Christmas Present Arrives Early: Lewkowicz Renews Contract with Fortuna

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing got his Christmas present a day early this year, as former interim WBA World featherweight Champion Javier "El Abejon" Fortuna has renewed his long-term promotional contract. One of the sport's most exciting knockout punchers, 25-year-old Fortuna (26-0-1, 19 KOs), from the Dominican Republic, is considered an irreplaceable member of the Sampson Boxing stable. "This is my gift for this year, to continue working with a budding superstar like Javier," said Lewkowicz. "He is on the verge of stardom and, like all my fighters, he is also like a son to me. I admire all of their loyalty and I wish them all a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays." Lewkowicz also says the future is looking bright once again for everyone in boxing and sends his warmest regards. "2015 will be a great year for my fighters and for boxing and I want to wish all my co-workers and brothers and sisters in boxing my sincerest wishes for a wonderful holiday." ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008. Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world's most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world's best fighters and most promising young contenders. Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.

RAY WOOD: "MY ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO MAKE IT TO THE UFC"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (July 25, 2014) – Ray "All Business" Wood (4-0) was, arguably, the hottest star on the Northeast regional fight scene a little over a year ago.  Having just claimed the New England Fights Mixed Martial Arts (NEF MMA) Maine State Featherweight Title, Wood seemed to be on the fast track to the big leagues of the sport.  Then, a devastating knee injury cut that momentum short.  After surgery and an extensive rehab period, Wood is scheduled to make his long-awaited return to the cage at NEF MMA's next event, "NEF XIV," on September 6 in Lewiston, Maine.  Recently, Wood as a featured guest on the NEF Podcast hosted by NEF MMA matchmaker and co-owner Matt Peterson.

Growing up in Bucksport, Maine, Wood found his early calling competing in the sport of wrestling.  While he was, admittedly, not a standout in the sport, Wood had a passion for competition, a passion that would not be satisfied at the collegiate level.  His second calling would not come until he joined Young's MMA in Bangor, Maine.

"I finished up in high school wrestling," said Wood during his NEF Podcast interview.  "I always had that urge to compete.  I loved the competitiveness behind it.  That wasn't around anymore, I wasn't really interested in collegiate wrestling or anything of that nature.  I was looking around, started training at Team Irish.  I wasn't really learning a whole lot there, and then I found Chris Young (head coach of Young's MMA).  Chris Young was working out of his basement at the time... When I first started training there, I had no interest in cage fighting or getting in the cage or anything like that.  I just wanted to stay in shape. 

After a stellar amateur career, Wood went on a three-fight win-streak to start his professional career.  Then, he earned his chance to become the first-ever Maine State Featherweight Champion before his hometown crowd at "NEF Nations Collide: Canadian Invasion" last July in Bangor.  In the main event that night, Wood defeated Lenny Wheeler (6-3) to capture the title.

"That's a dream come true in itself," recalled Wood of the victory. "To win a title, not only in my home state, a professional title to be exact, it's an unbelievable feeling.  It's tough to put into words. There's so much emotion going through you...  Home crowd, to have almost 3,000 people screaming your name, in your corner, it's unbelievable."

Shortly after that win, Wood began to experience pain in his knee. He continued training for several weeks thereafter, playing through the pain and preparing for his next title defense.  When he finally got checked by a doctor, the news was worse than expected.

"It was devastating at first, to find out I had a torn ACL," Wood continued.  "After the July fight, I went back to training.  My knee was sore.  I wasn't really thinking there was anything wrong with it... It wasn't until October that I decided to check it out and find out I needed surgery.  I had a completely torn ACL.  I was training for months on a completely torn ACL.  That to me was devastating.  To have such a high, to climb that ladder, and to know that I had to climb back down and work my way up again, it's ridiculous."

Most fighters would take a tune-up fight after returning from such a serious injury.  Wood made it clear that he and his teammates at Young's MMA have no interest in tune-up or easy fights.  Hence his upcoming title defense on September 6 against tough Brazilian fighter Gabriel Baino (6-1) from Team Link.

