Saul Sanchez 118 vs. Eros Correa 118

Loui Lopez 148 vs Jaleik Bogle 147.7

Pedro Valencia 136.6 vs Mario Aguirre 137

Nelson Oliva 155.3 vs. Antonio Duarte 154.9

Anthony John Saldivar 149.9 vs. Genesis Wynn 148.4

“Path To Glory” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel Ontario, CA on Friday June 17, 2022. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced at $50, $75, and $100, are only available at the door. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.

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

This event is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors.

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

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson

Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing, as well as our media partner Fightstars.TV.

NEW YORK (June 16, 2022) — Two of the light heavyweight division’s fiercest punchers will put three world title belts at stake in one of the year’s most anticipated showdowns. WBC/IBF world champion Artur Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs) — boxing’s only world champion with a 100 percent knockout ratio — will take on Long Island’s WBO champion Joe Smith Jr. (28-3, 22 KOs) Saturday evening at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

In the highly anticipated 10-round featherweight co-feature, two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez (9-1, 5 KOs) steps up against the unbeaten Abraham “El Super” Nova (21-0, 15 KOs). Ramirez has won nine straight bouts since a shocking loss in his pro debut, while Nova has settled in at featherweight after spending the first five-plus years of his career campaigning at junior lightweight

Beterbiev-Smith Jr. and Ramirez-Nova will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.Undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m PT) and includes the return of featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (3-0, 2 KO), the latest standout to come from Brownsville, Brooklyn. Carrington made his pro debut on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III undercard last October, signed with Top Rank later that year, and has won two fights thus far in 2022. In March, at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, he scored a highlight-reel knockout over Yeuri Andujar.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, a limited number of tickets are still available at Ticketmaster.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters and Top Rank chairman Bob Arum had to say. 

Bob Arum 

“At my age, this fight brings me back so many decades to when Top Rank promoted the leading light heavyweights in the world like Bob Foster, Matthew Saad Muhammad, John Conteh, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, and Marvin Johnson. The light heavyweight division has given people who follow boxing great thrills for as long as I’ve been promoting fights. Now we have this fight, which will go into the annals like all the great light heavyweight fights of the past and may even be the one that is the greatest.”

“Joe Smith is a tremendous fighter. He has a big heart. He has a lot of skills and a lot of punching power. And what can I say about Artur Beterbiev? He really epitomizes the ferocity that light heavyweights have been known for. Tremendous puncher. Big heart. A guy who refuses to lose. Nothing can be better than this. I predict that this fight will be considered the Fight of the Year for 2022.”

Artur Beterbiev

“This is a very important fight for me. With regard to the place, it’s not different for me. I’m more focused on the fight. I’m more focused on my opponent, not on the place. I always ask my boxing coach and my conditioning coach about how I’m doing. I ask them if it’s less than I was doing two years ago. They tell me that I’m doing better than two years ago.”

“If we compare it to the last one, this camp went very well. This camp was better. I want to thank my team, my conditioning coach, my boxing coach, all my team and all my sparring partners who helped me. We had a good camp.”

“We are both ready for this fight. I think it’s going to be a good fight. We will see. I can’t predict the future. I’m just a boxer.”

Joe Smith Jr.

“This is a huge opportunity. Beterbiev is a huge name in boxing. Everyone knows who he is at this point. He has two world titles, and I want those belts. I believe this fight is going to be great. You’ve got two big punchers, and I’m just excited to be in there with him. He’s a great name.”

“I’m fighting at the Garden. Home is not too far from here. All my fans are going to be here to support me or, if not, watch at home. I’m just glad to be here defending my WBO title and unifying two other belts.”

“I believe this guy is in his prime right now. I don’t think age has anything to do with it. I know he’s here at 100 percent and ready to go. I know I’m here fighting one of the best, so I trained at 110 percent. I made this camp a little longer. I made sure that I improved things that I wasn’t doing at my best. I stayed more consistent with my training, so I feel comfortable about this weekend.”

Robeisy Ramirez

“My level increases with the quality of opponent that I have in front of me. So, I think my growth is due to me increasing the level of my opposition and because we’ve been increasing our work, both mentally and physically.”

“We decided to take this fight because it would lead to a title shot. We all know who Abraham is. We all know the kind of record he has. So, a victory would put us one step away from fighting for a title. This was the step we wanted to take and the fight we were looking for. We weren’t looking to make a fight that wasn’t this one.”

“We didn’t make any adjustments. We did the kind of training camp that we would do for any other fight. At the end of the day, he is an opponent who has two arms and will be boxing. So, we just have to be prepared physically and go out there and work.”

Abraham Nova

“I’ve been trying to fight for a world title at 130, but I haven’t gotten the opportunity. I felt like there was a lot of political things going on. So, I decided to go down to 126 and see if I could make a run. I wanted the {Emanuel} Navarrete fight, but I guess he didn’t want the fight, so Robeisy was next in line. I feel like a win over him puts me in line for a title shot.”

“I feel like I’m being overlooked. People haven’t seen the best of me. In fights, I do this and I do that, but I always fix them. You guys are going to see a complete ‘Supernova’ on Saturday night. I promise that.”

“It’s always business as usual. In training camp, I did a lot of adjustments. He’s a lefty. I’m a righty. So, I had to get lefty sparring partners. I had different sparring partners every week. We have a great game plan, and I’m ready to execute it on Saturday night.”

Bruce Carrington

“It feels great to once again be fighting in this historic arena. I’m highly blessed to have back-to-back fights in my hometown as well. This is a great experience for me, and I’m ready to tackle this head-on. As a fighter, you should always get better than your last fight, so giving my folks and fans something new to see is definitely something I plan on doing this Saturday.”

Saturday, June 18

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

 
Artur Beterbiev vs. Joe Smith Jr., 12 rounds, WBC/IBF/WBO Light Heavyweight World Titles
 
Robeisy Ramirez vs. Abraham Nova, 10 rounds, Vacant USBA & WBO Global Featherweight Titles

 ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

Bruce Carrington vs. Adrian Leyva, 6 rounds, featherweight
 
Jahi Tucker vs. D’Andre Smith, 6 rounds, welterweight

Troy Isley vs. Donte Stubbs, 6 rounds, middleweight

Kieran Molloy vs. Jonathan Ryan Burrs, 4 rounds, junior middleweight

Jahyae Brown vs. Keane McMahon, 6 rounds, junior middleweight

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling lightweight contenders’ bout featuring No. 11 ranked Arman Tsarukyan taking on No. 12 Mateusz Gamrot. The co-main event will see No. 10 ranked welterweight Neil Magny attempt to halt the momentum of undefeated No. 15 Shakvat Rakhmonov.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: TSARUKYAN vs. GAMROT will take place Saturday, June 25 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The main card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

One of the top lightweights in the sport today, Tsarukyan (18-2, fighting out of Krasnodar, Russia, by way of Yerevan, Armenia) looks to extend his five-fight win streak in his first UFC main event opportunity. During his last two trips to the Octagon, he secured impressive knockout wins against Joel Alvarez and Christos Giagos. Tsarukyan now aims to become the first person to finish Gamrot with a statement performance.

Thrilling grappler Gamrot (20-1, fighting out of Poznan, Poland) plans to continue his journey up the 155-pound rankings with a breakout performance. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, he has earned dominant wins over Scott Holtzman, Jeremy Stephens and Diego Ferreira. Gamrot now hopes to dispatch Tsarukyan and break into the Top 10 for the first time in his career.

Magny (26-9, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) returns to action seeking to take sole possession of the record for most UFC welterweight wins. A longtime fixture in the Top 10, he holds notable victories against fellow ranked opponents Geoff Neal and Li Jingliang. Magny now has his sights set on dispatching another rising welterweight contender.

Rakhmonov (15-0, fighting out of Kokshetau, Uzbekistan) hopes to bolster his undefeated résumé by taking out his first ranked opponent. In his first three UFC outings, the rising star has collected wins over Carlton Harris, Michel Prazeres and Alex Oliveira. Rakhmonov is now looking for another victory to maintain his 100 percent finishing rate and continue his meteoric ascent up the rankings.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• A heavyweight bout sees Josh Parisian (14-5, fighting out of Howell, Mich.) battle Alan Baudot (8-4, fighting out of Paris, France)
• Bantamweight prospects lock horns as Nate Maness (14-1, fighting out of Henderson, Kent.) seeks to hand Umar Nurmagomedov (14-0, fighting out of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia) his first loss
• Chris Curtis (28-8, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Cincinnati, Ohio) squares off with Rodolfo Vieira (8-1, fighting out of Orlando, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at middleweight
• Shayilan Nuerdanbieke (37-10, fighting out of Beijing, China) meets TJ Brown (16-8, fighting out of Little Rock, Ark.) in an intriguing featherweight bout
• Light heavyweight finishers collide as Carlos Ulberg (6-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) returns against Tafon Nchukwi (6-2, fighting out of Temple Hill, Md.)
• Dana White’s Contender Series Brazil signee Thiago Moises (15-6, fighting out of Indaiatuba, Brazil) battles Christos Giagos (19-9, fighting out of Hawthorne, Calif.) at lightweight
• Raulian Paiva (21-4, fighting out of Amapa, Brazil) takes on Sergey Morozov (34-14, fighting out of Aktobe, Mangystau, Kazakhstan) in a bantamweight clash
• Bantamweights Brian Kelleher (24-13, fighting out of Selden, N.Y.) and Mario Bautista (9-2, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) aim to steal the show
• JP Buys (9-4, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif. by way of Johannesburg, South Africa) and Cody Durden (12-4-1, fighting out of Loganville, Ga.) meet in a flyweight bout
• Vanessa Demopoulos (7-4, fighting out of Brook Park, Ohio) and Jinh Yu Frey (11-6, fighting out of Arlington, Texas) square off at strawweight

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 198 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 21.3 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).

