Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2023: His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced today that Riyadh Season 2023 will play host to the ‘Day of Reckoning’, featuring some of the most famous boxing world champions and leading contenders from the top weight divisions on Saturday, December 23, at Kingdom Arena.

An unprecedented lineup on a single night of boxing, the ‘Day of Reckoning’ will see two-time unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua go up against Otto Wallin as the pair close in on challenging for world title honours, while former WBO world champion Joseph Parker takes on the Bronze Bomber and former WBC world title holder, Deontay Wilder, with IBF No.1 contender Filip Hrgovic fighting Mark De Mori in another heavyweight shootout.

WBA World light heavyweight champion Dmitrii Bivol will make an 11th defence of his title against Lyndon Arthur and IBF World cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia will make a second defence of his belt against Ellis Zorro.

Back with the heavyweights, the fearsome Arslanbek Makhmudov will face the European champion Agit Kabayel. Recent world title challenger Daniel Dubois will bid to put his name back up in lights when he enters into a Battle of the Giants against Big Baby Jarrell Miller and top heavyweight contender Frank Sanchez will close in on a world title shot if he can overcome Junior Fa in Riyadh.

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), said: “The “Day of Reckoning” fights constitute the highly anticipated event offered by Riyadh Season for boxing fans this year. It brings together a number of world boxing champions in groundbreaking bouts.” 

“We are proud to be the world’s destination for enjoying these exceptional events that constitute a unique and distinctive experience for the residents of the Kingdom, visitors to the capital, Riyadh, and followers of these events from all over the world.” 

Frank Warren, Chairman of Queensberry, said: “This is quite simply an incredible night of boxing we have put together on behalf of Riyadh Season and the GEA and I would like to pay tribute to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for making this possible and for providing boxing with such history-making opportunities to showcase the very best of the sport to a global audience. Never before, I believe, has one card featured such an array and depth of talent and fans lucky enough to travel to Saudi Arabia will also be able to witness all the champions performing and sample the spectacular events that Riyadh Season has to offer.” 

Spencer Brown of Goldstar said: “It’s been a pleasure working with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, George and Frank Warren and Tyson Fury; plus all the other promoters and managers from around the world who worked to get us to this point. It’s going to be an unbelievable night of boxing in Riyadh on 23 December. A real present for fans all around the globe.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Sport, said: “We are delighted to be returning to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Riyadh Season and for what will ultimately be a historic event for our sport. I would like to thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for providing us with this fantastic opportunity. 

Anthony Joshua needs no introduction. He has his sights set firmly on becoming a three -time world heavyweight champion and I believe you will witness yet another memorable performance from AJ on December 23 when he faces Otto Wallin. Both Dmitry Bivol and Jai Opateia have chances to showcase their world class talents on a major stage and we look forward to exploring big fights in the Kingdom for both boxers with Queensberry, Goldstar and the NEC in the near future. Bivol will once more underline why he is one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters on the planet when he collides with Lyndon Arthur and reigning IBF cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia will undoubtedly deliver an incredible, destructive display against Ellis Zorro. I cannot wait. It will be a special spectacle for fight fans all over the world and an extravaganza not to be missed.” 

The “Day of Reckoning” comes after the “Battle of the Baddest”, which was held on October 28 during the opening of Riyadh Season 2023, in which Tyson Fury defeated Francis Ngannou. 

The fourth edition of Riyadh Season, themed “Big Time,” offers many entertainment options and experiences. It continues to attract visitors from across the globe to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, during the winter months, providing them with the opportunity to partake in thousands of concerts, exhibitions, and other distinctive entertainment events. Notable celebrities and prominent international brands contribute to the grandeur of this occasion. 

Tickets for events and experiences in the zone can be reserved through the WeBook application by accessing the following link: http://onelink.to/wbkapp

##The End## 

About Riyadh Season 
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting activities, and other unique cultural events. 

(Nov. 15, 2023) — Former world title challenger Denzel Bentley will defend his British middleweight title against the unbeaten Nathan Heaney this Saturday, Nov. 18 in the 12-round main event at the AO Arena in Manchester, England. 

In the 12-round co-feature, unbeaten British featherweight phenom Nick Ball steps up to face former world champion Isaac Dogboe in a WBC world title eliminator.

Promoted by Queensberry, Bentley-Heaney, Ball-Dogboe, and a loaded undercard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Bentley (18-2-1, 15 KOs) went 13-0 before drawing against Mark Heffron in September 2020. The 28-year-old then captured the British middleweight crown before suffering a stoppage defeat to Felix Cash. Bentley bounced back with three wins, including a fourth-round TKO victory against Marcus Morrison in September 2022. Two months later, he made an unsuccessful bid for the WBO world title against Janibek Alimkhanuly. Bentley returns following a first-round knockout win versus Kieran Smith in April. Heaney (17-0, 6 KOs) is a six-year pro who is coming off two wins against Jack Flatley. The 34-year-old will look to remain unbeaten as he attempts to derail Bentley’s plans for a second title shot.

Ball (18-0, 11 KOs) debuted as a pro in June 2017 and captured his first regional title in April 2022 with a sixth-round TKO against Isaac Lowe on the Tyson Fury-Dillian Whyte undercard. He has since won three fights via stoppage, including a 12^th-round TKO against Ludumo Lamati in May. Dogboe (24-3, 15 KOs) burst onto the championship scene when he dethroned then-WBO junior featherweight king Jessie Magdaleno in April 2018. He lost the belt to Emanuel Navarrete in December of that year and, following an unsuccessful rematch, moved up to featherweight. Dogboe is coming off a decision loss to Robeisy Ramirez in April for the WBO featherweight world title.

