Q & A with Yonnhy Perez
By Anson Wainwright
Boxing is full of hard luck stories, however Yonnhy Perez 20-0-1(14) isn’t such a case. The Columbian, is the current IBF Bantamweight champion of the World and has been for nearly a year. He broke away from the pack when he stunned Joseph Agbeko in late 2009. It was an eye opening performance that catapulted him from the fringes to amongst the best Bantamweight division has to offer. Perez 31, has never had anything easy in life. He first moved to America and was guided by Abner Mares father, though they don’t work together anymore. Today Perez is one of the most disciplined fighters around living with his trainer Danny Zamora, off a meagre $400 a month which is for food and rent when in training in Los Angeles, the rest he sends home for his family. While at home in Cartagena, Columbia he lives in the same area he’s always lived in, his home is made of Cinderblock with no windows just spaces with curtains hanging to separate each room. His first defence was ironically against one time friend Abner Mares in chief support to Vazquez-Marquez 4 at the Staples Center in May of this year. It was a hotly contested battle between the more battle hardened, harder puncher Perez and the quicker, better boxer Mares. Depending who’s work would depend on who you though edged it. In the end the 3 judges couldn’t be split and awarded a draw. It appears as though Perez will next be in action on 6 November in a rematch with Agbeko, as part of a mooted Bantamweight tournament that has been mentioned.
Hello Yonnhy, welcome to 15rounds.com
Anson Wainwright – Firstly, i believe you returned home to Colombia after your fight, how are things?
Yonnhy Perez – I returned to Colombia right after the fight so i can go be with my two sons Yonnhy, Mateo and my wife because its very difficult being without them.
Anson Wainwright – Your back in America now, when do you start light training? You will fight Joseph Agbeko in a rematch, any idea when or where it will be?
Yonnhy Perez - I already started my light training when i got here. When i come to the us it is to train and get ready. About the Agbeko fight or my next opponent i don’t know what’s next for me i just get ready and let my promoters take care of that.
Anson Wainwright – In May you fought your Abner Mares. You seemed the stronger guy and he seemed to box well. How did you see the fight?
Yonnhy Perez - It was a tough fight i fought the fight i had to fight and Abner fought his fight and it turned out to be a great fight.
Anson Wainwright – What can you tell us about your relationship with Abner Mares and his family, i know they had a part of your contract at the start of your career? It must of been hard for you mentally to fight Mares?
Yonnhy Perez - Abner is a great friend because of him i was able to come to the U.S. he treated me very well when i did arrive here in the U.S. His father saw me in the amateurs and was interested in bringing me and that’s how i got here. Mentally i get ready the same way for everybody because i know that there after my title, so i train hard and prepare myself to the best.
Anson Wainwright – Can you tell us about your team. Who is your manager, trainer & Promoter? Also what gym do you use ahead of a fight?
Yonnhy Perez - My trainer is Danny Zamora, i’m now managed by Frank Espinoza my promoters are Thompson Boxing Promotions and Gary Shaw I train at the Santa Fe Springs Activity Center.
Anson Wainwright – During the build up to your fight with Mares Gary Shaw spoke very highly of you and how humble you are. He said how you live in a tough neighbourhood and that your home is made of cinderblocks. Can you tell us a bit about how life was for you as a child and how you first got into Boxing?
Yonnhy Perez – I started boxing when i was 8 years old and then was on the national team and then i turned professional. My dad introduced me to boxing. Life was very hard i come from a poor neighbourhood so i saw how hard it was for my parents to give the little that we got but one they always gave me all there love and support and that was motivated me all my career to be the best in the ring so i can give them what they need and also my immediate family. I thank god for everything he has done for me.
Anson Wainwright – Your last 3 fights have all been tough fights Silence Mabuza, Joseph Agbeko & Abner Mares. Who has been the toughest of your career to date? Who was the best boxer & who hit the hardest?
Yonnhy Perez - Silence Mabuza was the hardest hitter and hardest fight Abner was the best boxer.
Anson Wainwright – What do you like to do away from Boxing? What are you hobbies and Interests?
Yonnhy Perez - Listen to music and eat.
Anson Wainwright – What goals do you still have in Boxing? Maybe move up to Super Bantamweight or defend your title in Colombia?
Yonnhy Perez - Continue being a world champion and be a good example to fellow boxers and especially the young kids in my country and to the kids in my community. I would love to fight in my home country it would be a great honour
Anson Wainwright – How popular are you in Colombia? Are you recognised in the streets by fans?
Yonnhy Perez - It seems like everybody knows me in Cartagena when i return from my fights they wait for me at the airport. When i won the title they picked me up in a fire truck and paraded me through the streets.
Anson Wainwright – What would you be doing if it wasn’t for Boxing? What do you intend to do when you retire from Boxing?
Yonnhy Perez - I would still be in the military. Go home and live with my family and spend as much time with them as i can because its been very hard on my family being away from them.
Anson Wainwright – Finally do you have a message for your fans?
