Updated on 10.6.09
(Video) Bobby O'Bannon vs Joe Rabotte (clips)
(Video) Interview with Jarred LeBlanc
(Video) Interview with Chad Broussard
(Video) Interview with Carl McNickels
Menard Pounds Cannon!
August 2, 2010
Lightweight prospect and local draw “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (11-1) captured the vacant UBO All American title this past Saturday night in Rayne, Louisiana in front of a near capacity crowd. Menard won via 7th round TKO over a very game but out gunned Robbie “Pea Shooter” Cannon (12-6-1) of Festus, Missouri. Menard started off a little slower than usual but caught Cannon with a picture perfect right hand just 37 seconds into the 7th round.
Menard won every round on this writer’s scorecard, but Cannon would do just enough each round to keep the fight interesting.
With the victory Mason Menard has won 10 straight bout with 8 coming via stoppage.
The co-featured bout of the night saw 17 year old Bobby “The Prodigy” Bryant (6-0) of Memphis, Tennessee score the 5th stoppage of his 6 bout career. This time over veteran Anthony Adams of Laurel, Mississippi. Bryant was just too fast, too strong and too busy for the 37 year old Adams. The time of the stoppage was 1:47 into round number 3.
New Orleans, Louisiana’s Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (12-5) stopped a game Reggie “Two Guns” Nash late into round 4 of their 6 round scheduled welterweight affair. The bout ended with a nasty left hook / uppercut from Bergeron to the sternum of the awkward Nash. Official time of the stoppage was 2:57. Nash was also down from a left hook to the head in round 3.
Rayne, Louisiana’s Todd “Amazin” Manuel (4-0) kept his unbeaten streak intact with a 6 round unanimous decision over Dominique Azeez of Arkansas. Manuel put Azeez down in round 3, but could not finish the gritty Azeez. Scores were 60-53, 60-53 and 60-53.
Ashley Alvarado (2-0) of Houston, Texas beat on debuting Shimone Brooks over 2 rounds before referee Larry Berger had seen enough. Brooks was down twice. Official time was 57 seconds of round 2.
Eunice, Louisiana light heavyweight Blake “The Candyman” Prevost (14-1) pounded out a 6 round unanimous decision over Monroe, Louisiana’s Joey “KO” Hixon (1-7). Prevost dominated the action from the opening bell. Scores were 60-54 across the board.
Unbeaten light heavyweight Bailey Bobbit (3-0) of Lafayette, Louisiana destroyed debuting Daniel Foxworth (0-1)of Memphis, Tennessee in just 22 seconds. Bobbit connected with a 1-2 combo that put Foxworth down in the netrual corner. Foxworth would not beat the count.
The heat is on was presented by Chad Broussard’s BoxNCar promotions.
ESPN Comes to Monroe!
August 2, 2010
Bright Lights, Lefts and Rights
Returning to Monroe, Louisiana,
on August 18
ESPN2 nationally televised "Battle on the Bayou" Features Future Cuban Stars Lara and Despaigne in Tough Match-ups at Monroe Civic Center
On Wednesday, August 18, at the Monroe Civic Center in Monroe, Louisiana, Keeppunching Entertainment, Warriors Boxing, and the City of Monroe will proudly present: "Battle on the Bayou" a night of world-class professional boxing to be televised live on ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights.
The dual main events will have a distinctly Cuban flavor as undefeated former amateur world champion Erislandy Lara (12-0, 7 KOs) and world amateur championships bronze medalist Yordanis Despaigne (6-0, 4 KOs) will make appearances in separate bouts.
In his 300+ amateur fights, Lara won three consecutive national championships at welterweight (2005-07), and was the world champion at welterweight in 2005. Despite being considered one of the favorites at welterweight for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, Lara left the Cuban amateur boxing team in July 2007 during the Pan-American games in Rio de Janeiro. However, Lara was subsequently arrested and returned to Cuba. On a second attempt, Lara successfully escaped Cuba via speedboat to Mexico and turned professional in July 2008.
As an amateur, Despaigne was a member of the 2004 Cuban Olympic Team and among his 300 amateur victories, scored several over future world champions including American Andre Dirrell, Canadian Jean Pascal and Hungarian Károly Balzsay. Despaigne defected to the United States, asking for political asylum and freedom, in the spring of 2009 and made his professional debut on May 22 of the same year. As a professional, despite having just six fights, Despaigne has already beaten respected veteran Demetrius Davis and former world title challenger Richard Hall.
Lara will face Gulfport, Mississippi's "Slik" Willie Lee (17-6, 11 KOs) in a 10-round junior middleweight bout, while Despaigne will take on undefeated Colombian power puncher Frank Paines (11-0, 10 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight showdown where someone's "0" must go.
"I am very excited to bring ESPN2's weekly live boxing series to Monroe," said event co-promoter Leon Margules of Warriors Boxing. "This is the most popular non-subscription-based cable-boxing series and a stop on the circuit belongs in a great city like Monroe, Louisiana. I want to thank the city and especially Mayor Mayo for his hospitality and innovativeness in welcoming this event. I promise boxing fans and anyone who attends this event they will not be disappointed."
Monroe Mayor James Mayo says he shares Margules's enthusiasm. "The city council and I are excited about the upcoming fights in Monroe. 'The Battle on The Bayou' will be tremendous."
The undercard will feature several local and national prospects including once-beaten former National Amateur and All-Marine Champion Blake "Candyman" Prevost (13-1, 5 KOs); 6' 8" Houston, Texas, heavyweight Skip Scott (8-1, 5 KOs); Framingham, Massachusetts-based 2008 US Olympic team alternate and former US national amateur light welterweight champion Danny O'Connor (12-0, 3 KOs); and Monroe-based cruiserweight Tyrone Davis making his professional debut.
"Having Keeppunching Entertainment partner with world-class Warriors Boxing and Leon Margules to bring this type of special ESPN show to the city of Monroe, Louisiana, makes me very proud," added co-promoter Kerry Daigle of Keeppunching Entertainment. "In my 37 years in boxing promotions I have yet to meet a city so open to this great sport and want to commend Mayor Mayo and the City Council including his staff in their incredible effort to make this show an exciting event for not only the local fans but also for the national and international fans who will watch this special segment of ESPN boxing. This will be one of the most entertaining boxing cards of the year!"
Tickets for "Battle on the Bayou" will go on sale on Wednesday, August 4, and will be priced at Ringside $40, Floor and Risers $25. General Admission seats will be priced at $15. They will be available at all Ticketmaster outlets and the Monroe Civic Center box office.
For ticket inquiries, please contact Monroe Civic Center Box Office Manager, Adrienne LaFrance at 318.329.2338.
All government employees with valid government ID will pay just $10 for general admission seats.
For more information, contact Keeppunching Entertainment at 800.485.9323 or Kerry Daigle at 337.288.8510
Menard and Cannon Clash!
July 27, 2010
Promoter “Bad” Chad Broussard is at it again with another installment of live professional boxing. This time “The Heat Is On” at the Rayne Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana this Saturday night July 31, 2010.
In the main event the vacant UBO All-American title is on the line as local hometown combatant “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (11-1) is set to face his toughest test to date in Festus, Missouri native Robbie “Pea Shooter” Cannon (12-5-1). The bout is scheduled for 10 rounds at a limit of 135lbs. Both fighters have won their respective state championships in their careers.
Menard has won 10 bouts in succession since his lone defeat, 7 of those wins via stoppage. Cannon on the other hand has lost 5 out of his last 7 although the combined records of those boxers at the time stands at 69 wins and only 6 defeats. Cannon has fought as high as 144lbs in his 18 bout career while Menard has not exceeded 135lbs.
Promoter Chad Broussard claims “The will be the most exciting fight Louisiana has seen in the past 10 years and in the next 10 years.”
New Orleans, Louisiana native Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (11-5) is scheduled in a 6 round bout against Grand Rapides, Michigan native Reggie “Two Guns” Nash. Bergeron hasn’t fought since winning a 6 round decision in December of 2009, but hopes to bring his exciting style and large fan base with him to Rayne, Louisiana. Nash holds an 8 round decision victory over former title challenger Ivan Robinson.
Welterweight prospect Bobby Bryant (5-0) of Memphis, Tennessee is slated to take on Anthony Adams of Laurel, Mississippi. The 17 year old Bryant has only been out of the opening round once in his career. This bout is scheduled for 6 rounds.
Unbeaten 18 year old super middleweight Todd “Amazin” Manuel (3-0) of Rayne, Louisiana will see action in a 6 rounder.
Just added to the card is a 4 round female affair that pits Houston, Texas’ Ashley Alvarado (1-0) taking on Alyx Luck (0-1) of Colorado. This will be the first female bout on a Box N Car Promotions event.
