Arum refutes Pacquiao – Khan deal

Amir Khan
According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, a report that Amir Khan signed a contract to fight Manny Pacquiao is false as per Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum.

Arum, however, called the report “total bulls—.”

“I haven’t sent a contract to him. We haven’t sent anything to him,” Arum told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “Don’t you think I’m the promoter of the fight and I would know if I sent a contract? It’s total bulls—. It’s not true. This is f—ing ridiculous. There is no deal. There is no contract. There has been no decision whatsoever.”

“Top Rank has sent a contract to neither of them,” Arum said. “Top Rank will send a contract to one of them when Manny makes his decision on who he wants to fight. Right now, what we are doing is trying to decide between Crawford and Khan for April 9. But [the reported agreement with Khan] is such bulls—. I don’t know what Khan said he signed. Don’t I have the right to draw up a contract with either guy? I don’t know who Manny wants to fight.”

While Arum was on the phone with ESPN.com at the Top Rank building in Las Vegas, he received a call on his cell phone from Cameron Dunkin, Crawford’s manager, who had gotten wind of the Daily Mail report. Arum began shouting at Dunkin, “It’s not true! It’s total bulls—! Tell Crawford it’s not true!”




Gary Russell suffers cut; Bout with Escandon postponed

Gary Russell Jr
Featherweight title holder Gary Russell Jr. suffered a cut in training that will prevent him from making a title defense of November 14 against Oscar Escandon on Showtime, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“The network was informed earlier [Monday] that Gary sustained a cut in training and is unable to fight,” Showtime spokesman Chris DeBlasio told ESPN.com. “Of course we are sorry to hear this and we are evaluating our options for the Nov. 14 show. We expect to have an announcement in the next couple of days.”




Knockout Artist Cosmo Alexandre Signs with World Series of Fighting

LAS VEGAS (November 3, 2015) – World Series of Fighting® (WSOF.com) today announced the signing of multiple-time world Muay Thai champion and prolific lightweight (155 pounds) MMA star Cosmo “Good Boy” Alexandre (6-1) to an exclusive, multi-year agreement.

The promotional debut of the 33-year-old Alexandre of Boca Raton, Fla. via Brazil will be announced soon.

“As a former kickboxing world champion who also made the transition to MMA, I am excited to welcome Cosmo Alexandre to our roster and see him perform,” said World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo. “With the addition of Cosmo, our lightweight division is stronger than ever, and I think he will provide World Series of Fighting fans with a number of memorable encounters in the cage and, perhaps make a run at our lightweight world championship.”

Born and raised in Brazil, Alexandre was an elite athlete from a young age, and began his Muay Thai training as a teenager. Fighting professionally since 2004, he has gained recognition for being one of the world’s best strikers, as witnessed by his multiple world titles, including the Lion Fight super middleweight crown that he holds.

Alexandre has been perfect in the kickboxing ring in 2015, reeling off victories in all three of his starts. In the MMA universe, he is in the midst of a six fight win streak that includes a unanimous decision over Josh Quayhagen, the only fighter who had previously beaten Alexandre under MMA rules.

Four of Alexandre’s six career MMA wins have come by way of knockout, including two inside the first round of action.

Live World Series of Fighting action returns to NBCSN on Friday, Nov. 20, at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT with the promotion’s first-ever one-night, eight-man tournament in history. The winner, who will have fought three times in one night, will be named the number one contender in the coveted lightweight division.

About “World Series of Fighting” (WSOF®)
“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF) is a worldwide premier professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering the best action-packed fights for fight fans by producing the best possible match-ups between elite fighters from around the world. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow “World Series of Fighting” on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and “World Series of Fighting” President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo. WSOF and World Series of Fighting are registered trademarks of MMAWC, LLC.




“GGG” ADDRESSES WBC CONVENTION!

Kunming, China (November 3, 2015) On Monday at the World Boxing Council’s 53rd Annual Convention in Kunming, China, boxing superstar, WBA/IBF/IBO and WBC “Interim” Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, was honored by the sanctioning body in addressing the attendees on behalf of all current and former champions in attendance.

“It was great to be asked by Mauricio Sulaiman to speak for the champions”, said Golovkin. “With Evander Holyfield, Larry Holmes and my hero Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. present it was an honor for me.”

In addition to speaking at and attending the convention, Golovkin spent a wealth of time greeting the large groups of attendees and fans who waited for photos and autographs.

“Coming to China and attending the WBC convention was a great experience for Gennady,” said Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions. “The outpouring of support from the fans has been tremendous and clearly outlines that he is one of the most marketable international fighters in boxing.”

On October 17, Golovkin added the IBF Middleweight Title to his collection in a title unification bout against David Lemieux. The eighth round stoppage took place in front of a sold-out crowd of 20,548 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. His record of 34-0 with 31 knockouts includes a 91% knockout ratio, the highest in middleweight division history.




VIDEO: Cotto vs. Canelo: Fight Preview




Video: Cotto vs. Canelo: Fight Preparation




TALENTED LOCAL FIGHTERS FEATURED ON DANIEL JACOBS VS. PETER QUILLIN UNDERCARD TALK RESPECTIVE DECEMBER 5 SHOWDOWNS

BROOKLYN (November 3, 2015) – Top New York-area boxing talent featured in undercard action on Saturday, December 5 at Barclays Center, hosted a media roundtable at McMahon’s Public House in Brooklyn today to discuss their upcoming showdowns.

Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs), the welterweight contender facing Long Island’s Chris Algieri, former world champion Yuri Foreman (32-2, 9 KOs), undefeated rising star from Staten Island and 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (16-0, 12 KOs), undefeated Brooklyn-native Heather “The Heat” Hardy (14-0, 3 KOsand Queens native firefighter Will “Power” Rosinsky (19-2, 10 KOs) who takes on Long Island’s Joe Smith Jr. (19-1, 16 KOs) were in attendance and spoke to the media shortly after posing in front of Barclays Center.

The loaded lineup of fights will precede the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGÒ doubleheader headlined by the all-Brooklyn battle between middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) and former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs). ). In the co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Below is what the fighters had to say Monday:

ERICK BONE

“Camp has been excellent so far. I’ve been training for a while now and I’ve been working really hard.

