Aalan Martinez Q&A: I have my confidence and a new attitude

BOXING 360

AALAN MARTINEZ  Interview available for distribution You just fought a very tough opponent in Orlando Cruz in your last fight.  What did you learn from that experience? Aalan Martinez: I learned plenty and Cruz showed me a lot of stuff in the ring, but I think the most important lesson was realizing that these opportunities are mine for the taking and no one can get it done but me. I have a better understanding of what it means to 'do it or die trying' and that is something I will use in both the ring and outside of it. This opportunity I have in front of me now, I know a lot of fighters wouldn't have gotten this kind of chance under the circumstances. Now you're facing Charlie Serrano for the vacant WBO Latino Featherweight title.  What are your thoughts going into this fight? Aalan Martinez: I have my confidence and a new attitude in the gym that I plan on taking with me into the ring. My camp is all about preparing me for the tough scenarios, it can get uncomfortable in a fight and the best way to prepare is to duplicate the awkward times you experience in the ring in your training camp. Being prepared does wonders to confidence and with my preparations so on point I'm free to think about the positive aspects of the fight and my thoughts right now are simple, victory. This will be another fight where you'll be fighting on TV.  What's that experience been like? Aalan Martinez: Well if you're asking me if TV affects your game then I have to say it makes you more aware, if that makes sense. It doesn't affect you in a negative or positive manner and it really doesn't have to affect you at all, it's more about how you interpret it. It can be a strong motivation to tighten up your game with all the eyes on you and it can be the thing that makes you freeze in the fight, too timid to let your hands go. I think I have good control over it now and it definitely adds to my fire. Like I said, I'm fortunate to have these opportunities and I have a great team behind me. If you come out victorious, what are you goals moving forward? Aalan Martinez: My immediate goal is to build momentum and that means staying active and getting W's. When I win this fight my only goal will be to get another win. I can't expect to make it to where I want in the sport without paying some dues, but I know how capable I am and I have it in me to fulfill every single one of my goals in boxing. Your promoter Boxing 360 has been keeping you busy.  How many more fights do you want to have in 2013? Aalan Martinez: Those guys are my saviors, they have not only kept their word with everything they've promised me, but they've done things above and beyond the call of duty. If any fighter wants to know abhout Boxing360 well then just look at my career and everything they've done for me. History dictates that I shouldn't have the opportunity I have coming off of a loss, but that's how hard they work and how much they believe in their fighters. I trust my team and I believe that Boxing360 has my best interests in mind, so I would leave it to them. But I can tell you that I want to stay busy and fight as many times as my body will allow. Any last words for the fans? Aalan Martinez: I appreciate all of my fans that have been following me and I want to send a special thank you to all of those fans that reached out to me and helped to pick up my spirits after my last fight. I promise you guys that I won't disappoint and it is those fans that I have had in the back of my mind and I use them for motivation. Make sure you tune into my fight because I am not just going after the win, I want to do it in an entertaining way. Aalan Martinez is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Martinez please visit www.boxing360.com.

GUY ROBB MARCHES ON WITH A UNANIMOUS DECISION VICTORY OVER JOHN HERRERA

May 17, 2013 - Tonight featherweight prospect Guy Robb (11-1, 4 KO's) marched forward with a unanimous decision victory against John Herrera (4-7-1, 2 KOs) at the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, Arizona. 

From the opening round, Robb controlled the action with pressure while throwing a lot of punches.  Herrera was durable but never showed he could hurt Robb with any of his punches.  The scorecards read 60-54 across the board.

"This was my first fight with Boxing 360 and I'm glad I came out victorious." said Robb. "My promoter Mario Yagobi says he plans to get me right back in the ring.  Once I get back home I'm getting right back to the gym to get ready for the next one.  I'm excited about my future."

"I was impressed with Guy Robb's performance tonight." Boxing 360 promoter Mario Yagobi said. "With a few more wins, I'll be looking to step him up in competition and hopefully fight for a regional title by the end of the year."

 

For more information on Guy Robb please visit www.boxing360.com.