Yonnhy Perez - I would like to thank everybody who has supported me in my career and especially the community of Santa Fe Springs and My home country Colombia and all my fans. Thanks
Thanks for your time Yonnhy, keep entertaining us.
Anson Wainwright15rounds.com
COLOMBIA CELEBRATES ITS NEWEST WORLD CHAMPION, YONNHY PEREZ
LOS ANGELES, November 18 – After a whirlwind journey that led him to the top of the boxing world on October 31st, the night he took the IBF bantamweight title from Joseph Agbeko, Yonnhy Perez is rightfully enjoying the fruits of his labor while being celebrated back home in his country of Colombia all week.
The week begins for Perez on November 19th, as WBA President Gilberto Mendoza recognizes Perez as a Colombian hero and invites him to the general assembly of the organization’s 88th convention in Medellin.
Following this presentation, Perez and his promoters, Thompson Boxing Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions, travel to the Hotel Caribe in Cartagena on Friday, November 20th, for the official Yonnhy Perez Hometown Victory Press Conference, which will be attended by not only the local media, the President of the Colombian Boxing Federation, and many local Council members and sports dignitaries, but by Cartagena Mayor Judith Pinedo.
The next stop on Perez’ tour will be an emotional one, as he visits the gym where he learned the sport of boxing. While there, he will meet with his original trainer and also donate money, clothing, and equipment to the gym.
Finally, Perez and his team will wrap the week up on Saturday, November 21st with a celebration in the neighborhood where he grew up, Barrio La Delicias. This celebration – which was put together by Belsario Hurtado, the President of the local youth program, Project Cartagena – will include a parade, music, dancing, and food, and is capped off by a speech from the champ himself, who will let the youth of his neighborhood know that anything is possible if you work hard.
Yonnhy Perez is living proof.
…AND THEN THERE WERE TWO
THOMPSON BOXING PROMOTIONS CELEBRATES ITS NEWEST WORLD CHAMPION…YONNHY PEREZ
LOS ANGELES, November 3 – It was an instant classic last Saturday night at Treasure Island Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, as the two best bantamweights in the world traded punches for 12 torridly-paced rounds. When it was over, Cartegena, Colombia’s Yonnhy Perez had his hand raised over Joseph ‘King Kong’ Agbeko via unanimous decision, crowning him the new IBF 118-pound world champion.
“Coming into the fight I had a calmness and confidence about me,” said Perez. “I would think and say to my team, ‘I got this one.’ I knew Agbeko wasn’t as strong as me and couldn’t box like me. I knew that I could counter and that Agbeko would leave himself open and I would need to capitalize on that… And it played out just like I knew it would.”
The victory was the 30-year old Perez’ 20th as a pro without a defeat, and in his last two fights he has beaten two of the world’s best in Ghana’s Agbeko and South Africa’s Silence Mabuza. Now Perez sits on top of one of boxing’s most competitive divisions, and in winning his first world title, he joins junior welterweight boss Timothy Bradley as one of Thompson Boxing Promotions’ first two world champions.
“This is a great win for Team Perez,” said Perez’ trainer / manager Danny Zamora. “We worked hard for this and we looked forward to getting to this stage in Yonnhy’s career. He came from an amateur career when we first started working with him and we knew he was an older fighter and that we had to teach him a lot of new things. We were willing to take the time and he was open to learning and that made all the difference.”
Perez turned pro at the age of 26 in July of 2005 with a first round TKO of Steve Lozoya. When he was 6-0, he signed with Thompson Boxing Promotions and began on his road to the world title. And though many saw Agbeko as the favorite last Saturday night after his July win over Vic Darchinyan, Perez was not about to let his opportunity slip away, even when Agbeko’s fouling began to become more prevalent.
“We knew Agbeko was active and we told the referee to watch Agbeko’s head because we were aware that he likes to headbutt,” said Zamora. “It could have made a big difference. Yonnhy got two big headbutts by Agbeko and he would follow up the headbutts by throwing more punches. But the fight was GREAT!”
It was, and Perez punctuated his victory with a tenth round knockdown and a strong surge in the championship rounds to win by scores of 117-110, 117-110, and 116-111. The news of Perez’ victory reverberated all the way back home to Colombia.
“My hometown fans we’re so excited,” said Perez. “I could hear them cheering for me over the phone and it was an emotional moment. I could feel their enthusiasm as if they were in the same room as me. I could feel their hopes and presence with me while I was fighting in the ring and I could feel it after too. They were so excited, especially because the fight was being aired to them in Colombia. It was a huge celebration of my victory over Agbeko.”
And now the well-deserved celebration will continue for Perez, who will leave for Cartagena on Tuesday, November 3rd to be with his wife Linette, his sons Yonnhy (9) and Matteo (2), and his parents, sister and two brothers. Expected to be back in the States on February 1st, Perez will then begin the hard work of defending his title against all comers.
“Yonnhy had stitches now, so we’re giving him time to recuperate,” said Zamora. “Then we will see where we go from here. Being a World Champion is a bigger responsibility because you have to defend it to remain at the top level.”
