DETROIT – July 18, 2023 – Salita Promotions promoted fighters Joseph Hicks, Joshua Pagan and Jermaine Franklin, made it a successful hat-trick this past Saturday as all three were victorious in their respective showdowns that took place at Masonic Temple in Detroit.

Grand Rapids, Michigan’s Hicks (8-0, 5 KOs) continued to show the elite boxing skill that once had him set to captain the U.S. Olympic Team at the 2020 summer games, before the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the proceedings, in dispatching veteran Ramses Agaton via a six-round unanimous decision (60-54 three times). The 29-year-old owns four victories in 2023 and hopes to continue his uptick in competition.

“I love that I’m staying busy,” said Hicks. “These are the kind of fights that help me grow and develop into a world champion. I felt really comfortable in the ring and was able to take my work from the gym and implement it into the fight. I’m coming to make big noise in the middleweight division.”

Also picking up his fourth victory of 2023 was Pagan (8-0, 4 KOs), who made quick work of Gabriel Smith, stopping him in round one. The 23-year-old from Grand Rapids, Michigan has now delivered back-to-back knockouts after his last outing saw him earn a career-best victory via a third-round stoppage of the previously unbeaten Ronnell Burnett.

“It felt great being back in the ring, especially after being a part of Jake Paul’s camp and learning so much,” said Pagan. “I wish I had more rounds to show more, but it was a great experience nonetheless. I’m very excited to bring my experience and what I learned to the ring into my next fight.”

The 29-year-old heavyweight Franklin (22-2, 14 KOs) got back into the win column with a dominant unanimous decision (100-90 twice, 99-91) over the previously unbeaten Isaac Munoz Gutierrez after 10 rounds of action. A native of Saginaw, Michigan, Franklin had come off of close decision losses to former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and top contender Dillian Whyte in his last two outings, and will now look to catapult right back into challenge the heavyweight cream of the crop.

Expect to see these Michigan-based fighters continue their upward trajectories in the near future as Salita Promotions stays on its course to help the state’s best talents reach the highest levels of the sport.

“Three of the best American prospects and contenders had an impressive showing and showed why they all have world title aspirations,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “Big time boxing is back in Detroit and it’s a matter of time before boxing fans in the U.S. and around the world see Pagan, Hicks and once again, top American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin, in significant fights.”

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

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

LAS VEGAS – July 18, 2023 – Top lightweight contender and Mexico City-native Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz has vowed to make his country proud and solidify his status in the star-studded 135-pound division when he faces unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford co-main event live on SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“I am ready to put Mexico on top once again and show that I am meant to go up against the best,” said Cruz. “I’m making sure that I’m working harder and smarter and making the most of everything I do in the gym. It’s not just about how hard you hit, you gotta be smart and have your punches connect in the way that you meant them to land all along.

“It may sound cliche, but it truly is about dedication, hard work and discipline. Being just a regular fighter is taking the easy way out. Saying no to a glass of water or to being with friends is hard. What we do is beautiful, but it’s hard. If you want to be an elite athlete, you have to learn how to live with sacrifice.”

Coming from a family full of professional boxers, including his father and grandfather, Cruz is no secret to the sacrifices his chosen profession requires at the highest level. Although he laments the time missed with his wife and children, it acts as motivation for him to perform at his best.

“The hardest thing I ever had to do was that I had to tell my wife and kids ‘today, I can’t take you for ice cream,’” said Cruz. “I’m fortunate that I train close to them, but I still miss a lot. At the end of the day, it only makes it more important that I make the most of these sacrifices and fight to my full ability. I fight at my best because of the love and support I receive from my family.”

The 25-year-old Cruz has become a fan-favorite amongst the passionate Mexican fans due to his all-action style that calls back to many of boxing’s most memorable Mexican champions and contenders. Although he’s competed at lightweight throughout his career that dates back to 2015, he has no plans of leaving the division and hopes to continue to develop his relationship with fans against the weight class’s other stars.

“I’m totally focused on staying at 135-pounds because it’s where I feel strongest and most comfortable,” said Cruz. “I just want to give everyone watching a great show. I’ve made a connection with the fans because I showed that I’m not afraid to fight the best. I have no fear, just resolve.”

Since giving unbeaten boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis perhaps the toughest test of his career in their December 2021 clash, Cruz has set his sights on a blockbuster rematch against the WBA Lightweight Title holder. However, his plans are set beyond just Davis, with eyes on clearing out the entire division before settling a grudge match against Ryan Garcia.

“I want the American fans to know me as well as the Mexican fans, so I have to go up against the very best,” said Cruz. “First, I want that rematch with Gervonta Davis no matter what. After that, I want to face Devin Haney and Vasyl Lomachenko. Then I’d like to face another contender in this division, and finally move up and take out Ryan Garcia.”

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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/.

CHEATHAM COUNTY, TN (July 18, 2023) – Lightweight prospect, Ty “Short Fuse” Tomlin (14-1, 9 KOs) is ready to get back into the ring this Saturday, July 22, 2023, as he wraps up training camp for his upcoming fight against Abdel Sauceda (11-3, 7 KOs). The scheduled 8-round bout, promoted by Misfits Boxing in association with DiBella Entertainment, will take place at the Nashville Municipal Auditorium, just outside of Tomlin’s hometown of Cheatham County.

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

On his recent training camp:

“I had a great camp, and everything is coming together. I feel like every part of my game is improving especially my ability to box from a distance. I’m using my feet more and I’m taking less hits in sparring. I’m in great shape and ready to put on a show for the fans.”

On his upcoming matchup against Sauceda:

“I feel confident that I’ll be able to be successful against Sauceda and showcase everything I’ve been working on in the gym. He’s coming off a couple of losses so I’m expecting him to come into the ring with nothing to lose. I’m prepared to go the distance if need be, but my thoughts are on ending the fight by knockout. Either way, I’m coming to win.”

On fighting in Nashville:

“I will have a lot of fans coming out to support me since I live just outside of Nashville. Cheatham County will be deep in the audience. Fighting at home is something I look forward to because of all the fans that come out to see me fight. I’m ready to bring home a victory for all my family, friends and fans that will be in attendance.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“A victory will give me the confidence needed to take my career to the next level. Right now, I’m working my way back to getting into a big fight. My promoter Lou DiBella is planning something big for me. I just need to put together a few wins to get back on track. A win against Sauceda will keep the momentum going.”

Tickets priced $40 (Balcony), $60 (Prefered), $100 (Floor) and $200 (Ringside) are on sale now and can be purchased online by using the code “TOMLIN” at ticketmaster.com. The Nashville Municipal Auditorium is located at 417 4th Ave. N, Nashville TN 37201.

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. – July 17, 2023 – Former world champion Emmanuel Rodriguez will take on streaking contender Melvin Lopez for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, August 12 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from The Theater at MGM National Harbor in Maryland.  

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated rising star and Capitol Heights, Maryland-native Gary Antuanne Russell taking on fellow unbeaten Kent Cruz in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus sensational top prospect and Landover, Maryland-native Travon Marshall duels unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre in the 10-round welterweight telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.mgmnationalharbor.com/.

