Friday, October 31, 2008

'Tiger' Thompson Battles 'Lights Out' Toney in California December 13!

Heavyweight title contender Tony "The Tiger" Thompson of DC has reportedly signed to battle former multi-division world champion James "Lights Out" Toney on Saturday, December 13 at the Morongo Resort and Casino in Cabazon, CA.

The bout will be for the IBA Heavyweight title and will be carried live on the Versus Network.

"James and Tony both will have this opportunity to show what they still have," promoter Dan Goossen told ESPN.com. "Thompson will try to beat James better than [Samuel] Peter did and James is trying to beat Thompson better than Klitschko did. They both have something to gain with a great performance. This is one of those few times where winning isn't good enough. The winner needs to make a statement in this fight."

Peterson, Tucker, Barnett Tip The Scales in Las Vegas!

Three undefeated Beltway Boxers hit the scales at the Mandalay Bay Casino in Las Vegas.

Lamont Peterson weighed in at the junior welterweight limit of 140 pounds for his 10-round televised bout against Lanardo Tyner. Tyner also came in at 140 pounds.

DC junior welterweight Ty Barnett (15-0-1, 11 KO's) will battle Johnnie "The Lumberjack" Edwards of Jacksonville, NC (14-2-1, eight KO's) in a scheduled eight-round bout. Both men weighed in at 137 pounds.

Also, Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker (5-0, five KO's) will battle Terrence "The Truth" Wilson of Fort Smith, AK (5-3, three KO's) in a bout scheduled for four rounds. Tucker weighed in at 177 yards while Wilson came in at 170 pounds.

Weights from The Patriot Center!

Here is the scale watch for tomorrow's card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA:

Jimmy Lange 152 vs. Grover Wiley 152

George Rivera 155 vs. Jessie Nicklow 153

Curtis Smith 139 vs. Carlos Cisneros 139

Calvin Aughtrey 160 1/2 vs. Tracey Brewer 156 1/2

Tom Mitchell 120 1/2 vs. Yieta Johnson (will weigh in on Saturday)

Luther Smith 153 vs. Jimmy LeBlanc 150 1/2

Ben Odamattey, who was scheduled to take on Thomas Snow, is unable to participate in the contest. Late word comes that Darrell Martin of Baltimore has stepped in and he will face Snow on the card. Both men will weigh in on Saturday. Martin is 3-6 and is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Andre Nichols on October 18 in Springfield, VA.

L. Peterson Bout on PPV November 1!

The scheduled 10-round bout for undefeated DC junior welterweight Lamont Peterson that is going to be on the Saturday, November 1 card at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, NV will be a part of the Pay-Per-View telecast that evening.

Peterson (25-0, 12 KO's) will battle Lanardo "Pain Server" Tyner of Houston, TX (19-1, 11 KO's) on the undercard of Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr.-Matt Vanda rematch.

Kennedy, Walker, Walls Win in Cockeysville; Johnson Bout Called Off!

The Jonathan Odgen Foundation Benefit card at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD was buoyed by three solid all-Beltway bouts.

Baltimore, MD middleweight Julius Kennedy won a four-round unanimous decision over the returning Al "Black Magic" Bussey of Capitol Heights, MD. The win raises Kennedy's record to 3-1, one KO, while Bussey, fighting for the first time since April of 2005, falls to 3-4, two KO's.

In an all-DC affair, junior middleweight Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker scored a fourth-round TKO over "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley to win his first pro bout. This was a rematch of a bout that took place in November of 2007 at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, MD. That bout ended in a draw. The knockout is definitely one of the candidates for knockout of the year along the Beltway. Walker is now 1-2-1, one KO while Harsley falls to 1-8-2, suffering his third straight knockout loss.

In the curtain-raising bout on the card, rookie DC middleweight Antonio Walls won a four-round unanimous decision over the debuting Roy Cooke of Gaithersburg, MD. All three judges (Ken Chevalier, Don Risher and John Gradowski) saw the bout 39-37. Walls remains undefeated at 2-0, one KO.

The bout that was scheduled to include undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson was called off at the last minute due to what representatives of the Maryland State Athletic Commission termed "a medical issue" that, by commission policy, could not be further elaborated on by commission members.

The main event of the card featured the return of Contender -- Season One star Joey Gilbert of Reno, NV. Gilbert was punishing as he decimated Daniel "Flawless" Wallace of Adrian, MI in the second round. This was Gilbert's first bout along the Beltway since his third-round stoppage of Jimmy Lange on February 18, 2006 at the Patriot Center. Gilbert is now 16-1, 12 KO's while Wallace is 9-7, three KO's.

In a female contest, former US amateur standout Katy Klinefelter of Iowa City, IA won a relatively easy four-round unanimous decision over the debuting Jasica Rojo of Tucson, AZ. Klinefelter is now 2-0, one KO.

Ballroom Boxing served as promoters for the boxing event. The matchmaker was Chris Middendorf.

Here's the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up for this event!


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #134 - Results from Cockeysville, MD!

"The Fight Doctor" Jerome Spears and I discuss the results of the Jonathan Odgen Foundation Benefit Boxing card. Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson joins us to express his disappointment on not being able to be on the card. Also we give a final preview of the Beltway Boxing "November to Remember!"

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Ankrah Loses to Arnaoutis by Decision in New York!

Silver Spring-based Ben Ankrah lost a 10-round unanimous decision to world-rated junior welterweight Mike Arnaoutis last night at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City.

According to Fightnews.com, Arnaoutis connected all night long with stinging punches, then picked it up in the eighth and closed strong. Scores were 100-90, 100-90, 96-94.

Arnaoutis is now 21-2-2, 10 KO's while Ankrah falls to 11-8, three KO's.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Kisner Loses in Second Round of AIBA Youth Worlds!

Glen Burnie 201-pounder Nick Kisner lost his second-round bout at the AIBA Youth World Championships in Guadalajara, MX. Kisner lost to Ivan Dychko of Kazakhastan, 5-1. Kisner's loss means that is the last loss for the Beltway Boxing contingent.

Weights from Cockeysville!

