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"Monk" KO's Weaver in 1st!
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
Check out the new GCB Media Blog for picture and video from this event!
Photo By : GCB Photos
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.
Photo taken by GCB Photos
George Foreman III in Coushatta!
June 1, 2009
Press Release
GEORGE FOREMAN III MAKES PRO DEBUT IN ‘FAMILY TRADITION’ PROFESSIONAL BOXING CARD SATURDAY, JUNE 6, AT COUSHATTA CASINO RESORT IN KINDER, LA.
If the adage stating the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree is, indeed, true, then young George Foreman III is in for a long and illustrious career as a professional boxer.
However, before securing a spot in the Hall of Fame, Foreman needs to accomplish a few things. And the first goal is to get a win in his pro debut.
Foreman, who goes by his long-time nickname of “Monk,” has his first fight Saturday, June 6, at the Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder, La.
The four-round heavyweight bout is the special attraction on the 10-bout professional boxing card dubbed, appropriately enough, “Family Tradition.”
Foreman has been preparing for this day, for this fight for more than one and one-half years. It was then, during 2007, that he first began to train to be a boxer. Prior to that Foreman graduated from Rice University in his hometown of Houston.
But considering his size—he’s 6-foot-5-inches and weighs a solid 240 pounds—family ties and lifetime exposure to boxing, it seems almost natural Foreman would try his hand, or fists, at the sport.
And so he will, against Clyde Weaver, June 6.
The 10-bout card, which includes two women’s bouts, is in The Pavilion and starts at 7:30 p.m. (Central) with doors opening at 6:30.
Tickets, priced at $20, $40 and $65, are available through Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations and at The Pavilion box office. Box office hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturday; the box office telephone number is 800-584-7263.
Other bouts on the card include:
Six-round bouts:
Heavyweight Travis Walker (30-2-1, 24 KOs) of Houston against Ed White (11-15, 8 KOs) of Parsons, Tenn.;
Heavyweight Aaron Lyons (9-4, 7 KOs) of Gulfport, Miss., against Robbie McClimans (5-5-2, 2 KOs) of Conroe, Texas;
Super Welterweight Chase Shields (26-2-1, 13 KOs) of Houston against Charles Simms (3-29-1, 1 KO) of Arlington, Texas;
Super Welterweight Jarred LeBlanc (6-0, 4 KOs) of Breaux Bridge, La., against Billy Outley (15-51-2, 12 KOs) of Shreveport, La.
Four-round bouts:
Cruiserweight Blake Prevost (10-1-1, 4 KOs) of Eunice, La., against Moses Robinson
(6-9-1, 2 KOs) of Marshall, Texas;
Super Featherweight Cody Richard (1-0-1, 0 KOs) of Orange, Texas, against Carlos Johnson (0-4) of Parsons;
Lightweight Mason Menard (5-1, 4 KOs) of Rayne, La., against an opponent to be determined.
Women’s bouts:
Bantamweight Kasha Chambin (11-2, 5 KOs) of Lafayette, La., against Johanna Mendez (4-0-1, 1 KO) of Houston;
Welterweight Tiffany Junot (4-2, 3 KOs) of New Orleans against Kita Watkins (3-3, 1 KO) of Camden, Ark.
Weaver, from Parsons, has a record of 0-1 and made his pro debut Feb. 28.
Weights from Baton Rouge!
May 28, 2009
Weights from Baton Rouge
Calvin Green 153.8 vs Darnell Boone 150.7
John Revish 145.1 vs Henry Mitchell 144.9
Michael Moncrief vs Bobby O'Bannon 245
Yvette McCullar 143.3 vs Dora Baptiste 146.1
Anthony Bowman vs Brad Soloman 147
Tommy Manning 165 vs Josh Thorpe 163.5
Moncrief and Bowman will weigh later.
Promoter: Bayou Promotions, Jimbo Stevenson
Venue: Belle of Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Bell Time: Friday - 9:00pm
Tickets can be purchased on site.
Verdin vs Johnson III in Cut Off!
May 27, 2009
In Ya Face Fight Productions in association with Tad Gaspard Productions and Gulf Coast Boxing present “Brawl on the Bayou” on Saturday, May 30 at the Cut Off Youth Center in Cut Off, Louisiana. This will be a night filled with professional boxing and mixed martial arts action.
The night is being headlined by a 10 round boxing main event featuring former Louisiana State light heavyweight champion “Smilin” Martin Verdin of Dulac, Louisiana taking on the dangerous “Gentleman” James Johnson of Shreveport. Louisiana. This will be the third meeting between these two fighters. In the first meeting (August 2005) Verdin edged out a 6 round split decision in a bout that launched him on a 6 fight winning streak that was highlighted by a Louisiana state championship.
In second meeting (June 2007) the NABC light heavyweight championship was on the line and Johnson was the winner via 10 round split decision. This 3rd and final meeting should prove to be the best yet as a lot of trash talking has been floating around.
The co featured boxing bout of the night will showcase Louisiana State Champion and Grand Bois, Louisiana native Justin “Ironman” Verdin. Verdin who is unbeaten in professional boxing and professional mixed martial arts is scheduled to face Charles Hammac of Mobile, Alabama in a light heavyweight bout.
The boxing undecard will feature local Golden Meadow, Louisiana native Tom “The Bomb” Dardar (5-1) in a 4 round bout and Lafayette, Louisiana fighters Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (6-0) and “Mighty” Mason Menard (4-1) in separate 6 round bouts.
The MMA main event will pit two former teammates doing battle. Courtney “Wilderbeast” Pollard and Chase Cheramie, once partners on Galliano MMA franchise “Team Cobra”, now have split ways and will face each other in a “Bayou Grudge Match”. This will be a bout in the super heavyweight division.
The MMA undercard is stacked with local bayou talent. Representing the Golden Meadow area are fighters such as Oren “T B-Do” Terrebonne, Randy “Savage” Cheramie, Casey “Wild Child” Guidry and Marty “Rip Tide” Guidry. Representing In Ya Face Fight Productions will be top fighters such as Brian Billiot, Brennen Sevin, Blake Verdin and Lanny Dardar.
Last but certainly NOT least a special female boxing exhibition that will feature local Fallon Kirby taking on Rachel Godwin of Pensacola, Florida.
1998 Olympic gold medal winner and 3 time world champion Kennedy “The King” McKinney and UFC veteran Din Thomas are scheduled to appear
VIP tables and Tickets (VIP and General Admission) are on sale now and are going FAST!! They can be purchased in Golden Meadow at Original USA Labor (985.475.4758) or in Houma at Extreme Mixed Martial Arts (985.873.5722). As always card is subject to change without notice.
Lopez Whips Weaver!
May 8, 2009
May 8, 2009 – Kenner, Louisiana - Light heavyweight Alfonso Lopez (14-0) had to wait a few extra days to celebrate Cinco De Mayo, but he can celebrate a little bit more now that he holds a very convincing win over New Orleans, Louisiana veteran Ron “The Corba” Weaver.
Lopez who hails from Cut and Shoot, Texas had only seen the 6th round twice in his young career and held an distinct experience disadvantage to the 35 year old Weaver who has seen in the 10th round 15 times in his 15 year career. So naturally Lopez started his bout Friday night a little cautious, but that proved to be the only ground that he would give up. After seemingly giving up the first 2 rounds Lopez started to walk down the smaller Weaver in round 3. Weaver was at his highest weight in his past 15 bouts (Weaver 171, Lopez 177).
Round 6 saw Lopez really start to impose his will with some very crafty inside work. Weaver felt content with his back to the ropes, and Lopez made him pay with 3 vicious uppercuts that had Weaver weary, but the bell cut Lopez’s rally short.
Weaver made round 8 close landing two hard left hooks, but that only fed fuel to Lopez’s fire and he came back and closed the bout out strong winning the final two rounds by wide margins. Final scored read 100-89, 99-91, 98-92. After the scores were real Lopez got on the house microphone and dedicated his bout to the recently passed Benjamin Flores.
Undercard:
The opening bout of the night proved to be the most exciting of the night. In a battle of two solid Louisiana amateur boxers making their professional debuts the hometown boxer proved to be a little too much. Ron Weaver protégé Marcus McDaniel (1-0) boxed his way to a 4 round unanimous decision win over Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s Tommy Manning (0-1). Manning proved to be the bigger puncher, but McDaniel was the busier fighter throughout doing a lot of his damage in close quarters. Scores read 40-36, 40-36, 40-36
Tuscaloosa, Alabama’s Anthony Doughty (4-0) was forced to go the distance for the first time in his four fight career by Nashville, Tennessee native James Jones (0-1). The bout was slugged out over the first two rounds and was very close on the cards. In round 3 Doughty landed a right hand followed by a left hook that put Jones on the canvas, he would get up and land a couple shots of his own to make the round close. The knockdown proved to be the difference in the bout. In the end Doughty would win via split decision. Scores read 39-36, 38-37 for Doughty and 38-37 for Jones.
Baton Rouge’s “Pretty” Rickey Kinney (4-1) proved to be way too much for Gulfport, Mississippi’s Bobby Hill (0-2). From the opening bell Kinney put on a body work clinic. Hill did manage to make it to round 3. Hill was down three times in round 3 all from body shots. The official time was 2:24 of round 3.
Light middleweight Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc kept his unbeaten streak alive with a 6 round decision win over Jackson, Tennessee’s Anthony Bowman. After a shaky start LeBlanc figured out the awkward Bowman. In round 4 LeBlanc would drop Bowman with a right hand to the side of the head. Scores read 60-53, 60-53, 59-54
The final bout of the night was a rematch of a May 2008 encounter between Rayne, Louisiana’s “Mighty” Mason Menard (4-1) and Mobile, Alabama native Mario Lacey. In the first bout Menard took out Lacey in two rounds. The 2009 encounter it only took Menard 1 round to take Lacey out. Lacey would visit the canvas twice, the second time he would not get up. The official time was 2:54 of the very first round.
Promoter: The Fight Guys, LLC. Event Coordinator: Les Bonano
Interesting Links:
Pre-fight interview with Ron Weaver
Les Bonano on WWL Radio
Weaver vs Lopez in Kenner!
May 3, 2009
Les Bonano and The Fight Guys, LLC are back with this Friday night May 8 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, Louisiana with “Brawin In Nawlins”. Eight bouts are scheduled for this event including 5 professional boxing matches.
An interesting 10 round main event will feature former IBA Continental champion and local New Orleans, Louisiana native Ron “The Cobra” Weaver (29-17-2) fighting for the first time since November 2005 and the first time at home since 2002. Weaver will face a tough test in undefeated Cut and Shoot, Texas native Alphonso Lopez (13-0). This will be the 26 year old Lopez’s first scheduled 10 round bout.
The undercard is highlighted with local Louisiana talent.
Baton Rouge’s “Pretty” Rickey Kinney (3-1) who is coming off of a solid win over Atlanta, Georgia’s Curtis Smith (10-5) will be in action in a 6 round light welterweight bout.
Alabama light heavyweight knockout artist. Anthony Doughty (3-0), 3KO’s)will look too stay undefeated as he is scheduled to take on Greenville, Mississippi’s James Jones, who will be making his professional debut. Doughty has only been out of the opening round once in his 3 professional bouts.
Two amateurs who have waited a long while to make their leap into the professional ranks will finally get their chance. New Orleans, Louisiana’s Marcus McDaniel and Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s Tommy Manning will do battle in a 4 round middleweight bout.
Rounding out the card will be highly touted Lafayette, Louisiana area prospects Jarred LeBlanc (5-0) and Mason Menard (4-1) in separate bouts.
The night is also scheduled to feature 4 mixed martial art bouts including Slidell, Louisiana’s Charlie Rader who holds the USA MMA 170lb championship.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or BrawlininNawlins.com Bell time is 7:30pm
LeBlanc Wins By KO!
April 29, 2009
*LATE RESULTS*
Local favorite Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc moved his record to 5-0 with a dominating proformance over the always gritty Steve “Road Warrior” Verdin of Houma, Louisiana. LeBlanc dominated from the opening bell. LeBlanc pounded the retreating Verdin with a vicious jab and powerful hooks. Verdin would escape the first round, but would be dropped in the second twice, the second knockdown coming from 3 consecitive right hands that put him down for the count. The improving LeBlanc will be in action again on May 8th in Kenner, Louisiana.
Olympic heavyweight alternate Quantis Graves (2-0) past his second test as a professional, this time against tough Texan Brent Urban (1-1). Urban was the aggressor throughout the bout but was blistered with right hands and hooks to the body while chasing Graves down. In the end the judges saw it as a majority decision scores were 40-36, 39-37 for Graves, the other judge saw it 38-38.
Rayne, Louisiana’s “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (4-1) was forced to go the distance for the first time in his young career as he squared off against Rosenberg, Texas native Hector Perez (3-5-1). Menard controlled the entire bout and dropped Perez in rounds 1 and 4. Menard’s speed was too much for the plotting Perez. All three judges scored the bout 60-52. Menard is back in action on May 8th in Kenner, Louisiana.
The opening boxing bout of the night saw welterweight John “Renegade” Revish (8-1-1) of Golden Meadow, Louisiana move his winning streak to 6 bouts with a opening round knockout of Waylon Dinkins (0-2). Dinkins started the bout moving forward and walked into a picture perfect left hook thrown by Revish. The time was 24 seconds of the very first round.
Brawlin' At Blackham!
April 1, 2009
Pictured are Jarred LeBlanc, Chad Broussard and Mason Menard
Photo Credit: Logan Mechce
Bad Chad Broussard’s BoxNCar Promotions is back with another event at the Blackham Coliseum in Lafayette, Louisiana. This time on April 18, 2009 Broussard will present a mixture of Boxing and MMA .
The main event will feature hometown hero Jarred “Leathel Weapon” LeBlanc (4-0, 3KO’s) in a 6 round light middleweight bout. In Jarred’s last bout he went the distance for the first time in his short career, and again he will be looking to step up his competition level in this main event match up. His opponent at this time is unknown.