"Going out there, padding your record, fighting nobodies, once you make it to the next level you're just going to look silly," said Wood. "I certainly had an opportunity to take a tune-up fight, if that's what you want to call it, but, you know, I'm ambitious.  I want to make it to the next level... I've never felt better.  I've never been more prepared for anything.  I'm ready for this no matter what... This is certainly going to be a test for me.  I've never been tested... I'm expecting a five-round war... just a five-round, all-out war.  I'm gonna have to throw everything I have at this kid to put him away... I have some tricks up my sleeve.  There's gonna be a new Ray 'All Business' Wood out there come September 6."

Later during the NEF Podcast interview, Wood discussed an incident earlier in the year between he and Jon Lemke (3-2).  The two exchanged words on Facebook earlier this year in a very public argument when defending their teammates, Ryan Sanders (6-5) and Marcus "The Irish Hand Grenade" Davis (22-11), shortly before Sanders and Davis met in the much-anticipated main event of "NEF XII."  Wood also touched on the possibility of a future fight with Lemke now that Lemke had moved down in weight to the 145-pound featherweight division.

"It was just basically defending our own," Wood said of the Facebook argument with Lemke.  "I felt that some of the comments he had said were out of line.  I felt like he didn't have a right to say the things he said after being a 'no-show' or whatever, but I understand he had some issues at the time... I respect the man.  I respect anyone who steps in the cage and does what they do... Jon's a good guy.  I have no problem with anyone over at Irish... As far as fighting Jon, that would be a great fight.  If he made it down to 145, that'd be an awesome fight."

There is no doubt that Ray Wood is motivated and looking to take his career to the next level.  Several months ago, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) President Dana White made an unannounced visit to Young's MMA to visit Wood after hearing so much about Wood's abilities.  While the injury was a setback, Wood is still looking to push forward and make it to the highest level in the sport.

"My ultimate goal is to make it to the UFC," said Wood.  "That's my goal.  Right now, I'd like to stay as active as I can, but more importantly is staying healthy... But my ultimate goal is to make it to the next level.  Whether it's Bellator or the UFC, whatever, I just have ambitions and want to make it to the next level."

To listen to the full NEF Podcast interview with Ray Wood, please visit www.NewEnglandFights.com/Podcasts/.

Fans should visit www.YoungsMMA.com to learn more about Ray Wood and his teammates.

NEF MMA's next event, “NEF XIV,” is scheduled to take place onSaturday, September 6, 2014 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with a bell time of 7:00 pm.  In the main event of the evening, Tim "The Maine-iac" Sylvia (31-9) returns to Maine to face fellow UFC veteran Christian Morecraft (8-3) for the Super-Heavyweight Title.  Featherweight Champion Ray "All Business" Wood (4-0) returns from injury after a year of recovery against Brazil's Gabriel Baino (6-1).  Bantamweight Champion Paul Gorman (10-8) defends against Tim "The Terror" Goodwin (8-4).  Plus, Bruce "Pretty Boy" Boyington (6-7) and Jesse "The Viking" Erickson (3-2) will meet for the Lightweight Title, Ryan Sanders (6-5) faces Ryan Quinn (10-4-1), and John "First Class" Raio (2-5) competes in his final fight.

Tickets for "NEF XIV" start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525.  For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com. In addition, you can watch NEF MMA videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

About New England Fights

New England Fights Mixed Martial Arts (“NEF MMA”) is a Mixed Martial Arts promotions company. NEF MMA’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF MMA’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.

