DJ Zamora Looks to Shine on the Big Stage This Saturday in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 26, 2023) – Undefeated rising star, lightweight Demler “The War Machine” Zamora (11-0, 9 KOs), is ready to take his career to the next level with a signature win against Nikolai Buzolin (9-4-1, 5 KOs). The 8-round bout takes place this Saturday, July 29 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford card.

Zamora, fighting in his hometown of Las Vegas, had an impressive win in his last fight defeating Jesus Abel Ibrarra (15-1, 7 KOs), by way of a third-round knockout, giving him his first loss. After the great performance, Zamora is now fighting in his first 8-round bout as a professional.

“It feels good to be fighting at home on the biggest fight of the year,” said an enthused Zamora. “This is the type of card and atmosphere that all fighters dream about when it comes to fighting on the big stage. I want to be the hidden gem of the event where everyone remembers my name. I have a great team behind me, and I’m ready to shine.”

Zamora turned pro in 2019 and is now looking to make an impression in the super featherweight division. Zamora believes a win here will set him up for a big fall in 2023.

“I have complete faith in my team and the direction my career is going,” continued Zamora. “I simply listen to my coaches and focus on what needs to be done. This will be my first 8-round bout and I’m looking forward to a bright future at 130 pounds. With a good win here, I believe I could have a big fall to finish off the year. I want to be seen as one of the best prospects in the sport of boxing and my goal is to enter that conversation by the end of this year.”




YARDE RETURNS ON ZHANG VS JOYCE II

ANTHONY YARDE HITS the comeback trail towards his next world title challenge on 23 September with an all-British clash against Ricky Summers at the OVO Arena, Wembley on the big Zhilei Zhang-Joe Joyce rematch card, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, are on sale now available from AXS.com and ticketmaster.co.uk.

Yarde, the self-styled Beast from the East, won the admiration of the boxing public back in January when he gave unified world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev his toughest fight to date before being retired by his own corner in the eighth round in front of a packed and enthralled crowd at the same Wembley venue.

For Yarde (23-3, 22 KOs) it represented a second world title challenge after previously going up against the formidable Sergey Kovalev in the then champion’s home town back in 2019.

Summers (19-3-1, 6), from Staffordshire, was most recently in big fight action in March when he defeated Joel McIntyre to win the English light heavyweight title. It was his second tilt at the English belt, having dropped a split decision against the current British and European champion Dan Azeez in April 2021.

Also featuring on the Wembley card, headlined by The Big Bang seeking to once again knock The Juggernaut off course, is WBC International Silver and Commonwealth lightweight champion Sam Noakes (11-0, 11) defending his titles, along with WBC International super lightweight champion Pierce O’Leary (12-0,7) making a second defence of his belt.

Also in the light heavyweights, the undefeated and flamboyant Nottingham stylist Ezra Taylor (6-0, 4) takes a significant step up when he faces Portsmouth man Joel McIntyre (20-7, 5) over eight rounds.

Former two-time European Amateur champion Royston Barney-Smith will have fight No.7 on his professional journey over six rounds.

Powerhouse cruiserweights and social media enemies Tommy Fletcher (5-0, 4) and Aloys Jr (4-1, 4) will brew their growing rivalry by both fighting in six-round fights to complete the card.

“I am delighted to be getting Anthony Yarde back in business following his January exploits against Artur Beterbiev,” said promoter Frank Warren. “He wants to be and we want him to be in a major fight again before the end of the year so a tough domestic opponent like Ricky Summers is the perfect test in order to bring Anthony back to his best.

“While Ricky will be an obvious outsider, we all know he will give his absolute all and make it as uncomfortable as possible for the favourite.

“A huge heavyweight showdown like Zhilei Zhang v Joe Joyce deserves a compelling undercard and that is what the fans will be getting on 23 September, live on TNT Sports.

“In Sam Noakes and Pierce O’Leary you will see two of the most exciting young fighters in the country and we also have the charismatic future light heavyweight star Ezra Taylor in a tough one against the experienced Joel McIntyre.

“The elite young super featherweight Royston Barney-Smith is also back on parade alongside our two explosive cruiserweight hopes in Tommy Fletcher and Aloys Jr.”

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, are on sale now available from AXS.com and ticketmaster.co.uk.




AUDIO: Tevin Farmer Reflects on comeback win






VIDEO: Tevin Farmer Reflects on comeback win




ERROL SPENCE JR. AND TERENCE CRAWFORD MAKE GRAND ARRIVALS IN LAS VEGAS AHEAD OF SHOWTIME PPV® SUPER FIGHT SATURDAY NIGHT

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2023 – Fight week officially kicked off Tuesday as undefeated boxing superstars and pound-for-pound greats Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford made their grand arrivals at MGM Grand before they meet this Saturday, July 29 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Spence and WBO Welterweight World Champion Crawford will face-off Saturday night in a much anticipated clash to crown the first undisputed 147-pound champion of the four-belt era, with the winner likely to emerge as the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighter. Both fighters spoke to the historic nature of the fight in front of a large throng of fans at Tuesday’s grand arrivals.

“It would be a dream come true to become the first welterweight undisputed champion of the world in the four-belt era,” said Spence. “I watched all the great fighters as a kid. Now, I get to have my moment.

“I want the bright lights and the glory… He’s in his prime. I’m in my prime. We are the two best fighters in the welterweight division. The winner of the fight on Saturday night will be the best fighter in boxing.” 

“It’s going to be even sweeter to win the undisputed championship for the second time,” said Crawford, who previously was undisputed at 140-pounds, and who can become the first man to become undisputed at two weights with a win on Saturday. “That’s why we take the chances we take. That’s why we fight the way we fight. This is a fight that the world’s been craving.

“My name is already up there with the all-time greatest welterweight fighters. It’s just a matter of going out there on Saturday and putting the cherry on top and furthering my legacy.”

The grand arrivals also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view telecast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz duel undefeated Giovanni Cabrera in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. The pay-per-view will also see future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire facing Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship, plus top prospect Yoenis Tellez takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in the super welterweight telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

For more information visit sho.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.




