Truax Out for Revenge against Williams!
 
For Immediate Release

St. Paul, MN (April 21, 2010) – When Osseo’s Caleb Truax dropped a devastating decision to Minneapolitan Phil Williams in the 2005 Minnesota Golden Gloves, his sights were set on immediate revenge. Mission failed. Williams jolted to the professional ranks just one year later and Truax followed shortly thereafter.
 
“I always wanted payback”, Truax said looking back to the defeat from five years ago. “The problem was he turned pro before the next Golden Gloves tournament so it wasn’t possible.”
 
This Friday at the St. Paul Armory, Truax will have his long awaited shot at redemption; though it won’t be easy. As professionals, the two Minnesotans have taken different paths. Williams, 11-3 (10 KO’s), is recognized for his devastating one punch power. He knocked a number of opponents out cold, becoming a YouTube hit in the process, but has suffered three setbacks of his own.
 
At 14-0 (9 KO’s), Truax is a gifted boxer-puncher known for thoroughly punishing opponents before ending their night. With the always dangerous Williams eager to get back on track following two tough defeats, Truax recognizes the importance of sticking to the game plan.
 
“I feel that I will outbox him” said the University of Minnesota graduate. “I respect his power but he doesn’t throw the sharpest punches, so I don’t think he will be able to catch me. He will feel my power if anything because I have nine knockouts and have stopped some rugged opponents.”
 
In addition to personal bragging rights, the winner can claim to be the top local fighter with Minnesota’s State Super Middleweight championship set to be on the line in this highly anticipated ten round main event.
 
The co-feature matches up dynamic power punching heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell of Coon Rapids, MN against Iowa based veteran Josh Gutcher. Abell, 25-4 (24 KO’s), is amongst the hardest hitters in boxing. The bout is scheduled for eight rounds, but most expect the outcome to be out of the judges’ hands.
 
Also scheduled to appear on the undercard are Ismail Muwendo, David Laque, Antwon Robertson, James Owen, Charles Meier and Dan Copp.
 
In addition, two MMA bouts as well as a four round boxing exhibition are slated to take place on this action packed night.
 
Tickets for the “St. Paul Brawl” are $25 for general admission and $75 for VIP and are available at ticketweb.com. Doors open at 7 pm and the first bell is slated for 8.
 
The St. Paul Armory is located at 600 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55101.
When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for boxing was undeniable. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions. By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out quickly became a hit.
Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out strives to become a top promotional firm by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering fans the highest quality of entertainment. Seconds Out is committed to recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission.
Seconds Out Promotions’ current stable of pugilists includes undefeated prospects “Golden” Caleb Truax, Marcus Oliveria, Michael Faulk, Ismail Muwendo, dynamite fisted Heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell, Willshaun Boxley, Charles Meier, Jon “The Ironman” Schmidt, and Mohammed Kayongo.

Phil Williams Prepares for Minnesota Super Middleweight Title Fight
For Immediate Release

(Photo Credit: Becky Olstad, beckyolstad.com)

Minneapolis,MN- With the Super Six Boxing Classic underway Minnesota will get a taste of it’s own super middleweight action when fan favorite Phil Williams(11-3) battles Caleb Truax(14-0) for the state super middleweight belt April 23 at the St. Paul Armory.

Williams kicked off a six week camp recently to prepare for what he considers the most important fight of his career. Coming off of losses to Matt Vanda, and Donovan George Williams aims to redirect his career, while standing by his mission to fight the best.

“After losing to George I was throwing punches in my sleep, I’m a fighter, I can’t give this up. I can still do anything the rest of these guys can do, I feel good enough to fight until I’m 40” Williams noted on the opening day of camp.
Truax, an undefeated prospect, was bested by Williams in the amateur ranks, but has since compiled a flawless professional record including a WBF middleweight title win over Kerry Hope in November.

Truax-Williams will be a ten round affair with the Minnesota Super Middleweight title on the line. Tickets are available at ticketweb.com, and are 25$ general admission, and 75$ VIP.