AALAN MARTINEZ TO FACE CHARLIE SERRANO FOR VACANT WBO LATINO FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE

May 15, 2013 - On Friday, July 12th Mexican lightweight Aalan Martinez (14-2-1, 10 KOs) will get an opportunity to redeem his last loss in a significant manner when he steps into the ring with featherweight Charlie Serrano (15-3-1, 4 KOs) for the vacant WBO Latino featherweight title.  The 10-round bout will be televised on Telemundo and take place on Serrano's home turf at the A La Carte Event Pavilion, in Tampa, Florida. 

Martinez was unable to capitalize against Orlando Cruz in his last outing, but this upcoming bout is a tremendous opportunity to make up some ground and a win could put him right back in the mix for potentially bigger, more lucrative offers. Martinez is anxious to get in the ring and he plans on taking full advantage of his quick turnaround.

"A fighter is given a predetermined number of opportunities in his career, I know that and I won't take for granted what I have in front of me. No excuses about the past, but I don't live in the past I just learn from it. I'm fortunate enough to have a team behind me and a promoter that believes in my skillset, I believe that my best days are still ahead of me," Martinez said.

Boxing360's Mario Yagobi wasted little time getting his fighter another significant fight and he vows to keep Martinez satisfied in his hunt for boxing's elite.

"Aalan is in his physical prime, but he's still young in boxing years and everyone's learning curve is different. I know how talented Aalan is and I know how quickly he is learning in the ring and in camp. Once his experience catches up with his physical ability he is going to prove to be a dangerous fighter capable of competing at the highest level," Yagobi said.  

The card is promoted by Tuto Zabala's All Star Boxing.  For tickets call (407) 948-9066

Aalan Martinez is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Martinez please visit www.boxing360.com.

ALANTEZ FOX TO FIGHT IN OKLAHOMA APRIL 25TH

April 20, 2013 -- Alantez Fox (10-0-1, 4 KOs) will not be competing on April 20th as scheduled, he was due to face Djolevi Ballogou this weekend but those plans changed after Ballogou was denied approval to compete.  Fox will not waste much time and is in fact already rescheduled to compete on April 25th against a new opponent.   Fox will now take on late replacement Keith Collins (4-22, 2 KOs) in Oklahoma in an attempt to salvage an opportunity to perform.

It's always disappointing to have a fight cancelled, especially when the responsibility falls on your opponent's shoulders, but Fox is fortunate enough to stay on course and finish what he started in camp.

"I'm just happy I didn't have to waste an entire training camp. It's frustrating because you sacrifice and kill yourself in the gym for the ultimate goal and when you can't complete that goal it can feel like a failure even if it wasn't your fault. My main goal was obtaining more experience and it feels good to not be cheated out of it, I have my team to thank for that," Fox said.

Boxing360's Mario Yagobi was able to keep his fighter active and he thinks that is the most important aspect of bringing a fighter along.

"Injuries and other circumstances will occur during a fighter's career and cancelled/postponed fights are always going to play a role in the fight game. There are few fighters as committed as Fox to doing things the right way, you have to reward guys like him and work as hard as he does at making sure no effort is made in vain," Yagobi said.

 

For more information on Alantez Fox please visit www.boxing360.com.

Gibson and Robb sign with Boxing 360

April 18, 2013 - Boxing 360 has deepened its promotional roster with the signing of a couple young and exciting prospects, Keandre Gibson (8-0-1, 3KOs) and Guy Robb (10-1, 4KOs)

The junior welterweight prospect Keandre Gibson inks his deal as an undefeated 23yr old with a rare combination of athletic prowess and determined excitement. The Missouri born Gibson trains out of Southern California where he is quickly gaining the reputation for spirited bouts filled with his dynamic style of fighting.

Gibson will now get the opportunity to take a step up in every aspect of his career, although he has been matched tough thus far in his career and he has also competed in some big venues.

"I couldn't be happier because I know things are about to get really exciting. There are a lot of great promotional companies out there and they all have their pros and cons, with Boxing360 you get the highest form of loyalty that exists in the sport, a sport not known for loyalty. I've spoken with many fighters and the one thing that has been said to me on a constant basis is Boxing360 will always fight for you and they stick to their word. So far I can say that those rumors are absolutely true," Gibson said.

Boxing360's Mario Yagobi feels the signing of Gibson was the best possible pairing that could be made at this point.