ANDRES “SAVAGE” CORTES TRAINING CAMP NOTES

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 25, 2023) – Undefeated lightweight, Andres “Savage” Cortes (19-0, 10 KOs), is ready to return to the ring this Friday, July 28, at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, where he will be a part of a ten-round junior lightweight bout. He takes on contender Xavier Martinez (18-1, 12 KOs) in a fight that could very well have world title implications. 

The bout serves as the co-main event to Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada as she looks to defend her WBC and WBA minimumweight world titles against former world champion Leonela Yudica, which will be topping the bill of the broadcast on ESPN+.

Cortes, who was a stand-out amateur best known for defeating Teofimo Lopez in the amateurs, signed with Top Rank Inc., in 2020. Cortes has proven to be a complete fighter and is looking to take his career to the next level. 

Here is what Cortes had to say about his recent training camp, his upcoming matchup with Xavier Martinez, fighting at home and more.

On his recent training camp:

“Training camp has been great, and we finally finished up. I am training with my brother day in and day out. It is a lot of hard work, and training here in Las Vegas, it has been really hot, so it’s been a bit brutal. I feel winning a fight like this puts me in the position to be able to call out the top names in the division. I am not satisfied with my position in the sport of boxing, and I have entered this camp with a deep hunger. I worked very hard and have had to prove a lot to myself, the fans, and promoters to get to this point. I truly believe this will be a fight that defines my career up to this poing. I treated this camp with that same level of intensity.”

?

On his matchup with Xavier Martinez:

“I see a lot of similarities between myself and Xavier. We both hit hard, and I know he has a high ring IQ like me. The man with the most desire with be victorious, and I envision that being me. Its going to be a rough fight, but I know I have the skills and will to come out on top. I’m expecting this fight to the distance.

On fighting on ESPN+

“It is big to have a great promoter behind me and trust that on a big fight weekend, I can be the co-main event of a world-class boxing show. I want to thank everyone at Top Rank for believing in me. I am humbled by this opportunity, and I hope that I can put on a performance that makes the fans, my promoter, and the boxing world at large want to see me in the main event of a fight card soon, if not next.”

On fighting in his hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada:

“I love it. Familiar faces in the crowd, no airports for this fight. I will be able to come and go the way I want. It makes the meal prep for the weight cut that much easier. Vegas is my city and people will see that I can bring a crowd. I will have fans in the building, and I am energized to go out there and show that I will be a world champion. I’m thrilled to be back fighting in my hometown. I am overjoyed at having my biggest fight to date in the place that shaped me into the man I am today.”




Hometown favorite and World Youth Title Challenger Eslih Owusu to Provide chief undercard support on “Pandemonium at The Palladium” card

QUINCY, Mass. (July 25, 2023) – Hometown favorite Eslih Owuso (9-1, 4 KOs) will provide chief undercard support for the increasingly entertaining “Pandemonium at The Palladium” card on August 19th at the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“Pandemonium at The Palladium”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

Owusu’s lone loss as a professional was in 2022 when he lost a 10-round decision in Copenhagen to undefeated Dane prospect Oliver Meng (8-0) for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) World Youth Super Welterweight Championship. Owusu, who is the reigning ABF Mid-American middleweight champion, will meet Texas veteran Larry “Slo Mo” Smith.

Owusu will be fighting at home in Worcester for the fourth time. In addition to Denmark, he’s also fought in Ghana and Mexico.

“It is always great to get a hometown fighter on your show,” GCP President Chris Traietti said. “Eslih is a nice up and coming fighter with a good local fan-base. When the opportunity presented itself to get him on the card, we jumped on the chance. This card has a lot of everything from local to international talent. The Palladium is going to be packed on August 19th.”

Undefeated super middleweights Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (8-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsfield (MA), Lynn’s (MA) James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs), will go to battle in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Super Middleweight Championship.

Undefeated Massachusetts Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Hector “El Gatito” Esnar Bobadilla (9-14-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-round, co-featured event for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Atlantic welterweight title.

Other fighters slated to be in action on the “Pandemonium at The Palladium” undercard include another  Holyoke boxer, Canadian welterweight Thomas Blumenfeld (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Richard Bernard (1-12-1), Springfield super featherweight Carlos Gonzalez (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Johnny “Cupcakes” Campbell, Springfield super lightweight Calixto Cruz (2-0, 1 KO) vs. “The Outlaw” Ryan Venable (1-12-1), pro-debuting Cuban super welterweight Dany Lafos vs. Jay Gregory (0-7),and New Haven (CT) featherweight Felix Parrilla (7-0, 6 KOs) vs. TBA. Blumenfeld was a 2020 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, while Lagos earned a bronze medal at the 2021 AIBA Youth Championships.

Card subject to change.

Card subject to change. Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

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




HISTORIC FIGHT WEEK KICKS OFF IN LAS VEGAS AHEAD OF THE CROWNING OF FIRST UNDISPUTED FOUR-BELT WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION SATURDAY NIGHT ON SHOWTIME PPV®

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2023 – A historic collection of Fight Week activities is set to kick off as unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. and WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford make their Grand Arrivals to Las Vegas later today before they meet for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

As the two pound-for-pound stars finalize their fight week preparations ahead of one of the most significant title fights of all time, SHOWTIME SPORTS® has assembled a treasure trove of news and notes to get ready for the biggest boxing event in recent memory.

THE FIGHT OF THE DECADE

Spence vs. Crawford, perhaps the most anticipated fight since Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao in 2015, will likely determine the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter. The fight also carries career-defining, historical consequences:

  • Spence vs. Crawford is the first undisputed welterweight championship fight in the four-belt era, which began in 1988.
  • Spence vs. Crawford is only the fourth welterweight unification fight in boxing history between unbeaten champions. The other three:

    • Donald Curry (WBA, IBF) vs. Milton McCrory (WBA) in 1985
    • Felix Trinidad (IBF) vs. Oscar De La Hoya (WBC) in 1999
    • Keith Thurman (WBA) vs. Danny Garcia (WBC) in 2017

      • Spence vs. Crawford has the most combined wins between them (67-0).

  • Should Crawford win, he’ll become the first male fighter in the four-belt era to become an undisputed champion in two different weight divisions (140 and 147-pounds).
  • There have been only 12 other welterweight unification fights in boxing history.

