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Undefeated heavyweight prospects meet April 20 on ShoBox
Although the Euro Heavyweights have kept a firm grasp on titles lately, American contenders are battling for a chance to loosen their grip on the belts. On April 20, two undefeated prospects look to make a statement in boxing’s glamour division.
Malachy Farrell (15- 0, 12 KO’s) of Chicago, IL and Mike Marrone (17-0, 13 KO’s) of Vero Beach, FL, put their spotless records on the line when they meet on the undercard of Kendal Holt v. Mike Arnaoutis.
“This is a fantastic crossroads match-up between two undefeated hard-hitting heavyweight prospects unwilling to take a step back,” stated Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia. “As the saying goes, come April 20th, someone’s “0” must go.”
“Joe and I are very excited about making this fight the opening bout on a great Shobox card” said Dino Duva, Marrone’s promoter “It’s a real throwback fight between a strong Irish kid vs. a tough Italian. I’m sure it’s going to be bombs away, and the fans will be on their feet from bell to bell.”
The Chicago-based, Irish-American Farrell won the Golden Gloves in his native city, and had over 50 fights as an amateur. However, despite being six years Marrone’s senior, he’s had fewer pro fights.
And Farrell’s fan-base is concentrated in the Chicago area because he hasn’t gotten national exposure like Marrone, who has fought several times on ESPN2.
This is to Malachy’s advantage, said the optimistic fighter. How do you study a fighter when you’ve never seen him fight? And what doubts creep into your opponent’s mind when the mystery man he’s going to face has KO’d 80% of his foes?
“He’s a natural, a tough kid, and a good all-around puncher” said Farrell’s trainer, Marty McGarry. “He’s got a lot of heart, and you can’t teach that.”
Farrell sharpened his elbows, if not his fists, at home, where you had to be tough just to eat. He’s the eleventh of thirteen brothers and sisters! His siblings are also proud members of the Knights of Columbus, and will be flying the flag of Ireland into the ring.
The 21-year old Floridian Marrone is managed by hall of fame trainer Lou Duva. A part-time student and full- time slugger, Marrone had an excellent amateur background, capturing state and regional titles. When he was eliminated during a qualifier for the Olympic team, he quickly turned pro and never looked back.
Marrone concedes that Farrell will be his toughest test thus far, but he’s ready to put it all on the line.
“I am willing to do anything, and I know a lot of people say this,” said Marrone, “but I am willing to die in the ring. I love boxing and my dream is to become the undefeated heavyweight champion of the world one day.”
It’s Farrell v. Marrone and Holt v. Arnaoutis: on Showtime, live at 11 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast.
Ticket Information For Farrell vs. Marrone April 20; Tickets are $75, $50 and $35 and are on sale online at TicketMaster and by phone at 1-800-736-1420.