Here are the weights for tomorrow night's Jonathan Ogden Foundation benefit card at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD:


Joey Gilbert, 167.5 vs. Dan Wallace, 165.5
Katy Klinefelter 133 vs. Jasica Rojo, 130
Ray Cooke, 164 vs. Antonio Walls, 159
Julius Kennedy, 159 vs. Al Bussey, 161.25

Spencer Harsley vs. Kendrick Walker--will weigh-in Thursday
Alexander Johnson vs. Anthony Cannon--will weigh-in Thursday

Ankrah Faces Arnaoutis in New York; Brown Fight Off in New Jersey!

Silver Spring, MD-based junior welterweight Ben Ankrah weighed in at 140 3/4 for his 10-round main event bout against world title contender "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis of Atlantic City tonight at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Arnaoutis came in at 142. According to Fightnews.com, the two camps waged words after the weigh-in and things got a little heated.

Ankrah, a native of Ghana (11-7, three KO's), is one of the members of The Lion's Den camp that is based in Silver Spring. Arnaoutis (20-2-2, 10 KO's) is ranked by all four of the major governing bodies (WBO #7, IBF #8, WBA #11, WBC #15).

The bout will be broadcast live over the internet for free on www.gofightlive.tv.

Meanwhile, the bout featuring Baltimore heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown that was slated for tonight at Medieval Times in Lyndenhurst, NJ has been called off because of what was reported as a "documentation error."

Thanks to Asim Hanif who provided this information.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Changes to November 1 Patriot Center Card!

As we first told you on BATB, the bout between Jaime Palma and Dean White has been scratched from the Saturday, November 1 Patriot Center card due to a cold/illness that White has suffered with for the past two months.

Another bout that has been scratched involved former IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken. Aiken's scheduled opponent, Miguel Rodriguez, pulled out at the very last minute.

Two bouts have been added to the card. Alexandria, VA junior middleweight Luther "Sugarman" Smith (who, ironically, is Aiken's cousin) will battle Jimmy "The Dream" LeBlanc of Boston, MA in a six-round contest. Smith (22-7-2, 12 KO's) will be trying to break a four-bout losing streak. Smith has not won since defeating former welterweight title contender Oba Carr by second-round TKO in October of 2002. LeBlanc (11-15-3, four KO's) has lost six straight and eight of his last nine -- a streak that includes losses to contender Yuri Foreman and prospects Moncef Askri and Raymond Serrano.

Also added is an eight-round junior middleweight bout that could turn out to be a good one as Hyattsville, MD-based Carlos "El Perro" Cisneros battles Curtis "KO" Smith of Atlanta, GA. A native of El Salvador, Cisneros (9-15-1, six KO's) has won two of his last three bouts. Both were victories against Beltway Boxers Norman Allen and Reggie Holly. Smith (8-4, four KO's) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Andre Baker on June 14 in Atlanta. Smith impressed many Beltway fans back in November of 2007 when he lost a close six-round split decision to Andrew Farmer at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA. Smith dropped Farmer with body punches in the sixth round of that contest.

Card Complete for Jonathan Ogden Foundation Benefit in Cockeysville!

The card has been put together for the Jonathan Ogden Foundation benefit on Thursday, October 30 at Martin's Valley Mansion in Cockeysville, MD.

Undefeated Oxon Hill, MD light heavyweight Alexander "The Great" Johnson will battle Anthony Cannon of Saginaw, MI in a four-round contest. Johnson (5-0, three KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision win over Zeferino Albino on August 15 at the Ibiza Nightclub in Washington, DC. Cannon (4-9, one KO) will be trying to break a five-bout losing streak. This will be Cannon's fifth straight bout against an undefeated boxer.

Windsor Mill, MD middleweight Julius Kennedy will take on the returning Al "Black Magic" Bussey of DC in another four-rounder. Kennedy (2-1, one KO) won a four-round unanimous decision over Inka Laleye on July 26in York, PA. Bussey (3-3, two KO's) returns to the ring for the first time since April of 2005 when he lost a four-round unanimous decision to Jesse Williams in Morgantown, WVA.

Rookie DC middleweight Antonio Walls (1-0, one KO) will meet the debuting Roy Cooke of DC. Also "The Capitol Punisher" Spencer Harsley (1-7-2) will battle Kendrick "Holy Hands" Walker of DC (0-2-1).

The main event will be a six-round contest between Season One Contender participant Joey Gilbert of Reno, NV (15-1, 11 KO's) and "Flawless" Dan Wallace of Adrian, MI (9-6, three KO's). The co-feature will be a four-round female junior lightweight bout between former amateur standout Katy Klinefelter of Iowa City, IA (1-0, one KO) and the debuting Jasica Rojo.

Monday, October 27, 2008

Kisner Advances; Rivers Loses Heartbreaker at AIBA Youth Worlds!

Glen Burnie, MD heavyweight Nick Kisner has won his first bout at the AIBA Youth World Championships in Guadalajara, Mexico. Kisner defeated Martin Krelina of the Czech Republic 10-4 just moments ago. Kisner will face Ivan Dychko of Kazakhstan in the second round on Wednesday. Dychko is regarded as one of the medal favorites in this tournament as he won the Brandenburg Youth Cup this year.

By the way, should Kisner get to the finals, there is a possibility that he may face Erislandy Savon of Cuba, the nephew of legendary three-time Olympic gold medalist Felix Savon.

Kisner is the only Beltway Boxer remaining in these championships because Fort Washington, MD featherweight Kevin Rivers lost a heartbreaker to Vitali Varabyeu of Belarus, 12-11 in second-round competition.

Bynum Loses First Bout at AIBA Youth Worlds!

Tough break for Fort Washington, MD lightweight Traon Bynum. Bynum lost his opening bout at the AIBA Youth World Championships in Guadalajara, MX.

Bynum lost to the Cuban National Youth Champion, Juan Garcia by the score of 16-8.

Tonight, Glen Burnie's Nick Kisner will make his first appearance against Martin Krelina of the Czech Republic in the heavyweight division. Also, Kevin Rivers has his second-round bout tonight against Vitali Varabyeu of Belarus.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Rivers Wins Opening Bout at AIBA Youth World Championships!

Fort Washington, MD featherweight Kevin Rivers has won his opening contest at the 2008 AIBA Youth World Championships in Guadalajara, MX.

Rivers defeated Tyrone McKenna of Ireland 16-5 in today's preliminary session. Three of four US team members won their opening bouts today.

Tomorrow, lightweight Traon Bynum of Fort Washington will begin his quest for a world title when he faces Juan Garcia of Cuba.

