Rodriguez and Yoder to appear in separate bouts tomorrow in Philly!

Union City Welterweight Juan "The Beast" Rodriguez (2-0 1 KO) takes on Mike Denby (2-4-3 2 KO's) tomorrow at the Arena in Philadelphia over four rounds. Rodriguez, who has been working with the show's promoter Andre Kut, scored a jaw dropping knockout durng his pro debut in Newark and is fighting for the second consecutive time in the City of Brotherly Love.

Vineland's TJ Yoder will look to improve to 2-0 against 0-2 Andrew Barnes over four rounds at lightweight.

As previously reported, former amateur standout Gabby Pham (2-0, 2 KO's) takes on Maurice Amaro (1-2) in a four round super middleweight contest

IN THIS CORNER WITH JERSON RAVELO!

By Jerson Ravelo with Brandon Estrict

If you’re a boxing fan, especially a New Jersey or Dominican boxing fan, then the name Jerson Ravelo should ring bells.
If not, after we ask you what rock you’ve been hiding under, we’ll proceed to tell you all about him.

In 1998, Ravelo, a Newark resident, won a National Golden Gloves Championship at Middleweight and was named Amateur Boxer of the Year by the New Jersey Hall of Fame. He represented the Dominican Republic in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia, and though he came up short that summer, he would go on to defeat fellow prospect Jeff Lacy for a Gold medal in the US Challenge Cup.

Since turning pro as a super middleweight in 2001 (he stopped fellow debutant Miguel Gutierrez in one round), Jerson has put together a respectable 20-4 (12) record highlighted by nationally televised fights against such world class opponents as current Super Six contestants Andre Ward and Allan Green.

It’s been quite an up-and-down ride for the 32-year old Dominican that some know as “Super Jerz”. Injuries, broken promises, promotional issues, and all the rest of the usual suspects when it comes to the business of boxing, have kept him inactive and mired in what could soon become the fourth year-long inactivity stint of his career.

With recent whispers of a return date later this summer starting to circulate, GSFS caught up with Jerson to get his thoughts on the happenings in the sport and especially the state.

Not only did Jerson take this time out for us, but he’s also agreed to come on board with GSFS and provide you, the fans, with a bi-weekly boxing blog about the latest developments in his career, his thoughts on things going on around the sport, fight predictions, and maybe even a few past fight and exclusive behind the scenes stories!

Without further adieu, this is the first installment of In This Corner with Jerson Ravelo, exclusively here at GardenStateFightScene.com! The format is simple; Jerson will be provided with 5 random topics every week and will blog his thoughts on them.

What Have You Been Up To and How is Everything

I'm doing ok, but in reality, not how I would want to be doing at this moment. We all have to deal with what life throws at us. There’s not much going on with me these days, just working to get the bills paid. I’m not in the gym, at the moment, due to being exhausted from work every day.

The State of NJ Boxing

I feel that New Jersey boxing is going pretty good, actually. I mean there's not much promoting going on in NJ aside from Pound 4 Pound and Main Events and, of course, when Bob Arum brings his Top Rank cards to Atlantic City. I feel most P4P fighters are being moved the right way and they seem to have promising futures.

Bernard Hopkins vs. Roy Jones Jr. II
The Jones Jr. and Hopkins fight was a circus act. I don't blame Jones for that though. I think Hopkins is just a straight up clown. First of all, he only fought Jones at this stage because he knows Jones has been on a downfall for the last several years. You can believe if Jones had beat Danny Green, that fight would have never taken place!

I sparred with Hopkins for the rematch with (Jermain) Taylor. I was called by Taylor's camp first and I asked if I could get on the card. I was told it was full so I declined the offer, then I received a call from Golden boy to go to Hopkins camp. I asked the same question and received the same answer, so I also declined them.

Then I received another call from Golden Boy and was told that they would get me three fights to get my career back on track. Well that was five years ago and I'm still waiting on the first fight. And that's aside from Hopkins telling me that he was so impressed with the work I gave him in camp that he would fly out to California after the fight and make sure Golden Boy would sign me to a contract. Good thing my life didn’t depend on that, or I would’ve been dead five years ago!

Super-Six

I think any of these fighters has a chance in any fight, especially if the guy has a punchers chance. I personally don't think that Allan Green belongs in the Super 6, but that's just my opinion. I believe when it's all said and done, Andre Ward or Andre Dirrell will end up winning the whole thing.

Closing Message

I'm a fighter. My entire life, this is what I have done since I could remember. After having a great amateur career, being number one in the nation, and topping it off by competing in the Olympics in the year 2000, then making my (pro) debut at the Garden, and building my record to 14-0, I broke my hand, and then everything went south. I was out for two years, and when I came back, I lost my first fight. My promoter at the time (Lou DiBella) released me, and a few months later my contract with my manager was up. It has been an uphill battle for the past 7 ½ years, but I haven't given up on my dream of becoming World Champion, and we'll see where this story ends!

If you’d like to contact Jerson, or you have a few questions for him that you want answered, you can find him on Facebook, or you can e-mail me at BEstrict@hotmail.com.

Team Bryan Protests Arroyo Loss!

