VIDEO: Janibek vs Bentley | FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE



Press Conference Notes: Janibek & Seniesa Highlight Las Vegas World Title Doubleheader

 LAS VEGAS (Nov. 10, 2022) — Two world champions and the son of a modern boxing legend hit Las Vegas for a press conference two days away from a world title doubleheader at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort.

In the main event, middleweight boogeyman Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly (12-0, 8 KOs) will defend his WBO world title against British champion Denzel Bentley (17-1-1, 14 KOs). This is the first title defense for Janibek, who was elevated from interim champion after Demetrius Andrade elected to move up in weight.

The co-feature sees one of women’s boxing’s biggest stars, Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (22-0, 9 KOs), defend her WBA minimumweight world title against Argentina’s Jazmin Gala Villarino (6-1-2, 1 KO). Estrada, who formerly held the WBO light flyweight crown, will make her Top Rank debut after signing a long-term pact with the promotional company earlier this year.

In a four-rounder, lightweight sensation Emiliano Vargas (1-0, 1 KO), the youngest fighting son of Fernando Vargas, will make his Top Rank debut. His father also serves as his head trainer.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Janibek Alimkhanuly
“Last time {I fought}, it was just the beginning of my knockout career. I hope God will {give me the strength} to do much better, and you can see all of my good punches.”
“When I came to America, it was already in our plans to bring a good team around us. Because of this team, I am a champion now.”
“I don’t know why nowadays champions don’t want to fight with the other champions. I don’t think they should be afraid. I am here. I am a champion now. I am here to fight the champions. Hopefully, Top Rank can organize a fight with another world champion next.”
Denzel Bentley
“This means a lot. We’re at the top of the sport now. This is what I’ve dreamed of as a fighter. This is what every fighter dreams of. It’s the opportunity of a lifetime to be here in Vegas and fight for the WBO world championship against the champion himself.”
“You’re going to see something special.”
On Janibek saying he will knock him out
“He’s meant to say that. He wants to keep his KO streak and so do I. We’re in for a good fight Saturday.”
Seniesa Estrada
“I’ll be back in the ring after over 300 days. I’m so blessed to continue, and end, my career with Top Rank. I thank God, and I thank Bob Arum and Top Rank for giving me the opportunity to represent women’s boxing. They’ve done such a great job with Mikaela Mayer, and I’ve always noticed that and recognized that. I’m happy that now I can be back in the ring and show everybody what I’m about and continue to rack up world titles.”
“I don’t underestimate anybody that I step in the ring with. I know that this is her time to shine. I know she’s coming in to defeat me, and she’s coming in as the underdog. I know she’s training harder than she’s ever trained before, and I’m training harder than I’ve ever trained before because, now, I have a bigger and better platform. I know I still have a lot to prove. I know Argentineans are tough, but I have that Mexican blood and Mexican heart. I come from where fighter like Fernando Vargas came from and other great Mexicans. I’m going to show that Saturday night.”
“It’s very special because these last 11 months have been difficult for me staying out of the ring and not fighting. So, I felt like I was missing out on so much because I’m so competitive, and I want to show that I’m great. I know it means so much to my father and {head trainer} Dean {Campos}, who put so much time into me when women’s boxing was nowhere. Women’s boxing has had the most amazing year this year. Fast forward to now, I feel like I didn’t miss out on anything these past 11 months because I’m back at a better time in women’s boxing than ever. I’m just going to elevate women’s boxing so much more.”
Jazmin Gala Villarino
“It’s a happiness I cannot hide. I’m happy, and I’m ready for this moment.”
“This is a big opportunity. I’m going to take full advantage of it. I feel like they are underestimating me a little bit, but I come from the land of ‘Chino’ Maidana and all these great Argentinean fighters. We are going to put on a great show Saturday.”
“I prepared to get the title away from the champion. She’s like the fifth-ranked women’s fighter in the world, and I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity. That’s how I prepared.”
Emiliano Vargas
“God is the greatest. I want to thank Bob Arum personally for the taking the time and even considering signing me. It’s a blessing. Top Rank has had all the stars of boxing in history. You look back, it’s had Floyd Mayweather, it’s had Oscar {De La Hoya}. it’s had countless, countless world champions {and fighters} I look up to. It’s a blessing. I want to thank my management as well for looking over everything and making sure everything is right. We’re ready to put on a show November 12.”
“{My father} is everything I need him to be. A great father, especially with him not having a father… we have a beautiful dynamic. He’s everything I need him to be. He doesn’t really need to get on me. I know exactly what I need to do, and this camp has been phenomenal. I’ve had the opportunity to spar with Jorge Linares this entire camp. I’m ready to go. I’m ready to show the world that these Vargas’ can fight. We’re not just a last name. You’ll be surprised. Believe me, you’ll be surprised.”
Saturday, November 12
ESPN+ (11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT)
Janibek Alimkhanuly vs. Denzel Bentley, 12 rounds, Janibek’s WBO Middleweight World Title
Seniesa Estrada vs. Jazmin Gala Villarino, 10 rounds, Estrada’s WBA Minimumweight World Title
ESPN+ (7:15 p.m. ET/4:15 p.m. PT)
Raymond Muratalla vs. Miguel Contreras, 8 rounds, lightweight
Emiliano Vargas vs. Julio Martinez, 4 rounds, lightweight
Javier Martinez vs. Marco Delgado, 6 rounds, super middleweight
Floyd Diaz vs. Edgar Joe Cortes, 6 rounds, junior featherweight
Charlie Sheehy vs. Markus Bowes, 4 rounds, lightweight
Karlos Balderas vs. Esteban Sanchez, 8 rounds, lightweight
Antonio Mireles vs. Eric Perry, 6 rounds, heavyweight
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SPARK: THE PRESSURE IS ALL ON LOVE

Steve Spark says the pressure is all on Montana Love to impress his hometown fans – and he’ll capitalize on that expectation and clinch a pivotal win for his World title ambitions as the pair clash for the WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight title on Saturday night at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio, live worldwide on DAZN.
 

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM THE ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE WEBSITE

Spark (15-2 14 KOs) is calling Saturday night the biggest of his career as the Australian looks to crash into the reckoning for more big fights in 2023, and ‘The Viking’ is relishing his underdog status in Ohio, having acclimated to America by ending his training camp in Houston, Texas. 
 
The 26 year old makes his US debut against Love, who headlines at home for the first time in his pro career, and Spark insists he’ll spoil the party for ‘Too Pretty’ and jump the queue for World title action.
 
“I’ve been known as someone that takes the hard fights,” said Spark. “I’ve had 14 KOs in 15 wins, you don’t get paid for overtime in this business, I always look for that.
 
“I’m looking to impress the US fans. They will love my style and that’s why I am looking to get in there and ruin Montana’s homecoming and getting that belt in his backyard.
 
“I guess people have me as the underdog, this is my first step-up so rightly so, but in my mind, I’m not the underdog and I wouldn’t have taken the fight if I didn’t believe I could win. Not many people get this type of opportunity in their life, so I am taking it with both hands, in my stride and smiling when I do it because it is exciting, it’s a special moment in my life and I want to be known for putting entertaining fights. 
 
“I wear my heart on my sleeve, I give everything in my fights and that’s what I am bringing on Saturday. There’s a little adjustment to make with southpaws, but it doesn’t matter how they stand – they all fall.
 
“Pressure is a funny thing. We all feel it, the hometown pressure is on him, he must perform well in front of them. I’m going there with an ‘everything to gain, nothing to lose’ mentality. 
 
“I’m his toughest test and he’s mine. People might not believe me but when I step into the ring, he’s going to realize in the first round that he’s never been in with someone like me. I want to win this in epic fashion, make a big statement and announce myself as a top 140lber, a fan friendly fighter and one that’s going to be at the top for years to come – it all starts on Saturday. 
 
“I said I wanted to be 27 when I fight for my first World title and that’s next year. I am not looking past Montana, but I like to look through at what possibilities there are when I when and it’s motivating for me that it’s only a few steps from the World title. 
 
“He’s slick, he’s sharp and he’s well rated, he’s up there for a reason. But that’s why we’ve taken the fight, there’s no easy fights at this level and it’s a chance for me to jump the queue and rise up the rankings fast. If I want to be a World champion, this is the sort of fight I need to win and do it in good fashion. I’m young, I’m hungry, I’m fresh, whatever Montana brings to the ring, I’m going to meet it and give him a lot more.”
 
Love and Spark clash on a stacked card in Cleveland, with the co-main bout featuring a Matchroom debut for Richardson Hitchins also at Super-Lightweight, where the Brooklyn talent faces Yomar Alamo for the IBF North American title.
 
Raymond Ford continues to catch the eye in his rise in the Featherweight division and defends his WBA Continental Americas title against Sakaria Lukas and Christian Tapia takes on Cleveland’s Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title.
 