“This show on August 12 is jam-packed with action for boxing fans as they will get an exciting world title clash in addition to some of the area’s top rising talent in tough contests live on SHOWTIME,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Emmanuel Rodriguez is hungry to make a second run as world champion at bantamweight and will be given all he can handle by the red-hot Melvin Lopez. With two of Maryland’s top rising stars in Gary Antuanne Russell and Travon Marshall stepping in for separate bouts before that showdown, this lines up to be a can’t-miss card at MGM National Harbor.”

Fighting out of Manati, Puerto Rico, Rodríguez (21-2, 13 KOs) defeated the previously unbeaten Gary Antonio Russell last October by technical decision to put himself back into position to fight for the world title. The 30-year-old originally won the IBF Bantamweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Paul Butler in 2018 and successfully defended it against the then-unbeaten Jason Moloney. Rodríguez went on to lose the title to former undisputed champion Naoya Inoue in their May 2019 title bout.

“I’m happy to have this chance to become a world champion again,” said Rodriguez. “We’re gonna go out there to win in spectacular fashion and my goal is to show that I’m the best fighter in the world at 118-pounds. My goal is to become undisputed at bantamweight, however I’m not overlooking Melvin Lopez, because he’s a good fighter and will come to give it his all on August 12.”

The 25-year-old Lopez (29-1, 19 KOs) has won eight-straight fights since suffering his only career loss in October 2019. Originally from Nicaragua and now fighting out of Miami, Lopez has fought professionally since 2015 and began competing stateside in 2018. Lopez scored three victories in 2022, starting the year with knockouts of Juan Gabriel Medina and Victor Ruiz, before most recently defeating Jobert Alvarez last December. Out of his last 10 victories, Lopez has ended nine of those inside of the distance.

“I’m very excited that the time is almost here to fight for a world title,” said Lopez. “We’ve had a great training camp and everyone has sacrificed and worked hard so that we’re at our best on August 12. I’m going to show everyone why I earned this opportunity and repay my team for all of their efforts. I have a lot of respect for Emmanuel, but the best man will have his hand raised when we share the ring.”

Fighting out of his native Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (16-0, 16 KOs) will carry on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr. A member of one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families, Russell trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 26-year-old has yet to allow an opponent to make it to the final bell since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell defeated his most accomplished foes to date in 2022, stopping former champion Viktor Postol in February before a TKO win against former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in July.

“When you’re a student of the game like me, you have to consider that each step we take is about more than self-gratification. We’re doing this for keeps,” said Russell. “Kent Cruz has to catch up to me, but there’s no need for me to look back. The only direction I’m going is forward and that means putting on a spectacular performance on August 12, and proving I’m the next world champion in this division.”

The 30-year-old Cruz (16-0-3, 10 KOs) steps back into the ring after a pair of draws against fellow unbeaten Enriko Gogokhia in February and then November 2022. A native of St. Louis, Mo., Cruz defeated veterans Erik Humberto Castillo and Travis Hartman following a draw against Carlos Mohamed Rodriguez in April 2018. Cruz will pick up his past ring history with the Russell family on August 12, looking to avenge an amateur loss to Gary Allan Russell, Gary Antuanne’s older brother.

“I’m very excited for this fight on August 12,” said Cruz. “I’ve been waiting for a fight like this my whole career, so we didn’t hesitate when offered this one. I’m coming in as the underdog and that’s what’s fueling me. I’ve been an underdog my whole life and on August 12 I’m gonna shock the world. When I win this fight, I’ll be in contention to fight for a world title and have my chance to achieve my childhood dream.”

At just 22-years-old, Marshall (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown the skill, power and poise to become a highly regarded prospect in just eight fights. Born in Landover, Md., and now fighting out of Capitol Heights, Md., Marshall is trained by former contender Andrew Council and has already scored two stoppages in 2023. Most recently he dominated veteran contender Justin DeLoach via third-round knockout in March, his most impressive victory to date.

“I’m really excited to be fighting at home in front of my family, friends and fans on August 12,” said Marshall. “I’m working hard every day in the gym so that when fight night comes I’m 100% and ready to put on a great performance for everyone watching. My goal is to show everyone that I belong on the big stage, and that starts with a victory over Gabriel Maestre.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (5-0-1, 4 KOs) had an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. The 36-year-old made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw last March. Most recently, Maestre defeated former two-division champion Devon Alexander after three rounds in April.

“I’m very ready for this fight against Travon Marshall,” said Maestre. “We are focused on the work that we need to put in so that we are victorious on August 12. I’m focused on having my hand raised and putting on a good show. We want to leave a good impression with the fans and move on to fight the big names in the welterweight division.”

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

Samuel Antwi and Mason Cartwright collide in a mouth-watering battle for the vacant British super welterweight title on September 1, live and free-to-air on Channel 5. 

The pair meet at the University of Bolton Stadium, on the undercard of Lyndon Arthur’s IBO world light heavyweight title showdown with the big-punching Braian Suarez. 

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, return with another hard-hitting show in Bolton, following the success of its event there in March. 

Antwi, who has signed a promotional deal with Wasserman Boxing, is a former British welterweight title challenger and warmed up for this latest title shot by halting Ruben Angulo in less than three rounds, in Newcastle on Saturday night. 

Cartwright challenged then-champion Troy Williamson for the Lonsdale Belt last year, and despite flooring the title holder in a thriller, he was on the wrong end of a highly controversial points decision. 

Josh Kelly, who ripped the title from Williamson with a masterclass performance before Christmas, confirmed his decision to relinquish the title last week, which has opened the door for Antwi and Cartwright to scrap it out for the vacant belt.

Samuel Antwi said: “This is the third of the domestic trio for me.  I’ve been the Southern Area champion and the English champion, and now it’s time to add the British to the collection. 

“I have been given a great opportunity and though it’s above the weight I have been fighting at, I jumped at the chance.  I know I can handle myself as a super welterweight and I plan on making a statement on September 1.” 

Mason Cartwright said: “I believe I did enough to win the British super welterweight title last year, and so did a lot of the people who watched on the night.  For some reason, the ringside judges thought otherwise, but on September 1 I will deliver a performance that removes any doubt. 

“This time, I’m not returning to Ellesmere Port without the Lonsdale Belt in my possession.” 

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “British title fights always deliver, and Antwi against Cartwright has excitement plastered all over it. 

“We saw at the Wasserman Boxing show at the weekend, just what battling out for the Lonsdale Belt means to fighters.

“And so the fans in Bolton, or those watching live and free-to-air on Channel 5, are in for a real treat.  This is a brilliant addition to our world title card on September 1.” 

Los Angeles, CA (July 16, 2023) Saturday morning at the Knockouts Boxing Facility in South Gate, CA, WBC #2 Ranked Super Welterweight, Ukrainian Knockout Artist,

Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (22-1, 22 KOs) and World Title Challenger Patrick Allotey, (42-4, 32 KOs), hosted Media Workouts one week prior to their highly anticipated 10-round showdown this Saturday, July 22 at the Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez, CA and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Bohachuk vs. Allotey, for the WBC Continental Americas Title, headlines another installment of the acclaimed ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ world class boxing series presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions. Remaining tickets, priced at $105, $85, $75, $65 and $55 can be purchased through the Chumash Casino Resort. The Chumash Casino Resort is located at 3400 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez, CA 93460. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:00 p.m. PT with the first bell at 6:00 p.m. PT.