Sounds like Perez will up for that challenge.
A beautiful spectacle
By Bart Barry
Chances are, even serious boxing fans didn’t know who Joseph King Kong Agbeko (given name) and Yonnhy Perez were before Saturday. One is from Ghana, the other Colombia. Neither speaks English fluently. Neither weighs 120 pounds. Let’s hope that didn’t dissuade. Saturday’s fight was a gorgeous thing.
It was a marriage of philosophies and prowess that should be mandatory viewing for every stylish American prizefighter who doesn’t think he gets just due. Tell you what: Fight like Joseph and Yonnhy, guys, and you’ll get heaps of credit.
Put together entertaining ring walks, and you’ll get some attention too. We’ll take things in good faith – never mind the fretting of public-relations types. More about that at the bottom.
Saturday night at Treasure Island in Las Vegas, Agbeko and Perez fought for Agbeko’s IBF bantamweight title. It was another off-the-grid masterpiece only Showtime, among all broadcasters, could televise. Perez decisioned Agbeko to take his belt. Ringside judges saw it 116-111, 117-110, 117-110.
I had it 116-113 for Perez. Rounds 1, 2, 6, 8, 9 and 10 went to the Colombian. Rounds 4, 5, 7 and 11 to Agbeko. I had 3 and 12 even. And the 10th went to Perez 10-8 because Agbeko went down.
The fight was a joy because it featured two volume punchers. Neither guy gave quarter to his opponent. Both relied on a principle that said, “When I’m comfortable in the ring your punches don’t affect me.” Both set out to snatch the other guy’s feeble will and learned there was nothing feeble about it.
When the opening bell rang both men assumed preferred posts at center ring. Neither intended to be moved. He might move himself, forwards of course, but he would not be driven off by the other man. Agbeko made the sort of intimidating start you want from every defending champion, flurrying with power punches for two minutes and 50 seconds. Then Perez buckled him with a counter right cross. Then Agbeko collected himself and resumed the attack.
Both guys found their rhythms immediately. Neither guy lost his rhythm. The first job of any volume puncher is to bring discomfort to his opponent. Hit him on the odd beat. Throw two right hands when he’s braced for a left. Press him with your hands low, head bobbing. Discourage him – in a way that celebrates the root of that word.
Agbeko and Perez established ferocious paces they were sure the other couldn’t handle. Wondrously enough, both were wrong.
After depositing quality hooks to Perez’s body early, Agbeko tried to make a withdrawal in the seventh round. He lobbed right-hand counters over Perez’s hung jab. He lobbed right-hand leads when Perez’s pace hung. He made Perez take a step backwards. It offered a scoring lesson.
On the rare occasion two volume punches get matched in a world-title fight, counting clean punches is the wrong way to score. It misinterprets the action in the ring. A bout between volume punchers is the one time it is permissible to eschew clean punching, effective aggressiveness and defense, for that fuzziest of criterion, ring generalship.
Who deserves the round? Whoever did not go backwards. The further you meander from that scoring strategy – the more you fixate on parrying, slipping or establishing the jab – the wider you miss the point.
This was most evident on the few occasions each guy did move backwards. Neither knew how, and both looked exhausted. Legs so sturdy when leaning on an opponent appeared spongy in retreat. Perez and Agbeko each stumbled; neither had shoes with properly worn heels.
An unfortunate thing happened in round 10. Progressing with his head in the lead, as is a volume puncher’s wont, Agbeko banged his eye on the top of Perez’s skull – lowered to fortify his chin. Then Agbeko’s inner thespian came out. He pulled up and turned away to ensure all knew he’d been butted. His theatricality was not rewarded; Perez punched him some more, Agbeko took a knee, and referee Robert Byrd ruled it a knockdown.
What is it with today’s Ghanaians? They are supremely conditioned, stone-chinned offensive juggernauts so long as everyone plays fair. Foul them once, though, and they metamorphose into European soccer players. Such was the case with Joshua Clottey in Madison Square Garden. Such was the case with Agbeko in Treasure Island.
The Ghanaian’s reaction to a butt he caused removed any doubt who deserved to be champion Saturday. Perez wore perpendicular gashes on the inside edges of each eyebrow, both likely butt-induced, yet complained not at all. “It’s not a tickling contest,” as a certain European-soccer fan once put it.
But forget the 10th round. Perez was going to win on the judges’ cards anyway. And both guys deserve to be celebrated. The best prospect either has for his next fight is the other guy. Pray for a rematch.
Now a thought or two about Agbeko’s ring walk. Keeping with both his middle name and the Halloween theme, Agbeko, dressed in a fearsome gorilla mask, entered behind a blond in a safari-like bikini. Agbeko was in chains, a frightening beast momentarily pacified by a sexy blond – just like his namesake.
Both Showtime commentators found the getup amusing, creative and rich with detail. Like the rest of us. Then a minute later, goaded by some producer no doubt, Al Bernstein told anyone offended by the ring walk it was not Showtime’s idea.
