VIDEO: Seniesa Estrada “To see these women in big fights, Motivates me to become Undisputed myself”




AUDIO: Tony Harrison Emotional After Alycia Baumgardner Undisputed Title win






VIDEO: Tony Harrison Emotional After Alycia Baumgardner Undisputed Title win




FOLLOW SERRANO – CRUZ LIVE FROM RINGSIDE

Follow all the action as Amanda Serrano takes on Erika Cruz for the Undisputed Featherweight title.  The action kicks off at 8 PM ET and will feature Alycia Baumgardner taking on Elham Mekhaled for the Undisputed Junior Lightweight crown.

THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY.  NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

10 ROUNDS–UNDISPUTED FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE–AMANDA SERRANO (43-2-1, 30 KOS) VS ERIKA CRUZ (15-1, 3 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
SERRANO 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 96
CRUZ 10 10 10 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 94

Round 1: Left from Cruz..Left to body from Serrano…another…Left over top from Cruz..Left from Serrano…Left from Cruz

ROUND 2 2 Lefts from Cruz…2 more lefts…Left..uppercut on the inside

ROUND 3 Cruz lands a left…Right..Straight left from Serrano…Right..Cruz cut badly on her forehead (Headbutt)

ROUND 4 left from Cruz…Right hook..Left from Serrano…Rught Hook..Straight left

ROUND 5 Right from Cruz…Combination..Left backs up Cruz…Left,,

ROUND 6 Doctor checks Cruz Cut forehead,,,Right hook from Serrano..Lef from Cruz..Body shot from Serrano..Big left hurts Cruz…she stumbles to the ropes…Body shot from Serrano

ROUND 7  Furious action to start the round..Big left from Serrano,,,Big right hook…Tremendous action

ROUND 8 Left from Serrano

ROUND 9 Left from Serrano..Right hook…Hard left…

ROUND 10 Left from Cruz,…right…A war between the two,,,Serrano cut around the right eye

98-92 TWICE AND 97-93 FOR AMANDA SERRANO

10 ROUNDS–UNDISPUTED JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE–ALYCIA BAUMGARDNER (13-1, 7 KOS) VS ELHEM MEKHALED (15-1, 3 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
BAUMGARDNER 10 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 9 10 98
MEKHALED 10 10 7 9 9 9 9 9 10 9 91

ROUND 1 Right from Baumgarder..Right aver top from Mekhaled…

ROUND 2 Right from Baumgardner…Right from Mekhaled…2 shots…Right from Baumgardner..

ROUND 3 BIG RGHT AND DOWN GOES MEKHALED…HUGE FLURRY AND DOWN GOES MEKHALED AGAIN…2 Big Rights followed by a an assault of punches..

ROUND 4 Right from Mekhaled…Left from Baumgardner..

ROUND 5 Right to body from Baumgardner…Left hook shakes Mekhaled…Body shots…Counter left

ROUND 6 5 Punch combination from Baumgardner..right…Left,..

ROUND 7 Left hook from Baumgardmer…Vicious lefts and rights hurts Mekjaled on the ropes…ref looks close to stopping fight..Right from Mekhaled..

ROUND 8 Right drives Mekhaled to the corner

ROUND 9 Jab from Mekhaled…Counter right…Counter left…Good exchange..Mekhaled lands a left

ROUND 10 Right to body from Baumgardner…Right from Mekhaled…Right…Left to body from Baumgardner…Uppercut and left hook from Baumgardner..Right to body..3 Good shots from Baumgardner…

99-89 TWICE AND 98-90 FOR BAUMGARDNER


10 Rounds – Junior Welterweights–Richardson Hitchins (15-0, 7 KOs) vs Jon Bauza (17-0, 7 KOs)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Hitchins 10 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 98
Bauza 8 10 10 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 90

Round 1: Jab from Bauza..Left to body…Jab from Hitchins..Right to body…INSIDE LEFT AND BAUZA FALLS…RULED A KNOCKDOWN..Jab from Bauza..Replays showed that Bauza stepped on the foot of Hitchins
Round 2 Jab from Bauza…Left to body..Left…Hard right from Hitchins…3 jabs…Left from Bauza..
Round 3 
Left from Bauza..Jab…
Round 4 Counter right from Hitchins…BIG RIGHT AND DOWN GOES BAUZA…Another big Right..Hard Body punch…
Round 5 Straight right from Hitchins…Bauza starting to swell around the right eye…Counter right from Hitchins..Left from Bauza…
Round 6 Counter right from Hitchins…2 more straight rights…Big straight right…Another..Counter right uppercut..Left hook..
Round 7 Doctor checking Bauza’s eye…Double jab from Hitchins…bauza trying to fire back and lands a left..Double jab from Hitchins…
Round 8 Right from Hitchins,..Good counter right to the body…Good straight right…Right to body from Bauza..Right from Hitchins…Left from Bauza..
Round 9 Right from Hitchins…Big left from Bauza..Bauza trying to rally with a good flurry…3 monsterous shots from Hitchins..Left…Bauza’s face a mess…Body shots…
Round 10 Right from Hitchins…Left from Bauza…Hard right rocks Bauza..

100-88 ON ALL CARDS FOR HITCHINS

8 Rounds–Flyweights–Yankiel Rivera (2-0, 2 KOs) vs Fernando Diaz (11-2-1, 3 KOs)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Rivera 10 10 9 10 9 10 10 10 78
Diaz 9 9 10 9 10 9 9 9 74

Round 1 Left from Rivera….Straight left…
Round 2 Hard left from Rivera…Diaz lands a right off the ropes…Right to body from Rivera..
Round 3 Uppercut by Diaz…Right from Rivera…Left from Diaz..Uppercut ..
Round 4 Left from Rivera..Uppercut from Diaz…Left from Rivera…Left drives Diaz back…Right hook…Straight to the body…Left to body..Good left to the body
Round 5 Left hook from Diaz..counter left…Left to body by Rivera..Combination from Diaz…Good straight left from Rivera..Right from Diaz…
Round 6 Left from Rivera…Left to body
Round 7  Right inside from Rivera…
Round 8 Left from Rivera…Right from Diaz…Hard left from Rivera..

79-73 TWICE AND 78-74 FOR RIVERA




Serrano Decisions Cruz to Become Undisputed Featherweight champion; Katie Taylor Rematch on May 20th

NEW YORK–In a war, Amanda Serrano became the undisputed featherweight champion with a 10-round unanimous decision in front of a capacity crowd at The Hulu Theater inside Madison Square Garden

The two fighters stood toe to toe with Cruz having early success as she dug her feet in and came forward throwing and landing punches in bunches from all angles. That seemed to befuddle Serrano, who was getting hit cleanly by oncoming shots from Cruz. In round three, Cruz was cut on her forehead from an accidental headbutt. That coincided with Serrano’s foray back inro the fight as she seemed to have a better grasp on how to handle the unorthodox style of Cruz.

In round six, Serrano her Cruz badly with an left and right hook on the inside. There were instances that looked like Cruz was done, but she kept coming forward throwing punches in bunches. Serrano was able to stem the tide and fough through a cut around her right eye in a furious 10th and final round.

The two fighters threw a staggering amount of punches for the 20 minute war as Serrano was 257 of 949. Cruz 202 of 968.

Serrano, 125.4 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93 and is now 44-2-1. Cruz, 125.4 lbs of Mexico City fought valiantly in defeat and is now 15-2.

With the win, it paves the way for a much anticipated rematch between Serrano and Katie Taylor that was announced for May 20th.

Amanda Serrano

  • I’m just so emotional underneath. I finally did it for my island. 
  • She’s a Mexican champion and we knew that from the start. I knew it was going to be a bout and this what what I’ve trained for. We didn’t expect anything less than that. 
  • I’m glad it went past the fourth!
  • Jordan kept screaming 1-2-1-2’s from the corner – go back to the basics. My left hand was catching her pretty clear with the jabs. So I just listen to my corner. 
  • I have successfully completed all of my dreams, becoming the undisputed champion. So now I am one of THE undisputed champions but I am still the ONLY 7 weigh class world champions in the world. 
  • It’s going to be a bigger and better fight over there (Ireland)

Katie Taylor

  • I was cheering her on. I wanted this fight. Undisputed vs. undisputed champion. The last fight was an epic fight and I think the next one is going to be exactly the same. 
  • It’s going to be great in Ireland fighting the real deal, Amanda Serrano. This is incredible and the last fight was epic so I expect nothing less from the next one. 
  • This is the biggest fight in women’s boxing and I only want to do the biggest fights. This is exactly what I want.