“When I first heard Algieri’s name, I was a little surprised about it. Once I realized it, I got really excited and happy because If I can pull off the win, this will be big for my career.

“Something I learned from my last fight is, I don’t have to respect an opponent. I lose all respect for the person I’m fighting as soon as they’re in the ring.

Another thing I learned is, if I get injured, I need to stop. I was injured in the second round of my fight with Shawn Porter, but I kept going and fought for three rounds with one knee. I had to wear a cast for two months right after that fight. My knee is 100 percent healed now.

“I feel like I’m a boxer-puncher. I can box and I can punch.

“In reality, to beat Algieri, all I have to do is listen to my coach, my corner and my whole team.”

YURI FOREMAN

“I believe that timing is everything. I’ve been off for two years. I realized that I needed a little rest. I love boxing. It is something that I’ve loved since I was a kid and I feel like I wanted to do it more.

“[On ending retirement] It’s a combination of a variety of things. I wouldn’t come back just for the rush of it – I would probably jump out of an airplane if I needed a rush. I like the daily routine. It’s going to the gym, it’s keeping a mental, emotional and spiritual balance. I want to become a world champion again.

“I’ve been in the gym since June, so more than half a year. Camp is good. I have friends and sparring partners that are helping me. It is the same as any fighter – preparation is a routine.

“It is refreshing to be back in the ring. I feel more centered spiritually and mentally. I am more mature. I just feel stronger all around.

“This is great. I live on 6th street so 10 or 15 blocks away. I’ve always wanted to fight at Barclays Center. One of the things you learn about your life about yourself. Every human has a desire and a goal. I had a desire to fight here and now I am. It is a big card with a lot of talent and great fighters. I am happy to be a part of it.

“I always consider myself a smart fighter and boxer. I would say I’ve added more aggression to my arsenal since the last time I was in the ring.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“Everything is going as planned and I’m staying focused for December 5. I’m ready to take care of business as usual.

“I went into my last fight with a different mentality. And I’m going into this fight exactly the same way. I’m not playing with anybody. I need to make a statement this year because this is an important time in my boxing career. The light heavyweight division is picking up and I need to make a solid name for myself.

“I see a lot of openings in a lot of people’s games, but I have some openings in my own game too that I need to tighten up. You cannot afford to have those types of openings at this level.

“I’ve been bumping up the conditioning as I’ve been getting fights with more rounds. I’m ready to go 10 rounds right now.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I hate doing rematches because it’s so redundant, I already beat you. It was a split decision from a crazy judge, she feels like she can come back and beat me. I didn’t want to deny her because we put on a great show for the fans.

“People at the fight knew I won the fight and that it was a clear decisive win, but when people see ‘split decision’ there are always questions that arise because she is such a good legitimate fighter. I’m giving her another chance.

“I did three fights in a row over the summer, so it was nice to take a little break. I’m happy to get back in there.

“It’s an honor to fight at Barclays Center. I am the first girl to ever fight there and I want to keep the door open and keep the momentum going.

“The truth of the matter is; women don’t get the recognition that they deserve [in this sport]. What people see, I’m a sole leader in women’s boxing, but behind the scenes, there are girls out there kicking ass all over the place. My stablemate just won a world title, oldest woman to win a world title in the Guinness Book of World Records. It is kind of sad that we aren’t all getting the recognition we deserve.

“I hate looking past a fight, but without saying too much — I want 2016 to be my world title year. I earned it and I’m so ready for it.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“I’m kind of ahead of the game in terms of weight because I thought I would be fighting in October, but when this opportunity came up, I had to take it.

“Fighting at Barclays Center is an opportunity that I was looking forward to getting and now that its here, I’m really excited. Barclays Center is becoming the center for sports. There’s been a lot of great cards there and I’ve been at many of them and I’m happy to be a part of the actual card.

“I know Joe Smith well because we spar a lot. He helped me get ready for Kelly Pavlik when I fought him a few years ago. He is a tall, long and strong kid. He has power in both hands. I’m working on boxing him, brawling with him a little bit — taking him into deep water. He has a lot of knockouts and hasn’t gone the distance too much so it’s something that he’s not used to, but I am used to it. Make sure he isn’t ready for it.

“The best way I can describe it would be effective aggression. I am kind of aggressive, but I can box a little bit and I surprise guys. I’m a fan-friendly kind of fighter, which might not always be good for me, but it’s good for the crowd.

“I think that mine and Joe’s fight is going to stand out in terms of the card. I think the main event is going to be a great fight also, but I think fans will see a lot of grit and toe-to-toe action with a lot of punches thrown for 10 rounds in our fight.”

JOE SMITH JR.

“I’ve been training all over the place. Lots of gyms. Wherever I can. I’ve been working on my speed, combination punches and moving a lot more.

“I just want to show that I can beat anybody if I put my mind to it. I’m trying to focus hard on this fight.

“My fans can expect to see a lot of action. I’m a big puncher and I like to throw a lot of punches.

“I’m very excited for it. It’s definitely the biggest place I’ve ever fought at and I can’t wait. Once I’m in the ring, I just focus on what’s going on there. Fighting at Barclays Center doesn’t affect me that way.

“Will was always a big sparring partner of mine to get me ready for my fights, so now I just have to find sparring elsewhere.

“I think the fans are going to see something that they didn’t expect when Will and I meet in the ring.”

# # #

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.




GH3 Promotions quintet on display this Friday night in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (November 3, 2015)–This Friday night at the Downtown Las Vegas Event Center (DLVEC) across from The D Hotel, five members of the GH3 Promotions stable will be in action, with three being featured in nationally televised fights as part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card. (10 PM ET/PT).

In the main event, undefeated Middleweight,Antoine Douglas (18-0-1, 12 KO’s) will risk his world rankings that stand at number-nine by the WBA, number-fifteen by the IBF and number-11 by the WBO when he takes on Australian Les Sherrington (35-7, 19 KO’s) in a fight for the WBA International and WBO International Middleweight titles. Sherrington is ranked number-twelve by the WBA.

