Stevenson Stops Caraballo In 6 In Boxing’s U.S. Return

Undefeated WBO Featherweight world champion Shakur Stevenson scored a dominant sixth round stoppage over veteran contender Felix Caraballo in the main event of the first Boxing card to take place in the United States since the COVID-19 crisis brought a halt to the sport in March, on Tuesday night at the MGM Grand Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. In what was his debut in the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division , Stevenson had some difficulty early due to Caraballo’s aggression. A left hook to the head, left hook to the body combination sent Caraballo down in the first round. Although Caraballo remained aggressive, the fight became a demonstration of Stevenson’s overall skills as he consistently threw and landed combinations as Caraballo came forward. Despite being able to pressure Stevenson, Caraballo was unable to land consistent offense. In round six, Stevenson connected with a left hook to the body followed by a left uppercut to the solar plexus that sent Caraballo down and in pain forcing Referee Tony Weeks to immediately stop the fight. Official time of the stoppage was 1:31of round six. Shakur Stevenson advances to 14-0, with 8 Knockouts. Felix Caraballo falls to 13-2-2, with 9 Knockouts.

Also on this card:


In the first of two Heavyweight bouts, undefeated Italian prospect Guido Vianello scored a first round stoppage of Don Haynesworth. A flush overhand right that landed behind the ear of Haynesworth stiffened his legs and send him down hard to the canvas. Although Haynesworth was able to make it to his feet, he was on unsteady legs, and despite pleading to continue, Referee Jay Nady was not convinced and stopped the fight. Official time of the stoppage was 2:16 of round one. Guido Vianello advances to 7-0, with 7 Knockouts. Don Haynesworth falls to 16-4-1, with 14 Knockouts.

This was followed by undefeated American prospect Jared Anderson scoring a third round stoppage over a very “Game “ Johnnie Langston. Initially, this bout was fought toe to toe with each fighter having success in exchanges of offense. Anderson’s bigger size and power however, eventually took a toll on Langston. A body shot followed by a brutal barrage of unanswered punches that had Langston badly staggered and was frankly hard to watch forced Referee Jay Nady to call a halt to the fight. Official time of the stoppage was 1:55 of round three. Jared Anderson advances to 4-0, with 4 Knockouts. Johnnie Langston falls to 8-3, with 3 Knockouts.

Middleweight prospect Quatavious Cash scored a six round technical decision over Calvin Metcalf. Cash consistently outworked Metcalf throughout the fight, despite being pressured from the opening bell. A cut as a result of an accidental clash of heads in the second round that caused a gash on the left eyebrow of Metcalf ultimately caused the fight to be stopped shortly after the beginning of round six resulting in a technical decision. Official scores were 60-54,60-55, and 59-55 all in favor of Quatavious Cash. Quatavious Cash advances to 12-2, with 7 Knockouts. Calvin Metcalf falls to 10-4-1, with 3 Knockouts.

In the opening bout of the evening Featherweight Robeisy Ramirez, a two-time Olympic Gold medalist needed only fifty-four seconds to stop Yeuri Andujar in the first round. Ramirez dropped Andujar with a looping left hand almost as quickly as the fight began. A second knockdown highlighted by left hands forced Referee Tony Weeks to stop the fight. Robeisy Ramirez advances to 3-1, with 3 Knockouts. Yeuri Andujar falls to 5-4, with 3 Knockouts.


Although this observer is not at this moment ready to give a thorough analysis on Boxing’s overall return in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 epidemic and keeping in mind my noted concerns that I have shared both through material here on The Boxing Truth®️ as well as through social media platforms, I was impressed by the steps both promoter Bob Arum, his promotional company Top Rank Inc., as well as television network ESPN have taken in terms of precautions and protocols as COVID-19 remains a serious problem for the world. While yours truly remains uneasy about not only the circumstances surrounding COVID-19, but also the desire of many to try and resume everyday activity, despite numbers of diagnosed cases and deaths related to the COVID-19 virus continuing to increase, if Boxing is to succeed in an era where strict guidelines and protocols must be followed and without spectators, the sport needed to show that it could take a step in the right direction.

