TKO Box Office Boxing News

World Title Shot For Boxing Big Brother Star Angel McKenzie

Angel McKenzie Steps In To Face Jennifer Retzke, After Mikaela Laurén Pulls Out Of Historic 5th July Title Clash At York Hall.

Former Big Brother star Angel McKenzie is set to replace Sweden’s Mikaela Laurén, who unexpectedly pulled out of the planned July 5th World title fight against Germany’s Jennifer Retzke, which takes place on the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ extravaganza at York Hall.

McKenzie, who is also an artist and singer, shot to fame, in 2009, after being selected as one of the housemates for Big Brother series 10. Whilst not making it to the finale of the series, McKenzie was a popular contestant, a large part due to her quirky sense of humour.

Big Brother wasn’t the only TV show McKenzie appeared on, a year or so later she also made it through to final eight of Noel Edmund’s Red or Black show.

In July 2009, shortly after being evicted from the Big Brother house, McKenzie made history, by taking part in the first Female boxing match to be broadcast live on network TV in the UK.

With many of her former Big Brother housemates ringside, McKenzie put on a solid performance to beat seriously tough Welsh lass Lana Cooper by a 39-37 points margin.

In the past four years since, McKenzie has fought a succession of the sports biggest stars, German GBU/WIBA Welterweight World Champion Jessica Balogun, twice, France’s former #1 Pound for Pound ranked, multi division WBA/WBF/WBC/WIBF/WIBA World Champion Anne Sophie Mathis, Italian WBF/WIBA/WIBF/GBU Lightweight World Champion Lucia Morelli, Belgium IBF/WIBF Lightweight World Champion Delfine Persoon, German WIBF Light Welterweight World Champion Marie Riederer as well as twice fought the girl she is replacing on July 5th, WBA/WBC/WBO title challenger Mikaela Laurén.

Speaking from the studio, where she has been recording her latest album, a clearly pleased McKenzie spoke briefly on the ‘golden opportunity’ she has been presented.

“I’m just one of a handful of female boxers that represent the UK on the world stage. I’ve fought in Italy, France, Denmark, Ireland and so on, but it’s been over three years since I last fought in England.

To get to fight again in my home city really is special for me, to be fighting for a World title makes it even more special.

Jennifer (Retzke) is one of the top boxers in the World, she’s ranked number one with the IBF, so it will be a hard fight, but I’m used to hard fights.

I’ve fought World Champions before, in fact I fought most of the top girls in my career, but usually in their own country. For once I will have the advantage of fighting in front of my home fans.

York Hall is a very special place to box and when the home fans get behind you they really lift you to another level.

I think this is the first time a Women’s World Title fight has headlined an event in the UK, knowing I am one of those making history on July 5th is going to make me even more determined to fight at my very best.

It would be a dream come true to win a World title.”

Jennifer Rezke versus Angel McKenzie, for Light Middleweight World Championship honors, headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event, which takes place at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday 5th July 2013.

Tickets, priced £30 (Gallery), £35 (Ground floor standard seated) and £65 (Ringside) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person from the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning town – www.tkoboxinggym.com – and Ringtone Gym in Euston – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – or from any of the boxers taking part in the event, or call – 07960 850645, 07809 499896 or 07557 641597 for further information.

www.acourtier.com

Newly Crowned Champ Ormond Fights In London On July 5th, Then Wants Mitchell Or Burns

Newly crowned WBU Lightweight World Champion Stephen ‘The Rock’ Ormond makes a welcome return to York Hall in London on Friday 5th July, where he will be boxing against a yet to be named opponent, on the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ mega show.

On his last visit to York Hall, in July last year, the Dubliner convincingly beat former Irish champ Mickey Coveney in a rematch of their Battle Royale at the Braehead Arena in Glasgow back in March 2011.

Of the back of this superb win Ormond was presented the opportunity to face Hungarian Laszio Robert Balogh for the vacant WBU crown, an opportunity he grabbed with both hands.

On just his fourteenth professional outing, on the 3rd of May 2013, at the Carlton Hotel in Tyrrelstown, Dublin, Ormond stepped into the ring to face thirty three fight veteran Balogh.

Balogh may have had more experience, but it was Ormond that dominated the opening round, before going on to stop the Hungarian in just one minute and fifty four seconds of the second stanza.

With the WBU World Title belt proudly nestling in his trophy cabinet, Ormond has turned his focus on fighting more in the UK in his quest for further accolades, especially the WBO title currently in the firm grip of Coatbridge, Scotland’s Ricky Burns.