Below are quotes from the participants

Serhii Bohachuk

“Coach Manny (Robles) and I have had a great training camp in preparation for this fight. I know Patrick Allotey very well from watching his fights and look forward to a great challenge.”

“I’m ready now for a world title fight but if one is not available it’s important for me to stay busy. This is my third fight in the last nine months and I’m very grateful to my promoter Tom Loeffler and UFC FIGHT PASS for these fights. When the time comes to fight for a world title, I’ll be more than ready.”

“I’m aware that all of my victories have come by stoppage, I put a lot of pressure on my opponents and know how much the fans love knockouts.”

Patrick Allotey

“I’m happy to be fighting again in Southern California on such a big card. I’ve watched a number of Serhii Bohachuk’s fights and know how tough of a fight this is. We’ve put the work in preparation for this fight and the fans can expect a great performance from me.”

Tom Loeffler

“As you can see both Serhii Bohachuk and Patrick Allotey are in excellent shape and we’re expecting a tremendous battle on Saturday night. Complementing our can’t miss main event is a stellar undercard featuring many talented young fighters.”

“This is our first event at Chumash Casino Resort and we look forward to many great nights of world class boxing at their venue. And of course, to all boxing fans who can watch the event on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

Additional fighters working out for the media and fighting on Saturday night’s card included; Undefeated Featherweight Contender Omar Trinidad, (12-0-1, 9 KOs), Light Heavyweight Powerhouse, Umar Dzambekov, (5-0, 4 KOs), Undefeated Super Flyweight Rising Star, Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (2-0-1, 2 KOs), Featherweight Veteran Roberto ‘The Ram’ Meza, (15-3-1, 8 KOs) and Bantamweight Contender Narek Abgaryan, (15-1, 6 KOs).

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

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In a battle of undefeated lightweights. Frank Martin needed a late rally and 12th round knockdown to eek 12-round unanimous decision over Artem Harutyunyan at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.

It was a close fight early with Harutyunyan landing some sneaky combinations. It took Martin a few rounds to get going.

In round six, Martin picked up the pace and landed a barrage of punches that opened up a cut on the forehead of Harutyunyan.

In round 12, Martin was applying serious pressure and Harutyunyan had to take a knee. It turns out that Martin won the last four rounds on the judges cards and won by scores of 115-112 twice and 114-113.

Martin landed 167 of 539 punches. Harutyunyan was 117 of 442.

Martin, 135 lbs of Indianapolis is now 18-0. Harutyunyan, 134.6 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 12-1.

“I just knew I wasn’t active enough as I normally am,” said Martin, who won his second fight at The Chelsea in eight months. “I just think my reaction time just wasn’t on point tonight. He definitely was a tough opponent. I wouldn’t say that it was too difficult, it was just my reaction time wasn’t working like it normally does for me. I couldn’t tell you know, just my timing seemed a little off tonight. He was definitely tough. I hit him with some big shots. He stood up, he bounced around in the ring like a ping pong, but he stood tall. I take my hat off to him because he took some big shots.

“I don’t agree,” Harutyunyan said of the decision. “If it’s possible I will fight him again, but if it’s not, not a problem. He’s just a fighter. He’s not Errol Spence. I’m a big fan of Errol Spence. My plan is to be become a world champion, or at least fight for the world title, maybe against Devin Haney or Gervonta Davis. I can go up one weight class, it’s not a problem for me. But I’m so happy to be here and I want to come back.”

On Harutyunyan taking the knee, Martin said, “No, I wasn’t surprised. You know after a while, after I’ve landed so many body shots, I can get to wearing guys down. I didn’t land as many body shots as I normally do, so, you know, he stood in there.”

“He’s a good fighter. But I saw every punch on him,” Harutyunyan said. “The last one my eye got hurt very bad, so that was the point where I had to take a few seconds to recover [on the knockdown]. I think this round was the only round that decided it and gave it to him.”

Elvis Rordiguez Stops Victor Postal in 7

Elvis Rodriguez stopped former world champion Viktor Postal in round seven of their 10-round super lightweight fight.

In round six, Postal began to bleed from his nose. Late in the round, Rodriguez landed a vicious right hook to the head that sent Postal to a knee. Postal was hurt to begin round seven, and Rodriguez sensed it and landed another right hook that sent Postal wobbling to the ropes and the fight was waved off by Celestino Ruiz at 23 seconds.

Rodriguez, 141.8 lbs of Las Angeles is 15-1-1 with 13 knockouts. Postal, 141.6 lbs of Marina del Rey, CA is 31-5.

“For every fight we always have a plan,” Rodriguez said. “Today, maybe it helped a little bit that Freddie trained Postol, but it’s always a plan for a different fighter. This all started in the fifth round. When I hit him, I thought I fractured his nose, then I gave him a nice look in the fifth. So, in the sixth I was going for the kill. I felt I had him from the beginning in the seventh round. I gave him a hook and I saw that he was in trouble. And then the referee stopped the fight. So we knew we had won. I’m ready. I’m ready for a world title. I’ve worked too hard so far. Thank you.”

Freudis Rojas Jr. Stops Diego Sanchez in 7

Freudis Rojas Jr. remained undefeated by stopping Diego Sanchez in round seven of their 10-round welterweight bout.

Rojas dominated the fight and the corner of Sanchez ended the fight at 58 seconds of round seven.

Rojas, 146 lbs of Las Vegas is 11-0 with 11 knockouts. Sanchez, 146.6 lbs of San Diego is 19-3.

“You know this guy was a tough guy. We knew that he was gonna keep putting pressure on,” said Rojas, who was extended past the fourth round for the first time. “I’m glad I got the rounds in because that’s what we need in the pros. The more rounds the better, and I know the fans like that. This was the biggest blessing. Like I said at the press conference, when I found that the news [I would fight on the telecast] I was jumping around like a little girl like with some pom poms, man ‘cause it’s such a blessing. I think this is gonna open a lot more doors for me.”

Alycia Baumgardner avenged her only professional blemish and retained the Undisputed Super Featherweight Title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Christina Linardatou at The Masonic Temple in Detroit.

It was a fight that had solid action as Baumgardner landed some hard shots. Linardatou tried to punch with Baumgardner, but the reigning champion was faster and landed the more impactful blows.

Baumgardner, 129.4 lbs of Detroit won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 15-1. Linardatou, 129.8 lbs of Athens, GRE is 14-3.

Andy Cruz Decisions Former World Title Challenger Burgos in Pro Debut

Andy Cruz made a successful pro debut with a 10-rond unanimous decision over former three-time world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos in a lightweight bout.