Baumgardner Decisions Mekhaled to Win Undisputed Junior Lightweight Champion

Alycia Baumgardner became to Undisputed Junior Lightweight champion with an emphatic 10-round unanimous decision over Elhem Mekhaled.

In round three, Baumgardner landed a big chopping right that put Mekhaled on the canvas. With Mekhaled hurt, Baumgardner jumped on Mekhaled and sent her to the canvas for a second time in the round from a huge flurry of punches.

Mekhaled was hurt several times down the stretch, but she showed tremendous resolve as she was able to land some flush punches. In the 10th round, both boxers had moments and also there were several furious exchanges.

Baumgardner landed 141 of 542 punches; Mekhaled was 96 of 404.

Baumgardner, 129 lbs of Detroit won by scores of 99-89 twice and 98-90 and is now 14-1. Mekhaled, 129 lbs of Paris, FRA is 15-2.

Hitchins Decisions Bauza

Richardson Hitchins settled his grudge with John Bauza y winning a lopsided 10-round unanimous decision on their junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Hitchins landed a inside left that had Bauza hit the canvas, which was ruled a knockdown. In round four, Hitchins landed a hard straight right that put Bauza down for a clean knockdown. In round five, the right eye of Bauza began to swell up.

With his face a mess and getting beat up, Bauza landed a hard left that briefly stopped Hitchins in his tracks, but Hitchins rebounded to landed three flush shots to face of Bauza.

Hitchins, 139.6 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 100-88 on all cards and is now 16-0. Bauza, 139 lbs of North Bergen, NJ is 17-1.

Yankiel Rivera Decisions Fernando Diaz

Yankiel Rivera remained undefeated by pounding out an eight-round unanimous decision over Fernando Diaz in a flyweight fight.

Rivera, 112.4 lbs of Bayamon, PR won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 and is now 3-0. Diaz, 111.8 lbs of Riverside, CA is 11-3-1.

Skye Nicolson remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Tania Alvarez in a featherweight fight.

Nicolson, 126.6 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by scores of 100-90, 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 6-0. Alvarez, 124.8 lbs of Barcelona, SPA is 7-1.

In a battle of previously undefeated super bantamweights, Ramla Ali took a 10-round unanimous decision from Avril Mathie.

Ali, 121.4 lbs of London won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 8-0. Mathie, 121.4 lbs of Sydney, AUS is 8-1-1.

Shadasia Green was impressive in stopping former world champion Elin Cederroos in round six of their scheduled 10[round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Green dropped Cederroos with a perfect overhand right to the jaw.

In round six, Green landed three more booming right hands to the head that had Cederroos wobbling across the ring. Green landed three more flush shots in the corner and the bout was stopped at 1:08.

Green, 167.2 lbs of Paterson, NJ is now 12-0 with 11 knockoouts. Cederroos,167.4 lbs of Sweden is 8-2.

In a bloody battle, Harley Maderos stopped Julio Madera in the sixth and final round of their lightweight bout.

Maderos battered Madera until his face got more swollen with each round. Maderos showed a bloody mouth in round five. In round six, Maderos landed a hard combination that forced referee Eric Dali to the contest at 25 seconds.

Maderos, 134.2 lbs of Brooklyn is now 5-0 with four knockouts. Madera,133.5 lbs of Mexico City is 4-3.

Aaron Aponte remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Joshua David Rivera in a junior welterweight clash.

Aponte, 136.8 lbs of Hialeah Gardens, FL won by scores on all cards and is now 7-0-1. Rivera, 138.8 lbs of La Mesa, CA is 8-2.




LIVE FIGHTS: Before The Bell: Serrano vs Cruz Live Undercard (Nicolson, Ali & More)




MAIN EVENTS SIGNS UNDEFEATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT PROSPECT SHAWN “THE AMAZING” McCALMAN

otowa, NJ, February 4, 2023  – –  Main Events announced today that they have signed undefeated super middleweight Shawn “The Amazing” McCalman to a promotional contract. McCalman, (12-0, 6 KOs), was born and raised in Denver and now resides in Aurora, Colorado, where he trains at A1 Boxing. 

McCalman had an amateur record of 65-7, winning state and regional Golden Gloves three times. He made his professional debut on September 22, 2018, winning by first round knockout. McCalman won the American Boxing Federation American West Super Middleweight title with a unanimous decision win over highly touted Vaughn Alexander on July 17, 2021. He also has a unanimous decision win over then undefeated Marquis Moore on March 5, 2022.

“I’m very excited to start this chapter of my career with the support of Main Events,” said McCalman. “They’re one of the most prestigious and respected companies in the history of boxing and have promoted some of the biggest names in the sport. I look forward to creating a legendary legacy of my own with their support. I’d like to thank my management team Fighters First for making this opportunity possible. I’m training harder & smarter than ever. It’s time to show the world who ‘The Amazing’ Shawn McCalman is.”

Jolene Mizzone – President, Fighters First Management stated, “I couldn’t be happier to be working with Kathy Duva and Joseph Rotonda again, only on the other side of the table. I know with Main Events in our corner Shawn will become a World Champion.” 

“We are very excited about signing undefeated Super Middleweight prospect Shawn McCalman,” said Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. “He is an exciting fighter and has made it clear that he is willing to fight anyone to reach his goal of becoming a world champion. He is extremely talented and is just entering the prime of his career now. The super middleweight division has been overlooked for many years now, but it has suddenly come to life and has become one of hottest divisions in the sport. I do not think it will be long before people start mentioning his name as one of the newest top contenders in this division.”

“We are also thrilled to be back in business with his manager Jolene Mizzone of Fighters First Management,” said Main Events Director of Operations Joe Rotonda. “We are obviously well aware of what Jolene is capable of and the wealth of knowledge that she brings to the table.”

Shawn began boxing at eighteen, but prior to that competed in martial arts, winning numerous national tournaments while practicing taekwondo. Shawn was attending Colorado State University at Pueblo to play football but left before he began. He played quarterback and safety at Far Northeast High School in Denver. “I dropped out of college and decided I wanted to pursue something new. Boxing was something I always loved and had an admiration for but never did it while growing up. Now that I was done with football, it was time to make that transition.” Noting that no family or friends of Shawn’s had ever boxed.

Follow Shan McCalman at  Instagram FacebookTwitter

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The King of Brick City: Shakur Stevenson Returns Home April 8 Against Shuichiro Yoshino in Lightweight Main Event at Newark’s Prudential Center LIVE on ESPN

NEWARK, N.J. (Feb. 4, 2023) — The pound-for-pound fighting pride of “Brick City” has packed the house before, and he is set to do it again.
 
Undefeated former two-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson will take on Japanese puncher Shuichiro Yoshino in a 12-round WBC lightweight title eliminator Saturday, April 8, at Prudential Center in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
 
In the co-feature, heavyweight knockout artist Jared The Real Big Baby” Anderson aims for another stoppage in a 10-rounder against an opponent to be named. And, in the 10-round televised opener, rising lightweight and U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis fights a to-be-determined foe.
 
Stevenson-Yoshino and the returns of Anderson and Davis will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN, Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $55 go on sale Friday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.
 
“Shakur Stevenson is one of the most gifted fighters I’ve had the pleasure of promoting, and I look forward to seeing him once again fight in front of his incredible hometown fans in Newark,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Yoshino is a tough fighter and won’t be deterred by the hostile crowd. Jared Anderson and Keyshawn Davis are two of the sport’s emerging superstars, and I can’t wait to see them back in the ring.”
 
“Following the overwhelming success of Shakur Stevenson’s return to Newark in September, we are thrilled to build on that momentum with another stacked Top Rank boxing card on Saturday, April 8th,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “As Shakur continues to rise the pound-for-pound rankings, we take great pride in being his home. We all witnessed just how much Shakur means to the City of Newark a few months ago, as the event sold the most tickets to a boxing event in our venue’s 15-year history. Alongside our world-class partners at Top Rank and ESPN, we look forward to raising the bar for boxing fans not only in New Jersey but across the globe.”
 
