Carto stops Franzolini in 1st

PHILADELPHIA–Once again Christian Carto thrilled a crowd at the 2300 Arena, as the popular bantamweight stopped Ernesto Sebstian Franzolini in front of a near-capacity crowd at the famed Philadelphia fight venue.

Carto dropped Franzolini with a hard body shot. He finished Franzolini off with a hard combination and the bout was stopped.

Carto of Philadelphia is now 19-1 with 13 knockouts. Franzolini of Buenos Aires, Argentina is 14-13-2.

Julian Gonzalez and Ivan Jimenez battled to a spirited six-round draw in a lightweight bout,

Jimenez took a card 58-56, while two cards were even at 57-57.

Gonzalez of Reading, PA is 6-0-1. Jimenez of Naples, Florida is 7-1-2.

Big heavyweight Kristian Prenga stopped Deshon Webster in round two of their six-round heavyweight bout.

Prenga sent Webster down with a right hand in round two. Prenga ended things with a vicious uppercut that sent Webster flat on his back at 1:09.

Prenga of Niagara Falls, Canada is 11-1 with 11 knockouts. Webster of Lenexa, KS is 12-5-3.

Thanjhae Teasley stopped Deaaron Alexander in round three of their four-round welterweight bout.

In round three, Teasley dropped Alexander with a right hand. Teasley ended the fight by dropping Alexander with a body shot.

Teasley of Bethlehem, PA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Alexander of Baltimore was making his pro debut.

Jeremy Adorno stopped Jason Vera in round three of their six-round featherweight bout.

Adorno dropped Vera twice in round three and the bout was stopped at the 33 second mark.

Adorno of Allentown, PA is now 7-0 with three knockouts. Vera of Miami is 5-9.

Quadir Albright remained perfect with a second round stoppage over Jorge Martin Garcia in a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Albright scored a knockdown with a right hand. In round two, Albright sent Garcia down with a body shot and the fight was stopped at 58 seconds.

Albright of West Philadelphia is 6-0 with six knockouts. Garcia of Buenos Aires, ARG is 13-9-1.




Sosa to Defend Against Pedroza in Battle of Unbeaten Super Bantamweights in Panama City Tonight!

Tonight, April 29, 2022, unbeaten WBC Super Bantamweight Silver Champion
Andrés Sosa of Argentina will defend his title for the first time against also undefeated Panamanian Rafael Pedroza in the 10-round main event of a night of world-class boxing, presented by Sampson Boxing in association with Best Box at the Vasco Núñez de Balboa Convention Center in the Hotel El Panama in Panama City. The event will be televised live on TyC Sports and TyC Sports Play at 10 pm CST.

The WBA #9-ranked Pedroza (12-0, 11 KOs) now living in El Martillo, Panama, will be looking to annex the crown Sosa (13-0, 8 KOs) won with a unanimous decision over his Argentinean countryman Mauro Barrios last February.

Also appearing in televised matchups will be undefeated Panamanian Alexander Durán (20-0, 7 KOs) taking on Ecuadorian Edwin Bennett (15-2, 7 KOs), in a super lightweight eight-rounder; Panamanian local Ronal Batista (13-2, 8 KOs) will face undefeated Ramses Perez
(8-0, 2 KOs) of Mexico City in a super flyweight eight-rounder; Venezuelan super lightweight knockout artist Roiman Villa (22-1, 22 KOs) will face Peruvian veteran Jesús Bravo (19-5-1, 17 KOs) over eight rounds and in the bantamweight division, Panamanian Edgar Valencia (14-5-1, 3 KOs) will clash against Mexico’s Luis Robles Pacheco (14-1, 4 KOs) in the eight-round opening bout of the telecast.

On the untelevised undercard will be a duel of Panamanians in the super lightweight division, Juan Huertas (14-3-1, 10 KOs) will face Fernando De La Rosa (5-2-1, 3 KOs) over six and in a crossroads welterweight battle to open the night, Alcibíades Ballesteros (0-1-1) will take on Ricardo Rodríguez (1-6-1) over four rounds.

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About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.




VIDEO: Oscar Valdez vs Shakur Stevenson | OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN




 Weigh-In Results: Oscar Valdez vs. Shakur Stevenson

  •  Oscar Valdez 129.6 vs. Shakur Stevenson 130
(WBO/WBC/Ring Magazine Junior Lightweight Titles — 12 Rounds)

•   Keyshawn Davis 136.2 lbs vs. Esteban Davis 136.6 lbs 
(Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Nico Ali Walsh 159.2 lbs vs. Alejandro Ibarra 160.4 lbs 
(Middleweight— 4 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT)

   •    Raymond Muratalla 134.8 lbs vs. Jeremy Hill 134 lbs
 
(Vacant WBC USNBC Silver Lightweight Title— 8 Rounds)

   •    Andres Cortes 131.8 lbs vs. Alexis del Bosque 131.6 lbs
 
(Junior Lightweight— 8 Rounds)

   •   Troy Isley 157.4 lbs vs. Anthony Hannah 156.8 lbs
 
(Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Abdullah Mason 136.4 lbs vs. Luciano Ramos 137.8 lbs
 
(Lightweight— 4 Rounds)

   •   Antoine Cobb 143.6 lbs vs. Jaylan Phillips 142.4 lbs
 
(Welterweight — 4 Rounds)




Split-T Management Fighters Jeremy Adorno and Khalil Coe in Action This Weekend

New York, NY (April 29, 2022)-Two young talents under the Split-T Management banner will be in action this weekend.

On Friday night, junior lightweight Jeremy Adorno will take on Jason Vera in a six-round bout at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Adorno of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is 6-0 with two knockouts, and is coming off his most impressive outing of his three-year career when he stopped Trayvion Butts in the opening round of their bout on February 18th in Orlando, Florida. Adorno also has a win over previously undefeated Ramiro Martinez.

Vera of Miami is 5-8 with three knockouts. Adorno will be Vera’s sixth undefeated opponent

At Thursday’s weigh-in, Adorno weighed 128.5 lbs. Vera was 130.8 lbs.

Adorno is promoted by GH3 Promotions.

Saturday night at New York’s Madison Square Garden, undefeated light heavyweight Khalil Coe takes on William Langston in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Coe from nearby Flemington, New Jersey is 2-0-1 with two knockouts. The 26 year-old Coe has been a professional for just under a year, and will be making his fourth outing, and is coming off a first-round stoppage over undefeated Dylan O’Sullivan on February 5th in Phoenix, Arizona.

Despite just 34 amateur fights, Coe made the most of his opportunities as he was a member of the distinguished United States elite team. Coe gained his most prominence when he knocked out Olympic Gold Medal Winner and four-time world amateur champion Julio Cesar La Cruz.

Langston of Kenosha, Wisconsin is 6-2 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old Langston has a win over Devin Tomko (7-1), and has won three straight, with the latest being a sixth round stoppage over Josue Obando on February 18th in Jefferson, Wisconsin.

Coe weighed in at 174.6 lbs. Langston was 173.

The bout will be part of the big Katie Taylor – Amanda Serrano card, will be streamed live on DAZN at 4:30 PM ET.

Coe is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and is co-managed with Keith Connolly.




GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMEROSHOWTIME PPV® ADDS THREE UNDERCARD SHOWDOWNS FEATURING TITLE CLASH, SENSATIONAL YOUNG STARS, AND ALL-ACTION BRAWLERS ON SATURDAY, MAY 28

BROOKLYN – April 29, 2022 – The SHOWTIME PPV undercard for Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero will feature three exciting, explosive matchups entering the ring in high-stakes action on Saturday, May 28 live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Two-division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting, Irish crowd-pleaser Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in an all-action co-main event of the telecast, which begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos will put his unbeaten record on the line against rugged super welterweight battler Luke Santamaría in a 10-round showdown on the pay-per-view, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in a 10-round super featherweight thriller that shapes up to deliver toe-to-toe action opening up the telecast.

“When you look at the matchups, this is an edge-of-your-seat pay-per-view undercard,’’ said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Erislandy Lara, a highly skilled champion who has engaged in numerous exciting action bouts, will have everything he can handle against Gary O’Sullivan, who has never backed up in a boxing ring. Fans will also get to see exciting young star Jesús Ramos bringing that heat-seeking knockout mentality to the ring against rugged brawler Luke Santamaría, and Eduardo Ramírez versus Luis Meléndez, as they look to add their duel as the latest chapter in the classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico boxing rivalry. Whether you’re watching at Barclays Center in Brooklyn or watching live on SHOWTIME PPV, you’re going to be entertained all night long.’’