GSFS was notified that Team Bryan filed a formal protest on Jeremy’s behalf surrounding the outcome of his April 17 fight with Vincent Arroyo. The Paterson based Bryan was clearly ahead going into the final round when Arroyo put him down with a solid punch. Arroyo landed a few more flush head shots that knocked Bryan out cold, giving the Amherst resident a stunning upset. That is where the controversy began.

Many ringsiders claim that the knockout blow came when Bryan was down on the canvas, while others state that the finishing shot was landed AS he was going down, therefore it was the fighter’s duty to defend himself. Referee Samuel Viruet and the New Jersey State Athletic Commission saw nothing unusual about the ending, thus treated it no differently than any other bout that ended in a knockout.

Managers Sal Alessi and Pat Lynch each notified us immediately after the bout in AC that they were going to file a protest and have now officially done so.

“He got buzzed with a hook and took a knee”, Alessi said shortly after filing the protest. “When he was down (Arroyo) hit him twice. I still have to look at the tape so I can verify what happened but (Jeremy getting hit when he was down) is what I saw as did most ringsiders.”

Even though Alessi is yet to review the official outcome, he is confident that the right ruling will be made once the New Jersey commission discusses the fight in their next meeting.

“I am sure that the tape will tell the story and they will rule accordingly.”

Bryan, who is 13-1 with 6 KO’s following his lone defeat, displayed a true fighting spirit by expressing more interest in a rematch than the official result.

“I am telling you, I want this rematch real bad!” “Right now (I am accepting it as) a loss, but he hit me twice when I was on my knee, (so) it’s up to the commission to (overrule) that.”

Alessi wasn’t willing to commit to his fighter’s next move, but did say that a return bout with Arroyo wasn’t completely out of the picture.

Adamek Decisions Arreola!

Tomasz Adamek’s warrior mentality was somewhat intact, but he also realized the dangers of fighting a hard hitting 250 lb opponent. In essence, his willingness to trade from bell to bell compared to the days at light heavy and cruiserweight were not completely there; albeit to his benefit.

Adamek retained his IBF International Heavyweight championship against top ten heavyweight Cris Arreola of Riverside, CA last night at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA after twelve rounds.

Both men had their moments, with the local favorite tagging and hurting Adamek with a number of flush right hands, while the latter boxed effectively in spurts. The contest was competitive throughout the bout, but Adamek’s one-two combos ultimately overruled Arreola’s heavy punches.

Adamek managed to stick to his heavyweight game plan (which includes jabs, right hands and semi-effective head movement, as opposed to his prior M.O. of exchanging punches) enough to eek out a majority decision over a late fading opponent that just wasn’t busy enough in the championship rounds.

The score of 114-114 was overruled by a surprisingly wide 117-111 and a more sensible 115-113 card for Adamek.

GSFS also scored the contest 115-113 for the Secaucus based Pole, who improves to 41-1 (27 KO’s) with the victory. This will likely land him a shot at one of the Klitschko brothers or spring him into the long proposed bout with David Haye.

Arreola slips to 28-2 (25 KO’s) with the defeat.

Gabby Pham Returns Next Friday in Philly!

Atlantic City based super middleweight prospect Gabby Pham notified GSFS that he will be fighting next Friday at the Arena in Philadelphia against hometown favorite Maurice Amaro (1-2-1) in a four rounder.

Pham, 2-0 (2 KO's), recently relocated to the Garden State from Florida, where he was a standout amateur. He had over 90 amateur bouts, won three Florida State Golden Gloves and two Regional Silver Glove titles, while finishing third in the Ringside World Tournament.

Pham, who said his team will be making a big announcement shortly, is also slated to fight June 4 as part of the Dee Lee Promotions card in AC.

Adamek-Arreola Preview!!!

By Brandon Estrict

As mind boggling as it may seem for a fighter that’s amassed a career record of 40-1 (27), Secaucus' Tomasz ‘Goral’ Adamek is still in search of the respect that’s eluded him.

Since moving up to the Heavyweight division late last year, the former Light heavyweight and Cruiserweight world champion has been given little chance by “experts” at ever becoming a major player in Klitschko-ville. Many just couldn’t envision a scenario where his hybrid boxer-puncher style, tendency to exchange, and occasional defensive lapses, would carry the 6’1”, 217 lb. Pole to success in a weight class where most of the top fighters would, presumably, be much bigger and stronger than he.

Apparently, wins over Andrew Golota and Jason Estrada in his first two bouts above the 200 lb. mark have done nothing to brighten these outlooks or inspire much hope.
If you’ve had your ear to the street, or the gym, for the past few weeks, you’d know that Adamek will be traveling into hostile territory for a crack at heavily hyped Chris ‘The Nightmare’ Arreola, 28-1 (25) this Saturday night at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA.

The fight figures to be Adamek’s stiffest test to date, and though he’s never been stopped, the majority of boxing fans and media are predicting another early knockout victory for the powerful Arreola.

Cristobal Arreola, backed by Dan Goossen’s Goossen-Tutor Promotions and pushed by cable giant HBO, loves to fight. ‘The Nightmare,’ has openly stated that he prefers to mix it up, and likes to get hit to get himself going. In his only career loss, a 10th round stoppage at the hands of Vitali Klitschko, he proved his mettle by not quitting even though he trailed big on all scorecards.