FIGHT WEEK FESTIVITIES

The SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel will be home to live streaming coverage of all fight week events, including today’s Grand Arrivals, starting at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, open media undercard workouts on Wednesday kicking off at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT with special appearances from Spence and Crawford, the final press conference Thursday at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT, the weigh-in on Friday at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, and the post-fight press conference. Luke Thomas, co-host of the award-winning live digital talk show MORNING KOMBAT, renowned combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani and sports broadcaster Kate Abdo, who covers UEFA Champions League for CBS Sports and is a former PBC studio host, will serve as the hosts of Friday’s live-streamed weigh-in. The trio will also work the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, which will include live coverage of preliminary bouts and analysis of the upcoming pay-per-view card.

WHERE TO CATCH ALL THE ACTION

The four-fight pay-per-view event kicks off at a special start time of 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is widely available for purchase and live streaming in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME app on supported devices including Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, Amazon FireTV, Samsung Smart TV and LG Smart TV (2019 models and newer), Xbox One, Xfinity Flex, the Cox Wireless 4K Contour Stream Player and online at SHOWTIME.com and DAZN.com. The event is also available for purchase in the U.S. via satellite and telco systems through DIRECTV®, DISH, Sling TV and Vubiquity.  The suggested retail price is $84.95 (SRP). In Canada, viewers can purchase and access the event via traditional cable and satellite distributors (Bell, Rogers, Shaw, SaskTel/TELUS and FITE TV, a digital distributor). Liberty and Claro TV will offer the event in Puerto Rico. G&G Closed Circuit Events is the commercial distributor within the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada.

The official promotional spot, which offers a fiery sampling of the raw power and hostilities that will be on display on July 29, is available HERE.

THE INDUSTRY LEADERS

SHOWTIME SPORTS is in the middle of one of the hottest runs in the network’s 37-year history of televising live boxing. Since the start of 2023, the industry’s strongest schedule has included 20 marquee events that have been announced (including July 29) with three dates apiece in February, March, April, June and July. Spence vs. Crawford will mark the third of five live SHOWTIME Boxing events over the course of six weeks.

The schedule has included Fight of the Year contenders – Subriel Matias stopping Jeremias Ponce on February 25 and Brandon Figueroa decisioning Mark Magsayo on March 4. It has also included KO of the Year contenders – Brian Mendoza’s one-punch KO of Sebastian FundoraTim Tszyu’s left-hook KO of Carlos Ocampo and Jaron Ennis’ brutal finish of Roiman Villa. It has also included the biggest names in the sport facing each other, featuring Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan GarciaDavid Benavídez vs. Caleb Plant and now Spence vs. Crawford, with more superstars to make their 2023 SHOWTIME debuts in the Fall.

AWARD-WINNING STORYTELLING

Two episodes of the EMMY® Award-wining SHOWTIME original documentary series ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD are available now on SHOWTIME, streaming on the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan, and on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel for non-network subscribers. ALL ACCESS, which is voiced by Barry Pepper,sets the stage for the long-awaited showdown and outlines the stakes for both unbeaten champions and why this fight is so crucial to their legacies.

Episode One currently has 1.9 million views, while Episode Two has 1.5 million views on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel alone.

The ALL ACCESS cameras will be in Las Vegas all week, filming ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD EPILOGUE, which will premiere Saturday, August 5. The epilogue will spotlight the drama of fight week and provide an exclusive, first-hand account from fight night like no other show on television, revealing private moments between the fighters, their teams and loved ones.

WORKOUT WARRIORS

If last week’s media workouts are any indication, Spence and Crawford are both in fantastic shape, ready to engage in a battle of attrition if the fight goes into the later rounds. Spence and Crawford didn’t just move around the ring and smile for the cameras, they filled the time by training as if the media wasn’t in attendance, running through their paces and displaying the type of focus, stamina and skills that have made them two of the best and left them drenched in perspiration. Crawford’s workout last Wednesday was an exercise in efficiency as he trained for over an hour with few breaks while Spence’s session on Thursday showcased his incredible work-rate and physicality as he also trained for over an hour with both looking sharp and ready to do battle. 

A GENTLEMANLY AFFAIR

Ever since the fight was officially announced by both fighters on May 25 and they appeared on ESPN’s First Take the next morning, Spence and Crawford have remained consistent with their messages to each other and the public. They both have the upmost confidence in themselves, but they also share a mutual respect and deference that seems almost quaint and old-fashioned by today’s boastful standards. Rather than harp on the damage they plan to inflict on the other, the two have focused on the potential for their fight to become an instant classic, given their exciting styles, championship pedigrees and ultra-competitive mindsets.

“The proof is in the pudding. You see Terence Crawford and you see his body of work. You see my body of work when I get in the ring. Everybody already knows. As soon as I get in the ring, I’m stepping. I expect him to step too. We’re going to put on a great show and a great performance,” Spence told Stephen A. Smith.

“I can guarantee that everyone is gonna witness something special. Errol doesn’t like to back up. I’m the type of fighter where you push me and I push even harder. We both have big hearts and like to fight. It makes for a great action-packed fight. July 29 is gonna be a great night for boxing,” Crawford said when the two first met at the kickoff press conference in Los Angeles.

COMMON FOES

There are two common opponents on both Spence and Crawford’s resumes, former two-time welterweight champion Shawn Porter and former IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook.

Porter dropped a 2019 Fight of the Year to Spence, before losing the final fight of his career to Crawford in November 2021. Brook faced Spence in May 2017 as Spence traveled to the U.K. to capture his first career world title, while Brook came stateside to face Crawford in November 2020, losing by fourth-round TKO. Their dual perspectives on Saturday’s outcome conveyed the 50-50 nature of the matchup.

“I don’t have a pick. I don’t know who is going to win this fight. This is what boxing truly is. Both guys have basically everything needed to win, from power to speed. I truly don’t think anyone can look at this fight and say, ‘That guy is going to win,’ because there are so many outcomes and possibilities,” said Porter.

“I think Terence is a very sharp and snapping puncher and Errol has a more grinding and thumping kind of power. That’s the difference I see in the two. We’re talking about two star fighters and it’s going to come down to a very small margin and they’re going to have to bring every part of their game to get a victory,” said Brook.

HOW MUCH YOU WANT TO BET?