Speaking from his Dublin training camp, Ormond made it more than clear that the aforementioned Burns, as well as Dagenham’s Kevin Mitchell, are well and truly in his sights.

“I’m really looking forward to fighting on July 5th in London. I don’t know who I’m fighting yet, but I promise I will be ready for them.

My team has big plans for me and that means I’ll be fighting more and more in the UK, starting with the July 5th fight, which suits me, I love fighting in the UK and can’t wait to get back there.

I would like to fight the top guys in the weight division, big names like Kevin Mitchell or Ricky Burns, as soon as possible.

I’m not looking past whoever I fight on the 5th July, anything but, just I believe I have what it takes to beat these guys and I want to fight them, hopefully these fights can be made soon.

By fighting in London more and putting in some really good performances, hopefully Eddie Hearn will take notice and I’ll get to fight Kevin or Ricky, sooner than later.”

Stephen ‘The Rock’ Ormond, against a yet to be named opponent, features on the undercard of the Jennifer Rezke – Mikaela Laurén, Light Middleweight World Championship fight, that headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event, which takes place at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday 5th July 2013.

Tickets, priced £30 (Gallery), £35 (Ground floor standard seated) and £65 (Ringside) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person from the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning town – www.tkoboxinggym.com – and Ringtone Gym in Euston – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – or from Stephen Ormond or any of the boxers taking part in the event, or call – 07960 850645, 07809 499896 or 07557 641597 for further information.

www.acourtier.com

Unbeaten ‘Young Star’ Jovan Young Set For UK Debut At York Hall On 5th July

One of the UK’s most exciting and entertaining young boxers of today, Lewisham Light Heavyweight Jovan ‘Young Star’ Young may have a five fight unbeaten record, but incredibly to date none of his home fans have yet to see the former Repton Amateur star in action as a pro.

But now that’s all about to change, as Jovan makes his British debut on the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ extravaganza at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Friday, 5th July 2013, against Florida, USA’s Manny Muhammad.

25 year old Jovan turned professional in June last year and travelled to Punta del Este in Uruguay for his professional debut, against Sao Paulo Brazil’s Gilson Silva. An early finish was the order of the day with Jovan stopping Silva in the third round.

Two months later Jovan once again packed his bags, this time crossing the big pond to face homeboy Ivan Burke in Charlotte, North Carolina. Once more Jovan finished early, this time stopping his opponent in the second round.

Three weeks later Jovan was once again in action in North Carolina, this time in Winston-Salem, where he took on local Cruiserweight Willie Bookman. As with his previous outings Jovan stopped his opponent early, just this time though it took Jovan just two minutes and thirty four seconds of the first round to dispatch Bookman.

Two weeks later Jovan made the relatively short trip, to Columbia, South Carolina, where he faced, and beat Marlin Washington on points.

Three weeks later Jovan was back in action in North Carolina, this time in Greensboro, where he faced Atlanta Georgia’s Yuwshua Zadok in a six round contest.

After six grueling all action rounds against Zadok, the judges were split, Judge Marty Garner see it 58-56 in favour of Jovan, Judge Tyrone Evans see it as a 57-57 draw and Judge Time Gosch also see it as 58-56, but in favour of Zadok.

Following a training session at Miguel’s Gym in Brixton, Jovan took a little time to talk about his upcoming ‘home’ debut.

“I’m excited, really, really excited.

I’ve been away for too long, I’ve been fighting away in America, even went to Latin America for my debut fight.

I’m really excited to be finally making my home debut. There’s nothing as special as fighting in front of your home crowd, I know that from my amateur days, so am really looking forward to fighting at York Hall on July 5th.

It’s ironic that the guy I’ll be fighting on July 5th is American, but that’s what I have been doing for the past year – beating up Americans.

As I said I am really looking forward to fighting at York Hall, I mean it’s the home of British boxing, if you’re an English fighter you want to fight there, it has the most amazing atmosphere.

British fans are the best in the World, they really are so appreciative of a good fight and on the 5th July I will give them something to cheer about, that’s for sure.”

Jovan ‘Young Star’ Young versus Manny Muhammad features on the undercard of the Jennifer Rezke – Mikaela Laurén, Light Middleweight World Championship fight, that headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event, which takes place at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday 5th July 2013.