Stevenson (19-0, 9 KOs), a former featherweight and junior lightweight world champion, returns home following last September’s triumph against Robson Conceição. The stubborn Conceição lasted the distance, but Stevenson dominated in front of 10,107 fans at Prudential Center. It was the first time Stevenson had fought at Prudential Center since July 2019 and established the venue as one of the sport’s most raucous hometown crowds. Stevenson won the WBO junior lightweight title with a 10th-round knockout over Jamel Herring in October 2021, then unified the division with a stirring 12-round display over WBC king Oscar Valdez the following April. Those victories propelled Stevenson, a 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist, to the top 10 of most pound-for-pound lists. He now sets his sights on a third weight class and a spot atop the pound-for-pound throne.
 
“I am taking over the lightweight division and my run will start on April 8 in Newark. Shuichiro Yoshino is an undefeated fighter who was willing to step up and fight me when so many fighters were scared,” Stevenson said. “My last fight at the Prudential Center was just the start of what I’m building in Jersey. We are going to pack the Prudential Center again and show the world who the future of boxing really is.”
 
Yoshino (16-0, 12 KOs), the WBC’s No. 5 contender, is a former Japanese lightweight champion who compiled a 104-20 amateur record. After seven defenses of his Japanese title, Yoshino rose in the rankings following a banner 2022. Last April, he won a bloody technical decision over former world champion Masayuki Ito after Ito suffered a cut over his left eye. He followed up the Ito triumph in November with a sixth-round stoppage over Masayoshi Nakatani, best known to fans for his stands against Teofimo Lopez and Vasiliy Lomachenko. Yoshino has never fought away from Japan and hopes to spoil Stevenson’s homecoming.
 
“I am very honored to be fighting in the U.S. for the first time. I’m extremely focused and motivated,” Yoshino said. “I’m looking forward to fighting the great two-division champion, Shakur Stevenson, in his hometown of Newark. I’ll be training hard leading up to the fight and look forward to showing the fans an exciting victory!”
 
Anderson (13-0, 13 KOs), a 23-year-old from Toledo, Ohio, has notched five consecutive second-round stoppages, including a demolition of the normally durable Jerry Forrest last December. Anderson received international headlines for his work as a sparring partner of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, but he is now firmly established as a potential heavyweight champion.
 
Davis (7-0, 5 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, went to the Tokyo Olympics as a 3-0 professional and returned home with a silver medal and a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. He is 4-0 since signing with the promotional powerhouse in late 2021, including three stoppage victories and last December’s shutout over former world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos. Davis shined at Prudential Center last September, stopping Omar Tienda in five rounds.
 
Undercard action — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — includes undefeated Polish heavyweight prospect Damian Knyba (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Knyba signed a long-term contract with Top Rank following his second-round knockout over Emilio Salas on the Teofimo Lopez-Sandor Martin bill in December. 
 
Featherweight phenom Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (6-0, 3 KOs), the latest uber-talent from Brownsville, Brooklyn, will fight in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. Carrington fought on the Stevenson-Conceição bill and blanked Jose Argel over six rounds.
 
ABOUT PRUDENTIAL CENTER
Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 175 concerts, family shows and special events each year. The arena is also home to the GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center, which opened its doors to the public in October 2017. The 8,200-square-foot experience marks the first GRAMMY Museum outpost on the East Coast and features a dynamic combination of educational programming and interactive permanent and traveling exhibits, including a spotlight on legendary GRAMMY winners from New Jersey. Ranked in the Top 8 nationally by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit PruCenter.com and follow the arena on FacebookTwitter and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment property.




Split-T Management’s John Bauza Takes on Richardson Hitchins in Grudge Match at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK (FEBRUARY 4, 2023)–TONIGHT at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, undefeated super lightweight John Bauza takes on fellow undefeated Richardson Hitchins in a 10-round bout for the IBF North American Super Lightweight Title.

Bauza is managed by Split-T Management.

The bout can be seen Live on DAZN at 8 PM ET.

To say that the lead-up to the fight has been contentious is an understatement.

The former sparring partners engaged in a 20-minute heated debate at Thursday’s press conference that was filled with confident bold predictions and profane smack talk.

“First of all, I want to say thank you for this opportunity to be here. All I have to say is that I work hard. There was a lot of back and forth, but we got the fight, and we’re ready,” said Bauza. “We’re ready for everybody. We already proved that in the amateurs. He [Hitchins] knows who I am; I sparred him before. I come from the same group as them, all of them. They know who I am too, so we’re ready for everybody. I’m ready for it.”

Bauza of North Bergen, New Jersey via Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico is 17-0 with seven knockouts. The 24 year-old Bauza is a seven year-pro who has defeated the likes of Larry Fryers (11-2), Christian Edwards (12-2), Michael Williams Jr. (19-0) and his last bout when he took an eight-round unanimous decision over Tony Luis (29-4) on March 19, 2022 at Madison Square Garden.

Hitchins of New York is 15-0 with seven knockouts. The 25 year-old Hitchins is a six-year pro and has defeated Mario Alberto Perez Navarro (1-0, Alejandro Munera (4-1-3), Kevin Johnson (7-1), Nicholas DeLomba (16-2), former world champion Argenis Mendez (25-5-3), Malik Hawkins (18-1) and his last bout when he stopped Yomar Alamo (20-1-1) on November 12, 2022 in Cleveland.

Bauza was 139 lbs. at Friday’s weigh in. Hitchins was 139.6 lbs.




AUDIO: Amanda Serrano talks Erika Cruz Undisputed fight






VIDEO: Amanda Serrano talks Erika Cruz Undisputed fight




Tito Mercado Lands New Opponent has Big Plans to be Boxing’s Next Superstar

POMONA, CA (February 3, 2023) – Undefeated NABA super lightweight champion, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs), has a new opponent for this Saturday, February 4, as he will now face Jose Angulo (14-4, 7 KOs), of Ecuador. The fight will still take place at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA, with RED Boxing Promotions operating as the promoter, as Hank Lundy will no longer serve as Mercado’s opponent.

“I am glad Jose Angulo took the fight on short notice and I appreciate him stepping up,” said Mercado, the Olympic Trials Silver Medalist in 2020. “Angulo is a tough opponent, but my plan is to end this fight early and continue my knockout streak.”

Born in Pomona, CA, Tito has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. With his lightning-fast combinations, explosive power, Mercado is already making noise as one of the sport’s most exciting prospects.

Now, with a string of impressive wins under his belt, Tito is looking to take the next step and become the face of boxing. He believes that his story of perseverance and determination will inspire others to pursue their own dreams, no matter the odds.

Mercado has overcome numerous obstacles to reach the top of his game. Despite growing up in an underserved community, he never lost sight of his dreams, honing his skills through countless hours of hard work and dedication.

“I have big plans to be Southern California’s the next superstar in boxing.” continued Mercado. “I want to show people that anything is possible if you’re willing to put in the work. I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I’m making all the sacrifices to be great. This Saturday will be another step in the right direction.”

Tito, a promotional free agent, is ready to take the next step and join forces with a promoter who can help him reach new heights. The search for a promoter who shares his passion for the sport and his vision for the future, is the missing piece. He’s hoping to find a promoter who will help him achieve his ultimate goal of becoming a champion.

“I believe that I have what it takes to be a star in this sport, and I’m eager to find the right promoter who will help me get there,” Mercado says. “I’ve been working hard every day to improve my skills and reach my full potential. Right now, I have a great team behind me, and getting the right promoter will be the final piece.”




MARQUES VALLE LOOKS TO CONTINUE DOMINANCE AT 154 ON FEBRUARY 22 ON PROBOX TV

Tampa’s highly talked about Marques Valle is looking to set the ground running in 2023, as he looks to establish himself as a contender in the super welterweight division.

Valle has been dominant in his 7 professional outings, with all of the wins coming within the scheduled distance. Now the all-action puncher turns his attention to making an impact in the super welterweight division.

Valle opened up on his plans in 2023, “I’m working hard as always in the gym to improve technically and grow into the weight. I started my pro career at 147 but I think I’m going to continue to grow, so it’s the right thing for me to fight at 54.

“I’ve had a great start to my career on ProBox TV, the whole team from Garry Jonas to coaches Marc Farrait and Asa Beard along with my management team at Split-T have worked really well to bring me on the right way, I feel like I have a dream team and that’s really all a fighter can ask for.” 

