Adrien Broner’s stable mate Lightweight Robert Easter Jr. (17-0, 14KOs) dominated former Super Featherweight Champion Algenis Mendez (23-4-1, 12KOs) Easter Jr. walk down Mendez with a stiff jab and sharp right. In the 5th round, Easter Jr. landed a solid right hand which sent Mendez to dream land.
“My performance was okay. I could have done better, but I’m happy. I got touched more than I expected.
“Once I settled down, I knew I was going to catch him. I had to stay patient.
“Two boxers makes for a boring fight. I wanted to go in there and brawl, but be smart. I knew when I stepped on the gas I would put him to bed and that’s what I did.
“He was definitely the toughest opponent I have faced in a shorter fight. He is a former champ and he came in ready.
“This was a huge opportunity for me. Toledo, Ohio showed up tonight in DC and I’m just happy I got the knockout.”
Maryland’s Gervonta “The One” Davis (15-0, 14 KOs) won in spectacular fashion with a sixth round TKO over Guillermo Avilia (16-6, 13KOs). Davis a crowd favorite dominated from the opening bell. The One knocked Avilia down in the 5th round and finished him off at .29 in the 6th round.
“I knew he was a strong opponent. He kept bouncing back and I actually thought he was going to get up at the end too. He is very experienced and I thank him for taking the fight. He brought out the best in me.
“There is always room to get better and better, but this is another step toward my dream.
“I’m happy with my performance and it is even more special to have done it where I made my pro debut, so close to home.
Photo Courtesy of Mayweather Promotions
“I’m happy I could get this victory for my team, Floyd Mayweather and everyone that supports me.”
Anthony Peterson (37-1, 24KOs) won a unanimous decision over Samuel Kotey Neequaye (22-2, 15KOs). The two combatants went toe to toe for ten rounds. Peterson would land the more forceful punches. Neequaye could not keep the busier Peterson off of him. The lightweight competition was awarded to Peterson with the scores 100-90, 97-93, and 96-94.
“I’m happy to be back. It felt good to get touched and get some work in. I haven’t gone 10 rounds since March of 2014.” – Anthony Peterson
“A fighter is lying if he says he wants rounds. Fighters want the knockout, but I’m not complaining about getting the work in.” – Anthony Peterson
“He was a little more awkward than I thought he was going to be. He was tough. He threw some wide shots.” – Anthony Peterson
After landing the final blow that gained him the TKO, the outward exuberance shown by the young victor, could be viewed by the audience as a display of hard work and sacrifice. But for this young man, the victory is a testament to his undying devotion to his family; to his cousin, who was senselessly gunned down on Memorial Day, May 30, 2011. The win on this March 5th took an emotional toll, both physically and mentally.
Photo Courtesy of Joshua Woodard
Joshua Woodard bears a weight that no 16-year old kid should have to suffer. Woodard is not in the sport just for the prize, Oh no, there’s more to the story than the sought out ‘W’. The win, this Saturday, comes on the day; his slain cousin would’ve turned 20. It signifies a defeat of a different kind, one where Joshua can avenge his cousin’s death, in a positive manner, on what should’ve been a day of celebration for his family.
Photo Courtesy of Joshua Woodard
As the newscasts moves on to the latest breaking action, when no large groups line the streets to demand justice, and life in general goes on, one of the families living with the emotional heartbreak of losing a member to violence will never forget. So that brings us to the here and now, where five years after a horrific event, one young man brings into focus, what matters most, love. While climbing the ranks as an elite prospect in the world of boxing, Joshua Woodard knows exactly who he is, where he’s from and where he’s going. The win signifies 1 victory for family, but definitely not the last.
Joshua is tearing through the Washington Golden Gloves Tournament. Woodard’s ferocity in the ring is a testament to his commitment, while also, honoring Isaiah’s memory.
On March 05, 2016, Boxhernews.com sat down with Joshua Woodard after his TKO victory and discussed his motivation for boxing.
Minnie: How are you feeling right now?
Woodard: (Crying. After several minutes, he begins to speak)
My cousin Isaiah Daniel Harris was killed Memorial Day, May 30, 2011. I felt his presence in the ring. March 05 is his birthday and so I said I was going to go out there and win.
Minnie: Your cousin was taken from the world he could have given us something special?
Woodard: He was a football player
Minnie: Have authorities caught the person?
Woodard: Yes
Minnie: If his mom were standing her right now what would say to her?
