Minto set to face undefeated Holmes!

WBO#9, WBA#15 heavyweight contender Brian "The Beast" Minto (33-2 21 KOs) will now officially meet undefeated WBC#15 contender Donnell "The Real Touch of Sleep" Holmes (31-0-2, 27 KOs) for the interim WBO NABO heavyweight title on Friday, August 14th at Pullman Park in Butler, Pennsylvania. Initially, Bruce Seldon (40-7) was to face Minto, but the WBO NABO championship committee declined to approve that bout. A winner of six straight and 15 of his last 16, Minto will also put his WBA Fedecentro heavyweight title on the line. The show will be Minto's second appearance at the historic Pullman Park baseball stadium. Last July 2nd, Minto KO'd John Poore (20-3, 18 KOs) in the main event on ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights before several thousand spectators at the renovated ballpark. Promoted by Beatdown Promotions and beginning at 7pm, the under card will feature 7 bouts including local heavies Jim Emrick (7-3-1, 2 KOs) in a six rounder and Paul "Zeus" Zalus (1-0) in a four. Tickets for the event are $25 (General Admission), $35 (Reserved) and $50 (Ringside) and available at the Pullman Park box office or by calling (724) 287-6797.

Guerrero defeats Hinojosa!
From http://www.fightnews.com/

Former IBF featheright champion Robert Guerrero (24-1-1, 17 KOs) stopped late sub Efren Hinojosa (30-6-1, 17 KOs) via eighth round TKO in a lightweight clash on Friday night at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California. Guerrero pretty much had his way with the 37-year-old veteran, who was very game until the bout was stopped between rounds eight and nine after Hinojosa suffered an arm injury. Manager Shelly Finkel confirmed that Guerrero will be challenging IBF junior lightweight champion Malcolm Klassen on August 22, 2009, from Houston, Texas on HBO. Klassen, fighting out of South Africa, has a record of 24-4-2, 14 KOs.

Prayers for Rodriguez and his family

Fighters of Faith would like to send out their thoughts and prayers to the undefeated heavyweight contender David Rodriguez, as well as to his entire family for the loss of his sister who recently passed from a long undisclosed illness.

FOF was contacted today by David who informed us of his loss, and from all of us here at FOF, we want to say, keep your head up brother and remember, ROMANS 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.

If you would like to drop David a line and show your support, hit up his guest list at http://www.ninoboxing.com/

Lajuan Simon
Philly's USBA Middleweight champion!
Interview By Ken Hissner
(June 5, 2009)

I have had the pleasure to watch Lajuan Simon work out over the past couple of years. Recently he was at the 9th and Thompson gym of Mike Maltepes in Philly.  He trains in a quiet way but always leaves his mark that hard work and faith pay off. Simon's trainers, Wade and Randy Hinnant know that Simon will go through his exercises and bag work even if they are away with say heavyweight Chazz Witherspoon or one of their other fighters.  He is dedicated and is on a mission for a return bout with IBF champion Arthur Abraham. (Read On);

Zach "Jungle Boy" Walters
From Madagascar to Minnesota!
Interview By: Ken Hissner
(May 29, 2009)
Photo credit: Walters Photography

One of the most beloved boxers out of the Minnesota area is Zach "Jungle Boy" Walters".  If you spent time with him on the phone like I did, you walk away with two things.  His love for the Lord and for boxing, both coming through loud and clear! It's sometimes mistaken he was born on the island of Madagascar.   His mother Sharilyn and her husband were missionaries and headed to the island off the eastern coast of Africa.  She was pregnant and waited until their son Zach was one before going to Madagascar for eleven years.  In his first year of boxing at the age of 15 he finished third in the National Silver Gloves. In all he would go to the Nationals four times. (Read On);

Minto to face former champ Seldon!
Press Release
(May 26, 2009)

WBO#9 Heavyweight Brian "The Beast" Minto (33-2) will face former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce "The Atlantic City Express" Seldon (40-7) for the interim WBO NABO heavyweight title on Friday August 14th at Pullman Park in Butler, Pennsylvania. A winner of six straight, WBA#15 Minto will also be putting his WBA Fedecentro title on the line. Seldon, a winner of two straight and five of his last six, boasts 36 knockouts in his 40 professional wins. The show will mark the second appearance by Minto at the historic Pullman Park baseball stadium. Last year, Minto Ko'd John Poore (20-2) on ESPN2's Wednesday Night Fights before thousands of spectators. Promoted by Beatdown Promotions in association with Brian Minto Fighting, the 8 bout card will begin at 7pm. Tickets for the event are priced at $25 (general admission), $35 (box reserved) and $50 (ringside) and available beginning on June 1st at Pullman Park or by calling (724) 287-6797. http://www.brianmintoboxing.com/