Then on Monday, Glen Burnie, MD heavyweight Nick Kisner will see his first action as he faces Martin Krelina of the Czech Republic.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Mitchell Remains Undefeated in Cabazon, CA!

Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Shidevin Brown of Denver, CO at the Morongo Casino and Resort in Cabazon, CA.

Mitchell battled through an almost 50-pound weight differential (244 to 296 pounds) to use body shots to win the decision.

Mitchell raised his record to 7-0-1, four KO's while Brown falls to 2-4, one KO.

Palma-White Bout Called Off; Palma Announces Retirement!

The Beltway Boxing "November to Remember" lost one of its scheduled rematches.

In a BATB exclusive, Virginia State Lightweight champ Jaime "The Punisher" Palma announced that his rematch with Smithsburg, MD's Dean "Pit Bull" White has been cancelled. The cancellation has led to Palma's second announcement..his retirement. Here's the interview.

Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #133 - 'Punisher' Palma Announces Retirement!

In a BATB exclusive, Virginia State Lightweight champ Jaime "The Punisher" Palma announces that his scheduled bout with Dean "Pit Bull" White has been cancelled and he has announced his retirement.

Better Promotions Returns to Maryland Sportsplex November 14!

The Friday, November 14 Better Promotions card at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD is starting to take shape and there are some interesting situations involved in this card.

The main event will be an eight-round junior welterweight contest between DC's Reggie "The Mechanic" Holly and Ryan Belasco of Wilmington, DE that will be for the Delmarva Jr. Welterweight title.

Holly (7-4, two KO's) will be trying to break a two-bout losing streak including a four-round unanimous decision loss to Stephane Malenou on June 4 in Brooklyn, NY. Belasco (8-2-3, two KO's) has won three straight including a six-round unanimous decision over Justin Danforth on August 1 in Oaks, PA.

There will be two Beltway pro debuts on this card. One of the debuts will be the long awaited debut of DC featherweight Larry Recio, who has more than 120 amateur victories. No word yet on who Recio's opponent will be. Also, Severn, MD junior middleweight Vincent Batteast will make his pro debut against Cumberland, MD's Dontre King (1-2).

Two members of the Better Promotions staff will also be involved in bouts on the card. Columbia, MD junior middleweight Tony "Mo Better" Jeter will be involved in a four-round contest against Darrett Crockett of Rock Hill, SC. Jeter (6-2, five KO's) is coming off a four-round unanimous decision over Chris Cook on the last Better Promotions show on September 19. Crockett (6-20, four KO's) has won two straight including a four-round stoppage of the same Chris Cook on April 10 in Gaffney, SC.

Also, one of Jeter's partners -- James Wilkins -- will be involved in an amateur bout versus three-time Ringside Masters champ Calvin Ford.

By the way, Jeter is pulling off a rather unique trifecta, serving as boxer, promoter AND matchmaker for this card.

There will also be amateur bouts on the card, including promising heavyweight Ron Gamble.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Update to November 7 Card in Upper Marlboro, MD!

There is an update to the Bobby Magruder Promotions card on Friday, November 7 card at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD. The update changes information that you may have received in flyers.

Riverdale, MD heavyweight Horace "The Reason" Grant (12-2, seven KO's) remains on the card in the main event as he will take on veteran Robert "The Saint" Davis of Akron, OH (32-8, 20 KO's) in a scheduled eight-round contest.

Grant has not fought since his tough eight-round unanimous decision loss to Kevin Burnett on June 20th in Las Vegas. Davis has not been in action since December of 2006 but he has fought a who's who of heavyweight champs and contenders including Michael Moorer, Audley Harrison, Joe Mesi, Michael Grant and Monte Barrett.

Depending on what he does tonight in Cabazon, CA, Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell is also slated to be on this card as he faces Dan "Mean Machine" Whetzel of Toledo, OH in a six-round contest.

Undefeated DC heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan (4-0, three KO's) will take on the debuting Dan Shanahan of Bridgeport, WVA in a four-round contest.

Undefeated junior middleweight Lenwood "Mr. Composure" Dozier of Glen Burnie, MD (3-0-1, two KO's) will battle Warren Freeman of Richmond, VA, who will be making his pro debut. Also, Lusby, MD light heavyweight Keith Gross (2-0, one KO) will look to remain undefeated against the debuting Tauren Edwards of Richmond.

'Tattoo' Mitchell on WJLA-TV; Lange on 'Redskins Nation' Tonight!

Two chances to see interviews based on the November 1 Patriot Center card tonight.

The story of Centreville, VA debuting featherweight "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell will be told during the 5 PM sportscast on WJLA-TV Channel 7.

Then at 6 PM on Comcast SportsNet, Great Falls, VA junior middleweight Jimmy Lange will be a guest on Redskins Nation with host Larry Michael.

Mitchell Weighs 244 for California Contest!

Undefeated rookie heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell of Brandywine, MD (6-0-1, four KO's) weighed in at 244 pounds for his scheduled four-round contest tomorrow night at the Morongo Casino Resort and Spa in Cabazon, CA.

Mitchell's opponent, Shidevin Brown of Denver, CO (2-3, one KO), came in at a hefty 295 pounds. Part of this card is slated to be shown on the Telefutura Network tomorrow night, but no word if Mitchell's bout will make the televised portion of the card.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Parade of Legends Highlights Fight Night on November 6!

The main event at the annual Fight Night charity boxing event at the Washington Hilton and Towers Hotel in Washington, DC is never the in-ring boxing action. Most of the people who come to the event come to see the legends of the sport that annually attend.

The 19th edition of this event -- to be held on Thursday, November 6 -- is no exception. Ten legendary boxing luminaries are slated to be showcased during the card.

Former world heavyweight champion "Smokin'" Joe Frazier will be the second inductee into the Fight Night Hall of Fame as Frazier is honored for his contributions to this charity event. Frazier joins former world middleweight champion "The Raging Bull" Jake LaMotta in the Fight Night Hall of Fame. LaMotta will also be in attendance this year.

Expected to join Frazier and LaMotta are former heavweight champions Ken Norton, Ernie Terrell, Michael Spinks and James "Buster" Douglas, former heavyweight contenders "Gentleman" Gerry Cooney and Earnie Shavers, as well as former world junior welterweight champion Aaron "The Hawk" Pryor and world lightweight champion Ray "Boom Boom" Mancini.