"Sometimes signing a fighter or signing with a promotional company turns out better for either the promoter or fighter. You rarely see an absolute even split, but in this case I think that Gibson is in the right place and we are in the position to made the best possible moves for him. He's so mature, he's probably one of the most ready young fighters out there, with his experience and strong mental attitude," Yagobi said.

The other fighter signed is the always entertaining 24yr old featherweight Guy Robb. The once beaten fighter is on a 3 fight winning streak since his lone loss.

That loss came against fellow Boxing360 promoted fighter Joel Diaz Jr. in what was one of the most action filled contests of ShoBox: The New Generation history. The two fighters gained a cult following in the aftermath of their memorable 2012, even Robb in his loss walked away with adoring fans that have been clamoring for a rematch one day. With both fighters under the same promotional umbrella, a rematch is a possibility and assuming they both continue moving up the ranks it could be a much more meaningful fight with deeper implications associated to the bout.

"A lot of people want me to fight Joel again, they loved the first fight and hope we can duplicate the action. My fan base did grow after that fight and I love my fans because they are the kind of fans that really appreciate a fighter who leaves it all on the line. I guess with me and Joel on the roster it makes a rematch more likely, but I'm more concerned with my own future right now and if the road to success leads through a 2nd fight with Joel then I'll be happy to give him a 3rd when I beat him," Robb said.

Repo Rick who manages both Robb and Gibson feels he made the right choice signing his fighters with Boxing 360. 

"Mr. Yagobi is the perfect promoter to move Guy Robb and Keandre Gibson.  He's always moving his fighters the right way.  He's building a nice stable of fighters and I'm looking forward to a great working relationship."

Yagobi is thrilled with the possibilities that come with signing an action fighter like Robb and knows that Diaz Jr. is one of many fights that makes sense for Robb.

"I think that when you have a talent like Robb who can mix it up with anyone you don't worry about finding a fight, you worry about weeding all the others out. Robb has the kind of style that makes for exciting fights with many different styles. The old adage styles make fights should be amended to Rob's style makes fights. We'll explore all possibilities and make the best decision for Robb as a team," Yagobi said.  

 

For more information on Robb and Gibson please visit www.boxing360.com.

JOEL DIAZ JR. SCORES 5TH ROUND TKO IN HOUSTON TEXAS

April 4, 2013 - Undefeated super-featherweight prospect Joel Diaz Jr. (12-0, 11 KOs) continued to impress the boxing world with another knockout victory on the Lou Savarese promoted show that took place at the Bayou Event Center in Houston, Texas.  The latest fighter to suffer defeat to the hands of Diaz was Houston native, Victor Sanchez (4-6-1, 1 KO), who had previously never been stopped.  Diaz was punishing Sanchez for the better part of the fight before the referee halted the bout in the 5th round.  Diaz was awarded a TKO victory and improved on his unbeaten record.

"After being out of the ring for a few months I was really eager to let my hands go tonight," said an energized Joel Diaz Jr. "Sanchez was a very tough fighter and I give him a lot of credit going five tough rounds with me. He showed a lot of heart, but I wasn't going to be denied tonight.  I'm ready to take my career to the next level. My promoter Boxing 360 has big plans for me in 2013 and I can't wait to get back in the ring." 

Boxing 360 promoter Mario Yagobi believes Joel Diaz Jr. is one of the top prospects in all of boxing. Diaz who possessing a 90% knockout ratio, is well on his way to becoming the top prospect in the super-featherweight division.

"Right now Joel Diaz Jr. is the hottest prospect in the world of boxing." said Yagobi. "Every time he fights the fans rave of his performance, style and punching power.  He's getting better with each fight because he's dedicated to the sport.  I'm working on getting right back in the ring next week if things go as planned.  The sky is the limit for this kid and I'm excited about his future."

Joel Diaz Jr is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Diaz please visit www.boxing360.com.

KEANDRAE LEATHERWOOD FACES JULIAN WILLIAMS ON ALVAREZ vs. TROUT UNDERCARD

 

April 4, 2013 - Junior middleweight prospect KeAndrae "Lightning" Leatherwood (12-2-1, 8 KOs) has been added to the undercard of Saul Alvarez and Austin Trout's unification bout at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas which takes place April 20th. Boxing 360's Leatherwood will compete in a 10-round bout against Golden Boy Promotions undefeated Julian Williams (11-0-1, 6 KOs) from Philadelphia.

