GLENDALE, ARIZ. – October 27, 2022 – International superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul finally got MMA legend Anderson “The Spider” Silva to agree to wager the result of their must-see eight-round cruiserweight match on Saturday, October 29 in a Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) event live on SHOWTIME PPV^® at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River) just outside of Phoenix.

During the final press conference on Thursday, Paul said that if Silva wins, he would face Silva in a kick-boxing match – a competition that would put Paul at a severe disadvantage. Paul said if he wins, he and Silva would create together a united fighter’s association to help UFC and all MMA fighters get better pay and healthcare.

“You become the interim president and we unite,” Paul said.

“Deal!” Silva responded, as the two rose from their seats on the dais and shook hands in the middle of the stage as fans applauded.

The blockbuster event between the two generational talents – Paul is the YouTube personality-turned boxer who rode into Wednesday’s media workout on horseback while Silva is the famed MMA legend with UFC records and accolades on his resume – has resonated with fans. Paul-Silva is already the highest grossing boxing event for ticket revenue in the history of Desert Diamond Arena and the second highest-grossing ticket event across all combat sports with two days until fight night.

The five-fight pay-per-view event is widely available for purchase and live streaming in the U.S. at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME^® app. The event is also available on major cable, satellite, and telco television providers throughout the U.S. for a suggested retail price of $59.95 (SRP). Tickets are still on sale and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. The press conference on Thursday was streamed on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel, Jake Paul YouTube channel, Jake Paul TikTok channel and the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.

Paul and Silva were joined by the eight other fighters at the press conference appearing on the SHOWTIME PPV. Here is what they had to say before they meet in the ring on Saturday:

JAKE PAUL

“For sure I have more pressure on my shoulders. Just being the ‘A’ side, and the amount of sh– I talk I think the entire MMA community is waiting for me to lose. They want me to lose. I just have so many more big ideas and plans in this sport and I just plan on being here forever. This is the start of that, and the pressure is on.

“I’m the young guy and he’s really, really good and has more experience. He has the weight, the height, the reach so all the odds are stacked against me. He’s very fast, very technical, very rangy, good defense, good movement. I’ll have to be perfect on Saturday night. I know I’m capable of doing that but I’m ready for war. Skill aside, it might come down to who wants it more and I believe that’s me.

“When you get into the ring you have to be ruthless, savage, be willing to do whatever it takes during the darkest moments in the ring. You have to be a killer or you will be killed, so that’s where the problem child comes in. I’m a problem for anyone that’s in the ring with me. I can put you out at any time. I’m a different person. I don’t care about consequences when I’m in the alter ego and I come alive when I enter the ring. It’s not Jake. It’s someone else that I tap into.

“Logan was like, ‘Are you sure you want to do this?’ Now you think I’m going to win.”

ANDERSON SILVA

“When you fight in combat sports you have to be a little crazy. I’m a little crazy, too. This is not for everyone. Everyone here are special guys and for sure everyone here is a little crazy.

“This is a competition and I’m training hard to make a great show for everyone. This fight is very special to me. I try to do my best because I love fighting and I love my job and now I’m free to do everything I like to do.

“I don’t believe this affects my legacy, in my journey in combat sports. I try to do my best to give something to the new generation. Jake and I are bringing two big generations together and people think this will affect my legacy or affect Jake’s legacy, but I don’t believe that because it’s about passion and love.

“Everyone always asks, ‘Are you sure you want to face Jake Paul? He’s beating a lot of guys in the UFC.’ I say, ‘Yeah, I think I’m ready for that. He’s younger than me but I’m a superhero.’”

ASHTON SYLVE

“I feel like in the next two or three years I’ll be ready to fight for a title or be a contender. I’m in my eighth fight and I’m in the co-main event to a Jake Paul fight.”

BRAULIO RODRIGUEZ

“My mom is a fan of Jake Paul. I’m going to give the fans a show. I know what I’m capable of doing and I’m going to give the fans a show. I’m up to the challenge.”

ALEXANDRO SANTIAGO

“I am thrilled to represent Mexico. I’m so excited. I’m glad to have a grudge match to decide who’s truly better. I can promise you I’m going to represent Mexico with all I have, and this fight is going to be great.”

ANTONIO NIEVES

“When we fought six years ago, he was a last-minute opponent to the card we were fighting on. The fight was a draw and now to be in this event with Jake Paul from my hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, it means a lot for me. He’s not a last-minute opponent so we expect a better fight and we’re looking for the victory.”

URIAH HALL

“Fighters fight and it changes when you have to go out there and you have to adjust. We’re both fighters at the end of the day. He’s a powerful dude. I know he’s confident. You can’t really focus on those outside negative affirmations. You have to stay present and I’m just looking forward to having some fun. He’s a challenge, it’s a step-up, it’s outside my comfort zone and I love a challenge.”

LE’VEON BELL

“I didn’t expect this to happen. But over the course of my NFL career, me picking up boxing as cardio, I just fell in love with it. And once I started sparring and competing with other fighters, then I knew this was what I wanted to do.”

CHRIS AVILA

“This is just another fight week and it’s not any different than Bellator or UFC.”

DR. MIKE VARSHAVSKI

“When I told my patients and my doctor colleagues [that I was fighting], they were considering admitting me to the psych ward. But they saw my passion for the sport and the reason I fell in love with boxing – as I said in other interviews, 2010 was a rough year where I lost both of my grandparents and my mother. It was a dark time and boxing allowed me an escape from that dark time.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA

“I’ve been a lifelong boxing fan. I’ve been in the sport working for almost 25 years. I’ve seen a lot of things, a lot of unusual things, but I never would have predicted an event like this.

“People ask all the time, ‘Why Jake? Why put 35 years of credibility in the sport on the line in this event?’ Well, for those of you who have spent any time with Jake, you can see he’s demonstrated a commitment to the sport, a respect for the sport, that can’t be denied. He promised us he would be taking on a tougher challenge with each successive fight and that’s exactly what he’s doing.”