With two cards now having taken place over the last few days in both Mexico and now Las Vegas, the first step although a small one has now moved the sport in the right direction. As Bob Arum and Top Rank now prepare for their second card that will occur on June 11th, we will see if the progress that has been established can be maintained.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

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Thoughts On Molina-Munoz And The First Step In Boxing’s Return

With the COVID-19 crisis still an issue throughout the world, the sport of Boxing began the initial step in its resumption on June 6th with a card in Patzcuaro, Mexico. As readers may recall in the column released here on The Boxing Truth® last week discussing Boxing’s return, this observer shared his concerns regarding the ongoing epidemic. At the same time, I was curious as to what Boxing behind closed doors or simply without spectators would look like. This short card headlined by a Jr. Middleweight bout between former IBF Jr. Middleweight world champion Carlos Molina and veteran Michi Munoz provided somewhat of an idea on what one can expect as the sport continues to attempt to resume amid the ongoing global crisis.

Although initially material regarding this card was intended to be covered in short-form where yours truly offers fight by fight analysis, which is similar to what readers are offered when the sport is in its normal active state, unfortunately, a technological glitch bedeviled this observer and I was not able to view this card as it took place. Thanks to advances in technology however, where a majority of content can be viewed on demand after an event takes place, I was able to view the card a day after it occurred.

Rather than discuss each fight in detail given the difficulty that I had accessing the card, which has thus adjusted what yours truly had originally hoped to offer readers, I will instead offer my impressions on the event itself as well as thoughts on the main event. In terms of the atmosphere of the card, which was closed to the public, the outdoor event offered a small, but intimate atmosphere that was in some ways similar to what one would see on a Boxing or MMA event that is held in a hotel ballroom or concert hall, simply without the addition of fans beyond necessary event personnel and the fighters respective camps.

Obviously, the main thing that concerned me that will remain a concern as long as the COVID-19 epidemic remains the crisis that it has evolved into was what precautions were taken to hopefully to best ensure the safety of everyone involved. While I cannot speak as to what testing protocols were in place for this particular event, what was visible was recommendations that numerous medical experts have stressed since the COVID-19 crisis began. All those in attendance wore face masks and did appear to observe social distancing guidelines while outside the ring. This included the ring announcer, broadcast team, other necessary event personnel, referees, and the camps of all the fighters as well. The fighters meanwhile entered the ring wearing face masks and left the ring wearing masks. It was only when the fighters were actively competing that no masks were worn.

In this aspect while I was still and remain concerned for obvious reasons, I felt based on what I saw that every precaution was likely taken and I was impressed that the situation regarding the COVID-19 virus was by all accounts taken seriously rather than with little regard as we all have unfortunately seen by some in various news stories that have circulated throughout every aspect of media since this crisis began. Although I won’t go as far as saying that it proves that the sport as a whole can operate under circumstances of an epidemic, what I did see from this event was at least a step in the right direction.

In the main event of this card Carlos Molina, who was also one of the event’s promoters, looked impressive in stopping a very “Game” Michi Munoz in six rounds. A question that will remain part of most discussions as Boxing looks to resume under unprecedented circumstances due to COVID-19 is what preparation are fighters going to be able to do while this crisis continues and how will the epidemic affect their performances in the ring if they are cleared to compete?

 If one was unaware of the circumstances of this epidemic, Carlos Molina’s performance in this fight would give the impression that there was at least for him no difficulties in his training/preparation for this bout. One thing that likely served Molina, who held the IBF world championship in the Jr. Middleweight division from 2013-2014, well was his last fight was in February of this year shortly before the COVID-19 epidemic became a global crisis. For him, the issue of inactivity was at least for this fight a non-issue as it is not uncommon for veteran fighters, prospects, and contenders to look to compete every couple of months in hopes of securing an opportunity to fight for a world championship. Many at the very top level of the sport however, typically compete between once or twice a year due largely to the position they are in economically, which allows them to earn significantly each time they compete.

In this fight, Molina consistently beat Munoz to the punch, often throwing his punches in two or three punch combinations while Munoz struggled to return offense. What was particularly impressive was how the former world champion balanced his attack to the body and head of his opponent in mixing in hooks, uppercuts, and other offense into the combinations he threw. Although Michi Munoz, who himself was a veteran of thirty-eight professional fights prior to this encounter, kept coming forward, he was simply tactically outgunned by Molina on this night. Gradually as the fight progressed, it appeared as though Molina was slowly breaking Munoz down. After watching their fighter sustain mostly one-way punishment, Munoz corner stopped the fight after the sixth round.