In an 8-round Welterweight bout,Keenan Smith (8-0, 3 KO’s) battles Benjamin Whitaker (10-1, 2 KO’s).

In an 8-round Lightweight fight, O’Shanique Foster (8-0, 5 KO’s) will fight Samuel Teah (6-1, 2 KO’s).

In off-television bouts, Adam Lopez (13-0, 6 KO’s) will take on an opponent to be named in a Featherweight scheduled for 8-rounds.

Cuban amateur star, Hector Frormeta will make his pro debut against Abraham Calderon in a Welterweight bout scheduled for 4-rounds.

“This is a great opportunity for Douglas, Smith and Foster to shine on national television,”said GH3 Promotions Vito Mielnicki.

“Antoine is on the cusp of a major fight and I think the fans will really enjoy seeing the national television debuts of Keenan Smith and O’Shanique Foster. Off-TV we will be showcasing Adam Lopez and Hector Frometa. Adam has had a couple of great fights on ShoBox and we expect him in a big fight in his next outing as he is already ranked number-seven by the WBA. Frometa is our next fighter who we believe will be that a star.”

Tickets are priced at $100.50, $75.50, $40.50, $25.50 and $20.50 and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com

GH3 Promotions will be presenting another strong card on December 11th in at the Parsippany PAL in Parsippany, New Jersey.

Details and bouts will be announced next Monday.

GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster, Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez & Welterweight Hector Frometa to the GH3 Promotions stable.




WILLIAMS V CARSLAW CELTIC COLLISION ON BIG MANCHESTER ARENA DOUBLE WORLD TITLE CARD ON DECEMBER 19

Celtic rivals Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw will clash for the Commonwealth and Vacant British Super-Welterweight titles on Frank Warren’s huge X-Mas Cracker show on Saturday 19th December at the Manchester Arena, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

The fiery Wales-Scotland showdown features on the double world title show on the undercard of the potential thriller between WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders and Liam Smith’s WBO World Super-Welterweight title defence.

Clydach Vale puncher Williams, who’s unbeaten in 12 fights with seven knockouts, has his first fight in over year following surgery on his right hand after his first round stoppage of Michael Lomax in November last year to win the Commonwealth title.

Williams, 23, was in devastating form last year with stoppage wins over Yuri Pompilio, Ronnie Heffron, Stepan Horvath and Lomax, and is now raring to get back on his world title trail.

“I’ve been out of the ring for a while so I’m looking forward to making my return and getting my name back up there again,” Said Williams.

“I was on a good run of KO’s against Pompilio, Heffron, Horvath and Lomax so Carslaw will be a good fight back for me and bring the best out. My right hand feels brand new now and I’m punching harder than before with equal confidence in sparring and hitting the bags so I’m not afraid to let it go on the night against Carslaw,”

“He’s a good all-rounder and decent at what he does, but to me he’s not spectacular in anything particular and I believe that my strength and punching power will be too much for him on the night,”

“Just like the rugby, a Wales v Scotland showdown in the boxing ring is bound to be an explosive clash and one that will bring out the best in us. I’m confident that I’ll be coming away the winner and continue on my road to the world title.”

Carslaw, from Paisley, lost in his previous challenge for the British Super-Welterweight title against Brian Rose in June 2012, but says he’s waited long enough for his second shot and won’t put it to waste against Williams.

“I can’t wait to get to Williams and was over the moon when I heard the news I’d be fighting him for his Commonwealth belt and with the Vacant British title also on the line,” Said Carslaw.

“There’s no way I’m letting that British belt slip past me a second time after waiting over three years since the Rose fight, this time I’ll make sure the Lonsdale belt comes back home to Scotland with me.”

“Williams is a good, strong, fighter, he hits hard, but he’s one dimensional. I’ll come up with the game plan to beat him,”

“It’s going to be a massive fight between me and Williams with plenty of national pride on the line, the best man is going to win on the night and that is me.”

Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £200 and £300 are available from

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster
0844 844 0444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim
0844 249 1000
www.eventim.co.uk

Manchester Arena
0161 950 5000
0161 950 5229 (disabled access bookings)
www.manchester-arena.co.uk

*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise the show live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com Or watch online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.




It’s Show Time! Jimmy Lennon Jr. to make first Copenhagen appearance since Tyson vs. Nielsen for ‘Bad Blood

World-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. rarely swaps the squared circle of the MGM Grand or Madison Square Garden for a Danish ring but when he does you can guarantee it is for something special.

His last appearances were for two of the biggest bouts in Danish boxing history: Mikkel Kessler vs. Carl Froch in Herning as part of the Super Six World Boxing Classic in April 2010, and of course Brian Nielsen’s heavyweight showdown with ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson in Copenhagen in October 2001.

Six years after his last appearance, the man with the iconic ‘Its Show Time!’ catchphrase, returns to the Danish capital on December 12 for the massive ‘Bad Blood’ battle between Patrick Nielsen and Rudy Markussen, a fight being built as the biggest between two Danish fighters in recent memory.

“It’s been a great year for boxing and it’s great to be back calling such an event in Copenhagen,’’ said Lennon Jr. ‘’I know both fighters well and it seems like one of those classic grudge fights with everything at stake. A win for either man can propel them to a World title challenge in 2016. I’m expecting a red-hot atmosphere in a sold out Brondby Hallen on December 12.’’

Lennon Jr., who called the Las Vegas mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio in May, will be flying in to grace the weigh-in on Friday, December 11. Even the man who has witnessed countless events around the world admits this will be an interesting stare-down between Denmark’s two top fighters. ‘’There is a real intensity to this fight and this is something I definitely don’t want to miss,’’ says the Californian.

Limited tickets for Bad Blood: Patrick Nielsen vs. Rudy Markussen are available online via billetlugen.dk or by calling (+45) 75 263 267. The fight will be shown live and exclusive on Pay-Per-View in Denmark on Viasat and Viaplay. More information on how to access the fight will be released shortly.




DeGale sparring leaves Blackwell confident of dealing with Matthews on November 14

LONDON (3 NOVEMBER) British middleweight champion Nick Blackwell says regular sparring sessions with IBF world super-middleweight champion James DeGale have more than prepared him for his November 14 title defence against Elliott Matthews and that there’s nothing the unbeaten challenger can show him in Bristol that he won’t have seen before.