Tickets, priced £30 (Gallery), £35 (Ground floor standard seated) and £65 (Ringside) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person from the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning town – www.tkoboxinggym.com – and Ringtone Gym in Euston – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – or from Jovan Young or any of the boxers taking part in the event, or call – 07960 850645, 07809 499896 or 07557 641597 for further information.

www.acourtier.com

Irish Invasion Of York Hall For ‘Independence Day’ Event On July 5th

Whilst most people would automatically associate ‘Independence Day’ as an American celebration, they might have to think again if they are going to attend the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events promoted ‘Independence Day’ extravaganza at York Hall, London on Friday 5th July, as whilst yes there will be Americans fighting on the bill, by far the largest contingent is going to be Irish.

What’s more two of the stars from Emerald Isles are current Champions, one a World Champ, the other is the Irish Light Middleweight King. That’s not all, as the third is the son of a Legendary Irish Two Time, Two Division World Champion.

Heading up the list, from across the Irish Sea, is WBU Lightweight World Champion Stephen Ormond.

Dublin’s Ormond has just the one loss, a highly controversial loss to Paul Appleby back in March 2012, when they battled it out for the BBBofC Celtic Super Featherweight title.

I say highly controversial as I’m sure that anyone who watched the all war at the Braehead Arena would agree that, whilst it was a close fought affair, it was the young Irishman should have taken the laurels that night.

That aside, since then Ormond has gone on to not only fight for a World title, but win it in convincing style, with a second round stoppage of Hungarian Laszio Robert Balogh just last month.

On the 5th July Ormond will be taking part in an eight rounder, which is being described as a warm up for the first defense of his World title at Wembley Arena on the 25th October.

Joining the esteemed Mr. Ormond is Leeds, Yorkshire based Irish Light Middleweight Champion Lee Murtagh, who after fifty pro bouts finally gets to fight in the Capital.

Murtagh, who won the coveted Irish crown back in July last year, after Joe Hillerby retired in the sixth with a dislocated shoulder, successfully defended his title, against Willie Thompson in October 2012.

On the 5th July Murtagh, like Ormond, will be competing in a non-championship battle, as preparation for his next defense of the Irish Crown later this year.

The third Irishman on the show comes from exemplary blood stock, as this young man is the son of legendary two time, two division World Champion, with whom he shares the same name – Steve Collins.

Not intending to make comparisons with his esteemed father, Collins Jr’s coach Paschal Collins, has favorably compared the youngster’s boxing style with that of his father, which makes this professional debut fight a truly mouthwatering prospect.

What’s more Collins Jr. will be making his professional debut on July 5th, at the very weight category as his father will do when he faces Roy Jones Jr. later this year – Cruiserweight.

The Irish trio will be joining a further trio of big punching knockout artists, sensational unbeaten Light Heavyweight prospect Jovan ‘Hammer’ Young, Denmark’s Osama Hadifi, who has six wins – all by first round KO, and Woolwich Super Bantamweight Marianne ‘Golden Girl’ Marston, as well as a pair of former Amateur Super Stars, Team GB’s Antonio Counihan and London based Turk Shiya Ozgul that will making their pro debut.

All of the above feature on the support card of the historic Female Light Middleweight World Championship battle between Jennifer Retzke and Mikaela Laurén that headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event, which takes place at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday 5th July 2013.

Tickets, priced £30 (Gallery), £35 (Ground floor standard seated) and £65 (Ringside) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person from the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning town – www.tkoboxinggym.com – and Ringtone Gym in Euston – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – or from any of the boxers taking part in the event, or call – 07960 850645, 07809 499896 or 07557 641597 for further information.

www.acourtier.com

Fight Report: York Hall, 1st June 2013

Lynes, Qato and Dingsdale Victorious – Kasiulevicius, McCarthy, Lama And Pettitt Impress Big Time.

Photos and Report Gianluca (Rio) Di Caro

On Saturday evening, at the York Hall in London, TRAD TKO supremo Johnny Eames made his long awaited debut as a promoter, and boy did he do it in style.

The esteemed Mr. Eames pulled out all the stops to ensure the fans in attendance a night of boxing they are likely never to forget.

The mouth watering line up was headed up by former two weight British and World Champion Colin Lynes, against Beka Sutidze, with current English Middleweight Champion and former World Champ Qato Kreshnik, in a titanic battle with former British title challenger Max Maxwell, as main support.

The undercard was featured some of the UK’s top prospects, including Lewis Pettitt, Adam Dingsdale, Matt McCarthy and Festim Lama, as well as the pro debut of two time Lithuanian Amateur Heavyweight Champion Paulius Kasiulevicius.

There would have also been further top prospects in action, but the sensational Freddie Turner had to pull out due to a chest infection and exciting heavyweight Tom Little didn’t get medical clearance in time to fight.

Anyway enough scene setting, believe me this show was that good it doesn’t need any.

