GLENDALE, AZ. – April 26, 2022 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez and former world champion David Lemieux previewed their 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title with both knockout artists forecasting fireworks during a virtual press conference Tuesday before headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT headlined by Benavídez returning to fight in his home state of Arizona for the second straight outing after delivering a knockout victory over Kyrone Davis in November 2021 on SHOWTIME. He will be taking on a hard-hitting former champion in Lemieux, making May 21 a clash of power punchers , as the two fighters have combined for 58 knockouts in their 68 wins (85% KO rate).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com at the link HERE.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m very excited to go into this fight against Lemieux, because he’s a guy I’ve watched for a long time and I like his style. We both have similar styles because we go for the knockout. That gets me very excited and motivates me a lot.

“We’re also fighting for the interim title and that makes the stage that much bigger. I’ve been training hard in camp for about three months getting ready for this fight. I’m just ready to go back home and win that title.

“If you win the interim title that means the next fight has to be for the title. I don’t think it should be any difference in this case. If Canelo Alvarez wants to fight at light heavyweight, then he’s going to have to vacate. It’s only fair.

“I train extremely hard to make sure I get the knockout. I just feel like I’m at my peak right now. I have a lot of skills, power and great experience. I know it won’t be easy, but I’ve done everything right in the gym.

“I see flaws in David’s game and I’m sure he sees flaws in me. I know he wants to stop me, and I want to stop him. This is going to be a great fight for the fans. This could be the Fight of the Year because of what’s at stake and because of the type of fighters we are. We’re two bulls going in there to see who has the most heart.

“I just want everyone to see that I’m the best in this weight class. I’m only looking at the fight in front of me. I have to win this fight before I can win anything else. But I do feel like everyone knows where I stand in this division. I’ve been calling out the best and I respect Lemieux for stepping up to take this fight.

“I wanted to fight back in Arizona again because we had a great event in November. This is my first title fight back at home and it’s a dream come true for me. Everything has fallen into place for me. I’ve had an amazing camp and I’m preparing for a great opponent. This has all the makings for a great fight. The energy is right. This is one of the biggest fights of my life and that’s how seriously I’m taking it.

“We’ve been in camp for a long time and we’ve been feeding off of each other’s energy. I’ve been putting in the work and getting my miles in. Seeing Jose Valenzuela and Diego Pacheco have great victories gives me even more energy. We’re all like brothers and we all push each other.

“The main goal for myself is to become unified champion at 168-pounds. It’s not just about me. I have a lot of fans that support me, and I’m doing it for them. They’ve supported me so much, so I want them to know that I’ve put 110% into training camp every time they come to a fight.

“I feel like I deserve the biggest fights. I’ve paid my dues and I’ve been here for a long time. But I have plenty of fuel in the gym solely because of how big this fight is. I think the other top guys are making a mistake not giving me the fight now, because the more I’m in the ring, the more I’m learning. It’s going to turn around and bite them when it’s time to get in the ring with me. Everything is going to be through the roof.”

DAVID LEMIEUX

“I’m expecting a great fight. David Benavídez is a very tough fighter. We’ve been watching him for a while. He’s always very exciting. His style of fighting – he comes to fight – there’s no messing around with him. That’s my style too. Two bulls going in there and may the best man win this title. We want that WBC belt around my waste and I’m planning on having it on fight night.

“I know it’s a difficult fight. I’m training very hard and doing everything I need to do inside the gym. I don’t want to lose this opportunity. I know Benavídez is a great fighter. I’m going to work very hard and bring the best that David Lemieux can bring. I’m leaving with the WBC title on fight night.

“I do believe that my power will translate at 168 pounds. I’ve been working a lot to integrate into the 168-pound division and I believe my power will be at its peak on fight night. Benavídez is a big guy. We know that. But we’re preparing and we have the right sparring partners. I’m going to go in there and be very strong. It’s been a long time since I’ve had an opponent like Benavídez, but I’m excited. I’m very hyped up about this fight. I know what a victory will do for my career and I won’t miss my shot.

“I’m not looking past this fight. I’m just concentrated on Benavidez. This is a big fight ahead of me. Canelo chooses a lot of his fights but there are rules in boxing that you have to respect. The winner of the interim belt has to fight the champion so if he follows the rules, the rules are the rules. That’s it.

“It’s definitely a big task in front of me. When I sat down with my team and Benavídez’s name came up, we knew it was a tough fight. He’s a tough fighter and a big guy, but we’re preparing and getting ready for him. It’s all in the preparation. Styles make fights. I have the style to hurt Benavídez and I’m training hard to beat this guy.

“Anything can be done, you just have to go out and do it. David Benavídez is a very good fighter but everybody is beatable. Nobody is invincible. That’s what we have to prove. There’s no cheating boxing. You train hard for a fight. You don’t underestimate your opponent and surprises can happen. I’m planning on bringing that title back home to Montreal.

“Regardless of your age, it’s really now or never in every fight in the boxing ring. You don’t get many chances to leave a good mark in the game, so every fight needs to be taken very seriously, especially a fight of this magnitude. There’s a lot at stake for me. I know I’m the underdog, but I don’t care. I’m just going in there to fight, underdog or not. I’ve been the underdog in the past and I’ve won the fights. It doesn’t really bother me.

“The eight pounds makes a world of a difference. 160 pounds was very difficult to make, especially towards the end. I feel great training at 168. I’m very comfortable making that weight. I’m training very hard, building strength and muscle and not worrying about cutting weight. I’m feeling great.

“I feel like I’ve been underestimated during my career. But the only way to come back is with a strong victory against an opponent of an elite level. That’s what I’m planning on doing on May 21.”

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. LEMIEUX
Benavídez vs. Lemieux will see unbeaten two-time world champion and Phoenix-native David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez look to thrill the fans in his home state once again when he takes on former world champion David Lemieux in a 12-round showdown for the vacant Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title headlining live on SHOWTIME Saturday, May 21 from Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting Cuban prospect Yoelvis Gómez taking on Mexico’s Jorge Cota in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 26, 2022) – Super bantamweight prospect, Darren
? “The Gift” Cunningham (15-1, 8 KOS), is scheduled to face Angel Antonio Contreras (11-6-2, 6 KOs), this Friday, April 29, 2022, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the Celebrity Theater. Cunningham vs. Contreras, an 8-round bout, will be promoted by Iron Boy Promotions.

Since adding new trainer Rafael Ramos, Cunningham has had two impressive victories. Here is what he had to say about his recent training camp, his upcoming fight with Contreras, and more.

On his recent training camp:

“Today was my last day of training camp and I feel great. I am continuing to work with Rafael Ramos and build on the great relationship we have. It is get-back season, and Contreras is the next fighter that I must beat to get myself back in the mix with the top fighters in the super bantamweight division. Like always, Las Vegas has the best sparring, and I’ve been getting great work. I’ll be very sharp going into this fight.”

On his upcoming matchup with Angel Antonio Contreras:

“I will be honest. I don’t know much about him, I have heard he is tough, but learning from my loss, I know I can’t take him lightly. I have trained as though he is the best fighter in the division. From the little bit of footage I saw, he seems like an awkward pressure fighter, but he will have to do more than that to have success with me.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win just gets me one step closer to big fights, marquee fights that the fans want to see, and the ones I want to be in. This grooms me to be a world champion and helps me get valuable ring time while putting on a show for the fans. I can’t wait to entertain and continue my march to a world title.”

On his goals for 2022:

“I want to fight for some form of a belt, a regional belt, or something of that nature. My goal is to get into the world rankings by the end of the year, and land a big fight with any of the top contenders.”

Matchroom and DAZN announce two new shows today as Hiroto Kyoguchi will defend his WBA Super and Ring Magazine World Light-Flyweight titles against Esteban Bermudez at the Arena Coliseo in Mexico City, Mexico on Friday June 10, live worldwide on DAZN, in the latest installment of Matchroom and DAZN’s fight series in Mexico, in association with Canelo Promotions and Clase Y Talento and then Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez will defend his WBC World Super-Flyweight title against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on Saturday June 25 at the Tech Port Arena in San Antonio, live worldwide on DAZN (except Uzbekistan & Thailand) and leading a stacked quadruple header of World title action.
 
Kyoguchi (15-0 10 KOs) puts the titles he ripped from Heikie Buddler in December 2018 on the line for the fourth time and makes a welcome return to the ring after his entertaining battle with the pocket rocket Axel Aragon Vega in Dallas in March 2021 came to an end when the challenger was forced to quit the bout with a hand injury in the fifth round.
 