IN OTHER STREAMING ACTION:

Liam Davies (14-0, 6 KOs) vs. Vincenzo La Femina (13-0, 7 KOs) 12 rounds, Davies’ European Union Junior Featherweight Title

Solomon Dacres (7-0, 2 KOs) vs. Michael Webster (9-0, 6 KOs), 10 rounds, Dacres’ English Heavyweight Title

Ekow Essuman (19-0, 7 KOs) vs. Harry Scatff (12-2, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Essuman’s British, Commonwealth and IBF European Welterweight Titles

Hannah Rankin (13-6, 3 KOs) vs. Ema Kozin (23-1-1, 12 KOs), 10 rounds, Vacant WBC and WBO Junior Middleweight World Titles

Nathaniel Collins (13-0, 7 KOs) vs. Zak Miller (13-0, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Collins’ British and Commonwealth Featherweight Titles

(Nov. 15, 2023) — O’Shaquie Foster, the reigning WBC junior lightweight world champion, has signed a multi-fight promotional contract with Top Rank.

A native of Orange, Texas, who trains out of Houston, Foster will make his Top Rank on ESPN debut in early 2024.

“O’Shaquie Foster is a supremely talented champion in the prime of his career,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “We are thrilled to welcome him to Top Rank, and I eagerly await his next world title defense.”

Foster said, “I’m excited to be part of the Top Rank and ESPN family. Top Rank has shaped the careers of many of the greatest fighters whom I look up to even to this day, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to fight on ESPN. I can’t wait to step into the ring and show that I am the best fighter in the world.”

“O’Shaquie Foster has firmly established himself as a reigning world champion and a formidable force in the ring. Joining forces with Top Rank and ESPN will provide ‘Shock’ the platform needed to showcase his exceptional skill set and evolve into the star he is destined to become,” said Keith Mills, Foster’s manager. “This collaboration with Top Rank marks a crucial moment in Foster’s career, as he persists in shaping his legacy within the sport, captivating audiences, and solidifying his status as one of the very best talents in professional boxing.”

Foster (21-2, 12 KOs) went 8-0 in his first three years in the paid ranks before losing a pair of close decisions in a four-fight span. After nearly 18 months out of the ring, Foster returned a changed fighter and resurrected his career with the help of Mills and head trainer Bobby Benton. Foster has reeled off 11 straight wins, a run that gained momentum following his nationally televised 2018 victory over the previously unbeaten Jon Fernandez.

In February, Foster fought Rey Vargas for the vacant WBC world title and entered the fight as the betting underdog. Foster dominated the championship rounds and won a unanimous decision. Title defense number one came last month in Cancun, Mexico, and Foster had to turn back the fierce challenge of Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez. The 11th round was a Round of the Year-type stanza that saw Foster stagger Hernandez on multiple occasions. Trailing on two of the three judges’ cards entering the 12th, Foster dropped Hernandez twice to secure the stoppage with 22 seconds remaining.

Steve Claggett won a 10-round unanimous decison over Miguel Madueno in a junior welterweight at Casino Montreal in Montreal, Canada.

Claggett, 139.8 lbs of Calgary, CAN won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 37-7-2. Madueno, 139.6 lbs of Orange, CA is 30-2.

Steven Butler stopped Ivan Alvarez in round nine of their 10-round middleweight bout.

In round nine, Butler landed a big right hand that hurt Alvarez. Butler followed up with a flurry that put Alvarez down in the corner. Later in the round Butler sent Alvarez down with a straight right hand. Alvarez got to his feet, but the fight was waved off at 2:36.

Butler, 161.9 lbs of Montreal, CAN is 33-4-1 with 27 knockouts. Alvarez, 160.9 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 32-15-4.

Imam Khataev stopped Fernando Galvan in round two of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Khataev dropped Galvan with a one-two. In round two, it was a right hand that put Galvan down and the fight was stopped at 44 seconds.

Khataev, 178.6 lbs of Sydney, AUS is 5-0 with five knockout. Galvan, 179.4 lbs of Mexico is 8-9-1.

Mehmet Unal stopped Jaime Lopez after round two of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Unal dropped Lopez with a left hand. Unal dominated the bout and the fight was stopped in the corner due to injury.

Unal is now 7-0 with six knockouts. Lopez is 10-11.

Wikens Mathieu remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Gregorz Mardyla in a super middleweight.

Mathieu, 169.5 lbs of Quebec, CAN won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 5-0. Mardyla, 168.6 lbs of Krackow, POL is 1-1-1.

Moreno Fendero stopped Cristian Lozano in round two of their four-round middleweight bout.

Fendero dropped Lozano at the end of the first round. In round two, Lozano began to bleed from his nose. The fight was stopped when Fendero landed a hard combination at 1″05.

Fendero, 163.6 lbs of Chartres, FRA is 2-0 with one knockout, Lozano, 160.9 lbs of San Pedro, MEX is 2-3.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (Nov. 14, 2023) — Shakur Stevenson is ready for his opportunity to become a three-weight champ.

Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs) and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) will collide for the vacant WBC lightweight world title this Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs).

Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT) will feature a battle between unbeaten welterweights as well as a host of emerging prospects.

Undefeated standouts Brian Norman Jr. (24-0, 19 KOs) and Quinton Randall (13-0-1, 3 KOs) will collide in a 10-round welterweight battle. 

In an eight-round bantamweight duel between two of Las Vegas’ top prospects, Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (9-0, 3 KOs) and Max Ornelas (15-1-1, 5 KOs) will battle for intra-city bragging rights,

U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (10-0, 4 KOs) steps up in class in an eight-round middleweight fight against Mexico’s Vladimir Hernandez (14-5, 6 KOs).

Top prospects Emiliano Fernando Vargas (7-0, 6 KOs) and Hugo Micallef (8-0, 1 KO)will also see action in separate six-rounders.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

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

Shakur Stevenson

“This means the world to me. I’ve been grinding my whole life for these moments. I’m back in the same situation I was before, fighting for another vacant title. I’m just here to do what I got to do. I’m focused. I’m ready. Showtime on Thursday.”

“My performance is based on how I feel. I’m performing for myself. I know that if I come in at my best, I will be hard to deal with for everybody.”

“He’s a fighter. You can tell that he has a lot of heart. It may work against him on Thursday night. But I definitely respect the fact that he took the fight.”

“This means a lot to me. I hope it’s a sold-out crowd. I want all the people to tune in. I’m focused and ready.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“Like I’ve always said, I’m not here to hesitate, I’m here to fight. As soon as we heard about the fight, we accepted the opportunity.”