Tevin Farmer in camp with Vasyl Lomachenko

LAS VEGAS (MAY 21, 2014)--Featherweight prospect Tevin "The American Idol" Farmer is in camp and is sparring with Featherweight title challenger Vasyl Lomachenko in Las Vegas. Farmer of Philadelphia is giving Loamachenko some good southpaw work as the Ukranian amateur legend prepares for his WBO Featherweight title fight against undefeated former U.S. Olympian Gary Russell Jr. on June 21 in Carson, California. Farmer (15-4-1, 3 KO's) himself is also preparing for a June 5 bout against undefeated Emanuel Gonzalez in Boston on Fox Sports 1. "I am here learning, getting experience and helping him prepare for his fight,"said Farmer. "Just training and being in the camp has helped my confidence as I prepare for my own fight.  I know on June 5, I will be more than prepared and put on a good show for the fans.  They will want to see me again.  I have been waiting for this opportunity my whole life.  It is here and I am ready to take it." "This a great experience for Tevin, said Club 1957 manager Mark Cipparone. "Lomachenko is considered one of the greatest amateur fighters in history as he won two gold medals and to be able to absorb knowledge from him is priceless.  We hope that being in this camp will help Tevin in his own career going forward," finished Cipparone.  Fans can follow Tevin Farmer on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Teamfarmerboxing?fref=ts On Instagram and Twitter @tevinfarmer22

Selby earns Featherweight title shot with unanimous decision over Koasicha

San Diego, CA - May 17, 2014 -Lee Selby earned a shot at WBC Featherweight champion Jhonny Gonzalez with a 12-round unanimous decision over Romulo Koasicha in a WBC title elimination bout as well as a WBC International title fight at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales. Selby was effective with the volume of punches by just doing a solid job of keeping Koasicha on the receiving end of three and four punch combinations. Koasicha had a few opportunities in round's five and seven as he got through with some solid left hooks but he was not able to capitalize on  his few effective moments. Down the stretch, Selby was not challenged in the least as he boxed and moved well and cruised home to the victory to the tune of 119-109, 119-109 and 119-110. Selby, 125 1/2 lbs of Barrie, Wales is now 19-1. Koasicha, 125 1/2 lbs of San Luis Potasi, Mexico drops to 21-4. Former world Light Heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly made a splash in his Cruiserweight debut by taking out Shawn Corbin in round two of their scheduled 12-round WBA Intercontinental title bout. Cleverly hurt Corbin with and uppercut and was relentless with pinpoint punches that continued to snap the head of Corbin back until referee Richie Davies stopped the bout at 2:19 of round two. Cleverly, 198 1/2 lbs of Wales is now 27-1 with 13 knockouts. Corbin, 195 1/2 lbs of Trinidad and Tobago is now 17-5.  Former world champion Gavin Rees and Gary Buckland staged their 2nd war in just over three months that saw Rees capture a split decision in a 12 round Lightweight bout that was Rees' final ring outing. The two traded hard shots in close for basically all 12 rounds of the bout  that saw many ebbs and flows during the contest. Both guys landed hard thudding shots and had each other in trouble. Rees was cut over his left eye in round 10 but came back to rock Buckland several times in the final two frames. Rees had Buckland in trouble in the final round but Buckland came on to land a few good power punches of his own. Rees, 137 lbs of Newbridge, Wales won by scores of 117-113 and 117-112 while Buckland took a card 117-112. Rees finishes his career with a record of 38-4-1. Buckland, 137 of Cardiff, Wales is now 28-4. Good looking Super Middleweight prospect Callum Smith took out Tobias Webb in round two of their scheduled 10-round WBC International Super Middleweight bout. Smith droped Webb four times in round two, three of them were from vicious body shots. The final knockdown was a left to the body that sent Webb down on all fours and he was counted out at 2:50 of round two. Smith, 166 3/4 lbs of Liverpool is now 11-0 with 9 knockouts. Webb, 167 1/2 lbs is now 14-2-1. Paul Smith Jr tuned up for a potential world title shot with Arthur Abraham with a 2nd round destruction over David Sarabia in a eight round Light Heavyweight bout. Smith dropped Sarabia in the 1st round from a right hand. He hurt Sarabia in round two and pounced on him with a big barrage of punches and the fight was stopped at1:17 of round two. Smith, 171 3/4 lbs of Liverpool, UK is now 35-3 with 20 KO's. Sarabia, 170 1/4 lbs of Spain is now 7-4-2.   Stay tuned for upcoming world-class boxing bouts live on AWE via Verizon FiOS TV channels 169 and 669 in HD, AT&T U-Verse TV channels 470 and1470 in HD, along with over 100 cable systems across the country and worldwide. Watch for additional live boxing announcements at www.awetv.com   About AWE LIVE BOXNG In 2012, AWE earned 2 of the 6 Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for "Fight of the Year" candidates, beating out all other networks except HBO which earned three. AWE also showcased live all 2012 David Price fights. In 2013, AWE has featured the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, bouts with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew, who just fought each other for the Light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale and possibly the two most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran as well as the debatable stoppage that saw Carl Froch retain his title against George Groves. About AWE - A Wealth of Entertainment A Wealth of Entertainment ("AWE") features a wide range of lifestyle and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 470 and 1470 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 116 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