With break neck power in either hand Phil Williams quickly became a fan favorite in Minnesota. Recording an impressive 80% knockout rate in his first ten bouts, Williams now aims to share the ring with the highest quality opposition available.
Training at the Uppercut Gym under Jacque Davis Williams holds impressive knockout wins over Marcus Upshaw, and Antwun Echols and brought Grand Casino Hinckley record attendance numbers during his bout with Matt Vanda in 2009.

…………………..

Tony Grygelko  sent me Friday’s line-up yesterday.

10rds
Caleb Truax (14-0, 9 KOs) Osseo, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=387857&cat=boxer
Vs.
Phil Williams (12-3, 11 KOs) Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=355629&cat=boxer

8rds
Joey Abell  (25-4, 24 KOs) Coon Rapids, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=327656&cat=boxer
Vs.
Josh Gutcher (18-11, 13 KOs) Albia, IA
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=31200&cat=boxer

MMA
Travis Reddinger (10-2) St Paul, Minnesota
http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/mma.cfm?go=stats.fighterDetail&pid=3890E9B92
1FEA1C1
Vs.
Elias Jones (0-2) Britton, South Dakota
http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/mma.cfm?go=stats.fighterDetail&pid=4C7CB3379
1642B30

Zach Juusola (2-0) Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/mma.cfm?go=stats.fighterDetail&pid=7BD3278AE
F49179C
Vs.
Shaine  Emmons (Pro Debut)

http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/mma.cfm?go=stats.fighterDetail&pid=E96C468C5
2362996

 6rds
Ismail Muwendo (4-0, 3 KOs) Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=482652&cat=boxer
Vs.
David Laque (2-3-1, 2 KOs) Bloomington, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=497070&cat=boxer

4rds
Antwon Robertson (6-1, 4 KOs) Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=422742&cat=boxer
Vs.
James Owen (3-0, 2 KOs) Milwaukee, Wisconsin
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=519803&cat=boxer

4rds
Charles Meier (3-1, 2 KOs) Coon Rapids, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=483022&cat=boxer
Vs.
Dan Copp (1-3, 0 KOs) Mankato, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=500134&cat=boxer

Exhibition
4rds
Derek Winston (2-0, 0 KOs) Minneapolis, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=514963&cat=boxer
 Vs.
Jake Backus (0-1) Arden Hills, Minnesota
http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=511625&cat=boxer

Caleb Truax (left), Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Minnesota’s own version of last man standing has been going strong over the last year and “Golden” Caleb Truax isn’t going to miss his chance at entering the mix. The last 13 months have been filled with the best MN fighters going after each other in an effort to separate from the rest. Well, April 23 will be the next installment of  BIG MN vs MN fights. “Golden” Caleb Truax(14,0) will be taking on one of Minnesota’s most dangerous punchers in Phil “The Drill” Williams (11,3). Truax took some time to answer a few questions about his fight with The Drill as well as some other topics below.

 
M….I know you had to take a little time away from boxing because of the cut you suffered in your last fight in November, how are you feeling?

 
Truax….I feel great! I’ve had plenty of time to prepare for this fight and have had no problems with my eye. I’m ready to get busy!

 
 
M….Your fight with Kerry Hope was great! What are your thoughts on that fight now?

Truax….I think it was a great learning experience for me. I had to push myself in a hard 10rd fight with a good opponent.

 
M….I have become accustom to seeing your name on various magazines and websites, how does it feel to be getting some out of state attention?

Truax….I don’t pay too much attention to all that stuff. It obviously helps with exposure but you know what they say, don’t read your own headlines.

 
M….Last I heard, your fight with Phil Williams will be at 164lbs max, what weight do you see your future at in boxing?

Truax….Middleweight

 
M….There are a few fighters here in Minnesota who have a large vocal following. You are one of those guys, what do you think has helped you get such great fans?

Truax….Well alot of those people you hear screaming at my fights aren’t my fans, they’re my friends I grew up with who still support me today. As far as my fans go I think I’m just a people person. I’m very approachable and treat people with respect and I get that respect and support in return.

 
M….I have heard rumbles from fans who would like to see you fight Matt Vanda. I know you guys not only share a gym, but also have the same trainer, is this a fight that just cant happen?

 
Truax….Matt is a great dude and has helped me tremendously with my career, that being said, I think its a fight that could happen soon. We’ve talked about it with one another and both agree that if it makes $$$, it makes sense.