DraftKings, the official sportsbook sponsor of Spence vs. Crawford, views “Bud” as a slight favorite on Saturday night. He is currently listed as a -150 favorite, while “The Truth” is a +120 underdog. A $100 bet on Crawford would win $66.67 while a $100 bet on Spence would win $120.00.

The oddsmakers at DraftKings view the fight going into the later rounds as the most likely outcome. The odds for the fight to go over 10.5 rounds are -270 and the odds for the fight to go under 10.5 rounds are +190. For those who believe the fight will end via stoppage, the odds for Spence to win by KO/TKO/DQ are +500, while the odds for Crawford to win via the same method are +270.

THE A TEAM

Veteran sportscaster and “The Last Stand” podcaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will once again handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. The telecast will include Hall of Famers Jim Gray as ringside reporter and Jimmy Lennon, Jr., in his role as ring announcer. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst. Four-time Emmy® Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. will executive-produce the telecast with Bob Dunphy directing.

#          #          #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

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




Top Rank Presents Unified Minimumweight World Championship Seniesa Estrada vs. Leonela Yudica

Top Rank presented by AutoZone: Estrada vs. Yudica will be live this Friday, July 28 at 11 p.m. ET / 8:00 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the main event, pound-for-pound dynamo Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (24-0, 9 KOs) will defend her WBC and WBA minimumweight world titles against Argentina’s former world champion Leonela Yudica (19-1-3, 1 KO).

Seniesa is a 12-year pro who has competed at the world class level in three weight classes. She recently added the WBC belt to her collection in March with a shutout win over the previously unbeaten Tina Rupprecht. Yudica, from San Juan, Argentina, turned pro in 2012 and held the IBF flyweight title for nearly eight years before losing it in a tightly contested split decision loss to Arely Muciño in October 2022. She’s coming off a 10-round decision victory over Tamara Elisabet Demarco in April. 

In the co-feature, unbeaten Las Vegas native Andres “Savage” Cortes (19-0, 10 KOs) will take on Sacramento-born contender Xavier Martinez (18-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight clash.

Cortes was a standout amateur, defeating Teofimo Lopez twice in the unpaid ranks. Now a seven-year pro, he has built a reputation for engaging in action-packed affairs. Martinez returns to action following an 11-month layoff, intent on proving he belongs in the junior lightweight title conversation.

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore will call the action with Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr.  Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna?will serve as reporters.

ESPN.com

  • Out Tuesday: Updated women’s divisional rankings

ESPN+, ESPN App Boxing Content: Live and Upcoming, On Demand, Studio Shows, Archives

  • Max on BoxingMax Kellerman hosts a 30-minute series weighing in on key boxing news and providing insights on the sport’s top fighters and upcoming events
  • Who Do U Fight 4?Get to know the next generation of Top Rank stars and learn what drives them

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok

All Times ET

Date Time Event Bouts Network Titles
Fri. July 28 11:00 PM Main Seniesa Estrada (C) vs. Leonela Yudica ESPN+ WBA, WBC Minimumweight
Co-Feature Andres Cortes vs. Xavier Martinez  
7:30 PM Feature Karlos Balderas vs. Nahir Albright
Undercard Rohan Polanco vs. Cesar Francis
Undercard Abraham Nova vs. Jonathan Romero
Undercard Subaru Murata vs. Juan Centeno
Undercard Dante Benjamin Jr. vs. William Langston
Undercard Charlie Sheehy vs. Kaylyn Alfred

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

About ESPN+  

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.comESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).   




RICHIE RIVERA SECURES 25TH VICTORY WITH FIRST ROUND TKO IN COLOMBIA

White Plains, NY (July 24, 2023) — Star Boxing kept busy over the weekend as top world rated light heavyweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN RIVERA (now 25-1 19KO’s) and cruiserweight LYUBOMYR “DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (now 14-4-2 8KO’s) laced up the gloves in separate shows from different parts of the globe.

Richie Rivera in Colombia

In Malambo Colombia, Richie Rivera took on Yuri Mendez in a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight bout, in which Rivera wasted no time slugging away at the outgunned Mendez. A thudding body shot just 54 seconds into round number one, sent Mendez to the canvas, where he remained forcing referee Leonel Mercado to wave off the action. With the TKO victory, Richie Rivera, who is currently world rated #6 (WBA), #6 (WBO – at cruiserweight), #8 (WBC), #11 (IBF), 8 (WBC), improved to 25-1 with 19 wins coming by way of knockout. Rivers is looking ahead to a significant fight that will lead him to a world championship opportunity  in the very near future.

Lyubomry Pinchuk in Pennsylvania

Simultaneously in Washington, Pennsylvania, another  “Summer Slugfest” was presented as Star Boxing’s Lyubomyr Pinchuk went to battle with Anthony Holloway over a competitive 8-round cruiserweight bout. Both men remained active over the course of the bout, with Pinchuk seemingly getting the better of most exchanges. While Holloway had his moments in the bout, Pinchuk’s ring generalship dictated the fight. To the surprise of many in attendance, the bout was declared a draw. 79-72 Pinchuk, 75-77 Holloway, 76-76 draw. Pinchuk is now 14-4-2 8KO’s.

The full “Summer Slugfest” fight card is available  on demand replay this week on StarBoxing.TV.

ABOUT STARBOXING.TV:

STAR BOXING TV brings you live action, Star Boxing archives and countless hours of thrilling professional boxing with over 30 years of entertainment. Subscribe today and never miss another punch! StarBoxing.TV is available at home or on the go via Roku, IOS and Google Play app store, Amazon Fire and Web at www.StarBoxing.TV.




VIDEO: Mark Boccardi of iNDEMAND and PPV.COM discusses Spence – Crawford




HOLLYWOOD FIGHT NIGHTS: SERHII BOHACHUK SCORES FIRST ROUND KNOCKOUT AT CHUMASH CASINO

Santa Ynez, CA (July 24, 2023) Saturday night at the Chumash Casino Resort and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS, WBC #2 Ranked Super Welterweight Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (23-1, 23 KOs), continued his knockout streak through the division with a stunning, one punch, first round knockout (2:32) of World Title Challenger, Patrick Allotey, (42-5, 32 KO), of Accra, Ghana.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 PromotionsBohachuk vs. Allotey headlined another installment of the acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series.