Blake “The Candyman” Prevost (13-1) will make his return to the Lafayette area for the first time since 2006. Blake will face Monroe, Louisiana’s Joey “KO” Hixon in a 4 rounder in the light heavyweight division.
Bailey Bobbit will look to keep his unbeaten streak intact as he is set to take on debuting Daniel Foxworth of Memphis, Tennessee.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting BoxNCar.com.
Weights in BSL!
July 9, 2010
Zane Marks 160 vs Derrick Findley 162
April Ward 151 vs Melisenda Perez 150
Casey Adams 148 vs LeKirk Pringle 148
Marcus McDaniel 163 vs Omar Ballard*
Bobby Hill 142 vs Mark Salser 142.5
Kyle Bullock 160 vs Jamond Bourgeois 160
Venue - Hollywood Casino
Location - Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Promoter - Les Bonano
Matchmaker - JT Klump
Tickets - 1.866.758.2591
Marks vs Findley in BSL!
July 9, 2010
Les Bonano’s Brawlin N Nawlins is back with another installment of professional boxing at the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi this Saturday night. The main event will feature a pair of middleweight boxers in need of a statement win. Former UBO All American champion Zane “The Train” Marks (17-5) of Golden Meadow, Louisiana will face current Indiana state champion Derrick “Superman” Findley (16-3) of Gary Indiana. Marks is coming off a strong performance, albeit in a losing effort to WBA #8 ranked middleweight Kingsley Ikeke. While Findley has reeled off three straight wins including a victory over Michael Walker to win his state championship. The bout is scheduled for 10 rounds at a 160lb limit.
The co-featured bout of the night will pit Batesville, Arkansas native April Ward (6-1, 6KO’s) and Melisenda Perez (6-2-1) of Kansas City, Missouri in a 4 round welterweight bout. Ward has won 2 straight bouts since her lone setback at the Hollywood Casino this past January. The 19 year old Perez has gone 3-1-1 in her past 5 bouts.
Unbeaten New Orleans middleweight prospect Marcus McDaniel (3-0) will do battle Columbus, Mississippi native Omar Ballard in a 4 rounder.
Jamond “Doo-Whop” Bourgeois (1-0) of New Orleans will look for his second professional victory against local Mississippi MMA fighter Kyle Bullock. Bullock will make his professional boxing debut, but reportedly has an 8-0 MMA record. This will be a 4 round bout in the middleweight division.
Welterweight Casey Adams of Cut Off, Louisiana is set to make his professional debut in a 4 round bout against LeKirk Pringle of Mobile, Alabama who will also make his professional debut. The 18 year old Adams has won a slew of regional amateur championships.
Mansfield, Ohio’s Mark Salser (9-0) will round out the card in a 4 round light welterweight bout.
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Tickets range from $20, $50, $100 and can be purchased at the casino gift shop or by callling 800-229-2683. All attendees must be a minimum of 21 years of age. For more information visit www.HollywoodCasinoBSL.com. Bell time is 8:00pm.
Verdin Crushes Carter
June 20, 2010
The comeback of 44 year old Dominick Carter (30-10) was spoiled on Saturday night at the Sugarmill in New Orleans, Louisiana. The spoiler, “Smiley” Martin Verdin (17-15) of Dulac, Louisiana. Verdin had Carter down in round 1 and quicky finished him off with a big right hand in round 2. This bout was the main event of a 12 bout MMA / boxing event. It was the only boxing match of the night.
Verdin took the bout on only 1 weeks notice.
Releford Defeats Kassi
April 24, 2010
Photo by GCB Photos
Fort Worth, Texas’ Kendrick Releford (22-13-2) spoiled the party for rising New Orleans, Louisiana heavyweight “Big” Fred Kassi (15-2) by winning a 10 round decision Saturday night at the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Releford consistently outworked the Cameroon born Kassi. Kassi would try and confuse the 28 year old Releford by switching from right handed to left, but Releford would counter that by switching right with him. A stiff jab was used by Releford to keep off the aggressive Kassi at bay. Final scores read 98-92. 98-92 and 97.-93
With the win Releford has won back to back bouts and 7 out of his last 8.
The co-feature of the night saw current Louisiana state cruiserweight champion Justin “Ironman” Verdin (9-1) of Grand Bois, Louisiana drop his first professional bout. Verdin dominated the tough Anthony Doughty of Tuscaloosa, Alabama for the first 4 rounds of the bout. Verdin kept the bout at a slow pace by using his jab to control the bout; Doughty could do nothing to get inside of the Verdin jab. Doughty picked up some steam in round 5 as Verdin seemed to take the round off. When the bell sounded to start round 6 Doughty picked up the pace and backed Verdin to the ropes. While on the ropes Doughty landed a clean left hook to the chin of Verdin that dropped dropped him to one knee. Verdin would get up on unsteady legs and would be deemed not fit to continue by referee Keith Hughes.
Scores at the time of the stoppage were 49-46 on two of the judges’ score cards.
Mobile, Alabama’s Aubrey Norris (0-0-1) and Pensacola, Florida’s Davis Hill (0-1-1) fought to draw in their 4 round lightweight bout. Scores were 39-36 (Hill), 38-37 (Norris) and 38-38.
Middleweight Marcus McDaniel (3-0) of New Orleans, Louisiana cruised to an easy 4 round unanimous decision over Jackson, Mississippi’s Billy Cunningham (3-5). McDaniel dominated from opening bell to the final bell. Scores were 40-36 across the board.
The opening bout of the night saw Jamond “Doo-Whop” Bourgeois (1-0) of New Orleans make a successful professional debut with a majority decision victory over Mobile, Alabama’s Josh “Pitbull” Thorpe (1-1). The bout started off slow but ended with both fighters going toe-to-toe. Scores read 40-36, 39-38 and 38-38.
Promoter: Les Bonano. Matchmaker: JT Klump
Weights from Bay St. Louis!
April 23, 2010
Fred Kassi 240 vs *Kendrick Releford
Justin Verdin 179 vs Anthony Doughty 178
Marcus McDaniel 163 vs Billy Cunningham 163
David Hill 134 vs Aubrey Norris 133
Jamond Bourgieous 157 vs Josh Thorpe 160
*Releford will weigh later
Venue: Hollywood Casino
Promoter: Les Bonano's Brawlin N Nawlins
Tickets: SOLD OUT
Kassi Takes on Releford Sat!
April 22, 2010
Hollywood Casino Press Release
BAY ST. LOUIS , MS – Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis announced the weigh-in times and a latest card lineup for Saturday night’s boxing matches, today. The five separate power-packed fights will be held at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 24, 2010.
The first two matches Saturday evening start off with two newly tested fighters in the light weight and middle weight divisions taking on two other fighters making their professional debut. These two career telling bouts are followed by another four-round battle between two, up and coming, middle weight contenders. There are five match-ups scheduled for the night including one six round bout among two cruiserweight fighters with only one loss between them and a ten round slugfest between heavyweights in the main event.
The Main Event feature will be two heavyweights including rising star “Big Fred Kassi,” (14W – 1L), 7 by knockout, from New Orleans , LA , will go head-to-head against veteran Kendrick Releford. “Releford will be the best fighter that Kassi has ever fought in his professional career,” said Boxing Promoter Les Bonano.
Releford, from Fort Worth, Texas, is coming off of winning six of his last seven fights. Releford has 21 wins and 13 losses. The losses came while fighting in Germany three times, Canada , the United Kingdom and throughout the United States . Releford has never been knocked out and holds wins over highly rated Elieser Castillo for the WBO Latino heavyweight title 12 round decision and highly regarded “Cuban” Raymond Garbey.
Heavyweight Kassi (15W-1L) won his last fight at Hollywood against the heavy hitter Moises Droz (13W-9L) by knock out in the third round. He’s won three fights in a row since his lone set back.
The co-feature to the main event will include two of the top prospects in this region. In a six-round cruiser weight fight Anthony Doughty (7W-1L) of Tuscaloosa , AL , will battle it out with undefeated Justin Verdin (9W-0L) of Houma , Louisiana .
In the first middle weight bout Jamond Bourgeois of New Orleans , Louisiana , makes his professional debut facing off with Josh Thorpe (1W-0L). Thorpe is from Mobile, Alabama, and both fighters are expected to draw a large fan base. Light weight David Hill (0W-1L) returns from Pensacola , Florida , to go toe-to-toe with Aubrey Norris from Mobile , AL. Norris is making his professional debut. Hill lost his first professional fight at Hollywood Casino earlier in the year.