It’s been a year since Colin Lynes was last in action, so his legion of action starved fans raucously greeted him before breaking into a chorus of ‘Lyno, Lyno, Lyno’.

Which was in complete contrast to the reception Beka Sutidze received on his ring walk, which consisted of some polite clapping but not much else.

Round one started slow, with both protagonists taking a little time to feel out their opponent. The first real action came about midway through, when Lynes followed a stiff jab with a cracking right to the body.

Sutidze responds with a big right that Lynes ducks under before punishing the Georgian with another body shot.

Sutidze decides to go on the back foot, big mistake as this allows Lynes to control the proceedings with some excellent jabbing and the occasional combination, don’t get me wrong it wasn’t all one way traffic, just Sutidze was being outclassed by Lynes.

Round two is more of the same, although Sutidze does manage to stand his ground more, even catching the elusive Lynes once or twice. By midway through though Lynes began to exert his authority, seemingly landed crisp jabs and bruising body shots at will.

In the later part of the round Sutidze became more forceful in his attacks, even going toe-to-toe with Lynes for about five seconds or so, when Lynes lands a wickedly fast body shot that clearly hurts the Georgian.

Round three sees Sutidze taking more punishment, as Lynes gives an exhibition of his exquisite boxing skills, picking off the youngster at will.

Round four sees a change of tactics from Sutidze, which results in two public warnings for the youngster, the first for a head-butt and the second following his constant holding and pushing.

Lynes’ reaction is to calmly pick him off with solid jabs and the occasional right, however that’s as far as it would get before Sutidze would grab hold, before leaning in and pushing Lynes back to the ropes.

At the end of the round referee Ritchie Davies made it clear that any more of the same and he will disqualify the Georgian.

Lynes puts in another round of exquisite boxing, even when Sutidze starts grabbing hold again, Lynes just steps around him and picks him off once more. This goes on for about three quarters of the round, when Sutidze’s frustration gets the better of him and he starts the holding and pushing tactics once more.

Ritchie Davies is less than amused, finally pulling the youngster up for yet another public warning after what can only be described as a desperate attempt to push Lynes though the corner post!

I know that sounds a strange description but Sutidze grabs Lynes, after the Hornchurch man lands a beautiful combination, and literally rushes into him, pushing Lynes back – quarterback style – at speed into the corner.

It came as no surprise when Ritchie Davies’ patience finally came to an end in the sixth, instead of heeding the warnings issued earlier in the bout Sutidze constantly grabbed and held Lynes throughout the early part of the round, even so Lynes still managed to land a few cracking shots to get the crowd up and cheering.

It’s a real shame the fight had to end this way, it started out as such a promising fight, albeit one that Lynes was dominating with his superior technical skills.

Prior to Lynes-Sutidze, Tilbury’s highly popular Matt McCarthy took on Bognor Regis’ Liam Griffiths in a four rounder.

After a rather inactive first round from either boxer it soon turned into a one sided affair, firstly with the highly touted Essex teenager sending the Bognor man to the canvas.

From that moment on McCarthy controlled the bout with his vastly superior boxing skills. Round after round McCarthy stalked his prey, before letting rip with vicious combinations and big left hands.

Have to admit I was surprised this fight went the distance, as McCarthy seemed able to pick off Griffiths at will, but it did, ending with a tidy 40-35 points victory for McCarthy.

The fifth bout on the card featured English Middleweight Champion Kreshnik Qato against former British title challenger Max Maxwell.

The fight got off to a storming start, with Qato rushing in with a double handed attack to body and head. Maxwell calmly covered up, absorbing the barrage easily on his arms and gloves.

With the crowd urging him on Qato kept up the attack at a pace, unfortunately though he didn’t appear to break through Maxwell’s fortress like defense at any point.

After patiently absorbing Qato’s relentless onslaught for about a minute or so, Maxwell started to turn the fight around in his favour, letting rip with clinically accurate shots of his own.

By the end of the round the level of accuracy from the Brummie battler’s shots was clear for all to see, as Qato’s right eye was beginning to swell badly.

More of the same in the next couple of rounds, with Qato seemingly content to throw wild double handed shots, whilst the Brummie would counter with ridiculously accurate left hooks, which were causing further damage to the Albanian’s damaged right eye.

So much so that by round five referee Kieran McCann called for the doctor, as the eye had virtually swollen shut. The doctor gave the OK to continue and Qato stepped up the pressure on Maxwell.