Love’s older brother and Olympian Raynell Williams continues his return to boxing against fellow Ohioan Ryizeemmion Ford, Khalil Coe faces unbeaten Bradley Olmeda, Nikoloz Sekhniashvili meets Ohio’s David Rodriguez and Brazilian Olympic silver medalist and former amateur World champion Beatriz Ferreira steps through the ropes for the first time in the paid ranks against fellow Brazilian Taynna Cardoso.



HARD-HITTING HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#7) DERRICK LEWIS AND (#12) SERGHEI SPIVAC HEADLINE AT UFC® APEX

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with an adrenaline-filled bout that will see No. 7 ranked heavyweight Derrick Lewis and No. 12 Serghei Spivac collide in a thrilling main event. Exciting light heavyweights Kennedy Nzechukwu and Ion Cutelaba lock horns in the co-main event.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: LEWIS vs. SPIVAC will take place Saturday, November 19 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will be available on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, with the main card starting at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT and the prelims at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT.

Fan favorite Lewis (26-10 1 NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) returns to the Octagon looking to add to his record as the UFC’s all-time knockout king. The Texas contender’s heavy hands have earned him highlight reel finishes over Chris Daukaus, Curtis Blaydes, and Aleksei Oleinik. Lewis now sets out to stop Spivac in impressive fashion and find his way back to title contention.

Spivac (15-3, fighting out of Chisinau, Moldova) looks to crack the heavyweight Top 5 for the first time in his career. A well-rounded finisher, the “Polar Bear” holds victories over Tai Tuivasa, Greg Hardy and Augusto Sakai. Spivac aims to make the most of his first UFC main event spot by delivering a statement win against a household name in Lewis. 

Dana White’s Contender Series signee Nzechukwu (10-3, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) plans to steps up to the challenge of his first UFC co-main event. The powerful 205-pounder has delivered knockout finishes in each of his last three wins, against Karl Roberson, Danilo Marques, and Carlos Ulberg. The Nigeria native is determined to stop Cutelaba in emphatic fashion and secure the biggest win of his career.

Cutelaba (16-8-1 1NC, fighting out of Chisinau, Moldova) looks to recapture his momentum by breaking into the light heavyweight rankings. The Moldovan’s exciting fight style has led him to wins against Devin Clark, Khalil Rountree Jr., and Gadzhimurad Antigulov. Cutelaba intends to bring a firefight to Nzechukwu and deliver a show-stealing finish.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Exciting middleweights Cody Brundage(8-2, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) and Rodolfo Vieira(8-2, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) collide
  • In the heavyweight division Chase Sherman (16-10, fighting out of D’Iberville, Miss.) takes on undefeated Waldo Cortes-Acosta (8-0, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz. by way of Fundación, Barahona, Dominican Republic)
  • Andre Fiahlo(16-5, fighting out of Cascais, Portugal) meets Muslim Salikhov(18-3, fighting out of Buynaksk, Russia)in an intriguing welterweight matchup
  • Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus Jack Della Maddalena(12-2, fighting out of Perth Australia) squares off with Danny Roberts(18-6, fighting out of Liverpool, England)
  • At flyweight, Charles Johnson(11-3, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) looks to secure his first UFC win against Zhalgas Zhumagulov(14-7, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan)
  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Jennifer Maia(19-9-1, fighting out of Curitiba, Parana, Brazil) aims to halt the streaking Maryna Moroz(11-3, fighting out of Volnogorsk, Ukraine) at flyweight
  • An exciting matchup in the bantamweight division pits Vince Morales(11-6, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) against Miles Johns(12-2, fighting out of Dallas, Texas)
  • At bantamweight, The Ultimate Fighter Season 30 winner Ricky Turcios(12-3, fighting out of Houston, Tex.) takes on Kevin Natividad(9-3, fighting out Tempe, Ari.)
  • Vanessa Demopoulos(8-4, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) clashes with Maria Oliveira(13-5, fighting out of São João de Meriti, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) in a strawweight bout
  • Bantamweight prospect Brady Heistand(6-2, fighting out of Spokane Valley, Wash.) looks to bounce back in the win column with a win against Fernie Garcia(10-2, fighting out of Dallas, Texas)
  • Kicking off the event at flyweight, Natalia Silva(13-5-1, fighting out of Ipatinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil) welcomes undefeated newcomer Tereza Bleda(6-0, fighting out of Prague, Czech Republic)

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for the event.

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 207 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+ 

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.



‘BATTLE OF THE BEST’ / CHARLES CONWELL VS. JUAN CARLOS ABREU NOW WBC SEMIFINAL WORLD TITLE ELIMINATOR

Los Angeles, CA (November 10, 2022) The stakes have been raised for the highly anticipated ten-round junior middleweight showdown between top rated contenders Charles ‘Bad News’ Conwell, (17-0, 13 KOs) and Juan Carlos “Merengue’ Abreu, (25-6-1, 23 KOs), now being mandated by the World Boxing Council (WBC) as a Semifinal World Title Eliminator. The declaration took place yesterday at the WBC’s 60th Annual Convention in Acapulco, Mexico. The WBC’s Junior Middleweight World Champion is Jermell Charlo, also the division’s undisputed champion.

Conwell vs. Abreu is featured on Saturday, November 26 at ‘Battle of the Best’, headlined by the long-awaited WBC 140lb. World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis from ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, just outside of Los Angeles.

The 24-year-old all-action Charles Conwell hits ‘The War Grounds’ ring following a third-round knockout of Abraham Juarez Ramirez on June 2, 2022. Battle-tested veteran Juan Carlos Abreu makes his return to battle following a second-round knockout of Emilio Julio on August 12, 2022. On October 29, 2021, Abreu traveled to the United Kingdom impressively knocking out highly touted and undefeated Kazak prospect Tursynbay Kulakhmet in the seventh round.

Presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with MarvNation Promotions, “Battle of the Best” can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on Saturday, November 26 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM. Remaining tickets starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.



WEIGHTS FROM BALL VS RUBIO WEIGH-IN

The fighters on Friday’s York card gathered today at the weigh-in before blows are traded live on BT Sport.

All the photos from today’s weigh-in can be downloaded here.
Images are free to use, please credit Queensberry Promotions where possible.

The WBC Silver Featherweight Championship 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Nick Ball 125lbs 14oz v Jesus Ramirez Rubio 128lbs 4oz*
*Rubio has 2 hours to make weight. Please check the Queensberry socials for updates.

10 x 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
Willie Hutchinson 177lbs 5oz v Luca Spadaccini 173lbs 8oz

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
David Adeleye 231lbs 7oz v Elvis Garcia 215lbs 11oz

4 x 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest
Carl Fail 156lbs 15oz v Dwain Grant 160lbs 1oz

4 x 3 Minute Rounds
Alloys Jnr Youmbi 200lbs 12oz v Pawel Strykowski 199lbs 7oz

6 x 3 Minute Rounds
Umar Khan 126lbs 15oz v Alexander Taylor 124lbs 2oz

4 x 3 Minute Rounds
Sean Noakes 148lbs v Petar Aleksandrov 148lbs 6oz



VIDEO: The Abrams Boxing Show: Ep 25 w/Kenmon Evans



GOLDEN BOY SIGNS MIDDLEWEIGHT PROSPECT AARON SILVA TO MULTI-YEAR, MULTI-FIGHT PROMOTIONAL DEAL

LOS ANGELES (November 10, 2022) – Golden Boy Promotions has added another top prospect to its stable with the signing of Monterrey, Mexico’s Aaron Silva (10-0, 7 KOs). The 25-year-old Silva quickly became a prospect boogeyman, going toe-to-toe and outclassing previously unbeaten fighters. His latest victory was featured on DAZN when he secured a fourth-round stoppage of Alexis Espino on the undercard of Canelo vs. Bivol.

“I am very happy to begin a new stage in my career with my new promoter Golden Boy Promotions who presented the best plan to grow in the sport,” said Aaron Silva. “Infinite thanks to Oscar De La Hoya and Robert Diaz for this big opportunity and the entire team at Golden Boy, my manager Benjamin Rodriguez, my advisor Aldo Moran, my trainers, and for every person that has celebrated every victory with me.”

“Golden Boy has been in the boxing business long enough to see potential star power, and to develop fighters into powerhouses and world champions. We see elements of that hunger to be the best in Aaron Silva, and are excited to have him under our promotional banner to help foster his growth in the middleweight division,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya.