About ESPN

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 16, 2022): Knockout sensation and the pride of Grand Prairie, Texas, Vergil Ortiz Jr. (18-0, 18 KOs), will make his grand return to the ring on Saturday, August 6, taking on top 10 ranked, undefeated welterweight contender Michael “The Problem” McKinson (22-0, 2 KOs) of Portsmouth, Great Britain. The 12-round welterweight fight will take place at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN. 

Tickets for Ortiz Jr. vs. McKinson go on sale Tuesday, June 21st at 8:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m CT / 11:00 a.m. ET and are priced at $275, $137.50, $82.50 and $44 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, DickiesArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

“I am very happy to be stepping back into the ring again,” said Vergil Ortiz, Jr. “I’m ready to show the world once again why I’m ready for a world title.” 

“I’m getting what I deserve,” said Michael McKinson. “I was prepared to fight Ortiz, Jr. before; now, I have been given the opportunity again to prove I am the best in this division.”

“Vergil Ortiz, Jr. is the most exciting welterweight in the world,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO. “We are happy that he is back, healthy, and feels 100%.  Fighting in his home state, I can’t think of a better way for him to make his comeback and put on another great performance for his fans.  He is one step away from challenging any world champion and he will prove it on August 6.”

“I am delighted that this fight has come back around for Mikey,” said Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing. “He suffered disappointment in March when Vergil was forced out of the fight, but thanks to a lot of hard work all round, he was able to fight in LA and gathered valuable experience by making his US debut and all that comes with it – so there will be no surprises for him in Fort Worth. Vergil is an exceptional fighter, one of the best rising stars in the sport, but we believe Mikey has the style to cause him a lot of problems, and this could be his break-out night.”

“First of all we are just happy that Virgil is fit, healthy and ready to get back in the ring,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “Virgil is one of the most exciting fighters in boxing and in Mckinson he will be fighting a serious contender in the division. Expect fireworks August 6th, live worldwide on DAZN.”

“Dickies Arena is thrilled to host the 12-round welterweight fight in what will be one of the most exciting and gripping fights between hometown sensation Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Great Britain’s undefeated Michael McKinson.  Fort Worth is in for an action-filled fight night and Dickies Arena is ready,“ said Matt Homan, President and General Manager of Dickies Arena.

Vergil Ortiz Jr. boasts a perfect knockout undefeated record and is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the welterweight division. Originally scheduled to return to the ring on March 19 in Los Angeles against Michael “The Problem” McKinson, Ortiz, Jr. suffered a medical emergency that forced him to pull out of that fight. Fortunately, the fighter is now 100% healthy to return and is looking to make an impressive comeback in front of his hometown when he faces McKinson at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX. Ortiz, Jr. was last seen in the ring in a fantastic TKO victory against world title contender Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas in August 2021. In addition, he has faced and won against some of the toughest fighters in the division, knocking out contenders like Antonio “Relentless” Orozco, Brad “King” Solomon, and Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker. 

Ranked as one of the top 10 best welterweights in the world, Michael McKinson is an undefeated fighter ready to face any contender in the division. Hailing from Portsmouth, Great Britain, the 27-year-old made his US debut on March 19, defeating Alex “Chi-Town Heat” Martin after a last minute change due to the cancellation of Ortiz, Jr. vs. McKinson. Now a notable name in the boxing scene, McKinson has enjoyed an accomplished career capturing titles including the WBC International Silver Welter Title and the WBO European and Global Welter titles. Now, the UK fighter will be looking to show that he has what it takes to defeat Ortiz, Jr. in his home turf and prove he belongs among the division’s elite. 

Ortiz Jr. vs. McKinson is a 12-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, August 6 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX, 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 #OrtizMcKinson

JOE JOYCE WILL battle the experienced German Christian Hammer at the OVO Arena, Wembley on July 2, as part of a huge fight night also featuring Jason Cunningham v Zolani Tete, Callum Johnson and Nathan Heaney, live on BT Sport.

After being out of the ring since his defeat of Carlos Takam in July of last year and suffering a broken wrist that kept him out of action in the first half of this year, Joyce takes his place on the Wembley bill against the 34-year-old German Hammer.

“The most important thing is to get Joe active and confident again after injury,” said promoter Frank Warren. “Christian Hammer is an experienced campaigner who will provide a decent test and give him a good fight, but obviously we expect Joe to come through it successfully and then start preparing for a bigger showdown later this year.

“It was well documented that it was our intention to match Big Joe with Joseph Parker in September, but Parker has now opted to sign a promotional agreement elsewhere. Joe’s route to a world title shot does not revolve around Parker and we have plans in place for a major fight for him in the autumn.”

“I’ve known about Christian Hammer for a while now,” said Joyce from his training base in Las Vegas. “He has fought everybody, it is going to be a good fight, he comes forward and it will be exciting. It is one to get me ready for the next fights coming up.

“I’ve been out of the ring for a whole year now so it will be good to dust off the gloves and shake off the cobwebs. It is going to be a big year, this year and next, with some great fights and I just need to be in the right place.

“I have taken myself out to the right place with this training camp here to bring out the best in me.”

The Hamburg resident, Hammer, has taken on all comers across his near 14-year career, with names such as Tyson Fury, Erkan Teper, David Price, Alexander Povetkin, Luis Ortiz, Tony Yoka, Hughie Fury all featuring on his record. He most recently went the distance with WBO number three ranked Frank Sanchez.

His most recent title success came in 2018 when he defeated Michael Wallisch to win the WBO European championship belt, a title he also won in 2016 with victory over countryman Teper and subsequently made successful defences against David Price and Zine Eddine Benmakhlouf.

The July 2 card at the OVO Arena also includes the highly anticipated super bantamweight collision between European champion Jason Cunningham and two-weight world champion Zolani Tete. Callum Johnson fights Igor Mikhalkin for the WBC Silver light heavyweight title and Stoke favourite Nathan Heaney will make a defence of his IBO International middleweight championship.

Due to a hand injury, Sam Noakes will no longer be defending his WBC International Silver lightweight title on the night against Marc Videl, so the Spaniard will now face an equally formidable foe from the Queensberry ranks in Mark Chamberlain, with the IBF European title on the line. This represents a first title tilt for the 10-0 Chamberlain and his first fight over 10 rounds.

Super featherweight newcomer Royston Barney-Smith has also suffered a hand injury and he is replaced on the card by the 6-0 welterweight Micky Burke jr.

Wycombe super lightweight Henry Turner is fighting over six rounds and Thetford cruiserweight Tommy Fletcher will make his professional debut in a four-round fight having recently signed to Frank Warren and Queensberry.

Tickets for High Stakes at OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 2 July are on sale now from £55 available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.

All the offical High Stakes graphics can be downloaded here.

IBF INTERNATIONAL HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
NATHAN GORMAN – 19 Stone, 3 Pounds, 2 Ounces
TOMAS SALEK – 16 Stone, 8 Pounds, 2 Ounces

Super-Welterweight Bout – 10 X 3 Minute Rounds
JOSH KELLY – 11 Stone, 2 Ounces
PETER KRAMER – 11 Stone, 1 Ounce

Flyweight Bout – 6 X 2 Minute Rounds
CHLOE WATSON – 8 Stone, 4 Ounces
FARA EL BOUSAIRI – 7 Stone, 12 Pounds, 7 Ounces

Middleweight Bout – 4 X 3 Minute Rounds
AARON CHALMERS – 11 Stone, 7 Pounds, 1 Ounces
ALEXANDER ZELEDON – 11 Stone, 3 Pounds, 2 Ounces

Super-Welterweight Bout – 8 X 3 Minute Rounds
MASON CARTWRIGHT – 11 Stone, 3 Pounds, 5 Ounces
ANGEL EMILOV – 11 Stone, 2 Pounds, 4 Ounces

Heavyweight Bout – 4 X 3 Minute Rounds
MATTY HARRIS – 19 Stone, 7 Pounds, 5 Ounces
PAWEL STRYKOWSKI – 15 Stone, 6 Pounds, 8 Ounces

Middleweight Bout – 6 X 3 Minute Rounds
PADDY LACEY – Weigh-In Scheduled Tomorrow
RYAN BROTEN – Weigh-In Scheduled Tomorrow

Super-Lightweight Bout – 6 X 3 Minute Rounds
TOM FARRELL –  10 Stone, 6 Pounds, 9 Ounces
OLAIDE FIJABI –  Weigh-In Scheduled Tomorrow

Super-Lightweight Bout – 6 X 3 Minute Rounds
TOM AITCHISON – 10 Stone, 3 Ounces
EZEQUIEL GREGORES – 10 Stone, 1 Pound, 5 Ounces

Super-Featherweight Bout – 6 X 3 Minute Rounds
MARCOS MOLLOY – 9 Stone, 11 Pounds
GADATAMEN TAYLOR – 9 Stone, 10 Pounds, 3 Ounces

Featherweight Bout – 4 X 3 Minute Rounds
JOHN EDWARDSON – 9 Stone, 5 Pounds
STEFAN NICOLAE – 9 Stone, 2 Pounds, 1 Ounce

For full image gallery please click here. Mandatory photo credit: Wasserman Boxing. Editorial use only.