And just like that, thousands of us tried to solve the puzzle of Bernstein’s disclaimer. Oh, wait, now I see: A white woman leading an African man in shackles. An allusion to slavery!
Here’s why that’s so pernicious. No one but an incurable racist could have taken Agbeko’s dress as anything but a reference to “King Kong.” And what incurable racist spends his Halloween watching a bantamweight prizefight between a Ghanaian and a Colombian, promoted by an African-American?
Good grief. It’s time to start treating one another with better faith, already.
Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter.com/bartbarry
Perez dethrones Agbeko and takes IBF Bantam crown
By Marc Abrams
Yonnhy Perez scored a hard fought unanimous decision to win the IBF Bantamweight title from Joseph Agbeko and Treasure Island hotel and Resort in Las Vegas.
It was a terrific back and forth battle with both guys sitting in the pocket and firing short yet hard punches at each other for most of the fight. This fight had many ebbs and flows with many of the rounds were close where one fighter would seemingly take control only to see his opponent come back in an attempt to steal the round.
One such round was the tenth as Agbeko was dominating the round only to be sent to the canvas late in the round for the first time in his career. Replays showed that a head butt triggered Agbeko going to the canvas.
Each fighter threw a plethora of punches that put this fight on the list as a possible Fight of the Year.
Perez of Colombia won by scores of 117-110, 117-110 and 116-111 to raise his undefeated ledger to 20-0. Agbeko of Ghana is now 27-2.
Antonio DeMarco won the WBC Interim Lightweight crown with a tenth round stoppage over former WBA champ Jose Alfaro.
Demarco dominated the fight with his boxing ability as he built up a solid points lead as he was very effective with right hooks and uppercuts. Alfaro did get in a couple good right hands but they were few and far between. In round ten, DeMarco rocked Alfaro with a perfect right hook that sent the Nicaraguan into the ropes. Not scored a knockdown, Alfaro was given a repreive, be that a short one as Demarco jumped all over Alfaro with a barrage of punches that sent Alfaro to the canvas. DeMarco then scored a second knockdown as his right hand got in just before Alfaro landed a right of his own.. Sensing that Alfaro was in trouble, Demarco was on Alfaro quickly and Alfaro took a knee in the corner and referee Joe Cortez stopped the bout at 2:07 of round ten.
DeMarco, 134 1/2 lbs of Tijuana, Mexico is now 23-1-1 with seventeen knockouts. Alfaro, 134 1/2 lbs of Managua, Nicaragua is now 23-5.
FOLLOW AGBEKO/PEREZ; DEMARCO/ALFARO LIVE!!!
Follow all the action as IBF Bantamweight champion Joseph Agbeko defends his title against the hard hitting Yonnhy Perez. The action will begin with a WBC “Interim” Lightweight tussle between Antonio DeMarco and former WBA champ Jose Alfaro. The action from Treasure Island in Las Vegas gets underway at 9pm eastern/6pm Pacific
Joseph Agbeko (27-1, 22 KO’s) vs Yonnhy Perez (19-0, 14 KO’s)–12 Rounds IBF Bantamweight Championship
Round 1: Quick pace early.. Nice left hook from Perez and another..3rd big left hook…10-9 Perez
Round 2: Hard exchange that Perez gets the better of..Left… Combo to the head that drives Agbeko back.. Left hook.. Right from Agbeko…Left hook to the head from Perez…Good straight from Agbeko…20-18 Perez
Round 3: Nice combination from Agbeko..left hook..right..left hook from Perez… Big long right..Big right from Agbeko..left from Perez..29-28 Perez
Round 4: Perez working to the body..combo to the head..body..good body work…39-37 Perez
Round 5: Agbeko body/head..Perez lands a right… straight right to the head… Straight right from Agbeko.. 49-47 Perez
Round 6: Perez jabbing…good left combination…3 punch combination… jab..good right..Nice uppercut on inside from Agbeko… 59-56 Perez…Little cut on forehead of Perez (accidental Headbutt)
Round 7: Agbeko lands a good right to the head…68-66 Perez
Round 8: Wide left from Agbeko… Big right from Perez..78-76 Perez
Round 9: Terriifc back and forth with both sitting in the pocket…88-86 Perez
Round 10: 2 good rights from Agbeko…good jab.. good right…body..Right from Perez… Good jab from Agbeko.. LEFT FROM PEREZ AND DOWN GOES AGBEKO…98-94 Perez..Replay showed the knockdown was caused by a headbutt
Round 11: Terrific toe to toe action…Left from Agbeko..Perez lands on the inside..Agbeko works the body..107-104 Perez
Round 12: perez lands with a right and left..left..uppercut from Agbeko.. going to waron the inside..117-113 Perez
116-111; 117-110; 117-110 FOR THE NEW IBF BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPION…YONNHY PEREZ
Antonio DeMarco (22-1-1, 16 KO’s) vs Jose Alfaro (23-4, 20 KO’s) 12 rounds WBC Interim Lightweight title
Round 1: Alfaro lands a right…10-9 Alfaro