Middleweights Marcus McDaniel (2W-0L) and Billy Cunningham (3W-4L) of Jackson , MS , will step into the ring. McDaniel, a very fast fighter from New Orleans, LA, won a tough four-round battle here in January where he handed Cleoney Fouqua, a fighter out of Columbus , MS , his first and only loss.
Don’t miss live boxing at Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis. Hurry, these fighting events will sell out soon. Tickets are $20, $50 and $100 and on sale now at the Gift Shop or call 1-800-229-2683. MATCHES, FIGHTS AND FIGHTERS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Must be at least 21 to attend. Visit www.hollywoodcasinobsl.com.
Ramos Wins Title!
April 11, 2010
A disappointing end to an exciting bout left the sold out crowd at the Hilton Towers in Lafayette, Louisiana wanting more as the man they came to see suffered his first defeat as a professional, although in a odd manner.
Sao Paulo, Brazil native Juliano Ramos captured the Louisiana state light middleweight championship this past Saturday night without breaking a sweat. His opponent hometown prizefighter Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (12-1) came out with his usual aggressive style and put Ramos’ back to the ropes as LeBlanc tried to step to the side he fell to the canvas in obvious pain. LeBlanc would try to get back to his feet but was unable to do so. Referee Larry Berger called in the ringside doctor and he would eventually deem LeBlanc unable to continue.
The official time was 1:55 into the opening round. With the win Ramos moves his record to 16-3. A rematch has already been discussed by both teams.
The performance of the night goes to Rayne, Louisiana’s “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (10-1) who took out a very game and gutty Reggie “Two Guns” Nash of Saginaw, Michigan. Menard started round 1 off slowly trying to feel out of the awkward Nash, but that was all the feeling out process Menard would need. Nash would get knocked down 3 times in the remaining 2 rounds all from well placed body shots. The official time was 1:33 of round 3. Menard is the current Louisiana state lightweight champion.
17 year old Memphis, Tennessee welterweight prospect Bobby “The Prodigy” Bryant (4-0) demolished the debuting Marshall Beard of Ocean Springs, Mississippi in just 35 into the opening round. Beard would go down twice in all.
Brad “Buzy Bee” Solomon (11-0) of Lafayette, Louisiana needed just 2:24 to pick apart 62 fight veteran Ricky “The Roofer” Dinkins of Mobile, Alabama. Solomon attacked from the opening bell and knocked Dinkins down twice in the round the last coming from a vicious body shot that forced the referee to step in and stop the contest. Solomon is ranked number 12 by the NABF.
Rising super middleweight Todd “Amazing” Manuel (3-0) of Rayne, Louisiana scored a lopsided 4 round unanimous decision over late sub Tyrone Dowdy (4-23) of Memphis, Tennessee. Manuel looked more comfortable than their first meeting last October. Scores were 40-35 across the board. Dowdy took the fight on less than 48 hours notice due to Lanny Dardar’s illness.
The opening bout of the night saw former University of Louisiana at Lafayette safety Bailey Bobbit (2-0) pound out a 4 round decision win over Ocean Springs, Mississippi’s Ernest Parfait. Bobbitt had Parfait down in round 2. Scores were 40-35, 39-36, and 39-36
Promoter was Chad Broussard of BoxNCar Promotions.
LeBlanc vs Ramos for LA Title!
April 5, 2010
“Friday Night Fights” presented by Chad Broussard’s BoxNCar promotions will take place this Friday, April 9 at the Hilton Hotel in Lafayette, Louisiana.
The main event will feature Breaux Bridge, Louisiana’s Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (12-0) putting his unblemished record on the line against Sao Paulo, Brazil native Juliano Ramos (15-3) in an 8-round bout for the vacant Louisiana state light middleweight title. LeBlanc’s exciting style brings a huge fan following and his fans are sure to be “in that number” as he takes this leap up in class. Ramos has lost back to back bouts but to top contenders.
The co-feature of the night will pit current Louisiana state lightweight champion “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (10-1) of Rayne, Louisiana taking on 33 fight veteran Reggie “Two Guns” Nash of Grand Rapids, Michigan in an 8 round bout.
Highlighting the undercard is a battle of unbeaten super middleweights between Rayne, Louisiana’s Todd “Amazing” Manuel (2-0) and Grand Bois, Louisiana’s Lanny Dardar (1-0) in a 4 round bout.
Also scheduled to see action is current Florida state welterweight champion Brad Solomon (10-0) who is now ranked 12 by the NABF, welterweight prospect Bobby Bryant (3-0) of Memphis and former University of Louisiana at Lafayette football player now unbeaten light heavyweight Bailey Bobbit (1-0) all in separate bouts.
Tickets are on sale now and are going fast; they can be purchased by visiting BoxNCar.com
Pedro to Take on Briggs!
March 30, 2010
April 13 at the Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, Florida Rafael Pedro (20-8-1) of Golden Meadow, Louisiana will take part in the biggest fight of his professional career as he is set to face 38 year old former heavyweight champion Shannon Briggs (48-5-1) of Brooklyn, New York.
Briggs lost his WBO heavyweight title to Sultan Ibragimov in June of 2006 via 12 round decisions. Briggs returned to the ring in December2009 and scored a 1st round knockout of Alabama heavyweight Marcus McGee. The result would be changed to a “no contest” due to Briggs testing positive for an illegal substance. Briggs also challenged for the WBC title in 1998 but was stopped in 5 rounds against Lennox Lewis.
After starting off his career 13-1, Pedro has had a rough time going just 7-7-1 in his past 15 bouts including loses to top competitors such as title challengers Chris Henry and Adam Richards. In his last bout Pedro lost a split decision to Washington’s Skyler Anderson (15-1-1) for the North West Boxing Association heavyweight title.
Papillion and Krupp Drop Decisions!
March 30, 2010
This past Thursday night Jason Papillion lost a hard fought 12 round decision to Idaho naïve Favio Medina at the Cour D’Alene casino in in Worley, Idaho. No scores were reports, but after speaking with Papillion he claimed two of the scores were 120-100 and 119-110 and “There was no way I lost every round of that fight, I was in shape, but Medina just kept getting stronger as the rounds went out.” This bout was for the USNBC welterweight title, which is a stepping stone title to get into the WBC rankings.
Jay Krupp of New Orleans was also unsuccessful in his bid for a title. Krupp lost a close 8 round decision to New York state welterweight champion Daniel Sostre (11-4). Scores were 78-74, 77-75 and 77-75. This was Sostre’s second suscuessful defense of his title. Krupp drops to 14-4 and has lost 3 of his last 5 bouts. This bout took place at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie, New York
Golden Glove Winners!
March 30, 2010
Results are from the Open Division finals:
108lbs - Henry Clay (Backstreet)
114lbs - Kalen Alfred (Backstreet)
123lbs - Quinton Benjamin (Backstreet) def Keithlan Franklin (Backstreet)
132lbs - Chris Singleton (Southern Skill) def Gerardo Garcia (Youngsville)
141lsb - Brandon Broussard (Backstreet)
152lbs – Roland Molinere (Grand Bois) def Josh Ross (West Monroe)
165lbs – Chad Trahan (Ragin Cajun) def Justin Thomas (Hands of Stone)
178lbs – DeQuincey Johnson (Stephens) def Steven Lyons (Bayouside)
201lbs – David Galmore (GSM) def Calvin Guidry (Grand Bois)
201+lbs – Jonathan Guidry (Grand Bois) def Wilfred Fuselier (Ragin Cajun)
The Open Divison Team Trophy was awarded to the Backstreet Boxing Club, coach Shelton LeBlanc
Hilton Fight Night
March 30, 2010
Louisiana Golden Gloves
March 23, 2010
The city of Lafayette and the Ragin' Cajun Amateur Boxing Club, in conjunction with the Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission and the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, will host the annual Louisiana Golden Gloves amateur boxing championships March 26-28 at the N.P. Moss Middle School Gymnasium.
The event could be a preview of bigger things to come, according to Ragin' Cajun Club coach and tournament coordinator, Beau Williford.
The Lafayette entities will be making a bid in April to host the 2012 National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions, one of the nation's oldest and most esteemed amateur sporting events, and Williford said that a good showing at this year's state tournament could help with that proposal.
"Our national president, Ray Rodgers, is coming in for our state tournament," Williford said. "He's here to basically make sure we know what we're doing before we go about bidding on the national event, but he also wants to see if we have good public response and support, what kind of support we'll have for the state tournament ... they don't want a national Golden Gloves championship with nobody there.
"We feel really good that we'll get the bid, and he (Rodgers) is high on our chances, but we still have to make a good showing here," Willifiord said.
The state event, dubbed the "Take Dat" Golden Gloves, is being held for the fourth consecutive year in Lafayette. The three-day championships were scheduled for the Lafayette High gym, but has been moved to N.P. Moss due to the March 27 special election. The LHS gym is a polling place.
