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Former NABO, USNBC middleweight champion, and Contender season one alum, Joey Gilbert (18-2, 14KOs), will be returning to the ring on May 22nd at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno against tough veteran Anthony “Powerhouse” Bartinelli (20-13-2, 13 KOs).
Gilbert, who is coming off of an impressive stoppage victory of Ivan Stovall, looks to put his name at the top of the middleweight rankings once again. He turns 34 in June and realizes that the clock is ticking.
“This will be sink or swim for me.” Says Gilbert. “I have to perform well. I have to win on May 22nd in order to earn the chance to fight the bigger fights. This is my last run at it.”
Although Gilbert is coming off of a win, this will be his first fight back in his hometown since losing to local rival Jesse Brinkley in February of 2009. Brinkley, who is currently the IBF super-middleweight mandatory contender, beat Gilbert in a one-sided unanimous decision.
Since then, he has changed his team, refreshed his outlook on boxing, and rededicated his efforts to becoming the best fighter he can be. In the only other loss of his career, Gilbert was on the wrong end of a close split-decision when his fight was prematurely stopped due to a cut caused by an accidental headbutt against world title challenger, Peter Manfredo Jr.
Anthony Bartinelli promises to be a test for Joey Gilbert. With a similar fighting style, the tough journeyman from Phoenix looks at this fight as his chance to gain the recognition he has never received.
“This could be a big break for me.” Says Bartinelli. “I’ve wanted this fight before, and I’m thankful to have it now.”
Both fighters find themselves at a crossroads. On May 22nd, it may be decided who continues down the path towards bigger and better things, and who will find themselves at a dead-end. The Gilbert vs. Bartinelli fight is scheduled for eight rounds.
Fight card subject to change.
Reno Xtreme Fights is a boxing series of events between Grand Sierra Resort and Casino and Let’s Get it on Promotions. Doors will open at 7 p.m. for the fight on Saturday, May 22nd with the first bout at 8 p.m. in the Grand Theatre.
Tickets are $75, $55 and $35. Tickets for a King’s Row Booth for four are $1,000 which includes an exciting spot to get close to the action with light appetizers and one bottle of alcohol included. To purchase tickets or for more information, please call 1.800.648.3568 or visit www.grandsierraresort.com.