‘The Machine’ competes as a professional alongside his younger brother Dominic Valle, who also holds an undefeated record, and the bigger brother discussed his relationship with his brother and hopes for 2023 for the pair.

He said, “I’m really happy with how me and my brother have progressed, and I love how we always get featured on ProBox TV. Dominic has been guided properly and I think we’re going to be ready for a regional title in 2023.

“There’s a lot of great fighters on television, fighters like Erickson Lubin who are in fights that we are aiming to be in one day, but for now I think we will want to push ourselves into a position where we are ready to break into the world top 15 and go from there.

“I’m from a Puerto Rican family, I grew up watching Felix Trinidad and Miguel Cotto, it was a family party every time there was a big Puerto Rican fight on, and boxing is a family business with me. Hopefully one day we can have these types of parties when my brother and I fight.”

Watch ProBox TV Events FOR FREE (NO SIGN UP REQUIRED) live on YouTube in English and Spanish. You can watch ProBoxTV ad free on ProBoxTV.com for $1.99




VIDEO: Amanda Serrano vs Erika Cruz PLUS Full Undercard Weigh-in




WEIGHTS, RUNNING ORDER AND IMAGES FOR SERRANO VS. CRUZ/BAUMGARDNER VS. MEKHALED

First bell at 4.30pm ET
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
Aaron Aponte 138.6lbs vs. Joshua David Rivera 138.8lbs
(Hialeah Gardens, Florida)         (La Mesa, California)
 
Followed by
 
4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
Harley Mederos 134.2lbs vs. Julio Madera 133.6lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (Mexico City, Mexico)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBC Silver and WBA Continental Super-Middleweight titles
Shadasia Green 167.2lbs           vs.        Elin Cederroos 167.4lbs
(Paterson, New Jersey)                          (Vasteraas, Sweden)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins IBF Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight title
Ramla Ali 121.4lbs vs. Avril Mathie 121.4lbs
(London, United Kingdom) (Sydney, Australia)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBC Silver Bantamweight title
Skye Nicolson 125.6lbs vs. Tania Alvarez 124.8lbs
(Yatala, Queensland, Australia)  (Barcelona, Spain)
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 8PM 
 
8 x 3 mins Flyweight contest
Yankiel Rivera 112.4lbs vs.        Fernando Diaz 111.8lbs
(Bayamon, Puerto Rico) (Riverside, California)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins IBF North American Super-Lightweight title
Richardson Hitchins 139.6lbs vs. John Bauza 139lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (North Bergen, New Jersey)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed World Super-Featherweight championship
Alycia Baumgardner 129lbs vs. Elhem Mekhaled 129lbs
(Detroit, Michigan)        (Paris, France)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed World Featherweight championship
Amanda Serrano 125.4lbs vs. Erika Cruz 125.4lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (Mexico City, Mexico)




JMM Promotions & Chiquita Gonzalez Promotions to Co-Promote Wednesday Night Boxing in Mexico City’s Auditorio BlackBerry, February 8, Live on ProBox TV and the ProBox App

February 3, 2023, Mexico City, Mexico  – –  International Boxing Hall of Fame members Juan

Manuel Marquez, nine-time world champion in four weight classes, and four time world champion Humberto “Chiquita” Gonzalez, are co-promoting a boxing event on Wednesday, February 8 at the Auditorio Blackberry in Mexico City.  The event will be streamed live on ProBox TV and the ProBox App, beginning at 8 pm ET / 5 pm CT.

The Card:

Main Event – 10 Rounds Super Bantamweight

Brayan “Azteca” Rivera 11-3 9 KO’s, Ecatepec, Mexico                 vs.

Alejandro “Conejo” Gonzalez, 12-5-2 7 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

8 Rounds Flyweights

Francisco Araujo,  9-1 KO’s Merida, Mexico      vs

Ivan Garcia, 8-2-1 5 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

6 Rounds Light Welterweights

Alexis De La Cruz Martinez, 6-1-1 3 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico        vs

TBA

6 Rounds Super Welterweights 

Jesus Mauricio Estrada, 7-0 4 KOs, Mexico, Mexico

Leyver Lopez Razgado, 3-3-1, 1 KO, Oaxaca, Mexico

6 Rounds flyweights

Emiliano Toscano Diaz, 7-0, 3 KOs, Mexico City, Mexico     vs.       

Sergio Manzo Rebolledo, 3-2, 1 KOs Mexico, 

4 Rounds Super Featherweights

Jose Guillermo Keb Canul, 1-0, Cancun, Mexico         vs

Roberto Elizalde Galvan, 1-1, Nezahualcoyotl, Mexico

4 Rounds Super Welterweights

Jaime Osuna, 1-0, Baja California Sur, Mexico     vs

TBA

Follow ProBox TV at

https://twitter.com/ProBox_TV and https://www.youtube.com/c/ProBoxTV




VIDEO: Eddie Hearn on Joe Joyce, Zhielei Zhang, Filip Hrgovic, Andy Ruiz, Canelo, Ryder, Bivol, Brook..etc




UNDEFEATED RYAN O’ROURKE STEPS UP AGAINST NEW YORK’S DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS AT JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT ON MARCH 4

Jersey City, New Jersey (February 3, 2023) – Saturday, March 4 marks what is believed to be the first professional boxing card promoted at the historic White Eagle Hall in Downtown Jersey City, New Jersey. Leading into the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, it’s fitting to bring Irish flare to “Jersey City Fight Night.” 2021 Irish Prospect of the year, and growing stateside favorite, “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” RYAN O’ROURKE (Dublin, Ireland, 9-0 2KO’s) returns to the US to face off in perhaps his toughest test to date against Bronx native, and former amateur boxing standout, DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS (4-2 2KO’s) over 8-rounds in the welterweight division.

This will be O’Rourke’s third fight under the Star Boxing banner in the US over the past year, and his first in New Jersey. To this point, O’Rourke has passed his previous tests with flying colors. In April, O’Rourke dismantled Faycal Rezkallah at Rivers Casino in Schenectady, NY, in route to a dominating unanimous decision victory. Returning to New York in November, the venue was different, but the result was the same, as O’Rourke devoured the heavy-handed Andres Maier at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, NY, knocking the German down twice, before the final blow ended the fight at the 2:53 mark of the first round.

Growing into his lengthy frame, the 23-year-old is continuing to develop, and believes this is a fight that will see him take the next and necessary step in his career. O’Rourke had this to say about the bout “I am really looking forward to getting back in the ring and back to the States. This is a good step-up for me as I go back to 8 rounders. I’m really starting to feel the support in the States after just two fights, and I think being able to showcase my skills against a good opponent in Dashaun will elevate my fan base even more. I know there’s big plans for me and this fight is the perfect opportunity to set up a big year ahead with the continued support of the Irish communities in New York and now New Jersey. I feel we can go all the way. Come out and see me in an all action fight March 4.”

Dashaun Johns enters the fight a winner of two of his last three, with both victories coming by way of first round knockout. Most recently Johns fought valiantly against undefeated Tyhler Williams in Williams’ hometown of Philadelphia. With his focus shifted to Ryan O’Rourke on March 4, the southpaw is not backing down, “I stay ready.” said John’s. “The goal is to the fight the best regardless of their record. I’m here to continue my legacy.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA is anticipating an exciting bout, “Ryan has been developing nicely and improving every time out. In this fight, he faces a tough challenge in Dashaun, who is both a southpaw and skilled boxer. An exciting Irish prospect of the year vs a talented, quick and experienced Bronx raised fighter is a fight we are proud to have on this card. We are anxious to see this fight and know fans are looking forward to it as well.”

JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and is set to take place at White Eagle Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey on Saturday, March 4. This distinctive boxing experience will have a networking atmosphere with a free-flowing cocktail party layout. Tickets will be exclusive and limited, giving those in attendance the unique opportunity to mingle with local businesses, representatives, athletes, and other notables. Doors to the event open at 6:30PM. Tickets to “Jersey City Fight Night” are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting whiteeaglehalljc.com or www.StarBoxing.com.

White Eagle Hall is located at 337 Newark Ave., Jersey City, New Jersey, 07302.