Said Loeffler, “Serhii continued to prove why he’s the most exciting fighter in the super welterweight division. He’s ready for a world title fight now.”

“The entire card was full of action-packed fights, the crowd here at Chumash Casino was tremendous and we look forward to returning in the future.”

In the evening’s co-feature, Southern California favorite Omar Trinidad, (13-0-1, 10 KOs), continued to shine with a sixth-round stoppage of Roberto Meza, (15-4-1, 8 KOs). Dropping Meza in the third and fifth round, Trinidad earned the victory with a dominant performance as the fight was stopped at the 1:16 mark of the sixth round.

In a battle of undefeated light heavyweights, Umar Dzambekov, (6-0, 5 KOs), of Austria, defeated Kwame Ritter, (10-1, 8 KOs), over eight rounds. Scores were 79-73, 79-73 and 78-74.

The hard-hitting southpaw took control of the fight after an even first two rounds using an aggressive body attack to score throughout the second half of the fight.

Junior welterweight Cain Sandoval, (10-0, 10 KOs), fighting for the second time under the 360 Promotions’ banner, stopped the valiant Jose Marruffo, (14-12-2, 2 KOs), in the sixth round (2:28). Sandoval dropped Marruffo at the end of the second round and earned the stoppage victory from a barrage of unanswered punches in the sixth stanza of their scheduled eight-rounder.

Bantamweight veteran Narek Abgaryan, (16-1, 6 KOs), made his long-awaited return to action with a sixth round (0:41) knockout of Manuel Manzo, (9-8-3, 4 KOs) in a fight scheduled for eight rounds. Abgaryan used excellent counter punching throughout and forced the referee’s stoppage from a multiple punch combination which badly hurt Manza.

Opening the UFC FIGHT PASS broadcast, fast-rising star, 21-year-old Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (3-0-1, 2 KOs), knocked out Eduardo Alvarez, (0-3-1) in the first round (1:42) of a scheduled six-rounder flyweight bout. A battering left hook to the body dropped Alvarez for the count.

Prior to the start of the broadcast, Jorge Maravillo, (8-0, 8 KOs), stopped Terry Fernandez, (6-2, 6 KOs), in the first round (0:43) of their scheduled six round super welterweight bout.

                                                ————————————————–

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@360BoxingPromotions

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us




VIDEO: Undefeated flyweight LeAnna Cruz Talks about fighting on Overtime Card on August 18th on DAZN




VIDEO: George Kambosos Jr vs Maxi Hughes | OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN




AUDIO: Banner Promotions Matthew Rowland Breaks Down Spence – Crawford






VIDEO: Banner Promotions Matthew Rowland Breaks Down Spence – Crawford




September 15: Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez to Defend IBF Featherweight World Title against Joet Gonzalez at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi LIVE on ESPN

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (July 24, 2023) – Mexico’s featherweight king is set to put his crown on the line during Mexican Independence Day Weekend. 

Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will defend his IBF world title against former two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez on Friday, September 15 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Lopez returns stateside after back-to-back championship showdowns abroad.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, rising Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas takes on Mexico’s Roberto Valenzuela Jr.

Lopez-Gonzalez and Zayas-Valenzuela will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $30 go on sale Tuesday, July 25 at 3 p.m. CST via Ticketmaster.com.

“The fight fans in Corpus Christi and everyone watching on ESPN are in for a real treat. Luis Alberto Lopez is one of Mexico’s emerging champions, and Joet Gonzalez is a seasoned pro who is a difficult night at the office for anyone,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I am also pleased to see Puerto Rico’s next superstar, Xander Zayas, back in the ring against a step-up opponent in Valenzuela.”

Lopez (28-2, 16 KOs) overcame numerous challenges in his quest to become a world champion. After early-career losses to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa, he defeated Andy Vences via split decision in July 2020 and dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over 10 rounds in September 2021. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he earned his shot at the IBF title, dethroning Josh Warrington in his hometown of Leeds, England. In his first defense, the 29-year-old once again traveled to enemy territory and beat Michael Conlan via fifth-round TKO with a dazzling right uppercut in Belfast.

“We’re going to bring a memorable all-Mexican war to Corpus Christi on Mexican Independence Day Weekend,” Lopez said. “Nothing but respect to Joet, but he’s not leaving Texas with my belt. I guarantee an exciting fight, but the IBF world title will still be wrapped around my waist.”

Gonzalez (26-3, 15 KOs) debuted in the pro ranks in 2012 and was 23-0 before facing Shakur Stevenson for the vacant WBO featherweight title in 2019. He dominated veteran Miguel Marriaga in his September 2020 return before losing his second attempt at the WBO strap in a 2021 Fight of the Year contender against Emanuel Navarrete. Gonzalez then stopped Jeo Santisima via ninth-round TKO in March 2022 before dropping a split decision to Isaac Dogboe in July of that year. The 29-year-old will have his third opportunity at a world title after defeating Enrique Vivas via 10-round unanimous decision in April.

Gonzalez said, “I am thankful to Top Rank that I am receiving another shot at the world title. I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity and fulfilling my dream. Lopez is an excellent champion, but I’m coming to Texas with every intention on hearing the words, ‘And NEW!’”

Zayas (16-0, 10 KOs) has been on a rapid trajectory to super stardom since signing with Top Rank at 16. He has maintained an unblemished record since debuting as a pro in October 2019. In 2022, he scored eight-round decision wins over Quincy LaVallais and Alexis Salazar, along with a fifth-round TKO against Elias Espadas. The 20-year-old will make his second 2023 appearance after a 10-round unanimous decision win over Ronald Cruz during Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend in June. Valenzuela (21-4, 20 KOs) is a six-year pro who has given stiff tests to Alexis Rocha, Souleymane Cissokho and Bakhram Murtazaliev. The 24-year-old Mexican is coming off a third-round TKO victory against Daniel Vega in April.

Xayas said, “I am excited for the next big step in my career that will take place on September 15 in Corpus Christi, Texas, against a Mexican warrior that I know will come prepared to give his best and will bring out the best in me. I am training hard to continue showing Puerto Rico and all of Latin America what I am capable inside the ring.”

The ESPN+-streamed undercard includes an all-Mexico showdown, a U.S. Olympian, and the return of three of Top Rank’s top contenders. 