"We're lucky that N.P. Moss is one of the few schools that isn't a polling place," Williford said. "It's a great facility for this event."
The state event will feature 11 weight classes from 106 pounds up to the over-201 pounds in the open division, and will also have divisions for youths age 8-and-up as well as a masters division for amateurs age 35-and-over. Williford said the younger classes and the master's events are traditionally among the most popular with fans.
Winners of state titles will advance to the Mid-South Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions, to be held April 8-10 in Little Rock, Ark. This year's National Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions is also scheduled for Little Rock, May 3-8. The local committee will be making its bid for the 2012 Nationals on May 6. The 2011 Nationals will be in Indianapolis.
Williford said that every USA Boxing-certified club in Louisiana - 42 in all - will be represented in the state championships and that well over 200 amateur fighters are scheduled to take part. Qualifying bouts are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 26-27, beginning at 6 p.m. each day, with the finals beginning at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 28.
In addition to the in-ring action, four prominent boxing figures will be honored as Louisiana Golden Gloves Living Legends during the finals. Among those honorees are two locals, Carenco's John Stutes and Crowley's Lester Hebert.
Tickets for the event are $15 for general admission on Friday and Saturday and $20 for Sunday. Three-day passes are available for $45. Children 12 and under are admitted for $5 each day with a three-day pass available for $10. A limited number of VIP tables with eight seats for all three sessions are also available.
Tickets are available at Musso's Shoe Repair, Southside Bakery, Baja Sports Grill and T-Coon's Restaurant in Lafayette, and will also be available at the door until the gym's 1,500-capacity is reached. Information on VIP tables is available from Williford at (337) 257-3501
GCB Blog!
March 23, 2010
It’s been a while since we’ve had a big update but not a lot has been going on. So here is a quick rundown of what is coming up on the local scene.
This weekend New Orleans native “Smokin” Jay Krupp (14-3) will challenge Puerto Rican Daniel Sostre (10-3) for his New York state welterweight title in an 8 round bout. Krupp is coming off of a 3rd round TKO win over Anthony Middlebrooks this past December. This will be Krupp’s second time fighting in New York; in his other trip he suffered his first career defeat to Eric Simmons via decision. Sostre has won 8 straight bouts. This bout will take place at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center, Poughkeepsie, New York
This coming Thursday Broussard, Louisiana’s Jason Papillion (39-14-2) will get his rematch against Idaho’s Favio Medina (21-2-3). These two boxers met in October 2009, the match ended in a technical draw after a doctor stoppage due to a cut to Papillion’s eye due to a head butt. This will be a 10 round bout for the USNBC welterweight title, which is a stepping stone to the WBC rankings.
Two huge main events are on tap for the month of April. Starting off first is a great main event brought to us by Chad Broussard’s BoxNCar Productions. This event will take place at the Hilton Hotel in Lafayette, Louisiana on April 9th. Local light middleweight Jarred LeBlanc who sports a 12-0 record will take a huge step up in class to take on Brazilian Juliano Ramos who comes in with a 15-3 record. This fight will be for the 154lb state title.
On the undercard Mason Menard will be in action in an 8 rounder along with local favorites Todd Manuel, Bailey Bobbitt and Memphian talent Bobby Bryant all in separate bouts. John Revish and Brad Solomon could see action on this card in separate bouts.
Then a huge heavyweight bout is in store for us on Les Bonano’s Hollywood Casino card on April 24 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Local New Orleans heavyweight Fred Kassi (15-1) will step up in class and put his big record on the line against former heavyweight contender Leo “Paco” Nolan (27-2) of Detroit, Michigan in a 10 rounder.
Another huge local fight sits on this undercard as unbeaten Justin Verdin (9-0) of Grad Bois, Louisiana is scheduled to take on once beaten Anthony Doughty of Tuscaloosa, Alabama in a six rounder. This will be big fight for both guys to see who is ready to take the next step in their careers.
Undercard features the debut of Jamond Bourgeious of New Orleans. Middleweight Marcus McDaniel of New Orleans is also scheduled.
Revish Bout Ends Even!
March 23, 2010
Golden Meadow, LA’s own John “Renegade” Revish (10-1-2) traveled all the way to Lincoln, Rhode Island this past Friday night to take on former USBA titlist Jason Pires (22-3-1) in a 6 round bout. Revish would start out strong and knockdown the local police officer twice in the second round. Sources say the rest of the bout was an all action brawl and has “local fight of the year” stamped all over it. One judge scored the bout 56-55 for Revish while the other two saw it even at 56-56, that labeled the bout a majority draw. This bout was on the undercard of the event “Shamrock’d” produced by CES Boxing.
Revish is looking to be back in action on the April 9th BoxNCar event at the Hilton Towers in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Photo : Fightnews.com
Menard Continues to Rise!
February 26, 2010
For the first time in recent memory a Louisiana state title has been defended and last night in Rayne, Louisiana it was defended successfully. “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard captured his 10th victory as a professional by beating down a very game Thomas Dardar, of Golden Meadow, Louisiana (8-2) over 4 rounds.
Menard, 15 years younger than his opponent started out strong and set a fast pace that Dardar simply could not keep up with. Menard turned it on in at the end of the opening round and would knock Dardar down twice in the 2nd round and again in the 4th, to his credit Dardar did get up on all three occasions. The very accurate and quick Menard forced Dardar’s corner to stop the bout before the bell of the 5th round sounded.
Menard a Rayne, Louisiana native, has now won 8 straight bouts and holds the Louisiana state lightweight title.
Memphis, Tennessee’s Bobby “The Prodigy” Bryant was forced to go the distance for the first time in his very short professional career. Bryant, (3-0) pummeled Mobile, Alabama’s Ricky Dinkins for 4 rounds. Bryant showed flashes of what could be a very bright future. Dinkins was down in round 1. Scores were 40-36, 40-35 and 40-34 across the board.
Undefeated Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (12-0) of nearby Breaux Bridge, Louisiana made easy work of Brooklyn, New York’s Rohan Nanton (7-25-1). LeBlanc dominated from the opening bell finally stopped Nanton 1:26 into the 2nd round of a scheduled 6 round bout.
Local super middleweight “The” Todd Manuel (2-0) won his second professional bout in as many tries with a workman like 4 round unanimous decision victory over William “Poison Pete” Johnson of Sardis, Mississippi. Scores were 40-36, 40-36 and 39-37.
In an all out war Lafayette, Louisiana’s Jesse Patin (3-1) recovered from a brutal 1st round knockdown to score a brutal 3rd round knockout of the tough Tyrone Dowdy of Memphis, Tennessee. Patin was floored from straight right hand thrown by Dowdy and somehow got up only to be knocked down again. In the 3rd round Patin came out slugging and caught Dowdy with hard right hands and left hooks. Dowdy would go down three times in the round and the third he could not recover. Time of the stoppage was 2:40 into round 3.
Former University of Louisiana at Lafayette defensive back Bailey Bobbitt (1-0) had a very successful debut against fellow debut boxer Robert Hoyt (0-1) of Waveland, Mississippi. Hoyt was knocked down twice and the bout was waived off 1:05 of the 1st round.
Weights from Rayne!
February 24, 2010
Mason Menard 134.5 vs Thomas Dardar 135
*Louisiana State Lightweight Title*
Jarred LeBlanc 154 vs Rohan Nanton 153.5
Bobby Bryant 146.5 vs Ricky Dinkins
*Dinkins will weigh later
Todd Manuel 167 vs William Johnson 172.5
*Contract weight was 170, Johnson will reweigh*
Jesse Patin 177.7 vs Tyrone Dowdy 170.5
Baily Bobbitt 176 vs Ernest Parfait
*Parfait will weigh later*
Promoter – BoxNCar Promotions (Chad Broussard)
Venue – Civic Center – Rayne, Louisiana
Time – 7:00pm
Tickets - BoxNCar.com
Battle for the Belt!
February 22, 2010
The Louisiana state lightweight title will be on the line this coming Thursday night (Feb 25) as Bad Chad’s BoxNCar promotions presents “Thursday Night Fights – Battle for the Belt” at the Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana.
Reigning champion “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (9-1) will put his title on the line against Golden Meadow, Louisiana native Thomas Dardar (8-1). The local Menard has won 7 straight bouts, including 5 wins via knockout, since his lone defeat. On the other hand Dardar has won 5 straight bouts, including 4 via knockout, since his lone defeat.
The only common opponent is Ricky Dinkins which both have stopped inside 3 rounds.