Harry Joe Yorgey
When Lightning Strikes!
Interview By: Ken Hissner
(May 22, 2009)

At a recent Fellowship of Christian Athletes Event at Norristown High School, in Pennsylvania, I watched former IBF cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham, former Philadelphia Eagle Randy Logan and others talk about their faith.  Of the ten or so that spoke that night, one young man stood out, Harry Joe "Lightning" Yorgey. Yorgey recently made headlines on Showtime stopping the son of legendary boxer Thomas "The Hit Man" Hearns, Ronald Hearns. Both fighters entered the ring unbeaten in twenty-one fights at the Buffalo Run Casino, in Miami, Oklahoma. It was nip n' tuck for most of the first seven rounds but you knew that Yorgey had his man where he wanted him and it was just a matter of time. Both fighters had hit the canvas earlier in the fight. In the 9th and final round "lightning struck" as Yorgey (Read On);

Robert Guerrero Returns!
Press Release
(May 21. 2009)

The pride of Gilroy, California, former two-time world featherweight champion Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero, returns to HP Pavilion at San Jose on June 12th to fight in front of his Northern California fans in the main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fights" against Johnnie Edwards.

"We are excited to bring Robert back to his loyal hometown fans," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "He has a huge fan base there and I know they're going to come out in force to cheer him on."

"It's always nice to fight close to home and when I hear those fans roar, it feels like I can knock out anyone," said Guerrero. "I'm looking to make a statement and I expect to put on a great show for my fans on June 12th."

The co-featured bout pits rising junior welterweight star Danny Garcia against Pavel Miranda in an eight round clash. Also in action in separate bouts on June 12th will be hot undefeated prospects Carlos Velasquez, Juan Velasquez, San Francisco's Ashanti Jordan, Eloy Perez of Salinas and San Jose's Anthony Johnson.
Guerrero vs. Edwards, a 10 round junior lightweight bout that headlines a hard-hitting night of world-class boxing, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The ESPN "Friday Night Fights" live telecast beginning at 10pm ET / 7pm PT will be broadcast on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN360.com.

Tickets, priced at $100.00, $75.00, $50.00 and $25.00, go on sale to the public on Friday, May 22nd at 10 AM PT at the HP Pavilion Ticket Office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/.

Unbeaten since 2005, Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero (23-1-1, 16 KO's) has been getting better and better with each passing fight. A two-time owner of the IBF World Featherweight Championship, the 26-year-old defended his title twice before deciding to test the waters at 130 pounds in 2009. In his two 2009 bouts, he stopped Edel Ruiz in 43 seconds and had a no decision rendered in his March contest with Daud Yordan when an accidental clash of heads cut Guerrero, making him unable to continue. On June 12th, Guerrero aims to show a national television audience that he's ready for a title shot at junior lightweight.

A native of Aiken, South Carolina, former United States Marine Johnnie Edwards (15-4-1, 8 KO's) has the talent and discipline to go far in the fight game. For proof, just look at his big wins over former world champions Eric Aiken and Freddie Norwood. After some ups and downs in his pro career, the 29-year-old is back on track and looking for big things in 2009 and beyond.

One of Philadelphia's finest, 21-year-old Danny Garcia (12-0, 7 KO's) has the fight world waiting in anticipation every time he steps between the ropes. Unbeaten in 12 pro fights, the former U.S. Olympic team alternate has been upping his level of competition with each bout and is ready for the next test in his career in the form of Tijuana, Mexico's Pavel Miranda (16-3, 8 KO's). The 21-year-old Miranda has kept up a frantic pace in the fight game since turning pro at 16 and on June 12th, the former WBC Youth champion plans on pushing Garcia harder than he's ever been pushed before.

Opponents for Carlos Velasquez, Juan Velasquez, Ashanti Jordan, Eloy Perez and Anthony Johnson will be announced shortly. For more information visit http://www.goldenboypromotions.com/.

