Author: Daxx Khan
Salamov Defends Championships with UD over Anim in Sochi, Russia
Last Saturday night, world-rated light heavyweight Umar Salamov (WBC #10, WBA #10, IBF #7 and WBO #10) continued his march to a world championship challenge with a dominant unanimous 10-round decision over Emmanuel Anim of Ghana.
Fighting in the main event at the Galaktika Culture Centre in Sochi, Russia, Salamov (23-1, 17 KOs) controlled the pace and was able to land countless combinations against the very durable Anim (13-2-1, 11 KOs) to win by scores of 99-91, 97-93 and 98-92.
In the process, Salamov defended his Eurasian Boxing Parliament and WBO International Light Heavyweight Championships.
“I’m happy I got the win and was able to get in some good rounds of work,” said a triumphant Salamov, post-fight. “I am excited about the new year and the possibilities it will bring.”
Salamov’s promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says the great 2018 his Russian fighter enjoyed was just a preview of 2019.
“This was Umar’s third fight in six months and he was in superb condition,” he said. “I’m happy he got the win and had a chance to go the rounds. Next year will bring exciting possibilities for Umar in the talent-packed light heavyweight division.”
ALGIERI ROCKS THE HOUSE IN RETURN TO THE PARAMOUNT
CHRIS ALGIERI (22-3 8KO’s) returned to the Star Boxing’s acclaimed venue, The Paramount in Huntington, NY for the first time in over four years as the former WBO Super Lightweight champion looked spectacular in dismantling a game and rugged
ANGEL HERNANDEZ (14-12-2 9KO’s) from McAllen, TX over the 10 round distance of a Jr Welterweight contest in the main event of Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing Rockin Fights 33 before a frenzied sold-out standing room only crowd last night.
Algieri took control from the outset as he displayed the superb boxing skills he is known for but under new head trainer Andre Rozier, Chris has added another dimension to his already potent offense. Chris worked at a very high rate and threw numerous impressive multi punch combinations to both the body and head of Hernandez. Algieri displayed tremendous hand speed and his usual impeccable conditioning. Hernandez for his part tried the best he could and moved forward the entire fast paced fight but was no match in skills of the former world champion and in the end Algieri came away with the unanimous decision, 100-90, 100-90, and 99-91 improving to 22-3 8KO’s while Hernandez dropped to 14-12-2 9KO’s.
The semi-final 8 round Welterweight bout pitted Elmont’s TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (9-0 6KO’s) and LEONARDO CARRIZALES (5-6-1 2KO’s), Tampico, MX. They certainly didn’t disappoint the sold out crowd as they put on a wild bout which saw James score a sensational 8th round TKO after a series of eye opening uppercuts. James started out boxing beautifully over the first 5 rounds landing vicious shots to the ever charging Carriales who also landed his fair share of blows. In the 6th round the fight took a dramatic turn as Carrizales landed a blistering right hand to the jaw of James dropping “Pretty Boy” for the first time in his career. James arose on very wobbly legs but hung in there to finish the round. The final 2 rounds saw wild action between these two fighters as they stood toe to toe trading bombs with each other, much to the delight of the crowd. The end came as James cornered Carrizales and landed 5 straight vicious uppercuts which had Carrizales’ head moving like a Jack N Box and forcing the ref to call a halt to the bout at the 42 second mark of the final frame. James improves to 9-0 6KO’s while Carrizales drops to 5-6-1 2KO’s.
Undefeated Lightweights OMAR BORDOY (7-0 2KO’s) and TEREL BOSTIC (3-1 1KO), put on a fight to remember over the 6 round distance. Danbury, CT’s Bordoy took the fight right to the local Wynadanch fighter, Bostic, as they went back and forth in a high paced, skillful match. Bordoy dropped Bostic with a monstrous right hand in the 3rd round and tried his best to finish Bostic but was unable to do so. Bostic came out for round 4 and took the fight right to Bordoy getting the best of the action. The final 2 rounds had the crowd going wild as the 2 young fighters traded freely and in the end Bordoy came away with a split decision winning 58-55 on two card while Bostic prevailed on the 3rd card 57-56.
ALEX VARGAS (2-0) won a hard fout 4 round decision over Rochester’s JARRILL HAADI (0-1), getting off the deck in the first round to do so by scores of 38-37 across the board and Jr. Welterweight DASHAUN JOHNS made his pro debut a successful one taking out late sub DEVON GRANT in the first round.
Promoter JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the fights: “What a spectacular night of fights. The Paramount was electric and Chris Algieri confirmed that he wants to regain his world championship belt. We plan on providing Chris with another world title opportunity in 2019. He is a skilled and dedicated boxer and will give any title holder at 140 lbs. an exciting and tough challenge. Congratulations to all of Friday nights fighters on a exciting and action-packed night of fights, and thank you to our great fans”
“Rumble at the Rock III” Results
Mexico’s Ricardo “Hindu” Espinoza (21-2, 18 KOs) made the most of his Telemundo appearance in the main event of “Rumble at the Rock III,” tonight (Friday, Nov. 30), at Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla., by destroying previously undefeated Yeison Vargas (17-1, 12 KOs) of Colombia in two rounds
After an uneventful first round, Espinoza impressively opened up and dropped Vargas three times in the second. In the process, Espinoza, the streaking WBO #2 contender, picked up a TKO 2 and the WBO Latino Bantamweight Championship. Having never left his homeland for a fight before, Vargas seemed unprepared for the brutal power of Espinoza’s hooks and right hands. The time was 1:19.
In the 10-round welterweight co-main event, Puerto Rican prospect Derrieck Cuevas (19-0-1, 14 KOs) scored an impressive unanimous 10-round decision over Miami via Barranquilla, Colombia veteran Breidis “Khanqueror” Prescott (31-15, 22 KOs).
Cuevas is a wicked puncher. Prescott was down in round one from a thudding left hook and was saved by the bell from a quick KO loss. What followed over the next nine rounds was a clinic from the surprisingly elusive 24-year-old Cuevas on hitting, hard, and not getting hit back.
Always a warrior, the battle-proven Prescott tried for the entire fight, but simply couldn’t reach Cuevas with anything consequential. Cuevas looks to have the goods to continue to climb the 147-lb ladder into contender status. The scores were not announced.