This will be Leatherwood's first professional fight in Texas and he is being matched tough with Williams coming off of two 7 round TKOs in a row. The nickname "Lightning" is fitting for Leatherwood, who possesses some of the fastest hands in the division, but he will have to prepare himself accordingly in order to perform in a manner that captures the attention of a predictably enthusiastic Texas crowd.

"I've regrouped and I know what I have to focus on in order to produce the best possible performances. My opponent is a talented guy, but I haven't even hit my peak yet and my best boxing is still to come. I know what I'm capable of and I think the boxing world will take notice once they see me put it all together," Leatherwood said.

Leatherwood is looking to take advantage of the high profiled feature bout and hopes to capture the attention of an enthusiastic crowd.

"I know that the atmosphere will be off the charts, it's going to be a great night for boxing. I'm going to win over some of those Latin fans and they will leave the arena that night wanting to see me again," Leatherwood said.

Boxing 360's Mario Yagobi is thrilled to see Leatherwood on an undercard of this magnitude and he too sees this as an opportunity for his fighter to gain a new fan base.

"It's a chance for KeAndrae to show his skills in front of a completely new geographical demographic. Texas fans know boxing and the expected crowd in San Antonio will be an enlightened bunch. Those fans are capable of appreciating a fighter's talents and they will recognize KeAndrae's when he displays his speed, versatility and other attributes," said Leatherwood's promoter Mario Yagobi of Boxing 360.

KeAndrae Leatherwood is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Leatherwood please visit www.boxing360.com.

AALAN MARTINEZ: "This fight will come down to who wants it more"

 

Interview available for distribution

You are heading into the biggest fight of your life with a ton of implications associated to the fight, how have you prepared mentally and what are your thoughts, concerns, and hopes heading into the fight with Orlando Cruz?

Aalan Martinez: I'm confident in my abilities because I know there is no possible way that my opponent has outworked me. You win a fight in the gym and if that is true then I've already done everything it takes to win this fight. The only time a fighter has concerns is when he knows deep down he hasn't done enough to prepare, but I have no concerns. I hope Cruz doesn't underestimate me because that will be a huge mistake.

Orlando Cruz has a ton of world experience and he is ranked very high, what kind of experience will you bring into the fight and how does your knowledge stack up?

Aalan Martinez: Well, don't forget I have some world experience myself and I've fought some really tough opponents in my career. The difference between me and Cruz as far as knowledge and experience goes is I've learned from every single one of my fights and I've worked hard to improve, especially from my loss. I'm not the same fighter since my last loss, I'm not even the same fighter since my last win. This fight will come down to who wants it more and nobody wants it more than I do.

That's interesting, what things did you learn from your loss and how can it help you in your upcoming bout?

Aalan Martinez: My only loss was to Evgeny Gradovich and he just beat Billy Dib for a lightweight title. Everyone knows how good Gradovich is now, but I've known he was a great fighter because I got firsthand experience. I learned that I must keep working from beginning to end and I have to maintain a smart but active pace. Against Cruz I know I'll have to find the perfect combination of patience and aggressiveness.

So are you prepared to go 12 rounds even though you've never fought past 7 or are you banking on keeping your knockout streak going?

Aalan Martinez: I'm in shape to go 24 rounds. There are things that a fighter gets out of the experience of going 12 rounds, sure, but it can only help you, not hurt you. The only way it can hurt you is if you have only ever prepared for 8 rounds and then you go up to 12, but if you make it a point to keep your body in 12 round shape then you are as prepared as you can be. I don't go out there looking to end the fight early; I just take advantage of what my opponents give me. I have the power to end the fight at any moment.

What would a win do for your career and what kind of opponents will you be looking for if you defeat the highly ranked Cruz?

Aalan Martinez: That's a question for my team, I'm as confident in Boxing 360 as I am in myself. My job is to go in there and handle my business in the ring against Cruz; as long as I do my job then Mario can do his and he can only be effective if I am successful. I'm not going to look past Cruz because that is the  true test, but I would think this fight would put me in a good position considering Cruz is so highly ranked, as you mentioned. 

Aalan Martinez is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Martinez please visit www.boxing360.com.

