The battle lines have been drawn. On July 21^st two undefeated rising stars will battle it out, in SoCal’s Battle of the Badges, Agua Cilente Resort & Casino for the UCA Cruiserweight Title. In the Main Event, the #1 ranked Brian Stevens, LASD will take on the 2^nd ranked Jamaal “Silent Knight” Brathwaite, Orange Co. Sheriff’s Dept. Both fighters will seek to preserve their perfect record and claim the UCA Cruiserweight Title.

Jamaal Brathwaite

Brathwaite is a heavy fisted, athletic, boxer who is dedicated to his craft and holds a 5-0 record. Stevens 3-0 is a tall boxer with great movement and God given talent.  Aside from both guys being undefeated Police & Fire Gold Medalist they are humble, professional, sportsmen.

Brian Stevens

Brathwaite has big wins over 7^th ranked Frankie Fisher, Inglewood PD and 4^th ranked Juan Bustamante, LAPD while Stevens has been put to the test against Rafael Zelaya, LASD and John Negrete, LAPD. Neither fighter has faced the competition they will be facing in each other.

In the Co-Main Event the always exciting undefeated ^5th Ranked Janie “Rokstarr” Cozine, San Bernardino PD  will battle it out with 4th ranked Selina “The Native” Velasquez, Morongo Reservation Public Safety at 147lbs.

Also on the card will be a middleweight Showdown between 3rd ranked Anthony Gutierrez, Orange Co FD vs. 2nd ranked Carlos Vega, CDCR Blythe.

Carlos Vega

Plan to be on your feet for this one. Gutierrez has a crowd pleasing style and puts on a good show every time he steps into the ring. He has proven it with two “Fight of the Night” honors.

6^th Ranked Jorge “The Bulldog” Salazar, RSO brings his undefeated record into the ring to take on Mario “Fat Daddy” Alonzo from Ironwood Prison in a battle of heavyweights.

In the super Heavyweight division Chayin “Big Oz” Osgood, CDCR will take on 6^th ranked Justin “Bubba” Robinson, Combat Center Fire-29 Palms. Robinson is coming off a big win over undefeated Ken Hoon, Riverside Co. SD. The winner of this fight will definitely shake up the Super Heavyweight division.

Yesenia Nelson

Newcomers looking to make an impact in their divisions;

#1 ranked Yesenia Nelson, CDCR Chino vs Jaquelynn Navarro, LAPD 165lbs.

Chris Dubiansky, U.S. Forest Service vs. Alan Rojas, LASD 205lbs

Nate Lomeli, CDCR Chino vs. Farris Hisle, ICE 215lbs

Margaret Stewart, LA Fire Dept vs. Shannon Lopez, LAPD 170lbs

Jeremiah Nelson, CDCR-Donavan (290lbs) vs. Albert DeLeon, CDCR Ironwood (260)

Louie Lomboy, Cathedral City PD vs. Alex Garcia, EMT, Whittier 147lbs

Joe Finch, U.S. Forest Service-Corona vs. Eddie Nunez, CDCR Ironwood 185lbs

BadgeFights MMA also on the card will feature;

Donnie Moncrief, San Diego PD vs Edgar Sandoval, Corona PD 160lbs

Wade Tapsfield, LA Fire Dept vs. Decatur Thornton, Federal Air Marshall 190lbs

Shaun Davis, Montecito FD vs. Gabriel Barragan, U.S. Border Patrol 205lbs

United States will be represented in all three women’s weight divisions in the first-ever Olympic Games for Women’s Boxing.

Marlena Esparza

Women’s Olympic Boxing Team

Marlena Esparza -112lbs- Flyweight, Texas

Queen Underwood -132lbs- Lightweight, Washington

Claressa Shields -165lbs- Middleweight, Michigan

Men’s Olympic Boxing Team

Rau’Shee Warren-114lbs- Flyweight, Ohio

Jose Ramirez

Joseph Diaz Jr.-123lbs-Bantamweight, South El Monte, Calif.

Jose Ramirez -132lbs-Lightweight, Avenal, Calif.