The Japanese, who previously defended the titles in successive points wins over Tanawat Nakoon and Tetsuya Hisada in June and October of 2020 in his homeland, fights in Mexico for the first time in the paid ranks and does so against a hungry contender.
 
Bermudez (14-3-2 10 KOs) holds the WBA Regular title after handing a first career defeat to defending champion Carlos Canizales in stunning fashion – flooring the belt-holder towards the end of the sixth round before wiping him out with 23 seconds left in the session. The 26 year old will be fired up to elevate to Super champ and rip the coveted Ring Magazine strap from Kyoguchi, and the defending king knows he’s in for a big test on June 10 as he covets unification bouts down the line.
 
“It was always my dream to fight in Mexico because the Mexican style has influenced me a lot,” said Kyoguchi. “It is a great opportunity to show my boxing in that country against a rival like Esteban Bermudez. Regarding the unification fight, I think it is my mission as absolute champion.”
 
“He is a very good champion but kind of weak because too many injuries – I’ve been waiting a year for him to fight me!” said Bermudez. “I live from boxing, and I’ve needed this fight to happen for a long time. I’ve been at training camp for this fight, and he is coming to my home town, the title is going to still here.” 
 
Two weeks later, focus switches to a monster card in San Antonio, as Rodriguez (15-0 10 KOs) makes the first defense of the belt he won in stunning fashion in February, flooring former World ruler Carlos Cuadras en-route to becoming the youngest current World champion in just his 15^th pro-outing. ‘Bam’ will get a hero’s welcome on his home turf when he steps through the ropes in San Antonio for the first time as king of the world and only the third time in his career, boxing on his doorstep in his third and fifth fights in June 2017 and March 2018 respectively.
 
The 22 year old could hardly face a stiffer test when putting his belt on the line for the first time, coming up against former two-time Super-Fly kingpin Rungvisai (50-5-1 43 KOs). The Thai star was set to face Cuadras in a long-awaited rematch for the title in San Diego, only for Rungvisai to fall ill and be replaced at late notice by the new young champion. The 35 year old has a chance to get his hands on the coveted green and gold strap for a third time, having first held the belt in 2013 and then reclaiming it against Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez three years later.
 
“Fighting a guy like Rungvisai is going to bring me to a whole new level,” said Rodriguez. “He’s a great fighter but this is my time now. You have to take risks in this sport, that’s what special fighters do. They said it was a risk me challenging for a World title fight on short notice and now they say it’s a risk taking on a fighter like Rungvisai but this is what I want. These are the types of fights you need so you can be remembered by the fans long after your career is done.
 
“I’ve always said that me and my brother are going to bring the big fights back to San Antonio and this is just the start of it. We are so proud to be from this city and we get that love back from the people there so this will be a special night.”
 
“Jesse might be the youngest current World champion, but this is a fight where he can prove he already belongs with the very best in boxing,” said trainer Robert Garcia. “We have a lot of respect for Rungvisai, we know what he is capable of, and he is a great, great fighter but I also know what Jesse is capable. I have so much belief in him, and I know he is ready for this.”
 
“I am very excited for this opportunity to fight for the WBC World title,” said Rungvisai. “I will be at my best to win the WBC World title and become the first three times WBC World champion in the history of Thailand. Thank you so much to Matchroom, DAZN, and the WBC for this opportunity.”
 
Rodriguez and Rungvisai lead a stellar night of action with three more World title fights on the bill, with Julio Cesar Martinez and McWilliams Arroyo picking up where they left off from their curtailed firefight for Martinez’s WBC World Flyweight title, where both men hit the canvas in the opening round and Arroyo touched down again in the second, before the action in New Hampshire in November had to be halted after Arroyo suffered a nasty cut from an accidental headclash.
 
Arroyo (21-4 16 KOs) has been out of action since that night, while Martinez (18-2 14 KOs) bravely rolled the dice to take on modern great Chocolatito as the headline act on the night Rodriguez won his belt.
 
World title clash number three on the bumper card will see IBF and WBA World Super-Bantamweight champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev defend his titles against Ronny Rios. The pair were set to meet in New Hampshire in November, but COVID ruled Rios out and he was replaced by game late challenger Jose Velasquez. Akhmadaliev (10-0 7 KOs) retained his belts with a near-shutout on the cards, going the distance for just the third time in his 10^th pro bout, and second as a World champion. Rios (33-3 16 KOs), the mandatory challenger for the WBA crown, goes for glory for the second time in his 36-fight career after challenging Rey Vargas for the WBC strap at 122lbs in August 2016.
 
The fourth bout on the card has the most belts on the line, as undisputed Welterweight ruler Jessica McCaskill makes the third defense of all her marbles at 147lbs. McCaskill (11-2 4 KOs) ripped the straps from long-standing ruler Cecilia Braekhus on the streets of Downtown Tulsa in August 2020 and saw off the Norwegian in a rematch for her first defense in March 2021. The Chicagoan recorded the fourth stoppage win of her career in the second defense of the belts in December, ending Kandi Wyatt’s challenge in the seventh, and will face an opponent to be named soon in San Antonio.  
 
Mexico’s undercard is shaping up nicely, supporting what promises to be an explosive main event is a cast of hot talents led by Jorge Casteneda meeting Mexico City’s Eduardo Hernandez for the WBC Silver International Super-Lightweight title. Texan Casteneda (15-1 11 KOs) has upset the apple cart in his last two bouts, first handing a majority decision defeat to unbeaten Otha Jones III in Florida in April 2021, and then travelling to London, England to take another ‘0’ by beating Youssef Khoumari in October, again via majority decision.
 
Supporting what promises to be an explosive main event will be a cast of hot talents led by Jorge Casteneda. Texan Casteneda (15-1 11 KOs) has upset the apple cart in his last two bouts, first handing a majority decision defeat to unbeaten Otha Jones III in Florida in April 2021, and then travelling to London, England to take another ‘0’ by beating Youssef Khoumari in October, again via majority decision, and his opponent will be announced soon.
 
Diego Pacheco (14-0 11 KOs) continues to be a must-watch talent and the 21 year old ticks off another major milestone as he stretches his legs over the ten round distance for the first time, against an opponent to be named.
 
“June is looking red hot with two fantastic shows,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Kyoguchi- Bermudez is a great fight. Hiroto is hunting down unifications at 108lbs, but he is going to have his hands full with Esteban, who has proved that he has devastating power – it’s going to be a great night in Mexico City.
 
“As for June 25 in San Antonio – what can we say? It’s a quadruple header of World title action, with four bouts that could headline any card. I’m thrilled to see Jesse get the chance to headline at home as a World champion, and what a foe to face in the Thai legend Rungvisai.
 
“Martinez-Arroyo is a long-running saga that both men want to end in emphatic style, MJ is one of the very best World champions out there and is looking to produce that statement win to lure his fellow champions into unifications – and after an amazing run of fights for women’s boxing in recent months, which continues this weekend in New York with Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, the undisputed Welterweight ruler will want to show that she’s one of the very best out there.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 26, 2022) – Fight Vibe Entertainment along with Reid Boxing are launching a new monthly boxing series “Thursday Night Fight Vibe” at the Sahara Event Center in Las Vegas. The first show on May 5, 2022, will live stream on Fite TV free of charge, and will feature demonstrations and exclusive clips from the new feature film “Power of Chi” narrated by Morgan Freeman, starring some of sports biggest stars from the UFC, NBA, NFL, as well as the four-time winner of the World’s Strongest Man.

“Thursday Night Fight Vibe” will include a nostalgic throwback to Las Vegas’ glory days of spectacular live performance entertainment to go along with the boxing main events,” said promoter Steven Reid. “Our goal is to provide exceptional entertainment for everyone attending and watching live on the internet, in addition to having an event to showcase our local talent here in Las Vegas, the mecca of boxing.”

The Sahara Event Center opened in 1969 and has a tremendous history of legendary performers who have played there including Led Zeppelin, Carlos Santana, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Black Sabbath, Bob Marley, Grateful Dead and The Doors just to name a few.

“This venue is legendary, and we plan to do some amazing shows here,” said Ivaylo Gotzev, of Fight Vibe Entertainment. “The “Thursday night Fight Vibe” series will continue this legacy with a throwback to the dazzling days of Las Vegas’ golden era by showcasing some of the best music and entertainment performances Vegas has to offer, to go alongside the impressive line-up of fights planned. Come join the Vibe!”