In the co-feature of the night “Rock Hard Mighty” Mason Menard (3-1) of nearby Rayne, Louisiana is slated to face Rosenberg, Texas native Hector Perez. Menard is coming off of stunning knockout victory over Blake Franklin this past December and Perez is riding a 3 fight winning streak. These two will battle it out in an interesting 6 round super featherweight bout.
Rounding out the boxing portion of the card will be Golden Meadow, Louisiana native John “Renegade” Revish (7-1-1). John is scheduled to take part in a 6 round welterweight bout, his opponent is unknown at this time.
The main mixed martial arts bout of the night will feature USA-MMA champion Charlie “Superstar” Rader.
Tickets and tables are on sale now and can be bought by visiting Ticketmaster.com or by visiting BoxNCar.com.
Click Here to View the Event Poster!
Local Boxing Blog!
March 19, 2009
On April 4 in Vicksburg, Mississippi at the Vicksburg Convention Center GCB's Thomas Dardar (4-1, 3KO's) will be in action trying to avenge his only professional loss. He is in action in a 4 round bout against Laurel, Mississippi's Miguel Alfaro (3-6). Dardar and Alfaro threwdown last March in a bout that was not seen by many people but provided a lot of fireworks. THis bout is being put on by Showdown Boxing Productions.
"Bad" Chad Broussard's BoxNCard promotions has scheduled an event on April 18 at the Blackham Coliseum featuring boxing and MMA. In the boxing portion of the show Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (4-0, 3KO’s) will be the headliner with Mason Menard (3-1, 3KO’s) as the supporting bout. Both LeBlanc and Menard are planning a move up in weight. GCB’s John Revish (7-1-1, 6KO’s) will be featured as the main undercard bout. One other boxing bout will be added.
Then on May 8th a rumored Fight Guys, LLC card is being planned at the Pontchatrain Center in Kenner, Louisiana with a proposed main event of a rematch between IBA Americas champion Will “Kid Fire” McIntyre (40-4-1) and former IBA champion Ron “Cobra” Weaver (29-17-2). The bout would be scheduled for 10 rounds, which may or may not be for the Louisiana state title. In their last battle (April 2004) for the state title they battled to a 10 round draw at the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino, a battle that most thought Weaver won.
Cut Off, Louisiana will be rocking again on May 30th with another mixed boxing and MMA card at the Cut Off Youth Center. Likley headlining will be former state champion “Smiling” Marin Verdin (15-15-1, 9KO’s) with a stacked local undercard of current state cruiserweight champion Justin “Iron Man” Verdin (6-0,5KO’s, John Revish (7-1-1, 6KO’s), Thomas “Da Bomb” Dardar (4-1, 3KO’s) and Chalmette, Louisiana’s own Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (10-2, 6KO’s)
Golden Gloves on March 20-22!
March 9, 2009
LAFAYETTE – Louisiana’s top amateur boxers will be participating in the state’s premier boxing event March 20-22 when the Louisiana Golden Gloves comes to Lafayette for the third consecutive year.
More than 200 boxers – from eight-year-olds up to age 70 and over – will descend on the Lafayette High School gymnasium for the three-day event that will qualify fighters for the Mid-South Golden Gloves Tournament of Champions later this year.
The event drew an overflow crowd to the Robichaux Center last year, and the move back to the Lafayette High gym – the Golden Gloves’ home in 2007 -- will more than double the seating capacity and provide more local sports fans with the opportunity to watch the non-stop action.
“We had 211 entrants last year,” said Beau Williford, head coach of Lafayette’s Ragin’ Cajun Boxing Club and local organizer for the event. “There aren’t regional qualifiers like there used to be, so we’ll get people from all over the state.”
The Golden Gloves is traditionally thought of as a youth organization, and a large number of the entrants will be taking part in the age 8, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 and 15-16 divisions. But there are also divisions for boxers over age 16 and an open division, and for the first time a Masters division will be offered for amateurs age 35 and over.
That division could be one of the highlights of this year’s event, with former local Golden Gloves champions Ronald Guidry, Carrol Guilbeau, Charlie Richard, Paul Buswell, Sid Turner and others eligible to take part. Guidry, a part of Lafayette’s national Golden Gloves team champion in 1956, recently won the World Ringside Masters championship in the age 70-75 division, and Turner lost in last year’s World Ringside 70-75 championship bout.
“This is the first time that the Masters division has been offered in Golden Gloves in Louisiana,” Williford said, “so we’d like to have a good representation there and we know the bouts will be fun to watch for our fans.”
Fighters in the younger divisions may also take part in novice classifications if they have had less than 10 amateur fights, and there is also a super novice division for boxers over 19 with less than 10 bouts. All boxers in the competition, regardless of age and division, must be registered with USA Boxing, and Williford said that information on registering is available at 303 Macon Street just off Eraste Landry, or by calling 257-3501.
Participants in last year’s Golden Gloves competition spent approximately $200,000 during their trip to Lafayette on hotels, restaurants and entertainment, and tournament officials estimated that the event had an economic impact of nearly a half-million dollars on the Acadiana area. Those numbers should increase this year with the event moving from two to three days.
Winners of state titles advance to the Mid-South Golden Gloves event in Little Rock, Ark., to face fighters from Mississippi, Arkansas and Tennessee. The regional champions advance to the National Golden Gloves finals scheduled for Salt Lake City, Utah. Last year, 11 boxers who won state titles here advanced to the Mid-South, and four qualified for the national tournament.
Elimination bouts will be held on Friday and Saturday, March 20-21, with the open finals and other selected matches on Sunday, March 22. Bouts will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets for the event, both single-day and tournament passes, will go on sale March 1 at several outlets around Acadiana. In addition, 50 VIP ringside tables will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and information and reservations for tables is available from Williford at 257-3501 or Beldon Fox at 288-4052.
Berto Edges Collazo!
January 18, 2009
"That was a F****** war!" was the common phrase used by on- lookers describing the Andre Berto (24-0) / Louis Collazo (29-4) WBC welterweight bout that took place last night in Biloxi, Mississippi at the Beau Rivage Casino and Resort presented by Dibella Entertainment and HBO Sports.
WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto remained unbeaten and showed he is a major player in the boxing game as he hammered out a razor thin 12 round decision over former WBA champion and #1 contender Louis Collazo.
The first quarter of the bout can only be described as almost "Gatti-Ward esq". Both fighters traded blows throughout the duration of the bout that would keep the sellout crowd on their feet for most of the fight.
The first break came in the fourth round, when referee Keith Hughes took a point from the Champion Berto for excessive holding. Seemingly the point was taken without warning, but Hughes later stated that he "warned him four times."
The two rounds that may have won the fight for Berto are rounds 7 and 8, which Louis Collazo seemed to almost retreat, fighting most of the rounds with his hands down, which Berto took full advantage of by doing just enough to clearly winning the rounds. Rounds 7 and 8 would prove to be critical to Collazo as the bout was even going into the final round.
With the fight seemingly up for grabs in the 12th and final round, with both fighters heavily fatigued Andre Berto showed what champions are made of. Berto came out strong and pressed his will on the fading Collazo to clearly win the round and to keep the welterweight championship around his waist.
Judge Larry Engle scored the bout 114-113 as did judge Gary Ritter and judge Bill Clancy scored the bout a widely unpopular 116-11 all for the undefeated Andre Berto
New York, New York heavyweight prospect Tor Hamer (3-0) kept his undefeated professional record intact as he pounded St. Petersburg, Florida native Darion Moss (0-3) over 2 rounds. Hamer dominated from the opening bell and put a stop to Moss after connecting with a big right hand that sent Moss through the ropes 1:53 into round 2.
Undefeated professional and two time national amateur champion Edwin Rodriguez (9-0) out classed and demolished Johnson City, Tennessee native "Bad Ass" Brad Austin. The opening round saw Austin get put down from a short right hand from Rodriguez. Austin was down again in round two from a nice uppercut. Rodriguez put down Austin once again in the third and final round from a well placed body shot to the exhausted Austin. Austin would rise but would the bout would be stopped shortly thereafter. The official time was 1:09 into round 3. The bout was scheduled for 8.
2008 United States Olympian Sadam Ali (1-0) made his pro debut a successful one as he made quick work of Florida native Ricky Thompson (1-5). Ali came out passively and used his jab for the first minute of the bout, but then cornered Thompson where he unleashed a right hand that put Thompson down to one knee. Referee Gerald Ritter made the count, which Thompson beat but then claimed an ear injury and could not continue the bout. The injury was later deemed a busted ear drum. The time of the stoppage was 1:42 of the first round.
Jonathan Nelson (8-0) of Little Rock, Arkansas won a closely contested 6 round unanimous decision over a very game but winless Richmond Dalphone (0-5-2) of Navarre, Florida. Nelson who is the son of Ozelle Nelson (the trainer of Jermaine Taylor) used a Jermaine Taylor style 1 -2 combination to out punch and out land Dalphone every round in the bout, but Dalphone's grittiness kept every round close. Scores read 60-54, 59-55, 59-55 all for the undefeated Nelson.
In the opening bout of the night rebounding lightweight Wes Ferguson (20-3-1) of Las Vegas, Nevada beat a very determined but less skilled Derrick Moon (13-26-1) of Dallas, Texas via 6th round TKO. Ferguson caught Moon with a right hand that hurt him, but Moon could not hold on and kept taking punches from the stalking Ferguson. Referee Bill Clancy waived it off before it got too ugly. Time was 2:51 of the 6th (out of a scheduled eight) round.
Weights From Biloxi!
January 16, 2009
Andre Berto 145.8 vs Louis Callazo 145.6
*WBC Welterweight Title*
Edwin Rodriguez 167 vs Brad Austin 167.6
Wes Ferguson 138 vs Derrick Moon 136.5
*Contract weight was 137. An agreement was made without a reweigh
Tor Hamer 223 vs Darian Moss 224
Sadam Ali 143 vs Ricky Thompson 144.5
Richmond Dalphone 165.4 vs Jonathon Nelson 164
Promoter : Dibella Entertainment
Venue: Beau Rivage Casino and Resort – Biloxi, Mississippi
Tickets: 228.386.7777
Olyimpian Ali to Make Debut in Biloxi!
January 16, 2009
Dibella Entertainment Press Release
New York (January 14, 2009) - Amateur sensation Sadam Ali is set to make his highly anticipated pro debut this Saturday night in Biloxi, Mississippi on the under card of the Berto-Collazo World Championship fight. Fans are in for an extra treat in Biloxi as the energetic and extremely talented fighter sets out to make his mark as a pro boxer. “We are happy to add Olympian Sadam Ali to our Saturday night show at the Beau Rivage,” said show promoter Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment. “It should be a great fight.”
The twenty year old featherweight from Canarsee, Brooklyn will face Ricky Thompson of Tampa, Florida in what promises to be an exciting bout. Ali’s superior hand speed and quick footwork are beautiful to watch, and his lightning fast combinations and accurate counter punching ability earned him a fan following. Ali is always an impressive crowd pleaser and puts on a good show- to the crowd’s chant of “Ali, Ali, Ali!”- perhaps a foreshadowing of a spectacular future as a professional boxer.
“I’m ready to do what I have to do,” said Ali. “To show the world I can be a successful pro like I was an amateur. I want to be the best I can be.”
Ali is a highly decorated amateur champion- a Junior National Champion, a PAL National Champion, a U-19 National Champion, and a two-time New York City Golden Gloves champion. He also took a historical role on the 2008 US Olympic team. The son of Yemeni Arab parents, he is a true trailblazer as the first Arab American fighter to ever represent the United States at the Games.
“My son made it to the Olympic Games,” said father and manager David Ali. “I am not really worried about this fight. He will do fine.”
“We have been waiting for this for some time – now we are here and ready. Its time for some havoc and we are in the hurt business,” said Ali’s trainer Andre Rozier.
Ali has been training hard to turn pro since he fought in the Olympics- anxious to make his mark as a professional fighter after fighting as an amateur for twelve years and learning the true meaning of sacrifice through boxing. Ali said his ultimate goal is to be a successful boxer and to go to college at the same time.
“Sadam Ali is an excellent prospect and I believe he will have a long and distinguished career,” said DiBella. “We look forward to his pro debut.”
Doors open at 3 p.m. and preliminary bouts begin at 4 p.m. Ticket prices are $45, $100 and $150 plus tax and service charge and can be purchased at the Beau Rivage Box Office or by calling 888.566.7469. Beau Rivage room reservations can be made by calling 888.567.6667 or visiting www.beaurivage.com. Tickets are also available by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. For more information, please visit DiBella entertainment on the web at www.dbe1.com.
McIntyre Out!
January 11, 2009
Covington, Louisiana's Will "Kid Fire" McIntyre has pulled out of his bout scheduled to take place at the Beau Rivage this Saturday night (1-17-09). McIntyre, who was scheduled to take on Ray Darden (10-19) has pulled out due to a flu like illiness.
The unlocals on the undercard will feature super middleweight Edwin Rodriguez (8-0) of Worcester, Massachusetts in a 6 round bout against Johnson City, Tennessee’s Brad Austin (8-5-1)
New York heavyweight prospect Tor Hamer (2-0) is set to do battle against Darion Moss (0-2). Hamer reportedly had a very impressive 34-1 amateur record. Moss has most notably served as former heavyweight champion Olive McCall’s son’s first professional opponent.
Another amateur standout Jonathan Nelson (7-0) of Little Rock, Arkansas will also be in action in a 6 round super middleweight bout.
And of course the stellar main event featuring possibly the hottest upcoming prospect in boxing, Andre Berto (23-0) who holds the WBC welterweight title. Berto will face his toughest test in veteran Louis Collazo (29-3) of Brooklyn, New York
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting BeauRivage.com
HBO's BAD Comes to MS!
December 23, 2008
New York (December 18, 2008) – DiBella Entertainment is starting 2009 in style with two great world championship matchups, featuring hard-charging WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto making his second title defense versus number-one rated challenger and former WBA world champion Luis Collazo, and budding 154 pound superstar Sergio Martinez taking on undefeated, world-rated contender Joe Greene, for the interim WBC belt, to be seen on HBO’s Boxing After Dark, on Saturday, January 17, from the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, MS.
