While the above facts may seem only to be matters of trivia, they reflect Miñoso’s love of the sport of baseball and his dedication to it. At a press conference held by the Latino Baseball Hall of Fame, to which Miñoso has been elected, on September 1, the star player and humble gentleman said the following, “I don’t know how to express how I feel. Coming to the United States to play baseball was great. Without baseball, I don’t think I would be able to live because it’s in my blood. I gave 100 % not for the money; it was for the fans. I’m proud that I came here to play baseball. God bless the United States. God bless baseball.”

Minoso’s years in the majors when in his 20’s and 30’s were anything but trivial. Baseball and America were very different in the 1940’s than they are today. After starring with the famed Marianao club in his native land in 1945-6, Miñoso left his native Cuba to play baseball in the United States. At that time, he was barred from playing in organized baseball because the color of his skin was dark. Thus, he joined the New York Cubans, a team in the Negro League. He played his home games at the Dyckman Oval, the Polo Grounds and at Yankee Stadium, but he lived on Lennox Ave. because choices of residence were restricted.

He made an immediate impact as the third baseman and lead-off hitter for the New York Cubans. His efforts and ability led to success for the Cubans as they won the Negro National League pennant in 1947 and defeated the Cleveland Buckeyes in the World Series. He also earned personal recognition for his outstanding play. Mioso was selected as the starting third baseman in the 1947 and 1948 East-West All-Star games.

In 1948, after three seasons in the Negro League, when Miñoso was 25 (he was born on November 29, 1922) he signed a minor league contract. After a short stint in the minors, he made his major league debut with the Cleveland Indians on April 19, 1949. He played nine games that season and did not return to the majors until the start of the 1951 season.

On April 30^th of 1951, Miñoso was traded to the Chicago White Sox, where he played in 12 of his 17 big league seasons. The young man demonstrated his ability as a major leaguer in his rookie year, 1951. He batted .326, scored 112 runs, drove in 76 and led the American League in triples (14) and stolen bases (31). The very impressive stats were not enough to convince the baseball writers as Miñoso finished second in the Rookie of the Year voting to Gil McDougald, even though Miñoso’s numbers were clearly superior. The Sporting News did give the Chicago left-fielder its Rookie of the Year Award.

On May 1, 1951, at Yankee Stadium, the Cuban outfielder became the first black player to wear a White Sox uniform. He not only played superior baseball but had the pressure of being a pioneer thrust upon him.

During the next decade, Miñoso remained consistent in his high level of play. In his first 11 years in the majors, Miñoso placed second in the American League in hits (1,861), runs scored (1,078), extra base hits (579), stolen bases (193), triples (81), total bases (2,879) and times on base (2,806). He was fourth in on-base percentage (.395) and fifth in batting average (.305). He connected for double figure totals in home runs in each of the 11 years, and drove in 80 or more runs in eight of the seasons.

In his first three years in the big leagues, he led the AL in stolen bases and three times paced the league in triples. In 10 of the 11 seasons, Miñoso led the league in being hit by pitches. Did the color of his skin or his nationality cause him to be so frequent a target of pitchers or did he wisely use this as another means of reaching base successfully?  He was also an American League leader in hits (1960), doubles (1957), sacrifice hits (1960 and 1961) and games plated (1960).

There was recognition at that time of his excellence on the field as he was a nine-time All-Star (two games were played in 1959 and 1960) between the years, 1951-60. He was cited for his superior defensive abilities with the Gold Glove three times. Also, during the years from 1951-60, Miñoso finished in the top 10 of AL voting for the MVP five times (1951, 53-54, 57 and 60).

Miñoso’s superior performance during that era takes on even more luster when considering the high level of competition. His excellence was achieved in the post-integration and pre-expansion epoch of the late 1940’s and 1950’s, a period of years called by many observers “the golden age of baseball”.

After his career in the majors concluded, Miñoso played ball and managed in the Mexican League through 1973. He also played Winter Ball for many years in his native Cuba and in othe Latin American nations during most of his big league career.

Not only did Miñoso prove to be superior to his contemporaries on the field, but his statistics fit in quite well with position players who have been installed in Cooperstown. According to the statistics published in the 2010 National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Yearbook, Miñoso had a career major league batting average, .298, superior to 62 of the 161 position players already in the Hall.