“This is something that is super exciting for me. All boxers dream of becoming a world champion. My family is very happy, and I know that with the help of God I am going to be victorious, and the win will change my life.”

“On November 16, you will see an upset. Don’t be surprised.”

Emanuel Navarrete

“Robson represents an enormous threat in this fight. His style is very difficult. He’s a fighter who has an Olympic style. That makes it difficult for anyone with my style. But we worked on that. We worked on that in order to make the fight easier for me in that regard.”

“I like being active. I like working. I always like fighting, and I take the opportunities that appear in my career. So, basically, I just take advantage of it.”

Robson Conceição

“I heard of this {fight} the day before {a scheduled fight in September}, and I knew it was a big opportunity. And so, I was left very happy, and I accepted immediately. The more difficult things are for me, the better. So, I accepted immediately.”

“It’s tough to get three title opportunities. But that’s what happened in the amateurs. It took me three attempts to become an Olympic champion. So, the same will happen in professional boxing.”

Brian Norman Jr.

“I carry {my father’s name}. He knows the ins and outs, how the game goes. It hasn’t really been hard on me because he’s prepared me for everything. He prepared me mentally. I’ve been watching and studying greats since forever. It’s all I do, still to this day. I love the greats. I love the legends.”

“I’m not going to try and rush the knockout or predict the knockout, but I will be pushing the pace and pushing the fight. I’m going in to do damage.”

“I love this situation. I’m fighting in Vegas. I got the perfect opponent. Like he just said, he has the mindset to go in on Thursday now. This is my test. This is the test God gave me. I’m good at passing tests. This is what I’ve been doing my whole life.”

Quinton Randall

“He’s gonna get his ass whooped. {Speaking to Norman) You’re gonna get your ass whooped.”

“I’ve been passing tests my whole life. You’re a child to me. I’m gonna beat you like one.”

“You’re a bum. The people you have fought are bums. You’ve got 25 wins of pad work on your record.”

Floyd Diaz

“You’re going to see a little different Floyd. Not only am I back and have a new hairdo, but I’m going to show different things ya’ll haven’t seen yet. But it’s still the same Floyd. I want ya’ll to tune in. It’s going to be fireworks.”

Troy Isley

“Vladimir {Hernandez} is coming to fight. He’s going to bring the fight to me. So, I’m going to show some stuff that the world hasn’t seen. Winning this fight means I’m a contender.”

Emiliano Fernando Vargas

“My father {former world champion Fernando Vargas} always says that you stop growing when you stop learning. Even my father is still learning things. I’m learning things as we go on. In order to be the best in the sport, I have to continue growing.”

Abdullah Mason

“I’m feeling amazing. I had a great camp. We’ve just been keeping it going since my last fight. I’ve been pretty busy and staying in the gym. I feel like I’m constantly getting better and stronger. As time goes on, we’ll just keep getting better and better.”

Hugo Micallef

“Expect fireworks. I’m a quick boxer. I’m a fast boxer. I’m very technical. I would like to be recognized as one of the most technical boxers in some years. So, expect fireworks and the knockout, I hope.”

Thursday, November 16

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin De Los Santos 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Lightweight World Title

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT)
Brian Norman Jr. vs. Quinton Randall, 10 rounds, WBO International Welterweight Title

Giovanni Sarchioto vs. Lucas de Abreu, 6 rounds, super middleweight 

LAS VEGAS – November 14, 2023 – Hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matias, unbeaten top contender Shohjahon Ergashev, WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Hector Luis Garcia and mandatory challenger Lamont Roach previewed their respective SHOWTIME PPV undercard world title fights during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step into the ring on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature Matias defending his world title against Ergashev, while Garcia puts his belt on the line against Roach in the telecast opener. The card is headlined by undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez defending his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and available at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

SUBRIEL MATIAS

“My preparations have been great. I’m healthy and we’re heading into the home stretch before the fight. I can tell you this, the fight won’t reach the final bell because if you look at the way both of us like to fight and how our fights have gone, you can expect a knockout.

“I am not the same fighter as I was in 2020 when I lost my only fight. I am way better now. I was not focused back in 2020. Now, I am ready to show the fans that the champion is here and I’m ready to put on a great show.

“My experience is going to be his downfall. This is going to be like a game to me. Let’s see what happens after the sixth round. I will leave it there.

“One of us is going to fall. I promise you that. One of us is going to kiss the mat.

“I can consider myself the best at 140 pounds, but I would rather show it. If this is one more step on the ladder towards greatness, I will gladly take that step to get to where I want to be.

“I have the confidence in myself to win this fight after what I have done in training camp. But to say that I am a big favorite would be assuming a lot of things considering that boxing is unpredictable. I’m not going to underestimate my opponent. I am going to go out there and bear the fruits of my preparation.

“I have a great opportunity to come back to Las Vegas and redeem myself and fix the mistake I made in 2020.

“The goal is to unify next. It doesn’t matter against who. I am going to defend my title and then I’ll be ready for whoever comes my way.

“I am going to promise you fireworks. Just look at our records. 19-1 with 19 KOs for me. 23-0 with 20 KOs for him. What do you think is going to happen? It’s going to be awesome. Plus, I’m the pride of Puerto Rico and I have to make my country proud.”

SHOHJAHON ERGASHEV

“It’s been a long journey to get here and I’ve been training for this fight since the summer. I had a great camp. Even though this is my first title fight, I’ve been ready physically and mentally for a long time. I can’t wait to get to Las Vegas and get the fireworks started. People are going to see the world class talent that I am.

“I have a lot of respect for Matias. He’s a good fighter, a big puncher and is truly a good world champion. But understand that I’m not coming here from the library. I’m coming here with a big surprise, a Thanksgiving gift for Subriel Matias. I have a lot of respect for what he’s done inside the ring, but the belt is coming home with me to Uzbekistan.

“He says for me to wait and see what happens after the sixth round? Well, let’s see if he makes it to the sixth round before he worries about that.

“I’ve fought on SHOBOX, but people have not seen my true potential. Matias is an excellent fighter and it’s going to be an exciting fight because he likes to engage. That will give me the opportunity to showcase my skills and raise my game to the next level.