If prompted, please use password: GormanSalek

Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers and former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) as she continues her undefeated start as a professional under the tutelage of Ricky Hatton, fighting over 6 rounds in the Flyweight division against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO). The undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) and John Edwardson (2-0) will both be looking for wins in front of their home crowd, with Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO) also promising to provide Liverpool with more highlight moments. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Limited tickets are available via https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/

Liam Paro and Brock Jarvis will clash in a 12-round Super-Lightweight contest as Eddie Hearn and Matchroom break new ground with their first show in Australia scheduled for September. 

Paro (22-0 13 KOs) is ranked #1 with the WBO at 140lbs and the Brisbane star will aim to kick-off Matchroom’s new era Down Under in style on his home turf. The 26-year-old inked a promotional pact with Hearn in December after seeing off the unbeaten Yomar Alamo in Tampa, Florida on his American debut.

Jarvis (20-0 18 KOs) also comes into the bout on the back of his first fight on US soil, where the New South Wales ace came out on top in a wild shoot out with Alejando Rodriguez with a fifth round stoppage in Fresno, California. The 24-year-old recorded his 18^th win inside the distance from 20 fights that night, and the fans can expect an all-action affair as Hearn and Matchroom 

“My rankings speak for themselves, I’ve taken no short cuts to get here,” said Paro. “I ain’t losing to a guy who isn’t on my level. His team will quickly realize that they’ve made the wrong move chasing a fight with me. On fight night I’ll show you why I’m rated no #1.”

“Matchroom boxing is the biggest promotional company in the world and it’s fantastic that they are coming to Australia,” said Jarvis. “I’m really proud and excited to be part of their first event here and I’m looking forward to putting on a show for everyone.”

“I’ve worked with Brock since he was a young kid and take it from me he can go all the way in this sport,” said Jarvis’ trainer, manager and former three-weight World champion Jeff Fenech. “I know what he is capable of and I wouldn’t have taken this fight if I didn’t have 100% confidence in him. It’s a great fight for Brock to take his career to the next level.”
“We are excited for Liam to be headlining Matchroom’s first ever show in Australia,” said Paro’s manager, Alfie DiCarlo. “As for the fight, Liam has worked hard to move up the rankings to #1. He did that by facing World-rated fighters and tough international competition. Brock is in for a real test; he’s bitten off more than he can chew.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn will formally unveil the first event at a press conference on Friday in Queensland, and undercard plans are already in full swing with Heavyweight star Demsey McKean (21-0 13 KOs) and Commonwealth gold medal sensation Skye Nicolson (4-0) the first fighters confirmed for the supporting cast for what promises to be a memorable night.

“I am so excited to kick-off this new era for Matchroom in Australia,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Australian fans are so passionate about sport and boxing is on the rise here, so I have no doubt that they will embrace the fight nights that we put on and join us in creating unforgettable nights that showcase this country as one of the key players for the sport globally.

“In order to put on great nights, you need to make exciting fights, and our first main event Down Under promises to be explosive stuff. Liam and Brock are only ever in thrilling bouts and the winner will be in prime position to hunt for a World title fight later in the year.”

NEW YORK (June 15, 2022) — In three days, one man will hold three light heavyweight world titles. WBC/IBF world champion Artur Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs) will battle Long Island’s WBO champion Joe Smith Jr. (28-3, 22 KOs) on Saturday evening at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden (ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT). The victor will be one step closer to attaining undisputed champion status.
 
Beterbiev, a two-time Russian Olympian who now calls Canada home, is the only world champion in boxing with a 100 percent knockout ratio. He has been a world champion since 2017 and is widely regarded as the division’s top fighter. Smith, a one-time union laborer, cemented his “Rocky” story when he defeated Maxim Vlasov in April 2021 to win the WBO title. He defended that title in January with a ninth-round stoppage over Steve Geffrard.
 
Before fight night, catch up on the action behind the scenes with the two-part Blood, Sweat and Tears: Beterbiev vs. Smith Jr. Part 1 & Part 2 are available to view on Top Rank’s YouTube Channel. Be sure to subscribe to Top Rank’s YouTube Channel for episodes of Top Rank Real Time, which gives fans a closer look at fight week festivities.
 
Thursday, June 16
 
PRESS CONFERENCE: Featuring Beterbiev, Smith Jr., Robeisy Ramirez, Abraham Nova, and Bruce Carrington.
 
1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT

• Live on ESPN+ and Top Rank’s YouTube/Twitter pages 

Friday, June 17

Max on Boxing Live Weigh-In Show: Beterbiev vs. Smith Jr.

4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT

• Live on ESPN2 and Top Rank’s YouTube/Twitter pages

Saturday, June 18

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

 
Artur Beterbiev vs. Joe Smith Jr., 12 rounds, WBC/IBF/WBO Light Heavyweight World Titles
 
Robeisy Ramirez vs. Abraham Nova, 10 rounds, Vacant USBA & WBO Global Featherweight Titles

 ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

Bruce Carrington vs. Adrian Leyva, 6 rounds, featherweight
 
Jahi Tucker vs. D’Andre Smith, 6 rounds, welterweight

Troy Isley vs. Donte Stubbs, 6 rounds, middleweight

Kieran Molloy vs. Jonathan Ryan Burrs, 4 rounds, junior middleweight

Jahyae Brown vs. Keane McMahon, 6 rounds, junior middleweight

PANAMA CITY, Panama (June 15, 2022): Former two-division world champion Luis “Nica” Concepcion (39-9, 28 KOs) will look to shine in front of a hometown crowd against Venezuelan Juan “Pequita” Lopez (15-8-1,14 KOs) in the co-main event of Cardoso-Huertas this Friday, June 17 at La Doce Sports Center in Panama City, Panama.

The event, which is promoted by ProBox Promotions with Master Promotions and All Star Boxing, Inc., will be streamed live globally on ProBox TV beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Concepcion is a 36-year-old who has had a career of many ups and down. In 2009, he defeated Omar Salado to become the WBA Interim Flyweight Champion. He was then elevated to full champion after several defenses. In 2015, Concepcion then captured the interim WBA title at 115 pounds with a stoppage win over David Sanchez and later became full champion by defeating Kohei Kono the following year.

Concepcion would eventually lose the title to Khalid Yafai, but once again captured the interim version of the WBA 112-pound belt in 2020, a title he then lost to undefeated Artem Dalakian. The hard-hitting Concepcion has also had tough fights against Carlos Cuadras and Andrew Moloney in a career spanning more than 15 years.

Lopez, on his end, will not be giving up any advantages in the traditional sense. Though he is from Venezuela, he has fought in Panama over 10 times and has held his own against prospects such Orlando Peñalba, with whom he fought to draw in a battle contested at 118 pounds. 

Also on the card are the following bouts:

Gilberto “Cacique” Pedroza (20-9-2, 8 KOs) of La Palma, Panama will participate in an eight-round flyweight bout against Pedro Villegas (13-2, 4 KOs) of Quito, Ecuador. 

To start the broadcast, rising middleweight prospect and 2020 Olympian Darelle Valsaint (3-0, 2 KOs) of Orlando, Florida will face Encarnacion Diaz (12-1, 7 KOs) of San Jose, Costa Rica in a six-round bout.  

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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, YouTube, and Reddit. 

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 15, 2022) – Lightweight prospect, George “El YuYu” Acosta (12-1, 1 KO), of Whittier, California, is in one of the toughest fights of his career as he faces, Marlin “So Icey” Sims (8-1, 4 KOs), of Minneapolis, Minnesota, this Friday, June 17th, on the “Path To Glory” card at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California, promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions. Acosta vs. Sims, an eight-round bout, will serve as the co-main event to Saul Sanchez vs. Eros Correa, a ten-round bantamweight clash. 