All bouts are subject to change;

For more information visit: whiteeaglehalljc.com and StarBoxing.com

JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Tickets Start at $50. Fight Night: March 4, 2023 at White Eagle Hall

 




IRISH BOXING STAR ‘KING’ CALLUM WALSH DEBUTS IN BOSTON, ST. PATRICK’S EVE AT THE AGGANIS ARENA

Boston, MA (February 3, 2023) Fast-Rising Irish Boxing Star, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (5-0, 4 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will face Spain’s Leonardo Di Stefano Ruiz, (10-1, 9 KOs), in his Boston, MA debut on the Eve of St. Patrick’s DayThursday, March 16. The event will be hosted at the Agganis Arena (925 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215) on the campus of Boston University and broadcast live globally on UFC FIGHT PASS (10:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. PT).

The ten-round super welterweight clash headlines ‘Hollywood Fight Nights – Boston: Walsh vs. Ruiz’ presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions. Advance tickets priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $25 for the live event will go on-sale Monday, February 6 and can be purchased at www.AgganisArena.comStudent tickets priced at $25 can be purchased at the Agganis Arena Box Office with valid student ID.

Guided by Boston Hometown HeroesUFC President Dana White, who specifically chose the 21-year-old Walsh to be featured prominently on UFC FIGHT PASS, and Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, the hard-hitting Walsh has cultivated a massive Irish following on both sides of the pond. All five of his professional fights have produced sold-out, celebrity-filled crowds in his adopted hometown of Los Angeles, CA. Prior to turning pro, Walsh was a six-time National Irish Champion and European Gold Medalist.

Said Callum Walsh, “I’m honored to be fighting in Freddie’s hometown and in front of the huge Irish community in Boston, the night before St. Patrick’s Day. We’re deep in training camp at Wild Card Boxing Gym and I look forward to putting on a great show for fight fans on Thursday, March 16 at the Agganis Arena and live on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

“I am so happy for Callum.  Fighting in Boston was always special for me, as a fighter and a trainer. Nothing compares to it. Now Callum will experience that excitement. Even better, he will be headlining an event the night before St. Patrick’s Day. That’s the boxing equivalent of winning the Irish Sweepstakes.  It’s been five years since I’ve been in Boston. This will be one heck of a homecoming.” said Freddie Roach

Said the upset minded Leonardo Di Stefano Ruiz, “I want to thank Callum Walsh and 360 Promotions for accepting the fight on UFC Fight Pass. It is a huge opportunity at this stage in my career because on March 16th in Boston, Walsh will definitely need the LUCK OF THE IRISH. I hope he brings his four-leaf clovers with him, because I am going to hit him with a force of a hundred drunken Irishmen. March 16th in Boston I will end his short reign.”

“Having promoted heavyweight world champions Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko along with longtime middleweight world champion Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin, I know the importance of building a fighter organically in front of true boxing fans. This was the main reason to bring Callum to Boston and its strong Irish community,” said Tom Loeffler. “Callum has all the attributes to become a world champion and we’re very excited to work with the Agganis Arena at Boston University for what will be a very special St. Patrick’s Celebration.”

Stated Kris Brassil, General Manager of the Agganis Arena, “We are excited to host big time boxing again at the Agganis Arena and to have Callum Walsh and his legendary trainer Freddie Roach here. This should be a great main event versus Leonardo di Stefano Ruiz in addition to having many local Boston fighters on the show.”

In Walsh’s most recent fight he stopped previously once-beaten Delen Parsley (13-1), on November 3, 2022, dropping the battle-tested veteran three times before earning the stoppage in round three.

Currently residing in Southern California, the upset minded and hard-hitting Di Stefano Ruiz has aggressively sought out Callum Walsh and will have his opportunity now to fight him on March 16.

Much more information on ‘Hollywood Fight Nights – Boston: Walsh vs. Ruiz’ will be announced shortly.

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@callum_walsh1

@leodistefanoruiz

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@360BoxingPromotions

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@KingCallumWalsh

@LDiStefanoRuiz

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us




Nonito Donaire Protégé Undefeated Bantamweight Contender Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price Takes on Joebert Alvarez on Saturday, February 18th at Elevations Event Center in Chester, PA

CHESTER, PA (February 3, 2023)–On Saturday night, February 18th, undefeated bantamweight contender Dylan Price will take on Joebert Alvarez in a 10-round bout for the WBO Global and WBC Intercontinental titles that will headline a special night of boxing and entertainment at The Elevations Event Center in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The night is promoted by Price Promotions.

Price of Sicklerville, New Jersey, has a record of 15-0 with 10 knockouts and is ranked in the top-15 by the WBO & WBC. The 24 year-old Price is a six-year professional who won the NBA Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Drew Correll on July 16, 2022 at The Elevations Event Center.

Alvarez of Renton, Washington by way of the Philippines has an impressive mark of 20-4-2 with seven knockouts. The 33 year-old southpaw has been a pro for 13 years. He has wins over Angelo Marcial (1-0), RJ Gonzales (1-0), Lyster Jun Ponco (7-1), Rennen Tesoria (9-0-2), Jerry Tonogdan (11-2-2). Alvarez holds a win over current WBO Light Flyweight champion Jonathan Gonzalez (18-1)

Also on the card will be the much anticipated pro-debut of lightweight Devin “Baby Boy” Price.

Devin will take part in a four-round bout against an opponent to be named.

Price Promotions will also stage a night of entertainment that will feature comedians and entertainers from all over the country.

Tickets are on sale NOW at www.pboxingpromotions.com

Elevations Event Center is located at 51 9th Street Chester, Chester Township, PA 19013




AUDIO: Undefeated Avril Mathie chimes in on Battle with Ramla Ali






VIDEO: Undefeated Avril Mathie chimes in on Battle with Ramla Ali




VIDEO: David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant: Kick-Off Press Conference | March 25th on SHOWTIME PPV




DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. CALEB PLANT LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES – February 2, 2023 – Undefeated former two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion David “El Bandera Roja’’ Benavídez and former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant continued their war of words and nearly came to blows at a tense press conference in Los Angeles Thursday before they settle their years-long rivalry in a 12-round showdown that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, March 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Benavídez and Plant met at the Conga Room at L.A. Live less than two months before their long-awaited clash, as the hungry super middleweights look to settle their score in one of boxing’s most anticipated showdowns. Both have had reigns as champions at 168 pounds and both are eager to  ascend to the top of the division as they fight for Benavídez’s Interim WBC Super Middleweight title. As the two exchanged insults on stage and the barbs grew more personal, security twice had to intervene to keep them apart during the proceedings.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Los Angeles:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“On March 25, I guarantee that I’m knocking Caleb Plant out before round six.

“This has been a fight in the making for the last five years and it couldn’t have come at a better time. I’m at my best right now mentally and physically. On March 25, I finally get to put hands on Caleb Plant.

“When you’re on the ground bleeding, you’ll learn how to respect a real fighter. I’m what you want to be. You’re a chump.

“He had a sensational win against Anthony Dirrell and I take nothing away from that. This is the best time this fight could have happened. It was the right move for both of us. I’ve been wanting to fight him for a long time and now the winner of this fight gets to be the mandatory for Canelo Alvarez. I’m super motivated.

“The fans want to see a knockout. He can act like I’m not like that, but just look at my record. Look at how everyone looks after they fight me. I don’t play around. That’s what I do and he’s no different from any fighter I’ve ever fought.

“This is the most important fight of my career to this date. I feel like after this fight, I’m going to pass that threshold and get to where I want to be. Every fighter has one of these grudge matches that brings the best out of them. I don’t like Caleb at all, but I want to thank him for bringing the animal out of me. I’m more motivated than ever.

“I can’t wait to give my fans a great knockout. We know that this isn’t gonna be easy. It’s gonna be grueling. But I’m ready to get in there and knock this guy out.

“He knows how the canvas feels and I’m putting him back on that. You’re gonna be laying down again.

“You got knocked out already and I’m gonna do the same thing to you again. I’m putting you to sleep.”

CALEB PLANT

“We got a big fight on our hands. That’s what boxing needs. I want to be someone who helps deliver that to the boxing world and I’m sure Benavidez does too.

“After the Canelo fight, I said that I wanted to make the biggest fight possible. They came back with two-time champion Anthony Dirrell for a title eliminator. I knew I was next in line to fight the interim champ before that fight, and that meant David Benavidez. I’m in the fight that I want.

