LOS ANGELES, July 25 – Two of the key participants in Saturday’s “Knockout Kings II” event taking place at the AT&T Center in San Antonio will first be featured this Friday night, July 26 on FOX Deportes as a special edition of Golden Boy Classics gets fight fans ready for one of the hardest-hitting nights of the summer featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto and rising star Omar “Panterita” Figueroa. The broadcast airs on Fox Deportes at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

In the main event, viewers will see Berto defend his WBC Welterweight World Championship in The Ring Magazine’s and USA Today’s 2011 Fight of the Year against Victor Ortiz while, in the co-feature, they will see Weslaco, Texas’ Figueroa make his first major statement to the boxing world in his 2012 fight with fellow then undefeated lightweight prospect Michael Perez.

On April 16, 2011, undefeated WBC Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto risked his title and his perfect record against rising star “Vicious” Victor Ortiz at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut. What resulted was an epic 12-round match that saw both fighters hit the deck twice before Ortiz emerged with the unanimous decision victory in one of the best fights in recent memory.

In a rare showdown between undefeated top prospects, on January 6, 2012 Omar Figueroa put his record on the line against Newark, New Jersey’s Michael Perez at Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in Indio, California. “Panterita” was the fighter who delivered, scoring a sixth round stoppage, taking his promising career to a new level.

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“Knockout Kings II,” featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round main event for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas’ undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Japan’s Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and undefeated power-puncher Diego Chaves faces fellow unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman for Chaves’ WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International. The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets priced at $200, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase at the AT&T Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com at www.ticketmaster.com and ATTCenter.com all Ticketmaster locations, by calling (800) 745-3000 or through Leija & Battah Promotions by calling (210) 979-3302 or emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com.

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, President of Golden Boy Promotions

“I want to acknowledge a person that is doing a tremendous job in bringing boxing back to the masses, that is Stephen Espinoza, SHOWTIME is bringing you the best fights and the best fighters.

“San Antonio really knows how to stand behind the sport of boxing and support boxing and Saturday’s event is going to be no exception. This is going to be a tremendous lineup.

“These are the KNOCKOUT KINGS for a reason, you have explosive fighters from top to bottom, fighters who understand what hard work is all about, fighters who go out there and fight for the fans, for the public and for the recognition of being called a “KNOCKOUT KING”.

“We are looking forward to bring the big names in the sport of boxing. Why? “Because San Antonio knows these big names.

“These Argentinian fighters like Lucas Matthysse, Sergio Martinez and Marcos Maidana are the kind of fighters that can pack a punch, they throw punches with tremendous power.

“Diego Chaves is a champion for a reason and he’s fighting, in my eyes, one of the best top three in the welterweight division, Keith “One Time” Thurman. It’s going to be an amazing fight.

“Don’t let these two fighters fool you [Figueroa and Arakawa]. You know young look.

“Figueroa has been blowing everybody out of the water with his work ethic, with relentlessness up and down the ring. He’s the kind of fighter that knows what he wants and knows what to do to get it.

“In this main event you have two warriors, two fighters that put everything on the line, their heart on the line.

ANDRE BERTO, Former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

“There’s really not much to say, these guys had said it all.

“I’m in tremendous shape, I’m focused. I’m going to put on a hell of a performance.

“I’m just going to go in there and be me. I’m not worried about the title of the show, I’m not worried about his record. I’m just going to go in there and get the win.

“I am in great shape and I have everything to bring to the table. I have the speed, I have the power. I have the explosiveness and I’m going out there and do what I know how to do.

“I’ve known Virgil (Hunter) since I was 13 so it’s not like he’s a stranger to me. Everything’s been flowing pretty well and it’s been a great situation for me.

“The show is called Knockout Kings but no matter how it goes, I know it’s going to be exciting. You’re definitely going to see a lot of speed, a lot of power and a lot of explosiveness, it’s going to be an exciting show.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight; I’m in shape. I’m in good spirits. I’m focused and I know Soto Karass is ready too.”

JESUS SOTO KARASS, Veteran Welterweight Contender

“My preparation has been great. My team knows what Berto brings. He’s an ex-champion. We know that he’s a quality fighter and he’s tough. But that’s why we train for this.

“The losses you see on my record, I wasn’t taking it serious. But, believe me, we’re taking Andre Berto very serious. Not only have I matured personally but I’ve matured in the ring. The preparation has been very good. We know we have a tough opponent, but we’re here and we’re prepared to win.

“Every fight I come with a different plan. We have a plan for Andre Berto. We have a Plan A, a Plan B, it doesn’t matter; we’ll be ready for him.

“My only prediction is it’s going to be a war. I’m going to leave my heart in there. If I have to die in the ring I will.

“Out of the ring we’re friends, but inside the ring it’s another thing. I don’t have anything against Andre Berto but once we get in the ring I’m looking to knock him out.

“I want everyone to help, help me with breast cancer awareness. We have a raffle going on – it’s $10 to buy a ticket and you can win the gloves and the trunks that I wear in the ring. Let’s go knockout cancer as well.

“The reason I support Susan G. Komen is because of Oscar De La Hoya. It really touched my heart that Oscar lost his mother, Cecilia, to cancer. So being a boxer I felt like I would join that fight to knock out breast cancer.

“I’m ready; I’m only a pound-and-a-half away. I can’t wait until tomorrow so I can get on the scale and go eat.”

OMAR FIGUEROA, Undefeated Rising Star & WBC Lightweight Contender

“This is it, this is seventeen years of work. This is why every boxers starts, what every boxer dreams of. This is it. The goal is the green belt, that’s the one, that’s the best one. That’s the one we all want.

“This is a great opportunity, this is what we have been working so hard for.

“I want to thank my opponent’s team for having agreed to this fight, he’s ranked number one and that’s what we wanted.

“We don’t take anybody lightly. We are ready, we know that a fight can take many directions with every step you take in the ring, so we are ready.

“I’m excited to be on this card. It’s really an honor to fight in the KNOCKOUT KINGS because is one thing to be considered a fighter and another one to be considered a knockout artist.

“I’m fighting with great knockout artist such as Keith Thurman, Berto, Chaves and Arakawa and all these are great fighters

“We are the backbone [of boxing] because we fight to knock someone out, we try to provide the fans with the most excitement we can and we go in there ready for war.”

NIHITO ARAKAWA, WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship Contender

“I’m happy to have this chance at my first world title. That gives me extra motivation to win this fight.

“I don’t think I can win by points. I have to knock him out – I think that’s my only chance to walk out of here with a world title.

“My nickname is “Baby Faced Sniper,” but when I saw Omar Figueroa it looks like he’s a little bit more baby faced than I am. So I want to give him my nickname “Baby Faced Sniper.”

“I’ve prepared for this world title chance for my entire life and I know Omar has prepared for this as well. We’re both going to fight as hard as we can to get that first world title. I know I want it and I know he wants it, so it’s going to be an exciting fight.”

DIEGO CHAVES
, WBA Interim Welterweight World Champion

“We know we have a tough opponent, we have very similar records, neither of us can lose concentration during the fight because it can end with only one punch that’s why we are very well prepared and we know we can take the win.

“I know Keith is a good fighter, but I hope he’s ready because I’m going to show him and the world why I’m a world champion and why this belt is coming back with me to Argentina.

“He may be undefeated, but he’s never faced anyone like me.

“I’ve been training hard, very hard. We are looking forward to a great fight, and we are confident the we’ll come out victorious.

“It’s going to be a war. I’m not going to leave my belt in the judges’ hands- I plan on taking care of Thurman on my own.”

KEITH THURMAN, WBA World Championship Welterweight Contender

“It’s a tremendous fight. I’m 20-0 with 18 knockouts; Chaves is 22-0 with 18 knockouts. You don’t see this very often with young fighters.

“But I’m the kind of fighter that’s knocking on everybody’s door. Everybody in the welterweight division will soon know about Keith “One Time” Thurman. We’re moving up one step at a time and we’re going to step over Diego on Saturday night, guaranteed.

“The KO bonus has nothing to do with the way I fight. My motto is already KOs for life and the nickname “One Time.” I do my best to get the fighter out of there because if we don’t have to do the distance then that, to me, is a job well done.

“We’re always looking for that knockout; we’re always looking for that one punch that can change the fight around. That’s just me, that’s just “One Time.” That knockout bonus is just another check waiting.

“I definitely don’t think he’s faced anyone like me. That’s why I’m confident. I believe he’s been spoon-fed his entire career. A lot of people say the fighters I’ve fought knew I was favored, but they were still world-class fighters and I dominated them each and every round. And I plan on dominating Diego Chaves every round Saturday night.

“Knockout Kings II – this event has that title for a reason. I guarantee you’ll get your moneys’ worth.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL, Light Heavyweight Contender

“I battled cancer and it didn’t hold me down. I’m still here and I’m ready.

“Coming up this Saturday, I’ll win with by knockout. ”

ANTHONY HANSHAW,
Light Heavyweight Contender

“It doesn’t matter what happened when I fought his brother. The fact that I lost to Andre just gives me extra motivation. When I fought Andre, I wasn’t in shape at all. But I’m in some of the best shape of my career to fight Anthony. I had a great camp and I’m ready to give him the first loss of his career.”

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Former World Champion & Boxing Legend

“I want to thank the Susan G. Komen Beast Cancer Foundation – you are important in every one of our lives because we all have moms. But that’s not to say that men can’t get breast cancer as well.

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for giving us the opportunity to put on the type of fights that we’ve been bringing to San Antonio.

“I also want to thank SHOWTIME. I won my first world title on SHOWTIME and fought several times on the network, so it’s not just a thing for me to say that I’m proud to be them. It means a lot more than just face value; it’s what in my heart because they’ve been with me for several years.

“We’re still recovering from the Canelo-Trout fight and now we’re bringing Knockout Kings II where we have three world title fights and I don’t know who is going to win. Will the fights go the distance? Probably not when you have these types of punchers. Who’s going to win the fights? I have no idea. Am I going to be in the front row? You bet.

“I’ve watched these guys on TV and I’m awed by the type of power that they have. Omar – I call him ‘Mini Mike Tyson’ – I hope he gives us two rounds so we can really appreciate the power that he has.”

MIKE BATTAH, President of Leija & Battah Promotions

“I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya, SHOWTIME and James, my partner, for putting this all together. It’s been a building process, but we’re building, we’re getting there and we’re excited.

“I would like to thank Jesus Soto Karass for helping raise money for breast cancer awareness. Please ask the public to give $10 to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. We’re excited to help out and hope that we can raise money for this great charity.”

GREG ALVAREZ, Combative Sports Administrator, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

“I just want thank everybody who came here today, the fans and those who has spread the word around town. I want to say thank you to Mike and Jesse for making my life easier and making my life happier by bringing all these big fights to San Antonio.”

ABOUT “KNOCKOUT KINGS II”
“Knockout Kings II,” featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round main event for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas’ undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Japan’s Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and undefeated power-puncher Diego Chaves faces fellow unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman for Chaves’ WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International. The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets priced at $200, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase at the AT&T Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com at www.ticketmaster.com and ATTCenter.com all Ticketmaster locations, by calling (800) 745-3000 or through Leija & Battah Promotions by calling (210) 979-3302 or emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com.

UNCASVILLE, CT – Rough and tumble veteran Saul Roman, 37-9, 31 KOs, has been waging ring wars for almost ten years as a professional. He’s fought many top pros, and in addition to the wealth of experience he brings into the ring with him, Roman, known as “La Fiera” (The Wild Beast), also boasts a national heritage that all but proves that he can fight.

Saul Roman is a proud native of Mexico, one of the greatest boxing factories in the entire world.