With his dominant TKO victory over Miguel Angel Rodriguez this past June to claim the vacant WBC welterweight crown, Andre Berto (23-0, 19 KOs) established himself as one of boxing most feared champions. Just 25 years old, Winter Haven, Florida’s Berto has already defeated proven veterans such as Cosme Rivera, Michael Trabant and Steve Forbes. Berto will need to draw on all of this valuable experience when he takes on mandatory challenger Luis Collazo (29-3, 14 KOs). Crafty southpaw Collazo, from New York City, is poised to win his second world championship – having already reigned as WBA welterweight king.
“Berto-Collazo has all the makings of a spectacular match up. Andre’s punch volume and non-stop pressure combined with Collazo’s poise and big-fight pedigree, make this the first ‘can’t miss” fight of 2009. Let’s not forget Luis has already gone 24 competitive rounds with Ricky Hatton and Shane Mosley. This is a great opportunity for Andre to show the world the champion that he is,” said DBE president Lou DiBella.
Madrid, Spain’s Martinez (44-1-1, 24 KOs) by way of Buenos Aires, is a former IBO 154 pound titlist, who put the American boxing audience on notice in October, as “Maravilla” produced a dazzling TKO victory over then WBA # 1 rated contender Alex Bunema to earn the interim WBC 154 pound title. Martinez faces a serious challenge in the form WBA # 3 rated Joe Greene (20-0, 14 KOs). New York southpaw Greene has already captured regional titles at 154 to 160 pounds, and is prepared to make his own sensational showing on HBO’s big stage.
“We all saw what Sergio Martinez can do in his last fight when he dismantled Alex Bunema, one of the top contenders in the junior middleweight division, who was rated by every major sanctioning body. Sergio will need to perform equally well against Greene because Joe is ready for his own statement,” said DiBella.
In addition, fans in the live audience on January 17 at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino will get the opportunity to see undefeated and WBC # 9 rated junior middleweight contender Ronald Hearns (21-0, 17 KOs) in ten round action as well as local light heavyweight favorite Will McIntyre in an eight round bout.
Leblanc Remains Undefeated!
December 11, 2008
Rocky Kiffe @ ringside
Blackham Coliseum in Lafayette, Louisiana played host to DT Promotions in association with Chad Broussard’s BoxNcar Promotions’ holiday boxing event “Rock The Bells”. An enthusiastic crowed poured into the arena as the acadiana area’s local talent took to the ring for battle.
In the main event of the evening, Breaux Bridge’s own Jared Leblanc (4-0) took a step up in competition by defeating ring savvy foe Deon Nash (5-7) from Lutcher, Louisiana by way of a six round unanimous decision. Leblanc came out of the gate quickly by landing a few big shots on Nash in the first stanza. He continued his assault through the first half of the fight. As the rounds past it became more evident that Nash was in for the long haul by rolling with punches and landing solid connections of his own on the less experienced Leblanc. However, Nash’s late rally was not enough to overtake the younger Leblanc. The scorecards read 58-56 across the board. As the result, Leblanc keeps his professional record unblemished while Nash drops his sixth straight.
In the other featured bout on the card undefeated and highly touted heavyweight “Lethal” Johnny White (21-0) from St. Martinville, LA crushed “The Connecticut Crusher” Greg McGhee (6-11) inside the first round. White completely dominated his east coast opponent by rendering a standing eight count along with a knockdown forcing referee Rick Exe to stop the contest at :57 seconds in the first round. With the win White keeps his undefeated professional campaign alive and well.
Also appearing at the Blackham was “Mighty” Mason Menard (3-1) from Rayne, LA. Menard was attempting to bury the past in which he was stopped inside the first round in his last fight. And he did so by putting a halt to Blake Franklin (1-3) inside the first round himself. After Franklin scored a flash knockdown on the local former amateur standout, Menard regained composure and proceeded to send the stalking Franklin to the canvas hard with a powerful left hook. As Franklin winced in pain referee Russell Naquin counted him out. The victory puts Menard back into the winning column while Franklin has dropped two in a row.
Six time Louisiana Golden Gloves Champion "Renegade" John Revish (7-1) came into Lafayette riding a four fight winning streak, and once again he did not disappoint. Taking on the durable Charles Sims (3-28) from Arlington, Texas, Revish proceeded to put on a boxing clinic for the crowd as he landed jabs and hooks at will on the slower Sims. The end of the bout came at 2:27 of the second round as Revish caught Sims with a left hook at sent Sims crumbling to the canvas in a heap as referee Rick Exe counted him out. With the impressive win the Renegade brings his winning streak to five.
Other results:
Gundrick King KO2 Billy Outley
Notables in the audience included 2008 olympic bronze medalist Deontay Wilder, Jason Papillion, Blake Prevost, Zane Marks, and Martin Verdin.
Jarred Leblanc wins at "Rock The Bells"
Photo by GCB Photography
Bernstein Comments on White!
November 23, 2008
Esteemed boxing columnist / Showtime Boxing commentator Al Bernstein weighs in on Louisiana state heavyweight champion “Lethal” Johnnie White. White is undefeated in 21 professional bouts, he will be in a featured undercard bouts at the Blackham Coliseum in Lafayette, Louisiana on December 5.
CLICK HERE to see Bernstein’s opinion on Johnnie White. Click on the link above and then click on the third video in the menu select column.
Nashville Results!
November 16, 2008
Results from the Jermain Taylor / Jeff Lacy undercard. Taylor won a one-sided 12 round decision.
Tennessee heavyweight Adam “Swamp Donkey” Richards (21-2) was stopped in the 8th and final round of his matchup with fellow heavyweight prospect Chazz Witherspoon (24-1) . The bout was reportedly an inside slugfest with both fighters scoring with hard shots. The bout was waived off 1:29 after Richards was caught with an overhand right and vicious uppercuts.
2008 Olympic bronze medal winner Deontay Wilder (1-0) of Tuscaloosa, Alabama made his transition to the professional ranks a successful one as he scored a 2nd round TKO over California heavyweight Ethan Cox (2-3-1).
Gulfport, Mississippi middleweight Gevonte Davis was knocked out at 1:38 of round two by undefeated prospect Fernando Guerrero (11-0). Davis was also down in round 1.
Former amateur standout and Arkansas native Jonathon Nelson (7-0) won via 4th round TKO over a game Cory Jones. The fight was reportedly tick and tack over the first three rounds. In round 4 Nelson knocked down Jones with a right hand, he was able to beat the count but could not continue. The time was 1:08 into the 4th round.
Wilder Opponent Named!
November 14, 2008
As reported earlier in the week. The 2008 Olympic bronze medalist Deontay Wilder of Tuscaloosa, Alabama will make his professional debut this Saturday night at the Vanderbilt University Memorial Gym in Nashville, Tennessee on the undercard of the HBO televised Jermain Taylor / Jeff Lacey super middleweight bout.
His opponent has finally been announced. Wilder will face 34 year old Ethan Cox (2-2-1) of Long Beach, California. Cox is a full fledged heavyweight. In his last bout he weighed in at a career high of 239lbs. Wilder won his Olympic medal at the weight limit of 200lbs.
It is unknown at this time whether HBO will show Wilder’s bout. It is likely that clips of the fight will be show as Wilder was the only member of the 2008 United States Olympic team to win a medal.
"Rock the Bells" Video!
November 13, 2008
Boxing Back at Blackham!
November 12, 2008
In what looks to be a showcase of the superior Louisiana boxing talent, Chad Broussard's BoxNCar promotions in assocation with DT promotions has scheduled “Rock the Bells” a pro-am set to take place Friday night December 5 at the Blackham Coliseum in Lafayette, Louisiana. The night will also feature some of Louisiana’s best musical talent.
Scheduled in his first main event of his short career will be Breaux Bridge, Louisiana’s Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (3-0). All of LeBlanc’s wins have come by early knockout and he has only been taken out of the first round once. LeBlanc will again be matched with a veteran as he is set to take on current Arkansas state welterweight champion Willie Diamond (8-11-1) of El Dorado, Arkansas in a 6 round bout.
Another featured bout of the night will highlight current Louisiana state heavyweight champion and undefeated heavyweight prospect “Lethal” Johnnie White (20-0) of nearby St. Martinsville, Louisiana. White has 17 victories by way of knockout with 12 of the knockouts coming in the very first round, but his most impressive victory has come via the decision route against “Twin Tyson” Cliff Couser. White is set to clash with Hartford, Connecticut native Greg McGhee (6-10). McGhee is coming off of a knockout loss to heavyweight prospect Damian “Bolo” Wills.
The other featured bout of the night will showcase Mason Menard (2-1) of Rayne, Louisiana. Mason is looking to get back on track after a knockout loss this past August. His opponent is not yet named.
Baton Rouge native “Renegade” John Revish (6-1-1) will also move up to his first 6 round action as he is set to take on 30 fight veteran Charles Sims of Arlington, Texas. Revish is riding a 4 bout win streak.
Rounding out the card will be former Olympic alternate Quantis Graves (1-0) formerly of New Orleans, Louisiana now fighting out of Beaumont, Texas. Quantis will be in action in a 4 round cruiserweight bout.
The night of boxing will also feature amateur fights featuring top local talent.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling or visiting the Blackham Coliseum box office or by visiting www.DTPromotions.com. Some of the proceeds from this event will go to benefit the Jacob Crouch suicide prevention foundation and the Mark Graham foundation also knowk as MG 20-20.
Photo Credit : GCB Photos
Fight Results!
November 12, 2008
Jones vs Calzaghe Undercard
Gulfport, Mississippi’s “Slyk” Willie Lee’s bout against Kerry Hope of Wales was scratched by the New York state athletic commission. Reportedly Lee was 5lbs over the contract weight thus the bout was scratched.
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In other action former light heavyweight champion Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson (48-12-2) easily outgunned Hattiesburg, Mississippi’s Aaron Norwood (26-10-2) over 4 rounds. Johnson reportedly broke Norwood down before the referee stopped it 1:20 into round 4.
Photo Credit : Javiel Centeno of Fightnews.com
Local Boxers in Big Fights!
November 7, 2008
Saturday night at the world’s most famous arena Madison Square Garden, “Slik” Willie Lee (16-5) of Gulfport, Mississippi will take New Bridge, Wales native and Joe Calzaghe stable mate Kerry Hope (11-1) in an 8 round bout on the undercard of the Roy Jones / Joe Calzaghe super fight. The bout will be on the untelevized portion of the undercard. Lee is riding a 2 fight winning streak and Hope will look to rebound after a TKO loss last March.
November 11 at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, Florida Aaron Norwood (26-10-2) of Hattiesburg, Mississippi will be in the fight of his life as he is set to take on former IBF champion and currently world rated contender Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson (47-12-2). The 41 year old Norwood has been stopped 8 times in his 10 losses, and has not fought the caliber of the 39 year old Johnson. The bout is scheduled for 10 in the light heavyweight division.
A host of local fighters will participate on the November 15 Jermain Taylor / Jeff Lacey undercard which will take place at the Vanderbilt University Memorial Gymnasium in Nashville, Tennessee. The Taylor / Lacey bout will be a WBC super middleweight title eliminator. Other local fighters include...
The main local undercard bout pits Tenneessee heavyweight Adam Richards (21-1) taking on Chazz Witherspoon (23-1) of Philadelphia in a 10 round bout.
Covington, Tennessee Donnell Wiggins (24-11-4) will take on red hot light heavyweight contender Shaun George (17-2-2) of in an 8 round light heavyweight bout. Wiggins has not won a bout since July of 2005 (a span of 8 bouts) while George is coming off the biggest win of his carrer, a knockout of former heavyweight champion Chris Byrd last May.
Another red hot middleweight contender will take on a local fighter when Fernando Guerrero (10-0) will go to battle against Gevonte Davis (3-1-1) of Gulfport, Mississippi in a 6 round middleweight bout. Davis who usually fights at cruiserweight is reportedly down to 164lbs for this catch weight bout of 162lbs
Highly rated Arkansas amateur Johnathon Nelson (6-0) will look to keep his unbeaten record intact when he faces Corey Jones (3-2) of Brooklyn, New York in a 6 round middleweight bout.
2008 Olympic bronze medal winner Deontay Wilder of Tuscaloosa, Alabama will make his highly anticipated debut. His opponent has yet to be named.
Kruger vs Verdin in FL
October 29, 2008
Two light heavyweights badly in need of a victory will meet on this Thursday night October, 30 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds in Port Charlotte, Florida. Hometown Theo Kruger (8-7) will headline his first show. Kruger is set to take on former Louisiana light heavyweight champion “Smiling” Martin Verdin (15-14-1) of Dulac, Louisiana in a 6 round cruiserweight bout.
The co-feature of the night will highlight Sarasota, Florida native Jose Duran (4-1-2). He will take on the ever dangeruous TBA in a 4 round bout.
A host of local south Florida boxers will fill in the undercard including the Willis brothers, Quinton () and Marcus of nearby Fort Myers, Florida. Adrian Perez of Sarasota.
Popular Mince Passes
October 17, 2008
GCB has learned from several sources that popular New Orleans based boxer Jimmy Mince has reportly died from an apparent druge overdose. Mince was most known nationally by starring on the Fox reality telivision series “The Next Great Champ” which was aired in 2005 and was hosted by boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya. Mince would go on to win his first bout on the series but would lose in his next bout against eventual winner Otis Griffin.
Mince was a local hero in his native New Orleans but only fought sparringly in his brief professional career and fought only one time since July 2005. “Marvelous” Jimmy Mince would go on to have a 8-1 record with 4 knockouts. Mince was 30 years of age.
Post Fight Presser!
September 14, 2008
Pictured are Edner Cherry and Don King
Picture by GCB Photography
Post Fight Press Conference Quotes:
Don King – (on the Guzman pullout) You take it like it is and you leave it like you find it. I’m not a doctor, I didn’t take the Hippocratic Oath, I took the oath from the streets. It was a bad decision for him to make and it will affect him with his career.
(on the Cherry / Bradley bout) Cherry got a shot and fought so good he will get another.