Born in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Silva began boxing at 13-years-old with a total of 82 amateur fights and has won multiple Golden Glove tournaments. In Mexico, he was a regional champion from 2015-2019, a state champion from 2017-2019, and was a prospect for the Mexican Boxing Olympic Team. Combat sports is a family legacy, as Silva’s father was a world champion in Karate. Aaron Silva debuted worldwide on television on November 26, 2021 by defeating top prospect Raul Salomon via unanimous decision. He followed up with a splashy knockout win over Alexis Espino on the Canelo vs. Bivol undercard during Cinco De Mayo weekend. He is currently being trained by Arath Flores at Locos Por el Box in Monterrey, Mexico.

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For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.



Mike Ohan, Jr. lands dream fight vs. U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson

QUINCY, Mass. (November 10, 2022) – Former New England Welterweight Champion Mike Ohan, Jr. (16-1, 9 KOs) is preparing for his potential career-changing fight on December 10th against 2020 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (6-0, 4 KOs) at the famed Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Johnson vs. Ohan, Jr. is a scheduled 8-round welterweight match on a Top Rank card, headlined by a Heisman Night fight featuring Teofimo Lopez against Jose Pedraza, which will be streamed live on ESPN+.

Ohan, Jr. isn’t overly concerned about fighting a much-hyped prospect, who is promoted by event promoter Top Rank,, at the mecca of boxing on a much larger viewing platform.

“I’ll embrace it,” Ohan, Jr. “I’ve fought a lot of top guys in the amateurs like Jamaine Ortiz, who just fought Vasiliy Lomachenko. I feel like I belong at the top level with them, but they started competing earlier than me in the amateurs. I was 16-17 and had a lot of catching up to do.   

“This is what all the years of me working so hard has been for. It’s been a dream of mine even as a kid, before I started boxing. It’s starting to payoff; I need to executive the game plan on fight night.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of Mike and what he has accomplished so far in boxing,” Ohan’s promoter, Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented. “He’s a great guy with great work ethic, and he has a ton of heart. He jumped all over this opportunity when it was presented. This is why guys fight; to hopefully get a chance to shine at an event like this at Madison Square Garden. Mike grinded and grinded, now he has his well-deserved opportunity at stardom.”

Ohan, Jr. is the son of a retired pro boxer, (14-6-2, 11 KOs), who served as a sparring partner for the great Marvelous Marvin Hagler.

The 24-year-old Johnson, fighting out of Cleveland, was a highly decorated U.S. amateur boxer who was a member of the 2020 .USA Olympic Boxing Team. He was a 2-time winner of the USA National Championships (2016 & 2017), as well as a gold medalist at the 2016 AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships, and 2014 USA Junior Olympic National Championships.

“He’s a great fighter,” Ohan, Jr. talked about his upcoming opponent. “Everything he does, he’s excellent at, not just good. I have to bring my A game to prove I belong. All the greats have adjusted to the situation and that’s what I have to do. I’ve put in all the blood, sweat and tears. Whatever he throws, I’ll be ready.”

Fighting in Madison Square Garden is the ultimate venue for Ohan, Jr. along with most fighters. Some may feel that the cards are stacked against Ohan, Jr., but he clearly isn’t worried about all the hoopla associated with fighting at MSG on ESPN+ against the event promoter’s highly touted boxer.

“It’s just going to be me and him in the ring,” Ohan, Jr. concluded. “Madison Square Garden is an historic place. Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson…all the greats have fought there. I love boxing history and I’m blessed to be fighting there. I do live closer to New York City than him and I’m sure people will come out for me.

“At the end of the day, though, everybody will know who I am. An impressive performance will raise my stock, but I’m going in the ring to win!”

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin



VIDEO: Probellum Sheffield Weigh-In: Edwards vs Alvarado



RUNNING ORDER – And weigh-in results for Edwards vs Alvarado

SHEFFIELD, NOVEMBER 10 – Sunny Edwards was honoured with an IBF ring on the eve of the most dangerous fight of his career. 

The 26-year-old puts his IBF world belt on the line at Probellum Sheffield on Friday night when he faces the hard punching Felix Alvarado. 

And Edwards, who first won the title in April of last year, was presented with the special ring to acknowledge his reign as the 112lbs champion of the world. 

Edwards said: “I have been waiting for this ring, and I was meant to fly out to the IBF convention to receive it.  But to be presented with it here, in Sheffield, means more, it is more personal. 

“There is only one night left now, and that’s fight night.  I am really looking forward to it and I really hope the Utilita Arena stands up and makes some noise tomorrow.” 

Probellum Sheffield also features the brilliant British super bantamweight title final eliminator between Jack Bateson and Shabaz Masoud, the UK debut of Olympic champ Hebert Conceição and the latest fight for women’s boxing trailblazer Lisa Whiteside.
 
Tickets for Probellum Sheffield are still available at Ticketmaster.

You can also watch the full card, live and for free at Probellum.com with the opening bout scheduled for 5:30pm local time.
 
WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER
(Fight times are subject to change)
 

5:30pm local time 

6 Rounds Super Middleweight Contest  

Nicolie Campbell (9-1) 169lbs 2oz 

Frane Radnic (11-34) 169lbs 1oz 

6pm 

8 Rounds Super Welterweight Contest  

Ishmael Davis (9-0) 156lbs 7oz 

Dustin Ammann (7-7) 157lbs 8oz 

6:40pm 

6 Rounds Lightweight Contest 

Levi Kinsiona (9-2) 136lbs 8oz 

Alin Florin Ciorceri (16-3-1) 136 lbs 6oz 

7:10pm 

British Super Flyweight title final eliminator 

Thomas Essomba (11-7-1) 114lbs 6oz 

Marcel Braithwaite (13-3) 115lbs 7oz 

Braithwaite missed weight  

8:10pm 

6 Rounds Middleweight Contest  

Hebert Conceição (2-0) 163lbs 1oz 

Gideon Onyenani (4-1) 162lbs 7oz 

8:40pm 

WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title & British Super Bantamweight title final eliminator 

Jack Bateson (17-0) 120lbs 8oz 

Shabaz Masoud (10-0) 121lbs 8oz 

9:40pm 

IBF WORLD FLYWEIGHT TITLE 

Sunny Edwards (18-0) 111lbs 5oz 

Felix Alvarado (38-2) 111lbs 2oz 

10:40pm 

8 Rounds Super Bantamweight Contest  

Lisa Whiteside (4-0) 120lbs 9oz 

Eva Cantos (4-8-1) 122lbs 6oz 

11:10pm 

4 Rounds Light Heavyweight Contest  

Bradley Cousins (3-1) 175lbs 5oz 

Genadij Krajevskij (0-41) 175lbs 5oz 

Float 

4 Rounds Light Heavyweight Contest  

Khalid Ayub (3-0) 176lbs 2oz 

Danail Stoyanov (3-13) 174lbs 2oz 

Key Probellum Sheffield images and artwork can be found HERE
(Please credit Probellum if used) 



VIDEO: UFC 281 Embedded: Vlog Series – Episode 2



VIDEO: FULL EPISODE | UFC 281 Countdown

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HwRYQcFSkaA&t=2s


LOUIS LOPEZ vs. ADRIAN GUTIERREZ HEADLINES NOVEMBER 18TH THOMPSON SHOW

ONTARIO, CA (November 9, 2022) – Thompson Boxing’s “Path to Glory” card is all set with all bouts complete. In the 8-round main event, welterweight

 Louie Lopez (12-1-1, 4 KOs), of Corona, Ca, faces undefeated prospect

 Adrian Gutierrez (12-0-1, 6 KOs) of Chula Vista, Ca.

In the 8-round bantamweight co-main event, Manuel “Gucci Manny”

Flores (13-0, 11 KOs) of Coachella, California, will battle Armando Torres

? (26-22, 19 KOs), of Mexico City, Mexico.

“Path to Glory” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA on Friday, November 18th, 2022. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $100, and $125 and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900 or online at www.thompsonboxing.com. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new mobile app downloadable on Apple and Google.

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Middleweight Nelson “Nuckle” Oliva (4-0, 4 KOs), of Rialto, CA, will fight Mike Plazola (2-2, 1 KO) of Waterloo, IA. (6-rounds)

Lightweight Ioannis “The Greek Assassin” Manouilidis (3-0) of Los Angeles, CA, will take on Erick “Aidahoe” Garcia Benitez (3-3, 1 KO) of Guadalajara, Mexico. (6-rounds)

Lightweight Juan Sanchez (4-0, 4 KOs), of Buena Park, CA, will look to continue his KO streak as he faces Miguel Angel Barajas (3-2, 2 KOs), of Guadalajara, Mexico. (6-rounds)

Opening the card will be a welterweight bout between Elias “Ingles” Diaz (11-1,6 KOs) of National City, CA, taking on David “Terminator” Thomas (6-4-1, 2 KOs), of Woodland, Ca. (8-rounds)

Rich Marotta will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer. Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury casino; Thompson Building Materials, Transforming spaces into beautiful places; Omega Products International, The leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Belgard, Paves the way; and Makita, Rule the outdoors.