Cruz, 134.6 lbs of Matanzas, CUB won by scores of 100-90 twice and 98-92 and is 1-0. Burgos, 134.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 35-8-3,

Jermaine Franklin Decisions Isaac Munoz

Jermaine Franklin won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Isaac Munoz in a heavyweight bout.

Franklin, 241.2 lbs of Saginaw, MI won by scores of 100-90 twice and is 99-91 and is now 22-2. Munoz, 257.4 lbs of Mexico City is 17-1-1.

Jar’Rico O’Quinn Decisions Carlos Mujica

Ja’Rico O’Quinn won a 10-round unanimous decision over Carlos Mujica in a super-bantamweight contest.

In round five, Mujica was cut around his left eye.

It was a close fight yet a judge did not think so by giving O’Quinn a 100-90 victory. Two other judges saw the fight 97-93 and 96-94.

O’Quinn of Detroit is 16-1-1. Mujica, 122.6 lbs of Caracas, VEN is 8-3.

NEW YORK (July 15, 2023) – TONIGHT at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, Christina Linardatou will attempt to become undisputed junior lightweight champion when she tries to defeat reigning champion Alycia Baumgardner for a second time.

Linardatou, who is managed by Brian Cohen, handed Baumgardner her only loss when they squared off on July 28, 2018.

Linardatou of Athens, Greece is 14-2 with six knockouts. The 35 year-old is a former two-time super lightweight world champion who won the title on March 24, 2019 with a sixth round stoppage over Kandi Wyatt in Athens. She made one defense over undefeated Deanha Hobbs (8-0). Linardatou won the WBO title for a second time with a 10-round unanimous decision over Prisca Vicot on February 8, 2020 in Gary, Indiana. Linardatou also has wins over Sam Smith (5-0) and Lela Terashvili (5-0-1).

Baumgardner of Detroit is 14-1 with seven knockouts. Baumgardner won the WBC title with a fourth round stoppage over Terry Harper on November 13, 2021 in Sheffield, England. The 29 year-old added the WBO and IBF titles on October 15, 2022 with a 10-round split decision over Mikaela Mayer in London. Baumgardner became undisputed with a 10-round unanimous decision over Elhem Mekhaled on February 4th in New York.

Linardatou, who is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, weighed 129.8 lbs. Baumgardner was 129.4 lbs.

The bout will be streamed Live on DAZN beginning at 8 PM ET.

Earlier on the card, Split-T Management fighter Joseph Hicks Jr. will take on Ramses Agaton in a six-round super middleweight bout.

Hicks of Grand Rapids, Michigan is 7-0 with five knockouts. The 29 year-old has a win over undefeated Bilal Quintyne (4-0) and is coming off a eight-round unanimous decision over Antonio Todd on June 3rd in Detroit.

Agaton of Mexico is 22-14-3 with 12 knockouts. The 33 year-old is a 13 year professional. Agaton has wins over Hector Mercado (1-0), Oscar leonard Ventura (4-0-1), Alvaro Roble (17-2), Alejandro Barrera (23-1) and Ronald Montes (16-0).

Hicks, who is promoted by Salita Promotions, weighed 167.4 lbs. Agaton was 169.8.

Photos By Ed Mulholland / Matchroom Boxing.

Lightweight WBC Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Frank Martin – 135 lbs.

Artem Harutyunyan – 134.6 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Max de Luca (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Elvis Rodriguez – 141.8 lbs.

Viktor Postol – 141.6 lbs.

Note: Contracted weight is 142

Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Freudis Rojas – 146 lbs.

Diego Sanchez – 146.6 lbs.

Referee: Tony Weeks; Judges: John McKaie (N.Y.), Dave Morretti (Nev.), Don Trella (Conn.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^®-winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood, who will serve as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy Award winner David Dinkins, Jr., with Ray Smaltz III producing and Chuck McKean directing. 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 alongside him as the expert analyst. 

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

NEW YORK – July 14, 2023 – Unbeaten rising middleweight Joseph Hicks Jr. will return to the ring in a six-round showdown against Ramses Agaton this Saturday, July 15 from the Masonic Temple in Detroit.

The 29-year-old Hicks (4-0, 4 KOs) fights out of the growing Salita Promotions stable and step in for his fourth fight of the year, having most recently won an eight-round decision over Antonio todd in June. A native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, he’ll meet the 33-year-old Agaton (22-14-3, 12 KOs), who has faced numerous top contenders throughout his career.

It feels good to be fighting again and displaying my skills for boxing fans,” said Hicks. “I want to stay busy and continue to learn and grow as a fighter. I’m on my route to being a world champion and that means treating every fight like the most important of my career.

A standout amateur before entering the pro ranks, Hicks was set to captain the U.S. Olympic Team at the 2020 summer games, before the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the proceedings. By the time the games were back on, the IOC’s formula for picking fighters in his weight class left him on the outside looking in. Undeterred, Hicks has shined as a pro thus far and will look to cement his contender status with a big year ahead.

“Hicks had a stellar amateur career and has all the tools to quickly develop into a contender and champion,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “ In his last fight he had an impressive step up against the very experienced and skilled Antonio Todd. He is an American-born, Michigan-made middleweight who will be one of the key fighters in rejuvenating boxing in Detroit.”

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

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

First bell at 5.30pm ET
 
6 x 3 mins Welterweight contest
Joshua James Pagan (146.2lbs) vs.    Gabriel Smith (147.4lbs)
Grand Rapids, Michigan                       Houston, Texas
 
Followed by
 
6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest
Joseph Hicks (167.6lbs) vs.         Ramses Agaton (169.8lbs)
Grand Rapids, Michigan              Tlalnepantla de Baz, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
6 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
Cameron Pankey (123.6lbs)       vs.    Misael Reyes (123.6lbs)
Pontiac, Michigan                                  Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
6 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
Jemarco Holloway (141.8lbs)    vs.    Angelo Snow (143.6lbs)
Detroit, Michigan                                   Toledo, Ohio
 
Live on DAZN from 8pm ET
 
10 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
Ja’Rico O’Quinn (121.2lbs)         vs.    Carlos Mujica (122.6lbs)
Detroit, Michigan                         Caracas, Venezuela
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
Jermaine Franklin (241.2lbs)     vs.    Issac Munoz (257.4lbs)
Saginaw, Michigan                                 Mexico City, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins IBF International Lightweight title
Andy Cruz (134.6lbs) vs.    Juan Carlos Burgos (134.2lbs)
Matanzas, Cuba                            Tijuana, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed Super-Featherweight title
Alycia Baumgardner (129.4lbs) vs. Christina Linardatou (129.8lbs)
Detroit, Michigan                         Athens, Greece

Philadelphia (July 14, 2023)–- On Saturday night, July 13th R and B Promotions will be back at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia with a big night of boxing.

In a six-round bout, Daiyann Butt (14-2, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Michael Crain (5-6-2, 1 KO) in a junior welterweight fight.

In four-round bouts, Tahmir Smalls (9-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Andres Viera (11-5, 8 KOs) of Montevideo, Uruguay in a welterweight clash.

Oluwafemi Oyeleye (12-0, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles takes on former world title challenger Javier Maciel (34-20, 23 KOs) of Buenos Aries, Argentina in a junior middleweight fight.