Round six was a stormer, with the pair going toe-to-toe from start to finish, Even after the final bell the highly appreciative crowd were still on their feet cheering, rightly so in my opinion it was a cracking bout and would later be declared ‘Fight of the Night’.

When referee Kieran McCann’s scorecard was read out as a 60-55 points victory for Kreshnik Qato I have to say I was mightily surprised, this was a much closer bout than that score indicates.

When I compared scorecards with Paul Zanon from the Daily Sport, we both had it as 59-58, myself in favour of Maxwell and Paul’s in favour of Qato, that’s how close the fight really was and I for one hope that there’s a rematch in the near future and I want to be there.

Erith’s Lewis Pettitt, put on a mightily impressive display against Venezuelan Jose Elizabeth. It would be fair to say that for the first minute or so it was a competitive fight, but after that it was all Pettitt.

From the second minute of the first round onwards Pettitt put on a masterclass, keeping Elizabeth on the back foot the youngster from Slough took the opportunity to showcase his extensive arsenal of punches.

In the later rounds Pettitt stepped up the pace and looked sure to bring the bout to an early end, however Elizabeth is made of sterner stuff and managed to see the fight out.

No surprise then that referee Ritchie Davies scored it a shutout 60-54 points victory for Pettitt.

Third fight of night see the professional debut of Paulius Kasiulevicius, in what to some in the business must have seemed a ridiculously matched bout against Frantisek Kynkal from Prague.

The reason I say this is usually a potential prospect, such as Kasiulevicius, would get a nice gentle introduction to the professional game, however Johnny Eames wasn’t worried one iota with putting his boy in with Kynkal, even though the Czech is ranked #8 in his home country, was some three and half stone heavier than his boy and had stopped his last two opponents.

Johnny’s faith in his young charge’s ability was proved a hundred percent correct, right from the off Kasiulevicius used his jab efficiently to keep the big man on the back foot, about a minute or so in Kasiulevicius let rip with another solid jab, this time though followed straight in with a lightning quick right, which sent the big Czech to the canvas – for the first time.

You’ve got to give Kynkal his due, not only did he get up but also went on the attack on the restart.

Not that he had any success as Kasiulevicius got straight back on the jab, then as before just as Kynkal started to come forward Kasiulevicius let rip with a massive right to send the Czech to the canvas a second time.

This time Kynkal looked a bit wary on the restart, which was like a red flag to a bull for Kasiulevicius, who instead of waiting for the Czech giant to come to him went on the attack, initially with solid jabs until the opportunity to throw a yet another big right into the temple of Kynkal.

No surprise Kynkal hit the deck for a third time, this time though the Czech looked wary about rising, leaving referee Ritchie Davies no option but to call a halt to the proceedings on the two minute twenty five second mark.

The second bout of the night, between Adam Dingsdale and Jason Nesbitt, also didn’t make the distance, but for a totally different reason.

Highly rated unbeaten prospect Dingsdale started strong, taking the fight to the highly experienced Nesbitt. The Hoo, Kent man kept Nesbitt on the back foot throughout the first round, launching some wicked combinations behind his solid jabbing.

The canny Nesbitt kept a high guard as he played a waiting game and looking for any openings the Dingsdale may leave. He didn’t find that many in the first but the second was a much more open affair, however this wasn’t to last as in the final minute of the round Nesbitt dislocated his shoulder.

Determined to see the round out Nesbitt tried to box and defend with just the one arm. Dingsdale, who, as was everyone ringside, was aware that the Birmingham man was in distress and just used his jab until the bell went.

It came as no surprise to anyone that Nesbitt’s corner retired their man in the corner, so he could receive medical treatment.

The opening fight of the night, between TRAD TKO’s Festim Lama and Dan Blackwell, was a real barnstormer.

Lama, who in his debut back in February stopped his opponent, was clearly fired up and looking for a second stoppage win. However twenty two fight veteran Dan Blackwell is one seriously tough cookie.

Right from the off Lama went hard on the attack, forcing Blackwell onto the back foot. Lama continued his double handed assault whist the Trowbridge man covered up behind a high guard.

Lama must have felt confident, as he kept up the barrage for a good minute and half, then suddenly Blackwell whipped out a solid counter and now the fight really got under way.

This heavy handed exchanges continued throughout the second and third rounds, both of which Lama secured with his much higher work rate and more meaningful shots.

By the final round Blackwell was getting more success, but nowhere near enough to win the round. No surprise then when the scorecard was read out that Lama had secured his second pro win by a shutout 40-36 points decision.

