Tomorrow night marks a monumental beginning for Wasserman Boxing as Title action returns to terrestrial television, live on Channel 5.

The wait is over, as the British Middleweight title is on the line in an eagerly anticipated clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs) on Friday May 13.

The card also features the returning Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) coming in search of a statement win, as well as Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) taking on two-time British Title challenger Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) over ten rounds.

Please see below for fighter weights and images.

British Middleweight Title Fight – Udofia vs Bentley (12 Rounds)

Linus Udofia – 159lb

Denzel Bentley – 159.2lb

Josh Kelly vs Xhuljo Vrenozi – Super Welterweight (10 Rounds)

Josh Kelly – 156.6lb

Xhuljo Vrenozi – 159.8lb

Harlem Eubank vs Sean Dodd – Super Lightweight (10 Rounds)

Harlem Eubank – 139lb

Sean Dodd – 139.3lb

Brad Pauls vs Ryan Kelly – British Middleweight Title Eliminator (10 Rounds)

Brad Pauls – 159lb

Ryan Kelly – 159.3lb

Harvey Horn vs Alejandro Torres – Flyweight (10 Rounds)

Harvey Horn – 114.4lb

Alejandro Torres – 110lb

Constantin Ursu vs Boria Lopez – Welterweight (4 Rounds)

Constantin Ursu – 147.2lb

Boria Lopez – TBA

Razor Ali vs Khvicha Gigolashvili – Featherweight (6 Rounds)

Razor Ali – 126.7lb

Khvicha Gigolashvili – 126.2lb

Katharina Thanderz vs Tereza Dvorakova – Super Lightweight (8 Rounds)

Katharina Thanderz – 139.3lb

Tereza Dvorakova – 138.3lb

Dan Morley vs Ivan Njegac – Welterweight (6 Rounds)

Dan Morley – 149.3lb

Ivan Njegac – 150.9lb

The hotly anticipated British Middleweight Title clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs), the return of Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) against Xhuljo Vrenozi (18-4,3 KOs) and Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) versus Sean Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) will top a stacked card in the capital as Wasserman Boxing launch their first free-to-air event live on Channel 5 on Friday May 13 at the Indigo at the O2, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Limited tickets are still available via www.wassermanboxing.com

Dubai, UAE (May 11, 2022) – It’s time to get ready for the incredible Mayweather vs. Moore fight that headlines The Global Titans Fight Series on a helipad 59 floors up in Dubai – available as a PPV event on FITE in major global territories including the U.S., Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany and more. The event features legendary undefeated champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather returning to the ring to face unbeaten “Dangerous” Don Moore.

Here’s what you need to do to get ready:

? Watch FITE in Focus, with fight experts Dan Rafael, Andreas Hale, and Curran Bhatia – hosted by The Schmo. Available on FITE starting Wednesday May 11th at 6 PM ET. Watch for free HERE

? Watch the incredible promo video from Dubai to see the ring on the helipad.

? Check your local viewing times for Global Titans!
7 PM BST / 2 PM ET / 1 PM CT / 11 AM PT

? Pre-Order now to save time on the day of the fight!

The event will also showcase a fantastic card of world-famous combatants such as UFC legend Anderson Silva facing fellow Brazilian fighting star Bruno Machado in an exhibition bout, as well as a sanctioned bout between beloved former two-division world champion Badou Jack (25-3-3, 15 KOs) and Hany “Egyptian Hurricane” Atiyo (16-4, 12 KOs) from Dubai via Egypt. The card also includes a title fight between Belgian brawler Delfine Persoon and France’s Elhem Mekhaled

The event is presented by co-owners FrontRowTMT and Global Titans, in association with Mayweather Promotions. Global Titans Fight Series is the first in a series of six special boxing and MMA events which will be staged at iconic locations across four continents. Each main event is broadcast globally, featuring champion fighters and NFT tickets. Fans can collect and trade their prestigious NFT from all future Global Titans Fight Series events. Tickets, NFTs and further Global Titans Event Series info can be found at www.Global-Titans.com.

Order Global Titans Fight Series: Floyd “Money” Mayweather vs Don “Dangerous” Moore on Saturday, May 14th now on FITE.

About FITE
FITE is the premium global platform for live sports and entertainment offering many of the industry’s marquee PPV events and SVOD packages with over 6MM registered users. FITE is available worldwide through its iOS and Android mobile apps, Apple TV, Android TV, ROKU, Amazon Fire TV and Huawei apps. In addition, FITE supports Samsung, LG, Cox Contour, Vizio SmartCast™, Virgin Media, Shaw Communications’ Blue Curve IPTV, Foxxum, Chromecast, PS4, XBOX, ZEASN, Netrange, Vidaa/Hisense, VEWD, Netgem TV, Comcast’s Xfinity 1 and Xfinity Flex as well as 7,000 models of Smart TVs. Available online at www.FITE.tv. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIN and Facebook.

About Mayweather Promotions:
Based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by 15-time World Champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment. We are the past, present & future of sports & entertainment.

About Frontrow:
The Frontrow Entertainment team has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Founder Keane Anis has been organizing all kinds of events, sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances with names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square are few celebrities that are past and present Frontrow clients. Frontrow is proud to be a presenting sponsor of The Global Titans Event Series.

SANTA MONICA – May 11, 2022 – Unified WBC, WBA, and IBF 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo and unbeaten welterweight rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis previewed their respective upcoming showdowns at a media workout in Los Angeles Wednesday, before they enter the ring this Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Charlo made clear his goal is to prevent the judges from deciding his fate when he faces WBO 154-pound world champion Brian Castaño in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights, which ended in a hotly contested split draw They again will seek to become the first undisputed super welterweight male champion of the four-belt era.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature Philadelphia’s Ennis in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator against unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton that serves as the co-main event. Ennis said he was looking forward to recording a knockout in front of a new Southern California fanbase, and he also predicted a win for Charlo in the rematch. 

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Lions Only Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Churchill Boxing Club in Santa Monica:

JERMELL CHARLO

“I don’t want this fight to go the distance. I don’t get paid for overtime.

“I’m excited and I’m ready to go. I’m ready to rock. I’m putting it all on the line and I’m ready to destroy. I’m going to give the fans an exciting and entertaining show and just have fun out there.

“Castaño is going to have to do something different this fight. If not, he knows he’s getting slept. Whatever he does or whatever move he makes, I’m going to be on him. My goal is to knock him out.

“I approach this fight like I approach any fight. I come in there like I’m 0-0. Let’s go in there and see who’s better. Let’s see who the real dog is.

“I don’t take much from the last rematch I had against Tony Harrison. That was a totally different opponent. I’m just preparing for Castaño. There’s no correlation with my last rematch. I’m just focused on who I’m facing.

“I’m just focused on my career and my craft. Being on the undisputed list means more to me than being on pound-for-pound lists. I want to be on the top tier and for people to see that I’m undisputed and say that he’s an animal. This is my moment.

“I’ve made some changes, but it’s still going to be the same Jermell Charlo. I’m ready to take advantage of what’s in front of me.

“I don’t know if this fight will be like the first one. It could be a quicker night. It should be. If not, it’s going to be entertaining for 12 rounds.

“I don’t worry about pound-for-pound lists and whether I’m on them. If I win these belts, they might have to. If I go in there and knock him out, or handle my business for 12 rounds, that’s it. They won’t be able to deny me.

“I haven’t fought at this venue since much earlier in my career. It’s a little bit chilly right now in Southern California, but I know that once I get warmed up, I’ll be able to adapt no matter what it’s like Saturday.”

JARON ENNIS

“It doesn’t matter to me who I’m facing. I want everybody and anybody. They can line ‘em up, and I’ll knock ‘em down. Doesn’t matter who it is.

“Everyone already knows how this fight is going to go. I’m going to put on a show. I’m going to get in the ring and be dominant. I’m getting that knockout at the end of the night and making a statement.

“It feels great to be performing here in Southern California. I can’t wait for Saturday to shine in front of my new fans. It’s a new fanbase to see me get another knockout.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I don’t usually watch film on who I’m fighting, unless I’ve just seen it by chance. I let my team look at those kind of things. I’m not too worried about what he’s going to bring.

“I’m going to do what I always do. I can figure these opponents out in like 30 seconds. I see how they’re coming and go from there.

“I feel like I’m going to get my opportunity sooner than later. I think end of the year or next year is possible. I’m either going to fight Errol Spence Jr. or Terence Crawford, or fight for a vacant belt. 

“I don’t believe that any fighter is scared of another fighter. I know the top guys are just making business decisions. It’s what’s best for their careers. If I can’t get the top welterweights while they’re here, I’ll see them at 154 pounds.

“I don’t feel like I have to prove anything to anyone but myself. I’m not worried about any outside noise. As long as I’m doing my thing and winning, putting myself in line for the world title, then that’s all that matters.

