DiBella Entertainment signs undefeated super middleweight Marcus Johnson!!
(June 30, 2009) DiBella Entertainment is proud to announce Marcus “Too Much” Johnson, one of the brightest young prospects boxing has to offer, as the latest to join the DiBella Entertainment stable. Johnson will be co-promoted by DBE and Antonio Leonard Productions, and managed by James Prince.
Johnson (16-0, 13 KOs), a resident of Houston, Texas, is undefeated through his first 16 bouts, with all but three coming via knockout. In his last bout, Johnson, 23, stopped former top contender Julio Caesar De la Cruz in seven rounds. Under the DiBella Entertainment banner, Johnson expects the big wins to keep on coming.
“Being with Lou DiBella is going to help dramatically,” said Johnson. “He’s going to push to get my name out there and get me recognized. He will get me a title shot.”
Johnson’s conquests have hardly been limited to just the professional ranks. A former US national champion at 178 lbs., Johnson holds amateur victories over the likes of Anthony Dirrell and DeAndrey Abron.
Johnson plans to campaign at 168 lbs. as a pro, but those amateur days, he says, were invaluable to his growth as a fighter.
“My dad taught me a professional style growing up,” said Johnson, who is coached by his father, James. “As an amateur I was sparring with professionals. I got exposed to many different styles. It has helped me out a lot.”
In Marcus Johnson, DiBella and Leonard believe they are investing in one of boxing’s best young practitioners. Part of their plan for Johnson is to make him a household name his skill dictates he should be.
“Marcus Johnson was a tremendous amateur and a spectacular young athlete,” said DiBella. “He has been flying under the radar for some time. With the proper team by his side, the potential for his future is limitless. I plan to provide the backing he needs to become a star.”
Said Leonard, “I am so excited about this kid. He has all the goods. Being with Lou DiBella is the best move for him. No one is better at keeping young fighters active. I can see Marcus fighting for a world title within a year.”
Like his new promotional team, Johnson has been waiting for his big break, and is confident that his will have on him top of the boxing world in no time.
I have moved a lot slower than I had hoped,” said Johnson. “Now we are taking a new step towards bigger and better things.”
Breaking NEWS!!!!!
As reported earilier in the week by this website, it has been confirmed that Paulie Malignaggi will indeed face Juan "Baby Bull" Diaz. As stated in a press release "All open issues have been resolved regarding the proposed Paulie Malignaggi and Juan Diaz fight on August 22, 2009 in Houston, Texas". DiBella Entertainment and Golden Boy wrapped up negotiations today and tied up all loose ends for the fight-including the agreed upon weight of 138.5lbs. "I told Paulie to lay off his Grandma’s pasta and eat one less cannoli,” said Lou DiBella about Malignaggi dropping an extra pound or two. “Paulie is confident of his speed and boxing ability and is prepared to win in the lion’s den of Houston.” "This is a fight between two guys looking to prove something. We are both coming of losses in big fights and we are both coming in hungry. Expect fireworks,” said Malignaggi.
WBC NAMES SERGIO MARTINEZ WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION....
(June 10, 2009) The World Boxing Council has officially named Sergio Martinez the welterweight champion of the world. Martinez (44-1-2, 24 KOs) won the interim version of the title last October, stopping well-regarded veteran Alex Bunema in 8 rounds. In a statement released by the WBC on May 20, President Jose Sulaiman praised former champion Vernon Forrest for his commitment to the sport, but was adamant about the need for Martinez to take the reigns as champion in the division. “Sergio Martinez is one of the most loyal fighters I have ever met as WBC President,” said Sulaiman. “[Sergio] is now regarded as a new sensation of boxing and I am sure that he will proudly represent the WBC.”
Obtaining ownership of the title was a long time coming for Martinez (44-1-2, 24 KOs).
After winning the interim title 8 months ago, Martinez has been trying to get Forrest in the ring, biding his time with a defense vs. Kermit Cintron in February. Once Forrest pulled out of their scheduled August 1st contest, the WBC made its ruling.
“I’m very proud of the WBC,” said Martinez. “I would’ve been happier winning the title in the ring, but I deserved this honor.”
With the famous green belt now solely in his possession, Martinez, widely regarded as one of boxing’s budding stars, is ready to take on all comers in the welterweight division.
“I’m not running away from anyone,” said Martinez. “Now that I have the green belt, I plan on keeping it for a long time. And if Vernon ever decides to get his title back, I’ll be there.”
No one is happier to hear those words than his promoter, Lou DiBella, who is ready to move his fighter’s career forward.
“It’s a pleasure to promote a fighter who will take on any challenge,” said DiBella. “We’re pursuing all opportunities for Sergio Martinez.”
There is still a chance the bout with Forrest will happen. As part of the WBC’s ruling Forrest is entitled to a shot at his old belt if and when he deems himself healthy enough for active competition.