The show will showcase Guatemala’s rising star Lester Martinez (11-0, 10 KOs) vs. Mexico’s undefeated Juan Abraham Villegas (17-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight main event. The Cinco de Mayo showdown will be the first of the “Fight Vibe” series that will go down on the first Thursday of every month at the historic venue.

Tickets priced $20 – $150 (VIP), are on sale now and can be purchased at Eventbrite.com. The Sahara Event Center located on East Karen Avenue in Las Vegas, NV. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. PT, first fight starts at 7:15 p.m. PT.

BOGOTA, Colombia (April 26, 2022) — Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), Probellum and Global Jabes 77 held a joint press conference today in Bogota, Colombia, to announce World Boxing Council Bridgerweight World Champion Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas (28-1, 19 KOs) will make his first title defense August 13th at home against undefeated Polish challenger Luckaz Rozanski (14-0, 13 KOs), in the 12-round main event on the “Batalla en Cali” card in the Estadio Olimpico Pascual Guerrero stadium (40,000 capacity) in Cali, Colombia.

“Battle in Cali” will be distributed worldwide (details coming). There will be five to seven bouts, including one or possibly two other world title fights, which are expected to be announced within the week.

A native of Colombia and a 2008 Colombian Olympian, Rivas will be fighting at home for the first time as a professional boxer having settled in his adopted home of Montreal 13 years ago when he signed his initial promotional contract with GYM.

Rivas, who was born in Cali, captured the inaugural WBC Bridgerweight World (201-224 lbs.) Championship last October, taking a 12-round unanimous decision from Nova Scotia’s previously undefeated Ryan Rozicki (13-0).

“I have three dreams I want to realize before the end of my boxing career,” Rivas said. “I want to establish myself as the absolute best bridgerweight fighter, defend my title in Colombia, and become World Heavyweight Champion.”

Rozanski is the WBC International Bridgerweight champion, in addition to being a former Polish National Heavyweight Champion, who is the WBC No. 2 rated bridgerweight contender. In his most recent action (May 30, 2021), Rozanski registered his statement victory to date, upsetting fellow Pole Artur Szpilka (24-4), a former world heavyweight title challenger, by way of an explosive first-round knockout to capture the WBC Bridgerweight International crown.

“I’m highly motivated and in the best shape of my life,” Rozanski commented. “I have what it takes to win this fight.”

The fighters also announced where their training camps will be held: Rivas in Bogata, Rozanski in Chicago. Ronzanski will work there with his fellow countryman, former World Light Heavyweight Champion Andrzej Fonfara, who moved from Poland to Chicago, which has nearly 2-million Poles living there.

GroupeYM, Probellum

Source: Groupe Yvon Michel

About Yvon Michel Group (GYM)

Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific organization in Canadian professional boxing. Since its foundation, GYM promoted 162 events in Quebec, all broadcast in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada; and participated in 37 international events outside Quebec. Seven boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice) and Oscar Rivas. SeventeenGYM boxers have fought in 51 world championship fights. maintaining an excellent record of 27 -22-2. Major American television networks were more active than ever during this period in terms of coming to Quebec to broadcast the GYM’s most important events. On 36 occasions, major American networks presented a GYM event, showcasing Quebec, including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN ( 3), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).

Undefeated D’Angelo Fuentes (7-0, 4KOs), of Coconut Creek, FL, will have his hands full in a six-round featherweight bout against James Early (5-8) out of Seat Pleasant, MD, as part of a 9-bout card at Parx Casino® on Friday, May 13.

Fuentes has a passion for everything that comes with boxing. He loves the preparation that is needed for the fight, and the reward that comes from winning. He understands he needs to stay consistent and disciplined to achieve his goals.

Fuentes has big goals in boxing, as he said, “I will be the undisputed featherweight champion of the world, and I won’t stop till I get to that point.”

Fuentes watched great champions like Hector Camacho and Roberto Duran and implemented pieces of their fighting style into his. In his upcoming fight with James Early on May 13th, Fuentes will display the skills that he has attained from watching these legends.

It is important to have the right people around a fighter when they are trying to win a championship. Fuentes recently changed management, and when talking about the impact it had, he said, “It’s absolutely a big difference. My manager, Jereme Cohen, cares about me and he is a part of my family now. Before, it was more controlled, and I didn’t like that. But Jereme is looking out for my well-being and cares about me, and it is a big difference.” With the right people around him and the right mindset, Fuentes will look to put on his best performance at Parx Casino® on May 13th.

ADDITIONAL Q&A with D’ANGELO FUENTES

Did you always want to be a boxer?

“So, my first sport was football, but I’m just too small, and to be honest, my mom and I always knew that my fighting was going to be involved in my future. Whether it was boxing or mixed martial arts, it was going to be something involving fighting.”

After your last fight, what is something that you have been working on that you want to showcase in the ring?

“There are a lot of things that we are working on for this camp, but you will have to see it on May 13th to find out. I don’t like to speak about it. I like to show people.”

What do you find the most rewarding or gratifying in boxing?

“It’s definitely winning the fight. The day of the fight, after the fight, and getting your hand raised are the most rewarding.”

Who are your biggest supporters outside the ring?

“I would say my mom, my girl, my coach, and Jereme. There are too many people in my mind that are my biggest supporters. Those are some of the most important people in my life.”

The live boxing event, which is produced by Joe Hand Promotions, will feature a six-round heavyweight bout between Sonny Conto (9-0, 7 KOs) out of Philadelphia, PA, going up against Justin Rolfe (7-3-1, 5 KOs) fighting out of Fairfield, ME.

2021 Briscoe “Prospect of the year” Shinard Bunch (18-1-1, 15 KOs) out of Trenton, NJ, will look to continue his 17-fight undefeated streak when he competes in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Jordon Murphy (2-0, 1 KO), originally from Bensalem, PA, and now residing in Deerfield Beach, FL, will be returning to Philadelphia to fight in front of his family and friends in a four-round super featherweight bout.

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.

On Thursday, May 26, 2022, to kickoff Memorial Day Weekend festivities, Salita Promotions returns for a very special weekday edition of their highly successful Detroit Brawl series of professional boxing events in the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI.

Riding on the strength of three sold-out events there already in 2022, this fantastic Detroit Brawl will feature another night of the city’s top fighting talent in intriguing matchups, with rising super welterweight powerhouse Marlon Harrington (7-0, 6 KOs) appearing in the night’s eight-round main event.

Fast-tracking former national amateur champion and undefeated professional middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. (1-0, 1 KO) of Grand Rapids, Michigan, will continue his rapid climb up the 160-lb ranks in a six-round bout.

Fighting in supporting bouts will be a trio of undefeated Michigan prospects, including super welterweight Husam Al Mashhadi (3-0, 3 KOs) of Dearborn, as well as super lightweight Ferris Dixon Jr. (2-0, 1 KO) and also undefeated super welterweight Da’Velle Smith (2-0, 2 KOs), both of Detroit.

Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking HERE. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling 313.529.7604.

Event promoter Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions says he’s excited for this special holiday weekend event and for his continued role in the resurrection of Detroit boxing.

“I’m excited about this upcoming Detroit Brawl event, which will showcase several Michigan-based prospects looking to take the next step in their careers,” said Salita. “Marlon Harrington is a Detroit-born, hard-punching super welterweight with the power to make noise on the world stage.”

All opponents will be announced shortly and all bouts are subject to change.

The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 6:00 pm and the action starts at 7:00 pm.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

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.

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 26, 2022) – Rising star and undefeated super featherweight, Andres “Savage” Cortes (16-0, 9 KOs), returns to action this Saturday, April 30, 2022, against Alexis del Bosque (18-5-1, 9 KOs) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cortes vs. Bosque will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+.

Cortes is coming off two explosive knockouts against Genesis Servania (34-3, 16 KOs) and Mark Bernaldez (23-5, 17 KOs) of which both were seen nationally on ESPN. Here is what Cortes had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Bosque, and more.

On his recent training camp in Las Vegas:

“Things have been great. I am training at top speed, I’m focused, and working hard towards my goals. I have been around world-class fighters this whole camp, getting great sparring with all the top guys in Vegas. My brother Luis is my coach and he’s been working on all aspects of my game. We work great together, and I’ll be in great shape going into this fight.”