“Charlo and Castaño should both be confident heading into this fight. They went to war the first time, but I think Charlo will win this time. I think he figured Castaño out. Charlo was picking it up at the end of the first fight and I think he’s going to start earlier this time and go for the knockout.”

#          #          #

ABOUT CHARLO VS. CASTAÑO II 

Charlo vs. Castaño II will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charloand WBO World Champion Brian Castañoin a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as they again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CharloCastano2, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

Callum Walsh, 152.2lb. vs. Luis Garcia, 153.4lb.

Omar Cande Trinidad, 125 vs. Andrew Othello Strode, 123.6

Ernesto Mercado, 139.6 vs. Jose Zaragoza, 140

Chelsey Anderson, 132.2 vs. Jessica Juarez, 132.2

Marco Deckmann, 186 vs. Jasper McCargo, 186.6

David Romero, 138 vs. Fernando Gaytan, 138.8

Emmanuel Pacquiao vs. Jonathan Barajas

(Three Round Amateur Bout – 140lb. division)

Dariial Kuchmenov, 128 vs. Bacillo Monterros, TBA

Ruben Islas, TBA vs. Charles Clark, TBA

                                                            ——————————–

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 combats 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 or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions:

During 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide an additional platform for boxers to showcase their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

About Tom Loeffler

Tom has been in the boxing industry for over 30 years. He started by successfully managing fighters and in 2003 he founded K2 Promotions with Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko, enabling them to take control of their careers. K2 holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the championship fights of the Klitschko brothers. Tom brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. The Superfly series changed the economics for those fighters and the entire division. Loeffler is best known for his work with Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin, securing his HBO debut in 2012 and then strategically building him into an international superstar, selling out arenas such as Madison Square Garden in NYC, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, The Forum in Los Angeles, and O2 in London. He secured sponsorship deals with global brands such as Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Tom has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Kevin Kelley, Laila Ali, Cecilia Braekhus as well as hosting the US debut of Naoya Inoue. 

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Instagram

@callum_walsh1 

@ufcfightpass

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@360BoxingPromotions

@howlerheadehiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us

MELBOURNE, Australia (May 11, 2022) — Australian two-time bantamweight world title challenger Jason “Mayhem” Moloney and New Zealand-born heavyweight contender Junior Fa hope to showcase their talents for the home region fans at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia, on the undercard of the George Kambosos Jr.-Devin Haney undisputed lightweight world title showdown. The Kambosos-Haney world championship event is projected to be one of the biggest boxing events ever on Australian soil.

Moloney will battle former world title challenger Aston Palicte in a 10-rounder for the vacant WBO International bantamweight title, while Fa will take on Australian fan-favorite Lucas Browne in a 10-rounder for the WBA Oceania and IBF International heavyweight title belts.

Kambosos-Haney, Moloney-Palicte, Fa-Browne, and an eight-round heavyweight fight between Hemi Ahio (18-0, 13 KOs), Auckland, New Zealand, and Joe Jones (13-4, 10 KOs), of Jersey City. N.J, will be televised LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ Saturday, June 4, at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

In a swing bout, cruiserweight David Nyika (2-0, 2 KOs) will be showcased in 6/4-rounder against an opponent to be named. Nyika, from Hamilton, New Zealand, captured a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics last summer. A beloved sporting hero in his country, Nyika has earned his stripes as a sparring partner for heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.

Following the main event, streaming live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+, world-rated junior bantamweight contender Andrew Moloney (23-2, 15 KOs) will battle Nicaragua’s Alexander Espinoza (21-3-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and Devin Haney Promotions-signed junior middleweight prospect Amari Jones (5-0, 5 KOs) will fight Ankush Hooda (3-0-1, 1 KO) in a scheduled six-rounder.

“When it comes to presenting an undercard worthy of its main event — the battle between world champions George Kambosos Jr. and Devin Haney for the undisputed lightweight world championship — it’s Aussie Rules.  Australian fight fans in Marvel Stadium and viewers around the globe will be treated to a feast of exciting all-action bouts, many featuring contenders and prospects from Australia, as well as New Zealand. And those not televised live on ESPN will be streamed to the U.S. on ESPN+,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment.  “We are prepared to make history in Melbourne.”

Browne (30-3, 26 KOs) won the WBA Oceania title with a knockout victory over Faiga Opelu in December and is a former WBA world titlist. The 32-year-old Fa (19-1, 10 KOs) is looking to get his career back on track after losing to former world champion Joseph Parker in his last outing in February 2021. Fa has notable wins over American veterans Devin Vargas and Dominick Guinn.

“I would love nothing more than to fight for another world title, and Junior Fa is standing in my way,” Browne said. “If I can put him away early, that will send a message to the boxing world that I am far from finished. He has only lost once in his career, to Joseph Parker. I plan to hand him his second defeat.”

“I am 100 percent back myself, but I’m not taking Lucas lightly, as he is a former world champ and was stopped by Paul Gallen with some illegal blows, so I don’t count that as a loss for him,” Fa said. “He has his power, and we saw him use it to KO his last opponent. I’ll be getting the best Lucas Browne for this fight as I’m in the way of him being a contender again. It’s a huge opportunity for him and it’s going to be a tough fight.”

Moloney (23-2, 18 KOs) has re-ignited his career since an October 2020 knockout loss to pound-for-pound great Naoya Inoue. He defeated top contender Joshua Greer Jr. last August and made his 2022 debut in April with a one-sided decision over Francisco Javier Pedroza. He is currently ranked No. 2 by the WBC and No. 3 by WBO. Palicte (28-4-1, 23 KOs), from Bago City, Philippines, twice challenged for world titles at junior bantamweight and has won three consecutive fights. He is world-rated No. 6 by the IBF.

Moloney said, “I am grateful to Top Rank and Lou DiBella for the opportunity to be part of the biggest event in Australian boxing history. It is a dream come true. I’m expecting a tough fight against a former world title challenger in Aston Palicte, as he has shown that he can perform at the top level. I will be coming with everything I have to deliver the impressive performance of my career. Get ready for Mayhem!”

The undercard, which will be streamed in the U.S. exclusively on ESPN+, features three highly touted Ferocious Promotions prospects: Terry Nickolas, Isaias Sette and Hussein Fayad.  Nickolas (2-1, 2 KOs), from Sydney, takes a step up in opposition experience when he rumbles with Lachlan Higgins (7-4-1, 2 KOs), from Mornington, Australia, in a six-round junior middleweight bout. Junior middleweight Sette and junior lightweight Fayad, both from Sydney, will be making their pro debuts in four-round bouts. Sette will fight Melbourne-born knockout artist Luke Gersbeck (2-0, 2 KOs), while Fayad will take on Pom Thanawut Phetkum (1-1), from Springvale, Australia. Taylah Robertson (4-1, 1 KO), from Brisbane, Australia, and Sarah Higginson (3-0-1, 1 KO), from Perth, Australia, will face off in a five-round junior bantamweight battle. Both fighters enter this bout having won their previous title fights. Robertson scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Kylie Fulmer in their Australia Female bantamweight title fight while Higginson scored her first knockout, stopping Danni Mace in the fourth round to capture the vacant Australian National Boxing Federation Australasian Female bantamweight title.            

ABOUT DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT
In May of 2000, Lou DiBella launched DiBella Entertainment (DBE), a full-service sports and entertainment company, which has become one of the most successful promotional entities in boxing. Serving as matchmaker, television distributor, marketing advisor, and promoter, DiBella has developed an exciting stable of championship caliber, world-class fighters, such as Sergio Martinez, Bernard Hopkins, Jermain Taylor, Micky Ward, Deontay Wilder, and George Kambosos, among others. DBE clearly established itself as an industry leader with the successful launch of its monthly-televised “Broadway Boxing” series in November 2003. Prior to becoming a promoter, DiBella held an 11-year tenure as the Senior Vice President of HBO Sports. While at HBO, DiBella created and established the highly successful “Boxing After Dark” series, which featured some of the sport’s greatest fights. He is also a well-known fixture in the film industry, having worked as an Executive Producer for the film “Love Ranch”, as an Associate Producer on “The Fighter”, and making his acting debut in “Rocky Balboa”. He also produced or executive produced numerous documentaries, such as Viva Baseball!, Magic Man, Maravilla, Larry Flynt for President, and Tapia. The President and Managing General Partner for the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team, DiBella proudly wears his 2010, 2012 and 2014 World Series rings, as his team is the class AA affiliate to the San Francisco Giants. In 2017, DiBella also became the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits baseball team, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. DiBella was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020 and will be inducted in June 2022, as well as the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame in 2015.

ABOUT TOP RANK
Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Erik Morales, Timothy Bradley, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury.

