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Arizona Boxing News & Notes with Don Smith: Q & A Excerpts, Benavidez Jr. Re-signs, J Trotter By Don Smith PhilBoxing.com Thu, 30 Oct 2014  Benavidez Jr. Boxing Fans, Arizona Boxing/ MMA Commission Chairman Michael Preston Green was able to respond to 16 questions I sent him via email after my query was forwarded to the commission Executive Director Matthew Valenzuela. I was told the administrative intervention step is part of the process. One question was discarded, by me, because it wasn?t relevant to Mr. Green?s position. Mr. Green is a celebrated lawyer (Brownstein Hyatt Farber Scheck) and he was first appointed to the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission by then Governor Fife Symington in 1995. His current term ends in January of 2015 and he hopes to be re-appointed by the winner of the November 2014 Arizona Gubernatorial election. Due to space restraints, this column will feature three questions with Commissioner Green?s unedited answers in this column and the remainder of the Q & A session can be read in installments at later dates in Arizona Boxing News & Notes. Here is the first installment of our emailed conversation. ABNN: Your term on the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission will expire on January 19, 2015?would you like to be reappointed by the next sitting Governor and what qualifications are required to become a member of the 3 person commission? MPG: Yes I would like to be reappointed by the next Governor. Despite having been appointed by three previous Governors and thus serving a number of years, my enthusiasm for the job has not waned and I believe my experience makes me a better Commissioner every year. Qualifications should include having a true appreciation of the sports of Boxing and MMA and a thorough knowledge of the rules and medical dangers of participating in the sports. It is also helpful if a Commissioner appreciates the benefits to youth of participating, especially the opportunity to get these young people off the streets, away from gangs and bring able to learn the discipline and motivation they need to succeed not only in the ring and cage, but in life. Lastly, because of the major economic benefits to the state that results from such events being held in Arizona, a Commissioner needs to be an economic development/sales person for the state so as to assist in attracting top notch events. ABNN: Some states require boxers to be MRI tested after being knocked out, Arizona doesn?t; what is your position? MPG: As you are well aware, concussions are a hot topic with football players and spreading. We are at this very moment evaluating what tests and procedures are needed after a fighter is knocked out. I assure you will address the issue in public sessions, hopefully before year end. ABNN: How would you rank the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission as far as being innovative in the protection of Athletes in regard to health and pension plans? MPG: I think the Arizona Boxing Commission is at the forefront in protecting our athletes in the ring. We have embraced the most sophisticated rules and regulations available to us, and continue to monitor what are the best protocols for the fighters. Our mantra and mission will always be to protect the health and safety of our fighter. To my knowledge, pension plans for the athletes have never been a serious subject for discussion. Benavidez Jr. Re-signs: Undefeated Phoenix Welterweight Jose Benavidez Jr. (21-0-15 knockouts) has re-upped with Top Rank Boxing for 3 more years. It is my understanding, Top Rank offered 2 years and Team Benavidez countered with 3 years and a deal with a signing bonus was struck. The accord took some time to be agree upon and some naysayers began thinking Arum & Company were about to drop the 21 year old Arizona boxing prot?g?. Top Rank insists the plan, from the beginning, was to resign the young man when the opportunity could be addressed and the boxer was signed. Boxing fans remember what happened to Jesus ?El Martillo? Gonzales, another Arizona fighter who was under contract to Top Rank Boxing. Gonzales, a Phoenix native, was 17-0 and under contract with Top Rank when he met veteran Jose Luis Zertuche who knocked out Gonzales in the 8th round to capture the vacant International Boxing Council Middleweight Title on September 17, 2005 in Phoenix at the America West Arena which has since been renamed US