In that fight, Arreola continued to come at his superior foe, even as his face morphed into a crimson mask of blood, sweat, and raw skin, until his corner eventually decided to stop the fight. Afterward, an emotional Arreola vowed to train harder and be back in the ring quickly and better than ever.
By returning to fight an outgunned Brian Minto less than two and a half months later, Chris accomplished one of those three goals.

Notorious for his lack of discipline outside of the ring and weight issues, Arreola came into the fight weighing a career-high 263 lbs. It was 12 lbs. heavier than he’d been when he lost to Klitschko, and he was noticeably sloppier in appearance and form. Though he’d stop Minto in the fourth round, Chris was tagged on a few occasions in the fight and his performance didn’t live up to the high hopes his supporters had for him.

Meanwhile, Adamek’s been moving along and establishing himself not only as a premier fighter, but as a local favorite to the Polish community in NJ at the Prudential Center in downtown Newark. In every fight there, he’s sold thousands more tickets than the last, starting with his 2008 decision victory over former Cruiserweight champ, Steve Cunningham, and capped off by a crowd of 10,000+ last February to see him outpoint Jason Estrada.

“I think this fight would’ve been huge here, Tomasz can draw,” said Kathy Duva of Main Events who promotes Adamek, “But if we have to end up going to California, then we will.”

Adamek isn’t likely to be fazed by the venue or the homecourt advantage Arreola will enjoy. A fighter to the core, he prefers to let his fists do all the talking and isn’t concerned with the size disadvantage he’ll face.

“I will prove my worth in the ring,” he told reporters last week after a workout.
“There is no weight disadvantage to deal with, the real fighter will win.”
For his part, Chris Arreola says, “I have a lot to prove, not just for myself, but for other people who are working hard for my career to be where it’s at.”
Arreola believes the smaller Adamek will choose to box and use his feet more than usual for this fight.

“He is going to be a hit and run boxer. I am going to have to bring my boxing skills to the ring. I have had good strength and conditioning and I have been learning to move laterally. I want to showcase my skills and solidify everything that my trainer, Henry, and my strength and conditioning coach, Darryl (Hudson), have worked with me on.”

A win for Arreola puts him back in the mix of the Heavyweight picture, while an Adamek victory opens the door to new opportunities. Aside from his lone defeat in 2007, to Chad Dawson at light heavyweight, Adamek hasn’t had much national exposure. Frankly, he’s been in excellent fighter in a cruiserweight division devoid of any big names or interest from the networks, something that factored into his decision to try his luck at heavyweight.

Adamek may also have more at stake this Saturday night. Regardless of the outcome of the fight, Arreola will probably continue to get HBO’s push, deserved or not, as they search for the next American-born heavyweight champion to market in a division today dominated by the Klitschko’s (Ukraine) and David Haye (UK). For Adamek, a chance like this comes only so often and if you don’t take advantage of the opportunity, you’re not promised another one.

Both men are fully aware of the bouts implications and are saying the right things, but actions usually speak louder than words. Arreola, who promised to come into the fight weighing no more than the low 240’s, did shave 13 lbs. off of his last fighting weight but still checked in bigger than most would’ve liked him to, at 250 lbs.

Arreola’s weight has been fairly consistent in that range, but aside from being shut-out by Vitali, he hasn’t been in with a fighter the caliber of Adamek. There’s a very real possibility that Arreola not preparing for fights as hard as he should, may finally catch up with him.

Adamek and Arreola meet tonight at 11:15 ET ON HBO.

Tomasz Adamek: Ready to Make a Big Splash in the Heavyweight Division

Tomasz Adamek is just one day away from what is literally the biggest test of his career. The former light heavyweight and cruiserweight titleholder jumped to the heavyweight division in October 09' with dreams of capturing a belt in a third division. The Secaucus based Pole has had success thus far in the 201 plus pound weight class, stopping badly faded countryman Andrew Golota and earned a competitive decision over 2004 US Olympian Jason Estrada.

Tomorrow night many think his heavyweight run could come to an end against hard hitting contender Cristobal "The Nightmare" Arreola at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA. The bout, which will air at 11:15 pm, looks to be a fight of the year candidate with the winner likely securing a title shot. Heres what Adamek had to say about his toughest fight since his lone defeat to Chad Dawson in 2007.

GSFS: Tomasz welcome to Gardenstatefightscene.com. In your last bout, you scored a tough decision over crafty boxer Jason Estrada. Tell us about the fight as well as what it was like to have 10,000 fans backing you at the Prudential Center?

TA: The fans are something that I always cherish, without the fans boxing means nothing. I of course fight for money, this is my job, but I would never fight in empty arena. Hopefully I will be back in Prudential center soon.

GSFS: Tomorrow you are taking on a top ten heavyweight in Cris Arreola. What do you think of him as a fighter?

TA: He is one of the best I will have ever fought, although you never know before you fight somebody. I never wanted to take the easy way. If you want to be the best, you fight all of them.

GSFS: Cris' weight ranges from 240-260 lbs and he is heavy handed. Are you worried at all/planning to change your game plan since Cris is naturally bigger and you are known for slugging it out with your opponents?