While readers are used to seeing me talk about what might be next for a fighter after a fight like this, the reality is the sport is no where near its normal active state. As things are likely to remain touch and go due largely to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, a recurring theme will be how and if the circumstances of this virus improves that will be the ultimate determining factor in not only how active a fighter can be under these circumstances, but also whether the sport can operate and do so successfully under circumstances of an epidemic before fighters can realistically plan for and prepare for what they want to do next, and for those who cover Boxing like yours truly to be able to discuss it further beyond a theoretical scenario.

At least for the moment, Boxing has succeeded in taking an initial step in the right direction. While it is unrealistic under circumstances where Boxing, the rest of the sports world, and the world in general are in unchartered waters to expect everything to run akin to what one would expect when things are normal, as the Boxing world now turns its attention to Las Vegas, NV for two scheduled Boxing cards promoted by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum, if they can follow what was accomplished on this card where medical guidelines appeared to be followed, it should be viewed as progress.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

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The Return Of Boxing

The main story that has dominated much of the world’s news and information in 2020 has been the Coronavirus epidemic also known as Covod-19. A global crisis that has thus far resulted in the deaths of thousands around the world including over 100,000 confirmed deaths here in the United States. While the epidemic continues, some throughout various facets of everyday life have begun the process of trying to resume activities albeit under strict guidelines. In regard to the sports world, we have seen this process begin first with the UFC staging closed door events in the state of Florida following Governor Ron DeSantis declaring sports to be essential services in the state. This allowed the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to resume its schedule in a similar way to what World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has done in being one of the few sports and entertainment forms to remain active throughout the Covid-19 crisis by taping its weekly television and monthly pay-per-view events behind closed doors from the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, FL.

The UFC staging three closed door events from the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, FL during the month of May, has provided a blueprint of sorts that the sport of Boxing will now attempt to follow as three scheduled Boxing cards will take place beginning on Saturday, June 6th in Mexico to be followed by two cards to be held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV on June 9th and June 11th. In the nearly three months since the Covid-19 crisis began to severely impact the United States and subsequently resulted in many aspects of everyday life being brought to a halt, like many others, this observer has sat in his home wondering if, how, and when Boxing might be able to resume.

Readers have seen content here at The Boxing Truth®️ become condensed in recent months to information concerning cancellations and postponements related to the Covid-19 crisis as well as additional content sent in to us from promoters, networks, as well as others involved in the sport. The primary reason for that decision by yours truly was both a clear uncertainty as to when Boxing would be able to resume as well as an awareness that Boxing content as well as all of sports would be few and far between while the world focused on an unprecedented situation regarding this virus. For those who have followed yours truly on social media platforms however, in addition to sharing my concerns regarding the virus and my view that I realistically could not see things resuming akin to normal at least for the remainder of 2020, I have also said that the content that readers have come to expect from The Boxing Truth®️ would resume at a more appropriate time.

Although the threat of Covid-19 still very much exists and numbers in terms of both diagnosed cases and unfortunately deaths have not yet declined, with the sport at least attempting to resume, the appropriate time appears to have arrived. The primary question that most are probably asking is what are we likely to see with Boxing taking place behind closed doors with no spectators?

In order to get a sense of that, I tuned into some of the UFC’s recent closed door events. Even though it admittedly did take some getting used to, the atmosphere of these events was similar in my mind to what one would see if they went to a Boxing or MMA gym and watched sparring sessions. The obvious difference being instead of sparring, the fighters participated in actual competition. It does however, have to be an adjustment for fighters who are used to competing in front of crowds to competing under circumstances that they would usually find in a gym environment where the only observers are their respective camps with the addition of necessary athletic commission personnel.

