Marcus Upshaw Inks Deal

February 24th, 2010

8CN was informed earlier today that Marcus Upshaw, nephew of NFL legend Gene Upshaw, recently signed with manager Si Stern. Upshaw, who sports a record of 11-4 is known best for his controversial draw against James McGirt Jr. in 2008, in a fight many believe he won. In his last fight, Upshaw lost a split decision to then undefeated Tarvis Simms. Upshaw will be making his debut with Stern in Key West, Fl March 20th against John Mackey for the Florida State Middleweight title.

In other news and notes, Stern’s most notable fighter, Randall Bailey is preparing for his IBF Welterweight title eliminator in Belgium against Jackson Bonsu. A win for Bailey, would put him in a position to win his third world title, and first since 2002 when he knocked out Demetrio Ceballos in the third round to win the WBA Light Welterweight title.

Damian “Devo” Frias will also be fighting March 20th in Key West, FL for the Florida State Welterweight title. Frias will be fighting undefeated Brad Solomon in an 8 round bout. In his last bout, Frias lost a unanimous decision to Freddy Hernandez on Shobox. Disappointed in his performance, Stern said, “That is not the Devo we know. He is a much better fighter than that and is going to surprise some people.” Frias has been the main sparring partner for Joshua Clottey the past few weeks, as Clottey prepares for his mega fight with Manny Pacquiao at Cowboys Stadium.

Golden Boy prospect Derrick Wilson is tentatively scheduled to return on the under card of the Bernard Hopkins vs. Roy Jones Jr. rematch in Las Vegas. Stern told 8CN that Wilson has moved to an apartment near Tony Morgan’s gym (Andre Berto’s trainer) and is in great shape and getting away from distractions he has had. Wilson came onto the national scene with a huge knockout over fellow Golden Boy prospect Charles Huerta on Versus. In his last fight however, Wilson lost a split decision to journeyman Guadalupe De Leon. Wilson said Friday night in Tampa that he would love to get a rematch and avenge his loss and is ready to work his way to the top.