# # #

ABOUT PAUL VS. SILVA

International superstar and serial risk-taker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Anderson “The Spider” Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds on Saturday, October 29 in a Most Valuable Promotions event live on SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Desert Diamond Arena, just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. In undercard action, teenage sensation Ashton Sylve will put his knockout streak on the line against Braulio Rodriguez in an eight-round lightweight bout contested at 133 pounds. Top 118-pound contenders and former world title challengers Alexandro “El Peque” Santiago and Antonio “Carita” Nieves will meet again in a 10-round rematch of their exciting 2016 showdown. Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell will make their pro debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds. In addition, Chris Avila, a disciple of UFC superstar Nate Diaz, will square off against “Doctor Mike” Varshavski, a board-certified family physician and social media influencer, in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 185 pounds.

SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 27, 2022) – Days aways from their anticipated 12-round crossroads fight, former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) and undefeated, rising lightweight division star William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs) hosted a press conference in San Diego to promote their clash. Fans can expect these two warriors to put on a show at the Pechanga Arena San Diego this Saturday, Oct. 29 on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

The Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda undercard fighters also participated in the press conference. Co-main event Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) discussed his NABO Welterweight title defense against Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) shared her thoughts ahead of challenging Chimba, Argentina’s World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3) for the IBF Female Flyweight World Title in a 10-round match. Dallas, Texas’s Hector Valdez, Jr. (15-0, 8 KOs) will open the DAZN broadcast in a 10-round super bantamweight fight against Las Vegas, Nevada’s Max Ornelas (15-0-1, 5 KOs).The main event for Golden Boy Fight Night: Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda Prelims on the Golden Boy Boxing YouTube Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO).

Here’s what some of the fighters had to say:
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER IBF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“Zepeda is a young, hungry, and tough fighter, but I’m hoping that it will bring the best out of me on Saturday. He looks great on paper, but I’ve been there, done that, and my experience speaks for itself.

“I have been working really hard on myself in general. I’m excited to be doing what I love to be doing, which is putting on a great show for the fans.

“There is an A-side and B-side. I’m the A-side.”
WILLIAM “EL CAMARÓN” ZEPEDA, UNDEFEATED SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“There is no A-side or B-side. This is a fight for the fans.

“I’m very grateful for my promoter, Golden Boy and to my team for bringing out that talent and for teaching me new things. These are the types of opponents that bring out the best fights and show that we belong.”

ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I’m here just living out my dream. Who would have thought that the 11-year old chubby kid would be here on the patch to chasing a world title.

“From this point forward, I’m only going to give more effort to take over my division. My focus right now is Jesus Perez.”
JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ, WELTERWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“You are going to see a more complete, more focused fighter when I get in the ring with Rocha. You will see more defining qualities from me. The winner Saturday night will be the fans.

“God willing, we are going to shock the fans on Saturday.”

ARELY MUCINO, FEMALE FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“This fight brings a lot of emotions. The meaning behind the fight is much deeper. We have been working for many years to come back on top, and to once again become a world champion. This is my father’s dream and my dream. I have been through a lot in my life, and look, we are here to fulfill that dream. It’s very special for me to complete this dream for my father.”

ERIC GOMEZ, PRESIDENT OF GOLDEN BOY
“JoJo Diaz is one of the most exciting fighters we have. He’ll take on any challenge. He’s a great person, great former champion, and works very hard. He is not taking Zepeda lightly. You can give JoJo the edge just because he’s more experienced.

“With Zepeda, you’ve got a hungry and young kid that is trying to make it. He is fighting the guy with the bigger name. It’s going to be fireworks.”

Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.

Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazJrZepeda

NEW YORK (Oct. 27, 2022) — Former three-weight world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and undefeated upstart Jamaine Ortiz renewed acquaintances Thursday in New York City. The one-time sparring partners will clash in the 12-round lightweight main event Saturday evening at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. This fight could propel the winner to a shot at undisputed champion Devin “The Dream” Haney.

Lomachenko (16-2, 11 KOs) returns after serving a stint in a territorial defense battalion in his native Ukraine, a decision that delayed his quest for undisputed glory. Ortiz (16-0-1, 8 KOs) authored a career-best victory over former world champion Jamel Herring in May.

The 10-round featherweight co-features sees Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez (10-1, 6 KOs) attempt to move closer to a title shot against late substitute Jose Matias Romero (26-2, 9 KOs).

Undercard action includes middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (6-0, 5 KOs) and a quartet of U.S. Olympians from the Tokyo Games: silver medalists Duke Ragan (7-0, 1 KO) and Richard Torrez Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), Tiger Johnson (5-0, 4 KOs), and Troy Isley (7-0, 4 KOs).

At the press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.Vasiliy Lomachenko

“I feel great. I feel good. I can’t wait to come back Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. I think it’s a special place for me. I’ve had a lot of fights there. So, it’s a lucky place for me.”

“For me, it was an easy decision [to not take the George Kambosos Jr. fight] because there was a war in my country. There was a war in my hometown. I needed to stay with my family and with our people and defend our country. You don’t think about boxing. You don’t think about your future. You just think about saving your life and saving your family. That’s it.”

“I just wanted to bring a bit of sports attention to our country. And Saturday, which is Sunday morning in Ukraine, I want the people to change their mind towards good emotions.”

“Sparring [against Ortiz] is different from competition because our conditioning is not at 100 percent, so Saturday night will be a very interesting fight. I’m focused on my job. I’m focused on my boxing. You can’t stop thinking about your country. It’s always on your mind. But now I’m focused, and I need to be focused because I’m an athlete. After the fight, I’ll go back to Ukraine and support my country.”

Jamaine Ortiz

“This fight means everything to me. This is something I’ve manifested into my life, eventually fighting Lomachenko. And the time has come here at the ‘Mecca of Boxing,’ Madison Square Garden. God has delivered everything I’ve asked for.”