“I plan on using all of my skills to my advantage. I have physical strength and boxing skills and experience both professional and as an amateur. All of this is going to pay off big time.

“My country is supporting me and I am the first fighter from Uzbekistan to challenge for a title in this weight class. I feel the pressure, but I’m also very excited. This is an interesting fight for me because most of my opponents have run from me because they were scared of my power. Matias is a very good fighter who is very aggressive and likes to come forward. This will be a fun fight for the fans.”

HECTOR LUIS GARCIA

“I feel in tip top shape. I fought at the beginning of the year and I feel like I am ready to go on November 25. You can expect the best of me, like always. I am going to focus on not letting that loss get the best of me. I am going to focus on being positive, having positive thoughts and going after the win.

“I learned a lot from the Gervonta Davis fight. But there is only one Gervonta Davis, so I know that I am not going to lose like that again. I always take the positives out of a fight and having fought on a pay-per-view main event allowed me to grow and I learned a lot from the entire experience.

“Congratulations to Lamont on his mindset. I’m glad that he has such confidence and such a positive mindset that he thinks he’s going to stop me. Good for you. But I talk inside the ring, not outside of it. You will see.

“Lamont Roach, like most American fighters, likes to talk. That’s his thing. My responsibility is to defend my title and exit the ring as the champion. That’s what I’m going to focus on. I prefer to do my talking inside the ring and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.

“More than anything, I’m going to prove that what happened against Gervonta Davis was a fluke and it’s never going to happen again. No excuses.

“Lamont will not be the toughest opponent that I’ve ever had, not by a long shot. Roger Gutierrez is better than him. Chris Colbert was way better than him. Lamont has earned this opportunity and I don’t take that away from him, but Gutierrez, Colbert and, of course, Gervonta Davis are all better than him. I don’t consider him my toughest opponent at all.

“I feel equally fine at either 130 or 135 pounds. The plan is to defend the title on November 25 and then hopefully unify afterwards. Then, if the opportunity comes to fight at 135 then I will gladly do so. But the goal right now is to defend the title.

“The past is in the past and now I’m ready to redeem myself and go for it all.”

LAMONT ROACH

“Training camp has been going great. Words can’t explain how hard I have been working and how hard I have been striving to achieve my goals. On November 25, fans are going to see fireworks. They are going to see the best of me and they are going to see the demise of Hector Luis Garcia.

“My second time in a world title fight is going to be different because I learned a lot in the first one against Jamel Herring. I took a lot from that fight and I kept the ball rolling as you can see. I’m riding a win streak that I don’t plan on stopping for a long time. I give Garcia credit for being the champion but he’s in my way and I don’t think he’s on my level.

“I’m from the trenches and I stand by what I said about how I’m going to stop him. That’s what I’m here for. I was in the front row for his fight against Tank. I saw Tank take the fight out of him and I know I can do the same thing. And it might be quick.

“Fans are going to be saying that I’m the best boxer at 130 pounds and I will continue to prove that after November 25 as well.

“I like that he said no excuses. That’s what I like to hear. There are no excuses on my end. That’s the name of my gym, No Excuse.

“I fought for my first world title when I was 24 years old. I was young and since then I’ve only gotten better. I capitalized on it and added to my game. I’m better mentally, physically and psychologically. Every aspect of my game has been raised extremely high. There won’t be any excuses. For him to say that Roger Gutierrez is a better fighter than me is extremely disrespectful to my skill set. I hope he’s not training as if Roger Gutierrez is better than me.

“SHOWTIME PPV is going to showcase the next star. Make sure to tune in. I think Hector is the perfect dancing partner for me to get my shine on.”

#         #         #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. ANDRADE

Benavidez vs. Andrade will see undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez defend his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade headlining a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 10-round non-title WBC special event in the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matias faces unbeaten mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Hector Luis Garcia duels top-rated mandatory challenger Lamont Roach in the telecast opener.

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

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (November 14, 2023): Golden Boy Promotions announced today the signing of the undefeated and current WBO Intercontinental Super Lightweight Champion Arnold Barboza Jr. (28-10 KOs). Barboza Jr. will participate on the DAZN broadcast of the Ryan Garcia vs. Oscar Duarte card in Houston, Texas at Toyota Center on Saturday, December 2.

“I’m ready for the big fights,” said Arnold Barboza Jr. “ I’m ready for the big events, I’m ready to fight in LA where I was born and raised. I feel that Golden Boy and Oscar will deliver this for me and they stepped up and gave me what I asked for.”

“The mold of a Golden Boy fighter is talent and hunger to become a world champion, which are all the qualities that Arnold Barboza Jr. possesses,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “We will position him to fight for a World Title Belt in the very near future. We’re the best in the business at building the next generation of stars and Arnold Barboza Jr. will put the 140 pound division on notice.”

“Value is not determined by those who set the price, value is determined by those who choose to pay it,” said Rick Mirigian, Manager to Barboza Jr. “Golden Boy has placed a high value on Barboza and wasted no time to show it.”
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A Los Angeles native, 31-year-old Arnold Barboza Jr. made his professional debut as a welterweight on June 14, 2013, scoring a six-round unanimous decision victory against Gustavo Lopez. Since then, he has quickly dispatched a number of tough rivals and has climbed the ladder to become ranked No. 1 by the WBO, No.6 by Ring Magazine and No. 4 by the WBC. In his decade-long career, Barboza held various regional titles including the WBO International Super Lightweight Title (2020-2021) and the NABF Super Lightweight Title (2018-2019). His most notable wins include an unanimous decision victory against former World Champion Jose Pedraza, a unanimous decision victory against Danielito Zorrilla, a dramatic unanimous decision win against World Title Contender Alex Saucedo, and a fight that went the distance against Antonio Moran.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.

LONDON, UK (November 14, 2023) – The WBA World Title Final Eliminator clash between #1 and #2 world ranked light heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez has been rescheduled for Saturday, February 3 and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. 

Buatsi (17-0, 3 KOs) and Azeez (20-0, 13 KOs) were set to meet on October 21st at The O2 but a back injury suffered by Azeez in his final training session forced the postponement of their all-British showdown. The rescheduled contest will now take place at The OVO Arena Wembley due to a lack of available dates at The O2. 