 
M….Your fight with The Drill was on many fans wish lists, were you involved in making it or were you told he was the man you would be fighting?

Truax….I wanted a big in-state fight and Kost and Kolle didn’t work out and we knew Phil would step up so Tony G put it together.

M….What are your thoughts on Phil Williams? Will he be the biggest puncher you have been in with to date?

Truax….I have nothing but respect for Phil because thats all he has shown me. I know his power is nothing to under estimate and I guess we’ll see on the 23rd if he’s the most powerful I’ve been in with.

 
M….What sort of fight are you expecting April 23?

Truax….I expect to control the fight. This is my 1st fight fight in a while in which I know exactly what to expect coming in. No opponent changes, plenty of film to watch. I’ve prepared well and am ready for Phil.

 
 
M….Do you have your sites set on any road fights in the near future?

Truax….Right now we are building up steam here in MN and trying to grow my fan base so I don’ mind if I have more fights here at home. I definitely would like to get back on the road in the near future though.

 
M….How would you describe your relationship with your trainer Ron Lyke?

Truax…..(Ron-manager, Tom Halstad-trainer, Jim Maurine-cutman)

I have a tight relationship with my entire team. I have been with everyone I am with today since day 1. I think its rare in boxing that a fighter trusts and is friends with his entire team. Ron is my manager and I trust him to lead my career in the right direction as he has so far. Tom Halstad is my trainer and I feel the same way about him. Along with my cutman/punching bag Jim Maurine and promoter Tony G, we are all ready to take this thing to the next level.

 
M…. Where do you expect to see yourself a year from now in your boxing career?

Truax….Unbeaten and becoming a household name in MN sports.

M…. Thanks for giving us some time, is there anything you would like to add?

Truax….Thank you for your time and to all my friends and fans: thank you and come check me out April, 23 at the Saint Paul Armory. It will be a great fight!

“Golden” Caleb Truax vs Phil “The Drill” Williams, Friday, April 23, St. Paul Armory.

Here are some prior interviews we have had with Caleb Truax.

4-1-09 Caleb Truax

9-19-09 Caleb Truax

Joey Abell, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell (25,4) is set to face Josh Gutcher (18,11) April 23 at the St. Paul Armory as part of the Truax/Williams show. Minnesota Ice also has a date at Nelson Mandela Memorial Stadium in Kampala Uganda May 29. Coming off the controversy from his last fight December 4, Ice is looking to get back into the ring in a big way. Minnesota’s heaviest hitter took some time to answer a few questions from The League below.

M….Its now been more than 4 months since your fight with Butler, do you have any final thoughts from that night?

Joey Abell

Abell….

No not really, I have put that behind me. I try and learn from my mistakes but a lot of what happens in the ring is instinct, adrenalin, and or rage. Thats why your taught to follow the ref’s instructions.

 
M….Do you see a rematch with Butler in your future?

Abell….I don’t think so. There hasn’t been any interest from either camp since the fight and a bit of hostility still exist. I would certainly fight Butler again if the terms were right.

 
M…. Has it been difficult waiting and watching as the various changes  have happened with your upcoming fight in Africa?

Abell….It has been difficult both mentally and physically. I have been training hard for months now and thats very tough on the body. You should only train hard for 4 weeks before a fight, so as the date keeps getting pushed back I have to continue to train. Hopefully we have it right now and I am ready for the next two fights.

M….At first it sounded as though you may face Francois Botha, do you think you may get a shot at the winner of Botha/Holyfield?

Abell…. That depends on what happens tonight in Las Vegas. If its a snoozer probably not, but it could end up very exciting and a match with Botha in Africa (should he win) might be a huge draw because he is from South Africa and he has a huge following.

 
M….Tony Grygelko informed us that your contracts have been signed for a fight May 29 in Africa, will you still be fighting Al Cole? If so, how much motivation will be gained from your first fight with him?

Abell….The May 29th date should be good. We just signed the contract and I have received some up front money. Money is usually a good indicator if the fight is on. Al Cole is still the opponent and I am extremely motivated to fight him again. He was a bit cocky after the last fight and I look forward to fighting 10 three minute rounds if it lasts that long.