Light middleweight Jarred "Lethal Weapon" LeBlanc (11-0) will put his unbeaten record on the line against Brooklyn, New York’s Rohan Nanton. LeBlanc was last seen in the main event at the Hollywood Casino in Mississippi winning a majority decision over tough veteran Darien Ford. LeBlanc was one of the hottest fighters in the southern region in 2009 going 7-0. Nanton has won 3 out of his last 5 bouts dating back to 2006.
Rayne’s Todd Manuel will look to move to 2-0 against Pete Johnson of Sardis, Mississippi. Manuel, a very successful amateur boxing won his only pro bout this past October. This will be Johnson’s 3rd trip to Rayne. He has lost both of his previous trips, although very competitive in both bouts.
Local super middleweight Jesse Patin (2-1) is looking to bounce back from his lone professional defeat as he is set to battle on the durable Tyrone Dowdy of Memphis, Tennessee.
Memphis, Tennessee’s Bobby “The Prodigy” Bryant (2-0) is scheduled to make his second trip to Rayne. He was very successful in his first trip stopping his opponent in just 31 seconds. His opponent this time is veteran boxer Ricky Dinkins of Mobile, Alabama.
Former University of Louisiana at Lafayette defensive back Bailey Bobitt will make his professional debut in the light heavyweight division.
Tables and general admission tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting BoxNCar.com or picked up locally at Red's, Planet Nutrition or Cajun Fitness
Kassi Crushes Droz!
January 23, 2010
It took rising heavyweight Fred Kassi a couple of rounds to warm up Saturday night at the Les Bonano promoted event the at Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, but when he did he made it count.
The southpaw stance of Tampa, Florida’s Moises Droz (13-9) took a while to figure out for New Orleans, Louisiana heavyweight Fred Kassi. The opening round saw both fighters in the “feeling out” process, which resulted in multiple stance changes by both fighters. The 2nd round was most of the same but a little more action. Towards the end of round 3 Kassi saw and opening and attacked. Kassi repeatedly snapped the 245lb Droz’s head back with powerful shots. Droz would go down from a flurry of shots. He would then get back up to one knee and take the full 10 count from the official.
With the win Kassi moves to 15-1 and has now won 3 straight bouts since his lone setback.
Fan favorite Bobby O’Bannon (8-2) of Mobile, Alabama made quick work of Georgia native Wes “Tiger” Taylor (7-15). The time of the stoppage was 1:20 of the very first round. Taylor was given a standing 8 count then was dropped shortly after. The bout was scheduled for 6 rounds.
In a battle of “Hills” Bobby won a majority decision over David. Bobby Hill (1-3) of Biloxi, Mississippi won his first professional boxing match in 4 tries over debuting Pensacola, Florida native David Hill (0-1). Bobby controlled the first 3 rounds of the bout but was dropped in round 4 to make the score cards close. Scores read 38-37, 38-37, 38-38 giving the majority decision to Bobby Hill
Geni Taylor (2-0) and Jasmine Patton (0-1) fought to a very close decision as amateur boxers, tonight they met again as professionals. In the amateurs Taylor got the win and tonight was no different. Taylor stalked her way to a 4 round unanimous decision. Geni was simply the busier and more aggressive fighter throughout. Scores were 40-36 across the board; neither fighter was ever in any danger.
In female action Columbus, Mississippi’s Cassandra Lindsey (3-4) upset previously unbeaten April Ward (4-1) of Batesville, Arkansas. Ward came in with a 100% knockout ratio, but tonight she was on the receiving end of most of the powerful blows. Lindsey landed a left hook early in the opening round that put Ward to the canvas, but Ward was also hit with shots while she was on the ground so a point was taken by referee Keith Hughes. Ward came on strong at the start of the 2nd round as Lindsey tired. Round 3 saw Lindsey take over again landing her left hook at will, Ward did not go down but was visibly hurt. With a bleeding mouth and a heavily swollen right eye Ward’s corner decided she could not answer the bell to start round 4.
Starting off the night in an absolute brawl was a pair of unbeaten boxers. New Orleans, Louisiana middleweight Marcus McDaniel (2-0) proved to be too much for Columbus, Mississippi’s Cleoney Fouqua (1-1). McDaniel started off fast and looked to make quick work of his opponent, but Fouqua showed great heart and a strong chin. McDaniel won all 4 rounds on all three judges’ scorecards but it was in no way shape or form an easy win for McDaniel as Fouqua did his part and made most of the rounds close
Boxing in Bay St. Louis
January 7, 2010
Brawlin N' Nawlins Press Release
BAY ST. LOUIS, MS – Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis announced that they will host another live boxing event on Saturday, January 23rd, at 8 p.m. This will be the forth boxing event Hollywood Casino and promoter Leslie Bonano have brought together since bringing boxing back to Bay St. Louis last summer.
“The crowds love these fights and they sell out very, very fast,” said Senior Director of Marketing Jeffrey Sabree. Promoter Les Bonano will showcase a very competitive card which has been the case in every match that has been held at the Hollywood Casino. “It will be a super night of boxing to go along with the long awaited Play-off championship games and Super bowl action making this month a sports lovers dream,” said Bonano.
The opening bout will be middle weights Marcus McDaniel from New Orleans, Louisiana, who has 1 win and 0 losses, fighting Cleoneyh Fuqua who has 1 win and 0 losses. Fuqua lives in Alabama, but fights out of Columbus, MS. This is a highly anticipated battle that many fans are already talking about.
The under card will feature some very competitive and exciting action with two female bouts one featuring Geni Taylor from New Orleans who is a National Amateur Golden Glove and Silver Glove Champion. Taylor will fight Jasmine Patton from Gulfport, Mississippi, who is quick to state that they fought in the Amateurs and she felt that she clearly won the decision. “Contrary to the judges decision Jasmine won their first fight and now she will prove to everyone that she will become the professional champion,” said her manager Warren Miguez.
The other female match will be April Ward from Batesville, Arkansas, unbeaten with 4 wins and 0 losses taking on Cassandra Lindsey from Columbus, MS.
In a light weight battle Rheno Nieto from Gulfport, MS, will step into the ring with David Hill making his professional debut out of Pensacola, Florida. Nieto who has 1 win and O losses made his pro debut in grand style at the Hollywood Casino in July and looks to continue his exciting style as he climbs up the latter of success.
In a six round tussle of heavy weights Mobile Alabama native Bobby O’Bannon with a record of 7 wins, all by knockout and 2 losses, will face off with Wes Taylor (7W – 14L) from Milledgeville, Georgia. Both of these big boys are crowd pleasers. In the main event two more heavyweights face off in an eight round bout scheduled on the card featuring “Big Fred Kassi,” (14W – 1L) from New Orleans vs. Byron Polley (23W – 10L) from Joseph, Missouri.
Don’t miss live boxing at Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis. Hurry, these fighting events will sell out soon. Tickets are $20, $50 and $100 and are on sale now at Tokens Gift Shop or call 1-800-229-2683. MATCHES, FIGHTS AND FIGHERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Must be at least 21 to attend. Visit www.hollywoodcasinobsl.com.
Krupp, Kassi and Bergeron in Da Parish
December 1, 2009
Boxing is back in “Da Parish”. Stick and Move Productions presents “Professional Boxing” this Friday night at the St. Bernard Cultural Center in Chalmette, Louisiana.
The main event will feature New Orleans, Louisiana native “Smokin” Jay Krupp (13-3) looking to rebound from a close decision loss in his last bout in August. Krupp is set to face 34 year old Tuscaloosa, Alabama native Anthony “The Animal” Middlebrooks (8-4-2). After winning 8 of his first 10 pro bouts Middlebrooks has gone 0-2-2 in his last 4.
This will be Krupp’s first bout in Louisiana since a July 2008 victory over Deon Nash. This bout will be scheduled for 8 rounds in the 147lb division.
In an 8 round heavyweight battle local New Orleans Heavyweight “Big” Fred Kassi 13-1) is set to face Myrtle Beach, South Carolina’s Joe Rabotte (5-8). Both heavyweight sluggers are familiar with each other as they both took part in the same event at the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi in October. Kassi won via 2nd round TKO and Rabotte lost due to a controversial TKO call.
The pride of “Da Parish” Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (10-5) will get to showcase his skills in front of his hometown for the first time in his professional career in a 6 round welterweight bout against battle tested New Yorker Joe Figueroa. Bergeron is looking to get back on the winning track, he has lost 3 straight.
National Golden Glove bronze medalist Geni Taylor of New Orleans will make her professional debut against the hard hitting Geboria Mayfield (2-4) of Columbus, Mississippi.
The under card will feature 400lb heavyweight Dustin “The Worm” Nichols (3-2) of Columbus, Mississippi, unbeaten heavyweight Leon “Beat Down” Dukes (5-0) of Tuscaloosa, Alabama and the debut of Cleoney Fuqua of New Orleans.