(On the state of Mississippi) I want the thank Haley Barbour (The Governor of Mississippi who was present at the bouts), for putting Mississippi back on the map with great honor and integrity, I want America and the world to know what kind of leadership the state of Mississippi has.
Edner Cherry – I want to give honor to God for waking me up this morning. I want to thank Don King, Gary Shaw, the WBC, and Tim Bradley who is a very tough fighter. I knew I was in for a tough fight when an opponent comes, you cannot back off. The Cherry Bomb will keep his head up. I will never give up, that is why I am here tonight. I will go back to 135lbs and show everyone what I am made of.
Devon “The Great” Alexander (WBC #1 ranked 140lb’er) – I am ready to go, all Tim Bradley has to do is sign the contract and look out for “The Great.”
Elio Rojas – They gave me my opponent and I took advantage of it, thank you Don. Now that I am number one I want the title. I am looking to fight for the title and bring it back to the Dominican Republic.
These were the only fighters that were at the post fight press conference.
Main Event Missing in MS!
September 14, 2008
GCB @ On Press Row
Unbeaten WBC super lightweight champion Timothy Bradley (23-0, 11 KOs) successfully defended his world title for the first time with a twelve round unanimous decision over #6 rated Edner Cherry (24-6-2, 12 KOs) in a very entertaining fight on Saturday night at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi. Cherry connected early in round one, but champion began control the bout with sharp, quick punches. Cherry landed a good left hook in the fourth round, but Bradley simply outboxed and outpunched Cherry, finally dropping Cherry in round eight with a huge right hand. Bradley dominated until the eleventh when Cherry landed a clean right hand. Both fighters let their hands go, throwing big shots in the twelfth. Scores were 117-110, 118-109, 119-109. On a side note, the WBC eventually relented and agreed to accept the scoring of the judges assigned by the Mississippi Commission.
Former WBO 122- and 130-pound Joan Guzman did not make the lightweight limit of 135 pounds at Friday's weigh in (3 1/2 pounds over) and informed the Mississippi Athletic Commission in his hotel room at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino at approximately 6 p.m. CT tonight that he would elect to not fight IBF, WBO, and WBA lightweight champion Nate "The Galaxxy Warrior" Campbell, who had made the weight as prescribed at the official weigh in.
Elio “The Kid” Rojas (20-1) knew exactly what was at stake in his WBC featherweight title eliminator bout against number one rated Hector Velazquez (50-12-2). Maybe his opponent forgot.
The opening round saw Velazquez get a cut opened up on his forehead, and that was just the start of his problems. Rojas then fought the rest of the night as if he was powered by the energizer bunny. The first three rounds saw Rojas land his straight right hand at will. Then in the middle of the bout Rojas started throwing his left hook behind his straight right hand. When Rojas would stop throwing Velazquez would do his best to get on the attack, but the elusive Rojas would have no part of it.
Round ten finally saw Velazquez win a round when he outworked and backed up Rojas.
The rest of the bout saw the young buck Rojas beat the old lion Velazquez to the punch. But as much as Rojas landed he never had Velazquez in trouble at any time. When the dust finally settled Elio Rojas earned his shot at the WBC featherweight title. Final scores read 120-108, 119-109, 119-109. Fightnews scored the bout 119-109.
Australian heavyweight Mark “The Dominator” De Mori (14-1-2) made a very impressive American debut with a first round body shot knockout of 294lb Robert “Big Koos” Kooser (9-8). The time was 2:47.
WBA third ranked welterweight contender Nelson Linares (16-0-1) of Barinitis, Venezuela dominated Kendall Holt conqueror Thomas “Tennessee Terror” Davis (12-9-2) of Knoxville, Tennessee. After a slow first round Linares opened up and dropped Davis three time over the next three round in route to a fourth round stoppage. Referee Bill Clancy waived off the bout 1:47 into the round. The bout was scheduled for ten rounds.
Continuing with the international theme on the undercard, Italian Luca “Bergamo Bomber” Messi (33-7-7) won a hard fought eight round decision over a very game Anthony Bowman (9-31-2) of Jackson, Tennessee. After a close opening round Messi seemed to stake his claim as being the busier fighting. Round five saw Messi wobble Bowman. But he also had a cut open over his right eye, though it was never a factor. The bell to start round seven seemed to spark Bowman as he started to throw and land some vicious body shows that stopped Messi in his tracks, but it was a case of too little too late. Final tallies saw a 77-75, 77-75 and 78-74 unanimous decision win for Luca Messi, much to the dismay of the pro Bowman crowd. Fightnews scored the bout 78-74 for Messi.
Lightweight Anges Adjaho (24-1) originally from Benin now fighting out of Orwell, Ohio put on an impressive performance for the Mississippi crowd as he scored a TKO over a very game but overmatched veteran Jesus Perez (25-21-3) of Miami, Florida. Adjaho showed superior athleticism, speed and power over five rounds. Perez decided not to answer the bell to start round six.
Heavyweight Carl Davis (12-2) of Evanston, Illinois won a tougher than expected bout over journeyman Wade “The Rock” Lewis (14-20-1) of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Davis easily took round one. Round two saw Lewis score with some heavy hooks that hurt Davis, but Lewis could not finish him. Davis then broke Lewis down and ended the bout in the sixth round with a hard uppercut to the chin of Lewis that put him down and out. Lewis would remain down for three minutes but was able to leave the ring on his own power. Official time was 1:00 of the sixth round. The bout was scheduled for eight.
In the opening bout of the evening Miami, Florida light middleweight prospect Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez moved his unbeaten record to 13-0 with a second round stoppage over Tennessee’s Rodney Freeman (5-10). Freeman was down 3 times and the bout was waived off just :54 into the second round.
Guzman Fails to Make Weight!
September 12, 2008
GCB @ The Scales
Nate Campbell 135.0 vs Joan Guzman 138.5
*IBF, WBO, WBA Lightweight Titles*
Campbell originally weighed in at 135.2, then made 135lbs 30 minutes later
Guzman came in 3lbs over contract limit, Guzman cannot fight for titles.
Tim Bradley 139.8 vs Edner Cherry 139.2
*WBC Super Lightweight Title*
Bradley originally weighed in at 140.3 then made 139.8 an hour later
Hector Velazquez 125.9 vs Elio Rojas 125.3
*WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator*
Nelson Linares 151.2 vs Thomas Davis 149
Luca Messi 155.8 vs Anthony Bowman 154.3
Anges Adjaho 133.9 vs Jesus Perez 134
Carl Davis 230.7 vs Wade Lewis 234.1
Mark De Mori 227.3 vs Robert Kooser 294.3
Joey Hernandez 155.9 vs Rodney Freeman 154.5
Promoter : Don King Productions, One Punch Productions
Venue: Beau Rivage Casino and Resort – Biloxi, Mississippi
Tickets: 228.386.7777
McNichols shocks Menard!
August 20, 2008
GCB @ Ringside
A jam-packed crowd in the Rayne Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana witnessing Chad Broussard’s Boxncar Promotions inaugural event was left stunned Saturday night as they watched their hometown hero laying on the canvas with the referee hovering over him bringing the fight to an abrupt end. And all this occurred inside the first 30 seconds of the first round.
In a much anticipated “Rumble In Rayne” main event clash, Gulfport, Mississippi native Carl McNichols (5-1) shocked an entire community by making quick work of Rayne’s own Mason Menard (2-1) by first stunning him then quickly putting the finishing touches together only 28 seconds inside the first stanza. After a short feeling out process McNichols proceeded to unleash a barrage of overhand rights on the 19-year-old former amateur standout with devastating results. After the final connection Menard fell to the floor in a heap. He made a strong attempt to get back to his feet but ended up crashing head first onto the canvas again forcing referee Russell Naquin to stop the bout. Saturday night’s accomplishment brings McNichols’ win total to five with all coming by way of knockout. This was Menard’s first professional loss of his career.
In the co-main event Breaux Bridge, Louisiana’s Jared "Leathel Weapon" Leblanc (3-0) ended Jerrick Stephens’ (2-13) attempt to win back to back fights by forcing Stephens to quit on a knee after knocking him down for the second time inside the first round. For most of the round Stephens was all over the ring attempting to avoid Leblanc’s attack. But to no avail. With the win Leblanc continues his undefeated campaign at welterweight. Shreveport’s Stephens falters to 2-13.
In an under card bout another local fighter, Jason Doucet (4-12), looked sharp in the first two rounds of his bout against Mobile, Alabama’s Mario Lacey (8-18) before being knocked out on his feet in the third. Doucet controlled the action for the most part until dropping his hands allowing Lacey to move in for the kill. And he took full advantage forcing referee Larry Berger to stop the bout before the end of the third round.
Olympic heavyweight alternante turned pro Quantis Graves (1-0) made his much anticipated debut against a game Phillip Hammac (4-21), winning a 4 round unanimous decision. Graves, a native of New Orleans, employed an excellent body attack along with an all around busier performance to ensure his first professional victory.
Other results:
Gevonte Davis (3-1) UD4 William “Pete” Johnson (9-17)
Amateur results:
Floyd Baker dec. Hunter Marvin
Mark Broussard dec. Richard Smith
Joe Almanza dec. Keiland Franklin
From left: trainer Ernie Wilson, Vonny Davis, Carl McNichols and trainer Warren Migues
Photo By GCB Photography
KO's in El Dorado!
August 19, 2008
GCB @ Ringside
Two Louisiana based boxers took the long journey to El Dorado, Arkansas which is located in the southern part of the state. The long trip was well worth it as welterweight John Revish and light middleweight Travis Scott easily stole the show which took place at the El Dorado Municipal Auditorium.
In the second boxing match of the evening (The event also featured 4 MMA bouts) “Renegade” John Revish (6-1-1) scored the 5th knockout of his 8 bout career. Revish faced fellow Louisiana native Dwayne Jones (0-3) in a scheduled 4 round bout. Revish pressed the action from the opening bell mixing up the head and body attack nicely. The heavier Jones, 158lbs tried to fight back, but every time he tried to punch he was met with a well placed overhand right by Revish (151lbs). The bout came to a halt during the 3rd round of the bout when Revish stepped on the gas and Jones seemed to be out of gas.
Towards the end of the night Travis “Mr. Surprise” Scott moved his unbeaten record to 7-0 with a 4 round boxing clinic of Texas veteran Charles Sims. Scott, of New Orleans, Louisiana was the visibly bigger fighter and he used it well. Scott used a quick jab and some vicious body work to continually push Sims into retreat mode. The 4th round saw more of the same till Scott unleashed a straight right hand that crumbled the usually durable Sims. Sims was able to beat the slow count but rose only to be met by another Scott onslaught. The referee wisely ended the bout less then 20 seconds later.
The main event of the night pitted Arkansas state champion and local star Willie Diamond (8-11-1) against Tennessee native Johnathon Bruce. Diamond put Bruce down early and often. The bout somehow made it into the 2nd round with more of the same. Bruce was down 4 times in all, but to his credit he got up everytime. The hometown hero Diamond has never lost a bout in his home state of Arkansas, 4-0.
Former amateur standout Rashad Ganaway (4-0), of Little Rock, Arkansas scored the 4th knockout of his career against debuting Dustin Clark. Ganaway has yet to let an opponent out of the 2nd round.
Number 1 ranked WBC female heavyweight Monica McGowan (15-3) of Tyler, Texas made very short work of Toni Weaver (0-1) from Tennessee who was making her pro debut. McGowan landed a thudding overhand right that sent Weaver down for the count. A showdown between McGowan and number 3 ranked heavyweight Jeanne Martinez is rumored to be in the works
Other results:
David Thomas (6-0-2) KO 1 Jason Crawford (0-2)
Corbell Washington (1-0) TKO 1 Eric Patterson (0-1)
Bruce Eades (1-0) TKO 2 Kevin Jones (0-1)
Promoter: Diamond Entertainment
Willie Diamond with his Arkansas welterweight title
Photo by GCB Photography
No Where to Run!
August 19, 2008
More information as it comes in...
Quick Results from Rayne!
August 16, 2008
GCB @ Ringside
Gulfport, Mississippi’s Carl McNichols (5-1, 5KO’s) kept his knockout streak alive with :28 opening round knockout of highly touted Louisiana prospect Mason Menard (2-1).
Jarred Leblanc (3-0) of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana made quick work of trail horse Jerrick Stephens (2-13) of Shreveort, Louisiana. Stephens was a late sub for welterweight Miguel Alfaro.
Gevonte Davis (3-1-1) won a 4 round unanimous decision over Pete Johnson (9-17) in a battle of Mississippi light heavyweights
Another local fell when Jason Doucet (4-12) was knocked out by Alabama’s Mario Lacey (8-18-4).
Amateur stand out Quantis Graves (1-0) originally from New Orleans but now fighting out of Beaumont, Texas had a suscessfull pro debut as he won a 4 round decision over Alabama veteran Phillip Hammac (4-21).
Lots more to come!
GCB at the Scales in Rayne!
August 15, 2008
Mason Menard 134 vs Carl McNichols 135
Jarred LeBlanc 151 vs Jerrick Stephens 151
Jason Doucet 138 vs Mario Lacey 138
Gevonte Davis 171 vs Pete Johnson 170
Quantis Graves 181 vs Phillip Hammac 178
Promoter: Chad Broussard's Boxncar Promotions
Venue: Rayne Civic Center
Tickets: 337.298.7658
In a stellar main event local star Mason Menard (2-0) meets Gulfport, MS’s knockout artist Carl McNichols (4-1) in a 6 round bout. The LeBlanc/Stephens and Doucet/Lacey bouts are also scheduled for 6 round, the remaining bouts are scheduled for 4. New Orleans light welterweight Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (9-2) was scheduled for this card, but no opponent could be found.
GCB’s Rocky Kiffe will be live at ringside covering the bouts.
Campbell Defends at the Beau!
Don King Productions Press Release
August 15, 2008
BILOXI, MS - Flashy Nate "The Galaxxy Warrior" Campbell makes the first defense of his IBF/WBO/WBA world lightweight titles against unbeaten two-division world champion Joan "Sycuan Warrior" Guzman on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the Beau Rivage Theatre.