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Lara (28-3-3, 16 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a title unification match in 2018 that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled current 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

“I’m ready to get back in the ring and show the fans that I’m still a world class fighter,” said Lara. “Gary O’Sullivan has proven to be a tough opponent for everyone he’s faced, and his only losses are to champions. I’ve been in many great fights and it will be no different when I step into the ring at Barclays Center. Being on this stage always brings out the best in me and fans can expect to see my power in this fight.’’

A native of Cork, Ireland, O’Sullivan (31-4, 21 KOs) has won three of his last four fights leading into his title shot against Lara on May 28. O’Sullivan’s aggressive style has made him a fan-favorite each time he steps into the ring. He has faced a deep roster of top names, including David Lemieux, Jaime Munguia, Chris Eubank Jr., and Billy Joe Saunders. O’Sullivan scored a career-best victory in December 2017, as he stopped rising prospect Antoine Douglas during a five-fight knockout streak.

“From the very first time I watched boxing, I’ve always dreamed of being a world champion and from the first day I turned professional I’ve worked towards that goal,” said O’Sullivan. “I’ve had some setbacks, but I’ve gone back to the drawing board, regrouped, righted some wrongs and kept pushing forward. I’ve always known that one day the chips would fall in my favor. I’m coming to rip that belt back to Ireland and hear the words, ‘And the new!’”

A strong southpaw who at 21 has yet to come close to hitting his ceiling as a fighter, Ramos (18-0, 15 KOs) is the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos, who was defeated in February by Santamaría via unanimous decision. Jesus knocked out tough contender Vladimir Hernandez in February on that same card. Prior to that impressive outing, Ramos had shown the ability to outpoint his opponents with back-to-back 10-round unanimous decisions over Brian Mendoza in September 2021 and Javier Molina in May 2021. Overall, the youthful Ramos has gained recognition with highlight-reel KOs, stopping six of his last eight opponents, showcasing a desire to end his fights early.

“Training out in Las Vegas has been going great so far,” said Ramos. “We’ve had some great sparring out here. We expect Santamaria to move around the entire fight, so we’re going to be ready to cut the ring off and land heavy shots. I’m going to win on May 28 because of the preparation I’ve been doing, but I’m not underestimating anyone and will prepare to the best of my ability.”

The 24-year-old Santamaría (13-2-1, 7 KOs) will look to continue his success against the Ramos family as he steps into the ring after back-to-back impressive victories, first defeating two-division champion Devon Alexander in August 2021 before defeating Abel Ramos in February on less than two weeks’ notice. Santamaría had previously dropped a decision to top prospect and SHOBOX: The New Generation® alum Paul Kroll in October 2020, following an August 2020 triumph over veteran contender Mykal Fox that saw him put Fox down in the first round. The Garden Grove, Calif. native also owns a decision over Willie Jones and a majority draw against SHOBOX® prospect Marquis Taylor in his 2019 contests.

“I’m daring to be great in this fight,” said Santamaría. “That’s the main reason I agreed to fight Ramos. I’ve shown that I’m willing to compete against anyone, because I believe in my training and my abilities. This is going to be a great fight for the fans and I can’t wait to step in there on May 28.”

Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramírez (26-2-3, 12 KOs) has risen up the rankings with four-straight victories, including most recently defeating Miguel Marriaga in December 2021. He previously had stopped then-unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy in November 2019 before blasting out Miguel Flores in December 2020. The 29-year-old is currently riding wins in six of his last seven fights since losing to then featherweight champion Lee Selby in 2017. He’s won 17 of his last 20 fights overall, including a March 2019 knockout victory at Barclays Center.

“I’m happy to be returning to Brooklyn for this fight,” said Ramírez. “I scored a big knockout last time I was there, even though I was the underdog going into the fight. My plan is to deliver a moment like that once again. I’m already in great shape and I will be prepared for a war on May 28.”

Originally from Puerto Rico and now fighting out of Miami, Fla., Meléndez (17-1, 13 KOs) has moved into contender status with an undefeated streak after dropping his third pro fight back in 2018 via split decision. The 24-year-old was busy in 2021, winning eight times, including six victories by knockout. Most recently, Melendez scored a career-best victory over Thomas Mattice in November, winning a unanimous decision after eight rounds. Melendez’s clash with Ramírez shapes up to be a classic Puerto Rico-Mexico ring war.

“I’m very excited to be on a big card like this,” said Meléndez. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m coming to put my name on the map come May 28. The winner of this fight is going to be the fans. I’m going to make Puerto Rico proud once again and display my talents in the ring. I want to thank my team and say that I’m not going to disappoint, because this is just the beginning for me.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.




FLOYD MAYWEATHER’S RING RETURN TO BE HELDON THE HELIPAD OF THE BURJ AL ARAB HOTEL —ONE OF THE MOST OPULENT AND RECORD-BREAKINGVENUES IN BOXING HISTORY

(April 29, 2022) – While all eyes will be on legendary undefeated champion Floyd “Money” Mayweather (50-0, 27 KOs) when he returns to the ring to face unbeaten “Dangerous” Don Moore (18-0-1, 12 KOs) in the headlining matchup of “The Global Titans Fight Series,” on Saturday, May 14, the fight’s venue will deliver a unique luxury experience worthy of the event’s magnitude, as the two competitors square off outdoors “in the skies of Dubai” on the helipad above the 59th floor of Dubai’s opulent Burj Al Arab Hotel.

The pay-per-view event, which will be broadcast live by LIVENow, is available for purchase HERE at a special “early bird” price through Sunday, May 1.

A preview of the one-of-a-kind ring set up can be viewed HERE, which shows the ring seemingly floating above the local skyline, and includes a VIP seating area for the limited number of attendees who will enjoy a breathtaking view along with the pugilistic action.

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 the fighter known as “TBE – The Best Ever,” as it also boasts a number of world-record-holding distinctions that sets it apart from the norm.

Completed in 1999 for a cost of USD $1 billion, the Burj Al Arab Hotel, at a height of 321 meters (1,053 feet) is one of the tallest hotels in the world, standing 14 meters (approx. 45 feet) taller than the Eiffel Tower and just 60 meters (197 feet) shorter than the Empire State building. Built to reflect the shape of a sail of a ship, the Burj Al Arab’s helipad stands at a height of 210 meters (689 feet) above ground, making this fight a contest that will be fought at one of the highest elevations in history.

Often labeled “the world’s only ‘seven-star’ hotel”, the Burj Al Arab stands on a man-made island that is 280 meters (920 feet) from world-famous Jumeirah Beach and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge.

Although 39% of its total height is made up of non-occupiable space, the Burj Al Arab is home to 28 double-story floors with 202 guest rooms, the smallest of which occupies an area of 169 square meters (1,820 square feet), while the largest covers 780 square meters (8,400 square feet). The most expensive room in the hotel, The Royal Suite, goes for USD $24,000 per night and is listed at number 12 on the world’s list of the 15 most expensive hotel suites.

Approximately 1,790 square meters (19,267 square feet) of 24-carat gold leaf was used to embellish the hotel’s opulent interiors, and the 10,000 square meter (107,693 square foot) luxury terrace, the first man-made luxury beach facility of its kind, features two pools adorned with 10 million gold and azure mosaic tiles, cabanas and a 1,120 square meter (12,056 square foot) beach area, for which 1,000 tons of white sand were imported.

Some of the Burj’s other incredible features are Al Mahara (“The Oyster”), a large seawater aquarium, holding roughly 990,000 L (260,000 US gal) of water that is accessed via a simulated submarine ride, the largest Swarovski crystal ceiling in the world in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant, more than 24,000 square meters (258,334 square feet) of 30 different types of Statuario marble throughout, approximately 1,790 square meters (19,267 square feet) of 24-carat gold leaf in the hotel’s interiors, a shuttle service with Rolls-Royces and a helicopter, 18 separate elevators and the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP), which has treated and rescued over 1600 sick and injured sea turtles since it was launched in 2004.

The Burj Al Arab’s helipad where the fight will be held has already been home to several significant events, including:

2004: Tiger Woods teeing off.
2005: Andre Agassi and Roger Federer playing tennis.
2006: Ronan Keating shooting the Music Video for his single “Iris”
2007: The Today Show broadcast segment of Where in the World is Matt Lauer?
2011: Golfer Rory McIlroy performing a bunker shot.
2013: Heli-lift of the Aston Martin Vanquish.
2013: David Coulthard performing donuts in a Formula 1 racecar.
2017: Nick Jacobsen kiteboarding down to the sea.
2021: David Guetta playing a DJ set on livestream

Presented by co-owners FrontRowTMT and ROQU Media, in association with Mayweather Promotions, The Global Titans Fight Series will be broadcast live, worldwide, via premium digital-streaming service LIVENow, and will also showcase a fantastic undercard 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.