Round 2: DeMarco lands an upper cut and left..Straight left..left/body… Big combination in the corner..Big uppercut..Alfaro lands a left at he bell….19-19
Round 3: DeMarco lands a straight left..Alfaro lands a right uppercut to the body… Blood from left nostril of Alfaro… Left hook from Alfaro..29-28 DeMarco
Round 4: DeMarco countering nice…Right..Big left from Alfaro…39-37 DeMarco
Round 5: Swelling under left eye of Alfaro…Alfaro lands a left hook… Uppercut hurts Alfaro…Alfaro lands a counter left..Blood from nose of DeMarco…Nice right from Deamarco and a counter left..49-46 DeMarco
Round 6: Alfaro jabs…Demarco lands a right left combo to the head.. Alfaro lands an uppercut on the inside…Uppercut from DeMarco…59-55 DeMarco
Round 7: Good right from Alfaro… Right to the shoulder..Straight left from DeMarco pushes Alfaro back…Nice combination.. 69-64 DeMarco
Round 8: DeMarco lands a nice right..Right to the body hurts Alfaro…79-73 DeMarco
Round 9: DeMarco boxing and moving .. gets through with a jab…89-82 DeMarco
Round 10: Right hooks rocks Alfrai..Barrage AND DOWN GOES ALFARO…Back and forth action..LITTLE RIGHT DOWN GOES ALFARO..LONG LEFT AND ALFARO TAKES A KNEE AND THE FIGHT IS OVER
Q & A with Joseph “King Kong” Agbeko
By Anson Wainwright
DON KING TAKES OVER TREASURE ISLAND PIRATE SHIP; SHOWTIME FIGHTERS JOSEPH KING KONG AGBEKO, YONNHY PEREZ, ANTONIO DEMARCO, JOSE ALFARO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009,
Treasure Island Pirate Ship, Treasure Island Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas
Don King took over the famous Pirate Ship at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip on Wednesday for the final press conference before Saturday’s “Halloween Thrilla” world championship doubleheader at the TI and live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).
Assembled media and several hundred curious onlookers watched in amazement and were entertained as “Captain” King took over the iconic ship with the friendly help of TI’s performing Pirates and Sirens.
In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING domestically televised doubleheader, International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko defends his title against No. 1-ranked mandatory challenger Yonnhy “El Colombiano” Perez. In the co-feature, undefeated, WBC No. 1-ranked Antonio DeMarco squares off against former World Boxing Association (WBA) titlist Jose Alfaro for the WBC interim lightweight championship.
Don King is offering his “super-sensational undercard” on pay per view at DonKingTV.com for $5.99 featuring WBC No. 3-ranked Ray “The Rainman” Austin taking on former top-ranked contender DaVarryl “Touch of Sleep” Williamson for the WBC USNBC heavyweight championship.
Also featured in the five-fight PPV are three undefeated fighters: Undefeated welterweight “King” James De La Rosa, of Texas, will meet Lenin “Volcano” Arroyo, of Costa Rica; undefeated WBA No. 2-ranked super welter Nelson Linares, of Venezuela, faces Archak “Shark Attack” TerMeliksetian, of Armenia; and freedom-fighting Cuban Angelo ”La Cobra” Santana will be opposed by Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez of Cleveland.
Another big heavweight fight showcases rising knockout artist Bermane “B-Ware” Stiverne trading blows with Jerry “Big Daddy” Butler from the Bahamas.
Tickets — all priced at $200 each, plus tax and fees — can be purchased at the Treasure Island box office or by calling (866) 712-9308 or (702) 894-7723. Don King Productions and Treasure Island will present the event. Agbeko-Perez and DeMarco-Alfaro are presented in association with Gary Shaw Productions.
What the fighters said Wednesday:
JOSEPH KING KONG AGBEKO (27-1, 22 KOs)
“The fight is almost here and I am very excited. I expect a hard fight, but Saturday is going to be my night, not Perez’.
“I don’t care how many more fights it will take, but my goal is to be the No. 1 fighter pound for pound in the world. There are a lot of great fighters but I feel I’m best. I am not looking past Perez, but I am willing to fight anybody to prove I am the best.
“This is going to be a great fight Saturday for the fans in Las Vegas and the fans watching on SHOWTIME. I am extremely confident that I will keep my IBF bantamweight title.’’
YONNHY PEREZ (19-0, 14 KOs)
“There is no pressure but the opportunity is so enormous that it will feel great once we get into the ring and the fight starts.
“The time for talking is over. I have never been as focused or determined for a fight in my life. I have never worked harder, and I train all the time.
“In my heart, there is no way I see myself losing. An unbelievable thing is going to happen to me this Saturday. I am going to achieve a lifelong dream and become champion of the world.’’
ANTONIO DEMARCO (22-1-1, 16 KOs)
“This is the biggest fight of my life. A win can change things for my family and myself forever. I really want to do well, but this is going to be a good, hard fight.