While this observer could dive into various aspects of what I could see as potential challenges for the sport in attempting to resume under circumstances of an ongoing epidemic, until we know how things will look going forward where those challenges or lack thereof become more clear, this column will focus on what has been announced as taking place in the coming days. The first event, which will take place on June 6th in Patzcuaro, Mexico, will feature a five bout card and be streamed worldwide on digital combat sports network FightNightLive’s Facebook page in the network’s first foray into digital pay-per-view. In the main event of the $4.99 pay-per-view card, former IBF Jr. Middleweight world champion Carlios Molina, who is also one of the event’s promoters will face veteran Michi Munoz in a scheduled ten round Jr, Middleweight bout.

On June 9th, the action will move to Las Vegas for the first of two scheduled events at the MGM Grand. The first  of the two events, which will be televised in the United States by ESPN and it’s digital subscription streaming network ESPN+, will be headlined by undefeated WBO Featherweight world champion Shakur Stevenson, who will be moving up in weight to the Jr. Lightweight division to face Felix Caraballo in a bout scheduled for ten rounds. This will be followed by the second scheduled event on June 11th where former WBO Jr. Featherweight world champion Jessie Magdaleno will headline the card in a ten round Jr. Lightweight bout against veteran contender Yenifel Vincente

Although readers are used to seeing yours truly break down fights one by one in a preview such as this column, it is important to keep in mind that these events are scheduled to be held under circumstances that are far from the norm for Boxing when it is in its normal active state. While it is unclear as of now as to how long the Covid-19 crisis will last, some may believe an environment of closed door sporting events could well be a new normal at least for the foreseeable future. As these are unchartered waters to a big extent, the logical question to ask is what kind of preparation have the fighters who are scheduled to compete been able to do when there has been such uncertainty and questions as to when they will be able to compete. Of course, yours truly is viewing things from a far and is unaware of what preparations the fighters themselves have been able to do under the circumstances. One could assume that at minimum, there may have been difficulties in being able to spar due to various lockdowns that have been in effect globally that has resulted in gyms being closed as well as the various travel restrictions that have been put in place around the world that obviously would create obstacles for fighters who travel both internationally as well as domestically by plane both for training as well as competition.

Based on these factors, there is a bit of the unknown as to what these fights could look like once the fighters are able to enter the ring to compete. This all will obviously also depend on whatever testing protocols are put in place, whether there is risk of exposure for the fighters, their camps, and others involved as well as what might happen if there is confirmed positive tests for Covid-19, which would obviously impact not only these three scheduled cards, but also those that might be in the works to follow in the coming weeks and months ahead.

What I can assure the reader as things remain uncertain is, if there are Boxing events taking place in the days, weeks, and months ahead, this observer and The Boxing Truth®️ will be here to cover them as they occur. One can only hope not only will all those who will be participating in these events remain healthy and safe, but once we as a sport can get a better idea of how Boxing can operate under circumstances like the Covid-19 crisis, we can then focus on other challenges the sport has to contend with including, but not limited to the severity of the economic impact due to this crisis.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

FightNightLive: King Carlos Promotions: Molina vs. Munoz takes place Saturday, June 6th in Patzcuaro, Mexico. The card can be seen globally on FightNightLive’s Facebook page on a pay-per-view basis for $4.99 beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT U.S. Time.. To order and watch the event on Facebook please visit: https://facebook.com/events/s/fightnight-live-ppv-king-carlo/315090626151353/?ti=icl 

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN and ESPN+: Stevenson vs. Caraballo takes place on Tuesday, June 9th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV. The card can be seen in the United States on ESPN on cable/satellite providers as well as through the ESPN app featuring ESPN+ on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT.

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN and ESPN+: Magdaleno vs. Vincente takes place on Thursday, June 11th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV. The card can be seen in the United States on ESPN on cable/satellite providers as well as through the ESPN app featuring ESPN+ on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT.

For more information about Top Rank Boxing on ESPN, ESPN, and to subscribe to ESPN+ please visit:
www.toprank.com www.ESPN.com plus.espn.com.

*All three cards are closed to the public 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

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Manager Tony Tolj keeps the American dream alive for Team Moloney

Press Release: June 2, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing/Team Moloney  - Oceania boxing kingpin Tony Tolj has pulled off the impossible once more, as he has utilized his inner circle of contacts to gain the entry approval tp the United States for Chilean flyweight sensation Andres Campos. 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Campos is undefeated in his professional campaign and has risen quickly through the flyweight ranks since linking up with Dragon Fire Boxing Latino alongside stables mates Ramon Mascarena, Raynel Mederos, and Luis Junior Cruzat.  