Former world champion Nathan Cleverly looks to make impression on Cruiserweight division this Saturday on AWE

San Diego, CA - May 16, 2014 -This Saturday afternoon, former WBO Light Heavyweight champion Nathan Cleverly (26-1, 12 KO's)  will make his debut as a Cruiserweight when he takes on Sean Corbin in a 12-round bout for the WBA Intercontinental title.   The card will be broadcast in the United State on AWE and will begin at 2:30 PM ETand will originate from the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales.   Cleverly of Wales is looking to start anew after losing his WBO Light Heavyweight title when he was stopped by Sergey Kovalev last August 17.   In the main event, Featherweight contender Lee Selby (18-1, 7 KO's) will look to inch closer to to a world title shot when he takes on tough Mexican Romulo Koasicha(21-3, 12 KO's) in a bout that will contested for the WBC International title.    Cleverly of Wales is looking to start anew after losing his WBO Light Heavyweight title when he was stopped by Sergey Kovalev last August 17.    Cleverly is in a good state of mind despite the loss to Kovalev and believes the new weight is a fresh start.   "Everything is  great.  My weight is good.  I feel strong and fresh and I am eager to see how i perform at this weight.  I know there are a few question marks and I will look to see how I perform at Cruiserweight," said Cleverly.   After coming off such a stunning defeat, Cleverly understands that he will have doubters but he feels otherwise.   "I have no doubt.  I took a nice break and feel refreshed.  I feel strong and am in a good place.  I am ready for the challenge."   Corbin of Trinidad and Tobago has a record of 17-4 with 12 knockouts could pose to be a formidable challenge Ceverly as he has won two in a row and also has a win over former WBC champion Wayne Braithwaite.   "Corbin is tall and in shape.  He looks good but I should take care of him if I want to progress.  I have to beat this guy."   With a win, there is already speculation of a rematch with Tony Bellew.  The two met in 2011 when Cleverly won a hotly contested majority decision in what was Cleverly's 2nd title defense.  There is no love loss between the two and like Cleverly, Bellew just moved up to the Cruiserweight division.   "I won the 1st fight with Bellew.  The fans like these rivalries.  I want the big fights.  That fight creates hype and I think it could be a fight the fans want."   Bellew aside, Cleverly loved being a world champion and he wants to have that feeling again.  He is not targeting any champion in particular but would love a shot sooner rather than later.   "I look at all the champs as good solid fighters.  In a few fights I want to be ready to challenge one of them.   I need to win my next three fights to get that opportunity.  I will be back to my best.  I am looking to be involved  in exciting fights.  I have a fan friendly style and I will be back to my best as a Cruiserweight," finished Cleverly.   A stacked undercard has been arranged by promoter Eddie Hearns of Matchroom Sport. In a 12-round Battle for the WBC International Super Middleweight title,undefeated Callum Smith (10-0, 8 KO's) will take on Tobias Webb (14-1-1, 2 KO's). Gary Buckland (28-3, 9 KO's) will battle former world champion Gavin Rees(37-4-1, 18 KO's). Also former Light Heavyweight champion, Nathan Cleverly (26-1, 12 KO's) will make his Cruiserweight debut against Sean Corbin (17-4, 12 KO's)    Boxing fans can enjoy Selby vs Koasicha and upcoming world-class boxing bouts live on AWE via Verizon FiOS TV channels 169 and 669 in HD, AT&T U-Verse TV channels 470 and1470 in HD, along with over 100 cable systems across the country and worldwide. Watch for additional live boxing announcements at www.awetv.com About AWE LIVE BOXNG In 2012, AWE earned 2 of the 6 Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for "Fight of the Year" candidates, beating out all other networks except HBO which earned three. AWE also showcased live all 2012 David Price fights. In 2013, AWE has featured the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, bouts with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew, who just fought each other for the Light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale and possibly the two most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran as well as the debatable stoppage that saw Carl Froch retain his title against George Groves. About AWE - A Wealth of Entertainment A Wealth of Entertainment ("AWE") features a wide range of lifestyle and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 470 and 1470 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 116 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

