The ShoBox series generally features two young prospects battling each other for recognition.  Next week's episode will feature two light heavyweight contenders facing each other with an IBF title shot hanging in the balance.  On Thursday, September 16, 2004, Rico Hoye (rated #12 in the Boxingtalk ratings), will square off in a  twelve- round elimination bout against Montell Griffin  (Boxingtalk #15).   

Hoye, 17-0, 14 KOs, of Detroit, captured  minor 175-pound  titles with a decision win over Prince Badi Ajamu June 5, 2003 and a second-round TKO over Etianne Whitaker on Oct. 11, 2003.  He added a third regional title on March 18, 2004 with an opening-round destruction of Donnell Wiggins.  Hoye scored the biggest win of his career on May 15, 2004, a fourth-round knockout over Richard Hall .  The tough Hall gave former world champion Dariusz Michalczewski fits for 24 rounds but one right by Hoye to Hall’s left temple ended the fight. “Hall did not stand a chance when I unleashed my right, which I call The Rico Act,” Hoye said.  “I call it that because it is criminal what that punch does to my opponents: it just rubs them out.”  Griffin , 46-4, 30 KOs, a former world titlist, was the first man ever to defeat Roy Jones Jr. as a professional, winning via disqualification in 1997.  Less than five months later, Griffin was obliterated in the first round of the rematch against Jones.   However, Griffin also holds a win over current heavyweight contender James Toney.

In the eight-round co-feature, Al Seeger, 19-1, will take on fellow once beaten super bantamweight, Eric Aiken, 11-1.  Showtime will televise and Gary Shaw Productions will promote the card, which will be staged at Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. ShoBox will start its telecast at 11 pm.