TA: In(the) heavyweight division everybody hits with power. Arreola wants a slug fest, but I always believed that you win in the ring with your head first. I will impose my way of fighting. He will have to fight my way. Weight doesn't matter. What I will do (in the ring) does.

GSFS: On the contrary, you have a terrific jab for a brawler. Is the jab going to be one of your main weapons on the 23rd?

TA: Speed and ring movement will be my weapon. Plus everything I have. Let him guess (what I will do).

GSFS: Arreola refused to fight you in New Jersey and now you have to fight him his backyard. Is the possibility of getting robbed by the judges something you are worried about?

TA:. You cannot think about what you cannot control. IBF is in charge, millions will be watching. I expect fair judging.

GSFS: Even though you are always in exciting fights, this is your first fight on premium cable (HBO/Showtime) in a few years. Does it upset you that both networks have put on insignificant fights and left you off the schedule previously?

TA:. Again, it was outside my control but I knew they have to acknowledge what I'd doing in the ring, why people wanted to see my fights. Somebody told me that last year only Mayweather and Pac man brought more people to arenas. I can live with this comparison.

GSFS: For the last few years, fight fans were anxious to see a match up between you and current WBA Heavyweight Champion David Haye. If you get by Arreola, is David Haye somebody on your radar?

TA:. Haye talks a lot and now he's got a title. We both started as a cruiserweight, both have entertain styles. It's up to TV to put us against each other. They know I will be ready.

GSFS:. Does a fight with either of the Klitschko's interest you at this point in time or do you want a few more fights before facing either of them?

TA:. I already had 2 offers to fight Klitschkos but my team decided that we need more time before we fight them. Two more fights, maybe. I will fight them not for a payday but to win.

GSFS: What is your outlook for 2010 and beyond?
TA:. This year could be crucial for me, so I don't really think about what happens in 2011. Winning brings more interest, it takes care of everything else.

GSFS: Tomasz, thanks for stopping by. What do you have to say in closing to all your fans and the readers of Gardenstatefightscene.com?

TA. I would like to say a warm "thanks" for all the support. I wanted to fight in Prudential Center, Newark, but Arreola declined, maybe he decided it would be too much to face me and my rabid fans in my home arena.

ADAMEK 217 ARREOLA 250.5

Looks like Cris Arreola and his trainer didn't keep true on their promise that the hard hitting Californian would weigh in under 240, but he manage to scale in 12.5 lbs less than his last bout. The naturally smaller Adamek, who is likely to go after a title in a third division if he is victorious Saturday, was 3 lbs down from his fight with Jason Estrada.



GSFS' EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ADAMEK WILL BE POSTED SHORTLY SO MAKE SURE TO STAY TUNED!!!

Adamek-Arreola FINAL Quotes!

DAN GOOSSEN (ARREOLA PROMOTER): “Saturday night is a can't-miss Super Bowl of boxing in the heavyweight division. It will be sure to bring excitement. This fight is something that HBO and both fight camps wanted badly.”



“The heavy weight division needs this fight. The message I'm trying to get out there is that this fight is going to be pure excitement. It's two fighters looking to knock the other out. Our message to the other weight classes: ‘Emulate what Chris and Adamek do on Saturday night. You have got to be willing to fight one another.’”



“Chris is excitement inside the ring and explosive outside the ring because of his great personality. He's one of us.”



ARREOLA: “Saturday night is definitely going to be a fight that I will TiVo and watch when I get home. If I wasn't fighting on Saturday night, this is definitely a fight that I would watch.”



(On Adamek): “He is going to be a hit and run boxer. I am going to have to bring my boxing skills to the ring. I'm going to have to put the pressure on him in order to bring him to fight.”



(On what he expects from himself on Saturday night): “I have had good strength and conditioning and I have learning to move laterally. I want to showcase my skills and solidify everything that my trainer, Henry, and my strength and conditioning coach, Darryl (Hudson), have worked with me on. I have a lot to prove not just for myself but for other people who are working hard for my career to be where it's at. I want people to know that Dan isn't just blowing smoke up peoples asses.”



(On training at home for this fight): “In the past it was hard training away from home. Mostly because I am not familiar with an area and that makes it hard for me to know where to eat and to trust whoever is cooking the food. I love going to Yard House Restaurant because I am familiar with the establishment and they know the kind of meals I need to eat while in training. They are able to cook up something healthy and hearty for me to eat.”



(On his weight): “I am going to come in weighing in the high 230's or low 240s.”



(On criticism he has received): “People who have told me in order to be more marketable that I need to tone it down with my language. I can't do that because I cannot be what I am not. I have to keep it real. People always tell me that I say things that they wish they could say.... so I feel like it's an honor for me to be me - to be real.”



RAMIREZ: “We are all looking forward to Saturday's fight. Chris Arreola is prepared to put on a great performance Saturday night.”



ADAMEK: “I will prove my worth in the ring. May the best man win. There is no weight disadvantage to deal with. The real fighter will win.”



(On the Polish President tragedy): “It's sad and a travesty. But it's life. God gives me the power and focus and I will use them on Saturday night.”



ROGER BLOODWORTH: “We all know that both Chris and Adamek are coming to fight. May the best man win.”

Mikey Perez Makes TV Debut May 14 in The Bronx!