Ward outclasses Miranda

As seen on
www.doghouseboxing.com

Written by Benny Henderson Jr.
(May, 17, 2009)
Photo Credit: Goosen Tutor

Brewster Braces for Battle!
From FightNews

Further to the WBA heavyweight title fight between Nikolai Valuev and Ruslan Chagaev, Scandinavian fight fans will get a first-hand look at the impressive boxing skills of "Relentless" Lamon Brewster (35-4, 30 KOs). The former WBO heavyweight champion, who even knocked out Wladimir Klitschko, has been added to May 30īs star-studded undercard at Hartwall Arena. "I look forward to fighting in Helsinki," Brewster said. "I want to give the Scandinavian fans a taste of my class."

Brewster clinched the vacant WBO heavyweight title in April 2004 when he spectacularly knocked out Wladimir Klitschko in the fifth round of their showdown in Las Vegas. He made three successful defences before losing a close fight against Sergej Liakhovich. Klitschko eventually got his revenge, defeating him in a re-match in front of 18,000 fans in Cologne in July 2007. "I was not in top shape on that night," he said. "But I am back in top shape now. My goal is to fight for the world title again soon and that is why I have joined Team Sauerland. I look forward to proving my class in Helsinki." Brewster made his first fight for Team Sauerland in March when he defeated Michael Sprott.

Kalle Sauerland is thrilled to have the American star on board. "He is one of the biggest names in the heavyweight scene," he said. "He has been in the ring with many big fighters. With Valuev, Chagaev, Helenius, Braekhus and all the Finnish talent, the fight night in Helsinki will certainly be a spectacular one."

Remaining tickets for the hotly-anticipated event at the Hartwall Arena, which is promoted by Tailor Events in cooperation with Live Nation and P3 boxing, are available at http://www.lippu.fi/ as well as +358 600 900 900. VIP packages can be purchased athttp://www.revengeofthegiant.com/.

Simply say, "Thank You God"
Fearless Fernando
(May 12, 2009)

You cannot turn on the news or pick up the newspaper without being bombarded by all of the problems and evil that exists in our world. Each day you are confronted by family members, friends, those you work with or go to school with, that are hurting and going thru a difficult time in their life. 99% or better of the over 40,000 prayer requests that come into Liveprayer every single day are people who are in pain, fighting the battles everyone fights during the course of their life. The fact is, we are all dealing with problems every day, that is simply part of life. (Read On );

GHOST INKS WITH EA SPORTS
Press Release Robert

"The Ghost" Guerrero, has inked a deal with EA Sports. Guerrero, who hails from Gilroy CA, will be one of the select few to be featured in the upcoming EA Sports "Fight Night Round 4" video game. Guerrero joins an elite list of boxers, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Lennox Lewis and many other current and past champions that are slated to appear in the game.

"Everyone knows EA Sports is the top video game company in the world," said Guerrero. "To be featured in "Fight Night Round 4" with the top fighters in the sport, past and present, is dream come true. I'm very thankful and appreciative to EA Sports for giving me the opportunity to be part of something special. This deal puts my name on a global stage with gamers around the world."

Electronic Arts, the leader in sports video games, has been developing its product since 1993 and distributes on a global scale. "Fight Night Round 4" is scheduled to be released in the summer of 2009.

Robert Guerrero
Fighting the Good Fight
Interviewed by: Benny Henderson Jr.
(March 2, 2009)

Coming up this Saturday night, (March 7th) at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, CA, the former IBF Featherweight champion, Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero 23-1-1 (16) returns to the ring as he takes on Indonesia's unbeaten Daud Cino Yordan 23-0 (17) in a scheduled ten round 130-pound match-up. Guerrero, a stinging southpaw from Gilroy, CA, has awed the fans for eight years as a professional prize fighter. (Read On);

The Ghost reappears in dramatic fashion!

It only took forty-three seconds of the opening round to shake off any ring rust that Robert Guerrero 23-1-1 (16) may have acquired in his eleven month lay off, as the former two-time IBF featherweight champion laid down the law as well as his opponent Edel Ruiz 31-22-4 (22) in front of a record breaking 20,820 crowd at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Fighting for the first time in nearly a year, and at the 130-pound mark, as well as making his debut for the Golden Boy banner, Guerrero, who was on a mission to stand and deliver, did so in less than a minute in the opening round of a scheduled ten round bout.