“Path to Glory” will stream live for free on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages.

For more information, and regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.



Crawford vs. Avanesyan Sold 9,500 Tickets in First Two Days Full Sellout Expected

OMAHA, NEBRASKA, (November 9, 2022) – Terence Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) vs. David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) is proving to be one of the hottest tickets in America this holiday season. The December 10th clash at the CHI Health Center, in Omaha, Nebraska, available on BLK Prime PPV, for the affordable price of $39.99, has already sold 9,500 tickets to the mega-fight. Nearly half of the arena is sold out within days of the tickets going on sale.

“Terence Crawford is a cultural icon and an American boxing superstar, and his fans in Omaha are showing just how big of a star he is,” said Sam Katkovski, a representative for BLK Prime. “This fight will have an amazing atmosphere and show the world how much combat-sports fans enjoy seeing Terence Crawford in the ring.”

At the current pace, the event is on schedule to sell out before fight week. The heightened demand to see Crawford fight in his hometown shows the star power he has locally.

“The fans want to see Crawford,” continued Katkovski. “He is the best fighter in the world and has been out of the ring for too long. The city of Omaha is showing tremendous support for Terence, and they’re getting their exclusive opportunity to attend a world-class fight right in their backyard.”

Tickets priced $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 5:00 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video on demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. Telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

About BLK Prime:

To learn more about BLK Prime, go to: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit: https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA



December 10: Undefeated U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson & Joe Ward-Frederic Julan Light Heavyweight Showdown Added to Teofimo Lopez-Jose Pedraza Card at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK (Nov. 9, 2022) — Rising junior welterweight Tiger Johnson, who starred for Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics, intends on capping his 2022 campaign with a standout performance at The World’s Most Famous Arena.

Johnson steps up in his first scheduled eight-rounder against Mike O’Han Jr. on Saturday, Dec. 10, at Madison Square Garden. Johnson-O’Han joins a loaded fight card headlined by the junior welterweight main event between former lightweight king Teofimo Lopez and former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza.

Johnson (6-0, 4 KOs), from Cleveland, Ohio, has established himself as one of the sport’s top prospects since turning pro last November. A quarterfinalist in Tokyo, Johnson is 5-0 in 2022, a year that began with a four-round decision over Xavier Madrid in January. In August, he became the first fighter to stop Massachusetts native Harry Gigliotti. Johnson returned on the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Jamaine Ortiz card last month and shut out Esteban Garcia over six rounds. He moves up to the eight-round plateau against O’Han (16-1, 9 KOs), a native of Holbrook, Massachusetts, who has won seven straight bouts.

Johnson said, “Madison Square Garden is the biggest stage in boxing, and I plan on making a huge statement against a tough opponent in Mike O’Han. I am ready to put the 140-pound weight class on notice. I’m going to close out 2022 strong and start climbing the rankings in 2023.”

Lopez-Pedraza tops a televised quadruple-header airing immediately after the Heisman Trophy Ceremony at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+. Heavyweight sensation Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson aims for his 13th straight knockout against the battle-tested Jerry “Slugger” Forrest, Puerto Rican junior middleweight star Xander Zayas steps up in class against 28-fight veteran Alexis Salazar, and 2020 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis looks to jumpstart his world title ambitions in a lightweight duel versus Juan Carlos Burgos.

Johnson-O’Han and additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. In other undercard action, “Irish” Joe Ward (7-1, 4 KOs) will battle Frederic Julan (12-1, 10 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight tilt, undefeated Polish heavyweight Damian Knyba (8-0, 5 KOs) steps up against Emilio Salas (7-3-1, 3 KOs) in a six-rounder, Brooklyn-born featherweight sensation Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (5-0, 3 KOs) takes on Juan Tapia (12-4, 4 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and Long Island-born welterweight Jahi Tucker (9-0, 5 KOs) aims for win number 10 against Ivan Pandzic (14-2-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $51 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

# # #
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  



WATSON: I’VE NOW GOT A PATH SET OUT FOR ME TO BECOME A WORLD CHAMPION

Chloe Watson (3-0) says she is ready to shine as the Birkenhead boxer prepares to step up in competition and take on the undefeated Spaniard Minerva Gutierrez (2-0, 1 KO) on her second York hall appearance, as part of a huge night of action at London’s historic boxing venue on Friday November 25, live on Channel 5.

The former Team GB Flyweight returns after her terrestrial television win in her home city where Watson defeated Fara El Bousairi on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool, in what proved to be a ‘Fight of the Night’ contender. Watson’s performance rightfully saw her stock rise, as the win rewarded her with the opportunity to face more talented opposition like Gutierrez.

“She’s undefeated, and she’ll be coming as the away fighter and wanting to cause an upset and get a big win,” said Watson.

 “There’s no defeat on her record, so she’ll only be coming to take another win back to Spain with her, but that’s the approach we like. There’s nothing to take from a fight when your opponent doesn’t necessarily want to win, and they just show up.”

“My last fight was very much the same type of fight against someone who wanted to come and win, and it reflects what I said before about taking fights against better opposition who are game,” continued the former Team GB Flyweight. “I’m going to improve more when they come and want to bring it to me, and I know that I haven’t just won but I’ve done it with a good performance in a fight that excites the fans.”

The fight against Gutierrez not only signifies Watson’s eagerness to face another tough fighter to enhance her progress, but also signifies an exact year since she debuted at York Hall on November 25 2021. One complete orbit of the sun has left Birkenhead’s female boxing prospect rubbing her hands at the chance to show just how far she has developed during that time.

“When I debuted at York Hall in 2021 I had no idea what to expect, I was just taking everything in my stride and trying to soak up everything around me. Now I’ve got more experience and had a full year of being a professional in the bank; three wins and four camps later too,” said Watson.

“I’ve gained a lot of knowledge from all the time spent in the gym with Ricky (Hatton) and Blain (Younis) since turning professional too, and from there I’ve now got a path set out for me to become a world champion one day.”

“The plan is always to be stepping up in opposition in every fight i take, and to deliver the best Chloe Watson there is come fight night because that’s what people want to see and that’s what I work hard for. If I keep doing that, then I’m a happy fighter and I know I’m working well towards my goals.”

A happy fighter is a dangerous fighter, and Watson continues to prove her potential with every second spent inside the boxing ring. With impressive performance upon impressive performance, she continues to validate the expectations placed on her to have a long and successful career in the sport. Such expectation can often burden fighters with a heavy weight upon their shoulders, but this is something that Watson thrives off and shows all her sacrifices have been worth it to reach this stage.  

“I don’t see any of this as pressure at all, it excites me. I’ve been boxing since I was 8-years-old and I’ve put a lot into this sport, but I also know I’m not the finished product yet by any means,” she said.

“I am looking to make the necessary steps so, when I am the finished product, I will be achieving everything I’ve set out to achieve. I’m striving to reach these goals not just for me but for my coaches and my team as well as there’s a lot of work that that goes into this by the people guiding me.”

A part of the team backing Watson toward her world title aspirations are Wasserman Boxing, with whom the Flyweight has recently re-signed a new deal with the home of live and free boxing on Channel 5. The deal is testament to Watson’s performances in the first year of her professional boxing life, and it was an easy decision to keep her smooth rise heading in an upward trajectory with everyone singing from the same hymn sheet.

“I feel like my first three fights have shown exactly what I can do and what my potential for the future is,” said Watson.

“The best thing is both myself and the team at Wasserman are on the same page which was a big reason for me re-signing. When it’s a clear agreement between me, my coaches, my team and Wasserman, then there’s no doubt about the decision. Plus it’s great to be a part of Channel 5 too and get the exposure with them.”  
*The York Hall event on November 25 will also provide a break in the boxing action for a live screening of the England vs USA FIFA World Cup game*

Harlem Eubank (15-0, 6 KOs) and Tom Farrell (21-5, 5 KOs) headline at the historic York Hall on a huge night for British boxing, Friday November 25. Liam ‘The Machine’ Williams (24-4-1, 18 KOs) looks to remind everyone of his Middleweight prowess on an unbelievable night of action that also includes Ricky Hatton protégé and former Team GB Flyweight star Chloe Watson (3-0) against undefeated Spaniard Minerva Gutierrez (2-0, 1 KO), and Sweden’s Lucy Wildheart (10-1, 4 KOs) as she makes a swift return to the ring at Featherweight at York Hall. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.
 
TICKETS AVAILABLE AT WASSERMANBOXING.COM NOW!


VIDEO: Probellum Sheffield Press Conference



EDWARDS PLANS ‘ELITE’ TITLE DEFENCE AS BATESON AND MASOUD CLASH

SHEFFIELD, NOVEMBER 9 – Sunny Edwards intends to live up to his star billing as the best flyweight on the planet by making light work of Felix Alvarado on Friday.