Campbell (32-5-1, 25 KOs), a resident of Tampa, FL, who is originally from Jacksonville, picked up his titles in a tremendous upset over previously undefeated unified lightweight champion Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz. Campbell outgunned and battered the previously unbeaten Diaz in his most recent appearance on March 8 in Cancun, Mexico. He won the fight by split decision, but clearly dominated his opponent.
The event is being promoted by Don King Productions, in association with Beau Rivage. The Campbell vs. Guzman main event will be presented in association with One Punch Productions and will also be televised on SHOWTIME Championship Boxing beginning at 8 p.m. CT.
Also on the card is a 12-round WBC Light Welterweight championship fight between champion, Palm Springs, CA's Timothy Bradley (22-0, 11 KOs), and challenger Edner "Cherry Bomb" Cherry (24-5-2, 12 KOs), from Wauchula, FL.
A World Boxing Council 12-round featherweight elimination bout is on the card. It showcases No. 1-ranked Hector Velasquez (50-11-2, 35 KOs), from Tijuana, Mexico, against No. 2-ranked Elio "The Kid" Rojas (19-1, 13 KOs), from the Dominican Republic, now fighting out of Brooklyn, NY. The winner becomes the WBC featherweight mandatory challenger, guaranteeing a title shot.
At age 36, Campbell finds himself in possession of three world titles and great interest from the likes of the unbeaten Guzman-already a champion at the 122- and 130-pound limits, who would like to take away what Campbell has recently won at the 135-pound limit.
Guzman (28-0, 17 KOs), from the Dominican Republic, now residing in Brooklyn, NY, was scheduled to defend his WBO Junior Lightweight crown against Alex Arthur on May 3 in Arthur's home country of Scotland. When Arthur insisted on a later date, Guzman opted to move up to lightweight to challenge Campbell. (Guzman also previously held the WBO Junior Featherweight championship).
The clash pits Campbell's relentless and punishing style against the savvy, agile and rabbit-quick Guzman. Campbell is known for having some of the heaviest hands in the division, while Guzman is a defensive wizard who rarely gets hit and can also dish out serious punishment.
As if three world titles being on the line were not enough intrigue for one match, a personal rivalry has been brewing with a war of words between the two spilling into the press. The firestorm recently started after Guzman castigated Campbell after photos of his recent wedding began to appear on boxing Web sites.
"Everyone has seen the picture of Nate and his wife in their cute, white wedding outfits," Guzman said. "I hope they're enjoying their honeymoon because Nate's honeymoon at the top of the lightweight division is going to end once he fights me.
"I think he's afraid of me," Guzman added. "I'll make Nate look so bad that he'll retire after I wipe the floor with him. I guess I can understand why Nate doesn't want to fight me. Twenty-eight boxers have tried to beat me and none of them came close to succeeding."
The equally loquacious Campbell wasted little time in responding to Guzman.
"This clown (Guzman) reminds me of one of those yapping little rat dogs," Campbell said. "[They] yip, yip, yip at your ankles."
With pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao moving up in weight to dethrone David Diaz to claim the remaining major world championship at lightweight on June 28, both Campbell and Guzman would love nothing more than to emerge victorious in the hopes of possibly luring the "Pac Man" into a match to determine the undisputed lightweight champion.
"Nate Campbell is the rare boxer who can back up his talk," promoter Don King said. "That's why I love him. He comes straight at you, tells you what he's going to do, and then he executes his game plan. He's truly one of the most exciting fighters we have in boxing today, and Beau Rivage should be commended for stepping up to host one of the bigger fights of the year."
Rumble in Rayne!
July 21, 2008
Last Monday afternoon “Bad’ Chad Broussard’s Boxncar Promotions held a press conference at Zea’s in Lafayette to announce their August 16, 2008 Pro-Am boxing to be held at Rayne Civic Center in Rayne, Louisiana.
“Rumble in Rayne” is scheduled to have 5 professional boxing matches and 4 amateur boxing matches. The main event for the pro side of the card will be highly touted local lightweight Mason Menard (2-0), he is scheduled to take on knockout artist Carl McNichols (4-1, 4KO’s) of Gulfport, Mississippi. This is scheduled to be both fighters first 6 round bout, but with 6 knockout wins between these two boxers, do not look for it to go the distance.
The co-main event of the night will see Breaux Bridge, Louisiana native Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (2-0) take on Anthony Adams of Laurel, Mississippi in a 6 round light middleweight bout.
Also scheduled on this night will be New Orleans’ Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (9-2). He was last seen winning a 6 round decision over Miguel Alfaro. This will be Bergeron’s first fight in Acadiana.
Local light heavyweight Ceaser Dupre will make his professional debut against the tough and experienced Gevonte Davis (2-1-1) of Gulfport, Mississippi. Davis will ride a two bout win streak into this bout.
Jason “Hot Rod” Doucet will round out the professional side of the card.
The amateur bouts will include Frog Capitals Todd Manuel. Jarred Menard who is the brother of main event fighter Mason Menard and local favorite Joe Almanza.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 337.298.7658 or by stopping by Reds or Planet Nutrition in Lafayette and Cajun Fitness in Rayne.
Jarred LeBlanc, Chad Broussard and Mason Menard (from left to right)
Photo taken by Damien St.Pierre
Krupp "Smokes" Nash!
July 21, 2008
The street leading to the Cut Off Youth Center was shut down before the bouts began due to the sold out crowd for Executioner Productions inaugural event titles “Extreme Warrior Combat” which was an 11 bout boxing/mma card.
The first bout of the night set the tone on how the rest of the night would unfold. Golden Meadow, Louisiana native Tom “Da Bomb” Dardar (4-1) made quick work of Las Vegas resident Bill “Million Dollar Maybe” Coleman (2-4). At the sound of the opening bell Dardar met Coleman in his corner and never let up. The defenseless style of Dardar left him open for a few shots, but not enough to slow Dardar down. Referee Kenny Licata stopped the bout after the second time Coleman went down, just 1:00 into the contest.
The second boxing bout of the night saw Jarred “Lethal Weapon” LeBlanc (2-0) keep his unbeaten record intact with a second round knockout of veteran Michael “The Boss” Moss of Meridian, Mississippi. LeBlanc a Breaux Bridge, Louisiana naïve controlled the bout with aggression. Moss was caught with a overhand right that he could not recover from.
Houston, Texas’ Lanard “Dead Game”Lane (2-0) put in a workmen like effort against New Orleans, Louisiana’s Jeavon Boisseau (2-3). Lane used his speed and movement and outpoint the game Boisseau over 4 rounds. Scores were not read, but the GulfCoastBoxing.com scorecards read 40-36 in favor of Lane.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana’s John” Renegade” Revish (5-1-1) made quick work of Shreveport’s Robert Hollis (0-2). Hollis was down twice before his corner threw in the towel. Revish was scheduled to take on Arkansas’ Will Diamond but due to a work conflict Diamond could not make the trip, Hollis was then called in to take this bout on less than 48 hours notice. An August 15 showdown is being rumored for the Revish/Diamond bout.
Travis “Mr. Surprise” Scott (6-0) had little trouble in his first scheduled 6 round bout. Scott pounded on the rugged veteran Steve Verdin at will for the duration of the bout. Scott was able to keep Verdin off with a stiff jab, when Verdin did get inside Scott used a vigorous body attack. Scores were 60-54, 60-54 and an unexplainable 59-56.
The “Bourbon Street Brawl” lived up to the pre fight hype as both Jay Krupp (12-1) and Deon Nash (5-3) came out with their guns blazing. Over the first 4 rounds both fighters were hurt at some point and the rounds were very close to call. The bout was won in rounds 5 and 6 as Krupp seemed to be a little bit busier then Nash. No scores were read. The GCB cards gave a 58-56 score to “Smoking” Jay Krupp.
The night also featured 3 MMA bouts. Randy Cheramie won a decision over Kyler Tarr. Anthony Barbier won in round 1 via choke over Jeff Stickland. The main event saw Lance Thompson (4-0) win via choke in the first round.
Heavyweight Travis Walker was scheduled to appear on this card, but the Louisiana State Commission did not approve his opponent.
Promoter: Executioner Productions in association with Gulf Coast Boxing. Matchmaker: Damien St.Pierre
Travis Walker Added!
July 15, 2008
WBO 6th ranked heavyweight Travis “Freight Train” Walker (27-1-1) of Tallahassee, Florida has been added to the already start studded “Extreme Warrior Combat” card taking place this Saturday July 19 at the Youth Center in Cut Off, Louisiana.
Walker, who is also ranked number 12 by the WBC is coming off of a 2nd round revenge TKO over TJ Wilson who had previously stopped Walker in October of 2007. Both bout were aired on Showtime television.
Also added to the card are two undefeated prospects. Cruiserweight Hasan “The Destroyer” Henderson (3-0) of nearby Donaldsonville, Louisiana is set to face fellow unbeaten Patrick Young (2-0) of Fort Worth, Texas.
Henderson’s stablemate Lanard Lane (2-0) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania will take on New Orleans, Louisiana native Jeavon Boisseau (2-2) in a 4 round bout.
The main event will feature a “Bourbon Street Brawl” between New Orleans natives “Smokin” Jay Krupp (11-1) and Deon Nash (5-2). This will be a highly contested 6 round welterweight bout.
Also featured will be area prospects Travis Scott (5-0), John Revish (4-1-1) and Lafayette prospect Jarred LeBlanc (1-0)
Opening up the night of fights will be Thomas Dardar (3-1). His opponent is tentivily scheduled to be author of the book “Million Dollar Maybe”, Bill Coleman of Las Vegas, Nevada. Coleman’s status is still pending with the Louisiana state boxing commission.
Bell time will be 8:00pm, doors will open at 6:00pm. Tables and tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 985.475.4758.
White vs Twin Tyson!
June 25, 2008
Undefeated Louisiana state heavyweight champion “Lethal” Johnnie White (18-0, 16KO’s) of St. Martinsville, Louisiana will take a huge step up in class this Saturday night in Waveland, Mississippi when he takes on well traveled “Twin Tyson” Cliff Couser (26-15-2) of Las Vegas, Nevada. Tony Dane’s World Wide Boxing Promotions will promote this 8 round match up.
White will end a 6 month inactive streak. In his last bout he scored a 1st round knockout of Ray Lunsford, it was his 11th first round stoppage.
Couser has faced a number of word class heavyweights in his career including Cliff Etienne, Michael Moore, Monte Barrett (twice), Tony Thompson and most recently Chris Arreola. His two biggest wins have come against title challengers Jorge Louis Gonzalez and Monte Barrett, whom he stopped in the second round.
Also adding some Louisiana spice will be Golden Meadow, Louisiana’s Zane “The Train” Marks (16-4). He is scheduled to face Phillip Hammac (4-19) of Mobile, Alabama in a 6 round light heavyweight bout. Marks, the holder of the UBO middleweight title was last seen in May losing a 12 round decision to Will McIntyre for the IBA light heavyweight title. Hammac is coming off of a loss to prospect Farah Ennis (5-0), also in May.
The other 6 round bout of the night will pit two cruiserweight sluggers against each other. Tough guy Roy Ashworth (4-4) of Lake Charles, Louisiana will move up in weight to take on local favorite Terry “No Mercy” Broughton (1-0, 1NC). Ashworth has not fought in 2 years. Broughton will break a 6 month inactive streak.
Local Mississippi natives Gevonte Davis (1-1-1) and Carl McNichols (3-1) will also be in action along with Alabama natives Michael Gibbons (1-0) and KeAndre Leatherwood, all in separate bouts.
Krupp vs Nash in Cut Off!
June 23, 2008
First time promoter Tad Gaspard’s Executioner Productions in association with GulfCoastBoxing.com will present “Extreme Warrior Combat” at the Youth Center in Cut Off, Louisiana on Saturday, July 19, 2008. This “first time on the bayou” event will feature a mix of pro boxing, pro MMA and amateur MMA fighting styles. There are 15 scheduled bouts!
The boxing main event will feature what is being called a “Bourbon Street Brawl” between two talented New Orleans area fighters. “Smokin’ Jay Krupp (11-1) who as his slogan says came from “The Big Easy to the Big Apple” is set to face Deon Nash (6-2).
Krupp a New Orleans born fighter has trained with famed trainer Kevin Rooney at the Catskills gym in Catskills, New York since his pro career started. Krupp’s career started out fast, but has since been hit with big layoffs. In late 2007 Krupp managed to get back on the active track. Krupp’s lone defeat came to Eric Simmons, in New York, when Simmons was brought in as a late replacement fighter and was two weight divisions bigger than Krupp.
Nash is a 100% local product, born in Lutcher, Louisiana now trains at the Verrett St gym in downtown New Orleans. He was featured on ESPN’s Wednesday Night Fights in April of 2006 where he won a decision over Danny Reyes. Nash’s only 2 set backs have come against top rated opponents.
The co-feature of the night will feature Travis “Dirty Red” Scott (5-0) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Scott is scheduled to fight in his first 6 round bout against an opponent to be determined. Scott has recently started working with the Gulf Coast Boxing stable.
Local product Thomas Dardar (3-1) of nearby Thibdaux, Louisiana is slated to take on the author of the book “Million Dollar Maybe” Bill Coleman (2-3) of Las Vegas, Nevada in a 4 round light welterweight bout.
Making his much anticipated professional debut will be former New Orleans native Quantis Graves. Graves who now resides in Beaumont, Texas is currently rated number 3 in the United States as an amateur heavyweight. Quantis was only 1 win away from representing the country for the 2008 Olympic Games.
Rounding out the card will be Lafayette, Louisiana favorite Jarrod LeBlanc (1-0). He is scheduled in a 4 round welterweight bout.
5 professional MMA bouts and 4 amateur MMA bouts will fill the rest of the card. The main MMA bout will feature Anthony Barbier fighting for the Louisiana state heavyweight MMA title.
Tickets are on sale now, and can be purchased by calling 985.790.9007
Lee Cruises Past Taylor!
June 18, 2008
“Slik” Willie Lee (16-4) was forced to go the 10 round distance for the first time in his career this past Saturday night at the Civic Center in D’Iberville, Mississippi.
