Loew fight show coming to Metroplex
Metroplex will host
fight card Saturday
By Greg Gulas
GIRARD
The last time Jack Loew attended a fight at the Metroplex Expo Center, he was the trainer in Kelly Pavlik’s corner when the former middleweight world champion was a rising star. Pavlik knocked out Rob Bleakley for his 11th consecutive — all by KO — pro victory.
That was Nov. 21, 2001 so when new ownership at 1620 Motor Inn Drive was looking to host fight night again, Loew felt it only natural that his next pro-am take place where South Side B.C. boxers have a storied history.
Loew will present the “Battle on Belmont” on Saturday. The 14-bout pro-am card will feature the pro debut of local insurance agent Rocky Nolfi, the anticipated debut of 42-year-old puncher Jennifer Sharp and a four-member team from Naples, Fla., headed by Niles native and former middleweight contender Billy Lyell (25-11, 5 KO’s).
“In the past, the Metroplex played host to local fighters Ken Sigurani, Craig Kikta and Kelly,” Loew said. “When I heard the new ownership was considering hosting fights again I approached them, they loved the idea and the result is this weekend’s pro-am card.
“We’ll have four pro fights and 10 amateur bouts and each one is equally paired. There’s really no main event, but Lowellville’s Rocky Nolfi at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds is someone you’ll want to keep an eye on.”
Joining Nolfi will be Danny Rosenberger (4-7-4, KO) and John Gregory (2-1, KO) while Popo Salinas (10-2, 9 KOs) — whom Loew has received permission from Rising Star Promotions to use on his card — will fight if an opponent can be secured.
“After a seven-year lay-off I am happy to be back in the ring,” said Nolfi, who advanced to the Ringside World Amateurs in Kansas City when active. “I had a nice amateur career with Jack at South Side B.C. then life took over. I’m just glad to be back.”
Nolfi will meet Davmond Carter (1-1, KO) of Bronx, New York in a heavyweight clash while Rosenberger goes up against Kevin Shacks (3-2-3, 3 KOs) of Lansing, Mich., at 147 pounds.
Gregory, also a 147-pounder, meets Kettering’s Samuel Widenhaus, who will be making his pro debut.
“Danny is the ‘King of the draws’ because any time you go to someone’s backyard and fight to a draw, it’s a win as far as I’m concerned,” Loew added. “Gregory fights under Tommy Cordell and if you aren’t at the top of your game he’ll surprise you.
“As for Popo, we’re just awaiting OAC approval.”
At 42, Sharp fell in love with the game while hanging out at Loew’s gym with boyfriend Vinnie O’Neill. She’s a stay-busy fighter according to Loew, who said the crowd will leave impressed with her ring savvy.
She’ll go up against Heather Chillicothe of Columbus in a 140-pound pairing.
“I’ve been working out for a few years now and was kind of like everyone’s mom,” Sharp said. “I then started sparring and this is the culmination of the last 18 months of work. It’s something I’ll soon be able to cross off my bucket list.”
Amateurs to watch include Jackson Behun (147 pounds) of Boardman and at 106 pounds, Jacorian Dent of Ursuline High School.
“Jackson is a kid who has all the potential and ability in the world. He’s tall, has long arms and boxes really well,” Loew said. “Jacorian is probably the most talented all-around boxer for his age and weight. He’s been forced to fight some opponents with numerous national titles and has held his own. When he catches up to everyone he’s going to be a special boxer.”
Lyell owns the Sweet Science Boxing & Fitness Center in Naples, Fla., and is bringing four amateurs to his former stomping grounds.
“It’s going to be a lot of fun showing my four boxers where I used train and fight,” Lyell said. “My guys never ask who they’re fighting, they just want to box and get better.
“Kelly Pavlik came down to help with a fundraiser for the gym back on March 22 and everyone loved hanging with him. Guys like Lou Schiavoni and Pat Nelson have stopped by my gym when they are in town and I’ll get a chance to see all of them with my fighters this weekend.”
Lyell’s fighters are Leo Chavez (175), Brian Garcia (130), Kevin Backas (127) and Joseph Rojas (106).
General admission is $25, ringside seats are $50. A few ringside seats remain.
Further information can be obtained by calling Loew at 330-501-5713.