School Boxing card at Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center (7707 Barlowe Road in Palmer Park, MD) Card starts at 7 PM.

Saturday, October 27 -- Nomis Youth Boxing card at Number 14 Boys and Girls Club (4103 Benning Road, NE) in DC.

Friday, November 3 -- Kentland Boxing First Time Boxers card at Sugar Ray Leonard Gym at 7 PM.

There are also cards at Sugar Ray Leonard Boxing Center slated for Friday, November 10 and Friday, November 24, beginning at 7 PM.

US Olympic Team Arrives in Colorado for 11-Month Residence Period!

The US Olympic Boxing Team -- featuring Capitol Heights, MD's own Gary Russell, Jr. -- arrived in Colorado Springs, CO earlier this week to begin an 11-month training period to prepare for next month's world championships and the 2008 Olympic Games.

The 11-member team will be the first participants in boxing’s first resident program at the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center in 20 years.

Here's part of an official USABoxing press release that mentions Russell:

Bantamweight Gary Russell, Jr. took the hard road to the U.S. Olympic team. After winning two national titles and World Championships bronze, Russell dropped a one-point decision in his first bout at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials. Yet Russell quickly bounced back, winning six straight bouts in Houston to earn the bantamweight berth. He joins Olympic bronze medalists Evander Holyfield and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. in boxing his way out of the challengers bracket to claim an Olympic berth.

The U.S. Olympic Team will begin the process of international qualifying at the 2007 AIBA World Championships, October 23-November 3, in Chicago, Ill. The light flyweight through light heavyweight competitors must place in the top eight to qualify while the heavyweight and super heavyweight boxers must finish in the top four. The United States will be hosting the World Championships for the first time since the 1999 World Championships in Houston, Texas.

By the way, light flyweight Luis Yanez of Duncansville, TX and light heavyweight Christopher Downs of Fort Carson, CO, were selected as team captains.

Monday, September 17, 2007

Thompson To Face 'Twin Tyson' On September 27!

It looks like Tony "The Tiger" Thompson's opponent for Thursday, Sept. 27 is just about set. Barring any last-minute changes, Thompson (30-1, 18 KO's) will face Cliff "Twin Tyson" Couser of St. Louis, MO at the Tachi Palace Hotel and Casino in Lemoore, CA.

Couser (26-12-2, 14 KO's) is coming off one of the bigger wins of his career when he stopped Monte Barrett in the second round on July 7 in Bridgeport, CT. Couser has faced the likes of former world champion Michael Moorer and former contenders Lance "Mount" Whitaker, Jorge Luis Gonzalez and Clifford Etienne during his career.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Results From Springfield!

Here are the results from last night's Left Hook Boxing Card at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA:

Jamie "The Punisher" Palma won an eight-round unanimous decision over Dean "Pitbull" White. The win is Palma's sixth in a row.

Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer won a four-round unanimous decision over Jason Jordan.

"Big" John Haggler scored a first-round TKO over Alonzo Cutchins.

Todd "White Lightning" Wilson remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Edward "Nuckie" Anderson.

Travis "O.T.T." Mallin won his pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Andre "Clockwork" Nichols.

Derek "D-Mos" Amos won a four-round majority decision over Willie "The Heat" Taylor.

Tommy "Spark Plug" Neal scored a first-round KO over Kendrick Archer.

Terry "T-Brick" Roy also remained undefeated with a first-round TKO over Levi Jackson.

Here is the complete Post-Fight Wrap-Up of the card.


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #83 - Post-Fight from ABC Sports Complex!

Major League Boxing's Joe Hensley and I recap a solid boxing card from the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA. This is the first wrap-up show sponsored in part by UndisputedBrand.com.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

Weights for Tonight's Card in Springfield!

Here is the scale watch for tonight's card at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA (Beltway Boxers in Bold):

Jaime Palma 135 vs. Dean White 133.4

Andrew Farmer 142 vs. Jason Jordan 143

Andre Nichols 121 vs. Travis Mallin 119

Todd Wilson 141 vs. Edward Anderson 142

Joe Haggler 253 vs. Alonzo Cutchins 233

Derek Amos 206 vs. Willie Taylor 207

Terry Roy 202 vs. Levi Jackson (late to weigh-in)

Tommy Neal 148 vs. Kendrick Archer (late to weigh-in)


I will have a Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show that will be posted early Sunday morning (hopefully around 7 AM EST). Due to other commitments, I will not be near a computer until that time.