Fans and players who saw Miñoso on the field understand that even the impressive statistics are not sufficient to describe the effort and skill displayed by the sterling player and the excitement he provided. Tany (Tony) Pérez, the Hall of Fame first baseman of the Big Red Machine on September 1^st said of his fellow countryman, “Every young player in Cuba wanted to be like “Minnie” Miñoso and I’m one of them.” Bill Stimers, 64, a lifelong Yankees fans, remembers seeing “The Cuban Comet” play against the Yankees in Yankee Stadium, “I love Miñoso. He was a great player. He played with a lot of energy because he loved baseball, not to earn big money like the most of the ballplayers today. I hope he makes the HOF because he deserves that honor.”

In October, a new means of electing previously neglected candidates to the Hall of Fame, the Golden Era Ballot (1947-1972) will be unveiled. Miñoso’s name deserves to be placed as one of the ten candidates on the Golden Era Ballot. Miñoso has earned a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame. The 88 year old former baseball great deserves to receive this honor this year.

“I really don’t need that fight,” Pacquiao said about the often discussed bout with Mayweather. “If it happens good, It’s the fight the fans want. If not, I’m satisfied with what I’ve done in boxing.”  Mayweather prepares for Victor Ortiz on September 17^th and Pacquiao, hinted he really isn’t interested in the outcome. “I think I am more focused on this fight compared to the last two because Marquez denied he lost the fight, complaining he won the fight, complaining blah, blah, blah, and that makes me focus and train hard for this fight,” he said.

Truth be told, Pacquiao is relaxed and ready for his third meeting with Marquez. The press conference at Chelsea Piers started with Pacquiao singing a rendition of “Sometimes When We Touch” with Dan Hill the original composer. At previous media events in New York City, Pacquiao would make his entrance, sit quietly at the podium and wait to be introduced. This time it was a different tune but the same Manny Pacquiao acknowledging his legion of fans from the Philippines who observed in a rear area of the Lighthouse.

“I still enjoy the press tours,” he said. “It’s a good thing. You meet a lot of your fans.”  Earlier, Pacquiao did a jog in Central Park and headed to the press conference. After a twenty minute sit- down with the media he did a live spot with ESPN, stopped at HBO headquarters in midtown, and then to JFK Airport with a destination to Los Angeles for the next stop on this latest media tour.

This may not be the fight Pacquiao wanted, but it sparks interest for boxing fans. After all it is Manny Pacquiao, and it is a trilogy with Marquez. They met at featherweight in their first fight and at super featherweight in their second encounter.  Pacquiao has graduated to be a record eight- division champion and once again is favored to win this time at a catch weight of 144 pounds. Marquez is a three-division champion and went down three times in the first fight in 2004, though the outcome was a draw. The crafty (53-5-1, 39 KO) veteran at 38- years of age is not concerned about the outcome of this one. He says moving up in weight is not an issue.  To which Pacquiao says, “I don’t know what Marquez can improve moving up in weight. We fought at 130 pounds in the last fight, and the third fight is 144. I don’t know what he can do.”

Marquez claimed he won both fights. “I know I can do it again,” he says. “I did it in 24-rounds. I was able to get a draw even though I knocked him down three times, so I beat him. I just have to be fast and I have to hit him hard enough.” And if Marquez prevails, or even if he sustains the loss, there is a rematch clause in the contract. But he deeply feels he will dethrone Pacquiao and take his welterweight title.

“I already proved it,” said Pacquiao about their previous fights and disputing Marquez when it came to the controversial draw. “But somebody is claiming they won the fight. I have to work again and prove I won the fights. I want to prove that somebody is wrong and somebody I right.”  But this fight will not be a legacy for Pacquiao, even if it is a trilogy.  He says there will be adjustments since the last fight with Shane Mosley and in the previous fights with Marquez. “I learned more techniques and strategies for being a fighter,” he says.

Freddie Roach, his trainer says, “Pacquiao will knock him (Marquez) out along the way. Manny can’t walk in like we did in the first two. He was just a young kid then. He’s a much more intelligent fighter. I am very confident he will knock him out.”  But Pacquiao is not underestimating Marquez. He saw his last fight on July 16^th, a first-round TKO over former WBA interim super featherweight champion Likar Ramos.

“I saw a still good Marquez but the difference is, I changed a lot of my style and improved my technique and strategy and my power,” commented Pacquiao. There has never been a question of the power, or the technique, just that Marquez is now in the way of continuing the legacy that Manny Pacquiao has established. Far from retirement though, as promoter Bob Arum looks at his main fighter continuing a fight schedule and serving in the capacity of Congressman from the Philippines at least until re-election time in 2013.

Yes, it was a different entrance for Manny Pacquiao in New York City Tuesday. And the trilogy with Marquez should close some issues and put a conclusion to whatever controversy that occurred in their previous fights. Pacquiao has nothing much more to prove, even if we still don’t have a resolution to the Mayweather question.