Airways Center. Gonzales blamed a hand injury for his loss, but most boxing insiders thought he was over rated, over matched, over hyped and ready to be dumped; of course this speculative opinion was never proved , but ?El Martillo? left Top Rank and signed elsewhere. In conclusion, Jesus went on to have a successful career (27-2) but the drop by Top Rank INC. caused boxing critics to wonder about the health and wellbeing of the young southpaw. Later it was disclosed that he didn?t pass several MRI tests conducted in more than one state including Nevada, New York and Connecticut. Gonzales last official fight ended with a 1st round knockout loss at the hands of Adonis ?Superman? Stevenson in Canada. Rumors about his return to boxing continue to be heard, but my sources tell me he has returned to college and will seek another career. He did spar with Floyd Mayweather and Chad Dawson a few months back, but not much activity since leaving observers to think the Arizona Native has retired. Benavidez Jr. is the new ?Golden Boy? of Arizona boxing and on December 13, he takes on California tough guy Mauricio Herrera (21-4 w/knockouts. Herrera has fought the cream of the crop: Danny Garcia, Mike Alvarado and Johan Perez to mention just a few of his ring encounters. Yes, he lost to Garcia and Alvarado but both fighters had their hands full when they took on the 34 year old Riverside, California resident. I agree with local trainer Andrew Mendez (Strong Enough Gym) who thinks Benavidez Jr. is the real deal. Personally, I never thought Gonzales was world champion material even though I like the man and wish him the best. Jesus aka Ernie was never physically a true super middleweight and he never trained hard, in my opinion, to become a world champion. On December 13, the world will know a lot more about the potential of Jose Benavidez Jr.; contender or pretender? I wish him the best. Jurisprudence: Readers of this column are well aware of my search for the truth concerning the alleged December 2013 assault and battery charges against a young Phoenix boxer. I talked to someone connected to the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission and he/she told me they were aware of the innuendos surrounding the incident in question, but until the Commission receives evidence in the nature of a police crime report; any official comment would be pure speculation. I sent the crime report # to an Official with ties to the commission and hopefully he/she will take time to ask for a copy of the document. For now, the matter resides in the hands of the Maricopa County Superior Court in Phoenix, Arizona waiting to be refilled. There is a disclosed theory that the alleged victim filed a false report. The accused maintains it was a case of horse play and rough sexual foreplay. Police personnel on the scene don?t share that story version according to the crime report, I read. Also the crime report states the mother of the alleged perpetrator tried to coerce the alleged victim into changing her story. The alleged victim showed visible physical signs of being choked and abused according to the filed police report. The law is clear about false reporting. If an alleged victim files a false police report (Class One Misdemeanor) and is found guilty; he/she could face 0-6 months in jail. In addition, a fine of $2,500.00 and a 84% surcharge could be imposed according to Arizona Statutes A.R.S 13-2907 & 13-2907.01. My personal and professional concern is the welfare of the alleged victim. Years ago, I refused to take action when I approached a female friend who was being threatened by a male she knew. She told everything was fine when I sensed she was in trouble. To this day, I wince when I hear about a defenseless person falling prey to a bully or misguided lover. Hopefully, police authorities and the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission will investigate the matter thoroughly and objectively until justice is served. This controversial case is creating a buzz in high political places and action is expected, soon. Short Jabs: Latest word on Ben Miranda?s Boxing Promotion fight date is still being discussed. The Sheraton Hotel, Cooperstown and the Arizona Event Center are in the mix as possible venues. I would count the Sheraton consideration out because of a recent fire, but extent of damage is unclear. I understand the Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission is taking baby steps in the process of approving a