“My opponent has a lot of experience, but if I box and fight smart, I am confident I will win.
“I have worked a long time for this day to come. This is my chance of a lifetime. I wish it was Saturday right now. I am ready to go.’’
JOSE ALFARO (23-4, 20 KOs)
“I am looking forward to showing people that I am back on track and that I have learned from my mistakes and that I have become a much better fighter.
“This is exciting to get an opportunity like this again. I wasn’t ready before, but I am ready mentally and physically now. No one likes to lose, but I have learned. DeMarco likes to box and moves well, but I am here to fight and win. This could be the most exciting fight of the night.’’
About Treasure Island
Treasure Island on the Las Vegas Strip, a privately owned hotel and casino boasting nearly 3,000 guest rooms, stands alone as the only major Strip property to claim that unique market position. It’s a world-class destination for headline entertainment, the enchanting Sirens of TI nightly outdoor show and Mystère, the classic Cirque du Soleil performance that combines the powerful athleticism, high-energy acrobatics and inspiring imagery that have become the company’s hallmark. Upscale and casual dining choices, hip nightspots and indulgent spa and shopping experiences further complement the one-of-a-kind Treasure Island guest experience. For information or to make a reservation, call 800-288-7206 or visit www.treasureisland.com.
About Don King Productions
Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.
DKP has promoted or co-promoted 12 of the top 20 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in the history of the world.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.
Yonnhy Perez: One Win Away from Becoming a Breakout Star
By Mario Ortega Jr.
One of the great things about boxing is that you never know from where the next great fighter will emerge. In many of today’s mainstream sports, “the next big thing” has been hyped since they laced up their cleats or athletic shoes for their high school. In boxing, a poor kid that barely owned a pair of shoes as a fifteen-year-old can become star with a ton of hard work and a few breaks. On Saturday night, Yonnhy Perez, who was joining the army in his native Colombia at an age when most teens are planning for their senior year, has a chance to make it big should he get past respected IBF Bantamweight Champion Joseph Agbeko in a bout televised nationwide by Showtime.
It has been a long road to a title opportunity for Perez (19-0, 14 KOs) of Santa Fe Springs, California. Born in Cartagena, Colombia, Perez found his way to boxing at the age of eight and gradually became one of the country’s top amateurs. His amateur career, which included seven Colombian national titles and a bronze medal at the 2003 Pan American Games, would be prolonged by his nine-year stint in the military.
At the ripe age of 26, Perez made the move to the paid ranks. “It was really rough in the beginning,” explained Perez during a recent conference call. “I did, in fact, start my professional career late. But that was due to the fact that I was in the Colombian National Army. I had support in the amateurs as a boxer and being part of the military. I did retire from the military with honors, I actually didn’t want to retire early, and that allowed me to have a small pension and a house which we rent in Colombia. That’s the reason why I started my career late. Also, I made a decision to come over to the United States because I had an opportunity to do so through my managers.”
So with the help of his managers, Mike Vital and Ismael Mares, Perez made the move to the States, making his debut in July 2005 with a first-round knockout of Steve Lozoya in Tucson, Arizona. Perez was impressive from the start and quickly caught on with Southern California-based Thompson Boxing Promotions in 2006. Under the Thompson Boxing banner, Perez was intelligently moved up the ladder and kept incredibly active. Thompson Boxing, headed by Ken Thompson and Alex Camponovo, runs regular events out of Ontario and Corona, California and Perez quickly became a fan favorite on those cards.
By the middle of 2007, Perez found himself at 12-0 with a solid win over veteran Oscar Andrade and a regional belt around his waist. In order to move Perez to the next level, Thompson Boxing reached an agreement with Gary Shaw Productions to join them as his co-promoter. “I think the 118-pound division is in for a rude awakening with Yohnny Perez on the prowl,” announced Shaw in a subsequent press release. Perez continued his progressive pace and began his climb up the rankings. After a sixth-round kayo of David Martinez in September 2008, Perez found himself with the IBF #6 bantamweight ranking which eventually earned him an eliminator against Silence Mabuza the following May.
Had his fight against Mabuza been televised in the States, chances are Yonnhy Perez would already be a star of professional boxing. The economics of the bout led to it being held in Mabuza’s native Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa. Mabuza had been best remembered for his two fights against Rafael Marquez, which constituted his only two defeats. The odds of Perez coming out of South Africa with a decision victory were slim and none.
The fight began with a give and take first round. The action was fast and furious from the start. Through the first five rounds, Mabuza seemed to have a clear edge, especially in a dominant fourth round. Perez regrouped late in the fifth, as he showed his resiliency by standing up to the attack and his versatility by converting from a flat-footed puncher to a boxer-mover.
Mabuza slowed in the eighth as Perez opened up and had his best round since the second. Just as the commentator for SABC Sport 2 described Mabuza’s demeanor as sluggish, the South African went on the offensive to close the round. In the ninth, Mabuza turned back the tide and had Perez in some trouble. The momentum clearly remained with Mabuza as the fight went into the twelfth and final round.
