2-time Olympians Yuberjen Martinez & Leonel de los Santos Dominant winners last night in Colombia
BARRANQUILLA, Colombia (July 30, 2022) – The future of Fighter Locker, a Boston-based boxing management company, was on display last night in Colombia as 2-time Olympians Yuberjen “Tremendo” Martinez and “El Tsunami” Leonel de los Santos were dominant in their ESPN Deportes fights at Elias Chegwin Coliseum in Barranquilla.
The 30-year-old Martinez, who represented Colombia in the last two summer Olympic Games, capturing a silver medal in 2016, made his long-awaited pro debut much to the delight of his fellow Colombians, knocking out Argentinian flyweight Yeison “El Chino” Hernandez (6-4, 2 KOs) in the fourth round.
In addition to his Olympics experience, Martinez was a highly decorated amateur who won gold medals at the 2014 & 2018 Central American & Caribbean Games and the 2018 South American Games. He also took bronze at the prestigious 2017 World Championships, bronze at the 2019 Pan American Games.
Santos (7-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of the Dominican Republic, thoroughly outboxed veteran Colombian lightweight Luis Diaz Marmol (18-16, 11 KOs) enroute to a shutout decision, winning all six rounds on each of the three judges’ scorecards. Santos, a southpaw, won a silver medal at the 2019 Pan-American Games.
“’Tremendo’ faced a tough opponent in a rare 6-round debut, knocking out his opponent in the third round,” Fighter Locker president Ryan Roach said. “He has all the tools and intangibles of a world champion. I can see him winning a major title in less than 10 fights.
“Leonel dominated for six rounds. He had great output in terms of punches over six rounds against a rough, veteran opponent. Leonel also had to overcome a head butt. He also used his defense to limit his opponent to landing 5-6 punches. That’s what we had worked on during camp, landing his shots and moving, so I’m very happy with his performance.”
Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes New York’s ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs), Colorado’s ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (11-0, 6 KOs), Massachusetts super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Florida super bantamweight Daniel “The Dedication” Bailey, Jr. (10-1, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs), Dominican super welterweight Juan Solano Santos (1-0, 1 KO), Florida light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (4-0, 3 KOs), Texas lightweight Miranda “ La Alacrana” Reyes (6-1-1, 3 KOs), Kansas brothers, welterweight Marcus Davidson (4-0, 4 KOs) and super lightweight Marcell Davidson (2-0, 1 KO), and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (8-1-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).
ABOUT FIGHTER LOCKER: Established in 2019, Fighter Locker is a comprehensive sports agency that manages professional boxers. Fighter Locker also helps to brand boxers by finding their voice with a 100-percent customized service. Fighter Locker does not really believe in working models. It believes in partnership optimization models in motion.
Fighter Locker uses four creative steps because it believes in “the foundation is everything”: 1. wisely conceived, 2. creatively restrained, 3. Proudly judged, 4. sharply targeted.
CASTRO, APONTE AND HERRERA COMPLETE CANELO-GGG III CARD
Marc Castro, Aaron Aponte and Anthony Herrera will all take the latest steps in their pro journeys on the biggest stage of all as they complete the undercard to the trilogy clash between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin. The event, presented by Matchroom, Canelo Promotions and GGG Promotions, will broadcast live on DAZN Pay-Per-View in the U.S. and Canada as well as around the world on DAZN (excluding Mexico, Latin America, and Kazakhstan).
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW VIA AXS.COM Castro (7-0 5 KOs) appears on his fifth Canelo undercard since making his debut in December 2020, and the former amateur standout will meet Kevin Montiel Mendoza in his first bout over eight rounds. Castro steps through the ropes for the third time this year with a pair of points wins over six rounds already in the bag and will be tested by Mexican Mendoza (6-1-2 3 KOs) whose CV includes a split-draw with Otha Jones III.
Aponte (6-0 2 KOs) is also lacing them up for the third time in 2022, and ‘The Alien King’ is ready to mix it up against Canelo Promotions’ unbeaten prospect Fernando Molina. Aponte, who penned a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn in January, will look to add a seventh win in the paid ranks in his first eight round round clash with Molina (8-0 3 KOs), the 20 year old Mexican who also has a pair of wins over six this year.
Herrera (2-0-1 2 KOs) gets the chance to bounce back to winning ways on the biggest stage as he takes on Delvin McKinley. Herrera was held to a draw in his last outing in Mexico against the spirited Kennyn Valenzuela, and the Manny Robles trained talent is eager to get back on track in Sin City. McKinley (4-3-1 4 KOs) will have other ideas though, and the 26 year old comes into the bout having taken Olympic bronze medal man Nico Hernandez the distance earlier this month.
The trio of talent completes a stacked undercard on September 17, led by a co-main fight starring Super-Flyweight sensation Jesse Rodriguez defending his WBC World title against Israel Gonzalez.
Fireworks are promised as Ali Akhmedov and Gabriel Rosado will clash for the IBF North American Super-Middleweight title, Diego Pacheco fights for his first pro belt when he meets Enrique Collazo for the WBC USNBC Silver Super-Middleweight title and Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams taking on Kieron Conway for the vacant WBA International Middleweight title, all leading into the third installment of the classic modern rivalry between Canelo and Golovkin, with the Mexican king putting his undisputed Super-Middleweight crown on the line against Kazakhstan’s reigning WBA and IBF Middleweight ruler in the most anticipated match up of 2022.
“This is a great opportunity for three talented young men to strut their stuff on the biggest stage of all,” said Hearn. “Marc, Aaron and Anthony will be soaking up the packed build-up and buzzing fight week in Las Vegas before putting their skills on display as part of a brilliant card on September 17 that is full of great fighters and clashes that promise drama, before we hit a main event that the world will stand still for.”
VIDEO: ALL ACCESS: Paul vs. Rahman Jr | Teaser | TOMORROW at 8:30PM ET/5:30PM PT on SHOWTIME
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zAWhRuzkvQ
GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ JR. OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
Super Welterweight Bout – 12 Rounds
Danny Garcia – 152 ¾ lbs.
Jose Benavidez Jr. – 153 ¾ lbs.
Referee: Steve Willis; Judges: Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Anthony Paolillo (N.Y.), (Waleska Roldan (N.Y.)
Heavyweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Adam Kownacki – 251 ¼ bs.
Ali Eren Demirezen – 262 ¾ lbs.
Referee: Eric Dali; Judges: Mark Consentino (N.J.), Martha Tremblay (Mass.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)
Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Gary Antuanne Russell – 137 ¾ lbs.
Rances Barthelemy – 139 ½ lbs.
Referee: Shada Murdaugh; Judges: John McKaie (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.)
Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Ray Smaltz III producing and Bob Dunphy directing. Former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). Veteran combat sports reporter Luke Thomas of MORNING KOMBAT, Marquez and star Philadelphia natives Jaron “Boots” Ennis and unified 122-pound world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. will call the live streamed bouts.
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ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ
Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
UNBEATEN LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS IZMAILOV & MURGUIA TO VIE FOR USBA CHAMPIONSHIP IN ONE OF TWO EXPLOSIVE MAIN EVENTS AT NEXT DETROIT BRAWL
Unbeaten WBO #12-, IBF #11-, WBC #7-ranked light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (8-0, 6 KOs) and also undefeated Eric Murguia (14-0, 12 KOs) will be fighting for the USBA Light Heavyweight Championship when the pair meet in one of two stereo 10-round main events at Salita Promotions’ next Detroit Brawl, on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the historic Garden Theater in Midtown Detroit.
In the other main event, Detroit via Rakhmon, Uzbekistan’s Shohjahon Ergashev (22-0, 19 KOs) will face fellow knockout artist Angel “El Furioso” Martinez Hernandez (14-1-2, 14 KOs) from Baja California, Mexico, in a 10-round shootout between sleep-inducing super lightweight punchers.
Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking HERE. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling 313.529.7604.
Originally from Malgobek, 29-year-old Izmailov works and resides with all-star trainer John David Jackson in Florida. A former amateur standout, Izmailov is a thudding and aggressive puncher, showing continued improvement under Jackson’s tutelage. Izmailov was last seen demolishing formerly undefeated Chilean Abraham Tebes in three brutal rounds last April.
Currently deep into training camp with super trainer John David Jackson, says preparations for the high-stakes fight are going well.
“I am excited for my title fight against Eric Murguia who is undefeated and accomplished professional,” said Izmailov. “I’m having a great training camp with John David Jackson and working every day to be a world champion.”
Murguia, of Mission Hills, California, started amateur boxing in 2011 and went on to win the 2013 Junior World Team Open and become part of the Junior National Team. Blessed with excellent power and movement, the 24-year-old southpaw Murguia stands 6’ and was last seen winning the WBA Fedelatin Light Heavyweight Championship with a second-round knockout over Mexico’s 11-3 Hector Coronado.
“It’s an honour to be fighting for a belt like this,” said Murguia during a break in training, “and a great opportunity to fight a top contender like Ali. Winning this will put my career in a whole new position and a step closer to a world title shot. I’ve been working hard towards an opportunity like this and, come August 10, I will make sure I come out victorious and make my name known in the boxing world.”
“Izmailov vs Murguia is a fantastic fight of significance for the title between two undefeated light heavyweight contenders,” said eager event promoter Dmitriy Salita. “Both hungry, both wanting the victory badly… somebody’s ‘O’ has got to go. I am grateful to bring this fantastic fight to our Detroit audience. Detroit is on its way to being one of the hubs of professional boxing in the United States and it is fights like this that move the needle in a positive direction.”
Also featured that night will be an eight-round super bantamweight battle between Accra, Ghana’s Prince Dzanie (22-0, 18 KOs) and Memphis-based veteran Ira “Mr. Showtime” Terry (27-21, 16 KOs), as well as undefeated Icelandic heavyweight Kolbeinn “The Ice Bear” Kristinsson taking on unpredictable Houstonian Rodney Moore (20-22-2, 9 KOs) in a six-round battle of big men.
Undefeated Grand Rapids, Michigan-based former amateur champions Joseph Hicks Jr. and Joshua Pagan will also see action that night, as Hicks (2-0, 2 KOs) will face experienced Dominican scrapper Jonathan Batista (19-16, 12 KOs) in a six-round middleweight struggle, while Pagan will take on Brazilian scrapper Maycon Oller Da Silva (1-5) over four super lightweight rounds. One of Detroit’s own, undefeated middleweight Da’Velle Smith (3-0, 3 KOs), already the winner of the WBC’s Big Belt Championship Tournament, will go four rounds or less with Wenatchee, Washington’s Devontae McDonald (2-1, 1 KO).