Friday, September 14, 2007

Teddy Atlas's Take on The Peterson Brothers!

In a recent interview with Brad Cooney of Boxingtalk.com, ESPN Boxing Analyst Teddy Atlas had some very positive comments about the undefeated Peterson Brothers as well as their trainer, Barry Hunter.

This interview was conducted shortly after Lamont Peterson's victory over Frankie Santos last Friday on ESPN2 in Biloxi, MS.

BT (BoxingTalk) – Lamont Peterson just grabbed a regional title tonight, talk about his performance.

TA – I love the Peterson brothers, I love what they are in and outside the ring. I love what they can bring to boxing, especially if they win titles. I love the idea that they may become great spoke persons for boxing, coming from where they came from, and rising to the top. I pray and hope that they can become spoke persons for boxing. I love Anthony and Lamont Peterson, the fans will love them if they haven't had a chance to see them yet. They have talent, they are solid, they may not do one thing in a great way like Mayweather or Zab Judah, but they do everything well. Tonight Lamont did what he had to do, there was only going to be one guy to win tonight. Lamont did the same thing as Zab, he got his legs stretched out, and he was here to run the car up the road a little bit. He's getting ready for the next opposition that his team has planned for him.



BT – Lamont just told me that he is scheduled to fight in November, and then he wants Paulie Malignaggi, how do you see that fight if it happens?

TA – Malignaggi has some experience in the pro's and some speed advantage. The strength advantage goes to Lamont, it sort of reminds me of a Cotto vs Judah fight. I think it's an interesting match up, I am not saying the result would be the same, but Malignaggi showed in the Cotto fight that mentally he is together. Maybe even more mentally ready than Zab has been in those spots. It would be the body punching of Lamont versus the speed of Malignaggi. It's an interesting match up, I like Malignaggi both inside and outside of the ring, I like what the Peterson's are doing, I like Barry Hunter (Peterson's trainer), and what he's done for them as a father figure. I think we need more people like Barry Hunter in boxing, sometimes when you look at boxing, people say you won't find people like Barry. Hunter is a good example of someone who understands life skills, and what's important as a person.

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Buchanan Bounced From 'Contender!'

Capitol Heights, MD's Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan has been sent home from "The Contender." Series host Sugar Ray Leonard explained Buchanan's absence as having to deal with a "personal matter."

The real reason is that, for the second time, Buchanan was involved in a legal issue while taping the show in California.

I say the second time because from what my sources tell me, this is a different issue than the legal issue Buchanan was involved in after the ShoBox Super Middleweight tournament last year.

Buchanan was picked up last year by federal marshalls after Buchanan was arrested for assault. No word yet on what this current legal issue is.

The bottom line is that Buchanan has blown another golden opportunity to make a qualified name for himself. Not too many young boxers have had the opportunity to make two consecutive national television appearances that could truly benefit him. There are so many boxers who would give an arm to have an opportunity on "The Contender." You can't feel sorry for Buchanan but it is a shame.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Sept. 15 Card Complete!

The Left Hook Boxing card slated for this Saturday, September 15 at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA is now officially set.

The main event is an eight-round Beltway junior welterweight matchup between Jaime "The Punisher" Palma of Alexandria, VA and Dean "Pitbull" White of Smithsburg, MD.

Palma (12-10-1, three KO's) has been on a roll, winning his last five bouts. In his last outing, Palma won the Virginia State Light Welterweight title stopping Artie Bembury in the fifth round on July 14 in Winchester, VA.

White (14-7-1, seven KO's) has lost three of his last four bouts, all to quality opposition. White's last four bouts (the win against Dorin Spivey and the losses to Monty Meza Clay, Verquan Kimbrough and Damian Fuller) were against opponents whose combined record was 97-10-2.