Blackwell meets Matthews, his third southpaw opponent on the trot, at the City Academy, but spars with DeGale, a world-class southpaw, have left him feeling buoyant about the task ahead.

“DeGale is one of the best lads I’ve ever been in the ring with,” said Blackwell. “He’s fast, he’s got a good boxing brain and he’s always fit. He also hits incredibly hard as well – a lot harder than people give him credit for.

“When I first sparred him, I went in there and thought, I’ll just walk through him and bully him about a bit. But it wasn’t that easy. I couldn’t get over how hard he hit. He was really snappy with his shots.

“I’m sparring both DeGale and Jake Ball, a light-heavyweight southpaw. Jake’s also a very good fighter with a top amateur background. You’ve got to be on your game and 100% focused when you spar guys like this. They’re top calibre.”

In contrast to DeGale, Blackwell’s next challenger, Elliott Matthews, is unbeaten in sixteen professional fights and has yet to really test himself at top domestic level. By Blackwell’s way of thinking, if he can deal with a world champion like DeGale in sparring, he should have few problems with Matthews come November 14.

“Elliott Matthews is a good fighter, but he hasn’t got anything on James DeGale,” said Blackwell. “If I can hang with DeGale and have success against DeGale, I should be ok with Matthews.

“It’s great sparring for a fight like this. You can’t really get better southpaw sparring in this country than James DeGale. Not only is he a southpaw, he’s also a super-middleweight, so naturally bigger than I am.

“If I was fighting the best in the world, you’d still consider DeGale and Ball to be top-level sparring. You couldn’t ask for better. But to have this kind of world-class sparring before a British title fight is priceless.”

*** For tickets to BANG BANG: The Knockout Kings, please contact the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402, the Sanigar Events Box Office on 0117 949 6699 or visit www.hennessysports.com ***

*** Blackwell vs. Matthews will be televised live and exclusively on Channel 5 from 10pm, Saturday, November 14. Meanwhile, Hughie Lewis Fury, Craig Kennedy and a pick of the Bristol undercard will be televised earlier in the evening on Spike ***

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VASYL LOMACHENKO TRAINING CAMP MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

Lomachenko
LAS VEGAS, NV. (November 2, 2015) — Two-time Ukrainian Olympic gold medalist and reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight world champion VASYL LOMACHENKO (4-1, 2 KOs) kicked off Fight Week today with a training camp Media Workout at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Oxnard, Calif. Lomachenko will defend his title on Saturday night against WBO No. 7 world-rated contender ROMULO KOASICHA (24-4,14 KOs), of San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

Lomachenko vs. Koasicha will be the co-main event to the 12-round welterweight rumble between two-division world champion TIMOTHY “Desert Storm” BRADLEY JR., (32-1-1, 12 KOs), of Palm Springs, Calif., in his second reign as World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion, and former world champion BRANDON “Bam Bam” RIOS (33-2-1, 23 KOs), of Oxnard, Calif. Bradley and Rios fought in Fights of the Year in 2013 and 2012, respectively.Here is what Lomachenko and his manager Egis Klimas had to say:

VASYL LOMACHENKO, WBO Featherweight World Champion

“I want to bring something new to boxing. I want to be known to fans and appreciated as a ‘boxer-painter’ in regards to speed, footwork, punching power — an art form inside the ring. I have looked at videos of many great champions like Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Robinson and Joe Frazier who each had special qualities. I never say one particular fighter is the best ever because each has a special unique style of fighting.

“Every fight has challenges. I looked at some video of my opponent who fought Lee Selby. In the middle of that fight my opponent did a transition and fought with a different type of style against Selby. These are the situations you must deal with on the night of a fight.

“Who would I like to fight some day? Getting Salido back into the ring would be something I would like to see.”

EGIS KLIMAS, Lomachenko Manager

“We have not seen the best of Vasyl Lomachenko, maybe something like 40 percent of what we are going to see. He pushes himself 120 percent. He likes to spar 15 rounds daily against four different opponents. No one trains harder. He proved he was the best amateur boxer and he will prove that he is the best professional fighter.”

**************************

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with the Wynn Las Vegas and Tecate, the Bradley vs. Rios / Lomachenko vs. Koasicha world championship event will take place This Saturday! November 7, at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Both fights will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. Remaining tickets, priced at $400, $250, $150, $100 and $50, may be purchased at the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office, online at http://www.unlvtickets.com/, at UNLVtickets Outlet Town Square Las Vegas and La Bonita Supermarkets. To charge by phone call 702-739-FANS (3267) or 866-388-FANS (3267).

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo or twitter.com/hboboxing. Use the hashtag #BradleyRios #Lomachenko to join the conversation on Twitter.




OSCAR ESCANDON GIVES TRAINING CAMP UPDATE BEFORE FEATHERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN AGAINST GARY RUSSELL JR. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 FROM HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS (November 02, 2015) – As he nears his Saturday, Nov. 14 showdown against WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15 KOs), featherweight contender Oscar Escandón (24-2, 16 KOs) is primed and ready for the challenge. The 12-round SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main-event will be televised live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The co-main event of the evening will see undefeated super welterweights Frank “Notorious” Galarza (17-0-2, 11 KOs) and Jarrett “Swift” Hurd (16-0, 10 KOs) in a 10-round clash.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $155, $105, $80, $55 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office, by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX, or online at www.axs.com.

Less than one month after Russell Jr. and Escandon square off, SHOWTIME Sports® will present another high-profile matchup between elite 126-pound fighters as WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar defends against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo on Dec. 5 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

While working out in Las Vegas with Coach Ruben Guerrero, Escandón gave his thoughts on training camp, fighting Gary Russell Jr., and his quest to become a world champion.

On his matchup with Gary Russell Jr.:

“Gary Russell Jr. is a very skilled fighter but he doesn’t know what it’s like to be in a rugged fight. Everyone knows I come to fight and Russell is going to find out firsthand what it’s like to be in a war. He better be ready to take some lumps.”