Arum still wants the Mayweather fight to happen. For now the trilogy bout with Marquez will fill the void and because it is Manny Pacquiao, who happens to be the face of boxing, there will be continued interest.

In the following year, the native of Havana, Cuba joined the Troy Haymakers, making him the first Cuban player in professional baseball in the United States. After six seasons in the U.S., he returned to Cuba, where he had a major influence upon the growth of the sport in his native land. Rafael Pi Román, of Channel 13, the program’s moderator, officially dedicated the conference to Bellán, who died in 1932, moments after the proceedings began.

Nine hours later, another legendary Cuban ballplayer was honored. Fortunately, 88 year old Orestes “Minnie” Miñoso, was present to hear the accolades. After Miñoso modestly responded to a standing ovation that began upon his entrance into the auditorium, he was presented with an award for his outstanding career by Iraida Iturralde, the vice president of the CCCNY.

The octogenarian was gracious in his appreciation for the recognition and spoke of his pride in being a player and a Cuban. Miñoso reminisced about his lengthy career and his time in New York as a member of the New York Cubans of the Negro Leagues.

Before beginning his sterling career in the majors, Miñoso played with the Cubans at the Dyckman Oval, the Polo Grounds and Yankee Stadium. During those years, 1945-9, he lived on Lennox Ave. From 1949-1964, Miñoso displayed his skills on the major league level. He batted .298, drove in 1,023 runs, produced 1,983 hits, scored 1,136 runs and thrilled the fans who watched him with his outstanding defensive skills as well. The star outfielder was awarded three Gold Gloves and was a six-time All-Star.

Miñoso played in the Cuban Winter League during the off-season during his sojourn in the U.S. He also was a star in the Mexican League (1965-73) after his career in the majors concluded. He was elected to the baseball hall of Fame in Cuba and Mexico. Many who saw him play in the U.S. believe he was worthy of election to the baseball hall of fame in Cooperstown as well.

Miñoso briefly appeared twice more as a major league player, in 1976 and 1980, to tie Nick Altrock as the only two men to play five decades in the majors. He again appeared on the playing field in 1993 and 2003, for the St. Paul Saints in the Independent League, making him the only man to play during seven decades in professional baseball.

The extremely gracious and seemingly tireless former player signed autographs, posed for photos and answered questions from the guests at the conference long after his presentation ended.

Part I-Morning program

The keynote address delivered by Roberto González-Echavarría was entitled “The Origins of Baseball in Cuba: A Historical Context”. The distinguished professor of Hispanic and Comparative Literature at Yale University traced the game from the 1860’s and spoke of Bellán’s importance in its development within Cuba.

The professor told of baseball’s growing popularity in Cuba in the late 19^th century based upon its connection to the modernistic United States as opposed to the sport of bull fighting that many in Cuba considered a symbol of the backwardness of the mother country, Spain.

He also explained that baseball was intricately tied to other forms of culture in Cuba. Unlike baseball in the U.S., literature recitals and dance programs followed directly after ball games concluded. He spoke of a shortstop on the Almendares club who was a minor novelist and then quipped, “How many novels has Jeter written?” The literature scholar described baseball as a “mock war in which heroics are performed” and as being vastly “different than back and forth sports such as football, soccer and lacrosse.”

Professor González-Echaverría, who wrote an award winning volume on the history of baseball in Cuba in 2002, summarized major events in the sport’s history far beyond its beginnings in his discourse. He concluded his address on baseball within his homeland by discussing the changes in the sport made by Fidel Castro, “Castro revolutionized Cuban sports to their detriment. Cuban baseball endures. It runs deep in the Cuban’s soul. It came with the promise of democracy and, I believe, it will be there when democracy returns.”

The keynote address was followed by the morning panel at which five papers were presented detailing several diverse topics regarding Cuban baseball history. The moderator of the panel, César Brioso of USA Today, read a statement of greeting from Conrado Marrero. Marrero is presently hospitalized in Cuba with a broken hip suffered in a fall. The former pitcher is the oldest living former major leaguer at the age of 100. Marrero’s doctor emailed a message in which he said Marrero is lucid and is expected to be able to leave the hospital. The former pitcher, an idol in Cuba, sent his greetings to the conference and offered “his compatriots a fraternal embrace.”