With big fights on the Horizon, Selby looks for impressive showing against Koasicha Saturday on AWE

San Diego, CA - May 15, 2014 -This Saturday afternoon, Featherweight contender Lee Selby will look to inch closer to rumored big fights when he takes on tough Mexican Romulo Koasicha in a bout that will broadcast live in the United States on AWE.   The card begins at 2:30 PM Eastern / 11:30 AM Pacific. The fight, will be for the WBC International Featherweight title, will originate from the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales.   Selby of Barry, Wales has a record of 18-1 with 7 knockouts. Selby has been on a roll, winning 14 straight fights and capturing multiple championships. Selby is ranked no. 3 in the world by the WBC, no. 12 by the WBA, no. 6 in the world by the IBF and no. 10 in the world by the WBO.    "Everything is going well and the preparation was great,"said Selby on Thursdaymorning.   When asked about his opponent, Selby had very little knowledge going intoSaturday's contest. "I really don't know too much.  I know he likes to mix it up and he has a good jab." With potential big fights on the horizon against WBC champion Jhonny Gonzalez or Nonito Donaire (who fights for the WBA title later this month), Selby is not looking past the upset minded Koasicha. "I take each fight as its own.  I prepare myself well and treat them all the same." Selby made a big impression to the American fans on February 1st when he stopped former world title challenger Rendall Munroe in a fight that was also seen on AWE. "It is great to be seen in America.  That is where the big fights are and it is great to be able to show my talent.  Hopefully I can challenge for one of the titles.  I just want everybody to keep following my career.  Hopefully I can fight in America and bring a title back to Wales," finished Selby.   Koasicha of San Luis Potosi, Mexico has a record of 21-3 with 12 knockouts. He has earned a number of belts, including the WBC United Stated USNBC with a 7th round stoppage over Eduardo Becerril. Koasicha has defended the title three times over two reigns which includes his last bout when he scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Marcos Cardenas on February 8.  He is ranked no. 15 by the WBC A stacked undercard has been arranged by promoter Eddie Hearns of Matchroom Sport. In a 12-round Battle for the WBC International Super Middleweight title,undefeated Callum Smith (10-0, 8 KO's) will take on Tobias Webb (14-1-1, 2 KO's). Gary Buckland (28-3, 9 KO's) will battle former world champion Gavin Rees(37-4-1, 18 KO's). Also former Light Heavyweight champion, Nathan Cleverly (26-1, 12 KO's) will make his Cruiserweight debut against Sean Corbin (17-4, 12 KO's)  Boxing fans can enjoy Selby vs Koasicha and upcoming world-class boxing bouts live on AWE via Verizon FiOS TV channels 169 and 669 in HD, AT&T U-Verse TV channels 470 and1470 in HD, along with over 100 cable systems across the country and worldwide. Watch for additional live boxing announcements at www.awetv.com About AWE LIVE BOXNG In 2012, AWE earned 2 of the 6 Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for "Fight of the Year" candidates, beating out all other networks except HBO which earned three. AWE also showcased live all 2012 David Price fights. In 2013, AWE has featured the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, bouts with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew, who just fought each other for the Light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale and possibly the two most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran as well as the debatable stoppage that saw Carl Froch retain his title against George Groves. About AWE - A Wealth of Entertainment A Wealth of Entertainment ("AWE") features a wide range of lifestyle and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 470 and 1470 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 116 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

