London, England – 1 July 2022 – Liverpool star Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith (31-3-1, 18 KOs) aims to become a two-time world champion following the signing of a multi-fight agreement with BOXXER.

The former WBO World Super Welterweight Champion has forged a formidable reputation and is now on the cusp of challenging for his second world title under the BOXXER and Sky Sports banners.

In a career spanning almost 14-years, Smith – who hails from a famed fighting family – cleaned up the 154lb division winning British, Commonwealth, WBA Continental and WBO Intercontinental titles before capturing the WBO World title in 2015 with a seventh round stoppage of Apollo Thompson and making two defences of the crown.

He then faced pound-for-pound great Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez in September 2016 and despite a brave and valiant performance that saw him get up from knockdowns in the seventh and eighth rounds he was ultimately overcome with a big body shot in the ninth.

The comeback trail saw him defeat hard Welsh rival Liam Williams in back-to-back fights to earn a shot at Jamie Munguia for the WBO 154 belt again and he became the first to take the hard-hitting Mexican the full twelve-round distance, just losing out on the scorecards.

On his return he battered renowned Midlands warrior Sam Eggington into submission in five rounds in March 2019 to win the WBC Silver belt. Although he suffered a setback in May last year in Russia against Magomed Kurbanov in a challenge for the WBO International title with a points loss.

However, this has inspired Smith to since put on two of his best career displays to show that he’s firmly back on the World title hunt. First he made a statement of intent with a brutal eighth round stoppage of Liverpool rival Anthony Fowler in their derby blockbuster last October to win the WBA International title.

He then travelled to the iconic Madison Square Garden in April this year to dominate Two-Time World Champion Jessie Vargas over twelve rounds with a powerful performance to claim the WBO Intercontinental title and show that he’s ready to face the best again.

Currently ranked in the top five in the world by the WBC, WBO and WBA, he is perfectly positioned to face one of the World Champions and is primed and ready for the opportunity.

Smith said, “I’m delighted to put pen to paper with Boxxer. I had a lot of offers but I’m glad to finally get this across the line and be back on Sky Sports. Boxxer are doing great things in the sport and making big waves and I’m happy to be part of that.

“Some of the big fights and names have excited me and I’m really looking forward to the next twelve months with my next fight to be announced shortly. I can’t wait to get back out there and challenge for a world title at 154 pounds and get everyone talking about me again.”

BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said, “I’ve always held Liam in the highest regard in terms of his talent, boxing IQ and also resilience to keep coming back and I believe he’s now very close to realising his ambition of challenging for another world title. He’s an icon in his home city of Liverpool where he has a great following and we’re really excited to have Liam join the BOXXER stable where we have big plans for him.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development for Sky Sports, said, “Liam Smith is a great fighter, a great guy and a great signing for Boxxer and Sky Sports! We are all delighted to be working with Liam who is coming off that thrilling win over Jessie Vargas and has really big fights ahead.

“Mega matches, more world title fights and crackling action are expected for one of our most talented and experienced champions – and one of our biggest personalities! I have a soft spot for all the Smith brothers as we have virtually grown up with them. It’s brilliant having Liam and his super family support back on Sky!”

(June 30, 2022) — Two world-class boxing events will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ this Saturday, July 2.
 
The action kicks off Down Under in the early morning hours (5 a.m. ET/2 a.m. PT), as IBF cruiserweight world champion Mairis Breidis defends his title against undefeated contender Jai Opetaia at Gold Coast Convention Center in Broadbeach, Australia.
 
The action continues from the OVO Arena Wembley in London (2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT), as undefeated heavyweight contender and 2016 Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce defends his WBC Silver and WBO International belts in the 12-round main event against Christian Hammer.
 
Breidis (28-1, 20 KOs), a native of Riga, Latvia, has won five bouts since losing a razor-thin decision to Oleksandr Usyk in January 2018. The 37-year-old puncher won the IBF belt in September 2020 with a majority decision over Yuniel Dorticos, then defended it last October in Riga with a third-round TKO over Artur Mann. Opetaia (21-0, 17 KOs), a 2012 Australian Olympian from Sydney, has fought most of his career in Australia. The 26-year-old has knocked out his last three foes and is taking a major step up against Breidis.

In other streaming action from Australia:
 
Isaac Hardman (12-1, 10 KOs) vs. Beau Hartas (6-1, 4 KOs), 10 rounds, middleweight
 
Dana Coolwell (7-2, 5 KOs) vs. Lorenz Ladrada (11-2-1, 3 KOs), 8 rounds, featherweight
 
Taylah Robertson (5-1, 1 KO) vs. Yoselin Fernandez (11-1, 5 KOs), 10 rounds, junior bantamweight
 
Faris Chevalier (13-1, 7 KOs) vs. Conor Wallace (8-1, 6 KOs), 10 rounds, light heavyweight
 
Joel Camilleri (22-7-1, 10 KOs) vs. Koen Mazoudier (9-2, 4 KOs), 10 rounds, junior middleweight

Joyce (13-0, 12 KOs), the WBO No. 1 contender, has taken the express route to contention since turning pro in October 2017. He knocked out former world champion Bermane Stiverne in his eighth pro fight and won a points verdict over former title challenger Bryant Jennings in his 10^th outing. He came from behind to stop then-unbeaten prospect Daniel Dubois in November 2020. Last July, he knocked out longtime contender Carlos Takam in six rounds. Hammer (27-9, 17 KOs) is a 14-year pro who has fought the likes of Tyson Fury, Luis Ortiz, Alexander Povetkin, and Tony Yoka, Joyce’s Olympic nemesis.

                                     In other streaming action from London:                                                                      
 
Nathan Heaney (15-0, 6 KOs) vs. Nizar Trimech (9-3-2, 4 KOs), 10 rounds, middleweight
 
Jason Cunningham (31-6, 7 KOs) vs. Zolani Tete (29-4, 22 KOs), 12 rounds,
Cunningham’s Commonwealth and IBF International junior featherweight titles
 
Callum Johnson (20-1, 14 KOs) vs. Igor Mikhalkin (24-3, 11 KOs), 12 rounds,
Johnson’s WBO Global and vacant WBC Silver light heavyweight titles
 
Mark Chamberlain (10-0, 7 KOs) vs. Marc Vidal (13-2-5, 5 KOs), 10 rounds,
vacant IBF European lightweight title.

 
About ESPN+ 
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.3 million subscribers. 
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Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com, or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads). Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV also receive ESPN+ at no additional cost. 

BROOKLYN – June 30, 2022 – Polish heavyweight star and Brooklyn fan-favorite Adam Kownacki, unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy spoke of their fighting legacies and desire to make history while previewing their respective matchups during a virtual press conference on Thursday before they enter the ring on Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Kownacki will take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in the 10-round co-main event, while Russell and Barthelemy will meet in a 10-round super lightweight showdown kicking off the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event is headlined by two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.

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.

The 33-year-old Kownacki will return to his home arena of Barclays Center, where he has previously fought 10 times, compiling a 9-1 record in front of the area’s raucous Polish fans. Kownacki, and his longtime trainer Keith Trimble, seek an emphatic victory after back-to-back defeats and a chance to get back into contention for the heavyweight title.

For Russell, he will be fighting for the first time since the passing of his father and trainer Gary Russell Sr. last month. The highly acclaimed rising star will look to continue the legacy of his fighting family and will have his brother, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. in his corner for this July 30 showdown. He again steps up in competition to face Cuba’s Barthelemy, who can move closer toward his own goal of becoming Cuba’s first three-division world champion with a win.

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

ADAM KOWNACKI

“This is the biggest fight of my career. I have to win to stay relevant in the heavyweight division. I’m training hard and I’m ready to win.

“Having two kids these last few years has been life changing for me, but I can’t have everything with a cherry on top. I had to make more sacrifices in my life for this training camp to make sure that I stayed focused.

