Acevedo to battle Bowman in York Tomorrow!

York, PA's Carney Bowman informed GSFS that he will battle Union City's Roberto Acevedo tomorrow night at Sovereign Bank Stadium in the ten round main event of the "Battle of York 5".

Acevedo, 9-10-3 (1 KO), is a tough veteran who has not been matched easy. The rugged Puerto Rican import battled both Bey Brothers (Mickey and Cortez), Jose Gonzalez, Chris Howard, Vincent Arroyo, Ramesis Gil, Adrien Broner, Kenny Galarza, Abi Santizo, Joshua Cordero, Ray Robinson and Khabib Allakhverdiev, all of whom were unbeaten at the time. Acevedo has victories over both Santizo and Cordero by decision, while also outpointing tough Lenin Arroyo. His most recent bout came against the aforementioned Howard, who beat him by decision.

Bowman was a highly touted amateur prior to turning pro. He won medals at a number of amateur tournaments and at 14-0 (6), is one of TKO Boxing Promotions' top prospects. This will be the local favorite's first fight in 364 days.

The bout is slated to take place at 130 lbs, five pounds less than Acevedo has ever fought.

Carlos Vinan: Uncovering the Underrated

By Dylon Silversey

Carlos Vinan’s professional record doesn’t exactly stand out.

At 10-8-2 with two wins by kayo, The Newark based Ecuadorian journeyman is not regarded amongst the top fighters in the lightweight division. He has however proven to be a battle tested veteran without the luxury of hand picked fights.

When it comes down to taking a deeper look into Vinan’s losses during his 5 year career, things certainly become a bit more interesting. Carlos’ opponents that managed to defeat him came into those bouts a combined 73-9-4. The latest, Diego Magdaleno was a perfect 10-0 and is one of the more heralded prospects around. Naturally, Carlos and his team are not ones to turn down bouts with promising fighters.

“We look for fighters whose styles match up well with Carlos,” said manager Jose Rosario. “Carlos is a skilled fighter. His only problem in his closer fights is that he fights to the level of his competition. When Carlos fights an undefeated fighter, he seems to fight much better than when going against someone not as good.”

This proved to be the case on the undercard of the David Tua-Monte Barrett matchup earlier this month in Atlantic City.

Vinan was pitted as the opponent for IBF #2 rated lightweight, Anthony Mezaache. At 18-5-3 (4 KO), the Frenchman had not suffered a defeat in his past 11 matchups and spring boarded up the IBF rankings. With bigger fights on the horizon, Mezaache likely failed to realize Vinan was far better than his record indicated.
Early in the bout, Mezaache seemed to control most rounds, using his jab to keep Vinan from winning too many rounds. This was until crunch time.

In the 8th and final round, Vinan came out of the corner with a newfound energy and sent Mezaache to the canvas following a barrage of punches. Just moments later, a follow up assault forced his corner to throw in the towel 37 seconds into the round.

When asked about what was the drive behind the furious 8th round by Vinan, Rosario noted “He is not afraid to finish off fighters; we felt we were ahead in the scorecards. Carlos isn’t afraid to finish off fights. And this was the biggest fight that Carlos won.”

Another big victory of Vinan’s career was against skilled prospect, Eric Hunter, 13-1 (6 KO). At the time, the undefeated Hunter was looking for a fight, and Carlos stepped in on 15 days notice. Hunter bit off more than he could chew.

After getting knocked down in the second, Vinan outhustled the well regarded hunter over the next four rounds. Even though he appeared to be a clear cut winner, Rosario and Vinan were worried that the hometown favorite Hunter would win on the scorecards. This didn’t turn out to be the case. Vinan was awarded a split decision.

After the victory at the Tropicana against Mezaache, we look to what is next for Vinan. Rosario is hoping to get him ranked in the top 10 by the IBF and WBC, but knows that if he is, they must be careful. He is worried about some of the talent at the top of the division. Stylistically, southpaws tend to give Vinan problems, and with many tough fights behind him, he is not a young 30 years old. Either way I hope to see Vinan compete for a while longer.

He is a fan’s boxer; he is going to trade blows with the bangers and is going to
show his boxing IQ against the more technical fighters. Hopefully, for all of his sacrifices fighting against undefeated boxers and other heavily favored opponents, Carlos is rewarded with a bout that is showcased in front of a large audience. With few easy fights and most of his matches taking place in his opponent’s hometown, this is something he earned.

Adamek-Grant Presser Recap!

By John Wall

North Bergen’s Global Boxing Gym, a facility way to good looking to be a boxing gym, hosted a press conference previewing “The Big Challenge”, which is headlined by
Jersey City’s Tomasz Adamek (41-1 27 KO) the current Ring Magazine number 5 heavyweight in the world against former heavyweight contender Michael Grant (46-3 34 KO) for the IBF International and NABO Heavyweight Titles.

The bout will be held on August 21 at the Prudential Center in Newark NJ and will be available on PPV. The upstart Prudential Center is fast becoming the area’s top boxing venue and may someday wrest the “Mecca of Boxing” title away from it’s across the river rival Madison Square Garden.

Fight fans will recall, in 1999, the gutsy 6’ 7’’ ”Big” Michael Grant survived two first round knock downs to defeated another Polish heavyweight hopeful, Andrew Golota . Grant is also being trained by Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Adamek’s only loss came at the hands of Chad Dawson, who interestingly enough, is also trained by Mr. Muhammad.

If, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek two time light heavyweight and cruiserweight world champion can get past Michael Grant it is likely his next opponent could be David Haye or either Klitschko brother.

QUOTES:

Nick Garone (Michal Grant's promoter): "Michael is working hard. “He’ll be in top form on August 21. We all sure about this. And we will have the same outcome against Tomasz Adamek like the last time Michael fought a Polish fighter, Andrew Golota – a win for Michael Grant"

Tomasz Adamek: "Eight weeks in training camp, four weeks of sparring – I’m almost ready. I will be more elusive than ever, and will add a couple of new tricks to my arsenal. I’m not worried about any Michael Grant or his team predictions. What happens and is said during press conferences have nothing to do with what will happen in the ring. Otherwise, we’ll just start screaming at each other and whoever would scream louder will be the winner and there will be no fight on August 21. I don’t scream or argue. I hit hard.”

Editor's Note: GSFS was also informed that Paterson's Jeremy Bryan, who is pictured on the far right, will return on the undercard in a six round contest against an opponent TBA. Bryan, 13-1 (6 KO's) was a decorated amateur and fights for the first time since being stopped by Vincent Arroyo in April.

Adamek-Grant heads to PPV!

Integrated Sports Media, North America’s undisputed champion of major pay-per-view boxing distribution, has announced that it will broadcast the IBF International and NABO heavyweight titles fight on August 21st. “The Big Challenge” main event clashes two-time light heavyweight and cruiserweight world champion, and current The Ring Magazine number 5 heavyweight in the world, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek (41-1, 27 KO) against former heavyweight contender “Big” Michael Grant (46-3, 34 KO).

Additionally, boxing fans around the world will see always dangerous Columbian, Joel Julio (35-4, 31 KO), live from the Prudential Center “The Big Challenge”, presented by Main Events, Ziggy Promotions and X-Cel Worldwide, is being distributed in North America by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9PM EST / 6PM PST on both cable and satellite pay-per-view via iN Demand, DIRECTV, Avail-TVN and DISH Network in the United States and Viewer’s Choice and Bell TV in Canada for a suggested retail price of $29.95.

This main event has more subplots than a James Bond movie. In 1999, Michael Grant beat another Polish heavyweight hopeful, Andrew Golota. In addition, Grant will have Eddie Mustafa Muhammad in his corner, the same trainer who guided light heavyweight champion Chad Dawson to dealing Adamek his only professional defeat. Asked if he was surprised that Team Adamek offered to fight his fighter, Muhammad did not hesitate: “Main Events and Adamek’s manager just committed a grave error. I was sure that while waiting for a championship fight for Adamek, they would look for somebody easy, a guy who would not pose any threat to their fighter. Michael is not one of those guys. I’m sorry to say, my Polish friends, but Michael will badly beat up another one of your boxing stars. Adamek should have never agreed to this fight”.

Adamek, the Polish WBC light heavyweight champion, undisputed cruiserweight champion, and now top 5 Heavyweight fighter (after his last sensational win against heavyweight contender Chris Arreola), has lived in Kearny (New Jersey) since 2008 with his wife and two daughters. “Goral”, who won his last ten fights – as always –, keeps his opinions modest, preferring to do the talking with his fists in the ring. “I will be fighting at home, in Newark, maybe 10 minutes’ drive from my house. I will never disappoint my fans, and by beating Grant I will have chance to avenge Andrzej Golota, my countryman who lost to Michael” – said Adamek.

Doug Jacobs, President of Integrated Sports Media, cannot wait for another exciting boxing show with one of the most exciting fighters in the world. “I am looking forward to working with Ziggy Promotions and Main Events on this great event and look forward to making the telecast available to Tomasz’s hundreds of thousands of passionate fans across the country. They are something special when Adamek steps into the ring”

Webster Returns August 13!

Glassboro's Derrick Webster returns to the squared circle for the first time in nearly six months on August 13 to challenge Edward Lucas at the Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

Webster, a tall southpaw, is a perfect 5-0 with 4 wins coming by way of kayo.

Lucas, of Dermott, AR, is 1-0 (1 KO).

The Webster-Lucas bout is scheduled for six rounds.

Perez Destroys Ruiz, Escalera Stops Acevedo, Vinan shocks Mezaache in AC!

By Marc Abrams (in association with 15rounds.com)

In a big upset Saturday night in AC, perennial spoiler Carlos Vinan of Newark scored an eighth round stoppage over IBF #2 Lightweight, Anthony Mezaache in the final round of their Lightweight bout. Mezaache controlled the action by jabbing and moving and built up a lead on the cards. Vinan came out top start round eight like a house of fire and was all over Mezaache and dropped with a furious combination. Vinan ended the fight by jumping on Mezaache and his corner threw in the towel at thity-seven seconds of round eight. Vinan is now 10-8-4 with two knockouts. Mezaache of Clichy, France is now 18-6-3.


