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Boxing Referee Russell Mora BANNED FROM BOXING: IBF DOES THE RIGHT THING

(Publisher Note: I personally commend the IBF for making an immediate rematch between Abner Mares and Joseph Agbeko. But even more for taking a stand and saying that Referee Russell Mora did a HORRIBLE JOB. Attention Boxing Commission: do the right thing to and BAN HIM FROM BOXING FOREVER!)

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
899 Mountain Ave., Suite 2C  Springfield, NJ 07081
Phone: 973-564-8046  Fax: 973-564-8751
www.ibf-usba-boxing.com

August 16, 2011

Via email and USPS

Dana Jamison
Don King Productions
401 Fairway Drive
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

RE: Joseph Agbeko vs. Abner Mares – IBF Bantamweight Championship – Optional Defense

Dear Ms. Jamison:

IBF Championships Chairman Lindsey Tucker and I have reviewed the IBF Optional Bantamweight Championship bout that took place on August 13, 2011 in Las Vegas, NV.between Joseph Agbeko and Abner Mares.

Mr. Tucker and I observed several low blow fouls committed by Abner Mares. While the referee, Russell Mora, issued numerous warnings for low blows during the course of the bout, he neglected to deduct points for these fouls. With 1:03 left in round eleven, Joseph Agbeko was hit with a low blow foul that forced him to the canvas. Mr. Mora determined that the blow landed by Mares was legal and began to count indicating that a knockdown had occurred.

Based upon our review of the bout, it has been determined by the IBF that inappropriate conduct by the referee affected the outcome of the fight.

In accordance with IBF/USBA Rule 3.D., the IBF is ordering a rematch between Joseph Agbeko and Abner Mares for the IBF Bantamweight title which must be held within the next 120 days or by December 14, 2011. Neither boxer can take another fight until the rematch is completed. Negotiations should begin immediately and be concluded by September 15, 2011. In the event that you have not negotiated this bout by September 15, 2011, the IBF will call for a purse bid to be held to determine who will promote the fight.

August 16, 2011
Page II

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at the IBF office.

Sincerely,

Daryl J. Peoples, President
IBF/USBA

Cc: Lindsey Tucker
William James
Eric Gomez
David Itskowich
Linda Torres, Esq.
Keith Kizer

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