Edwards came face-to-face with his dangerous mandatory challenger at today’s press conference ahead of their IBF world title showdown at Probellum Sheffield later this week.

The top-level flyweight showdown headlines a major card at the Utilita Arena, with Jack Bateson vs Shabaz Masoud acting as the brilliant co-main event – and tensions boiled over when the British rivals squared off.

Security had to intervene as a heated exchange between the pair became physical and the anticipation for their British super bantamweight title final eliminator has been ramped up several notches.

But Edwards, known as ‘Showtime’, is the main attraction in the Steel City this week and he plans on proving why there is no other 112lbs fighter that can touch him.

The unbeaten IBF world flyweight champion, Sunny Edwards said: “Alvarado is a great champion from the weight below but I genuinely think I’m past his level, I believe I am at elite level.
“We’ll find out if this will be my toughest fight. I’ve had ‘tough’ fights, but I’ve made them not look that.”

Probellum’s Head of Talent Relations, Sam Jones said: “Alvarado is a fantastic challenger, a world class challenger but he is dealing with the best flyweight in the world. Sunny Edwards has pound-for-pound quality.”

Felix Alvarado, who has 33 KO wins on his fearsome record, said: “The opponents Sunny has fought are different to me and on Friday, he will find this out.”

Bateson and Masoud had kept a lid on their simmering rivalry at the press conference until they posed for face-to-face photographs.

Words were exchanged with increasing intensity when Masoud lost his temper and pushed Bateson, forcing security guards to step in and keep the peace.



FIERY MEXICAN ON YORK HALL MENU

NICK BALL TAKES on a formidable Mexican test when he tops the bill at York Hall on Friday with a defence of his WBC Silver featherweight title, live on BT Sport.

The 25-year-old goes up against Jesus Ramirez Rubio, defeated only once in 24 professional fights back in 2017 and unbeaten in 15 with two draws.

A fearless Scouser versus a typically marauding Mexican carries all the ingredients necessary to create a thriller and Ball himself insists it will be must-watch TV.

“You don’t want to be missing this one,” confirmed Ball (16-0, 9 KOs). “It will be all-action because, you know, them Mexicans are born fighters and I am a born fighter.

“That is all you need to know really, two born fighters going at each other, it is only going one way, isn’t it? He has got a high KO-ratio, knocking 14 out and I have knocked nine out.”

Ball, from the renowned Everton Red Triangle gym, fully expects the traditionally blue ring canvas to turn a shade of crimson.

“There is gonna be blood shed. That is what we are coming for!

“This is another one of these fights that will push me up the rankings and that is what I need. Obviously, if a world title opportunity comes up, which I think it will next year, I will take it. I’m coming for the world title, a proper belt, not a British title.”

Elsewhere on the York Hall card, Willy Hutchinson returns to light heavyweight action when he takes on Luca Spadaccini over 10 rounds.

Hutchinson (14-1, 10) made a successful return to the ring back in June with a 3rd round stoppage of Karel Horejsek, which was his first action since an unsuccessful tilt at the British and Commonwealth super middleweight against Lennox Clarke in March 2021.

Now training over in Spain, a rejuvenated Hutchinson will be looking to recapture the momentum that saw him considered as one of Britain’s leading prospects.

David Adeleye (9-0, 8) will hit double figures as a professional on Friday when he faces the Mexican Elvis Garcia over six rounds and will seek to ensure his name is added to the big heavyweight conversation moving forward.

“I had a little injury, so I was outside of the ring and we only managed to get the ball rolling not long ago,” reported the Ladbroke Grove man. “I am now back to my normal ways, but of course it was frustrating sitting at home watching other fighters who you know you can put hands on and do well against getting activity.

“Now I want to start fighting for titles and be in fights against people who are well known in the boxing world, names that are household names. I know what I can do and now I have to go out and execute it.

“Now I am nearly up to 10 fights, it is down to God’s timing and what will be, will be – and hopefully it will happen soon.

“It is a good time to be a heavyweight boxer, but I leave the business to my promoter and, if I do what I can do, it is inevitable that big fights will happen.”

Also featuring at York Hall on Friday is Queensberry new recruit Carl Fail (6-0, 2), the Northampton super welterweight, plus powerhouse cruiserweight Aloys Jr Youmbi (1-1, 1). Ilford featherweight Umar Khan (4-0) and Maidstone welterweight Sean Noakes (2-0, 1) complete the card.

Fight Week Schedule for York Hall, 11th November

Official Weigh-In
When: Thursday 10th November
Where: York Hall
Address: 5 Old Ford Road, Bethnal Green, London, E2 9PJ
Timings: 1pm arrivals, fighters on the scales at 2pm
Participants: All the fighters on the card will weigh-in ahead of Saturday’s fight night.
Entry: Media only

Fight Night
When: Friday 11th November
Where: York Hall
Address: 5 Old Ford Road, Bethnal Green, London, E2 9PJ
Timings: Doors open at 6:30pm, first fight at 7:05pm*
Entry: Media accreditation collection from the front door of York Hall.
*Media Accreditation collection ends at 8:30pm.



BATESON AND MASOUD FIRE WARNING SHOTS AS BIG FIGHT NEARS

SHEFFIELD, NOVEMBER  9 – Jack Bateson and Shabaz Masoud have fired warning shots at each other ahead of their barnstorming battle of top British prospects.

Bateson and Masoud clash in a sizzling super bantamweight showdown at Probellum Sheffield on Friday night – and both men have rubbished big claims from their rival.

Leeds hero Bateson has poured scorn on Masoud being the betting favourite and insists ‘Maverick’ has heaped pressure on himself with his pre-fight confidence.

Stoke’s Masoud is certain of “comfortably” beating Bateson and says he sees plenty of weaknesses in the former medal-winning Great Britain amateur star.

Bateson and Masoud come head-to-head at today’s press conference in the Steel City and the tension between the pair is simmering as fight night nears.

Jack Bateson (17-0) said: “I’m not sure why Shabaz is the favourite with the bookies, but it’s a mistake, that’s for sure!

“And he’s going to be in for a shock if he thinks he wins comfortably.  If he’s taking me lightly, then let him.  I can’t wait to leave him in shock. 

“He’s a good fighter but I believe I am better; a better boxer, a better fighter and whatever he brings on the night, I believe I will do it better.  He’s obviously full of himself, he’s confident but so am I, and this means it’s going to be a great fight.”

Shabaz Masoud (10-0) said: “In all departments, I am the better fighter and on Friday night I am going to show that.

“He’s got a lot of strengths, but he’s got a lot of weaknesses too. 

“If you’re making loads of mistakes, we are going to capitalise – and I think he is making loads of mistakes, but we’ll see on Friday.

“I can beat him comfortably.  If I can be better than someone in every department, then why can’t I beat him comfortably?!  I think I’ve got a better boxing brain; I think I’m stronger, sharper and the better fighter.”

Boxing fans have given their seal of approval to the Bateson vs Masoud scrap and applauded two of the country’s most promising fighters for agreeing to meet.

Bateson’s WBA Intercontinental belt is on the line at the Utilita Arena, but the fight is also a final eliminator for the British super bantam strap.

Bateson added: “He is putting all the pressure on himself because, apparently, it’s going to be an easy night’s work.  He’s the favourite with the bookies, he’s talking himself up to have this easy night on Friday, while I’ve been staying quiet.

“I’ve dealt with pressure and come through it.  This is a big night for him, and he’ll be nervous.  For me, it’s just another night.”

Masoud said: “I want to put respect on my name and after this fight I will truly get appreciation.  That is what I’m here for, I don’t care about anything else, I’m here for the respect.  People are going to value me and think ‘woah!’. 
 
FIGHT WEEK SCHEDULE 
 DATE
EVENT (start time)
LOCATION
Wednesday (09/11)
Press Conference, 1pm
Meadowhall Shopping Centre (Ground level)
Thursday (10/11)
Weigh-In, 12pm
Meadowhall Shopping Centre (Ground level)
Friday (11/11)
FIGHT NIGHT (Doors 5pm, first bout 5:30pm)
Utilita Arena, Sheffield


LOVE: HEADLINING IN CLEVELAND IS A DREAM COME TRUE

Montana Love fulfils a dream on Saturday night – headlining for the first time in his hometown of Cleveland as he faces Steve Spark for the WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight title at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Saturday night (November 12) live worldwide on DAZN.
 

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM THE ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE WEBSITE

Love (18-0-1 9 KOs) tops the bill in the sports mad Ohio city and on his second appearance at the home of NBA giants, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Love meets Australian Spark (15-2 14 KOs) in a pivotal clash in the 140lb division, with ranking positions and World title shots at the front of the hometown man’s mind.
 
