Reading, PA (May 23, 2010) – Heavyweight prospect Travis Kauffman moved one step closer to legitimate contention with a comprehensive domination of hard-punching trialhorse Chris Koval last night in his hometown of Reading, PA. Kauffman, now 20-1 (16 KO), stopped the 24-7 (18 KO) Koval at 1:19 of the second round to claim the vacant WBF Intercontinental Heavyweight title at the Sovereign Center. The show was promoted by King’s Promotions.
Kauffman, aged 24, advanced towards the Youngstown, OH native behind a solid jab in the opening round that opened the door for hard bodywork downstairs.. The ambidextrous Kauffman switched to a southpaw stance towards the end of the first and badly stunned Koval with a four-punch combination to the head. Koval walked back to his corner on unsteady legs.
With vicious intent, Kauffman came out for the second round looking to end all matters then and there. Kauffman dropped Koval twice on a series of right crosses that ultimately led to a finishing barrage midway through the round.
“This was a big confidence booster for me,” said Kauffman, who has won two straight since his only career loss. “I know he was going to be dangerous but I chose to take the fight right to him to make a statement. I feel that I’m ready to step back up in competition and that I belong in bigger fights. I’m still learning every fight but I feel great about where I’m at now.”
Van Oscar Penovaroff Tames “The Animal” Thompson
Former 2004 US Olympic alternate Van Oscar Penovaroff had a statement to make following his lone career blemish, a draw with Francisco Palacios last December. Penovaroff showed tremendous improvement from that performance, utilizing lightning quick counterpunching and crushing left hooks to put Pottstown, PA’s Travis “The Animal” Thompson on his back for the count at :38 seconds of the third round. The fight was contested in the lightweight division.
Penovaroff, now 5-0-1 (4 KO) of Reading, PA by way of Kailua Kona HI will be in action again next Friday at Scope Arena in Norfolk, VA against an opponent to be named.
In other action, heavyweight William Miranda of Allentown, PA made a successful pro debut against Philadelphia’s Hassan Lee, winning by split decision.