“I never thought I was done after fighting Robert Helenius. My goal is just to always go out there and do my best. My first boxing goal was to win the New York Golden Gloves, and I did that in my first year. My goal, now, is to win the world title, and that’s what I’m working toward.

“I had a good 20 fights, I hit a bump in the road, but on July 30 I’m coming to get a win and then I’m back on the right track. I want to get a world title shot in the next year or two, and with my team, I know that I can get that done.

“It’s going to be a red and white arena out there to support me. It’s going to be another great night. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn at Barclays Center.

“The footwork is really what we’re focused on. I remember being in camp with Wladimir Klitschko and being amazed by his footwork. I worked on it a lot back then but I got a little bit away from it.

“The fans are going to get what they always see with me. It’s fireworks. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn. Fight night can’t come soon enough.

“For a while, I could go blow for blow and come out on top. The past couple fights didn’t end that way, so we went back to some of our basics. That’s what I have to do to take the next steps.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“My father cornered the market when it came to a lot of this, not just in boxing, but as a leader and a teacher. We don’t want anything he did to go in vain. We want to keep this legacy going on. He knew what he was doing with this machinery and with our legacy.

“He gave us a cerebral insight on not just the world, but boxing. We’re going to take it and run with it at this point. Life has a road that demands not just excelling, but evolution. That’s part of life. We’re going to carry this legacy and information and build off this foundation he left for us.

“As far as our training methods, nothing is different. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. We’re trying to do everything as close to usual as possible. The only difference is my dad’s voice and foul language isn’t here for inspiration. We have to work with what he left us and keep sharpening our tools.

“We have to keep going forward, period. We can’t take a step back. Because that would make all  the sacrifices we’ve made and that our father made, be in vain. We can’t go backwards. As far as training, we’re busting our tails as usual. We’ll be in here in the gym on the 4^th of July.

“A win on July 30 brings us closer to our family goal. We’ve been knocking at it individually, but we accomplish things as a whole, as we should. Beating an opponent of this caliber gets me closer to that family goal.

“As an individual, I just want to wipe out the division. I want all the titles. I’m a superstar, but I’m very humble. There are things that people need to know. I need to spread my wisdom and showcase my talent. I’m definitely going to flourish in my goal and the benefits that it brings. The sky is the limit for me.

“I’m delivering a showcase of excellence, fireworks and a victorious night for me, as usual. We’re keeping that train going and we’re trying to keep that knockout record unblemished.

“If you don’t come into this ring with some type of confidence, then you shouldn’t be in this profession. He should be saying things about knocking me out. But my mentality hasn’t changed. This is just another steppingstone.”

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I want to extend my condolences to the Russell family. I know Gary and the entire family were always united and very close. I remember being in your city and seeing how close you guys were. My heart goes out to you. As far as the fight goes, I don’t see Gary’s situation as being advantageous to me. I hope that Gary can be at 100 percent so that we can give the fans a great fight.

“I have to redeem myself. I have a very bad feeling about my last fight and I’m just thankful to SHOWTIME for giving me this opportunity and allowing me to showcase my skills and to show the fans that I’m still here and that I’m ready to take what’s mine.

“I still have the hunger. I have two things in my head right now. The first one is redemption, like I said before. The second one is that I want to become the first three-division champion from Cuba. That is my obsession. I pace around the room sometimes just thinking about it and how bad I want to accomplish it. It keeps me up at night. But first, I have to focus on July 30 and stay focused on what I really, really want to accomplish.

“I’m as hungry as ever and I want to emphasize that point. I still strive for more, and I want more, and I’m still capable of so much more than what others think I am.

“I don’t see it like I’m being used as a steppingstone, but rather, I see this as an opportunity, because I can redeem the last fight that I had, which left a very, very sour taste in my mouth. I want to show that I can still be someone who can be counted on in this division to make history out there.

“I need this win to secure my history. Time is running out. I need to go in there and leave blood, sweat and tears in the ring to make sure I can achieve my dreams and my goals and everything that I want to accomplish.

“I want to continue to work on my conditioning and be ready to take on the power from a young and explosive fighter like Gary Antuanne. Our styles clash perfectly. Gary is someone who comes forward and likes to be very offensive, while I’m more of a counter-puncher. So, what they’re going to see is a kind of art inside the ring and you’re not going to want to miss it.”

KEITH TRIMBLE, Kownacki’s Trainer

“We just have to get back to working behind the jab and working on the head movement. We can’t get lackadaisical. You’re going to see better footwork, better movement and Adam working behind that jab.

“Adam truly wants to be that first Polish heavyweight world champion. He’s not just doing this for the money, he’s serious about boxing and about his legacy. 

“In this sport, you’re only as good as your last fight. Everyone wants to dump on you when you take a loss, but we’re just focused on what is in front of us.”

GARY RUSSELL JR., Gary’s Brother and Trainer

“I’ve fallen right in suit as far as training. It’s something I was always doing anyway and was side by side with my father and coaching my younger brothers. It’s easier for me because of the way my father prepared me for this opportunity. We are using everything that has happened to us as fuel and are 110% prepared for whatever comes our way. We are focused and nothing is going to get in the way of what we need to accomplish.

“I got the surgery on my shoulder on April 1. I’m in recovery and I’m getting physical therapy. I don’t know when I’ll be back. We don’t know. As of now that’s all I can say. I’m focused on my younger brother and getting some good physical therapy at the same time.”

#         #         #

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.

LAS VEGAS (June 30, 2022) – RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS returns to the Great Northwest for the first time in more than 2 years on July 14th, headlined by former USA amateur standout Quinton Randall (9-0-1, 2 KOs), at Yakima Legends Casino in Toppenish, Washington.

All the action will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

“We’re excited to returning to Yakima Legends Casino,” RJJ Boxing president Lisa Veltre said. “The staff is great to work with and boxing fans there are passionate, especially about Northwest-based boxers like Andrew Murphy, who is trained by Hall of Famer Roy Jones, Jr. Headliner Quinton Randall is a rising star who is in tough against Ivan Pandzic.”

“I’m very delighted to be training Andrew Murphy,” Jones added. “It’s so good to be bringing him back to his hometown for his first title fight. It’s a small title but it’s still a title. I’m very happy to be part of his journey with him and look forward to big things from him in the future.”

The 31-year-old Randall, fighting out of Houston, is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) USNBC Silver champion, who faces Ivan “Cobra” Pandzic 14-1-1 (8 KOs) in the 8-round main event in a non-title fight.

Randall captured a gold medal at he prestigious 2016 USA Nationals, silver at the 2017 USA Nationals and 2017 Pan American Games, and he reached the quarterfinals of the 2017 World Championships.

In the 8-round co-feature event, local favorite Andrew Murphy will put his undefeated record on the line against Isiah Jones (9-6, 3 KOs), of Detroit, for the vacant National Boxing Association (NBA) Americas Middleweight Championship.

Washington State intra-rivals William Hernandez (8-2, 5 KOs), of Burien, and Wapato super lightweight Magarito Hernandez (2-2-1) – no relations – throwdown in an 8-round bout, while middleweights Joseph Aguilar (2-0-1, 1 KO) and Alarenz Reynolds (1-1) battle in a 4-round match to open the UFC FIGHT PASS live stream.

Fighting on the non-UFC FIGHT PASS segment of the card are welterweight Chris Johnson (7-0, 1 KO) vs. Devonte McDonald (1-1), lightweight Bryan Sanchez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. pro debuting Dyllon Cervantes, and light heavyweight Nick Mills (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Kelton Hall (2-1, 1 KO).

Tickets are reasonably priced at $90.00, $65.00, and $45.00 and available for purchase on site at the Legends Gift Shop, or by going online to https://www.ticketmaster.com/legends-casino-event-center-tickets-toppenish/venue/123450.

Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first fight at 6 p.m. PT, and UFC FIGHT PASS starts at 10 p.m. ET (7 p.m. PT).