Lee, who was never in any real danger, pounded the body of the 36 year old Clarence Taylor (13-16-2) early, and it seemed to make the fight a lot easier for the boxer/promoter Lee. Taylor was never really in the bout, but was determined to make Lee fight the full duration of the bout. One judge managed to see one round for Taylor. Final scores read 100-90, 100-90, 99-91.
The heavyweight co-feature of the night is what gave people their monies worth. Young slugger Aaron Lyons (9-3), a local product from Gulfport, Mississippi took on well known journeymen “Big” John Dixson of Gauthier, Mississippi.
On paper this should have been an easy victory for Lyons, it was anything but. Lyons dominated the first and second rounds, but then started to tire in the third round. Dixson, who was in better shape pressed the action everything Lyons would stop throwing punches, which made for a very entertaining fight. In round 4 Lyons looked to be on the verge of passing out, but a second wind proved to be to much for the 42 year old Dixson.
Lyons connected with a series of shots just as the 10 second hammer hit, Dixson managed to beat the count. Lyons was on the kill at the start of round 5, and it was just too much for Dixson and referee Keith Hughes stopped the bout.
Other results are as follows…
Dora Batista SD4 Tiffiany Ibanez
Derrick Lee TKO1 Miguel Alfaro
Darius Graves KO1 Leo Parfait
Gevonte Davis TKO1 Cleo Rice
Carl McNichols TKO1 Fred Tilman
Jervantis Moore UD4 Bobby Hill
Ricky Deroven, Jr KO1 Nate Richmond
Promoter : There They Go Productions.
State Champ J. Verdin Headlines!
June 18, 2008
Houma,Louisiana - Undefeated Louisiana cruiserweight champion Justin "Ironman" Verdin (5-0) of Grand Bois, Louisiana will headline a mostly amatuer fight card at the East Houma Bingo Hall in Houma, LA. Verdin will take on Cuban born and upset minded Miguel Aquila who now lives in New Orleans, LA.
The rest of the card will feature the best local amatuer talent in the region, also Randy Billiot will be featured in an amatuer MMA bout. This event is being promoted by In Ya Face Fight Productions, proceeds will go to local boxing competing in the Ringside National tounament in August.
Lee Back in Action!
June 9, 2008
Gulfport, Mississippi native “Slik” Willie Lee (15-5) will headline an 8 bout card taking place this Saturday night at the D’Iberville Civic Center in D’Iberville, Mississippi.
Lee - who is coming off of a very impressive stoppage of former title challenger Jason Papillion – is slated to square off against Wilmington, Delaware’s Clarence “Sonny Bono” Taylor (13-15-2) in a 10 round main event bout.
“Slik” Willie won the vacant IBA Intercontinental light middleweight title over Ike Ezeji by 1st round knockout in November 2004. Lee then successfully defended that title 3 months later with a 2nd round knockout over Darien Ford.
Taylor won the WBC USNBC light middleweight title in April of last year with a 3rd round knockout win over David Medina. Taylor won his last bout via 6 round decision over John Terry (2-10-3).
The co-feature of the night will be a battle of Mississippi heavyweights. Aaron Lyons (8-3) is scheduled to face 34 fight veteran and local favorite “Big” John Dixson. Lyons hails from Gulfport and Dixson from Gauthier. Both sluggers are looking for wins in this 4 round battle.
The most interesting under card battle (on paper at least) will pit Derrick Lee (2-1) - who is the younger brother of main event boxer Willie Lee – against tough Laurel, MS boxer Miguel Alfaro (3-3). Both fighters dropped their last bouts in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lee ran out of steam and lost a majority decision against Jeavon Boisseau. Alfaro was dropped in round 1 and ended up losing a 6 round decision to Gary Bergeron.
Mississippian Carl McNickels (2-1) will face Fred Tillman (0-4) of Killen, Texas in a 4 round light welterweight bout.
Gulfport, Ms native and former amateur standout Gevonte Davis (0-1-1) hopes to grab his first professional victory over pro debuting Cleo Rice III.
Rounding out the card will be Roy Jones, SR trained heavyweight Kelvin Davis (4-0, 4KO’s), debuting Darius Graves and female Tiffany Ibanez (2-5-1)
"Kid Fire" Wins IBA Belt!
May 21, 2008
Brawlin N’ Nawlins was not just a clever name… It was exactly what it was billed to be. Last Saturday night at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, Louisiana Will “Kid Fire” McIntyre (40-4-1) reached the 40 win plateau and captured the IBA Americas light heavyweight title in the process.
Will ran into a slight road block on his way to the title called Zane “The Train” Marks (17-4). Zane came out on fire looking to end the night early and that sent that crowd of over 2,000 people into frenzy. McIntyre started settling down in the 4th round as Marks seemed to fade, but every time McIntyre flurried Marks would come back to keep the fight close.
Round 6 saw McIntyre credited with a knockdown when Marks’ upper body went through the top and second rope (which was not secured with a rope divider). In round 7 McIntyre was also credited with a knockdown when Marks went thought the top and second rope again, although this time McIntyre scored a blow while Marks’ upper body hung off the second rope.
The final rounds saw both fighter exchange vicious shots. After the final bell the judge’s scorecards read 114-113, 115-111 and 114-112. The fighters were treated to a standing ovation before the cards were read.
Promoter Les Bonano stated “I knew the fight was a 50/50 bout but had no right to expect such a great match.” When asked about the match.
A rematch is in the works.
In the featured bout of the night Chalmette, Louisiana native Gary “Southern Pride” Bergeron (9-2) pounded out a 6 round unanimous decision over the very game Miguel Alfaro (3-3) of Laurel, Mississippi by way of El Salvador. Bergeron put Alfaro down in the opening stanza. Alfaro had a good second round and was able to keep Bergeron off, but the quicker Bergeron had already started investing into body work.
Bergeron was able to control the pace of the bout and had Alfaro out on a few occasions, but could not end it. Scorecards read 60-53, 59-54, 59-54.
Rayne, Louisiana lightweight Mason Menard (2-0) continued to impress as he “bombed out” the usually durable Mario Lacey (7-18) of Mobile, Alabama. Menard dropped Lacey 3 times in route to a 2nd round TKO victory. Referee was Kenny Licata.
In a match up of a prison guard against a former prisoner. Donaldsonville, Louisiana native Hasan “The Destroyer” Henderson (2-0) got the second win of his professional career when former prison guard Wade Gilbert of Arkansas (1-2) could not continue after he dislocated his shoulder just 51 seconds into the 1st round.. Henderson reportedly had 43 “prison” bouts before he turned pro last month.
The opening bout of the night saw heavyweight Bobby O’Bannon (3-0, 3KO’s) keep his knockout streak in tact when he knocked out “Downtown” Nick Brown (0-1) who was making his pro debut. The time of knockout was 1:34 of the very 1st round.
4 MMA bouts also entertained the crowd.
Promoter: The Fight Guys, LLC
GCB at the Scales!
May 16, 2008
Below are the weights for tonights “Brawlin N’ Nawlins.”
Will McIntyre 172.5 vs Zane Marks 172.5
IBA Americas Light Heavyweight Championship
Gary Bergeron 146 vs. Miguel Alfaro 146.5
Hasan Henderson 205 vs. Wade Gilbert 205
Bobby O'Bannon 250 vs. Nick Brown 225
Mason Menard 133 vs. Mario Lacy 136
*There will also be 4 MMA bouts.
Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and can be purchased at the door. $40 and $20 seats remain.
J. Verdin in Action!
May 1, 2008
Louisiana state cruiserweight champion Justin “Ironman” Verdin (4-0) will be in action this weekend at the Patterson Civic Center in Patterson, Louisiana. Verdin is scheduled to take on Ernest Parfait from Bay St. Louis, Mississippi in a 4 round cruiserweight contest.
This will be the lone boxing bout on this “Battlezone IX” card being presented by Steve Miller’s FightHouse Productions.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling 985.384.5425
May 17 Presser
April 25, 2008
Brawlin N’ Nawlins and The Fight Guys presented a press conference yesterday at Buffalo Wild Wings in Houma, Louisiana to announce their May 17th Boxing and MMA event to be held at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, LA.
Promoter Les Bonanao was present along with the two main event fighters Will McIntyre and Zane Marks. Recently added Mason Menard and MMA fighter Courtney Pollard and Randy Billiot were also present.
Marks and McIntyre will meet in a 12 round bout for the IBA light heavyweight title.
More to come…
Les Bonano with Zane Marks and Will McIntyre
Scypion Wins in FL!
April 25, 2008
From Fightnews.com
Unbeaten jr. middleweight Wilford Scypion (6-0, 5 KOs), son of the 1980s middleweight contender Wilford Scypion, punished William Ganes (0-2) until the bout was stopped in round four.
Scypion fights for local boxing agent Kerry Daigle and the Keep Punching stable of fighters.
Menard Added to Kenner Card!
April 25, 2008
Lightweight Mason Menard (1-0) of Rayne, Louisiana has just been added to the already packed “Brawlin N’ Nawlins” card which is set to take place on Saturday, May 17 at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner.
Menard was a highly decorated amateur fighter, he claimed 8 Louisiana Golden Glove championships and won a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympic qualifying tournament.
His second professional bout will be a tough one as he is scheduled to face Felix Malespin (4-2), who originally hails from Nicaragua, but now resides in New Orleans, LA.
Mason Menard with manager Chad Broussard
Marks vs McIntyre for IBA Belt!
April 12, 2008
Press Release
May 17, 2008 - Metairie, LA -- Hey, New Orleans! Just between you and me, it’s going to be powerful punches and definitely some elbows. I’m talking about WORLD CLASS BOXING AND MMA - all under the same roof. Brawlin in N'awlins’ own Les Bonano (event co-coordinator) combined forces with The Fight Guys LLC to bring World Class boxing and the MMA back to the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner. The action packed event will be held on May 17, 2008 at 7:30 PM.
The fight line up will include 4 MMA FIGHTS and 4 Professional Boxing Matches all on the same card. The main event will feature the battle for the IBA LT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP. Be ready and excited because this ticket mixes hot sauce with this gumbo-style event. It’s hot because when MIXED MARTIAL ARTS MEETS BOXING….. Well, you will see!
The IBA (International Boxing Association) LT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP belt will be on the line. Both quality sluggers have been in major events. Will “Kid Fire” McIntyre from Covington, Louisiana with a record of 39 wins, only 4 losses and 14 knockouts will fight Zane “The Train” Marks, from Greenock, Scotland now fighting out of Golden Meadow, Louisiana.
McIntyre is noted for his appearance on Showtime against the World Renowned Title Holder Joe Calzaghe in Denmark for the WBO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP. Calzaghe is NOW fighting against Bernard Hopkins. McIntyre also fought on ESPN in a 12 Decision Loss to the undefeated Dana Rosenblatt in Mashantucke, Connecticut for the IBA Continental Championship. McIntyre biggest win was a 12 Victory for the NABA Championship against Shawn Lanberg at Casino Magic in Bay St Louis, Mississippi.
Zane Marks’ most notable fight was a 12 Decision Loss for the IBC & NBA Championship in Boise, Idaho against Celevendand Corder.
Gary "Southern Pride" Bergeron from Chalmette, Louisiana (8 wins-2 losses) will fight Miguel Alfaro from El Salvador (4 wins, 2 losses) in the Welterweight Division.
Joseph Smith from Mobile, Alabama (7 Wins, 2 Losses) in the Lt Heavyweight Division will fight against an opponent to be announced.
Bobby O'Bannon of Mobile, Alabama (2 wins-0 losses) in the Heavyweight Division will fight Nick “Downtown” Brown from Franklinton, Louisiana who is making his pro debut.
In the highly anticipated and exciting MMA matches two of the four bouts will feature Charles Raider from Chalmette, Louisiana and Chaz Agilar from Guatemala now fighting out of Harahan, Louisiana.
Two other MMA Bouts will be added to the card. More information will follow.
Tickets are on sale at all Ticketmaster Outlets Ticketmaster.com or at 504-522-5555.
Krupp Wins Again!
Gulfcoastboxing.com Exclusive
April 9, 2008
A night of knockouts broke out last Saturday night at the Venue nightclub in downtown New Orleans, Louisiana. Of the 6 bouts on the card 4 ended early.
The main event featured Catskills, New York’s Jerome Tabb (9-3) against Douglas “Preacher Man” Robertson (2-15-2). Round one saw Robertson press the action and land the cleaner blows, but one round was all the “Preacher Man” had in him. Tabb easily controlled the last 5 rounds with his pressing action and hooks to the body. All three judges saw it 59-55 for the New York native Jerome Tabb.
Hometown favorite “Smokin” Jay Krupp (11-1) ended things early, 35 seconds early, in his bout against Billy “Outlaw” Outley (13-48-2) of Shreveport, Louisiana. Krupp walked across the ring, slipped two shots and then threw a left hook to the body that made Outley sprawl to the mat in pain. Outley reportedly endured a broken rib. Krupp has won 7 bouts in a row.
Rynell Griffin (2-1) won his second straight bout as he got rid of the lanky Phillip Lars (2-2) of Shreveport, Louisiana in two rounds. Griffin was easily able to get on the inside of Phillips and that seemed to be the key. Griffin stepped on the gas in the second round forcing Lars to end the bout on a knee.
Light welterweight Gary Bergeron (8-2) got back on the winning track when he disposed of Cory Stephens (1-8) just 58 seconds into round number 2. Stephens started out fast and tried to catch Bergeron off guard, the experienced Bergeron walked thought the wild shots by Stephens. Round 2 saw Bergeron land a vicious body combination that put Stephens down for the 10 count.
The bout of the night saw New Orleans native Jevaon Boisseau put the first blemish on the record of Gulfport, Mississippi’s Derrick Lee (2-0). A lot of close back and forth action put the bout seemingly even going into the last two rounds, but the stamina of Boisseau seemed to give him the slight edge. The final verdict saw a majority decision win for Boisseau, scores were 39-37, 39-37, 38-38.