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 ROQU Media:
Global Titans is owned and produced by ROQU Media International. ROQU is a multi-award winning group, producing some of the world’s greatest live events. ROQU’s premium quality live shows are created specifically for global broadcast and feature incredible production elements. Each bespoke project is inspirational and exciting, delivering a positive impact to industry and community. ROQU creates some of the most memorable and meaningful event experiences on both sides of the stage.

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




ESTELLE MOSSELY MAKES ‘MASSIVE’ KATIE TAYLOR CLAIM AHEAD OF AMANDA SERRANO FIGHT IN NEW YORK 

LONDON, APRIL 29 – World champion Estelle Mossely is laser focused on securing a fight with the winner of this weekend’s lightweight clash between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano.

And while the IBO title holder believes facing Serrano would be a significant fight for women’s boxing, Mossely says meeting her old amateur rival Taylor would be even bigger.

Mossely defended her belt in Dubai last month, with a points win over Yanina del Carmen Lescano, in an absorbing contest at Probellum Evolution.

The 2016 Olympic champion, who defeated Taylor in their final contest as amateurs, is resting up as she plans her next move but will make sure to watch the action from Madison Square Garden on Saturday night as Irish hero and Serrano meet for the WBC, WBA, WBO and IBF titles.

“I will be watching the Taylor versus Serrano fight very closely this weekend, because I want to fight the winner,” said Mossely, who is 10-0 as a professional.

“A fight between Serrano and I would be big, but a fight between Taylor and I would be massive.?

“She was my toughest opponent as an amateur but in our last meeting, as everyone knows, I defeated her at the World Amateur Championships, in the same year I won gold at the Olympics.”

Mossely is also targeting a return to the amateur code in time to compete at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, in a bid to win a second gold medal.

But first, the 29-year-old wants to reach the very top of the pro ranks, which includes beating either Taylor or Serrano.

“I have been resting after defending my IBO world title in Dubai last month, but I will soon be ready to fight again,” she added.?

NEW WORLD CHAMPION SHUNNED CELEBRATIONS TO COACH AMATEURS

SHAKUR STEVENSON IS ‘WARY’ OF FIGHTNG ME

“And I believe that after one or two more fights, I will be ready to take on Taylor or Serrano in another huge unification fight for women’s boxing.”

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

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 interim 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).????




LEE BAXTER PROMOTIONS BRINGS DAZN BOXING TO CANADA FOR THE FIRST TIME MAY 5

Lee Baxter Promotions is bringing Canadian boxing to DAZN for the first time ever, in a multi-fight deal. On May 5th – Cinco De Mayo – at REBEL Entertainment Complex in Toronto, Lee Baxter Promotions will present the first boxing show in Canada to be shown on the sports streaming platform. In recent years, DAZN has broadcast some of the biggest fights across the globe, from the United States and United Kingdom, to Japan, Mexico, Italy and Spain. Finally, Canada will be added to the list.

The event will be headlined by Bryan ‘El Latino’ Acosta (16-0 5KO’s) who faces Benito Sanchez Garcia (15-5-2 3KO’s) for the WBC Continental Americas Super Featherweight Title. Acosta made his Canadian debut back in March and is ready to give the fans another great performance to take home the belt. The 23-year-old is one of the most exciting prospects in Mexico and DAZN will give the fans a chance to see his eye-catching style. Backed by his trainer Jose Alfredo Caballero, and now DAZN, Acosta is looking to make a statement to the rest of the division on May 5th.

Cinco de Mayo is a part of Mexican culture and is celebrated in honour of the Mexican military conquering the French Empire, on May 5, 1862. Since the 2000s, the celebration has also become a popular date for boxing events with many classic fights happening during the celebration. Two days after the May 5th event, boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez will be continuing the Cinco de Mayo celebration on May 7th when he fights Dmitry Bivol, live on DAZN.

“With Acosta headlining the event we are ready to bring the Cinco De Mayo celebration to Canada,” said Baxter. “We’re proud to be the first ones to bring DAZN boxing to Canada, and honoured to be working with one of the premier broadcast outlets in all of sports. This is one of the best boxing markets in the world, and it’s always belonged on the biggest platform. With future stars like Bryan, we hope Cinco De Mayo can be a major fight week here in Canada for years to come.”

The co-main event on the night will be Lee ‘El Champo’ Reeves (8-1-0 6 KO’s) who boxes hard-hitting Mexican southpaw, Sebastian Diaz Maldonado (17-4-1 13 KO’s), for the NABF Junior Super Lightweight Title. Reeves made his professional debut in Toronto back in 2018 and now he’s back in Toronto hoping to win his first title as a professional. As an amateur, Reeves was two-time National Champion, seven-time Munster Champion and seven-time Limerick Champion. His highly decorated armature career led him to be tabbed by none other than Tyson Fury to be the next superstar of Irish boxing.

As well as a fantastic main event and co-main event, we also have a stacked undercard. Featuring on the undercard will be Ross Mylet (7-1-0), Nick Fantauzzi (11-0-0 5 KOs), Mohamed Zawadi (2-1-0 2KO’s) and Steven Wilcox (22-3-1 6KO’s).

Tickets start at $67 and can be purchased on Ticketmaster. REBEL Entertainment Complex is located at 11 Polson Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5A 1A4. On the night of the event doors will open at 6:30 pm ET, with the first bell at 7:00 pm ET.

For those of you who can’t be in attendance, the DAZN Broadcast starts at 8:30pm ET.

Follow us on our social media accounts for updates on our fighters and events.

Instagram – @leebaxterpromotions
Facebook – @leebaxterpromotions
Twitter – @LBPromotions_




DKO Boxing Management Middleweight Steven Pichardo in Action TONIGHT in Las Vegas

Atlantic City, NJ (April 29, 2022)–DKO Boxing Management’s middleweight prospect Steven Pichardo takes on Shady Gamhour in a eight-round bout that will take place TONIGHT at The Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas.

Pichardo, 25 years-old of Gardena, California, has a record of 8-1-1 with two knockouts, and he will be making his 2022 debut.

Pichardo is a six-year professional, has a win over previously undefeated Jamarcus Warren and is coming off a draw with Dewayne Williams on December 11, 2021 in Philadelphia.

Gamhour of Pensacola, Florida via Sweden, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr., is undefeated with a record that reads 12-0 with nine knockouts, has a win over previously undefeated Temirlan Raimkulov and is coming off a fourth round stoppage over Joshua Weems on October 18th, 2019.

Pichardo, who is promoted by KO Night Promotions, weighed in at 159.8 lbs. Gamhour was 160.2 lbs.

The fight can be seen live on FITE.TV PPV.




VIDEO: KATIE TAYLOR vs. AMANDA SERRANO WEIGH-IN




TAYLOR VS. SERRANO + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Katie Taylor
 
The amount of media we have had to do all week was huge. I’m sick of talking about myself but it’s been an amazing week so far. This is definitely very different than how I started boxing when I was eight or nine years old. Like Eddie said, I had to pretend I was a boy to get fights. Women’s boxing wasn’t even a sanctioned sport in Ireland. Now here we are many years later headlining MSG, the most iconic venue in boxing. Making history as the biggest women’s boxing match in history is just incredible. This is all of the sacrifice that I have been working for, for sure. 
 
The fact that this is going to be a sell out on Saturday night, there is a great appetitive for female fights and this is very special. It’s the best versus the best and it’s just a great boxing match. This isn’t just the best female fight you can see right now – it’s the best fight you can watch right now, male or female. 
 
I don’t train to lose any fights. I train to win. I’m going to step in there confident that I will come out victorious. The best part about this fight is being able to inspire the next generation. This fight on Saturday night is going to inspire a lot of young girls and that to me is the best part about this.
 
Amanda Serrano 
 
It’s been a long time and it’s finally happening. Now I’ll shine thanks to all of you guys at Madison Square Garden. I couldn’t ask for a better place to make history once again. Sitting here I made history. I won my golden gloves here at the Hulu Theater. And I made history on DAZN with you becoming a seven-division world champion and I plan to do the same thing at the big garden. It’s my first time there. I shine under pressure. 
 
One of my goals is to become undisputed champion and she has that and I’m going up, once again, two divisions to fight one of the best fighters in the world. 
 
It’s been an amazing long journey getting here to fight Katie Taylor. Timing is no better than right now. I am so looking forward to Saturday. 
 
We are probably the two nicest fighters. There is no bad talk between me and Katie Taylor because the fights are won inside the ring, not outside. We don’t need to talk bad about each other. 
 
Our accomplishments got us where we at right now and we are making history together. No matter what happens on Saturday night, this is for the fans, women in general, and women in boxing and women’s boxing is only going to grow more. 
 
Jessie Vargas
 
I want the bell to go so I can punch this guy down. I’m looking forward to that moment. I’m here to talk about boxing. This is my main career. This is my livelihood. I’ve been boxing since I was 8 years old. How can anyone question it? 
 
