Russian heavyweight Andrey Fedosov knocked out Darnell “Ding-Al-Ling” Man Wilson in the fifth round of the Main Event of Saturday night’s “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” at The Venue inside Hammond, Indiana’s Horseshoe Casino.
The co-feature ended in the fourth round when cruiserweight Dimar “Strongman” Ortuz scored a fourth round technical knockout over Harvey Kilfian.
Before the evening’s first match Hitz Boxing and the fans in attendance paid tribute to the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing and the fertilizer plant explosion in Waco, TX with a ten bell salute. Additionally, the crowd thanked America’s first responders and military with a standing ovation prior to the National Anthem.
“It was a tough week for this country with the tragedies in Boston and Waco, as well as those impacted with local floods so we wanted to do something special and give our fans an opportunity to recognize the victims, survivors and heroes,” said Hitz, President and CEO of Hitz Boxing.
“I want to thank the fighters for putting on a good show and the Hitz Boxing team for their hard work but most importantly the fans for their support. We look forward to being back at the Horseshoe on June 8.”
Hitz was impressed with Fedosov’s knockout of Wilson and commented, “I did not know what to expect from this fight. I was pleased to see Andrey stop Wilson, who has beaten some of the best fighters in the world and does not go easily. Andrey joined the elite class of heavyweights with this victory.”
Hitz continued with an observation of Ortuz, “Dimar looked real aggressive, he came out with all guns blazing. I expect big things from him.”
Comebacking fan favorite, lightweight Frank Scalise, of Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood, electrified the crowd with a third round knockout of Reggie Nash.
“I am very pleased about Frank’s performance, he showed a lot of heart and fire power. If he keeps going at this pace big things are going to happen for him. Everyone in boxing should pay attention to this comeback,” said Hitz.
Light welterweight Olusegun Ajose started the evening off by beating Rynell Griffin in an eight round unanimous decision in the first match.
“I cannot say enough about Ajose, he is a great fighter and a nice young man. It was an absolute pleasure to work with his promoter Lou DiBella and trainer Buddy McGirt. He has a first rate fighter with a first rate team,” said Hitz.
Junior welterweight Antonio “Aztec God of War” Canas, who recently signed with Hitz Boxing, beat the always durable Trent Titsworth in six round unanimous decision.
“It was good to get Antonio Canas in the ring again, we are excited to have him in our and we look forward showcasing him in the future.
The evening also featured the pro debuts of three local fighters. Heavyweight Nick Asberry knocked out Khuzaymah Al Nubu in the first round, while welterweight Roy Navarro was awarded a TKO over Justin Gaurhier in first round. Super flyweight Fidel Navarrete fought to a draw with Fred Bowen.
“The three debuts all put on great performances I am excited about being with these three young guys and I look forward to seeing their careers develop,” said Hitz.
Welterweight Nick Ramirez scored a unanimous decision over Chad McKinney in a four round slugfest.
“Ramirez was tough against a good game fighter, he passed this early test and I am excited about his future. McKinney was equally impressive and we look forward to having him back. Its rare that you get a match up like this between two local fighters. I want to applaud these two kids.”
Light welterweight Russell Fiore out muscled a very tough Cory McCants in a very competitive bout to win in a split decision.
“Russell continues to improve in every fight,” said Hitz.
