Detroit based heavyweight contender Leo Nolan (27-1, 10 KO’s) is still recovering from his shooting on June 14th. In an incident eerily similar to the recent shooting death of former world champion Vernon Forrest, Nolan was exiting his car in front of a friend’s house, when a young male ran up and attempted to rob him. During this attempt, the male appeared to get very nervous and shot at Nolan, hitting him just above the left collarbone.. Nolan was able to drive himself to the hospital. Due to the bullet being so close to the spinal cord, doctors were unwilling to risk surgery to remove the bullet. There still have not been any arrests made in this shooting. Nolan is slowly recovering from the shooting, still suffering from some loss of feeling in his left arm and hand. He is under the direct care of a doctor and physical therapist, and is hopeful for a full recovery. Nolan has also said he is heartbroken over the loss of Vernon Forrest and is grateful that his situation turned out differently.
DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT INKS FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT LUIS DEL VALLE; LOOKS TOWARDS PUERTO RICAN MARKET
(July 30, 2009) DiBella Entertainment has continued its streak of signing the best young talent in boxing by inking unbeaten featherweight Luis Del Valle. Del Valle (5-0, 3 KOs) is a native of Bayamon, Puerto Rico and signifies another step in DBE’s growing presence on the island.
Del Valle, now fighting out of Newburgh, NY, made an impression at a young age coming through the amateur ranks. His triumphs include first place finishes at the 2004 National Golden Gloves, 2005 Under 19 National Amateur Championship, and 2006 Six Nations Cup.
Now five fights into his pro career, his skill set looks like it is transferring seamlessly from the amateur to professional ranks. His sixth fight, and DBE debut, will take place August 26 as a part of Broadway Boxing at BB King Blues Club & Grill in the heart of Times Square.
“It’s a blessing to be with one of the most established promotional companies in the business,” said Del Valle. “Now that Lou DiBella has put his trust in me, the sky will be the limit starting August 26.”
The significance of Del Valle joining the DiBella Entertainment team goes far beyond just signing another great talent. It is also yet another example of DBE’s foray into the Puerto Rican market. Already in the stable are Broadway Boxing headliner Joelo Torres, along with top contenders Kermit Cintron and Carlos Quintana.
“This is a market we are going to seriously tap into,” said DiBella. “Luis Del Valle showed how great he can be as an amateur, and is unquestionably one of the top prospects of Puerto Rican descent in the world. I look forward to steering him towards a world title, while continuing to keep and eye out for the best young talent of Puerto Rican ancestry”
Tickets for Luis Del Valle’s next fight, on the August 26 edition of Broadway Boxing, are on sale and can be purchased by calling DiBella Entertainment at 212-947-2577. Tickets are $125 for VIP Ringside, $100 for Ringside Tables, $75 for Floor Seats, and $55 for General Admission. Additional information can be found by visiting DBE on the web at http://www.dbe1.com