Campos who currently holds the WBA Fedebol, WBO Latino, and Chilean flyweight titles, touched down in Las Vegas on Monday evening, and Tolj opened up on how he made sure that it wasn't an American nightmare for the 23-year-old Campos.

Tolj said, "I had to use a few of my connections within my inner circle to lease with the Chilean and American authorities to allow Campos to travel. Fortunately, they were all very helpful and we gained approval on Sunday for Andres to fly to Las Vegas. 

"Andres took a COVID-19 test prior to departing and took one on arrival in the United States.

"Andres is one of the top quality fighters that Dragon Fire Boxing has acquired during its expansion into South America. He has been in camp with us before in Australia and boxed on one of our cards on the Gold Coast last November. He has spent time in camp with the Moloney twins before and had great work with world rated Billel Dib and Bruno Tarimo as well so he really is a top-quality talent."

Many have asked how Tolj has managed to get himself and 3 fighters into the United States during these times of political and social unrest. The Australian based manager divulged some of his techniques into pulling off what seems to be a minor miracle.

Tolj said, "I am not joking when I say I'm connected politically. My cousin Dragan Primorac ran for president in Croatia 5 years ago. In seriousness though I am just a common man working hard for the men to make the dream happen for them. I have to thank those involved in helping me get the boys into the country and Top Rank who have been fantastic with us all from start to finish.

"I have been in boxing for a long long time, so I have developed many connections all over the world and have a lot of experience in obscure situations. So I used my experience of being in boxing's inner circles for decades to make the American dream happen for the boys. Now it's time for them to live the dream and put on a show on ESPN."

Material and Photo Courtesy of Dragon Fire Boxing/Team Moloney  Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Boxing To Return In Las Vegas June 9TH

After a unanimous vote by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) on Wednesday, the path has officially been cleared for the sport of Boxing to begin resuming as the commission approved two Boxing cards that will take place on June 9th and June 11th. The cards, which take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, will be promoted by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum's Top Rank Inc. This will be the first Boxing events to take place in the United States since mid-March due to the Covid-19 epidemic. While the Covid-19 crisis remains ongoing, these two cards represent the initial steps to resume normal activity for the sport.

With Covid-19 still the central focus of the world, strict safety and testing protocols must be followed according to the NSAC. As more information becomes available regarding these two Boxing events, which will be closed to the public and televised in the United States by ESPN and  it's digital subscription-based streaming network ESPN+, we will update readers on those developments and provide coverage of these events as they take place. Stay tuned.

"And That's The Boxing Truth."

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www. twitter.com/Beau_Denison

James Patterson & Kwame Alexander Join Forces To Write About Young Muhammad Ali

Press Release: May 23, 2020 By Jimmy Patterson Books And HMH Books for Young Readers – James Patterson & Kwame Alexander Join Forces to Write About Young Muhammad Ali
‘Becoming Muhammad Ali’ is a fictional biography about the boxing great, written in partnership with the Ali Estate.

Credit Jimmy Patterson Books/HMH Books for Young Readers 

 Bestselling authors James Patterson and Kwame Alexander will collaborate on a biographical novel, Becoming Muhammad Ali, to be jointly published by JIMMY Patterson Books and HMH Books for Young Readers on October 5, 2020. The project was announced today by Ned Rust, Publisher for James Patterson, and Catherine Onder, Publisher of HMH Books for Young Readers. Written in verse and prose, this fictionalized middle grade biography explores Muhammad Ali’s life as a child before he was a household name – when he was still known as Cassius Clay.
Fully authorized by and written with the cooperation of Lonnie Ali and Authentic Brands Group (ABG), co-owners of the Muhammad Ali Estate, Becoming Muhammad Ali will follow the life of young Cassius Clay up to age 17, revealing his struggles in school, the racism he endured, and his discovery of boxing, as well as his family, friends, neighbors, and significant events of his childhood in Louisville, Kentucky.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with Kwame in honoring the life of a legend,” said James Patterson. “Few people know Muhammad Ali as Cassius Clay, and his journey to becoming Ali is truly inspiring. It’ll show young kids the importance of perseverance in pursuing their dreams and most importantly, to never give up. When the Ali Estate came to me, I knew this was a project I had to be a part of – and I was ecstatic when my friend Kwame agreed to write it with me.”
“I loved books until I was ten, when the adults in my life began to tell me what to read,” said Kwame Alexander. “Two years later, while cleaning up our garage I stumbled upon The Greatest: My
Story by Muhammad Ali and rediscovered the joy of reading. I couldn’t put the book down. So, when Jim called and said we should write a novel together, about Ali, it was like coming full circle. We’re both about getting kids to want to read, and I hope this book does that.”