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new Mobile App downloadable on Apple and Google.

Here is what Acosta had to say about his upcoming fight with Sims, his recent training camp, and more.

On his recent training camp:

“It was a really hard training camp, in which I trained two-to-three times a-day, invested in myself, like all high-level fighters have to do. Everyone on my team molded together to make this the best camp of my career. I know an impressive win on Friday night could lead to big things. That is what I want, so I went all in on this camp.”

On his upcoming fight with Sims:

“I am excited to prove myself on this level. I have worked hard on my diet, strength program, developing a social media following with my YouTube channel, and now I feel whole, as a person and a fighter. It comes down to performing on this night, and I know that Marlin Sims will see the best version of me on night night, as will the fans. I’m expecting him to be in the best shape of his life, which is going to make for a great fight. He does a lot of good things in the ring, but I feel my ring IQ and determination will get me the victory.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“I lost a lot of momentum when I lost to Ruben Torres. Torres is being thrown around as a prospect of the year contender, and I felt that was a close fight, but people didn’t pay attention to my career the same way after I lost. This is my chance to prove the doubters wrong, and show just how good I am. I want to break onto the scene at the world-class level. I want to be respected in this division, and a convincing will help.”

On fighting in So-Cal on another Thompson Boxing Promotions card:

“Thompson Boxing Promotions has built my career the right way. I won’t lie, it hasn’t always been easy, but I know I am a much better fighter than most fighters with my record. I know where I stand in the division and what I need to do. Part of what I need to do is get the L.A. fight fans behind me, as they have supported me thus far, and I look to travel someday soon when the right fight happens. I have all the support of Southern California behind me, and I’m expecting a lot of fans to be at my fight this Friday.”

NEW YORK – June 15, 2022 – Renowned content creator and highlight maker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul, fresh off of his viral one-punch knockout victory in December, and Amanda “Real Deal” Serrano, the Unified Featherweight World Champion who is coming off one of the most significant matches in women’s boxing history, will headline in dual main events at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, August 6 live on SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). Opponents for the main event bouts are to be announced.

The Sports Illustrated 2021 Breakout Boxer of the Year, Paul (5-0, 4 KOs) will look to remain undefeated as a professional boxer and solidify his role as one of the sport’s most intriguing and talked-about fighters. A YouTube star and influencer-turned-pro boxer, Paul’s perfectly placed right hand in the sixth round against Tyron Woodley last December was the No. 1 trending video worldwide on YouTube the day following their December 18 bout. It retained its staying power with a No. 2 ranking two days later. The dramatic knockout also recorded 7.5 million views in less than 24 hours on YouTube, making it the most watched video in a 24-hour period in the history of SHOWTIME SPORTS^®. The Cleveland native, who is just 25 and started his pro boxing journey in January 2020, is fighting out of Puerto Rico under the tutelage of Danny Smith and B.J. Flores. 

“It has been one hell of a year already,” said Paul, a cruiserweight who will be fighting for the first time in New York City’s famed MSG arena. “I couldn’t have been prouder of Amanda when she went toe-to-toe against Katie Taylor in April and made history at MSG. Now, to be able to make my own history at the Garden and share the night with Amanda is just the epitome of the American dream. This is a special moment for the entire creator community and I promise I will once again show the world anything is possible.”

Having won titles in every division between 115 and 140 pounds, Serrano, a Puerto Rican southpaw from Brooklyn, holds the Guinness World Record for most women’s boxing world championships (7) won in different weight classes. Her narrow split-decision loss to Katie Taylor in a lightweight championship bout at Madison Square Garden was the first women’s fight in history to headline at MSG, and it delivered. Drawing a raucous, sold-out crowd of 19,187, Serrano (42-2-1, 30 KOs) nearly finished Taylor off with a barrage of punches in the fifth round. Now, Serrano will lace up the gloves for the second time this year and defend her WBO, WBC and IBO featherweight titles, which she last did in August 2021. 

“I’m so blessed. To be headlining twice in less than six months at Madison Square Garden is something I could have never dreamed of,” Serrano said. “I’m so thankful to MVP, SHOWTIME and MSG for their continued support and believing in me every step of the way. I can’t wait for another opportunity to fight in front of my community surrounded by my fans and to continue to prove that women can do anything.” 

“Amanda and Jake have become the most dynamic duo in professional boxing. As MVP athletes, they’ve both strived for greatness in their own respect and yet, continually work to build one another up not just as athletes but mentors and friends,” said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. “Watching these two grow immensely over the last year has been a privilege and to have them both headline as main events at the greatest arena in the world, is a special feat. We are grateful to Madison Square Garden and SHOWTIME for partnering with us on what will be a can’t miss night of boxing and a monumental accomplishment for the creator community.”

Paul will fight on SHOWTIME PPV for a third time after winning a split decision over Woodley in August 2021 and delivering a sensational Knockout Of The Year candidate in their rematch in December. Serrano returns to the network for the fifth time, and now her third pay-per-view, after winning unanimous decisions over Yamileth Mercado in August and Miriam Gutierrez in December.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jake and Amanda back in dual co-headlining bouts on SHOWTIME PPV,’” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Amanda and Jake represent two very different kinds of fighters—one is a sure-fire Hall of Famer with a litany of world titles on her resume, the other is a relative newcomer to the sport with a flair for the dramatic who has proven that he belongs. Despite their contrasting styles, they both make the sport more accessible and attractive to a younger and more diverse audience. When Jake Paul fights, he captures attention like few others, and we as a network have historically been the biggest proponent of women’s combat sports. We are proud to add this marquee event to a year filled with thrilling, world-class events from SHOWTIME—the global leader in live combat sports.”

The event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), a company founded by Paul and Bidarian on the premise that content is king, and fighters are the content creators in combat sports. Holden Boxing will be the licensed promoter for the event, and Paul and Bidarian will serve as executive producers. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV.

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. 

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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.

IRISH SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT star Pierce O’Leary has signed a promotional agreement to fight under the Queensberry banner and to be managed by Francis Warren.

The 22-year-old will make his Queensberry bow on July 16 at the Copper Box show headlined by Hamzah Sheeraz vs Francisco Emmanuel Torres where he will contest the vacant WBC Youth super-lightweight title.

Currently 9-0 as a professional, with five KOs to his name, O’Leary is quickly becoming a genuine contender in his division and has thrilled fans with his bludgeoning power and improving ringcraft.

Known as ‘Big Bang’, O’Leary is a nine-time national champion in his native Ireland and, on turning pro, he moved his training base to Bromley to work with respected coach Alan Smith alongside the likes of Sam Noakes, Dennis McCann and Henry Turner.

“I am excited to be with Queensberry and I am looking forward to big things ahead,” said the Dubliner who trades in the currency of knockouts, with four of his last five requiring the intervention of the referee to end proceedings.

“When I am in the ring expect a KO because I am coming to hurt them. I am not in there to tiddle anyone up, I am in there to get the job done, go home safe and sound and feed my family. When I am in there, I go all guns and that’s it.

“I will be out in July and, hopefully, it is for a title, and we will go from there. It is going to be a massive year and I want to end it with some titles.

“I am excited, as I said, I have a great team around me, great plans and I am looking forward to it. I have seen first-hand how the lads have been treated and it has been fabulous. I am really looking forward to teaming up with Frank and Francis Warren.”

Manager Francis Warren added: “Pierce is a top-quality fighter who I am delighted to welcome onboard. He is not known as Big Bang for nothing and the fans and BT Sport viewers will enjoy watching this young man at work.

“He is part of a great set-up at the Queensberry iBox Gym with Alan Smith, who fully believes he is working with a future world champion.

“I am looking forward to seeing Pierce in action on July 16 at the Copper Box and to guiding his career towards major title success moving forward.”

Tickets for the show at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday, 16 July are on sale now priced from £55 and are availible from SeeTickets.com.

The final pre-fight words have been exchanged ahead of a huge night of free-to-air boxing live from the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool on Friday night on Channel 5

Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) and Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) have both promised statement wins as they return to action as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday night at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool live from 9pm on Channel 5.

The IBF International Heavyweight Championship will be the incentive for both fighters, as Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) faces the Heavyweight king of the Czech Republic, Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) on Friday June 17. The winner can also claim a one-way ticket to the top 15 of this division, and take this opportunity to make new waves amongst the most dangerous men on the planet.  

Nathan Gorman

“I’m feeling great to be honest, one of the best camps I’ve ever had. There’s no excuses, I’ve left no stone unturned for this one. I walk through the press conference doors today and could see my big face everywhere on the backdrops, live on Channel 5, I’m living the dream. An unbelievable feeling really, and I’m just excited for Friday night.”

“I believe this is Nathan Gorman’s time. I can go back 300 or 400 years of fighting heritage within my family. I believe I’m here fighting for a reason, and everyone will be able to see that reason come Friday night.”