Known for creating strategic collaborations between athletes, sponsors, and television networks, Top Rank has been an architect of boxing’s global growth by staging high-profile events in landmark settings around the world, including Madison Square Garden, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Wembley Arena, Yankee Stadium, Radio City Music Hall, and AT&T Stadium. Top Rank has also been the leader within the boxing industry in creating unforgettable in-arena experiences for fans and embracing 21st century technological advancements to distribute world-class fights and shoulder programming across a variety of platforms.

ABOUT DUCO EVENTS
Duco Events is one of Asia Pacific’s leading events management and sports promotion companies, responsible for delivering high profile sporting events such as The Battle of Brisbane – Manny Pacquiao vs Jeff Horn, the NRL Auckland Nines, the Brisbane Rugby Tens alongside numerous other innovative sports, corporate and entertainment events throughout New Zealand and Australia including Synthony – a breath-taking fusion of electronic dance music, live orchestra, DJ’s, vocalists and immersive visuals.

ABOUT VISIT VICTORIA
Visit Victoria is the State of Victoria’s primary tourism, business and major events company, leading the sector in creating, curating and communicating Victoria’s inspiring experiences to maximise visitation. Established in July 2016, Visit Victoria brings the best of Tourism Victoria, Victorian Major Events Company and Melbourne Convention Bureau under one brand that capitalises on commercial opportunities in an increasingly competitive and dynamic global tourism market. The team operates in a collaborative and agile environment that informs, connects and partners with industry and the Victorian State Government to amplify Victoria’s profile.

About TEG Sport
TEG Sport is owned by TEG, a leading global live entertainment, ticketing and technology business which operates worldwide out of seven country offices. TEG also includes TEG Live, TEG Experiences, TEG Dainty, TEG MJR, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, TEG Rockefeller, Qudos Bank Arena, Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Eventopia, Softix, TicketCharge, TicketWorld, Ticketek Singapore and Ovation.

Life is Better Live. Whether it’s Sport, Concerts, Musicals, Theatre or Exhibitions, nothing beats the live experience! For more information www.teg.com.au.

(May 11, 2022) — Tony Yoka, the undefeated French heavyweight who captured Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games, takes a major step up in class this Saturday, May 14, in a 10-round main event against Congolese contender Martin Bakole at Accor Arena in Paris.

Yoka-Bakole headlines a loaded fight card that will stream live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+ at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT.

Yoka (11-0, 9 KOs) is already ranked in the top 10 by two of the major sanctioning organizations. He’s spent the entirety of his pro career fighting in France and has scored a series of standout wins over the likes of Jonnie Rice, Alexander Dimitrenko, and former world title challenger Johann Duhaupas. In September 2021, he knocked out previously undefeated Croatian contender Petar Milas in seven rounds. Bakole (17-1, 13 KOs), who stands 6’6 and often weighs more than 250 pounds, has spent much of his eight-year pro career based in Scotland. He’s won six straight since an October 2018 TKO loss to American Olympian Michael Hunter, a run that’s included victories over recognizable names like Mariusz Wach, Kevin Johnson, and Sergey Kuzmin.

In undercard action on ESPN+:

• In an eight-round lightweight contest, two-time French Olympian and 2016 Olympic silver medalist Sofiane Oumiha (1-0, 1 KO) will battle fellow unbeaten Mevy Boufoudi (8-0, 3 KOs). At the Tokyo Olympics, Oumiha lost to Keyshawn Davis, the eventual silver medalist and current Top Rank-signed standout.
   
• French prospect Christ “Little T” Esabe (11-0, 3 KOs) takes a step up in class versus Venezuelan veteran Sander Diaz (13-8-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder at lightweight. Esabe is the reigning WBC Francophone featherweight champion and a former French featherweight champion.
   
• French amateur standout Victor Yoka, younger brother of Tony Yoka, will make his professional debut in a six-round lightweight bout against the durable Gurami Kurtanidze (4-14-5, 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 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).

Los Angeles, May 11, 2022 — Sergey “The Krusher” Kovalev (34-4, 29 KOs), living in Long Beach, CA, will fight Tervel Pulev in his cruiserweight debut on Saturday, May 14 at The Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA and will be streamed live on Triller and Fite.tv.

Tickets, starting at $31.00, are on sale and may be purchased through TrillerFightClub.com, TheLAForum.com, and Ticketmaster.com at http://www.ticketmaster.com/trillerverz5

The Krusher says “My motivation to keep going? First is money (laughing) and money is energy. Second is my son. I want to become world champion once again so he can see that ‘don’t ever give up.’ Right now, it is all for my kids. I tell them and show them to follow your dreams and your dreams will come true. If I ended my boxing career right now, I would feel uncomfortable for the rest of my life.

“Since I lost my title to Canelo, I am not on the top. Since I changed to cruiserweight it has changed everything, most importantly I don’t have to worry about losing the weight. Actually, the last two years fighting at light heavyweight, and making 175, was miserable for me.”

2019 “was a crazy year” for Kovalev. In February, Sergey won back the title from Eleider Alvarez. Then the WBO ordered a mandatory defense against Anthony Yarde that was first scheduled June in Russia. He arrived in Russia one month before the fight and “was right on weight at 182.” The fight was soon cancelled the first week of June and rescheduled for August 24 “so I went back home to US and during those three weeks we celebrated my wife’s birthday and all the sudden I got back to 200 pounds,” which is his regular walk-around weight. Training camp for the new date began June 20 and on July 20 he returned to Russia. “The day after the Yarde win, I got the offer to fight Canelo, and two weeks later returned to training camp. Some fighters fight for their legacy, I fight to fight. I have never turned down a fight.

“The night of the Canelo fight, we are at the door to begin the ring walk and a fella with a headset came to us and said, ‘we are not ready, we have to wait for the other fights (the UFC card) to finish.’ We waited for another hour. An hour! I went to the corner after round seven and I said to Buddy ,”Buddy, I am spent, totally,” and he said “I see.”

“Now I feel fresh. Making 175 was killing me. I was at the point either quit or move up in weight. Now I can eat everything at any time.”

“This is a new step in my boxing career. I plan to fight a couple more years. No more than three years. I am not sure how many fights it will take to get a title. But if I win a title next year – then I will stop. How long will it take to get a title shot? It could be a two or three year wait, but we will see. I can fight into my 40’s no problem. I just had two years off. I am fresh.”

But on the other hand, after May 14, if Jake Paul wants to fight, I will be ready, and I will knock him out.”

Sergey is being trained by Buddy McGirt and his strength and conditioning coach is Teddy Cruz. They are the duo that reinvented Arturo Gatti.

CARSON, CALIF. – May 11, 2022 – The non-televised undercard for the highly anticipated Jermell Charlo vs. Brian Castaño rematch will feature a slew of evenly-match showdowns, top contenders and rising prospects on Saturday, May 14 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Highlighting the undercard is a middleweight rematch between Brandon Lynch and “Madman” Marcos Hernández in a 10-round fight after the two fought to a draw in January 2021, plus a lightweight duel that will see Jerry Pérez take on unbeaten Erick Lanzas Jr. in an eight-round showdown.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is topped by unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño meeting in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as they once again look to earn undisputed status at 154-pounds for the first time in the four belt era.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Lions Only Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through AXS.com.

The non-televised undercard will also include Filipino contender Marlon Tapales (35-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout against Mexico’s José Estrella (23-18-1, 16 KOs), Cuban heavyweight Geovany Bruzón (6-1, 5 KOs) battling Louisiana’s Steven Lyons (5-8-2, 2 KOs) in a six-round fight, heavyweight prospect Gurgen Hovhannisyan (2-0, 2 KOs) competing in a six-round attraction and Oak Hills, California native José Pérez (9-1-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round featherweight duel versus Redlands, California’s Anthony Chávez (9-2-1, 3 KOs).

Rounding out the lineup will be unbeaten lightweight prospect Anthony Cuba (3-0-1, 2 KOs) taking on fellow unbeaten Óscar Acevedo (7-0) in a six-round showdown, the pro debut of José Mejia Jr. in a four-round welterweight attraction taking on Michael Honesto (0-1) and a pair of heavyweights making their pro debuts as Los Angeles-native Luciano Miguel battles Bakersfield’s Adrián Silva in a four-round fight.

The 30-year-old Lynch (10-1-1, 8 KOs) returns to the ring for the first time since he and Hernandez fought to a split-draw on January 30, 2021. A native of Englewood, New Jersey, Lynch is now based out of Los Angeles as he looks to settle the score with Hernández. Since dropping his third career bout, Lynch is unbeaten, with the only blemish coming against Hernández. Known for challenging top contenders from 154, 160 and 168 pounds, Hernandez (15-5-2, 3 KOs) most recently lost a November duel against former super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. A Fresno, California native, Hernández has delivered the first career defeats to rising prospects Armando Resendiz, Kevin Newman and Thomas Hill, and also owns a draw against former unified champion Jeison Rosario.