I should get official word on the in-ring action for the card next week, but we do know that one of the bouts will be the middleweight rematch between "The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder and John "No Mercy" Mackey.

The Fight For Children has raised almost $80 million that has provided direct support to more than 150 youth-service organizations in the DC area.

November Means Rematch Time Along The Beltway!

Among the cards during the Beltway Boxing "November to Remember" , there are five quality rematch bouts scheduled for the month.

Two of them have been talked about at length: On the Saturday, November 1 card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA There are two eight-round rematches: Jessie "The Beast" Nicklow vs. George "War Time" Rivera and Jaime "The Punisher" Palma vs. Dean "Pit Bull" White.

On Thursday, November 6, Berlin, MD's "The Berlin Bomber" Joshua Snyder will take on John "No Mercy" Mackey of Montgomery, AL in another six-round contest. Snyder won the first bout in front of a nationally-televised ESPN audience on June 13 in Scranton, PA.

On Thursday, November 20, Baltimore's Tyrell "Da Show Shock 'A Samuel" will take on Ron "Teflon" Boyd of DC at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. The bout is slated to be for the Maryland State Featherweight Title. Samuel won the first contest at Michael's on September 25.

Then on Wednesday, November 26, promoters are trying to secure a super middleweight rematch between Baltimore boxers Henry "Hurricane" Mayes and Willie "For Real" Williams at Martin's West in Woodlawn, MD that could be for the Maryland State Super Middleweight title. The last bout ended in a draw on October 3 in Salisbury, MD.

So, here's another poll for you: Which November Rematch Interests You the Most? Please vote.

'Bad Ass' Brown Faces Joust at Medieval Times in New Jersey October 29!

Baltimore, MD heavyweight Bernard "Bad Ass" Brown travels to Lyndhurst, NJ to take on Alexis Mejias of Paterson, NJ in a four-round contest at Medieval Times on Wednesday, October 29.

Brown (6-4-2, three KO's) is coming off a six-round unanimous decision victory over Terrell Nelson on September 5 in Atlantic City, NJ. Mejias (7-1, two KO's) is fighting for the first time since April of 2004 when he lost his first bout in a four-round majority decision to Patrick Nwamu in New York City.

Corley Loses Eight-Round Decision in New York!

In a battle of former WBO Junior Welterweight champs, DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley lost an eight-round unanimous decision to Randall Bailey at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City last night.

Bailey dropped Corley in the third round and went on to the relatively easy decision victory. The scores were 78-73 and 79-72 (twice).

Corley's record is now 31-10-1, 17 KO's The loss was Corley's sixth in a row. Bailey is now 38-6, 34 KO's and he has won three straight. Bailey evens the score with Corley after losing a 12-round title bid in DC in January of 2003.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Corley Weighs 140 3/4 for Tonight in New York!

Former WBO Junior Welterweight champion DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley weighed in at 140 3/4 for tonight's 10-round rematch with former WBO Junior Welterweight champ Randall Bailey at B.B. King's Blues Club in Times Square in New York.

Bailey tipped the scales at 141 1/4.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Centreville, VA Featherweight Makes Pro Debut to Knock Out Cancer and Aid Stricken Daughter!

Win or lose, Centreville, VA featherweight "Tattoo" Tom Mitchell will probably make one of the most meaningful pro debuts in the area this year on the Saturday, November 1 card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA. For Mitchell, a single father of six children, is fighting not only for himself, but he is also fighting for children who are fighting cancer..including his 18-year-old daughter, Shayla.

Shayla Mitchell was diagnosed with Stage 3 Hodgkin's Disease in July of 2007. Since that time, she has battled chemotherapy treatments, radiation therapy and four heart surgeries. She has gained support from her father, who encourages her to keep fighting. Tom Mitchell, a contractor by trade, decided to put that support into action by become a pro boxer.

Mitchell will take on Ashburn, VA's Yieta Johnson (0-2) in a four-round contest. Mitchell will donate all of his purse/earnings to the Growing Hope Foundation, an organization that has provided financial support and outpatient care to the Mitchell Family. ICE Promotions will donate one-third of Mitchell's personal ticket sales to the Growing Hope Foundation. The money raised will benefit the organization’s outreach and family support programs for children battling cancer.
So far, Mitchell has sold $10,000 worth of tickets.

'Mayhem' Mitchell Makes Return Trip to Cabazon, CA; 'Sugarman' Smith Heads to Columbia, SC!

For the third time in his young pro career, undefeated Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell will be fighting at the Morongo Resort and Spa in Cabazon, CA. The bout will take place on Friday, October 24.

The opponent for Mitchell (6-0-1, four KO's) will be Shidevin Brown of Denver, CO (2-3, one KO, one NC). Mitchell won an impressive six-round unanimous decision over Mike Miller on September 25 at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD. Brown suffered a cut over one of his eyes due to a headbutt against Ija Flapping Eagle in his last bout on April 5 in Caldwell, Idaho. The bout was ruled a no-contest and was Brown's first bout in almost eight years.

On Saturday, October 25, DC junior middleweight Luther "Sugarman" Smith will travel to the Township Auditorium in Columbia, SC for an eight-round junior middleweight bout against undefeated Juan Ubaldo Cabrera of the Dominican Republic. Smith (22-7-2, 12 KO's) will be trying to break a four-bout losing streak that includes his last outing, a first-round TKO loss to Charles Whitaker on March 8 in the Cayman Islands. Cabrera (11-0, eight KO's) was a member of the 2000 and 2004 Dominican Republic Olympic teams. Cabrera is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over Nilson Julio Tapia on August 16 in Panama City, Panama.

Monday, October 20, 2008

Bynum, Kisner, Rivers Head to Mexico for AIBA Youth Championships!

Later this week, three of our Beltway amateurs will head to Guadalajara, Mexico for the first-ever AIBA Youth World Championships.

United States Under-19 champions Traon Bynum of Fort Washington, MD (lightweight and the US Under-19 Championship tournament's Outstanding Boxer) and Nick Kisner of Glen Burnie, MD (heavyweight) along with Under-19 silver medalist Kevin Rivers, also of Fort Washington (featherweight) are among the 11 members of the US Under-19 team that will compete at the Avila Camacho Gymnasium.