Guerrero, who weighed in a half a pound under the 130-pound weight limit only needed six punches to end the fight and night for the fifty-seven fight veteran Edel Ruiz, whose overhand right was met with a breathtaking left hook to the body which left him out of breath and out for the count as referee Jack Reiss called a halt to the action giving Guerrero his twenty-third career victory, his first since defeating all around tough guy Jason Litzau February of 2008.

Guerrero, who has held the IBF featherweight title on two separate occasions was in a year long battle to end his contract with Goosen Tutor, and after being awarded a release the free agent was not free for long as he signed with Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions.

This first round romping is Guerrero's fifth first round victory, and with another bout on the horizon for "The Ghost", we may see yet another spectacular showcase from Guerrero as he targets the bigger names in his division.

Dominick Guinn
"I Enjoy Fighting Again"
Interviewed By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(December 14, 2008)

Former heavyweight contender, and recent back to back victor, Dominick Guinn 30-6-1 (20) looks to make one more spirited effort at a run for the heavyweight title, and he wants his last hurrah to begin with a bang, and fight a big name in the division. All though the Texas based boxer is not targeting one fighter in particular, he would like to go head to head against the top of the crop, and believes a fight against Chris Arreloa would steer him in the right direction for a heavyweight strap. In this exclusive interview conducted by Doghouse Boxing, Guinn speaks on his recent wins, and gives his thoughts on a proposed Chris Arreola bout, enjoy.  (Read On);

David Rodriguez
A charitable contender
Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(December 10, 2008)

He is tough, hard hitting, undefeated, and looking to make a big splash in the heavyweight division, but life is not just about fighting for the unbeaten heavyweight contender David Rodriguez 30-0 (28) it is about giving back to the community. So all though the thirty-one year old fighter is aiming at a heavyweight strap, and to his opponents his hands are heavy, to the fans and charities, his hands are there to help. This weekend, Convicted Artist teams up with the "Life Rolls On" foundation, a foundation which helps out people with spinal cord injuries. So with the fighter on the verge of a big fight, he takes time to help out, and in this exclusive interview, "Nino" takes time out to speak on his career as well as this weekends upcoming event, enjoy.  (Read On);

Philadelphia Boxing Community Gives IBF Champ Steve 'USS' Cunningham Rousing Send Off.


Training camp is over for the reigning International Boxing Federation cruiserweight world champion, Steve ?USS' Cunningham, and he has now relocated to Newark, New Jersey for the final few days preparation for his title defense against Tomasz ?Goral' Adamek on Thursday, 11th December at The Prudential Center.

A few days before he made the short journey north, Steve was given a rousing farewell by the local boxing community who turned out in force to show their support for Philadelphia's only current world boxing champion. Steve and his wife/manager, Livvy, were clearly overwhelmed by the sea of well wishers who had packed into the Fox and Hound sports bar on Thursday 4th December.

It wasn't just boxing fans that braved the cold and rain to meet their hero as many local luminaries also attended the event - including Banner Promotions president, Art Pelullo. Super scribe, Ken Hissner. Former junior middleweight world champion, Robert 'Bam Bam' Hines. Philadelphia boxing historian extraordinaire, John DiSanto. Former football superstar, Manny 'Bumper' Howard, Mr Philly boxing himself, Percy 'Buster' Custus. - to name check them all would take a page alone so I apologise to those I have not mentioned.

After Steve had spent some time chatting and signing autographs with his fans, King of Prussia's own soul sensation, Vanessa Lambre, sang an awesome a capella rendition of 'summertime' for Steve to kick the evening proceedings into full gear. When the clapping and cheering died down everyone took to their seats to watch a video of Steve's December 2007 title defense against Marco Huck.

After the screening Steve thanked everyone for coming out to support him then added. "I'm feeling really good, I feel blessed and that God's hand is on me again. You know, I feel like we're fighting overseas again. I mean, I know I'm fighting here at home, in my own country. But it's his home state. You know, they think it's going to be a factor with all the Polish people there. I've fought in Poland. You Know, so that don't mean anything. I feel great, man. I'm really looking forward to this and hope you'll all come to Newark and cheer me on. If you can't it's on Versus so don't forget to watch it."

The International Boxing Federation World Cruiserweight Championship Title Fight between Champion, Steve 'USS' Cunningham and challenger, Tomasz ?Goral' Adamek is co-promoted by Kathy Duva's Main Events and Don King Productions and takes place at The Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on Thursday December 11th 2008.