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.legendscasino.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: : /RJJBoxing /LegendsCasinoHotel /UFCFightPass,

Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial @YNLegendsCasino @UFCFightPass,

Instagram: @RoyJonesJrBoxing @UFCFightPass

ABOUT ROY JONES JR (RJJ) BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

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

POMONA, CA (June 30, 2022) – The future of the lightweight division and surging undefeated prospect, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (6-0, 6 KOs), returns on August 25, 2022, at The Hangar at the OC Fair and Events Center in Costa Mesa, California. The card will be promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions, and Mercado’s opponent will be named on a later date.

“I stopped my last opponent in the same number of rounds as Keyshawn Davis did, but mine was more impressive, now I am going to continue being the most feared lightweight when I fight on August 25th,” said Mercado, the decorated amateur from of Pomona, California, with over a hundred wins in the amateurs and numerous national titles. “I am tired of all these entitled fighters, people who don’t want to fight, just talk. I am here to force these guys into these fights, and to bring the pride back into boxing. I am here to expose all of them.”

In Mercado’s last fight, which he referenced, knocked out Jose Zaragoza in two rounds. 2020 Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis knocked out Zaragoza in the same duration on a televised ESPN bout, but Mercado did it in more impressive fashion.”

“I want all the big fighters, Keyshawn Davis and especially Shakur Stevenson, I see flaws in all of them,” continued Mercado. “I am hoping I can go longer than two rounds in this upcoming fight, but honestly I doubt it. At this level, these guys won’t be able to handle my power. I am just glad for the opportunity and the chance to entertain my fans.”

In Mercado’s seventh pro fight, he is already stepping up to 8-round bouts, as he has hopes of fighting for a regional title by the end of the year. 

“I want the best opponents possible, so naturally now I am fighting in eight-round bouts, because I need to be tested,” said Mercado. “I have a very good team with my father and I know that I will be in the best position possible moving forward. I’m hungry to show the world my talent and I’m working my way toward fighting for a regional title by the end of this year.” 

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 30, 2022): Undefeated boxing superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, hosted a virtual media roundtable call ahead of his scheduled 12-round lightweight fight against former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR. The fight will take place in Downtown Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16 and will be streamed live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN. 

Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Below are brief quotes of what the fighter had to say during his media call. Click HERE for the full audio:

“Joe’s consistency and his work ethic never misses a beat. He is always looking to improve or find a way to better your game. He is there all the time. His worth ethic is unmatched.”

“Overall, my skill level improved. This is due to my consistent training after my brief break. My mind is up to speed in terms of timing, reflexes, distance, and control. Overall my game is much better.”

“I think it’s pretty obvious where we are headed once we pass Fortuna. I am going to campaign for the fight against Gervonta Davis. We want to be transparent about the process to prove to the people that we want this fight. I try to find ways to exploit the truth and clear the fog. I have to be transparent, just like I was with the Cruz negotiations.”

“I’ve always been close to my family. We have a lot of traditions, and we keep each other close. We love each other, pray together, and this journey of my boxing career and fame; my family has been there with me every step of the way. It’s very important to be me because I love my family. I love everyone being happy, and I love sharing all my success with everyone I love.”

“I have been taking steps with surrounding myself with people who want the best for me. People that will not contribute stress and pressure on my life. I am focusing on what keeps me happy and what songs keep me happy.”

“[After going the distance with Tagoe] I am able to base my overall game plan a little bit better for a 12-round fight. Conditioning wise I have updated our techniques. I understand at which rounds I feel more tired and when I feel a second wind. There have been little things that I have been able to construct in my mind that evaluate and have solutions for when training. So now I feel even more comfortable in a 12-round fight; and I will be able to show you what I have learned and what I have been working on on July 16.”

“I am a great fighter. I am going to show you the difference between me and Jojo Diaz and Robert Easter Jr. Nothing is guaranteed, but I am 99.999% confident I will take Fortuna out early. 

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

PLANT CITY, Florida (June 30, 2022): German heavyweight Christian Thun (8-0, 6 KOs) is set it to return in an eight-round bout against Curtis Harper (13-8, 9 KOs) on July 9 in the co-main event of Francis-Beltran at ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida.

Thun tops off an undercard portion that will feature several talents on the rise. The main card will be streamed live globally on ProBox TV beginning at 7:00 p.m. PT/4:00 p.m. ET.

Thun is a native of Ennepetal, Germany who debuted as a professional in March 2018.  The 30-year-old puncher has since remained undefeated in eight fights, maintaining a 75% knockout ratio in the process by scoring wins in different parts of the world, including Monaco, Spain, the United States and in his home country. Thun is ready to continue making wave in his fourth pro fight on American soil against the battle-tested Harper.

The following undercard bouts are also scheduled to take place:

·      Rising contender Brandon Glaton (15-0, 12 KOs) of Atlanta, Georgia will take on Deshon Webster (12-5-3, 6 KOs) of Lenexa, Kansas in an eight-round cruiserweight bout.

·      Julio Solis (7-0, 6 KOs) of Caguas, Puerto Rico will fight Christian Otero (4-1, 2 KOs) of New York City in a super featherweight battle scheduled for six rounds.

·      Marques Valle (4-0, 4 KOs) of Lutz, Florida will face off against Shawn West (7-2-1, 4 KOs) of Davenport, Iowa in a six-round battle in the welterweight division.

·      Dominic Valle (3-0, 3 KOs), brother of Marques, will return in a four-round featherweight tilt against Manuel Guzman (8-5-1, 5 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua.

·      Middleweight prospect Darrelle Valsaint (4-0, 3 KOs) of Orlando, Florida will participate in a six-round fight.

# # #

Francis vs. Beltran is a 10-round fight for the WBO NABO Super Lightweight Championship. The event will take place on Saturday, July 9 at ProBox Events Center in Plant City, Florida and will be streamed live globally on ProBox TV. 

Tickets for Francis vs. Beltran on sale now and start at $50, excluding applicable services charges. Tickets are available for purchase at EventBrite.com or by clicking here.

Credentials: Media interested in attending Francis vs. Beltran event must be pre-approved for media credentials. The credential application is available by clicking here. Deadline for submitting the media credential application is Friday, July 1 at 5:00 p.m. ET. Media will not be credentialed on site, no exceptions. 

About ProBox TV

ProBox TV is the first and only global sports streaming and media company dedicated exclusively to the sport of professional boxing. Founded by former CEO of Iron Mike Productions Garry Jonas in partnership with the legendary Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Antonio Tarver, and Paulie Malignaggi, ProBox TV’s mission is to deliver real boxing fans an improved experience when watching and following the sport—all for the nominal monthly price of $1.99. Download the ProBox TV app or visit www.ProBoxTV.com to learn more. Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Reddit. 

Bournemouth, England – (30th June 2022) – The huge domestic clash between Chris Billam-Smith and Isaac Chamberlain at the Bournemouth International Centre on 30th July will headline a card featuring two 2020 Olympic Games medalists, one of the most explosive finishers in British boxing and a rising star tipped as a future great.

Ben ‘B£NZO’ Whittaker, who won silver at the latest Olympics and is now crossing over into the professional ranks with a stated intention of becoming the greatest British boxer of all time, will launch his professional career against solid opposition in the experienced County Durham fighter Greg ‘The Real Deal’ O’Neill (6-6-1, 1 KO).

Testament to Whittaker’s confidence in himself, he has elected to make his professional debut in a six-round fight, skipping the traditional four-round entry level. Coached by SugarHill Steward, who also trains Tyson Fury, the big-hitting Midlander is lauded as one of the most exciting prospects in the world.

Fellow medalist Frazer Clarke (1-0, 1 KO), who captained Team GB at the 2020 Olympics and won a bronze medal, returns to the ring for his second professional outing following his stunning first-round stoppage win on the undercard of Khan vs Brook in February.