On his matchup with Alexis del Bosque:

“I know he is tough, and durable. He hasn’t lost in six fights, and his last two losses were by split decision and majority decision. I know he isn’t coming to lay down and will be fighting with winning on his mind. He seems tricky and awkward, but nothing that I haven’t seen before. It’s going to be a great fight for the fans.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A win is a massive statement and a huge achievement at this point in my career. This is a card that a lot of people are not just watching but attending as well. The fact that so many people are looking at this card motivates me to put forth a world-class performance, as I know the arena will fill up early. A victory will put me in a great position to fight a big name, which is exactly what I’m looking for. I’m ready to take on all the top guys in the division.”

On officially fighting under the Top Rank banner:

“This is massive for me to be with Top Rank! To me, Top Rank is the industry leader in terms of boxing promotions, and to be with them says I am one of the best fighters in the world. I know I am capable of being a world champion and that is my goal, and that has been the mission with this camp. Knowing I am making my Top Rank debut has motivated.”

MONTREAL (April 25, 2022) — Undefeated super lightweight prospect Mazlum Akdeniz (16-0-0, 8KO) will have an opportunity June 2nd to cross an important stage of his career as he fights for his first career title – WBC Continental of the Americas –  at the Cabaret of Montreal Casino against powerful, experienced Juan Antonio Rodriguez (32-8-0, 28KO), from Puebla, Mexico. The 24-year-old Akdemiz will already be in his third fight since his signing with GYM last December. Rodriguez, who fought for a world title in 2015, claims most notably an impressive  9^th-round knockout victory over elite fighter Mercito Gesta (32-2-2, 17KO) in 2019.

Initially, the event was scheduled for May 5, but following the loss of the main event, involving former world champion Eleider Alvarez, Mazlum was upgraded to the main event position against a high quality southpaw, the popular Canadian requested greater preparation time as well as other considerations in Quebec, prompting GYM leaders to make this decision. All May 5th ticket holders can be refunded at the point of purchase, but they will all be honored for June 2nd.

This GYM/Probellum boxing event at the Cabaret of Mopntreal Casino is presented by Miso-O-Jeu.

Popular super lightweight Mathieu Germain of Mascouche (20-2-1, 9KO) will try to extend his win streak to three, which began with his brilliant performance against Steve Claggett (29-6 -2, 21KO) a year ago. His opponent in the 10-round co-featured event, Eduardo Leonel Rodriguez (9-2-1, 4KO), from Aquascalientes, Mexico, was an upset winner of Jonathan Medina (21-1-0, 16KO) by KO by way of a first-round stoppage in his last fight.

This event will also mark the return of one of Quebec’s brightest boxing hopefuls as two-time Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympian Wilfred “Freeboy” Seyi (9-0-0, 4KO) resumes his professional career. This spectacular 2019 WBC Junior champion has every intention of picking up where he left off versus Argentinian David Benavidez (8-5-0, 2KO), who has a good amateur background including his participation in the AIBA World Boxing Series.

Canadian prospect and former Canadian National Team member, promising Eric Basran (1-0), of Vancouver is scheduled to be in his second pro fight, versus Jorge Castro (3-5-2, 1KO), of Guadalajara. in a 4-round lightweight match.

Also in action in her professional debut will be bantamweight Sara Couillard against Flor Carrera (1-0-1), from Puebla, Mexico. Couillard is the spouse of the world title aspirant Patrice Volny (16-1, 10KO). More fights will be announced in the coming days.

TICKETS ON SALE

It’s an invitation to all! Tickets may be purchased for each event on ticketmaster.ca or by contacting GYM directly by email at info@groupeyvonmichel.ca

About Yvon Michel Group (GYM)

Groupe Yvon Michel is a professional boxing promotion organization founded in 2004 by Yvon Michel, Alexandra Croft and Bernard Barré, who are still active in the company, the most prolific organization in Canadian professional boxing. Since its foundation, GYM promoted 162 events in Quebec, all broadcast in Quebec on RDS, TVA Sports or Radio-Canada; and participated in 37 international events outside Quebec. Seven boxers have become world champions: Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, Artur Beterbiev, Eleider Alvarez, Marie-Eve Dicaire (twice) and Oscar Rivas. Seventeen GYM boxers have fought in 51 world championship fights. maintaining an excellent record of 27 -22-2. Major American television networks were more active than ever during this period in terms of coming to Quebec to broadcast the GYM’s most important events. On 36 occasions, major American networks presented a GYM event, showcasing Quebec, including HBO (8), Showtime (7), ESPN2 (10), Wealth TV (4), Spike TV (2), ESPN ( 3), CBS (1) and NBC Sports (1).

LOS ANGELES, CA (April 25, 2022): Former world champion and light heavyweight Mexican boxing star Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, and Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy hosted a press conference today, Monday, April 25 to discuss Zurdo’s upcoming fight against former WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs) of Freyburg, Germany on Saturday, May 14. The 12-round fight will be for the WBA Light Heavyweight Final Eliminator and will take place at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA and will be streamed live on DAZN.

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.

Below is what Zurdo Ramirez and Oscar De La Hoya had to say about the upcoming event:

GILBERTO ‘ZURDO’ RAMIREZ, LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I always want to put on a good show for the fans. There will be a lot of Mexican people, a lot of Latinos, a lot of boxing fans. I want to make a statement and get the winner from Canelo vs. Bivol, that’s the fight that I want and I need to pass through this guy first on May 14.”

“I am really confident in my self and in my training. I knew the fight was going to be in May, but not the date, but I like to be in shape. I am always training and am ready for these big opportunities. On May 14, I will be 44-0, 30KOs no losses. I am looking for the knockout.”

“Its a pleasure to work toe-to-toe with a living legend and the Golden Boy family has welcomed me with open arms, and I am very grateful for that. We have a great relationship in boxing but also outside the ring, they have treated me like family.”

“I am the best in this division and I will prove myself. I will give everyone a good show. I have been looking for the opportunity to fight the best because I know that I am the best. Here in LA there is a lot of Mexican people, a big community and I love them, and they love me too. The Hispanic community is great in LA that’s why Oscar likes to bring all the fighters here and it’s exciting.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDENBOY:

“[Zurdo] is 43-0 and he has the vision, the drive to become a world champion. He was Mexico’s first super middleweight champion, that is something we should never forget. To be 50-0 that is a goal that he has, it’s exciting to see him fight. May 14 will be another difficult fight for him, but that is what he is all about.”

“We possibly have two ‘fight of the year’ candidates with Zurdo and William Zepeda. William is a very exciting fighter he is undefeated, he is ready to take on the world. He is facing a tough durable in your face a lot of power a lot of action, it’s going to be one of those fight you will not want to miss.”

“I want to make sure that I keep boxing here in LA and I keep it strong and make it grow to give these young guys an opportunity. We have established champions like Zurdo, we have the young prospects that have dreams and that’s what I want to build off of. I used to be a young kid from East LA who had a dream and there are tons of kids who have that same dream. So we want to keep that alive.”

“One thing about Zurdo is that he comes out and fights. Anyone who has seen his last fights, it was one of those fights where you are the edge of your seat. Every single round is exciting, you never knew what was going to happen. He’s in great shape, he is always training, he is professional, and he wants to give everyone a good show. And the great thing is that he is going to be in a good position to fight the winner for Canelo vs. Bivol. So it took a while, but he worked hard and never gave up and the opportunity is right around the corner.”

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

TOYOTA ARENA
Toyota Arena, located in Southern California, built and owned by the City of Ontario, managed by SMG Worldwide, continues to win awards for the best entertainment venue in the region. The 225,000 square foot venue can accommodate capacities up to 11,000 for concerts, family shows, and sporting competitions. The arena features 36 luxury suites located on two levels and a continuous concourse hosting a variety of refreshment stands, merchandise kiosks, a VIP club and other fan amenities. Toyota Arena is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy with a GBAC Star Accreditation. Toyota Arena hosts a variety of sporting competitions, concerts, family shows, special events, graduation ceremonies and community activities as well as private events. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign, an AHL Hockey Team, and Ontario Fury, a MASL Soccer Team and the Aqua Caliente Clippers of Ontario, a G league basketball team. Toyota Arena is the biggest and most modern arena within the region, an area with over 4.7 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, California, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway. For more information visit Toyota-Arena.com

SAN ANTONIO, TX. – April 25, 2022 – Tickets will go on sale Wednesday for the championship showdown between WBC Featherweight World Champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo and unbeaten former world champion Rey Vargas which headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 9 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale Wednesday, April 27 at 12 p.m. CT and are available through Ticketmaster.com.