On August 3rd, Roman takes on rising middleweight contender Curtis Stevens, 24-3, 17 KOs, at the Mohegan Sun Casino, on the next edition of the popular Fight Night boxing series. The NABF middleweight title bout is part of a boxing triple header that includes two more 10-rounders, Eddie Chambers vs. Thabiso Mchunu and Tomasz Adamek vs. Dominick Guinn. The NBC Sports Network TV broadcast begins at 10:30 PM.

Roman will enter the ring as the underdog against the streaking Stevens. However, the wily veteran from Mexico is prepared to introduce his lauded opponent to the toughness that boxers from his country are known for. Roman will be the first Mexican Stevens has ever fought, and the Wild Beast is betting it will be a rude awakening for the Brooklyn boxer.

Fight Night alumni, Gabriel Rosado knows Roman first-hand. The two fought their own 10-rounder three years ago in Atlantic City. Rosado won the bloody war on points, and remembers Roman well.

“He is a game fighter,” Rosado said of Roman. “He also has a long reach and a really good jab.”

Roman will do his best to utilize the height and reach advantages he holds over Stevens, but this fight may become a war of attrition, waged in the trenches and along the ropes. When the fight gets tough, Roman will not only rely on his heart and the punching power that has claimed 31 victims.

He also plans to show Curtis Stevens something he’s never seen before – what it means to be a Mexican fighter.

“THREE TO SEE” FIGHT INFO:
August 3rd “Three To See” card at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT. In the main event Curtis Stevens and Saul Roman will clash for 10-rounds in a NABF middleweight title war. Also co-featured will be a 10-round cruiserweight battle between Eddie Chambers and Thabiso Mchunu. Heavyweight, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek will take on Dominick Guinn, for 10-rounds. Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov will be featured on the undercard in an 8 round heavyweight fight.

NBC Sports Network Fight Night will telecast the August 3rd show beginning 10:30PM EDT.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 (price includes facility fees) and can be purchased by calling Mohegan Sun Box office 860-862-8499 or through Ticketmaster. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office at 860-862-8499.

BRONX, NY (July 25, 2013) Undefeated and world ranked heavyweight
Joe “The Future” Hanks returns to battle this Saturday, JULY 27 against fellow undefeated prospect Andy ‘The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. at The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Arena in Macao, China.

The Hanks/Ruiz scheduled ten rounder is a feature bout at “FISTS OF GOLD 2”, an exceptional evening of professional boxing and can be viewed LIVE at www.TopRank.com at 6:00 a.m. ET/3:00 a.m. PT in the United States. It will also be telecast on a same day tape delayed basis on UniMas’ Solo Boxeo series at 11:00 p.m. ET.

“This is an excellent opportunity for Joe to fight on this terrific show and demonstrate to the boxing world that he’s ready to take the next step in his career. Ruiz is a good young prospect, but Joe is very well prepared and ready for a great performance on Saturday” said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing, who will be ringside for the fight.

Fighting out of Newark, New Jersey, the 30-year-old Hanks, 21-0-0 (14KO’s), will be making the first start of his 2013 campaign following a sensational season last year with three outstanding performances.

Most recently Hanks won a shutout unanimous decision over battle-tested veteran Maurenzo Smith on DECEMBER 6 in Costa Mesa, California.

The heavy-handed Hanks two previous bouts in 2012 resulted in early knockout victories over Rafael Pedro and Marcus Rhode. He is currently ranked # 12 by the World Boxing Organization.

Just 23-years-old, Ruiz has amassed a record of 19-0-0 (13KO’s), since turning professional in 2009. The Imperial, California native returns to the ring following a first round knockout of Carl Davis on JUNE 8 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

WHAT: “The Roxy Homecoming Celebration”

BOUTS: MAIN EVENT – CRUISERWEIGHTS (8)
CHRIS TRAIETTI (13-3, 9 KOs), Quincy, MA
vs.
DION STANLEY (11-5, 7 KOs), Kansas City, MO

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
GABRIEL DULUC (8-0, 1 KO), Boston, MA
vs.
JONATHAN PEREZ (4-0, 2 KOs), Moca, Puerto Rico

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)
JIMMY CAPPIELLO (4-3-2, 1 KO), Somerville, MA
vs.
PUBILO PENA (0-1), Providence, RI

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)
JOHN HUTCHINSON (3-0, 1 KO), Boston, MA
vs.
ROBERT HUNT (0-3), Hyannis, MA

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
RASHIDI ELLIS (pro debut), Lynn, MA
vs.
JOSH BEEMAN (4-12-3, 2 KOs), Providence, RI

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)
MICAL WEISBERG (3-0, 2 KOs), Stoughton, MA
vs.
JOE POWERS (0-1), Groton, CT

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
GREG VENDETTI (3-0, 2 KOs), Boston, MA
vs.
ANTONIO CHAVES FERNANDES (2-11-1), Brockton, MA

(all fights & fighters subject to change)

WHEN: Saturday, July 27, 2013

WHERE: The Royale Nightclub, Boston, MA

PROMOTER: Big Six Entertainment

INFORMATION: www.bigsixentertainment.com

DOORS OPEN: 4:00 p.m. ET FIRST BOUT: 5 p.m. ET

TICKETS: $40.00, $50.00 and $75.00 and available to purchase at The Royale Nightclub (formerly The Roxy) in downtown Boston

OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN: Friday, July 26, 2013 – 2 p.m. / ET at the Dorchester Boxing Club, 82 Parkman St., Dorchester, MA

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (July 25th, 2013) — They keep saying it’s not about them, but the war brewing between trainers Paul Andrade and Orlondo Valles might rival the battle in in the ring Saturday night between their respective fighters, Vladine Biosse and Rich Gingras.

Valles, who trained Biosse (15-2-1, 7 KOs) for eight years and is now working with Gingras (13-3, 8 KOs) in preparation of Saturday’s New England Super Middleweight Title Bout at Twin River Casino, said there are no hard feelings between he and Biosse since the two went their separate ways earlier this year, but he doesn’t share the same sentiment toward Biosse’s new trainer, Andrade, the father of unbeaten Providence junior middleweight and former U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade.

“I don’t like Paul,” Valles said matter-of-factly. “Who is Paul? Paul’s never trained any champions.

“He had his son, and he didn’t really train his son. He trained himself, and then Dave Keefe trained him. I’ve been around Paul for years. I don’t like his style. I don’t like the way he teaches. Paul is a one-dimensional trainer, just like when he trained [Andrade] and [Framingham, Mass., light welterweight] Danny O’Connor. They fight almost the exact same way. They’re one-dimensional. I’m different; I watch a fighter, develop his skills and polish what he does best.

“Paul’s not a good trainer. He’s just a big-mouth.”

According to Valles, the rift between he and Andrade started following Biosse’s loss to Marcus Upshaw in January when Biosse began seeking additional help outside of the gym from Andrade, who specializes in training southpaws such as Biosse.

“[Biosse] said he had gone to Paul a few times to work on his footwork, not that he was leaving me,” Valles said. “He asked if we could bring Paul in and I said, ‘Absolutely not.’ I told him he could stay with him. It’s not like he left me. I’m the one who told him to go stay with Paul because I knew he had Paul working on his footwork and I didn’t like it.

“Paul should’ve been a man and called me and said, ‘Orlondo, Vla is working on his footwork with me.’ He said I thought he knew. I didn’t know.”

“I don’t want to get into a, ‘he said, she said,’ because it’s not about the trainers; it’s about the fighters,” Andrade countered. “Vla had always worked with my son sparring. Originally, I thought we would all work together. I don’t know what transpired between Vla and Orlondo, but I don’t feel good about it. It put me in a funny position. Orlondo is my friend. I don’t take people’s fighters. I don’t need to; I’ve always had my hands full with my son.”

Instead of working together, Andrade and Valles will be across the ring from one another Saturday night as Biosse and Gingras battle for Biosse’s title in the main event of “Game On,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports. This will be Biosse’s second fight under Andrade’s tutelage; the first was in May when the Providence, R.I., native bounced back from the loss to Upshaw with a unanimous-decision win over Latif Mundy.

Gingras, a contestant on Season 4 of the reality television series The Contender now fighting out of Pawtucket, R.I., will bring a different set of skills to the table this weekend, putting Biosse’s conditioning and Andrade’s training to the test.

“We’ll see if he listens,” Andrade said of Biosse. “He’s a little thick sometimes and it takes him longer to catch on sometimes because he doesn’t understand after all these years what I’m doing. Then when he gets it, he accepts it. He’ll think things don’t work and then when they do he’ll say, ‘I like this!’

“Hopefully, he does the stuff we’re working on [Saturday].”

Andrade’s ability to mold southpaws — starting with his own son, and O’Connor, who are a combined 48-1 — could be a factor in the outcome of Saturday’s fight.

“Right-handers are so basic,” Andrade said. “It’s a left, right, then a body punch. Then they stand back and get hit with a right hand. You’ve seen it a thousand times. They throw great combos, then they step back and get hit with the right.

“I like southpaws because I can put them on different angles. They can cut more angles than righties are used to. How to throw punches, foot position — there are just so many more things you can do with a southpaw. You just have to know how to train them to do it. The angles make a difference.”

After training Biosse for eight years and devising the game plans that were the key to his success against both Joey McCreedy and Joey Spina, Valles will now be on the other side of the fence Saturday drawing up the blueprint in an attempt to dethrone his former protégé.

“I know how to beat Vla,” Valles said. “I don’t care if he went to California [to train] or wherever Paul took him. No one knows him better than me. I’m going to use that against him, and that’s the way it’s going to be. I’ve had Rich sparring against real good southpaws. Guys like [undefeated super middleweight] Edwin Rodriguez – real, professional guys that are good, not amateurs, and he’s doing all of his rounds. I’ve been taking him all over, and we’ve been working all week long, even on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.”

Andrade put the odds for Saturday’s fight at “50-50” with a strong emphasis on intangibles.

“Who really wants it more? Both fighters will have their career on the line. That’s what it’s about,” Andrade said. “We can only teach them so much, but how big will their hearts be?

“Vla will be different because I’ve had more time with him than Orlondo’s had with Gingras. It’s hard to fix someone in three or four weeks. It’s just not enough time. Even in six months with Vla, I’ve only been able to correct a couple of things. How much different Gingras will be, I don’t know. I’m sure Orlondo did a good job, but will he pay attention to what he was taught? I’m sure Orlondo told him to do the right thing, but there is a point where he has to trust what he is taught. Sometimes a guy gets punched and he’ll go back to his old ways. It’s up to the fighters. How much do they want it? Who will put it on the line 100 percent? We can yell and scream at them all we want, but they have to execute.”

Valles has not only promised a “new” Gingras on Saturday, he’s gone as far as to predict a victory in what will be the biggest fight of Gingras’ career. They say it’s not personal. We’ll find out for sure when the bell rings Saturday night.

“I know how to train. That’s all I have to say,” Valles said. “Someone is getting knocked out. One thing about me is I don’t lie and I know my stuff. It’s going to be a war.

“If Vla can go past six rounds, I’ll quit training.”

In the eight-round co-feature, Pawtucket, R.I., middleweight Thomas Falowo (10-1, 7 KOs) will step up to face Jersey City, N.J., veteran Chris Chatman (10-2-1, 5 KOs. Joe Gardner (11-6-1, 1 KO) of Woonsocket, R.I., will also return to action Saturday night to face Portland, Maine middleweight Russell Lamour (4-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight bout (168 pounds).