Popular Miami light heavyweight Ulysses Diaz (7-0, 6 KOs) was too much for Sonora, Mexico’s Fabian Valdez (3-5), as he stopped him in two rounds of a scheduled four. “The Monster” Diaz, a serious crowd favorite in South Florida, clubbed Valdez with his trademarked sledgehammers, sending the hapless Mexican reeling around the ring until the slaughter was mercifully waved off at 49 seconds. Valdez was down from a body shot in round one.
Miami lightweight Manuel Correa (3-0, 2 KOs) pounded out a brutal unanimous (40-36 x 3) four-round decision over Dustin Arnold (6-2, 1 KOs) of Coral Springs, Florida.
Lacking the power to get the relentlessly energized fists of Correa away from him, Arnold did well to survive the onslaught. His face didn’t feel so lucky though, as he was reduced to a bloody mask during the carnage. Correa is a pitbull worth having another look at. The normally capable Arnold will have to improve his power to compete with savagery of the type that fighters like Correa can generate.
Miami welterweight Livan Navarro (10-0, 6 KOs) scored an entertaining fourth-round knockout (54 seconds) over Colombian veteran Wilfrido Buelvas (19-11, 13 KOs). The pair of sluggers traded free-swinging haymakers throughout. Buelvas even looked to have hurt Navarro in the second, but, eventually, Navarro’s superior power took over and that was it for the Colombian from Barranquilla.
Buelvas went down twice in round three and twice more in round four, the final time for the full 10 count.
In an eight-round super featherweight bout, former top-ranked veteran Mike “Machine Gun” Oliver (26-10-1, 8 KOs) of Hartford showed the ravages of time, as he flopped twice and quit in the first round against Miami’s undefeated featherweight Hairon “El Maja” Socarras (20-0-3, 12 KOs). What would have been an entertaining scrap a few years ago was more of a sad exhibition as Oliver dropped from the two punches he caught and elected to quit after the second “knockdown.” The time was 50 seconds.
All-action Miami featherweight Jessy Cruz (15-7-1, 6 KOs) continued his winning streak with a four-round beatdown of Mexican veteran Isaias Martin Cardona (25-15, 17 KOs). Cardona, a showboating type, was down in round, one, three and four. After the fourth, saner heads prevailed, and he was prevented from coming out for the fifth. The official verdict was a TKO 5 (0:01).
Miami via Cuba’s hard-punching super middleweight Irosvani Duvergel (5-0, 3 KOs) stayed undefeated by making quick work of Miami’s Yendris Rodriguez Valdez (2-3, 2 KOs) by way of TKO 1 (1:46). The exciting Cuban was too strong for Valdez and after going down from a right hand, Valdez’s corner signaled their man’s surrender.
A four-round featherweight contest ended early when Puerto Rico’s Luis “Chucho” Melendez (3-1, 2 KOs) scored a TKO 2 (2:13) over debuting local Jonathan Conde. After a routine first round, Melendez had Conde down three times, the first with a counter left hook and then twice more with big right hands.
In the four-round heavyweight opener between two Miami-based sluggers, Hector “Ready for War” Hodge (3-3, 1 KO) spoiled the pro debut of Jairus Gladney (0-1) by knockout at 1:43 of round two. The pair of big men traded wild shots until Hodge found pay dirt with a southpaw left hand, dropping Gladney. Gladney rose but was in no condition and another roundhouse left finished things.
“Rumble at the Rock III” was presented by Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory, in association with Tuto Zabala of All Star Boxing.
HRGOVIĆ OFFERS WILDER-FURY PREDICTION
Filip Hrgović has offered his prediction for the WBC World Heavyweight title fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury on Saturday night.
The Croatian boxing sensation will be watching with interest as fellow Olympic Bronze Medallist Deontay Wilder puts his title on the line against the lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
Hrgović is the current WBC International Champion, having claimed the title with a spectacular knockout win over Amir Mansour, and is set to make his first defence against Ytalo Perea on December 8 at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.
“I believe Wilder will get the better of Fury in the end, even if it’s a close fight,” says Hrgović. “Wilder is strong and his right hand could destabilise Fury as soon as he’s able to reach the target. However, it’s not an easy fight to predict.”
Since joining the professional ranks, Hrgović has made no secret of his desire to win World titles, and after only six fights, he is already ranked with the WBC, WBA and WBO. The 26 year-old wagers he will only need five more fights before he is ready to challenge the likes of Wilder, Fury and Anthony Joshua.
“As people are aware, I haven’t hidden from anyone since starting my professional career,” said Hrgović. “And I believe I will be ready to challenge for the World title in five fights. Obviously, it is not just my call, I must speak with my promoter, manager and coach, but soon, I will be coming for all the belts!”
The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgović and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrović on December 8.
Prograis: “I want to be the legitimate best!”
Prograis: “I want to be the legitimate best!”
Regis Prograis watched Season I of the World Boxing Super Series and the quest for the Muhammad Ali Trophy and wants to follow the footsteps of the Cruiserweight Ali Trophy winner, Ukraine’s Aleksandr Usyk.
“The World Boxing Super Series is great not only for me but for the sport,” said theAmerican.
“I saw what it did for Usyk winning all the belts so I know what is possible. Winning the tournament would mean that I’m the legitimate best in the world at 140lb.”
For Prograis it is not only about the belts, but also about the prestige of being part of an elite group of world-class fighters competing for The Greatest Prize in boxing.
“Of course fighting for the belts is good but to fight for the Ali Trophy is also an amazing accomplishment. Not many fighters can say they have that.”
The WBC Interim Champion faces Belarus’ WBA Super World Champion Kiryl Relikh in the semi-finals early next year after beating Terry Flanagan convincingly via a unanimous points decision in New Orleans.
“He is a strong dude, comes forward, but I just think if I fight like I did against Flanagan there is nobody that can come close to me.”
Prograis, known as ‘Rougarou’ – a creature with a human body and the head of a wolf – is preparing himself to go all the way.
“Just like the amateurs where you can’t duck anybody, it’s excellent to have fights lined up back to back. It’ll be a busy season but it’ll be worth it.
“In the aftermath of the tournament, I should get a lot of big opportunities for a lot of big fights.”
The World Boxing Super Series returns in 2019 with six sensational semi-final match-ups. Locations and venues will be announced in due course.