Rounding out the action will be undefeated Houston-based light heavyweight Darius “DFG” Fulghum (2-0, 2 KOs), who will take on Delaware’s David Murray (10-3-1, 6 KOs) in a lightweight six and lastly, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada’s Spencer Wilcox (3-0, 2 KOs) will face an opponent that is still TBA in a lightweight six-rounder.
About The Garden Theater The historic Garden Theater, built by C. Howard Crane on the northern corner of the 3900 block of Woodward, originally opened in 1912 as one of the largest theatres built in Midtown Detroit. The original theater closed in 1949 and reopened under several owners. Now, the Garden Theater is back, and better than ever, with state-of-the-art amenities including a full-service bar in the main theater and a VIP balcony with incredible architectural integrity and charm that stays true to the historic Cass Corridor structures. The revitalized performance and entertainment venue offers unique spaces for wedding ceremonies & receptions, bar mitzvahs, corporate events, concerts, conferences and meetings. The historic Garden Theater is located at 3929 Woodward Avenue in Detroit, MI. For more information, please call 313.832.0888 or visit us on the web at thegardendetroit.com, or check out our social media: FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM. ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:
Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.
Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.
NORTH EAST TAKEOVER WEIGH-IN RESULTS
Please find detailed below the official images and fighter weights from today’s weigh-in ahead of the free-to-air event live on Channel 5 at 10pm on Saturday 30 July.
WBO International Super Welterweight Championship JOSH KELLY – 10 Stone, 13 Pound, 12 Ounces LUCAS BASTIDA – 10 Stone, 13 Pound, 4 Ounces
The North East takeover is coming as Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) vs. Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs) headline for the WBO International Super Welterweight Championship on an electric fight night. Olympic hero Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) also stars, alongside Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6 KOs) as he continues his title charge against Mexico’s Eliot Chavez (11-4-1, 6 KOs). Raza Hamza (16-0, 7 KOs) competes for the IBO International Featherweight Championship against Roberto Rodriguez Nucamendi (13-5, 10 KOs) before heavyweights Hosea Stewart (2-0) and Franklin Ignatius (4-0, 1 KO) guarantee fireworks. Top local talent such as ‘Drago’ Steve Robinson (4-1, 3 KOs), Kai Richmond (1-0), Ben Marksby (4-0), Lisa Whiteside (3-0, 1KO) and Jordan Barker-Porter (3-1) also feature on an unforgettable night in the North East. Wasserman Boxing heads to the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle for a massive night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday July 30, live on Channel 5 in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
Tickets priced £40, £80, £100 and £200 are one sale now and available via www.wassermanboxing.com
Gonzalez Stops Angulo in 3
Jousce Gonzalez stopped Jose Angulo in round three of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in Indio, California.
In round three, Gonzalez landed a left hook to the body that sent Angulo down for the 10-count at 2:29.
Gonzalez, 136.6 lbs of Covina, CA is 13-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Angulo, 136.2 lbs of Pixley, CA is 14-3.
Manuel Flores stopped Daniel Moncada in round three of their eight-round super bantamweight bout.
In round three, Flores landed a hard combination that was followed by a vicious left that put Moncada down and out at 1:35.
Flores, 119.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Moncada, 119.8 lbs of Mexico City is 15-7-2.
Elnur Abduraimov scored an explosive first round stoppage over Leonel Moreno in a scheduled 10-round junior lightweight fight.
In round one, Abrduraimov dropped Moreno with a big left left hand to the Solar Plexas. Moreno could not beat the count at the fight was stopped at 1:14.
Abduraimov, 129.6 lbs of Indio, CA is now 10-0 with nine knockouts. Moreno, 135.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 11-2-1.
Gabriela Fundora remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Lucia Nunez in a flyweight fight.
Fundora, 111.8 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 8-0. Nunez, 109 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 7-13.
In a battle of undefeated middleweight, Eric Tudor stopped Edgar Valenzuela in round two of a scheduled six-round bout.
In round two Tudor dropped Valenzuela with a body shot. Moments later, it was another left to the body that put Valenzuela down for a second time, and the fight was stopped at 2:04.
Tudor, 156.9 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL is 5-0 with four knockouts. Valenzuela, 156.9 lbs of Douglas, AZ is 701.
Jasmine Artiga remained undefeated with a six-round split decision over Amy Salinas in a super flyweight bout.
Artiga won by scores of 60-54, 58-56 while Salinas won a card 58-56.
Artiga, 114.2 lbs of Tampa, FL is 9-0-1. Salinas, 114.8 lbs of Las Cruces, NM is 4-2.
Blair Cobbs Looks to Rebound Big Against Maurice Hooker
OXNARD, CA (July 28, 2022) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s welterweight, Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (15-1-1, 10 KOs), will look to make a successful return after suffering his first career loss when he faces former world champion, Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker (27-2-3, 18 KOs), Saturday, August 6th on the undercard of Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Michael McKinson. Hooker vs. Cobbs, a 10-round bout, will take place at The Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, broadcasted worldwide on DAZN.
“I am going into this bout with my mind on coming out victorious by all means necessary,” said Cobbs. “I and understand that I need to make a statement in this fight to get back on track toward fighting for a world title. At this point in my career all fights are going to be tough, and I must step up my game. This is going to be a great show, and its time for me to show up and show out.”
For those unaware, Maurice Hooker held the WBO super lightweight title defeating Alex Saucedo in Saucedo’s hometown to win the belt. He would be dethroned following that bout by unified world champion Jose Ramirez. Hooker has been viewed as a top-15 super lightweight for most of his career.
“This is a chance for Blair Cobbs to show the world where he is at,” said Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing who manages Cobbs. “In facing a former world champion this will tell him a lot about himself and his future. The future is in Blair’s hands and I have faith he will come out on top.”
TOP 10 LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#6) THIAGO SANTOS AND (#10) JAMAHAL HILL COLLIDE AT UFC® APEX
Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling light heavyweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 6 ranked Thiago Santostake on No. 10 Jamahal Hill. The co-main event pits No. 6 ranked welterweight contender Vicente Luqueagainst No. 13 ranked welterweight contender Geoff Nealin a pivotal matchup. Also on the card, the thrilling conclusion of The Ultimate Fighter: Team Peña vs. Team Nunes, as Mohammed Usman and Zac Pauga battle at heavyweight and Brogan Walker and Juliana Miller face off at flyweight with UFC contracts on the line.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: SANTOS vs. HILL will take place Saturday, August 6 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, and via simulcast on ESPN+ (English and Spanish), with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT and the prelims at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.
Dangerous striker Santos (22-10, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) returns to the Octagon to take on a new rising contender. A knockout artist and former title challenger with 15 KOs, Santos holds impressive victories over former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz, Anthony Smith, and Jack Hermansson. Santos is now aiming to deliver another signature finish against Hill and make his way back into the title picture.
Rising star Hill (10-1-1, Grand Rapids, Mich.) looks to continue his climb up the 205-pound ladder with another explosive knockout win. The Dana White’s Contender Series signee has delivered stellar finishes against Johnny Walker, Jimmy Crute and Ovince Saint Preux in his short time spent in the Octagon. Ready to make a statement against a true veteran of the sport, Hill is determined to take Santos’ spot in the rankings and prove that a new title challenger is on the horizon.
The always exciting Luque (21-8, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) re-enters the Octagon to take on respected contender Neal. Holding a 90 percent finish rate, the grappling specialist with knockout power has delivered highlight reel wins over former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, Michael Chiesa, Randy Brown, and Bryan Barberena. Now, Luque will be looking to defend his spot in the rankings by putting on a show-stealing performance against Neal.
No. 13 ranked welterweight Neal (14-4, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) wants to deliver a statement against one of the division’s most dangerous fighters. Ever since being signed from Dana White’s Contender Series, Neal has established himself among the top talents at 170 pounds with wins over Belal Muhammad, Mike Perry, and Santiago Ponzinibbio. Neal is now setting out to stop Luque and add another impressive name to his resume.
The Ultimate Fighter heavyweight finalist Usman (8-2, fighting out of Mansfield, Texas) looks to join his brother, UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, on the roster with a statement victory. Pauga (6-0, fighting out of Lakewood, Colo.) aims to keep his undefeated record intact by becoming the first man to knockout Usman.
Flyweight finalist Walker (8-2, fighting out of Upland, Calif.) intends to rely on her experience and well-rounded skills to secure the biggest victory of her career. Miller (3-1, fighting out of Lakeside, Calif.) seeks to continue defying the odds by adding another submission to her record.
Additional bouts on the card include:
No. 14 ranked UFC heavyweight contender Augusto Sakai(15-4-1, fighting out of Curitiba, Parana, Brazil) clashes with Serghei Spivac(14-3, fighting out of Chi?in?u, Moldova)
Sam Alvey(33-17-1, fighting out of Murrieta, California) takes on Michal Oleksiejczuk(16-5, fighting out of Leczna, Poland) in a middleweight bout
Ariane Lipski(14-7, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Florida) battles Priscila Cachoeira(11-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) in a flyweight battle
Bryan Battle(8-1, fighting out of Charlotte, NC) meets Takashi Sato(16-5, fighting out of Tokyo, Japan) at welterweight
Terrance McKinney(12-4, fighting out of Spokane, Washington) clashes with Erick Gonzalez(14-6, fighting out of Los Angeles, California)in an explosive matchup at lightweight
Nate Landwehr(15-4, fighting out of Clarksville, Tennessee) collides with Zubaira Tukhugov (20-5-1, fighting out of Grozny, Chechen Republic, Russia) in an exciting featherweight bout
Jason Witt(19-8, fighting out of Kansas City, Missouri) squares off against Dana White’s Contender Series signeeJosh Quinlan(5-0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada) at welterweight
Cory McKenna(6-2, fighting out of Cwmbran, Wales) battles Miranda Granger(7-2) in an exciting strawweight bout
Marya Bueno Silva (8-2, fighting out of Sau Paulo, Brazil) meets Stephanie Egger (7-2, fighting out of St. Gallen, Switzerland) in a clash at bantamweight
Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.
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JAKE PAUL VS. HASIM RAHMAN JR. AND AMANDA SERRANO VS. BRENDA CARABAJAL NEWS AND NOTES AHEAD OF AUGUST 6 SHOWTIME PPV® AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN
NEW YORK – July 28, 2022 – SHOWTIME SPORTS has announced the global distribution partners, pay-per-view price and telecast team for the upcoming SHOWTIME PPV co-headlined by global superstar Jake “The Problem Child” Paul vs. Hasim Rahman Jr. and Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano vs. Brenda Carabajal on Saturday, August 6 live from Madison Square Garden in New York City. Tickets are on sale and available at www.msg.com. Click HERE to watch and share the promo video.