“Game On” also features the professional debut of highly-touted Groton, Conn., female bantamweight Marcia Agripino, who will face Brooklyn’s Vanessa Greco (1-2-3) in a four-round bout. Providence super middleweight KJ Harrison-Lombardi (1-0) will make his Twin River debut against Boston’s Maceo Crowder (2-1) in a four-round bout and Hartford light middleweight “Jabbin'” Joe Wilson Jr. will make his professional debut against Saul Almeida (0-2) of Framingham, Mass., in a four-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets for “Game On” are $41.00, $76.00, and $126.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.shop.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

As an added bonus, Twin River and CES have teamed up to offer fight fans and VIP customers an exclusive offer with their ticket purchase. Show your ticket stub at the event, join the Twin River Rewards Club and get a free $25 Twin River gift card and two free tickets to a Twin River concert. CES has upped the ante by offering an additional $25 gift certificate to either Meritage or Chardonnay’s restaurant in Rhode Island with the purchase of a $126 Jimmy’s Club VIP ticket.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Game On.” Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

ANDRE BERTO, Former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion:

“Everything has been going well. I have a new team with Virgil Hunter and we’ve been putting in good work. San Antonio asked for me and we’re here. Saturday night is definitely going to be something to tune into.

“Soto Karass is a tough opponent, but I’m here to represent and give these people a real good show.

“Our styles match up well. It sets up for an exciting fight. He’s a tough veteran that keeps going and brings the action and I’m one of the top guys that like to dish out punishment. This fight sells itself.

“I feel like I just need to go in here and do what I know how to do. I’m positive that I can do the things that I know how to do. If I do that, it might be a short night. It’s called Knockout Kings, baby.”

JESUS SOTO KARASS, Veteran Welterweight Contender:

“I’m getting into the ring to kick my opponent’s ass. That’s my game plan.

“I’m ready. I’m two pounds away [from making weight]. The weight is not a problem. I can’t wait until Saturday night. The Mexican fans here motivate me and I’m going to show why I’m the champion on Saturday night.

“I want to tell fans to come support and help Jesse James Leijah and Mike Battah in their campaign to support breast cancer awareness. I’m a part of it. Please come and donate $10. It’s cheaper than a six pack.”

OMAR FIGUEROA JR., Undefeated Texas Rising Star & Number Three Rated WBC Lightweight Contender:

“This is it. This is what we’ve been working so hard for.

“I live only four hours away, so this totally feels like home. Texas has the best fans in the world and I’m glad to be a Texan.

“My plan is to go in there and give a great fight. He’s a great guy and he’s ranked number one for a reason. I’ve prepared really hard for this fight and I’m ready to go 12 hard rounds.

“This is what it comes down to. It’s the bottom of the ninth, two outs, full count. There’s no room for butterflies.

“This is what we’ve been working for 17 years for and it’s finally here. I’m not going to let it slip.”

NIHITO ARAKAWA, Number One Rated WBC Lightweight Contender:

“It’s great to get this opportunity for a world title. I’m going to bring the world championship back home with me.

“I don’t care what people say. I’m just happy to have the chance to fight. I know he’s the favorite here in Texas, but I’m ready. I’m ready to get in the ring.”

DIEGO CHAVEZ, WBA Interim Welterweight World Champion:

“We’ve worked very hard. I’ve had two opportunities with Paulie Malignaggi slip away and fall out, so it’s been a long time out of the ring, but I’m back in shape and ready to go. We know Thurman is very strong and he’s coming to fight, but I’m prepared for that.

“The strategy is no secret. Thurman is a strong kid and he’s going to come forward. I can’t let him come forward. I have to meet him in the center of the ring and land my punches.

“My punches are strong and they’re going to hurt him. Nobody has ever hurt him before. I think my punches will and I’ll stop him before the 10th round.

“My title stays with me and it’s going back to Argentina. I’m going to knock him out.”

KEITH THURMAN, Undefeated Number Four Rated WBA Welterweight Contender:

“I’ve been training real hard back in my camp in Florida. It’s about to be a fight Saturday night. Someone is going to sleep, I can guarantee you that. No matter what side of the fence you’re on, you better bet on the KO. No lie. One time, baby…that’s the nickname. I come and bring it all the time.

“It’s going to be a show. This is a great card with a great undercard. It’s Knockout Kings II and we’re trying to do it big here in San Antonio.

“I guarantee Saturday night you’re going to see a great performance. I’m a warrior for life. I prepare for death in every battle. I’m not scared of this. He’s 22-0 with 18 KO’s and I’m 20-0 with 18 KO’s. That’s why I can guarantee you someone is going to sleep.

“Come out and show your support, but don’t blink.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL, Undefeated Super Middleweight Contender:

“I will knock him out, but I’m not going for it.

“My brother beat him, but that has nothing to do with me. I’m just too good for him. He has nothing on me.

“After I beat him, I want a [world] championship. I’m going for Sakio Bika. That’s next. That’s the belt I want.

“I had the best training camp of my life. There’s no way I lose this fight.”

ANTHONY HANSHAW, Super Middleweight Contender:

“Training camp was good. I’m ready to go. I just came off of a bad loss. I should have won the fight, but I’m ready to go. I’m in tip top shape. I didn’t take any time off. I got this call and I was ready to go.

“I fought his brother and that pushes me. I fought Andre, but I wasn’t in good shape. I went into camp at 205 pound and had to get down to 168. I was weak, but I’m good now. I don’t think about his brother at all. I’m ready to go.”

EMANUEL LEDEZMA, San Antonio Super Middleweight Prospect:

“It feels great fighting in my back yard. We have a lot of die-hard fans here that want to see a good show, so we’re going to give it to them.

“We hit it hard. We always do. This fight is a rematch. I already beat this guy and I’m going to do it again. I did rock him in the fourth round last time, but this time if I do catch him, I’m going to finish him.

“I always prepare 100 percent, but as San Antonians we have to make a statement. We have to let people know that when they come into our house we’re going to make them feel it. This guy wants to come into our house and make a ruckus and we’re not going to let it happen.”

FELIX PIEDRA, Super Middleweight Prospect:

“I’m here to make a statement. He’s a local favorite, but I’ll have some fans form Weslaco here rooting for me. I’m going to win over the San Antonio fans by the end of the night.”

ABOUT “KNOCKOUT KINGS II”
“Knockout Kings II,” featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round main event for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas’ undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Japan’s Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and undefeated power-puncher Diego Chaves faces fellow unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman for Chaves’ WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International. The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets priced at $200, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase at the AT&T Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com at www.ticketmaster.com and ATTCenter.com all Ticketmaster locations, by calling (800) 745-3000 or through Leija & Battah Promotions by calling (210) 979-3302 or emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com.

New York, NY (7/24/13) – In the latest edition of the popular and longest running boxing series in New York – Broadway Boxing, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s SMS Promotions presented a thrilling eight-bout card before another packed house at NYC’s famed Roseland Ballroom.

Headlining the card was comebacking former junior middleweight champion Yuri Foreman taking on Philadelphia’s tough Jamaal Davis.

It was the third fight and first eight-rounder for Foreman since returning from a 26-month layoff and signing with DBE. Foreman looked very fresh, and was extremely accurate with his shots. Davis, who has been in with the likes of middleweight champion Peter Quillin, Gabriel Rosado and Joel Julio, was easily the toughest test for Foreman since making his comeback.

Foreman was precise and dominant throughout, controlling the action and opening a cut over the right eye of Davis early in the fight. Davis was able to hang in there, but ultimately was just no match for the Brooklynite Foreman, who won a complete shutout on all three judges’ scorecards, 80-72 across the board.

Foreman will look to step it up even more in his next bout as he looks to throw his name into the mix of the 154lb. division.

HARDY STOPS TROST
DBE

In the co-feature bout of the evening, fast-rising female junior featherweight and Brooklyn fan-favorite Heather “The Heat” Hardy continued on her path to stardom with a vicious beating of Cassie Trost (1-2-1).

Hardy lived up to her nickname by putting on the heat and jumping all over Trost from on onset. Hardy bloodied Trost’s nose badly and was all over her, scoring with a barrage of punches that sent Trost to the canvas near the end of the fourth frame. Trost was able to beat the count, but was a beaten fighter. The referee wisely called a halt to the contest at 1:30 of round number four.

It was the most impressive showing thus far for Hardy, who improved to 6-0 (1KO), scoring her first career knockout in the process.

DEJESUS STAYS UNBEATEN

DBE

SMS Promotions highly regarded undefeated Puerto Rican prospect Emmanuel DeJesus improved his record to a perfect 6-0 (4KO’s) with a four-round shutout decision over Khalik Memminger. DeJesus stalked his opponent from the outset, landing well with both hands. Memminger was able to hold on, but DeJesus was just too much.

Brooklyn’s undefeated light heavyweight Travis Peterkin improved to 8-0 (4KOs) with a well deserved six-round unanimous decision over the tough Hector Hernandez, from Phoenix, now 10-6-2 (4KOs). Peterkin dictated the pace and was the busier fighter, never letting Hernandez to find a groove to mount sustainable offense. After six frames, all scorecards read 60-54.

DBE’s undefeated junior welterweight prospect Louis Cruz improved his record to a perfect 4-0, 2KO’s, with a dominant four-round unanimous decision over Justin Robbins.

The Bronx-native and former NY Golden Gloves Champion Cruz controlled the action throughout, working behind a stiff jab and scoring with both hands all night long. Cruz dropped Robbins with a hard left hook in the second round, but Robbins was able to survive and make it to the final bell. In the end, all three judges scored the bout a shut-out, 40-35 for Cruz.

Before a raucous crowd of supporters chanting “Peewee-Peewee-Peewee”, Port Chester’s Bryant “Peewee” Cruz pounded out a clear four-round unanimous decision over the very tough Nuwan Jayakody in their four-round junior lightweight matchup.

Cruz pressed the action throughout, but Jayakody hung tough and took a number of hard shots. Cruz scored with fast combinations to both the body and head of Jayakody, with each combination bringing the hometown fans to a standing, screaming ovation.

In the end, Cruz was awarded the well deserved decision, winning by scores of 40-36 across the board. With the win, Cruz improved his record to 6-0, 5KO’s.

In a battle of super middleweights, Louis Rose claimed his third straight victory over a previously undefeated fighter with a six-round unanimous decision over Akil Frederick-Auguste. There was good action throughout, but Rose was simply the busier fighter. All three judges scored the bout 59-55 in favor of Rose, who improved to 8-1, 2KO’s. With the loss, Auguste dropped to 2-1, 2KO’s.

In the opening bout of the night, former Olympian Ytalo Perea continued on his tear through the pro ranks with a first-round knockout over John Orr. Perea came out firing in the first, jumping all over Orr. Midway through the round, Perea landed a devastating left hook that sent Orr flat on his face. Orr was able to beat the count, but was on very shaky legs, prompting the referee to call a halt to the contest at 1:48 of the first round.

With the win, Perea improved to 4-0, 3KO’s, while Orr dropped to 1-1.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (July 24th, 2013) — You’d be hard-pressed to find anyone in the sport of boxing as soft-spoken as middleweight prospect Thomas Falowo.

Not this week.

As Falowo (10-1, 7 KOs) prepares for his showdown against Jersey City’s Chris Chatman (10-2-1, 5 KOs) — his toughest test to date — Saturday night in the eight-round co-feature at Twin River Casino, the Pawtucket, R.I., native is fully aware he and Chatman could steal the show from headliners Rich Gingras and Vladine Biosse.

“No offense to Biosse or Gingras,” Falowo said, “but this fight could be the main event!”

He’s right.

The Falowo-Chatman showdown has all the makings of a throwback fight, reminiscent of the days when New Bedford’s Ray Oliveira used to break CompuBox records for punching volume. Neither fighter shies away from contact. Falowo’s sheer output has overwhelmed some of the region’s top middleweights, including Julio Garcia and Tylon Burris. Coupled with Chatman’s aggressive style, this figures to be a fan-friendly fight worthy of main-event status despite being somewhat overshadowed by the New England Super Middleweight Title bout between Biosse and Gingras in the main event.

“Game On,” presented by Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports, features six dynamic bouts, including the professional debut of highly-touted Groton, Conn., female bantamweight Marcia Agripino and the return of popular Woonsocket, R.I., super middleweight Joe Gardner (11-6-1, 1 KO).