Congratulations are in order for Johnny Eames and the TKO Events team, they put on a sensational debut show – the event went like clockwork and more importantly for the fans, it was a great evening of entertainment, crammed full of drama, sensational action packed bouts and even a little controversy – what more could a boxing fan ask for.

Word is there’s more to come next month, as the TKO juggernaut returns to Bethnal Green for a second installment on the 27th July.

Lynes And Sutidze Weights And Quotes From London

Ahead of their International bout that headlines the Johnny Eames TKO Events promoted ‘Two Tribes’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London tomorrow, the 1st June, Colin Lynes and Beka Sutidze weighed in today at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town.

Colin Lynes

Weight: 10st 9lbs

After the weigh-in Colin said.

“Feeling great, weighed-in and made the weight.

I feel really comfortable and am really looking forward to tomorrow.”

Beka Sutidze

Weight: 10st 8lbs

After the weigh-in Beka (through an interpretor) said.

“I’m happy, I made the weight easily and am looking forward to tomorrow’s fight.”

Colin Lynes versus Beka Sutidze headlines the Johnny Eames TKO Events promoted ‘Two Tribes Go To War’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 1st June 2013.

Tickets, priced £35 (Standard Seated) and £60 (Ringside) are available on line at www.tkoboxoffice.com or in person at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town or from direct from any of the fighters taking part.

www.tkoboxinggym.com

KO Kid Lama Ready For Studzinski Test On June 1st.

TRAD TKO’s London based prospect Festim Lama gets his second pro outing, on Johnny Eames’ TKO Events promoted ‘Two Tribes’ show at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London this coming Saturday, the 1st June.

On his pro debut, back in February, Lama impressed the York Hall crowd with his no nonsense approach to the noble art. The 23 year old comfortably controlled Didier Blanch, from a centre ring position, before sensationally stopping the Newcastle man, with a vicious body shot, early in the third round.

Anyone that had followed Lama as an amateur wouldn’t have been surprised at the way he clinically disposed of Blanch, as it seems to be par of the course for the youngster.

As an amateur Lama only fought about 20 times, only losing once, the win ratio is first class but the statistic that is most impressive is that around fifteen of those wins was by way of stoppage.

Following a training session earlier today Lama took a little time to talk about his upcoming fight, against Robert Studzinski, as well as his previous win over Blanch.

“It’s going to be a strong fight and if he goes for a knockout I will fight him back to the death, you know, so we see how it goes.

My first fight, I knock him out in the third round with a body shot, stoppage, so I win that.

Training’s been going very well, have good trainer, Mo Hussein, I feel comfortable with him, I feel good working with him, I have been learning a lot from him.

Well, I’ve been sparring the Turkish lads, brothers Onder and Shiya Ozgul, and Erick Ochieng, he’s English Champion I think, I sparred him last week.

Tell my fans I am going to give them a good fight, so I hope they are going to come out a support me again.”

Festim Lama feature on the undercard of Colin Lynes versus Beka Sutidze, which headlines the Johnny Eames promoted ‘Two Tribes Go To War’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 1st June 2013.

Tickets, priced £35 (Standard Seated) and £60 (Ringside) are available on line at www.tkoboxoffice.com or in person at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town or from direct from Freddie or any of the fighters taking part.

www.tkoboxinggym.com

‘Golden Girl’ To Feature On Lauren-Retzke World Title Card On July 5th

Marianne Marston, the young woman dubbed ‘Golden Girl’ by the late, great Heavyweight legend Smokin’ Joe Frazier, is set to return to the scene of her sensational debut in April, the York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday the 5th July, where she will take part in the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ show, which will be headlined by the World Championship battle between Sweden’s Mikaela Lauren and Germany’s Jennifer Retzke

Marianne, who took just one minute and forty seven seconds of the first round to dispose of Hungary’s Gabriella Roman on April 27th, is clearly overjoyed to be back in action again so soon, as on receiving news of her next fight she said.

“This is so exciting, getting to fight on the undercard of a World Championship fight on just my second outing.

It’s even more special to me as I have campaigned so hard for Women’s boxing in the UK over the past few years and now I’m fighting on a show headlined by a Women’s World Championship bout, it just doesn’t get any better than that.

Thanks to Dave Murphy I finally had my debut fight in April and now, just a few weeks later, here I am getting ready to fight again in July.

This is just wonderful news, I can’t thank Dave enough for giving me the opportunity to fight on this historic event.

This means so much to me as finally I am able to repay my fantastic sponsors, Optimax, Winkball, BoxFit and the TRAD TKO, that have stood by me through thick and thin since 2010.

I was a bit disappointed that my debut fight was so short, I hadn’t intended to stop Gabriella so quickly, just that’s the way I’ve been taught to fight.