Lee Selby to Battle Romulo Koasicha for the WBC International Featherweight title LIVE on Saturday, May 17 on AWE

San Diego, CA - May 6, 2014 - On Saturday, May 17, Lee Selby will take on Romulo Koasicha for the vacant WBC International Featherweight title in a 12-round bout bout that will headline a championship afternoon of boxing live on AWE - A Wealth of Entertainment. The fight, which will also serve as a WBC Elimination bout to champion Johnny Gonzalez's belt), will originate from the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff, Wales. "This will be another great afternoon of live world-class boxing", said AWE President Charles Herring. "We have two title fights with the winner positioned to fight for the world title. The Buckland verses Rees bout will be a terrific fight and boxing fans will be excited to see Nathan Cleverly's Cruiserweight debut." Selby of Barry, Wales has a record of 18-1 with 7 knockouts. Selby has been on a roll, winning 14 straight fights and capturing multiple championships. The 27-year old Selby has won the Welsh Area Featherweight title and the Celtic Featherweight title. He won the British and Commonwealth Featherweight titles with an 8th round stoppage over previously undefeated Stephen Smith (12-0). He defended The British belt four times and the Commonwealth Belt five times. During those defenses he had impressive wins over Patrick Okine (11-1-1), Martin Lindsay (20-1), Corey McConnell (11-0-1) and his last bout where he also capture the European Featherweight title with a 6th round stoppage over former world title challenger Randall Munroe (27-3-1) on February 1st. Selby also captured the WBC International Featherweight title when scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Viorel Simion (16-0) in 2012. Selby is ranked no. 4 in the world by the WBC, no. 6 in the world by the IBF and no. 10 in the world by the WBO.  Koasicha of San Luis Potosi, Mexico has a record of 21-3 with 12 knockouts. He has earned a number of belts, including the WBC United Stated USNBC with a 7th round stoppage over Eduardo Becerril. Koasicha has defended the title three times over two reigns which includes his last bout when he scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Marcos Cardenas on February 8. A stacked undercard has been arranged by promoter Eddie Hearns of Matchroom Sport. In a 12-round Battle for the WBC International Super Middleweight title, undefeated Callum Smith (10-0, 8 KO's) will take on Tobias Webb (14-1-1, 2 KO's). Gary Buckland (28-3, 9 KO's) will battle former world champion Gavin Rees(37-4-1, 18 KO's). Also former Light Heavyweight champion, Nathan Cleverly (26-1, 12 KO's) will make his Cruiserweight debut against Sean Corbin (17-4, 12 KO's)  Boxing fans can enjoy Selby vs Koasicha and upcoming world-class boxing bouts live on AWE via Verizon FiOS TV channels 169 and 669 in HD, AT&T U-Verse TV channels 470 and1470 in HD, along with over 100 cable systems across the country and worldwide. Watch for additional live boxing announcements at www.awetv.com About AWE LIVE BOXNG In 2012, AWE earned 2 of the 6 Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for "Fight of the Year" candidates, beating out all other networks except HBO which earned three. AWE also showcased live all 2012 David Price fights. In 2013, AWE has featured the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, bouts with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew, who just fought each other for the Light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale and possibly the two most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran as well as the debatable stoppage that saw Carl Froch retain his title against George Groves. About AWE - A Wealth of Entertainment A Wealth of Entertainment ("AWE") features a wide range of lifestyle and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 470 and 1470 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 116 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.