Mexican standouts Omar Aguilar (25-1, 24 KOs) and Julio Luna (20-1-2, 11 KOs) will collide in an eight-round welterweight battle. Both are on the comeback trail following losses to two of Top Rank’s finest. Aguilar suffered his first career setback against Lindolfo Delgado last August and returned with a second-round TKO win over Cristian Sonora Soltero in May. Luna dropped a 10-round decision to Giovani Santillan last August, but he bounced back with a third-round knockout win against Hassam Valenzuela in March.

Lightweight contender Jamaine Ortiz (16-1-1, 8 KOs) returns in a 10-rounder. Last October, the 27-year-old took an early lead against former lightweight champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko before losing the tightly contested battle via unanimous decision. 

Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and former two-time title challenger Robson Conceicao (17-2, 8 KOs) will see action in an eight-round junior lightweight tilt. Conceicao heads to the ring for the second time this year following a no contest against Nicolas Polanco in June.

Former world title challenger Ruben Villa (20-1, 7 KOs) returns in an eight-round featherweight clash against Colombia’s Brandon Valdes (15-3, 7 KOs). Villa dominated Maickol Lopez Villagrana en route to a fifth-round KO in May.

U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (9-0, 5 KOs) makes his third appearance of 2023 in an eight-round junior welterweight fight against an opponent to be named. He scored a dominant decision win over Jonathan Montrel in July.




CLOSED CIRCUIT TICKETS GO ON SALE TODAY FOR ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. TERENCE CRAWFORD SHOWDOWN ON SATURDAY, JULY 29 IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – July 24, 2023 – Closed circuit tickets for the much-anticipated blockbuster showdown between undefeated boxing superstars Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford will go on sale TODAY at 10 a.m. PT ahead of their matchup on Saturday, July 29 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the closed circuit telecast at the MGM Grand Garden Arena can be purchased at AXS.com.

Doors at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the exclusive CCTV location for fans to watch Spence vs. Crawford on the Las Vegas Strip, will open at 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, July 29, with the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV® clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

The event is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions.

For more information visit sho.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #SpenceCrawford, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.




BOXING PRODIGY AND RISING HOLLYWOOD STAR JAVON “WANNA” WALTON JOINS MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS

NEW YORK, NY – July 24, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced it has signed Javon “Wanna” Walton, boxing prodigy and actor best known for his role as “Ashtray” on the Emmy-winning series Euphoria. Fighting at 125 pounds, Walton has over 80 amateur bouts under his belt, which include wins in multiple junior amateur tournaments and five Georgia state titles. MVP, founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021, will utilize Bidarian’s media, sports and finance acumen to advise Walton on brand building, content creation, and marketing of events along with Paul’s viral content creation and marketing genius. MVP will advise him as he finishes out the remainder of his amateur career and prepares to make his professional debut in 2024. Walton will make his first MVP appearance as a participant in the open workouts on Wednesday, August 2nd, in Dallas, TX, as part of the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz fight week.

“I’ve been training so hard and working for the majority of my life for this moment. MVP feels like family and that’s very important to me. I know they can help me reach my goals in professional boxing and do it in a way that feels special to me.” said, Walton.

Walton, who turned 17 two days ago, will remain an amateur boxer in development with MVP, and will join MVP’s elite roster of superstar athletes and up-and-coming stars including Jake Paul, undisputed Featherweight World Champion Amanda Serrano, prolific top boxing prospect Ashton Sylve, and power-puncher Shadasia Green. As the youngest-ever athlete to sign with Nike’s Jordan Brand, Walton will continue to excel as a boxer and compete in MVP’s future marquee events and Most Valuable Prospects showcase series. He will continue training under his father and coach, DJ Walton.

Walton got his start at the age of four when he became one of America’s youngest amateur prospects. His skill and hard work earned him the title of multi-time Junior Regional Champion and two-time Junior Olympic national silver medalist. In addition to his boxing chops, Walton was also a USA Gymnastics-ranked elite rising star and was named to their exclusive Future Star program at age eight, one of only seven in the southeast. Walton continued on to compete at the elite level in trampoline and floor tumbling (TNT), finishing with top three in the nation with a silver medal in all-round in 2016. Walton is the first and only athlete in the state of Georgia to hold the youth gymnastics all-around and USA Boxing/Silver Gloves boxing champion state titles simultaneously. 

The Atlanta native is also a world-renowned actor who captured international attention with his debut role as the beloved drug dealer “Ashtray” in the HBO Max Emmy-winning series Euphoria starring alongside Hollywood icons Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney. Walton’s credits also include roles in Season 3 of Netflix’s Umbrella Academy, the Amazon Prime Video series Utopia, MGM’s SAMARITAN, where he starred opposite Sylvester Stallone, and BRON Studios and MGM’s animated comedy The Addams Family 2, where he made his voice acting debut as Pugsley Addams. Walton will also star in Hulu’s upcoming true-crime mini-series release, Under the Bridge, where he plays a main character alongside Riley Keough. 

Walton has garnered an impressive social audience of over 13 million followers across his platforms and has become one of the most marketable names for premiere athletic and consumer brands. At only eight years old, he was the youngest athlete identified by Under Armour and became one of seven athletes to be crowned ‘NEXT,’ Under Armour’s youth athlete elite development program. Walton was also featured in the advertising campaign for the Muhammed Ali Collection in 2018 and was prominently highlighted in UA’s Will Finds A Way campaign alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. 

“We see this as an incredible opportunity to make a big impact on Wanna’s entrance into professional boxing. The way Nakisa and Jake have been able to disrupt the boxing promotion business in such a considerably short period of time is inspiring. We’re honored to be MVP’s youngest signee.” Said Walton’s coach and father, DJ Walton

In addition to acting, Wanna has attracted the attention of major brands like Essentia Water and PSD Underwear. Drake’s OVO then tapped Walton to model another of their collaborations with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Additional brand partnerships for the young star include collaborations with Gap and Venmo, as the face of its new teen card. 

“Wanna Walton is uniquely positioned to become the face of combat sports over the next decade. With an unmatched blend of skills and pedigree, strong values, and a large highly engaged fan base before turning pro, he embodies a true superstar in the making,” said MVP co-founders Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul. “We’re honored to welcome Wanna into our family of exceptional athletes and under MVP, he will be headlining global pay-per-view events in no time. MVP is leading a new era of boxing and Wanna is the future. We can’t wait to see his greatness unfold.”