“I learned a lot of things about myself in the Jamel Herring fight, as I do in every fight. I try to make improvements. I go back to the basics and fundamentals and try to master those skills. Saturday night you’re going to see the best Jamaine Ortiz.”

“I think the opponent in front of you brings out the type of fighter you are. I think Lomachenko is going to bring out the best Jamaine Ortiz. The fighter that everybody around me knows. You’re going to see the real ‘Technician’ on Saturday night.”

Robeisy Ramirez

“Well, it’s not a secret that Madison Square Garden is a mythical arena for boxing. But what actually brings out the best of me is the ring, not the arena.”

“I said that ‘the train is coming and it won’t be derailed’ because I want to fight for a world title. That’s what we hope for. After this fight, we’re expecting to fight for a world title.”

Jose Matias Romero

“This was an opportunity that was given to me. I plan on taking advantage of it. It’s a pleasure to be on this stage. And I look forward to this fight. I like to do my talking in the ring, but I’ve come very well prepared, thanks to my team. We had a great camp. But I think they are underestimating me.”

“Thank God, I have a great training team. I stay training. I never stop training. I have also had experience fighting in the United States before, so this is nothing new. The opportunity was there, and thank God it happened. And on top of that, it’s happening at Madison Square Garden, so I’m very happy.”

Richard Torrez Jr.

“Being a pro has been amazing. I come from a town where there are more cows than people. So, to be at a place like Madison Square Garden is incredible. It’s incredible to be able to have my team here as well. All these guys are Olympians. There’s nothing like it.”

Nico Ali Walsh

“From the very start, I knew who I was. I think people are starting to give me my own name. So, it’s not about me finding my own name. It’s about people accepting the fact that I knew who I was from the start. I got into boxing, and I know why I got into boxing. It’s just important to pay homage to my grandfather, but I’m doing my own thing with this.”

Tiger Johnson

“Life as a pro has been good. I’m just really excited to be on a card with my Olympic teammates. I had a real good camp with Nico. We’re going to put on a really good performance. I don’t really look for the knockout. I just can’t control my power sometimes, so it is what it is.”

Duke Ragan

“It’s an honor to be able to fight on a card with my fellow Olympians. The only time we ever fought together was on the USA team. It is a great feeling to do it professionally and go up the ranks together.”

Troy Isley

“I’ve always wanted to be with Top Rank. They’ve produced a lot of legends. I’m blessed to say that I can be one of the legends in the making. My goal is to focus on boxing. I’m not really too worried about the trolls and all that. If you’ve got trolls and haters, you’re obviously doing something right.”

Saturday, October 29

 ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Jamaine Ortiz, 12 rounds, NABF Lightweight Title

Robeisy Ramirez vs. Jose Matias Romero, 10 rounds, featherweight

ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Ahmed Hefny, 6 rounds, heavyweight

Haven Brady Jr. vs. Eric Mondragon, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Matchroom Boxing have completed the double signing of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist Pat McCormack and decorated former Team GB Podium Squad member Mark Dickinson. 

McCormack (2-0, 2 KOs) enjoyed a glittering amateur career, culminating in Olympic silver in the Welterweight division. Before that, the 27-year-old from Sunderland won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and a gold medal at the 2019 European Games in Minsk. The former Team GB ace has two knockout wins from two fights since turning professional with Ben Davison earlier this year. 

Durham’s Dickinson (3-0, 1 KO) made waves in the amateurs, representing Team GB on a number of occasions and earning gold at the European and Commonwealth Youth Games. The 23-year-old has made a perfect start to life in the paid ranks since turning over in October 2021, picking up three wins from three fights in the Middleweight division under the tutelage of Davison.

“I believe with the backing of Matchroom Boxing and DAZN I’m in the perfect place to be able to fulfil my potential,” said McCormack. “I’m looking forward to this exciting journey and truly believe I have what it takes to become a World Champion. There is nobody better to work alongside in boxing and I know that Matchroom and Eddie will promote me to the very top.”

“I am excited to get things moving with the backing of Matchroom Boxing and DAZN,” said Dickinson. “I believe there are some huge nights ahead for me and I’m excited and motivated to showcase myself and what I am capable of. With Ben, Matchroom and DAZN behind me I know I can go on to achieve big things in this sport.”

“I’m really excited for both of these journeys to push on,” said BenDavison. “Eddie, Matchroom Boxing and DAZN were keen on Pat and Mark and I believe this is the perfect place for them to be. They will be given the opportunities necessary to develop and fulfil their potentials. There’s no doubt about it, these lads are special talents and fans across the world are going to love watching them in person and live on DAZN.”

“I’m delighted to add two of Britain’s brightest stars in the North East Pat McCormack and Mark Dickinson to the Matchroom stable,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Pat’s achievements in the amateurs speak for themselves. Silver medal at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and a gold medal at the 2019 European Games in Minsk and many more. He’s one of the very best amateurs we’ve seen on these shores in recent times and I’m incredibly excited to guide his professional career moving forwards.

“Mark is one of the most exciting prospects in British boxing and another product of the famous Birtley Boxing Club. He had an outstanding amateur career, representing Team GB numerous times, whilst earning  gold medals at the Youth Commonwealth Games and the European Youth Championships. He’s made a perfect start to life in the pro ranks and there’s some big nights ahead for him. We’ve enjoyed some brilliant nights up in the North East over the years and both Pat and Mark are keen to bring big shows and World Titles back home.”

Follow McCormack’s journey on Instagram: patmccormack14 and Twitter: @PatMcCormack14

Follow Dickinson’s journey on Instagram: mark_dickinson and Twitter: @mark_dickinson1

SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 26, 2022) – Ahead of their crossroads clash, former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) and undefeated, rising lightweight division star William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs) hosted a media workout at the BXNG CLUB in San Diego for their upcoming 12-round crossroads fight. The match is set to take place at the Pechanga Arena San Diego this Saturday, Oct. 29 on DAZN.