AALAN MARTINEZ FOCUSED ON DEFEATING CRUZ

March 12, 2013-Mexico's Aalan Martinez (14-1-1, 10 KOs) is a days away from the biggest opportunity of his career and a chance to jump up dramatically in the ranks as he squares off with the WBO's #2 ranked featherweight in the world Orlando Cruz (19-2-1, 9 KOs). The 12 round contest is scheduled to be the main event of a Telemundo telecast, from the Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida.

The undertone of this fight will be the WBO Latino featherweight title on the line as well as the Puerto Rico-Mexico rivalry, which is one of the richest rivalries in all of boxing. 

However, the most compelling aspect to the fight has to be the fact that you have two fighters putting it all on the line against one another in order to further themselves in a division filled with potentially lucrative payoffs. For Martinez, he has the chance to earn a victory against a highly acclaimed fighter in Cruz, who was a former Olympian.

"I'm so excited; I just want the day to get here already. This is the part of the camp where you take things easy and it's all about the mental preparation. I've played this fight out in my head and considered so many different outcomes, but every single one of them ends with me victorious," Martinez said.

Martinez is very aware of what a win would mean for his career, but he feels that merely winning isn't enough and he is looking to make a statement.

"I'm focused on the task at hand, but my goal isn't just winning the fight. I've prepared my body to outperform myself on every level and this will be my chance to really gain the attention of the entire boxing community. I'll go out there and perform the way I know how; with just one impressive performance I can totally shakeup the landscape of the division," Martinez said.

Mario Yagobi of Boxing 360 is Martinez's promoter and he isn't underestimating the difficult task that awaits Martinez on Saturday night. However, he knows that a win would put his fighter's name in the mix with all the top talent of the featherweight division.

"This will be a coming out party of sorts for Aalan and we are all very proud of what he's been able to do in boxing so far, but I know that he won't be satisfied until he is triumphant on Saturday. This is a difficult challenge and usually the more difficult the challenge the greater the reward and a win over this kind of opponent could lead to some truly interesting fights," Yagobi said. 

Aalan Martinez is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Martinez please visit www.boxing360.com.

KeAndrae Leatherwood Confident Going Into Centeno Bout

NEW YORK (Feb. 28, 2013) - One of the most dynamic prospects in the junior middleweight division, KeAndrae "Lightning" Leatherwood (12-1-1, 8 KO's), will headline the March 8 edition of ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast) from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California.   Leatherwood will be opposed by undefeated prospect Hugo Centeno Jr. (17-0, 8 KO's), of Oxnard, Calif., in a 10-round junior middleweight bout promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Boxing 360.  Leatherwood, of Tuscaloosa, Ala., was a standout amateur who fought in more than 120 bouts, including competing in the National Junior Olympics and International Junior Olympics. Centeno Jr. vs. Leatherwood, a 10-round junior middleweight bout, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona.  Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT on fight night with the first bell sounding at 5:15 p.m. PT.  The ShoBox: The New Generation telecast will air live on SHOWTIME beginning at 11:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). Tickets, priced at $25, $35 and $45, are on sale at Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com. Leatherwood possesses some of the fastest hands in the division, hence his nickname, "Lightning."  This bout will be a step-up in competition for Leatherwood, but his team knows his work ethic and world-class endurance will allow him to succeed.  Leatherwood has been preparing for this next level of competition, readying his body and skills for the task at hand.  Fighting in the main event on the well-respected ShoBox series, Leatherwood knows this is the perfect opportunity to showcase his skills and propel himself to the next stage of his career.  "I'm so excited to be on SHOWTIME," he said.  "The exposure will be great for my career.  My promoter Mario Yagobi has really come through and given me a golden opportunity.  Now it's up to me to make a believer out of all the new eyes that will get the chance to see me perform." Leatherwood is also excited about putting a win over a prospect like Centeno on his resume; a win that could vault Leatherwood up the ratings and further his chances at a title shot down the road. "There are going to be some pretty upset people after I win, but my team and I will continue with the strategy we have laid out," he said.  "This is an important fight for my career, but it's just the first step and I know I have to fulfill my end of things, which I will do on March 8." Boxing 360's Yagobi believes this will be a coming out party for KeAndrae and he feels that a win under the bright lights of ShoBox will earn him the luxuries afforded to the cream of crop. "KeAndrae is going to put on a show, but it isn't just about getting the win for him," Yagobi said.  "He wants to gain some new fans and put SHOWTIME in a position where they have to bring him back.  The kid is exciting to watch.  I have no doubt he will take care of business on March 8 and then we can continue with the business of building him properly." KeAndrae Leatherwood is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Leatherwood please visit www.boxing360.com.