“Growing up in 1950s Louisville, a young Cassius Clay faced struggles that helped mold him into the man we came to know as Muhammad Ali,” said Lonnie Ali, wife of the late boxing legend. “Muhammad would be proud to know that this story will be a source of inspiration for kids everywhere.”

Becoming Muhammad Ali will be simultaneously published in hardcover, ebook, and audiobook formats, and will be edited by Margaret Raymo, Senior Executive Editor at HMH Books for Young Readers. Artist Dawud Anyabwile will contribute black and white illustrations throughout the book.

   “James Patterson and Kwame Alexander are heavyweight writers on their own, and together they’re a knockout combination,” said Rust and Onder in a joint statement. “Becoming Muhammad Ali dynamically captures the charisma, outsize personality, and dedication of one of the greatest sports heroes of all time.”

###
About the Authors
Kwame Alexander is the New York Times best-selling author of thirty-four books, including his Newbery Medal–winning novel The Crossover and The Undefeated, winner of the Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor. He is the founding editor of Versify, which aims to change the world, one word at a time.

James Patterson is the world’s bestselling author. The creator of Max Einstein and Middle School, he founded JIMMY Patterson to publish books that young readers will love. He lives in Florida with his family.

JIMMY Patterson Books
We believe a kid who reads is a kid who can succeed. We believe it’s every adult’s responsibility to get books into kids’ hands and into kids’ lives. We want to make reading fun for kids—through stories and voices that speak to them and expand their world. We want to make books available to kids—through teacher scholarships, bookstore funding, school library support, and book donations. We want every kid who finishes a JIMMY book to say: “PLEASE GIVE ME ANOTHER BOOK.”

HMH Books for Young Readers
As part of leading global learning company Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, HMH Books for Young Readers is uniquely positioned to offer educational and entertaining content for all audiences. Its distinguished author list includes more than one hundred Caldecott, Newbery, Printz, and Sibert Medal and Honor recipients. Among its celebrated authors and illustrators are Kwame
Alexander, Mary Downing Hahn, Lois Lowry, Linda Sue Park, Chris Van Allsburg, and David Wiesner, as well as iconic characters and brands such as Carmen Sandiego, Curious George®, Little Blue Truck, The Little Prince, and The Polar Express.

Authentic Brands Group/The Estate of Muhammad Ali
Authentic Brands Group (ABG) is a brand, development, marketing and entertainment company, which owns a portfolio of global media, entertainment and lifestyle brands. Headquartered in New York City, ABG elevates and builds the long-term value of more than 50 consumer brands by developing best-in-class partnerships.

Material And Photo Courtesy of: Jimmy Patterson Books And HMH Books for Young Readers Used with permission.

For more information about Becoming Muhammad Ali Please visit;  https://www.jimmypatterson.org/titles/james-patterson/becoming-muhammad-ali/9780316498180/ 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

TEENAGE CHILEAN PRODIGY JUNIOR CRUZAT inks long term managerial deal with Tony Tolj

Press Release: May 18, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing - The 19-year-old, who holds a record of 7-0 (4 KOs) is now determined to build on his perfect professional start under the guidance of power house manager Tony Tolj.  

Credit Dragon Fire Boxing 

Cruzat was a start out amateur of the Chilean National team setup with a great record of 78 wins and 2 losses which includes 6 times national champion, Silver medal at Odesur games and Champion of the future boxing stars in USA Las Vegas.