Union City's Jason Escalera scored a stoppage over Amador Acevedo at the end of round three in a scheduled six round Light Heavyweight bout. Escalera controlled the action over the first three rounds especially working the body of Acevedo. Acevedo put up one last stand in the third but Escalera’s offense was too much as Acevedo failed to answer the bell for round. Escalera, 173, is now 9-0 with eight knockouts. Acevedo, 177 lbs of Moca, Puerto Rico is 3-8-1

Young Prospect Mike Perez of Newark scored an explosive first round stoppage over Jorge Ruiz in Lightweight bout schedule for six rounds. Midway through the round the 2008 National Golden Gloves Champion dropped Ruiz with a left to the body. Ruiz got to his feet at the count of eight only to each a big right that was followed by a massive left hook. Referee David Francioci began to count but stopped at six as Ruiz had no shot to beat the count. The time was 2:29 of round one for Perez, 135 lbs, who is now 9-0 with four knockouts. Ruiz, 137 lbs of Miami is now 7-13-1.

Perez grinds out a decision; Judah dominates in his return at the Rock!

by Dylon Silversey

The ESPN Friday Night Fights card featured pretty much every aspect you could think of in the boxing world. From heavyweight slugfests to tactical battles, former Olympians, future champions, and a former undisputed champion on the comeback trail, there wasn’t much missing. The eight fight card from the Prudential Center in Newark featured plenty of local talent from New Jersey and New York alike.

The local flavor started early, with Angel Concepcion, from Newark defeating Shannon Anderson, hailing from Coatesville, PA. Dominating from the opening bell, Concepcion used a stiff jab and good defense to win his second career fight. Scores were 40-36 twice, and 40-35 due to the dominating third round, where he nearly dropped Anderson.

Conception improves to 2-0 with the victory and Anderson falls to 4-2 (2).

In the second matchup of the night, local favorite Patrick Farrell from Jersey City stepped into the ring against Newton Kidd in a six round cruiserweight fight. Coming off of a disappointing first loss in June, both the Prudential Center crowd and Farrell looked forward to a victory.

Early in the matchup, Kidd seemed to get the better of Farrell, landing cleaner shots during the few exchanges that they had. Kidd imposed an Emanuel Augustus style of defense, almost dancing than weaving in between Farrell’s punches. However, this all seemed to stop in the third round, with both fighters trading bombs for the better half of the round and Farrell landing some huge shots. The fourth round was more of the same, as the two warriors stood toe to toe trading shots.

Farrell seemed to start to get a bit frustrated that his clean combinations weren’t hurting Kidd, and the fact that he seemed to be lacking that finishing power may have hurt him ultimately in the end. The fifth round was more of the same; both boxers’ conditioning came into play as the heavy shots continued. Looping punches from both fighters brought the crowd to their feet as Kidd landed some big shots, including a massive hook that staggered Farrell and nearly sent him to the canvas.

A determined Farrell came out in the sixth, with a second wind and Kidd looking gassed, he handily won the round, although at this point, most of his punches had not much behind them so there would be no stoppage in this fight. The scores were announced Ron McNair scored the bout 58-56 for Kidd as the other two scores read 57-57 for a majority decision draw.

Farrell moves to 5-1-1 (3) and Kidd‘s record stands at 7-7-2 (4).

Next up for the Newark crowd was a heavyweight matchup between Adam Kownacki of Brooklyn, NY and Damien Clement of Dayton, OH. These two brawlers got after it early as Kownacki was knocked down rather quickly. He regained his composure rather quickly as he dominated the remainder of the first and it was Clement’s turn to go down as a flurry of punches sent him to the ground. Referee Eddie Cotton put an end to the bout at: 42 into the second round as a huge right ended Damien Clement’s night.

Kownacki improves to 4-0 (4), and Clement remains winless at 0-3.

The next bout would be the first fight on the ESPN telecast as Newark native, Alex Perez, the undefeated prospect walked out into the ring to a huge ovation. Perez exhumed confidence as you could tell that he wanted to come out and impress his fans in attendance. This was also his National TV debut.

Perez would match up with Edvan Barros, a Brazilian native, known to have decent boxing ability, but his capacity to win fights using his abilities was lacking, and that was most definitely apparent tonight.

As round one began, Perez took it straight to Barros, using combinations of jabs to the head and hooks to the body to completely dominate the opening round. The second round was more of the same from Perez until Barros began to catch the hooks into his clinch and spin Perez against the ropes, scoring well and using quick, multiple shots to the body and snapping uppercuts. But in most of the judge’s eyes this is where the success for Barros ended, Perez adjusted his game plan to combat the tactics of Barros.

Perez appeared to realize that Barros wanted this fight on the inside and as long as he kept using his jab to keep him at length, then his boxing abilities and IQ would take over and he could be victorious.

"I beat him at his own fight on the inside and let him know that I can do that. I was definitely trying to get him out of there but he is a veteran and I was a little rusty."

Perez noted when asked about some of the trouble Barros was giving him.

In the fifth and sixth rounds we saw Perez use effective counter punching, landing a big shot at the end of the fifth and even when finding his back up against the ropes in the sixth, using transition defense to get off the ropes and turn it loose on Barros, unleashing some heavy combos to the head and body.

Once again in the opening of the seventh, we saw Barros corner Perez, only to see Perez quickly turn the tables, and land some heavy shots to the body and head once again.

The scorecards read 77-75, 78-74, and 80-72 all for Perez. A tough battle for Perez, as he was tested at times, but used a well adjusted game plan to grind out the.