The Burton-based ‘Big Fraze’ heads to Bournemouth in search of a second similarly emphatic finish, as he takes the next step of his journey towards conquering the domestic heavyweight scene.

Southampton KO sensation Joe Pigford (19-0, 18 KO’s) makes the short journey on the M27 to Bournemouth with his fanatical fans. He’s looking to put on another devastating performance, before returning home with his first championship title in his bag.

Thunderous puncher Pigford holds a 95% KO ratio and is on an unbroken 16-KO run. In Bournemouth he will challenge for the Vacant WBO European Super-Welterweight Championship and will take a huge step closer to world title contention if he wins.

Hard-hitting Scottish prospect John Docherty (12-1, 9 KOs) looks to make a big statement against the undefeated Manchester-based Brazilian puncher Diego Costa (8-0, 5 KOs) in an exciting shoot out that is sure to deliver drama.

Another 2020 Team GB Olympian in Caroline Dubois (2-0, 1 KO) continues on her career following her powerful first round stoppage of Martina Horgasz last time out and faces experienced Tanzanian Happy Daudi over six rounds.

Undefeated cruiserweight puncher Mikael Lawal (15-0, 9 KOs) looks for his sixteenth career win and possible tenth stoppage as he continues a journey which has taken him from homeless teenage gang member to the top tier of the British cruiserweight rankings.

One half of boxing’s hottest sibling talents, Hassan Azim (3-0, 2 KOs), will also look to extend his unbeaten record. After watching younger brother Adam capture his first championship title last week in Coventry with a blistering first-round stoppage, welterweight Hassan will be looking to display his own awesome firepower, following on from his own first-round KO win in March.

Completing the card is another hugely popular all-action Bournemouth fighter, Lee Cutler (10-1, 7 KOs). He has ended his last three fights inside two rounds, with his most recent victory winning him the Southern Area Super-Welterweight title.

Be first in line and get priority access to exclusive discounted tickets – join the waiting list at Boxxer.com

BOXXER: Billam-Smith vs Chamberlain, headlines a stellar card presented by BOXXER in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels; with special thanks to K4 Global.

SAN ANTONIO, T.X. – June 29, 2022 – Former world champion and all-action fan-favorite Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa expects to showcase his power and speed when he moves up in weight and makes his 126-pound debut against Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“We’re looking to make a statement on July 9,” said Figueroa. “Me not worrying about squeezing to make 122 pounds and really killing myself at the end of camp just makes me more relaxed mentally. I feel fresher heading into this fight and I just can’t wait to showcase that.

“I’m going to be a lot stronger and more explosive. If people were impressed with my conditioning at 122, just imagine what it’s going to be like at 126. Everyone is going to see a better version of myself.”

After winning the WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship by becoming the first person to defeat Luis Nery in May 2021, Figueroa followed that fight up with a thrilling 122-pound unification clash against Stephen Fulton Jr. last November on SHOWTIME that was recognized as one of the best fights of the year. Although Figueroa lost a narrow majority decision in a fight that warranted a rematch, he stuck with his decision to move up in weight.

“The decision to move up in weight had been made way before the Fulton fight,” said Figueroa. “That has been in the works for a long time. We were just waiting for the right opportunity to move up. After the Fulton fight, I knew that I was going to move up no matter what happened in that fight.”

Figueroa still has his sights on a rematch with Fulton and says that it will be better for all involved when it happens at featherweight.

“I believe it will be better for both of us to do the rematch at 126 pounds,” said Figueroa. “The Fulton rematch is something that has to happen. It has to happen for the fans, for me and Fulton, and to give everyone another ‘Fight of the Year’.”

Although he was disappointed in the judges’ ruling in that memorable fight, Figueroa has been able to take positives from the experience and plans to use those improvements on July 9 and going forward.

“I learned a lot from the Fulton fight and grew a lot because of it,” said Figueroa. “I took the good from the bad and kept moving on. We went back to the drawing board and saw some things that we did like from that fight and saw places where we could improve. I’ve been working on adapting. I’ve learned to be a little more patient, more technical, to use my distance better and capitalize on my shots.”

For this fight, the Weslaco, Texas native has held his training camp in San Antonio, where he’s been able to receive sparring from fighters including super flyweight world champion Joshua Franco. He has also been training alongside his brother, former world champion Omar Figueroa Jr., a setup that has added to his motivation in camp.

“This is something that I’ve been dreaming of since I was a kid,” said Figueroa. “We’ve trained together in California before but being back closer to home and working alongside my brother is amazing. It’s us against the world. It’s a beautiful opportunity for our family to get even closer and be a unit together. This has been my favorite training camp so far.”

In his featherweight debut, Figueroa will take on the experienced Castro, who was unbeaten in his first 27 pro fights before dropping a split-decision to Luis Nery in February. Castro’s journey to fight night mirrors Figueroa’s in that they’re both coming off  their first career defeats and are moving up in weight. For Figueroa, he believes this will only add to the excitement for everyone watching.

“Castro is a great fighter,” said Figueroa. “He’s patient and very technical. There are some things that I have to do to take that away from him and put the pressure on him, like I do so well. I know he’s going to come to fight with a lot to prove. We’re both coming off fresh losses and moving up in weight, so I know we’re stepping into that ring to make a statement.”

With a victory on July 9, Figueroa can move himself into a position to challenge the winner of the night’s main event between unbeaten WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark Magsayo and undefeated former world champion Rey Vargas. Figueroa offered up his thoughts on that fight and promised that no matter who he eventually faces, he’ll be ready to deliver another of his signature fan-friendly performances.

“The main event is going to be a good, close fight,” said Figueroa. “It just comes down to who’s smarter. If Magsayo puts the right pressure on, he can win. If Vargas keeps his distance well and boxes him, I feel like Vargas will win. It’s a matter of who the smarter fighter is and who adapts better in the ring.

“I think me fighting whoever wins the main event would be a very exciting fight. It would be fireworks. Every time I’m in the mix, I come to fight at 110%. I don’t back down. With either fighter, it would be an amazing night of boxing.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com. The Martin vs. Núñez bout is promoted in association with Man Down Promotions.

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ABOUT MAGSAYO VS. VARGAS

Magsayo vs. Vargas will see WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo take on former world champion Rey Vargas in a battle of unbeatens that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas 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 feature hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa taking on Carlos Castro in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator bout in the co-main event, plus the Derrick James-trained, unbeaten lightweight contender Frank Martin battles Panama’s power-punching Ricardo Núñez in the 10-round telecast opener.

Additional coverage will include a pair of bouts streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube channel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The action will see unbeaten welterweight contender Rashidi Ellis facing Argentine Olympian Alberto Palmetta in a 10-round duel, plus San Antonio’s own Ramon Cardenas battling Venezuela’s Michell Banquez in a 10-round bantamweight attraction.

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

PHILADELPHIA (JUNE 29, 2022)–On Saturday night July 23rd, a spectacular eight-round main event featuring Philadelphia contender Avery Sparrow and undefeated William Foster III will headline a huge night of boxing at The Fillmore Philadelphia.

The fantastic 11-bout card is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions.

Sparrow of Philadelphia has a record of 11-3 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old Sparrow is an eight-year professional who has big wins over Anthony Burgin (10-2), Isaelin Florian Hernandez (6-0), Joey Laviolette (6-0), Jose Lopez (19-1-1), former world title challenger Hank Lundy (29-7-1) and his last bout, Sparrow stopped Matt Conway to win the IBA World Super Featherweight and Pennsylvania Super Featherweight title on January 15th in Conway’s backyard in Cheswick, Pennsylvania.

Foster of New Haven, Connecticut is 14-0 with nine knockouts. The 28 year-old is a seven year professional who has wins over Suliman Segawa (10-0), Angel Suarez (8-2), Jahmal Dyer (9-2), Philly-Favorite Donald Smith (10-0). In his last bout, Foster took an eight-round split decision over Edwin De Los Santos (13-0) on January 7th in Orlando, Florida. The bout was part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card.