“I have had a brief period away from the ring, but I’m only 25 years old and I have a long career ahead of me. It has been 15 months out of the ring, but I’ve spent those 15 months grafting hard, perfecting my boxing skills day in, day out. Like I said before, there’s no excuses. When I walk out of the M&S Bank Arena come Friday, every box has been ticked.”

“To me, boxing is my job and it’s a job that needs doing. I’m calm now, but come fight time I become a different person. I speak for all the fighters here when I say we all have our different routines of how they approach the fight, but I just like to relax with my team up until we hit that arena. It’s game on when we arrive, hands wrapped, and it’s go time.”

“Being Live on Channel 5 is amazing, especially off the back of the previous show pulling in one million viewers. It’s a heavyweight bout, we’re both big punchers representing this card, ideally we want to be bumping them figures up even more! Tomas Salek is a very credible opponent – he’s young, he’s ambitious, and he’s coming off two good wins. He’s here to win, and to win that title to push into the top 15 of the world rankings. If anything happens in the future for the world titles, we could be getting phone calls to step in. That’s how seriously I see this fight for me and for my opponent. I wish it was tonight so we could get it on.”

“Tune in and expect a big win.”

Tomas Salek

“I feel amazing, and I hope you’re all looking forward to this fight. I’m looking forward to fighting for this title.”

“I’m not solely reliant on my punching power. I’ve prepared for all the ways this fight could go, and the focus will be on me performing to my best.”

“This fight will end however it is supposed to end on Friday night.”

Liverpool hosts the return of “Pretty Boy” Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs), and the Sunderland man will face the 32-year-old Hungarian Peter Kramer (12-5-3, 8 KOs) in Liverpool on June 17 as Wasserman Boxing presents another huge night of free-to-air terrestrial television action.

Josh Kelly

“I can’t wait to be live on Channel 5 and competing in the city of Liverpool. The arena is somewhere where I’ve boxed before, I know how good the Liverpool crowd are, so I can’t wait to put a performance on and show off my skills.”

“After the disappointing issue with my opponent in London, I just locked in to this one. I just told myself that there’s 5 weeks until the Liverpool card so just keep working hard in the gym, keep sparring, and keep everything ready – that’s exactly what I did. I believe in myself and I believe that I am one of the best, so I just need to prove it on the night and I’m sure I will.”

“Peter is a good, experienced operator. I believe I’m going to be too fit, too strong, too prepared and too fast for him. I’m going to put him in deep water before he even realises.”

“My prediction? A big win, that’s it.”

Peter Kramer

“First of all, I’d like to greet everyone who is here today. I know of Josh Kelly, and I’m very happy to be here in the UK, this is my fifth time fighting here. I’m very appreciative for this opportunity and very aware of the opportunity. I respect that this fight will be against a very prominent opponent that Josh Kelly is, but I’ll be doing everything I can in the ring to win. We’ll see what happens on fight night.”

“Like any fighter, I’ll be relying on my heart first and foremost. I’ve been preparing hard for this, and I’m fit and ready to perform. If I combine my heart, my preparation and my conditioning – I give myself a good chance of taking a big win back to Hungary.”

An action packed undercard features the homecoming for one of Liverpool’s hottest young prospects as Chloe Watson (2-0) steps up in competition to face Fara El Bousairi (4-2, 1 KO) in front of her home fans. This stacked card also features the professional debut of former reality television and MMA star Aaron Chalmers, who will be looking to enter the boxing scene with a bang at the M&S Bank Arena this Friday, June 17.

Chloe Watson

“I feel nerves and excitement coming in to any fight – even more so when it’s going to be in Liverpool. It’s good though. It was mentioned before, what makes Liverpool such a great fighting city? I can say first hand that it is the people. The amount of people that support me and get behind me is the reason I am where I am today. The reason why I’ve pushed to get where I’m going to get to is because of people like my dad and all those who back me. The fighting city of Liverpool pushes me to get to where I want to be.”

“It’s going to be a competitive fight, but it’s what I’m used to. I boxed with Team GB for 3 years, and ever since I was 15 I have been boxing for England. I’m used to competitive fights, they excite me. This is one of them fights, I’m excited and look forward to putting on a good performance.“

“Working with Ricky (Hatton) has been great. I’ve been lucky enough to be alongside him as he goes on this new journey. It’s very inspirational as he did just flick the switch, and you can see from the weight loss that he’s not messing about. He has been in the gym, he has been dieting, he has been training. It’s good to see that winning mentality, it never goes, it’s always with him.”

“It’s definitely inspired me for this camp for sure. Being in his presence, even before him getting back into training, it’s just a great environment to be in and everything is on the up.”

Aaron Chalmers

“I’ve been excited mate. It has been a long time coming. I’ve had a few setbacks with injuries and other things – but now feels like the right time and what better place to start than Liverpool. It’s like Newcastle; they like football, drinking and boxing. So it’s a great place to start.”

“When I went to Adam (Booth) about 22 months ago I started fresh. For the first 6 months I was just jabbing so I’ve got the perfect jab. I’ve spent the time grafting my arse off away from my family and my mrs to chase the dream. It’s been 22 months in the making so come fight night I’ll be excited to go out there and put on a show.”

“Lets take care of Friday first before I start making future plans. It’s going to be a quick two years for me – but I want to try and succeed and do everything I can. Lets get the job done Friday and we can go again.”

Promoter Kalle Sauerland has praised Liverpool in the build up to this fight on more than one occasion. The Head of Global Boxing had expressed his delight at the successes of the London show, and cannot wait to see what this great fighting city has to offer.

Kalle Sauerland

“There’s always a spring in my step coming off the train when I arrive in Liverpool. I’ve got more friends in Liverpool than I have in London, that’s not saying much but it speaks volumes of the people here. It’s a fantastic city to promote in, it’s a fantastic fight town. A true fight town. It’s been a few years since we’ve had a fight here, the last time was with the Boxing Super Series, and now we’re bringing the heavyweights. Headlining this time is Nathan Gorman, with Josh Kelly out to make a statement on his return too.”

“For us at Wasserman Boxing it’s all about the boxing, we’re in Australia next week and we’re looking to push for 25 or 30 events this year. The most fantastic thing was that last show. After all the effort that went into the fights, with some true warrior performances on show, it was truly satisfying to get a message from the Head of Sport from Channel 5 messaging to inform me that we’d cracked the million-viewer figure on the Friday night. That’s what we want to be doing. All the girls and guys have gone through terrific camps, they go through blood, sweat and tears, as well as their fantastic teams and trainers; it’s exceptional. To have that rewarded with, not just a few thousand viewers, but with a million viewers is something very special.”

“Linus and Denzel were not yet household names when they fought in London, but people saw the quality on show and opted to stay tuned and watched the fight. We want to keep attracting new fans of the sport who are not yet opting to watch boxing on other platforms. Airing boxing here in the UK, it’s an opportunity we are grasping with both hands; it’s every promoter’s dream. We’re hoping Saturday night for the fighters to seize their chance and take full advantage of being seen.”

For full image gallery please click here. Mandatory photo credit: Wasserman Boxing. Editorial use only.

If prompted, please use password: GormanSalek

Heavyweights collide as Nathan Gorman (18-1, 12 KOs) takes on Tomas Salek (17-3, 13 KOs) as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Friday June 17 at the M&S Bank Arena. ‘Pretty Boy’ Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) also features alongside the professional debut of Aaron Chalmers and former Team GB fighter Chloe Watson (2-0) as she continues her undefeated start as a professional under the tutelage of Ricky Hatton, fighting over 6 rounds in the Flyweight division against Fara El Bousairi (5-2, 1 KO). The undefeated Paddy Lacey (2-0) and John Edwardson (2-0) will both be looking for wins in front of their home crowd, with Mason ‘Nutty’ Cartwright (17-3, 7 KOs) and heavyweight’s Hosea Stewart (2-0) and giant ‘Magic’ Matty Harris (2-0, 1 KO) also promising to provide Liverpool with more highlight moments. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing, live on Channel 5, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Limited tickets are available via https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/

Lincoln, RI – The new Juiseppe Cusumano doesn’t like to look back too much at the old Juiseppe Cusumano

Juiseppe 2.0 is a leaner, stronger, more determined version of the old model, not the same Cusumano who barely lasted two minutes against Daniel Dubois in August.

Fight fans can expect fireworks Friday, June 24 at Ballys Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort when Cusumano (19-4, 17 KOs) unveils a never-before-seen rendition of himself in an eight-round bout against Brazilian heavyweight Irineu Beato Costa Junior at Summer Splash, presented by CES Boxing.

His long-awaited return to Ballys, where has hasn’t fought since 2019, caps a busy training camp in which the 6-foot-4 Cusumano spent the majority of time away from his residence in Danville, VA, and instead trained everywhere from Costa Rica and Tampa to Connecticut and New York.

