Though this is not the season for giving thanks, it’s appropriate we remember those who contribute the most in making our events a success, whether it’s mixed martial arts or boxing.
With that said, as we get ready for our next major event, which is just 48 hours away, we’d like to take this time to thank our fans, friends, family and relatives for all they’ve done in getting us to where we are today.
As “The Pride of Providence” Peter Manfredo Jr. prepares for his long-awaited comeback Friday night at the beautiful Twin River Casino, a fight nearly two and a half years in the making, we’re reminded each time we step outside that it is, in fact, a new season, even if it’s an old familiar face headlining Friday night’s event.
The winter is behind us, and it’s time to enjoy the spring and summer. What better way to celebrate than with a night at the fights featuring a Rhode Island icon, a fighter who needs no introduction in this neck of the woods, a humble, hard-working family man who puts it all on the line for his wife and children.
We’re proud to announce as of this morning we’re sold out of every seated ticket at Twin River. Only standing room tickets are available, but those are moving fast, too, so see below for information on how to get yours today so you don’t miss out on this tremendous event.
Whether you’re a casual fan or a boxing lifer, you can’t help but respect Peter Manfredo. He is the embodiment of the working-class fighter. Even at the age of 36, he still can’t walk away from the sport, and he’s brutally honest about why he’s stepping back in that ring. This is what he does to support his family and, love it or hate it, he tells it like it is.
You may remember him from his time on “The Contender.” He’s a different man and fighter now, older and much wiser. He’s seen the best of boxing and, unfortunately, the worst of what this sport has to offer. Through it all, he still cracks a million-dollar smile and greets fans wherever he goes. You can’t help but respect his work ethic and values.
On the other side of this main event is another Providence warrior, the always-entertaining “Mr. Providence” Vladine Biosse. A former University of Rhode Island football player who came to this country from his native Cape Verde at the age of 13, barely speaking English, Biosse lives and breathes the “American Dream.”
He became a standout athlete at Hope High School before attending college and later became a U.S. citizen, giving him the opportunity to give back to his country and his Cape Verdean community. He rose to stardom on network television, dazzling fight fans with two impressive wins on ESPN, and has used his fame and standing within the community to help mentor youths who are growing up the way he did when he first came to America in hopes that they, too, can enjoy a brighter, better future. Love him or hate him, you’ve got to respect what he brings to the table in and out of the ring.
Now these two Rhode Island icons stand toe-to-toe with the city on their shoulders, ready to give fight fans a matchup they’ve been dreaming of for quite some time. It’s a fight we thought we might see three or four years ago when Biosse climbed the ladder with a huge win over regional rival Joey Spina, but, nonetheless, it’s a fight we’re excited to have now.
The winner will earn bragging rights in Rhode Island, but this is about respect, too. Both fighters have already earned ours. Now they fight to earn each other’s admiration.
The sun’s out, the weather is warm and it’s fight week here in the Ocean State. There’s no better time of year and no better place to be than at Twin River Casino on Friday night. Get your tickets before they’re gone!
Much respect,
Jimmy