FORMER NEF MMA TITLEHOLDER TO COMPETE IN BELLATOR FINALS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Lewiston, Maine (April 30, 2014) – New England Fights Mixed Martial Arts (NEF MMA), the Northeast’s premier mixed martial arts promotion, is proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of the fight promotion's former lightweight champion Desmond "The Predator" Green (12-2).  On May 9, Green will face Germany's Daniel Weichel (33-8) in the final round of the Bellator MMA Season 10 featherweight tournament.  The bout, which will originate from Rama, Ontario, CN, is scheduled to be featured on Spike TV.  The winner will receive $100,000 in addition to a future shot at the Bellator Featherweight Championship.

"We're so proud of Dez," said NEF MMA co-owner and promoter Nick DiSalvo.  "We knew he had that star quality the first time he stepped in the NEF cage as an amateur.  It's hard to believe that was only two years ago.  He made it so far in such a short time."

A native of Rochester, New York, Green was a standout wrestler in high school, earning himself a scholarship to the University of Buffalo.  In late 2011, Green took an amateur MMA fight last minute and was victorious.  Soon after, he joined Ryan Ciotoli's well-respected Team Bombsquad and began competing regularly on MMA cards across the Northeast.  Green won his NEF MMA debut at NEF I in February 2012 over Nate Charles (1-7) before scoring professional victories over Bruce Boyington (6-7) and Brandon Fleming (3-2).  He became a quick favorite of the Maine fight fans who would cheer wildly the second his "Buffalo Soldier" entrance music would play.  In May 2013, Green met and defeated UFC veteran Henry Martinez (9-6) in a dominant performance to capture the Maine State MMA Lightweight Championship at NEF VII.

Just weeks after winning the title, however, Green would vacate the belt to sign with top national fight promotion Bellator.  Losing his first Bellator bout, Green rebounded with an impressive second-round stoppage of Angelo Sanchez (11-6) a month later in a non-tournament bout.  He would then enter the featherweight tournament in Season 10 of Bellator where he would score back-to-back decision victories over Michael "The Marine" Richman (16-4) and Will Martinez (9-3-1) to earn his spot in the finals.

"In two weeks I will be fighting for a chance to win a world title and I am so focused and ready," said Green when reached for comment. "I've been training super hard in Ithaca and Rochester with Matt Lee at Ultimate Athletics.  This has been a short but rigid road to get here in the past two years, and I really am appreciative for NEF helping me get here through their support of me and giving me fights and allowing me to have my first championship through them."

"Dez is the blueprint of what we strive for all NEF athletes to become," said NEF MMA co-owner and matchmaker Matt Peterson. "We want to properly promote fighters, get them the right fights to develop themselves, and launch them to Bellator or the UFC.  That is the goal here.  There are several fighters on the NEF roster right now who are just a win or two away from becoming the next 'Dez Green.'  When NEF comes to town, if you're a fan of the sport, get your tickets, because you never know when you're going to see the next big breakout star in MMA on one of our cards!"

NEF MMA's next event, “NEF XIII,” is scheduled to take place onSaturday, May 10, 2014 at the Androscoggin Bank Colisee in Lewiston, Maine with a bell time of 7:00 pm.  In the main event of the evening, “The" Ryan Sanders (6-4) will rematch Maine State MMA Welterweight Champion Gil de Freitas (15-5) nearly two years after de Freitas defeated Sanders for the inaugural title.  Tickets for "NEF XIII" start at just $25 and are on sale now at www.TheColisee.com or by calling The Colisee box office at 207.783.2009 x 525.  For more information on the event and fight card updates, please visit the promotion’s website at www.NewEnglandFights.com. In addition, you can watch NEF MMA videos at www.youtube.com/NEFMMA, follow them on Twitter @nefights and join the official Facebook group “New England Fights.”

About New England Fights

New England Fights Mixed Martial Arts (“NEF MMA”) is a Mixed Martial Arts promotions company. NEF MMA’s mission is to create the highest quality events for Maine’s fighters and fans alike. NEF MMA’s executive team has extensive experience in combat sports management, events production, media relations, marketing, legal and advertising.