“The city is showing me love and getting behind me,” said Love. “It’s a proud city and we look after each other and back. It’s a dream come true, being able to headline in the biggest arena in my home. Cleveland means everything to me. We don’t have much, but we stick together and get the job done. 
 
“The Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is an electric place, we’ve had a lot of great athletes come through the city in that building, and now I am one of them. I am living my dream, I went through the trials and tribulations to get here, and what I had to deal with is a big part of what makes me hungry now. 
 
“I promised my mother that I would take this 100 per cent seriously. The last thing she remembers of me is going to prison and being in and out of jail, so now I am trying to right my wrongs.
 
“I feel like I am made for this moment. I am coming off being co-main on a Canelo card; fighting in front of a packed house in Las Vegas and I’ve fought at home in front of a big crowd before, so there’s no pressure, I’m going to embrace it.
 
“Steve is a tough guy; he’ll bring the fight and it’ll make for a real spectacle. I want to win this in spectacular fashion, go for the KO – but we just want to look beautiful and put on a great show.”
 
Love and Spark clash on a stacked card in Cleveland, with the co-main bout featuring a Matchroom debut for Richardson Hitchins also at Super-Lightweight, where the Brooklyn talent faces Yomar Alamo for the IBF North American title.
 
Raymond Ford continues to catch the eye in his rise in the Featherweight division and defends his WBA Continental Americas title against Sakaria Lukas and Christian Tapia takes on Cleveland’s Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title.
 
Love’s older brother and Olympian Raynell Williams continues his return to boxing against fellow Ohioan Ryizeemmion Ford, Khalil Coe faces unbeaten Bradley Olmeda, Nikoloz Sekhniashvili meets Ohio’s David Rodriguez and Brazilian Olympic silver medalist and former amateur World champion Beatriz Ferreira steps through the ropes for the first time in the paid ranks against fellow Brazilian Taynna Cardoso.



NORTH-EAST ‘JUDGEMENT NIGHT’ ANNOUNCES A STACKED CARD FOR WILLIAMSON VS. KELLY ON DECEMBER 3

Aaron Chalmers (1-0) and huge Heavyweight ‘Magic’Matty Harris (3-0, 2 KOs) feature alongside North-East’s rising stars on the epic card headlined by the British Super Welterweight Championship between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle, live on Channel 5.

This monumental North-East night of action includes hometown favourite Aaron Chalmers (1-0) on the bill as he makes his Newcastle boxing debut on his second professional fight. The former Geordie Shore star and MMA fighter came through his first fight against Alexander Zeledon in Liverpool on June 17, and looks to build on the experiences of that points win in front of his home crowd.

Chalmers will be one of the many talented fighters who command huge support in the North-East, as he enters the squared-circle once more. With the cobwebs dusted off, and the pressure of his debut handled with, it is an ideal opportunity for Chalmers to produce a calculated performance now he is accustomed to fight nights in professional boxing.

Standing in the way of his fairy-tale win is “Rocky” Ryan Broten (0-1). Broten was involved in an all or nothing encounter with the undefeated Paddy Lacey on his pro debut as fight-ending shots were thrown from the very beginning. Broten will now be looking to upset the home crowd as he takes on the former reality star and Geordie favourite, but Chalmers believes a more complete performance will see him do the job.

“The debut got the ball rolling with things, and to come through it with the win and no damage taken was something I’m obviously pleased with,” said Chalmers. “I kept my head and remained calm, but i know what level I can box at, and this huge Newcastle card is my chance to show my progression in the ring.”

“The fans can expect me to come into this calculated yet ready to end things when the opportunity presents itself. I’ve never been the fighter to let things go the distance, and if I can get a knockout win in Newcastle then both me and the fans will be happy people.”

“Newcastle is where i made my name, it’s the place that moulded me into who I am. I know the people, I’m one of the people, and the fans are going to blow the rough off the place.”

Big hitting Heavyweight ‘Magic’ Matty Harris is on the hunt for a third first-round KO win in a row when he takes on Jiri Surmaj over six rounds. Harris put Mait Metsis down twice in the opening round, before ending proceedings in the first round of the fight in Newcastle on April 2. The same destructive formula worked again two months later in Liverpool when Harris produced more magic by flattening Pawel Strykowski with a trademark poleaxing punch.

Standing in the way of the Coventry man’s hat-trick is Surmaj, the hard-hitting Czech Republican who has had an active year claiming two stoppage wins and a split decision victory throughout this calendar year. It will have to be more highlight-reel stuff from Harris as he looks to continue making statements and become the first man to stop Surmaj.

“Newcastle is going to be a massive night of boxing, especially for me,” said Harris. “It’s a step up in competition, but I’ve been stepping up in the gym every single time I enter it. There’s some viral knockouts on my record already, and i’m still young, so just wait and see what the future holds for me.”

Darlington’s Ben Marksby (5-0) can continue his undefeated streak at Super Lightweight when he makes it back-to-back appearances in the North-East. A rising star who continues to add numbers to his loyal following, Marksby faced off against the resilient Rustem Fatkhullin in Newcaslte on July 30 this year where he produced a flawless points win, claiming every round. Marksby has a tendency to target supremacy in each round of his fights as he is impressively yet to drop a round in his career having claimed all 22 of the rounds he has competed in.

The 23-year-old has rightfully earned the title as one of the North-East’s rising stars, and the Super Lightweight could yet add another accolade to his professional career if he claims his first professional stoppage against former African boxing champion Olaide Fijabi (16-5, 8 KOs). Fijabi is a dangerous Nigerian fighter, whose recent losses have only come in the way of talented opposition like the undefeated Jack Rafferty and the talented James Moorcroft.

Fijabi also competed in a tremendous battle with Tom Farrell on June 17, 2022, narrowly losing on the scorecards, 58-57, at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. The dangerous African power-puncher will hope the North-East can host his second win of 2022 however, having claimed his first win by beating Temitope Agboola by unanimous decision in his home country of Nigeria.

“I can’t wait to perform on another big event like this, it just gives me the chance to continue making my name and show the boxing fans i’m a man on a mission,” said Darlington’s Marksby.

“I’m still very young for a boxer, but i know it’ll take blood, sweat and tears throughout every part of my career to reach levels i know i’m destined to reach. I’m coming to put on another display, and i can guarantee the Utilita Arena will be getting their money’s worth.”

Norway’s former world champion, Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs) looks to put herself back into title contention with a big win against someone who has shared the ring with multiple world champions, Hungary’s Edina Kiss (15-16, 9 KOs). Thanderz had a blistering start to life as professional as she went unbeaten for over three years and across 13 fights, winning the vacant European Super-Featherweight, the WBC International Lightweight and the European female lightweight titles.

She achieved world honours on November 16, 2019, when she moved to 13-0 against Danila Ramos and won the vacant WBC Interim Super-Featherweight title. This set Thanderz up for a star-studded clash with Britain’s Terri Harper, where the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight titles would be put on the line. The fight went all the way to the depths in a tremendous female war with Harper claiming the win in the ninth round.

Immediately bouncing back, Thanderz showed her dominance with a six-round decision win on May 13, 2022, in London, and now looks to make another statement to get a shot at reclaiming world titles once more against the heavy-hitting Edina Kiss. Kiss fights for the second time in England, and for the first time in the North-East.

The nine knockouts on the record of Kiss will keep Thanderz’s wits about her throughout the contest. Alongside her power, Kiss’s experience will be another tool in her arsenal having fought former world champion Amanda Serrano twice, as well as the likes of Maureen Shea, Sophie Alisch and Shannon O’Connell.

“I’ve never been to Newcastle before, but I always feel excited about fighting in the UK. The boxing fans are always very supportive,” said Thanderz.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting Edina Kiss in the ring, she’s a warrior that has fought with many fantastic fighters and I can’t wait to put on a great performance on December 2.”

“I want to fight for a world title again, and that means fighting the best possible opposition.”

Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) returns to Newcastle as she looks to make it five-straight wins in a row. The 28-year-old Lightweight starred in her last bout at the Vertu Motors arena in Newcastle on July 30 where she stopped Bec Connelly in round five during an all-British battle. Barker-Porter steps up in competition once more as she pursues Lightweight title opportunities; Sheila Martinez (3-3, 1 KO) will look to halt any chances of that on December 3 at the Utilita Arena.

The hungry 24-year-old Spaniard could claim a statement win if she can overcome Barker-Porter in her own back yard and with an equal amount of stoppages on their professional records, Barker-Porter will have to be wary of Martinez’s energy. The Spanish lightweight will be feeling confident off the back of dominating in an eight-round fight against Eva Cantos back in July, as well as claiming her first stoppage victory in March of this year. Barker-Porter is undeterred about the task at hand and knows her skillset and support will see her over the line.  

“A victory against Martinez will make it five wins in a row for me and continues moving me closer to lightweight honours. She’s got stopping power, she’s young, and she’ll want to come and try and take my moment” said Barker-Porter.