Light middleweight “Dirty Red” Travis Scott (5-0) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana stayed unbeaten as he dispatched of Jerrick Stephens (1-11) just 55 seconds into the opening round. A well placed left hook to the body put Stephens down and out. Scott is now working with the Gulf Coast Boxing team. This bout ended a 29 month layoff for Scott.
Promoter was Gulf Coast Pro Boxing.
Gary Bergeron lands a flurry against Cory Stephens
Photo taken by Flipstyle
For more pictures Click Here
Boxing Back in NOLA!
April 3, 2008
Phil Krupp’s Gulf Coast “Pro” Boxing will present a 7 bout card this Friday night at the Venue in New Orleans, LA. The card is filled with young New Orleans based talent, with a New Yorker thrown in.
Jay Krupp (10-1), son of promoter Phil will participate in his first main event as a professional. He is set to face late sub Billy Outley of Shreveport, Louisiana in a 6 round welterweight bout. Krupp has won his last 6 bouts and Outley is coming off of a knockout loss at the hands of undefeated prospect Wilford Scypion and a draw with Anthony Middlebrooks (8-2-1)
Heavyweights Jerome Tabb of Catskills, New York will face Doug “Preacher Man” Robertson (8-3) of Longview, Texas in the only other 6 round bout on the card.
The undercard will feature a host of New Orleans based talent including the come back of “Southern Pride” Gary Bergeron (7-2), Renell Griffin (1-1), Travis Scott (4-0), Jevaon Boisseau (1-2) and the professional debut of Ron Weaver protégé Marcus McDaniel. All in 4 round bouts.
Tickets are on sale now and you can get them by calling 504.201.8281
LA GG Results!
April 3, 2008
The 2008 Louisiana Golden Glove champions are as follows:
106 - None
112 - Henry Clay
119 - None
125 - Gerardo Garcia (Youngsville)
132 - Joel Baglio (Daley's Gym)
141 - Jared Menard (Frog Capital)
152 - Johathon Casimere (Westlake)
165 - Chad Trahan (Rajun Cajun)
178 - Antonio Mignella (Grand Bois)
201 - Tyler Jones
201+ - Alfre Fuselier (Rajun Cajun)
These fighters will advance to the Mid-South regional tournament on April 12 in Little Rock, Arkansas.
LA Golden Gloves Returns To Lafayette!
March 24, 2008
Rajun Cajun Boxing Club
The LoUiSiAna State Golden Gloves Tournament will return to Lafayette on March 28th & 28th at the Robicheaux Center, 1919 Eraste Landry Road. Hosting the event again this year will be Lafayette’s own Ragin’ Cajun Amateur Boxing Club.
LoUiSiAna Golden Gloves Director Ray Paxton of Shreveport stated “The State Golden Gloves held in Lafayette in 2007 was the finest run amateur boxing tournament in my 40+ years in boxing. Everything from concessions to the championship bouts was done not only as it should be, but the Ragin Cajun Club exceeded all expectations. We sent a fine team of boxers to the Mid-South Golden Gloves Regional Tournament of Champions and I believe we will have an even better, more experienced team this year. Coach Williford and his team left no stone unturned last year and I think they will again do an exceptional job”.
Acadiana will be well represented in all weights and ages with six clubs from Lafayette. Commitments have been made by clubs from Shreveport to New Orleans to enter their boxers in the 2008 tournament. At least two hundred boxers from eight- years- old to thirty five-years-old will be entered and this year the MASTERS DIVISION will be included for boxers from thirty six years old up to seventy fives years old.
Tournament winners in the Open Division will be awarded trophies, LoUiSiAna Golden Gloves Champions jackets and trunks and vest for the Mid-South Regional’s. All other tournament winners will be awarded trophies or medallions.
This will be the first time the Robicheaux Center has hosted a boxing tournament and the Center is excited about this opportunity to showcase their fine venue. There will not be any obstruction for fans viewing the bouts. Bouts commence at 7 PM sharp on both Friday and Saturday night
For VIP tables for eight people for each night, contact: Beldon E. Fox, Jr. at (337) 288-4052 or for general admission tickets please call: (337) 257-3501. Tickets may also be purchased at the following locations on March 10th.at the following locations: Pete’s on Johnston Street, Southside Bakery in the South College Shopping Center on Johnston Street, The Bulldog on General Mouton, T-Coons on Pinhook Road, Red Lerille’s on Doucet Road and Sandlot Academy in the Plaza Shopping Center on Johnston Street
Norwood vs Hammac!
March 14, 2008
Aaron “The Assisian” Norwood (24-9-1) of Hattiesburg, Mississippi will get the opportunity to claim his stake for the Mid-South light heavyweight championship this Saturday night in front of his home town fans at the Multipurpose Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. His opponent will be Phillip Hammac (4-17) of nearby Mobile, Alabama.
Also scheduled to see action will me lightweight Mario Lacey of Mobile, AL and Miguel Alfaro of Laurel, MS.
Revish Back in Action!
March 14, 2008
At the North Park Assembly Center in Denham Springs, Louisiana the Gladiators Academy will present “No Surrender” a 10 fight card that will include three professional boxing matches. This event is scheduled to take place this coming Saturday night (3.15.-8)
Walker-Echols battle to draw! Powell crushes Finley!
March 1, 2008
Fightnews.com / GulfCoastBoxing.com
Undefeated middleweight Michael Walker (18-0-2, 12 KOs) and former three-time title challenger Antwun Echols (31-7-4, 27 KOs) battled to a ten round draw. Walker, who took the fight on less than 48 hours notice after the pullout of Allan Green, put on a game effort against the seasoned Echols. Scores were 98-92 Echols, 95-95, 95-95
Walker poised for Echols!
February 29, 2008
Fightnews.com
Undefeated middleweight Michael Walker (18-0-1, 12 KOs) faces former title challenger Antwun Echols (31-7-3, 27 KOs) in the co-main event of tonight's edition of ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights" from the Paragon Casino in Marksville, Louisiana. With just 24 hours notice, Walker agreed, without hesitation, to take the bout. "Michael and I both understand that even with incredibly short notice, this is an important opportunity to make a statement," said Walker's promoter, Octavius James, CEO Of One In A Million Inc. "Stepping up to face a fighter like Echols with no notice shows some serious heart and confidence on Walker's part."
Green off ESPN2 card!
February 29, 2008
Fightnews.com
Super middleweight contender Allan Green will not be facing Antwun Echols on ESPN2 Friday Night Fights at the Paragon Casino and Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. Echols will now take on unbeaten Michael "Midnight Stalker" Walker (18-0-1, 12 KOs) after Green suddenly became unavailable. "Green hasn't returned our calls since Monday and missed his plane yesterday," Holden Promotions executive Bobby Dobbs told Fightnews.com. Green was located by Fightnews.com today at the Palm Beach Boxing Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. His only comment: "I'm not in a position to talk about it now." Echols-Walker will part of an attractive double main event card that also features IBF #1 junior middleweight contender Sechew “Iron Horse” Powell (22-1) in action against Kevin Finley.
"Sweet" Resurrection! February 26, 2008
Michael J. Campbell
“Sweet” Reggie Johnson of Houston, Texas, said he wasn’t on a “comeback,” but rather was in need of some “get back” and returned to the ring for some unfinished business. Titles at middleweight and light heavyweight and 25 world title contests couldn’t satiate his desire to fight and after long contract disputes and wanting to “do things his way,” he finally got another big fight after a two and a half year layoff.
J. Verdin Makes Quick Work of Folse! February 24, 2008
Last night in the Houma Civic Center a new king was crowned. Justin “Ironman” Verdin (4-0) got the upper hand on what could be part of a two fight deal (Boxing, then MMA) on local rival promoter and fighter Ricky “The Pit-bull” Folse (3-3).
Johnson edges Gonzalez! February 24, 2008
Fightnews.com
41-year-old former two-time world champion Reggie Johnson (44-7-1, 25 KOs) reportedly won a split decision over former world champ Julio Gonzalez (41-5, 25 KOs) on Saturday night at the Civic Center in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Scores were 116-112, 115-113 for Johnson and 116-112 for Gonzalez. Johnson, who had had only one fight in the previous six years, claimed the IBA light heavyweight title on a show billed as "Fight Night for Climate Change," emphasizing the issue of global warming.
Lake Charles Undercard Announced! February 13, 2008
Keeppuncing.com
Trinity World Boxing Promotions, Green Planet Mobile, Goossen Tutor Promotions, Keeppunching Entertainment, and Impact Marketing will team up to bring professional boxing fans a truly great match-up of former world champions. Johnson is a former WBA Middleweight World Champion and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion (43-7-1—25 KO) and Gonzalez is a former WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion (41-4-0—25KO). Johnson has had one fight in 4 years. Gonzalez fought for the IBF Light Heavyweight World Title late last year in the United Kingdom against Clinton Woods and lost a 12 round unanimous decision. Neither fighter has ever been knocked out in a total of 96 professional boxing matches with 50 knockouts among the two against the biggest names in the last two decades. The winner will be an IBA World Light-heavyweight Champion and be in line to challenge one of the other world champions and find their place in the Hall of Fame. There is a lot at stake in this match-up.
Johnson vs Gonzalez for IBA Strap! February 6, 2008
Keeppuncing.com
Paragon’s Plans to Keeppunching! February 6, 2008
Keeppuncing.com
J. Verdin vs Folse, Feb 23! February 6, 2008
It is finally here, Justin “Ironman” Verdin (3-0) will get to do battle with his arch rival Ricky “Pitbull” Folse (3-2) in a very much anticipated grudge match. This bout has been in the making for over two years and it will come to fruition February 23, 2008 at the Civic Center in Houma, Louisiana.
Peterson Bros Win! Janaury 5, 2008
Fightnews.com / Showtime / Gulfcoastboxing.com
Click Here for the full reports on the bouts telivised by Showtime.
ShoBox Weights! Janaury 3, 2008
Gulfcoastboxing.com
Lamont Peterson 142.9 vs Antonio Misquita 142.7 GCB.com Featured December 20, 2007
The Lafourche Gazette
Nestled in the remains of a local bar is a haven for boxers of all levels working under the training of a
1988 Olympic champion who plans on propelling a bayou-area boxer to the title of world champ within
the next few years.
Peterson Bros on ShoBox! December 17, 2007
Prize Fight Boxing
Memphis, TN-Monday, December 17, 2007-On Friday, January 4th, in what will be the first televised bout of 2008, Memphis based Prize Fight Boxing and the Hard Rock Casino and Resort in Biloxi, Mississippi kick off the New Year with a bang by welcoming back Anthony and Lamont Peterson, live on Showtime's popular fight series, ShoBox: The New Generation.
Baton Rouge native Kevin Wallis (3-1) is scheduled to end a 7 year layoff as he is set to face another tough Texas native in Don Mouton (3-2) in a super middleweight bout
Light middleweight Mark Hinson looks for his first win as a professional against 47 fight veteran Steve Verdin of Houma, Louisiana
The card will round out with 7 MMA bouts featuring top local talent from around the region. For more info or tickets call 225.218.8871
IBF #1 jr middleeweight Sechew Powell (23-1, 14 KOs) impressively demolished Kevin Finley (12-1-1, 9 KOs) in just 2:23 on Friday night at the Paragon Casino & Resort in Marksville, Louisiana. Powell floored Finley twice.
Jr welterweight Jesus Pabon (11-1, 8 KOs) won an eight round unanimous decision over Daniel Garcia (9-4-1, 7 KOs). Scores were 78-72, 78-72, 78-72.
The first bout of the evening pitted promising light welterweight Kenny Galarza (4-0, 4KO’s) of Puerto Rico against the very game David Maund (4-16-1) of Ohio. Galarza started out early and often as he battered the out classed Maund for the most part of rounds 1 and 2 with some very mean combinations. The latter half of the second round saw Galarza switch to more of a jabbing routine, reportedly because of a hurt right hand. The early work paid off as Maund developed a nasty gash on the bridge of his nose.
Round 3 was the end of the night for Maund as Galarza pounded him with a left hook uppercut combo that seemed to take the steam out of Maund, after a few more select shots from Galarza referee Russell Naquin stepped in and put an end to the bout at 2:21 into round 3.
In the second bout of the night Mike Martinez (7-2) showed a little bit of everything he has to offer as he scored a 6 round decision over Fernando Chacon (3-13-2) of Houston, Texas. Martinez of Snyder, Texas put on a boxing clinic over for six rounds, the only set back in this bout for Martinez is that he suffered a small cut on his right eye, but his corner put an end to that real fast.
All three judges scored the bout 60-54 for the much quicker and accurate Martinez. GulfCoastBoxing.com also scored the bout 60-54.
The walkout bout of the night showcased undefeated middleweight Wilford Scypion Jr. of Lafayette, Louisiana against 62 fight veteran Billy “Outlaw” Outley of Shrveport, Louisiana. The powerful Scypion put Outley down 3 times in route to a 2nd round stoppage 1:13 into the round.
Powell Wins Easy
"I'm glad Green bailed and I don't care why," Walker said. "I'm going to take care of business. Everything happens for a reason. This is going to be my coming out party....for the past year, none of the rising middleweights have wanted to take a chance fighting me. Beating a puncher like Echols, a 'name' fighter who's been in with the best, is the opportunity that I've been waiting for."
A scheduled contest with top ranked “Gentleman” Glen Johnson was cancelled last November due to and arm injury suffered by Reggie during preparations. Three months later, Glen is scheduled to fight WBC champ Chad Dawson, and former WBO champion Mexican Julio Gonzalez, of Huntington Beach, California, stepped in to battle for the IBA Light Heavyweight Title.
Johnson came in via an extended ring walk, circling the arena, wearing a plain grey sweatshirt and knit cap, giving a very working man impression. When the bell sounded to begin action, Johnson charged across the ring scoring combinations and attacking the body from his southpaw stance. Rope burns and evidence of body punches were already apparent on Gonzalez’s back by the end of the first round.
The forty-one year old former champion demonstrated that his skills were still sharp in making Gonzalez miss many of his punches with superior speed and head movement. Gonzalez came forward constantly though and never lessened his work rate, which began to turn the bout his way as Johnson’s body attack disappeared. “I tweaked my left shoulder in the fourth or fifth round and I couldn’t utilize my left hand as much,” Johnson revealed after the bout.