Jamel Herring -141lbs-Light Welterweight, New York

Errol Spence Jr.-152lbs-Welterweight, Texas

Terrell Gausha -165lbs-Middleweight, Ohio

Dominic Breazale

Marcus Browne -178lbs-Light Heavyweight, New York

Michael Hunter -201lbs-Heavyweight, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dominic Breazeale -201lbs- Super Heavyweight, Alhambra, Calif.

The United States qualified 11 athletes for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The 11 athlete’s qualified ties the U.S. with Australia for the most athletes qualified for boxing in this Olympics.

Team Coaches

Olympic Head Coach, Basheer Abdullah (Fort Carson, Colorado.)

Olympic Assistant Coach, Candelario Lopez (San Jose, California)

Retired San Jose Police Dept, San Jose PAL Boxing Coach)

Olympic Assistant Coach, Israel Acosta (Milwaukee, Wisconsin.)

Team Manager, Delilah Rico (Los Angeles, California.)

On January 13th, 2012, Mike Young, LASD Boxing Coach and Police Olympic Boxing Gold Medalist put on an appreciation dinner for past & present boxers from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Dept. “It was a great turnout. Boxers who competed 30 years ago were there.”  Mike Young said, “It was my way of saying thanks, to all the boxers who put their Blood, Sweat and Tears into the sport.”

Lindsay started learning Kempo Karate and Tae Kwon Do at the age of 10. She started competing statewide at the age of 11 and competed in approx. 30-40 Karate tournaments statewide from the age of 11 to 20 years old. She has approx. 30, 1st-3^rd place trophies and medals in her garage left over from her days of competing.

In 1991 Lindsay placed 1^st in the State in Tae Kwon Do at her rank, age and weight class. That earned her a ticket to the Tae Kwon Do Jr Olympics in Cincinnati, Ohio at the age of 15.

She placed 2^nd in the nation in her age, weight and rank class. That is her proudest athletic accomplishment.

“After graduating from high school, I began a teaching career first at one of the toughest elementary schools in the City of Fresno as a Karate Instructor. My job, teach the kids not only karate, but also discipline and respect. Some thing they all lacked. That became the toughest, but most rewarding job I have ever had.” Lindsay said.

Lindsay went on to be hired by a nationally known company based out of Pleasanton, Calif. called Young Olympians, as a Karate Instructor. This job again put her in low income; rough neighborhood to teach karate to kid’s ages 5-15 years old. While teaching for Young Olympians she was able to teach approx 200-300 youth in her 4-year career with that company. This job was very instrumental in getting Lindsay hired as a police officer.

Lindsay was hired by Fresno P.D. in 1999. Her teaching and competing career ended at that point so she could focus on her new career. However her love for Karate and fighting never ended.

UCA NorCal Champion

In 2009, after having her first child, who was 3 years old at the time, Lindsay wanted to get back into the shape she was in when she was competing and teaching. She started training with co-worker and friend, Bryan Williams. Bryan made Lindsay realize how much she missed fighting. It wasn’t too long before Lindsay fell in love with boxing. In mid 2009, Bryan began training Lindsay for the 2010 Western States Police and Fire Games in Reno. Where she outpointed Theresa Torres, Colusa Co. SD to win the Gold Medal. On March 31st at the Sacramento Battle of the Badges Event, Lindsay became the UCA NorCal Featherweight Champion winning a tough fight against Christy Kim, U.S. Air Force. Lindsay doesn’t show any sign of slowing down.  “As for Karate, maybe after my boxing career is over I will go back to teaching Karate part time.”

Armando Guzman, trainer of the  #1 Ranked Cruiserweight Brian Stevens, LASD. The UCA talks to Guzman as he prepares Stevens for the UCA Cruiserweight Title fight July 21^st against Jamaal Brathwaite Orange Co SD.

1. When did you start training fighters?  I’ve been training amateurs and pros for about 20 years.

2. As a trainer, what do you think the most important aspect of training is: Strong mind, Power, Cardio, Heart, etc? To be successful you have to start with a person that has enough athletic ability to be trainable. The trainer has to have the knowledge and the ability to teach. The boxer has to have confidence in your ability and a good personal relationship.

3. What is the first thing you teach a person who wants to be a fighter? From the beginning you have to let the person know you are training that you are there for him 100% only if he gives you the same back. His heart and determination has to be above that of a regular athlete.