“Hell, this fight should be pushed to the main event,” Chatman said. “I will definitely come out with the win, and I plan to win convincingly or with a knockout.

“There won’t be a point when I’m not in control. I will overwhelm Falowo. This is going to be a night to remember.”

Chatman has certainly earned the right to be confident. He actually debuted at Twin River in 2009 when he faced former U.S. Olympian and current undefeated junior welterweight prospect Demetrius Andrade of Providence in what turned out to be the toughest test of Andrade’s young career. At the pre-fight weigh-in, Chatman warned Andrade to “take heed” and promised a war. Andrade won by unanimous decision, though many felt the fight was much closer than the scores indicated. Some, including Chatman himself, actually felt Chatman won the fight.

“I have no malice toward Andrade. After all, he didn’t score the fight, so there’s no reason to be upset with him,” Chatman said. “What I remember most was his home town cheering for me.”

Chatman made such an impression on the Rhode Island crowd that he returned to Twin River two years later with a fifth-round knockout win over Rahman Yusobov.

“The fans cheered me coming and going,” Chatman recalled. “When news came that I was going to be on this next card, the responses were amazing, with a whole lot of, ‘I’m definitely coming to see that!’ Chris Chatman is a ticket-seller because I put on great fights for great people. I look forward to hearing from my fans in Rhode Island.”

Now Falowo will be challenged with defending his home turf; he’s fought eight of his 11 fights at Twin River with an impressive 7-1 record in those fights. Saturday will also be his first scheduled eight-round bout, which could put his stamina and conditioning – two attributes never in question with Falowo – to the ultimate test.

“I’ve been fighting for a couple years now and I’m finally at the point where I’m one of the featured fights,” Falowo said. “Every fight is important, but this is definitely a major one to me. This is a step up in competition, as well as the number of rounds, and I’m prepared for both.”

Added Chatman: “Thomas is a good guy. The last time I was in Rhode Island [in 2011] we chatted for a bit and he seemed likeable and respectful. I think he’s a great athlete, but only a good boxer. His athleticism carries him in a match to the point where keeping up at his pace will drown the average boxer. I won’t have that problem. I can keep up with that pace and even push it.”

The feel appears to be mutual; Falowo respects Chatman’s ability having seen him up close and personal — and having faced a common opponent in Yusubov, whom Falowo knocked out in four rounds — but it’ll be business as usual Saturday night.

“Chatman is a solid fighter,” Falowo said. “He’s strong and can box and has an aggressive, which, combined with my style, will make for a fan-friendly fight.”

The main event between Providence’s Biosse (15-2-1, 7 KOs) and Pawtucket’s Gingras (13-3, 8 KOs) will be for Biosse’s New England Super Middleweight Title, which he has successfully defended three times since winning it in 2010. Gingras, a former contestant on the reality television series The Contender, is aiming for his third consecutive win and his fourth in his last five fights.

Gardner will face Portland, Maine prospect Russell Lamour (4-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight bout while Agripino will face Brooklyn’s Vanessa Greco (1-2-3). Providence super middleweight KJ Harrison-Lombardi (1-0) will make his Twin River debut against Boston’s Maceo Crowder (2-1) in a four-round bout. “Game On” will also feature the professional debut of Hartford light middleweight “Jabbin'” Joe Wilson Jr., who will battle Saul Almeida (0-2) of Framingham, Mass., in a four-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets for “Game On” are $41.00, $76.00, and $126.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.shop.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

As an added bonus, Twin River and CES have teamed up to offer fight fans and VIP customers an exclusive offer with their ticket purchase. Show your ticket stub at the event, join the Twin River Rewards Club and get a free $25 Twin River gift card and two free tickets to a Twin River concert. CES has upped the ante by offering an additional $25 gift certificate to either Meritage or Chardonnay’s restaurant in Rhode Island with the purchase of a $126 Jimmy’s Club VIP ticket.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Game On.” Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

MIAMI (July 23, 2013) — MO Productions held a press conference tonight at Smith & Wollensky in Miami Beach to announce an agreement has been reached for a fight this fall at a site to be determined between 23-year-old light middleweight prospects Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira (21-1, 16 KOs) and Omar “El Businessman” Chavez (30-2, 22 KOs).

Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Oliveira lives in Miami, where he is trained by Orlando Cuellar. Oliveira is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) Fecarbox and World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedebol 154-pound champion, who is World rated by the WBC at No. 6 and WBA at No. 7.

The wildly popular Oliveira has won four fights in a row since suffering his only professional loss June 2, 2012 in Uruguay to four-time, two division world champion and Brazilian boxing icon, Acelino “Popo” Freitas.

Chavez is the son of Mexican boxing legend Julio Cesar “JC” Chavez, Sr., a six-time, three-division world champion and Hall of Famer, as well as the younger brother of former world middleweight champion Julio Cesar “JC” Chavez, Jr.

Omar’s only two pro losses have been by decision to Jorge Paez, Jr., the son of another legendary Mexican boxer and two-time world champion Jorge “El Maromero” Paez, Sr. Former WBC Youth welterweight title-holder Chavez has won his last two fights against Pablo Vasquez and Charlie Navarro.

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PICTURES

Michael Oliveira: “I have money, sorry, there’s nothing I can do. My grandfather left it for me…thanks. When I climb into the ring, I can’t take my money in with me. The blood, sweat, tears and hard work I left in the gym come into the ring with me. My father can’t protect me in the ring.

“I’m ready to face anybody at 154 pounds. Don’t believe me? Try me! I’m not only fighting Omar, I’m fighting his brother, Julio, and their father. The whole Chavez dynasty. Mexicans love boxing like they do soccer. Yes, we are Spanish brothers, but it’ll just be me and Omar in the ring, and only one will be left standing.

“It’s not always easy for me because of what I have. I’ve had plenty of chances to say, screw it. I believe it you do something because you love it, it’s twice as good, and that everything in life has a purpose. I will be victorious.”

Carlos Oliveira (promoter and father, Michael Oliveira): “This is a very important moment. Right now, Michael isn’t my son. He is a professional athlete between 9-5. He works for me and I work for him. After 5, he’s my son. As a father, he’s already a champion; as a promoter, he’s on his way to being a champion.

“I’m a businessman. MO Productions has made an investment in Michael. I know we have a return coming. I know he will be world champion, I’m talking as his promoter, not his father. Michael has a passion for this sport and that’s why we’re behind his dream. I assure you that he will become world champion within a year.

“When Michael steps in the ring, I can’t help him. He is willing to accept any challenge at the 154-pound division. This fight will happen; Brazil vs. Mexico, Micheal Oliveira vs. Oma rChavez. We’re Latin brothers.

Orlando Cuellar (head trainer, Michael Oliveira): “A fighter can’t have anymore support than Michael has from his parents. It’s rare. We’re ready, they’re ready, but we’re waiting for a signed contract. We’ll see if they sign.

“A Michael Oliveira vs. Omar Chavez fight will be great. Michael is a no fuss, in your face style fighter. Omar is a classic Mexican fighter, fighting inside and outside. On paper it’s a fairly even fight but we’ll be the underdog. We believe Michael has what it takes to win and go to the next level. He’s looking to be the best, so he has to beat the best. Omar was born into the game but once the bell rings it won’t matter.

“Today, Michael is a top 10 fighter in two sanctioning bodies and that shows what he, his team and father have done.”

Orlando & Michael (L-R) – Head trainer Orlando Cuellar and Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira
(picture by NLPGimages)

Julio Cesar Chavez, Sr. (father/adviser, Omar Chavez): Video taped – “Unfortunately, we are not there tonight because I had eye surgery and couldn’t fly. Regarding the fight, I’m sure it’s going to be a tough fight between Michael and Omar. I hope the best fighter will win and I hope that will be my son.

“Brazil and Mexico are always good in soccer and this time they’re going to fight each other in the ring.”

For more information about Oliveira-Chavez go online to www.MichaelOliveira.com, friend him on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MichaelOliveriaboxing), or follow on Twitter @RockyOliveira and Instagram @rockyoliveira.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com IBF Super Middleweight champion Carl Froch will defend against mandatory challenger George Groves in what will be a much anticipated United Kingdom showdown.

“I’m delighted to have got this fight made,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “It’s a great fight for British boxing with a real throwback feel to the big domestic fights in the super middleweight division in the ’90s. When George became the mandatory challenger, I knew there was no way Carl would relinquish the belt and no way that George would look anywhere else.

“This fight will grow and grow and fans can expect an exciting night and a packed undercard when full details of the fight are announced.”

“I’m excited the first defense of both my belts is a big domestic clash,” Froch said. “I am a proper fighter and a proper champion and I will always face my mandatory challenger rather than vacate the title. I’ve known George for a while. I’ve sparred with him and watched him grow and now he’s my mandatory. I will be pouring everything into my preparation for the fight and George will face the very best of me.

“It is better this way than a low-key overseas opponent as this fight will relight memories of some of the great all-British clashes and, with world titles on the line, it’s a really huge occasion and one that will grab the attention of British sports fans.”

“This is the biggest fight of my career and being a world champion is something that I dreamed of as a kid,” Groves said. “I’m well-ranked across all the governing bodies but fighting Carl is the one that I wanted the most. He is a big name in the U.K. and a well-respected champion around the world, and I have a great team around me that can put together the right game plan to beat him and become a world champion and a major force in the super middleweight division.”

Cruiserweight “Fast” Eddie Chambers, 36-3, 18 KOs, held a media conference call Wednesday to discuss his highly anticipated move from heavyweight down to the 200-pound division, as well as his upcoming fight against South African Thabiso Mchunu, 13-1, 10 KOs, on August 3rd. The 10-round bout will be nationally televised by NBC Sports Network on the popular Fight Night boxing series.

The telecast begins at 10:30 PM, and in addition to Chambers-Mchunu, includes two other 10-round bouts, Curtis Stevens vs. Saul Roman in a middleweight fight and Tomasz Adamek against Dominick Guinn in a heavyweight contest.

Eddie Chambers, trainer James Bashir, promoter and Main Events CEO Kathy Duva, and Main Events matchmaker Jolene Mizzone, all spoke and took questions from the press.

” I’ve been thinking about it for a long time,” said Eddie Chambers about his move down to cruiserweight. “I always thought that if I could fight guys my own size, I’d have the opportunities, and the upper hand.”

“At cruiserweight, I feel as comfortable as I did at heavyweight,” Chambers continued. “My last fight with Tomasz Adamek, I was (only) at 202. So the transition should be seamless. It shouldn’t be a problem. ”

“As far as the experience I had at heavyweight, obviously that will serve me well,” Chambers said. “However, when you move down a weight class the guys tend to be a little more elusive and a little more coordinated. No one is going to have a speed advantage over me, but they are slightly faster (than heavyweights). So I have to prepare to be faster as well.”

“Our game plan was to bring Eddie to cruiserweight to see if he could dominate the division, because we all think he can,” said Kathy Duva. “So the goal is to get that title. But we are focused on this fight. BoxRec has rated this fight five stars! For a fight at this level to get five stars tells you that there’s something going on here. I think it’s going to be the sleeper hit of the evening. The Thabiso Mchunu team asked for this fight, and when that happens, you know you’re going to have yourself a really nice contest. It’s wonderful seeing this guy stepping up and taking a challenge like Eddie Chambers.”

I’d been in touch with Mchunu’s promoter (Damian Michaels) for about a year, and he was asking if I could work with his guy,” said Jolene Mizzone. “I told him I had Eddie Chambers, but thought that he would never want him. But it literally took no time for him to go talk to his fighter and come back and say they’d take him (Chambers)in a second. By the next day, I had their answer.”