Junior Cruzat opened up about his boxing future and what it means to join Oceania based powerhouse manager Tony Tolj

"My goals in boxing is to step by step get closer to my main objective which is world champion. I'm only 19 years old, and I trust the team around me.

My father was a huge influence on my career, he was the one who motivated me enter this beautiful sport that today is my whole life.

I was very happy to join the world famous Dragon Fire Boxing family its a great company and serious people, we shared many ideas and looked the same way. Tony Tolj is world wide respected and I know he will guide my career the right way. 

I am very happy to share a team with these great boxers, it is a great motivation for me and I certainly believe that we are the best team currently in Chile and soon the World will know this Golden Generation of Chilean boxing.

They are a great team happy to join this great team together with my father, we always look forward to such a proposal, to work with people who share the same dreams and goals as we do

Dragon Fire Latino and “The Maverick” Nico Martinez arrived at a great moment in Chilean boxing just on the rise, and that support and motivation were needed, grateful for the confidence in my work.

People take care of yourself, we are having a bad time with Covid 19 but we will come out together of all this that is happening worldwide, and nothing will stop each of us in this world well all have a purpose, we all have dreams and we must fulfill them".

Australian based manager Tony Tolj opened up about his latest signing.

"I'm delighted to have Junior join the team, I have said on many occasions this will be the Chilean Golden generation. He will be working closely with Chilean Mega Star Andres Campos, Ramon Mascareña, Raynel Mederos. 

My partner " The Maverick" Nico Martinez is doing an amazing job and Dragon Fire Latino will be giving this young warriors the platform to show the world what they are capable of.

Junior is 19 years of age and I'm very privellage to be entrusted to guide his career and when the time is ready we bring that world title back to Chilean. The World is yours Junior Cruzat"

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing. 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved. 

Mose Auimatagi Jnr excited for the future after signing in with Tony Tolj's Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: May 11, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing - 

New Zealand standout Mose Auimatagi Jnr is raring to get back in the ring after it was announced he had linked up with Dragon Fire Boxing headed up by Oceania boxing kingpin Tony Tolj. 

Credit:Dragon Fire Boxing 

Auimatagi Jnr has had a baptism by fire since he turned professional, having already successfully competed for the WBA Oceania and OBPF Super Middleweight titles against now stablemate Kerry Foley. The heavy-hitting Kiwi has also held the New Zealand middleweight title on two occasions and holds a knockout win against world rated Reagan Dessaix who is also under the Dragon Fire Boxing banner.

Auimatagi Jnr opened up about his career success so far and his link-up with manager Tolj. He said, "I'm absolutely delighted to have linked up with Tony Tolj and Dragon Fire Boxing. Dragon Fire Boxing and Tony have established themselves as the most powerful company in the Oceania region, but it's the honesty and professionalism that Tony has that really attracted me to them and I'm very excited about the future.

"I have not really had any easy fights as a pro. I've boxed an undefeated Welsh fighter away from home and won via knockout on the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs Joseph Parker. I really enjoyed that experience and it showed me I have a big future in this sport. I hold wins over Kerry Foley and Reagan Dessaix who are both quality fighters so that should really show boxing fans who haven't heard of me what level I am on."

With the boxing world changing, Auimatagi Jnr along with his new management Dragon Fire Boxing, has established a plan of action moving forward for the Kiwi puncher. The 25-year-old stated his plans for the immediate future, "I want to clear up in the Oceania region and show that I am the best at super middleweight within Australia, New Zealand, and the surrounding areas. I really want to continue to develop by having real fights and I'm sure Tony will get me these opportunities.

"I'd like to fight the likes of Istvan Szili who beat Jayde Mitchell and I'd love a clash with Zach Dunn at some point. These are good level fighters but I believe I am more and ready to these types of talents and I believe that I am the best Oceania based fighter at 168 and 175." 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing 

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Australian two-weight Champion Kylie Hutt breaks into world rankings

Press Release May 7, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Two weight Australian Champion Kylie Hutt has broken into the world rankings, as she was announced in the top 10 with both the IBF and WBC.

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Known as the 'Ice Queen', Hutt Has been on a role since linking up with Dragon Fire Boxing and Oceania Boxing juggernaut Tony Tolj. Since their link up, Hutt has captured the Australian title in a second weight class, propelling her into the world ratings.