By Brett Mauren (in association with 15rounds.com)



Boxing can be a difficult field to make your name in, and even more difficult to crack the mainstream code, but at 20 years old Newark's Michael Perez will have an opportunity to lay the groundwork when he takes to the ring on May 14 at Paradise Theater in the Bronx.



“Well I’m the first televised bout of the night on Telefutura, so I’ve been stepping up training. A lot of hills, a lot of different things in this camp” Perez said in regards to his training.



The 20 year old captured a Golden Gloves title in 2008 and has since put together an unblemished record of 7-0 with 3 ko’s. Signing a deal with Golden Boy Promotions, the young fighter is optimistic on the road ahead, and making his television debut, will be a major building block. Currently campaigning at lightweight, Perez notes that the division has its share of exciting prospects that could make the coming years interesting for fighters and fans alike.



“I see a lot of young guys coming up that could make for good fights soon. Hylon Williams, he’s a Golden Boy Prospect as well, I’d like to fight Saddam Ali, there are a lot of different guys at lightweight.”



No opponent has been named thus far for May 14, but Perez remains excited at the prospect of making his t.v. debut. While still getting his feet wet in the pro’s, Perez is already no stranger to the big stage. Signing with Golden Boy promotions has brought Perez the opportunity to fight on the undercards of major events including Mayweather vs. Marquez, Malignaggi-Diaz and Kirkland-Julio.



Making his debut in late 2008, Perez has been dubbed with the nickname “Michaelangelo The Artist”and as a Newark resident will have an opportunity to build on his East Coast following when he does battle in the Bronx.



“I’d just tell anyone who doesn’t know me yet to follow me. I’m coming up, I have a crazy work ethic, and I’m going to have some good fights coming up.”

Maurice Harris wins in NYC!

Former heavyweight contender Maurice "Mo Bettah" Harris of East Orange won an eight round decision over Philadelphia based gatekeeper Robert Hawkins Thursday night in NYC. Few were actually aware of the show happening, as only four bouts took place on this special card where the profits were donated to charity. Harris reportedly controlled the majority of the action with busier hands.



Scores were 80-72 on all three cards. Harris, who sports one of the most deceptive records in boxing, improves to 23-14-2 (10 KO's). Hawkins slides to nearly identical 23-15 (7 KO's).

Lane decisions Brown on Friday Night Fights Undercard

By Troy Maxwell



Former title challenger John "The Eastern Beast" Brown of AC dropped a six round unanamous decision to rising prospect Lanard Lane of Texas this past Friday as part of ESPN's Friday Night Fights undercard. Lane came out strong firing big shots in the opening round, but Brown saw everything coming and used good defense. Lane continued to fire off nice shots and both fighters were in terrific condition as the building was close to 95 degrees. Lane caught Brown with a nice shot close to the bell, but the 45 fight veteran weathered the storm and finished the bout on his feet.



Scores were 60-54 on all three cards for Lane, who improves to 12-0 (7 KO's). Brown falls to 24-18-2 (11 KO's(

MARTINEZ BATTERS PAVLIK; TAKES THE UNDISPUTED MIDDLEWEIGHT CROWN IN AC!

Spain's Sergio "Maravilla" Martinez became the new WBC/WBO and Ring Magazine Middleweight Champion after earning a hard fought unanamous decision over Kelly Pavlik of Youngstown, OH last night at Boardwalk Hall in AC.



Martinez got off to a fast start, working behind a highly effective straight left hand, which was unstoppable at times. Pavlik rallied in the middle rounds and scored a controversial knockdown in the 7th, but Martinez' style and skills were too much for the incumbent champion.



Martinez' efficient attack and Pavlik's inability to avoid punches eventually left the latter bloodied over both eyes. The bout was in danger of being stopped in the final few rounds, but Pavlik's corner did a good job of cleaning up the cut.



In the end, Pavlik's tremendous heart and middle round rally weren't enough to overcome the countless clean shots he ate over the duration of this entertaining twelve round fight.



Scores were 115-111, 116-111 and 115-112. Martinez improves to 45-2-2 (24 KO's). Pavlik, who may very well have been drained from making the 160 lb limit, slips to 36-2 (32 KO's).







Passaic's Glen Tapia scored an action packed four round decision over Reidsville, NC's James Winchester. Tapia dropped Winchester in the opening round with a short left hook and a follow up attack nearly ended the contest in the opening round, but the game Winchester weathered the storm.



Tapia controlled the majority of the next three rounds, getting the better of numerous heated exchanges. Winchester also did a ton of trash talking and taunting, which frustrated Tapia, but it had little outcome on the final result.

Scores were 40-35 three times.



"I was not pleased with Glen because he goes into the ring trying to knock everyone out", said trainer Mikey "Red" Skowronski. "We are going to go back to the table and work on that, especially as he steps up in competition, but he won clearly nonetheless,"



Tapia is now 6-0 (4 KO's), while the game Winchester falls to 10-4 (3 KO's)







2008 Olympian Matt Korobov fought at a high speed pace early before eventually slowing down and earning decision over tougher than advertised Josh "OC Bomber" Snyder. Korobov had difficulties in a few of the middle rounds, tiring a bit in addition to getting hit with flush right hands, but did enough throughout the eight round contest to win a unanamous but far from impressive decision.