Pre-sale tickets are available beginning TOMORROW at 10 a.m. CT through Ticketmaster.com with the code: PBCBOXING

The July 9 event is topped by the Filipino Magsayo making the first defense of his title against Mexico’s Vargas, in the latest chapter of the storied boxing rivalry between the two countries, adding to a legacy of fights that includes the series of battles fought between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.

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

HOUSTON – April 25, 2022 – Tickets will go on sale Wednesday to see undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo in a Juneteenth Day celebration in his hometown as he steps into the ring against former title challenger Maciej Sulecki on Saturday, June 18 live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, go on sale Wednesday, April 27 at 10 a.m. CT and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

Pre-sale tickets are available beginning TOMORROW at 10 a.m. CT through toyotacenter.com by using the code: PBCBOXING

Charlo will seek his fourth 160-pound world title defense on June 18 after thrilling the fans at Toyota Center in June 2021 by winning an action-packed decision over Juan Montiel. In Sulecki, Charlo will be up against a veteran contender who’s never been stopped and who’s only career blemishes have come against champions Daniel Jacobs and Demetrius Andrade.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV—WBA Heavyweight Champion Trevor Bryan is getting a lesson in camp as he prepares to defend his title against Daniel Dubois on Saturday, June 11.  

Bryan has taken a change of scenery as well as he has moved his camp from Ft. Lauderdale, FL to the bright lights of Las Vegas, NV.

Bryan is getting “schooled” by none other than The Easton Assassin and former WBC and IBF Heavyweight Champion Larry Holmes.  Holmes, who put together a streak of 48 straight victories in his 30-year career and amassed a record of 69-6 with 44 KOs, has joined Bryan’s camp in Florida.  Holmes was not only known for his power, but for his jabs, and he is planning to improve Bryan’s jab as well as his game plan against DuBois.

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.

Queens, New York (April 25, 2022) – On Saturday May 7, Star Boxing proudly presents “Borough Boxing” – the first professional boxing card promoted at St. John’s University’s Carnesecca Arena in the venue’s famed history. The main event will feature DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Queens, NY, 20-3-1 7KO’s) as he begins his campaign at welterweight, against Brazilian PAULO GALDINO (11-5 8KO’s). Gonzalez is coming off a thrilling bloody battle in the co-featured bout this past October at Barclays Center.

Gonzalez has faced his life challenges head on and is truly an inspiring story. As a young and bullied teenager, the Woodhaven, Queens native was well over 200 pounds, sad, teased and depressed. “My whole family was overweight,” said Gonzalez. “My brother had diabetes and asthma. He was like 400 lbs. I was over 200 pounds, and I was starting to get sick, so my mom made a decision to put me in a boxing gym.”

It didn’t take long for Gonzalez to turn this hardship into an opportunity. “I lost like 100 pounds by the time I was 16 and started boxing competitively. I got my brother into boxing too. He lost like 300 pounds.” Not only did Gonzalez start fighting in the squared ring , but he soon realized he was pretty good at it too. He would go on to be a NY Golden Glove semi-finalist, Empire State Games finalist and take home the 152 lb. Metro Championship.

Turning pro Gonzalez continued his perseverance and success. “I can say I am almost psycho obsessed with boxing. I love training, It gave me self-esteem. It gave me purpose. It gave me passion,” said Gonzalez. In 2019, adversity would once again rear its head when Gonzalez took former world champion and Star Boxing stablemate Chris Algieri the full 10 rounds at the Hulu Theatre at MSG. Gonzalez would drop a razor thin decision, in which he vehemently believes the judges got wrong. Like he did at 15, Danny looked in the mirror and decided to fight back.

Ripping off three consecutive wins, Danny secured the WBC FECARBOX Championship along the way. Danny had worked himself back into the higher echelon 140 lbs when the phone rang to face off with Petros Ananyan (then 15-2-2 7KO’s) at the Barclays Center on Triller for the WBA Continental America’s Super Lightweight Title. Gonzalez and Ananyan fought a thrilling and crowd pleasing war that earned the respect of boxing fans worldwide for their performance. A deep gash over Danny’s eye made the fight a bloody mess for final 4 rounds and when the final bell sounded to end the barnburner battle,

Once again, Danny Gonzalez stands up against adversity and his march back begins May 7 at Carnesecca Arena against a tough challenger in Paulo Galdino, in the 8 round welterweight fight.

Gonzalez is ready for the opportunity, “I am excited and extremely grateful to return to the ring and get back on the winning track so I can continue to compete in big fights. I got a lot left in the tank. I feel very experienced and know there’s nothing I haven’t seen. St. John’s University is going to be an epic night with an amazing crowd where I can display my talent and tenacity with a dominate victory on May 7. Everyone make sure to come out and see a action packed fight card in my hometown of Queens!

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

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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 undefeat

LAS VEGAS (April 25, 2022) — Middleweight contender Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly has been anxiously waiting for the main event spotlight, and on Saturday, May 21, he’ll hope to seize it. Alimkhanuly will face undefeated Englishman Danny Dignum in a 12-round showdown for the vacant WBO Interim middleweight world title at Resorts World Event Center at Resorts World Las Vegas.

In the co-feature, former junior world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring returns to the lightweight division in a 10-rounder against undefeated NABF titleholder Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz.

Alimkhanuly-Dignum, and Herring-Ortiz will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $25 go on sale Tuesday, April 26 at 10 a.m. PT, and can be purchased at Etix.com.

“Janibek is a special talent, one of the very best to come from Eastern Europe in recent years,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He’s getting the platform he deserves — a Las Vegas main event on ESPN — and I expect him to look sensational against a tough Englishman like Danny Dignum. Janibek has everything it takes to reign as middleweight world champion for a very long time.”

Alimkhanuly (11-0, 7 KOs) is a 2016 Olympian who has been on the fast track to a world title shot ever since knocking out 50-fight veteran Milton Nuñez in his pro debut. The Kazakh southpaw then racked up eight additional wins before scoring eighth-round stoppages over former world champions Rob Brant and Hassan N’Dam. Despite only 11 fights, Alimkhanuly has become an actively avoided fighter within his division, as several recognizable names at 160 pounds chose other options when opportunity knocked. With this shot at the interim title, he’ll finally get his chance on the main event stage.

Alimkhanuly said, “Demetrius Andrade and Jaime Munguia avoided fighting me, so I give Danny Dignum a lot of credit for stepping up to the plate. I will show the entire world true ‘Qazaq Style’ on May 21, and I will leave the ring as the WBO Interim middleweight champion. While the division’s top names are avoiding me, they won’t be able to run forever. I can’t wait to put on a spectacular showing at Resorts World Las Vegas.”

Dignum (14-0-1, 8 KOs) spent the better part of his amateur career at light heavyweight. In fact, the Essex, England, native had never made the 160-pound limit until November 2019, when he scored a fifth-round TKO over Conrad Cummings to snatch the WBO European crown. Dignum has made three defenses of his regional title, one of which ended in a split draw against Andrey Sirotkin. In February, he knocked down Grant Dennis three times en route to a sixth-round stoppage victory. Dignum will enter the ring with a height and size advantage in this all-southpaw battle.

Dignum said, “I am absolutely buzzing to be fighting Janibek for the WBO Interim middleweight world title. It’s a dream come true to be headlining a show in Las Vegas. All the sacrifice over the years has been worth it to get to this point. I’m very confident in my ability and will be coming to Resorts World to win that title.”

Herring (23-3, 11 KOs), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and 2012 U.S. Olympian, began his pro career with a somewhat difficult run at 135 pounds. However, after signing with Top Rank and dropping down to junior lightweight, he revitalized his career with an impressive knockout over Juan Pablo Sanchez on the undercard of Jorge Linares-Vasiliy Lomachenko. Herring only needed two additional fights before upsetting Masayuki Ito for the WBO 130-pound crown. Herring made three tough defenses against Lamont Roach Jr., Jonathan Oquendo and Carl Frampton before losing his belt to Shakur Stevenson in October 2021. With this championship experience under his belt, Herring is ready to give it another go at 135 pounds.

Herring said, “I’m happy to be back, starting the new year with a fresh start. A lot has changed since I was last in the ring. I am working with a new trainer, Manny Robles, and returning to the lightweight division for this upcoming fight. I’m optimistic that a victory here will place me back in the title picture at either lightweight or junior lightweight.”