Woodard: She would be proud I’m going to her house and show her I won.
Minnie: What would you say to her?
Woodard: Man, I do not even know, I’m about to start shaking he would be so proud.
Minnie: What was the last thing you told your cousin before he passed?
Woodard: Every night we will play Call of Duty on line till 3 to 4 in the morning. I told him I would talk to him tomorrow. On the night, he died; he sent me a Facebook message to go to the store. That Sunday night, I was supposed to call him. I found out about it on Monday morning on Facebook.
Minnie: How did it make you feel, why do you fight?
Woodard: I’m trying to find my place; because once I started I cannot stop. There is always a light at the end of that dark tunnel. I have a sense of accomplishment, I told myself I was going to do it and I did it. I stood in the mirror and told myself I was going to do it.
Isaiah Daniel Harris – Photo Courtesy of Joshua Woodard
One boxer stood out for more than owning the ring. In a brilliant performance of self-will and determination, the one time street brawler turned to boxing as a means of living ones dream. Kierra “Kelola” Kerry has been fighting her whole life. She adopted the nickname Kelola which means Victorious to signify her struggle. The one focus this Maryland made contender whose blood line has bore a lineage of boxers is more on being a great parent to two little girls.
What do you tell your girls after coming home after a fight?
Stay strong and you can do anything as long as you stay focused, dedicated, and motivated. Faith is the number one key. You have to have faith in yourself and everything you do.
Photo Courtesy Minnie Larry
What made you get into boxing?
I asked God about it, I always been a fighter. I always have been upright. In life you have to be physically and mentally there, it’s my strength. Always love strong. Sportsmanship, and being around the other people socially; I love being sociable and boxing is just it. You will always see a lot of people and boxing is it.
Photo Courtesy of Minnie Larry
Where does God fit in all of this?
He is the number one reason I’m here. When I was younger I always had boxing gloves. My family has boxers. People like Lala Ali, Mike Tyson, and Muhammad Ali are the boxers I looked up to. Also, I admire Rhonda Rousey.
What would you tell your girls ten years from now?
Never change always; be yourself; the world may change but always be yourself.
Saturday Night, March 26th at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, CA.
Andre “S.O.G” Ward (29-0, 15KOs) chopped down the tree that is Sullivan Barrera (17-1, 12KOs), in a one-sided fist-fest for his light heavyweight debut. Ward attacked Barrera upstairs and down with quick efficiency. In Round 3, the Bay Area crowd rose to their feet when Ward delivered a quick left which sent Barrera to the canvas. Ward was simply the quicker of the two fighters, landing left hooks with clear efficiency. In Round 8, Ward lost a point for a low blow. Barrera would try to respond but would get a left hook in return, which put Barrera back into his defensive shell. In Round 10, Ward would suffer a cut over his left eye, due to an accidental head-butt. Ward would go on to win a unanimous decision. The scores were 117-109, 119-109, and 117-108.
Featherweight Joseph “ Jo Jo”Diaz (20-0, 11KOs) maintains his undefeated record after a unanimous decision win over Jayson Valez (23-2-1, 16KOs). After sustaining a cut under his right eye in the 1st round, Diaz returns fire, tagging Valez with body blistering combos, early in the 2nd. Diaz stays more accurate and active although eating several of Valez’s straight rights in the 4th. The scores were 99-91, 98-92, and 100-91.
Mike Stafford, the man behind Broners success and trainer since childhood, speaks with boxhernews.com, giving viewers a glimpse into the soul of the man…WBA (Super) Super Lightweight Champion Adrien Broner (31-2, 23 KOs).
Photos Courtesy of Minnie Larry
Saturday March 12th– Oohs and Ahh’s notify onlookers of the champs’ arrival. Adrien “The Problem” Broner strides through the double doors at the Sugar Ray boxing gym to take in a night of amateur bouts, at the Golden Gloves boxing tournament. With a few accompanying friends in tow, he tries making his way to his seat. However, when you’re one of the most successful and outspoken millennial, in the sport, the trek to finding a seat, can seem like a monumental task. As he makes his way through the crowd, Park Police Officer, McCracker, approaches the Phenom and asks for a picture. The often publically brash, Broner, appears honored by the request and obliges the serviceman. As more and more attendants become aware of his presence, Broner stops to shake hands, take more pics and engage every person wanting to be noticed.