In the six-round co-feature, Front Royal, VA lightweight Andrew "The Doo Man" Farmer battles Jason Jordan of Akron, OH.

Farner (7-1, six KO's) last fought on the July 14 Winchester show, stopping Marcos Antonio Soto in the fourth round. Jordan (4-13-2) has lost eight of his last nine bouts. One of those losses came against Lenny DeVictoria on May 12 at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. Jordan has been a busy boxer in 2007. The bout against Farmer will mark his 13th in-ring appearance this year.

In four-round contests, undefeated Front Royal cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy will take on Levi Jackson of Greensboro, NC. Roy (5-0-1, four KO's) scored a fourth-round TKO over Joe Haggler of Woodbridge, VA on the July 14 Winchester, VA. Jackson (0-1) lost his pro debut, being stopped by Chris Vendola in the second round on July 20 in Greensboro.

Haggler will try to bounce back from his loss to Roy when he takes on "The Polish Warrior" Drew Wion of Sydney, OH. Wion (0-1) has not fought since he lost his pro debut to "Cold Blood" Patrick Budd on April 28 in Fisherville, VA.

Undefeated Arlington, VA junior welterweight Todd "White Lightning" Wilson faces a tough foe in Edward "Nucky" Anderson of Richmond, VA in a four-round contest. Wilson (2-0, one KO) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision to Henry Goss on July 14 in Winchester. Anderson (4-8, three KO's) tries to come back after a six-round unanimous decision loss to Jaime Palma on February 17 in Winchester.

In featherweight action, Dale City, VA's Andre "Clockwork" Nichols will battle the debuting Travis Mallin of Fairfax, VA. Nichols (2-1, one KO) is coming off a second-round TKO over Anthony Whigham on the July 14 Winchester show.

This card also marks the long-awaited return of Front Royal junior middleweight Tommy "Sparkplug" Neal. After winning his pro debut on August 19, 2006 against Montez Wilson at the ABC Sports Complex. Neal was involved in a devastating accident on his job, which almost cost him his life.

Neal will face Kendrick Archer of North Carolina (0-1) in a four-round contest.

Also, in a very strange matchup of two retired boxers, Dumfries, VA cruiserweight Derek "D-Mos" Amos will take on Willie "The Heat" Taylor of Falls Church, VA in another four-round encounter.

According to sources, verbal squabbling in the gym between the two men led to this encounter. Amos (14-25, 9 KO's) had announced his retirement after his second-round TKO loss to William Bailey on April 28 in Fisherville, VA. Taylor (13-23-1, eight KO's) has not fought since March of 1997 and has never fought above super middleweight. Taylor has been a popular trainer in Virginia over the past few years.

Robles Scratched from October 6 Benefit Card!

Waynesboro, VA cruiserweight "JC Superstar" Juan Carlos Robles will not be appearing on the Saturday, October 6 benefit card at the Hilton McLean Tyson's Corner.

Robles, who was scheduled to make his first in-ring appearance since suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident, hurt his foot in a freak accident, stepping down wrong off of a curb. Robles was slated to take on Portsmouth VA's William "The Storm" Bailey on the October 6 card.

Matchmaker Joe Hensley plans to put another bout on this card. The rest of the card (listed in an earlier post) remains intact.

Great Boxing Music Video!

A rare change of pace. I came across one of my favorite movie scenes about boxing. The following is from the 1976 all-kids, 1930's gangster-era comedy-musical "Bugsy Malone." The movie starred Scott Baio and Jodie Foster.

At this point in the movie, Bugsy (Baio's character) has a bodyguard named Leroy (played by Paul Murphy) who packs a solid punch. Bugsy wants Leroy to try boxing so Bugsy can manage him. They go to Slugger's Gym to see if Leroy really has what it takes.

The song is called "So You Want to be a Boxer?" The song was written by Paul Williams. Enjoy!

Thompson Slated to Return September 27 in California!

WBO number one ranked heavyweight contender Tony "The Tiger" Thompson is slated to return to the ring on Thursday, September 27 in Lemoore, CA.

According to a press release, there is no word yet on who Thompson will face, but the bout will be an opportunity for the DC native to stay sharp as he awaits his mandatory title shot against the winner of the October 13th WBO title bout between champion Sultan Ibragimov and challenger Evander Holyfield.