In the co-feature, Undefeated WBA-NABA Super Featherweight and WBC Continental Americas champion Christian Tapia takes on undefeated Fernando Romero in a 10-round bout.

Tapia of Coamo, Puerto Rico has a record of 14-0 with 12 knockouts. The 28 year-old is a five-year veteran. He won the WBA-NABA title with a second round stoppage over Mason Menard (36-5). He then stopped Iron Alvarez (14-0) in 10-rounds. In his last bout, Tapia won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Lebron (18-2-1) to capture the WBC Continental Americas title on March 12th in Philadelphia.

Romero of Puebla, Mexico is 11-0 with 10 knockouts. The 22 year-old Romero is a four-year professional and is coming off a first round stoppage over Victor Valencia Diaz on October 16, 2021 in Mexico. This will be the United States debut for Romero as all of his fights have been in Mexico.

In six-round bouts:

Jan Carlos Rivera (5-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Nelson Perez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Marlboro, Massachusetts.

Jeremy Cuevas (13-1, 10 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be announced in a lightweight bout.

Dezmond Lucas (5-1, 2 KOs) of Bronx, New York fights Jocksan Blanco (4-0, 2 KOs) of Caracas, Venezuela in a welterweight contest.

Carlos Ramos (15-2. 10 KOs) of Madrid, Spain takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight fight.

Tahmir Smalls (8-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

David Garcia (3-0, 1 KO) of Crescent City, Florida will take on an opponent to be named in a heavyweight bout.

Carlos Rosario (3-0, 2 KOs) of Winter Haven, Florida takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight fight.

Chris Echevarria (0-1) of Aguada, Puerto Rico fights an opponent to be named in a bantamweight fight

Juan Davilla of Philadelphia makes his pro debut against an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout.

Tickets are now on sale for $60, $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased at The Fillmore Philadelphia, www.filmorephilly.com Hard Hitting Promotions Social Media and Ticketmaster.com

SAN DIEGO (June 29, 2022) — A fighting cowboy, a hometown hero, and the grandson of “The Greatest” are set for a summer night to remember in San Diego.

Mexican star Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete will defend his WBO featherweight world title in the main event against countryman Eduardo “El Gemelo” Baez on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Navarrete also signed a new multi-year promotional agreement with Top Rank that will see him fight on the ESPN family of networks in events promoted in association with Zanfer Promotions.

The 10-round welterweight co-feature will see San Diego native Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan risk his unbeaten record against a soon-to-be-announced opponent.

In a four-round special feature, undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, will fight Reyes Sanchez in a rematch of their December 2021 bout that Ali Walsh edged by majority decision. Ali Walsh will fight in the historic venue that hosted one of his grandfather’s most memorable bouts. In March 1973, Ali and Ken Norton battled for 12 rounds at what was then known as San Diego Sports Arena. Ali suffered a broken jaw and lost a split decision in a major upset.

Navarrete-Baez, Santillan’s welterweight battle, and Ali Walsh-Sanchez 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

Ticket information for this event that will be promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, will be announced soon.

“San Diego is a great fight town, and this is an incredible card from top to bottom,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Emanuel Navarrete is always in tremendous action fights, and Eduardo Baez is the type of opponent who will stand in the center of the ring. Santillan is a fantastic young man who drew plenty of support from the local fans last time he fought here. Nico Ali Walsh has improved leaps and bounds since turning pro last year, and I expect him to leave no doubt against Sanchez this time.”

Navarrete (35-1, 29 KOs), winner of 30 consecutive bouts, is a two-weight world champion entering his 10th world title bout. A native of San Juan Zitlaltepec, Mexico, he emerged on the world scene with a pair of title fight victories over Isaac Dogboe, which started his run as one of boxing’s most fan-friendly world champions. Following five junior featherweight title defenses in nine months, Navarrete moved up to featherweight and won the WBO title in October 2020 with a decision over Ruben Villa. He defended his title twice in 2021, including last October’s 12-round barnburner over Joet Gonzalez at Pechanga Arena.

“I am very excited to finally be back in the ring on August 20. The inactivity of these last eight months has served to give my body the rest it needed and to reflect on many things,” Navarrete said. “Now I’m coming back stronger physically and mentally. I’m going to show that I’m ready to fight any champion at 126 or 130 pounds. There will be a lot of ‘Vaquero’ for a long time.”

Baez (21-2-2, 7 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, is the WBO No. 7 featherweight contender. He recently moved up to featherweight after a successful run at junior featherweight that included a Mexican title and wins over three undefeated prospects. In 2017, he lost a tight decision to Mauricio Lara, who entered the title picture with his 2021 knockout over Josh Warrington. Following a disputed majority decision to Ra’eese Aleem last November, Baez moved up to featherweight. In March, he edged Jose Enrique Vivas by majority decision to earn a world ranking and a shot at the 126-pound king.

Santillan (29-0, 16 KOs) is a 10-year pro who has seen his career momentum take off since linking up with noted trainer Robert Garcia in 2020. Last October, he made his Pechanga Arena debut, bringing a raucous cheering section that watched him outfight Angel Ruiz over 10 action-packed rounds. He returned in April in Costa Mesa, California, and knocked out Jeovanis Barraza in seven rounds. 

“I didn’t know when I’d be back fighting in San Diego, so when I heard the news, I was ecstatic. This shows we can continue having big cards in San Diego, and I can’t wait for all my fans to pack Pechanga Arena,” Santillan said. “I want a world title opportunity soon. That’s the dream. I’d love to fight for a world title, and defend my belt, in my hometown.”

Ali Walsh (5-0, 4 KOs) had no ring struggles until meeting Sanchez under the Madison Square Garden lights. After a dominant first two rounds, Sanchez rallied in the third and fourth to nearly pull even. In January, Ali Walsh got back on the knockout track with a second-round stoppage over Jeremiah Yeager. Three months later, on the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson undercard in Las Vegas, he sparked out Alejandro Ibarra in the opening round with a left-right combination. He enters the Sanchez fight with a new head trainer, Kay Koroma, who works with (among others) Stevenson, rising middleweight prospect Troy Isley, and female pound-for-pound star Mikaela Mayer. Sanchez (7-2, 3 KOs), from Topeka, Kansas, entered the first Ali Walsh fight with an unbeaten record built primarily in his home state. He is coming off a decision loss to unbeaten prospect Sharif Rahman, son of former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman.

“Despite winning our last fight, I feel like I must set the record straight with Reyes Sanchez. He’s the only opponent I haven’t knocked out, and I don’t see the rematch going the distance,” Ali Walsh said. “Kay Koroma has already added so much to my arsenal, and I can’t wait to perform in front of the great San Diego fans and everyone watching on ESPN.”

Undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, includes an eight-round junior welterweight showdown between unbeaten Mexican standouts Lindolfo Delgado (15-0, 13 KOs) and Omar Aguilar (24-0, 23 KOs). Delgado represented Mexico at the 2016 Rio Olympics, while Aguilar has 15 first-round knockouts on his ledger and second-round stoppages in his last three bouts.

IBF No 1. featherweight contender Luis Alberto Lopez (25-2, 14 KOs) returns in an eight-rounder, while junior lightweight contender Xavier Martinez (17-1, 11 KOs) looks to bounce back from his first career loss against Alejandro Guerrero (12-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

PHILADELPHIA PA (June 28, 2022)–Cameron Krael was very impressive in taking out Vincent Floyd in round four in their six-round middleweight bout that topped an action packed 10-bout card in front of a large audience at the 2300 Arena.

The card was promoted by RDR Promotions.

Krael of Las Vegas and Floyd of Philadelphia fought a nip-and-tuck battle that saw both fighters land flush throughout the bout. Krael was able to surge ahead and drop Floyd twice with body shots, and the fight was stopped at 2:51.