“You don’t have to worry about me showing up on March 25. This isn’t my first big fight. I’ve been here before.

“We’re both at the top of the division. This rivalry only started because we agree to disagree on who’s better. And that’s fine, he should feel like that. That’s how great fighters are supposed to feel. It’s slowly built up over time.

“I’m coming. We’re prepared. I’ve been at this level before and I know what it takes. From now until March 25 it’s just about who can train the hardest and keep their foot on the gas.

“This is an incredibly important fight and it’s perfect timing for it to happen. This kind of fight sends a message to all the other fighters that it’s time to step up and take big fights. Boxing needs fights like this. This is a legacy fight for me and my team. On March 25, I see myself getting my hand raised.

“I’ve fought in Las Vegas before and it’s what every kid who has ever laced up a pair of boxing gloves dreams of – fighting on the biggest stage at MGM Grand and on pay-per-view.

“I never said David’s a bad fighter because I have no interest in fighting bad fighters. I want to fight good fighters and make big fights. This is the best fight that could be made in the division.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Benavidez’s Father and Trainer

“This is a big opportunity. This is going to be a great fight and worthy of pay-per-view. We’ve got a great team and I’ve had to add to it to keep up with David. I guarantee that this is going to be an exciting fight on March 25.

“I don’t think Plant and his team are as comfortable with this fight as we are. We’ve wanted this fight for almost five years and we pushed to get this fight.

“We’re so motivated to face someone like Caleb Plant. He’s a good fighter, he’s slick and he’s difficult. These are the fights that we need to get motivated. Plant can see in David’s eyes that David wants to mess him up.”

STEPHEN “BREADMAN” EDWARDS, Plant’s Trainer

“I’m proud to be in this spot to showcase our hard work against a great fighter like David Benavidez. I also feel like I have a great fighter in Caleb Plant.”

“I’m very excited to show what we’ve been working on when we get in the ring March 25. People say there is bad blood between them, but they will get to settle it in seven weeks. In the end, we all need each other to make these kinds of fights.”

“I’m glad that this was an easy fight to make. Caleb called me and said he was making the fight. So here we are and we’ve already been in camp for a couple of weeks.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Some people say that the big fights never get made, but that’s just not true with PBC and SHOWTIME. This is the type of fight that makes this the greatest sport in the world.

“Saturday March 25 is going to be an incredible night. These are the kinds of fights that we’re in this sport for. There’s nothing more exciting than seeing two fighters in their prime and slugging it out.

“I believe that this fight between David Benavidez and Caleb Plant will be added to the list of epic brawls between two warriors taking it to the next level. This fight will be one of, if not the winner of Fight of the Year this year. This is one you don’t want to miss.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“If you know anything about boxing, you know this is one of the very best fights that can be made in the sport. The consensus No. 1 and No. 2 contenders in this division. This is a high-stakes matchup, personally and professionally. There’s a personal rivalry here. There are bragging rights here. There is supremacy in the division at stake.

“David Benavidez was called “The Mexican Monster” by none other than Mike Tyson. Some of the fastest hands in the heavier divisions and in the sport overall. This will be the eighth time he’s fought on SHOWTIME®, and he’s grown up on SHOWTIME. He first caught our eye on SHOBOX® way back in 2015. Since then, he’s fought on Special Editions and SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®. This will be his first appearance on SHOWTIME PPV. He’s been on the stage so long that it’s easy to forget that he’s only 26 years old. He’s the youngest ever champion at 168 pounds at the tender age of 20 years old. He is one of the most entertaining fighters in  the sport.

“This will be Caleb’s third appearance on SHOWTIME and second on SHOWTIME PPV. He is an excellent boxer. Fundamentally solid, underrated power. He’s coming off what for many people, including CBS Sports and Boxing Scene, ranked as the 2022 Knockout of the Year. A highlight-reel knockout of the very durable Anthony Dirrell. If you have any doubts about Caleb’s power, go back and watch that knockout and you won’t. Last time Caleb fought on SHOWTIME PPV was a grueling 11-round fight against Canelo Alvarez. There are many people that think he provided the blueprint. The jab. The movement. Frustrating Canelo in a way we haven’t seen him frustrated . It’s that combination of skills and power that make him a worthy adversary for David Benavidez.

“It seems like many times in this sport people want to pay more attention to the fights that don’t get made than the fights that do. Well, this is an outstanding fight and more importantly, neither one of these fighters has to take it. It’s not a mandatory. It’s not an eliminator. It’s not something that anybody had to be talked into. This is something that each of these fighters wanted personally and professionally. Boxing got it right, as it often does.”

#         #         #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sportswww.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #BenavidezPlant, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.




SERRANO VS. CRUZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Eddie Hearn:
 
“Welcome everybody today, huge turnout to the mecca of boxing, Madison Square Garden. What an honor to be back in this incredible city. Of course, last April, April 30, the night that will go down in history as one of the greatest fights, one of the greatest events in the history of Madison Square Garden, when Amanda Serrano faced up against Katie Taylor in a tremendous fight for the undisputed lightweight world championship. 
 
“This Saturday, live on DAZN around the world, Amanda Serrano will bid to make history, to become undisputed champion against reigning world champion Erika Cruz. It’s Puerto Rico against Mexico. Of course, the co-main event as well, Alycia Baumgardner looking to become undisputed as well against Elhem Mekhaled of France in another undisputed matchup. 126 and 130lbundisputed championships on the line this weekend. 
 
“Of course, we want to thank everybody here at Madison Square Garden. Sal, and Joel, and the team. Thanks for the hospitality at the Knicks against Lakers game this week; it was a tremendous event. But it also reminds me of how great our own sport is, when we see great occasions, when we see great atmospheres, when we see great fights, and on Saturday night you’ve got a tremendous card from top to bottom. It’s going to be packed out in the Hulu Theater, massive Puerto Rican fanbase as well coming to support Amanda Serrano. Incredible card, which we’re going to be running through with you guys today. We’re going to start with three young prospects that we can’t wait to see in action.”
 
Amanda Serrano
 
“It’s going to be truly amazing. As a female fighter, I’ve been in this game a long time, I’m probably the longest-reigning world champion in the sport right now. I was always going where the opportunities were and now that I was done chasing the divisions, I said this is my time. I want to go back to where I feel the best, and that’s featherweight. We did that, and to have most of them but one, and come Saturday night, have all of them, it’s going to be truly amazing. One of the greatest journeys of my life and my career.”
 
“The confidence that I went in there with one of the best, the confidence that the arena was jam-packed, the crowd was just amazing. So, no matter where they put me, I’m going to be 100% confident.”
 
“I love the Hulu Theater, it’s my home. I’d rather fight in the Hulu Theater because the fans are right there with you. It’s so intimate and the fans are going to be celebrating with me that night.
 
“It wasn’t just this week that I was concentrating on Erika Cruz. This whole camp has only been Erika Cruz. I know she’s a tough Mexican fighter. She is the WBA champion. She has the last piece of the puzzle, I have all the rest, and we both want the same thing. We’re both world champions and that’s what we’re going to show come Saturday night. The real winners are going to be the fans because it’s going to be a fight and a fumble. It’s going to be punches and bunches, and I have all the respect for Erika Cruz for taking the fight. It’s a historic night for both of us and I just can’t wait.”
 
“It hasn’t always been, but now it’s my mindset. I want to be undisputed champion, being the first Puerto Rican undisputed world champion. That’s my goal. Puerto Rico has had champions in all the divisions, the seven-division world champion, the youngest champion, and now, come Saturday, god-willing, become the first undisputed champion coming out of Puerto Rico. And it’s at the weight divisions where I feel my best, I’m comfortable, it’s my division.” 
 
“It’s definitely going to be a great fight. Erika Cruz is a Mexican champion, she’s going to come, and I’m coming guns blazing, so it’s going to be punches and bunches and it’s going to be an amazing night. The fans are going to be the winners because it’s going to be a great night of fireworks and punches and action.” 
 
Erika Cruz
 
“It’s an opportunity I’ve been looking for. On Saturday, I’m going to give absolutely everything. As a good Mexican, give absolutely everything to win. And once again, thanks to God.”
 