 
M…. How close do you think you are to getting at some of the top guys in the heavyweight division?

Abell….Our plan is move into that category after four more fights following Africa. We expect to start challenging in the top twenty in less than a year.

 
M….Given the madness of December 4 and all that happened, how eager are you to get back to the business of boxing on April 23?

Abell….I am very anxious, its been too long for me. I love boxing, the crowds, and of course the money.

 
M….Do you know much about your opponent?

Abell….Just from clips that are available on the internet. He has fought some quality opponents and I am definitely not taking him lightly. I have learned that lesson.

M….You are one of the fighters frequently spotted at boxing events here in Minnesota, are there any MN guys you are particularly interested in following?

Abell…. I am a huge boxing fan and especially like to watch Minnesota Boxers. Its kind of a club here because its still in its early stages of development. Caleb is of course fun to watch because we train at the same facility. It has been a bit frustrating though trying to get good matches and crowds in Minnesota. I am not sure if its because we don’t really have experienced and established promoters or the fan base just isn’t here. I suspect its the former.

M….How busy of a year do you see for yourself?

Abell….We are planning on 3 or more fights after the Africa fight. Maybe 1 of those will be overseas but nothing is firm yet.

 
M…. Where do you hope to be a year from now in boxing?

Abell….Well assuming I keep winning, I expect to be challenging the top twenty in the heavyweight division. I have no interest in being a club fighter so I will keep looking toward the top and see how far I can go.

 
M….I have always been hugely impressed with your power, but in a recent interview with Tony Grygelko, he said your speed is very hard to match in a big man. What would you describe as your greatest strengths in the ring?

Abell…. I think my biggest asset as a heavyweight fighter is my athleticism, being able to move in the ring gives me a great advantage over the slower heavyweights.

Tony Grygelko (second from left), Courtesy SnapLocally.com

M….Seconds Out Promotions has been very busy the last couple years, how hard has it been putting so many shows together?

Tony Grygelko…. Our team has put a tremendous amount of hard work in over the years and there has been struggles along the way but we have never stopped our progression towards becoming not just the best fight promotion in the Midwest but to be considered one of the best in the world. Our endeavor has been no different than any other company trying to make it in this volatile economy and we have been able to keep growing because we understand that in today’s market you need to be innovative and have the ability to change the mold of the industry that you are working in. We have branched into promoting hybrid events which have included both boxing and MMA, along with launching into the MMA market as a whole. We have provided true value to our fighters that we have represented and most of all, we have provided our fan base with some of the most exciting events that Minnesota has ever seen.

 
M…..You are now quite active in MMA as well as boxing. I am a fan of both sports but that does not always seem to be the case with boxing fans and MMA fans, why do you think that is? And do you thinking working with both sports helps fans from the other to gain more understanding and enjoyment from each combat sport?

Tony Grygelko…. What I see with MMA is a younger age demographic that has a hunger for a high impact and fast paced sport to fill their entertainment needs and that is exactly what MMA  brings them but I think we have witnessed a big change in the fight fans over the year. By exposing the younger demographic to the sport of boxing we have created a more complete fight fan who comes to both of our events to enjoy the explosive matchups. 

 
M….What is the story with Joey Abell’s fight in Africa, is that fight still happening?

Tony Grygelko…. It sure is! We just signed the contract yesterday and the fight will now be taken place on May 29th.
 

M….I have talked with several fighters who have felt Abell’s power and they all confirm it to be world class, what do you see in Joey Abell’s future?

Tony Grygelko….  I think Joey has all of the attributes to become a champion and his power is like nothing most people in boxing have ever seen but I the most over looked skill that Joey has is his speed. There is nobody in boxing today that is as big as Joe that can match his hand speed.

 
M….”Golden” Caleb Truax, what comes to mind?

Tony Grygelko….  Total package!! Not just a the total package of a boxing champion but the total package of a amazing person. He dedication to self improvement is what makes him very special. The kid is truly “Golden”!

 
M…. I along with many others have noticed Truax’s rapid growth over the last year, what do you attribute that to?