WBSS Season 2 Semi-Finals:
Bantamweight
Nonito Donaire vs Zolani Tete
Naoya Inoue vs Emmanuel Rodriguez
Super-Lightweight
Regis Prograis vs Kiryl Relikh
Josh Taylor vs Ivan Baranchyk
Cruiserweight
Mairis Briedis vs Krzysztof Glowacki
Yunier Dorticos vs Andrew Tabiti
Ali Trophy Quarter-Final Results:
1. October 7th, Yokohama Arena, Yokohama, Japan – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Naoya Inoue (Japan) beat Juan Carlos Payano (Dominican Republic) – KO1
WBA ‘Regular’ Bantamweight Championship
&
Kiryl Relikh (Belarus) beat Eduard Troyanovsky (Russia) – UD
WBA Super-Lightweight Championship
2. October 13th, Ekaterinburg Expo, Ekaterinburg, Russia – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Zolani Tete (South Africa) beat Mikhail Aloyan (Russia) – UD
WBO Bantamweight World Championship
&
Andrew Tabiti (USA) beat Ruslan Fayfer (Russia) – UD
Cruiserweight Quarter-Final
3. October 20th, CFE Arena, Orlando, USA – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Emmanuel Rodriguez (Puerto Rico) beat Jason Moloney (Australia) – SD
IBF Bantamweight Championship
&
Yunier Dorticos (Cuba) beat Mateusz Masternak (Poland) – UD
Cruiserweight Quarter-Final
4. October 27th, U.N.O. Lakefront Arena, New Orleans, USA – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Regis Prograis (United States) beat Terry Flanagan (England) – UD
‘Interim’ WBC Super-Lightweight Title
&
Ivan Baranchyk (Belarus) beat Anthony Yigit (Sweden) – TKO7
Vacant IBF Super-Lightweight Championship
5. November 3rd, SSE Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Nonito Donaire (Philippines) beat Ryan Burnett (Northern Ireland) – TKO4
WBA ‘Unified’ Bantamweight Championship
&
Josh Taylor (Scotland) beat Ryan Martin (United States) – TKO7
WBC Super-Lightweight Silver Title
6. November 10th, UIC Pavilion in Chicago, USA – Ali Trophy Quarter-Finals
Mairis Briedis beat Noel Mikaelian – UD
WBC Diamond Belt
&
Krzysztof Glowacki beat Maksim Vlasov – UD
vacant Interim WBO World Championship
Granite Chin Promotion results from Boston
DORCHESTER, Mass. (November 21, 2018) — New England cruiserweight champion Chris Traietti closed tonight’s Thanksgiving Day show, “Championship Boxing at the Armory”, in grand style, picking apart challenger Nick Lavin on the way to an impressive eight-round unanimous decision win in the main event.
The “Championship Boxing at the Armory”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), has become an annual tradition at the National Guard Armory in Dorchester, Massachusetts.
Fighting out of nearby Quincy, MA, the popular 33-year-old Traietti (27-4, 21 KOs), is an Irag War veteran and college graduate, who defeated the Lavin by way of an eight-round unanimous decision August 5, 2017 for the N.E. title.
Last night in their rematch, Traietti used his vast experience advantage, as well as power and aggressiveness, continually pounding his tough Shelton, CT challenger Lavin (5-10, 4 KOs), walking him down and effectively trapping Lavin on the ropes and in the corners. Traietti jabbed his way inside and unloaded blistering combinations, completely controlling the action from start to finish.
Traietti’s constant peppering of Lavin left no doubt in the minds of the three judges at ringside, who scored the bout in favor of Traietti by scores of 80-72 three times for a “shutout” victory.
“We had a great turnout and I’m glad that we are keeping this tradition alive,” Traietti the co-promoter said. “Fans enjoyed themselves, fighters came to fight, and I can’t wait to do it again next year.”
Traietti the fighter revealed that he’s going all-in on his career next year, when he is expected to reunite with his currently incarcerated head trainer, Jimmy Farrell. “When Jimmy went away,” Traietti explained, “I didn’t take it well. I took the Mike Lee fight and I was in shape, but for the past two years I’ve trained myself and regressed. Jimmy knows how to get the best out of me. trust him, it’s just there, and without him as my trainer it’s showed. I’m not easy to train because of my personality.
“Jimmy says he’s getting out in 2019. I’ve been buying my time, fighting locally, nothing too big. I’m going to make my final push with Jimmy next year. I’m not perfect, he’s not perfect, but together it works. We had an 11-fight knockout streak going when he went away. I’ll stay afloat until he gets back. I want to work up to a big fight and see what happens. I’m going to give it my all and, if things don’t work out, I’ll hang up my gloves for good.”
Former N.E. welterweight champion Derek “The Surgeon” Silveira (15-2, 8 KOs), fighting out of Salem, MA, was operating from the opening bell against Mexican veteran Franciso “El Mono” Medel (12-16, 8 KOs) in the co-featured event. Silveira never let up, snapping off a one-two to the body and suddenly Medel was finished in the second round.
Claremont, NH middleweight Ricky Ford (3-1-2, 1 KO) and Saul Almeida (0-10-3), of Woburn, MA. fought to a four-round majority draw.
Gloucester, MA super middleweight prospect “Handsome” Henry Gedney (1-0), a 2017 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, stopped Francisco Neto (0-1), of Woburn, in round one. Fan-favorite Gedney ripped a short right to Neto’s body, resulting in a quick knockdown, and moments later he went down for good at the 1:16 mark.
Pembroke, MA cruiserweight Vinnie “American Dream” Carita (19-1-1, 18 KOs), a court officer in Brockton, MA, outclassed 62-fight veteran Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-36, 18 KOs), the former Mid-West middleweight titlist. Carita floored Walker mid-way through the opening round with a punishing right to the body. Walker managed to beat the count, however, Carita’s next punch landed in the exact same area of Walker’s body, and this time he stayed down.
New York junior welterweight prospect Ray Jay Bermudez (5-0, 3 KOs) kept his undefeated record intact, dropping Bruno Dias (0-5) three times in the second round. Dias never recovered from a vicious liver shot, which resulted in the first knockdown, and two later trips to the canvas ended the fight.
