By Michael Campbell

As the multi-disciplined sport of Mixed Martial Arts continues its meteoric rise in popularity, its combatants can’t help being drawn back to their original disciplines.  For former MMA lightweight champion of EliteXC Karl “KJ” Noons, that calling is the sweet science of boxing.

“People ask me how can I do both, but I’ve always done both. I love both sports,” explained Noons.  “I started in boxing as a kid at 8 years old, and I never stopped boxing.  I’ve just gotten more recognition doing MMA.”

A 2001 graduate of Clements High School, Noons now lives and trains in San Diego.  He returns to his Houston tonight to face off in the boxing ring versus Enrique Gallegos of Medford, Oregon.

“It feels good, staying back at my mom and dad’s house, getting to see all my friends from back in high school,” KJ said.

“King Karl” Noons is fighting on TKO promotions inaugural event in the Bayou City.  With their home office located in Houston, TKO’s CEO Chet Koerner is trumpeting regional boxing cards called “HOMETOWN HEROES TO WORLD CHAMPIONS.”

“Our series is truly on display with this card as the Houston boxing fans will be able to see numerous local fighters such as KJ who we feel have the ability to become future world champions,” said Koerner.

Also to be featured are TKO prospects Dat Nguyen who originally hails from Bien Hoa, Vietnam, and Phoenix’s Rafael Valenzuela.  Local standouts, Gerardo “Tin Tin” Ibarra, the 2005 National Junior Olympic champion, and Texas state Golden Gloves champion Omar Henry will be seeing action in the ring.

Upcoming Houston area Boxing events:

The Texas Combative Sports Awards banquet will take place May 30th at the Legends Sports Complex in The Woodlands.  The best boxers and MMA fighters will be honored.  For more info check http://www.undefeatedmagazine.com

Rock Solid Promotions returns with their popular ballroom series on June 4th at the Humble Civic Center.  Local fighters, Crystal “Choo Choo” Delgado, Willie “Dynamite” Edwards, Jose “Topita” Gutierrez, and J.T. Mendez will be boxing.  For more info check http://www.rsboxing.com

Golden Boy Promotions will feature Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz versus an opponent to be announced on August 22nd at a location to be determined and will be televised by HBO.