PARKERSBURG - In less than two weeks, the Elite Sports Center will act as the host site of Power Promotions' Fight Night IX as action is expected to get under way at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14.

Although amateur fights are still being lined up, Matt McCase of Power Promotions said there will be four professional bouts and at least 17 amateur fights, which also will include a few amateur kickboxing matches.

West Virginia state cruiserweight boxing champion Mike Sheppard of Wirt County will fight in the main event, but his title won't be on the line since he'll be squaring off against Deandre "Showtime" McCole in the heavyweight feature.

"The guy (McCole) is tough and he's been around," said Sheppard, who will defend his title in Wheeling on Dec. 12 against undefeated Justin "The Lumberjack" Howes of Buckhannon.

"McCole's been in there with some good fighters and he's an opponent. Everyone he fights is tough."

Sheppard won't be the only attraction as three other pro bouts will feature Keith Barr, Roxanne Ward and Joe Paintiff. Barr will be making his pro debut and is fighting at cruiserweight. Ward's bout will be a middleweight fight and Paintiff's battle against Chris "The Hammer" Brammer is a heavyweight showdown. All of the pro fights are scheduled for four three-minute rounds.

Sheppard is coming off a first round knockout of Cameron Davis back on Oct. 16 in Louisville, Ky., and hopes to use this match as another tune-up for his title defense next month.

The Wirt County teacher said he's excited to fight at the new Elite Sports Center.

"Not yet, but I've heard it's real nice," Sheppard said when asked if he had been to the ESC yet. "I'm starting to get into shape and I'm feeling pretty good."

The IKF world kickboxing champion also said he could have a title defense coming up in May at a venue in Wisconsin.

For now, Sheppard's just worrying about winning his next fight and then defending his state cruiserweight belt. He's also glad to be fighting in front of the local fans again.

"I do like that," he said. "Earlier in my career, eight or 10 years ago, I'd get tense and I wouldn't do as well locally.

"I would feel a lot of pressure. After all the experience I've had, especially traveling and stuff, I've figured it out. I'm a completely different person now."

McCase said there are still plenty of reserved ($25) and general admission ($20) tickets on sale, which can be obtained by calling Power Promotions at (304) 376-7538 or by visiting any area Kompak store.

However, he did note there are only a few special ringside tables left, which may be purchased for $300 with a seating capacity of six.

"We are doing waitress service for those and we're trying to add a little something extra in there," McCase said.