Providence (RI) middleweight Anthony Concepcion (2-0, 2 KOs), trained by World Boxing Organization (WBO) World middleweight champion Demetrious “Boo Boo” Andrade, opened the night against veteran Mexican fighter Roberto “El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56), a former Pacific Coast lightweight champion. Valenzuela has had 143 more pro bouts than Concepcion, but the 26-year-old Concepcion pressed the action from the start, using an effective body attack that paid off with a sizzling left-right combination in round two. Valenzuela dropped to one knee, unable to beat the count, and Concepcion had his second pro win without a loss.
Complete results below:
OFFICIAL RESULTS
MAIN EVENT – NEW ENGLAND CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Chris Traietti (27-4, 21 KOs). Quincy, MA
WDEC8 (80-72, 80-72, 80-72)
Nick Lavin (5-10, 4 KOs), Shelton, CT
(Traietti retained the N.E. cruiserweight title)
CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Derek Silveira (15-2, 8 KOs), Salem MA
WKO2 (1:03)
Francisco Medal (12-16, 8 KOs), Uruapan, Michoacan de Campo, Mexico
CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS
Vinnie Carita (19-1-1, 18 KOs), Pembroke, MA
WKO1 (1:58)
Steve Walker (26-36, 18 KOs), Hannibal, MO
SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
Henry Gedney (2-0, 1 KO), Gloucester, MA
WKO1 (1:16)
Francisco Neto (0-2), Woburn, MA
MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Ricky Ford (3-1-2, 1 KO), Claremont, NH
WD4 (39-37, 38-38, 38-38)
Saul Almeida (0-10-3), Framingham, MA
Anthony Concepcion (2-0, 2 KOs), Providence, RI
WKO2 (2:16)
Roberto Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico
JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS
Ray Jay Bermudez (5-0, 3 KOs), Troy, NY
WKO2 (2:24)
Bruno Dias (0-5), Woburn, MA
Marsella earns IBA title via third-round stoppage; Cusumano scores 15th career knockout in co-feature
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Nov. 21st, 2018) – Anthony Marsella Jr. won his first career championship Wednesday night in his first main event bout.
The Providence, R.I., super lightweight stopped Mexican challenger Jorge Rodriguez (10-4) at the 3-minute mark of the third round after Rodriguez failed to answer the bell for the fourth, capturing the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Title in CES Boxing’s Thanksgiving Eve season finale at Twin River Casino Hotel.
After finding his distance in the opening round, Marsella began to let his hands go in the second, but Rodriguez was up to the task, landing a few shots of his own to momentarily keep Marsella at bay. In the third, Marsella turned up the heat, backed Rodriguez into a corner in the closing seconds and unloaded with lefts and rights to the head. Rodriguez survived the round, but his corner threw in the towel before the start of the fourth, promptly crowning Marsella the new IBA Americas Champion in just his 11th pro fight.
Facing a new opponent after his original foe, Maurice Byarm, was denied a license in Rhode Island, Sicilian heavyweight Juiseppe Cusumano (17-2, 15 KOs) made quick work of Florida’s Michael Marrone (21-10), earning the win by second-round knockout at the 2:49 mark. Marrone, who took the fight on four days’ notice, hit the deck twice in the opening round, the second time courtesy of a looping overhand right.
Cusumano has now won back-to-back fights since suffering his first loss in more than six years in June.
A back-and-forth war between Zain Shah (6-4-1) of New York City and Worcester, Mass., middleweight Kendrick Ball Jr. (11-1-2, 8 KOs) ended with Ball scoring his eighth career knockout win at 1:58 of the fourth round.
Shah, who boasted fights against Alantez Fox and Brandon Quarles on his resume, stood toe-to-toe with Ball from start to finish, taking Ball’s best shots over the first two rounds while landing a few of his own. Ball began to wear him down in the third, sending Shah to the canvas toward the end of the round, but Shah got back up and at one point the two exchanged haymakers near the center of the ring, testing one another’s chins while the crowd rose to its feet.
Ball finally finished the bout in the fourth with a looping overhand right that backed Shah into the corner. Ball then unleashed one last flurry while Shah tried to cover up and slip out of harm’s way, but the referee waved it off to save Shah from absorbing any further damage. Ball has won back-to-back fights after suffering his first career loss in June
Providence lightweight Cido Hoff (2-2-1), fighting for the first time since June of 2017, earned his first win in more than two years, toppling the previously-unbeaten Davhon Shelton (1-1) of nearby Pawtucket by unanimous decision, 40-34, 39-35, 37-36. Hoff controlled the pace early, burrowing his way to the inside and working the body to soften Shelton, but his opponent occasionally broke free, establishing his jab to momentarily turn the tide.
The fight remained close until the fourth and final round when Hoff scored two knockdowns, including one at the bell, to clinch the victory. Visibly shaken at the end, Shelton needed help getting back to his corner, as Hoff celebrated the long-awaited end of his two-fight losing streak.
In one of the more entertaining bouts on the undercard, Worcester junior welterweight Nicholas Briggs (2-0, 2 KOs) earned his second win in as many fights, stopping the game Stacey Anderson (0-4) of Falls Church, Va., at the 1:34 mark of the fourth and final round.
Anderson fought bravely, working his way to the inside to try to combat Briggs’ height advantage. He managed to stave off Briggs’ reach early until he ate an overhand right that sent him crashing to the canvas at the end of the second round. Briggs dominated the third and finished the job in the fourth, toying with Anderson in the closing moments to earn his second win by knockout since making his professional debut in September.
Heavyweight James Advincola (0-1) of Providence suffered an unfortunate setback in his professional debut, injuring his left knee 40 seconds into the opening round of a scheduled four-round bout against Miami’s Raphael Akpejiori (2-0, 2 KOs). Advincola slipped in the center of the ring early in the bout and dropped to one knee, but got up and tried to continue before landing awkwardly again and crumbling to the canvas. For Akpejiori, it was his second knockout win in as many fights after debuting at Twin River in September.
Making his Twin River debut, Pawtucket’s Lamont Powell (2-0, 1 KO) breezed through debut fighter Marcos Rosa (0-1) of Woburn, Mass., scoring the victory by knockout at the 1:22 mark of the opening round. Powell was just too much for Rosa, who tried to circle the perimeter and stay on the outside, but Powell cut off the ring effortlessly and eventually backed Rosa into a corner, where he unloaded with overhands until the referee stopped the bout.