Also a part of the media workout, co-main event Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) will defend his NABO Welterweight title against hungry challenger from Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) will challenge Chimba, Argentina’s World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3) for the IBF Female Flyweight World Title in a 10-round match. Dallas, Texas’s Hector Valdez, Jr. (15-0, 8 KOs) will open the DAZN broadcast in a 10-round super bantamweight fight against Las Vegas, Nevada’s Max Ornelas (15-0-1, 5 KOs).The main event for Golden Boy Fight Night: Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda Prelims on the Golden Boy Boxing YouTube will be Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) who will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO).

Here’s what the fighters had to say:
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER IBF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I know this fight is a really tough fight. It’s sink or swim. I’m a warrior – I have that in me and I’ll fight anyone. I want to fight the best. I want to always challenge myself.

“I’m always progressing – even my losses, I don’t look at them as losses. I look at them as lessons learned. Zepeda is one tough gunner, and I know he’s hungry for a title shot which will make this an incredible fight for me personally because he’s going to come forward and be aggressive.”

WILLIAM “EL CAMARÓN” ZEPEDA, UNDEFEATED SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I had a really great training camp. I know I have a complicated fight ahead of me but I am very motivated with an excellent preparation like always.

“I’m used to training at a high altitude [10,000 feet above sea level in Jiquipilco, Mexico]. We really enjoy training there because we are very focused on training.

“I was very excited when I got the call for this fight. I’ve always wanted these types of opportunities. I’ve trained really hard for this, and this fight won’t be the exception. We are very concentrated and focused because we know this is a big opportunity.”

ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I’m a quiet guy, but when I go in the ring I let my hands do the talking. I just love what I do. A lot of people have turned me down. A lot of big names, but that’s just the way it is. I have “Ricky” Perez in front of me and I have a job to do.

“My whole mentality is just different since my loss to Rashidi Ellis. It’s a kill or be killed mentality inside the ring now. I know my opponent will come in very determined, and very motivated to win.”

JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ, WELTERWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“This is a fight that we were destined to fight in. We have prepared very hard for this fight. Everyone will see the results from our preparation come fight night. I hope that fans get to see a big performance from the both of us. I feel very proud to represent the people of Tijuana and San Diego since I train here. I am going to feel right at home. This isn’t the first time I am the underdog, and I’ve given my fair share of surprises as the b-side.”

ARELY MUCINO, FEMALE FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I am happy because fight week is finally here and grateful to God for allowing me to live out this crazy dream. The emotions are building up, and I just want it to be Saturday already.

“Fans can expect for me to put on a show. Everyone knows that female boxers get to work starting from the first round, and this fight won’t be the exception. This is Mexico vs. Argentina, and I will proudly represent my country’s flag. This fight is dedicated with much love to my father, as I will continue the legacy that he left behind for us to continue.”

LEONELA YUDICA, CURRENT IBF FEMALE FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:
“I have successfully defended my title 10 times in Argentina. I am very excited for this fight because I have long awaited for the opportunity to fight internationally. Not many people know who I am, but after this fight they will.

“She is a Mexican fighter, so she will come into the ring like a tough warrior. I am going to have in front of me a female boxer with tremendous experience and a former world champion. This is going to be a tough fight, equally in the physical and technical side. But I am calm because I have prepared for this fight.”

Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.

Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #DiazJrZepeda

MINNEAPOLIS – October 26, 2022 – Unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. and undefeated mandatory challenger Aidos Yerbossynuly previewed their 12-round duel during a virtual press conference Wednesday before they headline action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, November 5 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features the 24-year-old Cuban native Morrell in his fourth-straight fight in front of his adopted hometown fans at The Armory, as he looks to deliver another KO highlight against the hard-hitting and undefeated Yerbossynuly. Kazakhstan’s Yerbossynuly most recently knocked out Lennox Allen in September 2021, after Allen took Morrell the distance in their August 2020 showdown.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DAVID MORRELL JR.

“He probably is the toughest opponent that I’ve faced. He’s faced some really good European fighters and I’m well aware of how tough he is. But I’m back in my house to give my fans a great show.

“I don’t think that he’s my most dangerous opponent, but I’m not underestimating him. Every fighter is dangerous and reaches this point for a reason. He’s been fighting well and getting knockouts, but I’m facing this challenge like I would any other.

“Right now I’m only focused on this fight. I’m not focused on David Benavidez or any other fighter. I’m just focused on getting a win on November 5.

“I don’t care about where we fight. The home arena advantage is not a thing I’m concerned about. It’s about the two fighters in there. Nothing changes because of the venue.

“I know that Kazakhstan has a great history of fighters, but I come from Cuba, who have a great history of fighters as well and I plan to honor that heritage.

“Power will be a factor but I don’t think it’s the deciding factor. It’s going to be about being versatile and using the power to your advantage.

“Aidos is going to see how loud The Armory can be on November 5. I’m going to be ready for whatever comes my way in this fight.

“Training in Texas has been nothing but exceptional. I’m very blessed to be able to train with my team here. It’s one of the best things that’s ever happened to me and it’s allowed me to progress as a fighter the way that I’ve wanted to.

“My goal is to fight David Benavidez. He says that nobody wants to fight with him, but here I am. I’m ready for the fight.”

AIDOS YERBOSSYNULY

“The plan is to stop David Morrell Jr. We’re going to make this plan happen.

“Morrell is a good fighter from the Cuban boxing school. He’s got great skills and I respect him as a fighter and an athlete. It’s nothing but respect until we get into the ring.

“I train the same for every opponent. I’m working hard just like I have for each fighter before Morrell. There’s nothing special that I have to do to prepare for David Morrell Jr.

“We are descendants of Nomadic warriors. We’re not scared of any challenges. We want the belt and it doesn’t matter if we’re in his hometown. It’s the way of the warrior.