Alantez Fox Steps Back in the Ring March 2

BOXING 360

February 25, 2013 - Undefeated junior middleweight Alantez "Sly as A" Fox (9-0-1 4KOs) will be making his second appearance of 2013 as he steps in the ring with Greg Hackett (2-9) in a 6 round fight.  The Maryland born prospect will be on a card that is being held in his backyard of Fort Washington, Maryland at the Rosecroft Raceway venue on Saturday, March 2nd. Fox is happy to have a quick turnaround and would like to continue fighting on a consistent basis.  Aside from his skills and physical attributes, Fox is a student of the game and enjoys learning from his performances.  However, Fox finds it equally important to fight in front of his home town crowds in an effort to give them the performances he feels they deserve. "I'm always excited to have a fight scheduled and the feeling intensifies as the fight gets closer," Fox said. "Every fighter brings something different to the table and by fighting more I get the opportunity to see a variety of challenges.  It makes it even better when I get to accomplish my goals in front of my fans from my home town or my home state.  I'll be looking to treat my fans to an entertaining night. Boxing 360 is doing a great job with my career." Boxing 360's Mario Yagobi feels confident that Fox is on the right path and working towards making him a viable contender with a strong fan base. "Fox is willing and able to take on the fighters we put in front of him, he knows that this is the part of his career where he has to make the right moves and I have all the confidence in him getting the job done. It's a process that all fighters find themselves in at one point in their career, Fox is handling all of the obstacles and when he's ready to take the next step I know he'll handle that too," Yagobi said. Alantez Fox is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Fox please visit www.boxing360.com.

EUDY BERNARDO STARTS OFF 2013 WITH A BANG

February 9, 2013 - Unbeaten Lightweight prospect, Eudy Bernardo (16-0, 11 KOs) is 2-0 with two first round knockouts in 2013. The Dominican Republic native is on the fast track to a tremendous year in 2013 as he is quickly approaching his twentieth victory. 

Promoted by Boxing 360, Bernardo has all the tools to become a world champion and his promoter Mario Yagobi is happy with the progress he's shown in his last few fights.  With big fights looming, Yagobi comments on Bernardo's future.

"Eudy is showing me he really wants to take his career to the next level.  He had two spectacular performances this past January and I'm very pleased he's taking these fights with open arms.  Anytime you have a fighter who's willing to step in the ring on the drop of a dime, you know you have something special." said Mario Yagobi.

"Last year I provided him with the good fights and the experience he gained from those fights are going to prepare him for the next level." continued Yagobi. "I have big plans to put him in meaningful fights this year and I can see him fighting for a small title in the near future.  I'm hoping to get him to 20-0 before the year is complete.  With that being said sky is the limit for Eudy Bernardo."

Eudy Bernardo is promoted by Boxing 360.  For more information on Bernardo please visit www.boxing360.com.

JOEL DIAZ JR. PULLS OUT OF THIS FRIDAY'S ESPN FIGHT WITH WRIST INJURY

February 7, 2013 - Junior featherweight prospect Joel Diaz Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) was forced to pull out of his ESPN Friday Night Fights' co-feature bout against Tyler Asselstyne due to a wrist injury he suffered during training. The fight was to take place this Friday on a card being held at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

This would have been Diaz's 2013 debut, but instead he will have to allow time for his injury to heal and then get back to the business of fighting. Still, even with the delay Diaz understands it is something that occurs from time to time and he remains in surprisingly high spirits as he looks forward to his next time out.

"It just happened, I couldn't prevent it and it was just one of those things. I can tell you that if this injury wasn't so severe I would've tried to work through it, but after speaking with my team I've realized that it is always best to play it safe when it comes to things like this. I'll be back, this is a minor setback in the major push I'm looking to make in 2013," Diaz Jr.

Diaz's promoter Mario Yagobi of Boxing 360 Promotions was disappointed to hear the news, but understands that it's part of the game.