Trained alongside four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and his family, Pérez (13-1, 10 KOs) will look to bounce back from an April 2021 defeat against top lightweight contender Frank Martin when he steps into the ring on May 14. The 29-year-old from Oak Hills, California had put together a three-fight knockout streak heading into the Martin fight, which included a 2020 KO of then once-beaten Joshua Zuniga. He takes on the 22-year-old Lanzas (10-0, 7 KOs), who has won four of his last five fights inside of the distance. Originally from Nicaragua, he now fights out of Homestead, Florida and most recently stopped Walter Raul Saravia in four rounds in January.

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ABOUT CHARLO VS. CASTAÑO II
Charlo vs. Castaño II will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as they again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CharloCastano2, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

(May 11, 2022) – With fight week now underway, legendary Hall of Fame boxer, Floyd “Money” Mayweather, known globally as TBE (The Best Ever), promises a special and unique boxing experience when he returns to the ring this Saturday, May 14 headlining “The Global Titans Fight Series” in an exhibition against unbeaten “Dangerous” Don Moore that serves as the main event of a pay-per-view lineup taking place “in the skies of Dubai” outdoors on the helipad of Dubai’s opulent Burj Al Arab Hotel.

The pay-per-view event, which is presented by FrontRow and Global Titans in association with Mayweather Promotions, will begin at 9:30 p.m. GST (1:30 p.m. ET) and be broadcast live by LIVENow, is available for purchase HERE.

“I promise you’ve never seen a boxing event like this,” said Mayweather, who recently traveled to Nigeria to promote the fight, before landing in Dubai ahead of Saturday’s action. “I’m going to continue to break barriers on May 14. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event and I’m a once-in-a-lifetime fighter. There’s no one else in the sport who could headline an event this over the top. I’m going to give the fans what they paid for.”

While in Nigeria, Mayweather expressed his goal of setting up a boxing academy in the country and met with Rotimi Amaechi, a presidential hopeful there. Upon arriving in Dubai, Mayweather was spotted at The Kamani Club for final workouts ahead of fight night as he met with fighters including two-division world champion Badou Jack, who fights on Saturday’s undercard, and cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie.

Prior to leaving the U.S., Mayweather had returned to his hallowed stomping grounds from throughout much of his record-breaking career, The Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas. Still attracting a strong crowd during his legendary workout sessions, the latest addition to Mayweather’s training entourage was his two-year-old grandson, K.J., who brought Mayweather new joy amongst another camp.

“It was business as usual,” said Mayweather. “It always feels good to be in the ring and around familiar faces in the boxing gym. I’ve spent so much of my life in the gym, so I always feel comfortable getting back into it. Training for any fight, and even this exhibition, is something I am always going to do. No one ever saw me take a day off during my career. Why would I start now?”

A five-division world champion who racked up 12 world titles on his way to an iconic 50-0 record, Mayweather has continued to deliver entertainment for fight fans even in retirement. In addition to his work as the President of Mayweather Promotions, Mayweather has taken part in blockbuster exhibition matchups, traveling to Japan to fight kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa in 2018, before a 2021 showdown that broke the internet against social media star Logan Paul in Miami.

“I love displaying my talents for the whole world and doing something new that interests me,” said Mayweather. “Boxing is entertainment, and that’s what I’m all about. I worked hard to accomplish more than anyone during my career, and now I’m going to enjoy the fruits of my labor, while still giving fans something exciting to watch.”

Considered the UAE’s most iconic hotel and a global icon of Arabian luxury, the Burj Al Arab Hotel will make a perfect host for a fighter known for his luxurious lifestyle and larger than life events. A preview of the one-of-a-kind ring set up can be viewed HERE, as Mayweather will headline the first boxing card at the internationally renowned venue.

“They always say the sky is the limit, well I feel like I’m pushing the limit in the entertainment world once again, going up and literally fighting in the sky,” said Mayweather. “These are the kind of opportunities that I’m always going to jump at.”

This Saturday night, Mayweather faces an opponent in Don Moore who he’s sparred with numerous times throughout his career. In addition, Moore was trained by the late great Roger Mayweather, Floyd’s uncle, and stated during the announcement press conference for this fight that he believes this familiarity with Floyd will give him an edge when they square off.

“I’ve known Don for a long time and I know that he’s a very smart fighter who I can’t take lightly,” said Mayweather. “I believe that he’s coming to prove something in this fight. On top of this fight being at a one-of-a-kind venue, you’re going to see a guy coming in to take his shot at The Best Ever.”

Global Titans Fight Series is the first in a series of six special boxing and MMA events which will be staged at iconic locations across four continents. Each main event is broadcast globally, featuring champion fighters and NFT tickets. Fans can collect and trade their prestigious NFT from all future Global Titans Fight Series events. Tickets, NFTs and further Global Titans Event Series info can be found at www.Global-Titans.com. LIVENow, the premium destination for the best live sport, music and lifestyle content, is the official media partner and will livestream the event as well as partner with other broadcasters in selected countries.

In another history-making special feature of the event, all tickets for “The Global Titans Fight Series” will be sold as NFTs (platform to be announced). Those who secure an NFT ticket will be treated to unique and collectible features, including exclusive official fight videos, photography from the iconic event, a special 3D VIP ticket, plus lots more.

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About Mayweather Promotions:
Based in the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions was established in 2007 by 15-time World Champion and undefeated boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Mayweather Promotions seamlessly promotes all forms of live entertainment. We are the past, present & future of sports & entertainment.

About Frontrow:
The Frontrow Entertainment team has more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry. Founder Keane Anis has been organizing all kinds of events, sporting events, concerts, beach parties and activations for celebrity tours, meet and greets and appearances with names such as Floyd Mayweather, N.E.R.D and Pharrell Williams, Usher, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Kelly Rowland, Shaquille, TGT, Rick Ross, T-Pain, Young Thug, Rich Homie Quan, Ty Dolla Sign, Tyga, Redman and Method Man, Ja Rule and Ashanti and P Square are few celebrities that are past and present Frontrow clients. Frontrow is proud to be a presenting sponsor of The Global Titans Event Series.

About LIVENow:
LIVENow, founded by Leeds United Chairman and Founder of Aser Ventures, Andrea Radrizzani, is a premium destination for content seekers who crave the best in music, sports, and entertainment. LIVENow was recently awarded ‘Live Music Innovation of the Year (Platform)’ at the 2021 Music Week Awards. They were also shortlisted in ‘Best Event Platform’ category for the 2021 DigiDay Technology Awards and ‘Live Music Experiences’ category for MIDEMLAB 2021, for the landmark streams of Dua Lipa: Studio 2054, Ellie Goulding’s ‘Brightest Blue’ and Gorillaz’s ‘Song Machine: Live from Kong’.

Previous events on LIVENow include EURO 2020, Celeste: On with The Show, Live From London, theatre production Our Little Lives: Shakespeare and Me starring Russell Brand, and an all-new four-part series, Live From Another World, featuring cutting-edge breakthrough bands.

Other previous events include:

· Top European football

· Australia vs India Men’s International Test Cricket and Big Bash League RIZIN mixed martial arts

· US Open

· IHF Men’s Super-Globe

· Tyson Fury Vs. Deontay Wilder

· The Heineken Cup and Champions Cup

· Pete Tong’s “O Come All Ye Ravers”, Gorillaz’ “Song Machine Live from Kong” and American Express UNSTAGED with Maroon 5 and SZA One World: Together At Home concert in support of the World Health Organization’s Covid-19 relief efforts

About Global Titans Fight Series:
Global Titans Fight Series is the first in a series of six special boxing and MMA events which will be staged at iconic locations across four continents. Each main event is broadcast globally, featuring champion fighters and NFT tickets. Fans can collect and trade their prestigious NFT from all future Global Titans Fight Series events. Tickets, NFTs and further Global Titans Event Series info can be found at www.Global-Titans.com. Follow Global Titans on Twitter at @GlobalTitansFS and on Discord at: discord.com/invite/global-titans

London, England – (May 11th, 2022) – BOXXER is delighted to announce that after reaching the very top of amateur boxing at the 2020 Olympics, Ben Whittaker will enter professional boxing under the BOXXER banner.

Whittaker was possibly the most highly sought-after Olympian to come out of Tokyo, with the boxing world waiting in anticipation to see when and where he turned professional.

After an amateur career consistently littered with success across international championships, peaking in capturing the world’s attention and a silver medal at the Olympics, Whittaker now looks to reach those same heights in professional boxing.

He joins former teammates Lauren Price, Karriss Artingstall, Frazer Clarke and Caroline Dubois on the BOXXER roster, showing BOXXER as the premier destination for Team GB Boxing’s Class of 2020 in the professional ranks. Four out of the six medallists from Tokyo have chosen BOXXER as their home, as well as hugely exciting young talent Caroline Dubois.