The first panelist to speak, Manuel Márquez-Sterling, a professor emeritus at Plymouth State University, discussed the two conflicting schools of baseball offense in Cuban history. Scientific baseball or little ball was typified by Ty Cobb and the prodigious long ball by Babe Ruth. Both barnstormed in Cuba, but Ruth’s appearance in Cuba did not have the effect upon the game as it did in the U.S. He explained that Dick Sisler, a major leaguer in the late 1940’s and 1950’s, helped popularize the home run in Cuba. He explained the convergence of factors that led to the change in Cuban baseball strategy, “Political stability and economic prosperity grew the Cuban middle-class and lessened the resistance to smaller parks and home runs. Social, cultural, economic and political changes in Cuba together with Dick Sisler led to the baseball changes.”

Marino Martínez, a newspaper reporter from El Nuevo Herald in Miami spoke of the La Liga de la Uniόn Atlética (Cuban amateur baseball) that ran from 1914 through 1960. The speaker detailed a number of successful teams and star players of the various eras and locales within the nation. He, like all of the others who addressed the gathering, made ample and effective use of photos to bring the times and people of the past to life and create additional interest. Audio visual materials, including films were quite effective supplements to the spoken word at the conference.

The topic of amateur baseball in Cuba was brought to the present by Rogério Manzano of Univision, who explained the changes instituted by Castro, after assuming control of the Cuban government. He cited the Cuban National Team’s record in international competition during this era to exhibit the ups and downs. He believes amateur baseball is in a crisis situation today and that Raúl Castro, a more pragmatic leader than his brother may institute needed changes.

Gary Ashwell, a young baseball historian, used statistics displayed on the large sized-screen behind the speaker’s platform to help inform the audience of the marks achieved by Cuban players during the Negro leagues epoch. Interestingly, the first back team (1885) was called the Cuban Giants, although none of its members were Cuban. Ashwell highlighted the records of pitcher José Mendez and slugging outfielder Christóbal Torriente, both of whom excelled during their years in the Negro League.

Leslie Heaphy of Kent State University discussed a much neglected topic of Cuban women in baseball. She talked on the history of women’s baseball with emphasis on Cuban women who played in the AAGPBL (All American Girls Professional Baseball League) during the 1940’s and 1950’s. One of the women, Luisa Gallegos, was in the audience. Gallegos was a teenager when she and several of her countrywomen joined the league in 1948. She did not fear going to a new land to work as she was not alone. The youngster found the experience interesting and appeared pleased that people asked her to reminisce about that time in her life.

Part II-Afternoon program

After a delightful almuerzo, the afternoon session began with an interesting and entertaining documentary, “Greener Grass: Cuba, Baseball and the United States”. The film, produced in 1999, focused on two nations in conflict, two economic and political systems and one sport loved in both lands, baseball. The film focused on the reaction on the island to the first visit of a major league team, the Baltimore Orioles, since the Castro era began. The many interviews with people on each side of the 90 mile shoreline showed the wide diversity of opinions and feelings. Many telling facts were given that produced greater understanding of Cuban baseball history and are worthy of further study. In the years 1911-1947, before the color barrier was broken, only 58 Cubans played in the majors, yet 223 played in the Negro Leagues during those same years. In 1991, Luis Arocha became the first baseball defector from Castro’s Cuba, but in the next decade, 40 baseball players defected from Cuba.

The speakers at the afternoon panel were all former big league players who were born in Cuba. Tony Pérez, the only living former player in the Baseball Hall of Fame born in Cuba was the first guest. The first baseman and the players that followed were interviewed by José Roig of Uniivision and also responded to questions from the audience. Pérez modestly gave credit to managers Dave Bristol and Sparky Anderson and to the pitching staff for the success of the Big Red Machine of which he was an important component. Despite belting 377 homers, Pérez said he never considered himself to be a home run hitter. When asked why there are so few Cubans in the HOF, he replied, “I think there’s a person sitting here who should be in [he pointed to Luis Tiant].”

Julio Bécquer, 79, was the next player to join the panel. Bécquer was one of the many Cubans signed by scout Joe Cambria for the Washington Senators in the 1950’s. He played in the American League from 1955-1963. He recalled the glory days of the Marianao club he played for in his native land as well as his experiences in the majors.

“Cookie” Rojas, born in 1939 in Havana, began his lengthy time in the majors in 1962. He has been successful as a player, coach, manager and currently as a broadcaster in a variety of venues in the bigs. In addition to very intelligently responding to perceptive questions from members of the audience, Rojas recounted his experiences as a member of the Havana Sugar kings in its final years of existence.

Jose Cardenal, the youngest of the former players present had a fine big league career from 1963-80. After his playing days ended, he coached for five teams. Cardenal was exceptionally good humored in his responses.