4. What was your first impression of Brian? My first impression of Brian was that he had above average natural boxing ability. His dedication is second to none; training is his priority when he has a fight coming up.

5. How long have you been training Brian? I’ve been training him for about 2 years now.

6. What did you see in Brian that made you want to train him? The only time I will train anyone is when I see that I have their complete commitment. I won’t beg anyone to come and train regardless of what potential I might see. Once you start missing training, I am done with you. It takes too much time and effort. Brian gives me 100% because he wants nothing less than to win. Whatever I tell him to do he will do it. Brian is a trainer’s dream.

7. How do you think Brian would do as a professional fighter? I’ve always told myself that he could turn pro if he wanted to. He could do it. But unfortunately a career in law enforcement makes it real tough.

8. Is there any skill in boxing that you cannot teach? Something a fighter is born with? No

9. Any predictions on the fight? As far as a prediction on the fight, I’m just looking forward to defending the belt so Brian can keep it.

10. Anything you would like to add? Jamaal (Brathwaite, Orange Co SD) will be Brian’s toughest fight yet. I know Jamaal’s trainer, “Candyman” (Gil Nieves) he is a very knowledgeable trainer and a great guy. So there are actually 2 fights. The trainers too!

Gilbert Nieves, trainer of the  2nd Ranked Cruiserweight Jamaal Brathwaite, Orange Co. SD. The UCA talks to Nieves as he prepares Brathwaite for the UCA Cruiserweight Title fight July 21^st against Brian Stevens, LASD.

1. When did you start training fighters? I have been training fighters for over 20 years I got out of the game for a short while but now I have been back in the game around 6 years as a trainer and a cut man.

2. As a trainer, what do you think the most important aspect of training is: Strong mind, Power, Cardio, Heart, etc? CARDIO, and being Mentally Strong that is my theory. If you do not have Cardio you have no business in the ring and of course HEART.

3. What is the first thing you teach a person who wants to be a fighter? THE 1^st thing I show my fighters is there stance and how to throw a Jab. That is one of the first things a fighter has to learn. Without a jab a fighter is useless. Then head movement because you can’t hit a moving TARGET. These are my ways of starting to train a fighter. Every trainer is different. Styles make fighters.

4. What was your first impression of Jamaal Brathwaite? This guy is tuff and with tighting some of the screws he can become a great fighter. The style is there but I would have to work with him on certain things.

5. How long have you been training him? I am guessing maybe around 3 to 4 years and he has come a long way.

6. What did you see in Jamaal that made you want to train him? His WANT and his COURAGE when he goes into the Ring his athletic abilities start to come out because he is just a natural in what he does. He always gives 110%.  I’ve worked with a lot of PRO FIGHTERS AND HE IS RIGHT UP THERE WITH THEM.   

7. What would you like to see Jamaal improve on? MORE PATIENTS, he seems to get a little hyper at times but that’s Jamaal.

8. How do you think Jamaal would do as a professional fighter? I think he would be a great professional fighter because of his athletic ability and raw talent.  He is an ATHELETE.

9. Is there any skill in boxing that you cannot teach? Something a fighter is born with? YES, A BOXER THAT does not listen. If he doesn’t listen to his parents as a child what makes you think that he would listen to his coach.

10. Do you have Jamaal on a special diet? No he knows his BODY and how to take care of it and it shows.

11. Do you have any predictions for the fight? Yes, I know Jamaal and I truly believe that we will get a knock out BUT this is only a 4 rounder so it may go to a decision.

12. Anything you would like to add? I would like to say thanks to Armando Guzman for giving us the opportunity to fight Brian Stevens. Both of these guys have HEARTS OF TRUE CHAMPIONS. I’d also like to thank the UCA for recognizing the talent of Stevens and Brathwaite.  THE BATTLE OF THE BADGES FOR HAVING US ON ALL THEIR SHOWS. MAY THE BEST MAN WIN.

If you can only watch one fight this summer this is the one you want to see.  Brian Stevens, LASD vs. Jamaal “Silent Knight” Brathwaite, Orange Co SD.

Two of Public Safety’s brightest stars will battle it out in SoCal Battle of the Badges, at Aqua Caliente Resort & Casino, Palm Springs, July 21^st.

