Thompson Has New Foe For Jan 24 Philadelphia Card

23.01 - Undefeated welterweight sensation Anthony Thompson, who's promoted by Cedric Kushner Promotions, has a new opponent for his bout Jan. 24 in Philadelphia. Thompson, who's nicknamed "The Messenger," now faces Jerome McLean. Thompson makes his hometown debut as a professional in the six-round bout at The Spectrum in Philadelphia.

"I haven't fought at home since my amateur days, and I'm looking forward to it," said the 21-year-old Thompson, who has a professional record of 7-0 with five knockouts. Thompson has knocked out his past three opponents: Richard Lee Hall in the second round Nov. 23 in Atlantic City, N.J.; Tommy Attardo in the fourth Sept. 8 in Lawton, Okla.; and Daniel Craycraft in the second Aug. 17 in Atlantic City.

The 33-year-old McLean, from Laurinberg, N.C., has a record of 3-4 with one knockout. Also on that card Jan. 24 in Philadelphia will be a second Cedric Kushner Promotions boxer, heavyweight contender Michael Grant.

Thompson was the favorite to win the gold medal for the United States at the 2004 Athens Olympics before he turned pro last year. Thompson, who had amateur record of 78-7, began boxing during 1990 and went on to win the U.S. Championships for 2000 and 2001 and the National Golden Gloves for 2000. He also was selected the USA Boxing "Athlete of the Year" for 2001.

Thompson attended Temple University and majored in accounting before concentrating solely on his professional boxing career. Thompson is managed by Cameron Dunkin and trained by Ronald Jackson.

Cedric Kushner Promotions, one of the world's premiere boxing promotional firms, presents numerous nationally and internationally televised cards each year.