Krael is now 19-22-3 with six knockouts. Floyd is 4-13-1.

Edward Joe Cortes won a six-round unanimous decision over Gorwar Karyah in a super bantamweight bout.

Cortes of Millville, New Jersey won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 10-6-1. Karyah of Philadelphia is 2-3.

In what was the most anticipated battle of the night, Jabril Noble took out Nasir Mickens on round two of their six-round super featherweight bouts featuring Philly-based fighters.

Noble was dominant and showed flashes of being one of Philadelphia’s future prospects. The bout was stopped at 2:46.

Noble is 4-0 with four knockouts. Mickens is 2-2.

Ofacio Falcon remained undefeated with a sixth round stoppage over Ken Porter in the final round of their super featherweight fight.

The fight was marred by Porter’s complaining of repeated low blows. The punches looked to be on the beltline. Falcon was deducted a point. Porter stayed down for five-minutes on three separate occasions. Finally he was deemed unable to continue at 2:26.

Falcon of Bronx, NY is 7-0 with six knockouts. Porter of Saint Louis, MO is 4-3.

Tahmir Smalls remained undefeated with a vicious opening round stoppage over Roque Agustin Junco in a scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

Smalls ended things with a vicious left hook that sent Junco to the canvas, and the bout ended at 2:20.

Smalls of Philadelphia is now 8-0 with five knockouts. Junco of Argentina is 10-12-2.

Rashan Adams stopped Nathan Benichou in round two of their four-round super featherweight fight.

The fight was stopped 28 seconds into round two for Adams of Philadelphia, who is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Benichou of Puebla, Mexico is 2-11-2.

Larry Fryers and Michael Crain fought to a four-round majority draw in a junior welterweight fight.

Fryers of Yonkers, NY won a card 39-37, while two cards were even at 38-38. Fryers is now 11-5-1. Crain of Smyrna, DE is 4-5-1.

Edwin Cortes remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Juan Gutierrez in a super flyweight bout.

Cortes of Millville, NJ won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and s now 3-0. Gutierrez of Esteli, Nicaragua is 0-2.

Karl Wylie made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Joshua Zimmerman in a lightweight bout.

Wylie of Coatesville, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 1-0. Zimmerman of Baltimore, MD is 0-9.

Rahiem Cooke took a four-round unanimous decision over Anthony Young in a super lightweight bout.

Cooke of Philadelphia won by scores of 39-37 on all cards and is now 1-2. Young of Philadelphia is 0-5.

RDR PROMOTIONS WILL BE BACK AT THE 2300 ARENA ON SATURDAY, JULY 9TH

NEW YORK (JUNE 28, 2022)–Split-T Management fighters Trinidad Vargas and Mary Spencer scored big knockouts over the weekend.

Vargas made a memorable pro debut by stopping Josh Aarons in round two of their scheduled four-round super flyweight bout at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

Vargas hurt Aarons with a hard right hand that was followed by two lefts that sent Aarons to the canvas, and the bout was stopped at 2:31.

Vargas, who turned 19 last week, started boxing at age 6 and had his first fight at age 8.

That spawned the aforementioned amateur career that saw him become a 6x Junior Golden Gloves National Champion, Silver Gloves National Champion; 2017 Junior Open Champion; 2017 Western Regional Champion; 2017 Eastern Regional Champion; 2018 USA Junior Boxer of the Year; 2018 Junior Olympics Champion for which he won the Male Boxer of the Tournament; 2018 Eastern Regional Champion and Western Regional Champion.

Vargas’ great-grandfather was a professional boxer. In his spare-time, Vargas has an interest in cars, in particular JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars. He lists Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao as his favorite fighters and is also a fan of Canelo Alvarez and Gervonta Davis.

He is trained by his father Nick Vargas and will debut as a super flyweight in the professional ranks.

Vargas is promoted by Teiken Promotions.

Thursday night in Montreal, Mary Spencer stopped Chris Namus in the opening round of their eight-round junior middleweight bout.

Spencer of Montreal was dominant as she scored an explosive stoppage for which she sent Namus down three-times, and the bout was stopped at 1:56.

Spencer is now 6-0 with four knockouts. Namus of Uruguay is 25-8.

Spencer is promoted by Eye of The Tiger Management.

After the dismantling of Peter Kramer in Liverpool, Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) wastes no time in returning to action as he leads the North East takeover on July 30 in Newcastle. Live on Channel 5, Kelly faces one of the toughest challenges of his career when he faces ‘El Tornado’ Lucas Bastida (18-1-1, 10 KOs).

The calculated and methodical win for Kelly last time out showed the boxing intelligence of Sunderland’s ‘PBK’, but Bastida will be coming to provide a much sterner test at Super Welterweight. Having suffered defeat only once, the Argentine fighter will be coming to try and spoil the party in the main event.

It will be an eagerly contested fight, as both men hold similar records. Both fighters suffering one loss and one draw, as well as sharing around a 50% KO ratio too. Both men also in their twenties, with Kelly the more experienced at 28-years-old. It is the opportunity for two young and hungry fighters to steal the show on an electric Saturday July 30 event in Newcastle, and put themselves into contention for serious title honours.

“He is a tough South American who has plenty of experience for a fighter who is 25-years-old. To only have one loss on his record shows how tough he is, there’s no doubt he’ll be coming to win,” said Kelly.

“He’s someone who is going to give me the hard rounds I need to get back into the mix for big fights and major titles. It’s very much the same from me though – I’m coming to show my class and I’ll be looking to get him out, 100%.” 

Argentine Bastida will be coming to conduct his own takeover as he’ll be looking to capitalise on a TKO win in a South American title bout in his last fight. He will also be confident in the fact he will be the taller fighter, as the 25-year-old stands at 6’1” and edges Kelly with 8 more rounds under his belt.

After analysing the career of Kelly, it is Bastida who believes he will come out on top having found what he believes to be is the winning formula for this fight.

“Josh Kelly has Olympic experience, he’s a good boxer and very fast. I saw in his fight against Avanesyan that he got knocked down, and then he got stopped, so I think the key to victory will be to go to war from the beginning of the fight,” said Bastida.

“For me this is my first fight abroad, I’m a warrior in life so I’ll be going to war as soon as the bell rings.”

Following the format of his nickname, “El Tornado” will be looking to arrive and cause as much destruction as possible before moving on. Kelly has stated before that he is back with vengeance, and will be happy to weather any condition that the Argentine throws his way.

It is guaranteed to be an unbelievable atmosphere at the Vertu Motors Arena, and the main event promises to blow the roof off when two warriors meet to mark one of these impressive records with a rare blemish.

A Super Lightweight showdown has been added to the card, with Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6KOs) squaring off against Tom ‘Fazza’ Farrell (21-5, 5 KOs). Both fighters will be brimming with confidence off the back of wins in their last bouts.

Farrell defeated a potential Nigerian nightmare in Olaide Fijabi at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool earlier this month, as he answered all the questions to outpoint his opponent in a hard-fought contest. Having come through the six-round fight, Farrell will be looking to call upon a similar approach to overcome an undefeated Harlem Eubank.

A second-round KO proved to be one of the highlights of the night in London on May 13 when Eubank caught his opponent flush to end the fight against Sean Dodd. The Brighton man continues heading in an upward trajectory in a professional career that is yet to taste defeat.

With each performance, Eubank continues to show his development and ever-growing intentions for bigger fights and bigger honours. The 28-year-old will now be looking for another statement win against a tough Farrell to put his name in contention for titles.  

The big boys join the North East takeover also, as Hosea Stewart (2-0) faces Franklin Ignatius (3-0, 1 KO) in the Heavyweight division. Zero losses on each man’s record, and the ‘0’ has to go as two young fighters look to put their name in lights at the Vertu Motors Arena.