second promoted show by BMBP after the first show at the Phoenix Convention Center was openly criticized by a host of critics including Arizona Boxing Commissioner Michael Preston Green and members of the Arizona State Legislature. When it rains, it pours! Sorry to hear the company is finding difficulty in finding a proper venue and date. Their current 2014 promotional license expires at the end of December. Boxing in Arizona needs more affordable venues and promoters who genuinely care about the sport. The date, if approved, will most likely be pushed into December 2 weeks before Christmas if the event happens?.MMA fans rejoice, Crank it up Promotions is staging another show at the Arizona Events Center in Mesa on Saturday, December 20, at ds5 p.m. Check out ticket prices and show info at www.azeventscenter.com or rush over to the box-office and purchase the ducats of your choice. Also, the center is presenting a MuayThai show on December 19 and the presentation will crown 5 champions. Good seats are still available at the Event Center Box-office?Casa Grande Arizona welterweight Abel Ramos has mended from a broken hand and will put his undefeated record on the line in three weeks in Tennessee against an unnamed opponent; more definitive info, next column. Abel and his team was miffed that some boxing folks thought he lost his last bout in California?.UFC: Ultimate Fighting Championship at US Airway Center in Phoenix; tickets available through Ticket Master and cheaper at the US Airway Center Box-office? young Arizona light heavyweight David Benavidez (7-0) continues to rack up wins in Mexico. Next year he will fight on American soil?.viva David! More News & Notes: 15 year old schoolboy fighter Fernando Meza, 5? 2? at 101 lbs. was a spectator at the ?New World Sports Training Center? sponsored amateur boxing show held at the Swap Meet facility at 3801 East Washington Street in Phoenix on Saturday afternoon, October 25. The Hamilton High student trains at Strong Enough Gym and his goals include a spot on the USA Olympic Team and a professional boxing career. His coach (Andrew Mendez) is high on the kid and thinks he has ted tools to become a champion. We chatted for a New York minute or two and I was very impressed with his demeanor; very humble. He is scheduled to do battle in the upcoming Gene Lewis Tournament on 11/6,7,8 teen sensation Eben Vargas is expected to be on the card, also ?..Embattled amateur boxing mentor Damien Stone and his court appointed attorney (Nathaniel J Carr III) were granted more time to prepare his defense against prostitution charges. He was scheduled for trial on November 6, but a new date (December 5) has been set for a conference hearing. Stone is banned from participating from participating in USA Boxing sanctioned activities due to a prior conviction on a previous prostitution charge. A trial date for his most recent charge could be determined at his Superior Court hearing on December 5; It sounds like another black eye for boxing? More Good Stuff: On November 1, the day after you scared the pants off kids in the neighborhood, get ready for amateur boxing on Saturday at the Kroc Center located at 1375 E. Broadway in Phoenix. The event starts at 2 p.m. and don?t be late. Coach Albert and his Salvation Army Staff do a great job putting on a very entertaining show?.. top notch amateur Cruiserweight/heavyweight Albert Alvarez (Red Nation Warriors) will compete in the Gene Lewis Invitational and Nationals before deciding on whether or not to turn professional; an announcement is expected at the end of January, 2015. He could wait for a shot at the 2016 Olympics.?. 132 lb. Raul Anaya (Broadway Boxing) will contend for a trophy at the 39th Annual Gene Lewis Invitational November 6-8. The 17 year old highly touted prospect plans to turn professional after blowing out the candles on his 18th birthday cake. Danny at Broadway Boxing is also high on his boxing pupils Mickey and Chris Scala who also train at the popular Broadway Boxing Club?.Undefeated Heavyweight Andy Reid will be on the December 20 Iron Boy card at the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix. RITC Update: Roland Saria posted a picture of a toilet full of you know what over the internet and said he is done with ?Rage in the Cage?. The vociferous and controversial owner sold his MMA Empire to identical twin brothers Nathan & Nolan Hyland in June of this year and they plan to build a better relationship with the MMA/Boxing