Tickets priced at $303, $153, $78, $53, $38 are on sale now and can be purchased at The Prudential Center box office or by calling TicketMaster on 201-507-8900.

Brewster-Seldon is off!

Relentless Events and CBelieve have announced the postponement of the boxing card scheduled for Saturday, November 29 at Conseco Fieldhouse. The show was to have featured Indianapolis native and former heavyweight champion Lamon Brewster against former heavyweight champ Bruce Seldon. The event will be postponed until an indefinite date in 2009. Ticket holders may retain their tickets until a new date is established, or may return tickets for refund at the original point of purchase.

Lamon Brewster
Part: Two
Brewster speaks on this weekends Homecoming
Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(November 26, 2008)

This Saturday night, (November 29th) from the Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, "Relentless" Lamon Brewster 34-4 (30) defends his NABA heavyweight strap against the former heavyweight titlist Bruce Seldon 39-7 (35) in a scheduled twelve round match-up, in s Brewster's first fight at home as a professional. (Read On);

Lamon Brewster Part: One
"Anybody who stands in my way
is going to get knocked out"
Interviewed By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(November 16, 2008)

Thirty knockouts, thirteen of his unlucky victims never made it out of the first round, foes such as Andrew Golota, Luan Krasniqi and Wladimir Klitschko have fallen from his power, and come November 29th from the Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, the former WBO, reigning and defending NABA heavyweight title holder, Lamon Brewster 34-4 (30) looks to continue his run back to the top as he takes on the former WBA heavyweight titlist Bruce Seldon 39-7 (35) in a scheduled twelve round heavyweight match-up. (Read On);

CUNNINGHAM RECEIVES
THE BRISCOE AWARD

IBF Cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham was named the "2007 Philly Fighter of the Year" Wednesday and received the Briscoe Award at a press conference staged at World Cafe Live in Philadelphia. The event was a pro-motional gathering to plug Cunningham's upcoming defense against Tomasz Adamek. Cunningham was presented his award by Eddie and Mike Everett, brothers of Philly legend Tyrone. Also in attendance at the event were promoters Don King, J Russell Peltz & Kathy Duva, former contender Curtis Parker, current stars Eddie Chambers, Simon "One Punch" Carr, Jamaal Davis, Steve Upsher Chambers, Tomasz Adamenk, boxing writer Bernard Fernandez, artist Carl Levotch, and many others. Congratulations to Steve Cunningham!

David Rodriguez
"It's all in God's time"
Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(October 3, 2008)

Undefeated heavyweight hopeful, David Rodriguez 29-0 (27) is taking life as well as his career, one step at a time, and with his last outing, which was a first round romping over veteran Andy Sample, Rodriguez feels that he is getting closer to his ultimate goal of becoming heavyweight champion of the world. In his time as a pro (Read On);

David Rodriguez
"I will persevere until I reach my goal"

Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(September 23, 2008)

Undefeated heavyweight star David "Nino" Rodriguez 28-0 (26) is a man on a mission, his mission is to seek out and destroy all that crosses his pathway to a world heavyweight title, and this far the tough Texan has kept his journey unblemished, and the heavy hitter aims to make it twenty-nine consecutive victories as he takes on battled tested Andy Sample 34-17-2 (22) September 27th in Mexico City for the Mexico heavyweight title. The thirty-one year old fighter made his (Read On);

The Relentless One Returns!
Written by: Benny Henderson Jr.
(August 11, 2008)

The last dog days of summer are usually hot, humid, and just plain hellacious to deal with. The kids are ending their summer break and embarking on another year in school, it is the end of the heat and a start to the fall. All though it is the end of vacationing and time off from the job, it is a beginning for one particular individual, that being the former heavyweight champion Lamon Brewster 33-4 (29) who plans on ending the summer with a bang, and beginning a successful comeback that will lead to another heavyweight world title. (Read On);

Fighters of Faith sends our Condolences to the Brian Minto Family

The one thing I enjoy about being a writer for Doghouse Boxing, is the fact that I get to meet a plethora of people. I have came across some crazy characters in my time, and have made some great friends along the way. And it saddens me when one of my friends are physically, emotionally, or spiritually hurting. So the phone call I received this morning was a heart breaker.