“We’ll be prepared,” said trainer James Bashir. “This fight is probably one where there’s going to be an aggressive guy (Mchunu) against a smooth boxer (Chambers). But we will be prepared to face off against any opposition that they might bring. Most of his fights have been in South Africa, and he hasn’t faced the kind of versatility that he’ll be facing with Eddie Chambers.”

“Being with Bashir and learning from Bashir, who’s been in world championship-level camps his whole life and career as a trainer, helps me adopt that championship level attitude,” said Chambers. “So now I’m preparing to be a champion.”

“THREE TO SEE” FIGHT INFO:

August 3rd “Three To See” card at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT. In the main event Curtis Stevens and Saul Roman will clash for 10-rounds in a middleweight war. Also co-featured will be a 10-round cruiserweight battle between Eddie Chambers and Thabiso Mchunu. Heavyweight, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek will take on Dominick Guinn for 10-rounds. Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov will be featured on the undercard in an 8 round heavyweight fight.

NBC Sports Network Fight Night will telecast the August 3rd show beginning 10:30PM EDT.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 (price includes facility fees) and can be purchased by calling Mohegan Sun Box office 860-862-8499 or through Ticketmaster. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office at 860-862-8499.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 24, 2013) – A slate of action packed fights is expected this Saturday, July 27 when a roster of top talent steps into the ring at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas, on the undercard of the highly anticipated “KNOCKOUT KINGS II” event. Heading up the preliminary bouts before SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® goes on the air, hard-hitting, undefeated rising star Anthony Dirrell and veteran Anthony “The Tyger” Hanshaw will face off in a 10-round clash for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight Championship which will be televised live on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast). Also in SHOWTIME EXTREME action, Texas natives Emanuel Ledezma and Felix Piedra will go toe-to-toe in a six-round super middleweight showdown. Both bouts will lead up to the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader headlined by former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round bout for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship.

Also featured on the undercard will be rising stars from the Lone Star state including Jesse Anguiano, Jerry Belmontes, Armando Cardenas, Joseph Rodriguez and Stephen Salazar.

Anthony Dirrell (25-0, 21 KO’s) got back into the ring in May after a year and a half layoff caused by a motorcycle accident and scored an eight-round unanimous decision win over Don Mouton. The victory shook the rust off for the 28-year-old Flint, Michigan native, while getting fight fans excited for what the future holds for this talented super middleweight.

A staple among the top prospects in the sport for years, Anthony Hanshaw (23-3-2, 14 KO’s) of Warren, Ohio has scored big wins over Kingsley Ikeke, Esteban Camou and Lafarrell Bunting, but after losses to Roy Jones Jr. and Andre Dirrell in 2007 and 2008, Hanshaw took a more than four-year break from the game. In 2012, he returned and the 35-year-old is unbeaten in three of four bouts heading into his meeting with Dirrell.

Born in Los Angeles, Calif. and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Emanuel “The Lone Star” Ledezma (12-1-1, 2 KO’s) prides himself not only on being prepared physically, but also mentally for each one of his fights. This rising star proudly holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in Spanish from the University of San Antonio.

The 27-year-old native of Weslaco, Texas, Felix Piedra (8- 2-1, 5 KO’s), of Cuban, Mexican-American descent, has an impressive career with. The cruiserweight division fighter holds the hope of his hometown people in Rio Grande Valley, the southernmost tip of South Texas.

A four-round junior lightweight match-up showcasing San Antonio natives Joseph Rodriguez (3-0, 2 KO’s) and Jesse Anguiano (1-2-2) squaring off for local bragging rights will also air on SHOWTIME EXTREME time permitting.

Nicknamed “The Corpus Christi Kid,” 24-year-old Jerry Belmontes (18-1, 5 KO’s) has been a local favorite ever since turning pro in 2008. A rising star at 130 pounds, Belmontes bounced back from the lone loss of his career to Eric Hunter last December with an April win over Daniel Diaz. On July 27, he will be in tough once again when he meets Blythe, California’s Andrew “Chango” Cancio (14-2-2, 11 KO’s) in a 10-round junior lightweight match-up. Cancio has won six of his last seven fights, with the only loss over that span coming against veteran Roger Gonzalez last September.

A four-round junior welterweight bout featuring San Antonio’s Armando Cardenas (1-0, 1 KO) against Stephan Salazar, who will be making his professional debut, will open the evening’s action.

“KNOCKOUT KINGS II,” featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round main event for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas. The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T. In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas’ undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Japan’s Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and undefeated power- puncher Diego Chaves faces fellow unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman for Chaves’ WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International. The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP). Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

Tickets priced at $200, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, are available for purchase at the AT&T Center box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com at www.ticketmaster.com and ATTCenter.com all Ticketmaster locations, by calling (800) 745-3000 or through Leija & Battah Promotions by calling (210) 979-3302 or emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com.

BROOKLYN (July 24, 2013) – Future Hall of Famer and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins has aligned with Barclays Center to be a ‘Goodwill Ambassador’ for the venue’s thriving Brooklyn Boxing™ platform powered by Golden Boy Promotions.

At 48 years old, Hopkins broke his own record by becoming the oldest fighter in boxing history to win a world title when he earned the IBF Light Heavyweight World Title in a decision against Tavoris Cloud at Barclays Center on March 9, 2013.

One of the most compelling figures in boxing history, Hopkins (53-6-2, 32 KO’s) will be visible and serve as a spokesperson for Brooklyn Boxing™ at select Barclays Center fights, whether on nights he is boxing or otherwise. He will also appear at various Barclays Center boxing press conferences and community boxing clinics in Brooklyn, and he may participate in several meet-and-greets with Barclays Center customers and at select Barclays Center business development meetings with potential partners.

Hopkins’ role with Barclays Center could extend to Nassau Coliseum on Long Island if the Barclays Center-led bid to renovate and operate the venue is chosen by Nassau County.

“Brooklyn is fast becoming the place for major boxing on the East Coast,” said Hopkins. “The events at Barclays Center have been outstanding and I’m excited to be part of its flourishing boxing program. I’m also thrilled that Barclays Center is planning to bring regular boxing events to Nassau Coliseum, which would be terrific for the fans of Long Island and great for boxing.”

“Bernard is a beloved legendary boxer and we are proud to have him represent our Brooklyn Boxing platform throughout the borough and the world of boxing,” said Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark. “Everyone who was at Barclays Center on March 9 will always remember the night Bernard made history and became one of Brooklyn’s own. We are looking forward to working with Golden Boy in having Bernard defend his title soon at Barclays Center. After four championship events, Barclays Center has become the heart of boxing on the East Coast and we are excited to join with Bernard to expand our fan base even further.”

Hopkins is the longest reigning middleweight champion ever with 20 successful title defenses over the course of his 10-year reign, including his historic victory against Felix “Tito” Trinidad to win the Middleweight World Championship Series on September 29, 2001.

About Barclays Center
Barclays Center opened on September 28, 2012, and is a major sports and entertainment venue in the heart of Brooklyn, New York. Developed by Brooklyn-based real estate developer Forest City Ratner Companies, and designed by the award-winning architectural firms AECOM (www.aecom.com/architecture) and SHoP Architects (www.shoparc.com), Barclays Center has one of the most intimate seating configurations ever designed into a modern multi-purpose arena, with unparalleled sightlines and first-class amenities. Barclays Center offers 17,732 seats for basketball, 14,500 seats for hockey and up to 19,000 seats for concerts, and has 101 luxury suites, four bars/lounges, four clubs, and 40/40 CLUB & Restaurant by American Express.

Barclays Center is hosting an extensive variety of events, including premier concerts, monthly major professional boxing cards, top college basketball, family shows, the Brooklyn Nets, and soon the New York Islanders.

In addition to Barclays, the naming rights partner, Founding Partners for Barclays Center include American Honda Motor Co., Inc.; American Express; Calvin Klein; Cushman & Wakefield; EmblemHealth; Foxwoods Resort Casino; GEICO; MetroPCS; Stolichnaya; and Ticketmaster. Other sponsors include: adidas, Anheuser-Busch, BlackBerry, The Coca-Cola Company, Haier America, High Point Solutions, JetBlue, LIU Brooklyn, New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge, SONY, and Willis.

Located atop one of the largest transportation hubs in New York City, Barclays Center is accessible by 11 subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road, and 11 bus lines.

Sampson Boxing Chief Sampson Lewkowicz is proud to announce that yesterday, he signed Buenos Aires, Argentina, featherweight contender Jesus Marcelo Cuellar (22-1, 18 KOs) to an exclusive promotional contract.

The 26-year-old southpaw Cuellar will make his first appearance under the Sampson Boxing banner on August 23, when he takes on the Dominican Republic’s Claudio Marrero (14-0, 11 KOs) in a 12-round battle for the Interim WBA World Featherweight Championship at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York, and live on ESPN Friday Night Fights.

Cuellar vs. Marrero will serve as the televised co-main event to the 12-round Argenis Mendez vs. Arash Usmanee clash for the IBF Super Featherweight Championship. The event will be the first promotional venture for all-time boxing great Mike Tyson.

The current Argentina (FAB) Featherweight and Interim WBA Fedelatin Featherweight Champion, Cuellar now joins the promotional stable of the only man to ever defeat him, Oscar Escandon.

In 2011, Cuellar dropped down in weight to face the Colombian KO artist Escandon, but eventually dehydration and exhaustion took its toll in round seven. Cuellar remains undefeated at featherweight.

“I am very happy to welcome such an excellent fighter as Jesus Marcelo Cuellar to my stable,” said Lewkowicz. “Thank you to ESPN for continuing to make such competitive fights with world-class fighters. They are building boxing’s fan base by putting out such high-quality events every week. In addition to Cuellar’s fight, Oscar Escandon is fighting against Nehomar Cermeno for the interim WBA World Super Bantamweight Championship on August 10 at the Megapolis Center in the Hard Rock Hotel Panama City. I have complete faith that by the end of August, I will have two new champions.”

Cuellar’s advisor, Sebastian Contursi who also works with Marcos Maidana, is an old friend of Lewkowicz and brought him to the well-known promoter. “I’m very happy to be joining forces with a great promoter like Sampson on this excellent fighter,” he said, “and I look forward to many great fights in the future.”

“I am very proud to be joining such a great promotional family and I look forward to winning my first world championship next month for my family and all the people who have helped me to get there,” said Jesus Cuellar.

UNCASVILLE, CT – Middleweight Curtis “Showtime” Stevens, 24-3, 17 KOs, has been gaining serious ground in the 160-pound division over the past couple of years. The Brooklyn-born slugger’s recent performances have brought him the NABF belt, a boat-load of new fans, and sudden status as a bona fide title threat. This career-surge couldn’t come at a better time, because the middleweight division is loaded with a number of exciting options for Stevens, including fights with the four world champions that currently rule the weight class. He just needs to keep winning.

Stevens takes on Mexican veteran Saul Roman, 37-9, 31 KOs, on the next edition of Fight Night, on NBC Sports Network, August 3rd. The fight is part of the anticipated “Three to See” triple header of 10-rounders that also features cruiserweights Eddie Chambers and Thabiso Mchunu, and heavyweight Tomasz Adamek against Dominick Guinn. The broadcast from the Mohegan Sun Casino, in Uncasville, CT, begins at 10:30 PM.

Fans love a fast-fisted puncher like Stevens, and an impressive win over Roman, especially another KO, could start a groundswell of support for the 28-year old to fight for the title. Potential matches include WBC champion Sergio Martinez, 51-2-2, 28 KOs, of Argentina, WBA king Gennady Golovkin, 27-0, 24 KOs, of Kazakhstan, WBO champ Peter Quillin (aka Kid Chocolate), 29-0, 21 KOs, of the USA, former WBC champ Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., 46-1-1, 32 KO’s, of Mexico and the winner of the upcoming match between IBF champion Daniel Geale, 29-1, 21 KOs, of Australia and Darren Barker, 25-1, 16 KOs, of the UK.

