Three Local stars align in Minnesota to kick of the summer
By Brett Mauren

In the last couple years Minnesota has made a crack at establishing itself as the Midwest’s very own boxing mecca , and Friday June 6 will make for a perfect opportunity for some of the States finest talents to showcase their skills.
The main event at Grand Casino Hinckley will feature former world title challenger Anthony “The Bullet” Bonsante pitted with journeyman Ted Muller. Muller is no stranger to high profile opposition, having shared the ring with the likes of Allen Green, Peter Manfredo Jr. and Jerson Ravelo. The fight figures to be an entertaining one as fans of Bonsante have grown accustomed to his crowd pleasing style over the years.
Bonsante is looking to notch a second win since suffering a defeat at the hands of John Duddy in March of ’07. Bonsante has however won four of his last five bouts including a huge win over in-state rival Matt Vanda that nearly blew the top off Target Center in early 2007. Although 37, and possibly in the twilight of his career, Bonsante continues to serve as a treat for throwback boxing fans.

Another intriguing fight is the return of Allen Litzau, attempting to bounce back from a third round T.K.O. and a one year layoff. Litzau is of course the brother of former IBF challenger Jason Litzau, who is also recovering from a loss of his own. Both Litzau brothers have caught National attention, and now lobby for a return to the win column. Allen Litzau faces Jose Laureano, a fight that on paper seems to be little more than tune up, but as both Litzau’s have learned you can never factor out a punchers chance. Litzau’s chin will undoubtedly be questioned and June 6, we’ll see if he can provide some answers.

Adding some more fire to the already scorching card is a slugfest between light heavyweights Phil Williams(7-0) of Minneapolis, and Marcus Upshaw(8-1) of Florida. Williams’ knockout power has thrilled fans in his previous bouts, stringing together eight straight stoppages. Upshaw probably presents Williams’ toughest task to date, based on his near perfect record and the fact that he has never tasted the canvas. Williams has shown that he can crack at light heavyweight, but will have to look to test Upshaw’s chin Friday in order to move up in the rankings.

Minnesota boxing again provides another nice card that should prove to be nothing short of electric, and a great opportunity for some young prospects to further make a name for themselves. Fans in the Midwest area have already been exposed to their talents, but fans across the nation shouldn’t be surprised to hear their names in the next few years.
Also on the card are:

Jake Betz ,Minneapolis,Minnesota vs.Quincy Miner of Missouri and Van Goodman,Minneapolis,Minnesota vs.Emerson Chasing Bear in separate Heavyweight bouts. Also Harley Kilfian vs. Marty Lindquist in a Cruiserweight barnburner.

Tickets are priced at $20,$35 and $55 for VIP seats and are available at Ticketmaster. com or the Grand Casino box office.
June 6,the Grand Casino at Hinckley is the place to be when Bad Dog productions presents "Grand Friday Night Fights".

There are still great seats left,but dont wait cause theyre going fast!!!See you at the fights!!!!