Hutt opened up about her progression under the guidance of Dragon Fire Boxing and the news of breaking into the world rankings. The Ice Queen said, "I am absolutely delighted on how my career has progressed under Tony and Dragon Fire in such a short space of time. Tony has delivered everything he has promised and really showed that he is the best managers in the world today.

"I was really happy with my last performance and I know I am continuing to progress constantly and that is the fire that is really driving me to become a champion. When I set out in boxing I just wanted to become an Australian Champion but I believe I am going to be presented with opportunities to win more titles, even on a world stage."

Hutt continued, as she described her emotions when the news broke she had been listed in the WBC and IBF's world ratings. "I was overcome, it's something I only dreamt about when I started boxing and it's now a reality. It is a massive motivation to keep improving and push myself to the next level and I believe I have the team around me that can do that.

"At my weight Claressa Shields is champion. She is a great champion and I massively respect her. Fighting someone such as Claressa has always been a dream but that dream is closer to being a reality now, so why not shoot for the stars, worst that can happen is you land in the clouds I guess.

"I feel I have some unfinished business in Australia, but the world is my oyster, and I am coming for world titles because why not!"

Hutt is guided by international managerial powerhouse Tony Tolj and Tolj also gave his take on Hutt's potential assault on the world. He said, "I'm very proud of Kylie for breaking into the world ratings. She's a great fighter and a great person so I'm really happy that she has managed to get into the world ratings.

"I always try to do my best for my fighters and give them the best opportunities. Kylie is on the brink of some fantastic opportunities in the near future, so I expect her to keep working hard and becoming successful off the back of that."

Material and Photo Courtesy of Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing. 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison’s All Rights Reserved.

New Zealand Sensation “Iron” Mose Auimatagi inks managerial pact with Tony Tolj’s Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: May 5, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Dragon Fire Boxing have announced they have signed 25-year-old Kiwi prospect “Iron” Mose Auimatagi to a long term managerial deal.
At 25 years of age and boasting a record of 14 -1 the sky is the limit for this young Warrior. The current OPBF Silver Super Middleweight champion.

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Auimatagi is the old school boxer who will fight anyone, anywhere, anytime and no stranger to travelling Road Warrior. His most impressive win came on the undercard of Joesph Parker vs Anthony Joshua in Wales against a top Welsh up and comer, Morgan Jones who was 12-0.

Also defeating former World rated boxer Reagan “The President” Dessiax by 1st round KO in Brisbane was ultra-impressive.

Auimatagi won the WBA Interim Oceania and OPBF Silver Title in June of last year against Aussie hardman “Captain” Kerry Foley shown live world wide on ESPN as a co-feature to The World famous Moloney Twins.

Auimatagi opens up about his ambitions in boxing, his idols in boxing and signing with Dragon Fire Boxing;

“My biggest goals are to become the World super middleweight champion of the world one day, be inducted into the boxing hall of fame and earn enough from my career to buy a house for my parents

My two favourite fighters would have to be 'Iron Mike Tyson and David Tua. Tyson because he was a beast when he was in his prime and just was exciting to watch. David Tua because hes Samoan and could pack a punch out of nowhere at any time. His killer instinct was second to none.

Team Auimatagi would like to thank all those who showed interest offered us offers. Many thanks, God bless from Grant Arkell and I.

Iron Mose’s message to his fans; “I love you all, thank you for your prayers and support. Thank you so my sponsors past and present for having my back when no else did”

Signing with Dragon Fire is I believe a great opportunity for me and my family because I know together, we can make my dreams of becoming world champion come true. Proof is in the pudding, just look at the Moloney brothers”

Tony Tolj opens up about his latest signing;

“Mose is an intelligent, athletically gifted young man with an enormous future. He has god given natural talent; I'm privileged to be guiding him in his professional boxing career
We are very honoured to be working together with globally respected Kiwi Grant Arkell.
We are very excited for our future together and can’t wait to see what the future has in store for "Iron Mose. The sky is the limit.

Mose is a diamond in the making and that diamond is going to be shining brightly for many years to come.”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.
For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing. 

The Boxing Truth ®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.