Thoughts of the hard-hitting Stevens in the ring with each of the international stars is an exciting prospect, and who could resist an all-Brooklyn brawl between Curtis and Kid Chocolate? The fact that Stevens could wage war with any of the champs is further proof that he is coming into his own as a contender with the power and attitude to compete with any 160-pounder in the game.

However, Stevens must first tackle the tough, upset-minded Mexican currently blocking the options that could come after August 3rd.

“THREE TO SEE” FIGHT INFO:

August 3rd “Three To See” card at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT. In the main event Curtis Stevens and Saul Roman will clash for 10-rounds in a middleweight war. Also co-featured will be a 10-round cruiserweight battle between Eddie Chambers and Thabiso Mchunu. Heavyweight, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek will take on Dominick Guinn for 10-rounds. Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov will be featured on the undercard in an 8 round heavyweight fight.

NBC Sports Network Fight Night will telecast the August 3rd show beginning 10:30PM EDT.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 (price includes facility fees) and can be purchased by calling Mohegan Sun Box office 860-862-8499 or through Ticketmaster. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office at 860-862-8499.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, 2012 Olympic Gold Medal winning Super Heavyweight Anthony Joshua will turn pro and sign a promotional contract with Matchroom Sport.

Joshua is scheduled to make his professional debut in the headline bout — likely a scheduled six-rounder — on Oct. 5 at the O2 Arena in London.

Joshua joins Olympic teammates Luke Campbell, the bantamweight gold medalist who recently turned pro as a lightweight, and team captain Thomas Stalker, a junior welterweight, in the Matchroom Sport stable.

The July 26 edition of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra will feature former Jr. Lightweight and Featherweight title challenger Juan Carlos “Mini” Burgos (30-1-1 20 KOs, ESPN.com No. 4 ranked Jr. Lightweight) and Yakubu “The Black Mamba” Amidu (18-4-1, 16 KOs) in the 12-round Lightweight main event. Friday’s show from Thunder Valley Casino in Lincoln, Calif., will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, WatchESPN, and broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+. ESPN Deportes will televise Friday’s fights on Saturday, July 27, at 9 p.m. The card is promoted by Banner Promotions.

New Picture (7)
Watch Teddy Atlas and Joe Tessitore preview Friday’s main event

Commentators:
Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas will be ringside describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will present all the latest boxing news and highlights. Delvin Rodriguez, will call the fights with Pablo Viruega for ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates (Friday Night Fights), on both ESPN Deportes+ and ESPN Deportes, while Leopoldo Gonzalez and Claudia Trejos will anchor the studio. Bilingual reporter Bernardo Osuna (@osunaespn) will present live interviews and reports for both shows.

Main Event:
Mexico’s Burgos is coming off a 12-round draw in a Jr. Lightweight title challenge against Roman Martinez.

After that fight, ESPN.com boxing writer Dan Rafael wrote, “Making his first defense, Martinez escaped with his belt on another highly debatable decision. Almost all of press row, as well as the Twitterverse and HBO’s Harold Lederman, had Burgos winning the fight. He hammered Martinez with hard body punches throughout the bout. According to CompuBox, Burgos landed more punches in 10 out of the 12 rounds. Burgos just seemed more in control, stronger and better able to do what he wanted to do. Martinez seemed to have a hard time dealing with his height and reach.”

California’s Amidu, who is co-managed by actor Vince Vaughn, is looking to rebound from a 10-round split decision loss to Haskell Rhodes.

“I’ve been working with Yakubu since he came to the United States,” said Amidu’s co-manager & trainer Baba Sumaila. “I managed his brother, Abdullai. So when Yakubu came here, I started working with him. Yakubu is always training. When we have a fight, he increases the tempo to make him more ready for the fight. We know our opponent is very good, but we’re ready for that. We are ready.”

Co-Feature:
Friday’s 10-round co-feature will pit Lightweights Miguel “Silky Smooth” Gonzalez (21-3, 15 KOs) of Cleveland against Brazil’s Josenilson “Jo” Dos Santos (24-1, 14 KOs). Gonzalez scored a 10-round unanimous decision win over former lightweight titlist Miguel Acosta in his last fight, while Dos Santos is looking to continue his winning ways following a 12-round unanimous decision win over Carlos Rodriguez.

Upcoming Schedule:

Date
Time (ET)
Main Event
Location

Networks
Fri., Aug 2
9 p.m.
Javier Fortuna (22-0, 16 KOs) vs. Luis Franco (11-1, 7 KOs)—10 rounds, Featherweights
Buffalo Run Casino, Miami, Okla.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, WatchESPN
Fri., Aug 9
10 p.m.
Rustam Nugaev (24-6-1, 14 KOs) vs. José Hernández (14-6-1, 6 KOs)—10 rounds, Lightweights
Morongo Casino, Cabazon, Calif.
ESPN2, ESPN ESPN Deportes+ , WatchESPN
Fri., Aug 16
9 p.m.
Andrzej Fonfara (23-2, 13 KOs) vs. Gabriel Campillo (22-5-1, 9 KOs)—12 rounds, Light Heavyweights
U.S. Cellular Field, Chicago
ESPN2, ESPN ESPN Deportes+ , WatchESPN
Fri., Aug 23
TBD
Argenis Méndez (21-2, 11 KOs) vs. Arash Usmanee (20-1, 10 KOs)—12 rounds, Jr. Lightweights
Turning Stone Casino, Verona N.Y.
ESPN2, ESPN ESPN Deportes+ , WatchESPN
*Schedule subject to change

Follow ESPN’s Friday Night Fights on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like it on Facebook. Follow ESPN Deportes’ Viernes de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo. Also score the fights round-by-round with the “Live Friday Night Fights Facebook Voting App,” an application on the ESPN FNF Facebook page that allows viewers to score the fight round-by-round.

New York, NY (7/23/13) – All of the fighters for tomorrow night’s DiBella Entertainment and SMS Promotions Broadway Boxing card at Roseland Ballroom weighed-in earlier today.

Below are the official weights for tomorrow night’s show.

8 ROUNDS – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Yuri Foreman vs. Jamaal Davis
Brooklyn, NY Philadelphia, PA
30-2, 8 KO’s 14-9-1, 6 KO’s
154 lbs. 155 lbs.

6 ROUNDS – SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS
Heather Hardy vs. Cassie Trost
Brooklyn, NY Seattle, WA
5-0 1-1-1
121 lbs. 121 lbs.

4 ROUNDS – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Emmanuel DeJesus vs. Khalik Memminger
Canovanas, Puerto Rico Killeen, TX
5-0, 4 KO’s 6-10-3, 3 KO’s
152 lbs. 152 lbs.

6 ROUNDS – LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Travis Peterkin vs. Hector Hernandez
Brooklyn, NY Yuma, AZ
7-0, 4 KO’s 10-5-2, 4 KO’s
176 lbs. 176 lbs.

4 ROUNDS – JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS
Bryant Cruz vs. Nuwan Jayakody
New Rochelle, NY Washington, DC
5-0, 5 KO’s 1-1, 1 KO
130 lbs. 129 lbs.

4 ROUNDS -LIGHTWEIGHTS
Louis Cruz vs. Justin Robbins
Bronx, NY St. Louis, MO
3-0, 2 KO’s 1-1
137 lbs. 137 lbs.

6 ROUNDS – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Akil Auguste vs. Louis Rose
Brooklyn, NY Lynwood, CA
2-0, 2 KO’s 7-1, 2 KO’s
161 lbs. 162 lbs.

4 ROUNDS – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Ytalo Perea vs. John Orr
Howard Beach, NY Kansas City, KS
3-0, 2 KO’s 1-0
252 lbs. 272 lbs.

*Donte Strayhorn’s opponent failed to make wait*

The card on July 24 is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson’s SMS Promotions and sponsored by SMS Audio, Manfredi Auto Group, Newlio.com, and Everlast. The event will be aired on Broadband via GFL.tv. SNY will broadcast the event tape-delayed. Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased through Ticketmaster by calling (800) 745-3000. Tickets are priced at $125, $85, $65 and $45. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door the night of the fight. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET with the first bout scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.
# # #

For more information visit us at www.dbe1.com and www.smsby50.com . Follow us on twitter @loudibella and @50Cent . You can visit our fan pages at facebook/dibellaentertainment and facebook/50cent

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (July 23rd, 2013) – The show will go on for fan-favorite Joe Gardner this weekend following a last-minute change of plans.

With Queens native Alexander Mancera forced to withdraw due to a broken nose sustained this past weekend, Gardner (11-6-1, 1 KO) will now face Russell Lamour (4-0, 2 KOs) of Portland, Maine in a six-round super middleweight bout Saturday, July 27th, 2013 on the undercard of Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports’ “Game On” professional boxing event at Twin River Casino.

“Injuries are part of the game, but Joe is a professional and has always been willing to adjust to the inevitabilities of boxing,” CES matchmaker Michael Parente said. “This is another evenly-matched, competitive fight. That’s what we do.”

Gardner, 37, is looking to rebound following a close, split-decision loss to Rich Gingras in May (Gingras, coincidentally, will be facing Providence’s Vladine Biosse in the main event Saturday with Biosse’s New England Super Middleweight title on the line) while Lamour is looking to keep the good times rolling following his first-round knockout win this past Friday in New Hampshire. The 29-year-old Haitian middleweight, who will move up in weight for Saturday’s fight, flattened Aquilano Brandao on the undercard of ESPN’s Friday Night Fights show at Rockingham Park, sending Brandao to the canvas three times before the fight was stopped at the 1-minute, 46-second mark of the opening round.

Prior to making his professional debut in November, Lamour competed in the World Series of Boxing, an international competition for amateur fighters in which the participants fought on teams in five-round bouts without protective head or chest gear. The fighters were allowed to maintain their amateur status, making Lamour’s knockout win over John Downey in November his official pro debut. Lamour finished 4-4 in the World Series of Boxing.

The main event between Providence’s Biosse (15-2-1, 7 KOs) and Pawtucket’s Gingras (13-3, 8 KOs) will be for Biosse’s New England Super Middleweight Title, which he has successfully defended three times since winning it in 2010. Gingras, a former contestant on the reality television series The Contender, is aiming for his third consecutive win and his fourth in his last five fights.

Popular middleweight prospect Thomas Falowo (10-1, 7 KOs) of Pawtucket, R.I., could steal the show in the eight-round co-feature when he faces hard-hitting southpaw Chris Chatman (10-2-1, 5 KOs) of Jersey City, N.J. The undercard of “Game On,” appropriately titled with Twin River celebrating its recent launch of table games, also features the professional debut of highly-touted Groton, Conn., female bantamweight Marcia Agripino, who will face Brooklyn’s Vanessa Greco (1-2-3). Providence super middleweight KJ Harrison-Lombardi (1-0) will make his Twin River debut against Boston’s Maceo Crowder (2-1) in a four-round bout. “Game On” will also feature the professional debut of Hartford light middleweight “Jabbin’” Joe Wilson Jr., who will battle Saul Almeida (0-2) of Framingham, Mass., in a four-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets for “Game On” are $41.00, $76.00, and $126.00 (VIP) and can be purchased by calling CES at 401.724.2253/2254, online at www.shop.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com, at the Players Club booth at Twin River, or through any TicketMaster location. Doors open 6 p.m. with the first bout scheduled for 7.

As an added bonus, Twin River and CES have teamed up to offer fight fans and VIP customers an exclusive offer with their ticket purchase. Show your ticket stub at the event, join the Twin River Rewards Club and get a free $25 Twin River gift card and two free tickets to a Twin River concert. CES has upped the ante by offering an additional $25 gift certificate to either Meritage or Chardonnay’s restaurant in Rhode Island with the purchase of a $126 Jimmy’s Club VIP ticket.