Founded with the mission to give athletes creative control, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its talent partners and events. As one of the most successful and iconic creators in the world, Paul has one of the largest followings on YouTube, with over 70 million followers across his digital platforms – creating an invaluable built-in marketing system that coordinates with his efforts in the ring. His co-founder, the former CFO of UFC, former CEO and Co-Founder of Fertitta Capital and founder of BAVAFA Sports, Bidarian, has demonstrated a deep understanding of corporate finance, content creation and operational strategy working together to build successful businesses. 

Together, Paul and Bidarian have architected Jake Paul’s meteoric rise in combat sports. In 2021, MVP signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano and since signing with the company, she has become Undisputed Featherweight Champion. Her historic clash against Katie Taylor at Madison Square Garden in 2022 earned recognition as Sports Illustrated’s Fight of the Year, The Ring’s Event of the Year and was further nominated for Event of the Year by Sports Business Journal. The event marked a pivotal point in women’s sports history as the first-time women have headlined a main event at the world-renowned venue in New York City. MVP’s other signees include the prolific undefeated young boxing prospect Ashton “H20” Sylve and one of boxing’s most powerful female punchers, Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green.

For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul @MostVPromotions and @OnwardWanna, or on Instagram via @JakePaul, @MostValuablePromotions, and @OnwardWanna.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last four global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Fury match, which surpassed 800,000 Pay-per-view buys worldwide. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.




 Weigh-In Results:Stephen Fulton vs. Naoya Inoue

 •  Stephen Fulton Jr. 121.9 lbs. vs. Naoya Inoue 121.7lbs
(Fulton’s WBO & WBC Junior Featherweight World Titles— 12 Rounds)

   •   Robeisy Ramirez 125.7 lbs vs. Satoshi Shimizu 125.7 lbs
(Ramirez’s WBO Featherweight World Title — 12 Rounds)

•    Kanamu Sakama107.5 lbs vs. Ryu Horikawa 107.8 lbs 
 (Light Flyweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Yoshiki Takei 118.8 lbs vs. Ronnie Baldonado 117.5 lbs 
 (Junior Featherweight — 8 Rounds)




VIDEO: Stephan Shaw Breaks down his fight with Joseph Goodall




AUDIO: Giovani Santillan Previews fight with Erick Bone






Press Conference Notes: Naoya Inoue Poised to Overthrow Junior Featherweight King Stephen Fulton

TOKYO (July 22, 2023) —  Three-division world champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue  (24-0, 21 KOs) will embark on his quest to conquer a fourth weight class as he challenges WBC/WBO junior featherweight world champion Stephen Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs)this Tuesday, July 25 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan

In the 12-round co-feature, Cuban sensation Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez (12-1, 7 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBO featherweight world title against Japanese contender Satoshi Shimizu (11-1, 10 KOs).

Fulton-Inoue, Ramirez-Shimizu and undercard fights will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. starting at 4:30 a.m. ET/1:30 a.m. PT.

At Saturday’s press conference, this is what Inoue and Ramirez had to say:

Naoya Inoue

“Coming up to junior featherweight to be able to challenge Stephen Fulton for the title has given me great motivation. I get excited thinking about this fight and about how I will perform. I’ve been watching film of Fulton, and I think he is a very intelligent fighter.” 

“I haven’t been a challenger in five years, and that has heightened my motivation as well. I think I will be able to perform better than before.”

“Due to my injury, the fight had to be rescheduled for the 25th. And I feel grateful for the cooperation from all the people involved in the promotion and Team Fulton to make this happen. And because of that gratitude, I want to fight with everything I have on the 25th.”

Robeisy Ramirez

“I feel great. We’ve had a great training camp. I’m very happy to be in Japan and to get to know this country and its culture. I’m ready for everything that lies ahead.”

“I don’t know much about my opponent, but as I have said since this fight was presented to me, we all know that Japanese fighters are warriors. I hope he is ready because I am coming at 100 percent.”

“This is my first defense, and it’s always super important for any champion. This is the next step on my way to becoming the best featherweight in the world. I’m going to be me and have fun, the Robeisy that everyone knows inside the ring.”

Tuesday, July 25

ESPN+ (4:30 a.m. ET/1:30 a.m. PT)
 

Stephen Fulton vs. Naoya Inoue, 12 rounds, Fulton’s WBC/WBO Junior Featherweight World Titles 

Robeisy Ramirez vs. Satoshi Shimizu, 12 rounds, Ramirez’s WBO Featherweight World Title 

Kanamu Sakama vs. Ryu Horikawa, 8 rounds, Light Flyweight 

Yoshiki Takei vs. Ronnie Baldonado, 8 rounds, Junior Featherweight 

# # #

About ESPN+  
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  




VIDEO: Giovani Santillan Previews fight with Erick Bone




Giovani Santillan and Stephan Shaw in Action in Shawnee, Oklahoma

NEW YORK (July 22, 2023) – TONIGHT at The Firelake Arena Shawnee, Oklahoma, two Split-T Management fighters will be in action in fights that will be streamed live on ESPN+ at 6:15 PM ET.

Undefeated welterweight Giovani Santillan will take on veteran Erick Bone in a 10-round bout, while Stephan Shaw will take on Joe Goodall in an eight-round scrap.

Santillan of San Diego has a perfect mark at 30-0 with 16 knockouts. The 31 year-old Santillan has built his record by defeating tough opponents such as Peter Haro (2-0), Michael Balasi (10-2), Daniyar Hanyk (10-0), Osenohan Vazquez (7-1-1), Eduardo Rivera (9-1-2), Ernesto Ortiz Centeno (10-2), Omar Tienda Bahana (18-3), Sammy Valentin (12-0), Dodzi Kemeh (19-1), Alejandro Barboza (11-1), former world champion Antonio DeMarco (33-8-1), Cecil McCalla (23-4), Angel Ruiz (17-1), Jeovanis Barraza (23-2) and on August 20, 2022 when Santillan won a 10-round unanimous decision over Julio Avila (19-0-2) in San Diego.

