Boxing Returns To South Carolina as “Explosion Over The Midlands” A Success

Standing 8 productions’ “Explosion Over The Midlands” was an elite night of boxing with two championship bouts Saturday night in Columbia, SC.

The co-main event of Josh Green vs. Shawn Hawk was anticipated to be an exciting contest as both fighters came in with unblemished records. The fight began with both men feeling each other out, but it didn’t take long for them to engage into battle.

In the end, it was Hawk who had the bigger arsenal, landing several bombs including the massive blow that sent his opponent to the canvas for an early bedtime. Hawk looked great, especially since he hadn’t fought in over a year.

The “Sioux Warrior”, trained and managed by his father Ray Hawk, was definitely ready for his match and any signs of rust were not present as he takes home the USBO Cruiserweight title to Sioux Falls, SD.

In the main event of the night, undefeated Jean Paul Mendy would face Jason “Notorious” Naugler for the vacant IBF Intercontinental Super Middleweight title. Mendy, hailing from France, and Naugler, from Canada, were somewhat unknown by the public coming into this match up, but by the end of the night, everyone in attendance would be screaming their names.

Scheduled for twelve rounds, the action started with an exciting first frame, as both Mendy and Naugler were quick to engage each other, providing non-stop action from the opening bell.

Naugler, the Canadian light heavyweight champion, seemed to be the aggressor most of the match and landed a nice uppercut in the second that seemed to inflame the Frenchman, who then returned the favor by pounding Naugler with a barrage of combinations.

Mendy’s defense was tight, which at times seemed to frustrate the Canadian warrior. Although bloody and bruised, Naugler continued his offensive, giving Mendy and the fans a spectacular performance and display of heart.

The fight would go the distance and end with a standing ovation by the fans in attendance, showing their appreciation for great spectacle of both sport and sportsmanship by the great fighters.

Mendy would end up winning all twelve rounds on the scorecards, taking home the IBF Intercontinental title. Mendy, who hadn’t fought since 2007, showcased his world class abilities against a sturdy opponent.

“Not fighting in such a long stretch and then to come in there and go twelve rounds with a guy like Naugler, and win convincingly, shows how good this guy really is!” Mendy actually looked to be getting stronger and faster as the bout progressed, looking completely dialed in during the closing rounds.

Mendy, now the IBF Intercontinental Champion, will look to face anyone who comes his way. His promoter, Gabriel Gaide, looks to put him in position the fight for a major world title. There is one thing for certain, the next time these guys step into the ring, people will know exactly who they are.

These matches as well as the exciting undercard will be broadcast at a later date on the Fox network. “Explosion over the Midlands” was hosted by Eddie Griffin, TM Standing 8 Productions, CEO Gabriel Gaide.