"It was a blessing to win in front of my hometown fans." Perez said. He moves to 12-0 (7) with this victory and Barros falls to 10-10-1 (7).

Former Olympian Sadam Ali was next up, with a bout with Julius Edmonds from Philadelphia. The Brooklyn native completely dominated this matchup, putting Edmonds down in the first and second round via uppercuts. Referee Eddie Cotton put an end to the matchup at 1:14 in round 3 as Ali hit Edmonds with a left and left him stumbling to the ropes.

Ali improved to 8-0 (4) and Edmonds fell below .500, 7-8 (0).

The main event on the ESPN card was up next, as Zab “Super” Judah squared off with Jose Armando Santa Cruz. The welcome back party did not last long as Zab opened up Santa Cruz with effective body punching to start the fight. Quick combinations in the second left Santa Cruz seemingly confused as how to defend the determined Judah. With 2:33 left in what would be the final round, Judah landed his trademark left uppercut in the 3rd to note his 27th knockout. Judah goes to 39-6 (27) and Santa Cruz falls to 28-5 (17).

In the final matchup Nicky DeMarco faced off against Jose Guzman in a lightweight four round battle. “Lil Nicky” dominated the first three rounds, throwing tons of punches and continuously cornering Guzman into helpless positions. Guzman gave it his best shot in the final round, but DeMarco was too much in the opening 3 rounds. 40-36 and 39-37 twice were the final tallies. DeMarco improves to 3-2 (2) and Guzman falters to 5-8-1 (0).

WEIGHTS FROM AC!

Raymond Serrano 145 vs. Ayi Bruce 144
Bayan Jargal 138 vs. James Hope 137.5
Anthony Mezaache 136 vs. Carlos Vinan 136
Khedafi Djelkhir 126 vs. Jorge Cordero 126
Mike Perez 135 vs. Jorge Ruiz 137
Jason Escalera 173 vs. Amador Acevedo 177
Note: David Tua (237.5) and Monte Barrett (225) weighed in yesterday

Q&A With Patrick Farrell

Boxing Scribe Ryan Songaila goes one on one with Jersey City's Patrick Farrell. Farrell, 5-1 (3 KO's), battles tough Newton Kidd tomorrow as part of the Judah-Santa Cruz undercard at the Prudential Center in Newark.

WEIGHTS FROM NEWARK, NJ!

4 Rounds - Light Heavyweights

Angel Concepcion vs. Shannon Anderson

Newark, NJ Coatesville, PA

1-0 START - 7:30PM 4-1, 2 KO's

WT: 178 TKS: Navy/Wht WT: 178 TKS: Blk/Gold

6 Rounds - Cruiserweights

Patrick Farrell vs. Newton Kidd

Jersey City, NJ New York, NY

5-1, 3 KO's 7-7-1, 4 KO's

WT: 197 TKS: Wht/Gold/Green WT: 190 TKS: Blk

4 Rounds - Heavyweights

Adam Kownacki vs. Damian Clement

Brooklyn, NY Dayton, OH

3-0, 3 KO's 0-2

WT: 231 TKS: Red/White WT: 243 TKS: Blk/Blue

8 Rounds - Welterweights

Alex Perez vs. Edvan Barros

Newark, NJ Miami, FL

11-0, 7 KO's ESPN LIVE - 9:00PM 10-9-1, 7 KO's

WT: 148 TKS: Camo (blk/wht) WT: 149 TKS: Blk/Wht

6 Rounds - Welterweights

Sadam Ali vs. Julius Edmonds

Brooklyn, NY Philadelphia, PA

7-0, 3 KO's SWING BOUT 1 7-7

WT: 145 TKS: Red/Blk/yellow/Ymen WT: 142 TKS: Blk/Wht

10 Rounds - Junior Welterweights

Zab Judah vs. Jose Armando Santa Cruz

Brooklyn, NY Michoacan, Mexico

38-6, 26 KO's 28-4, 17 KO's

WT: 141 TKS: Burgundy/Silver WT: 143 TKS: Black/Wht

4 Rounds - Lightweights

Nicky DeMarco vs. Jose Guzman

Staten Island, NY Bronx, NY

2-2, 2 KO's SWING BOUT 2 5-7-1

WT: 132.5 TKS: Royal Blue/Silver WT: 132.5 TKS: Blue/Wht

Gunn Targets Nakash!

Hackensack, NJ (July 15) – It was just over a year ago that Bobby "The Celtic Warrior" Gunn put forth a gutsy effort against IBF/Ring Magazine Cruiserweight champion Tomasz Adamek. Gunn's performance was commended by fight fans and various media outlets, who penned about his tremendous heart. The Hackensack, NJ native expected his showing against Adamek to help him land another notable bout, but this hasn't been the case.

Since giving his all against the hard hitting Pole, Gunn had a number of bouts fall out and is yet to return to the squared circle. With one year down the tubes, the 36 year old Gunn acknowledges he's in the final chapter of his career and is only interested in facing world rated fighters.

"From world title fights to unsanctioned referees and early stoppages, I have seen it all," exclaimed Gunn, a former IBA Cruiserweight champion. "I am a seasoned pro and have earned my stripes, so at this point it only benefits me to face noteworthy opponents."

