Target Center Press Conference: Abell vs Butler
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
By Jesse Kelley

Fighters participating on the December 4th "Heavyweights Hit The Target" Pro boxing show were on hand earlier this week at the Target Center in Minneapolis, MN. The main event pits Joey Abell and Raphael Butler together in a long awaited showdown. Butler and Abell both expressed their readiness to get back in the ring with each other and prove who the number one heavyweight in Minnesota is.
Duluth's Zach Walters spoke of his supporting bout against Canadian Larry Sharpe. The bout will be at 170 pounds. Walters said he is excited to be returning to the Twin Cities to box, box and box some more against Sharpe, who brings a tough as nails reputation to the ring.
Dave Peterson, fresh off his exciting performance against Corey Rodriquez will also be in action. Peterson didn't reveal an opponent but said he looks forward to boxing as well.
Peterson's younger brother Ronnie will facing off in a rematch bout against North Dakota's Tomi Archambault. The two recently boxed in a bout that was recently changed to a no contest. Peterson promises that he will be at his best come December 4th.
Also in action and talking with the media was Walters' teammate "Stone Cold" Gary Eyer. Eyer drew chuckles from the crowd when responding to the question of whether his style will one day lead him to compete in MMA. "Umm.. I like to watch it!" stated Eyer. Eyer is said to be facing (3-0) Minnesota fighter Levi Cortez.
Yet another one of Minnesota's best amateurs will be making his pro debut also on the show. Tony Lee is the latest pugilist to drop the headgear, lace up the smaller gloves and test out the pro ranks.
Former tough guy Boris Shishporenok will take a huge step up when he faces former title challenger Travis "Freight Train" Walker. Boris says he is excited to get the opportunity to face Walker and feels that going in as the underdog will be used as motivation.
Also fighting in a bout will be debuting Saint Paul fighter Saverino Garcia.
Below are a few photos from the press conference...