Scores were 79-73 and 78-74 twice. Korobov, of Orotukan Russia, ups his record to 11-0 (8 KO's). Snyder, of Berlin, MD, slips to 8-5-1 (3 KO's)







Hot Welterweight Mike "MJ" Jones battered an extremely game Hector Munoz for 3 1/2 rounds before referee Benji Esteves saved the latter. Jones controlled the entire contest, blasting Munoz with hard power shots. Munoz displayed terrific heart and a tremendous chin, as he never hit the canvas. Unfortunately, Munoz didn't have much else and his night was cut short at 2:03 of the fourth round after he took numerous head shots.



Jones of Philadelphia, improves to 21-0 (17 KO's) and retains his NABA Welterweight Title. Munoz goes home to Albuquerque, NM at 18-3-1 (11 KO's). In addition to an impressive victory, Jones is likely to appear on premium cable next time out.



Kelly Pavlik protege Chris Hazimihalis stopped Philadelphia's Ramon Ellis in 1 minute and 28 seconds. Hazimihalis, who fights at a whirlwind pace, dropped Ellis hard and a fire fisted follow up combination ended the latter's night.



Hazimihalis is now 2-0 (2). Ellis falls to 0-5.







Ronald Hearns of Detroit, MI demolished Delray "Rainmaker" Raines of Paris, Ar inside of one round. Hearns decked Raines just seconds into the bout and put him out cold shortly thereafter. Raines remained face down on the canvas for a minute but was able to make it back to his feet with help of the medical staff.



Hearns, the son of legendary Thomas Hearns, ups his record to 25-1 (19 KO's). Raines drops to 17-8-1 (12 KO's). Time of stoppage was 1:47.



Buffalo's Vincent Arroyo scored a shocking come from behind 8th round KO over well regarded Paterson native Jeremy Bryan. Bryan, a multi-time National Amateur Champion, was clearly in control, using a snappy jab early on to keep Arroyo at bay. The two exchanged solid punches in the middle rounds, with Bryan landing the better of them. Arroyo was hurt in the 7th with a straight right hand-uppercut combo, and Bryan appeared en route to pulling out a decision.



In the 8th and final round, Arroyo caught Bryan, who was circling, on the ropes with a vicious two punch combo. Bryan hit the canvas hard and was counted out at 1:43. He remained down for a minute following the shocking knockout, but got to his feet under his own power to the applause of the crowd.



Arroyo improves to 10-1 (7 KO's) following the upset, while Bryan suffers his first setback at 13-1 (6 KO's)



Editors Note: Immediately following the bout, many of the ringside media members were debating whether Bryan was hit with a punch when he was down or if the knockout blow came AS he was going down.



Former heavyweight contender Dominic "The Southern Disaster" Guinn viciously dropped Plainfield's Terrell "Baby Bull" Nelson in round one and nearly had him out before the bout became a jab fest over the next several rounds. Guinn did turn up the heat in the 7th, rocking and nealry dropping Nelson just seconds before the bell.



Nelson decided to remain on his stool following the 7th, giving Guinn the TKO victory.



Guinn improves to 33-6-1 (22 KO's). Nelson slides to 8-10 (5 KO's).

Majewski/Maxwell Returns May 22 at Bally's

Unbeaten middleweight prospect Patrick Majewski of Atlantic City informed us via phone that he will be returning to the ring May 22 in his hometown for an eight round bout against Florida's Loren Meyers (7-7-1, 2 KO's).



This will be Majewski's first bout since shutting out Anthony Pietrantonio February 6 in Newark. Majewski, 12-0 (7 KO's), is amongst the most exciting fighters in the state and hopes to follow in the footsteps of his countryman Tomasz Adamek.



Myers is winless in his last four (against opponents with a combine 33-2 record), but most recently fought to a draw against 16-1 Gee Culmer in a fight many at ringside thought he deserved the nod in.







GSFS's very own "Trouble" Troy Maxwell (2-0, 1 KO) is slated to appear on the card in a four round super middleweight bout against AC's Rafael Jastrzebski. Maxwell looks to make it two in a row over fellow New Jerseyans, as he most recently outpointed Dover's Todd Eriksson.



Cape May's Josh Mercado (3-1, 1 KO) looks to rebound from his only loss against Joel Nieves in a welterweight contest scheduled for four rounds, while Newark's Carlos Vinan (9-8-3, 1 KO) hopes to ride the momentum from his victory over Victor Vasquez and upset well regarded Anthony Flores in their six round lightweight fight.



The card is being promoted by Peltz Boxing. More to follow!

WEIGHTS FROM AC!

Kelly Pavlik 159.5 vs Sergio Martinez 159.5

(WBC/WBO middleweight championship)

Dominic Guinn 229.5 Terrell Nelson 252

Jeremy Bryan 142 Vincent Arroyo 142

Delray Raines 157 Ronald Hearns 155

Chris Hazimihalis 136 Ramon Ellis 138

Hector Munoz 146 Mike Jones 146

Josh Snyder 159.5 Matt Korobov 160

James Winchester 153.5 Glen Tapia 152

Randy Campbell 167 Mike Tiberi 168.5

Q&A With Glen Tapia!