“We’re not counting on our power. We’re counting on our mind. The mindset is the most important thing in this fight.

“We need to clear out the 168-pound division before we worry about anything. I’m focused on David Morrell Jr. We’re going to show our heart in this fight. I don’t quit.

“Everybody wants to fight Canelo Alvarez for the payday. After David Morrell Jr., I’d also like to fight David Benavidez next. I want to prove myself and then make the fight with Canelo.

“Being unbeaten doesn’t mean anything. It’s about who you’ve fought. I don’t feel like the people who Morrell has fought have been anything special.

“Fans can expect less words and more action. We don’t like to talk a lot, but everyone is going to see what we’re about.”

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ABOUT MORRELL JR. VS. YERBOSSYNULY

Morrell Jr. vs. Yerbossynuly will see unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. return to action against undefeated mandatory challenger Aidos Yerbossynuly in a 12-round duel that headlines live on SHOWTIME Saturday, November 5 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former unified champion Jeison Rosario taking on veteran contender Brian Mendoza in a 10-round middleweight attraction in the co-main event, plus unbeaten middleweight Fiodor Czerkaszyn battles the hard-hitting Nathaniel Gallimore in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

SACRAMENTO, CA (October 26, 2022) – WBA #14 bantamweight contender,

 Eros Correa (12-1, 8 KOs), of San Jose, Ca, faces Luis Fernando Saavedra

 (9-7, 3 KOs) of San Luis Potosí, Mexico, in a ten-round bout that will serve as the main event on Thompson Boxing’s “New Blood” card.

“New Blood” will take place at the Omega Products International in Sacramento, CA on November 5th, 2022. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets are priced $50, $75, $100, and $125 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.

“I feel like I am really close to getting in position to fight for a world title, and I’m looking to get a big win at home against Saavedra,” stated Correa, who defeated top contender Saul Sanchez in his last fight. “This is not an easy fight as Saavedra has fought tough against some big names. A victory will get me closer to my goal of fighting for a world title in 2023. I want to also express my appreciation to Thompson Boxing for showcasing me in the main event.”

“I am more than just an opponent,” said an upset minded Saavedra. “I have made a career out of giving people hard fights, and this will be no different. I want Correa to remember one thing – ‘don’t overlook me!’ I’m coming to win and win impressively.”

In the 8-round co-main event, Oakland’s own Damoni Cato-Cain (7-0, 6 KOs), who has a strong fanbase in Sacramento, California, battles Rashid Stevens (6-1, 5 KOs), of Gardena, California, in a super welterweight contest. 

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Cruiserweight Suray Muhmutovic (5-0-1, 45KOs), of San Francisco, CA, will fight Cody Kerr (2-1, 1 KO), of Spearfish, SD. (6-rounds)

Lightweight Cain Sandoval (6-0, 6 KOs) of Sacramento, CA, faces an opponent TBA. (6-rounds)

Welterweight Allen Medina, of Fresno, CA will make his pro debut against an opponent TBA. (4-rounds)

Opening the card will be middleweight Rowdy Montgomery (7-4-1,5 KOs) of Victorville, CA, facing Rick Graham (9-27-4, 4 KOs), of Houston, TX. (6-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.

“New Blood” 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.

MINNEAPOLIS – October 26, 2022 – Former unified world champion Jeison Rosario will now take on veteran contender Brian Mendoza in a 10-round middleweight bout that serves as the co-main event live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, November 5 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis. Rosario was originally scheduled to face Yoelvis Gomez, who is out of the bout due to a wrist injury.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by unbeaten WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. returning to action against undefeated mandatory challenger Aidos Yerbossynuly in a 12-round duel. The telecast opens with unbeaten middleweight Fiodor Czerkaszyn facing the hard-hitting Nathaniel Gallimore.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

Rosario (23-3-1, 17 KOs) will look to move himself into title contention at middleweight after scoring knockouts in three straight fights dating back to November 2021. The 27-year-old’s current streak comes after a pair of defeats versus undisputed 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo and top contender Erickson Lubin. Born in the Dominican Republic and fighting out of Miami, Rosario captured the WBA and IBF 154-pound belts by stopping Julian Williams in one of 2020’s biggest upsets, before losing the titles against Charlo.

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mendoza (20-2, 14 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas as he looks to impress in his debut at 160 pounds. The 28-year-old’s last two fights have come at The Armory, as he defeated Benjamin Whitaker by fifth-round stoppage in March. His previous outing saw him take highly-touted knockout artist Jesus Ramos the 10-round distance in losing a decision in September 2021. Mendoza also owns a 10-round unanimous decision triumph over Thomas LaManna in August 2020 and began his career with eighteen consecutive victories.

# # #

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

NEW YORK (October 26, 2022) -TONIGHT, undefeated welterweight Brian Ceballo takes on Nicklaus Flaz as part of the WBO Convention tonight in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Also on the card, will be the professional debut of welterweight Willito Ortiz 

Ceballo and Ortiz are managed by Split-T Management. 

Ceballo of New York is 13-0 with seven knockouts. The 28 year-old Ceballo is a four-year professional and is a former WBO Intercontinental champion. Ceballo has been matched tough and has wins over Luis Alberto Lopez Longoria (1-0), Bakhtiyar Eyubov (14-0-1), Ramal Amanov (16-0), Larry Gomez (10-1) and his last outing when stopped Gerald Sherrell in six-rounds on May 14th in Newark, New Jersey.

Flaz of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico is 9-2 with seven knockouts. The 26 year-old Flaz has a win over previously undefeated Sagadat Rakmankul (3-0). He is coming off a defeat to Janelson Bocachica on October 7, 2020.

Ceballo weighed 150.8 lbs. Flaz was 149 lbs.

Ceballo is promoted by 360 Promotions.

Ortiz will make his pro debut against fellow debutant Brian Rodriguez in a bout scheduled for four-rounds.

