Heavyweight to face talmadge Griffis next week

Press Release: New DiBella Entertainment signee Chazz Witherspoon takes the national stage in a step-up fight against Talmadge Griffis (24-6-3, 16 KOs) next Friday, July 27, 2007 on ESPN2's Friday Night Fights at Saratoga Springs City Center in Saratoga. The undefeated heavyweight hopes to follow the same path as his cousin -- former heavyweight champion Tim Witherspoon -- on a road which leads to a world title belt. Witherspoon was a 2004 Olympic alternate and National Golden Gloves winner. He has also impressed in his pro career, remaining undefeated in 18 fights and stopping his last five opponents. In his well-traveled, 9-year career, Griffis has faced heavyweight contenders David Tua and Clifford Etienne. 

"I’m happy to have the opportunity to be on the national stage again with ESPN2. This will allow me to come out and show the world what I’ve been doing and how I am progressing," says the Philadelphia native, who will appear in the co-feature of the Andre Berto vs. Cosme Rivera main event presented by Pugnacious Promotions and DBE. "I will be able to show people that I am getting better with each fight and I am putting in the time to be a top contender. I appreciate Lou DiBella giving me this opportunity and I thank ESPN2 as well."

Witherspoon is also thrilled to be in thoroughbred country as the Saratoga Racecourse starts its renowned race meet, as he hopes to enter the equine industry down the line. "I am very interested in horses and the breeding of horses. I would like to learn more about the thoroughbred racing game and what it takes to own and raise a championship caliber horse," says Witherspoon. "Getting involved in the racing game is something I might like to do when I am done with boxing.”

Tickets and more information are available from Pugnacious Promotions, www.pugnaciouspromotions.com or 518-326-9756. Call or visit for more information. Tickets are $125 for Golden Ringside and $75 for Ringside.   General Admission open seats are $40.