We had the opportunity to catch up with highly regarded junior middleweight prospect Glen Tapia of Passaic. Tapia, 5-0 (4 KO’s) faces the toughest opponent of his career in James Winchester Saturday in AC as part of the Pavlik-Martinez undercard.



GSFS: Saturday night you will be taking on James Winchester and will once again appear on a big card. Does fighting on a big card add any pressure or do you think it brings out the best of Glen Tapia?



GT: It doesn’t add any pressure at all. I am ready to go. I love having people watch me, I love boxing and fighting; this is what I do best.



GSFS: Your opponent has a 10-3 record but is from North Carolina. Those that know boxing will tell you that fighters from his region with good records aren’t what they are made out to be. What are you expecting from him come Saturday night?



GT: I don’t know but I can tell you what I expect from me. Everyone tells me he hasn’t been knocked out and just fought a good opponent, but he hasn’t fought Glen Tapia! If he comes out thinking he isn’t going to get caught or hurt, he has something coming!



Editors Note: Winchester’s last opponent was 2008 Olympian Matt Korobov.



GSFS: I know you had a great amateur background and were one of the more heralded prospects coming up. Tell us about your career as an unpaid boxer with headgear.



GT: I had 143 fights and finished 130-13. I won the Silver Gloves in 2003, the Ringside Tournament, USA Junior Olympics in 06, Bronze Medal (while competing) in Turkey and the Junior Golden Gloves.



GSFS: Your last bout was nationally televised on Fox Espanol. The fight was entertaining and you scored a stoppage, but you were a little wild and got hit with a few punches you shouldn’t have. Did you slug it out because you knew you were stronger than him?



GT: I honestly felt a little tense. I should have tried to get him out of there earlier, maybe been a little quicker with my shots but he didn’t hurt me so I knew I was going to stop him.



GSFS: You are also recognized for your work as a sparring partner. Previously, Joshua Clottey used you as his main guy for the Miguel Cotto fight. As a young fighter, what was it like working with a big, strong, experienced world class guy like that?



GT: I love sparring with him and I was actually his only sparring partner. We worked 4 days per week 8 rounds per day. We ran in the morning too. It was a great experience to see how he trains and the kind of shape a world champion is in.



GSFS: On a side note, Clottey disappointed a lot of people with the way he fought Pacquiao. Seeing how he trains, spars and how hard he works, were you let down with how he fought?



GT: Yes I was very disappointed! He could have done a lot more. When he threw punches he hit Pacquiao. He should have committed more but may have been scared of getting counter punched. If he did commit he would have had a much better chance to win. Honestly I don’t know who is going to watch him now but still, he is a good fighter.



GSFS: Three of your five fights have been in Jersey or New York. What does it mean to you to be able to fight in front of a lot of your fans while many other fighters have to travel to fight?



GT: it means a lot since I can show them what I can do. Since I have been fighting close to home its easier for them to get to me. I love it and they (they love it too)



GSFS: I know you are with the Pound 4 Pound team and are a tight knit group, training in Passaic and Hoboken. Most of the crew is trained by Mikey Red (Mike Skowronski) and you workout alongside Jeremy Bryan, Victor Valenzuela Jorge Diaz and Pat Farrell. What does it mean to have a close training circle? How does it help you prepare?



GT: It’s great! We all train so hard and push each other. I feel we will all be world champions and it’s going to be crazy! If we all win belts at the same time, that would be crazy, especially because we come from the same gym. We push each other daily so hard to be the best. That’s how it is! We are all A class fighters so this is the best gym to be in for me.



GSFS: Glen Tapia fighting out of Passaic at 5-0 with 4 knockouts. What is your outlook for 2010 and beyond?



GT: I want to be one of the best prospects coming up this year and for the future, I want to become one of the best world champions. My dream is to be considered a legend.

Brown to Battle Unbeaten Lane Friday in Memphis!

By Troy Maxwell



This Friday night, Atlantic City's John "The Eastern Beast" Brown(24-17-2, 11 KO's) will make his 44th ring appearance in Memphis, TN. This time, he will be standing across from Lenard "The Firefighter" Lane(11-0, 7) on an ESPN televised card. It is unclear whether the fight will be televised at the moment, but there is a good chance it could air as a swing bout if the Hendrix-Lundy or Thompson-Beck fights end early.



When asked about the fight, Brown, as usual he didn't say much. Brown a ring

veteran will be Lane's toughest test to date, and if he can get past Brown, he

will likely land a significant bout.



However, Brown looks to put a set back blow to Lanes climb up the light

welterweight ladder. In spending some time with Brown, I can tell you he is in great

shape and looks solid in the gym. The question is, will John unleash the Beast

and extinguish Lane's flame friday night or not?



In addition to covering for GSFS, Troy Maxwell is an undefeated pro boxer that also fought mixed martial arts bouts.

HBO's Real Sports Takes a Second Look into Arturo Gatti's Death

Critically acclaimed HBO series Real Sports aired a special edition episode tonight investigating boxing great Arturo Gatti's death. The impact was instantly felt within the boxing community and details of what happened on July 11 are still disputed to this day.



On that very same night, Gatti's longtime promoter Main Events happened to promote a card at the Prudential Center and with many of his confidants on hand, the mood was thoroughly solemn.