Ortiz dominated the opposition since stepping onto the amateur circuit – compiling a total record of 48-4 and winning four National Championships in a row (2019-2022). As a member of Team Puerto Rico, Ortiz amassed multiple international accolades including a Gold Medal at the 2019 Cinturon de Oro Tournament in Ecuador, a Bronze Medal at the 2021 Pan-Am Games in Colombia, and a Silver Medal at the 2022 Copa Independencia Tournament in the Dominican Republic.

Ortiz weighed 142 lbs. Rodriguez was 140 lbs.

The fights will be streamed live on Pro Box TV at 8 PM ET.

NEW YORK (Oct. 26, 2022) — Four of boxing’s most electrifying young talents hope to strike the Heisman pose Saturday, Dec. 10, at Madison Square Garden.

Former lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez makes his second appearance at junior welterweight in the 10-round main event against former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza.

In the 10-round heavyweight co-feature, 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 in a scheduled eight-rounder special feature. And, in the televised opener, Tokyo 2020 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis looks to jumpstart his world title ambitions in an eight-round lightweight duel versus Juan Carlos Burgos.

Lopez-Pedraza, Anderson-Forrest, Zayas-Salazar, and Davis-Burgos will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT immediately following the Heisman Trophy Ceremony.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $51 go on sale Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 12 p.m. ET.

“Four of boxing’s mega talents, headlined by the great Teofimo Lopez, will be in action December 10 at the iconic Madison Square Garden. This will be a special evening,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Lopez is targeting a junior welterweight title shot in 2023, and Jose Pedraza is a Puerto Rican warrior hungry for another world title opportunity. With Jared Anderson, Xander Zayas, and Keyshawn Davis, this card features three additional fighters who will one day be headlining superstars.”

Lopez (17-1, 13 KOs) toppled pound-for-pound king Vasiliy Lomachenko in October 2020 to become the lightweight champion. Thirteen months later, he lost his titles via split decision to George Kambosos Jr. He returned August 13 as a junior welterweight and stopped Pedro Campa in the seventh round. Lopez is no stranger to “Heisman Night,” as he’s authored two of the most indelible Top Rank on ESPN moments on that platform. In 2018, he knocked out Mason Menard in 44 seconds, donned the jersey of Heisman winner Kyler Murray, and topped things off with the Heisman pose and a backflip. One year later, he stopped Richard Commey in the second round to win the IBF lightweight world title and immediately put on the jersey of that year’s victor, LSU’s Joe Burrow. He didn’t forget the pose or the signature backflip that time, either.

Lopez said, “It’s Heisman Night at Madison Square Garden. I’m born for this stage. Once I beat Jose Pedraza in front of my hometown fans, I am coming for all the junior welterweight belts in 2023. The Takeback is in full effect, and I am on a mission to become a champion again.”

Pedraza (29-4-1, 14 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, won world titles at junior lightweight and lightweight before moving up to the 140-pound ranks in 2019. Despite a competitive decision loss to Jose Ramirez and a draw against Commey in his last two fights, Pedraza still ranks among the most accomplished junior welterweight contenders. Ranked No. 10 by the WBO and WBC, Pedraza can earn another title opportunity with a win over Lopez and move closer to his goal of becoming the first male Puerto Rican boxer since Miguel Cotto to capture world titles in three weight divisions.

“I am here to face the elite fighters of the division, and to me, that is what Teofimo represents,” Pedraza said. “I have come to show that I am still one of the best fighters at 140 pounds. I’m still a threat to everyone in the division, and on December 10, I’m going to prove it. For me, the goal doesn’t change. I want to be crowned world champion in a third division, and I know I’m going to achieve it.”

Anderson (12-0, 12 KOs), the fighting pride of Toledo, Ohio, has seen his stock skyrocket since turning pro in October 2019 following a decorated U.S. amateur career. He has prototypical heavyweight size at 6-foot-4 and 240 pounds, and he’s stopped nine of his 12 foes in two rounds or less, including four straight second-round stoppages. In August, he returned from an eight-plus month layoff to knock out Serbian veteran Miljan Rovcanin.

“I’m happy to finally be getting a step-up fight,” Anderson said. “Hopefully, this solidifies my place as a contender and confirms that I’m not a prospect anymore.”

Forrest (26-5-2, 20 KOs) is the ultimate heavyweight litmus test, a 6’1, 230-pound southpaw who has mixed it up with some of the division’s most notable names, including Carlos Takam, Michael Hunter, and Zhang Zhilei. His only stoppage loss came nearly 10 years ago, and he held Hunter and Zhilei to 10-round draws in 2021. Forrest returned in May and dropped a 10-round decision to two-time world title challenge Kubrat Pulev.

“I’m in camp now. I’m excited and motivated to make a big statement. Jared is the up-and-coming fighter, and all the pressure is on him,” Forrest said. “After my last performance, I feel everyone has forgotten how good I am. I’ve been in the ring against top fighters, and I know that I can compete at the top level. The question is, what can he do against an experienced veteran like me? I am coming to send the ‘Big Baby’ home crying after his first loss. This will be a great fight for the fans in attendance at Madison Square Garden and those watching nationally on ESPN.”

Zayas (14-0, 10 KOs), the youngest signee in Top Rank history, turned pro as a 17-year-old in October 2019 on the same card as Anderson. Since that debut, he’s developed into Puerto Rico’s newest sensation and has knocked out three of his past four foes. He received the co-feature spotlight on the Lopez-Campa card, knocking out Elias Espadas in five riveting rounds. In March, Zayas shined at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden with an eight-round drubbing over Louisiana-born spoiler Quincy LaVallais. Salazar (24-4, 9 KOs), from Guadalajara, Mexico, has won 16 of his last 17 bouts, the only defeat coming via third-round knockout to rising middleweight contender Carlos Adames. He has not fought since January 28, an eight-round decision over Valentin Martinez Guzman in Tijuana, Mexico.