“Newcastle is my home, I am proud to be representing the North-East. I know with the crowd behind me, I’ll have more than enough on the night to get the people off their seats and my hand raised.”

Also featuring on the card is 24-year-old Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0) as he continues his promising start to professional life, and a professional debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker as he tests himself early against the well-schooled Nicaraguan Alexander Zeledon.

Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) hunts down a fourth consecutive stoppage at Middleweight too, with Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) looking to bounce back with a big win in front of his fellow North-East people.

Williamson vs. Kelly for the British Super Welterweight Championship will top a huge night of boxing in the North-East on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle. Aaron Chalmers fights on home turf, as ‘Magic’ Matty Harris looks to continue his destructive stoppage win streak. Former world champion Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs), local rising star Ben Marksby (5-0) and Newcastle’s Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) all feature on this massive evening of action. Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0), a debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker, Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) and Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) are also added to make up a stacked card. Co-promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Probellum in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.



23-YEAR-OLD FORMER IRISH PROPSECT OF THE YEAR UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” RYAN O’ROURKE RETURNS STATESIDE FOR “SHORE WARS” NOVEMBER 17 

Wantagh, New York (November 8, 2022) – International flare has officially been added to Star Boxing’s “Shore Wars” fight cad on Thursday, November 17 at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, Long Island, NY. Hailing from Dublin, Ireland, former Irish prospect of the year and undefeated super lightweight, “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” RYAN O’ROURKE (8-0 1KO) crosses the Atlantic once again, this time in search of win number nine as he continues to turn heads in the US.

O’Rourke’s path to 8-0 was unique to say the least. Turning pro in the middle of a COVID-19 pandemic shutdown would not be advisable for most. However, O’Rourke managed to be one of the few fighters in the world that not only had multiple opportunities but capitalized on them during this time. From his pro debut in January of 2020, O’Rourke would fight seven times before the end of 2021 with a pristine 7-0 record.

Most recently, O’Rourke secured his 8th professional win last April when he impressed at Rivers Casino in his US debut, comfortably defeating then 6-1-1 Faycal Rezkallah by unanimous decision (60-54 x3). O’Rourke displayed impressive command of distance, throwing punches from all angles, as well as a committed body attack. O’Rourke will take on power punching, ANDREAS “MAESTRO” MAIER (8-6 5KO’s) of Menden, Germany in a 6 round super lightweight contest on November 17th.

In the main event, undefeated Elmont super welterweight “THE JACKPOT” TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (12-0 9KO’s), one of boxing’s most charismatic prospects will fight OMAR “THE GRINCH” SIALA (39-20-3 23KO’s) in a super welterweight clash over 8 rounds. Siala who has shared the ring with renown former world champion, Chris Eubank Jr., brings the necessary experience to challenge the rising star that is Tyrone James in what should be a thrilling main event.

“Shore Wars” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, the longest running and most consistent boxing promotional company in New York.

Bouts Subject to Change

ABOUT SHORE WARS:

“Shore Wars” is set to take place on Thursday, November 17th, at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, Long Island. Having opened in 1983, Mulcahy’s has been the home for concerts and sporting events for nearly 40 years, but come November 17, Star Boxing will host the first ever professional boxing card in Mulcahy’s history.

For more information visit us at www.StarBoxing.com. For 30 years of action packed fights, championship bouts, LIVE fights and more subscribe to Star Boxing TV HERE. Follow along on social media for fight announcements and updates @StarBoxing, and join the conversation using #ShoreWars

ABOUT STAR BOXING TV:

STAR BOXING TV brings you live action, Star Boxing archives and countless hours of thrilling professional boxing with over 30 years of entertainment.

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RICHARD SCHAEFER SAYS SUNNY EDWARDS HAS POUND-FOR-POUND SKILL

SHEFFIELD, NOVEMBER  8 – Richard Schaefer rates Sunny Edwards as one of the top five boxers in the world for pure skill.

Probellum President Schaefer has delivered the headline-making verdict in the week Edwards defends his IBF world flyweight title against Felix Alvarado. 

The unbeaten Edwards – known as ‘Showtime’ – faces the most dangerous fight of his career against Alvarado on Friday night at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield and knows he must be close to perfect to see off the hard-hitting Nicaraguan. 

But Schaefer is backing Sunny to deliver the goods once again by using the skillset that, he believes, puts the 26-year-old among the very best boxers on the planet. 

“His ability to slip punches is at the absolute highest level of any weight class and from a skill point of view, I would rank Sunny Edwards today, in the top five pound-for-pound. That’s how good he is,” Richard Schaefer said. 

“He has the skills which and that will to win, and those qualities, combined with his confidence and his attitude, means he is a tough nut to crack.” 

Edwards is unbeaten in 18 fights as a professional and wants to land a mega fight with Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez in 2023 but is under no illusions about the task directly in front of him. 

Sunny Edwards said: “Alvarado was a world champion at the weight below, he has 33 KOs on his record, and he has boxed at the highest level.  He’s a big punching Nicaraguan, who has had more knockouts than I’ve had fights and he is hungry for this.” 

FIGHT WEEK SCHEDULE 
 

DATE  EVENT (start time)  LOCATION 
Tuesday (08/11)  Open workout, 6pm  Meadowhall Shopping Centre (Ground level) 
Wednesday (09/11)  Press Conference, 1pm 
Thursday (10/11)  Weigh-In, 12pm 
Friday (11/11)  FIGHT NIGHT (Doors 5pm, first bout 5:30pm)  Utilita Arena, Sheffield 

FIGHT WEEK ARTWORK? 
 
Key fighter imagery and event artwork can be found?HERE? 
(Please credit Probellum if used)? 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Sheffield, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.???? 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.?? 



‘BATTLE OF THE BEST’” / HALL OF FAMERS, WORLD CHAMPIONS AND BOXING CELEBRITIES ANNOUNCED FOR THE PAY-PER-VIEW BROADCAST TEAM

Los Angeles, CA (November 7, 2022) Hall of Famers, Boxing Legends, World Champions and Boxing Celebrities will highlight the can’t miss “Battle of the Best” Pay-Per-View broadcast on Saturday, November 26 originating from ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA, just outside of Los Angeles.

Featured on the all-star broadcast will be 2015 International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini, 2017 International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee Marco Antonio Barrera and Former Junior Middleweight Champion of the World, Raul ‘El Diamante Marquez.

Joining on the broadcast will be Popular Boxing TV Host and Reporter Cynthia Conte, International Boxing Commentator Corey Erdman, Mexico’s Longtime Voice of Boxing Ernesto Amador and World-Renowned Boxing Cornerman Mike Rodriguez.

Presented and produced by Legendz Entertainment in association with MarvNation Promotions, “Battle of the Best” is headlined by the long awaited WBC Super Lightweight Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis (27-1, 23 KO’s) and can be seen live on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets on Saturday, November 26 beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. including FITE and PPV.COM.

‘The Fighting Pride of Youngstown, Ohio’ Ray ‘Boom Boom’ Mancini held the WBA Lightweight World Title for over two years in the early 80’s and was particularly known for his aggressive punching style which made him a fan favorite and highly popular with TV networks which drew record-breaking ratings for his fights. He retired in April 1992 with a record of 29-5 including 23 knockouts. In recent years he has served as a boxing analyst for numerous TV outlets.

Known as ‘The Baby-Faced Assassin’, March Antonio Barrera, (67-7, 44 KOs), is a legend among boxing fans having competed in many unforgettable fights throughout his illustrious career that spanned 22 years. The three-division world champion is best known for his epic trilogy with Erik Morales in addition to remarkable battles with Naseem Hamed Johnny Tapia, Manny Pacquiao, Paulie Ayala and Juan Manuel Marquez. Barrera will be part of the Spanish language broadcast on November 26.

Raul ‘El Diamante’ Marquez, (41-4, 29 KOs), won the IBF Junior Middleweight World Title from Terry Norris on April 12, 1997. His highly successful career includes memorable fights with Anthony Stephens, Keith Mullings, Fernando Vargas, Yory Boy Campas, Jermain Taylor and Arthur Abraham. For the last ten years Marquez has been featured on Showtime Championship Boxing and ShoBox telecasts.

Cynthia Conte is highly regarded for her outstanding podcast, The Best Women’s Boxing Show PERIOD, extensive work reporting for Ring Magazine, hosting Hollywood Fight Nights broadcasts and the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction events.

Ernesto Amador has worked for decades in the United States and Mexico on international boxing broadcasts and has become a staple at the sports’ biggest events with his exceptional reporting for his award-winning podcast ‘No Puedas Jugar Boxeo’. He will join Marco Antonio Barrera on the Spanish language broadcast.

