PRESS RELEASE:– It goes without saying that in 2005, boxing needs some new blood to rejuvenate the heavyweight division. Prize Fight Promotions believes it has just the fighter to do the job, and is pleased to present the triumphant return of up and coming prospect Adam Richards on February 19 at the Isle of Capri Casino in Lula, Mississippi. “I’m looking forward to seeing Adam Richards back in the ring on our February 19 show, and I believe he is just what the heavyweight division needs to get it back to where it used to be in the minds and hearts of the public,” said Brian Young, President of Prize Fight Promotions. “Adam has a stellar amateur background, he’s a personable young man, and maybe most importantly, he can knock people out.”
Richards, 24, has compiled a professional record of 3-1 with two knockouts. In his last bout, on January 25, 2002, the 6-1, 230 pound Richards decisioned Leroy Hollis over four rounds. After a break from the sweet science for three years, Richards, along with world-class trainer Ronnie Shields, decided that it’s time for the boxing world to see the talent that made him one of the United States’ most decorated amateurs and highly touted prospects. “I’ve been in the gym with Ronnie, training hard, and I’m just chomping at the bit to get back into the ring,” said Richards. “A lot of people are pulling for me, and I know I’ve got what it takes to make my mark on this sport, and that’s what I’m going to do.”
“I can usually tell within minutes whether a fighter has the right mindset and skills to be successful in his game,” said renowned trainer Ronnie Shields. “With Adam, it was almost instant. He can punch, he can box, and he is a tireless worker in the gym. If he gets the right breaks and keeps up the hard work, there’s no telling how far he can take this.” Richards’ opponent in the February 19, 4 rounder will be announced shortly.
A native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Richards (72-7 with 41 KOs as an amateur) is the co-owner of a Junior Olympic record with legendary champion Mike Tyson, as the two knockout artists are the only two fighters in history to win back-to-back titles while knocking out each of their opponents. And that’s just scratching the surface of Richards’ amateur credentials, where he was a four-time national champion, a two-time Silver Gloves national champion, a Junior Olympic super heavyweight champion, a junior world super heavyweight champion, and a quarterfinalist in the 2000 Olympic trials.
Now it’s time for Richards to stake his claim in the professional ranks. “Adam is a dedicated pro, and he wants to take this as far as he can,” said Young. “I believe the sky’s the limit for him, and boxing fans are in for a treat when they see him in the ring.” Adam Richards is under the management of Chris Rowland of Rowland Boxing Management.