Providence junior middleweight Victor Reynoso (2-0, 2 KOs) also remained unbeaten with a second-round knockout win over Woburn veteran Carlos Galindo (1-7), dropping his opponent four times in the process. Galindo went down twice in the opening round, first on a body shot and again at the bell courtesy of a short right cross. He survived the first, but Reynoso went for the kill early in the second and earned the stoppage 49 seconds into the second round.
Dmitry Bivol vs. Jean Pascal Media Conference Call Transcript
KATHY DUVA, President and CEO, Main Events:
“Good morning and good afternoon everyone. Main Events could not be happier to be coming back to the Etess Arena at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City. Our first event in August was a sellout. It proved to us what we already knew: there is still a big appetite for boxing in Atlantic City.
With our second card at the Etess Arena we expect to build on our momentum by bringing Dmitry Bivol back to be in the main event this time on November 24 against one of our division’s most admired champions, Jean Pascal.
Dmitry Bivol is going to risk his perfect record against a tested tough opponent. Dmitry has made no secret about wanting to unify titles in the light heavyweight division. But the other titleholders for some reason just don’t seem to be ready for him right now.
Jean Pascal is always ready. He never turns down an opportunity. He is a warrior. He has fought for three world titles, and he’d like to take Dmitry’s title back home to Canada and confirmed his status as a Hall of Fame fighter when his career is finished. It would make a pretty nice Christmas present for him.
Neither man is taking the other lightly of course. It’s a dangerous fight with a lot at stake. This is the way we like to cook things up at Main Events!
In addition to our fighters, you will also hear from Vadim Kornilov, the manager of Dmitry Bivol; and Greg Leon, CEO of Jean Pascal Promotions.And we are delighted to have Tim Louie with us. He is the Public Relations Manager for the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City.
Why don’t we begin with Vadim today – can you make some opening remarks?
VADIM KORNILOV, Manager, Dmitry Bivol:
Thank you, Kathy. Pleasure to be back at the Hard Rock. It’s great to have another show with Dmitry Bivol on HBO. Now that he’s the main event, it’s something kind of like a dream come true for him. He’s talked about this for a long time He was hoping to be a main event at one point, and he’s got this shot on this last HBO World Championship Boxing event. Thank you all of the Main Events team and World of Boxing team working great together putting this main event together on November 24th.
KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Vadim, it’s always a pleasure working with you.
Former light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal has won titles and lost titles. But he has never lost anyone’s respect. He has faced every dangerous name in the division for a decade. Carl Froch. Bernard Hopkins. Kovalev. And now, Dmitry. Jean’s farewell tour is making a stop in Atlantic City. He doesn’t want it to be his last stop. We are glad to welcome him to this card and the main event.
Greg, why don’t you talk to us, give us your perspective on the fight, and introduce Jean?
GREG LEON, CEO, Jean Pascal Promotions:
Thank you, Kathy. I’d like to thank World of Boxing and Main Events for making this a very easy deal to finalize. I’d like to thank to the Hard Rock for hosting the event, HBO for broadcasting the event in its final World Championship Boxing. This is a sensational event. Like Vadim said, Bivol was looking to fight on a main event. Jean’s been looking to fight for a world title on his farewell tour. But like Kathy said, the farewell tour does not end in Atlantic City. That’s just the next stop. Both of these guys come to fight. They don’t shy away from challenges. We’re expecting nothing but action on November 24th.
Personally, it’s an honor to represent somebody like Jean, who as Kathy articulated, is a true warrior, doesn’t shy away from challenges, fights the best of the best. For this fight, our mission is to use it as a lens into how much boxing means to HBO. The nucleus of Jean Pascal’s aspirations consists of making history and punching his ticket to the Hall of Fame. So this event will be nothing short of sensational. Our hope is that this sensation will cross-pollinate through HBO’s offices in a way that allows them to re-contextualize their place in the world of boxing around them. This is the heart of what we strive to do. Without further ado, the former WBC and world light heavyweight champion and next WBA light heavyweight champion. Jean?
JEAN PASCAL:
Thank you very much. Hi everybody, I’m very pleased that you’re here. Pascal is back in action. I’ll be fighting on HBO on November 24th. I’m very happy. I want to thank Main Events; also I want to thank Dmitry Bivol and his people for this opportunity to show I’m an elite fighter. I know it’s OK, they think they can beat me. But like I said, It’s OK, it’s part of the sport. I’ve been training very hard for this opportunity. It’s showtime, it’s time to show up.
KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Jean and thank you, Greg. I want to take a moment for the last time and thank HBO. This is going to be a very difficult event for us in a lot of ways. I hope Greg is right, I hope Jean and Dmitry can somehow, jolt them into reconsidering.
The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City has only been open for a few months. But as we all know, it has already established itself as Atlantic City’s go-to destination on the legendary Atlantic City Boardwalk.
There are all the features that made the Hard Rock Hotel name famous including world class rooms, casino, lounges, restaurants, shopping, and service. What’s special to us about the Hard Rock Hotel Atlantic City is the Etess Arena, named after a dear friend of ours who passed away too soon. It’s always been one of the best venues to see boxing in the United States. Thanks to the Hard Rock it’s expanded and even better than before.
Let me bring in Tim Louie with the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and he can to tell you a little more about this amazing fight venue.
TIM LOUIE, Public Relations Manager, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City:
We’re so excited to have boxing back here. This past August was so amazing for me to see, because I’m so new to the business. The arena fits about 7,000 people and it’s so exciting just to even boxing back in Atlantic City. Kathy, you and your team have been amazing to work with. I don’t expect anything to be different next Saturday.
KATHY DUVA:
Thank you, Tim, Nice to hear that. You guys are a pleasure to work with, too.
QUESTION:
Jean, you’re obviously viewed as the underdog in this fight. How much motivation has that provided for you, and how are you looking at this going into the fight?
JEAN PASCAL:
This is the story of my life, to be the underdog. I was the underdog when I faced Chad Dawson. At the time he was considered as the best pound for pound in the world. I was the underdog, fourth in the world and I won the fight. To me, maybe it’s a motivation. I know what to do, I know what I’m capable to do. I have a lot of experience, been there done that. I’m going to do my best to win this fight.
QUESTION:
What did you think of Bivol’s performance against Isaac Chilemba?
JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, I think he did good. Chilemba used to be my sparring partner. It’s hard to look good against a guy like him. He’s very awkward. In this situation, I think Bivol showed his skill and he did pretty good against an elite fighter.
QUESTION:
Jean, you always come to fight, and make for good television in your career. How do you expect this fight will unfold differently, especially from the viewer’s perspective?
JEAN PASCAL:
It won’t be different, I’m going to be there to fight. I like to fight, I’m the underdog. I know Bivol likes to fight as well; he’s young, hungry. He cannot exactly remember me when I was champion. I was a pretty boy, lot of stamina, young, sexy, with a lot of power. I know that it is entertaining for him right now. I have something on my side, experience. That’s something you can’t buy, you cannot buy.
QUESTION:
Jean, do you think he’s overlooking you?
JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, I think he’s got no bets, because I’m not in his mind. But like I said, I know Bivol will do very well. I know him as well. If he overlooks me, that would be a big mistake. But I know he has a strong team, he’s a young but I know he’s a smart fighter and a smart guy too. So I don’t think he takes me lightly.
QUESTION:
Greg, what would a win over Dmitry Bivol do for Jean’s career?
GREG LEON:
First of all, I think this win would put in in the Hall of Fame without any question. Right now, Jean is looked at as a guy has a hell of a resume, has fought the best of the best. For the harshest of critics, he might have lost too many big fights to be a lock. Jean’s fight would cement his legacy and his status as a Hall of Famer. A victory on November 24th would certainly do that. As far as what would be next, what’s next right now is November 24th. Obvious, if Jean he wins the title, he becomes the cash cow of the division. All of the other champions reside in Canada. By his own admission, Stevenson by his own choice hasn’t been making fights the public has been demanding. Jean is a star in Canada. With the belt around his waist, he becomes the guy of the division.
There’s also history too, Correct me if I’m wrong, Jean first because champion in 2009. I don’t think nine and a half years have passed from one title reign to the other in the history of the division.
KATHY DUVA:
Let’s move on with the most exciting young titleholder in the light heavyweight division. He’s featured in RING Magazine this month.
He is the undefeated WBA Light Heavyweight Champion. And he really wants to unify the division. From St. Petersburg, Russia — training now in Los Angeles, Dmitry Bivol. Dmitry, tell us about your view of this matchup.
DMITRY BIVOL:
I appreciate the introduction, Kathy.I respect Pascal because he took this fight. I hope we will show a good fight and action in the ring. I will do my best to make a good fight.
QUESTION:
For Kathy, for you is it a goal to turn Bivol into a big draw in the New York and New Jersey area?
KATHY DUVA:
That’s more of a question for Vadim in his capacity with World of Boxing. World of Boxing is our partner in this promotion. We’ve had a great run with Sergey Kovalev in Atlantic City, going up to the big sellout in August, and over a million dollar gate with Bernard Hopkins. He’s Russian, Dmitry’s Russian. It seems logical a charismatic young star like Dmitry, given a little time to develop, can develop a fan following there if that’s what World of Boxing wants him to do. We’d be happy to help them.
Sergey took three bouts, three appearances there to make it to that sold out arena. It does take time, it doesn’t happen overnight. This is a big step in my view in Dmitry’s career stepping up to the main event for the first time. Nobody ever became a star on the undercard. This is the beginning of a journey. We’re always happy to be going back to our home in Atlantic City.
QUESTION:
Dmitry, your last two fights were in the co-main event. Now that you’re in the main event on HBO, how does it feel to get the chance to be a headliner?
DMITRY BIVOL:
Of course I’m glad. It means I’m going the right way in my career. I’m glad that HBO and Kathy Duva and World of Boxing are giving me this opportunity to fight in the main event. It’s a big responsibility for me.
QUESTION:
Do you feel more pressure to go out and deliver a performance that tells people you are the best light heavyweight in the world?
DMITRY BIVOL:
You know, when I go into the ring, every time I feel that I should show all my skills, all my best. I should show to people all my best skills. It doesn’t matter now or my first fight. Every time, I feel the responsibility. I just want people to believe and I want to prove to everybody I’m the best in the division. These are the steps I want to take. There’s always responsibility I take on.
QUESTION:
Jean, you’re coming off back-to-back stoppage wins for the first time in a decade. How do you feel physically at 36 years old? How do you assess your own strength?
JEAN PASCAL:
Right now, I don’t know if I’m stronger than before, but I feel very strong. Of course I got two knockouts in my last fights. But I know they weren’t elite fighters like Dmitry Bivol. So I know I’m going to have to pick up my game but I’m ready for that. Been there, done that. It’s his first main event. Like I said, for me been there done that. I know what I have to do. I’m ready for this fight. I’m looking for this fight to be a great fight.
The fight is going to be in Atlantic City. Remember, we have a Canadian story in Atlantic City. Arturo Gatti is from my hometown and he used to fight over there. He moved when he was younger to fight. He became a legend. At the same time, I’m going to try to honor his spirit over there and win one more title.
QUESTION:
Dmitry, what do you know about Jean Pascal, and the main reason you respect him?
DMITRY BIVOL:
I saw his many fights when I was an amateur. His fight against Bernard Hopkins, fight against many other people. I know he is good in counter attack. He’s strong; he’s a really tough guy. He is a good fighter and I respect him. But when I go to the ring, he will be my enemy.
QUESTION:
Dmitry, Jean Pascal’s manager talks about how he wants to get to the Hall of Fame and be a champion once again. Are you really letting him use you as a stepping-stone?
DMITRY BIVOL:
I think the opportunity is already given in this fight being made. It excites me very much to know he’s so motivated and he has such big goals for this fight. I’m also not coming to the fight to give up my title, and I going to do everything to defend the title. Every one of us has a big goal, and it will make this fight really great.
QUESTION:
So that’s a polite way of saying no?
DMITRY BIVOL:
That’s a polite way to say I will fight for my title until the end and I will not give it up.
QUESTION:
What make you thinks you’re ready to get in the ring with a young lion like Dmitry Bivol?
JEAN PASCAL:
it’s because I’ve got my confidence back. When I fought Eleider Alvarez, I didn’t have my confidence back it was a hard fight for me. Even thought I did good it was a majority decision for him. It wasn’t a walk in the park for Alvarez. In any losses that I had, I always did good, except my second fight with Kovalev. I know I’m a tough challenge. I know I’m a good man to be on the resume. That’s why they picked me.