Not only will the fighters be center stage but so will their trainers.  Armando Guzman and Gilbert Neives know every aspect of training must be covered and nothing can be overlooked. This fight has significant implications for the future of their fighter’s.  Guzman and Neives are confident their fighter will win.  On Saturday night Stevens and Brathwaite will stand on destinies doorstep for a chance to be crowned the best fighter in California and become the UCA Cruiserweight Champion.

In addition to all of the fighters, Battle of the Badges boxing fans and Press are invited to the public weigh-in on Thursday evening, July 19th at 6:30pm for Saturday night’s Battle of the Badges “Desert Throw-Down” amateur boxing event.

The weigh-in will take place at “The Show” in the Agua Caliente Casino Spa Resort, also the venue for Saturday’s night action packed card.

As of this morning only 85 tickets remain, which if history has anything to say about it, SoCal BOTB is on pace for another sold out event. If you know anyone that hasn’t purchased their tickets yet, please remind them that there isn’t much time left!  To purchase tickets go to www.socalbattleofthebadges.com

Also, please plan on joining us at pool side immediately after the “Main Event” to enjoy the rest of the night with live entertainment, blackjack, drink specials and more.  We will be announcing the “Fight of the Night” and the winner of the Ring Girl Competition at the after fight party.

This is it!  Fight night is upon us. I want to congratulate and thank all of you for your hard work and dedication in preparing for this night.  See you at the weigh-ins.

Jeff Penn
Executive Director
Cops 4 Kids & Communities

Brain Stevens, LASD vs Jamaal Brathwaite, Orange Co SD for the United Combat Association Cruiserweight Title. July 21st, SoCal Battle of the Badges, Agua Caliente Casino Resort & Spa. www.socalbattleofthebadges.com

It’s finally here, SoCal’s Battle of the Badges “Desert Throw-Down.” The Main Event features two talented athletes who have had great accomplishments in the ring. Brian Stevens, LASD and Jamaal Brathwaite, Orange Co. SD have earned Gold Medals in the Police & Fire Games and have never tasted defeat. Both are coming off wins over highly skilled fighters. The winner of this fight will pick up the biggest win of their career. On Saturday night someone’s winning streak will come to an end and a United Combat Association Cruiserweight Champion will be crowned.

Anthony Gutierrez

The fighters competing on the under card will definitely keep the crowd excited. A fight you will need to be in your seat for is Anthony Gutierrez, Orange Co Fire Dept vs. Carlos Vega, CDCR, Blythe. Gutierrez is 1-2 but could easily be 3-0. His two loses were by split decision to Greg Eisert, Vacaville P.D and Roger Serrato, Riverside P.D. Both fights received “Fight of the Night” honors. Vega is coming off a solid win over Josh Carrasco, RSO Hemet. Vega has heavy hands and a killer instinct. Expect Vega to come forward with controlled aggression and power. Gutierrez does not know how to be in a boring fight. He is an offensive fighter with good hand speed and footwork.  This fight promises to bring Fistic Fireworks.  The card is full of talented fighters who will be looking to make a name for themselves. Alan Rojas, LASD, Jorge Salazar, RSO

Yesenia Nelson

Southwest, Nate Lomeli, CDCR Chino, Farris Hisle, ICE, Mario Alonzo, CDCR Ironwood, and female fighters Janie Cozine, San Bernardino PD, Yesenia Nelson, CDCR Chino,

The SoCal Battle of the Badges presents an opportunity for all the fighters to showcase their skills, get exposure and look impressive in front of boxing fans, friends, family and coworkers.

Brian Stevens, LASD and Jamaal Brathwaite, OCSD came into the weigh in focused and in tip top shape. Both fighters tip the scales under the 190lb weight limit.  Stevens weighed in at 188 lbs and Brathwaite came in at 186 lbs. Training is over, other than light shadow boxing, and going over technique, any hard workout will do more harm than good. What the fighters need to do now is get mentally prepared. There is no doubt that Stevens and Brathwaite are in the best shape of their lives. Both having strength, endurance, power, stamina, etc. The mental side of the sport cannot be ignored. The boxer who has prepared both aspects of his game before he enters the ring will be tough to beat. Being mentally prepared allows a fighter the ability to compete at his very best and tap into every ounce of talent.  The winner of Saturday night’s fight will have to push beyond what he believes his physical limitations to be. This will be the toughest challenge for both fighters. When Stevens and Brathwaite step into the ring they have to believe they are the better fighter.