On training in Las Vegas:

“Running in the high elevation here in Las Vegas has been great for my stamina. I’ve adjusted to the atmosphere and my body feels extremely strong. I’ve gotten some great sparring with a lot of different looks, guys that move like Russell. I couldn’t be more prepared then I’ll be for this fight.”

On working with Ruben Guerrero:

“Ruben and I have been working great together. His knowledge of fighting southpaws is excellent and we have a great game plan going into this fight. Everyone can expect to see me throw a lot of punches.”

On his quest to become a world champion:

“Becoming a world champion is something I’ve wanted my whole life. I’ve been close a couple of times. In those fights I made the mistake of leaving the decision in the judges’ hands. This time around, I’m going for the knockout, to assure myself victory.”

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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Video: Hey Harold!: Bradley vs. Rios




OSCAR DE LA HOYA PRESENTS NEW, STATE-OF-THE-ART BOXING EQUIPMENT TO GRAMPA’S BOXING GYM IN WESTMINISTER, CALIFORNIA

Oscar De La Hoya
LOS ANGELES (Nov. 2, 2015) Olympic gold medalist and 10-time world champion in six weight divisions Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, presented new-state-of-the-art boxing equipment valued at thousands of dollars to the youth of Grampa’s Boxing Gym on Friday, Oct. 30, to encourage the youth to continue in their training and lead positive lives away from gang activity and violence.

Also at the giveaway, De La Hoya honored California Municipal Finance Authority as the 2015 Corporate Partner of the Year for his namesake foundation in recognition of their commitment to serving youth in Southern California.

“One of our goals is to invest in the youth of the community so we are happy to contribute and support the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation in its mission and participate by acting locally,” said Bob Adams, board member for the California Municipal Finance Authority. “The best way to make our communities stronger is to invest in the youth and their future.”

This was the third annual boxing equipment giveaway the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation has hosted for after-school youth programs. The Foundation, with the support of its corporate partner of the year California Municipal Finance Authority and Everlast, is donating new, state-of-the-art boxing equipment to five gyms in Southern California that serve youth in economically disadvantaged communities plagued by gang and drug violence. The equipment will help these local gyms to provide youth in their communities with an opportunity to engage in boxing as an after-school program alternative to gang activities. Recipients of the Foundation’s boxing equipment donations this giving season include Southern California-based boxing gyms Grampa’s Boxing Gym in Westminster, Azusa Boxing Gym in Azusa, Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles, Azteca Boxing Club in Bell and Lugo Fitness Center in Cudahy.

In 1995, De La Hoya started his namesake Foundation to help improve the quality of life for those living in disadvantaged communities. The Oscar De La Hoya Foundation supports the Oscar De La Hoya Animo Charter High School, the Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center and the Oscar De La Hoya Labor and Delivery Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (both located at White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles) as well as numerous after-school programs that help guide young people toward leading positive lives and away from the circumstances of gang violence, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse.




Abraham’s World title preparations bolstered by return of star coach

Arthur Abraham
Training is underway for Arthur Abraham (43-4, 29 KOs) as he prepares for his WBO World Super Middleweight Championship contest with Britain’s Martin Murray (32-2-1, 15 KOs) on November 21 at the TUI Arena in Hannover, Germany.

As the Berlin-boxer readies himself for a fifth successive defence of his WBO strap, the former 160 lbs ‘King’ turned super middleweight supremo has been bolstered by the return of his long-standing coach and mentor Ulli Wegner who had been sidelined with an Achilles injury.

‘’It’s great to have Mr. Wegner back,’’ exclaims Abraham. ‘’We had been talking everyday on the phone and discussing my progress but there is no substitute to having him there in person giving me direct feedback. I rely on his input and with him in my corner there is no way I can lose.’’

The ever-critical Wegner has already set about changing the 35 year-old’s training regime. Removing any distractions by taking his protégé from the bustling Max-Schmeling-Gym in Berlin to a secluded training camp in Kienbaum’s Olympic Centre.

‘’Arthur must focus all his energy and attention on this fight or risk losing his World title,’’ said the star coach. ‘’And that is why we need to complete isolation. My job is to ensure he is in top championship condition, and currently his fitness is not where I would like it to be. Now, he must step up his efforts or prepare for defeat.’’

Abraham, used to the 73 year-old’s exacting standards, offers a simple reply when faced with his coach’s criticism, admitting: ‘’Mr Wegner is always right!’’

The WBO World Super Middleweight Championship fight between Arthur Abraham and Martin Murray will be broadcast live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. Tickets are available online via tickethall.de and eventim.de.




FRAMPTON AND QUIGG MEET IN FEBRUARY UNIFICATION

Carl Frampton
Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg will meet for the IBF and WBA World Super-Bantamweight titles at the Manchester Arena on Saturday February 27 2016.

The eagerly anticipated showdown between the British rivals was announced live on Sky Sports News this afternoon with the pair putting titles, unbeaten records and bragging rights on the line in the blockbuster.

Belfast favourite Frampton took the IBF crown from Kiko Martinez last September and has defended the title twice this year, stopping Chris Avalos in Belfast in February before an exciting debut on US soil in May where he climbed off the canvas twice in the opening round to defeat Alejandro Gonzalez Jr.

Bury ace Quigg’s reign as WBA champion began in October 2013 and the 27 year old has racked up five successful defences in that time, stopping Martinez in his last outing in Manchester in July to follow wins over Diego Silva, Tshifhiwa Munyai, Stephane Jamoye and Hidenori Otake.

Both fighters and their promoters expressed their delight at setting up what promises to be the fight of the year.

“I’m delighted that we have finally got this fight signed,” said Frampton. “This is the fight everyone has wanted for years, none more so than myself. I’m the legitimate champion and I’m going to his backyard to defend my title because that’s what champions do. On February 27 the fans will find out who the real champion is, I’m going to win this fight in style.”

“I’ve finally got the fight I’ve wanted for so long,” said Quigg. “February 27 will be the best night of my life. I’ve dedicated my life to this sport and I have never been more confident going into a fight, I know I will beat him in every department. This is a great fight for the sport and I’m delighted to bring it to Manchester and unify the division.”

