PRESS RELEASE: Promoter Art Pelullo/Banner Promotions has signed James McGirt Jr. to a long term co-promotional contract. Joel Berman/JBC Boxing, Inc., is James’ co-promoter. Just 23 years old, James is a talented lefthanded middleweight prospect. Tall for the division at six-foot one, he made his pro debut in January, 2004, and is currently 10-0, with six knockouts.

 

James is managed by Dennis Witherow and trained by his father, James “Buddy” McGirt. Buddy is a former IBF jr. welterweight and WBC welterweight world champion, and was voted “2002 Trainer of the Year” by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

 

Buddy said, “When I heard we were going to sign with Art Pelullo, I was real excited. Art’s a great guy, I’ve known him a long time. I feel that this is something that my son needs. It’s a great opportunity.”

 

Art Pelullo said, “I’m very pleased to be working with Joel, James, Buddy, and Dennis. It’s a great team, and James is a sensational prospect. I think he has the potential to become a world champion like his dad. James will be fighting on January 20 at Foxwoods in a six-round special attraction bout which will be the opening fight on ESPN’s first show of 2006.”