Managed by Two-Time World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua’s 258 MGT, Whittaker aims to be the standout member of GB’s glittering 2020 team.

Entering the ring under the nickname ‘B£NZO”, Whittaker is aiming for the very top of professional boxing, meaning multiple World Championships are the goal for the hugely talented amateur, with aspirations to move into being a generational superstar that can capture the general public’s attention.

BOXXER is proud to be investing in the next generation of boxing talent. We continue to make a huge commitment to the grassroots and future of the sport in this country. The sport’s next big stars will be show on Sky Sports in a bid to build the sports popularity and long term success.

Proud to be born and raised in the midlands, Whittaker cleaned up the domestic amateur boxing scene before medals at the World Championships European Championships in 2019 set up Whittaker’s crowning moment of a silver medal at the 2020 Olympics.

In the professional ranks Whittaker will be trained by SugarHill Steward, the highly regarded trainer of Tyson Fury, who has also helped former world champions like Adonis Stevenson and Anthony Dirrell on their way to greatness, as well as worked with one of the greatest trainers of all time in his uncle Emanuel Steward. SugarHill has notably compared Whittaker’s raw talent to that of Roy Jones Jr.

Whittaker said, “Well they always say save the best ‘till last and here I am, I’m very excited to turn this new chapter in my career! It’s an exciting time for me to showcase my skills! I’m now looking forward to getting into camp, where I can add and develop to my game. I hope you enjoy the journey because it’s gonna be a crazy one!”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said, “At the start of this partnership with Sky Sports the focus was always in investing in the stars of the future. To sign four out of the six Olympic Medallists is an amazing achievement for BOXXER and with Ben Whittaker we have the biggest future star in British boxing.”

Anthony Joshua OBE said, “Ben is a really special talent with a fantastic amateur pedigree. He has had some tough decisions to make whilst turning professional but now finally he’s here!

Managed by the best team in the game, 258 Management, I think he is ready to set the world boxing scene on fire. Everyone get ready for a special journey. Ben is the future PPV star.”

Adam Smith, Sky Sports Head of Boxing Development said, “’And breathe……That was a tough battle for Ben Shalom and I – but finally we have the icing on our next generational cake!

“Ben Whittaker has the potential to be a real sporting star. Highly decorated, multi-skilled and full of personality – Ben has that spark, that charisma which is going to make him a real attraction.

“Although his own man, Ben reminds me of a mix of a Naseem Hamed, Floyd Mayweather, and James DeGale starting off. He says what he believes, and he is going to really entertain us on his way to surely becoming a world champion.

“Before the Olympics I spent time with Caroline, Frazer, Lauren, Karriss and Ben – and told Ben Shalom and Sky I was adamant these were ideal for our huge Sky Sports platform because both individually and together I believe they can become crossover stars.

“All five shone in Tokyo and now we have completed our Olympic business of signing the best young, diverse and powerful talent. The future for Sky and Boxxer is extremely bright!!”

Freddie Cunningham, Managing DIrector of 25 MGT, said “Finally Ben can take the first step in his professional career after being one of the most sort after talents in world boxing. It’s taken a long time to get to this stage and we feel that he has done all the due diligence needed to make the right decision for him.

“We are very happy to have guided him throughout this process and believe he is in the right place to fulfill his massive potential. We can’t wait to get started on what will be an unmissable journey. Thank you to Sky Sports and Boxxer for helping us make this all possible.”

SugarHill Steward said, “I’m totally thrilled to have been sought out and chosen by Ben Whittaker of the 2020 Olympic Games on Great Britain’s highly talented and dominating boxing team. I consider Ben to be on the talent level of a Roy Jones Jr in transitioning from amateur into a Professional World Champion superstar status.”

POMONA, CA (May 11, 2022) – Undefeated rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (5-0, 5 KOs), has been making some serious noise in the lightweight division, having knocked out all five of his opponents to start off his career. He returns to the ring this Thursday, May 12, 2022, on a card promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, against Jose Zaragoza (8-4-1, 2 KOs). The scheduled 6-round bout will air live on UFC Fight Pass from the Quiet Cannon Country Club, in Montebello, California.

After his pro debut, the only fight that has gone past round one, Mercado jumped right into six-round bouts. He made a statement in his fourth fight by stopping Marc Misiura (2-3-1, 1 KO), who had never been knocked out. Mercado, who has power in both hands, stands 5’10” with an amateur pedigree to go with his long frame. With momentum on his side, Mercado feels he has the talent to jump on the fast track to super stardom.

“I’ve been keeping my mind on the grind, never losing focus in-between fights,” said Mercado. “Right now, I’m one of the busiest fighters in the lightweight division. If I can stay on this busy path till the end of the year, I know I’ll be knocking on the door of a meaningful fight. The lightweight division is filled with tremendous talent, and those coming up from super-featherweight are great as well. I know with hard work, I’ll be a top contender, ready to fight any of those guys.”

Mercado, a student of the game, sees himself fighting all the big names at lightweight and super lightweight. His mental edge gives him confidence going into any fight.

“No disrespect to any other fighter coming up in my weight class, but I just feel I’m on another level mentally then all these guys,” continued Mercado, the punching pride of Pomona. “My dedication to this sport is what separates me from all my peers. I’m destined to be great, and I’m making all the sacrifices necessary to become a world champion. On May 12th, I’ll be looking to impress once again.”

ATLANTA, GA (May 10, 2022)–At 6’8″ and sporting a perfect record of 13-0 with 13 knockouts, heavyweight Raphael Akpejiori is an imposing figure in the ring.

But there is a lot more to this giant, who will be looking for win number-14 on Saturday night, June 11th at The Center Stage Theater in Atlanta when he appears in a bout scheduled for 10-rounds.

Akpejiori of Miami via Lagos, Nigeria is a former University of Miami Football AND Basketball player is more than just an athlete.

While preparing for the fight with Akpejiori was finishing up his studies towards an engineering degree.

“I took some time off and studying for my engineering degree,” said the 31 year-old, who is coming off a first-round stoppage over former world title-challenger Santander Silgado on November 6th in Miami.

“We have no opponent yet, but I expect a credible guy who will not be a walk in the park for me.”

“I have never thought about going to a fight looking for a knockout. I just go about doing my work, and throwing consistent punches. If the knockout comes, I am fine with that, but I just want to come out with the victory.

Akpejiori does not let his life after boxing goals interfere with his desire to become one of the sport’s big stars, and vice versa.

“Boxing takes up four or five hours per day, and the remaining time I have to use it for something productive. The reason why I am doing this is to become the Heavyweight Champion of the World, and defend it as many times as possible.”

The show is promoted by Prestige Boxing Advisory Group in association with BFC The Last Round Promotions.

Former world champion, Alfredo “Perro” Angulo (26-8, 21 KOs) takes on Fidel Monterrosa Munoz (40-29-1, 32 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout.

Undefeated welterweight, Peter Dobson (15-0, 9 KOs) of Bronx, NY will fight Rodrigo Damian Coria (10-3, 2 KOs) of Cordoba, Argentina in a welterweight bout.

In a six-round bout, popular middleweight Casey” K Champ” Dixon (2-0, 1 KO) will fight for the WBA Super Middleweight Youth Title.

The six-round co-feature will pit Atlanta’s Quatavious Cash (14-3, 8 KOs) takes on Jayson Minda (14-7-1, 8 KOs) of Salem, Massachusetts.

Internet sensation Supreme Patty will make his pro boxing debut.

Also in a special attraction, super bantamweight and world renowned model and undefeated Avril Mathie of Miami via Australia will risk her record that reads 7-0-1 with three knockouts in an eight-round bout.

Also seeing action in six-round bouts will be featherweight Jose Nieves (2-0, 1 KO) of Woodbridge, New Jersey taking on Richard Bernard (1-9-1) of Waianae, Hawaii.

In a junior welterweight Patrick Harris (19-0, 9 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland takes on Gustavo David Vittori (25-11-1, 12 KOs) of Argentina.

June 11th will see the pro debut of highly regarded and two-time National Golden Gloves champion light heavyweight Abel Gonzalez will fight Daniel Augare (2-2, 2 KOs) of Browning, Montana

In four-round bouts, heavyweight Dante Williams (1-0, 1 KO) of Hawkinsville, Georgia takes on Jerrell Omar Young (0-2) of Las Vegas.

Tickets are $100, $250 and $500 and can be purchased on www.ticketmaster.com

The show will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com

BRAD FOSTER IS back in the title mix at York Hall on May 20 but his disputed points defeat to Jason Cunningham last time out remains a scar that has yet to fully heal.

The 24-year-old, 14-1-2 (5 KOs) takes on the dangerous Romanian Ionut Baluta, 14-3 (3 KOs) with the vacant WBC International super bantamweight title at stake in Bethnal Green.

