Pro boxing returns to Boston on May 17 when promoter Peter Manfredo, Sr., in association with Let’s Get It On Promotions, presents “Diamonds in the Rough” at Freeport (I.B.E.W.) Hall in Dorchester, Massachusetts.

Worcester (MA) middleweight prospect Edwin Rodriguez (4-0, 3 KOs) and super middleweight Derek Hinkey (4-1, 4 KOs) are in separate 6-round co-main events. The Dominican Republic-born Rodriguez, winner of the 2006 National Golden Gloves Championships and 2005 United States Championships, is a potential rising star. Hinkey, fighting out of McDermitt, Nevada, is a Native American fighter with a rich amateur career.

“We’re doing this to promote some young talent,” Manfredo said. “Rodriguez and Hinkey were top amateurs and they have good shots of going places in pro boxing. They’re a little rough around the edges – that’s why we named the show ‘Diamonds in the Rough” – and they’re learning as pros to get to the next level.”

Also scheduled to fight on the May 17 card are Whitman (MA) super middleweight Mark “The Italian Bazooka” DeLuca (3-0, 2 KOs), 2004 National Silver Gloves champion; Hinkey’s younger brother, heavyweight Tyler Hinkey (2-0-1, 2 KOs); Providence junior welterweight Jesus Caro, New England Golden Gloves champion; Brockton (MA) welterweight Alexandria Madgziak. Caro and Madgziak will be making their pro debuts. All bouts and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $40.00 (general admission), $55.00 (reserved), $75.00 (ringside) and $100.00 (Golden Ringside), are on sale at Freeport Hall and Manfredo’s Gym. Call 401.723.1359 for additional information. Doors open at 6 PM/ET, first bout at 7 PM/ET.