community and members of the media. The promise seems genuine. Roland, upset over my inquiry concerning time and place of a RITC Show in Scottsdale Arizona, left a menacing and threatening message on my home phone weeks before the sale was completed and his departure from the sport brings a radiant smile to my face and others who were victims of his often volatile behavior. I do believe that he will reinvent himself and come back with a new and suspect product. In my opinion, he loves notoriety and celebrity too much to stay out of the limelight, forever. I talked to Nathan Hyland briefly on October 27 and his passion for the sport of MMA is self-evident. He told me he was aware of the widespread controversy and allegations surrounding Mr. Saria and Nathan assured me that RITC would forward on a positive and progressive path. As far as partnership arrangements: Nolan serves as Matchmaker of RITC and the young man is a highly regarded MMA fighter in the lightweight class division while Brother Nathan focuses more on the business side such as sponsors and contracts. RITC appears to be moving in the right direction with plans to send Dale ?Crimson King? Sopi to the UFC by early 2015. Dale is 6-0 with notable victories over Ashley Gooch, Dan Charles, Edwin Dewees and Cory Timmerman. Also, current amateur Flyweight and Bantamweight Champion Richard Palencia is turning professional and that news should bolster ticket sales at RITC. Within minutes after we spoke, Nathan, as promised, sent me tidbits of information (via email) that I decided to edit and share with MMA fans and readers of this column. This kind of commitment and dedication is needed to succeed. Rage in the Cage is moving their December 27 show date at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix to another December date at The Prescott Valley Event Center-pending Arizona Boxing/MMA Commission approval. The Commission is a stickler when it comes to mentioning pending show, but readers and consumers demand a heads up so they can plan their entertainment budget. I was pleased to hear that RITC is dedicated to working with charities and will center their events around 1or 2 of the following non-profit organizations: Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, (IAVA), The Refuge Youth Project, United Blood Service, MIA?s Marrow, Be The Match Foundation and The Tito Ortiz Fight For Life Blood Drive-very commendable! Trotter Title: Arizona seasonal resident Janks Trotter surprised a few folks when he stopped tough Walid Smichet (Montreal) in the first round of their scheduled 8 rounder to capture the vacant Canadian middleweight title at the Mattamy Center in Toronto, Ontario Canada on Saturday, October 25. The 1st round TKO (48 seconds) pushed Trotter?s record to 9-1-1 w/9 knockouts while the loss dropped Smichet?s won loss record to 21-8 w/15 knockouts. After his victory, the 30 year old Irish Canadian who lives in Alberta, Canada but owns a home in Buckeye, Arizona challenged fellow Canadians Brandon Cook, Steve Claggett and American Andrew Hernandez to fight him. Trotter said he would fight and defeat any Canadian contender between weights of 147-168. He wasn?t done. He called Cook, Claggett and Hernandez the ?P? word; use your imagination there are at least half a dozen word choices and pretty isn?t one of them. The title bout was carried on TSN (afternoon)and was one of three Canadian Championship fights on the Card. Former Canadian Heavyweight Champion George Chuvalo was at ringside and had some very pleasant things to say about Trotter and his future. I read fight account from the Toronto Sun and talked to Henri Westcott, a Trotter representative. I want to thank Team Trotter for calling me with the results. Janks fought in Arizona several times over the years and the KO artist was always hospitable to journalists and members of the media. Iron Boy XVII: Circle November 15th on your calendar if you?re a boxing fan and want to see young Arizona boxers fight for glory, honor and respectability. Iron Boy Promotions will bring their caravan of young local talent to the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix on November 15 and undefeated Victor Castro (12-0), occasionally maligned by yours truly, is the headliner. In the past, Victor has shied away from facing respected foes but he does have talent and may be ready emotionally and physically fulfill the promise expected from his fans. A new trainer and contract has added stability