Foster is bidding to reboot his title collecting trait after being parted from his British, Commonwealth and IBF International straps in his challenge for the European title held by Jason Cunningham in October of last year in Birmingham.

After a hard-fought, often scrappy affair, commentators and pundits alike called Foster as the winner, only for all three judges to give the verdict to Cunningham, two of them by a single point margin.

Cunningham now has his sights fixed firmly on world level competition, while Foster will go again against an opponent who scored victories over Kyle Williams, TJ Doheny and David Oliver Joyce before dropping a tight majority decision against Michael Conlan.

Foster’s reflections on his ultimately unsuccessful European title challenge make it clear that the Cunningham itch is one he needs to scratch before too long.

“It is a hard one because I believe I won the fight, but it is in the past now and I can’t really do anything about it,” he reasoned. “The only thing that I can do is get the rematch and smash him, simple as that. Or get myself in the position where I am in the No.1 spot, which is what I am going to do.

“Most people thought I won the fight. I know I won the fight. Then you have got people like Carl Frampton and John Fury, knowledgeable boxing people, saying I had it. They ain’t gonna lie.

“Listen, I can’t cry over spilt milk, I’ve got to get myself into a better position and keep moving forward.”

Sampling the sour taste of defeat for the first time, Foster confirms, is an even more galling experience when utterly convinced the decision would be going in his favour.

“It is an awful feeling, but you can’t feel like it forever and you’ve got to pick yourself up and go again. That is what champions do.

“It pisses me off more now, to be honest. I would have been in a different position with bigger opportunities. It is one of them though.

“Time being on my side shouldn’t make any difference. I would have been 24 with four belts. It was a step back for me that creates a bigger comeback,” added Foster with an upbeat nod to the future.

Foster knows too that he needs to box smarter. Against Cunningham, referee Mark Lyson was continually on his case and potentially this could have affected the way rounds were totted up by the judges. He also had a point deducted for a supposed low blow.

The Lichfield man suspects it was more about Cunningham using his cunning built up in a professional career of over 10 years.

“Everyone goes on about this ‘experience’,” Foster countered. “Is being experienced moaning to the referee about every shot? I think that is just experience of winging it.

“It wasn’t a low blow either when the point was taken off.

“There were a lot of things to it, Jason knows when to do things behind the referee and manoeuvres. That is the way his experience plays out.

“I’d fight him again! He has got the win against me so I want to fight him and he is the person with the title at the minute. We will see what comes up because I am not really focusing on Jason too much because I have got a geezer who is a better fighter and more dangerous than Jason in front of me on the 20th.”

Tickets for the show at York Hall on Friday, 20 May are on sale now, available directly from the fighters or via eventbrite.co.uk or alternatively call: 01992 505 550 (office hours only).

Brad Foster v Ionut Baluta for the vacant WBC International super bantamweight title takes place at York Hall on Friday May 20.

Sean Noakes will make his professional debut at the famous East London venue with the Maidstone man – older brother of lightweight Sam – fighting at welterweight over four rounds.

Tickets for the show at York Hall on Friday, 20 May are on sale now, available directly from the fighters or via eventbrite.co.uk or alternatively call: 01992 505 550 (office hours only).

Images are free to use, please credit: Queensberry Promotions

Adam Booth is one of British boxing’s most experienced and successful guiding lights, and he’ll be homing in on those skills as Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) returns to steal the show on Friday night when boxing comes to the Indigo at the O2, live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

Josh Kelly suffered his first career defeat at the hands of former WBA Welterweight Title holder David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) in February 2021, a situation Booth has found himself in before.

“The loss and what happened that night was a culmination of things going on outside of the gym and outside of the ring that he has taken his time to resolve and correct. It is an essential part of his journey.

“I’ve had the experience of seeing fighters lose at a lower level, to then come back and achieve at a much higher level. Somebody with the ability of Josh Kelly, with desire, discipline and healthy focus, is a nightmare for anyone.”

Former Cruiserweight and Heavyweight Champion, David Haye, suffered his first career loss as Booth watched on from the corner to see 40-year-old Carl Thompson force a fifth-round stoppage of his man.

On the night, Haye dominated the early rounds with his energy and combinations, but could not maintain the pace. Kelly has shown he oozes talent in many of his fights too, but has come under scrutiny when faced with pressure.

The fact that Kelly has returned emphasises a clear indication that the hunger to fight on burns bright, and the eagerness to fulfill his potential is prominent. Booth’s backing of Kelly is of the highest order, as are the heights in which he is destined for.  

“He can become a World Champion. Absolutely. I’ve always thought that,” said Booth.

“Josh is a talented, intelligent, and capable young man who could do a lot of different things in life. He’s chosen to come back and keep doing this, which in itself shows his determination.”

It is an eagerly anticipated return for Kelly, who has all the credentials to get back to winning ways on Friday evening. No one believes this more than Booth, who is as excited as anyone to get Kelly operating in his best place – as himself.

“Josh Kelly as a fighter? Talented, tough, incredible imagination, and unpredictable.

“The one thing we are encouraging Josh to be is himself, and he is a highly entertaining individual in terms of whether you have a conversation and a laugh with him, or you watch him spar. It’s about him expressing himself.”

The hotly anticipated British Middleweight Title clash between Linus Udofia (17-0, 9 KOs) and Denzel Bentley (15-1-1, 13 KOs), the return of Josh Kelly (10-1-1, 6 KOs) against Xhuljo Vrenozi (18-4,3 KOs) and Harlem Eubank (13-0, 5 KOs) versus Sean Dodd (17-6-1, 3 KOs) will top a stacked card in the capital as Wasserman Boxing launch their first free-to-air event live on Channel 5 on Friday May 13 at the Indigo at the O2, in association with William Hill, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment.

Limited tickets are still available via www.wassermanboxing.com

LOS ANGELES, MAY 11 – The World Boxing Council have named the opponents Probellum stars O’Shaquie Foster and Noel Gevor must face next to keep on track for their respective world title shots.
Super-featherweight stylist Foster is the No1 contender in the WBC rankings and has been ordered to face Mexico’s Eduardo Ramirez (No3) next.

The winner of that fight will be in line to face champion Shakur Stevenson, who won the WBC belt by defeating Oscar Valdez in Las Vegas last month.

In a recent post on social media, Foster said a fight between the pair would be: “the most Highly Skilled fight EVER at 130lbs. It’s the fans that win…”

Cruiserweight puncher Gevor, meanwhile, has been matched with South Africa’s Thabiso Mchunu with the prize being a shot at champion Ilunga Makabu.

Gevor (26-2,11KO), the WBC Silver champion who fights out of Germany, is No2 in the sanctioning body’s ratings while Mchunu, who lost to the world champion Makabu in January, is No3.

The former world title challenger strengthened his position with the WBC by defeating contender Youri Kalenga in February.

The ordered fights were announced by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman on Tuesday.

American Foster (19-2, 11KO), who beat Muhammadkhuja Yaqubov at Probellum Evolution in Dubai earlier this year in an official eliminator, is joined by stable-mate Archie Sharp in chasing a fight with Stevenson.

Sharp is the ranked as the No1 contender for the American’s WBO title in the 130lbs division.

To keep up to date with the latest news on Foster and Gevor’s big fights, as well as the other fighters in Probellum’s roster, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook?

SHAPR SENDS ‘GAME-PLAN’ WARNING TO STEVENSON

TOP TEN RANKING NEXT AFTER KO WIN FOR TAPIA

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, 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 earlier this 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 and Shabaz Masoud 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).????

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 10, 2022) – Fighters featured on the DAZN stream on Saturday, May 14, light heavyweight Mexican boxing star Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, and former WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs) of Freyburg, Germany hosted a media workout today, Tuesday, May 10 to promote their upcoming 12-round clash. The event will also include the co-main event of the night, the undefeated William “El Camaron” Zepeda (25-0, 23 KOs), and John “Scrappy” Ramirez (9-0, 7 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA was onsite to show off they have been working on ahead of their scheduled fights. Zepeda is set to face Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (32-11, 21 KOs) of Managua, NIC in a 10-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title. Ramirez will face Jan Salvatierra (8-1, 4 KOs) of Cabo San Lucas, MX in an 8-round fight for the vacant NABA Super Flyweight Title. All bouts will stream live on DAZN on Saturday, May 14 at Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA.

Below are what the fighters had to say about their upcoming bouts. Please note, quotes have been edited for translation, context, and clarity.

GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION AND LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“My team and I always watch videos on the rival and we strategize what we’re going to do to win. The hard training is over, we just have to lose the extra pounds. There’s going to be a lot of Mexican fans at the Toyota Arena so I’m really excited.”

“I think Bivol was just too much for Canelo. I am a little sad as a Mexican boxing fan. In a way I do have to get revenge since I represent Mexico as well.”