“I am very pleased that we have managed to get this fight made,” said Frampton’s manager Barry McGuigan. “It will be a momentous occasion for British and Irish boxing. This is the fight the fans have craved and the one we have wanted all along. The atmosphere will no doubt be electric, but there is only going to be one winner on February 27, Carl ‘The Jackal’ Frampton!”

“Yes! All I can say is yes – get in!” said Quigg’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “This is been hard work but worth every second. I want to thank everyone involved for their desire in making this fight happen and now we have an event that will go down in the history of the sport. Two World champions, two fantastic fighters collide at the Manchester Arena. Can you even imagine the atmosphere, the tension, the drama? This is what it’s all about, roll on fight night! Scott Quigg has all the momentum going into the fight and will be crowned unified World champion on February 27.”

Information on ticket on-sale dates and the undercard will be revealed in a UK press tour that will begin later in November.




POTAPOV IMPRESSES IN US DEBUT ON EXCITING “BROOKLYN BRAWL”

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Nov 2, 2015) – World rated prospect Nikolay Potapov 14-0 of Padolsk Russia made an impressive US debut as he controlled every minute of the bout against the experienced Pedro Malo of Mexico 13-10.

The bout took place last Thursday as part of the latest installment of Salita Promotions Brooklyn Brawl series at the Aviator Sports Complex in Brooklyn.

Potapov hurt Melo on several occasions but the experienced Melo used his experience to survive in the 10 round contest as all score cards had it 100-90 for Potapov across the board. ” Fighting in NYC was a great experience . I am grateful to all the fans that came out the media that showed me support and to my promoters PBL and Salita Promotions who did an outstanding job in introducing me to the US boxing community ”

Every bout featured high-volume trading, and fans were treated to a solid rumble in the main event. Physical marvel Alicia Ashley used deft footwork, crisp combos and superior ring generalship to take UD10 win over Ireland’s Christina McMahon. For her effort, the Jamaican-born Brooklyn resident, 48 years young, not only picks up the WBC super bantamweight world title, but she will get her entry in the Guinness Book of World Records refreshed, as the oldest female to hold a world title in the boxing sphere.

“History was made on “Brooklyn Brawl,” in a very entertaining fight for WBC title with Ashley (23-10-1) and McMahon (7-1),” said promoter Salita.

Other standouts included Brooklyn welterweight Mikkel Lespierre, who had a strong test in front of him, in Philly’s Evincci Dixon. “Slikk Mikk” is a sharp-shooting lefty who went to 11-0-1 with a UD4.

Welterweight Giorgi Gelashvilli (3-0; living in Brooklyn) dominated Rashad Bogar UD4), from New Jersey;

Puerto Rican Emilio Salas (4-1-1), a cruiserweight, pot-shotted in-your-face Eric George, and the ref saw enough, calling a TKO in round four.

Bakhtiyar Eyubov, an all-action junior middleweight, scored a TKO1 win over Antonio Fernandes from Massachusetts, when he hit him to the body. Fernandes said it was low, and told the ref he couldn’t continue.

“I was pleased with the effort from all the boxers,” said Salita. “We encourage boxing fans to attend our live events, the atmosphere was last night and always is amazing!”




Video: Caneo Alvarez Workout video




BURNETT BATTLES BOOTH FOR BRIT BELT IN MANCHESTER

Ryan Burnett will face Jason Booth for the vacant British Bantamweight title at the Manchester Arena on November 21, live on Sky Sports.

The unbeaten Belfast man fights for his first major title in his first taste of action under new promoter Eddie Hearn, with the Adam Booth-trained talent looking to move into double figures for stoppage wins in his 12th pro outing.

Booth has won the Lord Lonsdale belt at Flyweight and Super Bantamweight, and the experienced Nottingham man will be aiming to land the coveted strap at a third weight in his second attempt – but Burnett believes the step-up in opposition will see him produce his best.

“Jason Booth is the most experienced and successful pro I have fought yet,” said Burnett. “I know that the better the opponent the better I am. If he’s strong, I punch harder, if he’s slick, I’ll be quicker. Fighting at the Manchester Arena on a night like this gives me Goosebumps of excitement – I’m going to reward everyone with the performance they all want.”

Burnett’s clash with Booth is part of a huge night of World title action on Sky Sports as Anthony Crolla faces Darleys Perez in a rematch for the WBA Lightweight title while in Germany, Martin Murray challenges Arthur Abraham for the WBO Super Middleweight title.

There’s a host of great title clashes in Manchester as Chris Jenkins and Tyrone Nurse rematch for the British Super Lightweight crown, Isaac Lowe defends the English Featherweight strap against Ryan Doyle, Charlie Edwards defends his English Flyweight title against Phil Smith and Hosea Burton tackles Tony Hill for the WBA Inter-Continental Light-Heavyweight title. There’s also action for former World title challengers Brian Rose and Stuart Hall, plus local lads Marcus Morrison and Liam Taylor.

Tickets are on sale now priced £40, £60, £80 and £100 bracket from www.manchester-arena.com or by calling 0844 847 8000. VIP’s are available exclusively through www.matchroomboxing.com priced at £200.

Tickets for November 21 are also available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ – StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.




Video: Time to Shine Promo

DLVEC 11-6-15 SHOBOX V3 H.264 from Casey Sipes on Vimeo.




Elliott Matthews says British title shot is ‘like a wedding’ – vows to separate Blackwell from his belt

LONDON (2 NOVEMBER) Watford middleweight Elliott Matthews meets British champion Nick Blackwell on November 14 at Bristol’s City Academy and describes the opportunity as his ‘big day’, the moment he’s been waiting for.

The 34-year-old puncher has been a professional since January 2012, is unbeaten in sixteen professional fights and holds the Southern Area middleweight title. But November 14 marks his first stab at the big prize – the coveted Lonsdale belt.

“I wanted to win the British title when I turned pro,” he said. “That was my main goal. And I’ve still got the exact same goal today.

“The difference now, though, is that I want to win the British title and then use it as a stepping stone to even bigger things. I want to use it as a starting point. I really think my career will properly take off once I’ve won the British title on November 14. It will act as a springboard for me.”