Summer Splash also features Warwick, RI, resident Jaime “Hurricane” Clampitt battling Texas lightweight Miranda “El Alacrana” Reyes, plus the Ballys debut of unbeaten super middleweight and 6-foot-2 southpaw Francis Hogan of Weymouth, MA. Tickets are available at CESFights.com.

When Cusumano lost to Dubois on Showtime, a lopsided bout in which the “Sicilian Nightmare” hit the canvas three times before referee George Nichols stopped the fight, the 34-year-old heavyweight considered walking away from the sport. He had already begun thinking about life after boxing, using his payout from the Dubois fight to purchase a gym in anticipation of running his own fitness boxing courses.

But, in a plot twist straight out of Hollywood, Cusumano had a change of heart. He knew his performance against Dubois didn’t reflect who he was as a fighter or how much he had progressed under the guidance of promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr. To quote a certain well-known fictional Italian boxer, there was “still some stuff in the basement.” He had to make one more run at not only competing for a world title, but showing boxing fans there’s more to him than what they saw that fateful night in August.

“I told Jimmy, ‘That’s not me,’” Cusumano said. “I had only six rounds of sparring before that fight. I was in out of the gym. I had a lot of personal issues going on. And the whole world saw me like that. It eats me alive.

“It would’ve been different if I was ready and I went through a war and lost a close fight, but I wasn’t mentally ready – or really ready in any regard. I’ve got to get back on Showtime and show what I really have in my blood and in my heart.

“I won’t be a happy man if I don’t do what I’ve got to do. Then I’ll sit back and say, ‘Oh, I could’ve done that, but I didn’t.’ At least now if anything happens in my career that messes me up, I’ll know I gave it all I’ve got. No regrets.”

After taking some time off to recover and reflect on his mistakes – and pray, Cusumano said – he received a call from the manager of unbeaten Chinese heavyweight Zhilei Zhang inviting him to spar for two weeks in New Jersey. That turned into a three-week stay with Zhang’s camp in Tampa, this time with Cusumano participating in every minute of every workout, not just the sparring sessions.

“As soon as I finished camp there, I knew I didn’t want to go back home,” Cusumano said.

As luck would have it, he then received a call from an associate in Costa Rica inviting him to fly south for a makeshift “boot camp” training in the jungles and mountains, often running eight miles a day in brutal conditions.

“The training I did there was unbelievable,” Cusumano said. “It got me out of my comfort zone – way out – and it felt to me like when I got past that zone, I got lost. Now you’re in a different world and you’re still pushing. That’s what you need in fights. You have to get out of your comfort zone.”

After Costa Rica, Cusumano reached out to his promoter, who then set him up at Champs Boxing & Fitness in Danbury, CT, under the guidance of coach Dave McDonough. Cusumano has been at Champs for the last four weeks, traveling back and forth to New York to spar with the likes of WBO world light heavyweight champion Joe Smith Jr. and Connecticut heavyweight Cassius Chaney.

“I’m really proud of myself,” Cusumano said. “You have to make tough decisions in life. I could’ve stayed home, ran the gym, worked a 9-to-5, but I knew I had already made a name for myself and hadn’t even put 100% into it. I never traveled and got the work like I should have. I didn’t stay consistent. I went back home, fooled around, got sidetracked. Now I’m making the sacrifices necessary to achieve this dream.”

Cusumano still has family in Virginia, including his 12-year-old son, a budding southpaw baseball star who cranked three home runs in his last game. Being away from loved ones is difficult, but Cusumano knows if he doesn’t give it his all now, he’ll regret it later in life. This is the version of himself he always dreamt he could be.

“This is what I needed. I needed to be around boxing and be around good sparring. That’s what I was missing,” Cusumano said. “Now, if I get a call and people need work, I’m there. That’s what I should have been doing all along.”

Full fight details for Summer Splash are available online. For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions in the northeast and one of the few to successfully promote both mixed martial arts and professional boxing. Launched in 1992 by longtime boxing judge Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the promotion is the only in professional boxing to boast two reigning WBC Youth world champions in lightweight Jamaine Ortiz and featherweight Irvin Gonzalez. CES Boxing recently teamed with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s No. 1 streaming platform for combat sports, to showcase its events to a worldwide audience, and worked as a promotional consultant for the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. pay-per-view event in November of 2020.

Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort, located in Lincoln, RI, is the state’s largest gaming and entertainment venue as well as its top tourist and cultural attraction. Formerly known as Lincoln Park and then Twin River Casino Hotel, the renovated facility offers 162,000 square-feet of gaming space with over 5,000 gaming positions. The casino operates over 4,100 slot machines and virtual table games (including blackjack and roulette), as well as 125 live table games including blackjack, roulette, craps, sports betting, and more. This unique gaming facility also hosts simulcasting of the best thoroughbred and greyhound racing from around the country, a 29,000+ square foot Twin River Event Center with headline entertainment, free concerts at the Lighthouse Bar, incredible food and drinks at Fred & Steve’s Steakhouse, and authentic Italian cuisine at Jerry Longo’s Meatballs & Martinis. The hotel at Bally’s Lincoln features 136 rooms and suites. Amenities include an indoor pool with a stone fireplace feature wall, multiple meeting space, a fitness center and an outdoor courtyard off the pool and lobby that is also available for special events. Guests may access the hotel from the casino’s north entrance.

Manchester, England – (June 15, 2022) – The heavyweight contender clash between Hughie Fury and Michael Hunter has been postponed from its originally-scheduled 2nd July date due to illness, it was announced today by BOXXER.

Fury, who has staged this training camp in Cannes, France, had been attempting to train through the illness but his father and trainer Peter Fury today made the decision to suspend the camp to allow his son time to fully recover.

“On behalf of myself and my son, we apologise to the fans but most of all to Hunter and his team, because like us, they’ve gone through a hard camp and this news is the last thing anyone in boxing wants to hear,” said Peter Fury.

“Hughie struggled on through the illness but physically broke down. We look forward to this fight being rescheduled as it’s a great fight for both men and for the fans around the world. Once again we apologise to everyone involved, but health is paramount in boxing.”

Fury vs Hunter is a WBA World Championship Eliminator bout which will send the winner forward for a shot at the WBA World Heavyweight Championship. BOXXER is presently working to schedule a new date for the fight at the AO Arena Manchester.

“Boxing fans all over the world have been looking forward to this fight and so have the two fighters. Nobody will be more disappointed than Hughie Fury and Michael Hunter by today’s news, but health is more important than anything. We wish Hughie a speedy recovery while we arrange a new date for this bout in Manchester,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER founder and CEO.

All tickets purchased for the 2nd July event will be valid for the newly-rescheduled date when announced. Fans unable to attend the new date can also obtain a full refund on any tickets purchased for 2nd July.

LONDON, JUNE 15 – Jack Bateson wants to become a Leeds boxing legend just like world champion Josh Warrington after being announced as Probellum’s latest signing.
Bateson faces the biggest test of his professional career when, on Saturday night (June 18), he squares off against Diego Alberto Ruiz over 10 rounds for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title.

A win for the 27-year-old in front of his home fans at Elland Road, should catapult the former Great Britain amateur firmly into the world rankings and with the backing of Probellum, Bateson believes victory this weekend will mark the beginning of some “big nights” in Leeds – just like the ones created by city hero Warrington.

“I am blessed to be from a city like Leeds,” Bateson said.

“Josh Warrington is a big pal of mine and we’ve all seen what he has achieved, and I know if I work hard and stay grounded then I can get to that point too.

OLYMPIC CHAMPION’S PRO DEBUT CONFIRMED

DAVIES REACTS TO WBA AHEAD OF LEEDS FIGHT

“And it won’t be long before I’m filling out the First Direct Arena, like Josh does, but I need to get past Ruiz first.

“Saturday will hopefully be the start of some very big nights for me, and I know that the Leeds fans will get behind me, as they always have done.”

Standing in Bateson’s way is Argentinean puncher Ruiz whose recent opponents include Probellum stars Lee McGregor and Shabaz Masoud, as well as Michael Conlan.

“I’ve seen Ruiz box a couple of times in the last 12-18 months and these are the sort of fights I want to be in,” Bateson buzzed.

“He’s a good fighter, as tough as they come, and Ruiz will be looking at me and thinking this isn’t anything he hasn’t seen before but, mark my words, he’s never been in the ring with anyone like me before!

“I won the English title last year and I am now ready to push on and a win on Saturday will, hopefully, get me a top 15 ranking with the WBA.”

Bateson, 16-0 as a pro, added: “Some of the guys who have won this WBA belt in the past, have gone on and won big things in the sport, including the world title.

“In the UK alone, the super bantamweight division is booming, there are a lot of big fights out there for me, and so I am excited about what is to come.”

To keep up to date with Bateson’s big fight against Ruiz, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.????

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

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promoter, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Following the success of the opening two shows in December 2021, Probellum has already held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai, as well as a packed card in Newcastle.

The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).????