I love what I do and I’m great at it. That’s why I continue to stay on the top, top 10 in the world. This Saturday night I will knockout Liam Smith as I said before. 
 
I’m not here to shy away. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. I’m here to fight. I’m gonna knock him out and I’m ready for it. 
 
Liam Smith
 
When Jessie pulled out last time, they said wrap yourself in cotton balls because you’re not dropping this fight. I’m happy Jessie’s fans need to needle it back a little bit, but I’m very excited for this. 
 
I say what I feel, and I do feel that I can be the first one to stop Jessie, especially at 154. 154 is my division.
 
Once the fight starts and it gels, it will gel into a very good fight. I fully believe I will take over. 
 
I feel like Jessie is going into politics now, he’s got one foot out the door. I will give him his other foot. I will give him his exit. 
 
Franchón Crews-Dezurn 
 
When I win this fight, it’s already written, thanks to all the people around me. Elin is a great fighter. Leading up to this fight, Katie and Amanda, it’s the best of the best. 
 
The difference between me and Elin – she’s a soccer player turned boxer. I’ve been boxing for over half of my life. I ain’t gonna lose to no half town boxer. And it’s all gonna go down on April 30. 
 
Elin Cederroos
 
It’s an honor to be here at MSG and I’m the first Swedish boxer to come here… Ive been ready for such a long time now. 
 
 
Galal Yafai
Fighting at MSG in my second fight is a dream come true. I learned how small the gloves were and how it was walking into a small gym to fight. I’m here just to win and to look good. 
 
Miguel Cartagena
 
It’s a great approach for where I’m at in my career right now. I’m super excited and I had a really good camp. I’m ready to show. 
 
Austin Williams
 
I’m very thankful for Chordale Booker because you don’t always find fighters who want to put their undefeated on the line. 
 
Nothing comes close to the things that I have sacrificed for this sport and y’all are going to see that. 
 
Chordale Booker
 
We’ve been waiting for a fight so that’s what we are moving to. I’m ready to fight anybody and make my dreams come true. And that’s what is going to happen on Saturday. It’s my time. I have put in my work. 
 
Skye Nicolson
 
I heard yesterday that this is my third fight in 57 or 59 days, so I am very active and want to show what I’ve got. 
 
Katie and Amanda have been trailblazers for women’s boxing. They have paved the way for my generation, and I hope I can pave the way for the next generation. 
 
I’ve got a lot of respect for my opponent. I think she’s a great fighter and she’s going to come to fight and come to win. I’m excited. I want to be in a real fight. That’s when you’re going to see the best me.



VIDEO: Oscar Valdez vs Shakur Stevenson | FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE




Press Conference Notes: Oscar Valdez & Shakur Stevenson Primed for 130-Pound Unification Showdown

LAS VEGAS (April 28, 2022) —The long-awaited 130-pound grudge match is almost here.

WBC champion Oscar Valdez (30-0, 23 KOs) and WBO king Shakur Stevenson (17-0, 9 KOs) had their first fight week faceoff Thursday, two days out from their unification showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Valdez-Stevenson, an eight-round lightweight co-feature between U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis and Esteban Sanchez, and the four-round Nico Ali Walsh-Alejandro Ibarra middleweight special attraction will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Oscar Valdez

“I’m very excited for this. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve dreamt of these kinds of opportunities, to be fighting for unified championships and to be fighting in Las Vegas. I’m just very excited right now to be in this mega fight, and I can’t wait. I’m anxious to step in the ring on April 30.”

“It’s the perfect time to have this fight now. Shakur Stevenson is a two-time world champion right now. I’m a two-time world champion as well. It’s the perfect time. Let’s prove who is the best 130-pounder. Let’s get it on April 30. Let’s just show it. I think it’s the correct time to do it.

On Shakur Making his Pro Debut on Valdez’s Undercard

“Just like in this fight, I was very focused on the fight that I had in front of me. I had known about Shakur Stevenson.  I saw him in the Olympics. He was a great fighter then, and he’s turned into a great champion now. I don’t remember at all that day because I was very focused on my fight in the same way I am focused on this fight. In each and every fight, I take things very seriously. I just focus on one thing: beating my opponent.”

“It was great to train beside Canelo Alvarez. There are always things you can learn from fighters who have great experience. But it doesn’t matter at the end of the day because the ones who are going to be inside the ring are me and Shakur. It doesn’t matter if Canelo trains me or teaches me different things. At the end of the day, it’s about who has the biggest heart in the ring on April 30.”

Shakur Stevenson

“I speak the truth every time I talk. I felt like he didn’t want to fight me at 126. Now we’re here at 130. He was trying to fight [Emanuel] Navarrete before fighting me. But we’re here now. We can’t keep talking about that. The fight is Saturday, and I’m ready to fight.”

“I never said I’m on the pound-for-pound list yet. I said that after this fight, once I get past Oscar Valdez, I’ll be on the pound-for-pound list.”

“I’ve been waiting on this moment my whole life. It’s taken years and years of training, since I was an amateur, to prepare for this moment. I feel like I’m ready.”

“When Bud [Crawford] was in my camp, he came and we sparred each other. I feel like it was different from his camp because he had Canelo with him during every step of the way. Canelo was right there next to him telling him out to hook and jab. They were with each other step of the way. So, when I beat him, I’m going to feel good beating him, Canelo, Eddy Reynoso, the whole team.”

 On turning pro on Valdez’s undercard

“I was on his undercard. I was focused on my fight, but then I saw his fight in the main event. I was definitely thinking about me and him fighting later on. I knew we were at the same weight. It was always in my head that we were going to fight.”

“I think he’s going to bang. That’s it. I think he’s trying to trick me into thinking he’s going to box me and be technical. I’m not falling for that. I’m ready for the Oscar Valdez who goes in there throwing hooks and putting pressure.”

Bob Arum

“I really feel terrific. This shows how boxing should be produced. You’ll see in the main event two fighters who’ve had all of their professional fights with Top Rank. Now, they’ll be facing off against each other. And on my right, we have two prospects, one of whom has had an extensive amateur background and is considered by many to be the best amateur to come out of the United States in many years in Keyshawn Davis. The other is a young man who had very little amateur experience, but he has undertaken the task of making himself a great fighter in the professional ranks with the idea of making his late grandfather, the first fighter I promoted, Muhammad Ali, proud. Those are really great boxing stories. We’ll see that unfold on Saturday night.”

Keyshawn Davis

“Honestly, I would just like to keep these performances going. Ever since people started putting attention on me, I just feel like I’ve been rising to the occasion every single time. Every time I get into the ring, I put on spectacular performances. Expect another spectacular performance on Saturday night, as well as in the main event with my brother Shakur Stevenson. Me and him have been sharing this dream for years now. I’m just excited to be fighting alongside him.”

“Honestly, I’m just going to go out there and do what I do. And I feel like when I do what I do, it’s going to be a specular performance, as well as for Shakur.”

Esteban Sanchez

“It’s the first time I’ll be fighting here in the United States. I am very excited because it’s the first time I’ll be fighting at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. For me, it’s been a dream. It’s also a dream for any boxer who is just starting out and says, ‘I want to fight at MGM in Las Vegas.’ So, I’m very excited. And, thank God, the stage hasn’t affected me that much, so we are very happy.”

“We are going to carry out a strategy that I’ve been working out for some time with my coach, Joe Vargas. Saturday, we’ll do our work like Keyshawn will do his work. I hope it’s a great fight for all the people.”

“More than anything, you’ll see a lot of strategy, technique and brains. In Mexico, there is a lot of heart. We will also bring that as well. We will combine all of that to deliver a great fight.”

Nico Ali Walsh

“I feel amazing. I think we all know at this point that the main event is probably going to be one of the fights of the year. They are two extremely talented fighters, and being a part of it is a huge honor, and I’m very glad to be fighting here in my hometown.”

“Everyone has tough fights at some point in their career. I’m glad I was able to get that experience early on. I was able to come back stronger, and you saw that in my fight in January. Now I’ve had the time to spar some of the best guys in the world, and I’m back. This time, I’ll be able to showcase more than I did in January.”
Saturday, April 30
ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
Oscar Valdez vs. Shakur Stevenson, 12 rounds, WBO/WBC/Ring Magazine Junior Lightweight titles

Keyshawn Davis vs. Esteban Sanchez, 8 rounds, lightweight

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Alejandro Ibarra, 4 rounds, middleweight
 ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)
Raymond Muratalla vs. Jeremy Hill, 8 rounds, lightweight

Andres Cortes vs. Alexis del Bosque, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Troy Isley vs. Anthony Hannah, 6 rounds, middleweight

Abdullah Mason vs. Luciano Ramos, 4 rounds, lightweight

Antoine Cobb vs. Jaylan Phillips, 4 rounds, welterweight




FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION LARRY HOLMES WORKS WITH TREVOR BRYAN AND HIS TRAINER  IN PREPARATION FOR WBA HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE DEFENSE AGAINST DANIEL DUBOIS ON SATURDAY, JUNE 11

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 28, 2022)—WBA Heavyweight Champion Trevor Bryan and his team did a lot of listening.  When the former heavyweight champion Larry Holmes speaks, silence is golden.