Ortiz (15-0-1, 8 KOs) is a quick-handed boxer whose only blemish is a majority draw against then-undefeated prospect Joseph Adorno. The 25-year-old demonstrated speed and volume punching in that fight, qualities that helped him obtain a unanimous decision win over Nahir Albright back in February to capture the NABF crown. This will be a considerable step up in opposition for Ortiz, who will have his second shot at fighting on a Top Rank on ESPN card.

Ortiz said, “Jamel Herring is a tremendous fighter with an impeccable resume, and I have all the respect in the world for what he’s accomplished, but on May 21, he’s stepping into my ring in my weight class, and I will show him – and the entire world – why I’m the future at 135 pounds. What you saw in February against Nahir Albright is simply a preview of what’s to come. We’ve only scratched the surface. I’m looking forward to adding more titles to my own resume as I climb the ladder in 2022.”
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About Resorts World Las Vegas
Resorts World Las Vegas was developed by Genting Berhad, a publicly traded Malaysian corporation registered with the Nevada Gaming Commission. The company has affiliated operations in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas. In partnership with Hilton, Resorts World Las Vegas integrates three of Hilton’s premium brands into its resort campus, including Las Vegas Hilton, the resort’s full-service brand; Conrad Las Vegas, Hilton’s lifestyle luxury brand; and LXR, Hilton’s network of independent luxury properties, which operates as Crockfords Las Vegas, Genting’s internationally renowned ultra-luxury brand. Resorts World Las Vegas features 3,506 guest rooms and suites, an innovative, next-generation gaming floor, world-class food and beverage options, a 5,000-capacity theatre, distinct nightlife venues, a curated retail collection of designer and boutique shops and more. The integrated resort weaves time-honored traditions of the international Resorts World brand into the fabric of Las Vegas, introducing a bold, fresh take on hospitality to the city with stunning design, progressive technology and world-class guest service. Resorts World Las Vegas is?Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED™?with?Forbes Travel Guide,?a verification that ensures the resort has appropriate health safety procedures in place.?For?more information, visit?rwlasvegas.com?or find us on?Facebook,?LinkedIn,?Twitter?and?Instagram.

About Genting Group
Genting Group comprises Genting Berhad (KLSE: GENTING), the holding company, and its listed companies Genting Malaysia Berhad (KLSE: GENM), Genting Plantations Berhad (KLSE: GENP) and Genting Singapore Limited (SGX: G13). Genting Group is involved in leisure and hospitality, power generation, oil and gas, property development, life sciences and biotechnology activities, with operations spanning across the globe, including in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, China, the United States of America, Bahamas and the United Kingdom. Genting Group is a leader in the global gaming and hospitality industry. Founded in 1965, Genting Group has more than 50 years of experience in developing and operating destination resorts in the Americas, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the Bahamas, offering an unparalleled resort experience and iconic entertainment attractions to over 50 million visitors a year. For more information, visit?www.genting.com. 

QUINCY, Mass. (April 25, 2022) – Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. and Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski are fighting May 7th on the “Hometown Royalty” for much different potentially career-changing reasons.

“Hometown Royalty”, presented by Granite Chin in association with Cappiello Boxing Promotions and Shearns Boxing Promotions, will be held at Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts (85 Cottage St.), marking the first professional boxing event ever held in that town.

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Ohan, Jr. (14-1, 8 KOs), of Holbrook, MA, is a former New England welterweight champion who is fighting at junior welterweight for the second fight in a row. Ohan fights Jose “El Chino” Aubel (8-9, 7 KOs), of Argentina, in the 8-round main event.

Ohan is positioning himself for a significant fight, ideally, a regional title and highest purse of his career. In short, he’s trying to get where Kielczweski has been.

“I have an advantage of being a bigger fighter at a smaller weight,” Ohan explained why he’s committed to dropping down one weight class. “My last fight was also at 140. I’m ready to step up, it’s only a matter of time. I’ll fight whoever is lined up but, I believe, I’ll be in a big fight by the end of this year, or in 2023.

“I’ll be fighting 10-15 minutes away from where I live. It’s almost sold out and I’ll have a lot of family, friends, and fans there supporting me. My opponent comes in shape, ready to go. My opponent is a southpaw. I’ve been getting ready to fight a southpaw and today a lot of fighters switch back and forth. It’s no big deal. It’s going to be fun.”

Kielczweski (30-6, 11 KOs), who lives 30-minutes away from the venue in Quincy (MA), is still fighting for a completely different reason. He’s become a gatekeeper, or sorts, and now he wants one more good shot.

The now 32-year-old Kielczweski wants to return to the lofty status he once had, worked ranked as high as No. 4, to get into a lucrative payday. A 2008 National Golden Gloves silver medalist, as well as a 2-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Ryan K is matched against Argentinian lightweight Mario Lozano (18-5-1, 9 KOs), in the 8-round co-featured event.

“I’m fighting May 7th to get back in the win column to position myself for one last big shot,” Kielczweski said. “I have some gas left in the tank. Why not empty it? It’s tough, though. My last two fights were in Las Vegas, the last in August on the Pacquiao- Ugas undercard. I’ve passed this point already. I may say this is my last year fighting, so I’m going to have fun while it lasts.”

“Ryan and Mike are two of the best guys you will ever meet in boxing,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti noted. “Both are hardworking, humble guys who aren’t afraid to put in the work and make the most of situations. Ryan has had a tremendous career competing on some of the biggest stages in boxing. He is at the point where he is looking to wrap it up with another shot or two at big paydays and then move on with his life. Mike is now getting to the point where he is going to start to see the stages that Ryan has been on. Mike has grinded his way through the club boxing scene and I’m excited to see him move on to the national stage very soon and get the compensation he has worked for.”

Fighting out of the “City of Champions,” Brockton’s favorite son David Ribeiro will make his much – anticipated pro debut in a 4-round bout versus Joshua Zimmerman (0-8). Ribeiro was a celebrated amateur having won gold medals at the 2020 New England Golden Gloves, 2019 King of the Ring, and the regional Mike Tyson Tournament.

2018 New England Golden Gloves runner-up, undefeated New Bedford light heavyweight Edet Mkpanam (6-0, 5 KOs), meets Scott “Bombz” Lampert (2-4, 2 KOs) in a 6-round match.

Fall River (MA) welterweight Damon Towns (4-0, 3 KOs) faces Robert Bricks (0-9) in a 4-round bout.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale, $60.00 standing room and $40.00 floor seats, and available for purchase at www.TicketRiver.com (Search: Hometown Royalty).

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

Tyson Fury retained the WBC Heavyweight championship with an one=punch sixth round stoppage over Dillian Whyte in front of 94,000 fans at Wembley Stadium in London.

In round four, Whyte was cut over his right eye from a headbutt. There was a lot of grappling and both guys had trouble setting a pace.

That all changed in round six as Fury landed a monstrous right uppercut to the chin that knocked Whyte flat on his back. Whyte got to his feet, but wobbled all over the ring and the fight was 2:59.

Fury is now 32-0-1 with 23 knockouts. Whyte is now 28-3.

Fury said, “I’m overwhelmed with the support. I can’t believe that my 94,000 countrymen and women have come here tonight to see my perform. I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, thank you so much to every single person who bought a ticket here tonight or stayed up late to watch it on TV.
 
“Dillian Whyte is a warrior. And I believe that Dillian will be a world champion. But tonight, he met a great in the sport. I’m one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. And unfortunately for Dillian Whyte, he had to face me here tonight. There’s no disgrace. He’s a tough, game man. He’s as strong as a bull. He’s got the heart of a lion. But you’re not messing with a mediocre heavyweight. You’re messing with the best man on the planet. And you saw that tonight with what happened.
 
“I think Lennox Lewis could even be proud of the right uppercut tonight.”

Essuman Decisions Tetley

Ekow Essuman scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Darren Tetley in a welterweight bout.

Essuman landed 215 of 795 punches; Tetley was 144 of 691.

Essuman win by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice and is now 17-0. Tetley is 21-3.

Nick Ball Stops Isaac Lowe in 6

Nick Ball remained undefeated by stopping Tyson Fury-stablemate Isaac Lowe in round six of a 10-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Ball dropped Lowe with a big left hook. In round three, Ball was bleeding from the nose. In round four, Lowe was bleeding badly from his left eye.

In round six, with Lowe turned around, Ball drilled Lowe with two hard lefts and the bout was stopped at 1:45

Ball is 15-0 with eight knockouts. Lowe is 21-2-3.