Monday, September 10, 2007

Card Set For October 6 Benefit Card!

The boxing card seems to be set for the Saturday, October 6 boxing card at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner in McLean, VA. As we've noted before the main event will be a crossroads Virginia cruiserweight matchup between undefeated "JC Superstar" Juan Carlos Robles (9-0, four KO's) of Waynesboro taking on veteran William "The Storm" Bailey of Portsmouth (7-12, four KO's).

There will be three other bouts on this benefit card to raise money for the family of Diego Corrales. Charlottsville, VA middleweight George "War Time" Rivera battles Portsmouth's John "JT" Terry. Rivera (4-1, two KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Lawrence Jones on August 25 in Springfield, VA. Terry (2-6, one KO) is trying to break a five-bout losing streak. Both of Terry's wins came in visits to the area as he defeated out-of-towners Michael Dickerson and James Shedrick in consecutive bouts at BXF Gym in Millersville in 2005.

Making his pro debut on this card will be Baltimore featherweight Angelo Ward. Ward, a former Golden Glove champion, will take on James "Boo" Franks of Norfolk, VA (2-3, two KO's).

Rounding out the card will be Roanoke, VA's "The Freak of Nature" Charles Norwood (originally from DC -- 2-1, one KO) taking on Baltimore's Ron "The Rock" Reaves (2-0, one KO.)

The card is being promoted by Jimmy Lange Enterprises, in association with Jackie Kallen's Ice Promotions. The matchmaker is Joe Hensley.

Because this is a benefit show, here's how you can get tickets: Tickets are limited for this intimate affair with table seats (includes three course dinner) available for $350, $250, or $175; with a limited number of general admission tickets selling for $100. Fans can purchase tickets by calling (703) 536-6060.

Saturday, September 08, 2007

'Flash' Collins Stopped in Tuscon!

Bel Air, MD super middleweight Nick "Flash" Collins was stopped in the fifth round by undefeated Craig McEwan last night in Tuscon, Arizona.

According to Fightnews.com, "Collins did not put up much of a fight. He kept his guard up the entire fight, not allowing McEwan many openings, but refused to let his hands go. In fact, he didn’t land a punch until two-thirds of the way through the first round. Some might say his best punch of the fight was a push across the ring that drew a warning from referee Nico Perez in the first round."

The account continues: "Collins was visibly tired and worn by the start of the fifth round. His fifth round consisted mostly of running and holding. It didn’t appear that he wanted to fight for much longer and McEwan obliged. He unloaded with a flurry of hooks upstairs and downstairs to the weary fighter and the referee stepped in and stopped the fight as Collins was covering up and cowering away. McEwan was awarded the TKO 1:34 into round number five."

Collins's record falls to 4-3, four KO's while McEwan, a native of Scotland, rises to 7-0, six KO's.

New Poll: Who Was The Best Beltway Boxer to Never Win A World Title?

This poll may be more for the older Beltway Boxing fans. I would like your opinion on who you think was the best boxer in the Post-Sugar Ray Leonard era to NEVER win a world title?

There is a shorter list than usual because I narrowed it down to boxers who actually gained universally-recognized world title shots (this does not include boxers who fought for IBC, WBU or WBF titles, unfortunately.)

As always, thanks for your comments.

Rahman Scores Second-Round TKO in Michigan!

Former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman scored a second-round TKO over Dicky Ryan last night in Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

According to Fightnews.com, Rahman dropped Ryan twice in the first round and then used a wicked left hook to the stomach in the second to finish the bout at 41 seconds of the round.

Rahman's record rises to 43-6-2, 34 KO's. Ryan is now 55-10, 44 KO's. Most of Ryan's losses have come against world-class competition.

Peterson Stops Santos in Biloxi And Wins NABO Junior Welterweight Title!

Undefeated junior welterweight Lamont Peterson continued his winning ways with a punishing sixth-round technical knockout over Frankie Santos in front of a nationally televised ESPN2 audience in Biloxi, MS.