Bone of Ecuador is 27-6 with 14 knockouts. The 34 year-old Bone has defeated the likes of Luis Carlos Tejedor (3-0) and Mahonri Montes (29-3-1). Bone has won seven straight fights, which includes a fifth round stoppage of Roberto Verdago on March 18th in Quito, Ecuador.

Santillan, who is promoted by Top Rank, weighed 147.8 lbs. Bone was 147.6.

Shaw of Saint Louis is 18-1 with 13 knockouts. The 30 year-old Shaw is looking to re-establish himself in the heavyweight picture as he already has wins over Danny Kelly (9-2-1), Jonathan Rice (4-1-1), Joel Caudle (7-1-1), Donovan Dennis (12-3), Willie Jake Jr. (8-2-1), Gregory Corbin (15-2), Lyubomyr Pinchuk (12-1-1) and Rydell Booker (26-6-1). Shaw is coming off his first setback as he dropped a decision to Efe Ajagba on January 14th in Verona, New York.

Goodall of Brisbane, Australia has a record of 9-1-1 with eight knockouts. The 31 year-old has defeated Sumit Rangi (4-1-1) and his last bout when he Arseno Fosso in three rounds in Queensland, Australia on September 15, 2022.

Shaw is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Top Rank.

Shaw checked in at 244 lbs. Goodall was 238 lbs.

Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank via Getty Images




Louie Lopez stops Benjamin Lamptey in 3 to Close Out Thompson Boxing

Thompson boxing ended it’s 23-year round with an entertaining five bout card that was headlined by Louie Lopez stopping Benjamin Lamptey in round three of their eight-round junior middleweight bout at the Doubletree in Ontario, California.

In round three, Lopez dropped Lamptey with a series of body shots. Seconds later, it was more body work that put Lamptey down for the 10-count at 1:22.

Lopez, 149.2 lbs of Corona, CA is 14-2-1 with five knockouts. Lamptey, 152.7 lbs of Accra, GHA falls to 13-12-2.

George Acosta stopped Edy Valencia Mercado after round five of their six-round junior lightweight bout.

At the end of round four, Acosta dropped Mercado with a right. Mercado quit on his stool after round five.

Acosta, 130.5 lbs of Whittier, CA is 16-1 with three knockouts. Mercado, 130.8 lbs of Culican, MEX is 20-12-2.

Nelson Oliva stopped Jeremaine Chico Whittington in round two of their four-round super middleweight fight.

In round two, Oliva landed a right hook that made Whittington take a knee. Seconds later, it was another right hook that put Whittington down again. Finally it was a left to body that put Whittington down for a third time and the fight was stopped at 1:57.

Oliva, 166.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Whittington, 165.3 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 2-2.

Kevin Salgado stopped Iziah Vargas in the opening round of their four-round welterweight fight.

Salgado dropped Vargas with a body shot in the opening frame. Salgado scored another knockdown and the fight was stopped at 2:08.

Salgado, 144 lbs of Murrieta, CA is 3-1 with one knockout. Vargas is 1-7.

Esteban Munoz won a six-round unanimous decision over Nelson Morales in a welterweight bout.

Munoz, 142.4 lbs of San Bernadino, CA won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 7-3. Morales, 144.4 lbs of Scranton, PA is 4-8.

This was Thompson Boxing Promotions final show. The company, who generally was regarded as the best and most consistent boxing series in the country, produced five world champions and countless contenders. The company was headed by Ken Thompson, who passed away in February. Alex Caamponovo did a masterful job building those fighters as well as putting many fan-friendly and completive fights.




Weights from Washington, PA

Pittsburgh, PA (July 21, 2023) – Weights for Saturday night’s fight card at The Meadows Race Track and Casino in Washington, PA

Lyubomyr Pinchuk 200.2 – Anthony Holloway 196.8

Joseph Turk 202 – Michael Manna 199.8

Mary Cassamassa 164.6 – Christianne Fahey 164.6

Khama Worthy 160.2 – Martin Bills III 160.4

Paul Palombo 150.4 – Jessie Addison 153

Steve Cunningham Jr. 156.4 – Tyrone Albert Adams 160.8

Promoters: Integrity Fighter Management & Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

Venue: Meadows Race Track and Casino

First Bell: 7 PM ET

The fights will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com and Starboxing.tv

Tickets are available at bit.ly/SummerSlugfest for more info call 412-728-3409




VIDEO: R & B Promotions weigh-in on July 21, 2023 (Butt vs Crain)for July 22, 2023 Card at the 2300 Arena




Weights from Philadelphia

Philadelphia (July 21, 2023)–- Weights for Saturday night’s R and B Promotions card at the 2300 Arena.

Daiyann Butt 142.2 – Michael Crain 142.9

Tahmir Smalls 148.3 – Andres Vierra 151.2

Oluwafemi Oeyeleye 157.5 – Javier Maciel 166.9

Ezri Turner 171 – Milton Volter 177.8

Josh Jones 133.7 – Carlos Rocha 133.8

Allen Otto 155 – Tim Tyler 157.7

Juan Marrero 137.1 – Jose Fracica Baron 141.1

Anthony Dill 150.6 – Ghandi Romain 147.5

Jahron Williams 120.4 – Devin Gantt 123.3

Daniel Bean 237.5 – Rob Perez 238.2

Promoter: R and B Promotions

Venue: 2300 Arena

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

Stream: BXNGTV.com (Marc Abrams and LeAnna Cruz on the Call)




 Weigh-In Results: George Kambosos Jr. vs. Maxi Hughes

 •  George Kambosos Jr. 134.6 lbs. vs. Maxi Hughes 134.7 lbs
(IBF Lightweight Title Eliminator — 12 Rounds)

   •   Keyshawn Davis 134.3 lbs vs. Francesco Patera 134 lbs
(Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

•    Giovani Santillan147.8 lbs  vs. Erick Bone 147.6 lbs 
 (Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•  Jeremiah Milton 255.3 lbs  vs. Willie Harvey 296.5 lbs 
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

•  Troy Isley 158.8 lbs vs. Antonio Todd 159.2. lbs
 (Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Amron Sands 300 lbs vs. Hemi Ahio 247 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

• Stephan Shaw 244 lbs vs. Joe Goodall 238 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)