Huntington's Chris Algieri will face Jose Peralta on NBC Sports Network's Fight Night Feb. 23.
Known as "the Fighting Pride of Huntington, New York", Algieri, who is undefeated as a junior welterweight at 15-0-0 (7KO's) will face the Jersey City's Peralta in the televised co-main event of the card, which will be shown live from The Paramount in Huntington. Peralta is 10-1-0 (6KO's). The telecast will begin at 10:30PM ET.
"We're very excited to bring NBC Sports Network to the boxing hotbed of Long Island, New York and The Paramount in Huntington where we've sold out five straight shows and have a received a tremendous amount of fan and media support," said Joe DeGuardia, president of Star Boxing.
DeGuardia said of the welterweight match up, "Chris Algieri is a very talented junior welterweight that has improved with each outing and Star Boxing is very proud that sports fans across the country will be able to see him fight against Jose Peralta, a very tough prospect from nearby Jersey City, New Jersey-it's like a throwback to the old cross-town fights. "
Born and raised in Huntington, Algieri is looking forward to his nationally televised debut against Peralta.
"This is the national exposure I've wanted for my career. It's a great opportunity to be in the spotlight. I've seen video of Jose Peralta and I know guys he's trained with. We're two hungry guys and it's a perfect fight for both of us."
About fighting at The Paramount, Algieri stated, "Although I've headlined four times at The Paramount in my hometown of Huntington, I don't see it as an advantage. When the bell rings it's just us in the ring and I need to stick to my game plan. That said, the fan support I've always received has been terrific and is greatly appreciated."
Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events, spoke of the bout, "It is refreshing for a fighter like Peralta to gain national exposure on NBC Sports Network Fight Night. Peralta was given the opportunity to step up and gladly accepted it. Fighting an undefeated competitor like Algieri in his hometown will add a level of excitement that our Fight Night fans have come to expect."
Peralta said he is thrilled about fighting on NBC Sports Network, "Fighting on NBC Sports Network is a great way for me to showcase my skills. I am grateful to Main Events for giving me this opportunity. I will not let my fans down."
The Feb. 23 card is promoted by Main Events, Star Boxing and Goossen Tutor. Seven bouts are planned for the card.