Peterson, who was recently named the Friday Night Fights "Prospect of the Year," showed why by dominating Santos from the outset. Santos refused to come off his school for the seventh round.

With the win, Peterson raised his record to 22-0, 10 KO's and captures the vacant NABO Junior Welterweight title. Santos falls to 15-4-3, seven KO's.


THIS JUST IN: In a recent interview with BoxingTalk.com's Brad Cooney, Peterson has his sights set on IBF Junior Welterweight champ Paulie Malignaggi. Peterson told Cooney he hopes to get a shot at Malignaggi early next year.

Friday, September 07, 2007

Brent Bovell Featured in Maryland Independent!

The Beltway had more representation at the recent US Olympic Trials than the participants and their coaches. One of our own referees was involved in the event as well.

Brent Bovell of Waldorf, MD was invited to referee bouts at the trials in Houston. Earlier in the year, Bovell was named the Outstanding Referee at the 2007 US Championships in Colorado Springs.

Learn more about Bovell by reading this article by James A. McCray III of the Maryland Independent newspaper.

"http://www.somdnews.com/stories/090507/indytop100246_32121.shtml"

L.Peterson at 140 for Tonight in Biloxi!

Lamont Peterson weighed in at 140 pounds for his bout against Frankie Santos tonight in Biloxi, MS. The bout is slated to be shown on ESPN2 this evening as the co-feature to Zab Judah's contest.

Rahman Weighs 250 for Michigan Contest!

Former world heavyweight champion Hasim "The Rock" Rahman weighed in at 250 pounds for his bout against Dicky Ryan tomorrow night in Mount Pleasant, MI. Ryan weighed in at 238 pounds.

One quick note. Rudy Childs and Spero's Video is taping this card and it is scheduled to be shown live to New Zealand and Australia. Probably because David Tua is also on the show.

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Post-Fight Wrap-Ups Acquire Sponsorship!

Starting Saturday, September 15, the Boxing Along The Beltway Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show will have sponsorship. The shows will be sponsored in part by Undisputedbrand.com.

The local company, run by former Fightnews.com writer Amir Peay, offers the finest and Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts apparel. A number of competitors have joined the growing brand including USBA Cruiserweight champ Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson and middleweight contender Edison Miranda.

As this partnership grows, we hope to have some giveaways of t-shirts and other apparel.

So visit UndisputedBrand.com -- The brand TRUE champions wear!

Wednesday, September 05, 2007

"Sugar Poo" Advances to Contender Tournament!

Capitol Heights, MD super middleweight Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan advanced through three rounds of qualifying to make it to the 10-man "Contender" Tournament.

Buchanan advanced after the second round of sparring, and will be on Buddy McGirt's Gold Team when the tournament gets underway next week. Buchanan's teammates are Jaidon Codrington, Sam Soliman, Donny McCrary and David Banks.

The Blue Team, captained by Jose "Pepe" Correa, will have Sakio Bika, Max Alexander, Brian Vera, Wayne Johnsen and Paul Smith.

Six boxers were eliminated through the qualifying -- Ruben Williams, Les Ralston, former US Olympian Roshii Wells, Miguel Hernandez, Danny Santiago and LaFarrell Bunting.

Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Demetrius Davis Drops Decision in Detroit!

The comeback for former supermiddleweight contender Demetrius Davis is off to a tough start. Davis lost a six-round unanimous decision to Detroit boxer James Countryman on August 31 in Detroit. Two judges scored the bout close at 58-56, but one judge said Countryman pitched a shutout at 60-54.

Davis has lost two straight since his comeback after a nine-year absence and now has a record of 17-13-4, seven KO's. Countryman raised his record to 11-1, eight KO's.

Beltway Collects ESPN 'Friday Night Fights' Honors; Darnell Wilson Named 'Fighter of Year!'

With the ESPN "Friday Night Fights" series coming to a close for the year this coming Friday, September 7 (the card includes Lamont Peterson), blow-by-blow announcer Joe Tessitore announced his Friday Night Fights Awards for 2007. The Beltway was VERY well represented.

Tessitore named newly-crowned USBA Cruiserweight champ Darnell "The Ding-A-Ling Man" Wilson the Friday Night Fights "Fighter of the Year!"