Flash back to July 11 2009, when heavily hyped Ran Nakash dismantled William Bailey on the Adamek-Gunn undercard. Ringsiders were buzzing about Nakash's performance and were in agreement that he was ready for a step up. From that day forward, the unbeaten Nakash was linked to a match up against Gunn. Unfortunately, the bout is yet to happen despite Gunn's willingness to battle him anytime, anywhere and any place.

Last night, following Nakash's victory over Victor Barragan in which he attended, Gunn spoke with the media about his eagerness to fight the world rated Israeli. Those at ringside were once again discussing the potential match up, but Gunn was far more concerned with landing a fight than making a splash.

"This guy is a perfect opponent for me and I have wanted to face him for quite some time" said Gunn, a former Canadian National Amateur Champion. "He's a very strong fighter, but he comes straight forward and gets hit with a ton of jabs. I know I can outbox this guy without a doubt."

Gunn also hopes that Nakash's post fight statements hold true.

"He told a number of media members after his victory that I'm the kind of guy he is looking to fight, but actions speak louder than words. I am ready to fight, but is he? Documentation beats conversation seven days a week Ran, sign the contract and let's do this!"

Vinan to battle Mezzaache Saturday in AC!

Manager Jose Rosario informed us that Newark's Carlos Vinan will battle WBC #2 rated featherweight Anthony Mezzaache, 18-5-3 (4 KO's), of France Saturday at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in AC.

Vinan, 9-8-4 (1 KO), is far tougher than his record indicates. The Ecuadorian import has impressive victories over three unbeaten fighters including well regarded Eric Hunter. He also drew with unbeaten Eloy Perez, well regarded Anthony Flores and defeated Philly brawler Victor Vasquez.

GSFS caught up with Vinan as he was working out in Newark. Here is what he had to say.

(About Mezzaache as an opponent) "I have seen some of his fights on Youtube. He likes to stand there in there and fight, so this is convenient for my style."

(On what he has to do to win) "I have to start off with the jab and then keep throwing punches while applying pressure"

(On regularly fighting as an opponent on other promoters' cards) "There is no pressure on me, I just go out there and fight"

EDITORS NOTE: Mezzaache is promoted by Star Boxing, who put together the fight card. Vinan-Mezzaache is scheduled for 8 rounds.

Jones Stops Garcia, Tyner Upsets Smith in AC!

By John Wall (ringside)

A beautiful Summer night in Atlantic City and a card featuring some promising preliminary events and a duel feature lived up to all expectations. We saw some very exciting up and comers and the evening had its share of upsets as well as a controversial stoppage in the main event.

Given the pre-fight hype for the co- feature the main event could have been a let down Philadelphia’s Mike Jones, 21-0, would have none of that. He clearly dominated the action in his NABO/NABA welterweight title defense against Irving Garcia 17-4-3 of Vega Baja, Puerto Rico. Jones snapped Garcia’s head back with his piston like jab for the early rounds. Garcia tiring started leaning in with his head creating a home for Jones’s uppercuts. In the 5th Jones hurt Garcia and then hit him with a low blow the referee Randy Neumann did not see and the latter was counted out.

The pre fight talk was focused on the night; welterweight co-feature showcasing Miami’s Antwone Smith 18-1-1 and Detroit’s Lanardo Tyner 23-3. Tyner, in a salute to his hometown, entered the ring wearing a Kronk Gym tee-shirt along wit red and gold colored trunks. The talk was Smith would use this fight as a stepping stone to a championship bout against the night’s main event’s Mike Jones. Tyner apparently does not read the papers.

Tyner dominated the fight winning every round except the third on my card. The crowed was silent as Smith failed to gain any momentum. By the seventh round Smith’s right eye looked to be swollen shut. Tyner’s combinations and busy hands were too much for Smith has he succumbed to a left to the body at 1:15 of round nine.

Welterweights Ardrick Butler 5-1 of Philadelphia and Manuel Guzman 6-9-2 of Lancaster PA in a Welterweight bout gave us the next upset as well as a highlight reel knockout as Guzman added a second blemish to Butler record with a devastating KO at 2:53 of round 2. Veteran referee Steve Smonger waved the doctors in right away but thankfully Butler was able to leave the ring on his own power.

In a Junior Welterweight match Philadelphia’s Kevin Carmody 10-12-3 stepped in against Ryan Belasco 11-4 of Wilmington DE. Belasco had the best ink we saw all night and won a six round unanimous decision in a fight were both fighters seemed disinterested and did not mount much of an offense.

In an a battle of the New York City Boroughs we had a junior middleweight bout featuring Brooklyn’s Jason Thompson 5-5-1 versus Steven Martinez 4-0 of The Bronx. Martinez stole the first round with a late flurry. In the second, Thompson’s left hand was finding the mark but he was staggered by a right from Martinez and never recovered. Martinez scored a TKO victory at 2:37 of round 2.

Light Heavies were next up. Anthony Caputo 4-0 of Kennett Square PA stepped in against Walter Edwards 1-4 of Winston NC. Caputo with a Marine Corp style hair cut and complexion that looks like he spends all his time at the gym and never at the beach dominated the bout from the start. Edwards survived the first round being saved by the bell as Caputo staggered him as time was running out. The one minute rest between rounds was not enough time for Edwards to recover and Caputo scored a TKO win the second round.