Bryan is getting ready to defend his WBA title against Daniel Dubois set for Saturday, June 11.

Bryan moved his camp from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to Las Vegas and the former heavyweight champion came to town to work with Bryan.

“Trevor Bryan has got himself together,” said Holmes.   “He’s kind of quiet and he doesn’t talk a lot.  I’m the one with the big mouth.  He did a lot of listening and I did the talking.  He was willing to learn. 

“All these guys are looking for that big punch for the knockout and the easy way out.  You can’t beat them unless you take them out in the water and work them over.  The jab did that for me and set up everything else.

“Bryan is a big guy and he’s got himself together.  He is all business.  He really impressed me.”

The 32-year-old Bryan, who sports a 22-0 record with 15 KOs, will be going up against the younger DuBois, at 24-years of age along with his 15-1 record and 14 KOs.

Bryan’s promoter, Don King, is planning to present another spectacular boxing card featuring six championship bouts to continue to promote peace and freedom for the people of Ukraine.




BRONX NATIVE MAUREEN “THE REAL MILLION DOLLAR BABY” SHEA TO FIGHT FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER AT “BOROUGH BOXING” SATURDAY, MAY 7TH AT CARNESECCA ARENA

Queens, New York (April 28, 2022) – On Saturday, May 7th at St John’s Carnesecca Arena in Queens, New York, Hilary Swank sparring partner and familiar Bronx born face will make her ring walk in the borough’s of New York for the first time in over a decade. Well known, former two-time World Champion, MAUREEN “THE REAL MILLION DOLLAR BABY” SHEA (Bronx, New York, 29-2-1 13KO’s) returns to the ring against former world championship challenger, CALISTA “CALI” SILGADO (19-13-3 14KO’s).

Maureen was born in the Bronx in 1981 and raised by her Irish father, who was an NYPD Detective, and her Mexican mother, who was in the airline industry. Her ring moniker, “The Real Million Dollar Baby” originates from her work as the main sparring partner for Hilary Swank leading up to the 2004 release of the award-winning film, “Million Dollar Baby.”

Maureen found great success when she became a professional boxer. Over her career she secured the IFBA Jr. Featherweight World, World, NABF Featherweight, NABA Featherweight and Interim WBC Featherweight Champion. In 2009 Maureen also challenged for the WBA Super Featherweight world title against Kina Malpartida at Madison Square Garden, falling short in the 10 round bout. Over the last 12 years, Maureen Shea has not lost a bout. Shea-Silgado will be an 8-round super bantamweight fight.

“My boxing roots are in NYC,” said Shea. “It has always been a goal of mine to come back to New York and fight. I have been away for 12 years, sharpening, growing and learning as a boxer and a woman. I am excited to come back to my hometown and show where my sacrifices and hard work has gotten me!”

Facing Maureen Shea is Calista Silgado who is coming off two separate world title challenges which include a decision loss to South Korea’s undefeated Hyun Mi Choi for the WBA World Female Super Featherweight Title and a decision loss to undefeated Melissa Oddessa Parker for the IBF World Female Bantamweight Title. Over her 35-fight career, the 34-year-old Silgado has challenged for a world title 8 times. With 14 of her 19 victories coming by way of KO, Silgado poses a threat for Shea with every punch.

Tickets for “Borough Boxing” are on sale NOW and can be purchased by clicking HERE. The entire sensational fight card will be announced soon. Doors will open at 7:00 PM ET.

“Borough Boxing” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing on May 7, 2022 at Carnesecca Arena at St. John’s University in Queens, NY.

Bouts subject to change

1080×1350 Shea vs Silgado copy.png

FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!
BUY TICKETS HERE!
TICKETS START AT JUST $50
FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, MAY 7 AT CARNESECCA ARENA IN QUEENS, NY

STAR BOXING ARCHIVES:

OLEH DOVHUN defended his NABA title for the first time against Belgium Bruiser GERAM ELOYAN in the main event at Rockin’ Fights 41!

TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES left his mark on “Rockin’ Fights” 35 with a vicious TKO victory over RAY OLIVEIRA JR. to remain undefeated!




NEWLY CROWNED WBC, WBA, AND RING MAGAZINE FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION, MARLEN ESPARZA IS THE SPECIAL VIP GUEST AT FANTASY SPRINGS RESORT CASINO ON MAY 12

INDIO, CA (April 28, 2022) – Newly unified WBC, WBA, and Ring Magazine Flyweight World Champion, Marlen Esparza is set as the VIP guest at Fantasy Spring Resort Casino on Thursday, May 12. The Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN fight card is headlined by former world champion, Angel ‘Tito’ Acosta (22-3-1, 21 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico, facing fellow countryman, Janiel Rivera (18-8-3, 11 KOs) in a 10-round super flyweight fight. In the co-main event of the night, Victor Morales (15-0-1, 8 KOs) of Vancouver, Washington, will fight Alberto Torres (11-4-3, 4 KOs) of Sacramento, CA, in a 10-round featherweight fight. Los Angeles’ Rudy “El Tiburon” Garcia (12-0-1, 2 KOs) will take on the veteran Diul “Elegante” Olguin (15-22-5, 10 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico in an 8-round super bantamweight fight. Also on the card, Hollywood, Florida’s Eric Tudor (2-0, 2 KOs) will face Martez Jackson (5-6-3, 2 KOs) in a 6-round welterweight fight. Victorville’s Daniel Luna will make his professional debut in a 4-round featherweight fight against Johnathan Berry (0-1) of Duncan, Oklahoma. Lastly, Jimmy “Lone Wolf” Brenes (1-0, 1 KO) of Hialeah, FL will fight in a scheduled 4-round welterweight event against an opponent to be determined. All bouts will stream live on DAZN and on the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube page hosted by Beto Duran and Boxing Hall of Famer, Bernard Hopkins starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

Marlen Esparza was born to make history in boxing. Born in Houston, Texas, Marlen Esparza began her boxing career at 12 years old after growing up in a household that loved the sport. In May 2012, Esparza became the first American woman to qualify to compete in the 2012 Olympics in London, the first year that women’s boxing made its debut as an Olympic event. She would win the bronze medal in the women’s flyweight division. In 2017, Esparza became the first female fighter signed by Golden Boy Promotions, and to kick off her professional debut, Esparza took on Rachel Sazoff in a two-round match at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. She stayed busy the upcoming years fighting on the undercards of major events and fighting a total of five times at Golden Boy’s Coachella Valley home, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. In 2019, Esparza had her first world title opportunity, the WBA Flyweight Interim World Championship; but unfortunately, the fight was stopped prematurely in the 9th round because Esparza was severely cut from an accidental headbutt, so the decision went to the scorecards. However, that first loss did not stop Esparza’s momentum as she came back stronger with back-to-back victories over former world title challenger Sulem Urbina and Shelly Barnett.

In 2021, Esparza had a successful year, with an unanimous decision victory against Ibeth Zamora Silva for the WBC Flyweight World Championship and successfully defended her new world championship title against former world champion Anabel “Avispa” Ortiz. On April 9, as part of the undercard of Ryan Garcia vs. Emmanuel Tagoe, Esparza faced her toughest challenge to date, taking on five-division world champion Naoko Fujioka. The fight pitted the #1 vs. #2 in the female flyweight division, granting them the honor of fighting for the first-ever Ring Magazine Female Flyweight World Championship. After 10-rounds of non-stop action from two of the mightiest female fighters in the flyweight division, the judges ruled in favor of Esparza unanimously, crowning her the new WBC, WBA, and Ring Magazine World Champion.

As the VIP guest, Esparza will be in attendance for the fights and will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Special Events Center before the DAZN live stream begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

Tickets for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Acosta vs Rivera are on sale now and are priced at $45, $35 and $25 plus applicable facility fees and service charges. Tickets are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Acosta vs. Rivera is a 10-round super flyweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Thursday, May 12 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN and on the Golden Boy Boxing Youtube.

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 #AcostaRivera #GBFightNight




Zurdo Ramirez chasing his legacy Fighting for 44-0 vs. Dominic Boesel

LAS VEGAS (April 28, 2022) – Rather than wait for the winner of the May 7th Las Vegas showdown between superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Light Heavyweight Champion Dmiity Bivol, or take a meaningless stay-busy fight, former World Super Middleweight Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez will put his impeccable 43-0 (39 KOs) record on the line May 14th versus German Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs), the reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) Light Heavyweight World title holder and WBA No. 1 rated contender.