Matthews has yet to fight outside London as a pro, but is excited to make the trip to Bristol in less than two weeks and expects many of his loyal supporters to follow him.

“I hope a few will come down and support me,” he said. “It’s only two hours away. Otherwise I’ll be a bit lonely in there on the night. I think they will, though.

“This is the moment I’ve been working towards since I turned pro. There will be a lot of people who will want to be there to see me do what I’ve always said I’d do.

“This is like a wedding for me. It’s a really big day for me. I’d like to think everyone I know, and all their friends, will turn up to see me become British middleweight champion. And if they can’t get down to the venue to watch it live, I hope they’ll all be watching it live on Channel 5.”

Though unbeaten in sixteen fights, Matthews has yet to come up against a fighter as formidable as Nick Blackwell. Nevertheless, it’s a test he relishes and one he expects to pass with flying colours.

“I believe that this fight has come at the right time for me and that everything happens for a reason,” said Matthews, known as ‘The Knockout King’. “If it’s meant to be now, it’s meant to be now.

“You can’t go through life waiting for the perfect time because that time may never come around. All I know is I’m unbeaten, I’m experienced, I’m confident and I’m ready to become British champion. What else do I need?

“I’m going to grab my chance with both hands, give it everything I’ve got, and I’m sure that my 17 years of hard work and dedication will pay off in the end.

“I feel like it’s my time and that Nick Blackwell is an opponent I can beat. I’ve got no worries about stepping in there.

“When you fight for the British title, you’re never going to have an easy night. It’s always going to be tough.

“We both want to have that belt and we’ll both fight tooth and nail for it. I’m not expecting to blow him over or have an easy night of it. He’s certainly going to earn his money, just as I’m going to earn my money. It’s going to be a cracking night for everyone.

The challenger added: “When I win that British title, it will make me well up big time. It will be the best feeling in the world.”

*** For tickets to BANG BANG: The Knockout Kings, please contact the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402, the Sanigar Events Box Office on 0117 949 6699 or visit www.hennessysports.com ***

*** Blackwell vs. Matthews will be televised live and exclusively on Channel 5 from 10pm, Saturday, November 14. Meanwhile, Hughie Lewis Fury, Craig Kennedy and a pick of the Bristol undercard will be televised earlier in the evening on Spike ***

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Zeuge and Gutknecht battle for IBF International and WBO Intercontinental titles on November 21

An all-German contest is set for November 21 when rising super middleweight star Tyron Zeuge (17-0, 10 KOs) contests the IBF International and WBO Intercontinental Super Middleweight titles with former European Champion Eduard Gutknecht (28-3-1, 11 KOs) at the TUI Arena in Hannover.

The championship clash, which will provide chief support for ‘King’ Arthur Abraham’s WBO World Super Middleweight title defence against Britain’s Martin Murray, was originally scheduled for September 26 but was postponed after Zeuge suffered a leg injury.

Now fully fit, the 23 year-old from Berlin is relishing the opportunity to square off against the former World title challenger Gutknecht. ‘’Postponed is not cancelled,’’ explains Zeuge. ‘’My motivation is huge. I can’t wait to get into the ring and prove that I am the better boxer. Nothing is going to stop me on my journey to the top!’’

Gutknecht, a former protégé of Team Sauerland’s star coach Ulli Wegner, has heard it all before and insists he is up to the challenge. ‘’I’m ready for whatever Zeuge has to offer,’’ exclaims the 33 year-old from Gifhorn.

With both the IBF International and WBO Intercontinental titles up for grabs, there is a lot at stake. The winner will move up the World rankings and within touching distance of a World title challenge, and for this reason promoter Kalle Sauerland is expecting a thrilling fight. ‘’There is a lot on the line for both fighters,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’This is sure to guarantee an explosive encounter!’’

Tickets for the Team Sauerland show on November 21 at the TUI Arena in Hannover headlined by the WBO World Super Middleweight Championship contest between Arthur Abraham and Martin Murray are available online via tickethall.de and eventim.de.




Skoglund faces American KO star Edwards on December 19 in Nyköping

Following a hugely successful debut show, the Nordic Fight Night returns to the Rosvalla Arena in Nyköping, Sweden on December 19, where local hero Erik Skoglund (23-0, 11 KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line against Derek Edwards (27-5-1, 14 KOs) – the only man to have beaten current Swedish World Champion Badou Jack.

Skoglund made history on September 19 when defending his IBF Intercontinental title over twelve rounds against the durable Ukrainian Oleksandr Cherviak, three months later, the ‘Swedish Sensation’ faces his toughest opponent to date when he takes on the hard-hitting Edwards.

Having proved his pedigree with a devastating first-round knockout victory over Badou Jack in February 2014, Edwards intends to claim his second Swedish scalp when he travels across the Atlantic to face Skoglund in his hometown arena, and the American is confident of delivering another knockout performance.

‘’Skoglund looks like a good boxer but he’s not overly impressive,’’ said the North Carolina native known as the ‘Black Lion’. ‘’He’s not got anything I haven’t seen before. If I hit him, I know I’m going to hurt him so it is just a matter of setting him up for the right punch. I think I’ll stop him inside five rounds.’’

Skoglund, who is already hard at work with coach Tommy Antman at his Nyköping training base, believes he is up to the challenge and will be ready for whatever the American has to offer.

‘’Edwards is a very skillful fighter who has a lot of power in his punches,’’ said Skoglund. ‘’Obviously I watched him knockout Badou Jack – that was a very impressive performance, but I believe I’m the better boxer.

‘’I’ll need to keep my distance, work behind my jab and wait for him to open up. I’ve fought against power punchers before and I’ve taken some big shots, so I’m not worried about getting hit. I believe my chin can stand up to Edwards’ punches and I’m confident I have what it takes to beat him.’’

Promoter Nisse Sauerland expects this fight to be the ‘toughest’ and ‘most important’ of the young Swede’s career with a World title opportunity in the offering should he come through unscathed.

‘’Without a doubt this is a dangerous fight for Erik,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’In boxing all it takes is one punch, and against Badou Jack, we saw that Edwards is capable of delivering a knockout punch.