My style is pure ‘Smoke’ (Joe Frazier), it couldn’t be anything else, I mean it was Joe, Marvis (Frazier) and Val (Colbert) that developed my style, I was trained by them for two years, two wonderful years that I will never forget, so no surprise that my natural fight style is what it is.

I wouldn’t want it any other way, Joe took me under his wing and I’m proud that I was finally able to repay him with a good solid ‘Smoke’ style win. My only disappointment was that he isn’t still with us to see me get my debut win.

Luckily for me, my coach at the TRAD TKO, Barry (Smith), loves Smoke’s style too, he didn’t try to change it too much, instead he’s added to it to make me a much more rounded fighter, one that can box on the outside instead of one that’s happiest only working on the inside.

I know I didn’t do too much on the outside in April, but it was having that ability that allowed me to break her and get on the inside in the first place.

I’ve been back in the gym since the Monday after the fight, so am going to be even more ready for July 5th.

For my first fight I couldn’t get very much sparring, luckily though my good friend Angel McKenzie stepped in to help me with a couple of full on sparring sessions.

This time though Barry has a back up plan, besides getting some regular sparring organized, he has a few of the guys from the gym to move around with me when he wants me to try out some new stuff.

I’m not promising a longer fight, but hopefully this time I will get to showcase my boxing skills a bit more.

I can’t wait to get back in the ring, it’s where I’m supposed to be and where I intend to be as often as possible now I’ve finally got the chance. “

Marianne Marston versus a yet to be named opponent will feature on the undercard of the Mikaela Lauren versus Jennifer Retze Light Middleweight World Championship clash that headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Friday, 5th July 2013

Tickets, priced £65 (Ringside), £35 (Floor) and £30 (Balcony) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town, London E16 4SA – www.tkoboxinggym.com – or the Ringtone Gym in Euston, London NW1 2PB – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – Tel: 07960 850645 or 07557 641597 for further information.

www.mariannemarston.com

Boxers Unite For Troops In Aftermath Of Woolwich Tragedy

The horrendous attack against a serving soldier in Woolwich last week, which culminated the death of drummer Lee Rigby, shocked the nation to the core. The aftermath of this most senseless of killings has led to an outpouring of support for the brave souls, who in the line of duty put their life in danger to protect us and our country on a daily basis.

Whilst some of those less enlightened have focused on revenge, by mounting equally senseless attacks on Muslims and Muslim owned businesses, the majority of the nation have joined together to voice their support of our troops, with message of support on the social networks, leaving flowers and messages at the Royal Artillery barracks in Woolwich or by donating to the fantastic charity ‘Help For Heroes’.

Some, such as boxers Lewis Pettitt and Adam Dingsdale, felt compelled to show their support in a different way, in their case, by inviting Lee Rigby’s battalion compadres as guests to their upcoming fights on the Johnny Eames ‘Two Tribes’ event at York Hall in London this coming Saturday.

Lewis and Adam, who are coached by Al Smith at iGym, personally bought five tickets each and TCS Contracting in Dartford, the company Lewis works for, bought twenty more and donated them to the cause, with event promoters TRAD TKO Events donating a further ten.

With enough tickets in place, the next obstacle for Lewis and Adam to overcome was contacting the battalion commander, not an easy task due, as Lewis was to discover when he went to Woolwich barracks on Thursday.

Unfortunately due to the increased security Lewis was unable to contact the battalion commander, not to be deterred Lewis turned to social networking site Facebook to make contact with a serving soldier at the barracks, who in turn contacted the battalion commander on the boxers behalf.

TRAD TKO promoter Johnny Eames said of Lewis and Adam’s endeavor.

“Everyone at the gym is in shock at the senseless killing of Lee Rigsby, a few, especially those who live close to the barracks or had been serving soldiers have been discussing ways we can show long term support to our troops, then Al Smith called me to say that Lewis and Adam, as well as Lewis’ boss, wanted to buy some tickets to give to serving soldiers at Woolwich.

Straight away both Rio (Gianluca Di Caro) and myself instantly offered to donate some also, we felt it was the least we can do.

We are encouraging everyone at the gym to buy ‘Help for Heroes’ t-shirts and wear them on Saturday, to show their support of our troops, who we feel do a magnificent job.

It would be great if everyone coming on Saturday wears a ‘Help for Heroes’ t-shirt on Saturday, not just our fighters, to show their support for our troops.”