The bouts start at 7:00pm, door open at 6:00pm. The St. Bernard Cultural Center is located at 8245 West Judge Perez Blvd. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
Verdin vs Davis, Foreman III!
November 2, 2009
Cut Off, LA – The son of a legend will be in action for “November 2 Remember” a boxing and MMA event set to take place November 14, 2009 at the Youth Center in Cut Off, Louisiana. Heavyweight George “Monk” Foreman (3-0, 3KO’s) will be in a featured 4 round boxing match.
The main event will feature local Justin “Ironman” Verdin (8-0, 6KO’s), the current Louisiana State Champion, taking on a stiff challenge in Gulfport, Mississippi native Gevonte Davis (4-4). Both boxers are coming off of career best wins, Verdin against Larry Pryor and Davis against unbeaten Anthony Doughty.
The announcement of George Foreman being added to the card has created a buzz around the bayou. It is true unbeaten George “Monk” Foreman will be in action in a 4 round bout on this “November 2 Remember” event and in his corner will be his father, boxing legend, “Big” George Foreman. So, to answer the question that has been asked hundreds of times, YES George Foreman will be in Cut Off.
Also in a featured under card bout will be the hottest welterweight prospect in the state of Louisiana, John “Renegade” Revish (10-1-1). Revish, who trains with famed Gold medal winner Kennedy McKinney in Golden Meadow, Louisiana will be in action in a 6 round bout.
The undercard will feature Golden Meadow native Thomas “Cajun Arturo Gatti” Dardar (8-1), unbeaten cruiserweight Jesse Patin (2-0) of Lafayette and the professional debut of Lanny Dardar.
The MMA side of the card will feature the very exciting Brandon Matherne of Galliano, Louisiana in his second bout. Also local Team Extreme fighters Scotty St. Julian, Chris Verdin and the always crowd pleasing Keith Tivet.
Don’t miss this exciting once in a lifetime event. Tickets start at only $21.00. Tables and ringside seats are also on sale, but are going fast. To purchase tickets please call USA Labor in Golden Meadow at (985) 475-4758 or Extreme MMA in Houma at (985) 873-5277. Media requests should visit GulfCoastBoxing.com
GCB on Twitter!
October 28, 2009
Follow GulfCoastBoxing.com on Twitter. Get the latest up todate boxing news as it happens. Today Team GCB travels to Rayne, LA, look for live updates from the weigh ins and the night of the fights.
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Menard Goes for LA Title!
October 27, 2009
Bad Chad Broussard’s BoxNCar Promotions is glad to present “Rocking N Rayne 2”, live professional boxing on Thursday October 29 at the Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana.
The main event will feature local hero “Mighty” Mason Menard (8-1) in his fist bid for a championship. Menard will take on Monroe, Louisiana’s John Temple in an 8 round bout that will be contested for the vacant Louisiana state lightweight title. In an interesting twist the last lightweight state champ was none other than promoter Chad Broussard.
Menard has won 5 straight bouts including 3 via first round knockout.
In an interesting welterweight attraction, welterweight prospect “Renegade” John Revish (9-1) will step back into the ring against spoiler Thomas “June Bug” Davis of Knoxville, Tennessee. This will be a 6 round bout.
Lafayette, Louisiana cruiserweight Jesse Partin (1-0) will look to stay unbeaten in front of his huge following as he is set to face Heath Collett (0-1) of Kiln, Mississippi.
The rest of the under card is filled with some of the best amateur boxer in the surrounding states in their first professional bouts.
Local Rayne product Todd Manuel who represented the local Frog Capital boxing club in the amateur ranks will test the professional waters against 24 fight veteran Tyrone Dowdy of Memphis, Tennessee
Very highly decorated amateur sensation Bobby Bryant of Memphis, Tennessee will make his professional debut against Mississippi native Ricky Davis (0-1) in a welterweight bout.
Lafayette, Louisiana native Josh Joseph will make his debut against 36 fight veteran Charles Sims. Sims is no stranger to the Lafayette area, he has visited twice in the past year, both in losing but gritty efforts. Joseph is fighting out of the popular Ragin’ Cajun boxing club.
Tickets are on sale now and can be bought at BoxNCar.com or by calling 337.298.7658. Doors will open at 6:00pm and bouts start promptly at 7:00pm.
LeBlanc Edges Ford!
October 3, 2009
An undefeated prospect matched against a veteran with a deceiving record proved to be the right recipe for Les Bonano’s Brawlin N’ Nawlins return to the Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
The undefeated prospect Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (11-0) of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana came away with a majority decision against the veteran Darien Ford (14-18) of New Orleans, Louisiana, but not without a little resistance.
As usual LeBlanc came out very much so the aggressor and it seemed as if he was going to make easy work of Ford. Aside from a gushing nose LeBlanc seemed to take the first two rounds with shear aggression. Ford seemed to rethink his strategy in the 3rd. While trying only to land wild right hands in the opening rounds Ford was now countering the oncoming LeBlanc and was having some success in doing so in rounds 3 and 4. A clash of heads opened up a cut on LeBlanc’s hairline in round 4 that added to the already bloody bout.
With the fight seemingly on the line LeBlanc out hustled the 38 year old Ford in rounds 5 and 6. The judge’s scorecards read 59-55, 59-55, 57-57, giving LeBlanc the win via majority decision. FightNews scored the bout 58-56 for LeBlanc.
Light heavyweight Vonny Davis (4-4-1) of nearby Gulfport, Mississippi pounded out a hard fought 4 round decision over previously undefeated Anthony Doughty (5-1) of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The first 3 rounds of this bout were a carbon copy of each other. Davis used his speed to keep the hard hitting Doughty on the outside, Davis continually peppered Doughty with shots to the body and head.
In round 4 the tide seemed to turn in Doughty’s favor as he unleashed a variety of overhand rights, a few of which seemed to stun Davis. But in the end it was too little too late as all three judges scored the bout 39-37 for Vonny Davis. With the win Davis snaps a three fight losing streak.
Mobile, Alabama’s Bobby O’Bannon (7-2) stopped Joe Rabotte (5-8) of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in the 4th round of their heavyweight slugfest. Rabotte would go down 4 times in the first 2 rounds but would also catch and stun O’Bannon right at the bell to end round 2. Rabotte would go on to have his best round in the 3rd, but O’Bannon closed the show with a hammering right hand 2:40 into the 4th. The bout was scheduled for 6 rounds.
Former amateur standout Rheno Neito (1-0) of Gulfport, Mississippi impressed the crowd as he demolished Biloxi, Mississippi MMA fighter Randolph Cole (0-1) just 1:08 into the opening round. Neito dropped Cole very early in the round then forced referee Keith Hughes to call a halt to the bout shortly after.
“Big” Fred Kassi (13-1), of New Orleans, Louisiana withstood an early barrage from Tennessee native “Marvelous” Marvin Hunt (12-25-1) to score a 2nd round knockout victory. Hunt would go down twice in round 2, once from a body blow and the next from a right hand. Kassi is now 1-1 after a 25 month layoff.
The opening bout of the night saw Tuscaloosa, Alabama’s Gundrick King (10-4) win a 4 round decision over Brad “Boom Boom” Thompson (15-17-1) of Brookwood, Alabama. Scores were 40-36, 40-36, 40-36. This was a rematch of a March 6, 2009 bout that saw King win via 3rd round TKO.
Promoter: Brawlin N Nawlins. Matchmaker: Jimbo Stevenson.
Interviews with Jarred LeBlanc, Chad Broussard and a chat with Carl McNickels will follow in the next few days.
Menard and LeBlanc Win in Rayne
September 15, 2009
Very Late Results
On Saturday night August 29, 2009 , Chad Broussard’s Box N Car Productions produced “Rockin N Rayne” a 6 bout boxing event at the Rayne Civic Center.
The main event of the night featured hometown hero Mason Menard (7-1) taking on Bay St. Louis, Mississippi native Leo Perez (0-5). Menard didn’t take much time in disposing of Perez as he ended the bout just :50 into the opening round via a well placed left hook to the chin of Perez.
The co-feature of the night pitted Brad “Busy Bee” Solomon (8-0) originally of Lafayette, LA now fighting out of Atlanta, GA taking on the always dangerous Thomas “June Bug” Davis (12-12-2) of Knoxville, TN. According to reports Solomon was simply to fast and slick for Davis, but to his credit David would go down but was able to hear the final bell. Scores were 60-52, 60-53 and 60-53 all for the unbeaten Brad Solomon.