Zayas said, “I am very happy to be part of another amazing card at the legendary Madison Square Garden, and as always, I’m grateful to Top Rank for giving me these opportunities to showcase my skills on such a big stage. Salazar is a strong Mexican veteran, and with this performance, I’m looking to close the year strong and set the tone for a big 2023.

Davis (6-0, 5 KOs) hopes to open the ESPN telecast with his blend of in-fighting and precision that has already made him a lightweight contender to watch. The 23-year-old phenom from Norfolk, Virginia, fought three fought pro fights in 2021 before becoming one of the standouts of Team USA’s boxing team at the Tokyo Olympics. He stopped 2016 Olympic silver medalist Sofiane Oumiha before dropping a tight decision to Cuban sensation Andy Cruz in the gold medal match. Since signing with Top Rank last November, he’s scored a pair of knockouts, most recently a fifth-round drubbing of Omar Tienda on the Shakur Stevenson-Robson Conceição bill in Newark, New Jersey. Burgos (35-6-3, 21 KOs), from Tijuana, is a three-time world title challenger who has fought the likes of retired four-weight world champion Mikey Garcia and undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney. He has never been knocked out and has experienced a career renaissance of late. In March, he held highly regarded prospect Angel Fierro to a draw.

Davis said, “I will send another message to the lightweight division to end the year. Burgos is a veteran who demands respect, and I can’t overlook the man in front of me on December 10. It’s an honor to fight on ESPN after the Heisman Trophy Ceremony, and I plan on representing Norfolk while putting on a show for all the fans tuning in.”

Undercard action — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — is highlighted by featherweight prospect Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington and welterweight standout Jahi Tucker. Carrington (5-0, 3 KOs), the latest prodigy from the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, steps up in his first scheduled eight-rounder against Texas native Juan Tapia (12-4, 4 KOs). Carrington, a 2020 Olympic Trials gold medalist, shut out Jose Argel on the Stevenson-Conceição undercard. Tapia, who has battled the likes of Stevenson and Olympic bronze medalist Vladimir Nikitin, has never been knocked out.

Tucker (9-0, 5 KOs) looks go 10-0 in an eight-rounder against Ivan Pandzic (14-2-1, 8 KOs). Tucker, from Deer Park, New York, is 4-0 in 2022, including a near-shutout decision over Jose Luis Sanchez in his last outing.

On Saturday, October 29, promoter Paco Damian of Paco Presents, in honorary association with Don Chargin Productions, will proudly present “Showdown at Cache Creek,” a five-fight night of world-class boxing at Cache Creek Casino Resort in Brooks, California.

In the night’s main event, local favorite Alan Sanchez (21-5-1, 10 KOs) of Fairfield, California, via Guadalajara, Mexico, will face undefeated Saul “Avatar” Bustos (15-0-1, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles in a 10-round battle for the WBA Fedecentro Welterweight Championship.

A 13-year professional, Sanchez is a former WBC Continental America’s Welterweight Champion. He was last seen in May of 2021, scoring a split eight-round decision over 18-2 Jose Miguel Borrego. The Freddy Roach-trained Bustos is an eight-year pro who, in Sanchez, will be taking on the toughest test of his career. In his last ring appearance, Bustos took an eight-round unanimous decision over Mexican veteran Martin Angel Martinez Perez in February 2022.

In the co-main event, action hero Blake “The Beast” McKernan (13-1, 6 KOs) of Sacramento will take on League City, Texas, slugger Roberto Silva in an eight-round cruiserweight battle with “fight of the night” written all over it. McKernan, an ex-army machine gunner and Iraq veteran, will be looking to bounce back from his only career loss, a multi-weight world champion Badou Jack decision in November 2020.

On the undercard, Fairfield, California’s Ivan Vergara (8-1, 2 KOs) will return from a three-year absence to face undefeated southpaw Juan Pedro Miranda (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round featherweight contest, while undefeated lightweight Kevin Montano (3-0, 2 KOs) of Concord, California will take on Corona, California’s also undefeated Kevin Perez (1-0-1).

Opening the action will be former amateur standout Federico Pacheco Jr. making his heavyweight pro debut in four rounds against Josue Vargas (3-3-1, 2 KOs) of Panorama City, California.

Tickets range from $49 up to $125. The first bell is at 7 PM PST.

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Cache Creek Casino Resort, owned and operated by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, is California’s premier casino resort. Located 40 miles northwest of Sacramento and 80 miles from the San Francisco Bay Area in Brooks, CA, it features more than 600 four-diamond luxury hotel rooms, thousands of exclusive slot machines, hundreds of table games, ten incredible dining experiences, world-class nightlife, a full-service spa, and an 18-hole championship golf course.

For more information, please visit cachecreek.com.

You can join the conversation using the hashtags #SanchezBustos #WBA #PacoPresentsBoxing #CacheCreekBoxing #Boxing. Please follow us on Twitter at @PacoPresentsBox and @CacheCreekCR. Please follow us on Instagram @PacoPresents, @CacheCreekCasino, @blakethebeastmckernan1, and @VergaraBoxing. As well as like us on Facebook at facebook.com/PacoPresentsBoxing and facebook.com/cachecreek.

Hard-hitting heavyweight prospect Jeamie TKV will fight in front of his north London faithful for BOXXER: Breakthrough on a ‘Super Sunday’ at Alexandra Palace on November 27th.

In what is an action-packed weekend of sport, BOXXER brings a festival feeling to the nation’s capital and a new boxing experience – and unbeaten London fighter TKV will be hoping to send his legion of followers home happy, just a stone’s throw away from his hometown in Tottenham.

Ferocious featherweights Rhys Edwards and Jimmy Lee will be in action respectively, whilst undefeated middleweight George Mitchell joins next month’s cracking card in the capital, live and exclusively in the UK and Republic of Ireland on Sky Sports.