(Twin River has waived its 18+ rule for “Game On.” Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must enter through the West entrance.)

Undefeated Flyweight Jonathan Gonzalez will fight former world champion Giovanni Segura on Augusta 17th in Carolina, Puerto Rico according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“Segura caused a big hurt in Puerto Rico when he beat — two times — our champion, Ivan Calderon, and I want to heal those hurts, no matter if [it] is a KO or a decision win,” Gonzalez said. “I am going to win and after this bout become a world champion.”

“Segura is a tough fighter, but we have our plans to face him,” Gonzalez said. “The people said [will I] be ready for the pressure Segura will [apply], but I ask Segura if he is going to be ready for my pressure.”

“Now we have a more international card with fighters from Dominican Republic, Cuba, Mexico, United States and Puerto Rico,” promoter Ivan Rivera of PR Best Boxing Promotion said. “Felix Diaz and Yudel Jhonson, two great prospects who were good amateur fighters for their countries, will fight for their first time in Puerto Rico.”

Orlando, FL, (July 23, 2013) Two-time world title challenger and top rated junior middleweight Delvin Rodriguez and Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia were in Orlando, Florida this afternoon for the
Kick-Off Press Conference to announce Rodriguez’s fight with three-division world champion Miguel Cotto set for Saturday, October 5 at the Amway Center and broadcast LIVE on HBO.

“I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity” said Rodriguez. “I know it takes so much to make a fight like this happen, I’m also very thankful to my promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing, Top Rank, HBO and Miguel Cotto Promotions.”

“This fight motivates me more than ever to face a true champion, true warrior, this fight will really show what I have and bring out the best in me. For me it’s now or never. I’m a warrior that comes forward.”

“I admire Cotto as a fighter and respect him as a person but on fight night that goes out the door, I don’t care if he’s my brother or another person” continued Rodriguez.

Said Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing, “We’re very thankful to Miguel Cotto Promotions, Top Rank and HBO for this opportunity.”

“Both Delvin and Miguel are warriors. This fight truly brings together two styles that I firmly believe will result in a war and a great fight for the fans.”

“As many of you know Delvin was involved in the 2011 Fight of the Year against Pawel Wolak. He’s always fought anyone we’ve put in front of him, he personifies what a warrior is in boxing.”

The Miguel Cotto/Delvin Rodriguez 12 round super welterweight battle will be seen in over 180 counties across the globe.

Cotto and Rodriguez boast a combined record of 65-10-3 (46 KOs) — a winning percentage of over 83% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%. Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez will go on sale, Tuesday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. ET. Priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, tickets can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com.

All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

New York, NY (7/23/13) – With DiBella Entertainment stable-mate Edwin Rodriguez yelling from ringside to “Make your statement!”, Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski (17-0) did just that this past Friday in his national TV debut on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights. Kielczweski, of Quincy, Mass., scored a sensational one-punch KO over the previously undefeated Puerto Rican knockout artist Miguel Soto (now 11-1, 11KO’s) in the fifth round of their scheduled eight-round super featherweight contest at Rockingham Park in DBE Salem, NH. The knockout was so spectacular that it was voted as the fifth best play of the day on that evening’s ESPN Top 10.

Kielczweski’s highlight-reel knockout came just six days after Worcester’s Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (24-0, 16KO’s) demolished Denis Grachev inside the opening round of the finale to the coveted Monte-Carlo Million Dollar Super 4 tournament in Monaco.

Both performances were eye-catching and spectacular.

Both performances were easily the most important and impressive of their respective careers.

Both performances have the boxing world still talking and fans excited about the future possibilities.

“It has been exactly 10 days since my fight and I am still ecstatic,” said Rodriguez. “The fan and media response that I have received since I returned home has been overwhelming. I spent the day at the ESPN studios last week and was a special guest for Friday Night Fights. It was great being there to see Ryan put on such a terrific performance. Not only is he a stable-mate of mine at DBE, but I also consider him a friend. To see him perform the way he did in his biggest fight and first national TV exposure was just great. I remember being in that same position not so long ago.”

“It was the absolute best way I could ever imagine to celebrate a birthday,” said Kielczweski, who was celebrating his 24th birthday this past Friday. “Having Edwin at the fight and hearing him cheer me on was really something special. Edwin is an inspiration to not only me but to everyone coming up out of the New England area right now. Fighting on his undercards and seeing the success he has had makes me want to work that much harder so I can get to that level.”

Boxing has been a way of life for the two Massachusetts-natives for many years. Both the 28-year-old Rodriguez, who began boxing at 16, and 24-year-old Kielczweski, who first took up the sport at the ripe old age of six, had stellar amateur careers fighting throughout the New England region. Both fighters claimed the New England Golden Gloves championship, with Rodriguez also winning the 2005 US Amateur Championship and the 2006 National Golden Gloves.

Both Rodriguez and Kielczweski turned pro in 2008. Kielczweski has fought exclusively under the DBE banner, having been brought to DiBella’s attention by Sampson Lewkowicz, who also discovered middleweight kingpin Sergio Martinez, as well as Manny Pacquiao. Rodriguez signed up with DiBella a year later in 2009.

The two have been featured together on five cards thus far, including when Rodriguez headlined the HBO Boxing After Dark event on September 29, 2012, at Foxwoods, as well as his October 21, 2011, ShoBox: The New Generation headliner, also at Foxwoods. In addition to his two appearances on HBO and three on Showtime, Rodriguez has also been featured twice on ESPN. Kielczweski hopes that he will be able to follow in that same path as he makes the transition from up-and-coming prospect to legitimate world championship contender.

With his victory over Grachev, Rodriguez is in line for a title shot and has expressed interest in facing any and all of the champions in the 168lb. division. The WBC #3, WBA #3, IBF #3, WBO #5 and ESPN.com #8-rated super middleweight Rodriguez will be coming to New York within the next week or two to further discuss his next move with DiBella.

“I want a world championship. This is what I have been dreaming about since I first started boxing. All of the hard work and grueling hours in the gym and time away from my family; these are the sacrifices that I have had to make to get to this point, to challenge for and to win a world championship,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez continued, “I’m rated in the top five in all four major sanctioning bodies and I feel that I match up well with any of the champions in the 168lb. division. Whether it is Froch, Stieglitz, Bika or Ward, I am ready. Everyone knows that Ward is the top guy and there has been talk about that fight. I am coming to New York in the next week or two and meeting with Lou to discuss what he thinks is the best move for us. Whatever he decides though, I know that my team (head trainer Ronnie Shields, strength and conditioning coaches Danny Arnold/Matt Bartula and nutritional and conditioning advisor Victor Conte), will come up with a great game plan and have me in the best possible shape to get me into position to take home that belt. New England fight fans are some of the greatest in the entire world, and I am ready to be their next champion.”

While Kielczweski is still a bit away from that level, he does feel that his performance was an eye-opener and that he is ready to prove himself against any of the other so-called top super featherweights in the world.

“There were discussions earlier this year of me facing Jose Pedraza. I loved that fight when they first brought it to my attention, and I still do. He has been called a blue-chip prospect, and the next champion to come out of Puerto Rico. A win over him will put me right where I want to be in my career.”

NEW ENGLAND STRONG

In addition to Rodriguez and Kielczweski, the New York-based promoter DiBella has a number of New England fighters under his DBE banner, including junior welterweight contender Danny O’Connor (21-1), of Framingham, Mass., and New Haven, Connecticut’s exciting undefeated super bantamweight Luis Rosa (14-0). O’Connor is managed by Ken Casey, leader singer of the Dropkick Murphys, and has developed a cult-like following of fans that continues to grow with each outing. Both O’Connor and Rosa picked up victories on the undercard of Gennady Golovkin’s middleweight title defense over Matthew Macklin on HBO last month at Foxwoods.

UNCASVILLE, CT – Ten years ago, Arkansas heavyweight Dominick Guinn sprung onto the boxing scene by blasting the highly regarded Michael Grant with his potent left hook, stopping him in round seven after four knockdowns. The sensational victory was part of the 24-bout winning streak that started Guinn’s career and made him a suddenly hot prospect among the big men.

At the time, heavyweight was a crowded division full of hungry fighters, and Guinn never quite made it to the top of his class. But he never stopped believing in his talents. He had good size, solid boxing skills and that crushing power that earned him the nickname “The Southern Disaster”. Guinn kept fighting, and remained in the gym, waiting for his chance to breakthrough once again.

So when Guinn received the surprise call to fight Tomasz Adamek, 48-2, 29 KOs, on the next edition of NBC Sports Network’s live boxing series, Fight Night, it felt like destiny to the self-described gym rat.

Originally Adamek was scheduled to face Tony Grano on August 3rd. However a back injury forced Grano to pull out of the bout, opening the door for Guinn to stage another return to significant heavyweight action. The Houston-based heavyweight will again try to take the division by storm with another surprise win.

The 10-rounder between Guinn and Adamek is one third of the big “Three to See” triple header at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT. The broadcast begins at 10:30 PM ET, and also includes middleweight Curtis Stevens (24-3, 17 KOs) against Saul Roman (37-9, 31 KOs), and cruiserweight Eddie Chambers (36-3, 18 KOs) versus Thabiso Mchunu (12-1, 9 KOs*), in separate 10-rounders.

Although Adamek is still in hot pursuit of another shot at the heavyweight title, Guinn, 34-9-1, 23 KOs, believes he’s recently seen a few cracks in his popular opponent’s armor, and is convinced that the time is ripe for his left hook to again make him a player among heavyweights.

In addition to this, Guinn has never been stopped in his 13-year boxing career, and he figures his granite chin could be the antidote to Adamek’s heavy hands. If Guinn can pull the upset, his career will get the sudden jolt he’s been waiting for.

Hungry to again make his mark and finally reach his potential in the ring, the always-ready Dominick Guinn may prove to be a dangerous substitute against Adamek.

*Guinn and Mchunu records per Fight Fax

“THREE TO SEE” FIGHT INFO:

August 3rd “Three To See” card at Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT. In the main event Curtis Stevens and Saul Roman will clash for 10-rounds in a middleweight war. Also co-featured will be a 10-round cruiserweight battle between Eddie Chambers and Thabiso Mchunu. Heavyweight, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek will take on Dominick Guinn for 10-rounds. Vyacheslav “Czar” Glazkov will be featured on the undercard in an 8 round heavyweight fight.

NBC Sports Network Fight Night will telecast the August 3rd show beginning 10:30PM EDT.

To find the location of the NBC Sports Network on your local cable, satellite or IPTV provider, click here: http://www.nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/30092015/ns/sports/

Tweet the link to NBC Sports Network Fight Night channel finder: bit.ly/175UuU

Tickets are priced at $125 and $40 (price includes facility fees) and can be purchased by calling Mohegan Sun Box office 860-862-8499 or through Ticketmaster. For ADA accessible sales, call Mohegan Sun Box Office at 860-862-8499.

ORLANDO, FLA (July 23, 2013) — Twelve years after making his professional debut, three-division world champion and the Pride of Puerto Rico MIGUEL COTTO will make his Florida debut when he faces two-time world title challenger and current Top-Five contender DELVIN RODRIGUEZ in a 12-round super welterweight battle. Cotto vs. Rodriguez will take place Saturday, October 5, at the home of the Orlando Magic, Amway Center in Orlando, Fla., which is hosting its first-ever professional boxing event.

Promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to Cotto vs. Rodriguez will go on sale, Tuesday, July 30 at 10:00 a.m. ET. Priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, tickets can be purchased online at amwaycenter.com, Chase® Box Office at Amway Center, Ticketmaster retail locations, charge-by-phone at 800.745.3000 or at Ticketmaster.com. All dates, act(s) and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service, handling and facility fee charges. For Amway Center box office and ticket information, visit amwaycenter.com (phone purchases are not available through the Amway Center box office). The Amway Center is located at 400 West Church Street and the box office is located on the north side of the Amway Center, near the intersection of Church Street and Hughey Avenue.