The pay-per-view event kicks off at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is widely available for purchase and live streaming in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME app for a suggested retail price of $59.99 (SRP). All U.S. consumers who purchase the event through the SHOWTIME app or SHOWTIME.com can watch it live through the SHOWTIME streaming service app on any supported devices including Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, Amazon FireTV, Samsung Smart TV, Xbox One, LG Smart TV, as well as online at SHOWTIME.com. The event is also available for purchase in the U.S. via satellite and telco systems through DIRECTV®, DISH, Sling TV, Vubiquity and on the Sony PlayStation™ store.
In Canada, viewers can purchase and access the event via traditional cable and satellite distributors (Bell, Rogers, Shaw and SaskTel/TELUS) as well as on FITE, who has distributed all of Paul’s previous fights and will offer the event in most regions around the world outside of the U.S. Liberty and Claro TV will offer the event in Puerto Rico. Joe Hand Promotions is the commercial distributor within the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada.
DAZN will broadcast the event in the United Kingdom and Ireland, as part of the monthly subscription and ESPN LatAm will be the exclusive cable, satellite, internet/digital carrier in Latin America. Paul vs. Rahman Jr. is also available down under via FOX Sports Australia.
Paul (5-0, 4 KOs) and Rahman Jr. (12-1, 6 KOs) will meet after the two erupted during the kick-off press conference over who was the better man during sparring sessions they had in 2020. Paul, a YouTube star and influencer-turned-pro boxer trains under the tutelage of Danny Smith and B.J. Flores in Puerto Rico and was named the Sports Illustrated 2021 Breakout Boxer of the Year. Rahman Jr. is the son of the former two-time heavyweight champion and has trained under boxing sages like Emanuel Steward, Calvin Ford and now Yoel Judah, father and trainer of the former two-division world champion Zab Judah.
The other half of the dual main event features seven-division women’s champion Serrano, (42-2-1, 30 KOs) of Brooklyn, who will defend her featherweight titles against Argentina’sCarabajal (18-5-1, 9 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout. Serrano made history in April when she and Katie Taylor were the first women to headline a main event at MSG. In the co-feature, teenage sensation,18-year-old Ashton Sylve (7-0, 7 KOs) of Long Beach, Calif., will face Braulio Rodriguez of the Dominican Republic in an eight-round lightweight bout. Knockout artist Brandun Lee (25-0, 22 KOs), of La Quinta, Calif., will face Will Madera in a 10-round super lightweight to open the pay-per-view telecast.
Veteran sportscaster and SHOWTIME boxing host Brian Custer will host the four-fight pay-per-view telecast alongside the most versatile voice in combat sports Mauro Ranallo, with International Boxing Hall of Famer Al Bernstein and former junior middleweight champion and SHOBOX® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as expert analysts. Leading combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani will serve as ringside reporter. Two more Hall of Famers will round out the SHOWTIME PPV telecast team – boxing historian Steve Farhood will serve as unofficial scorer and world-renowned Jimmy Lennon Jr. will serve as ring announcer. Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins and SHOBOX announcer and combat sports expert Brian Campbell will provide analysis for the international feed.
The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. Four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins Jr. will serve as executive producer and Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy, as director. The pair has produced the three highest-grossing pay-per-view events of all time (Mayweather-Pacquiao, Mayweather-McGregor, Mayweather-Canelo).
In the leadup to the dual headliner, SHOWTIME SPORTS will offer an installment of its Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS, bringing fans behind the scenes as Paul prepares to face the first full-fledged boxer of his career and Rahman Jr. prepares for his first big moment in the spotlight. The series also features Serrano as she trains in her hometown and shakes off the remnants from her last fight in advance of her title defense. ALL ACCESS: PAUL VS. RAHMAN premieres on Saturday, July 30 at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT with ALL ACCESS: PAUL VS. RAHMAN EPILOGUE premiering on Saturday, August 13.
The event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), a company founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian and promoted by Holden Boxing.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostVpromotions on Instagram via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostValuablePromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.
Converted MMA fighters Raphael Torres & Jon Gruber Battle for Mass. Cruiserweight title
QUINCY, Mass. (July 28, 2022) – Two converted mixed-martial-arts fighters, Raphael Torres (2-0, 2 KOs), of Framingham (MA), and Fall River’s (MA) Jonathan Gruber (3-1, 2 KOs), will throw-down in a 6-round match for the vacant Massachusetts Cruiserweight Championship.
“The Next Chapter,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be held Saturday night, August 6, at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.
“Raphael is an impressive athlete who currently has a lot of people’s attention in the local boxing scene,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented. “He is now training in arguably the best gym in the state and showed massive improvements in his first fight with Ken Ball as his trainer. This is really going to show us where he is at. Gruber comes to fight. He is a big guy coming down in weight and has had some good amateur experience. August 6th will answer a lot of questions.”
The 22-year-old Torres is coming off an opening round knockout of Igor Pessoa this past June at home in Framingham. He weighed in at 186 pounds, but he plans to come in close to the 200-pound maximum for his cruiserweight clash with Gruber.
“”It felt good,” Torres talked about his last fight. “I kind of surprised myself. My standards are a little higher. We had a game plan for people to see how much better I’ve become. I’m coming in close to 200 for this fight. I’ve gotten faster and stronger. More importantly, I’m comfortable fighting at this weight. I love to eat; my training has been dope. This title fight is huge for me. Taking it says a lot about my confidence. I’m taking a big step up. I’m an opportunist, so when this fight was offered, I jumped at it fast.
“I know my opponent is a former Muay Thai fighter and kick boxer. He fought one of my (MMA) teammates a few years ago. I’m excited. He’s bigger, but I’m going to show I’m the puncher.”
Gruber, 33, switched from MMA to boxing in 2019 when he fought in the Golden Gloves. Rather than work on different MMA disciplines, he decided to concentrate on one type of combat sport, boxing.
“I’m a construction worker and it was difficult training because one day it would be boxing, the next Jiu-Jitsu, and then kickboxing,” Gruber explained. ”Now, I box five days a week. I’m in a zone when I box and never think about anything else (like MMA). People call me an awkward fighter. I’m not the usual boxer. I was right-handed until I got into boxing. My father taught me boxing and he was left-handed. I had to learn everything again as a righty. I do switch back and forth. I use it to cut off the ring or going backwards. I also confuse my opponent. They may be looking for a big right, but then I switch to southpaw.
“I know my opponent is coming up in weight from a lighter weight class. I’ve heard he’s fast. This is my first fight below heavyweight. Two fights again I weighed 225 and last November I was 262. I’ve trained hard to lose this weight and keep my strength. And I’m still learning every day.”
In the 10-round main event, former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr., fighting out of nearby Holbrook (MA), meets Argentinian junior welterweight Jonathan “Yoni” Ariel Sosa (7-13-2, 4 KOs).
Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (3-2, 1 KO) and Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (4-2, 2 KOs) square off in the 8-round co-feature for the vacant Massachusetts cruiserweight title.
New Bedford (MA) light heavyweight prospect Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (7-0, 6 KOs), the 2018 New England Golden Gloves runner-up, fights veteran Texas fighter Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (13-50-2, 9 KOs) a 6-rounder.
Promising Brockton (MA) welterweight David “The Blessed One” Ribeiro (1-0, 1 KO) faces a new opponent, Rhode Island’s Alfred “Keenan” Raymond (1-3, 0 KOs) in a 4-round match. The 25-year-old Ribeiro was a decorated amateur who captured a gold medal at the 2020 New England Golden Gloves Championships.
Also scheduled to fight in a 4-round bout is Methuen (MA) junior middleweight Luke Iannuccilli (2-0, 2 KOs).
Card subject to change.
Tickets are available for purchase at GRANITE-CHIN-PROMOTIONS.TICKETLEAP.COM or www.ticketriver.com (Search: The Next Chapter) for $45.00 (standing room), $60.00 (floor seats), $80.00 (VIP stage seats) and $40.00 for a table of 4.
Doors open at 7 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET.
VIDEO: Danny Garcia vs. Jose Benavidez Jr: Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
DANNY GARCIA VS. JOSE BENAVIDEZ JR. FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
BROOKLYN – July 28, 2022 – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia and exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. went face-to-face at a final press conference on Thursday and gave verbal clues of the explosive action they plan to dish out in a super welterweight clash set for this Saturday, July 30 headlining live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Also squaring off on Thursday at the press conference were Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki and Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen, who battle in the heavyweight co-main event, plus unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy, who duel in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Thursday’s event also featured rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr., who faces tough veteran Jimmy Williams as part of the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show streaming live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:
DANNY GARCIA
“It’s been 19 months since I’ve been in the ring and I’ve been enjoying my life in and out of the ring. I’ve spent time with my family, but I’ve still been staying in the gym the whole time. I trained with young guns Chris Colbert and Stephen Fulton Jr. To be honest, it feels like I never left.
“We had a tremendous training camp in Philly. We’ve done everything we were supposed to do and my body feels great. I knew that I was coming up to 154 pounds, so I built more muscle. But most importantly I feel good mentally.
“Once Danny Garcia is mentally and physically strong, no one can touch him. I’ve proved that before. I’m just excited to be back at Barclays Center.
“I’m excited to be on this card with a lot of young fighters. It’s tremendous and I can’t wait. The ‘Danny Garcia Show’ is back. I definitely feel good and come Saturday night you better make sure you get your tickets or tune in on SHOWTIME.
“It feels good to be back. I’m back because I love to fight. I’m a fighter and I love boxing. I knew once I took that break, that I’d come back at 154 pounds. A lot of people don’t know how I’ve been squeezing my body down. I think people will be surprised about how strong I am.
“I want to chase a new dream. I want to be a three-division champion. I have the skill and I have the will and I’m not going to let anyone take it away from me.
“Nothing ever comes easy against Danny Garcia. Don’t try too hard, because you might knock yourself out (to Jose Benavidez Jr.).
“I’m going to go out there and have fun and do what I do best. I’m going to find a way. It’s going to be the same thing you always see. I’m going to get this ‘W’.”
JOSE BENAVIDEZ JR.
“I’m ready. I feel strong and I’m happy to be here. It’s exciting to be fighting in this big arena. I’m ready to show the world that I’m the one at 154 pounds.
“I’m the bigger guy at this weight. I’m confident, I’m strong and I’m ready. This is a new and improved me. Nobody is going to touch me.
“I don’t have to look impressive. I’m going to show what I am. I’m a beast. I know where my talent is and I’m going to make it look easy.
“This is going to be a good fight. It’s going to be fireworks. I respect Danny Garcia, but his dad talks too much. I’m thankful for the opportunity, but we’re going to let the fists talk.
“I’m done with the trash talk. I’m happy and I’m excited. I can’t wait to get it on Saturday night.
“They can think what they want to think. I know what I’m capable of and I’m going to prove it on Saturday. I’m only focused on my work ethic and I’ve been training hard for this fight.