January 13th was held by BOXXER as the targeted date at The O2 but a clash with the Light Heavyweight World Title contest between Artur Beterbiev and Callum Smith meant Azeez’s coach Buddy McGirt, who also trains  Smith, would be unavailable.  

With a new date set, the friends turned rivals are now back in full training ahead of one of the most anticipated fights in British boxing as the undefeated Londoners prepare to go toe-to-toe with bragging rights and a shot at the WBA World Light Heavyweight Title on the line. 

BOXXER Founder and CEO, Ben Shalom, said: “We’re delighted to be back in the capital on February 3rd for Joshua Buatsi vs Dan Azeez. It’s a fight everyone is looking forward to following the disappointment of the postponement in October. We wanted to get the fight back on as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the only available date at The O2 was January 13th, which would leave Dan Azeez without his coach for his biggest fight, so we’ve secured the next available date, which is February 3rd at The OVO Arena Wembley. It’s another fantastic addition to our 2024 schedule. We’re starting the year with a bang. Both men are hungrier than ever and can’t wait to get in the ring. With London bragging rights and a world title opportunity up for grabs, it’s a fight you do not want to miss.” 

Joshua Buatsi said: “I’m excited to get a new date locked in. There’s definitely some unfinished business. The delay has only made me more determined. It’s a very important fight. There is too much on the line for me to contemplate anything other than victory. On February 3rd, I’m going to show why I am the number one in the division. It’s my time to shine!”

Dan Azeez said: “I’m really glad to have recovered. My back feels better than ever and I can’t wait for February 3rd. I’m thankful for BOXXER and Ben Shalom for moving the show for me. The initial date was meant to be January 13th but obviously my trainer will be in the corner for Callum Smith vs Artur Beterbiev so I’m really pleased everyone has been able to accommodate this for what is essentially my world title fight.” 

This event is presented in association with official partners Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Integritas Property Group.

Full refunds are available for any customers unable to attend the rescheduled date. Existing ticket holders will be contacted regarding the transfer of their ticket to the new date in the coming days. Fans wanting to purchase tickets for February 3rd, can sign up for presale at BOXXER.com. 

LIVERPOOL, UK (November 14, 2023) – Two-weight world champion Natasha Jonas will defend her IBF World Welterweight Title against former unified world champion Mikaela Mayer in a landmark night for women’s boxing as two of the sport’s biggest stars meet in the centre of the ring on Saturday, January 20th at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland. 

Jonas (14-2-1, 9 KOs) will be making a first defence of the IBF crown she claimed with an emphatic stoppage win over Canadian Kandi Wyatt earlier this year,  having previously unified the WBC, WBO and IBF World Super Welterweight Titles. 

Standing in the opposite corner will be U.S. star Mayer (19-1, 5 KOs), a fellow Olympian and the former IBF and WBO World Super Featherweight Champion. The Los Angeles native was one of the stars of BOXXER’s historic women’s night last year, and after capturing the WBC interim World Lightweight Title earlier this year, Mayer will be moving up in weight once again.

Newly crowned British and Commonwealth Champion Jack Cullen also returns to action in Liverpool defending his belts against former foe Zak Chelli. Cullen (22-4-1, 10 KOs) scored a memorable third-round TKO win over Mark Heffron in September to claim the British and Commonwealth titles. ‘Little Leaver’s Meat Cleaver’ will now square off against former English Champion Chelli (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in a repeat of their all-action 2020 contest that ended in a draw.

Natasha Jonas said: “I’m so excited to be fighting back in Liverpool in my first headline show and in the biggest fight of my career so far. It’s my fifth world title fight with BOXXER, in my backyard and I’m ready for it. It’s Mikaela Mayer, she stretches above and beyond the UK shores. ‘Miss GB’ versus ‘Miss USA’ and may the best woman win!”  

Mikaela Mayer said, “These are the types of matchups boxing needs. I am feeling better than ever at my new weight and confident that 2024 is when I take it all back.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO, Ben Shalom, said: “2024 promises to be a monumental year for BOXXER and Sky Sports, and we’re thrilled to kick things off with another massive night for women’s boxing as Natasha Jonas defends her World Title against Mikaela Mayer in a matchup set to showcase the pinnacle of the sport. Natasha and Mikaela are two fantastic athletes – both former Olympians and world champions – from either side of the Atlantic, ready to put it all on the line to secure their legacy.” 

“Mikaela Mayer is beloved in the UK, and we are thrilled that she will get an opportunity to become a two-weight champion against a sensational fighter in Natasha Jonas,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “These are two of the best pound-for-pound females in boxing and a great fight to kick off the 2024 schedule.”

This event is presented in association with official partners Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Integritas Property Group.

Sign up for tickets alerts for Natasha Jonas vs Mikaela Mayer via BOXXER.com 

Toronto – UFC^® returns to Toronto with a thrilling world championship doubleheader, headlined by a highly anticipated middleweight championship bout between Sean Strickland and No. 2 ranked contender Dricus Du Plessis. Also, a new women’s bantamweight champion will be crowned when No. 2 ranked contender Raquel Pennington battles Mayra Bueno Silva.

UFC^® 297: STRICKLAND vs. DU PLESSIS takes place Saturday, January 20 at Scotiabank Arena, with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on Pay-Per-View. The prelims will be available on Sportsnet and TVA Sports at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on UFC Fight Pass.

UFC^® 297: STRICKLAND vs. DU PLESSIS tickets will go on sale Friday, November 17 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.ca. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, November 15 at 10 a.m. ET via the website ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, November 16 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Media members wishing to apply for fight week credentials may sign up here.

Strickland (28-5, fighting out of Corona, Calif.) is coming off his stunning UFC middleweight championship win over Israel Adesanya in September. A relentless striker, he also holds wins over Jack Hermansson, Uriah Hall and Brendan Allen. Strickland now intends to secure a successful title defense by becoming the first fighter to defeat Du Plessis in the UFC.