To buy a ‘Help for Heroes’ t-shirt or make a donation to this worthwhile cause please go to www.helpforheroes.org.uk

Lewis Pettitt and Adam Dingsdale feature on the undercard of Colin Lynes versus Beka Sutidze, which headlines the Johnny Eames promoted ‘Two Tribes Go To War’ event at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Saturday 1st June 2013.

Tickets, priced £35 (Standard Seated) and £60 (Ringside) are available on line at www.tkoboxoffice.com or in person at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town or from direct from any of the fighters taking part.

www.tkoboxinggym.com

RETZKE-LAUREN WORLD TITLE SHOWDOWN AT YORK HALL, LONDON 5TH JULY

Germany’s Jennifer Retzke and Sweden’s Mikaela Laurén are set to face each other, for the IBF Light Middleweight World title, at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London on Friday 5th July 2013.

Retzka, who won the IBF crown on her second attempt, has had a stellar career that has seen her capture not only the IBF World title but also the German Welterweight title.

One of the truly exciting female fighters, Retzka has a fearsome right hand, as is clear by her stellar record of twelve wins, nine by way of stoppage, with just the single loss to Daniella Smith, when they fought for the vacant IBF Welterweight title back November 2010.

Laurén, who has a record of eighteen wins, six by way of stoppage, and two losses, is a stylish boxer who has proved she can hold her own with the best boxers around, with losses only to World #1 Cecelia Braekhus and Loli Munoz.

This historic World Championship battle will headline the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event at the famous home of Boxing in the capital, as part of an international spectacular featuring some of the most exciting young prospects in Europe.

Main support sees Dublin, Ireland’s, via New York, USA, newly crowned WBU International Lightweight Champion Stephen Ormond back in UK action. Ormond has a record of thirteen wins and just the single – highly controversial – loss, to Paul Appleby, will be looking to build his fan base in the UK as he targets both Kevin Mitchell and reigning WBO King Ricky Burns as future ‘victims’.

Woolwich, London, via Philadelphia USA, Featherweight Marianne ‘Golden Girl’ Marston returns to York Hall, the scene of her sensational debut, which see the highly praised protégé of legendary Heavyweight Champion of the World, Smokin’ Joe Frazier and two time Cruiserweight King Steve ‘USS’ Cunningham, stop Hungarian #1 ranked Gabriella Roman in just one minute and forty seven seconds of the first round back in April.

Another sensational South Londoner with American connections is Streatham Light Heavyweight Jovan Young, who makes his first trip to the York Hall as a pro.

The highly decorated former amateur star has a record of four wins, three by way of stoppage, and a single draw as a pro. Not a bad start considering Young has yet to fight in the UK as a pro, instead preferring to do things the hard way and fight overseas.

Another explosive big hitting young star taking part in this historic event is Denmark’s Osama Hadifi. The 27 year old Light Welterweight from Copenhagen possesses a perfect six wins – all by first round stoppage finish – and no losses.

‘Independence Day’ also sees the debut of two highly decorated young amateur stars making their professional debut.

Turkish teenager Shiya Ozgul has fought over a hundred times and has represented his country in many international amateur competitions.

Ozgul, who has been describes as a ‘natural’ by his manager and coaching team, is already being touted as a future World Champion – big talk you may think, but no this youngster has more than held his own in sparring with some of the country’s top prospects already.

Highly rated Birmingham amateur, Antonio Counihan, makes his pro debut on the 5th July. Couniham didn’t just represent his country, he was the Captain and a clear favourite to secure a Team GB berth for the Rio 2016 Olympics, before turning his attention to the professional ranks.

During his stellar amateur career Counihan was Midland area ABA, junior ABA and World Youth Champion and in his last amateur season reached the semi-finals of the National ABAs, as well a being an integral member of the Team GB development squad.

At time of going to press Dave Murphy is close to securing another major name, with exceptional credentials, to debut on the 5th July event – so watch this space for more news on this.

Jennifer Rezke versus Mikaela Laurén, for the IBF Light Middleweight World Championship honors, headlines the Dave Murphy, in association with Acourtier Events, promoted ‘Independence Day’ event, which takes place at York Hall in Bethnal Green, London, on Friday 5th July 2013.

Tickets, priced £30 (Gallery), £35 (Ground floor standard seated) and £65 (Ringside) are available on-line at www.tkoboxoffice.com – www.mariannemarston.com – www.acourtier.com – or in person from the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning town – www.tkoboxinggym.com – and Ringtone Gym in Euston – www.ringtonehealthandfitness.com – or from any of the boxers taking part in the event, or call – 07960 850645, 07809 499896 or 07557 641597 for further information.