Stewart will be going in search of the first knockout win of his fledgling professional boxing career as the 24-year-old will be looking to steal the limelight at the North East takeover. Ignatius will be coming to grab headlines of his own and add another knockout to his undefeated record.

The North East takeover is coming as Josh Kelly (11-1-1, 7 KOs) Vs. Lucas Bastida (18-1-1, 10 KOs) headlines on an electric fight night, featuring Harlem Eubank (14-0, 6 KOs) as he continues his charge towards titles against Tom ‘Fazza’ Farrell (21-5, 5 KOs). A boxing debut in Newcastle for Aaron Chalmers (1-0) as he looks to star in his second professional fight in front of a packed out arena in his home city, with Hosea Stewart (2-0) and Franklin Ignatius (3-0, 1 KO) set to shake the arena in a Heavyweight contest guaranteed to produce fireworks. 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

BROOKLYN – June 28, 2022 – Two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia spoke of feeling reinvigorated from his time off while exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. predicted that their super welterweight showdown would be the “Fight of the Year” during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they square off on Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. The fighters were joined by their respective fathers and trainers Angel Garcia and Jose Benavidez Sr. during the virtual press conference.

For the former super lightweight and welterweight champion Garcia, this fight marks his super welterweight debut as he looks to move into contention in the stacked weight division. Phoenix’s Benavidez, the older brother of unbeaten two-time super middleweight champion David Benavidez, can add a signature victory with a win and launch himself into the 154-pound title picture.

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 Tuesday:

DANNY GARCIA

“This is my 11^th fight on SHOWTIME and it’s been a journey creating history at Barclays Center, or wherever we fight. I’ve been off for a little bit, but I’m back in the gym like I never left. I feel great mentally, physically and spiritually. I’m ready to give the fans a great fight.

“I have a lot of young guys in this camp here with me and they keep me on my toes. The hunger that they have, gives me that motivation. Boxing is a grueling sport, so you have to find time to have fun. I’m doing that again and I know that once I’m happy, no one can touch me. 

“I’ve been fighting at 140 and 147 since the amateurs, for 13 years. I always felt my natural weight was bigger and I was squeezing down. I feel like this weight fits me good. I feel young and fresh. I’m strong and with a lot more stamina.

“I have a lot of Mexican fans and they love me wherever I go. The Latinos love me period. When Danny Garcia steps in the ring, he represents all the Latinos. I love all the fans from all around the world.

“I’m going to go in there and fight my fight. I’m not putting any extra pressure on myself. I’m going to fight the Danny Garcia fight. I have to use all my tools and all my skills and get the win.

“I felt the atmosphere at Barclays Center at the Gervonta Davis fight and I felt what I was missing. I went there to feel that motivation and it was great. We’re going to give everyone a great night just like at that last fight.

“I was in the first main event at Barclays Center and I’ve been building a fanbase there over the last 10 years. Brooklyn is the perfect place to build a fanbase and I’m honored to be a part of Barclays Center’s history.

“I’ve been fighting at the highest level for the last 10 years. It’s only right as a human that you would get a little mentally tired. I needed a break so that I could miss boxing. I knew that once I came back in the gym motivated and missing the sport, that nobody could beat Danny Garcia.

“You can’t just fight to learn. You have to watch and see these young guys in the gym training. I needed time to feel good again and I feel great. The results are looking really good. When I’m happy, I’m a dangerous man.

“Every fight you learn from. Even when you win. You just have to take what you can, learn from it and use it in the next fight. The fight with Errol Spence Jr. was a competitive and fun fight and we’re ready to move on to the next step.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ JR.

“A win over Danny Garcia is a big step for me. The winner of this fight is going to go back up in the rankings. We’ve both lost before and I think that’s made us stronger fighters. We’ve learned from our mistakes. We’re going to be throwing bombs all night long. Stay tuned, because this is going to be Fight of the Year, I guarantee that.

“I want to thank Danny for giving me this opportunity. He’s a great champion, a power-puncher and I’m ready. I’ve been training hard and I’m ready to get it on.

“I take every fight as if I’m fighting the best of the best. I don’t focus on the record or anything. I just focus on what I have to do. The Puerto Rican and Mexican fans are going to be out there and it’s going to be a great show. I’m training hard and I’d be ready to go tomorrow.

“Danny Garcia is one of the best of the best. I felt like Danny Garcia was a bigger name than a possible Erislandy Lara fight, so that’s why I chose him. I grew up watching Danny and I’ve wanted to fight him for a while. This is going to be fireworks.

“I was too focused on trying to knock the guy out in my last fight. I just have to stick to my game plan and do what I do best. I feel a lot stronger and more mature now. The knockout is going to come on its own. I’m going to do whatever I have to do to end the night victorious.

“My last opponent was just running and running, and I’m looking forward to going toe-to-toe with Danny. I’m staying in shape and I’m focused. I hit hard, he hits hard, so there’s going to be a knockout whether we look for it or not.

“I want to fight the best of the best. I don’t duck or dodge anyone. I don’t care about the record. I train to win. This is an interesting fight with Danny and it’s a fight the fans are going to want to see. Danny was the perfect pick for this opponent.

“I know what I’m capable of and I know what I can do. The most important thing is staying focused in training. I feel like this is the most motivated I’ve been since the beginning of my career. I’m working hard for my daughters. It’s not about me anymore.”

ANGEL GARCIA, Danny’s Father and Trainer

“Danny is perfect for 154 pounds. It’s a new era for him and it’s time. There’s a time for everything and our time is now. We have a perfect opponent who’s going to come bring the fight to us. He’s got the Mexican blood and we’ve got the Puerto Rican blood, so it’s going to be fireworks on July 30.

“Danny is ready for 154. He’s ready for all the big names. We don’t run from anybody. A lot of those fighters talk a lot, well now we’re here for them.

“Pay your bill and lock in to SHOWTIME on July 30. We’re going to give everyone a show. If not, make it out to Barclays Center, because it doesn’t get any better than big fights in Brooklyn.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., Jose’s Father and Trainer

“It’s an honor to go up against Danny Garcia and his dad. He’s one of my favorite fighters, but at the end of the day, we have to put work in. We’ve been working hard, because we’re going to give the fans what they want. I’m predicting a knockout. We need a knockout to progress in the rankings. Jose has to not just win the fight, but he has to look impressive. Both fighters need this fight.

“Danny has a great left hook and he’s very powerful. We’ve seen what he’s done and we know what we’re getting into. We’re facing an animal, but we’re ready to give the people what they want.

“Jose Jr. has matured a lot and he’s ready. He’s motivated to give his kids a better life. When I see how motivated Jr. is, it motivates me too. We’re ready to give everyone what they want. Someone is getting knocked out.

“I know Danny is coming in very strong, but we’re giving the fans what they deserve. We’re aiming to give everyone the Fight of the Year. We have to be impressive. I know the Garcias are training very hard, but we need this fight. We have to give it our all.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME SPORTS

“We’re thrilled to welcome Danny Garcia back to SHOWTIME, as well as Jose Benavidez Jr. These are two all-action fighters bringing a great matchup of styles to this bout.

“For SHOWTIME and Danny, this is a bit of a throwback. It was almost 10 years ago in October 2012 when Danny headlined the first fight card at Barclays Center and headlined his first time on SHOWTIME. It’s not an exaggeration to say that he’s been instrumental in helping Barclays Center build the profile that they have and establish it as a real home of boxing on the East Coast.

“Danny is one of the most exciting and popular fighters of his generation. He’s fought everyone and anyone. His resume speaks for itself. True to form, in his first fight at 154-pounds, he was not looking for an easy fight. And he has a very worthy challenger in front of him in Jose Benavidez Jr.

“Benavidez is a tough, experienced fighter with a lot of experience and a lot of KOs. He’s going to bring a fan-friendly style. These are two exciting fighters who can do it all. With these styles and the intensity that they bring, this is going to be one of the most exciting fights of the summer.

