McNeil to meet Camacho

By By Tony Krausz / assistant sports editor
July 2, 2004
Clinton McNeil is getting his shot.
The boxer, who fights out of Hattiesburg, will step into the ring with one of boxing's biggest names Hector "Macho" Camacho on Saturday.
Clinton McNeil's 10-round bout against Camacho, a four-time world middleweight champion, is one of six listed matches on "The Fight for Independence" card, which will be held at the Beau Rivage Casino in Biloxi.
In other matches, Dana Kendrick from Hattiesburg will meet Tiffany Ibenez of Gulfport in a women's lightweight bout, and Laurel's Kenny Craven will take on Charles Daughtry or Memphis, Tenn., in a heavyweight match.
Derick Wilson of Biloxi will meet Mackey Willis of Atlanta, and Willie Lee of Gulfport will meet Chris Troop of Augusta, Ga.
Troy Beets and Dan Ward will meet in a 10-round heavyweight bout leading into the main event, which pits Clinton McNeil against Camacho.
Clinton McNeil is the reigning North American Boxing Council middleweight champion, and David McNeil said his son is ready to meet the former world title holder.
While physically ready, Clinton McNeil will need to built a strong mental reserve for the bout against Camacho.
The crafty veteran is known for his flamboyant style and trash talking throughout a fight.
Camacho will likely attempt to keep the fight slow, while trying to make Clinton McNeil wear himself out. Clinton McNeil will need to keep moving in the ring and not allow Camacho a chance to land clear power punches during the bout.
The evening's matches are scheduled to start at 8 p.m., but fans are advised to arrive around 6:30 p.m.
Tickets for the event cost $32, $47, $72 or $97 in the 1,500-seat arena, and seats were still available as of Thursday. For more ticket information call 1-888-566-7469.