Honestly, like I said, I have a lot of respect for Dmitry Bivol. He’s a young lion. He thinks that has all the talent in the world like I thought when I was his age. Something he cannot have, he cannot buy, it’s experience. I have way more experience than him, even though he has a lot of amateur fights. I went to the Olympics in 2004 in Greece. I was a world-class amateur fighter also. But I have way more experience than him as a professional boxer. That will lead to a great fight at the Hard Rock Casino. People, tune in at 10 p.m. November 24, because it’s a must watch fight.
QUESTION:
Dmitry, you were in “2 Days” with HBO, the documentary. It looked like a lot of fun, we saw you with your family. That was really the last of its kind for HBO. For you to be featured in that way, how was it?
DMITRY BIVOL:
It was very exciting. I wasn’t used to having a camera around two days before the fight for that much time. It was a new experience. What was interesting, a lot of people got to know me more on the other side of boxing which was very exciting. I want more people to know more about me and understand what kind of person I am.
QUESTION:
What was it like to watch Sergey Kovalev lose? What was it like for you for him not to be the victor that night?
DMITRY BIVOL:
It was a little unfortunate. We know each other and we have common friends. We’ve talked before. It’s not pleasant to see someone you know, an acquaintance, go down like that. I thought he was going to win the fight. We also had some plans about possibly fighting next. A lot of that kind of fell apart. It was a little disappointing.
QUESTION:
Any predictions on how this fight is going to end on November 24th?
DMITRY BIVOL:
I don’t make predictions. it’s very difficult. I will do everything I can to make sure this fight is exciting and it’s over in an exciting fashion.
QUESTION:
A fan question for Jean. Your Canadian fans have given you so much support over the years. How would you describe your relationship with your Canadian fans?
JEAN PASCAL:
My relationship with my fans back home in Canada is very, very great. I feel very, very lucky to have that kind of relationship with my fans because they support me a lot. There are not a lot of boxers in the United States who have a big fan base like I do. I’m very very fortunate. This is why I always take time to please my fans, to talk to them, to talk pictures with them. I’m here because of them as well.
QUESTION: A fan question for Dmitry. How do you see yourself improving you skills?
DMITRY BIVOL: There is never a limit to improvement. I would say that, speed is probably one thing that is with you and is hard to really change. But other things, other skills are definitely something you can improve. Especially agility, and with the distance of the fight being 12 rounds, you can improve on your conditioning. You can improve on your levels of fighting inside and outside, different combinations. There’s always something to add to your game.
QUESTION:
Jean, you retired and quickly came back. You’ve had a great career What can you take from your career into the Bivol fight?
JEAN PASCAL:
I’m going to take my experience. I’ve been there, done that so many times. I know what to do. So I’m going to carry with me in the ring all my experience I got with me from all these big fights: Kovalev, Froch, Hopkins, Dawson. I’m going to take those fights into the ring with me to show him what is the best in the boxing sport.
QUESTION:
Jean, is training camp any different knowing it is your last title shot?
JEAN PASCAL:
During training camp, it was a little bit different. The motivation was a little bit more there. I’ve got the eye of the tiger once again. I think that’s what was lacking from my last few fights, when I fought Kovalev and maybe Hopkins. I got my confidence back that you notice I didn’t have when I fought Kovalev. Right now, everything is in one piece. I’m very confident, very happy, very pleased to be back on HBO. I was the first Canadian boxer who fought in Canada on HBO, and I’m going to be the last Canadian to fight on HBO. So I’m making history once again. So I’m very, very happy.
QUESTION:
Dmitry, come November 24th and you take care of business with Pascal, do you still want the winner of Kovalev and Alvarez 2?
DMITRY BIVOL: As I always say, right now I’m focused on the fight with Jean Pascal on November 24th. I want to fight the best after that, if everything goes well. Whoever is wanting to fight, I want to unify titles and become the undisputed champion.
QUESTION:
Another fan question for Jean, you’ve talked about your experience. How might it give you an advantage against a younger fighter like Bivol?
JEAN PASCAL:
Honestly, if this is something you want to see, I urge you to tune in to HBO on November 24th at 10 p.m., and I will show you everything.
QUESTION:
A fan question for Dmitry, this is your first main event. Now that you have achieved this goal, how does it feel to you?
DMITRY BIVOL:
Of course, I’m very happy that such a legendary channel gave me this final chance to fight on the main event. To me, it just means I’m on the right way, on the right path in my career. I appreciate this opportunity, and I want to take everything I can from it. I want everybody to watch this fight, and I will make sure this fight is very memorable.
KATHY DUVA:
I want to thank Dmitry and Jean, thanks Vadim and Greg. Thank you also Tim Louie for welcoming us back to Atlantic City.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jean and with Dmitry now on more than one occasion. I’ve gotten to know both of them a little bit. One thing I can promise everybody, they will give 1000 percent and they will entertain. It will be worth watching and certainly worth coming out to Atlantic City.
We hope you enjoy your Thanksgiving celebration with family and friends. Although those of us who work for Main Events, we’ve spent our last three Thanksgivings together working.
When you get tired of the leftovers, join us for a fresh serving of World Championship Boxing on Saturday night live at the Etess Arena and live on HBO Boxing.
World Bare Knuckle Fighting Federation “Rise of the Titans” results & pictures from Casper, Wyoming
CASPER, Wyoming (November 10, 2018) – Bombs away was the theme last night (Friday) as combat sports veterans made their bare-knuckle fighting debuts on the exciting “Rise of the Titans” worldwide pay-per-view event, presented by the World Bare Knuckle Fighting Federation (WBKFF), at Casper Events Center in Casper, Wyoming.
Blood was flying, fighters were dropping, and fans and a near capacity crowd was really into the constant brawling throughout an evening entertaining, competitive and memorable fights.
The main event showcased a pair of combat sports icons, Chris “The Crippler” Leben and “The New York Bad Ass” Phil Baroni, in a special light heavyweight attraction. Left-handed Leben, fighting out of San Diego, shook off Baroni’s early roughhouse tactics, floored him, and then put his lights out midway through the first round.
“He was clinching and I wanted to stand in the middle of the ring and bang,” Leben remarked. “Down he went from a big left hand. He does have a hard head.”