Heavyweight contender Brian Minto gave me a ring this morning and informed me that his mother Audrey had passed away yesterday. From the sound of his voice I could tell that Brian was heart broken and still a bit in shock of the loss of his mother, whom he was very close too.

I met Brian a few years back and have worked for him a bit on his publicity and website, and I can tell you this in all honestly, Brian is a stand up guy who dearly loves his family.

I have spoken over the phone with Brian's mother on few occasions, and I will say that she was a sweetheart to chat with whom loved her children and grandchildren.

So whether you are a Brian Minto fan or not, I ask the boxing community to please keep Brian and his entire family in your thoughts and prayers during these troubled and trying times.

And on behalf of Fighters of Faith, we would all like to send out our condolences to the Brian Minto family.

God Bless,

Big Dog

Minto pulverizes Poore in One!
Written By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(July 3, 2008)

Last night on ESPN 2 WNF in front of a sold out crowd at Pullman Park in Butler, PA, heavyweight contender Brian "The Beast" Minto 31-2 (20) continued his win streak by destroying "Big" John Poore 20-3 (18) in the first round giving the Beast his fourth consecutive first round knock out victory.

Minto, who came into the bout giving up four inches in height took the fight to the big man backing Poore up with a good jab and powerful right hand. All though Poore who was credited by EPSN commentator Teddy Atlas as being the most powerful of the two, could not stand up to the power Minto was unleashing.

Minto caught Poore with a short right hand dropping the big man to the canvas, Poore easily beat the ten count but was met with another fiery flurry from Minto, which once again had Poore down on the floor.

All though Poore reached his feet it was clear that the fight would not go any further, and when "Big" John tasted a right uppercut from the Beast, which was followed by a left hook it was light outs for Poore, and a good night for the hometown heavyweight Brian Minto who successfully defended his WBA Fedecentro strap as well as strapping on the Pennsylvania state heavyweight title.

After the fight, a content and very respectful Brian Minto had nothing but good to say about his opponent, and told ESPN, "I just wanted to get him out of there."

Minto, who hold a number twelve spot in the WBO told ESPN that he feels that he fits right in with the top of the American heavyweight hopefuls, and in his own words demanded, "I am looking for a big fight."

For now The Beast will savor the favor of victory and if all goes as planned with have something big right around the corner.

The Beast returns to Butler!
Written By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(July 1, 2008)

It has been nearly three years since heavyweight contender Brian Minto 30-2 (19) has fought in his hometown of Butler, PA, but come tomorrow night at Pullman Park, "The Beast" returns home as he defends his WBA Fedecentro heavyweight title against the hard hitting John Poore 20-2 (18) on ESPN's WNF. Minto, a Butler native made his debut in the fall of 2002 winning his debut with a second round KO over Leroy Loscar. The former football player excelled as a fighter defeating all in his pathway (Read On);

McCullough Not Retired!
From Fight News
Statement from McCullough

Contrary to press reports, I haven't officially announced my retirement although lately many journalists have felt the need to hang up my gloves for me. One of my problems is that I wear my heart on my sleeve and tend to say what's on my mind. Sometimes that gets me in trouble. And that's what happened on June 20th following my withdrawal from a fight that I was winning against Juan Ruiz in the Cayman Islands. After the bout I was being very hard on myself and told the crowd in attendance that "This might be my last fight." Unfortunately everyone assumed that meant I was retiring but I never intended to retire that night. I have always said I would think long and hard about that decision before I made any formal announcement. For the past week I've been reading career eulogies on every website and in every newspaper you can imagine. I'm extremely grateful that journalists (many of whom are my dear friends) have felt the need to write such moving tributes to me but please wait until I make the official announcement. I'm back in training and ready for my next fight. I want to let you all know that the Pocket Rocket could be back in the ring soon!