"Darnell Wilson did more to advance his career than any other. On Feb. 23, the Ding-A-Ling Man KO'd former world champ Kelvin Davis, then in June he made highlight reels across the country with his KO of Emmanuel Nwodo on Staten Island, N.Y. He is now cemented in the top 10 rankings and it was all because of his big year on 'FNF,' Tessitore said.

Wilson's June 29th, 11th-round knockout of Emmanuel Nwodo was, to no one's surprise, named the Knockout of the Year.

Tessitore's statement: "When Darnell Wilson's left glove struck the right side of Emmanuel Nwodo's head on June 29, it was the hardest hit I have ever seen another person absorb. I don't know how else to describe it. I have not seen another punch delivered with more force or a more devastating result. Teddy Atlas immediately said he couldn't recall a more brutal KO in all his years at ringside. Nwodo's body crumbled to the ground and his legs folded back underneath him. At Teddy's house later that night with family and friends, we must have replayed the moment on TiVo at least 30 times. There have been other very impressive KOs elsewhere this year, there have been KOs that won world titles, but if you were at ringside, you wouldn't question that this KO was among the most vicious -- not just of this year, but in this era of fights."

In what seemed to be a close call, Tessitore named Lamont Peterson the FNF "Prospect of the Year." Peterson eeked out this decision over the likes of Andre Berto, Eddie Chambers and Chris Arreola.

"I'll go with the guy who impressed and was on the 'FNF' schedule three times this season; no other prospect can say that," said Tessitore about Peterson.

Other events involving Beltway Boxers received praise as well. The March 16 bout between Eric Aiken and Cruz Carvajal received honorable mention as "Fight of the Year." The bout went to a 12-round draw. The hours leading up to the bout also received honorable mention honors for "Moment of the Year" as neither man knew they would be fighting each other until literally seven hours before they hit the ring.

Also, the May 25 PMG/Headbangers card at the DC Armory (featuring the Peterson Brothers) received praise as a nominee for "Show of the Year."

Gary Russell, Jr. Named 'Baller of the Week!'

Congratulations to Gary Russell, Jr. The US Olympian from Capitol Heights was voted Sportstalk 980's "Baller Of The Week" last week. Thanks to all of you who voted.

Reminder: 'The Contender -- Season 3' Starts Tonight!

Just a reminder: "The Contender" Season 3" begins tonight on ESPN at 10 PM ET.

As we've said, this year's edition is loaded with Beltway flavor. Of course, the host is Sugar Ray Leonard. One of the new trainers is Jose "Pepe" Correa and one of the participants this season is Henry "Sugar Poo" Buchanan.

As soon as ESPN.com gets its Contender page going, I'll provide a link here. I'll also try to have Beltway-themed Contender updates every week as well.

By the way, according to a press release, the prize money going to the winner has gone back up to the first season mark of one million dollars. Last year, the prize was $500,000.

Sunday, September 02, 2007

A. Peterson Wins in Tunica!

Lightweight contender Anthony Peterson remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over durable Marteze Logan last night in Tunica, MS.

According to BoxingTalk.com, Peterson landed solid combinations throughout the contest but Logan, who rarely gets stopped, stayed right in there and took Peterson's shots. The judge's cards were 79-71 (twice) and 78-72.

Peterson is now 24-0, 17 KO's while Logan falls to 25-29-2, six KO's.

By the way, the opponent for Lamont Peterson on Friday, Sept. 7 in Biloxi, MS has changed. Peterson will now face Frankie Santos of Salinas, Puerto Rico (15-3-3, seven KO's). Santos is winless in his last three bouts and has fought only twice since 2003. The bout is slated to be on ESPN2 as the co-feature to Zab Judah's bout.

Saturday, September 01, 2007

A. Peterson at 138 in Tunica, MS!

DC's Anthony Peterson weighed in at 138 pounds for his co-feature bout against Marteze Logan tonight in Tunica, MS. Logan, fighting out of Covington, TN, came in at 136 pounds.

This will be the second time that Logan has faced a Peterson Brother. On November 18, 2006. Logan lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Lamont Peterson also in Tunica.