"It comes with the territory, Joel is a true warrior and if he's hurt that means it was unavoidable. I mean you can't keep track of the postponements caused by injuries because it's the hazard associated to such a physical sport. I know Joel and he's only comeback with an undeniable intensity, don't feel sorry for him, feel sorry for his next opponent," Yagobi said.

 

For more information on Joel Diaz Jr. please visit www.boxing360.com.

JOEY DAWEJKO RETURNS FEBRUARY 8th IN MONTREAL

January 21, 2013 - Heavyweight prospect Joey DaWejko (7-1-2, 3 KOs) makes a quick return to the ring as he will face another undefeated fighter in Didier Bence (6-0, 2 KOs).  The 6-round bout promoted by Yvon Michel's GYM Promotions in association with Boxing 360, will take place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on February 8.

DaWejko fought four hard rounds against Jarrell Miller (4-0-1, 4 KOs) in his last outing.  The bout ended in a draw with DaWejko winning the final two rounds.  Miller was deducted two points for excessive shoving.

With the Miller fight behind him, DeWejko now looks forward to facing Didier Bence on his home turf.   

 "Miller was a tough fight as I was up against another undefeated opponent, but I showed I can compete with the bigger heavyweights," said Dawejko.  "He was using his K-1 tactics to put me in awkward positions and it cost him a couple of points.   Maybe sometime in the future Miller and I can fight again if he chooses to stay in boxing."

"My whole focus is on Didier Bence and how I'm going to prepare for this fight.  Again, I'm facing another undefeated fighter in his own backyard and I'm confident I'll come out victorious.  I'm a throwback fighter who likes to take on the toughest challenges out there.  Every time I step in the ring I'm learning something new about myself and I'm gaining more confidence with each fight.  I'm looking forward to February 8th."

Mario Yagobi of Boxing 360 stated, "Joey has had two tough fights in a row against very formidable opponents.  Miller is a K-1 fighter and his constant shoving proved to be detrimental in his fight with Joey, but we can look into doing the rematch on a later date.  Right now Joey is going to take on Bence in Montreal with the hopes of improving his record.  DeWejko is showing that he has the heart and desire to compete with anyone in the heavyweight division."

For information on Joey DeWejko please visit www.boxing360.com. 

JOEL DIAZ JR. RETURNS TO THE RING FEBRUARY 8TH ON ESPN2 "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS"

Photo By Miguel Salazar: Joel Diaz Jr. working the mitts with trainer Abel Sanchez

January 21, 2013 - Highly touted undefeated super-featherweight prospect, Joel Diaz Jr. (11-0, 10 KOs) will make his well anticipated return to the ring on February 8, 2013, against Canada's Tyler Asselstine (12-0, 7 KOs).   The 10-round co-feature bout takes place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.   ESPN2 "Friday Night Fights" will televise the show which is promoted by isYvon Michel's GYM Promotions in association with Boxing 360. 

Having knocked out his last nine opponents, Diaz looks to continue his reign as one of the biggest power punchers in the division.  Asselstine will present a stern step up in competition for Diaz, but one he is looking forward to.

"I've been training very hard for the last six months waiting for my named to be called and now that time has come," said Diaz. "I know this will be a fight where I will have to go to my opponents' backyard and fight him on his homeland.  These are the type of fights that can only make me better.  I have complete confidence that I will come out victorious against Asselstine."

Diaz who fights under the promotional banner of Boxing 360, has been training at "The Summit" in Big Bear, California, with his well know trainer Able Sanchez.  Together the two have been working diligently on improving all aspects of Joel's God given attributes.

"Able is a great trainer and he knows what my strengths are," Diaz stated. "I know if I listen to his instructions I'm going to become a better fighter.  He's trained many well known fighters and I just want to follow the footsteps of those who've made it to the top. Right now I'm feeling very comfortable in the ring fighting both on the inside and out.  In addition, my stamina is at an all time high as I'm in the best shape of my life.  I want to thank my promoter Mario Yagobi and Boxing 360 for giving me this opportunity."

Boxing 360 expects Joel Diaz Jr. to have a tremendous 2013.  Fans can expect Joel to be fighting frequently in the months ahead.  For more information on Joel Diaz Jr. please visit www.boxing360.com.