to his boxing career. Castro will face Robert Rodriguez (7-4) from Greely, Colorado. The Iron Boy XVII card will feature 11 professional fights and 4 amateur bouts. The under card is comprised of many budding young professional Arizona pugilists: Alexis Zazueta, Carlos Castro, Paul Romero, Emilio Garcia, Edgar Brito, Emmanuel Nieves, Brian Riddell, Julio Sarinana and Brian Mendoza from New Mexico. On the amateur portion of the boxing menu, Iron Boy XVII offers four of Arizona?s best young prospects: Alfredo Escarcega, Edward Ceballos, Luis Espinoza and Breenan Macias. All of these young men are expected to turn professional after a little more seasoning. With this card Iron Boy is featuring Arizona?s major young aces without Iron Boy Francisco C de Vaca who is absent, but it is a very intriguing boxing menu worth the trip to the Celebrity Theater on November 15th. Doors open at 4 pm and tickets can be purchased through the Iron Boy Promotions website or te Celebrity Theater Box-Office. Tourney Wrap: Tournament Director Neil Sarembock (New World Sports Training Center) had no idea the temperature would be a tepid 96 degrees Fahrenheit when he planned his October 25th amateur smoker at the Washington Street Swap Meet in Phoenix, Arizona. Originally the event blueprinted 20 bouts, but that number dropped to 17 and then 15 when the last two ring skirmishes were cancelled due to evening darkness. Despite the unexpected heat, the event was eventful in that the match planning was well thought out and there were no gross mismatches; hallelujah! At the end of the day the scorecard showed the hard working and sweating judges balanced the scoring with an almost equal amount of split decisions compared to unanimous decisions awarded. Fuentes Gym in Phoenix was upset their team (3 fighters) went home without a victory, but it was a good day of competitive boxing. Rodriguez Gym and the Salvation Army Team went 3-0 to lead all participating clubs. Teams Salvation Army, Gene Lewis Boxing and Iron Gloves boxing left the tourney arena with their heads high. In amateur boxing there is no loser and with that sportsman like thought in mind; here are the final results: Mario Mendoza (Salvation Army) Trophy, Luis Chavez (Gene Lewis) Medal, Zion Perrins (Rodriguez Gym) Trophy, David Ortiz (Broadway) Medal, Fabian Longoria (Salvation Army) Trophy, Erick Bermudez (Fuentes Boxing) Medal, Carlos Luzanilla (J& C Boxing) Trophy, Angel Ortiz (Broadway Boxing) Medal, Julian Lopez (Central Boxing) Trophy, Luis Retana (Fuentes Gym) Medal, Andres Gaytan (Salvation Army) Trophy, Rosario Real (Hard Knocks) Medal, Edwin Mendez (Broadway Boxing) Trophy, Aaron Garcia (Fuentes Gym) Medal, Litzy Hernandez (Central Boxing) Trophy, Victoria Gaytan (Salvation Army) Medal, Evan Ortiz Rodriguez Boxing) Trophy, Michael Garcia (Salvation Army) Medal, Dominique Daniels (Gene Lewis Boxing) Trophy Lawrence Monker (Strong Enough Boxing) Medal, Julian Bermudez (Rodriguez Boxing) Trophy, Shawn Sarembock (New World Sports Training Center) Medal, Eben Vargas (Gene Lewis Boxing) Trophy, Jose Guevara (Salvation Army) Medal, Waldo Aldecoa (Iron Gloves Boxing)Trophy, Jammel Franklin (Central Boxing) Medal, Luis Moreno (Unattached Boxing) Trophy, Eric Gutierrez (Central) Medal, Rieffe Dacanay (Iron Gloves Boxing) Medal, Omar Lugo (Salvation Army Boxing) Medal. Bouts 16 & 17 were canceled due to darkness but they were ready to do battle; so here are the names of the four warriors who weren?t allowed to enter the ring and test their mettle: Macarthur Mayers (New World Sports Training Center), Redaz Ahmad (unattached Boxing), Royal Bailey (Gene Lewis Boxing), and James Nakashima (Hammer Boxing). Before the tourney closed shop, I was able to talk to 2016 Olympic hopeful Eben Vargas who is confident Olympic boxing is tailor made for him and he hopes to score Gold and turn it into more Gold as a professional. The 17 high school student told me he was a good student who plans to go to college and take business courses. The flashy quick hitting Gene Lewis Boxing Team member knows he needs to stay focused and keep his eye on the prize. His friends told me, Vargas has the right stuff to reach his goals; high praise for a kid who sometimes leaves himself open for an occasional hook and uppercut. Remember the name, Eben Vargas! Good show, great kids?. Until Next Time! Click here to view a list of other articles written by Don Smith.  |
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