Another local prospect Jarred LeBlanc (10-0) bullied his way to a 2nd round TKO win over Antonio Adams (7-21-1 of Laurel, MS. An unintentional head butt in the opening round didn’t seem to slow down the undefeated LeBlanc. All 7 of LeBlanc’s knockout wins have come in the 1st or 2nd rounds!
Highly popular Lafayette, LA amateur fighter Jesse Patin was not as successful as he would have hoped for in his 1st professional bout. Patin caught his opponent, 22 fight veteran Ernest Parfait (2-20) of Bay St. Louis, MS, with a nasty overhand right in the opening round that send Parfait down to the canvas, Patin then would get a little carried away and continue to hit his downed opponent. Parfait was deemed no longer able to continue and the bout would be ruled a no contest by the Louisiana State Boxing and Wrestling Commission. The bout has been signed to take place again on September 26 at the Coushatta Casino in Kinder, Louisiana.
Other results:
Gundrick King UD4 Charles Sims
Thomas Dardar TKO2 Ricky Dinkins
Boxing Back at the Hollywood in BSL!
September 15, 2009
Press Release
BAY ST. LOUIS, MS – Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis announced that they will host another live boxing event on Saturday, October 3, 2009, at 8p.m. Hollywood Casino and promoter Leslie Bonano have teamed up again to showcase outstanding and exciting pro boxing and bringing back some favorite fighters from the sold-out “Return of the Rings” matches in July.
“We sold out weeks ahead last time, so we recommend coming out and getting your tickets early. You can also purchase tickets by phone,” said Senior Director of Marketing Jeffrey Sabree. “We were known for bringing the best boxing events to Hancock County before and we’re ready to give our guest what they want,” said Sabree.
In the main event Jarrad “The Lethal Weapon” Leblanc from Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, will be fighting Darrien “The Holy Angel” Ford out of New Orleans, Louisiana. This will be the best fighter that Leblanc (10 wins O loses) has ever fought in his career. Leblanc brings the excitement to the crowd with his non-stop action and is now looking to join, Jake Delhomme and Ali Landry as the celebrities of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, who are known World Wide.
Darrien Ford from New Orleans has fought and defeated some of the best fighters in the World. He is known as the upset specialist. In his career he defeated former World Champion Charles “The Natural Murray,” defeated former North American Boxing Federation Champion Ivan Robertson and lost a decision to former World Champion Freddie Norwood. “Ford will push Leblanc to the limit and find out if he is the real deal or not. This will be a great fight. Ford has ‘11 wins 17 losses, but don’t let that record fool you,” said Bonano.
Light heavy weight Joseph Smith from Mobile , Alabama, (5W - 2 L) will battle it out with undefeated Anthony Doughty from Atlanta, Georgia, (5W- 0L) in a 4 round bout. “This will be an exciting scrap that will keep fans on their feet,” said Bonano.
In the heavy weight division Gulf Coast native Bobby O’Bannon (6W-2L) from Mobile, Alabama, will face off with Joseph Radotto (7W – 5L) from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Both of these big boys are crowd pleasers. Another heavyweight six round bout is scheduled on the card featuring “Big Fred Kassi” (12W – OL). His opponent is still waiting to be confirmed.
In a 4 round special attraction match-up junior lightweight Rheno Nieto from Gulfport , Mississippi will make his professional debut against Randolph Cole from Biloxi, MS. This will also have the fans on their feet.
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Don’t miss live boxing at Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis. Hurry, these fighting events will sell out soon. Tickets are $20, $50 and $100 and on sale now at Tokens Gift Shop or call 1-800-229-6283. MATCHES, FIGHTS AND FIGHERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Must be at least 21 to attend. Visit www.hollywoodcasinobsl.com.
GCB Boxing Blog!
August 4, 2009
I would like to apologize to our fans for the site being messed up, it has been about a week or sr and I finally figured out what was wrong. We have lost a lot of information, but we needed a fresh start. We will soon launch a GulfCoastBoxing Twitter so we can post live results from each event we cover.
Now back to the boxing news…
Chad Broussard’s Box N Car promotion’s next event has been announced and it will feature most of Louisiana’s top talent! “Rockin in Rayne” will take place August, 29 at the Rayne Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana. Rayne’s own Mason Menard is scheduled in the main event with the co-featured bout of the night featuring Jarred LeBlanc.
Also scheduled to be on the card is “Renegade” John Revish (9-1-1), "Busy Bee" Brad Solomon (7-0), Bobby "Bayou Bomber" Aucoin (20-0), and the professional debut of Lafayette’s Jesse Pattin. More news on this card as it comes available.
Justin Verdin is scheduled in a 4 round bout next weekend (8/14) at the Houma Civic Center in Houma, Louisiana, no opponent has been named. Also on that same card will be Martin Verdin of Dulac, Louisiana. A James Johnson and Martin Verdin rematch was discussed but terms could not be agreed upon, so Verdin is still searching for a match.
On that same weekend Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (10-4) who just dropped a hard fought 6 round decision less than two weeks ago is scheduled to fight. Gary will travel so Salem, New Jersey to take on the undefeated Henry Lundy (14-0-1, 8KO’s). Lundy, from near by Philadelphia, has only one blemish on his record, that being a draw with then unbeaten Darnell Jiles, Jr. Bergeron received 8 stitches over his left eye following the Mitchell bout on June 25 in Mississippi.
Not much boxing going on other wise and of course this is usually the slow season with football season starting again. I will try to make this blogging routine more often as I will try to give you guys more insight on the local boxing world. Maybe a little more inside information will get us more readers.
Mitchell Shocks Bergeron!
July 26, 2009
Henry Mitchell felt he was due for a big win after being so close on so many different occasions, well Saturday night at Les Bonano’s “Return to the Ring” at the Hollywood Casino in Bay St .Louis, Mississippi, Mitchell finally got it.
An unintentional head but barley 1 minute into the opening round derailed “Southern Pride” Gary Bergeron’s (10-4) plans. Bergeron’s eye would swell and require 8 stitches to close his wound. “Ambush” Mitchell (9-11-1) would take over from there, just plainly out working the gritty Bergeron.
Mitchell , of Ft Walton, Florida, repeatedly beat Bergeron to the punch, but Bergeron would always fire back with a left uppercut to the body of Mitchell. It was simply a case of constant speed punching against well placed power shots. In the end the judges’ scorecards read 59-54, 58-56 and 58-56.
Atlanta, Georgia’s Brad Solomon (7-0) had no trouble with his opponent change as he destroyed late sub Hasim Louis (0-2) of Tenneesee in the opening round with a nasty body shot. Official time was :36. Solomon was scheduled to face Mikel Williams of Monroe, Louisiana, but Williams failed to make the trip due to weight issues.
46 year old Tommy Harper (15-2), of Destrehan, Louisiana ended a 153 month layoff and had little trouble with Shreveport, Louisiana’s “Gentleman” James Johnson (23-34-3). Harper, the bigger and stronger fighter, kept Johnson back tracked throughout the fight and was able to land his big right hand whenever he chose. Scores were 40-36 across the board. This was Harper’s one and only comeback fight according to promoter Les Bonano.
Rayne, Louisiana’s “Rocky Hard Mighty” Mason Menard overcame a nasty right shoulder injury to decision a tough Bobby Hill (0-3) of Gulfport, Mississippi. Menard’s speed and power were too much for Hill to deal with; although he would hear the final bell he was unable to win any round on any of the judges’ score cards. With the win, Menard moves to 6-1 with 4 KO’s. Menard and stable mate Jarred LeBlanc are scheduled to fight again on August 29 in Menard’s hometown of Rayne, Louisiana.
James Jenkins (1-1) of Atlanta, Georgia scored a late come from behind victory over Nashville, Tennessee’s James Jones (0-2). Jones seemed to be winning the bout on the scorecards, but Jenkins scored with some heavy blows in the final seconds of the final round and the official called a halt to the bout with just seconds remaining.
Quick Notes from Bay St. Louis!
July 25, 2009
Jay Krupp KO2 Anthony Bowman
Krupp took a little while to figure out Bowman, who was giving Krupp some very awkward movement, but when he did he did it with a bang. Krupp caught Bowman at the end of a left hook that put him down. Bowman was able to get up, but was on very shaky legs and it was waived off 1:37 into round 2
Kim Conner TKO 3 Dora Baptiste
A quick start for Baptiste ended just as quickly as it got started. Conner backed down Baptiste and by round 3 it was just too much for Baptiste to deal with. Baptiste was down 3 times in all. Conner moves to 4-1
Bobby O’Bannon KO4 Poncho Montovias
In what would easily be called the 2009 gulf coast boxing fight of the year, Mobile, Alabama heavyweight Bobby O’Bannon overcame a rough start to viciously knockout former national silver gloves champions Francisco “Poncho” Montovias. Round one saw both fighter hit the deck, but O’Bannon would end up being saved by the bell. Round 2 was all Montovias as O’Bannon didn’t seem to have his legs back. Poncho came out slugging in round 3, but would fade badly towards the end of the round; O’Bannon would land some thudding blows to end the round. The final round saw Montovias’ conditioning fail him badly. With nothing left in the tank of Poncho, O’Bannon pressed him to the ropes and unleashed a right hand and a left hook that knocked Montovias out on his feet. Poncho slowly fell to the ground. He would then be attended by the medics at ringside; he would eventually be stretchered out of the ring and sent to the hospital. More to come on this.