Du Plessis (20-2, fighting out of Pretoria, South Africa) plans to dethrone Strickland by earning his ninth consecutive victory. Unbeaten since 2019, he holds thrilling stoppage wins against Robert Whittaker, Derek Brunson and Darren Till. Du Plessis now looks for another highlight-reel finish to achieve his dream of winning UFC gold.

Former title challenger Pennington (15-8, fighting out of Colorado Springs, Colo.) plans to stop Bueno Silva to claim the bantamweight belt. Currently riding a five-fight win streak, she holds memorable victories over Macy Chiasson, Miesha Tate and Ketlen Vieira. Pennington now has her sights set on a career-defining performance.

Bueno Silva (10-2-1 1NC, fighting out of Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) hopes to add her name to the list of Brazilian UFC champions. A talented grappler, she has delivered notable submission wins against Lina Lansberg, Stephanie Egger and Mara Romero Borella. Bueno Silva now intends to continue her unbeaten streak by stopping Pennington to take home the title.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 13 ranked welterweight contender Neil Magny (28-12, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) looks to halt the momentum of surging Canadian Mike Malott (10-1-1, fighting out of Burlington, Ont.)
• A pivotal light heavyweight contenders’ bout will see former champion and No. 4 ranked Jan Blachowicz (29-10-1, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) rematch No. 5 Aleksandar Rakic (14-3, fighting out of Vienna, Austria)
• No. 4 ranked featherweight contender Arnold Allen (19-2, fighting out of Trimley St. Martin, Suffolk, England) squares off with undefeated No. 9 Movsar Evloev (17-0, fighting out of Sunzha, Republic of Ingushetia, Russia)
• Former light heavyweight title challenger and current No. 13 ranked contender Dominick Reyes (12-4, fighting out of Victoriaville, California, USA) locks horns with rising Carlos Ulberg (10-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand)
• Two-time The Ultimate Fighter winner Brad Katona (15-2, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland by way of Winnipeg, Man.) collides with Garrett Armfield (9-3, fighting out of Kansas City, Missouri, USA) in a bantamweight bout
• No. 14 ranked middleweight contender Chris Curtis (30-10 1NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA by way of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA) takes on heavy-handed Marc-Andre Barriault (16-6 1NC, fighting out of Boca Raton, Florida, USA by way of Gatineau, Que.)
• Charles Jourdain (15-6-1, fighting out of Beloeil, Que.) meets Sean Woodson (10-1-1, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) in an exciting featherweight tilt
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winners rematch when Serhiy Sidey (10-1, fighting out of Burlington, Ont.) faces Ramon Taveras (9-2, fighting out of Duval County, Florida, USA) at bantamweight
• Submission ace Gillian Robertson (12-8, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Florida, USA by way of Niagara Falls, Ont.) meets Polyana Viana (13-6, fighting out of São Geraldo do Araguaia, Pará, Brazil) at flyweight
• Hometown flyweight Malcolm Gordon (14-7, fighting out of Toronto, Ont.) takes on Jimmy Flick (16-6, fighting out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA)
• Yohan Lainesse (9-2, fighting out of St-Bruno, Que.) meets Sam Patterson (10-2-1, fighting out of Watford, England) in a battle of welterweight Dana White’s Contender Series signees

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

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 243 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About Scotiabank Arena

Scotiabank Arena is Canada’s premier sports and entertainment venue and home to the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey Club and the NBA’s Toronto Raptors Basketball Club. Owned and operated by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Scotiabank Arena opened its doors in February 1999 and has been recognized with dozens of industry awards. Scotiabank Arena is often ranked the #1 Canadian arena, is often within the top 10 in the world for live event ticket sales and has also hosted over 80 million fans at over 5,000 events including multiple NHL and NBA playoff runs, hub city for the Eastern Conference teams during the return of the 2020 NHL season, 2019 WWE SummerSlam, 2017 Invictus Games, the 2016 NHL World Cup of Hockey, 2016 NBA All-Star Weekend, 2015 IIHF World U20 Championship, 2000 NHL All-Star Game and looking ahead to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game.

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2023) — The heavyweight division’s fastest-rising prospect looks to close out 2023 in crushing fashion. Richard Torrez Jr., the Olympic silver medalist from Tulare, California, will test himself against the cagey Curtis Harper on Saturday, Dec. 9 at Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines, Florida.

This will be the first scheduled eight-rounder for Torrez, who has ended all seven of his professional outings in three rounds or less.
 
Torrez-Harper will stream LIVE & exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ before the ESPN-televised doubleheader (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) featuring Robeisy Ramirez’s WBO featherweight world title defense against Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza and undefeated junior middleweight sensation Xander Zayas versus Spain’s Jorge Fortea.

“Curtis Harper is a tough, experienced heavyweight, and I look forward to the challenge,” Torrez said. “He has been in with some of the division’s best fighters, and we felt the time was right to step up and take on someone of his caliber.”

Torrez (7-0, 7 KOs) shined at the Tokyo Olympics in the summer of 2021 and turned pro the following March with a second-round stoppage over Allen Melson in Fresno, California. He went 4-0 in 2022 and opened his second professional year with a second-round knockout over James Bryant in February. An injury kept Torrez out of the ring for six months, but he returned with a first-round stoppage over Willie Jake Jr. in August and a second-round blitzing of Tyrrell Anthony Herndon in October. Harper (14-10, 9 KOs) is a durable veteran who has gone the distance with numerous top prospects and contenders, including Chris Arreola, Brandon Moore, and Guido Vianello.

Liam Paro told Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast that he will show he belongs at the top level when he meets Montana Love at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday December 9, live on DAZN PPV in North America and on DAZN worldwide, where Regis Prograis defends his WBC World Super-Lightweight title against Devin Haney.
 
Paro (23-0 14 KOs) returns to the ring after over a year on the sidelines since his spectacular first round KO of Brock Jarvis in Brisbane in October 2022, and is itching to get back into action after injury ruled him out of two fights in the first half of the year, the last and most notable of those being a World title shot against Prograis in New Orleans in June.
 
Paro is back to full fitness and has been on fire in training camp in Las Vegas, where he found himself caught up in a Twitter storm around his sparring with pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson. The 27 year old adhered to the fighters code and did not go into specifics of the work, but said he took away real belief that those are the names he belongs with – and will prove it on December 9 against Love.
 