(L) Dakota Cochrane finished off Johny Hendricks
In the co-featured event, former UFC welterweight champion Johny “Biog Rigg” Hendricks came out of a one-year retirement from fighting to take on dangerous MMA veteran Dakota Cochrane, of Omaha, NE. Hendricks was originally scheduled to fight in the main event against “Irish” Brennan Ward, who withdrew earlier this week. Cochrane was already fighting on the card and he quickly agreed to replace Ward and take on his popular Fort Worth opponent in a middleweight special attraction.
Hendricks suffered a cut under his right eye in round one, then Cochrane suddenly and shockingly ended the fight 21-seconds into the second round with an explosive, straight right that silenced the pro-Hendricks crowd.
“It (bare knuckle fighting) was definitely different,” a jubilant Cochrane said after the fight. “I love my big right hand, I’ve been practicing it.:
“Honestly, I’m moved” said an elated WBKFF CEO and founder Tom Stankiewicz after the conclusion of his organization’s inaugural show. “I was very surprised by the underdog, Munoz, and a new star was born tonight, Dakota Cochrane. Everybody fought their best, they were all warriors. I hope all these fighters stay with us. We are planning our second show for February 9 at a site to be determined.”
Fight of the Night: Julian Lane (L) and Joey Angelo each won a new Ford Mustang (see picture below)
Always tough Ohioan fighter Julian “Hellboy” Lane and Las Vegas’ middleweight Joey Angelo had the ultimate showdown, which broke out into a fire-fight in the third round, at least until Lane connected with a straight right on the chin to drop Angelo. Trailing on the scorecards, Angelo opened the fifth round going for broke, but Lane was the aggressor from start to finish, as well as the more efficient puncher, earning a split decision victory. Lane overcame a broken left hand he suffered in the third round.
Christina Marks (L) bloodied Jasmine Clark en route to an impressive win
San Diego MMA fighter Christina Marks, 2017 The Ultimate Challenge runner-up, and former world boxing title challenger Jasmine Clark, of Texas, squared off in a female bantamweight match. Marks, who celebrated her 33rd birthday in style, cut Clark over the right eye midway through the opening round. Marks swarmed her opponent in the second, keeping her distance and landing stinging shots on Clark’s damaged eye, until she was no longer able to defend herself and retired.
The $100,000 WBKFF Lightweight Tournament launched last night with two black-and-blue type fights. Former UFC and Strikeforce fighter Robbie “Problems” Peralta, of Escondido, CA, caught Ireland-born Jay “The Mellow Fellow” Cucciniello, now living Spain, in the second round with an overhand right that dropped him. Blood dripping down his face like a badge of courage, the gutsy Irishman finished the third round strong, and the two fighters battled on equal turf in the fourth. Despite Cucciniello’s vision obviously hampering him, he kept coming forward in the fifth, but Peralta maintained control, effectively picking his spots, en route to an impressive win by unanimous decision.
South African Leon “The Iron Lion” Mynhardt, now living in Fairfield, CA, was too much for Texan Nick “The Ghost” Gonzalez in the other tournament match, and the fight was eventually halted by the referee in the second round because of excessive punishment.
Former UFC and Bellator fighter Josh “The Dentist” Neer, fighting out of Des Moines, Iowa, had not fought in 2-½ years, when he entered the ring to fight boxer “Mad” Max Alderete, of Albuquerque. Neer needed a round for the rust to wear off, after which he walked down Alderete and unloaded on his head and body, mostly throwing upper cuts, one putting him down near the end of the third round. Alderete was unable to answer the bell for the fourth round.
Brazilian MMA veteran Marcelo “Mello” Alfaya put late replacement Joey Munoz on his back with the first punch he threw, but his Nebraska opponent showed tremendous heart, resulting in the crowd getting behind him. Attrition started to play a role in the third round, as both fighters slowed down, but they battered each other in a wild fourth round. In the fifth and final round, Alfaya was penalized a point for hitting after the break, and Munoz closed the show, pulling off the first upset of the evening by way of a five-round majority decision. Munoz took the fight on one-day notice, lost 17 pounds, and drove three hours to Casper.
Former UFC and Strikeforce fighter Issac Vallie-Flagg and upset minded Cory Simpsonopened the PPV segment of the night fighting at a 175-pound catchweight. After a somewhat strategic first round the pace changed abruptly in the second round as both fighters opened-up. Class soon prevailed as Vallie-Flagg, of Albuquerque, knocked down a game Simpson early and he then finished him off with a barrage of brutal body shots for a second-round knockout.
Hall of Fame ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. joined WBKFF’s all-star announcing team –Bas Rutten, who is also WBKFF president, Kenny Rice and Jessica Penne -for the pay-per-view and Preview airings, distributed by Integrated Sports Media.
Super heavyweight C.J. “Big Cake” Leveque suffered a cut to his right eye in the opening round, courtesy of Houston’s Juan Torres, but the 288 ½ pound Californian immediately responded by decking Torres, who spotted his opponent 212-pounds, with a roundhouse right early in the second. Torres bounced right back, though. He drilled Leveque with a vicious shot in tight-quarters, sending him face-first to the canvas for a second-round knockout to conclude the preliminary card.
The first preliminary card fight set the tone right from the opening bell in a 160-pound catchweight fight. Long-haired favorite Jeff Chiffens, fighting out of Delaware, came out firing shots and 15-seconds in the opening round, Chiffens drew blood first, opening-up a cut over Fred Pierce‘s right eye. After the ring doctor examined and cleared Pierce to fight, the action resumed and Chiffen dropped Pierce with a powerhouse right. Pierce beat the count, but referee stopped the fight at the 1:04 mark of round one.
Newly adopted rules including holding and striking, spinning backfists and hammer fists were allowed, and a traditional boxing ring was used for optimum viewing and safety. All men and women’s matches were scheduled five (two-minute) rounds.
Complete results and more pictures below:
PAY-PER-VIEW CARD
The two participants in the Fight of the Night – winner Julian Lane and Joey Angelo – each won a new, high-powered Mustang from WBKFF
Lane floored Angelo before he broke his hand in third round
(L) Robbie Peralta and Jay Cucciniello put on a show
Jeff Chiffens (R) landed a picture-perfect punch on Fred Pierce
Joey Munoz (back on ropes) pulled off the upset of the night