Wayne McCullough
"It's almost like my pro debut again!"
Interview by: Benny Henderson Jr.
(June 16, 2008)

It has been nearly three years since the former WBC super bantamweight champion Wayne McCullough 27-6 (18) has laced up the gloves and thrown down in some serious ring action, from failed negotiations, to fights falling through right at the last minute, McCullough has been grounded. But coming up this Friday night at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex in the Cayman Islands, the "Pocket Rocket" will launch off again as he takes on the rugged veteran Juan Ruiz 21-5 (6) in what McCullough calls his march to another world title shot. Since 1993 the fighting Irishman has electrified the fight fans, from throw downs against Yasuei Yakushiji, where Wayne earned the world title strap, to unforgettable bouts with Naseem Hamed and Eric Morales, McCullough has proven to be a tough customer. (Read On);

Peter Quillin
"God anointed me with a blessing"
Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(June 13, 2008)

This past Wednesday night on ESPN 2, the undefeated super middleweight prospect Peter Quillin 19-0 (14) fought the toughest fight thus far of his young career, earning himself a hard fought ten round unanimous decision over the heavy handed Dionisio Miranda 19-2 (18). Quillin, who came into the bout as the hometown favorite used his superb jab and left hooks along with his tactical style to ward off Miranda in the early rounds (Read On);

DUNAWAY EXPECTS EASIER TIME IN REMATCH WITH RODRIQUEZ
By Andy Rivera (www.newmexicosportsnews.com)

It's been over a year since Hollie Dunaway defeated Wendy Rodriquez with a near shutout win. This Friday on the big Holly Holm vs Mary Jo Sanders pay-per-view card in Albuquerque, NM Dunaway will once again face Rodriquez, but Dunaway doesn't feel Rodriquez will do anything different to get revenge, in fact Dunaway is hoping she will stop Rodriquez, so much that Dunaway's manager Ron Brand is giving Dunaway a chance to win an extra thousand dollars if she halts Rodriquez. "Oh, yeah do I want to stop her, I'd love to get and extra grand." stated Dunaway. " I'm prepared for anything she brings to the table but I really don't think she has a chance to do anything, I expect to win easier this time around. I'm not being cocky at all, just confident." Dunaway who sports a 21-6 record has been boxing
http://www.newmexicosportsnews.com/dunaway_expects_easier_time_in_r.htm

Ebo Elder:
Seeking a Different Crown Today!
INTERVIEW
By Ken Hissner, DoghouseBoxing (Dec 25, 2008)

I remember watching Ebo Elder fight Ricardo Williams in the Olympic trials in 2000. Williams would go on to represent the USA in Sydney, Australia. When Elder turned pro I followed his career as he won his first 16 bouts before running into a spoiler. He would come back some 2 years later and post 5 wins and then be featured on ESPN against hot prospect, Courtney Burton (21-2). It was a classic battle of wills as each fighter seemed to take turns getting the edge in a war! When it was all over Elder came over to Burton who was sitting on a stool in the middle of the ring with his head down having just been defeated. As Elder knelt down besides him on a knee he asked if he could pray with him. To me it showed the "other side" of boxing when two human beings went toe to toe for over 30 minutes trying to defeat the other and for the victor to show such compassion at the end for the fallen one. That image has never left my mind to this day. Recently through Buddy Osborn who runs the Rock (Ministry) Gym in the Kensington section of Philadelphia, Elder was in touch with him about coming to the city as part of a speaking tour he is on. Let's let Ebo tell you in his own words in a Q&A that I had with him and I only hope it blows you away like it did me.

Ken Hissner: What was your amateur record and tournament experience?

Ebo Elder: I had approximately 140 wins and 10 losses (Read On );

Ken Shamrock's Lion's Den Scottsdale Elite Fight Team

The Next Generation of MMA Champions

Scottsdale, AZ. - June 10, 2008 - The next generation of MMA champions have been chosen. MMA Legend Ken Shamrock recently held open tryouts for the highly anticipated Lion's Den Scottsdale Elite Team. The tryouts, open to all experienced professional fighters, took place at Shamrock's newest MMA training facility located in Scottsdale Arizona.

In response to the Lion's Den reputation as one of the most feared and respected MMA fighting team organizations in the world, over sixty Elite Team hopefuls traveled from across the United States to compete for a coveted spot on Shamrock's team. Only six competitors met the appropriate qualifying standards necessary to become a member of the Lion's Den Scottsdale Elite Team.

"Only fighters that excelled in every level of the grueling five hour competition made the cut. The competition was tough, our standards are extremely high. Athletes were first required to display their mixed martial arts skills during a series of drills. If they scored high enough to avoid elimination, they moved on to the next round and eventually competed in multiple live MMA elimination matches", stated Ken Shamrock, MMA Legend and founder of the Lion's Den.