Photos Courtesy of Minnie Larry
The night of fights seem to preoccupy Broner’s mellow mood. In just 2-weeks, he will go head to head with fellow boxer, Ashley Theophane,(36-6-1, 11 KOs) who’s a member of the esteemed Money Team. Now, for most, going against any part of the Mayweather machine, would cause one to tremble in intimidation, however 26-year old Broner seems the least bit phased, as he interrupts an intense day of training, to support amateur boxers.
After my many attempts at getting the athlete to speak to me, when I am denied again, do I find myself simply staring at him, waiting for some volcanic like eruption to ooze from his mouth? “The Problem” simply states, “I don’t do interviews”, and he says it with a smile. Ohh Kay, what was that?! The publically feral, and habitually flippant super lightweight champ, I was expecting, gave me a stern, but gracious response. While I know probing him will not be in my best interest, I notice something. What I’ve come to believe about his persona non grata, may be an allusion, a well formulated character, who lives in stark contrast to the man himself. Now my mind and eyes are warring trying to make sense of the person I believed Broner to be, and the kind, generous superstar seated just a couple of feet away.
Photos Courtesy of Minnie Larry
Once the dust is settled and the fights begin, it’s easy to see the man affectionately known as “Coach Mike” standing off to the side, studying each person entering the ring. Most of the attendees don’t take a second look at the kind gentleman standing towards the back. While unassuming, the always smiling Mike, lurks in the backdrop, quietly. As the many fighters test out nerves and prepare for their moment of stardom, none of the potential prospects pay attention to the one person, who could develop their talents, just like he did with his most famed protégé.
Photos Courtesy of Minnie Larry
While his appearance isn’t lost on everyone in the packed gym, his show of support for the hungry talent, speaks louder than any knuckle crunching and faces splitting action taking place inside the square-ring. The Ohio born Stafford, on the surface is the complete contradiction to the aura emanating from his famed apprentice. Mike keeps Broner feet planted on the ground. When Mike is in the room, everyone including Adrien Broner listens.
Photo Courtesy of Minnie Larry
Famed Trainer Mike Stafford took a moment out of his time to talk about Adrien Broner, and offer a couple clues into solving “The Problem”:
As a man; Adrien Broner (he) cares about kids. He got 7 kids now, he is a good father. He has over 20 members at my gym. He helps the kids at my gym. He provides transportation, meal money and uniforms, whenever I come to him he cuts a check; that’s the type of guy he is. Adrien employs a lot of people. He has over fifteen people he employes.
When you see negative articles about him?
You know you got to remember he’s a kid, an inner city kid too. He did a lot of growing up. He is not pushing or smoking dope, he always tested negative for drugs. Most of these guys test positive for a lot of stuff.
Next fight against Ashley Theophane?
Training going great, Adrien is a World Champion, and he acting like a World Champion. It just so happen its Floyd’s fighter. Adrien did not call Ashley out, Ashley called Adrien out, and Al Haymon made the fight happen. Its going to do wonders for Ashley to get in the ring with Adrien. A lot of fighters do not want to fight Adrien. I’ve seen him knock guys out with a jab. Adrien is an all time talented kid. He’s not going let any one steamroll him and take his belt. His smartness is there; all is left is to raise his hand on April 01.
Adrien Broner takes on Ashley Theophane Friday, April 01, 2015 at the DC Armory.
Golden Gloves, the country’s oldest amateur boxing tournament, held its Semi-Finals on Saturday March 20, at the Sugar Ray Leonard community center Palmer Park, Maryland. The action last week was so intense, boxing fans could not stay away. Even, WBA Super Lightweight Champion Adrien Broner (31-2, 23 KOs) interrupted training for his April 01, 2016 against Ashley Theophane (39-6-1, 11 KOs), to check out the Golden Gloves fights.
Deon Giles in the 12-13 year old division, defeated Anthony Pullen. 12-year-old Pullen suffered a loss but was gracious in defeat. He stated “I feel good, I know I can work on some other things like conditioning and breathing.” Pullen lost but was far from being a loser. He gave thanks to his opponent Deon Giles, who will continue on to Championship finals. Both young men have bright futures ahead of them.
Tommy Avelar watching brother Brian Avelar (Photo Courtesy Minnie Larry)
Tyrek Irby went toe-to-toe with Brian Avelar. Irby pulled out the gritty win. The knock out of the night belonged to Genc Pllana who scored a 2nd round TKO over D. Marque Hall.