“It’s sparring at the end of the day,” said Paro. “We got good rounds in, but mark my words, I belong at the top level, I can mix it with them confidently. I appreciate the work with Shakur, it’s great work and a good camp to work with, but I belong there for sure. 
 
“I want the winner of Haney-Prograis. I think Devin beats him, I think the way to give him trouble is fast feet like Vasiliy Lomachenko, but in his last fight Regis’ looked stuck in the mud. He’s going to be fit and ready though as this is a massive fight, as big as it gets, but I think Devin edges this one out. Haney vs. Paro rolls off the tongue, but I am not looking past Montana, I know I need to get the job done there first.
 
“I know that when I get the job done, I’ll be headlining big shows like this one against big names, it just motivates me so much. It’s what you dream of as a young kid and now it’s starting to become a reality. It’s unbelievable. I’m here, but I want more. The harder the task, the more I perform, I always rise to the occasion. I love it. That’s what makes a champion, performing under pressure, I really thrive on that.”
 
Joining Paro on the latest episode of Flash Knockdown are O’Shaquie Foster, who reviews his epic fight with Rocky Hernandez and eyes a unification with Joe Cordina next, Josh Warrington, who reflects on his clash with Leigh Wood, and there’s another Mike Costello gem from the memory bank.
 

QUINCY, Mass. (November 13, 2023) – Hometown favorite Kendrick “Peppa” Bell, Jr. (21-1-3, 12 KOs) will be fighting for his third title on Saturday night, December 9, as he takes on veteran Venezuelan fighter Heber Rondon (20-15,13 KOs) in an eight-round match for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Light Heavyweight Championship.

“Pandemonium at the Palladium 2”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com from Worcester, Massachusetts.. GCP has also partnered with Project New Hope, a Worcester-based charity that supports veterans and their families.

Ball, 31, is coming off a dominant eight-round unanimous decision (80-72 X 3) over Oscar Riojas (28-16-3), headlining a show at Polar Park in Worcester. The Dec. 9^th fight will be his sixth at the Palladium.

“I like the Palladium,” Ball said. “I’m comfortable there  because I’m right at home, only down the street from my house. I love fighting at home. It’s a great feeling to be in front of my city and every time I fight there, I feel more and more confident to say this is my city. I’ve put on a dominant performance every time I’ve fought there. and this will be my third title I’ve won in Worcester. I love fighting in front of my family and family, I still feel there are people in Worcester that haven’t seen me fight, so every time I fight here is definitely an opportunity for them to catch me and make them see why I say this is my city”

A former World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedelatin Super Welterweight Champion, Rondon is a southpaw who has been in tough with the likes of Fernando Vargas, Bek Nunmaganbet, Elvis Figueroa and Jose Armando Resendiz. Rondon is capable of upsetting his opponent. In 2020, Rondo won an 11-round unanimous decision in Venezuela against 14-0 Brahian Jose Medina for the aforementioned Fedelatin title.  

“I know my opponent is a tough lefty,” Ball noted. “I fought a lefty in my last fight at Polar Park. Lefties are a little tricky, but I know how to adjust in fights and we’re going to work on fighting a lefty in training, so I’ll be ready.”

Ball is hoping an impressive win will open doors for him in terms of fights on a higher level outside of New England.

“This fight is for another belt,” Bell concluded, :but it’s not the main focus. It definitely helps get my ranking up and attracts people to see me fight even more. I’m hoping this fight will open big doors for me for my next fight. I want to get a big money fight. It’s time I get my shot at a money fight. I’m 21-1-3 with 12 knockouts. My only loss came in 2018. I haven’t lost since and that says a lot. I’ve been active in the ring, so I deserve a money fight. A lot of people don’t know but in most of these fights, I haven’t made big money, close to nothing. I still have a regular job to survive. I struggle like everyone else if not more sometimes because my goal is to get the big money fights. That’s what I’m hoping for in 2024.”

Another Worcester fighter, junior middleweight Khiary“Too Sharp” Gray (17-6, 13 KOs), who will be fighting for the first time in two years, faces veteran Jimmy “The Quiet Storm” Williams (18-13-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round match that could steal the show.

“Having Kendrick on the show was a no-brainer for me,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “The goal is to make this the biggest Granite Chin show to date and since the show is in Worcester, we had to put on some big names in Worcester. Kendrick and Khiary are on that list. The Palladium is going to be packed on December 10^th and everybody there will get a chance to see Kendrick win his third professional title.”  

The stacked “Pandemonium at the Palladium 2,” card also finds International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Super Middleweight Champion Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (9-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsfield, MA., in action against an opponent to be determined.

Card subject to change. Additional fights and fighters will soon be announced.

Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

X (Twitter): @Granite_Chin

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 13, 2023) – Pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs) and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) hosted their public workouts today ahead of their vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown this Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 
 
In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs).
 
Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.
 
At Monday’s media workout, this is what the fighters had to say.
 

Shakur Stevenson

“I can’t wait. It’s going to be very exciting. You’ve got the tough Edwin De Los Santos, but I’m here to whoop his a**!”

“We can’t think about what comes after. I’m not worried about after. We’ve got a job to do Thursday night. I’m coming here to get my belt.”

“I think that Edwin is a good fighter. I think he’s more of a boxer than what he’s trying to act like. So, he’s going to try to move around. And I’m going to figure him out by the fourth round.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“We are not here to hesitate. We are here to fight. We accepted the fight, and we are going for it. I think at one point I was being underestimated. But now he has accepted the reality that he is going to have a very tough fight.”

“I feel very good because it is one of my dreams to be in Las Vegas and fight for a world title, which will happen this November 16.”

Emanuel Navarrete

“I’m happy to be here with all of you and because you are all joining me at this public workout. And well, it’s going to be one more fight. I’m going to defend my title at 130 pounds.”

“Obviously, we know who I am fighting. We know he is a real fighter. He is very strong and it will be difficult. But like always we are going to defend the title with the heart of a Mexican warrior.”

“Being in Las Vegas is a dream for many athletes, not just boxers. I think it’s the epicenter of the most important shows in the world. I think that being here for me is an honor, and I feel very grateful to be in front of all of you.”