The team has been training at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO since October 13 and will leave for Mexico after wrapping up training tomorrow. The championships get underway on October 25 and will run until November 1.

Our very own Barry Hunter served as one of the training camp coaches during the period in Colorado Springs.

Corley-Bailey Rematch in New York on October 22!

There will be a rematch of former WBO Junior Welterweight champions on Wednesday, October 22 at B.B. King's Blues Club in Times Square in New York City. DC's DeMarcus "Chop Chop" Corley will take on Randall Bailey of Miami Florida in a 10-round co-feature bout.

Corley (31-9-1, 17 KO's) is looking to break a five-bout losing streak that includes his last outing -- an eight-round unanimous decision loss to Ashley Theophane on July 31 in Rochester, NY.

Bailey (37-6, 34 KO's) has won his last two including his last outing -- a first-round knockout over Dario Esalas on August 6 at B.B. Blues Club. Corley also faced Esalas and lost an eight-round split decision in November of 2007 in Tampa, FL. Bailey held the WBO title in 1999.

Corley and Bailey crossed paths on January 4, 2003 at the DC Armory when Corley successfully defended his WBO title with a 12-round unanimous decision.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Mackey Wins NABC US Title With Second-Round Knockout!

Montgomery, AL middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey scored a solid second-round knockout over Jesse Williams of Youngstown, OH to win the North American Boxing Council (NABC) United States Middleweight title in front of a strong contingent of family members at the ABC Sports Complex in Springfield, VA.

Mackey hit Williams with a vicious left hand off the ropes that stunned Williams and dropped him. Williams got up, but referee Billy Johnson saw that he was in no condition to continue. The bout was stopped at 1:51 of the second round that set off a wild family celebration that included impromptu line dancing.

With the win, Mackey raises his record to 11-1, five KO's. Williams falls to 14-8-1, two KO's.

The co-feature was a minor upset as Baltimore featherweight Darrell Martin broke a five-bout losing streak by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Andre "Clockwork" Nichols of Manassas, VA. Judges Michelle Hall and Brian Costello scored the bout 58-56 while Bill Osterman saw the bout 59-55. Martin is now 3-6 while Nichols is 3-4, two KO's.

Other results on the card:

Laurel, MD welterweight Norman "The Shadow" Allen won a four-round unanimous decision over Tolan "The Technician" Tascoe of Newark, NJ. Allen scored a shutout on all three judges cards and raised his record to 5-1, three KO's while Tascoe falls to 1-2.

Glen Burnie, MD welterweight Lenwood "Mr. Composure" Dozier won a tough four-round unanimous decision over a very game Benjamin Borteye, a native of Ghana who now fights out of Silver Spring, MD. Dozier did drop Borteye in the final minute of the final round, but not before Borteye took some brutal shots and showed incredible toughness in the first three rounds. Dozier is now 3-0-1, two KO's.

Arlington, VA heavyweight Daivii Otgonbayer scored a second-round TKO over Robert Monroe of Front Royal, VA. Otgonbayer knocked Monroe down twice, the second knockdown sending Monroe to one knee and forced him to stop fighting. The bout ended at 1:07 of the third round. Otgonbayer, a native of Mongolia, is now 1-1-1, one KO while Royal is 0-4.

Landover, MD heavyweight Joe Gardner made his pro debut a successful one and caused an hour-long delay of the card in the process. Gardner scored a first-round TKO over Warren, OH's Donavan Toles. Gardner used an almost 60-pound weight advantage early as he leveled Toles with a brutal three-piece combination that ended with a crushing left that stretched Toles at forty seconds of the round. Toles had to be taken to a nearby hospital for observation. Toles has a record of 0-4. The card was delayed to allow the EMT's to return to the card.

The opening bout took just 48 seconds as John "Shotgun" Hayes of Atlantic City, NJ stopped Travis "Thunder" Toler of Sharpsburg, NC.

This was a co-promotion of Sugar Han Promotions and After Shock Events.

Interesting note about this card: A number of former Beltway-area pros worked the card as trainers during the evening. Former IBF Junior Middleweight champion Vincent "The Ambassador" Pettway worked the corner of Darrell Martin. Former USBA Light Heavyweight champ Tim "Da Bamma" Hillie was in the corner of Norman Allen. Former middleweight contender Victor Davis guided Joe Gardner while Willie "The Heat" Taylor was in the corner of Daivii Otgonbayer. All four trainers led their charges to victory.

Here is the BATB Post-Fight Wrap-Up Show which includes an interview with the new NABC US Middleweight champion.


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #132 - BATB Post-Fight from Springfield, VA!

I run down the results of the Sugar Han Promotions/After Shock Events card at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA and talk to the new NABC US Middleweight champion, John "No Mercy" Mackey!

Weights From Springfield, VA!

Here are the weights for tonight's Sugar Han Productions/After Shock Events card at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA:

John Mackey 160 vs. Jesse Williams 159

Andre Nichols 127 vs. Darrell Martin 129

Joseph Gardner 264 vs. Donovan Toles 205

Lenwood Dozier 144 vs. Benjamin Borteye 142

Robert Monroe 227 vs. Otgonbayar Daivii 191

Johnnie Hayes 155.5 vs. Travis Toler 166

Norman Allen 151 vs. Tolan Tascoe 148.5

Friday, October 17, 2008

Update to October 18 Amateur Card in Clinton, MD!

There are 20 bouts scheduled for this Saturday's Keystone Boxing amateur card at the OCC Sports Arena and Banquet Hall, 6701 Clinton Manor Drive in Clinton, MD

There will be teams from throughout the Beltway as well as teams coming from Norfolk, VA and North Carolina. Among the locals slated to appear on the card are Gary Allen Russell, Marquis Moore and Russell Gaskins.

The doors open for this event at 6 PM.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Boxing Returns to Howard University December 20!

According to the company website, BabieGirl Promotions will be having its next card on Saturday, December 20 at Howard University's Burr Gymnasium in Washington, DC. No word yet on who will be on the card, but it looks like it will be a pro-am card.

New BATB Poll: Pick the Most Interesting Bout on the November 1 Card!

This new poll comes out of personal curiousity. The Saturday, November 1 ICE Promotions card that will take place at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA is, in my opinion, a very unique card because it has a number of bouts that will interest different sections of the Beltway Boxing Community.