Adeleye stops Healey in 4

David Adeleye stopped Chris Healey in round four of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round four, Adeleye landed a hard left and a big right that forced a referee stoppage at 52 seconds.

Adeleye, 232 lbs of London is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Healey, 282 lbs of England is 9-9.

Tommy Fury defeated Daniel Bocianski via six-round decision in a light heavyweight bout.

In round five, Bocianski was cut over the left eye. Later in the round, Fury landed a big right that put Bocianski on the canvas.

Fury landed 80 of 255 punches; Bocianski was 20 of 159.

Fury, 177 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 8-0. Bocianski, 175 lbs of Poland is 10-2.

Karol Itauma remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Michael Ciach in a scheduled four-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Itauma sent Ciach to the canvas with a hard flurry on the ropes. In round two, Ituma dropped Ciach with an overhand left and the fight was stopped.

Itaima, 175 lbs of Kent, ENG is now 7-0 with five knockouts. Ciach, 175 lbs of Poland is 2-12.

Royston Barney-Smith remained perfect with a four-round decision over Constantin Radoi in a super featherweight bout.

Barney-Smith, 132 lbs of Southampton, ENG won by a 40-36 tally and is now 2-0. Radoi, 132 lbs of Swinton, ENG is 0-11.

Kurt Walker remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Stefan Nicolae in a junior lightweight bout.

Walker of Lisburn, Northern Ireland won by a 40-35 score and is now 2-0. Nicolae is 3-32-2.

Follow all the action as Tyson Fury defends the WBC Heavyweight Title against mandatory challenger Dillian Whyte in front of over 94,000 people at London’s Wembley Stadium.

The action begins at 1 PM ET / 6 PM UK time with a six-fight undercard

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED. THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY.

Round 1:

ROUND 2 1-2 FROM FURY…Jab…Check hook…Body work from Whyte

ROUND 3 Left from Fury…Jab to body..right behind the jab..Left to body…1-2…Jab..Left uppercut..

ROUND 4 Overhand right from Fury..Fury being admonished for not breaking…Whyte cut over his right eye…Left hook from Whyte…Right from Fury..Grappling in the corner…

ROUND 5 Body shot from Fury…Double jab..Right..Right to body…

ROUND 6 Left Hook to body,,Right to body from Fury…UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES WHYTE….HE WOBBLES..AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

Round 1:

Round 1:

ONTARIO, CA (April 22, 2022): Former world champion and light heavyweight Mexican boxing star Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, will face former WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion Dominic Boesel (32-2, 12 KOs) of Freyburg, Germany on Saturday, May 14. The 12-round fight will pit the WBA #1 ranked, Boesel against the #2 WBA ranked Ramirez in a winner takes all event that will propel the winner to the door of a world championship fight. The co-main event will feature one of the most exciting Mexican boxers in the lightweight division, the undefeated William “El Camaron” Zepeda (25-0, 23 KOs), defending his WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title against the resilient, former world champion, Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (32-11, 21 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua in a 10-round lightweight fight. The event will take place at Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA, and will stream live exclusively on DAZN.

“I’m excited to be fighting back in California,” said Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez. “May 14 is not too far away, and I feel great about how everything is going. I know Dominic is the best light heavyweight from Germany, and he’ll bring his best. This is a good step towards my overall goal, and I’m glad I’ll be able to put on a great show come fight night.”

“I’m looking forward to going to California for a great fight against a tough opponent in ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez,” said Dominic Boesel. “I’m sure this fight will please the boxing fans worldwide watching live on DAZN.”

After spectacular back-to-back knockout victories over Cuba’s Sullivan Barrera in July 2021 and Yunieski “El Monstro” Gonzalez in December 2021, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez is knocking on the door of a world championship title shot when he faces #1 WBA ranked Dominic Boesel. ‘Zurdo’ is committed to continuing his winning and knockout streaks as he proves that he is an elite, feared fighter in the light heavyweight division. Having previously held the WBO Super Middleweight World Championship, ‘Zurdo’ is ready to conquer another weight class on his road to glory.

Ranked #1 by the WBA and #5 by the WBC in the light heavyweight division, Dominic Boesel formerly held the WBA Interim Heavyweight World Championship in 2020 and currently holds the IBO World Light Heavyweight Title. The German fighter is set to make his U.S. debut on May 14 and is determined to make a good showing for the passionate SoCal boxing fans. Defeating ‘Zurdo’ will cement his standing in the world rankings, putting him closer to another world title shot. Having faced previous undefeated fighters like Sami Enborn and Tony Averlant and winning multiple regional titles like the WBA Continental Light Heavyweight Title and WBO Continental Light Heavyweight Title, Boesel is ready to prove he is the best at 175lbs.

Tickets for Zurdo vs Boesel go on sale Friday, April 22 at 10:00 a.m. PT 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 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

TOYOTA ARENA
Toyota Arena, located in Southern California, built and owned by the City of Ontario, managed by SMG Worldwide, continues to win awards for the best entertainment venue in the region. The 225,000 square foot venue can accommodate capacities up to 11,000 for concerts, family shows, and sporting competitions. The arena features 36 luxury suites located on two levels and a continuous concourse hosting a variety of refreshment stands, merchandise kiosks, a VIP club and other fan amenities. Toyota Arena is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy with a GBAC Star Accreditation. Toyota Arena hosts a variety of sporting competitions, concerts, family shows, special events, graduation ceremonies and community activities as well as private events. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign, an AHL Hockey Team, and Ontario Fury, a MASL Soccer Team and the Aqua Caliente Clippers of Ontario, a G league basketball team. Toyota Arena is the biggest and most modern arena within the region, an area with over 4.7 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, California, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway. For more information visit Toyota-Arena.com

•  Tyson Fury 264.8 vs. Dillian Whyte 253 1/4
(Fury’s WBC/Lineal/Ring Magazine Heavyweight Titles — 12 Rounds)
Judges: Guido Cavalleri, Juan Carlos Pelayo and Robert Tapper
Referee: Mark Lyson

•   Ekow Essuman 146.5 lbs vs. Darren Tetley 145 3/4 lbs 
(Essuman’s Commonwealth, British and IBF European Welterweight Titles — 12 Rounds)

•   Isaac Lowe 125 1/4 lbs vs. Nick Ball 125.5 lbs 
(Vacant WBC Silver Featherweight Title — 10 Rounds)

•   David Adeleye 232.4 lbs vs. Chris Healey 282 lbs 
(Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Tommy Fury 177 3/4 lbs vs. Daniel Bocianski 175 lbs 
(Light Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT)

   •    Karol Itauma 175 3/4 lbs vs. Michael Ciach 175 3/4 lbs
 (Light Heavyweight — 4 Rounds)

   •    Royston Barney-Smith 132 lbs vs. Constantin Radoi 132 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

(OFF-TV, 12:45 p.m. ET/9:45 a.m. PT)

   •       Kurt Walker 129 lbs vs. Stefan Nicolae 127.4 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

FULL LINE UP
James Perkins, Lynn, MA.vs. Stephen Langlais, Acushnet, MA.6 Rounds, Super Middleweights
Kris Jacobs, Fall River, MA.vs. Ryan Clark, Berwick, ME.6 Rounds, Welterweights
Kevin Walsh, Brockton, MA.vs. Braulio Avila, Big Bear Lake, CA.4 Rounds, Lightweights
Rico Depaolis, Watertown, MA.vs. Stephen Stengel, Winchendon, MA.4 Rounds, Light Heavyweights
Kenny Larson, Salem, MA.vs. Jay Gregory, Auburn, NY.4 Rounds, Welterweights
Kyle Cusick, Fall River, MA.vs. Tony Andreozzi, Swansea, MA.4 Rounds, Middleweights
Fernanda Araujo, Stoneham, MA.vs. Liz Humphries, Springfield, MA.4 Rounds, Junior Welterweights
Andrew Perez, Lawrence, MA.vs. Bruce Richards, Montpelier, VT.4 Rounds, Super Middleweights
Perkins vs. Langlais takes place April 22nd at the Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Limited tickets remain and are available at www.boxingnh.com. The event will stream live on WWW.COMBATSPORTSNOW. for 19.99.
ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS
Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by thousands of fans around the world. Boston Boxing Promotions returned to live audiences with The Great American Boxing Bash this past summer which featured 3 consecutive sold out weekends at the The Castleton?in Windham, New Hampshire.
Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!