“To me, the talk is just a game. I respect everyone. I’m more mature now. I’ve grown and I only care about what I’m going to do on Saturday.
“This is going to be the end of the ‘Danny Garcia Show’.”
ANGEL GARCIA, Garcia’s Father and Trainer
“We don’t fear anybody. We never turn down any fights. This isn’t anything new to us.
“When these guys are eye to eye, they’re the same size. Don’t underestimate Danny.
“Jose Jr. doesn’t have the skills. We’re ready for him. July 30 on SHOWTIME, the ‘Danny Garcia Show’ is back. It’s the greatest show on earth.”
JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Benavidez’s Father and Trainer
“This is a great opportunity for Jose to show his talent. He has to look impressive in order to go to the next level.
“I want to thank team Garcia for the opportunity. We’re facing a monster. But that just motivated us even more. When Jose beats Danny Garcia, he’ll be at the top and open up for bigger opportunities.
“Jose has matured a lot and he’s super motivated. It makes me feel comfortable and more secure that we’re going to have a good fight Saturday.”
ADAM KOWNACKI
“It means everything to be back here. I’m focused and I can’t wait to get a knockout victory and then go see my family in Poland
“I don’t come to play, I come to fight. I’m trying to break my own record with punches thrown. I’m here to fight, welcome to Brooklyn Ali.
“I’m facing an Olympian. He’s a tough guy. He likes to keep coming forward just like I do. I know he has a strong chin. He beat a good heavyweight in Gerald Washington. He stopped him. So this is definitely going to be a tough test.
“I’m going to have the same strategy as always. Come forward and try to stop him. Welcome to Brooklyn, baby. I don’t like to make predictions, but I don’t see this going the distance. I want to come back with a bang and stop him.
“Right now, I’m just focused on Ali. I can’t look past him because he can mess with all my plans. Right now, I’m just looking forward to knocking him out.
“Fighting at Barclays is always quite an experience. For anybody who hasn’t witnessed it, you’ve got to experience it. Get your ticket. There are going to be a lot of red shirts making a lot of noise on Saturday. It’s going to be a fun night.”
ALI EREN DEMIREZEN
“I’m so happy to be here in New York. I understand I’m facing an experienced fighter coming off losses, but I’m here to win as well. My goal is to not give him a chance to beat me.
“I’m here for a battle. I’m expecting the fans who watch this fight to come ready to see a war for as long as it lasts.
“This is a very important fight for me. This fight can get me into the top 10 and to the fight with the world champions.
“This is a chance for me to step up. I’m so happy to be here in the U.S. It’s every boxer’s dream to fight in the U.S. and I’m going to make the most of it.
“I’m not worried that I’m fighting in my opponents’ hometown. I feel that I’m known enough that I’m going to be treated fairly and I’ll be able to execute my game plan on Saturday.”
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL
“I’m more tunnel-visioned now. That support system that I once had with my dad is not there. But he gave us a lot of tools to keep us going. It’s made me more focused on the things that he did teach us.
“We all had an initial goal as a family. My father gave us the blueprint, so we’re just trying to strive and keep it going.
“I know Barthelemy is trying to make things happen for his country, but I’ve got goals too. It’s will versus will and goal versus goal. This Saturday night, you have to be there.
“I’ve been training and going back and forth in my mind on what I have to do. I have to win this fight so that I can move on to my next mission. We’re drawing lines and then keeping it going.
“We’re going to keep the knockout streak going. He’s going to have to do his best. I’ve been grinding. I know he’s been training, but is it the training that he needs to get through me? He’s gotta bring his A-game.”
RANCES BARTHELEMY
“I’ve had a goal for a long time to become a three-division world champion. I had the dream snatched away from me when I lost, but now I’m here and I’m thankful for the opportunity.
“I’m ready to show that I’m capable of winning this fight for the Cubans and for all my fans tuning in to watch me on Saturday night.
“Styles make fights and we’re definitely going to give the people what they want. It’s going to be a spectacular fight. I know what Russell is about, but I believe in myself and I know what I’m capable of doing.
“It’s all about my preparation, my experience and the great team that I have around me. I won’t let my guard down. I know that my opponent has heavy hands and that I’m going to have to be focused during the entire fight.
“I can guarantee that I’ve left everything inside of the gym to get ready for Gary. I’m going to show you what I’m capable of when we get into the ring.”
VITO MIELNICKI JR.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity on a big platform. It’s my first time fighting in Brooklyn and I’m excited to put on a dominant performance.
“We had a great eight-week camp with my coach ‘Chino’ Rivas and we’re ready to go. We want to put on a show, so make sure you tune in early.
“Expect a dominant performance. I’m an explosive fighter and you’re going to see why on Saturday night.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.
“Having Danny back is good for Barclays Center, good for SHOWTIME and most of all, it’s good for boxing. We all know by this point who Danny is. He fears no one. He doesn’t hesitate to take any fight. He’ll fight anybody and everybody and he’s proven that.
“Fourteen of Danny’s last 19 opponents have been world champions. Among his opponents – Zab Judah, Amir Khan, Lamont Peterson, Paulie Malignaggi, Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, Errol Spence Jr. It’s literally the best in the division during this era. Thirty-nine fights with 15 current or former world champions. He’s gone 12-3 against world champions in his career. I don’t know about you, but that sounds like a Hall of Fame resume to me.
“Jose Benavidez Jr. has very impressive credentials of his own. His only loss is to one of the pound-for-pound greats in Terence Crawford. Benavidez was an amateur prodigy and an 11-time National Champion. We’ve got two guys with great resumes, but at the end of the day, none of that matters when the bell rings. What we’re going to have, I promise you, is an all-action fight. Neither one of these guys knows how to take a step backwards.
“If you’ve never been to an Adam Kownacki fight at Barclays Center, you’re in for a treat. It’s one of the best atmospheres in boxing. The following that Adam has built is something to behold. He brings out the Polish fans from throughout the Tri-State area and it is a great atmosphere. But you cannot overlook the Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen. He is a tough competitor and a dangerous opponent.
“Gary Antuanne is one of the few undefeated ranked fighters who has won all of their fights by knockouts. Of the ranked fighters, only four have won all of their fights by knockout. In my opinion, Gary Antuanne is the most underrated fighter in his division. Rances Barthelemy has his own credentials. A two-division world champion. Experienced, skilled and an excellent technical fighter. He’s trying to become the first Cuban fighter to win titles in three divisions.
“I’m about as excited for this card as any as we have done recently. Why is that? Top to bottom, we’ve got great storylines. We’ve got name fighters, popular, fan-friendly fighters in high-stakes fights. It’s not just the fights on SHOWTIME. In the prelim stream, we have Sergiy Derevyanchenko and we have Vito Mielnicki Jr. We have quality top to bottom on this card.”
# # #
ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ
Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
QUOTES FROM BOXXER’S BOURNEMOUTH BEACH TAKEOVER ON THURSDAY
BOXXER took over the Bournemouth beachfront today for a unique seaside set-piece at which press and public encountered the world-class professional boxers of this Saturday night’s BOXXER event.
Bournemouth’s own Chris Billam-Smith was on hand to work out and answer questions ahead of his headline showdown with London rival Isaac Chamberlain in this weekend’s main event, with BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom watching on.
Here’s today’s top quotes:
Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO and Founder: “This is the one Chris Billam-Smith always wanted. He wanted to come back to Bournemouth. The turnout here today shows he’s a big star here in Bournemouth and he’s here to defend his European and Commonwealth titles.”
“Isaac Chamberlain, people will remember a long time ago when he fought Lawrence Okolie after only having had nine fights and being 23 years old. He’s built himself back up and people are underestimating where he is today both mentally and physically. We have an absolute 50/50 Cruiserweight war on our hands with a lot on the line as well on Saturday night.”
“I’ve never had a debut as anticipated as Ben Whittaker’s, with SugarHill training him as well. He’s got the perfect set-up to become a superstar, we see it for the first time on Saturday night and I really think he’s built for this. I’m not nervous, he’s not nervous”
Chris Billam-Smith: “It’s an honour for me to box in my hometown in front of my friends, family, and supporters. The town’s been behind me all these years. I’m fortunate to have such a great coach and be part of a world class gym surrounded by world class fighters that make me better. Isaac’s an amazing fighter, probably the hardest fight of my career so far, but that’s what I want, someone who can bring the best out of me.”
“Pressure is a privilege. It brings out the best in me, the harder the fights, the more riding on the fight, the better I’ll be, and I’ll always find a way to win if I have to.”
Isaac Chamberlain: “No one has been able to see the work I’ve been doing, because I’ve been away working on myself as an athlete and as a fighter. This is a great fight and a great test to show everyone the new and improved Isaac Chamberlain. Chris Billam-Smith is a great fighter so this is going to be a great fight.”
Ben Whittaker: “Pressure makes diamonds. There’s been a lot of talking, and Saturday I have to back it up, and I believe I will. I was ready for July 2nd, but this has given me more time to develop, more time to learn my craft, and more time to mature as a professional. I’ve been out in Miami, and that let me really focus. It’s all about finesse, and polishing the skills I already have. I want to show a mature performance on Saturday.”
Frazer Clarke: “Talk is cheap, and I want to prove myself by fighting better and better opponents through my career. We’re by the sea and everyone’s enjoying themselves with fish and chips, but I’m not here for a holiday. I’m here to do business, make no mistake about it.”
Caroline Dubois: “All my learning is being done in the gym. These fights help me get ready for doing it under the lights but we’re working on improving day-in day-out in the gym, so I feel like I’m coming on in leaps and bounds. I enjoy getting in the ring and sparring, every time I spar I get more confidence in myself and my ability.”
Stevie McKenna: “Me and my brother are very competitive. He got the knockout last time out so I want to get the knockout on Saturday night. I’ll be bringing my entertaining, destructive style. I go in to do damage, every punch I throw is with vicious intent and I want to show everyone how good I am. I can fight on the inside, I can box at long range. Hopefully I’ll put on a show and break into the top 10 in the world by the end of next year.”
Mikael Lawal: “I’ve been out of the ring for a little while and I told my team I need to fight someone who can get me ready to fight Deion Jumah.”
Hassan Azim: “Obviously I train with an amazing stable and it’s amazing to be around them. Chris Billam-Smith is in the main event on Saturday while I’m on the undercard. I’m only young and now I’m just gaining experience and a few years down the line I’ll be in the main event. I’m going to show improvement on Saturday. I’m improving all the time. I’ll show a six-round boxing masterclass but if I get the knockout it’s a bonus.”
Super Bad Signs: Two-Division World Champion Seniesa Estrada Inks Multi-Year Promotional Contract with Top Rank
LAS VEGAS (July 28, 2022) — Reigning two-division world champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada, the pound-for-pound fighting force from East Los Angeles, California, has signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank.