Therefore, the poll asks which bout on the card is the most interesting one to you. It does NOT ask who you think will win a particular bout. I'm just curious to see what bout will most people come to see on the card. Please participate.

By the way, Ben "Miracle" Odamattey is a late switch for the bout featuring Thomas Snow. Originally from Ghana, Odamattey (13-11-2, five KO's) is now training in "The Lion's Den" camp in Silver Spring, MD. This bout will be Odamattey's first in the United States.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

'T-Brick' Roy Ventures to Florida November 7!

Undefeated Front Royal, VA cruiserweight Terry "T-Brick" Roy will head out of the Commonwealth of Virginia for the first time in his pro career as he takes on undefeated Nicholas "The Assassin" Iannuzzi of Tampa, FL in a scheduled six-round contest on Friday, November 7 at the A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa.

Roy (7-0-2, six KO's) is coming off a third-round technical draw against Jaywon Woods on August 9 in Salem, VA. Iannuzzi (8-0, five KO's) scored a first-round knockout over Troy Griffin on August 15 at the A La Carte Pavilion.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Mitchell, L. Peterson, Tucker Head Westward!

Three of our undefeated Beltway Boxers will be heading west in the next few weeks for boxing action.

Brandywine, MD heavyweight Seth "Mayhem" Mitchell will be a part of a card on Friday, October 24 at the Morongo Casino Resort and Spa in Cabazon, CA. No word yet on who the opponent will be for Mitchell (6-0-1, four KO's), who will be making his third appearance at this location.

On Saturday, November 1, DC's Lamont Peterson will be fighting in a 10-round contest at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV. No official word on who the opponent will be for Peterson (25-0, 12 KO's), but there are reports that the opponent might be Lanardo "Pain Server" Tyner of Houston, TX (19-1, 11 KO's) who lost his first pro bout in his last outing on May 9 in Atlantic City, NJ. Tyner dropped a 12-round unanimous decision to Mike Arnaoutis for the USBA Junior Welterweight Title.

The bout will be part of a Pay-Per-View telecast, but no word on whether Peterson will be on the televised portion of the card.

Also, I'm just receiving word that undefeated Eldersburg, MD light heavyweight Mark "TNT" Tucker (5-0, five KO's) will also be on the November 1 card in Las Vegas. No word yet on his opponent.

Thursday, October 09, 2008

Condolences to the Greenhill Family!

BATB sends condolences to the family of one of our ace boxing photographers, Mike Greenhill. Greenhill's photos of our Beltway Boxers and others in the sport has been used by the sport's best publications around the country.

Greenhill's father passed away from congestive heart failure on Monday, October 6 at the age of 78. According to Mike, it was a peaceful transition.

Our prayers are with the Greenhill Family.

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

October's Big Boxing Month Continues!

There will be three amateur cards and one pro card in the Beltway area within the next two weeks.

On Saturday, October 11, Mike "The Persecutor" Paschall is promoting an amateur show at the Maryland Sportsplex in Millersville, MD. It's possible that Nick Kisner will make an appearance on this card.

There will be two amateur cards on Saturday, October 18. Baltimore Boxing is having an event at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore. Among the boxers scheduled to appear on this card will be Gina D'Andrea, Jeremy Miller and Alexis Guerrero (brother of Fernando).

Also, Keystone Boxing will have an amateur card at the OCC Sports Arena and Banquet Hall, 6701 Clinton Manor Drive in Clinton, MD, on October 18. No word yet on who will appear on the card.

We've also been talking about the pro card on October 18 at the ABC Sports Arena in Springfield, VA. This is a co-promotion with Sugar Han Productions and After Shock Events. Some of the matchups already signed include Woodbridge, VA featherweight Andre "Clockwork" Nichols (3-3, two KO's) against Baltimore's Darrell Martin (2-6), undefeated middleweight Lenwood "Mr. Composure" Dozier of Glen Burnie (2-0-1, two KO's) taking on DC's Pernell Jackson (1-3-1, one KO), and undefeated heavyweight Scott "Duke" Buchanan of DC (4-0, three KO's) taking on Robert Monroe of Front Royal, VA (0-3).

Another bout that was just recently added to the card will mark the return of two Beltway-area boxers. Manassas, VA middleweight Orazio "The Razor" Robinson (5-3-2, four KO's) will take on Vernon Meeks of DC (3-16-1, one KO.) Robinson has not fought since March of 2006. Meeks hasn't been in the ring since September of 2003.

The main event features Montgomery, AL middleweight John "No Mercy" Mackey in a North American Boxing Council title bout. No official word yet on his opponent. Also slated to appear on this card will be Caroline, VA cruiserweight Adam "The Real Deal" Seal (5-1, four KO's) and Laurel, MD junior middleweight Norman "The Shadow" Allen (4-1, three KO's.)

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

Crews Wins Gold Medal At Pan Am Games in Trinidad!



(photo courtesy of USA Boxing)

Congratulations to junior middleweight Franchon Crews as she captured her second straight Pan American Games title, winning the Junior Middleweight gold medal in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Crews, who now fights out of Capitol Heights, MD, defeated Andreia Bandeira of Brazil 11-1, to win her first Pan Am title at 154 pounds. Crews captured a title at 160 pounds last year.

Crews was one of four members of the US Pan American team to capture gold medals.

Koroma Wins GBU Title By DQ in Zambia!

Congratulations to Kay Koroma of Alexandria, VA. The undefeated junior welterweight captured the Global Boxing Union Junior Welterweight title by a third-round disqualification over John Chibuta of Zambia on October 4 in Lusaka, Zambia.

No word on how the disqualification took place. Koroma is now 5-0, three KO's. Chibuta is now 8-3, one KO.

This note is not Beltway-related but it is an interesting story. On this card was a female boxer named Esther Phiri who is a national heroine in Zambia. She won a GBU super featherweight title on this card with a fifth-round TKO victory over Hondi Hernandez. Phiri is 9-3-1, three KO's. One of those wins came against well-known boxer Belinda Laracuente.

I mentioned this because there is a great story on ESPN.com about her. Apparently she either has been or will be featured on ESPN's Outside The Lines program. It does show a very positive side of boxing and what the sport can mean for people.
This is a great read and the accompanying video is also fascinating.