Despite his controlling position in the fight, Mabuza’s trainer Nick Durandt urged him to have a big round. Depending on which report you believe, Perez was either hopelessly behind on two or all three scorecards. Early in the round, with Mabuza pressing the action, Perez landed a hard left hand that forced the South African to stumble across the ring and to the mat. Mabuza got up, but looked both dazed and fatigued. As Perez threw a flurry, Mabuza could barely remain on his feet. Referee Kenny Chevalier began to step in, had a second thought, but ultimately decided to stop the bout on a second look at the wobbly Mabuza.
The unlikely come-from-behind victory was huge for Perez. “I was thrilled that I was able to win. But, what I remember the most was going into the twelfth round and knowing that it was a very difficult fight for me going throughout the first eleven rounds,” recalled Perez. “It was a very close fight and I knew that I only had one opportunity, which was the last round. I asked God for strength to help me. He was the only one who knew how hard I had worked to get to that point. He knew how tough it was to get to that opportunity. I remembered my kids back in Colombia and all the needs that my family have. I went out there with all my faith and trust in my preparation, and the result, as you all know, obviously I was very happy that I had the opportunity and the chance to beat Mabuza in South Africa.”
With the win, Perez became the mandatory challenger for Agbeko’s title. A couple years ago Agbeko was in a very similar position to that of Perez today. No one had really heard of Agbeko before his title-winning knockout of Luis Perez in September 2007. Two fights later, Agbeko defended his title with a decision win over Showtime darling Vic Darchinyan and moved into another echelon of elite level fighters.
A win over Agbeko would bring Perez more recognition than he could have probably dreamed of a few years back. “Nobody expects the guys who are climbing the ladder to win,” says Perez. People always expect it to be the guys at the top. I really don’t care what people think about my chances in this fight. I’m going up the ladder and I am going to win.”
Photo by Carlos Baeza/Thompson Boxing Promotions
Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortega15rds@lycos.com
PEREZ SAYS HE’LL COME DRESSED AS WORLD CHAMP; KING KONG SAYS CHALLENGER NEEDS REALITY CHECK; TOP CONTENDERS ANTONIO DEMARCO, JOSE ALFARO, DAVARRYL WILLIAMSON OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2009,
Nevada Boxing (Gold’s Gym), Las Vegas, Nevada
Growing up in Colombia, Yonnhy Perez would go as a chef on Halloween, “or maybe Dracula,’’ he said, “because where I’m from Halloween is called the Day of the Witch.’’
When the unbeaten, No. 1-ranked Perez (19-0, 14 KOs) of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., by way of Colombia, challenges International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight champion Joseph King Kong Agbeko (27-1, 22 KOs) of Bronx, N.Y., by way of Accra, Ghana, this Saturday in the main event at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), he says he’ll “come dressed as a world champion.
“I’m very excited for this opportunity and that all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off. I’m not Vic Darchinyan (who Agbeko convincingly outpointed in his last title defense). I’m bigger, stronger and busier. I won’t load up for one shot. I’ll be throwing punches from the opening bell.
“Saturday is going to be my night.’’
Countered Agbeko, who has predicted a knockout victory: “This isn’t a costume ball, it is a fight and Saturday I’m going to be the one leaving the ring with the belt. That’s Perez’ dream (to become world champion) and I respect that. All fighters should feel that way.
“I think Perez is a very good fighter who is good enough to one day become a world champion. But he’s not going to become IBF bantamweight champion. Not against me, not this Saturday, anyway. Perez is going to get a real dose of what reality is when he fights me.’’
In Saturday’s co-feature, World Boxing Council (WBC) No. 1-ranked Antonio DeMarco (22-1-1, 16 KOs), of Tijuana, Mex., meets former World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight titlist Jose Alfaro (23-4, 20 KOs), of Nicaragua, for the WBC 135-pound interim championship.
In a top undercard, non-televised bout, WBC No. 1-rated Ray “The Rainman” Austin (27-4-4, 17 KOs), of Cleveland, faces former world title challenger and No. 9-ranked DaVarryl “Touch of Sleep” Williamson (26-5, 22 KOs), of Denver, in a WBC heavyweight elimination bout. The WBC USNBC belt will also be on the line in the 12-round match.
Tickets — all priced at $200 each, plus tax and fees — can be purchased at the Treasure Island box office or by calling (866) 712-9308 or (702) 894-7723. Don King Productions and Treasure Island will present the event. Agbeko-Perez and DeMarco-Alfaro are presented in association with Gary Shaw Productions.
What the fighters said Tuesday:
JOSEPH KING KONG AGBEKO
“I am not underestimating Perez. He is very strong and well-conditioned, and, at 19-0, he’s made himself into a very good fighter. I look forward to him giving me a good fight. I am not saying it will be easy, but I know I am going to enjoy myself this Saturday in the ring.
“It’s my destiny to continue to win all my fights, whether they are tough or easy, to prove I am the best fighter. I am definitely leaving that ring with a victory.