Don’t miss the UCA Cruiserweight Title Fight between #1 ranked Brian Stevens, LASD vs 2nd ranked Jamaal Brathwaite, OCSD at the SoCal Battle of the Badges event tonight at the Agua Caliente Casino. Stream it live at www.socalbattleofthebadges.com.

There is a new Cruiserweight Champion and his name is Brian Stevens from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Dept. When you have great talent you have a great fight. That’s what Brian Stevens and Jamaal Brathwaite, Orange County Sheriff’s Dept brought to the SoCal Battle of the Badges Saturday night. Two of the division’s most revered fighters collided in a pivotal bout to determine who the best fighter in California is. From start to finish it was action packed. Stevens and Brathwaite displayed tremendous talent and the ability to deal with adversity.  Stevens had to get off the canvas, and Brathwaite had to deal with the range and movement of Stevens. Brathwaite had the advantage in power but Stevens movement and ability to keep Brathwaite at the end of his punches was the difference that earned him the win.  When it comes to Public Safety boxing few do it better than Stevens and Brathwaite.  The UCA is honored to have had two class acts fighting for the UCA Title.

A middleweight showdown kicked off the SoCal Battle of the Badges Saturday July 21^st, 2012 at Agua Caliente Resort & Casino. Logan Burns, U.S. Army National Guard vs Dustin Rodriguez, Santa Monica Fire Dept 155lbs was a crowd pleasing fast pace fight. Both fighters put their punches together nicely.  Burns ring experience showed, he would land beautiful combinations and get out before Rodriguez could return the favor.  Rodriguez stayed calm and waited for his openings. Throughout the fight Rodriguez would catch Burns with solid counter hooks and right hands.   Both guys were cranking out combinations but Logan was more effective.   Rodriguez held his own against the more experienced Burns but the difference in this fight was Burns craftiness, accurate punching. and edging Rodriguez out in the exchanges. Great technical fight.  Burns winner by decision

Anthony Gutierrez Orange Co Fire Dept vs Carlos Vega, CDCR Blythe, 160lbs, lived up to the hype. It was a high skill level action packed fight. Vega turned the boxing match into a fight. He never gave Gutierrez the space he needed to get off his combinations or use his footwork. Vega kept Gutierrez on defense by throwing a high volume of punches.  Vega made a statement to everyone in the middleweight division that he isn’t going anywhere. Vega winner by decision.

Jorge Salazar, RSO, Southwest vs. Mario Alonzo, CDCR Ironwood, 220lbs. The strategy for Alonzo was to make the more experienced Salazar fight his fight.  For three rounds Alonzo kept Salazar pinned against the ropes, throwing short uppercuts and hooks. There were moments throughout the fight that Salazar did find the space he needed to get off a nice combination.  It wasn’t long before Alonzo was backing Salazar to the ropes and smothering him with punches. Very close fight.  Salazar winner by decision.

Alan Rojas, LASD vs. Chris Dubiansky, U.S. Forest Service 205lbs.  Both fighters came out throwing punches looking to take control of the fight.  Rojas landed more and was most effective when he came forward.  Dubiansky did have his moments when Rojas would stand in front of him. Rojas did a good job of slipping Dubiansky’s right hands and countered with his own left hook and right hand. Rojas winner by decision.

Margaret Stewart, LA Fire Dept vs. Shannon Lopez, LAPD 170lbs. This was an evenly matched fight however the difference was the accurate punching by Stewart and her ring generalship. Stewart winner by decision.

Nate Lomeli, CDCR Donovan vs. Farris Hisle, ICE, 210lbs. Two homerun hitters with the mentality, “Win I live, lose I die.” This fight had everything, skill, speed and knockdowns. Both guys made it clear they did not want this fight going to the judges.  Lomeli was more precise with his power punches which turned out to pay dividends in the fight. Lomeli winner 3^rd round TKO. This fight was voted “Fight of the Night.”