Ivan Zucco remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Marko Nicolic in a super middleweight fight in Verbania, Italy

In round two, Zucco dropped Nikolic with a big left. Zucco finished off Nikolic with a left and the fight was stopped at 1:30.

Zucco of Verbania, ITA is 16-0 with 14 knockouts. Nikolic of Belgrade, SER is 28-2.

Natalizi Decisions Mueller

Mirko Natalizi won a 10-round unanimous decision over Rico Mueller in a super welterweight bout.

Natalizi of Roma, ITA won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 12-0. Mueller of Eberswalde, GER is 28-5-1.

Grandelli Decisions Baker

Franchesco Grandelli won a 10-round unanimous decision over Kane Baker in a featherweight contest.

In round One, Grandelli dropped Baker with an overhand right hand. In round two, Baker turned to tables with a right that sent Grandelli to the canvas

In round 10, Baker was bleeding from his nose.

Grandelli of Italy won by scores of 98-90 twice and 96-92 and is now 14-1-2. Baker of Birmingham, ENG is 17-9-1.

Nmomah Decisions El Massoudi

Samuel Nmomah won a eight-round unanimous decision over Fouad El Massoudi in a super welterweight bout.

With Nmomah battering El Massoudi, the referee administered a standing eight-round in round five.

Nmomah of Italy won by scores of 78-73 twice and 79-72 and is 17-0. El Massoudi of Lyon, FRA is 17-18-1.

Paul Butler won the WBO Interim Bantamweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jonas Sultan in Liverpool, England.

But was originally supposed to take on John Riel Casimero, but Casimero was ruled out of the fight due to Casimero’s use of a sauna.

Butler won by scores of 116-112, 118-110 and 117-111.

Butler, 117.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG won by scores of and is now a two-time world champion with a record of 34-2. Sultan, 117.6 lbs of Philippines is 18-6.

The new champion said: “It’s unbelievable, what a feeling!

“I have waited a long time to be a two-time world champion.

“It’s been a long journey and we only had 48 hours to come up with a gameplan for Sultan but that’s what I can do.  I nullified the bull tonight.”

McGrail Stops Lopez in 4

Peter McGrail remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Uriel Lopez in a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

In round four, McGrail dropped Lopez and the bout was stopped.

McGrail, 124.4 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 4-0 with two knockouts. Lopez, 124 lbs of Mexico is 15-18-1.

McGrail, now 4-0, said: “I am going to keep getting better and better.

“And hopefully, in the future, there will be some big nights coming to Liverpool.  We’re the next stock coming through, and we will be bringing world titles back to this city.”

Meneses Shocks Maxwell in Scoring 9th Round stoppage

Alejandro Meneses scored a stunning ninth round stoppage over previously undefeated Sam Maxwell in round nine of their 10-round super lightweight bout.

In round four, Meneses dropped Maxwell with a big right.

After battering Maxwell for the better parts of rounds seven and eight, Meneses dropped Maxwell with a hard right in round nine. Meneses continued his assault until the bout was stopped at 2:39.

Meneses, 134.2 lbs of Mexico is 16-5 with nine knockouts. Maxwell, 136.8 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 16-1.

Dickens Stops Gago in 5

James Dickens stopped Andoni Gago in round five of their 10-round featherweight bout.

In round three, Dickens scored a knockdown with a solid left. In round five, it was a left uppercut that sent Gago down and the fight was stopped at 2:52.

Dickens is now 31-4 with 12 knockouts. Gago, 125.2 lbs of Spain is 25-5-4.

“The next step for me is a big world title eliminator, if not a world title.

“I need a world title next.  It can be Leigh Wood or Josh Warrington, but I would prefer Leigh Wood, who I have beaten before.

“It is hard to see another man with your world title.”

Fielding Stops Laine in Three

Former world titlist Rocky Fielding stopped Timo Laine in round three of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Fielding landed a hard combination that forced a referee stoppage at 1:34.

Fielding is now 30-2 with 18 knockouts. Laine is 30-18.

“I had never retired; I was just sitting back with the pandemic and was concentrating on my family and kids.

“But it’s good to be back fighting and the break has done me the world of good, I’ve been boxing since the age of nine without any break.”

Frankie Stringer made a successful pro debut with a four-round decision over Simas Volosinas in a lightweight fight.

Stringer of England won by a 40-36 card and is 1-0. Volosinas of Lithuania is 7-103.

In an exciting toe-to-toe war, Mercito Gesta won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joel Diaz Jr. in a lightweight bout at the Fantasy Springs Hotel Resort in Indio, California

In round one, Gesta dropped Diaz with a right. Later in the round, Gesta landed a hard flurry that was followed up with a left that sent Diaz into the ropes for a second knockdown. In round two, Gesta was cut on the bridge of his nose.

In round six, Diaz was swelling from his let eye and bleeding from his mouth. Diaz was able to get in some good offense, but every time the fight tide seemed to be turning, Gesta would land either a hard straight left or a nice right hook. The two thrilled the crowd to the final bell.

Gesta landed 197 of 630 punches; Diaz was 172 of 613.

Gesta, 134.8 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 96-92 twice and 95-93 and is now 33-3-3. Diaz, 134.6 lbs of Palmdale, CA is 26-3.

“I feel energized, knowing I have an upcoming baby that has made me want to go back in the ring,” said Mercito Gesta. “We have been trying for six years, and we are blessed with this new life. I am so happy. When they said that there is ring rust, I don’t think I have that because I have been working hard and staying in shape. Joel Diaz, Jr. is a tough fighter, and winning and having such a great performance is going to open the doors for me in the sport.”

“Mercito is a tough opponent,” said Joel Diaz, Jr. “I was giving him a lot of hard punches, but I couldn’t catch him. There is still a lot that I need to work on, focusing on landing my punches and staying patient. I was going out there looking for the kill, but that’s not always going to happen.”

Jousce Gonzalez stopped Jairo Lopez in round six, of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Gonzalez dropped Lopez with an uppercut. In round three, Gonzalez dropped a now-bloody Lopez with a combination. In round five, Gonzalez started to bleed around his right eye.

In round six, Gonzalez landed a big flurry that was punctuated by a big uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Gonzalez, 134.4 lbs of Covina, CA is 12-0-1 with 11 knockouts. Lopez, 133.2 lbs of Apodaca, MEX is 27-15.

“I give my performance a six out of ten,” said Jousce Gonzalez. “This is my first fight back, and I know I can do better. He is a very resilient fighter, but I knew I was landing my shots and hurting him. I knew he was taking some punishment, so I wasn’t surprised when the referee waved the fight off. I am just happy to be back in the ring and want to aim to fight big names in the division.”

Manuel Flores remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Victor Ruiz in a scheduled eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Flores dropped Ruiz with a hard combination. Seconds later, it was a big left that sent Ruiz to the canvas. Finally it was a straight left that put Ruiz down and the fight was stopped at 2:21.

Flores, 119.4 lbs of Coachella, CA is now 12-0 with nine knockouts. Ruiz, 119.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 23-13.

“I am so happy to be here and fight in front of all my family and friends,” said Manuel Flores.  “I want to thank all the local fans that came out to support; it gives me much more motivation to continue fighting.”

Jan Salvatierra stopped Ernie Marquez in round two of their six-round flyweight bout.

In round two, Salvatierra dropped Marquez with a right hand. Marquez looked like he twisted his ankle and the fight was stopped at 2:26.

Salvatierra, 111.6 lbs of Cabo San Lucas, MEX is now 8-1 with four knockouts. Marquez, 110.8 lbs of Fort Morgan, CO is now 10-18-2.

“First of all I want to thank God and Golden Boy for the opportunity to fight tonight,” said Jan Salvatierra.  “We have had a great training camp, preparing since January for anything that could pop up. We trained to go the distance. I was expecting more from my opponent, hoping that his experience would bring more to the table. But unfortunately he sustained an injury and things happen for a reason. I want to be active for the rest of the year and hopefully fight for a regional title soon.”

Jorge Chavez stopped Jonathan Tejeda in round two of the scheduled four-round super featherweight fight.

In round two, Chavez dropped Tejeda with an overhand right to the side of the head, and the fight was stopped at 1:04.

Chavez, 127.8 lbs of San Diego, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Tejeda, 124.8 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 0-2.

“I loved being able to fight at Fantasy Springs; all my friends and family were able to come to see me in a more intimate venue,” said Jorge Chavez. “I am happy I got the victory, but every fight is a learning experience. We will continue to grow, learn, and just get better and better every fight.”