Cotto and Rodriguez boast a combined record of 65-10-3 (46 KOs) — a winning percentage of over 83% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%.

“I am very happy to be back on October 5 and fighting in front of all the great fans of Orlando, Florida,” said Cotto.

“I’m going to go for the knockout,” said Rodriguez. “I will take advantage of the biggest opportunity of my life.”

“Miguel Cotto has participated in some of boxing’s biggest events over the past 10 years,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank. “His return to the ring on October 5 will be another electrifying night for the fans watching it live in Orlando and the boxing fans throughout the world. Top Rank is thrilled to work with him and his promotional team on this event.”

“When Miguel Cotto is in the ring it is always exciting to watch. For us it is a great pleasure to present the return of one of boxing’s biggest stars to our great Puerto Rican community in Orlando and all the Latino fans of Florida. October 5th will be a great night for boxing,” said Héctor Soto, Vice President of Miguel Cotto Promotions.

“As Delvin’s promoter, it is an honor to have our boxer fight against Miguel Cotto, a true boxing legend,” said Joe DeGuardia, president of Star Boxing. “As a boxing aficionado, I am excited to see this fight, which is one that real boxing fans are enthusiastic about. I expect a thrilling battle of will and skill between these two veteran warriors and look forward to October 5.”

“Landing another high-profile event like this is a knockout for the City of Orlando in terms of entertainment and economic impact,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “Whether it’s Wrestlemania, the NBA All-Star game or NCAA Championship games, Orlando has proven that we have what it takes to host top-tier sporting events. We look forward to hosting what will be a thrilling fight and once again showcasing Orlando to a worldwide audience.”

“Today’s announcement is particularly exciting because it is our first professional boxing match and an internationally televised one,” said Orlando Venues Executive Director Allen Johnson. “This is yet another milestone for Amway Center and illustrates our commitment to host diverse events that cater to the greater Central Florida community and beyond.”

Cotto (37-4, 30 KOs), from Caguas, Puerto Rico, has sold more fight tickets at the “Mecca of Boxing,” Madison Square Garden, than any other fighter in this millennium. He held a world title every year from 2004 to 2012 while winning 17 of the 21 world championship bouts he has fought. Puerto Rico’s most exciting fighter and one of its greatest, Cotto held the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight crown from 2004-2006, successfully defending it six times before vacating it to capture the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight title at the end of 2006, a title he held for nearly as long. After losing the WBA title to three-time world champion Antonio Margarito, arguably the fight of the year, in July 2008, Cotto won his second welterweight belt in February 2009, knocking out Michael Jennings in the fifth round to become the WBO welterweight champion. He lost the title in his second defense, November 2009, to Manny Pacquiao. Cotto captured the WBA super welterweight title June 5, 2010, in the first fight ever held at the new Yankee Stadium, by stopping undefeated defending champion Yuri Foreman. He successfully defended that title twice in 2011, knocking out former world champion Ricardo Mayorga and Margarito in the 12th and 10th rounds, respectively. He lost his world championship belt on May 5, 2012, losing an exciting and close decision to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a title unification bout in what many consider one of the toughest fights of Mayweather’s career. In his last fight, on December 1, Cotto unsuccessfully challenged WBA super welterweight champion Austin Trout, losing a 12-round decision. Notable scalps on Cotto’s belt include world champions, ”Sugar” Shane Mosley, Zab Judah, Joshua Clottey, Paulie Malignaggi and Demarcus Corley.

Rodriguez (28-6-3, 16 KOs), a native of the Dominican Republic, now fighting out of Danbury, Conn., first came into prominence by knocking out Luis Hernandez (20-2, 13 KOs) in the third round of their 2006 fight to capture the USBA welterweight title. Victories over Oscar Diaz (26-2, 12 KOs) and Shamone Alvarez (20-1, 11 KOs), led to Rodriguez’s first title shot, against Isaac Hlatshwayo, for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) welterweight crown in 2009, where Rodriguez lost a close split decision. Rodriguez’s debut in the super welterweight division was in 2011’s “Fight of Year,” a Draw against Pawel Wolak (29-1, 19 KOs) that had fans on their feet as the two gladiators went toe-to-toe for 12 brutally exquisite rounds. After the winning the rematch against Wolak at the end of that same year, Rodriguez unsuccessfully challenged undefeated WBA super welterweight champion Austin Trout in 2012, losing a 12-round decision. He enters this fight having knocked out previously undefeated George Tahdooahnippah (31-0, 23 KOs) and Freddy Hernandez (30-4, 20 KOs) in the sixth and eighth rounds, in February and May of this year, respectively. He is currently world-rated No. 4 by the WBO.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com and www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing and facebook.com/trboxeo, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo or twitter.com/warcotto.

NEW YORK, July 23 – Big-time boxing hits Broadway on Monday, August 19 when the brand new Golden Boy Live!series premieres on FOX Sports 1, America’s new sports network,from Best Buy Theater in Manhattan with an exciting tripleheader. Headlining this groundbreaking event is top middleweight contender Danny Jacobs of Brooklyn facing former world title challenger Giovanni Lorenzo of Manhattan in a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Middleweight Championship.

In the co-main event, the Bronx’s Eddie Gomez risks his perfect professional record in an eight-round welterweight match-up against Philadelphia veteran Steve Upsher Chambers.

Adding to the local New York City flavor is 2012 U.S. Olympian and Staten Island native Marcus Browne who will be featured in a televised fight against an opponent to be determined as well as bantamweight prospect and Brooklynite Claude Staten Jr. who will be featured on the non-televised portion of the fight card.

The event airs live on FOX Sports 1, marking the first of 24 Golden Boy Live! events televised by the network over the next year, bringing world class boxing into the living rooms of sports fans nationwide during primetime.

“The launch of FOX Sports 1 is a major event not only for boxing, but the sports world,” said Oscar De La Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. “Our goal at Golden Boy Promotions is to bring boxing into the homes of sports fans and with this new series, more people than ever will have access to these great fights.”

“FOX Sports 1 is thrilled to kick off its relationship with Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions with an event of this magnitude,” said Patrick Crakes, FOX Sports SVP of Programming & Research. “This card shows just what Golden Boy can bring together, and being able to offer this kind of sports programming to the FOX Sports 1 prime time audience is an awesome opportunity.”

Highlighting the importance of the series’ debut, numerous stars from the boxing, entertainment and sports worlds are expected to attend including Oscar De La Hoya, future Hall of Famer and current IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Bernard Hopkins and former Two-Time World Champion Paulie Malignaggi.

Jacobs vs. Lorenzo is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. ET with the first bell sounding at 8:00 p.m. ET. The FOX Sports 1 broadcast airs live at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $125, $60 and $35, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and available for purchase online at www.axs.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849) and at the Best Buy Theater Box Office between 12:00 p.m. ET and 6:00 p.m. ET.

After surviving a harrowing bout with cancer, Brooklyn’s Danny “Miracle Man” Jacobs (25-1, 22 KO’s) made the comeback of a lifetime in 2012, returning to the ring to knock out Josh Luteran and Chris Fitzpatrick, but this inspirational 26-year-old won’t be satisfied until he has a world championship belt around his waist and a win on August 19 will move him even closer to his goal.

A native of the Dominican Republic now making his home in Manhattan, 32-year-old Giovanni Lorenzo (32-5, 24 KO’s) has made a name for himself as one the top middleweights in the world for years, challenging Sebastian Sylvester, Felix Sturm and Hassan N’Dam for the 160-pound championship. He has yet to secure a belt, making his bout against Jacobs a critical one as he looks to take his career to a new level.

Former amateur star Eddie Gomez (14-0, 9 KO’s) has had a phenomenal run as a professional thus far, winning all 14 of his bouts against increasingly more difficult competition. With five wins in 2012, the Bronx product has added two more wins to his ledger in 2013, knocking out Javier Gomez in March and shutting out Luis Hernandez in April.

Philadelphia’s Steve Upsher Chambers (24-2-1, 6 KO’s) is unbeaten in 20 of his last 22 bouts, with his only loss coming against former World Champion Luis Collazo in a hard-fought eight-round battle last October. Eager to get back into the ring and start a new winning streak, the 28-year-old veteran gets his chance on national television against Gomez on August 19.

Well on his way to becoming the best boxer ever produced by the borough of Staten Island, 2012 United States Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (5-0, 5 KO’s) has dominated everyone in his path since turning pro in November of 2012. Victorious in each of his five bouts, with all of those wins coming by way of knockout, the 22-year-old light heavyweight is coming off of a second-round technical knockout win over Ricardo Campillo in June that once again showed his power and poise in the ring.

The perfect example of New York’s claim as the world’s melting pot, Brooklyn’s Claude Staten Jr. (1-0) proudly represents his Portuguese, Chinese and Panamanian heritage every time he steps into the ring. A former New York and National Golden Gloves participant as an amateur, Staten took his talents to the pro game in March of 2013, impressing his hometown fans at Barclays Center with a shutout victory over Mike Hill.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,www.twitter.com/DanielJacobsTKO, www.twitter.com/eddiegomez718 and www.twitter.com/bestbuy_theater, follow the conversation using #GoldenBoyLive, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing. For more information on FOX Sports 1 visit www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1 and become a follower on Twitter at www.twitter.com/@FOXSports @FOXSports1 and @FOXSportsPR.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (July 22, 2013) – In her first mixed-martial-arts fight since retiring from boxing, Holly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm registered a devastating knockout in her Legacy Fight Championship fight debut this past Friday night at Arena Theater in Houston, Texas.

Holm (4-0, 4 KOs) is on her way to becoming even greater force in MMA than she was in boxing, in which she captured 14 world titles in three different weight classes. She stopped Allana “Hands of Stone” Jones (2-3) with a highlight reel-like, KO Kick of the Year candidate at 2:22 of the second round in Legacy FC 21.

“Lenny (Fresquez, Holm’s promoter) told me she was a special person “an ecstatic Mike Maynard (Legacy FC president) said after the fight. “She really lived up to all the hype. It is great to have her in Legacy’s stable. We are very excited to work with Holly and the team of Jackson/Winklejohn. No doubt this girl will also be the biggest name in MMA also. It is not only a pleasure to work with her, but am really impressed by what a great person she is as well as her entire team.”

Fighting out of Team Jackson-Winkeljohn, Holm overcame blurry vision in the opening round, the result of getting unintentionally poked in the eye. She started out moving and striking, then effectively mixed in front and head kicks. Mid-way through the second round, Holm unloaded a picture-perfect left kick to Jones’ head, immediately ending the fight as the referee rushed in before Holm did additional damage to her semi-conscious opponent.

Holm was a consummate boxer, recording only nine knockouts 38 professional boxing matches (33-2-3), however, in four MMA fights to date she has stopped all four opponents, three via kicks, not punches.

She is competing in the 135-pound weight class, the only women’s division in the UFC, dominated right now by Ronda Rousey.

“Holly’s very skilled and working on her wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu,” Holm’s manager/trainer Mike Winkeljohn said. “We’re fine-tuning her skills on the way to the top. The ultimate goal is to win the highest MMA title out there, whether that’s by beating Ronda Rousey or somebody else at that time, to be the best in the world. It’s Holly’s time to showcase her MMA skills.”

Her longtime fight promoter, Lenny Fresquez, plans to feature Holm on a show November 2 at Route 66 Casino Hotel in Albuquerque.

“This was one of the most exiting nights of my career working with Holly and Mike,” Fresquez added. “I always knew she was going to be a force to be reckoned with in MMA but not so fast. We have never waited around for anybody and now everybody understands why. Holly has so many options. We just ran out of people in boxing; no threats for her. Now, she has plenty of challenges.”

For more information about Holly Holm go online to www.FresquezProductions.com