Known as Boxing’s Crime Fighting Cutman for his work as homicide detective, Mike Rodriguez is a fixture in the corner of numerous world champions and top-rated contenders including Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia and Dmitry Bivol.

Remaining tickets for ‘Battle of the Best’, starting at $39 for the live event can be purchased online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90746.



Super Bad is BACK! Seniesa Estrada Set for Long-Awaited Ring Return

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 7, 2022) — After nearly 11 months out of the ring, Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada is ready to make up for lost time. Estrada, who signed a long-term promotional pact with Top Rank earlier this year, will defend her WBA minimumweight world title Saturday against Jazmin Gala Villarino at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

Estrada-Villarino will serve as the co-feature to the WBO middleweight world title fight between reigning champion Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly and British challenger Denzel Bentley. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, tickets starting at $25 are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Alimkhanuly-Bentley, Estrada-Villarino, and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S.

Estrada (22-0, 9 KOs), a two-weight world champion from East Lost Angeles, is ranked No. 7 on the ESPN.com pound-for-pound list. Before her recent layoff, Estrada had a banner 2021, going 3-0 while winning a pair of world titles. Last December, she knocked down the previously unbeaten Maria Micheo Santizo twice en route to a fourth-round stoppage.

As fight week kicks off, this is what “Super Bad” had to say from her Los Angeles training camp:

“Jazmin is a tough opponent, and I know any fight can be dangerous. She’s fighting in America for the first time and is coming in as the underdog. This is her opportunity to become a champion, and I am not taking her lightly. I always prepare to be the best ‘Super Bad’ I can be.”

“This is my first fight with Top Rank, and it’s the perfect time in women’s boxing to be with Top Rank and to fight on the ESPN platform. I’ve had a nearly 11-month layoff, and I felt like I was missing out on all the incredible things happening in the sport. I want to be the best and stay active. Now I’m happy to be back and hopefully go for those big unification fights that I’ve wanted and ultimately become an undisputed champion.”

“Growing up, I didn’t have a role model to look up to in women’s boxing. Being in a position where I can inspire younger women is great. It makes all of my struggles worth it. That’s what I do it for, to inspire the next generation of women who want to accomplish great things.”

“I believe I am the best fighter at minimumweight, light flyweight, and flyweight. My goal is to conquer all three divisions. I want to win all the belts at 105, then go to 108 and 112.”

# # #
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  



RAHMAN JR AND BELFORT FACE-OFF AHEAD OF HUGE NOVEMBER 19 HEAVYWEIGHT CLASH

THE long awaited face-off between two of combat sports most dangerous men went down ahead of MF & DAZN: X SERIES 003 on 19 November at the Moody Center in Austin, Texas, and both the prodigy and the former champion were fully zoned in on what it is going to take to edge this hugely exciting encounter.

Neither fighter could contain their excitement for this one, as both were salivating at the thought of testing themselves against a true combat sports athlete when the main event arrives on fight night. Both men have gained notoriety for their stunning stopping power throughout their careers in fighting professionally which guarantees to leave the fans salivating alongside them.

Vitor Belfort cut a composed figure during the face-offs, and rightly so as an athlete who has boxed against Evander Holyfield and shared an octagon with the likes of Randy Couture, Michael ‘The Count’ Bisping, Wanderlei Silva, Dan Henderson and Luke Rockhold to name but a few. The former UFC Light Heavyweight champion still was the first to outline the challenge that awaits him when he faces the heavy-handed Rahman Jr.

“This is legendary,” said Belfort. “For me, martial arts is something I’ve always grown up doing so I’ve never been able to do both. Now I’m fighting one of the best prodigies in boxing and I’m very excited for it.”

“It’s an amazing event,” responded Rahman Jr. “I’m excited to be a part of it and to especially test myself against a legend. This is a former UFC champion, a Brazilian Olympic alternate in boxing, a true martial artist and competitor; I’m ready to prove why he speaks so highly of me.”

The mutual respect between the two is a telling sign this is the calm before the storm. Understated reactions and responses on the surface highlight two men very confident in their preparations and know their dangerous actions speak louder than any trash talking-could.

Hasim Rahman Jr has been in the professional fighting game now for half a decade and produced a stunning run of 12-straight wins during the beginning of his rise in boxing. He equally shared the role of a relaxed fighter when looking into the eyes of his opponent as he accepted strengths of the former UFC king, but backed his own artillery to be the most potent.

“He’s been at the top of a bill before, the main event, he’s done it all. I’m here to take advantage of these opportunities and I’m happy to show people why I’m one of the most dangerous people in combats sports. Period,” said Rahman Jr.

“This is no different than any other fight, albeit against a guy that has performed at a higher level than most. With a much more dangerous fighter, comes much more preparation. To use his words against him, if all the preparation has been in order, then my training camp will mean there shouldn’t be a problem when I enter that ring.”

“I’ve taken the time and put in the work, and I’m ready to show I can neutralise his best weapons and put some of my own to use as well. Come November 19, you get to see the rebirth of Hasim Rahman Jr.”

You will seldom find a main event anywhere in crossover boxing that brings together two animals from their respective disciplines, and square off in the ring like this. Belfort has been at the pinnacle of the fighting world and produced some of the greatest knockouts you will see in any fighting arena.

Now the Brazilian looks to call on a lifetime of living ‘the way of the warrior’ to show his pedigree as an icon. Belfort has personified a true fighter throughout his whole career, and it is his natural relationship with fighting that will see him weather any storm on November 19 and see his hand raised.

“You don’t play fighting, and you don’t play combat sports,” said Belfort. “Every time I’m training, I’m doing it to be the best version of myself and I’m looking to turn my game on. It’s not the best fighter who wins, it’s the fighter who fights best.”

“I come to finish the fight. I have the samurai mentality and it’s life and death for me. It’s urgency every time. Whenever my opponent presents me the opportunity is when I take my chance and finish it. I fight in a flow state, and with power and speed in my hands, it’s just about going through the motions and dancing to the beat.”

“It tests you mentally, physically, and emotionally but you must learn how to prepare and flick the switch,” continued Belfort. “Everyone is two animals in life and that’s either the lamb or the lion; you must learn how to be the right one at the right time. One thing I can guarantee is when I step in that ring it’ll be a fierce and hungry competitor looking for the victory every time.”

Whatever animal a fighter chooses to be, Rahman Jr is choosing to be the one ready to become the number one predator in the crossover boxing pecking order. Belfort’s highlight reel makes him look like the most dangerous man on the planet, but Rahman Jr remains unmoved about what is seen on the screens and remains ready to make huge waves in Texas.

“One thing I’ve come to learn in my young career is that you never fight the guy you see on the tape. I saw his fight against Holyfield, but that’s irrelevant,” said Rahman Jr.

“I’m expecting to come up against a guy who is faster than anyone I’ve fought, stronger than anyone I’ve fought, and he’ll be ready to go the full-length of the fight. We already know what he is, what he does, what his strengths are, and there’s nothing hungrier than a wounded lion that’s still hungry like him.”

“He’s been at the top of this sport, but it’s time for a new king.”
ORDER YOUR TICKETS HERE!


December 10: Michael Conlan-Karim Guerfi Belfast Showdown to Stream Live and Exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+

(Nov. 7, 2022) — Featherweight contender Michael “Mick” Conlan looks to shine in his Belfast homecoming when he battles French veteran Karim Guerfi on Saturday, Dec. 10, at The SSE Arena.

Conlan-Guerfi and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 1:15 p.m. ET/10:15 a.m. PT. The Belfast bonanza kicks off a fistic marathon on the ESPN family of networks. Conlan-Guerfi precedes “Heisman Night” from Madison Square Garden featuring the junior welterweight main event between former lightweight king Teofimo Lopez and former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza.

Conlan (17-1, 8 KOs) returns for his second Belfast block party since his valiant challenge of WBA featherweight champion Leigh Wood in March. The two-time Irish Olympian was leading on the scorecards before being knocked out in the 12th round. In August, he returned to his winning ways with a one-sided decision over three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga at The SSE Arena. Guerfi (31-6, 9 KOs), from Manosque, France, is a former two-division European champion coming off a decision win over Mexican veteran Ricardo Mercado in July.

Undercard standouts include a trio of undefeated Top Rank-signed prospects: junior middleweight Kieran Molloy (3-0, 2 KOs) and featherweight Kurt Walker (4-0, 1 KO) will see action in six-rounders, while rising welterweight Paddy Donovan (9-0, 6 KOs) aims for his third victory of the year in an eight-rounder.

# # #
About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  



TICKET ALERT: Crawford vs. Avanesyan Tickets go on Sale Today at 10:00 a.m. CT

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY!

Tickets priced $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan go on sale today, November 7, at 10:00 a.m. CT. and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 5:00 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on BLK Prime for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video on demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. Telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

To learn more about BLK Prime, go to: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit: https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view.