Ezri Turner of Wilmington, DE will make his pro debut against Milton Volter (0-1) of Bronx, NY in a super middleweight fight.

Allen Otto (1-0, 1 KO) of Pennsauken, NJ fights Timothy Tyler (1-3, 1 KO) Camden, NJ in a junior middleweight bout.

Joshua Jones (6-0-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Carlos Rocha (3-0, 2 KOs) of Sao Paulo, Brazil in a lightweight fight.

Anthony Dill (2-1, 2 KOs) of North Philadelphia fights debuting Ghandi Roman of Union City, New Jersey in a welterweight contest.

Juan Marrero (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Jose Luis Fracica Baron (0-4) of El Vigla, Venezuela in a lightweight fight.

Daniel Bean (2-0, 2 KOs) of Old Bridge, NJ fights Rob Perez of Worcester, MA in a heavyweight bout.

In a bout of undefeated welterweights, Deyshawn Williams (3-0, 2 KOs) of Queens, NY fights Felix Manzueta (3-0, 2 KOs) of Dover, DE.

Devin Gantt (3-0, 3 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ fights debuting Jahron Williams of Bronx, NY in a featherweight fight.

Tickets are $75, $100 and $175 and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 14, 2023) – Top Rank’s undefeated Jr. Lightweight, Andres Cortes (19-0, 10 KOs), from Las Vegas, NV, is eager to make a statement against his most dangerous opponent to date, the powerful Xavier Martinez (18-1, 12 KOs), who hails from Sacramento, CA. The scheduled 10-round bout, taking place at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort, on July 28, 2023, will serve as the co-main event on the Seniesa Estrada (24-0, 9 KOs) vs. Leonela Yudica (19-1-3, 2 KOs) 10-round women’s minimumweight world title main event.

The entire Estrada-Yudica card will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. On the line for the Cortes-Martinez battle will be the US WBC Silver Jr. Lightweight, with the winner getting one step closer to fighting for a world title.

Andres Cortes, a rising star hailing from the fight capital of the world, has consistently demonstrated his resolve within the junior lightweight division. Boasting an unblemished record, Cortes has shown a combination of skill, power, and determination that has set him apart from his peers. He’s ready to prove his worth against Martinez.

“This is the fight I’ve been waiting for my entire career,” said Cortes, when asked about the significance of this fight and the potential rewards that await him. “A win here would not only prove my worth as a top contender but also open doors to bigger fights and greater recognition. I’m grateful to my promoter, Top Rank, for believing in me and providing this opportunity. This is a very tough fight and I’m ready to seize the moment and show the world what I’m capable of.”

Guiding Cortes’ journey is his brother, Luis, who serves as both his trainer and manager. Luis understands the significance of this fight and the immense potential it holds for Andres’ career. He said, “We’ve put in countless hours of hard work and preparation for this moment. We know Xavier Martinez is a tough opponent, but we believe we are the better fighter. I’ve been told that if we win this fight, we will be on the footstep of fighting for a world title. A victory will solidify us as a top contender in the division.”

“I’ve proven myself over the course of my career that I’ll take on the toughest fights presented to me,” continued Andres Cortes. “Most fighters would never step in the ring with some of the fighters I’ve faced this early in my career. I believe Top Rank will honor the winner of this fight with a world title shot or top ranking. Either way, everything is riding on this fight. I must win and win impressively.”

Josh Kelly told Gabriel Corzo that he will stop him inside two rounds, when the rivals clashed at a heated weigh-in today. 

The super welterweight enemies meet in a high-stakes contest at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle tomorrow night, live on DAZN. 

Kelly, the world No2, defends his WBO International title against the unbeaten and confident Argentinian and knows victory will open the door to blockbuster fights. 

But the Sunderland AFC fan must deal with Corzo first and they had to be pulled apart at a tense weigh-in, where Kelly told his opponent – and his fans – that tomorrow night’s headlining fight will only last two rounds. 

Weigh-In Results and Running Order

Doors 16:30.  First Bout 16:45

4×3 Super Middleweight Contest 

Oliver Zaren 168lbs 

Jay Byrne 168.10lbs 

4×3 Super Lightweight Contest 

Owen Rees 142.1lbs 

Marius Istrate 139.5lbs 

4×3 Super Featherweight Contest 

Kai Richmond 134lbs 

Karl Sampson 133.14lbs 

4×3 Super Welterweight Contest 

Tom Summerbell (weighing in tomorrow) 

Dimitri Protkanus (weighing in tomorrow) 

6×3 Super Welterweight Contest 

Samuel Antwi 153.4lbs 

Ruben Angulo 155.3lbs 

6×3 Super Welterweight Contest 

Troy Williamson 160.3lbs 

Ramiro Blanco 161.13lbs 

8×2 Flyweight Contest 

Chloe Watson 113.9lbs 

Belen Valdebenito 113.14lbs 

6×3 Super Lightweight  

Ben Marksby 143.8lbs 

Ricardo Fernandez 140.4lbs 

Vacant British Super Featherweight title contest 

Qais Ashfaq 129.12lbs 

Liam Dillon 129.6lbs 

4×3 Featherweight Contest  

Codie Smith 126.6lbs 

Francisco Rodriguez 125lbs 

8×3 Heavyweight Contest 

Steven Robinson 244.2lbs 

Franklin Ignatius 241lbs 

WBO International Super Welterweight title 

Josh Kelly 154lbs 

Gabriel Corzo 152.12lbs 

Boston, MA (July 14, 2023) Boston Boxing Promotions presents the 2nd annual Great American Boxing Bash tonight at the Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Headlining what’s become New England’s must see boxing event of the summer will be a high stakes welterweight showdown between the massively popular, Brandon Higgins (10-3, 5 KOs) and undefeated power puncher, Kenny Larson (6-0, 5 KOs).

Higgins who hails from near by Chelmsford, Massachusetts is coming off the biggest win of his career this past April when he dominated 30 fight veteran Brandon Berry in a 10 round fight scoring a shutout victory on all three cards.

Meanwhile Larson, who fights out of Salem, Massachusetts has created a buzz on the regional scene with 5 out of his first 6 fights coming by way of devastating knockout.

It’s a classic Boston Boxing Promotions main event with two streaking local prospects going toe to toe with the winner in line for an opportunity on the national stage.

The night will also feature a who’s who of undefeated and popular prospects from the area including Nick Molina, Hegley Mosquedo, Michael Bulger and women’s bantamweight prospect, Leesh Pike.

Handling the night’s PPV commentating duties will be the voice of Boston Boxing, BoxRec’s Grey Johnson and musician/fighter, Chris Jay as well as two of New England’s most popular trainers Sean Farley and Aaron Bernardo.