Jarred LeBlanc UD6 Moises Martinez
LeBlanc came out on fire as usual and would knockdown the tough Martinez twice in the opening round. LeBlanc would cruise and easily win the rest of the bout. 60-52 across the board.
Bobby Aucoin UD4 Miguel Alfaro
Bobby Aucoin ended a two year layoff by winning a 4 round decision over Miguel Alfaro. Aucoin moves to 20-0.
Full report from the two day event to follow!
"Monk" KO's Weaver in 1!
June 6, 2009
George “Monk” Foreman III (1-0, 1KO) scored a first round KO over Clyde Weaver (0-2) in his professional debut on Saturday night at the Coushatta Casino in Kinder, Louisiana. It was a barrage of shots that sent Weaver down and out at 1:16. Foreman III weighed 237 lbs. and is trained and managed by his famous father, former heavyweight champion George Foreman.
In the co-feature, Johanna Mendez (5-0-1) stayed unbeaten with a convincing 4 round decision win over Lafayette, Louisiana’s Kasha Chamblin (11-3). Mendez used her superior speed to move in and move out before Chamblin could get her punched off. Scores were 40-36, 40-36 and 39-37. GCB scored the bout 40-36.
In what ended up being the fight of the night, Conroe, Texas native “Crazy” Robbie McClimans (6-5-2) survived a slow start to outlast Gulfport, Mississippi heavyweight Aaron “King of the Jungle” Lyons (13-5). The first 2 rounds of the bout easily went to the much busier Lyons. Lyons used a nice body attack to slow down the faster McClimans. The tide started to turn for McClimans in round 3 when Lyons started to tire and started trying to end the bout on one shot. The smaller in stature McClimans landed jab and right hand combinations at will during round 4, 5, 6 and took those round with ease. Big shots were landed throughout the bout, but neither fighter was ever in trouble. Scores were 58-56 across the board for Robbie McClimans
Breaux Bridge, Louisiana light middleweight Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (8-0) won his 2nd bout by first round knockout in a week. This time against journeymen Billy “Outlaw” Outley (15-52-2) of Shreveport, Louisiana. Outley was down 3 times in the bout the final time from an uppercut. The official time was 2:43 of the opening round
Heavyweight contender Travis “Freight Train” Walker (31-2-1) of Houston, Texas played with 46 year old Gary Butler (13-32) of Dallas, Texas for 2 round before ending the bout with a body shot :53 into round 2. Walker had Butler down 4 times all from body shots. Walker has now won 3 straight bouts all by knockout since his stoppage loss to heavyweight contender Chris Arreola, which was broadcasted by HBO. Butler has now lost 22 straight bouts 21 by stoppage.
Lafayette, Louisiana cruiserweight Blake “The Candyman” Prevost (11-1-1) pounded out a 4 round unanimous decision over Moses “Machine Gun” Robinson (6-10-1) of Marshall, Texas. Prevost easily took the first 3 rounds being the more active fighter. In round 4 Robinson started out well but Prevost rallied late to take the round on the GCB scorecards, but apparently not on the official cards. Scores were 39-37, 39-37 and 39-37. This was Prevost’s first bout since 2006 and Robinson’s first bout since 1993.
In an all action female bout Tiffany Junot (5-2) of New Orleans, Louisiana took a hard fought 4 round decision over Camden, Arkansas’s Kita Watkins (3-4). Scores read 40-36, 39-37, 39-37. Watkins was ruled down in round 2.
Orange, Texas’s Cody “The Kid” Richard (2-0-1) won his second straight bout with a 3rd round TKO victory over Memphis, Tennessee’s Carlos Johnson (0-5). Richard worn down Johnson throughout the bout. The time was 1:12 of round 3.
The opening bout of the night saw Chase Shields (27-2-1) score a lackluster 6 round decision over Charles Sims (3-30-1). Shields never pressed the action and Sims was in retreat mode from the opening bell. Scores were 60-54 across the board. This was a rematch from a April 2003 bout that Shields also won.
Promoter: Ron Weathers. Matchmaker: Reggie McGowan
Boone Stuns Green!
June 1, 2009
The up and down career of Darnell Boone (16-10-2) has just a major upside. Friday night at the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino in Baton Rouge, Louisiana Boone of Atlanta, Georgia scored a devastating 7th round stoppage of former contender Calvin Green (20-4-1) of Baytown, Texas.
Both boxers were coming off of wins that were coming off of long layoffs, but the younger Boone seemed to be the more energized and quicker of the two. Boone use his awkward movement and punching to frustrate the plodding forward Green. In round 7 with Green swinging for the fences Boone countered with a right hand that caught Green flush. Green would try to stay on his feet but he was met with a hook that sent him down. He would rise from the canvas, but before the referee could finish the 8-count his corner threw in the towel.
Darnell Boone has now won two straight bouts after a 22 month layoff.
Louisiana welterweight prospect John “Renegade” Revish (9-1-1) turned in his best performance to date with a dominating 6 round decision win over a very game and skilled Henry “Ambush” Mitchell (8-11-1) of Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Revish’s best round as a professional boxer came in the 4th round as he landed his right hand and left hook at will, the bell seemed to save Mitchell. Revish would go on to take the final two rounds. Judges scores read 60-54, 60-54 and 59-55.
Mobile, Alabama heavyweight Bobby O’Bannon (5-2-1) knocked down Reno, Nevada’s Michael Moncrief (3-6-1) 3 times in route to a stoppage 2:37 into the very first round. The very aggressive O’Bannon’s fourth 1st round stoppage.
In a battle of unbeaten female welterweights Yvette McCullar (2-0) battered a very tough Dora Baptiste (1-1) of Gulfport, Mississippi for 4 rounds. The movement and switching from left to right handed stance seemed to confuse Baptiste and that lead to 4 knockdowns through 4 rounds. The final one ended with referee Kenny Licata waiving the bout off giving McCullar the TKO victory
Atlanta, Georgia welterweight prospect Brad Solomon (5-0) kept his unbeaten streak alive with a 4 round decision over a game but out gunned Anthony Bowman (9-35-2) of Johnsonville, Tennessee. Solomon was just too fast a slick for the 36 year old Bowman. Scores read 40-36 across the board.
Mobile, Alabama’s Josh Thorpe (1-0) had a successful professional debut with a close 4 round decision over Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s Tommy Manning (0-2). Manning was down in the first round but came back in rounds 2 and 3 to make the fight close. Judges scores were 38-36, 38-36 and 38-37.
Promoter: Jimbo Stevenson’s Bayou Promotions. Matchmaker: Jimmy Waldrop
Verdin Wins Rubber Match!
June 1, 2009
In Ya Face Fight Productions in association with Tad Gaspard Productions and Gulf Coast Boxing put on a stellar card this past Saturday night in front of sold out crowd of 1,500 rowdy fans at the Youth Center in Cut Off, Louisiana.
The main event was a rubber match between two former champions. Martin Verdin of Dulac, Louisiana controlled the first bout and won by split decision and in the second bout James Johnson edged out a split decision. This time the fight was not nearly as close; Martin Verdin showed another gear and simply outworked Johnson over 10 rounds. Neither fighter was in any trouble but there was good action throughout the bout. In the end Verdin won by scored of 99-91, 97-94 and 96-94.
Justin “Ironman” Verdin kept his unbeaten streak alive with a 4th round TKO victory over Omid “The Sandman” Bahreini of Russellville, Arkansas. Justin controlled the entire bout from bell to bell with his speed and slick jab. There were complaints of a quick stoppage but to Verdin’s credit the decision would not have been in question.
Breaux Bridge’s Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc destroyed Leo Perez: 40 into the very first round. LeBlanc landed a thudding body shot that put Perez down for the count.
The opening bout of the night saw Tom “The Bomb” Dardar of Golden Meadow blast out Ricky Dinkins of Mobile, Alabama in two rounds. Dardar landed a nice overhand left hand to end the bout.
The night also featured 8 mixed martial art bouts. The main MMA bout of the night saw Courtney Pollard win via choke over Chase Cheramie.