Estrada (22-0, 9 KOs) is the current WBA minimumweight and WBO junior flyweight champion and is the No. 1-ranked female in both divisions by ESPN.com. She will make her highly anticipated Top Rank on ESPN debut later this year.
“Seniesa Estrada is one of the world’s premier fighters and is well on her way to becoming a superstar in the sport,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “She is an engaging young woman who brings unbridled passion into the ring every time she fights. I am ecstatic that she has joined our tremendous roster of world champions.”
“I am extremely excited to be part of the Top Rank family. I’m eager to get back in the ring and continue where I left off, winning world titles, putting on exciting fights, and unifying in three divisions,” Estrada said. “Thank you, Top Rank, for giving me the opportunity to represent women’s boxing alongside Mikaela Mayer. There is no better timing then now to be with a promotional company like Top Rank and fight on such a great platform to show the world that women’s boxing is here to stay. I’m ready to shine.”
“I am thrilled that Seniesa has signed with Top Rank and will have the opportunity to showcase her talents to the largest possible audience,” said Jerry Casarez, Estrada’s manager. “The best is yet to come!”
Estrada, an 11-year pro, has been at the forefront women’s boxing meteoric rise over the past decade. A former U.S. amateur standout with more than 100 fights in the unpaid ranks, Estrada first walked into a boxing gym at the age of 8. Before the recent women’s boxing renaissance, she earned her stripes sparring boys at Hollenbeck Youth Center in Los Angeles.
Estrada notched a signature victory in November 2019, a dominant technical decision over bitter rival and U.S. Olympic bronze medalist Marlen Esparza. In 2021, Estrada went 3-0 and firmly established herself as a pound-for-pound force. She snatched the WBA minimumweight title from longtime champion Anabel Ortiz in March, dominated Tenkai Tsunami over 10 rounds in July to win the WBO junior flyweight crown, and defended her minimumweight title in December with a fourth-round stoppage over Maria Micheo. Estrada is currently ranked No. 6 on the ESPN.com women’s pound-for-pound list. With hardware in two divisions — and a third division firmly in her crosshairs — Estrada’s next championship chapter is about to be written.
THE NORTH EAST TAKEOVER PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
There was plenty of energy during the final pre-fight words ahead of a huge night of free-to-air boxing live from the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle, live on Channel 5 from 10pm.
It was a triple-threat of title talk, as Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs), Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6 KOs), and Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) all promised sensational performances to propel their rise to the top as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday night, live and free-to-air in front a terrestrial television audience.
The WBO International Super Welterweight Championship will be on the line, as Sunderland’s Kelly has the opportunity to make the stadium erupt in front of his own North East faithful. Argentina’s Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs) questioned the size and physicality of his opponent at the press conference, and promised to take a win back to his homeland. With an entry into the world rankings the incentive for both fighters, this guarantees to be the icing on the cake of a stacked night showcasing the area’s unbelievable talent.
Josh Kelly
“I think I’m alright you know (wearing his Sunderland shirt). The North East is where I’m from, but I’m a Sunderland fan so I’ll wear my shirt proudly too.”
“My performance Saturday is going to be electric, the energy is going to be absolutely pumping through everybody on the card from the North East. I am feeling the best I’ve ever felt in my career, I’m consistently in the gym and consistently focused. You’ll see my product on Saturday, it’s going to be such a sharp performance, and this guy is going to realise he’s swimming with the sharks. He’s come over, had a long journey, and it’s not going to be a nice night for him.”
“I was really a Super Welterweight who boiled down to a Welterweight. I was boxing at 69kg for Team GB which is very similar to the Super Welterweight division professionally, and it was only a matter of time before I made the step up. I feel unreal. I’m strong, I’m not small for the division, and people will see my strength on Saturday night when I get in that ring.”
“Potential fight for British/Troy Williamson – It’s not a distraction, we’re here for all the big fights in the division. My eyes are fixed on them top titles of this division, I wouldn’t be in sport if I didn’t think I could get to world level so that’s where I’m looking at. Massive fights come along on that sort of journey, I’m 100% game.”
Lucas Bastida
“I know it’s going to be a great fight. I love what I saw yesterday (at the public workout), the people have treated me really well. I’m confident it’ll be me winning, but I’m hoping we give our audience a great show.”
“I think he’s small for this division. He’s a Welterweight fighting in Super Welterweight; whereas I’m a Middleweight cutting to make it at Super Welterweight. I’ve got the physical advantage over him.”
Harlem Eubank
“It’s easy to get frustrated. I feel like I’ve done what I need to do domestically and overcome the hurdles to put myself in line for the British title. I’ve said before that I can’t control the rankings, I can only control what goes on in the ring and that’s exactly what I’m doing and exactly what I’m focused on doing. I’ll handle my business in the ring and I’ll let everyone else handle what’s going on outside of boxing, and with the rankings, to put me in a position to keep developing and fight for them titles.”
“To get to this point now I’ve had to block out a lot of noise and just focus. I’m just locking in on becoming the best version of myself and the best fighter I can be, so there’s been plenty of blocking out anything external and just zoning in; I believe that’s what I need to do to grow in this sport of boxing.”
“I leave all the analysis of my opponent to Adam (Booth) and the team. I’m just focused on following the training and executing a strong performance.”
Eliot Chavez
“I’m here for one thing and that’s to win. I’m here fighting for my family and those supporting me at home, we’ve been working hard to make sure I’ll be leaving with that win.”
“I know this is going to be a tough fight, he’s a tough fighter. He’s good, but I’m really confident I can get the win after some really good preparations and I’m really happy to be here to showcase this in front of you all.”
Pat McCormack
“I want to say thanks to the Sauerlands for getting me onto the show and thanks to my management team. The journey started here, back in my hometown with my home fans and support. I can’t wait for Saturday night.”
“I’ve been living away in Essex so there’s no distractions at home. I’ve got Ben Davison who’s one of the best trainers in the world as my coach. I’m one of the best fighters to come out of Great Britain, you can see that on my track record, so the sky is the limit. I just want to keep climbing the ladder with my team until we get to the top and we’re fighting for world titles.”
“I’m eyeing up that British title, whoever has got it, that’s the one I want first. Then I’ll be working my way through the Commonwealth, European and World titles.”
Dmitri Trenel
“I think Pat is a potential future world champion. It’ll be a great show on Saturday for the UK people because they’re some of the best fans in the world when it comes to boxing. You don’t get this sort of atmosphere everywhere; you can tell the sport is well-loved here. I’ll be ready to put myself through whatever is needed to put on a performance for the UK crowd.”
Nisse Sauerland
“I see this as Josh Kelly 2.0. He showed his bravery stepping into the ring when he suffered that loss. I think it was too soon at that time, but now you can see the cobwebs have been dusted off after that last fight. You witnessed him roll through the rounds getting ready for his next fight and his next challenge.
“You can see how confident he is up here today, he’s going into his 14th fight at 28-years-old, a former Olympian too. He’s got the world at his feet, he’s a superstar, and he’ll continue to realise that in the ring on Saturday night. Bastida’s a tough guy, but Josh has all the tools to become British champion, European champion, and World champion. All of them.”
The North East takeover is coming as Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) vs. Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs) headline for the WBO International Super Welterweight Championship on an electric fight night. Olympic hero Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) also stars, alongside Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6 KOs) as he continues his title charge against Mexico’s Eliot Chavez (11-4-1, 6 KOs). Raza Hamza (16-0, 7 KOs) competes for the IBO International Featherweight Championship against Roberto Rodriguez Nucamendi (13-5, 10 KOs) before heavyweights Hosea Stewart (2-0) and Franklin Ignatius (4-0, 1 KO) guarantee fireworks. Top local talent such as ‘Drago’ Steve Robinson (4-1, 3 KOs), Kai Richmond (1-0), Ben Marksby (4-0), Lisa Whiteside (3-0, 1KO) and Jordan Barker-Porter (3-1) also feature on an unforgettable night in the North East. Wasserman Boxing heads to the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle for a massive night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday July 30, live on Channel 5 in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
Tickets priced £40, £80, £100 and £200 are one sale now and available via www.wassermanboxing.com
AUDIO: Shinard Bunch announces his Next Fight
VIDEO: Shinard Bunch announces his Next Fight
DANNY GARCIA VS. JOSE BENAVIDEZ JR. FIGHT WEEK MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
BROOKLYN – July 27, 2022 – Two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia and exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. kicked off fight week events on Wednesday showing off their skills and claiming they would be the better fighter at super welterweight during a media workout ahead of their showdown this Saturday, July 30 headlining live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The workout also featured Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki and Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen, who meet in the heavyweight co-main event, plus unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy, who square off in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING ® telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. While Kownacki is trying to prove he’s still a top heavyweight after back-to-back losses, Russell will endeavor to show he’s an elite talent and a future superstar against yet another proud contender. Russell is also fighting with a heavy heart after his father’s passing on May 23.
Wednesday’s event also included rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr., who takes on Jimmy Williams as part of the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show streaming live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Fans can also catch up with Mielnicki before he steps in the ring through SHOWTIME SPORTS revealing DAY IN CAMP feature HERE on the emerging star via the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel.
Also stepping into the ring during Wednesday’s workout was Brooklyn’s Junior Younan, a former amateur star who competes in a non-televised undercard bout on Saturday night.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn:
DANNY GARCIA
“I’m excited to be back at Barclays Center. I can’t wait. I’m here to show the world that I’m ready for this weight class. I feel strong and I want to go in there and make a real statement.
“He’s going to see what I bring into the ring on Saturday. I’ve had the right sparring for this fight and I prepared perfectly. It was really a perfect camp.
“It’s not about weight, it’s about skill. You don’t become a three-time world champion because you’re just bigger. It’s about skill and technique and that’s what we bring to the table.
“The only goal is to get this ‘W’ on Saturday, then we’ll start setting new goals. I expect Benavidez to come to fight, other than that, just expect me to do my thing.
“I’m going to be really strong on Saturday. This is a good weight class for me, especially at this point in my career. There’s a lot of good fighters in the division for me to fight.
“I have more strength, more stamina, I’ve done more sparring because I’m at this new weight class. This is the most rounds I’ve ever sparred in camp. Everything we do, we did it more this camp.”
JOSE BENAVIDEZ JR.
“I’m coming in with a bang. I take every fight like it’s the biggest fight of my life. I’m excited and I’m ready to go.
“I’m glad that Danny is confident. He’s going to find out on Saturday that 154 pounds isn’t for him. I fought Terence Crawford on one leg and gave him a fight. I know what I’m capable of and I’m going to fight like that.
“I’m not worried about what Danny is bringing. I know what I’m capable of. I trained hard and I’m doing this for my family.
“I feel great fighting at this weight. I’m a big guy. We had a tremendous training camp and I’m extremely motivated. I feel better than ever.