Full Line Up

Brandon Higgins vs. Kenny Larson

(Chelmsford, MA) (Salem, MA)

8 Rounds – Welterweights

Hegly Mosqueda vs. Ernesto Guerrero

(Londonderry, NH) (Sonora, Mexico)

8 Rounds – Welterweights

Andrii Novytskyi vs. Mariano Jose Riva

(Los Angeles/Ukraine) (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

6 Rounds – Heavyweights

Nick Molina vs. Aldimar Silva

(Lowell, MA) (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

6 Rounds – Lightweights

Dennis Ventura vs. Jon Gruber

(Lynn, MA) (Fall River, MA)

4 Rounds – Heavyweights

Steven Dunn vs. Aquila Prote

(Hollywood, CA) (Boston, MA)

4 Rounds – Heavyweights

Leesh Pike vs. Shawna Ornsby

(Salisbury Beach, MA) (Orlando, FL)

4 Rounds – Bantamweights

Michael Bulger vs. Johnny Kim

(Medford, MA) (Johnston, RI)

4 Rounds – Middleweights

Mario Ramirez vs. Igor Pessoa

(Simi Valley, CA ) (Boston, MA)

4 Rounds – Super Middleweights

Higgins vs. Larson takes place tonight Friday, July 14 at The Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Limited tickets will be available at the door and fans can watch at www.CombatSportsNow.com

ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by tens of thousands of fans around the world. Boston Boxing Promotions returned to live audiences with The Great American Boxing Bash in the summer of 2021 which featured 3 consecutive sold out weekends at the The Castleton

?in Windham, New Hampshire. Their annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular has become a tradition for hardcore boxing fans with 5 consecutive sellouts including the 2022 edition which received extensive news coverage on television and in print. 2023 marks Boston Boxing Promotions’ 10th Anniversary and the company, run by Peter Czymbor and Nick DiSalvo has become one of the most popular and well respected club boxing promoters in the country.

Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!

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Plant City, FL (July 13, 2023) – Guatemalan super middleweight LESTER MARTINEZ (now 16-0 14KO’s) proved to be too powerful for the always game LUCAS DE ABREU MARTINS (now 14-4 11KO’s) in their scheduled ten round super middleweight bout last night at the ProBox Event Center in Plant City, FL.

Martinez successfully utilized a stalking aggression against De Abreu, who, while finding range with this jab and combos at a distance, didn’t have the pop to keep Martinez off of him. Martinez began to tag De Abreu in the second with solid combinations.

In the third round, a right cross clipped De Abreu in the temple, sending him to a delayed knee. De Abreu got up and tried to stay in the pocket, attempting to trade with Martinez, but Martinez’ punches were more effective. An uppercut had De Abreu down again in the third round, but the durable De Abreu rose again, ready to continue.

De Abreu made it into the fourth round, but another barrage of combinations capped by a stiff left hook sent De Abreu down once more, as referee Emil Lombardi stepped in to stop to the fight 33 seconds into the 4th round.

De Abreu had this to say about the fight, “We’re fine. In boxing it’s like that sometimes. You fall and you just have to stand back up. I congratulate my opponent; he was the stronger man tonight.”

LAS VEGAS – July 13, 2023 – Fighters competing on this Saturday’s tripleheader headlined by undefeated top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin battling undefeated Olympic bronze medalist Artem Harutyunyan in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator previewed their respective matchups during a press conference on Thursday before they step into the ring live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and includes top super lightweight contender Elvis Rodriguez meeting former world champion Viktor Postol in the 10-round co-main event, plus hard-hitting welterweight prospect Freudis Rojas takes on Mexico’s Diego Sanchez in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters in attendance had to say Thursday ahead of their Saturday night showdowns:

FRANK MARTIN

“I’m gonna do what ghosts do, I’m gonna spook the whole division. It’s gonna be a dominant performance. I’m gonna come out strong.

“I’m not looking past Artem, but he’s in the way of me getting the big fights. It’s anybody. I stay in the gym so I’m always ready for the top names.

“I’m coming for it. I just want a dominant performance. I’m ready for whatever he’s got. He’s a come-forward fighter who tries to switch it up and be awkward. If he comes at me too aggressively, then it’s gonna be man down.

“I’m right up there with anyone in the division. I’m ready for everyone. I don’t train in the gym day in and day out to not be ready for the best. When the opportunities come, I’m gonna be ready to take them out.

“Everybody in Derrick James’ camp is in there working. There’s even more energy in there to feed off of. Having Errol Spence Jr. and all those other guys in the gym really creates a special atmosphere.

“People are gonna say that I’m him after they see me on Saturday night. They’re gonna see a beast. I have speed, power and defense. They’re gonna see everything on Saturday night.

“Some people don’t respect my opponent because they don’t know who he is, but he’s an Olympic bronze medalist. They try to discredit him because they don’t want to fight me. No matter what, the goal is to dominate.

“I have to get Artem out of there and do it in spectacular fashion. I want the stoppage on Saturday night.”

ELVIS RODRIGUEZ

“I’m very thankful to my team for putting me in this position. I remember when I first got to Wild Card Boxing Gym and I only had one fight and that was when I first sparred Viktor. It’s an honor to share the ring with him and it shows how far hard work can take you.

“My trainer Freddie Roach knows both of us very well. Ultimately that just makes the fight more interesting. Because we both know what to expect out of each other.

“This has been the best training camp of my life and this is the most important fight of my life. A win takes me to the next level, so that’s the only thing that I’m focused on.

“Postol is definitely still an elite fighter. He’s a tremendous former champion. Nobody has ever dominated him in the ring, but this is my time.

“Of course, I’m gonna be showing off the guitar celebration on Saturday. The guitar is ready to be played. Elvis is in the building!”

VIKTOR POSTOL

“Elvis and I have shared a lot of time together in the ring and in training camps and I think that will make the fight even more entertaining for the fans.

“I’m gonna be myself in the ring. I’m always calm and collected in there. I’m going to do my best to raise the flag and represent Ukraine.

“Me and Freddie Roach were always a team and I’m sure after this fight we’ll get together again. I’m grateful that my team has been together for 10 years. This is a sport and sometimes you have to take on these kinds of fights. 

“There is a war happening in my native Ukraine and I’m very grateful to the soldiers that are defending our country. It’s only because of them that I’m allowed to be here and handle my business and do what I’ve done my whole life.

“The war started about 48 hours before my last fight. Now I feel safer than I did then. I’m thankful that I can do what I’m doing and be fully concentrated on this fight.”

FREUDIS ROJAS

“It’s such a blessing to be on this card. When I got the call, I was jumping around like a kid. I’m ecstatic.

“I’m a slim dude, so everyone has said they were gonna knock me out, but look where I am now. I know that I can hang with anybody.

“There’s pressure with my first fight on this stage but I do well under pressure. Me and my team believe in myself and I’m ready for whatever happens on Saturday.

“Mentally and physically, I’m prepared for 10 rounds. But I know he’s not gonna make it past eight. I’m ready to rumble. I don’t think I’ve been this ready ever before in my life.

“I want everyone to make it out of that ring healthy, but I came here to do my job and I don’t get paid for overtime. I gotta do what I gotta do.

“People say I’m awkward to face. I bring pressure, but I can also box. It’s gonna be a great fight, but at the end of the day, I’m gonna come out with my hand raised.”