“Zurdo vs. Boesel,” presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zurdo Promotions and SES Boxing, will stream live and exclusively on DAZN from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

The winner of their 12-round main event will position himself for a shot at the Canelo vs. Bivol winner.

“Boesel is the No. 1 European light heavyweight who has all the accolades to make this a challenging fight,” Ramirez said. “Of course, Bivol (WBC & IBF champion Artur), Beterbiev and (WBO champion Joe) Smith are still at the top of my list, but they were all unavailable. Even though they are on the top of my list, I’m not waiting for them, I’ve got my own legacy to chase. I’ve said before, Beterbiev and Smith are average fighters at best, and they know not to mention my name. Bivol was close to making it (fight vs. Zurdo) happen, but he got the Canelo opportunity, so I don’t blame him.”

Boesel, who has fought outside of Europe, is 2-1 in IBO world title fights, losing to Robin Krasniqi, while Zurdo is 6-0 fighting in world championships. Boesel is also a former WBA Interim, European and WBO Youth World lightweight champion.

“I’m looking forward to this challenge,” Zurdo added. “He knows this fight can change his life. I’m the best light heavyweight in the world, but I still need to bring my best come fight night. I will have an advantage in experience, but I can’t take him lightly because, he’s a longtime pro who knows how to take advantage of the moment.”

Because he was blocked from fighting for the WBA, WBO, WBC or IBF light heavyweight world titles right now, due to the aforementioned unavailability of Bivol, Beterbiev and Smith, Ramirez considered formally challenging WBC Cruiserweight World Champion Ilunga Junior Makabu (29-2, 25 KOs). It never came to that, however, Zurdo does plan to move up, but only after he takes care of business clearing out the 175-pound division.

“I still plan on moving up to cruiserweight and eventually heavyweight,” Zurdo offered. “It’s always been my goal to be a 4-division world champion.”

The Legend of Zurdo continues to grow!




The new world champion who shunned celebrations to coach young amateurs

LONDON, APRIL 28 – Paul Butler had been a two-time world bantamweight champion for less than two days before he returned to his other role in boxing – as an amateur coach with his boyhood club.

Butler defeated Jonas Sultan at Probellum Liverpool last Friday night with a career-best performance to claim the WBO interim world title but by Sunday morning, he was acting as a cornerman at a national amateur tournament.

The dedicated Butler was also back with the young hopefuls at Wirral CP Boxing Club, close to his Ellesmere Port home, on Monday afternoon, helping put close to 100 budding boxers through their paces with the team of coaches and offering his expert advice.

The 33-year-old is fully expecting the WBO to elevate him to full champion this week, after former title holder John Riel Casimero was forced out of their fight having contravened weight-making rules.

Butler, who first won the bantamweight crown in 2014, is now eyeing a shot at either Nonito Donaire or Naoya Inoue, who hold the other three world titles between them.

“I went out on Saturday night and watched the Tyson Fury fight but the next morning I was up and we were in Liverpool because the club had four kids in the England Boxing School Championships, so I was out there in the corners with them,” explained Butler.

“It’s something I enjoy and being part of this gym is something I grew up doing and I just think a little bit of help can go a long way.”

The WBO made Butler’s fight with replacement Sultan for the interim title but the Liverpool FC fan is hoping the sanctioning body elevate him to full world champion.

And Butler says as the WBO champion, he could tempt Donaire or Inoue into a bantamweight unification clash later this year.

READ THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH BUTLER, WHERE HE TALKS FURTHER ABOUT DONAIRE AND INOUE AND HIS CAREER BEST PERFORMANCE, HERE

“Listen, if I’ve been upgraded to full world champion, which is hopefully by Friday, then it’s a no brainer to go out to Japan and watch them two, if they get it on as has been reported,” he added.

“If that fight happens, the winner will have one belt left to try and win so why not box me for all the marbles?”

To keep up to date with Butler’s world title plans, and all of the news from Probellum, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook???

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 interim bantamweight crown.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantis 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).????




Popular Bantamweight Christian Carto Back Headlines This Friday Night at The 2300 Arena

Philadelphia, PA (April 28, 2022)–Popular Philadelphia bantamweight Christian Carto will headline a King’s Promotions event on THIS FRIDAY NIGHT April 29th when he takes on Ernesto Sebastian Franzolini in an eight-round bout at The 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

First Bell is 7:15 PM ET

Carto of Philadelphia is 18-1 with 12 knockouts. The 25 year-old Carto is a six-year professional. Carto, who brings a large and enthusiastic fan base, has wins over Alonso Melendez (14-1) and James Smith (12-1). In his last bout, Carto returned to the ring after a two-and-a-half year hiatus with a first round stoppage over Yeison Vargas on September 10, 2021 at The 2300 Arena.

Franzolini of Buenos Aires, Argentina is 14-12-2 with one knockout. The 33 year-old is a 10-year veteran, and is a former Argentina Super Bantamweight champion. Franzolini has two in a row, with the most recent outing being a unanimous decision win over Sergio Estrela on November 6, 2021 in Buenos Aires. Franzolini will be making his United States debut.

In an eight-round bout, undefeated welterweight Paul Kroll returns to action as he takes on Marklin Bailey.

Kroll, a former United States Olympic Trials champion is 9-0-1 with six knockouts. The 26 year-old Kroll is a six-year professional and has defeated the likes of Shinard Bunch (2-0), Lucas Santamaria (11-1-1) and Mark Dawson (9-0-1). Kroll is coming off a draw with Marquis Taylor (12-1-1) on February 18th in Orlando, Florida. That bout was part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card that was televised live on SHOWTIME.

Bailey of Durham, North Carolina, has a record of 7-7 with four knockouts. The 27 year-old Bailey is also a six-year professional who has wins over Vinny Denierio (1-0) and his last bout when he took a six-round split decision over Kristopher Kyle Harrell (8-1-1) on November 20, 2021 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Bailey has also fought top prospects Alberto Palmetta, Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Xander Zayas.

In six-round bouts:

Junior Welterweight Quadir Albright (5-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Jorge Martin Garcia (13-8-1, 3 KO) of Buenos Aires Argentina

Lightweight Julian Gonzalez (5-0, 5 KOs) will battle Ivan Jimenez (7-1-1, 4 KOs) of Naples, Florida.

Also in a six-round bantamweight contest, Jeremy Adorno (6-0, 2 KOs) of Allentown, PA will fight Jason Vera (5-8, 3 KOs) of Miami.

Kristian Prenga (10-1, 10 KOs) of Niagara Falls, Canada via Albania will make his American debut when he fights DeShon Webster (12-4-3, 6 KOs) of Lenea, Kansas in a eight-round heavyweight bout.

In a four-round welterweight fight, Thanjhae Teasley (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on pro debuting Dearon Alexander (1-2) of Baltimore, Maryland.

Tickets for this terrific evening of boxing are $55, $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased by Clicking:
https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=408




VIDEO: King’s Promotions Weigh-in Carto vs Franzolini




Weights from Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA (April 28, 2022)–Weights for Friday Night’s King’s Promotions Fight card at the 2300 Arena

Photo by Marc Abrams / King’s Promotions

Christian Carto 120.8 – Ernesto Sebastian Franzolini 119.4
Julian Gonzalez 131.8 – Ivan Jimenez 130.5
Jeremy Adorno 128.5 – Jason Vera 130.8
Quadir Albright 145 – Jorge Martin Garcia 144
Kristian Prenga 242 – Deshon Webster 205.5
Thanjhae Teasley 144.5 – DeAaron Alexander 147.5

*The Paul Kroll – Marklin Bailey fight is off as Kroll did not make weight

Promoter: King’s Promotions
1st Bell: 7:15 PM ET
Venue: 2300 Arena
Stream: FloCombat

Tickets for this terrific evening of boxing are $55, $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased by Clicking:
https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=408




LIVE VIDEO: Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano Plus Undercard Press Conference




VIDEO: Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano Plus Undercard Workout




Shakur Stevenson vs Oscar Valdez prediction made as Archie Sharp sends ‘game-plan’ warning

LONDON, APRIL 27 – Archie Sharp says he has the game-plan to cause Shakur Stevenson problems and believes the American is worried about fighting him.

Sharp is backing Stevenson to become unified super-featherweight champion this weekend when he faces Oscar Valdez in Las Vegas – and ‘Sharpshooter’ wants to be his next opponent.

Stevenson is the WBO title holder and Sharp has been breathing down his neck, as the No1 ranked contender with the sanctioning body, since November.