Next up was another welterweight bout featuring Philadelphia’s Kywayne Hill 1-4 verses fan favorite Josh Mercado 4-1 from Cape May . Mercado did not disappoint the large following that made the trip up the Parkway to see him by winning a four round unanimous decision over Hill. I gave Hill round 3 on my card but the rest went Mercado’s way.

In a Junior Lightweight fight Jason “The Machine” Sosa 2-0-1 of Camden dominated Philadelphia’s Bryheim “Pretty Boy” Douglas 3-3-2 from the start. Douglas, sporting pink trunks, left the ring a little less pretty after losing in a unanimous decision.

In the second bout we saw the quickest KO of the night has Miguel Corcino 1-0 of Camden NJ score a first round TKO over Harrisburg, PA’s Epi Cosme Rodriguez 58 seconds into round one in a clash of welterweights.

The evening started with the pro debut of Philadelphia’s Joe Dunn verses, a “too young to be called a journeyman” (but with a record of 2-6-1 what else could you call him) Rafel Jastrzebski in a battle of super middleweight. In the mildest upset of the night Jastrzebski took command of the fight midway through the first round. Mr. Dunn’s only answer to his opponent’s barrage of punches was to hold his gloves like earmuffs and take a beating. He mounted no offense to speak of and can take solace in lasting the four rounds and losing by unanimous decision.

PEREZ AND JUDAH TO MEET MAYOR BOOKER!

Newark, NJ – July 8, 2010 – Mayor Cory A. Booker, the Newark Municipal Council, Deputy Mayor Margarita Muñiz, Newark Now President Edgar Izurieta and other dignitaries will join with Newark residents to kick off the City of Newark’s 2010 Super Summer Initiative in Newark’s largest municipal park, Nat Turner Park, located at 251-289 18th Avenue at the corner of Boyd Street and Muhammad Ali Avenue, on Monday, July 12, 2010, at Noon. This year’s Super Summer celebrity guests are professional boxers Zab “Super” Judah and Newark native Alex “The Brick City Bullet” Perez.

Anchored by the Division of Recreational and Cultural Affairs’ summer activities, “Super Summer” is a program initiated in 2006 by Mayor Booker and Newark Now to provide safe havens for youth and safety zones for the community. For the past three years, Newark has partnered with numerous community organizations, non-profits, and private groups to bring City residents a wide array of activities, ranging from basketball tournaments to nutrition programs to music in the parks.

This year’s initiative is themed a “Super Healthy Summer” and is focusing on reducing childhood obesity, to prevent adult illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Mayor Booker is currently serving as co-chair of the First Lady Michelle Obama’s national task force which is leading the “Let’s Move!” campaign to end the problem of childhood obesity within a generation.

Remembering Arturo "Thunder" Gatti

By Dylon Silversey

It has been a year since Arturo Gatti has left this earth. Leaving in such a sketchy way, that left many questions unanswered. In the public eye, lawsuits and persecutions have surrounded the situation, rather than tributes and recollections of his life. However, fans like me will always remember “Thunder” for his trilogy of fights with Micky Ward, and never say die attitude.

The first time I ever saw Gatti fight was the first Ward fight. Sitting there with my Grandfather, a boxing fanatic, we sat there and watched as these two warriors traded blows round after round. Using his speed and power in the first few rounds, Gatti, seemingly frustrated that he could do nothing to budge the determined Ward. It was during ninth round, as Gatti was getting up from being knocked down by a hellacious body shot, wincing in enough pain to keep any man down. Yet kept throwing punches hoping one would connect and send Ward to the canvas. This is when I realized how Gatti defined all that boxing should be about.

Even though he would eventually lose that fight, the way Gatti never gave in the rest of the ninth round, gave every single bit of energy in his body, and seriously risked life and limb. He still turned me into one of the biggest supporters of his.

Gatti continued on to give us five more years, and nine more fights, of action packed entertainment. And although he didn’t win them all, you were sure to be guaranteed to get your monies worth. Most likely we will never find out what really happened in that hotel in Brazil, but during the first anniversary of his death, remember Gatti for his boxing abilities, fun-loving demeanor, and classic battles, rather than the out of the ring controversies. There will never be another one like him.

R.I.P Arturo “Thunder” Gatti

Alex Perez First Pitch Gallery!

Earlier this evening, welterweight rising star Alex Perez of Newark threw out the ceremonial first pitch prior to the Newark Bears-Long Island Ducks game. Perez supported his hometown team from field level seats directly behind home plate, participated in a t-shirt toss and signed fight posters for fans during a special meet and greet session.

Perez, 11-0 (7 KO's), battles rugged Brazilian Edvan Barros July 16 on ESPN 2's Friday Night Fights at the Prudential Center. Tickets priced at $53, $78, $103 and $203 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com

Sun Poisoning KO's McDermott Bout

GSFS was notified that Jersey City native Danny "Little Mac" McDermott's bout with Marty Robbins tomorrow night in Tennessee was called off due to severe sun poising. According to sources, doctors notified McDermott that his hip would bleed if any contact at all were made.

There was no word from McDermott's camp as to if the Robbins bout were going to be rescheduled.

Alex Perez to Throw out First Pitch at Newark Bears Game!

Newark, NJ (July 8) – Unbeaten welterweight sensation Alex Perez will throw out the ceremonial first pitch this Saturday at Riverfront Stadium prior to the Newark Bears’ 7:05 pm showdown with the Long Island Ducks.