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

Alycia Baumgardner (14-1 7 KOs) defends her undisputed Super-Featherweight title against Christina Linardatou: This is a full-circle moment for me. I am looking at her and picturing myself at our first fight, and knowing who I am now, the growth that was necessary to get to this moment, I’m a completely different fight now and she will see that on Saturday.
 
That fight was, at the time, me stepping up and looking for the challenge. I was 5-0, she was 9-1. I wanted a challenge and that was the one for me, it was a close fight, a split-decision, and I got the loss. But I just thought ‘what’s next?’ I had to be real with myself, change my team and my environment, location, everything, and it was all necessary to be here.
 
If you know anything about being a hunter, you must kill your pray. I’m going to make sure that arrow goes through her heart so she can’t get up. Even though I am undisputed I still have that dog in me, the hunger I had when I was eight years old, and she’s the perfect fighter to bring that out of me.
 
I am embracing all of this. It’s time to feel the love, another time to make history in Detroit and do that as a woman, show the world who I am. I am coming for destruction. I have my grown woman strength and I am ready to put these hands on her and get that lick back that I have been waiting to do. 
 
Christina Linardatou (14-2 6 KOs) challenges undisputed Super-Featherweight champion Alycia Baumgardner: it’s such a great opportunity for me, it’s something any boxer dreams of – the biggest thing a boxer can achieve. She’s already done it, but I have beaten her once and I will do it again.
 
She is very strong, I remember she was always hugging in the last round, she worked in the early rounds but then hugging – I was always hunting, never hugging, like I do in every fight. 
 
I always fight hard from first to last bell, because I am the underdog and I know I must go and get it. I have many skills, but I need to be dog and go and get it.
 
I am not afraid of the power, I’m used to it, I spar with men, and I have been preparing for it, and I have a great defense too. 
 
To win means a lot – I am looking for the big fights she is talking about. I want to do it; I’ve been through hell to get here. I feel unstoppable. 
 
Andy Cruz makes his professional debut at Lightweight against Juan Carlos Burgos for the IBF International title: I want to thank everyone for the support I’ve had leading up to this. It’s all very new, but I am completely ready for this new challenge in boxing. I am going to take it on like I always have. I know it’s completely different even though it’s the same sport, but I have made all the changes necessary to be ready for it, and I think it’s going to be a great fight. 
 
It’s important to have the positive energy in the gym and I am delighted to have made the step to Philadelphia with Team Ennis, and I feel I am learning every day being in that gym.
 
There are no easy fights in boxing, and if you do think you have one, there’s no creditability in taking on that task. So, I have prepared well for a hard fight, and I am going to put on a show for all those that have been waiting to watch me.
 
Juan Carlos Burgos (35-7-3 21 KOs) faces Andy Cruz for the IBF International Lightweight title: I want to thank Eddie Hearn for the opportunity to fight a great prospect like Andy Cruz. There is no doubt he has had a fantastic amateur career, but he is moving into the pro game, and it is very different. We will both be ready to put on a great fight on Saturday and the fans will be the true winners. 
 
He will be desperate to show that he can live up to the hype and show his skills, but he will find this is very different, it is about giving pleasure to the fans in the pro game, but I am sure he will do that too.
 
Jermaine Franklin (21-2 14 KOs) faces Issac Munoz over ten rounds at Heavyweight: I feel like I have paid my dues, learned some new stuff and I’ve been back to the drawing board and ready to go again.
 
One thing I learned was part of the mental game; every fight is not the same. Fighters have a lot of built-up aggression, and any little thing can set us off. Those fights with Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte, I remember getting into it a bit with the referees, taking my focus off what I should be dialed into. So that’s been my focus now, staying concentrated on what is important, and letting nothing get in the way, just tunnel vision.
 
We are coming for all the big fights and soon I am going to be a top five Heavyweight, not top 15. I am still learning and still building, but I feel that the sky is the limit.
 
Issac Munoz (17-0-1 14 KOs) faces Jermaine Franklin over ten rounds at Heavyweight: It’s an honor for me to step in the ring with Jermaine. I have a lot of experience with 203 amateur fights, so I think I belong in this place, and I am happy to be here.
 
It is very difficult to find a Heavyweight in Mexico, but I am very happy to be in Detroit and I think it’s going to be a great fight.
 
Ja’Rico O’Quinn (15-1-1 8 KOs) facing Carlos Mujica over ten rounds at Featherweight: I’m ready to go out there and have fun. It’s nothing personal with Carlos, it’s personal with myself/ I know what I can do, and on this platform it’s my time. I’ve been working hard and waiting for this opportunity, it has come out of nowhere, but I am prepared and ready. 
 
I wanted something like this, someone to make me train hard, he’s coming off a good win and he has momentum, so he’ll come out blazing, but I am ready for that. You’re going to get firework from me, high-level boxing, and bombs – it could end early, at any moment.
 
Carlos Mujica (8-2 2 KOs) facing JaRico O’Quinn over ten rounds at Featherweight: We often get these opportunities at late notice but that’s fine, we’re always in the gym and have great sparring right there. I’m 100 per cent prepared, there will be no excuses, I’m here to win and show what I am made of.

WORCESTER, Mass. (July 13, 2023) – The official “Punch-Out at Polar Park” press conference was held yesterday at Polar Park to promote the August 4th (Aug. 5 rain date) Pro-Am boxing event, presented by Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) in conjunction with Kendrick Ball’s Camp Get Right Boxing, at Polar Park in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Polar Park is the home of the Boston Red Sox Triple-A affiliate Worcester Red Sox (WooSox), voted as the best minor league baseball park in America. A share of the proceeds will be donated to local charities from what is believed to be the first outdoor boxing show in Worcester history.

The inaugural Carlos Garcia Tournament, showcasing some of the area’s top amateur boxers, will open the evening, followed by the pro card.

“Punch-Out at Polar Park” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com

PRO CARD

Main Event – Light Heavyweights (8)

Kendrick “Peppa” Ball, Jr. (20-1-3, 12 KOs), Worcester, MA

Oscar “Moustro” Riojas (28-16-3, 16 KOs), Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico

Co-Feature – Heavyweights (8)

“Don’t Play” Sean Bey (7-0, 7 KOs), Stoughton, MA by way of Providence, RI

Quinton Sumpter (6-1, 4 KOs), Pittsfield, MA

Super Featherweights (6)

“King” Kevin Walsh (9-0, 4 KOs), Brockton, MA

Philip Davis (3-5-2, 0 KOs), Worcester, MA

Welterweights (6)

Josniel “TG” Castro (9-1, 7 KOs), Boca Raton, FL by way of Puerto Rico

Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-11-1, 3 KOs), General LaValle, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Light Heavyweights (4)

Neal Sullivan (0-0-1), Worcester, MA

Michael Medeiros (0-4), Nahant, MA by way of Brazil

Welterweights (4)

Robert Degaetano (pro debut), Douglas, MA

Micheal “Titan” Taylor (1-5, 0 KOs), Cortland, NY

Female Super Bantamweights (4)

Melanie “Pitbull” Costa (1-0, 1 KO), Norton, MA

Amanda Torres Sardinha (0-1), Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janiero, Brazil

Lightweights (4)

Tevin “The Hitman” Regis (pro debut), Dorchester, MA

Joshua Zimmerman (0-10), Baltimore, MD

Super Middleweights (4)

James Manor (3-0, 2 KOs), Johnson, RI

Rakeem Johnson (7-20-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN

(card subject to change)

Doors open at 5 p.m. ET with the first amateur match starting then (6 p.m. ET), the pro card starts at 7 p.m. ET.