Fight fans can look forward to an unmissable feast of activities at ‘Ally Pally’ in an afternoon jam-packed with 50:50 fights and some of the country’s future superstars.

Adam ‘The Assassin’ Azim, a generational talent and the most exciting prospect in British boxing today, faces a tough test which will draw even more attention to his ever-growing profile as he tops the bill against the wily and experienced campaigner Rylan Charlton in the main event.

Mikael Lawal and Deion Jumah collide for the British cruiserweight championship, as super middleweights Lerrone Richards and Zak Chelli go head-to-head. Sam Gilley and Sean Robinson battle for the English super-welterweight title as rising stars Shannon Ryan and Hassan Azim complete the bill.

MEDIA CAN APPLY FOR ACCREDITATION TODAY – CLICK HERE FOR NOVEMBER 27th CREDENTIALS

Meanwhile, you can also apply for accreditation for our forthcoming show at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday, November 12th.

Natasha Jonas fights for the unified world super-welterweight championship against Canada’s Marie-Eve Dicaire, as Dalton Smith defends his British super-lightweight title against Kaisee Benjamin, and Bradley Rea challenges Tyler Denny for the English middleweight belt.

And after BOXXER’s blockbuster show concludes, the legendary Ricky Hatton returns – led by Europa Combat – for an exhibition fight with Mexican great Marco Antonio Barrera on the same night. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a memorable evening.

Heating debate over British gold began as talk of ending careers erupted during today’s launch conference ahead of the epic North East battle for the British Super Welterweight Championship confirmed between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle on Friday December 2, live on Channel 5.

Please see below for quotes and image access from today’s event:

Troy Williamson:
This is the fight I wanted. I like Josh, we’ve travelled together when we did the junior stuff, but it’s a business at the end of the day, and we’ll be getting down to business on December 2.

I think Josh has had a good ride, and I don’t think he’s anywhere near done regardless of some people saying he might be; he’s still only a young lad. He had a lot of hype about him at the start of his career, but I don’t think he’s propelled as much as people thought he was going to. Now he’s fighting for the British title, and it’s time for me to end his career. I do believe that I will do that.

Josh Kelly:
100% confident, I think this fight has come at a perfect time for me. I’ve boxed on big events, and I’ve been under the bright lights before, so I know what this feels like. I’m more experienced in that department and I know it’s my time now to go and take this British title with both hands.

The North East is quite a small place so you get good sparring where you can. Troy was good sparring, and we came through Team GB where we saw a lot of each other. I know the level of skill and desire I possess which makes this the perfect fight and perfect timing for me to take this. I’m raring to go.

That British title is something that means a lot to anyone in this country. My eyes are also on the big, world titles as well so to get there you have to beat the likes of Troy Williamson.

Ending my career? No that can’t happen. I’m only 28-years-old and I’m still young in this sport and Troy is older, so me winning this British title could be the flip side of what he sees and I could be the one who ends his career. Where is he going after I take that title? There’s not many options for him, and it’s going to be an enjoyable night for me, let me tell you.

Kalle Sauerland:
Two guys, two gladiators, who absolutely love it. I struggle to think of areas of the world, let alone in the UK, where sports means more to them than the North East. It’s going to be a packed house, and the great thing is that it’s for the British title. Something that is so pure in this sport, and naturally leads to bigger things.

You talk about final eliminators, or big fights that break you out onto the world scene, the winner on December 2 WILL have that breakthrough; that’s a given. The reward for these two getting through a very hard training camp will be the platform of Channel 5, a nationwide audience, screened to countries around the world. It’s a huge fight that I believe will not only determine the careers of these fighters, but will entertain the entire nation. I’m just extremely excited to be back in the North East on December 2.

I remember looking at the situation as a fan from the outside, and I’ve never seen a fighter who was built up like a rocket and launched to 100 like he was. He took one loss early in his career just like many world champions I’ve promoted before, Wladimir Klitschko lost multiple times before going on to defend his heavyweight belts for a decade. I thought Josh losing once early in his career was exaggerated, it was a bit like the end of the sun and the moon all at once. Josh Kelly then is a completely different fighter to Josh Kelly now. The great thing about this British title fight is that it’s a true step forward for one of these, but ultimately we know what Josh can do. He’s in the hands of Adam Booth, who I rate as one of the best trainers over the past decades, and I have complete faith in them.

Sam Jones:
As soon as the fight started to get mentioned I think Troy rang everybody he could to get this fight on. Everybody loves these big domestic fights. I’ve known Troy a long time and he has never turned any opponent down, and he wasn’t going to start with Josh Kelly.

There’s a lot of big fights not happening in boxing at the minute for one reason or another,  but both guys need a lot of credit for making this fight happen because they could have very easily gone down separate routes. They both took the fight, I fully expect Troy to win, and it’s going to be a fantastic atmosphere. I’ve been involved in a few fights up in the North East and they really back their own whether it’s football or any other sport, I just want them to back the event and make sure they come out because it’s going to be a special night for the North East.

Troy is always in entertaining fights. He hasn’t tasted a defeat yet, but win, lose, or draw; he’s in entertaining fights. I believe all the pressure is on Josh in this fight. No one should be judged on one defeat, and Josh Kelly is a good boxer who still may go on to big things. However, if you look at what people thought he would achieve when he first started then you’d say he hasn’t hit them heights. If you look at the bookies favourite for this, I’d say it’s probably Kelly. When it gets hard in there though, Troy gets better.

Adam Booth:
This has come at the right time for the fans especially, they’re two fighters who are both in their prime. They’re two guys who want to test themselves and see how good they can be and put themselves against the best; so this is definitely a match made in heaven.

There was no hesitation from our side. I had a call from the boxing board of control to say they’re putting out some nominations and do we want the fight? I phoned Josh who straight away said yes; it took less than five minutes to get this confirmed with the board.