‘’I expect this to be the toughest fight of Erik’s career so far, but also the most important, as by beating someone of Edwards’ experience and ability, Erik will prove that he is ready to step up and we would look to deliver him a World title challenge early next year!’’

Tickets for The World Awaits: Erik Skoglund vs. Derek Edwards on December 19 at the Rosvalla Arena in Nyköping, Sweden go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, November 3) at 12.00pm and are available online via biljettforum.se or by calling 0771-130 150.




Video: Maurice Hooker




VIDEO: WBO Ratings meeting




Charlo stops Alcine in six

Jermell Charlo remained undefeated by stopping former world champion Joachim Alcine in round six of their scheduled 10-round Jr. Middleweight bout in Houston, Texas.

In round six, Charlo dropped Alcine with a left. Moments later, Charlo landed a right that wobbled Alcine. Charlo landed several more shots and the fight was stopped at 1:21 of round six.

Charlo, 155 3/4 lbs of Houston is now 27-0 with 12 knockouts. Alcine, 152 3/4 lbs of Haiti is 35-8-2.

Tony Harrison won a 10-round unanimous decision over Cecil McCalla in a Jr. Middleweight bout.

Harrison controlled the action with the exception of round nine when despite having a cut around the left eye, McCalla rocked Harrison with several hard right hands.

Harrison, 156 lbs of Detroit, MI won by scores of 100-90 and 98-92 twice and is now 22-1. McCalla, 155 1/2 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 20-3.




Diaz stops Garcia in 2

Christopher Di2az remained perfect with a 2nd round stoppage over Karl Garcia in a scheduled 8-round Featherweight bout.

Diaz dropped Garcia with a left hook in round two. He ended things just seconds later when he landed a right to the jaw that froze Garcia and a follow up right dropped him to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 26 seconds of round two.

Diaz is 13-0 with 8 knockouts. Garcia is 9-6-1.

Jean Rivera won a 6-round unanimous decision over Jivany Fuentes in a Super Featherweight bout.

Rivera, 121 1/2 lbs of Bayamon, PR won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 4-0. Fuentes, 122 lbs of Corozal, PR is 6-7.




Zepeda and Alfaro battle to no-contest

Jose Zepeda and former Lightweight champion fought to a no-contest after one-round of their scheduled 10-round Lightweight bout at Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutiérrez Moreno in Tijuana, Mexico.

The two banged heads and Zepeda was sliced open under his left eye and the fight was stopped.

It was the second straight disappointing outing for Zepeda as in his previous fight he had to bow out of his WBO Lightweight title fight with Terry Flanagan when he popped his left shoulder.

Zepeda, 142 lbs of Long Beach, CA is 23-1. Alfaro, 142 lbs of Nagorote, NIC. is 28-9-1,

Carlos Diaz scored a 2nd round stoppage over Marcos Cardenas in round two of a scheduled 10-round Lightweight bout.

Diaz dropped Cardenas in round two with a straight right. Diaz was all over Cardenas and landed a heaby barrage of punches and the bout was stopped at 2:09 of round two.

Diaz, 135 1/2 lbs of Guadalajara, MX is 18-0 with 10 knockouts. Cardenas, 135 1/2 lbs of Guaymas, MX is 16-6-1.

Gregorio Ronquillo won a 6-round split decision over previously undefeated Luis Rosales in a Super Bantamweight bout.

Ronquillo of Tijuana, MX won by scores of 59-55 twice while Rosales took a card 58-56.

Ronquillo is 3-1-2. Rosales of Tijuana, MX is 2-1.

In a battle of undefeated Lightweight, Samuel Garibaldi scored a 1st round stoppage over Uriel Perez in a scheduled 6-round bout.

Garibaldi landed a left hook that sent Perez to the canvas. Perez got back up but had his back turned to the referee and the bout was stopped at 1:12.

Garibaldi, 136 1/2 lbs of Tijuana, MX is now 7-0-1 with 4 knockouts. Perez, 136 1/2 lbs of Quaretano, MX is 6-1.

Ismael Camacho scored a 4th round stoppage over Jose Caravantes in a scheduled 6-round Super Bantamweight bout.

Camacho is 6-1-1. Caravantes is 0-11-1.




HEAVY RAINS NOT EXPECTED TO DAMPEN HOUSTON BOXING FANS FOR PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON NBCSN EVENT

Houston, TX (October 31, 2015) Despite heavy rains and flooding in the Houston area on Friday night, local boxing fans are excited for tonight’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN event at the NRG Arena.

“Friday night after the weigh-in it rained very hard causing some terrible flooding in the area,” said Mike Battah of Leija*Battah Promotions. “But we’ve had an excellent response right from the start of the promotion, boxing fans here are excited to see Houston’s Jermell Charlo in the main event against the battle tested, crafty veteran Joachim Alcine.”

“The press has also been very supportive to us at the media workouts and weigh-in this week, it’s great to see for Jermell who grew up here and was an amateur star. Plus we’ve got so many local kids on the card; Devonte Williams, Jonathan Morales, Jesse Gonzalez, Bahodir Mamadjonov, David Limerick, Tony Adeniran, Christon Edwards and two female bouts featuring Lucia Osegueda and Allison Edwards.”

Continued Battah, “I’ve promoted many huge shows in Houston over the last five years and know how passionate and loyal the local fight fans are. We look forward to an outstanding evening of fights. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. and our team is excited to see the loud and proud Houston fight fans stand up.”

CREDENTIAL DISTRIBUTION

Fight night credentials can be picked up on Saturday, October 31 from 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the NRG Arena Box Office. Proper personal photo ID (Driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

# # #

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija*Battah Promotions, are priced at $163, $109, $49 and $22, plus applicable fees. Tickets are on sale now by calling Leija*Battah Promotions at 210.979.3302 or at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 800.745.3000, via the internet at www.ticketmaster.com and at the NRG Stadium South Ticket Windows.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.nbcsports.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TwinCharlo, @IAmBoxing, @LeijaBattahPR, @NBCSports, @NRGParkFan and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/NBCSports. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.