“These fighters are both trained skillfully by their fathers, with Angel and Jose Sr. having guided their sons their whole careers. Add in Adam Kownacki and Gary Antuanne Russell on the SHOWTIME televised card and this will be a night full of action and worthy of the high standard SHOWTIME and Barclays Center have set.”

#         #         #

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.

PHILADELPHIA PA (June 28, 2022)–On Saturday night, July 9th, RDR Promotions will be back at the 2300 Arena with a huge night of boxing that will be headlined by junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez taking on Jose Argel in a fight scheduled for eight-rounds.

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas has a record of 11-1 with three knockouts. Vazquez, 26 of Fort Worth, Texas is a six-year professional who is already battle tested.as he has defeated Brandon Arvie (2-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1) and Irvin Gonzalez (14-2). His lone blemish came in his latest outing when he was on the wrong end of a very controversial split decision to undefeated former National Golden Gloves champion Raymond Ford on February 5th in Phoenix.

The judges scorecards were not in agreement with the fans in the arena and the commentators on DAZN.

Argel of Carolina, Puerto Rico is 8-3 with two knockouts. The 27 year-old will be looking to get back in the win column after three losses to undefeated fighters. In his last bout he lost to Haven Brady Jr. on March 26th in Las Vegas.

Seeing action in six-round bouts:

Nahir Albright (14-2, 7 KOs) of Sicklerville, New Jersey taking on an opponent to be named in a lightweight contest.

Damon Allen (16-1-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (17-8-1, 8 KOs) of Zamora, Mexico in a lightweight fight.

Frankie Trader (13-2-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight contest.

Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight fight.

DeAndre Pettus (6-1, 3 KOs) of Columbia, South Carolina takes on an opponent to be named in a super welterweight bout.

Eric Tylertucker (7-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Boimah Karmah (2-0-1) of Sharon Hill, PA fights Daniel Jiles (0-1) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout.

Famous Wilson of Deer Park, New York makes his pro debut in a middleweight bout.

Najeem Johns of Philadelphia will make his pro debut in a super lightweight fight against an opponent to be named.
Tickets are $100, $75 and $55 and can be purchased at the following Link

Los Angeles, CA (June 28, 2022) Tickets are Now On-Sale as Bash Boxing Presents Social Gloves: ‘No More Talk’ on Saturday, July 30 headlined by the highly anticipated grudge match between International YouTube Superstars Austin McBroom of Los Angeles, CA and AnEson Gib from the United Kingdom at the Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) and broadcast globally on SocialGloves.tv Pay-Per-View.

Co-featured is a Battle of L.A. clash between former Los Angeles Lakers star Nick ‘Swaggy P’ Young and hip-hop superstar BlueFace. Also, just announced is a heavyweight exhibition battle between NFL All-Pro running backs Le’Veon Bell and Adrian Peterson.  

Presented by Bash Boxing in association with Simply Greatness Productions and NextGen Boxing, tickets starting at $50 are Now On-Sale and can be purchased online at AXS.com. Crypto.com Arena is located at 1111 S. Figueroa, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:30 p.m. with the first bell at 6:00 p.m.

With an extraordinary and intense international build-up over the last twelve months, Austin McBroom and AnEson Gib have agreed to settle the animosity once and for all in Downtown Los Angeles in front of an expected massive crowd at the Crypto.com Arena. McBroom made his boxing debut in an exhibition bout at the first Social Gloves event, knocking out Bryce Hall on June 12, 2021 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL. A native of Southern California, McBroom was a heralded three-sport varsity athlete in basketball, baseball and football at Campbell Hall High School in Studio City, CA, helping lead the Vikings to their 3rd State title in four years with backcourt mate and future NBA star Jrue Holiday . He then starred in the backcourt for the Division 1 Eastern Washington University Eagles before embarking on a successful career as a Youtube creator.

Gib holds a white-collar boxing record of 3-1 and is heading into the ring with McBroom following a dominant win over Tayler Holder. He made his professional boxing debut during Super Bowl weekend against Jake Paul on January 30, 2020 in Miami, FL. The six-round professional bout against McBroom will be contested at a weight limit of 180lbs.

Since retiring in 2018, Young has used boxing training to stay in shape, having recently increased his training ahead of his debut. Young starred for the Los Angeles Lakers from 2013-2017. He was a first-round draft pick following three star-making seasons at the University of Southern California including two First-Team All-Pac-Ten listings. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Young attended Grover Cleveland High School in Reseda, CA. With the team finishing 25-4 in his senior year, Young was named to the Los Angeles Times All-City Team. Young currently competes in the BIG3 basketball league.

With two platinum and four gold certifications from RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America), BlueFace is one of the most successful hip-hop artists of the last five years. Also born and raised in Los Angeles, he was a star quarterback at Arleta High School in the San Fernando Valley leading the team to the East Valley League Championship in 2014. He made his victorious boxing debut in an amateur bout against Tiktoker Kane Trujillo on July 23, 2021 at BKFC-19 in Tampa, FL. Standing 6’4” tall, BlueFace will only give away three inches to Young in the ring. Their exhibition fight is scheduled for five rounds.

Le’Veon Bell played for eight seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers and was a two-time First Team All-Pro. He has also played for the New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Just 30-years old, the former Michigan State Spartan has rushed for 6,554 yards in the NFL. He earned a Super Bowl ring with the Champion Kansas City Chiefs in 2020.

Adrian Peterson has played for fourteen years in the NFL and was the league’s most valuable player in 2012 in addition to being a four-time First Team All-Pro. A first round draft pick from Oklahoma, Peterson was the third fastest running back to compile 10,000 career yards in 2013. Known league-wide for the phenomenal shape he stays in year-round, Peterson played ten years with the Minnesota Vikings. In 2021, Peterson competed for the Tennessee Titans and Seattle Seahawks.

Headlining the professional boxing undercard is world ranked super middleweight contender Ali Akhmedov, (18-1, 14 KOs) of Almaty, Kazakhstan. Looking for his third straight victory, the heavy-handed Akhmedov is a training partner of Unified Middleweight World Champion Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin. His opposition for the ten-round bout will be announced shortly.

In an eight-round super middleweight scrap, fast-rising prospect Cem ‘Champ’ Kilic, (16-1, 8 KOs) of Sherman Oaks, CA. The 28-year-old native of Germany has been victorious by way of early knockouts in his last two fights. Kilic’s opponent will be forthcoming.

Competing for the Women’s WBA NABA Welterweight Title, undefeated prospect Summer Lynn (7-0, 3 KOs), of Chicago, IL battles Crystal Morales, (9-11, 2 KOs), of Oxnard, CA. The 21-year-old Lynn kicked off her 2022 campaign with a shut-out six-round unanimous decision over Jaica Pavilus on April 2, 2022 in Pomona, CA. Morales looks to return to the win column following a hotly contested world title fight with Beatriz Aguilar in Magdalena, Mexico.

In the light heavyweight division, Freddie Roach trained Marco Deckmann, (9-1, 7 KOs), of Hollywood, CA faces off against Detroit, Michigan’s James Ballard, (10-4, 3 KOs), in a scheduled six rounder. A native of Germany, the hard-hitting Deckmann is on a six-bout winning streak with four victories coming by stoppage, three in the first round.

Newcomers will see action in a four-round junior welterweight bout as Tayden ‘The Heat’ Beltran, (3-0-1, 2 KOs), of Huntington Beach, CA battles MMA veteran and pro debuting boxer Benji Gomez, of Oxnard, CA.         

In the lightweight division, Mattias Radcliffe, (2-0-1, 1KO), of Reseda, CA clashes with Christian Renteria, (9-12, 8 KOs), of Tijuana, MX.

Rounding out the card in a four-round featherweight bout Joshua Garcia, (4-0, 2 KOs), will face an opponent to be announced.