Jeremiah Nelson, 290lbs CDCR Donovan vs. Albert Deleon, 260lbs CDCR, Ironwood.  From the sound of the bell these fighters traded punch after punch. Nelson was landing punches with scary power behind them. Deleon must have a granite chin because he was not affected. Both fighters pressed the action and had their moments. Nelson continued to attack with power punches but Deleon fended him off with stiff jabs and movement. Deleon’s jab was the difference in this fight. Deleon winner by decision.

Louie Lomboy, Cathedral City PD vs. Alex Garcia, EMT, Whittier, 147lbs.  For both fighters stepping into the ring for the first time they came out at a blistering pace. No feeling out period needed. One thing was clear early on, Garcia was well schooled in the sweet science. He was digging shots to the body like a veteran fighter. Lomboy knew he was in for a fight and was ready for the challenge. The mean body attack by Garcia proved to be too much for Lomboy. Garcia showed good ring generalship and put his punches together well, cut angles and seemed very relaxed in just his first fight.  Garcia really showed his potential. Credit to his coach Gil Nieves, aka Candyman. Garcia winner 3^rd rd TKO.

Chayin Osgood, 230lbs CDCR San Deigo vs. Ryan Hotchkiss, 210lbs Barstow PD.  A couple of gunslingers in this fight but Hotchkiss was faster on the draw. Hotchkiss winner by decision.

Joe Finch, U.S. Forest Service vs. Eddie Nunez, CDCR Ironwood, 185lbs.  Finch seemed to find the openings in Nunez defense to make the difference in this fight. Finch winner by decision.

Selina Velasquez, Morongo Reservation Public Safety vs. Janie Cozine, San Bernardino PD. Cozine put her undefeated record on the line to take on Velasquez. Cozine had the weight and experience advantage but Velasquez was a tough, game fighter. Cozine’s impressive performance definitely put her in line for a title shot. Cozine winner 3^rd rd TKO.

Over the past 5 months the Battle of the Badges has brought the fans some of the biggest fights and biggest names in Public Safety Boxing. This Friday night the LA Battle of the Badges will be no exception. With names like Harrison, Frazier, Bustamante, Vasquez, Cervantes and Ramirez just to name a few, this is a card you don’t want to miss.

One fight we can no longer look forward to is the #1 ranked David Bermudez, East Bay Reg. Parks PD vs. 2^nd ranked Jorge Caamal, LASD. Bermudez suffered a foot injury in training and was forced to pull out of Friday night’s fight. It’s been 6 years since their first epic battle. There is no money, egos, or promoters involved in this fight. These two gladiator’s want to fight each other.

In the Main Event 4^th ranked Juan Bustamante, LAPD will face 7^th ranked Erik Ramirez, LASD, 168lbs. This will be Bustamante’s last amateur fight before turning professional. The 29-year-old, Bustamante, LAPD accepts he must be focused 100% on his fight against Ramirez and put aside his thoughts of turning pro. He insisted he is not looking past Ramirez. “Erik is a Police & Fire Silver Medalist who can fight. It is definitely a dangerous fight for me,” Bustamante said. If Bustamante can pick up a win over the 7^th ranked Ramirez it will give him the confidence he needs to start his professional career. Ramirez looks to reestablish himself as a young and rising star. If Ramirez can get past the more experienced Bustamante it will put him right back in the mix of top middleweights.

Also on the card will be a match up between two welterweight contenders. 6^th ranked Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD vs. 7^th ranked Angel “The Natural” Vasquez, LASD. The winner of this fight can be the spark to ignite the welterweight division. Bugarin is a young, unbeaten talented fighter who is traveling from Santa Clara to fight. His plan is to stay active against top 10 opponents and secure a title shot in 2013. A win against Vasquez, LASD will definitely put Bugarin one step closer. Vasquez will not be easy to get past. Vasquez fell short in his last outing against the #1 ranked Ray Encinas, LAPD. Vasquez will be looking to erase the bitter taste of defeat with a win Friday night.

Another intriguing matchup on the card is 2^nd ranked Mike Frazier, LASD vs. upset minded, Kannon Lariba, CDCR, CMC Prison. Lariba will face the biggest test of his boxing career in Frazier. With only one fight under his belt, Lariba is game and welcomes the challenge. It is no secret that Lariba must find an opportunity to use his power against the more experienced fighter. If Frazier is taking Lariba lightly there will be a huge upset in the Heavyweight division.