“My leg feels great. The biggest thing with this camp is that I’m happy. For all of these other camps I’m far away from my family but this camp we did it back home in Seattle. I just feel like this is my time to shine.
“My last fight I was trying to do too much, and because of that, I didn’t do anything at all. Everything happens for a reason and I feel ready to fight. I know that I can beat the best at 154, it starts with Danny.”
ADAM KOWNACKI
“It’s awesome to be back fighting at home at Barclays Center. I’m looking to put on a great performance on a big stage on SHOWTIME.
“I’m looking to come forward, attack the body and get him out of there. I’m trying to show the whole division that I’m back. The last couple fights didn’t go my way, but I’m going to show that it was just a bump in the road.
“I lost six percent body fat and turned it into muscle, so I’m feeling great. I want to be the old Adam and take no more steps backwards.
“I’m trying to win the title for Brooklyn. There’s still a lot I want to accomplish in the sport, including one day fighting back home in Poland.”
ALI EREN DEMIREZEN
“I’m here to fight. I’m not here to play around, I’m coming to win. This is a big moment in my career, but I’m going to do everything I can to have my hand raised. I know how important this fight is for my career.
“I said before the Gerald Washington fight that I’m here to stay (which he won by eighth-round stoppage). I want to achieve my dreams in the U.S. After this fight, the fans will know my name even better than before.
“I’m here to be the next great heavyweight fighter. I want to be known worldwide and follow in the footsteps of those who came before me.”
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL
“I’ve fought at Barclays Center before and I try not to overly magnify these fights and opponents, because this is what we do. We live for this, but it doesn’t define who we are. Because it’s what we do, we won’t undermine it’s importance.
“My father instilled a lot of information and wisdom into us. He installed in us moral integrity and moral fiber and I thank him for that. To keep that going on, that’s a chore that we’ve all taken on. It’s a priority.
“I wouldn’t want to have an unfamiliar person in my camp, so it’s great to have my brother Gary Jr. training me. If I can’t trust the person in my corner, then my fight would be real unfortunate probably. It’s a bittersweet thing, but it makes the transition easier.
“The point of this sport is to hit and not get hit. Rances Barthelemy is a crafty fighter. He likes to lure his opponent into a clean shot.
“My whole objective is to clean out the 140-pound division. That’s the goal in front of us.”
RANCES BARTHELEMY
“I feel great here. I love fighting at Barclays Center. You can really feel the Latin heat there. They all come out and support. I love it and I appreciate it. I’m looking forward to this.
“My motivation is at an all-time high. He’s a future star and a quality opponent. My experience will be a factor though. In addition, my endurance and how I approach this fight physically will be key for me.
“This is an opportunity for me to achieve my goal and my dream, which is to make history for Cuban boxing. I’m prepared and I hope everyone tunes in for this on Saturday.
“I have no words to describe how this feels. This is a big responsibility for me, because I fight for Cubans everywhere. This country has been great opening doors for me and I’m thankful that I’ve been able to achieve my dream. At the same time, it is my duty to fight for my oppressed brothers and sisters in Cuba.
“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I fought a bad fight in 2019 against Robert Easter (in a split draw) and now it’s time for me to redeem myself and give the people the fight they want to see.”
VITO MIELNICKI JR.
“I’m feeling strong and ready to go. We had a great training camp down in Orlando and got some great work overall. We’re ready for whatever my opponent brings.
“The main thing I learned from my loss is that proper preparation prevents poor performance. You can’t expect to go into a fight with two weeks training and get the best performance. I learned a lesson that I’ll remember for the rest of my career.
“Ever since I got with coach Chino Rivas, we’ve really been on the same page. This is our second fight together and I’m ready to put everything on display.
“I expect to be more explosive and show a high punch output. I’m going to be precise and have a strong defense. I’ll show everything that I’ve been working on.
“I’ve fought in a lot of big venues, but to be fighting at Barclays Center is going to be a great experience and I can’t wait to put on a show.”
JUNIOR YOUNAN
“I’m coming to shake the room. This is my hometown. I’m going to make sure this hurts for my opponent on Saturday.
“I feel good and I’m ready. These are the kind of fights I take to stay busy. I’m going to get all the way down to 168 for my next fight. I want to face Caleb Plant.
“The fans can expect fireworks. I’m going to show what I have. I’ve never given myself the full opportunity to show myself in these big moments and I’m just ready to go. As I’ve gotten older I’ve realized how seriously I need to take this sport and I’m ready now.”
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ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ
Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #GarciaBenavidez, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
HASIM RAHMAN JR. TAKES PART IN LAS VEGAS OPEN MEDIA WORKOUT AHEAD OF JAKE PAUL MEGA-FIGHT AUGUST 6 AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN LIVE ON SHOWTIME PPV®
Las Vegas – July 27, 2022 – The verbal jabs continued one week ahead of the Jake “The Problem Child” Paul and Hasim Rahman Jr. mega-fight as Rahman Jr. participated in an open media workout Tuesday night at DLX Boxing in Las Vegas. He wasted little time dissing Paul as a “mockery of our sport” saying he respected Paul’s work ethic, but that he is looking to “expose him for the fraud he is.”
The cruiserweight clash scheduled for eight rounds will take place on Saturday, August 6 live on SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Madison Square Garden in New York City. Tickets can be purchased at www.msg.com.
Here is what the principals had to say Tuesday night:
Hasim Rahman Jr.
“We’ve had an amazing camp and I just want to thank my team. From my track coach to my strength and conditioning, all my coaches have been there for me. Just taking care of every little thing down to my nutritionist preparing my meals. Everyone is in sync and we’re ready to go.
“There’s nothing Jake Paul does that concerns me. I’m just super confident going into this fight. I feel like this guy is not at my level. He made a mistake picking me.
“Being in Vegas is amazing. My family and I came here because of boxing and we’ve been training for what could be the biggest fight of the year. It’s on me now and I have Vegas on my back. I have a lot of support and this is my home. I love it here. There’s not a better place to be and then to go from here to go to the mecca of boxing next week is just a beautiful thing. It’s poetry in motion.
“Fighting in Madison Square Garden happened so fast – I didn’t think it would happen so fast. But it’s here and I’m ready and I know what I signed up for. We’re going to go in there and make it look easy.
“I respect his work ethic but come August 6 I look to expose him for the fraud he is.
“It’s similar to when my father knocked out Lennox Lewis. He had a target on his back. I’m looking to do the same thing and to get that target on my back so I can fight for a world championship.
“I just have one final message: Jake Paul is going to fall!”
Hasim Rahman Sr.
“We’re looking forward to knocking Jake out. I feel like when you get a certain status you start feeling you’re invincible. You start thinking you can do it all. But it’s one thing to say something, and another thing to go out there and do it. So when he has to go out and do it, he’s going to realize it wasn’t as easy as he thought it was going to be. Once he wakes up.
“I just feel like we don’t have to look for a KO. I just feel like we have superior boxing skills. His boxing IQ is much great than Jake Paul’s and I just personally feel like the knockout is going to come.
“Timing beats speed. We got the bigger, stronger fighter. We’ve got the reach advantage. We control the distance of the fight. We control how this fight goes. If we want to make it a slugfest, we will make it a slugfest. If we want to make it a boxing clinic, we’ll make it a boxing clinic. It all depends on what style we want to fight. The fight you are going to see will be dictated by us.
“We’re not really concerned with Jake Paul’s power. We don’t need to show how good our chin is. We don’t need to show what his right hand can do. What we can do is take his right hand away from him. We aren’t going to get hit with the right hand, but if we do we are going to fire back with our own counter. It’s going to be an interesting fight. Jake Paul can fight. Don’t get it twisted. But I’m not impressed by the knockouts he’s had. I don’t really feel like he’s knocked out a fighter yet.”
Yoel Judah, Rahman Jr.’s trainer
“I see Rahman Jr. is going to win in the sixth round. He’s confident and he’s doing everything by the book. He wants this fight. Jake made a big mistake.
“We’ve been working on everything. Movement, speed, and mainly stamina. We know he has really good punching power, and legs. So, if we get good stamina, we know we are good.
“Jake has a problem. He’s tried to cripple us to get to 200 pounds, then to not go over 214. The best thing about Jake Paul is he’s probably going to be in great shape. But you’re fighting a real boxer now. Good punching power and good combinations and someone who is not afraid of you and who is going to bring the fight to you.
“I’ve been with Hasim about four, five years. He’s right there. He’s where he’s supposed to be for this fight. I see him three years from now fighting for a world championship.”
The Paul vs. Rahman and Serrano vs. Carabajal event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), a company founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian. Holden Boxing will be the licensed promoter and Paul and Bidarian will serve as executive producers for the event. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.
SHOWTIME SPORTS® will bring fans inside the ropes and behind the scenes with its Emmy- award-winning series ALL ACCESS: PAUL VS. RAHMAN, which will premiere this Saturday, July 30. An ALL ACCESS: PAUL VS. RAHMANEPILOGUE will follow on August 13.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostVpromotions on Instagram via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostValuablePromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.
# # #
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.
CLARESSA SHIELDS DETROIT MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
DETROIT – July 27, 2022 – Boxing superstar Claressa “G.W.O.A.T.” Shields held a media workout inDetroit on Wednesday to preview her upcoming undisputed middleweight world championship showdown against longtime rival Savannah Marshall.
Shields vs. Marshall will take place on Saturday, September 10 from The O2, London and be available on ESPN+ for audiences in the U.S. Shields will bring the WBA, WBC and IBF middleweight titles into the showdown against Marshall and her WBO strap, in an event promoted by Salita Promotions and BOXXER in association with Hennessy Sports.
Shields will look to avenge the only loss of her amateur career and end a long war of words with Marshall that has reached a boil in recent years and which stems from Marshall’s points victory over Shields in a 2012 amateur bout.
Here is what Shields and her promoter Dmitriy Salita had to saw Wednesday from Downtown Boxing Gym:
CLARESSA SHIELDS
On her mindset during training…
“I just want to be better than yesterday. That’s all it’s ever been for me. I’m already better than (Marshall). I already have big accomplishments, gold medals, the wins and everything. It’s not really about her. Yes, she’s a good fighter and everything, and she holds one belt, but I hold 12. I don’t think about her when I’m training. Yes, we have a gameplan for (Marshall), but I’m just trying to be better than I was yesterday.”
On the loss to Marshall in the amateurs…
“I only lost in the amateurs in boxing. I’ve never lost in professional boxing. I’m undefeated. I lost to her 10 years ago in the amateurs by six points. It was 14-8. But that really doesn’t bother me at all because I’ve been able to be successful after that. On the other hand, you’ve got (Marshall) who lost every tournament she was in after our fight, and in those same tournaments I won gold.