New York, New York (June 15, 2022) – The word underdog and Joe Smith Jr. seem to be synonymous. When WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion JOE SMITH JR. (28-3 22KO’s) steps in the ring for the biggest fight of his life on Saturday, June 18, he will be facing a boxing thoroughbred and brutal Russian powerhouse, in the WBC and IBF World Champion, ARTUR BETERBIEV (17-0 17KO’s).  When Vegas oddsmakers opened its books upon the fight’s announcement, Smith in spite of being a world champion, with tremendous credentials himself, was once again listed as an underdog (a huge 8 to 1 underdog)!  For non-gamblers, this means, with the spread, if you were to bet $100 dollars on a Smith victory on June 18, you would win $800. 

This is not the first, nor the second, third or even fourth time Joe Smith Jr. finds himself as the underdog in a major fight. Back on June 18, 2016, on a magical night in Chicago, IL as a relative unknown, Smith burst onto the boxing scene with a spectacular, nationally televised first round knockout of then #2 world ranked light heavyweight, ANDRZEJ FONFARA. Entering the fight, Smith was a 20 to 1 long shot to beat hometown favorite Fonfara, yet Smith beat the odds emphatically (KO-1).  Yes, for those of you that are superstitious, Smith burst on the scene as a 20-1 underdog exactly 6 years to the date that he will be fighting Artur Beterbiev, on the magical date of June 18th.  

Next Smith was handpicked by boxing legend and multi-time world champion, BERNARD HOPKINS for the final fight of his illustrious career in Los Angeles, CA. The final fight became a nightmare instead of a dream farewell for the legend when Smith landed a six-punch combination that dramatically put Hopkins out on his feet, sending him through the ropes, and onto The Forum floor for an 8th-round KO victory. Entering the fight, Smith was also an 8 to 1 underdog, yet not only did he beat Hopkins, but Smith beat the oddsmakers once again.   

Over the next two years, Smith battled like a warrior for most of the ten rounds with a broken jaw against Sullivan Barrera, then picked up a comeback win against Melvin Russell in his next bout and ultimately fought Dmitry Bivol in his first world title challenge. A tenth-round overhand bomb by Smith had Bivol wobbling back to his corner, but he was saved by the bell. Bivol defended his title, and Smith went back to the drawing board.  

“The Common Man” would not be deterred and with a renewed vigor, experience and determination, found himself on the main stage for a light heavyweight showdown with JESSE HART on ESPN.  Smith was a 3 to 1 underdog against Hart, who was being touted as a major player at 175 lbs.  Instead, Smith imposed his will and strength on Hart, battering and eventually dropping Hart in the seventh round in a dominating and impressive performance. Smith yet again beat the odds. 

With that victory, Star Boxing proudly entered Smith into a WBO Light Heavyweight Title elimination bout where he clashed with former world champion ELEIDER ALVAREZ at the MGM Grand Bubble, in Las Vegas. Smith put on a show that caught the attention of the boxing world. Landing 125 of his 369 punches thrown as opposed to Alvarez who landed just 51 of 125 punches thrown, Smith thoroughly dominated the former world champion in a career defining performance.   It was clear Smith had advanced tremendously since the Bivol loss.  He launched Alvarez through the ropes courtesy of a brutal right hand which earned him a ninth-round KO and a second world title shot. Yes, Smith was 3 to 1 underdog for the Alvarez fight, yet he beat Alvarez, and, once again, the oddsmakers. 

Smith went on to win the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title in an absolute war over MAXIM VLASOV in Tulsa, OK in April of 2021, and successfully defended his title against late replacement STEVE GEFFRARD at Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY in January of 2022, both of which were broadcast live on ESPN. 

Now, on June 18th, Smith embarks on yet another challenge in the three-belt world title unification bout in the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden live on ESPN. He finds himself once again as the underdog. Beterbiev has earned the name “The King,” for being the only professional boxing champion with a perfect KO ratio of 17 wins, with 17 knockouts.  He is regarded as the most dangerous fighter in the world.

Most would feel the weight of the world on their shoulder having to constantly carry the ‘prove them wrong mentality’ but for Smith, it makes him who he is, “I enjoy being the underdog.” He said. “I would rather be the underdog because it makes me want to push harder, makes me want to prove everyone wrong.”

While Beterbiev’s reputation may very well proceed him,  “The Common Man” Joe Smith Jr. has beat the odds before and will look to do so once more – this time by slaying “The King” for light heavyweight supremacy. 

Beterbiev-Smith is promoted by Top Rank and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and will take place Saturday, June 18, 2022 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden live on ESPN, ESPN + and ESPN DEPORTES.

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 14, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren “The Gift” Cunningham (16-2, 8 KOs), brought boxing back to his hometown of St. Louis and scored a unanimous 8-round decision against veteran journeyman, Diuhl Olguin (15-24-3, 10 KOs). Over 3,500 people packed the Ambassador Club where the event, promoted by Showout Boxing Promotions and DC3 Promotions, took place.

Cunningham controlled the action from the opening bell by using superior lateral movement and combination punching. Olhuin showed a lot of heart and had his moments but could not deal with the boxing skills Cunningham was displaying. Scorecards read 79-73 twice and 78-74, all in favor of Cunningham.

“Every fight moving forward is a must win situation for me, so I knew I needed to step up my game,” said Cunningham who suffered his second loss as a professional in his last fight. “I’m realizing that I just need to box my way to victory if the knockout doesn’t come early. I’ve been trying to get these guys out of there and that has been the problem. I just need to dictate the action and get the win by all means necessary.”

“We wanted to bring Darren back to his hometown and put on a great show for his fans,” said David Belcher who manages Cunningham. “The event was spectacular with everyone having a good time. We had a tremendous amount of local media support and we are planning to come back before the end of the year.”

TYSON FURY OFFERED up the strongest hint yet that his fighting days are not behind him when he took the hotseat for a digital get-together with his promoter Frank Warren and host Dev Sahni for the latest UniBet Lowdown episode.

Watch the full exclusive episode on the Queensberry YouTube channel here.

The world’s No.1 heavyweight floated the idea of retirement before and after his crowning glory at Wembley Stadium where he knocked out the Interim champion Dillian Whyte to retain his WBC world championship in front of 94,000 adoring fans.

But it seems he might not be done just yet and, in a wide ranging interview for the Queensberry YouTube channel, the Gypsy King reveals that himself and Frank Warren are formulating plans for another memorable night or two in the months to come.

“We’re talking about various scenarios,” said the Hall of Fame fight maker. “Something will come out of it. We could announce fairly soon.

“Frank, show me the money,” added Tyson. “The Magic Man will show me the money and we will make something big, big, big happen.”

Also, in this exclusive chat set in Tyson’s local barbers, the barbershop conversation included…

• Tyson looking back on a magical night under the lights at Wembley Stadium in April
• Giving Dillian Whyte the push: “His head did not hit the canvas”
• Very exciting news coming about a plan of action
• His daily routine, enjoying life and being an ‘idiot abroad’
• A third book on the way. “It will be my third best-seller and I can’t even spell!”
• Anthony Joshua’s best chance of beating Oleksandr Usyk? “Get up to Morecambe and let me train him or he won’t beat Usyk”
• Daniel Dubois’ WBA world title triumph. “Daniel chinned him, so fair play”

These topics and much more are covered by Tyson, Frank and Dev so be sure to tune in on YouTube to watch in full.

Watch the full exclusive episode on the Queensberry YouTube channel here.

HINCKLEY, Minn. (June 14, 2022) — It’s the “Quiet Storm” versus a “Royal Storm,” a can’t-miss featherweight matchup with a title shot on the line. Two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez will take on former junior featherweight world champion Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe in a 10-round main event Saturday, July 23, at Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minnesota. Gonzalez will put his WBO International belt on the line, with the fight also serving as a WBC world title eliminator.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, undefeated contender Giovanni “El Cabron” Cabrera hopes for a signature win against the flashy Gabriel Flores Jr.

Gonzalez-Dogboe, Cabrera-Flores and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Rapacz Boxing, tickets starting at $35 go on sale Wednesday, June 15 at 10 a.m. CST, and can be purchased by visiting eTix.com.

“Joet and Isaac are guaranteed entertainment each time they step through the ropes, and I have no doubt they will combine for an action-packed main event,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “With Cabrera and Flores in the co-feature, this is a truly sensational summertime card at the Grand Casino in Hinckley.”

Gonzalez (25-2, 15 KOs), from Glendora, California, is considered one of boxing’s best uncrowned champions, a 10-year pro whose only defeats have come to Shakur Stevenson and Emanuel Navarrete in separate bids for the WBO featherweight world title. Gonzalez’s October 2021 decision loss to Navarrete was considered one of the best action fights of the year and did little to diminish his standing. He is currently rated No. 1 by the WBO and No. 3 by the WBC, which comes off the heels of his ninth-round knockout over Jeo Santisima in March.