The Essex fighter admits he faces a “crucial” period in his career to turn his lofty rating with the WBO into the position of mandatory challenger for Stevenson.

“A lot of people are running away from Stevenson and for good reason, he’s a very good fighter and people are saying he’s the next big thing, but everyone who has fought him has come in with the same game-plan,” said the unbeaten Sharp.

“He is wary of me because I am so unorthodox and that would cause him problems. Other people are running away from him but I’m heading directly at him – I want that fight.

“But I need to get myself into the mandatory position with the WBO and so I have to be in good fights. If I have to wait for Stevenson, then get me someone who is at world level.

“This is a crucial time for me because I need to keep my number one ranking with the WBO and I can’t afford to lose that spot.”

Sharp says WBC champion Valdez runs the risk of playing straight into Stevenson’s hands on Saturday night.

“I’m interested to see how Stevenson deals with the pressure if that’s the way Valdez fights,” added Sharp.

“He knows he can’t rush Stevenson because he is such a good counter-puncher. I believe Stevenson will win but it is going to be so interesting if Valdez turns it into a dog fight.

“I’m a completely different fighter to Valdez so my tactics against Stevenson wouldn’t be to do that and Valdez must know that if you stand still in front of him, he will pick you off.”

Sharp has also mentioned the possibility of taking on fellow Probellum fighter O’Shaquie Foster, who won a WBC eliminator in Dubai, last month.

Keep up to date with Sharp’s world title quest, as well as all the news from the Probellum stable by signing up to our newsletter?or by following Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook?

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 interim bantamweight crown.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantis 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).????




Former World Champion Alfredo “Perro” Angulo Added to Summertime Brawl on June 11th at The Center Stage Theater in Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA (April 27, 2022)–Former world champion Alfredo “Perro” Angulo has been added and tabbed to an already loaded night of boxing on Saturday, June 11th at The Center Stage Theater in Atlanta.

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

Angulo of Coachella, California by way of Mexicali, Mexico is 26-8 with 21 knockouts. The 39 year-old Angulo is known as one of the most exciting fighters of the past 17 years, has wins over Tomas Padron (1-0-1), Jonathan Taylor (6-1), Emmanuel Gonzalez (9-0), Ricardo Cortes (22-1-1), Richard Gutierrez (24-1), Andrey Tsurkan (26-3), world title challenger Gabriel Rosado (12-3).

Angulo won the WBO Interim Junior Middleweight title with a third-round stoppage over Harry Joe Yorgey (22-0-1) on November 7, 2009. He defended the title with a 11th round stoppage over Joel Julio (35-3). Angulo also defeated former world champion Joachim Alcine (32-1), Joe Gomez (17-4-1), Raul Casarez (19-2), Jorge Silva (19-2-2) and former world champion Peter Qullin (34-1-1)

In a six-round bout, popular middleweight Casey” K Champ” Dixon (2-0, 1 KO) will take on Josh Franks (4-0, 3 KOs) of Waverly, Nebraska in a battle of undefeated super middleweights for the WBA 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.

In a four-round junior middleweight fight, internet sensation Supreme Patty will make his boxing debut. Patty has 5.2 million Instagram followers

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; junior welterweight Patrick Harris (19-0, 9 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland;

June 11th will see the pro debut of highly regarded and two-time National Golden Gloves champion light heavyweight Abel Gonzalez.

In four-round bouts, heavyweight Dante Williams (1-0, 1 KO) of Hawkinsville, Georgia.

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

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




Ortiz ready to take the next step May 21 on ESPN against Olympian and ex-champion Herring

Worcester, MA (April 27) – Jamaine Ortiz has reached the point in his career where each upcoming fight is his toughest test to date. No more tune-ups. No more cakewalks. And certainly no more stay-busy fights.

His upcoming bout is no exception. On Saturday, May 21 live on ESPN, ESPN+, and ESPN Deportes from Resorts World Event Center in Las Vegas, NV, the undefeated, reigning NABF 135-pound champion Ortiz (15-0-1, 8 KOs) faces former U.S. Olympian, former junior world champion, and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jamel Herring (23-3, 11 KOs) in a 10-round bout for both Ortiz’s NABF title and the vacant USBA lightweight title.

The fight kicks off ESPN’s live coverage beginning at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT. Tickets are on sale now via Etix.com. The event, promoted by Bob Arum’s Top Rank Promotions, also features a 12-round WBO Interim middleweight world title showdown between Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly and undefeated Englishman Danny Dignum.

“Every fight is tougher than the last one. That’s what’s expected,” Ortiz said. “At the end of the day, I want to prove I’m the best and the only way to do that is to continue taking challenges, even some you may not be ready for or some you don’t anticipate.

“But if the people who are behind believe you’re ready, you have to go for it. And I’m ready. I’m not scared of any challenge.”

The 26-year-old Ortiz is looking to simply seize yet another opportunity on boxing’s biggest stage. “The Technician,” a Worcester, MA, native signed with Jimmy Burchfield’s CES Boxing, showcased his array of talents February 18 on Showtime’s ShoBox: The New Generation in a convincing, unanimous-decision win over Nahir Albright, which, like his last few fights, was billed at the time as the toughest of his career.

Now the real test begins. In Herring, Ortiz is facing a 2012 U.S. Olympian who began his career at 135 pounds before finding unrivaled success at super featherweight, which included an impressive knockout over Juan Pablo Sanchez, an upset win over Masayuki Ito for the WBO 130-pound crown, and subsequent title defenses against Lamont Roach Jr., Jonathan Oquendo, and Carl Frampton before losing the belt to Shakur Stevenson in 2021. He’s back at 135 looking to add his name to the mix among the lightweight division’s elite.

So is Ortiz. His first real taste of the boxing limelight came in November of 2020 when he became the first fighter to stop challenger Sulaiman Segawa, finishing his opponent in the seventh round of a scheduled eight-round bout on the undercard of the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones pay-per-view event in California. In April of 2021, his first appearance on ESPN, he fought to a draw against fellow unbeaten lightweight Joseph Adorno, surviving two knockdowns to keep his unbeaten record intact.

That fight may have been the turning point that resulted in February’s dominant performance against Albright, who entered the bout with seven knockouts on his resume and had just demolished renowned prospect Michael Dutchover. Unnerved by Albright’s recent surge, Ortiz put on a clinic that night in Orlando, out-boxing Albright en route to a relatively stress-free 98-92, 97-93, 97-93 win.

“I tried to adjust some of the mistakes I made from the [Adorno] fight,” Ortiz said. “I took my time and spent more time boxing. I’m not just a guy that comes in there and throws a bunch of punches. I’m trying to get hit less so I can be back in the ring quicker.

“You have to think about being smarter,” he continued. “Since I turned pro, my goal has been to entertain the fans. There are ways to do that, either through social media or by fighting a fan-friendly style. I don’t have a lot of crazy knockouts, but I feel like I have an entertaining style. I’m getting away from that concept a bit and trying to preserve my body a little more and be more conscious. You don’t have to fight every second of every round.”

Realizing he played into Adorno’s hands in April of 2021 by engaging in a slugfest with the hard-hitting right-hander, Ortiz made the right adjustments against Albright, who left the ring frustrated and battered by Ortiz’s impeccable hand speed and footwork.

Herring, who turns 37 in October, is clearly in a different class from Ortiz’s previous opponents, but the mindset is the same – move, box, defend, and stay out of danger.

“He’s a tough dude – very mentally strong,” Ortiz said of Herring, “and being a Marine, you already know he’s coming in shape. He’s disciplined. This is not going to be easy, but I believe I have the better skill set. Him being a former world champ and getting older and me coming up the ladder, this is the perfect fight for me. It was a no-brainer.”

Earlier in his career, Ortiz had just as much going on outside of the ring as he did between the ropes, first working as a carpenter’s apprentice and most recently getting involved in selling real estate. With each fight, he transitions more and more toward becoming a full-time boxer who eats, sleeps, and breathes the sport. He’s brought others into his circle to handle various day-to-day affairs, allowing him to focus on his craft, and he admits to taking more moments to truly appreciate where he is and embrace the moment. At 26, these are his prime years, and he knows he’s one or two more wins away from the potential opportunity of a lifetime in boxing’s hottest weight class.

“A win puts me in the discussion. That’s what I’m hoping for,” Ortiz said. “You’ve just got to keep your head down, keep working, and focus on the plan. I’ve always been an opportunist and you’ve got to be ready when that opportunity presents itself. I could make more money working a normal job, but I’ve made the sacrifices I need to make for the time being for moments like this.”

Visit CESFights.com for more information. Updates on CES Boxing can also be found on Facebook in addition to Instagram and Twitter by following @CESBoxing.