“This is my second fight in Las Vegas and the second time I’ve been on SHOWTIME. I made my pro debut in Las Vegas and love it. Las Vegas has the life, the lights and a boxing spirit and history. I love seeing my name and likeness on the marquee in front of Treasure Island. I’m up in lights on the famous Las Vegas Strip. It gives me motivation to do great things.
“Fighting on SHOWTIME again makes it all that much better.’’
YONNHY PEREZ
“My weight is perfect and I feel great. This is the biggest opportunity a fighter can get, but I am trying to treat it like it is another day at the office. Although, I know it is not.
“Agbeko talks a lot. He came to my gym for a workout last week and told everybody he was going to knock me out. He keeps saying that, and it gets a little unnerving after a while. So, let’s see what happens.
“This fight is so very important. I have a lot of responsibilities. I support a lot of my family and friends. So, this fight is not only for me. It is for them. I don’t plan to let anybody down.’’
ANTONIO DEMARCO
“This is a great opportunity for me and I thank my promoter, Gary Shaw, for making it happen. But, this is really a reward for all the hard work I’ve put in. Alfaro is a good, strong boxer and former world champion who likes to come forward. This might be my toughest fight, but it’s a good ‘styles’ fight for me. It is very important that I maintain focus.
“Fighting again on SHOWTIME is great. I get more noticed by people. It’s a little embarrassing when people recognize me. I don’t seek attention. But everything changes when you become world champion and that’s the goal. I want to be a good champion in and out of the ring.’’
JOSE ALFARO
“This is the maximum opportunity and I plan to take advantage of it. I feel I am much more prepared for a fight like this than I was when I was champion.
“The first time around, I thought I could knock out anybody with one punch. I was world champ and did not think I’d ever get beat. When I lost the title, it was a very hard experience, one I’ll never forget but also one I learned a lot from. It was not a good experience, but I gained valuable experience from it.
“Now, I feel I’m back on track and ready to show my best. DeMarco is a good boxer but if I fight smart, use my brain and skills and take everything I’ve worked on in the gym into the ring, I’ll be OK. I know I can’t get wild and head-hunt. But style-wise, this is a very good fight for me. The timing of it is perfect.’’
DAVARRYL WILLIAMSON
“I am very happy to be back in the heavyweight picture. There have been some speed bumps along the way and no one can say I’ve ever had it easy. But I don’t smoke or drink and I’ve never stopped working or believing.
“A victory here and I’ll be right there to challenge (WBC heavyweight champ) Vitali Klitschko.
“It’s really his brother, Wladimir (IBF/WBO titleholder), who I want. He got real lucky against me when we fought a few years ago. But I know he’ll come running after I beat Vitali. He’ll want to salvage the family pride.’’
About Treasure Island
Treasure Island on the Las Vegas Strip, a privately owned hotel and casino boasting nearly 3,000 guest rooms, stands alone as the only major Strip property to claim that unique market position. It’s a world-class destination for headline entertainment, the enchanting Sirens of TI nightly outdoor show and Mystère, the classic Cirque du Soleil performance that combines the powerful athleticism, high-energy acrobatics and inspiring imagery that have become the company’s hallmark. Upscale and casual dining choices, hip nightspots and indulgent spa and shopping experiences further complement the one-of-a-kind Treasure Island guest experience. For information or to make a reservation, call 800-288-7206 or visit www.treasureisland.com.
About Don King Productions
Don King Productions has promoted over 500 world championship fights with nearly 100 individual boxers having been paid $1 million or more. DKP also holds the distinction of having promoted or co-promoted seven of the 10 largest pay-per-view events in history, as gauged by total buys, including three of the top five: Holyfield vs. Tyson II, 1.99 million buys, June 1997; Tyson vs. Holyfield I, 1.6 million buys, November 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, 1.58 million buys, August 1995.
DKP has promoted or co-promoted 12 of the top 20 highest-grossing live gates in the history of the state of Nevada including four of the top five: Holyfield vs. Lewis II, paid attendance: 17,078, gross: $16,860,300 (NOTE: Also second-highest live-gate gross for any event in the history of the world.), date: Nov. 13, 1999; Holyfield vs. Tyson II, paid attendance: 16,279, gross: $14,277,200, date: June 28, 1997; Holyfield vs. Tyson I, paid attendance: 16,103, gross: $14,150,700, date: Nov. 9, 1996; and Tyson vs. McNeeley, paid attendance: 16,113, gross: $13,965,600, date: Aug. 19, 1995.
About Showtime Networks Inc.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as the multiplex channels SHOWTIME 2™, SHOWTIME® SHOWCASE, SHOWTIME EXTREME®, SHOWTIME BEYOND®, SHOWTIME NEXT®, SHOWTIME WOMEN®, SHOWTIME FAMILY ZONE® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ XTRA. SNI also offers SHOWTIME HD®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ HD, SHOWTIME ON DEMAND® and THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution. All SNI feeds provide enhanced sound using Dolby Digital 5.1. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®.
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