Monday, October 06, 2008

New Bouts Added to November 1 Card in Fairfax, VA!

The Saturday, November 1 card at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA is rounding out nicely.

Former IBF Featherweight champion Eric "Mighty Mouse" Aiken of Forestville, MD (16-7-1, 12 KO's) will participate in a six-round special attraction bout against Miguel Rodriguez of New York City (7-1, three KO's).

Also slated for the card will be Capitol Heights, MD featherweight Thomas "KO" Snow, who will be trying to bounce back from his second-round loss to Teon Kennedy on July 18 in Philadelphia, PA. Snow (10-1, eight KO's) will participate in a six-round contest and take on undefeated Prosper Ankrah, a native of Ghana, who is now fighting out of Silver Spring, MD. Ankrah is listed on the ICE Promotions website as 8-0, but on Boxrec.com, Ankrah is listed as 4-0.

Undefeated Arlington, VA middleweight Tracey Brewer will battle DC's Calvin "Shotgun" Aughtrey in a four-round contest. Brewer (2-0, one KO) has not fought since stopping Travis Toler on December 15 in Ashburn, VA. Aughtrey (0-2, one NC) has fought tough battles, but is still looking for his first pro victory. Aughtrey is coming off a second-round TKO loss to Antonio Walls on September 25 in Glen Burnie, MD. Recently, Aughtrey's pro debut, a third-round stoppage loss to William Jeter in May of this year, was later ruled a no-contest because Jeter tested positive for a controlled substance.

Also, featherweight "Tatoo" Tom Mitchell of Centreville, VA will make his pro debut against Yieta Johnson of Ashburn, VA (0-2).

Sunday, October 05, 2008

Kisner Captures PAL Title; Sol Loses in Finals; G. Antonio Russell Named Outstanding Senior Boxer!

In his only bout of the tournament, Glen Burnie, MD's Nick Kisner captured the 201-pound title at the National PAL Championships in Oxnard, CA.

Kisner defeated Lenroy Thompson of Lenexa, KS, 4-1 to win the Beltway's only Open PAL title. Next stop for Kisner will be the AIBA Youth Championships in Guadalajara, MX, October 25-November 1. Kisner is a member of the US Under-19 team that will head to the Youth Championships. DC's Traon Bynum is also a member and Kevin Rivers of Palmer Park, MD might make the trip to Mexico as well.

Baltimore super heavyweight Tavon Sol lost his championship bout to Bryant Tune of the United States Marine Corps, 3-1.

Capitol Heights, MD's Gary Antonio Russell was named the Outstanding Boxer in the Male Senior Division. Russell won the 15-16 age bracket at 106 pounds. Russell stopped his first opponent in the second round and shut out his final two opponents, 5-0, during the tournament.

Congratulations to Salisbury!

Prior to this past Friday night, the last time boxing was held at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD was on December 13, 1996. Beltway Boxers like Chuck "Pit Bull Sturm, Lloyd "Jabba" Bryan, Joe Fitzpatrick, Rowyan Wallace and Alston Jones were on that card. Decent card but nothing spectacular.

Based on last Friday's card, however, this region seems to have found another home for our great boxers. I write this based on a great quote that Showtime Blow-By-Blow Announcer (and former Baltimore and DC sportcaster) Nick Charles said after Salisbury native Fernando Guerrero's bout. Here is the quote from Charles as he said it to 15Rounds.com's Tom Luffman:

“We’ve done fights in just about every state and over seas but this place is unsurpassed. I’ve never heard a crowd that surpasses this. We said on the air that it was like a title fight atmosphere. Here is a packed house turning out for a guy 9-0. It really speaks volumes [for Salisbury]. It was really exciting to be a part of this.”

Saturday, October 04, 2008

Russell, Nicholson Win PAL Titles; Sol Moves Into Finals!

The Beltway has two National PAL Champions and may have a third by the end of the day.

Congratulations to Capitol Heights, MD 106-pounder Gary Antonio Russell, who won the 15-16 age bracket in his weight class by defeating Edwin Sandoval of Bakersfield, CA, 5-0 last night in Oxnard, CA.

Also, Kudos to Desmond Nicholson of Laurel, MD who captured the 15-16 age bracket in the 154-pound class. Nicholson defeated Ivan Zubieta of Dallas, TX by the score of 4-1.

Tonight, Baltimore super heavyweight Tavon Sol has an opportunity to be the only Beltway amateur to win an Open championship. Sol advanced to the finals by defeating Danny Calhoun of Cincinnati, OH, 4-1. Sol will now face Bryant Tune, who is a member of the Marine Corps Boxing Team.

Coleman Loses; Guerrero Remains Undefeated!

It was one down and one up in Salisbury tonight. Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman lost a close 10-round unanimous decision to undefeated James "King" De La Rosa of Harlingen, TX tonight at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD.

De La Rosa won the bout 96-94 on all three scorecards (judges were Gary Camponeschi, Kenny Chevalier and John Gradowski.)

The loss sends Coleman's record to 14-1-1, three KO's. De La Rosa is now 18-0, 12 KO's.

Salisbury middleweight Fernando Guerrero went the distance for the first time in his young pro career. However, Guerrero excited the hometown fans by winning a dominant eight-round unanimous decision over Tyrone "T.T." Watson of Pittsburgh, PA.

Guerrero pitched a shutout on all three of the judges's scorecards. Camponeschi and Gradowski scored the bout 80-72 while judge Malik Waleed saw the bout 80-71.

Guerrero is now 10-0, nine KO's while Watson falls to 7-1, three KO's.

(I was unable to attend this card in person, so no post-fight wrap tonight. Thanks to Tom Luffman for the report on the Mayes-Williams draw.)

Friday, October 03, 2008

Mayes -Williams Battle to Majority Draw in Salisbury!

Baltimore super middleweights Henry "Hurricane" Mayes and Willie "For Real" Williams battled to a six-round majority draw tonight at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD.

According to boxing reporter Tom Luffman, Mayes and Williams punished each other for the bulk of the bout and Mayes won one of the scorecards, 58-57. The other two had the bout even at 57-57.

Williams's record is now 11-2-1, three KO's while Mayes is 7-6-2, four KO's.

Russell, Nicholson, Sol in Action in PAL Championships!

Three Beltway amateurs will be in action tonight at the National PAL Championships in Oxnard, CA. Two of the boxers will be in championship matchups.