INFORMATION

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




Orlando Cuellar new Head trainer for Jean Pascal

MIAMI (April 27, 2022) – Veteran boxing trainer Orlando Cuellar has been selected by 2-time World champion Jean Pascal (35-6-1, 20 KOs) as his new chief second for his May 20th 12-round main event fight against undefeated Chinese light heavyweight Meng Fanlong (17-0, 10 KOs), the International Boxing Federation’s No. 1 contender.

The event will be streamed live on ProBox TV from the company’s events center in Plant City, Florida.

The Miami-based Cuellar is best known for guiding the career of 2-time World Light Heavyweight Champion Glen Johnson. Other world-class fighters he has trained include Antonio Tarver, Juan Carlos Gomez, Odlanier Solis, Eromosele Albert, and Yunieski Gonzalez.

Last year, Cuellar was inducted into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame.

“Although we have not been training for long,” Cuellar commented, “Pascal and I both have a winning record and together we have chemistry, knowledge, and the experience necessary to know the hard work needed to get back on the mountain top. I have no doubt that we can not only get to the top of the mountain, but we can also take over the mountain top. Together we can do magic!”

Pascal and Cuellar are at training camp in Miami preparing for Fanlong vs. Pascal.




TAYLOR AND SERRANO LIGHT UP NEW YORK

Fight week for the historic clash between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano began in style as the pound-for-pound greats visited the Empire State Building – which will be lit in their honor on Saturday night as they clash at Madison Square Garden in New York, live worldwide on DAZN.

 TICKETS FOR TAYLOR VS. SERRANO ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER.COM 

Taylor and Serrano, the pound-for-pound #1 and #2 fighters of the world is one that will not only make boxing history, but women’s sports history. MSG has hosted thousands of fights through its illustrious years, beginning more than a century ago on July 17, 1882; now, 140 years later, this matchup finally marks the very first time two female fighters are headlining a combat sports event at ‘The World’s Most Famous Arena’.
 
The pair went face-to-face for the first time in fight week at the Empire State Building on Tuesday afternoon, but first flipped the switch on the replica of the building to show how the iconic skyscraper will be decked out in colors to honor the pair, with a mix of Irish and Puerto Rican colors.
 
“The atmosphere is always electric at MSG,” said Taylor. “You can almost feel those iconic moments from the past when you are there. There’s going to be a lot of Irish fans in the building, I think it could easily be a 50-50 crowd with a lot of Amanda’s fans too, so it’s going to make for an amazing atmosphere.
 
“You think of Madison Square Garden, and you think the likes of Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier these kinds of fights. It’s years and years later we’re still talking Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier kind of fights. I think years and years later from this fight people are still going to be talking about Katie Taylor versus Amanda Serrano.”
 
“Being a Latina from Brooklyn, I’m excited to say, ‘I’ve made it’,” said Serrano. “I’m fighting the main event at Madison Square Garden! I’m making seven figures, a young Latina from Brooklyn. I never thought it could happen.
 
“I’ve never fought at MSG; I did a tour there recently and then we did the press conference there; I was in awe of it, and I am so honored to be fighting here. I made history at the Hulu Theater by becoming seven-weight World champion and I won the Golden Gloves there too – it’s full circle now being able to be headlining in the big room and following some of the greats.”
 
There’s a star-studded undercard to whet the appetite before the main event as Jessie Vargas and Liam Smith meet in a must-win battle at Super-Welterweight and there’s more undisputed action on the card as Crews-Dezurn and Cederroos decide who is the top dog at 168lbs.
 
Olympic Gold medal star Galal Yafai makes his American debut and defends his WBC International Flyweight Title against Miguel Cartagena in his second pro fight, Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams is in a tough test with fellow unbeaten Middleweight Chordale Booker, Reshat Mati is always popular in his home city and the ‘Albanian Bear’ meets Joe Eli Hernandez over eight rounds, Australia’s Skye Nicolson fights for the second time as a pro against Shanecqua Paisley Davis over six rounds and Light-Heavyweight talent Khalil Coe makes the short trip from Jersey City to face William Langston over six.




130-Pound History: Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson Fight Week is Here

LAS VEGAS (April 26, 2022) —Two world title belts and a combined record of 47-0. The battle for junior lightweight supremacy, is almost here. WBC champion Oscar Valdez (30-0, 23 KOs) will battle WBO king Shakur Stevenson (17-0, 9 KOs) this Saturday, April 30, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The bitter rivals will compete to become the division’s first unified champion since 2005, and the winner will become the first Ring Magazine junior lightweight champion since Manny Pacquiao in 2008. Valdez, from Nogales, Mexico, is a two-division world champion who defended his WBO featherweight crown on the same night Stevenson turned pro in April 2017. Stevenson, also a two-division king, is coming off a title-winning knockout victory over Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring.

Valdez-Stevenson, an eight-round lightweight co-feature between U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis and Esteban Sanchez, and the four-round Nico Ali Walsh-Alejandro Ibarra middleweight special attraction will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Four days from fight night, this is what Valdez and Stevenson had to say.

Oscar Valdez

“Even though I had a very tough challenge against Miguel Berchelt, this is the toughest and biggest fight of my career because Shakur has been talking for quite some time. Here we go again. The odds are against me, and everyone thinks that he will walk all over me, but just like against Berchelt, I will use that as motivation. I know I have a tough fight in front of me, but this is not something that I haven’t done before. I have worked very hard in the gym, and as always, I’m going to give it my best and leave it all in the ring. Like we say in Mexico, I’m willing to die on the line just to win. That’s all that matters to me.” 

“He is the type of fighter that talks a lot and is always running his mouth on social media, but I’m not like that. I let my fists do the talking. He is the type of fighter that is not willing to go to war. I’m the type of fighter that always wants to give the fans what they want. Since he is not willing to give the fans what they want, this will be more of a chess match. It will be a more technical fight. The smartest fighter inside the ring will win. For this kind of challenge, I prepared myself very well physically, but more importantly mentally.”

“Ever since I was a kid, I have dreamed of being the main event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. It just sounds beautiful. Sounds like you made it. This is the major leagues. I’m very excited. I’m enjoying every moment. I’m enjoying this journey of greatness. When I win this fight, I will be one step closer to being on the pound-for-pound list, and more importantly, I will be a step closer to accomplishing my dream of being considered one of the best fighters in Mexican boxing history. I want my name to be among all these great Mexican fighters, like Morales, Barrera, Marquez, and Chavez. For that to happen, I need to win this fight.”

Shakur Stevenson

“We are back in Las Vegas for training camp, and everything is going great. My grandfather and my team have me looking and feeling super sharp, and everyone is going to see the results of all this hard work on April 30.”

Getting the fight against Valdez

“This fight is three years in the making. Everyone knows that I’ve wanted to fight Oscar Valdez since 2019 when he vacated his belt at 126 instead of fighting me. He avoided me for as long as he could, but now is the perfect time for this fight and the fans are in for a show when we finally step into the ring.”

Unifying Titles

“I am the best 130-pound fighter in the world, and I will prove it when I beat Oscar Valdez and become unified champion. I won’t stop there, though. I want to become an undisputed champion at 130, and beating Oscar Valdez is the next step.”

A superstar will be born on April 30

“The world hasn’t seen everything that Shakur Stevenson can do in a boxing ring yet. I am boxing’s next superstar, and my performance on April 30 is going to prove it. Come out to the MGM Grand or tune in on ESPN because you don’t want to miss this fight.”

Exclusive Valdez-Stevenson content will be available on Top Rank’s YouTube Channel throughout fight week. Catch up on the following original content before fight night:

  • Blood, Sweat and Tears: Valdez vs. Stevenson — Part 1 and Part 2 — is an in-depth look at both fighters’ training camps and their journey to this historic matchup.
     
  • Talk That Talk, hosted by Crystina Poncher, is the first face-to-face interview featuring both Valdez and Stevenson.
  • Valdez, Stevenson, Davis, and Ali Walsh participated in a media conference call Monday. Click Here to see what the fighters had to say.

Fight Week Schedule
Thursday, April 28: Valdez vs. Stevenson Main Event and Undercard Press Conference
4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT

Valdez vs Stevenson
Davis vs. Sanchez
Ali Walsh vs. Ibarra

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

Friday, April 29: Valdez vs. Stevenson Weigh-In
4:40 p.m. ET/1:40 p.m. PT
Undercard fighters weigh in, live on Top Rank’s YouTube/Twitter pages

5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT
Max on Boxing Live Weigh-In Show (ESPN2) featuring the main card fighters as they step on the scale

  • The weigh-in, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, is free and open to the public.

Saturday, April 30: Valdez vs. Stevenson Fight Day
Main Broadcast
10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
Live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+

Undercard Broadcast
6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT
Streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+