“So having one loss in the amateurs and being able to turn pro and do everything that I’ve done since, I don’t really care about (that loss). But I think it’s a great story and storyline, and I guess we’ve got history. She doesn’t like me. I don’t like her, and I’m looking forward to fighting in six weeks.”
On being a model and mentor to younger women and athletes…
“I know that I have a big impact on the city of Flint and Michigan, and just throughout the U.S. for all the Black girls and girls who want to box. And I do take pride in it. That’s why I carry myself the way that I do. That’s why I continue to be confident. People have tried to force me to quiet down, and find a happy medium, and be nice to my opponents, and don’t trash talk, but it’s boxing.
“I’m very passionate about the sport and I love trash talking. I love the build-up to fights. And I’m officially a millionaire. I can do what I want, and I don’t have to follow all these rules that they put on women. So I just want to show the younger girls coming up to just be you.
“As far as helping the kids of Flint, I don’t know where I’d be without boxing. So me giving back with the Shields Community Outreach nonprofit is very heartwarming for me. I’ve met over 100 to 150 kids over the last few weeks and been able to teach them, spend time with them and mold them. You get to see people who didn’t have confidence gain confidence and see a future in themselves. I’m just happy that their parents give me the opportunity to do that.”
On training in both Michigan and Florida…
“I’ve been in training camp here in Michigan for five weeks already. I usually do six weeks of camp. But for this camp, since it’s so important and she’s such a big puncher, we’re going to put in an extra five weeks for (Marshall).
“I like training in Florida. It’s hot. I don’t have any distractions, like family and friends and stuff like that. That’s just where I do all my training camps. I’ve never done a full camp here in Flint.”
On the emotions ahead of September 10…
“Marshall has been quiet since the press conference. She was quiet during our sit together. I was thinking she would have more energy and more spite. But when we were face-to-face she tucked her tail, and that just showed me right there that she didn’t want this fight. She knows she’s not going to win this fight. I saw her do an interview where she had a black eye. So they’ve been trying to put her through all kinds of stuff in sparring to make sure she’s ready. But the truth is she’s lightyears behind me.”
On the strength of Shields’ professional opposition compared to Marshall’s…
“Marshall has fought a whole bunch of tomato cans. She might be 12-0 with 10 knockouts, but if you go and look at her record, the majority of those girls had losing records. You’re supposed to knock them out on three days’ notice, or a week’s notice.”
On the value of her previous experience in undisputed fights…
“When we get inside the ring, she hasn’t done this before. She hasn’t fought for an undisputed championship. This will be my third time. So people love to build it up and trash talk, but she’s going to want to talk trash in the ring, and I’m just setting that to the side and focused on training to be better, faster, stronger, sharper and smarter. I think she knows that and that she’s in for a tough fight.”
DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions
On making the deal for Shields vs. Marshall…
“Claressa’s goal has always been to prove that she’s the greatest female boxer of this generation. She’s been doing this so far in her career. I’m surprised that the oddsmakers see Claressa as the underdog, but she has been proving the odds wrong her whole life, from growing up in Flint, to becoming two-time Olympic gold medalist, to being the face of women’s boxing and taking this sport to the next level.”
On how he sees the fight playing out inside the ring…
“I think the same thing will happen that happened when Claressa fought Christina Hammer. People thought it was going to be a tough, challenging fight, but they say pressure makes diamonds and I believe that Claressa is a great, great athlete and that situation is only going to make her step up to that next level and bring out her true potential. I believe she’ll raise her performance to the next level and outlast Savannah Marshall.”
On the significance of Shields vs. Marshall…
“This is a big event and a big fight, and I really believe that this is quite a significant cultural event as well. We’ve seen a tremendous media turnout here today, which is great. Not only is it great for this fight, but it also shows the return and growth of boxing and Claressa is big part of it.”
On Marshall’s strengths…
“She’s a good boxer. She’s getting better with each fight. She has good footwork, good power, a good jab. I believe that she’s a good, solid fighter. But as Roger Mayweather used to say, there are levels to this. And I believe Claressa is on a different level. Savannah is a good fighter. We respect her for stepping up to the plate. But great fighters like Claressa make good fighters like Savannah look subpar, and that’s what I think will happen on September 10.”
2-Time World Champion Jose Ramirez Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas
Las Vegas (July 27, 2022) – Two-time world champion Jose Ramírez has confirmed that he will appear at the Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.
Ramírez will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Mexican Independence Day weekend.
The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo
Ramírez will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this fan friendly Boxing Star.
Ramírez joins David Benavidez, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Erik Morales as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.
Jose Ramirez
Ramírez is a Mexican American professional boxer. He is a former unified light welterweight champion, having held the WBC title from 2018 to May 2021 and the WBO title from 2019 to May 2021. As an amateur he was the number one rated in the WBC lightweight in the United States and represented the U.S at the 2012 Olympics. In June of 2020, Ramirez was ranked as the world’s second-best active light welterweight by The Ring Magazine. Some of Ramirez most noticeable fights came against Amir Imam, Maurice Hooker, Viktor Postal, Josh Taylor and Jose Pedraza. He is currently scheduled to fight next for the Vacant WBC Super lightweight championship versus Jose Zepeda in a highly anticipated rematch, which Ramirez won on Feb 10, 2019.
About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.
Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.
Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.
Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo
.
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2022
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Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) looked in peak condition as he floated around the canvas in front of his beloved North East faithful. The public workouts gave a taster, as the lively Newcastle crowd showed up to support ‘PBK’ as he showcased his speed ahead of his WBO International Super Welterweight Championship, live and free-to-air on Channel 5 from 10pm.
“It’s beautiful being back in the North East. I feel like the energy is different here, and I bounce of that energy,” said Kelly. “We’re all home grown, we’re from the salt of the earth, so if we get that energy on Saturday night we’ll be pumped and ready to go out there and get the win.”
It will not be an easy win that the former Olympian goes in search for. Should he overcome the stern test of Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs), he knows a potential North East collision could take place for the British title, with Troy Williamson someone who sits on his radar.
“I 100% want that fight,” said Kelly. “The North East doesn’t get enough of these shows up here, we’re fighting people and I’ve fought all my life.”
“Here I am, when you’re born in the North East you’re a fighter from the start; there’s no luxuries. That fight is a massive one for the North East, and I’m game to take it. After I get the win here on Saturday, lets get it on.”
With such a rousing reception for Kelly at the public workout, the Sunderland fighter asked that all the excitement and support be taken into Saturday to offer backing to the entirety of the stacked fight card.
“There’s some quality fighters on the card Saturday night. It’s giving some of these North East fighters the chance to show what they’ve got. The more shows we can get up here, the better. There’s so much talent, it’s going to be a great night.”
He continued, “I’m appreciative of everyone. Lets all come together on Saturday and make plenty of noise, not just for me but for all the local fighters on the card. It’s gonna be one hell of a show, and we’ll have the place bouncing. Lets go!”
Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) goes in search of his second professional victory against Dimitri Trenel (8-1, 4 KOs). One of the North East’s most exciting boxing prospects, the 27-year-old cannot wait to showcase his skills and add another win to his record.
The fighter has made a fluid transition into the professional ranks, and feels right at home as he goes in search of another big win in front of a televised audience. He is always excited to be fighting in his home of the North East, and cannot wait to showcase his development and do the business.
“It’s unbelievable to be back. I’ve been fighting all over the world with Team GB, every country you can think of, so it’s good to come back and fight in front of my home crowd and my family,” said McCormack.
“If I can get him out there in the first, then I’ll get him out there in the first. I’m not going in there and trying to knock him out straight away; I’m going to use my boxing and show everyone what I’ve been learning with Ben (Davison) to put on a good show Saturday night.”
Harlem Eubank will be looking to establish himself as the latest star name from his famous boxing family. The nephew of British boxing legend Chris Eubank Snr and cousin of Chris faces Mexico’s Eliot Chavez in a hotly anticipated Super Lightweight showdown.
It will be Eubank’s second Channel 5 fight, and he is looking to use the terrestrial platform to continue his surge towards titles. Ready to topple anyone who stands in his way, the Brighton boxer has his sights set on plenty more memorable wins like last time out to cement a memorable legacy in the sport.
“Fighting on this platform is great. This kind of activity is just what I need to keep developing my career in the direction I want it to go in,” said Eubank. “I want to make a statement in the sport, and coming out here regularly is what I need to continue doing. I’m excited to put on a show Saturday night.”
I’m in a pure flow state of mind. I’m known for taking any and all fighters and I’ve had the tough challenges coming through the ranks that shows I’ll take on anyone that Adam (Booth) and the team offer me.”
“I’m a true fighter, and I’m in this game to leave my mark and make an impact. The start of that is this Saturday night, and after that; anyone who wants it.”
PLEASE FIND ALL IMAGES BELOW: NORTH EAST TAKEOVER IMAGES CREDIT: WASSERMAN BOXING The North East takeover is coming as Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) vs. Lucas Bastida (18- 1-1, 10 KOs) headline for the WBO International Super Welterweight Championship on an electric fight night. Olympic hero Pat McCormack (1-0, 1 KO) also stars, alongside Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6 KOs) as he continues his title charge against Mexico’s Eliot Chavez (11-4-1, 6 KOs). Raza Hamza (16-0, 7 KOs) competes for the IBO International Featherweight Championship against Roberto Rodriguez Nucamendi (13-5, 10 KOs) before heavyweights Hosea Stewart (2-0) and Franklin Ignatius (4-0, 1 KO) guarantee fireworks. Top local talent such as ‘Drago’ Steve Robinson (4-1, 3 KOs), Kai Richmond (1-0), Ben Marksby (4-0), Lisa Whiteside (3-0, 1KO) and Jordan Barker-Porter (3-1) also feature on an unforgettable night in the North East. Wasserman Boxing heads to the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle for a massive night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday July 30, live on Channel 5 in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.
Tickets priced £40, £80, £100 and £200 are one sale now and available via www.wassermanboxing.com
2-time Olympians Yuberjen Martinez & Leonel de los Santos in action this Friday in Colombia
BOSTON (July 27, 2022) – Two-time Olympians Yuberjen “Tremendo” Martinez and Leonel de los Santos, the future of Fighter Locker, will both be in action this Friday night at Elias Chegwin Coliseum in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Martinez, 30, represented Colombia in the last two summer Olympic Games, capturing a silver medal in 2016. The flyweight will be making his long anticipated professional debut, at home, against Yeison “El Chino” Hernandez (6-3, 2 KOs), of Argentina, in a 6-round bout.
Martinez was a highly decorated amateur who, in addition to his Olympics experiences, won gold medals at the 2014 & 2018 Central American & Caribbean Games and the 2018 South American Games. He also took bronze at the prestigious 2017 World Championships, bronze at the 2019 Pan American Games.