Robson Conceição

“The day before what was going to be my last fight, I learned about this very good opportunity. I accepted it immediately. My team and I decided not to fight in order to better prepare for this fight on November 16th.”

“It’s a very important moment for my career to be in this huge event. There are many good athletes who are participating in this event. We have Shakur Stevenson. We have Emanuel Navarrete, whom I admire a lot. He is a great champion. But this is my third opportunity. In the Olympic Games, I was able to win on my third attempt. And I will do the same in this third chance at a world title.”
 

Thursday, November 16

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin De Los Santos 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Lightweight World Title

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT)
Brian Norman Jr. vs. Quinton Randall, 10 rounds, WBO International Welterweight Title

Giovanni Sarchioto vs. Lucas de Abreu, 6 rounds, super middleweight 

NEW YORK (November 13, 2023) – Undefeated Irish welterweight sensation Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (11-0, 8 KOs) will fight for his first title as a professional on November 25th against BBB of C English welterweight champion Danny Ball (13-1-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round bout for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Championship.

Donovan, 24, will be showcased on the undisputed world super lightweight champion Chantelle Cameron (18-0) vs Katie Taylor (21-1) rematch, streaming on DAZN PPV live from 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland.

“If I win this fight,” Donovan said, “I will win the WBA Continental title and be ranked No. 15 by the WBA. I’d like to defend that title a few times and get a world title shot by the end of next year or early 2025.

“I know Katie Taylor extremely well; I was her sparring partner when I was 15. She’s one of the nicest people, not just in boxing, I’ve ever met. She’s never forgotten my name. She’s even come to train with me and Andy in Dublin a few times before fights.”

Fighting out of Limerick, Ireland, Donovan is trained in Dublin by former World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Middleweight Champion “Irish” Andy Lee (35-3-1, 24 KOs), whose cousin is unbeaten lineal and reigning World Boxing Council (WBA) World Heavyweight Champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs).

Because of his relationship with Lee, Donovan has benefited from training with Fury and “The Gypsy King” is mighty high on his fellow Irish Traveller, Paddy.

“I think Paddy Donovan is one of the stars of the future,” Fury told the Irish Mirror. “He’s definitely the biggest prospect in Irish boxing at the moment. He’s a very, very talented young fighter and he’s had a lot of amateur experience. “He can punch hard, and he has got the boxing IQ, He’s had great tutelage with my cousin, Andy Lee. I think he’s going all the way, Paddy!”

“It meant so much to me when Tyson said that I’m going to be a world champion,” Donovan added. “They call him “The Gypsy King” and in Ireland, they call me “The Gypsy Prince.”

Donovan, who was born in Ennis in County Clare, is a slick southpaw with dynamite in both hands, who represented Ireland at the 2016 World Youth Championships in St. Petersburg, Russia. As an amateur (65-12), Donovan was a two-time Irish National Champion, as well as the 2017 International Tournament, Haringey Youth gold medalist in London.

In 2019, Donovan turned pro, stopping Arturo Lopez in the opening round of their clash in Belfast, Northern Ireland, which was scheduled for six rounds. Paddy’s last action was this past May, in which he knocked out 17-4-1 Sam O’Maison in round eight.

Already ranked No. 30 by the European Boxing Union, Donovan’s fight versus Ball, a former World Boxing Council (WBC) International Welterweight Champion, will be Paddy’s first scheduled 10-rounder.

“My opponent is a hard hitter who is the English champion,” Donovan added. “He’s won his last three fights in a row. I’ll open boxing, coming forward counter-punching, and then get the knockout.”

New York City-based attorney Keith Sullivan, known for his work in boxing as a lawyer, represented Lee and the two co-manage Donovan.

“I think Paddy has all the tools to be world champion,” Sullivan said. “all he really needs is time, top-level experience and opportunities. It’s great working again with Andy Lee, who has developed into a first-class boxing trainer. His boxing experience is helpful for a young boxer like Paddy.”

Donovan is a proponent of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. He is using this fight platform to promote Pieta, which is a suicide prevention charity providing mental health services throughout Ireland. Paddy has lost two relatives to suicide, and he has dedicated his upcoming fight to mental health awareness. Lee and Sullivan have also felt the pain of suicide by close relations. The Pietra Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide.

INFORMATION:

X (formerly Twitter): @PaddyDonovan23

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NEW YORK — In response to overwhelming viewer demand and boffo reviews, PPV.COMannounced today that it has extended its exclusive relationship with legendary boxing journalist and blow-by-blow announcer Jim Lampley through 2024.  Lampley, who ended his nearly five-year hiatus from boxing to work the Canelo Alvarez – Jermell Charlo World Super Middleweight Championship fight for PPV.COM, in September, will continue to co-host the service’s viewer chats in real time for the fights it will be live streaming and provide fight week on-site commentary, reports and original video content for PPV.COM‘s website and social media platforms.  Lampley’s next event with PPV.COM will be the 12-round super middleweight battle of the undefeated between two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavidez and two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, live from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Saturday, Nov. 25, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.  To order the fight through PPV.COM, click here: Benavidez vs. Andrade.

“Who knew it would be so much fun to provide live chat during big fights on PPV.COM?  Lance Pugmire knew, and he told me so, and via that friendship a great new relationship arrived, Lampley said.  “I’m delighted to be headed back to Las Vegas for Benavides vs Andrade, and looking forward to frequent PPV.com engagements going forward.  Sharing with Lance, responding to fans, being in the ringside discussion — live chat rocks!!

“Jim Lampley is back at ringside right where he belongs and based on fan reaction at the Canelo-Charlo fight and from viewers who tuned in on PPV.COM, boxing is for the better for it.  Jim is rarin’ to go for the upcoming David Benavidez – Demetrius Andrade fight where he will be chatting live from Mandalay Bay on Saturday, November 25,” said, Dale Hopkins, President and CEO of iDEMAND and PPV.COM. 

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Benavidez vs. Andrade for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism, and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class. He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years, and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.      

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 80 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 150 companies. In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports. With the addition of PPV.COM to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turn-key PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers. For more information, go to indemand.com.