“To be honest, we’re not focused in any way on what people will say. We don’t pay attention to what’s said on social media. I’m just completely focused on my team. As soon as we knew the date was to be scheduled, knew that I was facing Amanda Serrano, there were no distractions. I’m just really delighted and really happy with God. I also have to say thanks to my father, who is always with me in every moment. On Saturday night it will be a historic moment for Mexico.”
 
“First and foremost, I have to say that I thank God for everything that I’ve been through. Becoming champion would mean giving that bit back to my father. He had a dream that I would go on to become world champion. I’m so appreciative of everything God has given me and all the support I’ve had from people, and I hope god-willing that I can go on to be victorious on Saturday night.”
 
Alycia Baumgardner
 
“It’s a pleasure to just see the belts here, being in New York, it’s a blessing. I just take a deep breath just to know that my journey has been a process. Tt has been very rewarding, and again, a lot of hard work, a lot of grit, and never giving up, and that’s why we’re here today and that’s why I’m one step closer to becoming undisputed, as I mentioned plenty of times before. I’m ready; I’m well prepared for this fight.”
 
“The hunger is still there. As I walked in the gym as an eight year old girl I had a vision. I had a plan to become the best, and that’s what I’m doing now, here, just seeing it come alive. I’m hungry, and I love to fight.”
 
“I’m expecting her [Elhem] to come forward, she is a tough fighter. But again, I know my assignment, I’ve worked very hard to get here, and I cannot let someone like her stop me. She’s going to be in a fight, and I hope she’s ready.”
 
“This Saturday I will become undisputed. I have been claiming this and I speak it, and again, everybody will see an amazing performance.”
 
“The journey has been amazing. I’m so happy with everything and how everything went, with going to the UK, with building my profile, with having these hard fights, proving myself repeatedly. We’re going to prove again to the world why I’m the best and why I’ve become undisputed this Saturday.”
 
“We have to reflect. That’s something I have always done and when you look back you see the journey and you appreciate it. I appreciate the hard work that I’ve put in over and over and over, and again; I’m still putting the work in. The work is never done.”
 
“It’s [discipline] what I’m good at. It’s what I’ve dreamed of, becoming something great, and I know that it takes a lot of discipline. And when you make it to the top, you have to have even more discipline to stay on top.”
 
“The support has been amazing. I feel the love, I feel the genuine support of everyone who’s been supporting me. It keeps me motivated; it keeps me pushing forward to the bigger and better fights, and I’m blessed.”
 
“I’m ready to fight. I’m ready to really put my hands on somebody. The fight with Mikaela was great but this time I’ve got someone who wants to fight, and I like to fight. I like to throw some bombs in there, so we want to get her out of there, we want to make a statement, and look good doing it. And that’s what I’m best at.”
 
“I know I belong here, but just seeing it, I’m like wow, here we are again. Just another fight, another challenge, another opportunity to be even better, and that’s what I strive to be. A better athlete, a better woman, and just being a spokesman for the sport of boxing.”
 
“As the venue goes, I expect a sold-out crowd. Again, we have not just me fighting, but Amanda fighting. I’m looking forward to seeing this crowd be packed.” 
 
Elhem Mekhaled
 
“Thank you very much for welcoming me, for giving me this opportunity. I really want to thank Serafina, Matchroom Promotions, Marshall, and Eddie Hearn. I’m doing to seize this opportunity on Saturday, definitely.”
 
“I’m expecting a wall because Alycia is a puncher, I’m a puncher too. I know how I feel today, and this is going to be a great and a big fight.”
 
[On what it would mean to her to win every belt in the sport] “That would be the greatest reward for me. For never giving up, for practicing and training so hard and to prove that I’m the best.”
 
Richardson Hitchins
 
“Saturday night. I think that I’ve been here before. I’ve been in anticipated fights, I beat former world champions, I beat prospects and a lot of great fighters. He’s never fought nobody. For him to say he’s ready, he’s never even passed an eight-rounder. He’s fought a lot of guys with built-up records, guys that he couldn’t take out- bums- I knocked out easy. 
 
“He [Bauza] is saying I’ve got no power, but he’s fought nothing but bums. If you’ve never passed eight rounds, you’ve never fought no world fighters, you’ve never even fought close to a world title. He fought bums that I knocked out and that he went eight rounds with, struggling. And I knocked them out. So, I got no power?
 
“He [Bauza] knows who I am, I know who he is. Like I said, he’s been in the ring with me before, he tasted some of this, so he’s going to taste some more on February 4th.”
 
“I’m always in the gym so it’s just about staying focused, staying ready, and just preparing myself for any type of challenge possible.”
 
“It’s going to be just a great night. I just want to feel that New York energy. I know the New York support is going to be heavy. He’s going to have some Puerto Rican fans because you know Amanda Serrano is the main event, so I’m sure some of her fans are going to gravitate towards him. It’s just going to be a great night of boxing. All I can do is just stay focused, stay calm, and just do what I do best.”
 
[On bringing Eddie to Cops and Kids] “It’s just great because the kids get to see somebody like Eddie. Eddie is a legendary promoter and the kids being close to greatness, seeing a young fighter like me that’s chasing his dreams and accomplishing things in boxing. Hopefully they want to get where I’m at one day. It’s just great for the young kids. I want to keep inspiring the kids, keep inspiring the kids especially from my city, and just keep doing big things.”
 
“The New York fans always see me on TV fighting. A lot of people get excited so see me on TV so for them to be able to come to the venue and watch me fight – and it’s a great fight, I’m not coming home and fighting a duck, I’m fighting a kid who really thinks he’s going to win, and undefeated fighter, a guy that doesn’t know how to lose so I’ve got to teach him that on Saturday. I just have to go out there and give it my best. Me and my team are ready.” 
 
“Like I said, you’re talking about a guy that has more fights than me but the same number of knockouts saying I have no power. A guy that I have hurt before in sparring. We’ve fought similar opponents, guys that were scrubs. The name of the game is not power, the name of the game is skills, and skills pays the bills. I’m going to get my bills paid.”
 
“The main object from when we first came to this was to win, so it doesn’t matter if it’s the WBC regional belt, WBC title belt, it’s to win.”
 
John Bauza
 
“First of all, I want to say thank you for this opportunity to be here. All I have to say is that I work hard. There was a lot of back and forth, but we got the fight, and we’re ready.”
 
“We’re ready for everybody. We already proved that in the amateurs. He [Hitchins] knows who I am; I sparred him before. I come from the same group as them, all of them. They know who I am too, so we’re ready for everybody.”
 
“I’m ready for it.”
 
Skye Nicholson
“I’m really excited, every fight now is a stepping stone to get me closer to becoming mandatory to fight for world titles, so all focus is on Saturday night, and I’m looking to get myself into a mandatory position.”
 
“I feel like I haven’t really faced an overly aggressive opponent as a professional yet, so I’m very excited for that. Tanya is an aggressive fighter, she’s going to come, she’s young, she’s hungry, she’s coming to win, and like I’ve always said, that when you’re going to see the best me.”
 
“I’ll definitely be watching the main event with eager eyes. I think that Cruz has been written off a little bit for this fight. I think she’s going to be a good challenge for Serrano and I’m excited to see how that goes. They’re both definitely potential future opponents for me, hopefully in 2023, so I’ll definitely be watching very closely.
 
Tania Alvarez
 
“First and foremost I want to say thank you very much, Matchroom, for the opportunity to be here. I just have to say that I’m delighted, I’m really happy to be here fighting at Madison Square Garden.”
 
“Obviously as you say, it’s a big opportunity, fighting for this WBC silver title and it’s an opportunity that I’m looking to take and grab with both hands on Saturday night.
 
Ramla Ali
 
“I wouldn’t have left everything back home in London, to base myself in LA, not knowing anyone and just commit myself full time to training, but I love the sport and I love the opportunities to learn, to grow, to get better, and that’s exactly what this fight is on Saturday. It’s an opportunity to showcase how good I have become, training in LA with an incredible team.”
 
“You always want to get in the ring with somebody who’s coming to win, not somebody who is just there. I feel like when you are put in those positions against an opponent that’s coming to win, that brings out the best in you as well, so I feel like I’m just going to perform even better on Saturday.”
 
“The one I’m eyeing is the WBC with Yamileth Mercado and I know that will be a great fight and I’m hoping to get a fight like that in 2023. Women’s boxing is very exciting at the moment, for sure.
 
