ShoBox to present strong doubleheader
Press Release: On April 20th two undefeated young heavyweights will be looking to make a statement in boxing’s glamour division. Malachy Farrell (15-0, 12 KOs) of Chicago, IL and Mike Marrone (17-0, 13 KOs) of Vero Beach, FL, put their spotless records on the line when they meet on the Kendall Holt vs. Mike Arnaoutis undercard. “This is a fantastic crossroads match-up between two undefeated hard-hitting heavyweight prospects unwilling to take a step back,” stated Farrell's promoter, Joe DeGuardia. “As the saying goes, come April 20th, someone’s “0” must go.” Marrone is promoted by Dino Duva, who said, “Joe and I are very excited about making this fight the opening bout on a great ShoBox card. It’s a real throwback fight between a strong Irish kid vs. a tough Italian. I’m sure it’s going to be bombs away, and the fans will be on their feet from bell to bell.” Tickets are on sale online at TicketMaster and by phone at 1-800-736-1420. This fight airs live on Showtime live at 11 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).
Farrell won the Golden Gloves in his native Chicago, and had over 50 fights as an amateur. However, despite being six years Marrone’s senior, he’s had fewer pro fights. And Farrell’s fan base is concentrated in the Chicago area because he hasn’t gotten national exposure like Marrone, who has fought several times on ESPN2.
"He's a natural, a tough kid, and a good all-around puncher” said Farrell’s trainer, Marty McGarry. “He's got a lot of heart, and you can’t teach that."
Farrell sharpened his elbows, if not his fists, at home, where you had to be tough just to eat. He’s the eleventh of thirteen brothers and sisters. His siblings are also proud members of the Knights of Columbus, and will be flying the flag of Ireland into the ring.
The 21-year old Floridian Marrone is managed by hall of fame trainer Lou Duva. A part-time student and full-time slugger, Marrone had an excellent amateur background, capturing state and regional titles. When he was eliminated during a qualifier for the Olympic team, he quickly turned pro and never looked back.
Marrone concedes that Farrell will be his toughest test thus far, but he’s ready to put it all on the line. “I am willing to do anything, and I know a lot of people say this,” said Marrone, “but I am willing to die in the ring. I love boxing and my dream is to become the undefeated heavyweight champion of the world one day.”