A big favorite of baseball fans everywhere, Lusi Tiant was interviewed by Grammy winning jazz musician Paquito D’Rivera. The second generation baseball great openly replied to questions on many of his experiences. When speaking about his visit to Cuba several years ago, Tiant broke down into tears after talking about his family.

The program ended with a festive reception held in the Fordham Law School Atrium. The entire long day’s proceedings were an educational treasure. The CCCNY certainly fulfilled its mission of being an “organization devoted to the preservation, advancement and dissemination of Cuban and Cuban-American culture with this superlative 12 hour conference.

One way to make the sport more acceptable is to reach the masses, the casual sports fan, and Lionsgate Entertainment may just have helped that process with the upcoming film “Warrior.” Directed by Gavin O’Connor (“Miracle”), and starring Joel Egerton, Tom Hardy (“Inception”), Nick Nolte and Jennifer Morrison, the film takes viewers through the trials and tribulations of the Conlon family, who eventually use the sport and its values to overcome some of the great obstacles in their lives.  One brother is a troubled Army vet, now living in Pittsburgh and looking to restart his life.  Another is a Philadelphia schoolteacher beset by financial woes and trying to keep his family together.  In the middle is their dad, an alcoholic former elite wrestling coach trying to piece together his life once again.  it is through a sport they all had trained and participate in, MMA, that they eventually find, a common ground and a way to overcome the battles that they face in everyday life.

Now the film is probably more “Rocky” than “The Fighter,” but it also aspires to much higher goals.  It is a metaphor for all the issues  we have in society and the struggles everyone faces every day, battles with family, finances, friends, the economy.  It is not bloody or gory, and the fight scenes, even for a casual observer of MMA, don’t glorify violence, they explain the sport and what it takes to be successful. It is the type of well planned, mainstream outreach that can swing those interested in the MMA decision in new York to the positive side.  It is also a film that will appeal to a wider audience because of the story lines, especially a younger audoience who may like the mix of action and drama in a setting that is not slam bang shoot em up super-heroish.  The story is very real, and reality is what many crave these days.

“Warrior” is a great example of a film that can aspire to a higher level and transcend sports.  if it delivers as it could, it may be a big boost for MMA fans in New York, as well as for the careers of its very strong cast.  A great piece for fight fans, or fans of a good story.  Hopefully the New York politicians take the time to see it as well.

Several undefeated, young prospects will be attempting to continue their win streaks and to impress the live crowd and television audience. The headline encounter is scheduled for 10 rounds in the lightweight division. Michael “The Artist” Preez of Newark (13-0-1, 7 KO’s) will be returning to the Paradise. He successfully fought at the iconic Bronx showplace in May 2010.

Perez, 21, turned pro three years ago after attaining the 2008 National Golden Gloves championship. He will face Fer7-2, 4 KO’s) Fernando Carcano (7-2, 4 KO’s) of Sonora, Mexico. The bout in the Bronx will only be Carcano’s second outside of Mexico.

In the co-feature attraction, Eddie Gomez will return to his place of birth for his first pro bout in the Bronx. The 18 year old welterweight (5-0, 4 KO’s), who now resides in Puerto Rico, will be fighting outside the “isla de encanto” for only the second time as a pro. His 21 year old opponent in the scheduled six round welterweight bout, Marcus Hall (53-1, 2 KO’s), comes from Rochester, New York.

Another unbeaten, young prospect, Michael (“The Nassau Nightmare”) Brooks (4-0, 1 KO) travels from his native long Island to face Jamell Tyson (2-2-1, 1 KO) in a six round lightweight bout.

Before the three unbeaten prospects reach the Paradise ring, Rich Neves of Long Island will make his pro debut. Three amateur bouts are scheduled to begin the evening’s event.

DeGuardia, the President and CEO of Star Boxing, commented upon the fulfillment of his desire to bring top-notch boxing cards to the Bronx, “Our concept behind the series is to bring entertaining fights and cards right here to the Bronx. Not only have we been able to produce that with our two past shows this year (May and July), but the success of these shows enabled us to be able to put on what promises to be yet another exciting card at the Paradise live on TeleFutura’s “Sólo Boxeo Tecate.”

Tickets to the show can be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet, at the Paradise Theater box office (1-718-220-1015) or through Star Boxing (1-718-823-2000).

Prior to the fight, promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing  described the upcoming headline bout, “In the main event we have two exciting contenders going toe-to-toe in what promises to be an all-out war with the winner emerging as a serious title contender. His prediction was right-on-the-mark as both boxers gave a maximum effort to achieve victory.

Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (29-1-1, 19 KO’s) is highly ranked in most of the alphabet boxing organizations. The 29 year old is #3 in the WBO, #6 in the WBA, #8 in the IBF and # 11 in the WBC. His ranking improved after his most recent fight, a TKO over former WBA Jr. Middleweight Champion Yuri Foreman. The Polish native had won his last eight bouts.

Wolak predicted that he would have a tough, action filled and victorious bout at the Roseland, “It is going to be a hard fight with lots of action…The fans will get their money’s worth…I am looking forward to continuing towards my goal of winning a world title by the end of 2011.

Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14 KO’s) has moved up in weight class since his days as a welterweight title contender. This was his first fight at 153 lbs. Rodriguez proclaimed, “I’m excited to get back in the ring and show that I’m a force to be reckoned with in the junior middleweight division. I have a new team behind me and I feel better than I ever have before…This is the opportunity to erase everything bad that has happened in the past few years and put myself right back in the spotlight.”

Each did everything they could to fulfill his prediction. Wolak was on the offensive from the opening bell, rushing to the corner of Rodriguez and trying to pin his opponent against the ropes. He pummeled Rodriguez in this manner repeatedly, but Rodriguez counter punched effectively. Despite the pounding each took, neither hit the canvas.

Rights and lefts rocked Wolak to the point that it appeared he would fall during the ninth round, but the Polish native was able to maintain his balance. As the rounds progressed the swelling over Wolak’s right eye grew larger. It was checked by the ring physician several times, but the bout was never halted Each fighter drew a large contingent of rooters even though the bout was televised by ESPN2 as part of its series of “Friday Night Fights.” The crowd was on its feet chanting as the fighters entered the ring. Each fighter was continually cheered with such vehemence that it was difficult to hear the ten second warning and the bell at the end of most rounds. The crowd had rightful reason for screaming and rooting loudly as both men in the ring were providing an excellent performance. The decision of the judges shocked many of the partisans in attendance, but was not unreasonable. One judge scored it 97-93 in favor of Rodriguez. The other two judges called the bout even at 95. Thus, the decision rendered was a majority draw.

In the first televised fight, undefeated young welterweight Raymond “Tito” Serrano (16-0, 8 KO’s) kept his record unblemished in this nationally televised bout. Serrano was tested by Daniel “The Harlem Kid” Sostre (11-4-1, 4 KO’s).The bout went the full eight rounds with the nod going to Serrano by scores of 78-74, 78-74 and 77-75.

On the undercard, but fought in a relatively empty arena as the bouts took place after the main event ended was a lightheavyweight bout in which Lionell Thompson (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Buffalo ended the unbeaten streak of Reggie LaCrete (4-1, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn in a four round decision. In the final bout of the night, Steven Gamache (2-0, 1 KO) remained undefeated and Rogelio Sanchez remained winless (0-4) after the junior middleweight decision was given to Gamache after four rounds.

After one amateur bout was fought, the pro bouts began with the flashy appearance of the popular Kevin “Kid” Rooney, Jr. (2-0, 1 KO).The young man has been around the sport since his childhood as his father, Kevin, Sr., was the trainer of Mike Tyson. Since shortly after his graduation from Fordham University in 2007, Rooney, Jr. has worked in public relations for Star Boxing.

His experience in the sport and his power gave him control over the winless Enrique Vera (0-2) in the junior middleweight bout. Vera was in trouble in the opening round until a hard right by Rooney ended the bout. Vera was counted out by referee Esteves as the time reached 3:00 of round one.

After Rooney changed from his ring attire, he resumed his public relations duties for Star Boxing. The popular figure was repeatedly congratulated by his fans and besieged for autographs by youngsters in the crowd.

Star Boxing will present its third boxing card of the month on Saturday, July 23 at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx. The very interesting show will feature three title contests. Of even more importance, all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society. Those interested in purchasing tickets to the show can call Star Boxing at 1-718-823-2000.

Prior to the fight, promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing  described the upcoming headline bout, “In the main event we have two exciting contenders going toe-to-toe in what promises to be an all-out war with the winner emerging as a serious title contender. His prediction was right-on-the-mark as both boxers gave a maximum effort to achieve victory.

Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (29-1-1, 19 KO’s) is highly ranked in most of the alphabet boxing organizations. The 29 year old is #3 in the WBO, #6 in the WBA, #8 in the IBF and # 11 in the WBC. His ranking improved after his most recent fight, a TKO over former WBA Jr. Middleweight Champion Yuri Foreman. The Polish native had won his last eight bouts.

Wolak predicted that he would have a tough, action filled and victorious bout at the Roseland, “It is going to be a hard fight with lots of action…The fans will get their money’s worth…I am looking forward to continuing towards my goal of winning a world title by the end of 2011.

Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14 KO’s) has moved up in weight class since his days as a welterweight title contender. This was his first fight at 153 lbs. Rodriguez proclaimed, “I’m excited to get back in the ring and show that I’m a force to be reckoned with in the junior middleweight division. I have a new team behind me and I feel better than I ever have before…This is the opportunity to erase everything bad that has happened in the past few years and put myself right back in the spotlight.”

Each did everything they could to fulfill his prediction. Wolak was on the offensive from the opening bell, rushing to the corner of Rodriguez and trying to pin his opponent against the ropes. He pummeled Rodriguez in this manner repeatedly, but Rodriguez counter punched effectively. Despite the pounding each took, neither hit the canvas.

Rights and lefts rocked Wolak to the point that it appeared he would fall during the ninth round, but the Polish native was able to maintain his balance. As the rounds progressed the swelling over Wolak’s right eye grew larger. It was checked by the ring physician several times, but the bout was never halted Each fighter drew a large contingent of rooters even though the bout was televised by ESPN2 as part of its series of “Friday Night Fights.” The crowd was on its feet chanting as the fighters entered the ring. Each fighter was continually cheered with such vehemence that it was difficult to hear the ten second warning and the bell at the end of most rounds. The crowd had rightful reason for screaming and rooting loudly as both men in the ring were providing an excellent performance. The decision of the judges shocked many of the partisans in attendance, but was not unreasonable. One judge scored it 97-93 in favor of Rodriguez. The other two judges called the bout even at 95. Thus, the decision rendered was a majority draw.

In the first televised fight, undefeated young welterweight Raymond “Tito” Serrano (16-0, 8 KO’s) kept his record unblemished in this nationally televised bout. Serrano was tested by Daniel “The Harlem Kid” Sostre (11-4-1, 4 KO’s).The bout went the full eight rounds with the nod going to Serrano by scores of 78-74, 78-74 and 77-75.

On the undercard, but fought in a relatively empty arena as the bouts took place after the main event ended was a lightheavyweight bout in which Lionell Thompson (8-0, 5 KO’s) of Buffalo ended the unbeaten streak of Reggie LaCrete (4-1, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn in a four round decision. In the final bout of the night, Steven Gamache (2-0, 1 KO) remained undefeated and Rogelio Sanchez remained winless (0-4) after the junior middleweight decision was given to Gamache after four rounds.

After one amateur bout was fought, the pro bouts began with the flashy appearance of the popular Kevin “Kid” Rooney, Jr. (2-0, 1 KO).The young man has been around the sport since his childhood as his father, Kevin, Sr., was the trainer of Mike Tyson. Since shortly after his graduation from Fordham University in 2007, Rooney, Jr. has worked in public relations for Star Boxing.

His experience in the sport and his power gave him control over the winless Enrique Vera (0-2) in the junior middleweight bout. Vera was in trouble in the opening round until a hard right by Rooney ended the bout. Vera was counted out by referee Esteves as the time reached 3:00 of round one.

After Rooney changed from his ring attire, he resumed his public relations duties for Star Boxing. The popular figure was repeatedly congratulated by his fans and besieged for autographs by youngsters in the crowd.

Star Boxing will present its third boxing card of the month on Saturday, July 23 at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx. The very interesting show will feature three title contests. Of even more importance, all proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society. Those interested in purchasing tickets to the show can call Star Boxing at 1-718-823-2000.

The headline encounter is expected to be a 10 round slugfest between two junior middleweight contenders, each of whom is hoping for an impressive victory that will provide him with a title opportunity. If either fulfills his expectation the ring war will end prior to its scheduled ten rounds.

Promoter DeGuardia described the upcoming headliner, “In the main event we have two exciting contenders going toe-to-toe in what promises to be an all-out war with the winner emerging as a serious title contender.

Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (29-1, 19 KO’s) is highly ranked in most of the alphabet boxing organizations. The 29 year old is #3 in the WBO, #6 in the WBA, #8 in the IBF and # 11 in the WBC. His ranking improved after his most recent fight, a TKO over former WBA Jr. Middleweight Champion Yuri Foreman. The Polish native has won his last eight bouts.

Wolak predicted that he would have a tough, action filled and victorious bout at the Roseland, “It is going to be a hard fight with lots of action…The fans will get their money’s worth…I am looking forward to continuing towards my goal of winning a world title by the end of 2011.

Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14 KO’s) has moved up in weight class since his days as a welterweight title contender. Rodriguez expects that the preparation he has made for this bout will prove to be successful, “I’m excited to get back in the ring and show that I’m a force to be reckoned with in the junior middleweight division. I have a new team behind me and I feel better than I ever have before…This is the opportunity to erase everything bad that has happened in the past few years and put myself right back in the spotlight.”