Tony Grygelko….  It’s because he understands that he is only as good as the people he surrounds himself with. He has great people in his corner that make consistent efforts to help him and Caleb understands the value of them. When I say people in his corner I don’t just mean his management or his trainers, it’s also his family, friends, and most of all his fans!

 
M….I thought Kerry Hope was a great victory for Truax, what are your thoughts from that fight and Kerry Hope as a fighter?

Tony Grygelko…. I think we saw exactly what we wanted to see. Caleb was in a tough fight that challenged him to learn after each round, that’s the type of fights you need are building towards a championship.  Kerry Hope could have beaten any other middleweight in the state that night, he just happened to run into the best of them all.

M….You guys answered many a fans request by putting on Truax vs Williams, how did this fight come together?

Tony Grygelko….  Well Caleb and Phil are in my mind the best middleweights in the state. I know Phil has struggled over his last couple of fights but he has now found a new focus and I believe we are going to see a new Phil Williams on April 23rd.

 
M….What do you see this fight doing for its winner?

Tony Grygelko….Well I would love to see Kolle step up and fight either one of these fighters. I don’t think he could last one round with fighters that possess the power that both Caleb and Phil have. Remember the Paul Williams fight!!! I really don’t think that fight will happen so I think the winner of the April 23 fight will look to get out on the national scene.

M….Do you have the rest of the card rounded out? Or any hints as to what other fights we may see?

Tony Grygelko….Well we had Marcus LeVesseur and Mike Richman slated to compete in MMA action but they had the UFC tryouts and well let’s just say they won’t be able to fight on the 23rd.  As for the boxing we are looking to put Jon, Charles, and Ismail to a test. We are also happy to announce that we will have Antwon Robertson and Derek Winston on the card. Both these fighters are original products of Lyke’s Boxing Gym.

M….The last couple of years have been quite active in Minnesota boxing, how do you see boxing in our state?

Tony Grygelko….I think we rate up there with some of the most active states. We certainly have the talent and the fans to be considered the best state of boxing. Hell we are the Midwest right? As my good friend Roger Mayweather always says… The best fighters come from the Midwest!

M….What are some things you think Minnesota boxing fans have to look forward to?

Tony Grygelko…. Well lets all come out and support the two best Middleweights in the state on April 23 and at that event I have a real big announcement to make for June!

M…. How would you rate Minnesota’s fighters? Any guys you are excited about?
 

Tony Grygelko….The best fighters come from the Midwest!
If I was going to dip into the vast talent pool here in Minnesota I would want to work… I’m not telling!

Well if you look at the true 8 weight classes in boxing you could say Minnesota is talent rich.

Flyweight

Antwan Robertson

Bantamweight

Vincente Alfaro

Featherweight

Ismail Muwendo

Lt Weight

Jason Litzau

Welter

M Kayango

Middle

Caleb Tuax

Lt Heavy

Marcus Oliveria

Heavy

Joey Abell

Fighter that I am the most excited about is Cerresso Fort. I think with the right team this kid could be very good. I think he has made some move recently that has shown the he really is ready to start making some big steps with his career. I wish him the best of luck!

M….Thanks for sharing with our readers. Is there anything you would like to add?

Tony Grygelko….Don’t forget to get your tickets for the St Paul Brawl. Tickets are available at www.ticketweb.com

Truax to Battle Rival Phil Williams April 23!

For Immediate Release

St. Paul, MN (April 6, 2010) - Highly touted super middleweight Caleb “Golden” Truax will meet in-state rival Phil “The Drill” Williams at the St. Paul Armory Friday, April 23, in the main event of Seconds Out Promotions’ “St. Paul Brawl”.

A flawless 14-0 with 9 knockouts, Truax is amongst the top up-and-comers in the Midwest. The Osseo, MN native stopped five of his last seven opponents, most recently outpointing well regarded Kerry Hope in the World Boxing Federation’s Fight of the Year.

Williams, a dynamic power puncher, looks to get back on track following two recent setbacks. At 11-3 with 10 KO’s, Williams owns knockout victories over former title challenger Antwun Echols, underrated Marcus Upshaw, and twice decked unbeaten contender Marcus Oliveira before coming up short. A resident of Minneapolis, MN by way of Queens, NY, Williams is confident he will tarnish Truax’ perfect record.