Scott Peters, Lion's Den Scottsdale Partner and offensive center for the Arizona Cardinals, went on to say, "During the tryouts the skills of each fighter were carefully evaluated by Ken and our Lion's Den Scottsdale coaches, all champions and proven experts in their discipline. The six competitors that were able to meet the high standards set by Shamrock will not only train with the best, they will have the opportunity to put their skills to the test in premier MMA events as a Lion's Den Scottsdale Elite Team fighter."

New Elite Team members; Bleu Edwards, Zac Mathews, Jeff Newbrough, Dan Sandman, Jeff Watson and John Lansing will join Edwin "Bam Bam" Dewees, Joe "Diesel" Riggs, and Rick "The Jet" Roufus to represent Lion's Den Scottsdale as Shamrock's newest Elite Fight Team. These highly skilled fighters will have the best training, representation and sponsorship opportunities available in the MMA industry.  

Tryouts for the Lion's Den Elite team will be held at Lion's Den Scottsdale semi-annually. For those interested in taking their MMA career to the next level, please contact Shamrock's Elite Team recruiter, Lance Foreman, at l.foreman@kenshamrock.com.

Ken Shamrock's Lion's Den Scottsdale
Scottsdale based Lion's Den Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Training Center located at 2954 N. Hayden Road in Scottsdale is the only training facility of its kind in Arizona. This state-of-the-art facility has over 8,000 square feet of training area, including 3,000 square feet of grappling and striking mat space, a full weight and cardio room, professional size boxing ring and a competition octagon for mixed martial arts. Lions Den Scottsdale employs a world renowned team of instructors, hand selected by the legendary Ken Shamrock to ensure that every member exceeds their personal goals in each selected discipline. Programs are offered in Muay Thai/Kickboxing, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Grappling, Mixed Martial Arts and Sports Conditioning. Lions Den also offers the best in child martial arts programs. Classes are set up to accommodate all ages and skill levels, from entry level students to world class athletes. Private lessons are available. At Lion's Den Scottsdale you don't have to be a world champion to train like one. For more information call 480-941-LION or visit http://www.lionsdenaz.com/.

Sechew Powell
Speaks out on upcoming fight
and talks Sergio Mora match-up

Interview by: Benny Henderson Jr.
(June 9, 2008)

Coming up this Wednesday night on ESPN 2 WNF, Jr. Middleweight contender Sechew Powell 23-1 (14) returns to the ring to take on the hard hitting Deandre Latimore 18-1 (15) in hopes of continuing his winning ways to a title shot. Standing in Powell's way is the hard hitting Deandre Latimore, who has knocked out fifteen of his opponents, eight wins came in the first round. Powell is focused and ready for war (Read On);

Minto returns July 2 on ESPN2!

Heavyweight contender Brian "The Beast" Minto (30-2) returns to ESPN2 on Wednesday July 2nd at Pullman Park in Butler, Pennsylvania. In the main event, Minto will defending his WBA Fedecentro heavyweight belt over 10 rounds against John Poore (20-2) of Philly.

Undefeated light heavy, Tommy Karpency (11-0) will face Dallas Vargas (21-4) in the 8 round co-feature, while former #1 WBC contender and Contender Series star, Michael Clark (37-5), collides with Dorin Spivey (34-5) in another eight rounder.

Swing bouts will include a middleweight scrap between Jim Lubash (6-1) and Dave Cook (2-0), and a welterweight fight between Khristian Geraci (3-2) and Tom Joseph (2-1). Tickets can be purchased by calling (724) 504-6708.

Peter Quillin
"If I put my trust in God,
what else is there to worry about?"
Interview By: Benny Henderson Jr.
(June 1, 2008)

Undefeated super middleweight prospect Peter Quillin 18-0 (14) has the goods to reach the top, of course there are the athletic goods. The speed, power, aggressive in your face style that has kept him in the winning column. But there is so much more to "Kid Chocolate" than the physical goods, the personal and spiritual attitude (Read On );

Manuel Quezada
Newest Fighter of Faith

Former kicking amateur champion, and now professional boxing standout Manuel Quezada 22-4 (15) has joined forces with Fighters of Faith to help spread the Word of Christ, by using the ring as his pulpit.

Quezada, who now holds the WBE Super Heavyweight and WBC CABOFE heavyweight title will be taking on the once beaten Teke Oruh 14-1-1 (6) this Thursday night in California.

We would like to welcome Manuel Quezada for stepping out of the shadows and into the light and speaking out on his faith!

Interview coming soon.