HBO spoke with witnesses who saw Gatti just hours before he passed, the Brazilian pathologist who ruled that he committed suicide, Gatti's manager Pat Lynch and Canadian Pathologist Michael Baden, who vehemently disputes the official cause of death following his own investigation.



This is a must see for boxing fans or anybody for that matter. The special also featured similar investigations into the deaths of former world champions Alexis Arguello and Vernon Forrest, both of whom died tragically in July 09.



Rest in Peace Arturo, Vernon and Alexis.

All Female Amateur Boxing Card May 7 in Trenton!

When it comes to all female amateur boxing shows, Women in Support Together (W.I.S.T.) pulls no punches. Female Amateur boxers will showcase high energy fights in the “The Road to London” Series on Friday, May 7, 2010 in conjunction with Trenton Housing Authority. This event will include many exciting bouts featuring boxers from the New Jersey and surrounding areas.



W.I.S.T. has a long history in boxing and was the first to bring an All Female Boxing show to Trenton, NJ. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to see female amateur boxers in action,” said Wanda Bruce, CEO of W.I.S.T. and Female Boxing Promoter. “Everyone is welcomed to attend and show support for our female boxers who often get overlooked,” Bruce added. Trenton Pal Team Hope is also hugely popular and has been praised for rehabilitating teenage gang members, taking children off the streets and giving them inspiration and goals through sports. “Women in Support Together introduced brilliant ideas to the Trenton community by giving female boxers the opportunity to showcase their talents at this great event. This was a proud moment for Trenton Pal Team Hope boxers”, says Bill McLaughlin.



This show is sanctioned by New Jersey LBC Association, USA Boxing. The Trenton Housing Authority Gym is located at 875 New Willow Street, Trenton, NJ 08638. Doors open at 5pm with the first Bout at 6pm. Tickets are on sale now and priced at $25 for VIP, $20 Floor Seating and $10 for kids under 8. There is lots of parking. As we mark Mother's Day, Women in Support Together wanted to express our gratitude for the hard work and patience that moms bear in bringing up a child we will giving away hundreds of corsages in honor of all mothers.

Duran Returns June 4!

Paterson’s Ossie Duran (24-8-2, 9 KO’s) has fought all over the world and few of his bouts have been easy. The Ghanaian shared the squared circle with top notch opponents in James Kirkland, Fernando Guerrero, David Lopez, Eromosele Albert, Bradley Price and Jamie Moore among others. Outside of a draw against Albert, and knockout over Moore, Duran lost debatable decisions against the aforementioned world rated bunch. Sadly, he had little backing from the fans and was mostly unpromoted throughout.



“It’s very hard”, Duran said about fighting close bouts in his opponent’s hometown. “If you don’t knock him out, the decision isn’t going to (go your way).”



At age 32, Duran is poised to turn things around. Since relocating to Paterson two years ago, he has been managed by well respected Oakland native Vinny Scolpino (who guided fellow Ghanaians Joshua Clottey and Joseph Agbeko to high profile fights and world titles) and trained by fellow Patersonian Aroz “Terrific” Gist. Things didn’t initially go smooth, with decision losses to Lopez and Guerrero in addition to the Albert draw, but he considers himself to be entering a new chapter.



In his last bout on February 27, he entered a familiar territory; his opponent’s hometown. Unlike in the majority of fights in his counterpart’s backyard, Duran wasn’t shorted by the judges and earned a four round shut out decision over local favorite Jamaal Davis in AC.



“I knew I beat him from start to finish” “There was no way they could have robbed me here (this time) since I won so clearly."



Against Davis, he had some support in the crowd, as members of Ike & Randy’s boxing gym where he trains helped sell tickets to locals. Much to his surprise, Duran got a call to fight June 4 in Philadelphia, where he plans to move tickets once again.



“I want to get the crowd behind me”, Duran stated emphatically. “I had people to support me (against Davis so) I am trying to get the fans to continue to back me."



His opponent is expected to be announced shortly. More details, such as which weight the bout is at, rounds and ticket information will follow.

Francisco Contreras Blows Out Tyler Ziolkowski

Irvington based Dominican junior welterweight prospect Francisco "The Phenom" Contreras destroyed Tyler Ziolkowski just 25 seconds into their six round bout last night in North Carolina.



The hard hitting Contreras, who scored an impressive first round knockout in February on Shobox, is an anonymity to most New Jerseyans. At 14-0 with 13 KO's Contreras is yet to fight in the Garden State, but is definitely worth keeping an eye on.



He is promoted by fast rising TKO Boxing Promotions.

CONTENDER STAR FREDDY CURIEL RETURNS JUNE 26!

By Brandon Estrict



‘Furious’ Freddy Curiel hasn’t fought since June 19th of last year, when he beat Francisco Ruben Osorio for the vacant WBF All-Americas Middleweight championship in front of an adoring hometown crowd in Dover.



Now, after months of speculation and inactivity, it appears that the likable Vernon native will finally make his return to boxing.



Curiel is slated to return to the squared circle Saturday, June 26th at the Meadowlands Convention Center against an opponent to be determined, this time for the WBF's jr. middleweight title.



The entire card is still in the process of being finalized, but sources have notified us that other well-known NJ contenders and prospects will also be in action.



Stay tuned for more in the coming weeks!