Tickets are priced at $205.00 (Field VIP – rows 1-4, all padded seats), $155.00 (VIP), $75.00 (Home Plate Reserved – rows 5 and beyond, not padded seats) and $45.00 (Reserved), and available for purchase at Polar Park’s box office (508.500.8888), and online at www.polarpark.com/boxing.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please email all inquiries for details to

ShearnsBoxingPromotions@gmail.com.

Below find fighters’ quotes and a picture gallery:

(L-R) – Promoter Kendrick Ball, Sr., Chuck Shearns & Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.

Chuck Shearns (Shearns Boxing Promotions): “We have had the help of a lot of people. We couldn’t do this without sponsors. I love how this card has really come together. Everybody on this card is in a real fight.”

Kendrick Ball, Sr. (Get Camp Right): I always thought this would be a great place for boxing since I saw my son (Kendrick Ball, Jr.) helping to build it as a Local 243 Union Laborer. I know a lot of people fighting and this is a really exciting card. I’m excited to have joined Chuck and everybody around here. I’m happy we are honoring Carlos Garcia. I’ve watched a lot of promoters and want to give them props.”

Hannah Butler (WooSox Vice President of Special Events: “I’m pleased to be working with Chuck, Ken and others on this great event, the first outdoor boxing show ever held in Worcester. Polar Park was built to do more than just baseball and boxing is here as part of the Polar Park community.”

Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. (CES Boxing): “Kendrick has worked so hard as a boxer and it’s great for him to have this opportunity here in Worcester. This is my 35th year in boxing and there are a lot of characters in boxing. I truly respect Chuck Shearns. He knows boxing and that this is a business. It’s always a challenge. Thanks to Chuck and Kendrick (Sr.) for allowing me to put my four boxers on this card. They’re all good fighters. People are going to be at this beautiful ballpark to see something never seen before.”

Kendrick Ball, Jr.: “In 2020, I started working in the laborer’s union and my first job was here. Now, I’m part of this (event). It’s big for me, especially to be headlining the first boxing show here. It’s big for me. I’m going to put on a show and get my 21st win.”

Sean Bey: “I want to thank Chuck, Jimmy and Bog Six. I had a little time off and I learned some lessons. I’m a big puncher, but I don’t come in looking for a knockout. I’m just going to break him (Quintin Sumpter).”

Philip Davis: “I’m glad this is happening. I had two opponents offered for this fight. I’m fighting at home and Kevin’s 9-0. He’s tough and so am I. I’m no pushover. I told Ken to make the fight with Kevin. It’s going to be a great fight.”

Kevin Walsh: “I want to thank CES Boxing and Chuck Shearns for looking out for me. I’m going to be 10-0. I know he (Davis) is a tough fighter, but this is my fight.”

Neal Sullivan: “Thanks to everyone. I couldn’t say no when I got the call to fight. I’ve been in Worcester for 30 years and hopefully at least another 30. This is the bigtime, not a club show.”

Melanie Costa: “I’d rather get punched in the face than talk up here. I wanted to thank Chuck and Ken for having me fight out there (Polar Park field). I’d also like to thank my promoter, Jimmy (Burchfield, Sr.). This is amazing (Polar Park). I’d also like to thank my parents. I’m training for this at Big Six Academy. This is going to be an awesome night.”

Robert Degaetano: “Thanks to all you guys for coming out today. Thanks to Nonantum Boxing, the promoters, managers, and everybody involved on August 4th. Thanks to my mom for giving me the strength to push to August 4th. Keep your eyes out to watch me fight.”

James Maner: “I’m happy to represent CES Boxing. I’m a new signee. Big Six Academy is getting me ready for my fight.”

Keno Luna (amateur boxer in Carlos Garcia Tournament: “I’m excited for this fight card to happen. All of us here (on dais) will put on a good show.”

INFORMATION:

Website: polarpark.com. cgrboxing.com

Facebook: /ShearnsBoxingPromotions, /CampGetRightBoxing, /PolarParkWorcester

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing, @PolarPark

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions, @cgrboxing, @PolarParkWorcester

PHILADELPHIA (July 13, 2023)–Banner Promotions President Artie Pelullo would like to send out heartfelt condolences to the family of former fighter and three-time world title challenger Antwun Echols

Echols, who fought under Banner Promotions, unexpectedly passed away in his hometown of Davenport, Iowa at the age of 51.

While with Banner Promotions, Echols captured both the NABF and USBA Middleweight titles, and twice challenged Bernard Hopkins for the IBF Middleweight World Championship. He also dropped a close decision to WBA Super Middleweight champion Anthony Mundine in Australia

“To say I was shocked is understatement,” said Pelullo. “I just spoke to Antwun a couple weeks before he passed. He was doing well. He went back to school and got his degree. He would call the office a handful of times a year and we would have some great conversations. Antwun was a great guy and had a terrific sense of humor. He was a terrific fighter who had an outstanding career. Bernard Hopkins told me that Antwun was the hardest puncher that he had fought, and Antwun gave Bernard two excellent fights. I just want to give condolences to his family.”

Los Angeles, CA (July 13, 2023) The Fastest Rising Star in Boxing, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (7-0, 6 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will make the first defense of his WBC US Silver Super Welterweight Title against Livan ‘Machine Gun Kid’ Navarro, (13-1, 7 KOs), of Miami, FL in the scheduled ten-round main event on Saturday, August 26 at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, CA and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions as part of their acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights events, tickets priced at $200, $150, $100, $80 and $60 are Now On-Sale and can be purchased online through the 360 Promotions website. The Commerce Casino, ‘The World’s Largest Card Room and Site of the LA Poker Classic’, is located at 6131 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040. For more information and directions visit their website.

“Callum continues to be one of the most talked about fighters in international boxing,” said Tom Loeffler. “His fights garner the highest historical ratings for boxing on UFC Fight Pass with his exciting victories being broadcast all over the world. Dana White and his Team at UFC are the perfect partners for the escalation of Callum’s career.”

“Livan Navarro has everything to gain against Callum and presents another tough challenge that he faces early in his career.”

Trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach at the famed Wild Card Boxing Gym in Hollywood, CA, the 22-year-old southpaw, a native of Cork, Ireland, Walsh earned the WBC US Silver Super Welterweight Title with a dominant performance and fourth round stoppage of world title challenger Carson Jones in front of a sold-out Commerce Casino crowd on June 9, 2023.

The Cuban born Navarro hits the ring against Walsh following a unanimous decision over Antonio Sanchez on October 21, 2022. He also holds victories over top contenders Breidis Prescott, Silverio Oritz, Armando Alvarez and Julio Cesar Reynoso.

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