Truax and Williams meet over ten rounds for local bragging rights, as the Minnesota State Super Middleweight title will be up for grabs.

In the eight round co-feature, cement fisted heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell battles 31 fight veteran Josh “The Griz” Gutcher of Albia, IA. A fan favorite based out of Coon Rapids, Abell sports a 25-4 record with 24 wins by knockout. Having fought in the U.S., Sweden, Canada and Saint Lucia, Abel is globally recognized as a devastating puncher.

Unbeaten featherweights Ismail Muwendo and Gustavo Espinoza meet over four rounds, while crowd favorites Jon “Iron Man” Schmidt, Charles Meier, Derek Winston and Antwon Robertson will appear in separate bouts against opponents to be announced.

With mixed martial arts’ interest at an all time high, Seconds Out added three special attraction MMA bouts to the card. Middleweight Jedidiah Jones meets Isiah Mahto in a highly anticipated three round rematch, while well regarded locals Travis Reddinger and Zach Juusola meet opponents TBA.

Tickets for the “St. Paul Brawl” are $25 for general admission and $75 for VIP and are available at ticketweb.com. Doors to open at 7 pm. The first bell is slated for 8.

The St. Paul Armory is located at 600 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55101.

When retired professional boxer Tony Grygelko found himself unable to stay out of the gym, he realized that his passion for boxing was undeniable. At age 29, Grygelko formed Seconds Out Promotions. By utilizing the vast boxing knowledge of world-class trainer Ron Lyke, Grygelko and Seconds Out quickly became a hit.

Through determination, integrity and hard work, Seconds Out strives to become a top promotional firm by giving young fighters the ability to showcase their talents to a worldwide audience, along with offering fans the highest quality of entertainment. Seconds Out is committed to recruitment and development of the best and brightest young fighters to help achieve our mission.

Seconds Out Promotions’ current stable of pugilists includes undefeated prospects “Golden” Caleb Truax, Marcus Oliveria, Michael Faulk, Ismail Muwendo, dynamite fisted Heavyweight Joey “Minnesota Ice” Abell, Willshaun Boxley, Charles Meier, Jon “The Ironman” Schmidt, and Mohammed Kayongo.

For more information, go to www.soboxing.com

"Bad" Brad Patraw

“Bad” Brad Patraw (6,1) VS Gary “Stone Cold” Eyer (7,0,1) has generated a ton of talk among boxing fans. These two will meet on the same night as Kolle/Vanda and add to an already stacked night of fights. Anyone who has watched these two battle over the last couple of years knows this should be a fun one. Eyer has spent his time in the 130’s and Patraw in the 120’s and their fight is set at 126 lbs. This will be the lowest weight Eyer has fought at and for Patraw its a little bit heavier than he would like to campaign. So the weight does not seem to hold an advantage for either fighter. In talking with both boxers, I get the feeling they know this is going to be an explosion of action. Below “Bad” Brad Patraw was kind enough to answer a few of our questions.

M…. What have you been up to since your last fight back in October?

Patraw…. Not to much, just taking care of my son who was born Jan 3rd 2010.

 
 
M…. Do you have any comments from your state title fight with Antwan Robertson?

 
Patraw….I don’t really have nothing to say about my last fight other then the 2nd knock down shouldn’t have been one .. even with it I think it should have been a draw.

 
M…. After Antwans last fight he offered you a rematch. Do you see that taking place this year?

Patraw…. No, I am thinking Ill never get it .I was hoping it would have been April 2nd.

 
M…. Gary “Stone Cold” Eyer, what comes to mind?

Patraw…. A tough mother $%#@%.

"Bad" Brad Patraw, left, courtesy SnapLocally.com

 
M…. Have you and Eyer ever fought before in the ams?

Patraw….No, we never fought.

M…. Has Eyer been on your radar as a possible opponent, or was this fight kind of a surprise to you?

Patraw…. It was a big surprise to me.

 
M…. From watching both you and Eyer fight, this has all the makings for a huge action packed brawl, how do you see it?

Patraw…. I think it could be cause I’m not scared to mix it up at all and he is not either. So Ill leave it at that and you can see April 2nd

 
M…. Have you been able to see many of Eyers fights? Were you able to see Eyer/Cortez?