Gonzalez said, “The third time’s a charm, and I’m more motivated than ever to have a world title around my waist. Isaac Dogboe always comes to fight. The respect is there, but on July 23, I am preparing to go to battle. I expect the best version of Dogboe, and I will be at the top of my game.”

Dogboe (23-2, 15 KOs), from Anyako, Ghana, burst onto the world scene in April 2018 with his title-winning knockout over Jessie Magdaleno. In his first title defense, he blitzed Hidenori Otake in the opening round. Dogboe’s rapid rise came to a halt with consecutive defeats to Navarrete, but he reignited his career with victories over Chris Avalos, Adam Lopez, and Christopher Diaz. The Diaz and Lopez bouts — 10-round majority decisions — were toe-to-toe barnburners that may serve as an indication what he’ll bring against Gonzalez. A 2012 Olympian, Dogboe has royal lineage, as his late grandfather, Torgbui Sri III, was the ruler of the Anlo state in Ghana’s Volta Region. His return to boxing royalty hinges on a victory over Gonzalez.

Dogboe said, “I have been tested against the very best, and on July 23, we go to war against another top contender in Joet Gonzalez. I am excited to be back in a main event as I continue my quest to become a two-weight world champion.”

Cabrera (20-0, 7 KOs) inked a promotional contract with Top Rank earlier this year and has notched decision victories over Rene Tellez Giron and Elias Araujo to make it 20 for 20. Trained by Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles, Cabrera started boxing at 16 when he was inspired by Roach’s most famous pupil, Manny Pacquiao. He was raised mostly in Chicago and developed as a pro at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, where he headlined six events. Following an October 2019 win in Chicago, he was sidelined for more than two years due to promotional and managerial issues. Since signing with Top Rank, Cabrera has re-established his standing as a contender to watch. Flores (21-1, 7 KOs), a 22-year-old from Stockton, California, saw his momentum come to a temporary halt with a one-sided loss last September to Luis Alberto Lopez. Less than six months later, Flores survived a gut check to edge a majority decision over Abraham Montoya. Prior to the Lopez loss, Flores became only the second man to knock out former world title challenger Jayson Velez.

Cabrera said, “I’m here to contend for the lightweight crown. I’m still getting better, and I still have a lot to prove. Gabriel Flores Jr. is a highly skilled fighter, but I’m used to taking on this level of challenge. I know he’s never been in with a fighter like me. His strategy against me will only be a guess, a shot in the dark, but how can you prepare for a style you’ve never seen? I’m going to train my butt off out of full respect for my opponent, and the fans will be the winners.” 

“I am a different fighter at lightweight. The weight is no longer an issue, and you’re going to see the same fighter that knocked out Velez,” Flores said. “I like fighting southpaws, so if Cabrera thinks I don’t have the strategy to beat him, he’s going to be in for a rude awakening on July 23. I know what I need to do, and mark my words, I’m going to win this fight in dominant fashion.”

The undercard is scheduled to include many of Top Rank’s rising stars, including Italian heavyweight knockout artist Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (8-0-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder, featherweight prospect Haven Brady Jr. (6-0, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder, Milwaukee native Javier Martinez (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-round middleweight bout, and 6’9 heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante”Mireles (3-0, 3 KOs) in a four-rounder against Minneapolis resident Dennys Reyes (3-2, 1 KO). Cleveland-born lightweight phenom Abdullah Mason (2-0, 2 KOs) and fellow Clevelander, light heavyweight Dante Benjamin Jr. (2-0, 1 KO), will represent “The Land” in separate four-rounders. Benjamin Jr. will fight fellow unbeaten Corey Thompson (4-0, 3 KOs), who hails from Coon Rapids, Minnesota.

Four additional Minnesota natives will add some local flavor to the card. Middleweight Antonio Woods (10-0, 8 KOs) is scheduled to appear in a six-rounder, while heavyweight Colton Warner (4-1, 3 KOs) returns in a four-rounder. And, in an all-Minnesota heavyweight showdown scheduled for four rounds, Cayman Audie (1-1, 1 KO) will do battle with Tommy Matlon (2-1, 1 KO).

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. 

NEW YORK (JUNE 14, 2022)–Two Split-T Management had impressive victories over two venues in New York.

On Friday night, 2021 Olympic Bronze Medal winner Oshae Jones made her long awaited pro debut with a shutout six-round unanimous decision over Sonya Dreiling at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Jones was very impressive as she landed bloodied the nose of Dreiling in the opening frame and landed several eye-popping shots with one knocking the mouthpiece of Dreiling out. Jones of Toledo, Ohio won by scores of 60-54 on all cards to start her pro career off on the the right fioot.

Despite being cut under his right eye, Omar Rosario remained perfect with a six-round unanimous decision over Julio Rosa in a battle of undefeated junior welterweights. The bout took place on Saturday at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Rosario fought very well, as he showed smooth boxing ability to keep Rosa at bay. The win was especially pleasing as Rosario performed in front of many of his fans as the fight was staged on the annual card on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City. Rosario of Caguas, won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 to raise his mark to 7-0.

Rosario is promoted by Top Rank

ONTARIO, CA (June 14, 2022) – Explosive bantamweight contender, Saul “The Beast” Sanchez (18-1, 11 KOs), is putting his world ranking on the line when he battles Eros Correa (11-1, 8 KOs), in a 10-round main event headlining Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event on Friday, June 17th, 2022.

This event will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets are priced at $50, $75, and $100, are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900.

Sanchez gives his thoughts on his recent training camp, his upcoming bout with Correa, fighting in Southern California and more.

On his recent training camp with coach Manny Robles:

“I’m having a great training camp, my body is healthy, and I’ve improved in all facets of my game. My coach Manny Robles is one of the top trainers in boxing and we keep getting better together. We have a nice understanding with each other on what needs to be done in this fight. We have all the sparring needed to get ready for this fight. I’m in tremendous shape and I’ll be ready to go.”

On his matchup with Eros Correa:

“I’ve seen Correa fight a few times and he’s a good fighter, but I’ve been in the ring with much better competition, and I see myself dominating this fight. He was one of the top amateurs, but in the pros he’s just average. I know he’s coming to fight, so I’ll be fully ready to counter anything he brings to the ring. I just believe I’m better then him in all areas, especially my power. I don’t think this fight goes the distance.”

On fighting in Southern California:

“Anytime I fight in Southern California it’s a great feeling because I know I’ll have a lot of support from family and friends. I thrive when I know my people will be there watching. I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for all those watching live.”

On headlining Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event:

“Headlining Thompson Boxing events are incredible, especially at the Doubletree Hotel where the fans are loud and rowdy. I’ve worked my way to this position and I’m very grateful to my Thompson Boxing family for always believing in me and giving me opportunities to further my career. To be headlining this event is a true blessing.”

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LAS VEGAS – June 14, 2022 – Boxing legend Floyd “Money” Mayweather and RIZIN held a press conference in Las Vegas on Monday night to officially announce the Hall of Fame boxer’s next bout, which will take place in an exhibition against Japanese star and two-weight MMA champion Mikuru Asakura this September on RIZIN in Japan.

Fresh off of his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame this past weekend, Mayweather previewed his return to Japan on Monday alongside RIZIN CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara and Asakura. Mayweather previously fought in Japan on New Year’s Eve 2018 in an exhibition against kickboxing star Tenshin Nasukawa.

Additional information regarding the September event will be announced later this month. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Monday from M Resort Spa & Casino in Las Vegas:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, Legendary Boxing Hall of Famer

“I had so many great days competing at the highest level, but this is a great feeling now to be able to travel the world and do these exhibition bouts and have fun. My legacy is already engraved in stone. It’s great to be able to entertain people around the world and from all walks of life.

“This guy is going to come out and give his best, like every and any guy. But I’ve seen every style, so my job is just to go out there be me, have fun and do what I do best.

“Come September in Japan, we’re going to give the people what they want to see. They want to see me still competing and be entertained by Floyd Mayweather.

“I know that he believes in his skill, but no fighter that he’s ever been in the ring with is Floyd Mayweather. These other guys are just fighters, but I’m Floyd Mayweather. I’m on a different level. I’m special. Not just special, very special.

“I don’t have to watch tape on my opponents, he needs to watch me. I’m the one to watch. Everybody I face is just an opponent. It’s no different from facing Manny Pacquiao or Canelo Alvarez.”

MIKURU ASAKURA, MMA Star

“I’m an MMA fighter, but I’m going to use this opportunity and use Mayweather to raise my name and value internationally. I will win this fight.”

NOBUYUKI SAKAKIBARA, RIZIN CEO

“I’m very happy to be sitting between these two athletes and announcing our second fight with Floyd Mayweather on RIZIN and against Mikuru Asakura. Mayweather was supposed to fight in Japan before the pandemic, but unfortunately it was postponed and now RIZIN is thrilled to put on this fight in September.

“I’m very excited to be working with Floyd Mayweather, not only for this fight, but in the future and in the bigger picture to create more exciting content on our platform.”