Capitol Heights, MD 106-pounder Gary Antonio Russell will face Edwin Sandoval of Bakersfield, CA in the championship of the 15/16 age group.

In the 154-pound 15/16 age group, Desmond Nicholson of Laurel, MD will be in the title matchup against Ivan Zubieta of Dallas, TX.

Meanwhile, Baltimore, MD's Tavon Sol will be in the semi-finals of the 201+pound open division against Danny Calhoun of Cincinnati, OH.

Weights from Salisbury, MD!




(Photos courtesy of Wayne Barrall/”Everyday Images”)


Baltimore's Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman (top picture, left) weighed in at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds for his nationally televised (ShoBox) main event against James De La Rosa of Harlingen, TX tonight at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD. De La Rosa weighted in at 149.

Salisbury's own Fernando Guerrero (bottom picture, left) tipped the scales at 159 1/4 for the televised co-feature against Tyrone Watson of Pittsburgh, PA who came in at 161 3/4.

The ShoBox telecast on Showtime begins at 11 PM ET.

Here are the weights for the undercard (courtesy of matchmaker Chris Middendorf):

Willie Williams 173 3/4 vs. Henry Mayes 175 1/2

Lateef Kayode 204 vs. Octavius Davis 195 1/4

Farah Ennis 167 1/4 vs. Ariel Espinal 169 3/4

Shawn Porter 165 vs. Norman Simpson TBD

Russell, Nicholson Advance; Williams Falls at PAL Championships!

Gary Antonio Russell of Capitol Heights, MD and Desmond Nicholson of Laurel, MD have advanced to the next round of the National PAL Championships in Oxnard, CA.

Russell moved to the semi-finals of the 106 pound/15-16 age bracket by defeating Julio Garcia of Los Angeles, CA, 5-0. Nicholson advanced in the 154-pound/15-16 age bracket by beating David Lightfoot of Zanesville, OH, 4-1.

The news was not as good for Thomas Williams, Jr. of Laurel. Williams lost his 178-pound open bout to Ayoola Olorunsola of Pasadena, CA, 3-2.

Thursday, October 02, 2008

Williams, Antonio Russell Advance at PAL Championships!

Laurel, MD light heavyweight Thomas Williams, Jr. and Capitol Heights, MD 106-pounder Gary Antonio Russell have advanced to the next round of the National PAL Championships in Oxnard, CA.

Williams won his second straight bout in the tournament by a 5-0 score, this time defeating Derek Zugic of Brookfield, IL. Russell stopped Taylor Siobal of Waimanalo, HI in 49 seconds of the second round.

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Coleman Talks About Preparation for ShoBox Main Event in Salisbury; Undercard Bouts Are Announced!

Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman (14-0-1, three KO's) talks to BATB about his nationally televised main event bout against James De La Rosa (17-0, 12 KO's) on Friday, October 3 at the Wicomico Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury, MD.

I've just learned that Coleman's bout will be for the WBC Youth Welterweight title.

I'm trying to get an interview with Salisbury's own Fernando Guerrero sometime tomorrow. Guerrero (9-0, nine KO's) takes on Tyrone "T.T" Watson of Pittsburgh, PA (7-0, three KO's) in the televised co-feature bout. The telecast begins at 11 PM ET. The card itself is slated to start at 8:30 PM. This is a tri-promotion between Duva Boxing, Prize Fight Boxing and Baltimore Pro Boxing.

This has just been announced. The proposed six-round matchup between Baltimore super middleweights Willie "For Real" Williams and Henry "Hurricane" Mayes has been added to the card. Williams (11-2, three KO's) has been on a roll of late, winning five in a row. Mayes (7-6-1, four KO's) has only won once in his last five bouts. This should be a classic boxer vs. puncher matchup.

Matchmaker Chris Middendorf has put some other boxers on the undercard who should be familiar to area fans.

Those of you who follow the amateur boxing scene know the name Shawn Porter of Stow, Ohio. Porter won 250 amateur bouts and was a National Golden Gloves Champion in 2007. Porter will make his pro debut on this show against the debuting Mike Wyatt.

Philadelphia, PA super middleweight Farah Ennis will be on the card in a six-round contest against Arial Espinal of Brooklyn, NY. The undefeated Ennis (6-0, four KO's) last fought in the Beltway region in May of 2006 when he won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Ciccone at Michael's Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie, MD.

Ennis is the younger brother of junior middleweight prospect Derek "Pooh" Ennis, who also fought in Glen Burnie in one of the Ballroom's greatest bouts, a six-round draw against Maxell Taylor in March of 2006.

Espinal (6-4-2, two KO's) fought twice in Glen Burnie, getting stopped by Ishmail Arvin in the fifth round in November of 2002 and winning a four-round split decision over Larry Brothers in September of 2003.

Also on the card will be undefeated Nigerian Lateef Kayode who will take on Wilson, NC cruiserweight Octavius Davis in a four-round bout. Kayode (2-0, one KO) made his pro debut by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Mike Miller at Ibiza Nightclub in DC on August 15. Davis (2-1-1, one KO) has fought twice in the area this year, exchanging victories with Robert McConnell, Jr. at DuBurns Arena in Baltimore. McConnell won the first bout by majority decision on June 13 and Davis won the rematch by unanimous decision on September 5.

Two more bouts are slated for the card.


Gabcast! Boxing Along the Beltway #131 - 'Pit Bull' Coleman Talks About ShoBox Main Event in Salisbury!

Undefeated Baltimore welterweight Tim "Pit Bull" Coleman talks about his return to boxing and his main event battle on ShoBox against James De La Rosa on October 3 in Salisbury, MD!

Williams Advances in PAL Championships!

Laurel, MD 178-pounder Thomas Williams, Jr. advanced to the second round of the National PAL Boxing Championships in Oxnard, CA yesterday.

Williams, son of former heavyweight contender Thomas "Top Dog" Williams, defeated Jeremiah Penny of Oxnard, 5-0. Williams is scheduled to take on Derek Zugic of Brookfield, IL in the next round.

Gary Antonio Russell (I think, it just said Gary A. Russell on the bout sheet) will see his first action of the tournament tonight in the 106-pound, 15-16 age bracket. The Capitol Heights, MD native will take on Taylor Siobal of Waimanalo, HI.