The middle rounds saw Gonzalez outwork Johnson, whose elusiveness became less effective. Other than a good shot to the ear which staggered Gonzalez momentarily in the seventh round, rounds five thru nine were mostly Julio pushing Reggie into the ropes and landing the bigger punches.
In the tenth, Johnson had his biggest round of the evening landing multiple series of 1-2 combinations which went unanswered from Gonzalez and control of the bout’s pace had turned. The remainder of the contest saw Gonzalez wanting to engage in toe to toe action, while Johnson preferred to evade the initial attempts and draw his foe in for counterpunches, loading up for big power shots seeming to desire a knockdown or even stoppage.
In the end, it was a very tightly scored bout from which the judges had to decide between Gonzalez’s superior aggressiveness and high workrate which controlled the action and pace of the bout, or prefer Johnson’s great head movement, defense, and slicker boxing.
The referee for the bout was Rick Exe. Judge Mickey Lofton scored the bout 116-112 for Johnson, while judge Ray Clarey scored it 116-112 for Gonzalez, and judge Kenny Saintes scored it 115-113 for Johnson, resulting in a Split Decision victory for Reggie Johnson.
Julio Gonzalez commiserated, “I felt I won the fight. He won four rounds at most. It was completely obvious. I’m not afraid to go into anyone’s hometown to fight, but I just want a fair decision. Reggie, you said you’d give me a rematch, but let’s do it in California!”
Jesse Reid, James Green, and Bobby Benton worked Johnson’s corner.
Always one who gave back to his community, Johnson utilized local sparring in Houston and brought young prospects from Houston area gyms to fill out the undercard.
In the co-main event, Houston’s Maurenzo “T-Diddy” Smith engaged in a six round contest with comebacking veteran James “Machine Gun” Gatlin of Atlanta. After a long period of inactivity, Gatlin seemed ill-prepared to go the distance. Smith was able to have his will with him and land any shots he so desired. Gatlin was gassed and relied on the strategy of trying to draw Smith in and load up with one big shot. He didn’t land many and when they did, they did little damage. The referee called an end to the one sided affair midway through the final round. Smith now looks to contend for the Texas cruiserweight title in a bout which would complete his trilogy with rival “Crazy” Robbie McClimmans of Conroe.
“Mean” Eugene Hill of Dickinson, Texas, moved to 10-0 disposing of Rozell Traylor in the first round. Last year Traylor dropped his pro debut to Hill by second round TKO. With three more fights under his belt and coming off a victory, Traylor attempted to avenge his loss. Hill wanted to top his previous performance and did just that, knocking out his foe just before the end of the first round. He demonstrated his maturation as a fighter in remaining patient and focused during the bout. He cornered Traylor on the ropes and put him down twice with well placed combinations. The first time he bounced back up, but the on the second occasion, the referee counted him out.
Lafayette, Lousiana’s, Wilford Sypion, Jr. remained perfect in gaining his fourth knockout victory in as many tries. He is the son of the legendary middleweight who had memorable bouts with Marvin Hagler, Iran Barkley, Mustafa Hamsho, & Frankie Fletcher. With his opponent putting up little resistance, Sypion landed combinations and attacked the body, resulting in scored knockdowns in rounds one and three before referee Kenny Saintes had seen enough.
2007 Texas Golden Gloves champion Justin Jones of Houston, picked up his second victory scoring a shutout over Kirby Gillespie of Dallas. Jones boxed well, breaking through Gillespie’s jabs and clutching tactics to land flurries and body shots.
Houston heavyweight Herman “Skip” Scott received his 2nd victory by way of TKO when referee Rick Exe decided that Charles Scott’s activity level wasn’t at a high enough level for the bout to continue. Skip held a huge height and reach advantage over Charles
Mike Martinez made quick work of Jerrick Stephens winning via first round stoppage.
The bouts will be delay broadcast online from the website http://www.greenplanetmobile.com.
Gulfcoastboxing.com Exclusive
Verdin and Folse met last night in one of the most hyped up boxing matches that didn’t involve HBO or Showtime that the state of Louisiana has ever seen. The set up was grand as both fighters came out to pay-per-view worthy entrances that included large video screens, light shows and smoke machines.
When the bell sounded Verdin took over landing a very effective jab that left Folse looking confused. Folse tried some offense of his own, only to be countered with a solid left hook. Verdin then landed a big overhand right that pinned Folse to the ropes, Verdin then unloaded a vicious body attack. Smelling blood Verdin backed off for a second, only to fire back with another big right hand that had Folse trying to hold on.
And hold on he did, Folse grabbed Verdin and then attempted to knee Verdin while still in the clinch. Verdin countered with 3 uppercuts that crushed the nose of Folse. Referee Russell Naquin separated the two boxers and when the blood started flowing out of the nose of Ricky Folse, Naquin called in the ringside doctor to examine the bloody Folse. After about a 5-6 minute examination the ringside doctor felt Folse could not continue, giving a first round TKO victory to Justin Verdin.
With the win Verdin stays unbeaten and captures the Louisiana state cruiserweight title. The time was 2:07 into the opening round.
Other action saw Houma, Louisiana fan favorite “Smiling” Martin Verdin (15-13-1) snap a 6 fight losing streak with an 8 round unanimous decision victory over Miguel “El Toro” Aquila (12-39-2). Verdin seemed to frustrate Aquila with movement thus letting him land his jab at will. The official scores were not read. Gulfcoastboxing.com scored the bout 79-71 for Verdin.
In the only other boxing match of the night nearby Thibadoux, Louisiana native Thomas Dardar (3-0) stayed unbeaten as he cruised to a 4 round decision win over Houma, Louisiana’s Steve “Road Warrior” Verdin (8-37-2). Dardar used constant pressure and a stiff jab to win every round on the GCB scorecard. Again, no official scores were read.
Promoters: In Ya Face Fight Productions / Pitbull Productions. Matchmaker Damien St.Pierre
Folse (in black) tries to knee Verdin (in white) while in a clinch
Photo from The Louisiana Fight Club
TheLAFightClub.com
LA Fight Club Myspace Page
New IBA light heavyweight champion, Reggie "Sweet" Johnson
Photo by J and P Photo's
J and P Photo's Myspace Page
The undercard will feature a night of Heavyweight action. Maurice “T-Diddy” Smith, Houston, TX will face James Gatlin from Atlanta, Georgia in a 6 round co-feature. Knockout artist Eugene Hill (9-0 with 8 knockouts), a Mike Tyson type puncher, will also be on the card. Justin Jones, a heavyweight prospect training from Houston, Texas and originally from Lafayette, Louisiana (1-0) will face the ever tough Kirby Lee Gillespie (1-1-1) also from Texas. Herman “Skip” Scott, another Houston heavyweight will enter his 3rd professional bout against an opponent to be named. Scott is 6’8” and 252 pounds and brings lots of action to the fights.
Also, on the card will feature amateur sensation Michael “El Torito de Fiero” Martinez (5-2, 3 KO) from Houston, Texas by way of Snyder. Martinez shows the skill of a much more advanced professional. His team mate, Wilford Scypion, Jr (3-0, 3 KO), originally from Port Arthur and Houston, Texas will face 150 fight veteran Benji Singleton from Georgia. Scypion’s father Wilford Scypion, Sr was one of the most popular middleweights in the 70’s and 80’s fighting on national television regularly having won ‘Fight of the Year’ honors.
This fight is a Las Vegas type show that will make history in Lake Charles, Louisiana as one of the best boxing cards in the last 3 decades.
In attendance at the conference will be main event participant and former two-time world champion Reggie “Sweet” Johnson, as well as the promotional groups responsible for putting this amazing event together among other attendees.
Fight Night for Climate Change will be telecast internationally via satellite and viewed by millions through a distribution network to include pay-per-view streaming on the Internet and, for the first time ever, will be simulcast pay-per-view on mobile phones. Fight tickets are going quickly and fans are asked to purchase their tickets early.
Tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets and the Lake Charles Civic Center Box Office (call 337.491.1432) and are priced at $200 (Limited Ringside Seats); $125 (Floor Seats); $48.50 (Floor Riser Seats); $48.50 (Gold 100 Level Seats); $32.50 (Silver 200 Level Seats); and $15 (Bronze 300 Level, General Admission Seats).
The light heavyweights are back for ONE NIGHT ONLY as two former world champions meet. Julio Gonzalez vs. Reggie “Sweet” Johnson in a 12-round main event for the IBA WORLD Light Heavyweight title.
An incredible undercard featuring the best young prospects from Louisiana and Texas in "Do or Die" fights. It’s a fight night for climate change as professional boxing returns to southwest Louisiana – February 23 at the Lake Charles Civic Center!
Tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at ticketmaster.com.
Trinity World Boxing Promotions in conjunction with Goossen Tutor Promotions, Keeppunching Media and Marketing, and Impact Marketing are bringing THE 'FIGHT OF THE YEAR' to Louisiana! Gonzalez vs. Johnson. One night only; February 23. Be a part of this history-making title fight in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Call 491-1432 and get your tickets today!
Click Here for the Offficial Johnson vs Gonzalez website!
February ESPN Card Announces Louisiana Casino’s Status as New Destination for World-Class Boxing
Before the bell rings or a single punch is thrown, a group of extraordinary people will have already scored an impressive boxing victory.
February 29’s “Friday Night Fights” broadcast from the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana, featuring IBF #1-rated Sechew “Iron Horse” Powell (23-1, 13 KOs) and IBF and WBO #14-rated Allan “Sweetness” Green (26-1, 18 KOs) in dual main events, will mark the culmination of a lengthy group effort to bring world-class professional boxing to Central Louisiana. Click Here for the full press release!
This feud has been so heated that a half and half promotion of this bout had to be agreed upon. In Ya Face Fight Production (Verdin) and Pit bull Productions (Folse) will split the promotional duties. This bout will be at a catch weight of 185lbs and is scheduled for 10 rounds for the Louisiana State Cruiserweight title.
Verdin is undefeated in three professional bouts and is coming off of a spectacular 2nd round knockout of Jeremy Williams last August.
Folse is coming off of a decision win over Kenny Stevens in Januaury of 2005. Interestingly enough that fight was promoted by Pitbull Productions and it featured Justin Verdin.
Interviews with each fighter will come soon!
Also in action that night will be Dulac, Louisiana light heavyweight “Smiling” Martin Verdin (14-13).
Gulf Coast Boxing’s Tom “Da Bomb” Dardar (2-0) of Thibodaux, Louisiana will look to stay unbeaten as he is set to square off against Steve Verdin (8-36-1) of Bourg, Louisiana in a 4 round welterweight bout.
Tickets are on sale now and are going FAST! You can get your seats by visiting TicketMaster.com, or by calling Extreme Fitness at 985-873-2582 or Body Elite 985-851-4215.
UNDERCARD BOUTS (Gulfcoastboxing.com)
Combacking light heavyweight Will "Kid Fire" McIntyre (39-4-1) of
Covington, Louisiana won his third straight bout by chopping down 6'3
Matthew Charleston (25-18) of Stone Mountain Georgia. McIntyre was the
aggressor throughout the entire bout. Scores were 60-54, 60-55, 59-55.
Atlanta, Georgia's Curtis "KO" Smith (6-3) scored a 5th round TKO win
over hometown favorite Gary Bergeron (7-2). The southpaw Smith used a
consistent boxing/moving attack to his advantage. Smith connected with
a combination that put Bergeron down, he was able to get up but the
referee felt Bergeron had seen enough. The time of the stoppage was
1:50 into the 5th round.
Opening bout of the night saw Mobile, Alabama light heavyweight Joseph
Smith (5-2-1) put a quick end to his rematch with "Smilin'" Martin
Verdin (14-13-1) with a 3rd round KO victory. A big overhand right
put Verdin down for the count.
Anthony Peterson 135.7 vs Jose Antonio Izquierdo N/A
Will McIntyre 182.2 vs Matt Charleston 187.3
Gary Bergeron 141 vs Curtis Smith 139.1
Martin Verdin 175.5 vs Joe Smith 171.5
Tickets are on sale now at the fan friendly price of $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com, also the Hard Rock Biloxi box office or visit http://www.hardrockbiloxi.com
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Ranked #1 in the world by the WBO, Anthony (25-0, 18KO's) returns to the gulf coast for the third time a day shy of exactly one year since his last appearance. Recently voted ESPN's 2007 Prospect of the Year, Lamont (23-0, 11KO's), ranked #3 in the world by the WBO returns for a fourth time. Both brothers were featured on ESPN Friday night fights, when Anthony scored a fourth round annihilation over the rugged Juan Garza that earned him his championship belt, while older brother Lamont earned his junior welterweight strap by forcing Frankie Santos to retire on his stool rather than coming out for the seventh round.
While many fighters hope for a big fight or a shot at a world title in '08, the Peterson brothers, who plan to waste no time getting back into the ring, refuse to rest on their laurels of yesteryear.
Anthony will face Mexico's Guadalupe Rosales (25-2, 15KO's) while Lamont goes up against undefeated Las Vegas resident, Antonio Mesquita (34-0, 26KO's). Whomever the Peterson brothers fight will simply be stepping stones on their way to the world championship stage. “Every fight right now for us is a stepping stone,” said Lamont. “Even though we don't look past our opponents, we hope whoever we fight will pose a threat to us so we can prove that we're up for the test when we get our world title shot.”
Younger brother Anthony added, “There is nothing that our opponents can bring to the table that we haven't seen already. We will be ready on the 4th, and hopefully we can get some work in to prepare ourselves for a world title shot. The fans in Biloxi have shown us tremendous support and we look forward to giving them more of the same.”
The game plan for '08 is a simple one for the Peterson brothers, and one that they've had since earning National Championships in their days as amateurs. “We're just waiting to become world champions,” said Lamont. “Keep your eyes on the Peterson brothers, because '08 is going to be our year!”
Tickets are on sale now at the fan friendly price of $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com, also the Hard Rock Biloxi box office or visit http://www.hardrockbiloxi.com
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