LA Battle of the Badges, Friday July 27^th, 2102 Quiet Cannon, Montebello, California.

Friday Night’s LA Battle of the Badges started off with the #1 ranked Jr Welterweight Larry “The Bodysnatcher” Cervantes, LA County Coroners Office taking on newcomer Issac Bustamante, Azusa Boxing Club. Cervantes looked sharp against the younger brother of Juan Bustamante. Bustamante would go the distance with Cervantes but was on the losing end of the decision. Cervantes winner by decision. Issac looks to follow in his big brother’s foot steps.

In a welterweight crossroads fight Angel “The Natural” Vasquez, LASD, TTCF took on Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD. At the sound of the bell Vasquez came out using his footwork and hand speed. It looked like Bugarin made the long trip from Santa Clara for a boxing lesson. But The Kennel Boxing Team fighter had a game plan and he never deviating from it. It was to attack the body and throw every punch with a purpose.  Vasquez showed a big heart in trying to fend off Bugarin’s body attack but eventfully succumbed to the pressure. Bugarin winner 3^rd rd TKO. Bugarin seemed to be another level and really showed his potential as a fighter. Bugarin brings his record to, 2-0 and solidifies himself as one of boxing’s rising stars.

Feliciano “Pure Guts” Perez, LASD, MCJ vs Manny “The Bomber” Amaya, LASD, Homicide, Supercruiserweights. These two warriors stepped into the ring for the first time with only four days notice and put on the best performance of the night. Perez and Amaya fought furiously every second of the fight and the excitement increased with every landed punch. These guys would rather lose an exciting fight then win a boring one. Perez was announced the winner of the fight however, both fighters were recognized for their heart and determination with “Fight of Night” honors.

Roxanne “The Little Natural” Chavez, LASD, TTCF vs Isabel “Sweet Punch” Sandoval, LASD, MCJ, Super Featherweights. Sandoval showed everyone why she is the #1 ranked Super Featherweight. She put her punches together nicely. Throughout the fight Sandoval displayed good skills, throwing crisp combinations, changing levels, working the body and coming back to the head. Chavez showed a lot of upside against the more experienced fighter. She has a good defense, footwork and overall good fundamentals. Chavez would end each combination with a left hook which paid off for her. It was a competitive, technical fight but the experience proved to be too much for Chavez. Sandoval winner by decision.

Mike “I will Amaze Ya” Frazier, LASD, MCJ  vs Kannon Lariba, CDCR CMC, Heavyweights. Kannon was a game fighter against the 2^nd ranked Frazier. Kannon knew what he had to do against the more experienced fighter and he walked right into the fire to accomplish it. Kannon pressed the action the whole fight in hopes of landing a big shot. Frazier did a good job of using his footwork, moving in and out and never giving Lariba the opportunity he needed to hit a homerun. It was an exciting competitive fight but Frazier’s experience and talent proved to be too much. Frazier has all the tools to become the UCA Heavyweight Champion. He has confidence, power, quickness, ring savvy, great overall boxing skills and is very comfortable in the ring. Frazier winner by decision. Kannon has a bright future in the sport and can only get better.

Main Event Juan “Bad Blood” Bustamante, LAPD, Foothill Division vs Erik “Lone Wolf” Ramirez, LASD, IRC Super Middleweights. Both fighters showed tremendous poise, skill and talent however neither fighter ever seemed to get out of the feeling out stage. Ramirez and Bustamante are friends and were talking in the dressing room which could have prevented them from engaging in the fight 100%. It’s tough to turn on the “Kill or be Killed” switch against a guy you are friends with. Both fighters put together nice combinations that landed right on target. Bustamante however pressed the action and seemed to control the tempo of the fight. The fight would go the distance and would be left up to the judges to decide. Bustamante would edge out a decision to close out his amateur boxing career with a win. Erik looked impressive against the more experienced Bustamante and looks to fight at his natural weight, 160 & under in the future.

The LA Battle of the Badges is in the books. Due to injuries, getting time off and personal issues, a number of fighters had to pull out of this event. Mike Young, LASD Sgt, and Promoter did a great job of putting this event on.

Full fight card results on the UCA results page.