Undefeated Chicago middleweight prospect Michael Walker will face Cincinnati native Dave Saunders on Saturday April 7 at the Par A Dice Hotel and Casino in East Peoria, Illinois, it was announced today by Dominic Pesoli, President of 8 Count Productions.
The Walker/Saunders co-main event is featured on Rumble In Par A Dice, an evening of world class professional boxing presented by Dominic Pesoli’s 8 Count Productions, Home Of The Best In Chicago Boxing and the Par A Dice Hotel and Casino, “The Friendliest Casino on the Water”.
Said Pesoli about the Walker/Saunders matchup, “I’ve seen Walker many times, including his fantastic battle with Jimmy Gonzalez. He’s got very solid skills, loves to fight and is a throwback in his aggressive style. Saunders comes with the same reputation so this will be action packed from the opening bell.”
The 28 year old Walker, 14-0-1 (8KO’s), promoted by Merrillville, Indiana’s Octavius James’ One in a Million Inc. has made a solid name as one of the hottest middleweight prospects in the sport. His last bout, an eight round internationally televised decision over Alberto Mercedes on October 20, 2006, was a dominating performance for the highly skilled, heavy handed former amateur standout.
On July 15, 2005, Walker battled fellow Chicago Golden Gloves champion Jimmy Gonzales to a six round draw in a bout many Chicago fight fans refer to as the most exciting boxing match in years.
Saunders, 9-2 (6KO’s) is coming off a decision win over the previously undefeated Percy Clay Jr. on June 10, 2006. Four of his six wins by knockout have come within the first two rounds.
The full Rumble In Par A Dice card is a follows;
Mike Gonzalez vs. Jaime Alvarado, eight rounds, lightweights
Michael Walker vs. Dave Saunders, eight rounds, middleweights
Joshua Rodriguez vs. Corey Peterson, six rounds, welterweights
Victor Polyakov vs. Kareem Chartrand, six rounds, super middleweights
Brooke Dierdorff vs. Melinda Woody, four rounds, featherweights
Three additional amateur bouts will also be on the card.
Master of Ceremonies for this event will be nationally known ring announcer, Thomas Treiber.