Italy’s Simone “Tyson” Federici vs Belgium’s Joel “Big Joe” Djeko
Star Boxing is excited to return to its renowned Long Island venue, The Paramount, on February 22nd, for another thrilling night of ‘Rockin’ Fights.’ The 34th edition of the acclaimed fight series brings extreme boxing talent from across the world right to Huntington’s The Paramount. The main event is a real toss-up between the ‘big boys’ in a truly international fight between European champs. Giant Belgium Joel “Big Joe” Djeko will take on Italian challenger, Simone “Tyson” Federici in an intriguing 10-round cruiserweight bout. The co-main event will feature the return of Huntington’s own Johnny “Hitman” Hernandez, who will be taking on upset minded Marquis “The Hawk” Hawthorne.
The main event features two international cruiserweight prospects who will travel a combined 7,873 miles to meet in the squared circle. Belgium’s Djeko (14-2-1 7KO’s), an IBO Champion, stands at a towering 6’5″ and breaks the will of his opponents by fighting behind his jab, followed by devastating power in both hands. Djeko’s marquee win came against then undefeated Mariano Angel Gudino (then 12-0 7KO’s), when he defeated the Argentinian by wide unanimous decision, dominating for the full ten-rounds to secure the IBO Continental Cruiserweight Title. Djeko had this to say about fighting in America, “I am excited to make my first fight in New York, a city that saw the birth of great champions. But, I also come to fulfill my mission, that of leaving with a victory by knockout.”
Federici (14-1-1 6KO’s), a 25-year-old Italian who resides in Roma, Italy, will be making his debut on American soil. Federici had an impressive amateur record of 35-1-1. As a professional, Federici defeated Francesco Cataldo in a thrilling battle, earning the Italian Cruiserweight Title. Since then, he has successfully defended his title twice, most recently defeating the dangerous Georgian, Zura Mekereshville by unanimous decision to add the IBF Mediterranean Cruiserweight Title to his pedigree. Federici has his eyes set a massive victory on February 22nd main event. Federici said this about his American debut, “I thank America for the wonderful opportunity that has offered me! I hope to better meet American expectations. I can’t wait to get in the ring.”
Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia said, “We have put together a very intriguing international fight for Long Island’s dedicated boxing fans. Belgium’s Big Joel Djeko is an imposing figure and carries knockout power in both hands. Federici has proven his ability to win big fights in his home country of Italy. The winner has a bright future.”
The main event between European cruiserweight champions in Djeko and Federici is destined to excite. The co-main event will see Hernandez in front of his hometown fans while Hawthorne will look for a second consecutive upset. Tickets are now on sale for “Rockin Fights 34” and can be purchased by contacting Tony Palmieri, Star Boxing: 718-823-2000 or email: [email protected].