“There’s still a lot of work to do on the power. You shouldn’t let knockouts get to your head sometimes because then you become too complacent. The first thing I did after Saudi was go straight back into the gym and use that opportunity to learn, to grow, to develop, to learn new things, to sit down more on my shots and gain more power. Slowly we’re working and I’m incredibly blessed to have an amazing team around me, for sure.”
 
[On working with Manny Robles] “The first thing I noticed was that I don’t sit down enough on my shots and that’s the one thing that him, Edgar, and his son Manny Jr. have tried to change and I feel like they have over time, over being there. I just love how they teach. Everybody gets an equal amount of love, depending of where you are in the camp, everybody gets one-on-one time with the coach and that just shows how much they love the sport and how much they love boxing. The fact that they can show the same amount of love to somebody who is 27-0 compared to somebody who is 1-0”
 
“What is this, ‘trying, trying?’ We are going to be 8-0 on Saturday for sure.”
 
Avril Mathie
 
“Yeah exactly, here we are Eddie. We made it, finally. You’re right, I was very disappointed that the fight with Ebonie last year fell through and I hope, still, that fight can happen later this year once her hand is better, but in the meantime I have an exciting fight with Ramla. It’s a big step up for both of us. Like Skye said, that’s when it brings out your best performances, so I’m really excited. This is what I’ve been training for.”
 
“That’s why I’m going up a weight division for this fight. It’s an opportunity that I’m willing to take because winning against Ramla is going to really put my name in the lights and prove what I can do and that I deserve to be here.”
 
Shadasia Green
“I respect Elin so much. Like I said, she’s a former world champion so I show respect by preparing myself 150% to go into a battle, test a former champion Saturday night, and I plan on being victorious.”
 
“Stay the course, trust the process, and that’s what I did. I paid my dues to the sport and I continuously was consistently in the gym and working hard, and I knew that my opportunity would showcase itself. And here we are today, February 4th, 2023.” 
 
“My record showcases the power. Like I said, I have the boxing ability, I can box on the outside, I can fight on the inside, so I’m looking to showcase myself as a world-renowned fighter. One of the best female fighters you’ve ever seen.”
 
Elin Cederroos
“It’s great to be back here, thank you.”
 
“This is going to be a great fight on Saturday. I’m just looking forward to entering the ring on Saturday. I’m ready.”
 
 “I’m so ready to step into the ring. No, it’s not an easy fight. It’s never an easy fight. I’m confident and I’m so ready for this.”

Yankiel Rivera
 
“First and foremost, I want to say thank you. Thanks to Matchroom for getting me involved in the team. It’s great to be here. I’m grateful to Matchroom, to Kevin Rooney, to DAZN. I’m really looking forward to shining in my opportunity on Saturday night”
 
“Hopefully I will be among the great names; you said some great names in the division. It’s an opportunity to show my caliber through hard work and hopefully we can add our name to the list in that division.
 
“There’s no doubt there are massive names in the division, not just fly but super fly as well, but we hope that we continue to work hard, and we can be in the big leagues with those names as well” 
 
Aaron Aponte
 
“First of all, I just want to thank you [Eddie], Matchroom, DAZN, Peter Kahn, and my whole team for getting me here. We like taking these risks to develop myself and my career and just become better and better with every fight.”
 
“Things are looking good. I keep taking these chances and you keep putting people in front of me and I’m going to keep taking them down.”
 
“It’s a Puerto Rican Day on February 4th and we’re going to make a big show. Me, and everybody else.”
 
Harley Mederos
 
“Thank you for having me. I’m happy to be here and I’m happy to be performing on such a big card here at home.”
 
“I don’t know what makes me different, I guess my ability to adjust no matter who you put in front of me. I’m me, I can’t really say what makes me different. That’s something that you have to see for yourself this Saturday night.”
 
“At home, I have a lot of great support, a lot of people behind me and I’m grateful and appreciative of that and all the love I’ve been getting from everybody, even the main, Serrano, and the team support, everybody. I appreciate everything”
 




AUDIO: Undefeated Aaron Aponte Looks Forward to Feb. 4 fight with Joshua David Rivera






VIDEO: Undefeated Aaron Aponte Looks Forward to Feb. 4 fight with Joshua David Rivera




VIDEO: Emanuel Navarrete vs Liam Wilson | OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN




 Weigh-In Results: Emanuel Navarrete vs. Liam Wilson

  •  Emanuel Navarrete 129.2 lbs. vs. Liam Wilson 126.3 lbs
(Vacant WBO Junior Lightweight Title — 12 Rounds)

   •   Arnold Barboza Jr. 139.2 lbs vs. Jose Pedraza 138.7 lbs
(Barboza’s WBO Intercontinental Title — 10 Rounds)

•  Richard Torrez Jr. 222.2 lbs vs. James Bryant 253.4 lbs
 
(Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT)

•    Andres Cortes 131.2 lbs vs. Luis Melendez 130.6 lbs
 
(Junior Lightweight— 10 Rounds)

•  Nico Ali Walsh 159.8 lbs vs. Eduardo Ayala 160.9 lbs
 
(Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Lindolfo Delgado 142.1 lbs vs. Clarence Booth 142.4 lbs
 
(Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Emiliano Fernando Vargas 133.4 lbs vs. Francisco Duque 135.4 lbs
 
(Lightweight — 4 Rounds)




360 PROMOTIONS SIGNS FAST-RISING STAR DANIEL ‘CHUCKY BARRERA!

Los Angeles, CA (February 2, 2023) Fast-Rising, Undefeated Super Flyweight Star Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (2-0-1, 2 KOs), of Riverside, CA has signed an exclusive, long-term promotional contract with Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, it was announced this morning.

This past Friday night, January 27, the 21-year-old Barrera shined under the bright lights with a first-round knockout of Victor Hernandez Martin at the Hollywood Fight Nights event held at the Quiet Cannon – Montebello Country Club and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS. The popular and all-action Barrera had the sold-out crowd on their feet from the opening bell.

“I’m very excited to announce this signing to 360 Promotions,” said Tom Loeffler. “Chucky has all the attributes of a future world champion and has become a very popular fighter in his two starts at our Hollywood Fight Nights events. Additionally, the response from UFC FIGHT PASS to his knockout victory last week was tremendous.”

“Our Superfly Series fights were some of the most memorable in recent years and ‘Chucky’ brings that same all-action style that made those events so memorable.”

Said Barrera, “I feel great about this signing. Tom and his Team have been terrific to work with on these last two fights and I love the plan they have for my career.”

Barrera is managed by longtime boxing advisor Ray Chaparro. “Aligning Chucky with 360 Promotions is the best fit for his career. Tom Loeffler is a proven builder of world champions and superstars in boxing and we’re honored to be part of his team.” Barrera is trained by Al Franco of the Warzone Boxing Club.

Barrera joins a 360 Promotions stable which includes, “The First Lady”, Cecilia Braekhus, (37-2, 9 KOs),  World Ranked Junior Middleweight Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (22-1, 22 KOs), Fast-Rising Irish Star ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (5-0 4 KOs), Super Welterweight Brian Ceballo, (13-1, 7 KOs) Undefeated Featherweight Omar Trinidad, (11-0-1, 9 KOs) and Undefeated Light Heavyweight Umar Dzambekov, (3-0, 2 KOs).

About UFC FIGHT PASS®:

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide an additional platform for boxers to showcase their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

About Tom Loeffler:

Tom Loeffler has worked in the boxing industry for over 30 years. He started by successfully managing numerous world champions and from that experience, in 2003 he founded K2 Promotions with Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko, enabling them to take control of their careers. K2 Promotions holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the world championship fights of the Klitschko brothers. Loeffler brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. The Superfly series changed the economics for those fighters and the entire division. Loeffler is best known for his work with Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin, securing his HBO debut in 2012 and then strategically building him into an international superstar, selling out arenas such as Madison Square Garden in New York City, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, The Forum in Los Angeles, and The O2 in London. He secured sponsorship deals for ‘GGG’ with global brands such as Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Loeffler has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Laila Ali in addition to former Undisputed Welterweight World Champion Cecilia Braekhus along with former WBC Featherweight World Champion Kevin Kelley as well as promoting the US debut of Pound-for-Pound great Naoya Inoue on September 9, 2017 at the first Superfly event in Carson, CA and broadcast on HBO.