Team Martinez is not only prepared to finally step into the ring with Forrest, but is welcoming the opportunity to get their long awaited showdown.
“Sergio is looking to defend his title anytime, anywhere,” said Martinez manager Sampson Lewkowicz. “If Vernon Forrest decides to step to the plate, Sergio will be waiting for him.”
Cara Castronuova
DiBella Entertainment
Public Relations Asistant
Office - 212-947-2577
Fax - 212-947-2599
Cara@dbe1.com
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KINGPIN HONORED AT 20TH ANNUAL BOXING HALL OF FAME INDUCTION WEEKEND |
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This Friday, June 12th, Star Boxing's undefeated heavyweight contender Kevin "Kingpin" Johnson (22-0-1, 9KO) will be honored at the 20th annual Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Weekend.
KINGPIN WITH PROMOTER JOE DEGUARDIA
Johnson, who is ranked as the WBA #4, WBC #10, and IBF #13 rated heavyweight in the world, will be part of the "Night of Rising Stars" ceremony being hosted by Legendary Hall of Fame trainer Emanuel Steward. Some of boxing's hottest young stars and champions will be honored at the ceremony. Joining Johnson will be WBO junior middleweight champion, Paul "The Punisher" Williams, IBF super middleweight champion Lucian Bute, WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto, two- time welterweight champion Kermit "The Killer" Cintron, and 2008 Olympic bronze medalist Deontay "The Bronze Bomber" Wilder.
Johnson who is widely considered to be the top American heavyweight prospect, is coming off an impressive 6th round TKO victory over previously unbeaten and highly regarded 2004 Olympic Team Captain, Devin Vargas on May 15th.
"I am very honored that I was asked to take part in this wonderful ceremony," stated Johnson. "This is a dream come true for me. It's a walking fantasy to take part in the Hall of Fame Induction weekend."
"We are very proud of Kevin's accomplishments and are looking forward to him becoming the next American Heavyweight champion," stated Johnson promoter Joe DeGuardia, CEO and founder of Star Boxing. "We are very happy that the prestigious International Boxing Hall Of Fame has honored Kevin and we want to thank them for all their support."
For Johnson, who is an avid student of the game, it will be his first time visiting the BHOF. "I am very excited to get up there and get a chance to see the memorabilia from these all-time great fighters. I have watched so many films of these guys, I am really am just looking forward to walking around and taking everything in."
"I know that very soon I am going to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world and I think that me being asked to attend this ceremony is a testament to the fact that many other people in boxing feel the same exact way. I really can not express enough how honored I truly am. This is one of the proudest moments of my entire life."
For more information on the Hall of Fame's 20th Annual Induction Weekend, you can call (315) 697-7095 or visit http://www.ibhof.com/
Photo by Star Boxing photographer Marty Rosengarten
Kevin Rooney Jr.
Director Media Relations
Star Boxing
phone: 718 823-2000
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DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT SIGNS LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT ISIAH THOMAS
PRESS RELEASE _ (June 9, 2009) DiBella Entertainment has announced the signing of undefeated light heavyweight prospect Isiah Thomas. Thomas (3-0, 3 KOs) has no relation to the former basketball player, but much like his namesake, Thomas has built a reputation in his home city of Detroit, and is ready to show off his skills as one of boxing’s rising stars.
“DBE is established,” said Thomas. “They are one of the biggest promoters in America. It’s very positive for my career.” An accomplished amateur, Thomas has been turning heads for some time. After winning the 2005 World Championships, Hall of Fame trainer Emmanuel Steward heaped praise upon the now 20 year old prospect. Steward, who helped guide the careers of Lennox Lewis, Tommy Hearns, and Jermain Taylor, sees much of the same potential in Thomas with whom he worked during Thomas’s amateur days.
“I have a kid who will be the next big thing, Isiah Thomas," said Steward. "I don't have to teach him much. He’s a gifted athlete.” Promoter Lou DiBella believes that in Thomas he has found a budding star, and is excited about what this new signing brings to his stable of fighters. “I think he’s a terrific prospect,” said DiBella. “He has a blend of speed and power that is extremely rare in boxing. That ability, coupled with his amateur experience, makes us believe he is one of the real sleepers in the professional ranks.”
The enthusiasm shared by both Thomas and DiBella has the young fighter confident he has found the right hands in which to entrust his career and vast skill set. “I’m a boxer-puncher. I’m an entertainer. I have the skills the older fighters had,” said Thomas. “With my skill and their promotional ability, I can be a world champion.” For more information please visit us at www.dbe1.com. Also contact Meredith Greenberg/DiBella Entertainment Meredith@dbe1.com / (P) 212-947-2577
Breaking News.....David Haye Pulls Out Against Wladimir Klitschko!!!!!!!!
By K. Walters
Having won each of his professional bouts by first round knockout, Thomas believes he has the ability to do great things in the sport. He has just been waiting to get the promotional muscle behind him.