Leonel de los Santos
The 27-year-old Santos (6-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of the Dominican Republic, faces veteran Colombian lightweight Luis Diaz Marmol (18-15, 11 KOs) in a 6-rounder. Santos, a southpaw, won a silver medal at the 1019 Pan-American Games.
“I’m very excited to have these two Olympian fighters on an ESPN Deportes broadcast,” manager Ryan Roach (Fighter Locker) said. “Both fighters are facing some tough opposition. They had great camps, so look for some explosive action Friday! They are ready to showcase their skills on an international platform.”
Fighter Locker’s growing stable of gifted boxers also includes New York’s ABF American West super lightweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs), Colorado’s ABF American West super middleweight champion “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (11-0, 6 KOs), Massachusetts super lightweight Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (12-0, 9 KOs), Florida super bantamweight Daniel “The Dedication” Bailey, Jr. (10-1, 5 KOs), Massachusetts featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs), Dominican super welterweight Juan Solano Santos (1-0, 1 KO), Dominican featherweight Orlando Perez Zapata (11-0, 9 KOs), Dominican lightweight Isaelin Florian Henriguez (9-1, 4 KOs), Florida light heavyweight Robert Daniels, Jr. (6-0, 5 KOs), Irish light heavyweight Tommy “The Kid” O’Toole (4-0, 3 KOs), Texas lightweight Miranda “ La Alacrana” Reyes (6-1-1, 3 KOs), Kansas brothers, welterweight Marcus Davidson (4-0, 4 KOs) and super lightweight Marcell Davidson (2-0, 1 KO), and Utah brothers, ABF American West lightweight champion Ignacio Chairez (8-1-1, 5 KOs) and lightweight Gabriel Chairez (4-0-1, 2 KOs).
INFORMATION:
WEBSITE: fighterlocker.com, punch4parkinsons.com
FACEBOOK: /fighterlocker
TWITTER: @RoachRyan
INSTAGRAM: @RyanRoach82
ABOUT FIGHTER LOCKER: Established in 2019, Fighter Locker is a comprehensive sports agency that manages professional boxers. Fighter Locker also helps to brand boxers by finding their voice with a 100-percent customized service. Fighter Locker does not really believe in working models. It believes in partnership optimization models in motion.
Fighter Locker uses four creative steps because it believes in “the foundation is everything”: 1. wisely conceived, 2. creatively restrained, 3. Proudly judged, 4. sharply targeted.
FORMER WORLD CHAMPION LIAM SMITH MAKES LONG-AWAITED HOMECOMING ON 3RD SEPTEMBER
Liverpool, England – 27th July 2022 – Liverpool’s own Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (31-3-1, 18 KOs) will begin his campaign for a second world title shot when he headlines at the M&S Bank Arena in his home city on Saturday, 3rd September, live and exclusively on Sky Sports.
Tickets are on sale now via Boxxer.com, with prices beginning at just £40.
Making his way to Merseyside to face the hometown hero is the heavy-handed Hassan Mwakinyo (20-2, 14 KO’s), who shocked the British boxing fanbase on his 2018 visit to the UK when he demolished the infamously tough Sam Eggington in just two rounds.
Undefeated since then and coming off three consecutive stoppage victories, the former WBF Intercontinental champion has scored 70% of his victories by KO or TKO, has stopping power in both hands and is traveling to the UK intent on upsetting the home fans once again.
Currently ranked in the top five by three of boxing’s major sanctioning bodies, Smith – who won the WBO World Light-Middleweight Championship in 2015 – has blasted his name back into the world championship contender conversation with stoppage wins in his last two fights and is now set on winning a second world title as part of the BOXXER stable.
Two of the UK’s top light-heavyweights will collide in the chief support bout when reigning British Light-Heavyweight champion ‘Super’ Dan Azeez (16-0, 11 KO’s) meets former champion Shakan Pitters (17-1, 6 KO’s) to make his first defence of the British Light-Heavyweight Championship he won by stopping the highly-accomplished Hosea Burton in November last year.
One of the hottest young talents in boxing, Adam ‘The Assassin’ Azim (5-0, 4 KO’s), will make the first defence of his WBC Youth title. Azim has ended his last four bouts inside the distance, most recently demolishing experienced European opponent Anthony Loffett in just 66 seconds.
Amir Khan, who became world champion at just 22 years old, was ringside to witness that win in June and has lavished praise on the hard-hitting youngster, predicting that the 20-year-old may become a world champion even earlier than he did himself.
A super-middleweight firefight is on the cards when 2018 Commonwealth Games medalist John Docherty (12-1, 9 KO’s) travels down from Scotland to face Brazilian bomb-thrower Diego ‘Dynamite’ Costa (8-0, 5 KO’s).
The Manchester-based Costa is widely regarded as one of the most avoided fighters in the division but Doherty has no qualms about taking him on, setting up what is sure to be a non-stop battle between two fighters who rarely take a backwards step.
And another power-punching clash is predicted when Liverpool’s own Nathan Quarless (9-0) faces Middlesbrough man Michael Webster (7-0, 5 KO’s) in a cruiserweight contest which sees both prospects put their undefeated record on the line.
Amir Khan-managed Sikh sensation Tal Singh will also be making his professional debut at this event after swapping Liverpool for Las Vegas to train for the professional ranks.
Two more Liverpudlians appearing on the card are Paddy Lacey (6-0, 1 KO) who claimed victory in under 45 seconds in his most recent fight, and the 21-year-old Frankie Stringer (1-0), competing in his second professional bout following a successful debut in April.
Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO and Founder, said: “We were delighted to sign Liam Smith, so there is no better place for him to make his debut with us than in his home city of Liverpool. Liam is a man on a mission. He wants to win a second world title and there are big fights coming his way. Coming off a defining stoppage win over Jessie Vargas at the iconic Madison Square Garden in April and returning to the M&S Bank Arena, where he stopped derby rival Anthony Fowler last October, Liam truly is in the best form of his life. This fight will be the perfect return to Sky against a proven dangerous puncher. Another big performance will set Liam up for a world title and potential box office fights.
“The fans on Merseyside will be in for a real treat with a highly-stacked card. Many boxing insiders are excited to see current British champion Dan Azeez and former champion Shakan Pitters collide. And the man who has captured the attention of every fight fan this year will be on show too, as Adam Azim takes to the ring. Adam has excelled in every fight thus far and he is developing into the superstar we all believe he will become. He has first-round stoppage wins in his last two fights – and I know he’ll be hungry to make it a hat-trick in his first defence of the WBC Youth World title. I can’t wait.”
Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports said, “We’re very excited to have Liam Smith back on Sky Sports and headlining a huge card in the fantastic fighting city of Liverpool as we kick off what will be an unbelievable action-packed Autumn season. A second world title is what Liam wants and having seen the hunger in him, I have no doubts he will achieve it, so I’m looking forward to seeing some big fights for Liam Smith as he makes that journey towards his second world title with BOXXER and Sky Sports.”
“There are some great fights on this Liverpool card – the British Light-Heavyweight Championship clash between Dan Azeez and Shakan Pitters will be electric, and every time I see Adam Azim fight, I feel like I’m watching the emergence of a future all-time great. This is a mammoth card for Merseyside at the start of September and I can’t wait to hear that Liverpool crowd when Liam Smith makes his walk to the ring.”
Further bouts for this massive night of boxing in Merseyside will be announced in the near future.
Visit Boxxer.com today and register for the exclusive pre-sale to be first in line for the best seats at the best prices.
BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.
IBF WORLD CHAMPION YOKASTA VALLE TO FACE WBO WORLD CHAMPION THI THU NHI NGUYEN ON SEPTEMBER 8
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA (July 27, 2022) – Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZNgoes international on Thursday, September 8 for the first-ever world title unification fight in Costa Rica live on DAZN and the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube Page. Newly signed Golden Boy fighter and IBF Minimumweight World Champion, Yokasta “Yoka” Valle (25-2, 9 KOs), of San Jose, Costa Rica is set to put everything on the line when she faces off against undefeated, WBO Minimumweight World Champion Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen (5-0, 1 KOs) of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The 10-round world championship fight will take place at Cuidad Deportiva Heiner Ugalde, Hatillo, San José, Costa Rica and stream live on DAZN and on the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube page starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.
“When I signed with Golden Boy I thought that there could be nothing better, my childhood dream was coming true. But it turns out that with the hand of God and the support of Óscar de la Hoya and Golden Boy, today I am surprised once again, with the opportunity to be able to show the world that Costa Rica supports its athletes. I can promise all of my fans and Costa Rica that I will give the fight of my life against a great rival, the WBO World Champion Thi Nguyen, who is an internationally recognized boxer,” said Yokasta Valle.
“I know this fight is going to be a war of champion versus champion, unifying world titles, all or nothing! The only difference is that she is going to have to come to my house to face a ‘Yoka’ more motivated than ever! With the support of my people who I am sure will make their presence known with their incredible support. I WILL MAKE THE HOUSE TO BE RESPECTED!!!” continued Yokasta Valle.
“I am very excited about this fight and the opportunity to be a unified world champion,” said Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen. “I am going to win this fight no matter what. I will be the hero of Vietnam, it is my honor to represent my country and the women of my country. I have been training every day to make this an exciting, action filled fight and deliver a KO victory.”
Ranked as one of the best female 105-pounders by ESPN.com and The Ring Magazine, Yokasta Valle is a world champion in two weight classes. She captured the IBF Atomweight World Title in 2016 and has held the IBF Minimumweight World Championship since 2019. The Costa Rican fighter has been undefeated since 2018 and has made five successful world title defenses. Valle was named 2021’s “Female Fighter of the Year” by the International Boxing Federation. Now, the world champion is looking to unify the division against any world champion up for the challenge.
In 2021, Thi Thu Nhi Nguyen made history as Vietnam’s first boxing world champion when she captured the WBO Minimumweight World Championship against Japan’s Etsuko Tada. Her burgeoning boxing career was a surprise to most boxing spectators as Nguyen has been able to prove to the world that she is a force to be reckoned within the sport. Her first big opportunity came in 2020, Nguyen when defeated Kanyarat Yoohanngoh and captured the vacant WBO Asia Pacific Minimumweight title, something that set her up for the world championship face off against Etsuko Tada in 2021. Nguyen, was able to use boxing as her avenue out of poverty in Ho Chi Minh City, but as a result, also faced tough criticism as boxing and athletics in general are not cultural norms for women in Vietnam. Now, considered an icon of national pride, the world champion is paving the way for women in boxing and sports in Vietnam.
Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Valle vs. Nguyen is presented by Golden Boy in association with Marvnation. The 10-round minimumweight event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Thursday, September 8 at Cuidad Deportiva Heiner Ugalde, Hatillo, San José, Costa Rica, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN and the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube Channel.