Undefeated young welterweight Raymond “Tito” Serrano (15-0, 8 KO’s) is hopeful of keeping his record unblemished in his nationally televised bout. Serrano should be tested by Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (11-3-1, 4 KO’s). Sostre is undefeated in his last 10 bouts and the holder of the New York State welterweight title. Although the two are of Puerto Rican heritage each lives and trains in the Northeast.

Serrano, representing Philadelphia, is poised to deliver a great performance in the ring and on the TV screen, “It is the lightest I will have fought as a professional and I feel great at this weight [142 pounds]. I plan on putting on a great performance.”

On the undercard is a lightheavyweight six rounder between Lionell Thompson (7-0, 5 KO’s) of Buffalo and Reggie LaCrete (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn.

Two young men, each fighting in his second pro bout, will meet in a four rounder. Kevin Rooney, Jr. (1-0) has been around the support since his childhood as his father, Kevin, Sr., was the trainer of Mike Tyson. Since shortly after his graduation from Fordham University in 2007, Rooney, Jr. has worked in public relations for Star Boxing. On the 15^th, Rooney will work both inside and outside the ring. Rooney will face Enrique Vera (0-1) in a junior middleweight bout.

Of Rooney, DeGuardia commented, “Kevin put on a good performance in his pro- debut…Now he has the opportunity to showcase his skills right here in New York in front oh his hometown fans and I know he is really looking forward to it.”

Those interested in purchasing tickets to the show can call Star Boxing at 1-718-823-2000.

The headline encounter is expected to be a 10 round slugfest between two junior middleweight contenders, each of whom is hoping for an impressive victory that will provide him with a title opportunity. If either fulfills his expectation the ring war will end prior to its scheduled ten rounds.

Promoter DeGuardia described the upcoming headliner, “In the main event we have two exciting contenders going toe-to-toe in what promises to be an all-out war with the winner emerging as a serious title contender.

Pawel “Raging Bull” Wolak (29-1, 19 KO’s) is highly ranked in most of the alphabet boxing organizations. The 29 year old is #3 in the WBO, #6 in the WBA, #8 in the IBF and # 11 in the WBC. His ranking improved after his most recent fight, a TKO over former WBA Jr. Middleweight Champion Yuri Foreman. The Polish native has won his last eight bouts.

Wolak predicted that he would have a tough, action filled and victorious bout at the Roseland, “It is going to be a hard fight with lots of action…The fans will get their money’s worth…I am looking forward to continuing towards my goal of winning a world title by the end of 2011.

Delvin Rodriguez (25-5-2, 14 KO’s) has moved up in weight class since his days as a welterweight title contender. Rodriguez expects that the preparation he has made for this bout will prove to be successful, “I’m excited to get back in the ring and show that I’m a force to be reckoned with in the junior middleweight division. I have a new team behind me and I feel better than I ever have before…This is the opportunity to erase everything bad that has happened in the past few years and put myself right back in the spotlight.”

Undefeated young welterweight Raymond “Tito” Serrano (15-0, 8 KO’s) is hopeful of keeping his record unblemished in his nationally televised bout. Serrano should be tested by Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (11-3-1, 4 KO’s). Sostre is undefeated in his last 10 bouts and the holder of the New York State welterweight title. Although the two are of Puerto Rican heritage each lives and trains in the Northeast.

Serrano, representing Philadelphia, is poised to deliver a great performance in the ring and on the TV screen, “It is the lightest I will have fought as a professional and I feel great at this weight [142 pounds]. I plan on putting on a great performance.”

On the undercard is a lightheavyweight six rounder between Lionell Thompson (7-0, 5 KO’s) of Buffalo and Reggie LaCrete (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Brooklyn.

Two young men, each fighting in his second pro bout, will meet in a four rounder. Kevin Rooney, Jr. (1-0) has been around the support since his childhood as his father, Kevin, Sr., was the trainer of Mike Tyson. Since shortly after his graduation from Fordham University in 2007, Rooney, Jr. has worked in public relations for Star Boxing. On the 15^th, Rooney will work both inside and outside the ring. Rooney will face Enrique Vera (0-1) in a junior middleweight bout.

Of Rooney, DeGuardia commented, “Kevin put on a good performance in his pro- debut…Now he has the opportunity to showcase his skills right here in New York in front oh his hometown fans and I know he is really looking forward to it.”

Those interested in purchasing tickets to the show can call Star Boxing at 1-718-823-2000.