A lifelong Newark resident with an 11-0 professional ledger, Perez’ next bout takes place just minutes away at the luxurious Prudential Center July 16 as part of ESPN 2’s Friday Night Fights telecast. Perez will battle an opponent TBA in the eight round televised co-feature to the Zab Judah-Jose Armando Santa Cruz showdown.

Tickets priced at $53, $78, $103 and $203 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com

McDermott to Battle Robbins in Tennessee with Potential Miller Rematch to Follow!

Many expected Jersey City native Danny McDermott's March 25 clash with Brian Miller to be his coming out party.

Local fans and media had taken an interest in the bout leading up to fight night. A raucous crowd was on hand to support him. The vacant World Boxing Foundation All Americas title was up for grabs, providing McDermott an opportunity to leave North Bergen’s Schuetzen Park with a minor championship belt.

The popular lightweight had an opponent in front of him who at 7-0-3, was unbeaten but yet unproven. The Schenectady, NY native had just one victory over a fighter with a winning record and fought a toe to toe style, which is McDermott’s bread and butter. Having previously battled to draws in his opponents’ hometown, Miller’s toughness was without question, but this was supposed to be McDermott’s time to shine.

Things didn’t go as planned.

McDermott’s troubles started twenty four hours prior to fight night during the weigh in, initially coming in over the contracted limit before scaling in at 135 lbs on his second try. Members of his team attributed his weight struggles to the fact that he was seemingly working double duty since his wife Anette recently gave birth to their first child. With the responsibilities of caring for a newborn baby during the most crucial part of training camp, many would have withdrawn from the fight altogether. McDermott never consider that an option.

“Not once did I think about pulling out.” “To me it was a responsibility. (Regardless of what kind of shape I am in) I had to go in and fight. As a fighter you fight, as a father, you have to provide for your family whether you are tired or not.”

McDermott’s choice turned out to be bitter sweet.

He fought his heart out, but was in the squared circle with a better conditioned opponent. In a bout that epitomized the term “phone booth battle”, McDermott had spurts of success before fatigue prevented him from effectively neutralizing his volume punching opponent down the stretch. Miller ultimately earned a split decision in one of the Garden State's most entertaining club fights in recent memory.

McDermott was clearly dejected by the defeat and even refused a post fight interview to this writer immediately following the bout’s completion. His night it wasn’t.

“I’d be lying if I didn’t admit it stung a bit”, said McDermott, who fell to 8-2-1 (3 KO’s) following the defeat. “It’s boxing you have your good nights and your bad nights. Miller outhustled me for sure that night and I tip my hat off to him. I can admit that.”

With more than three months in the history books and an ample amount of time to recover, John Lynch of Pound 4 Pound Promotions worked out a deal for McDermott to return against hardcore veteran Marty Robbins this Saturday at the State Fairgrounds Sports Arena in Nashville, TN. Robbins has an unimpressive 23-46-1 record, but has swapped punches with world champions, title contenders and unbeaten prospects. The Tennessee native is a prototypical stepping stone opponent and can take a decent punch, making it to the final bell in 33 of his defeats.

Being the victor in the four round “keep busy” fight is expected but not guaranteed. He will enter the ring as the favorite, but also runs the risk of dropping a decision in his opponent’s hometown. McDermott has no logistical concerns.

“I am not worried whatsoever (about fighting in his hometown).” “The fight is to keep me busy to be honest with you. I plan on having more of these types of fights around different parts of the country. All the greats have done this. I’m just taking a page from them.”

If everything goes as planned against Robbins, all signs point to a rematch with Miler as part of the August 21 Tomasz Adamek-Michael Grant headlined card at the Prudential Center in Newark. Upwards of 10,000 screaming fans flooded the very same arena to see Adamek defeat Jason Estrada in February. Each of the four times Adamek headlined in Newark, the attendance rapidly increased. With the potential of 12-15,000 fans in the arena, McDermott’s acknowledges there is no better time or place to seek revenge.

“I’d love to be on a big card like that, especially against Miller.” “I think the Prudential Center crowd would love a fight like that. What’s better than two guys who put everything on the line and go toe to toe for the love of the sport? I only can hope it happens.”

If the rematch - which according to reports, Miller initially rebuffed if it were to take place on McDermott’s turf - does happen, the latter recognizes he must come far better prepared than the first time around. His level of concentration would undoubtedly have to change and McDermott acknowledges that preparing for the rematch farther away from home would be a major x factor.

“The thing I would do differently is go away to training camp (to) get away from (the) distractions and get enough sleep every night. (This would enable me to) come in (tip top) shape; then you will see the difference.”

If Miller does in fact agree to a rematch and McDermott’s plan to prepare in a location far away from the many distractions in the New York metropolitan comes to fruition, the night of August 21 could very well be stolen by two lightweights that already displayed the willingness to duke it out as if there were no tomorrow.

Hayward wins decison in main event ; Tiberi and Seldon score victories in pro debuts in Vineland

By Marc Abrams (In association with 15rounds.com)

Charles Hayward scored a six round unanimous decision over Mazur Ali in a Light Heavyweight bout to highlight a seven bout card at Merighi’s Savoy Inn in East Vineland.