 
Patraw…. No, I did see a little of his pro debut .. and I did see it.

 
M…. You had mentioned to me in the past that you would like to take your show on the road, is that still something you are looking to do in the near future?

Patraw….Yes I do want to get on a card out of state and I have been talking to a matchmaker from NY.

 
M…. Is 126 the weight you feel most comfortable at? Are there any other weights you would like to try?

Patraw…. I took it at 126 cause I don’t think I was going to have a choice. It was like I take this fight or I’m not fighting. I would like to stay at 122.

M…. Do you have any predictions for Kolle/Vanda?

Patraw…. I like them both, I know Vanda better and I think he will pull it off.

M…. Is there anything you would like to add?

Patraw…. I would Like to say after this fight I hope I get better recognition around here . I want to thank my family ,my friends and my fans for sticking by me , also my new sponsor for backing me, Shakers Vodka ,thanks.

Here are two prior interviews of Patraw.

8-11-09 Brad Patraw

10-18-09 Brad Patraw

April 2 in Hinckley looks to be getting more stacked by the minute. The card as it stands has; The Minnesota Middleweight Title fight Andy Kolle (20,2 Champ) vs Matt Vanda (42,10), Gary Eyer (7,0,1) vs “Bad” Brad Patraw (6,1) Eyer will be going down to Patraw’s weight for this one, Jeremy McLaurin (7,0) vs Hector Orozco (1,5) in a rematch of a very close fight, Tyler Hultin (1,0) vs Tim Taggart (3,2,1), Javontae Starks (3,0) and Jamal James (0,0) will also be featured in separate bouts. All bouts subject to change.

Gary "Stone Cold" Eyer ready to unload.

VS

"Bad" Brad Patraw

WBF Champ, Caleb Truax, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

Remember that wish list of fights? Ask and ye shall receive. Not only will April bring Kolle/Vanda 2, but it has just been announced that “Golden” Caleb Truax and Phil “The Drill” Williams will also be facing off in early April in Minneapolis at a venue yet to be named. We will have much more on both of these fights in the coming days and weeks. Below is a comment from Tony Grygelko of Seconds Out Promotions regarding their company and the big fight between Truax and Williams.

Phil "The Drill" Williams, Courtesy SnapLocally.com

“We have made some exciting changes to unveil with this event. We have brought on the business experience of Craig Murphy, and Katie Grygelko will now be taking on the role of CEO of SO. Along with these changes we have teamed with Vik Uppal of Uppal Enterprises and we are real excited to put this fight together and host it downtown Minneapolis. This fight will be pitting two of Minnesota’s most popular fighters together and each are promising explosive performances. For Phil its a must win fight and Caleb is looking to avenge a loss to Phil in the amateurs. We will have a venue in place by the end of the week. It would have been great to have Andy (Andy Kolle) truly stand behind his statements but as always they are in no hurry to come to the table, thus Caleb wanted to fight “The Most Feared” fighter in the state, Mr. Williams.” Tony Grygelko

Matt Vanda/Andy Kolle Courtesy Walters Photography, all rights reserved

This coming Friday, February 5, brings the return of Kaos for his first fight since last June. Pat Coleman (29,15) is set to be the man opposite of Kolle (19,2). From all indications this should be a tune-up fight for bigger things in the upcoming months. It is not so secret that a showdown between Kolle and Vanda seems to be in the works for as soon as this coming March. Though Vanda lost convincingly this past Friday there are no signs that it has changed any plans. The fact of the matter is that Vanda is still one of the top Middles in Minnesota. Team Kolle may get to choose who they defend their Minnesota title against but from all I have spoken to, nobody is pounding down the door to fight a 6 foot 1 inch south-paw with huge KO’s in his last two fights. This leaves Minnesota fight fans with an opportunity to watch the second installment of Kolle/Vanda and I don’t think you will hear too many  complain about that.

Aside from the return of Andy Kolle, this card is loaded with some of Minnesota’s top young prospects. Jeremy McLaurin (6,0), Javontae Starks (2,0), Jose Hilario (1,0) and Minnesota Champ Antwan Robertson (5,1,1) will all be showcased this Friday at First Ave Nightclub.