DOMINIC BOSEL, FORMER WBA INTERIM LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’ve been in the US before but not as a fighter. I’ve been here for boxing matches. I know the atmosphere and I like it. I’m first on the ladder and Zurdo is right under me so it was a fight that had to happen. We’ll see what happens.”

?WILLIAM “CAMARON” ZEPEDA, WBA CONTINENTAL AMERICAS LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION:

“It’s a great opportunity to show the people once again who Cameron is.We know we have an experienced and intelligent rival who wants to keep his name in boxing. We prepared very well for this fight. I still have that hunger to keep ascending the 135 division.”

JOHN “SCRAPPY” RAMIREZ, SUPER FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“I’ve been very active. I know there’s always talk but i’m going to show you. I’ve been asking for this dude, he’s good. He lost two fights ago but now he has nothing to lose and has something to prove. That makes him a dangerous fighter. I’m looking to put on a show.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO, GOLDEN BOY

“I saw a lot of potential in Zurdo and that’s why I signed him once he became a free agent. The vision is to beat Mayweather’s record. There are a lot of fights and opportunities for him. It’s just a matter of positioning Zurdo and forcing fighters to fight him. In the future I can see him make a title defense in his hometown.

Tickets for Zurdo vs Boesel are on sale now and are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com, Toyota-arena.com, Goldenboypromotions.com or the Toyota Arena box office Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Zurdo vs. Boesel is a 12-round light heavyweight fight for the WBA Light Heavyweight Final Eliminator presented by Golden Boy in association with Zurdo Promotions and SES Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, May 14, at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide.

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 #ZurdoBoesel

Las Vegas – UFC International Fight WeekÔ returns to Las Vegas and will be capped by a stacked card headlined by a blockbuster championship double header. In the main event, reigning middleweight champion Israel Adesanya defends his crown against No. 2 ranked contender Jared Cannonier. In the co-main event, featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has his sights set on successfully defending his title once again against No. 1 ranked contender Max Holloway.

UFC^® 276: ADESANYA vs. CANNONIER takes place Sat., July 2 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV.  The prelims will be seen on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with the night’s action starting at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT with Early Prelims on ESPN+ (English and Spanish) and UFC Fight Pass.

UFC^® 276: ADESANYA vs. CANNONIER tickets will go on sale Friday, May 13 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase at axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, May 11 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, May 12 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Arguably the most popular champion in the UFC today, Adesanya (22-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) goes for his fifth consecutive title defense against one of his most dangerous opponents to date. Undefeated at middleweight in his MMA career, he has delivered impressive victories over former champions Robert Whittaker (twice) and Anderson Silva, as well as Marvin Vettori and Paulo Costa. Adesanya now plans to further extend his legacy as champion by taking out another top contender in stylish fashion.

Cannonier (15-5, fighting out of Anchorage, Alaska) intends to make the most of his first UFC title shot with another signature KO. A former heavyweight and light heavyweight, Cannonier has proven that he can knock out anyone in any weight class, but it’s at middleweight where he’s been at his most devastating, with his victories over Derek Brunson, Jack Hermansson and David Branch as proof. He now aims to dethrone Adesanya and add his name to the list of middleweight champions.

Surging UFC featherweight king Volkanovski (24-1, fighting out of Windang, New South Wales, Australia) has cemented himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Undefeated in UFC in 11 fights, he is currently riding the momentum of two sensational championship victories over Brian Ortega and Chan Sung Jung. Volkanovski now expects to leave no doubt in his trilogy with Holloway that he is the true champion of the division.

Fan favorite Holloway (23-6, fighting out of Waianae, Hawaii) is gunning to regain his title and further his legacy as one of the best featherweights in UFC history. The record holder for most featherweight wins, finishes and strikes landed, Holloway has entertained fans with wins over Yair Rodriguez, Calvin Kattar and Jose Aldo (twice). He now looks to make a statement in his third fight with Volkanovski and secure another impressive stoppage.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• An intriguing middleweight battle with title implications sees No. 4 ranked contender Sean Strickland (25-3, fighting out of Corona, Calif.) battle Alex Pereira (5-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)
• A compelling bantamweight bout sees No. 10 ranked contender Pedro Munhoz (19-7, 1 NC, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) aim to silence No. 13 ranked Sean O’Malley (15-1, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.)
• Ranked middleweights collide as elite striker No. 9 Uriah Hall (18-10, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.) locks horns with submission ace Andre Muniz (22-4, fighting out of Minas Gerais, Brazil)
• Jessica Rose-Clark (11-7, 1 NC, fighting out of Innisfail, Australia) returns to action against Julija Stoliarenko (9-7-1, fighting out of Utena County, Lithuania)
• No. 12 ranked middleweight contender Brad Tavares (19-7, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) plans to defend his spot in the Top 15 against Dricus du Plessis (16-2, fighting out of Gauteng, South Africa)
• No. 2 ranked women’s flyweight Lauren Murphy (15-5, fighting out of Houston, Texas) intends to steal the show against former bantamweight champion Miesha Tate (19-8, fighting out of  Las Vegas, Nev.)
• No. 12 ranked women’s flyweight contender Jessica Eye (15-10, 1 NC, fighting out of Cleveland, Ohio) meets Maycee Barber (10-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) in a pivotal bout
• Former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler (29-16, 1 NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) and Bryan Barberena (17-8, fighting out of Gastonia, N.C.) go head-to-head in an early Fight of the Night contender

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. UFC boasts 278 million fans worldwide and has produced over 460 events in 24 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 165 countries and territories to 1.0 billion TV households worldwide in over 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS^®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team, as well as UFC’s exclusive Las Vegas arena destination. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 17.1 million subscribers.

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.

MINNEAPOLIS – May 10, 2022 – Unified WBC and WBO Super Bantamweight World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. promised victoryand former unified champion Danny Roman predicted a Fight of the Yearduring a virtual press conference on Tuesday to preview their much-anticipated title showdown before headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, June 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The virtual press conference also featured WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. and Kalvin Henderson discussing their duel which serves as the co-main event of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

After unifying titles in a 2021 Fight of the Year against Brandon Figueroa on SHOWTIME last November, Philadelphia’s Fulton returns to action against the exciting Los Angeles-native Roman, who seeks to become a unified champion at 122-pounds for the second time in a matchup built to deliver fireworks. In the co-main event, Morrell will look to thrill the fans in his adopted hometown once again and extend his knockout streak to four against Henderson, after a 2021 that saw him twice score two KO’s at The Armory.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster. The Fulton vs. Roman fight is promoted in association with Thompson Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“Everything has been great. Camp has been amazing and challenging for me training through Ramadan. Training with little energy during Ramadan actually helped me as far as making weight. Right now, I’m just looking forward to June 4.

“I’ve fought during Ramadan four years in a row and got knockouts. I already know how to prepare for a fight this way. My mental is just different when I’m fasting and on my spiritual journey. Those are the things that push me to the next level mentally. The fight game is more mental than physical anyway.

“Roman was doing a lot of tweeting at me saying that I was ducking, and I just didn’t say anything back and made the fight happen. I just want them to keep that same energy. I was presented with other fighters to face, and I chose Danny Roman. He deserved the opportunity, so I gave it to him.

“He’s a great fighter and you can’t take that away from him. I don’t understand how he didn’t get his rematch for his original belts, but I decided to give him the shot at mine.

“I expect Roman to be different against me than in any other fight. He’s looking to get back on top. I have to be smart and able to adapt. That’s what I do best.

“I don’t care what anyone on the outside thinks. I know what I am. I’m the unified champ. I only have to prove it to myself. I think since my last fight, I’ve changed my mentality. I’m not worried about anyone else, I’m taking these fights for me.

“The winner of this fight needs to go for undisputed. It’s the other side that wants to keep waiting. Those are the only fights that interest me. It’s all champions against other champions and top contenders for me. Once we take care of this fight, hopefully we go for undisputed next.

“Fans are going to see a victory. I guarantee a victory. I can’t say how it’s going to happen. Because my mood and mind changes every day. As of right now, just expect to see a smart boxer.

“I showed against Brandon Figueroa that I can do whatever it takes to get the job done. I boxed early in my career and I’ve fought toe-to-toe in recent bouts. I know what I’m capable of and I’m going to show you.

“Being in two dog fights back-to-back has only pushed me to an even higher level of confidence. I can do what I want in that ring at any time. Whenever I want to.”

DANNY ROMAN

“It’s been a great training camp. We’ve been getting ready for the best in the unified champion Stephen Fulton. It’s a fight you have to see. We’re going to have the same energy that I’ve had on social media. You can consider him the best in the division right now. He’s the champion I want right now.

“We know that Stephen Fulton can make the right adjustments. It’s going to depend on the fight he brings and the fight I bring. Whoever makes the best adjustments is going to win the fight. You could say it will be like a chess match. I can do a little bit of everything and he can do a little bit of everything as well. It depends who makes the right adjustments that night.