The tenacity of the fighters made for an enjoyable night; here are the results:
Junior Division:
Kia Allen (Photo Courtesy Minnie Larry)
Kia Allen (Keystone) walkover
Tyquan Johnson (#11 Overcomers) over Samuel Edmunds (Headbangers)
Deon Giles (NOXCUSE) over Anthony Pullen (Oxon Hill)
Chamar Flowers (unattached) walkover
Kelsi Gross (NOXCUSE) walkover
Osei Akinyele (Headbangers) walkover.
Novice Division:
Joshua Woodard (Headbangers) over Marlon Cash (Dream Team)
Ahmad Jones (UMAR) over Micah Johnson (Tony’s Gym)
Tariq Harris (1st Class) over Sean Cormeir (Kicked Up)
Leroy Payne (Headbangers) over Donnell Poe (Old School)
Ashton Sykes (Switch Hitters) over Champ Moultrie (Laurel)
Jordon Scott (Woodland Tigers) over Alvin Amana (Switch Hitters)
Open Division:
Paul Jerry (Fighting For The Future) over Duglas Soto (Down Under)
Hector Soto (Down Under) walkover.
Ebrima Jawara (Laurel) vs. Ulises Castaneda (Dog Pound)
Tommy Avelar (Sugar Ray Leonard) over Montel Pridgett (UMAR)
Tyrek Irby (Headbangers) over Brian Avelar (Sugar Ray Gym)
Genc Pllana (Bowerhouse) over D. Marque Hall (Unattached)
Nathaniel Copeland (D-Block) over Timothy Crawford (Sugar Ray Leonard)
Photo Courtesy Minnie Larry
The Washington Golden Gloves Championship Finals takes place on April 02, 2015 at the Rosecroft Raceway, Fort Washington, Maryland at 7:30pm.
Former WBO Cruiserweight Champion Boone Pultz (Photo Courtesy Minnie Larry)
The Washington Golden Gloves championship tournament continued with the Semi-Finals, Saturday March 12, at the Sugar Ray Leonard community center Palmer Park, Maryland. This hot night of boxing brought out current WBA Super Lightweight Champion Adrien Broner and former WBA Middleweight Champion William Joppy.
Every punch thrown, and every punch taken, had the packed house on the edge of their seats. Alvain Amana won a stunning TKO victory over Daniel Hawkins sending the crowd into an uproar. The fight of the night belonged to Tyrek Irby in the Open Division. The action between Irby and Gregory Outlaw was intense and resulted in each fighter landing strong punches, which could have seen the fight go either way. Irby would take the win after the final bell.
Tonight was a showcase of tenacity, and a battle of wills…..here are the results:
Junior Division:
Semifinal bout: Deon Giles (No Xcuse) won over Damare Dawkins (Unattached)
Championship Bout: Shakell Daly (Sugar Ray Leonard) won the title by defeating Donte Baytop (UMAR)
Novice Division:
Joshua Woodard (Headbangers) over Sang Kim (Unattached)
Marcus Johnson (Limelite) over Jaqueem Hutcherson (Keystone)
Leroy Payne (Headbangers) over Charles Johnson (UMAR)
Female Championship – Kierra Kerry of D-Block defeated Ladasha Lewis for the female 141lb Championship
Donnell Poe (Old School) won by walkover (other opponent did not make weight)
Kalonni Daly (Sugar Ray Leonard) over Felix Manzueta (Dog Pound)
Champ Moultrie (Laurel) over William Joppy, Jr. (Sugar Ray Leonard)
Alvin Amana (Switch Hitters) TKO victory over Daniel Hawkins (Keystone)
Thomas Mottinger (Main Street) over Nelson Reyes (Champions)
Open Division:
Malik Jackson (Limelite) over Dwayne Holmes, Jr. (Sugar Ray Leonard)
Tommy Avelar (Sugar Ray) over Cody Woodland (Woodland Rec)
Tyrek Irby (Headbangers) over Cody Woodland (Woodland Rec)
Joshua Lee (UMAR) over Dionte Burts (Woodland)
Maiwak Da’goot (Hillcrest) over Alonzo Thompson (Headbangers)
Mark Duncan (Headbangers) over Troy Moody (Old School)
Cortez Dunston (UMAR) over Ralph Alexander (Sugar Ray Leonard)
Nathaniel Copeland (D-Block) TKO victory over Jeraldo Cotto (Tony’s Athletic Club)
Let’s continue to support such positive events. The saga continues March 19.
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