Hayward was very workmanlike as he mixed up the jabs and landed some solid right hands as he went upstairs to the head worked the body evenly. Ali would occasionally catch Hayward walking in but it wasn’t enough as Ali was also docked a point for holding in the fight.

Hayward, 174 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 60-53, 60-53 and 57-56 to raise his record to 5-2. Ali, 178 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is now 6-7.

Joel De La Paz scored three explosive knockdowns, all from punishing left hooks and needed just forty-four seconds to dispose of Randy Campbell in a four round Light Heavyweight bout.

After the third knockdown, Campbell’s corner mercifully threw in the towel. De La Paz, 167 lbs of Atlantic City is now 5-0 with four knockouts. Campbell, 167 lbs of Bowerston, OH is now 3-3.

Continuing the tradition of Delaware’s first family of boxing, Joey Tiberi made a successful pro debut as he scored a first round stoppage of Javier Dennis in a scheduled four round Lightweight bout.

This was a sloppy bout as Tiberi was having a tough time getting any rhythm against the awkward Dennis. Tiberi than landed a flurry that spun Dennis Around one more big shot sent him down and out and the fight was quickly halted at 2:27 of round one.

Tiberi, 135 lbs of Bear, DE is 1-0 with one knockout. Dennis, 134 lbs of Reidsville, NC is now 1-4.

The son of former WBA Heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, Isiah Seldon bullied and mauled his way to a four round unanimous decision over Damion Reid in a Super Middleweight bout.

Seldon was steady in his aggression as he continuously trapped Reid against the ropes and would land little flurries.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Seldon, who had his father as his chief trainer and the 166 native of Atlantic City is now 1-0. Reid, 166 lbs of Reidsville, NC is now0-3.

Carlos Perez and Hector Collado battled to a four round draw in a Welterweight bout.

Scores were 38-38 on all cards. Perez, 146 lbs of Pleasantville is 0-0-1. Collado, 146 lbs of Union City is now 0-1-1.

In a close bout, Joseliz Cepeda scored a four round split decision over Joshua Orocho in a Jr. Lightweight bout.

It was a back and forth tussle and the scores read as such as Orocho won a card by a 39-37 tally but they were over ruled as the two remaining cards favored Cepeda by scores of 40-36 and 39-37.

Cepeda, 127 lbs of Santa Domingo, DR is now 1-1. Arocho, 128 lbs of Vineland is 0-1.

The opener Raul Lopez score a systematic one sided unanimous decision over Giraldo Rosas in a Super Bantamweight bout.

In between numerous head clashes, Lopez was effective in beating the body of Rosas, who was tough in defeat.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards for Lopez, 122 lbs of Bronx, NY and is now 4-1-1. Rosas, 122 lbs of Union City, is now 0-1.

The card promoted by Mike Indri’s Dignity Promotions.

Contreras Cruzes Past Eric;Arnaoutis Suffers Another Setback!

Irvington based and Dominican born lightweight Francisco "The Phenom" Contreras earned a fairly one sided eight round unanamous decision over a very game Eric Cruz of Puerto Rico.

Contreras, who entered the bout with 13 stoppages in 14 victories, did not display the devastating power his record suggested tonight, taking his time and boxing throughout the majority of the bout. The lankier Contreras controlled most of the action but did have to shake off a few hard shots from Cruz in the process.

Scores were 80-72 twice and 78-74.

Contreras improves to to 15-0 (13). Cruz slides to 7-4-3 (7).

Atlantic City's "Mighty" Mike Arnaoutis dropped a one sided ten round decision to contender Demetrius Hopkins of Philadelphia.

The two combatants recently moved up from junior welterweight, where interestingly enough, they both dropped a decision to Kendall Holt in AC. Hopkins clearly had much more left in the tank, using his reach advantage along with precise timing to consistently stymie Arnaoutis. Arnaoutis appeared to hurt his left hand in the early rounds and was never able to get a rhythm going or find his way on the inside of the far fresher Hopkins.

Scores were 99-91 twice and 100-90.

Hopkins is now 30-1-1 (11). Arnaoutis, who should consider retirement after two consecutive one sided losses, falls to 22-6-2 (10).

Both bouts were part of ESPN 2's Friday Night Fights Telecast.

Contreras Scales In for ESPN Fight!

Francisco Contreras 135.5 vs. Eric Cruz 135

Contreras, 14-0 (13 KO's) is an Irvington based Dominican.

Weights from Vineland!

Mazur Ali 178 vs. Charles Heyward 174
Isiah Seldon 166 vs. Damion Reed 166
Carlos Perez 146 vs. Hector Collado 146
Joel De La Paz 167 vs. Randy Campbell 167
Joey Tiberi 135 vs. Javier Dennis 134
Joshua Arocho 127 vs. Joseliz Cepeda 127
Raul Lopez 122 vs. Geraldo Rosas 122

Mikey Perez Returns July 17!

Newark's Michael Angelo "The Artist" Perez notified GSFS that his next bout will be taking place July 17 in AC as part of the David Tua-Monte Barrett undercard.

Perez, 8-0 (3 KO's), is a month and a half removed from an impressive UD victory over previously unbeaten Francisco Reyes at the Paradise Theater in the Bronx. As seen nationwide on Telefutura, Perez dropped Reyes twice and battered him throughout the six round contest.

Perez will battle the ever famous TBA over six rounds at lightweight.