“This is a fight where I can earn a lot of respect. That’s what every fighter wants. Even when I became a unified champion, they still had me below the other champions. I think that goes for Fulton as well. Everybody is trying to prove themselves as the best in the division. This is the fight. I’m fighting against who is considered the best in the division and I get a chance to be back on top.

“It’s true that when I was the champion, Fulton was calling me out and I didn’t give him the chance. He called me out and I had different plans. I wanted to unify the belts and be undisputed. I’m thankful that he’s given me the chance to fight him now that he’s champion.

“Fans should expect a great fight and even a Fight of the Year. We always go out there and fight our heart out. We’ll give the best that we can for the people and I know Fulton is going to do the same. He’s the unified champion defending his belts. I want those belts, so it will be a great night.

“My fight against Murodjon Akhmadaliev was a close fight and I still believe I won. Then I didn’t get the rematch, so now two-and-a-half years later, I’m getting another chance to get back on top so I’m more than thankful for that.

“Fulton fought a good fight against Brandon Figueroa. He was smart and made good adjustments during the fight. It was a close one but he took it, so respect to him.

“We’ve been in situations like this before. Important fights. Now, I’m the challenger. I’m challenging Fulton for the two titles so mentally, I’m ready. I’ve been through this road already and I know what it takes. I’ve trained hard like I always do. Mentally and physically, I feel prepared.

“This is my chance. It doesn’t come twice, especially against a unified champion. I’m one step away from becoming a unified champion again. This is for everything. Either you do this, or you don’t. I’m more than excited and I feel more than ready. I hope Fulton feels the same way. Let’s give the people what they want to see. They want to see a great fight, so let’s give it to them.”

DAVID MORRELL JR.

“I have a lot of respect for Henderson and I’m excited for this fight. Henderson is a quality opponent and I’m looking forward to fighting him. I’ve won by knockout in Minneapolis all three times I’ve fought there and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again on June 4.

“This is a huge platform for me to show the world what I’m capable of. I’m ready to take advantage of it. I’m here to prove my worth to everyone watching at The Armory and around the world.

“I’m 100% ready for the biggest fights at super middleweight. This is a great chance for the winner to show that they’re among the elite 168-pound fighters.

“I don’t really see any limitations or weaknesses in Henderson as a fighter. I’m just going to go out there and have fun and do my job. The rest will be decided on June 4.

“I got to spend 10 weeks training with Ronnie Shields, as opposed to only three weeks before my last fight, and it could not have been better. We just have incredible chemistry. At this point we’re just putting on the finishing touches and getting ready to be 100% on fight night.

“There’s nothing I love more than fighting on the big stage. That’s what motivates me more than anything in the world. I’m just looking to take advantage of the stage that’s been set for me. 

“On June 4 it’s going to be the fourth anniversary of me leaving Cuba and not being able to see my family. I’m glad that there will be an easier and more convenient path for Cuban fighters to reach their dream. As long as it’s legit and pro boxing is truly allowed there, then it will really make me happy.

“I’m coming to put on a show like I always do and give the fans what they deserve. I can’t wait for this fight.”

KALVIN HENDERSON

“I know Morrell has a strong amateur background and good skills, but all the pressure is on him. We’re in his hometown. He’s undefeated and I have one loss, so I don’t have that burden on my back. I’m going to use my skill set and put my hands on him.

“It doesn’t get bigger than this. This is what people dream about when they first start boxing. I know that a game opponent will bring the best out of me, so everyone should expect to see the best of both of us on June 4.

“This fight is a way to show your worth. We also know that winning fights isn’t good enough, it’s how you win that gets you to those top fights that everyone wants to see.

“On paper this may look like a big step up for me, but it’s not much different than what I’ve faced in the amateurs or sparring in the gym. I just have to prove that to everyone else, because we see it in the gym every day.

“I suffered an injury in the third round of my loss. I had a great game plan but the injury threw us off of that. I have heart, so I kept going with that injury and didn’t make any excuses. We just went back to the drawing board.

“When I first turned pro in 2016 I was fighting in the amateurs at 165 pounds, so the logical choice was 160. I realized how hard those extra five pounds were, so around fight eight or nine we moved up to 168. We’ve been there ever since. I’ve fought at higher weights only because my opponents couldn’t make 168. That’s the division I’m focused on.

“Boxing is all about proving yourself to the rest of the world. That’s what we’re looking forward to doing on June 4.”

#          #          #

ABOUT FULTON VS. ROMAN 

Fulton vs. Roman will see unified WBC and WBO Super Bantamweight World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. battle former unified champion Danny Roman in a matchup between two of the sport’s most consistently crowd-pleasing fighters headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, June 4 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Armory in Minneapolis.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. taking on Kalvin Henderson in the co-main event.

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

On Saturday, May 7, heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin returned from a nearly three-year layoff to score a fifth-round TKO over capable journeyman Rodney Moore.

Fighting in the main event of a DM Fight Promotions event at McBride Hall in Gary, Indiana, Franklin (21-0, 14 KOs) of Saginaw, MI, looked sharp while dismantling Houston’s Moore (20-22-2, 9 KOs), who has been known to pull off the occasional upset against his laundry list of undefeated and high-profile opponents.

Referee Steve Wilson officially decided he had seen enough at :34 of the fifth.

“To be honest, it felt like I never left the ring,” said the happy Franklin, post-fight. “I was ready to put on a show for the fans and also show my power and speed. I gave the fans what they wanted… a knockout! Being away for two years, you get a chance to study not only other fighters but yourself and I’m better than ever.”

Franklin says although he was happy to be back, he’s really hoping to be in with another significant heavyweight within a year.

“I want to show my skills against the top 15 fighters in the world. I’m a more powerful, faster fighter than all of them and I’m ready to prove it. I’m 28 years old, and I want to be the people’s champ. I want the fans to enjoy my success. The heavyweight division is wide open. I want to fight the Tyson Fury or anyone in the top 15. I consider my skill level better than those ranked up there and I’m ready to prove it.”

Franklin’s promoter, Dmitriy Salita, says now that Franklin is back in action, he’s planning a big year for the 6’ 2” fighter known as the “989 Assassin.”

“Jermaine is one of the best American heavyweights in the world who is ready for the break into top contender status,” affirmed Salita. “This is going to be a big breakout year for Jermaine.”
ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

Several of Philadelphia’s top young boxers, including blue-chip prospects and Golden Gloves champions, will showcase their skills in the ring at Parx Casino® on May 13th.

The main event features undefeated Sonny Conto (9-0, 7 KOs), the Top Rank heavyweight from South Philadelphia and a top 25 heavyweight in the US, against Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5 KOs) out of Fairfield, ME. Conto is a highly-touted prospect but still understands he has a lot to work on. He said after his last win on February 24th, “There’s a lot to work on, but it felt good to be in there,” Conto said. “I won every round. The goal was to win every round decisively. I got hit a little too much. There’s just a lot to work on, a lot to improve. It’s all about growing.”

In this fight against former USA New England Champion Justin Rolfe, Conto will look to continue his career progression and improve on some of the mistakes he made in past fights.

Shinard Bunch (18-1-1, 15 KOs), the 2021 Briscoe “Prospect of the Year,” will face Marklin Bailey (7-7, 4 KOs) out of Durham, NC in a 6-round super lightweight bout. Bunch has eleven first-round knockouts in his career and will be looking to make it twelve at Parx Casino® on May 13th. Bailey is a veteran of the sport, and this will not be an easy task for Bunch to get him out of there before the final bell.

Additionally on the card are a few young fighters that are still trying to make their mark in the sport. The first is featherweight D’Angelo Fuentes (7-0, 4 KOs) out of Coconut Creek, FL, who will face James Early (4-8) in a six-round super featherweight bout. This will be the most experienced opponent Fuentes will face. This action-packed fight will be a great test and an important moment in Fuentes’ career.

          Bensalem-born Jordon Murphy (2-0, 1 KO) will be making his third professional appearance and will face Antonio Dunton-El Jr. (2-0-1) out of Baltimore, MD in a 4-round super featherweight bout. In this fight, we have two young undefeated prospects that are trying to carve out their place in the boxing scene early in their careers. 

The always entertaining Christopher Burgos (3-5-1, 1 KO), of North Philadelphia, PA, will face Philip Davis (2-5-1) of Worcester, MA, in a six-round lightweight contest.

Making his debut on the card will be 2014 Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion Karl Wylie out of Coatesville, PA, who will face Tyree Arnold (1-4) out of Philadelphia, PA in a four-round lightweight bout.

Tickets at $50, $75, and $125 are on sale at https://tickets.parxcasino.com/tickets/390007, Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) or by calling 215-364-9000. Must be 21 or older to attend.